GH Fanworks/Fanfic/Fanart: We Do It Better

[cmahorror]

Chapter 41

 

“How is he?” John looked up to see Patrick standing in the doorway. He wasn’t surprised to see Stephanie’s dad standing there, he had been expecting it.

 

“Please, have a seat and I will tell you anything you want to know.” John gestured to the chair next to him and Patrick sat down. “He is in a coma with no guarantee that he will come out of it. I am looking into secure long-term facilities to place him in. I would welcome a second opinion so I have given you permission to review his file. I trust you Dr. Drake, I know you will tell me the truth.”

 

“You know you can call me Patrick, I think we passed formalities weeks ago. And I have to admit I want to see his file but for my own reasons.”

 

John knew what Patrick was saying. “You want to malke sure that he won’t be coming out of it and after Robin again. How is she doing?”

 

“She’s still unconscious but her fever is down and we are hopeful she’ll wake up by the time the kids are home.” John looked at Patrick. “Stephanie should be home in the morning. I know she wants to see you.”

 

“I want to see her too.” John turned his attention back to Nikolas. The man hadn’t made a single movement since Patrick walked into the room. “She doesn’t need to see him though.”

 

Patrick nodded in agreement and took a deep breath. “John, what really happened after I left the room with Robin?”

 

John didn’t look at him. “Does it matter?”

 

“I want to help you. Jason and I both do but we need to know the truth in order to do it.” Patrick leaned over in his chair. “Robert didn’t shoot Nikolas, did he?”

 

Tears filled John’s eyes. “No, he didn’t. I did.”

 

 

 

Flashback

 

“Stay right there Nikolas. It’s over.” Robert had gotten back up and was standing over the man. John held a gun on his father as Robert backed up next to him.

 

“It’s not over, not until Robin and I are together.” Nikolas held his bleeding arm and slowly pushed himself up the wall until he was standing and staring at the two men. He glared at John. “How could you do this to me? Betray me this way?”

 

“Dad, you need help. Let me help you.” John hated seeing the man he once admired turned into a sad, raving madman.

 

“I don’t need help – I need Robin and if you won’t help me get her back, I’ll just have to do it myself.” Nikolas leaped at the men and John pulled the trigger.

 

End Flashback

 

 

“I thought he was dead. It wasn’t until the paramedics came in that we discovered he was still alive.” John’s face was streaked with tears. “I wasn’t even aiming but the bullet hit him in the side of the head. I wasn’t trying to kill him.”

 

Acting on instinct, Patrick stood up and pulled the young man into a fatherly hug. “I know you weren’t. It wasn’t your fault. Nikolas was a sick man who was trying to hurt you and Robert. If you hadn’t stopped him, he would have killed you both to get to Robin. I’m sorry that you had to do it but your actions may very well have saved not only Robin, but Emma and Stephanie too.”

 

John let go of all the pain and guilt and just cried for a few minutes, relieved to finally let it go. After he was done, he released his hold on Patrick and sat back down. “In my head, I know what you are saying makes sense. The man I knew as my father has been gone for years but it doesn’t change the fact that I shot him and he may die at my hands, the same way he killed Helena.”

 

Patrick stopped him. “The situations are completely different. You weren’t trying to kill Nikolas, you were protecting yourself and the people you care about. Nikolas killed Helena in a selfish, mad act of cowardice. You are nothing like him.” Patrick stood up. “When was the last time you ate or slept?”

 

John rubbed his eyes. “Jason is making sure I’m well fed but as for sleep…”

 

“Well that ends now. You need to rest and, since you are on the hospital board, I’m sure they won’t mind if you lay down in the on-call room. We’ll leave word at the nurse’s station to have them call you in there if there is any change in his condition.” Patrick felt protective of the young man. He was Stephanie’s brother and that made him family.

 

John started to protest but exhaustion won out. “Alright, let’s go.”

 

The two men left the room. Mere moments after they left the room, Nikolas’s right hand twitched for a moment and then stopped.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 42

 

“So, is she being good?” Patrick walked back into Robin’s room 3 hours later, having showered and taking a short nap. John was still sleeping in the on-call room and Patrick was hoping that he would get a few more hours in before heading back to Nikolas’s bedside.

 

“I like it better when she is arguing with me.” Robin had barely stirred since Patrick had left.

 

Patrick strode over to the bed and gently stroked her cheek. “Me too.”

 

“So how was Nikolas?” Mac raised his eyebrows at Patrick. He knew Patrick wouldn’t be able to resist checking on Nikolas’s condition.

 

“Still in a coma and they have no idea when, or if, he will wake up. I convinced John to take a nap – he is a good kid.” Patrick sat down but he didn’t relax. This nightmare wasn’t over, not until Robin was awake and healthy again.

 

“Yes he is.” Mac had come to respect John over the past weeks. John had been by their sides fighting against his father to bring Robin home without a single question or complaint. Mac knew that this had been tough on the boy but John had proved himself, at least to Mac. “They did a blood draw about an hour ago and Tom said they should have the results soon.”

 

Patrick reached up and placed his hand on Robin’s forehead. “She feels a lot cooler.”

 

Mac nodded. “They said she was at 99 a little while ago. She’s beating this fever.” He smiled at Patrick. “Our girl is coming back to us.”

 

“No place I’d rather be.” Robin’s weak voice filled the room.

 

Patrick pushed the chair over standing up to be with her. “Hey, welcome back. I can’t tell you how great it is to look into those eyes again.” Patrick pressed the call button while talking to Robin. “How are you feeling?”

 

“Tired. Emma?”

 

“She has been at the safe house with the kids since you saved her.” Patrick kissed Robin. “You did a great job getting her to safety.”

 

Epiphany burst into the room. “What happened?”

 

Mac smiled at her. “She’s awake.”

 

Epiphany looked at Robin and smiled. “Well it’s about damn time. I’ll go get Dr. Hardy.”

 

Epiphany left to get Tom and the men turned their attention back to Robin. “I’m going to go call your parents while you and husband catch up.” Mac leaned over and kissed Robin on the forehead. “I love you sweetheart.”

 

“Love you too.” Robin’s voice was weak but full of emotion. She watched Mac leave and then turned back to Patrick with tears in her eyes. “Nikolas?”

 

Patrick hated the fear he could hear in her voice. He tried to reassure her. “He was shot during your rescue. He is in a coma.”

 

Robin nodded in understanding and closed her eyes. This short conversation had worn her out. “I love you.”

 

“I love you too.” Patrick held her hand as she started drifting off. She just about asleep when the door opened and Tom came into the room.

 

“I understand you have decided to wake up.” Tom walked over with Robin’s chart in his hands. Right behind him was Epiphany, who quickly started getting Robin’s vitals.

 

“Looks like we finally got rid of that fever. 98.6, BP 110/84, pulse 72, respirations 14.” Patrick smiled as Epiphany rattled off her finding to Tom. Everything was back to within normal ranges.

 

“Looks like.” Tom opened Robin’s chart. “I’m also happy to report that your HIV is back under control. The virus is virtually undetectable in your system.”

 

Patrick sighed with relief and squeezed Robin’s hand. “You’re going to fine.”

 

“Thank you Tom, Epiphany.” Robin’s cheeks were streaked with tears of joy.

 

“We were more than happy to do it. I want to check out your stitches, make sure they are still holding, and then I will leave you to rest.” Tom walked over to her bed and gently removed the dressing, confirmed the stitches were still good and then left Epiphany to redress the wound.

 

“Everything looks good. I want you in here for a couple days to rest and make sure we have that infection knocked out and then you can go home.”

 

Robin looked like a happy little kid when Tom gave her the news. “Really?”

 

For the first time in weeks, Patrick honestly laughed out loud. Tom smiled at the couple. “Yes, really. Now get some rest and I will see you both later. It’s good to have you back Robin.”

 

Patrick watched the doctor leave. He stood up and took off his shoes before lying down on the bed next to Robin, being careful to not jostle her. “Is this okay?”

 

Robin leaned into him, wrapping his arms tight around her. “This is better than okay – this is perfect.”

 

Robin closed her eyes and happily fell asleep, finally back where she belonged - in her husband's arms.

Edited August 17, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 43

 

“No Nikolas.” Robin was dreaming that Nikolas was standing over her.

 

“You’re mine Robin, always. Just a little longer and we will be together.” She saw Nikolas backing away from her.

 

“No!”

 

Robin started shaking and Patrick woke up. He gently rubbed her shoulders. “Robin, Robin, hey, it’s okay – I’ve got you. You’re safe.”

 

Robin pulled his arm tighter around her. “He was here. He was going to take me again.”

 

“Robin, you were dreaming. We are the only ones in here. Nikolas is in a coma, he can’t take you from me again.” Patrick kissed the top of her head.

 

Robin nodded but didn’t feel any better. “It seemed so real.”

 

“A side effect of your pain killer probably. We’ll talk to Tom about getting you something else in the morning.” Patrick continued to hold her. “Right now you need to rest. I’m not going anywhere and no one is taking you away from me so go back to sleep. Doctor’s orders.”

 

Robin giggled and snuggled closer into Patrick. “Well, if my doctor insists.”

 

Robin closed her eyes and fell back to sleep, pleasant dreams of her husband and children filling her head for the rest of the night.

 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

John headed back to Nikolas's room, feeling a little better after his 4 hour nap. He stopped by Robin’s room and popped his head in. Patrick and Robin were both sleeping so John decided to wait until tomorrow to talk to them.

 

John opened the door to his father's darkened room and sat down next to Nikolas’s bed. Jason had gotten some things from the dorm for him including his laptop and his textbooks. He opened up the laptop and checked his e-mail, taking care of a few things for Cassadine Industries before closing it for the night. John had every intention of returning the company to its former glory and distancing it, and himself, from his father’s latest meltdown.

 

Yawning, John reached for the Advanced Marketing Management book he had set on the table. He patted the heavy book and gave a soft laugh. “Another exciting night.”

 

He turned on the bedside lamp and noticed that the sheets and blankets looked rumpled on his father's bed, almost like he had gotten out of bed, but that was ridiculous - Nikolas was in a deep coma and couldn’t have gone anywhere.

 

John took one last look at the man and went back to his studying. Within minutes he was completely engrossed in his studies and stayed that way for the rest of the night.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 44

 

“Mom!” Robin laughed as her children ran into the room, excitedly running to her bed.

 

Emma made it there first and hugged Robin tightly. “You’re feeling better?”

 

Robin squeezed her oldest tight. “I’m great, especially now that my kids are all home. How about you? I didn’t hurt you when I pushed you in the water?”

 

Emma shook her head. “No Mom, I promise I’m alright.”

 

Stephanie pushed her way through next. Tears filled her eyes as she held her mom. “I’m so glad you’re home.”

 

“Me too baby, me too.” Robin then looked up and smiled at her boys, waving them over for hugs. “Get over here.”

 

Mal and RJ both came over and hugged their mom. “I think you guys have grown 6 inches since I last saw you.” Tears filled her eyes.

 

“Well I did but I’m beginning to think that RJ is going to take after you mom.” Mal joked making Robin smile.

 

“Hey – that’s not very nice.” RJ punched his brother in the arm and the whole family laughed.

 

Patrick put his arms around his boys. “I’m sure he is just a late bloomer. Better watch out or he’ll be towering over you in a few years.”

 

Robin smiled at them. “So, tell me everything that I missed. I want every detail about the past few weeks. RJ, why don’t you start.”

 

Extra chairs were brought in and the 4 children each took a seat next to their mother’s bed while Patrick sat down on the bed next to her.

 

As their youngest son began his tale of the past two weeks, Patrick wrapped his arms around Robin and gently kissed the top of her head. Finally, their family was together again.

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Jason knocked on the door and then popped his head, careful not to startle John. “How are you doing?”

 

“Good – I’ve talked to my professors and, given the circumstances, they are willing to let me do some work online.” John was a semester away from earning his MBA and didn’t want to fall behind.

 

“That’s great – and him?” Jason gestured towards Nikolas’s bed.

 

“The same I guess.” John sighed and put down his book. “I could actually use a breather – care to step outside for a moment?”

 

Jason was surprised but nodded his head in agreement. John stood up and they left the room and went into the hallway. “Why did you want to talk out here?”

 

“Because I don’t know how much he understands when he is like this and I don’t want to give him any information. It may sound silly, the man’s in a coma, but I won’t take any chances when it comes to my sister’s safety.” John had a bad feeling that Nikolas wasn’t done with any of them yet.

 

“I understand. Stephanie is visiting with her mom right now. Do you want me to send her down here later?” Jason knew that John wanted to see his sister.

 

“No – I don’t want her anywhere near him. Are they going home?”

 

Jason shook his head. “No, not yet at least. The kids are out of school until next week and with Robin still in the hospital we felt it was best if they stayed with us. That way they can get back into a routine and Patrick isn’t running like crazy trying to take care of them and Robin.”

 

“Makes sense. Maybe I could come by there and visit?” John didn’t want to impose on Jason’s hospitality anymore than he had.

 

“Why don’t you just stay with us? Sam would love to spend more time with her cousin and we have plenty of room.” Jason and Sam had discussed it and wanted John to live with them.

 

“Are you sure?”

 

“I’m positive. You’re family and we would love to have you there. What do you say?”

 

John thought about it for a minute and then smiled. “I say yes.”

 

“Great – I’ll have your things brought to the mansion and put in your room. See you for dinner tonight? You need to get away from the hospital for a least a little while.” Jason was hoping to get John home for some good food and a long night’s rest.

 

John looked at his father’s door and then back at Jason. “Sure – see you tonight.”

 

John walked back into the room and Jason took one last look at Nikolas before heading home.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 45

 

“Seriously, you like NASCAR?” John was enjoying getting to spend a little time with Stephanie and getting to know more about his sister.

 

“Dad made sure all of us kids were exposed at an early age. Seriously, do not even attempt to interrupt the Daytona 500 in our house – you will get hurt.” Stephanie was laughing and then noticed John’s face. “I’m sorry – I didn’t think…”

 

John took her hand. “You have nothing to apologize for. Patrick is your dad and a great one. You are lucky to have him.”

 

“I know but still, I feel bad. I know that Nikolas is my biological father but I don’t know him except as the man who kidnapped my mom.” Stephanie wasn’t sure what to say.

 

“I understand and that is all his fault. The truth is that I would prefer you stay as far away from him as possible. You never need to see him. The man he has become doesn’t deserve a relationship with either one of us.”

 

Stephanie was shocked at the harshness of John’s words. “Well, it’s not really an issue now – he’s in a coma, right?”

 

John looked away from her and out the window. “Yeah, right, but even if he does come out of it, I still think it’s best if you steer clear of him. You have a wonderful father, be grateful for that.”

 

“I am, believe me. I’m grateful for my entire family, including my newly found brother.” Stephanie leaned over and patted John’s knee, smiling at him. “So, tell me more about living in Europe and our Grandma Laura.”

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“I brought Kelly’s.” Patrick held up the plain brown paper bag and walked to Robin’s bed. “Who wants a bacon cheeseburger?”

 

Robin raised her right hand, laughing. “I do, I do.” Patrick unpacked the food and handed Robin her food. She took a bite and groaned. “This is so good.”

 

“I’m so glad you are enjoying it.” Patrick was watching her closely while he ate his BLT.

 

Robin caught him. “Wait a second - is this a bribe?”

 

“Maybe?” Patrick gave her a smile, trying to use his dimples to soften the blow. “Tom wants to keep you here for a few more days.”

 

“What? Why?” Robin couldn’t believe it – all she wanted was to go home.

 

“Your fever has come back a couple of times and you are still a little unstable. Tom is just being overly cautious and I am okay with that.” Patrick had agreed with Tom after reviewing Robin’s labs. Her blood counts were still a little out of normal range.

 

Robin studied him. “What aren’t you telling me?”

 

“Can’t fool you.” Patrick shook his head. “Your WBC and RBC’s are still a little out of range – nothing unexpected but let’s err on the side of caution, please?”

 

“I just haven’t been home in so long.” Robin couldn’t help it, she started to cry. Her frustration was almost overwhelming. “He has stolen so much time from us. How much more is he going to take?”

 

Patrick sat on the bed and pulled her into his arms. “It’s okay. Robin, it’s over. Nikolas is not going to take you away from us again. He can’t.”

 

Robin shook her head. “I want to believe you but…”

 

Patrick gently turned her face so she was looking at him. “Then do, it’s as simple as that. Now, you need to finish eating your cheeseburger. Protein is good for you.”

 

Robin gave him a sad laugh and began eating her burger again. She wanted to believe it was over but she couldn’t shake the feeling that Nikolas wasn’t done with her yet.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 46

 

“Steph took him down in 5 seconds flat – I was so proud!” Emma was telling Robin about teaching her brothers and sister some self defense moves.

 

“That’s because you are a Devane-Scorpio – we’re a tough bunch.” Robin laughed and smiled at her oldest girl. It had been almost a week since she was admitted to the hospital and the children were taking turns visiting so as not to overwhelm her and Emma always went last since she was the oldest. “How are things going at the Quartermaine’s? Everyone getting along?”

 

“Surprisingly – yes. John has been spending time with all of us.” Emma looked at Robin. “I feel for sorry for him Mom. He lost Stephanie so young and never got the chance to be a part of a real family. I’m hoping that maybe we can be that for him.”

 

Robin smiled proudly at her daughter. “I think that is a wonderful idea. I noticed that he didn’t even hesitate to jump in after you when I pushed you into the water.” Robin paused for a moment. “Are you sure you’re okay? I was so worried about you.”

 

Emma took her mom’s hand. “I promise I’m fine. Nikolas didn’t do anything to me and Dad insisted I get a full check up right after I was rescued. I’m more worried about you. I know you want to protect me but if something is wrong, I can handle it.”

 

Robin shook her head, still amazed by her daughter. “My HIV is still under control and my viral load is once again almost undetectable. Your father and Dr. Hardy are just being overly cautious. I promise that if there were anything to worry about, we would tell you.”

 

“Good.” Robin watched her daughter’s shoulders relax a little bit. “So, you want to hear what happened when Cam decided to join in on the training?”

 

Robin laughed. “Do not leave out a single detail.”

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

John walked down the hall to his father’s room slowly. He had been spending less and less time at the hospital and more with Stephanie and her family at Jason’s. For the first time since he left his Grandma Laura's, John felt like he had a home.

 

Stephanie was wonderful, he couldn’t ask for a better little sister. The two of them had slowly found common ground in various movies and music. He discovered that Robin had gotten Stephanie listening to opera and she was developing a real appreciation for it. John had even made her a deal – he would let Stephanie take him to a NASCAR race with the family and he would take her to a live opera, hopefully with Robin and Patrick and maybe Cam and Emma as well.

 

Cam had begrudgingly come to accept that John had no designs on Emma. He actually thanked John for his help in rescuing not only Emma but Robin too. They weren’t friends but they were learning to co-exist peacefully and that was enough for now.

 

John, Mal and RJ were turning into gaming buddies. Along with Danny, they had spent hours playing various games and researching gaming strategies. John was also helping RJ with his fastball – John had done some pitching in high school and college and was thrilled to have someone to share his knowledge with.

 

He was also spending time with Jason and Sam. The two of them had trusted John before anyone else and their faith in him had never wavered. Jason was going to help John with whipping Cassadine Industries into shape while Sam had agreed to review the company’s current charitable contributions and make suggestions of different areas around the community that could use their help. John wanted to involve Sam – she was a Cassadine and should have a say in how the money was spent.

 

Last but certainly not least was Patrick. When he wasn’t at the hospital he was with his kids, making sure they knew how much he loved and missed them. John saw everyday how much he loved all his children and Stephanie was most definitely Patrick’s daughter. The two men had bonded over their love for Stephanie and Patrick had also let him know that there was always a place for him in their home. John appreciated the fact that Patrick didn’t hold who his father was against him.

 

He reached his father’s door and went inside. He sat down next to Nikolas’s bed and watched him breathing slowly in and out. “I know Helena is partially to blame for what happened to you but I still hope you never wake up. I want my sister to be safe and the only way she will be is if you are gone.”

 

John watched for a reaction of any kind but nothing happened. “I’ll feel better after tomorrow.” John had found a maximum security recovery facility in France to move Nikolas to. The transfer was happening first thing in the morning. “You will be in another country, far away from Robin and Stephanie, under lock and key. I have full control of all Cassadine interests so there will be no more guards to bribe and no one to help you escape.”

 

John leaned back in his chair, still watching Nikolas before finally pulling out his Kindle and reading. After two hours, John got up to leave. Nikolas hadn’t even moved once. He put his tablet away and headed to the door, pausing to take one last look at his father. “Tomorrow, I end this nightmare once and for all.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 47

 

Emily walked into Nikolas’s room, carefully closing the door behind her and walking to the bed. “You can get up now, the coast is clear.”

 

Emily had been brought to the hospital along with Robin and Nikolas a week ago. She had quickly convinced everyone that she was happy to be rescued from Nikolas’s evil clutches and even agreed to outpatient therapy to deal with her years in captivity.

 

Of course, it wasn’t true – Emily would do anything for him and it didn’t take long for Nikolas to call on her to prove it. Emily and Nikolas had a plan in place for just such a situation and she had done exactly as instructed, even getting a room at the Metro Court rather than staying with her brother at the Quartermaine mansion. After all, she needed some space while she adjusted to her new life.

 

Nikolas opened his eyes and smiled at his doctor. “Is everything ready?”

 

“Yes – Patrick was still at the house when I left a little while ago." Emily had went over for a family dinner but had left early because she felt 'overwhelmed'. "The jet is fueled up and ready to go. All you need to do collect Robin and we can go.” Ever since Nikolas had called her the day after he was admitted she had done everything she could to get everything ready for their escape.

 

Emily handed him a bag with clothes, a hairpiece and a fake beard. Within minutes Nikolas was dressed and ready to leave Port Charles for good. Emily checked the hallway. “There’s a car waiting for you two on the third level of the parking garage. I’ll see you two at the plane.”

 

“Thank you Emily.” They parted ways and Nikolas headed off to pick up his fiancée.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Robin was lying in bed, almost asleep, when she heard the door to her room open. She smiled, certain that her husband was finally joining her in bed. She suppressed a giggle as he tried to quietly walk across the room, working hard to not wake her.

 

The bed sank behind her as she felt him slowly sit down on the bed. He leaned over and kissed her cheek before wrapping his arms around her tightly.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas had entered Robin’s darkened room and was trying to be quiet so as not to disturb her. He had a rag and a bottle of chloroform in his pocket if he needed it but he knew it wouldn't be necessary. Robin loved him and wanted to be with him, she would come with him willingly now that Patrick had left her alone for a few hours.

 

He sat down next to her and kissed her cheek before lying down next to her, wrapping his arms around her.

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Robin felt Patrick run his hand through her hair and finally decided to let him know that she was awake.

 

She turned her head to look at him, giving her husband a smile.

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas stroked Robin’s hair before sighing, realizing that he needed to wake her up but she slowly turned her head towards him. “It’s time to go Robin.”

 

“I don’t think so.” Nikolas was caught off guard when he heard a voice behind him. Suddenly he felt someone shove him off the bed and he landed on the floor with a gun was in his face. The lights in the room turned on and Mac stood at the door, a gun trained on him and Robert Scorpio stood over him while Anna got off the bed, pulling a dark brown wig off her head. “You have caused our little girl enough problems and it ends tonight.”

Edited August 18, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 48

 

“Did you tell the kids that you snuck me out of the hospital yet?”

 

Patrick laughed as he held her tighter. “While we were having dessert. They promised to wait until morning to ambush you.”

 

“Sorry I couldn’t come down, I was just so exhausted from the move. I still can’t believe that you managed to sneak me out of the hospital. Was Tom mad?” Robin didn’t want Patrick to get in trouble.

 

“Trust me Robin, everyone agreed that this was the best thing to do for you.” Patrick was glad she couldn’t see him – she would know that he wasn’t telling her the whole truth. “Go to sleep – we can talk in the morning but right now you need your rest.”

 

“Fine but only if you stay here in bed with me. I love you, so much.” Robin closed her eyes and felt Patrick kiss the top of her head.

 

“Just try and kick me out. And I love you too, so much.” Patrick laid there with her and was relieved to hear a little snore coming from her after just a few minutes. She really was exhausted.

 

Patrick wasn’t anywhere near sleep, not until he was certain that Nikolas had been taken care of. It was Patrick who figured out that Nikolas was faking his coma - thanks to John allowing him access to Nikolas’s medical records. Reviewing the MRIs, Patrick had noticed what the ER doctor had missed – the area of the brain where Nikolas had been shot was already damaged due to the drugs Nikolas had been on for years. What that doctor had taken as damage from the bullet passing through was actually already there – there was no new damage. Nikolas had a superficial head injury at worst.

 

He remembered telling John the news only a few days after the rescue.

 

 

Flashback

 

John was in the library, finishing up a paper, when Patrick walked in. “We need to talk. I finally got a chance to review Nikolas’s file.”

 

John closed his laptop. “And?”

 

“I don’t think he is in a coma. The damage the doctor attributed to the bullet wound and he said was causing the coma has been there for years.” Patrick hoped that John believed him.

 

John studied Patrick for a minute and then picked up his phone. “Jason, could you please meet me and Patrick in the library. Yes, now, it’s important.”

 

Less than a minute later Jason came through the door. “What is going on?”

 

Patrick told him what he had just told John. Jason shook his head. “Are you sure Patrick?”

 

“Without examining him I can’t be 100% certain but…”

 

John interrupted. “He’s sure and so am I. In fact, I have noticed that his blankets are messed up when I come in to check on him in the mornings. I thought that maybe I was just imagining it but this explains it. I would also bet money that someone is helping him, probably planning to wait until we are all gone one night and to grab Robin and whisk her out of the country.”

 

Patrick thought about it. “Well Jerry is out – we gave him the counteragent and there is absolutely no love lost between the two of them.”

 

Jason was the one who figured it out. “Emily, it has to be Emily." A pained look crossed his face and he shook his head. "She was just with him for way too long.”

 

Patrick’s heart broke for him – Jason just got his sister back and he was probably going to lose her again. “Jason, I am so sorry.”

 

“I know. Look, I am going to call Anna and have her round up the troops. We need to stay ahead of Nikolas and get someone watching Emily.” He turned to John.

 

“You keep visiting Nikolas, let him think we still believe he is in the coma.”

 

“Of course, I’ll do anything to keep my sister and her family safe from him.” John was done with Nikolas.

 

“Good.” Jason pulled out his phone. “Anna, I need you to get over here as soon as possible.”

 

End Flashback

 

 

Less than two hours later Emily was being followed and a plan had been created to catch Nikolas in the act of attempting to take Robin again.

 

Patrick felt his phone vibrate in his pocket and pulled it out. There was a text message from Anna with two words – it’s done.

 

For the first time since this nightmare had began, Patrick felt completely relaxed. Within minutes he was sleeping soundly and safely with his wife.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 49

 

Nikolas looked up and Anna in shock. “Where’s Robin?”

 

“Where she belongs – with her husband.” Robert couldn’t believe this man – he had a gun pointed in his face and he just wanted to know where Robin was.

 

“No! She belongs with me!” Nikolas started to stand up and suddenly hit the ground shaking as Anna hit him with a shot from a taser gun.

 

Anna got off the bed and stood over him. “No, she belongs with Patrick and their children. We are done playing games with you Nikolas – you are going someplace where no one will help you and you will never escape.”

 

“And as for your little accomplice, Emily is being picked up at the airport as we speak. Hopefully Patrick and Robin will be able to help deprogram her and undo some of the damage you have done to her.” Robert smiled as Tom Hardy came in the room with two security guards. “Dr. Hardy, please prepare Mr. Cassadine for his journey.”

 

The guards quickly pulled Nikolas off the floor and held him still as Tom gave him an injection in his left arm. Nikolas struggled for a few minutes before the drugs took effect and he became unresponsive. A gurney was brought in and Nikolas was secured to it using restraints and taken out of the room, Anna and Mac accompanying it to the ambulance.

 

Robert handed Tom an envelope. “Here is all the paperwork you need to relinquish custody of Nikolas to us. The WSB thanks you for your assistance.”

 

Tom smiled at Robert. “It was my pleasure.” Tom left the room and Robert went to join Anna and Mac. The ambulance was taking Nikolas to the airport but his destination was not the Greek Isles like he had planned. No, Nikolas was headed to Steinmauer Prison. Frisco was waiting at the airport to take custody of Nikolas and personally deliver the man to his new home.

 

“Did you text Patrick?”

 

Anna smiled as Robert walked up to the ambulance. “Patrick and John both. They deserved to know that they could sleep safely tonight.”

 

“Good – let’s get this bastard out of Port Charles and our daughter’s life for good.”

 

They got in the ambulance and took Nikolas to the airport.

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

John stared at the fire, trying to wrap his head around everything that had happened over the past few months. Even knowing everything his father had done he still couldn't believe that Nikolas was headed to a maximum security prison in another country and that he had helped send him there.

 

“Did it work?” Cam walked in to see if John had heard anything. Patrick had given Cam a heads up on what was going on so he could help protect Emma. Cam knew about that the plan to capture Nikolas was going down tonight.

 

“He’s on his way to Steinmauer. Hopefully he will never see the light of day again.” John was trying to be strong but it wasn’t working.

 

Cam thought about it for a moment and then spoke. “You did the right thing, you know that don’t you?”

 

John laughed harshly. “Of course I do – it was the only thing I could do. I had to protect Stephanie and I would do it again in a heartbeat.”

 

Cam took a few steps forward until he was standing next to John. “Look, I know that we have not gotten along since you came back but I would like a chance to start over. We used to be friends a long time ago and maybe we could be again.” Emma wanted Cam and John to get along and Cam would do anything for her.

 

“Why? Because of Emma? I already told you I am not going to try and steal her from you.” John was overly sensitive at this time and tact just wasn’t possible.

 

“I know you won’t and if Emma leaves me it will be because of me, not you. No, it's just - I am impressed with the way you protected everyone here. I misjudged you and this is my way of apologizing to you.”

 

John studied Cam. “You really mean that?”

 

Cam laughed. “Surprisingly enough – I do. So what do you say – want to have a drink?”

 

John nodded. “Jason has beer in the kitchen, let’s go.”

[cmahorror]

This is the end of this story - I will begin posting my next one tonight (unless someone tells my otherwise lol).

 

Chapter 50

 

“Mom!”

 

It was 8:00 in morning and Patrick had held the kids at bay as long as he could. All four children came barreling into the room and hugged their mother.

 

“We are so happy to have you out of the hospital.” Mal hugged his mom tight and sat down next to her.

 

“I’m happy to be out of the hospital. I’ll be even happier when we get home.” Robin appreciated Jason’s hospitality but she was anxious to get back to a normal life with a normal routine.

 

“When is that?” Steph was ready to get back to her room and school – she had weeks of cheers to learn.

 

“Today.” Patrick hadn’t told Robin about Nikolas’s arrest yet, he would do that later, but he wanted to get his family home. “As soon as everyone gets packed up and ready to go.”

 

They didn’t need to be told twice – Mal, RJ and Steph ran out of the room so they could get home.

 

Emma took advantage of their leaving to get some time alone with her mom. “How are you really Mom?”

 

“Really, I am great,” she looked at Patrick, “but a little surprised that we are headed home. Is Nikolas’s coma really permanent?”

 

Patrick sighed and looked at his wife and daughter. “It turns out that Nikolas was faking his coma. He was working with Emily to try and kidnap you again which is why we got you out of the hospital last night.”

 

Robin shook her head. “I knew something was going on. But if he isn’t in a coma, is it safe for the kids to be back at home?”

 

Emma and her father both looked at Robin in awe – of course her concern would be about her children, not herself. Patrick sat down on the bed and took Robin’s hand in his. “Nikolas is in Steinmauer Prison – solitary confinement. Your parents and Mac captured him last night when he attempted to kidnap you from your hospital room.”

 

“And Emily? She is just as much a victim as I was – Nikolas brainwashed her to be his helper.” Robin hated seeing what Nikolas had done to her.

 

“She was arrested at the airport last night – she had chartered a plane to take you and Nikolas out of the country.” Patrick knew this was hard on Robin but he wanted to tell her the truth. “Emily has been placed in Ferncliff until they can do a full examination and see if there is any hope of reversing the damage Nikolas has done.”

 

The tears streamed down Robin’s face. “Poor Jason – he finally got her back and now…”

 

Patrick hugged her. “I know babe but it’s not your fault.”

 

“Really? Nikolas’s obsession with me led to all of this.”

 

Patrick turned her so she was facing him. “And that is Nikolas’s fault – not yours. You need to remember that.”

 

“How did he get so far gone? He took our daughter,” Robin squeezed Emma’s hand, “he had me shot. My God, he almost killed me to get me to be his. He was willing to let me go into full blown AIDS if it meant I died with him.”

 

Patrick and Emma both held Robin close, trying to alleviate a little of the pain she was feeling. Emma looked at her mom. “Nikolas was a sick man who did horrible things but he is gone now. We are all healthy and headed home. That is all that matters.”

 

Robin nodded her head. “You’re right. When did you get so smart?”

 

“It runs in the family.” Emma gave her mom one last hug and stood up. “I am going to go pack to head back to the dorm and see if John needs any help.”

 

“Oh my God – John? How is he doing?” Robin had completely forgotten about Stephanie’s oldest brother.

 

“Doing okay – Cam and him had a few beers last night and talked about Nikolas. He is ready to leave this all behind and we are all going to help him. Heck, he is even going to join us for a few races this summer.” Emma was proud of her boyfriend and the way he stepped up for John.

 

“Good, maybe he’d like to come over for a family dinner – there’s always room for one more.” Robin had always felt guilty that they hadn’t been able to find John years ago and reunite him with Stephanie.

 

Patrick smiled at Emma. “He’s actually going to come over tonight to help everyone get settled back in. He’s been spending a lot of time with all the kids.”

 

“Gee Emma, I had no idea you wanted an older brother.” Robin was giggling as she spoke.

 

“Not just any older brother – John. It’s been great getting to know him again. He’s great – sweet, kind, intelligent and willing to put others first.”

 

“I know – he’s visited me every day since my rescue. He reminds me of the Nikolas I used to know, before Helena got her claws in him.” Robin’s face clouded over as she was once again reminded of the man who was once one of her closest friends. “I kind of like the idea of you having an older brother to look out for you. And I can’t think of a better one to have than John.”

 

Robin didn’t see John standing outside her door but Patrick did. “Hey, come on in.”

 

“I didn’t want to interrupt.” John was trying not to let on how much what Robin said meant to him. “This seems like a family thing.”

 

Robin reached out her hand to him and John took it. “Which is exactly why you should be here – because you are family.”

 

Robin patted the bed and John sat down. "So, how are your classes going?"

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Let me out!” Nikolas paced the floor and tried to figure a way out of his prison cell. “Damn you Drake! Damn you Scorpio!” He picked up his bed and threw it across the room.

 

Suddenly Nikolas heard a knocking coming from the other side of the wall. “Cassadine – is that you?”

 

“Who is it?”

 

Cesar Faison laughed as he realized the beautiful serendipity of the situation. “An old friend who just may be able to help you.”

 

 

The End

[cmahorror]

Author's note: This takes place after Anna left to go to Scotland. Also, in this story Laura and Lucky do not know the truth about Jake/Jason.

 

 

Chapter 1

 

“Of course I understand Sam.” Patrick stood at the nurse’s desk talking to his girlfriend on the phone. “If this will help Michael get ELQ back then you need to do it – even if it means spending more time with Jake.”

 

Elizabeth listened in on the conversation with a keen interest. Jake, her boyfriend, hadn’t said anything to her about working with Sam. Granted, she had been focused on reestablishing a bond with her son Jake but still she would have hoped that the other Jake in her life would have said something to her. Of course Liz really couldn’t judge Jake for hiding something from her – she knew that Jake was actually Jason Morgan, husband of the very woman Patrick was talking to, and she had decided not to tell anyone then truth.

 

“So Danny is with your mom?” Patrick nodded his head in understanding. “Well Emma is staying at Mac’s tonight so I guess I will see you after we both get home. Bye.”

 

Patrick hung up the phone and Liz approached him. “So, how is Sam doing?”

 

“Fine.” Patrick grabbed a chart off the counter and began reviewing it. “She has been busy working with Jake on this whole ELQ thing but you know that.”

 

She actually didn’t but Liz did not want Patrick to know it. “Yeah, I guess they are planning another late night tonight.”

 

The nurse's desk phone rang, interrupting their conversation. Liz answered it quickly. “10th floor nurse’s station.” She listened to the person on the other end of the line before responding. “Of course, Dr. Drake is right here so I will send him right down.”

 

“What is it Liz?”

 

“There was a police raid on a medical facility just outside of town. Luckily there was only one major injury – 37 year old female, blunt force trauma to the head. The ambulance is almost here.”

 

Patrick handed Liz the chart and ran to the elevator. “Tell the ER I am on my way.”

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Dr. Drake, she’s in Trauma Room 1.” Epiphany was filling in at the ER nurse’s desk for the night. “I’ve called in Dr. Marucci and he’ll be here in just a minute.”

 

“That’s ridiculous – I am perfectly capable of handing this case.” Patrick was offended that Epiphany was trying to take the case from him.

 

“You don’t understand…” Epiphany was cut off by Anna running up to Patrick.

 

“How is she?” Anna practically shook the doctor as she tried to get the information out of him.

 

Patrick was shocked to see Anna - he thought she was still in Scotland. He looked at Anna and then saw Robert run up behind her. “How is who? What is going on here?”

 

“Robin – how is she?” Anna was nearly frantic with worry as Robert put his arms around her to try and comfort her.

 

Patrick shook his head. “Okay, obviously there is something going on here that I don’t know about. Why would I know how Robin is – she hasn’t spoken to me in almost a year.”

 

“And you didn’t think that was odd Drake?” Robert had no plans on being nice to the man who had divorced his daughter. “You thought so little of my daughter that you never bothered to see if she was okay?”

 

Patrick turned away from Robert, refusing to get into this fight right now. “Look, I don’t have time for this – I have a patient to take care of.”

 

Robert grabbed Patrick and pulled him back. “Like hell you are! You aren’t going anywhere near her!”

 

Patrick was pushed aside as Marucci came running past him and into the Trauma Room. Suddenly he heard orders being yelled through the door. “Full BSI folks – the patient is HIV positive and we have no idea what her viral load is at this time.”

 

Patrick’s heart dropped into his stomach as he shook Robert off of him and he walked into the room. He saw the patient lying on the bed strapped down to a backboard, bruised and with blood coming from numerous cuts over her small body. Her brown hair was matted with dried blood from a laceration on her forehead and she was completely unresponsive. “Robin?”

 

Epiphany walked into the room and gently pulled Patrick back out. He stumbled into the hall and fell back against the wall, trying to comprehend what he had just seen. He took a few deep breaths and glared at Robert, tears streaming down his face. “What the hell is going on Robert? What happened to my wife?”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 2

 

“Don’t you mean your ex-wife?” Robert’s hit Patrick with a withering look. “You dropped my daughter like a bad habit so you could bed Morgan’s widow. Don’t act like you care about her now.”

 

“I love Robin. I always have and I always will. She left me – remember?” Patrick was still in shock over what he had seen and not ready to have this argument. He tried to calm himself down. “Please tell me what happened to her.”

 

Neither one of Robin’s parents had a chance to say anything before Marucci came out of the room. “Patrick?”

 

Patrick turned around and looked at his colleague. “How is she?”

 

“She has a concussion and a lot of cuts and bruises but she should be fine. Her CT is clear, no broken bones and no internal bleeding. I am still waiting for the results from her blood work so we can see where her viral load is at. We will be taking her upstairs as soon as we can get her a room and then you can see her.” Marucci was happy to be able to give Patrick some good news about Robin.

 

“Thank you.” Marucci walked to the nurse’s desk to begin getting Robin admitted and Patrick turned back to Robert and Anna. “It looks like she’s going to be okay so please tell me what is going on.”

 

Anna took control of the conversation. “I have been having a bad feeling about Robin for a while now – that something was off with the story she told us that night. When you told me you hadn’t spoken to her in months and then she didn’t come home for Duke’s funeral, I knew she was in trouble. She would have never missed his funeral and she certainly wouldn’t go for months without speaking to her daughter – at least not willingly. That just isn’t Robin.”

 

“So you didn’t go to Scotland?”

 

“No, I went to Scotland but I called Robert as soon as I got there and had him begin looking for Robin. Robert joined me a month ago and told me that he had not been able to find her. There were no records of Robin even having left the United States. We called in every contact we could to try and track her down. We finally found out that there was a secret facility just outside of Port Charles that Helena Cassadine had set up right around the time of Robin’s decision to leave town.” Anna paused so Robert took over the story.

 

“We put together a team and went to the facility to mount a rescue operation. We got inside the gates and that was when we saw her – she was being thrown into the back of a van and the van took off. We gave chase but the driver lost control and crashed, flipping the van over.” Robert’s voice cracked as he remembered what happened next. “They must not have bothered to buckle her in because when we got to the van and opened the door, she was lying on the ceiling of the vehicle. We pulled her out and got her to the ambulance.”

 

Patrick’s guilt overwhelmed him. “So you’re saying that she didn’t leave us, that she was kidnapped again?”

 

Robert glared at the doctor. “That’s exactly what I am saying. The woman that you told me you would love forever was begging for your help and you walked out on her. I never thought you were good enough for her but I did think you loved her.”

 

“I do love her.”

 

“You certainly have a funny way of showing it. She went to help a friend and you divorced her.” Robert hated what Patrick had done to his daughter – not just the divorce but ignoring her cries for help.

 

“My son died and our daughter was hurt – she turned her back on us.” Patrick needed to defend his decision.

 

“Because that is so like Robin – she is the first one to turn her back on the people she loves.” The sarcasm in Robert’s voice was evident. “Face it – you didn’t like sleeping alone so you dumped her so you could pursue your next conquest with a clear conscience. You ignored everything you know about our daughter to justify your decision to walk out on her.”

 

“It wasn’t like that…”

 

“Really? And when you found out Victor Cassadine arranged for that accident to keep Robin in line – did you contact me and tell me? Did you even wonder for a second if the same thing was going on again and that’s why she was gone?” Robert scoffed at Patrick. “No, you just concerned yourself with your latest bed buddy and wrote my daughter off.”

 

Patrick looked away in shame. “Victor was dead – the threat was over.”

 

“Because Cassadines are known for working alone and Helena has never threatened my family before? Grow up man – you didn’t care. The mother of your child was in danger and you didn’t care.” Robert wrapped his arms around Anna. “No matter how I have felt about Anna over the years I would go to the ends of the earth to protect her and save her because she is Robin’s mother and Robin needs her just like Emma needs Robin. Too bad you didn’t feel the same way.”

 

“Robin is being taken to her room.” Epiphany interrupted the group. “She’ll be on the 10th floor, room 1022, so if you want to head on up…”

 

“Thank you Epiphany.” Patrick gave the nurse a weak smile as she walked away. “We can talk about this later.”

 

Patrick headed for the elevator but Robert stopped him. “What the hell do you think you are doing?”

 

“Going upstairs to be with Robin. I want to be there when she wakes up.”

 

“Like hell you are!” Robert pulled Patrick away from the elevator and stared him straight in the eyes. “You are not going anywhere near my little girl again.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 3

 

“Excuse me?” Patrick stared straight back at Robert. “You have no right to keep me away from her.”

 

“I have every right – I’m her father and you are just her ex-husband. You have no rights anymore when it comes to Robin.” Robert put himself in front of the elevator doors, prepared to tackle Patrick if necessary to keep him off it.

 

“That’s where you are wrong.” Patrick stalked over to the nurse’s desk. “Epiphany, has Robin changed her power of attorney?”

 

Epiphany pulled up Robin’s file on the computer and shook her head. “No Dr. Drake.”

 

Robert eyed Patrick suspiciously. “What the hell are you talking about?”

 

“I am Robin’s power of attorney which means I make all medical decisions for her when she is unable to. I have every right to be in that room with her and make sure she is getting the best care possible. Now you have two choices Robert, you can come with me and we can go see Robin together or I can impose a visitor restriction.” Patrick was feeling backed into a corner and was lashing out the only way he could.

 

“You wouldn’t dare.” Robert gaze turned so cold that Patrick nearly shivered.

 

“Wanna bet?” Patrick stepped towards Robert and Anna jumped in between the two of them.

 

“Stop it! This is not helping Robin at all.” Anna had had enough of their male posturing. “I want to go upstairs and see my daughter and we need to concentrate on what is best for her. Patrick is a doctor and can make the right medical decisions for her so I have no problem with him staying in there with us until she wakes up and decides if she wants him there. Now let’s go.”

 

After another brief standoff, Robert turned around and pushed the up button on the elevator. The doors opened and the three of them got on the elevator and headed up to the 10th floor.

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“What do you mean she escaped?” Nikolas was pacing his living room as he talked to his guards on the phone. “How?”

 

“Her parents staged a rescue. We attempted to get her out but the driver lost control of the van and crashed. They pulled her out and took off with her. Last we heard, she is at General Hospital.”

 

“Was she conscious?” Nikolas was trying to keep the concern out of his voice. He was truly worried about Robin – she was far more important to him than anyone knew.

 

“The doctor was unconscious when she was admitted to the hospital. Dr. Obrecht is keeping an eye on the situation for us.” In exchange for Cesar and Britt’s safety, Obrecht was still working for the Cassadines. “She will notify us if there is a change in the doctor’s condition and if you need to leave the country.”

 

“Good.” Nikolas hung up the phone and sighed. Everything had been going perfectly, according to their plans and now…

 

Nikolas picked up his phone one last time. “Alfred, have the jet standing by – I may need to leave Port Charles for a little while.”

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Patrick sat on the left side of Robin’s bed while her parents sat on the right. The only sounds in the room were that of the machines monitoring Robin’s heart rate and blood pressure. They had been in there with her for over an hour, just waiting for her to wake up.

 

Suddenly a new sound filled the room. “Oh.” It came out as a soft moan but it was Robin’s voice.

 

Patrick reacted immediately. “Robin, hey, welcome back.” He gently stroked her cheek.

 

Robin blinked her eyes and tried to focus. She looked to her right and saw her parents sitting there. “Mom? Dad?”

 

“That’s right luv, we’re here.” Robert squeezed his daughter’s hand. “Good to see you again.”

 

“You too.” Tears filled her eyes and Robin let them fall. “What happened?”

 

“You were in an accident.” Patrick squeezed her hand and tried to get her to look at him. “What do you remember?”

 

Robin turned to him and regarded him coldly. “Enough. What are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be off with your little girlfriend?”

 

Patrick felt like he had been slapped. “Robin, it’s not like that.”

 

“You know what, I don’t care. You made your bed, go lie in it – just bring me my daughter before you do.” Robin turned away from him. “She can stay with Mac until I get out of here.”

 

Patrick was shocked at how she was treating him. “Robin, look I know you are upset but…”

 

“Upset, is that what you thought when you left last night - that I was just upset? I hate you!” The tears flowed down her cheeks like tiny rivers. “I hate what you did to us, to our family. I hate that your decision put our daughter in danger. She took our little girl Patrick, our baby. Is she the reason I’m in here – did she cause my ‘accident’?”

 

Patrick’s hurt changed to fear. “Robin, what is the date?”

 

Robin couldn’t believe that that was what he wanted to know. “Why?”

 

“The date Robin, what is today’s date?” Patrick pushed the call button as he asked her the question again.

 

Robin shook her head at him in disbelief. “Fine – August 25, 2010.”

[ulkis]

Parody. I wrote the first one back in March and the second last month. Let's just call them "McBain Gives Love Advice." Warning: I actually do not think any of these men are physically bad looking, but if you're a bit sensitive about ME, DZ, BA or RP's  looks, skip them over.

 

"So, anyway," said Nathan, opening up his locker after he and Dante had showered, "I told him to go back to Portland but - "

 

Just then the locker room door opened.

 

"Dr Clay?" said Nathan. "What are you doing here? No offense, but you're not supposed to be back here."

 

"Oh yes I am," said Silas. He pointed at Dante. "He'll tell you it's fine."

 

"That, I definitely won't do," said Dante.

 

"Now, is that the way to treat your partner?"

 

"My partner?" echoed Dante.

 

"Don't you recognize me?" asked Silas.

 

"Dr. Clay?" said Dante.

 

"No! I was your partner!" said Silas.

 

"Ronnie?" guessed Dante.

 

"Do I look like I dye my hair with shoe polish?" said Silas, offended.

 

"Uh . . . " said Nathan.

 

"Dolores Padilla?" ventured Dante again.

 

"No! Do I look like a woman?"

 

"Well actually - " said Dante.

 

"Guess again! Even though I know you're just stalling!" said Silas.

 

"Lucky???"

 

"No!" said Silas. "Do I look like I'm always on the verge of tears to you?"

 

Nathan rubbed the back of his neck. "Kinda - "

 

"I'm McBain!" said Silas.

 

"Oh," said Dante. "Great to see you. I guess. In the locker room after we just came out of the shower."

 

"I know, right?" said McBain. He opened up a locker.

 

"I don't understand," said Nathan. "You and this McBain are one and the same?"

 

"Yup," said Silas.

 

"Didn't you think it was strange Dr Clay looked exactly like your old partner?" Nathan asked Dante.

 

"Yeah, honestly I don't even bother anymore with a bunch of shit anymore," said Dante.

 

"So, boys, I heard you talking about romantic problems?" said Silas.

 

"It was Na - whoa whoa whoa what are you doing?" said Dante, throwing his shirt over his eyes.

 

"I'm taking off my shirt to get showered," explained Silas.

 

"I gotta go," said Dante, stumbling along the lockers, trying to guide himself out with his shirt still on his face.

 

"Wait, Dante!" cried out Nathan. "Don't leave me here!"

 

"Sorry buddy!" Nathan heard from the hall. "I did my time!"

 

"We didn't want his short ass here anyway," said Silas. "So, tell me, what was the romantic problem you were having. Trust me, gollum over there was gonna be no help."

 

"Don't you have to take a shower Dr Clay? I mean, McBain." Nathan corrected himself, trying to avert his eyes. "Whoever you are?"

 

"Aw no, I have time to give you some advice," said Silas. He sat down on the bench and patted the space next to him.

 

"Well," said Nathan, sitting down. "I think my girlfriend may be torn between myself and her ex, the father of her child, Damien Spinelli."

 

"Spinelli, Spinelli," Silas mused. "Sounds like the name of the murderer of one of my many family members."

 

"I don't think so," said Nathan. "It's this guy." He pulled up a picture of Spinelli on his phone.

 

"Oh, oh God," Silas said, taking a look. "That's some fucking ugly shit, and trust me, I've seen some fucking ugly shit in my time as Lllanview's most amazing police detective. Is your girlfriend a dumb whore with syphilis that made her brain all fucked up?"

 

"Um, no," said Nathan. "Not to my knowledge."

 

"Well if it's not that . . . " said Silas/McBain. He looked around, thinking. His eyes widened and stared at Nathan's towel. "Could it be - " He reached over and pulled at the waist of Nathan's towel.

 

"Detective, I feel very uncomfor - "

 

"Whoa," said McBain, replacing the towel. "Man. I am sorry for you buddy."

 

"Maxie was perfectly satisfied with my performance in bed," said Nathan.

 

"Ah yeah sure she was," said McBain. "Because she's obviously a syphilitic idiot."

 

"That's not very nice - "

 

"I'm going to take a shower now," said McBain, getting up. "And don't follow me, I don't want your little dick cooties anywhere near me." He stretched and gestured towards his chest. "Try not to cry too much when you think of this wet and gleaming in the shower."

 

He walked off.

 

---

 

Second part:

 

"So, yeah, I cheated on my wife with Valerie," said Dante to Nathan. "I messed up big time."

 

They heard one of the gym locker doors open behind them. "Hey guys, what's up?" asked Dr. Clay, walking into the room in shorts and a tank top. Dante and Nathan tried not to make direct eye contact.

 

"Hey Dr. Clay," said Dante awkwardly.

 

"Seriously? We have to do this again?" Dr Clay said.

 

"What do you mean?" asked Nathan.

 

"It's McBain, remember? As in 'Detective-I-was-a-much-better-partner-for-this-guy-McBain'"

 

"Oh, right," said Nathan. "Now I remember."

 

"And you, what's your excuse?" McBain asked Dante.

 

"I did think you seemed kind of different . . . but we haven't seen you for four months. You popped up in the locker room and then never appeared again. And before you popped up in our locker room - while we were half naked - you hadn't been in town for two years. So, yeah," Dante said. "I really was expecting the guy who actually lives here and not you."

 

"That's why you're a street cop Falconeri, and I'm FBI. It's not safe for me to give out garden parties to announce my arrival every time I'm back in town, sorry I didn't send you a fruit basket." He leaned against the rope. "Now, I have time enough to listen to what's going on before I get to my workout. Not that I really need to work out. But I deserve to suffer, so I work out for the good of my soul."

 

He looked down and saw a jump rope. "Whoa, what is this, for kids?"

 

"That's . . . that's my jump rope," said Dante.

 

"Oh." McBain threw done the rope. "Maybe you can teach me some jumping jack rhymes next time I'm here. But for now, why don't you tell me what your wife did that made you cheat on her. Don't worry, I'm sure it was completely her fault. Cheating on someone who's as short as an 11 year old is exactly like cheating on an 11 year old in my book. It's sick and perverse and cruel." He pursed his lips in judgement and stared into space.

 

"I already told Nathan here. My wife didn't cheat, not that it's any of your busi - "

 

"Again, that is why I'm an FBI agent and you're a glorified boy scout," said McBain. "I'm a detective/agent, everything is my business, including your wife and everyone she has sex with. So tell me what she did."

 

"She didn't DO anything - " said Dante.

 

"That's what I thought, her fault. I'm sorry man, it's harsh. The only thing left to do is leave your wife and your child behind because the pain is too much and have sex with even more women." He put his hand on Dante's shoulder. "I know the pain man. I know."

 

"It was NOT her fault," said Dante, annoyed. "She lied, yeah, but her brother's life was in danger."

 

"I'm sorry, did she take a vow to protect her brother or did she take a vow to do everything you tell her to do? Your wife disgusts me. She knew you were a short bug eyed man the day she married you, and yet she did this to you." He took a flask out of his shorts and took a sip. He handed out to Dante. "Go on, go on, I know you need it."

 

"Do you always take scotch to the gym with you?" asked Nathan. McBain ignored him.

 

"No thanks," said Dante.

 

"Suit yourself," McBain took another sip. "So, on a scale of one to ten, how much pain were you in when your wife forced you to bed another woman?"

 

"I don't really remember," said Dante.

 

"Where'd you have sex with her?" asked McBain. "That can help me determine the level. Who was it?"

 

"Look, I really don't want to tell you these things," said Dante.

 

"Trick question, I read it all in your eyes just now," informed McBain. "Your wife's cousin in your wife's bed. I cannot believe your wife put you in so much pain. That is almost an 11, to be in so much pain you had sex in your wife's bed with her hotass cousin and didn't think about all the times you made sweet boring love there to your plain dowdy wife. And your wife can't even cook. Can't bear you children. Does she know how lucky is that you haven't been having sex with other woman to take your inner pain away all this time?"

 

"Please stop before I kill myself," said Dante.

 

"No, partner. You gotta bear that inner pain," said McBain. "The darkness is our burden. Men like us. Men who keep constant watch over society. You can't let yourself give into it."

 

"Please let me pass," said Dante. "All I want to do is get as far away from you as possible." Nathan nodded. "Look, Detective McBain, we don't want to hurt you but if you don't move out of our way, we will use force to get you out of our way."

 

"You know what helps you fight the darkness?" said McBain, peeling off his shirt. "Boxing in the ring." Dante and Nathan looked away. "By the way," McBain said as he stepped into the ring. "We're trapped in this building and the key is in my shorts, so one of you have to try to get it."

 

"Can you just drink until you're so drunk you give us the keys voluntarily?" asked Dante, eyes still averted.

 

"Done," said McBain. "So many ways to combat inner dark man pain. Let me tell you boys all about them." Dante and Nathan sighed and settled in.

 

--

[cmahorror]

Chapter 4

 

Patrick paced outside Robin’s room while Marucci performed his exam. Robin had lost all of her memories from the last 5 years and they had no clue why. The kidnappings, the explosions, their reunion, their divorce – all of it was gone. The door to her room opened and Marucci stepped out.

 

“How is she?” Robert jumped up from his seat as soon as he saw the doctor.

 

“Physically she is fine. She is sore and has a headache but that is to be expected. It’s the memory loss that has me concerned. It’s not unusual for a person to suffer some sort of memory loss after a traumatic event but it is usually just a short time period, not years at a time.” Marucci was trying to explain the situation as simply as possible. “I think we might be dealing with a form of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – that her brain is simply trying to protect her from all of the horrible things she has been through.”

 

“But why the day after I confessed to cheating on her with Lisa? We worked through all of that and rebuilt our marriage before Robin was taken the first time. Why not go back to the night of the lab explosion or when the clinic was destroyed?” Patrick could understand why Robin would experience memory loss but not the extent of it.

 

“Patrick, what Lisa did to Robin was very traumatic. She tried to kill Robin and put Emma in danger several times. Robin almost lost her career over everything Lisa did to her – is it really surprising that her mind would want her to forget it?” Even though he hadn't been involved, Marucci had been a witness to all the hell Dr. Niles had put the Drake family through.

 

“So what do we do?” Anna finally stood up from her chair, trying to sort the diagnosis out in her head. “She wants to see Emma and she is going to be confused that her little girl is now almost 7 years old.”

 

“I don’t think it’s a good idea to bring Emma here yet.” Patrick caught glares from both of Robin’s parents but he stood his ground. “She thinks that her mother left her. She needs time to understand that Robin was taken away and Robin needs to adjust to the fact that Emma is not a baby anymore.”

 

“You son of a bitch – she has already gone for years without seeing her little girl.” Robert was breathing heavy, trying to keep himself from punching his ex-son-in-law in his smug face.

 

“But Robin doesn’t know that – she thinks she put her baby to bed last night.” Patrick took a deep breath and faced Robert. “She will go into shock if Emma just walks in there with no warning. That’s the last thing Robin or Emma need right now.”

 

“I agree with Patrick.” Dr. Marucci spoke up. “Both Robin and Emma need to be prepared before they see each other. Now I would advise that you all three discuss the best way to talk to Emma and Robin. Given Robin’s feelings for you at the moment Patrick, I would suggest that someone other than you talk to her. I am also recommending that we severely limit the information she receives about what has happened over the past five years – it is really best if she remembers it on her own.”

 

Patrick nodded. “I will talk to Emma.”

 

“No, I will talk to Emma.” Anna had maintained a good relationship with Patrick even after Robin had left and she hoped he would trust her to handle this situation correctly. “I think it would be best coming from me.”

 

Patrick considered protesting but realized it was probably for the best – Anna and Emma were close and she would be gentler about the situation then he or Robert could be. “Fine and I think Mac should talk to Robin.”

 

“Mac?” Robert was offended. “Why the hell would Mac be better than her own father?”

 

“Because Mac is her father too Robert.” Patrick sighed. “Five years ago you weren’t even around but Mac was. I am willing to accept that I am not in the best position to help her right now but you need to admit that you might not be either.”

 

Robert stood there fuming but he knew, deep down, that Patrick was right. “Fine, I’ll call Mac.”

 

“Dr. Marucci, here are Dr. Scorpio’s test results.” Epiphany handed the doctor a file folder. Marucci opened it up and looked at Patrick. “I need to go speak with Robin.”

 

“What’s wrong? Is it her viral load up?” Patrick didn’t like the look on Marucci’s face.

 

“Patrick, you know as well as I do that power of attorney only works when the patient is unable to make their own decisions. Robin is awake now so I can’t tell you anything unless she says it is okay.” Marucci turned around and headed back into Robin’s room leaving behind three very confused and concerned people waiting to hear exactly what was going on with the woman they loved.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“So Robin doesn’t remember anything?” Nikolas felt a great sense of relief fill him. Robin’s memory loss could definitely work to his advantage.

 

“No – she woke up thinking it is 2010 and she was upset with that dog of a husband for having an affair with a Dr. Niles.” Obrecht hating being in debt to the Cassadines but she would do what she needed to for Faison and Britt to be safe.

 

“Which means she is very unhappy with her husband right now.” Nikolas smirked at the news. “That is just perfect.”

 

“I can also tell you that her viral load is almost undetectable and that the procedure you had performed on her before she was rescued was effective.” Obrecht had demanded that she be copied on all of Robin’s labwork. “What are you going to do now?”

 

Nikolas was thrilled. Everything was still going according to plan, they just needed to make a few adjustments. “I’m going to go visit an old friend in the hospital and offer her a place to stay. It’s time for Robin to move back into Wyndamere.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 5

 

Mac took a deep breath before entering Robin’s hospital room. He had been brought up to speed by Robert as to what was going on with his niece. When Robert had asked him to speak to Robin about what had happened Mac had agreed instantly – he would do anything for her. “Robin?”

 

Robin was lying in the bed on her side, curled up into a ball. Mac walked over to her and sat down in the chair next to her bed. “Sweetheart?”

 

Robin looked up and saw her uncle sitting there. “Uncle Mac? What are you doing here – you need to be resting.”

 

Mac was briefly confused until he remembered that he had been shot in the chest five years ago in this very hospital. “I’m fine Robin, I promise. I’m more worried about you. How are you?”

 

Robin sat up and tears filled her eyes. “I don’t know.”

 

“You don’t know?” Mac hated to see her this way – so sad and confused. It broke his heart.

 

“I get the feeling that there is something no one is telling me.” She looked her uncle straight in the eyes. “Why can’t I see Emma? Where is my little girl?”

 

“Oh Robin,” Mac got on the bed and hugged her, “Emma is fine, I promise.”

 

“Promise?” Robin’s tears of relief soaked the front of his shirt.

 

“Of course I do. In fact your mom is with her right now and we will bring her by to see you in the morning.” He felt Robin pull away from him and he gently wiped away her tears. “Okay?”

 

“Okay.”

 

“But before she visits we need to talk about something. Robin what is the last thing you remember?” Mac saw Robin stiffen up at his question.

 

“Why does everyone keep asking me that?”

 

“Because it’s important. Now before you say anything I want you to know that I know what happened between Patrick and Lisa Niles.” Mac hated remembering that time in their lives but he needed to for Robin’s sake.

 

“How? You know what – it doesn’t matter.” Robin closed her eyes and started thinking. “I had just kicked Patrick out of the house. I threw our wedding picture at the door and told him to get out. Then,” her voice was filled with emotion as she continued, “I sat down in the chair and just cried. It hurts, it hurts so much.”

 

Mac pulled Robin into his arms as she broke down into a sobbing mess. “Oh Robin, I’m so sorry.” He hated this – hated that she was having to relive all of this pain once again. He held her close and let her cry it out.

 

After a few minutes the tears subsided and she fell back against her pillow. “I’m sorry about that.”

 

“You have nothing to be sorry for.” Mac took Robin’s hands in his. “Robin, do you trust me?”

 

“Of course I do. I trust you more than I trust anyone.” Robin didn’t understand the question.

 

“So then you know that if I tell you something, it’s the truth no matter how crazy it may seem.” Mac was hoping to prepare her as best he could for what he had to tell her.

 

Robin gave him a wary nod. “Yes.”

 

“Sweetheart, you were in an accident this morning. You were being held prisoner and your parents came to rescue you. The people holding you tried to leave with you and crashed the van you were in.” Mac was speaking softly as he gave her the news.

 

Robin shook her head and turned away from him. “No, I was at home and I must have left and that’s when…”

 

“Robin, I need you to look at me." She turned back to him. "You were taken away from us and it has been a long time since we have seen you. In fact, you have been taken from us twice and your parents found you both times.” Mac could see the confusion on her face and prepared himself for the question that he knew was coming.

 

“How long? What year is it?” Robin almost whispered the questions, not sure that she wanted to know the answers.

 

“Robin, it’s 2015.”

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“So mommy didn’t want to leave?” Emma sat in her Grandma’s lap trying to understand what she had been told.

 

“No sweetheart – the bad people took her away from us. They told her they would hurt you and your Daddy if she didn’t go with them and your Mommy would do anything to keep you safe.” Anna hugged Emma, hoping that she was explaining it correctly.

 

“So she wasn’t in Paris?”

 

“No.”

 

“Did Daddy know?” Emma had been wondering why her dad wouldn’t let her talk to her mom.

 

“No, he didn’t know.” ‘But he should have’ Anna added to herself.

 

“When can I see her? I want to see my Mommy.” Tears filled Emma’s eyes and she began crying.

 

Anna hugged her granddaughter close. “Tomorrow sweetheart, first thing tomorrow morning I will take you to see her. I promise.” Anna wiped Emma’s tears away and smiled at her. “You know what I think your Mommy would love? I think she would love to get a drawing from you. What do you say – you want to draw your Mommy a picture to give to her when we see her tomorrow?”

 

Emma nodded and got off of Anna’s lap, heading to the cabinet where the paper and crayons were kept and putting her supplies down on the coffee table. She carefully chose each color and began drawing. Her mom was home and Emma was determined to make her the best picture ever.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 6

 

Robin sat there in shocked silence as what her Uncle Mac had told her sunk in. Finally she spoke. “2015?”

 

“Yes dear.” Mac watched her reaction carefully.

 

“So Emma is 7?” Tears fell from Robin’s eyes as she did the math.

 

“Almost – yes.” He reached over and squeezed her hand again.

 

“You said I was gone – how long has it been since you’ve seen me?” Robin still didn’t look at Mac.

 

“I haven’t seen you in over a year and a half but you were talking to Emma over Skype for quite awhile.” Mac wanted Robin to know that she had been in contact with her little girl, at least for a little while.

 

Robin finally looked at Mac. “How long has it been since she has talked to me?”

 

Mac sighed. “A year sweetheart, it’s been a year since you’ve talked to her.”

 

“Oh God.” Robin collapsed into tears as the truth hit her. It had been a year since she had spoken to her little girl. Suddenly she grabbed Mac. “I’m going to be sick – I need something…”

 

Mac grabbed the garbage can and gave it to her right as Robin got sick. He pushed the call button and a nurse came right in and saw what was going on. “I’ll call Dr. Marucci but this is a common side effect of a concussion. I’ll see if he wants to administer any anti-nausea medicine for you.”

 

Robin put up her hand. “It’s okay – I just got some bad news and had a reaction. You can call Marucci but I don’t want anything.”

 

“Robin, are you sure?” Mac wasn’t convinced that she was okay now.

 

“Yes.”

 

The nurse did a quick check on Robin’s vitals, gathered up Robin’s garbage can and then left the two alone again. Mac brought Robin a cool washcloth to wipe off her face and sat down with her again. He pulled out his phone and brought up a picture of Emma he had taken a few days ago. “Robin, this is Emma now.”

 

Robin stared in wonder at the beautiful little girl playing in the park. She had long dark hair, Patrick’s dimples and mischievous glint in her dark brown eyes. “She’s beautiful.”

 

“And smart – just like her mom. She loves you so much – says a prayer for you every night.” Mac wrapped his arm around Robin’s shoulders and hugged her close. “Your mom talked to her tonight and explained everything. She understood and was already working on making you the best picture she could. She can't wait to see you tomorrow.”

 

“But she shouldn’t have to understand it Mac. She shouldn’t have had to think her mother abandoned her.” Robin wiped the tears away as she continued to stare at her daughter’s picture.

 

Mac couldn’t take it. “At least this time she knows you’re alive.” He quickly shut up realizing he had said too much.

 

“What do mean?” Robin stared at her uncle. “Mac, what do you mean this time she knows I’m alive?”

 

“I’m sorry Robin, I shouldn’t have said that. Dr. Marucci insisted that you need to remember things on your own. He gave us permission to tell you about Emma because it would be too great a shock to have her walk in five years older but everything else is off limits.” Mac hated not telling Robin what had happened but he would do anything to ensure a safe and full recovery for his niece.

 

“No, I understand.” Robin stared at the phone for a minute later before handing the phone back to Mac. She thought for a moment and then got a shocked look on her face. “Mac, you said it has been over a year since anyone has seen me?”

 

“Yes sweetheart. Why?”

 

“Oh God.” Robin broke down in tears once again. “Oh my God.”

 

“Robin, what is it?” Mac held on to Robin as she collapsed against him. “Robin!”

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas walked into Robin’s room an hour later with a bouquet of flowers. “Is it okay if I come in?”

 

Mac stood up and shook Nikolas’s hand. “I think that would be great. She’s sleeping right now – she had a bad episode a little while ago.” Mac watched Robin sleep for a moment before turning back to Nik. “She woke up thinking it was 2010. I had to tell her that Emma is now almost 7 and she didn’t take it well. She passed out for a minute and they had to give her a light sedative to help her rest.”

 

“That must have been horrible for her.” Nikolas rubbed his chin. “2010 – that was when Lisa was making her life a living hell here. Why would she think it was then?”

 

“The doctor thinks it’s a form of PTSD – she woke up thinking it was the morning after she found out about the affair. Needless to say it’s been a rough day.”

 

“Is she going to be okay? Physically I mean?” Nikolas put on his best concerned face – Mac had always approved of his and Robin’s friendship.

 

“Yes, a concussion and some cuts and bruises but her viral load is still nearly undetectable so now we just need to get her reacquainted with her daughter and go from there.” Mac was focused on helping Robin and Emma rebuild their relationship. “The doctor doesn’t want us to tell her anything about what has happened over the past 5 years – she needs to remember on her own.”

 

“Maybe I could help with that. Spencer just left for boarding school and the house feels a bit empty with him gone. Maybe Robin and Emma could stay with me for awhile? I have plenty of room and I can also help monitor her visitors. They could go on picnics, play in the maze, horseback riding, it could be their own private retreat. I could even arrange to have a doctor come and stay with us to have regular sessions with Robin and help her manage her PTSD.” Nikolas looked over at the bed and saw Robin was awake and listening to every word he said. “What do you say Robin?”

 

Mac turned around and smiled at his niece. “Welcome back sweetheart. You don’t have to make any decisions now.”

 

“I know but that sounds like the best idea I have heard all day. It may be a little overwhelming to try and live in the middle of town and I am assuming Patrick isn’t single anymore.” Robin saw both men turn away from her. “Who is it?”

 

“Robin,” Nikolas walked over to her bed and took her hand in his, “the doctor wants you to remember on your own and anything we tell you might confuse you. Just let things come naturally and, until you’re ready, stay with me. I promise you that I will take good care of you and Emma both. I will protect you with my life. What do you think?”

 

Robin thought about it. “I think you are one of the best friends a girl could ever have. Yes, I will move into Wyndamere.” She looked at Mac. “Could you talk to Patrick and see about getting Emma? I’m not ready to deal with him yet.”

 

“I’ll go do that right now if Nikolas will stay with you.”

 

Nikolas smiled at Mac. “There is no place else I would rather be.”

Edited August 24, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 7

 

Robin played with the sheet on the bed as she waited for Mac to bring Emma in to visit. Mac had called her this morning and told her that Patrick had agreed to let Emma stay with her for the time being so that she and Emma could rebuild their relationship but she was still nervous. Her last memory of Emma was as a baby, barely able to talk and still in diapers but the little girl coming in today would be full of questions and memories – memories she still didn’t have.

 

“May we come in?” Mac poked his head in and smiled at Robin. She nodded her head and he opened the door allowing Emma to enter the room.

 

Robin gasped at the sight of her little girl, so grown up. She had seen pictures but they didn’t do her little girl justice. “Hey baby - oh, I’ve missed you.”

 

Emma hesitated for only a moment before running over to the bed and hugging her mommy tight. “I missed you too mommy. I love you.”

 

“I love you too Emma, so much.” Robin clung to Emma and gently rocked the little girl, scared to let her go. “No one is ever going to keep us apart again.”

 

Emma nodded and relaxed into her mom’s arms. “Promise?”

 

“I promise.” Mac watched the two for a moment before leaving the room and letting the two get to know each other again.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“I’m still wearing the necklace you gave me Mommy.” Emma stopped speaking suddenly. “I’m not supposed to tell you that.”

 

“Emma, you never have to be afraid to tell me anything.” Robin reached over and looked at the tiny telescope attached to the chain. “When you look at the moon, just know that I’m looking at it too. I’ll always be with you.”

 

Emma got a huge smile on her face. “You remember!”

 

“I was leaving – why was I leaving?” Robin had a short memory flash of her giving Emma the necklace.

 

“Your friend was sick and you went to help him.” Emma answered helpfully.

 

Robin closed her eyes and tried to remember but the memory just wouldn’t come. “I shouldn’t have left you.” She felt a huge wave of guilt engulfing her. She hugged Emma close. “I should have stayed with you.”

 

“Mommy, you help people who are sick and I like it. I just wish you could have come home faster.” Emma didn’t want her mom to be sad so she talked about something else. “Daddy said we are going to stay with Uncle Nikolas for a little bit.”

 

“If that is okay with you?” Emma nodded. “Good – I am actually getting released in a little while which means that we can stay there tonight if you want?”

 

“I do!” Emma practically squealed with excitement. She loved going to Wyndamere, especially now that Spencer was gone. “I can have Uncle Mac take me to Daddy's and pack my suitcase. Can I go find him?”

 

Robin laughed at her daughter’s excitement. “Of course – he should be right outside. I will call him when I get ready to leave the hospital and we can meet at the launch and go over together.”

 

Emma jumped off the bed. “I love you mommy! See you soon!”

 

“I love you too baby.” Robin smiled as Emma ran out of the room to find Mac. She took a moment and closed her eyes trying to pull out one memory, just one. She had remembered the words but she couldn’t quite remember when she said them. She punched the bed. “Damn it!”

 

“Hey – what did the bed do to you?” Nikolas gave Robin a small smile as he entered her room. “What’s wrong? Did Patrick say no to Emma staying with us at Wyndamere?”

 

“No – she actually can’t wait to get there. She went to find Uncle Mac so he could take her to pack her suitcase.” Robin grinned at her old friend. “I remembered something.”

 

“Really – what?” Nikolas walked over to the bed, carefully watching Robin's expression.

 

“Something I said to Emma before I left. I don’t really remember saying it but I remembered the words.” She looked at Nikolas hopefully. “That’s something isn’t it?”

 

Nikolas sat down on the bed and took Robin’s hands in his. “Yes, but I don’t want you to get too excited or push yourself. You have a long road ahead of you but know I will be with you every step of the way.” He pulled Robin into his arms and held her close. “Now why do I have a feeling that there is something else on your mind? You know you can tell me anything.”

 

Robin nodded her head. “I know it’s just…”

 

Nikolas leaned back and looked her straight in the eyes. “Whatever it is – just tell me. Tell me and I will do everything in my power to help you. You trust me right?”

 

Robin shook her head and gave him a little laugh. “Of course I do.”

 

“Then tell me.” Nikolas gently stroked her cheek with his knuckles. “Tell me so I can help you.”

 

Robin bit her lip and nodded. Nikolas was right – she needed to tell someone what was going on. “Okay – but you cannot tell anyone.” Robin took a deep breath before speaking again. “After I woke up…”

[BestestAuntEver]

I love that Robin, Robert and Anna get to be angry and upset with Patrick 's shitty behavior. This is probably the closets I'll get to it, outside of the show in my head.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 8

 

“Here are your discharge papers Robin.” Liz handed Robin the clipboard and smiled at her old friend. “Sign here and you are free to go.”

 

“Thanks Liz.” Robin read her discharge instructions and signed the paper. “How are the boys? Getting big I bet.”

 

“Yes – they’re growing up so fast. I was happy they got to see Lucky the last time he was in town.” Liz noted the confused look on her friend’s face. “Oh Robin, I’m so sorry – I forgot…”

 

“It’s okay – I don’t want people hiding things from me. So Lucky left town? I was hoping he would handle the paternity results better than that. I know he was hurt when he found out Aiden wasn’t his but,” Robin saw an uncomfortable look flicker across Liz’s face, “what is it Liz?”

 

“Um, we found out about a year after Aiden was born that he was actually Lucky’s son. Lucky left town for other reasons.” Liz wasn’t sure what to tell Robin. “It doesn’t matter now. What matters now is getting you better. Is Patrick going to be here to get you soon?”

 

Now it was time for Robin to look uncomfortable. “Actually no – I am going to go stay at Wyndamere with Nikolas. He is going to be here in a few minutes to take me home.”

 

“God Robin, I am so sorry. I just keep putting my foot in my mouth.” Liz was about to say something else when the door opened and Jake walked in.

 

“Sorry to interrupt, but Epiphany said I could find you in here.” Jake stopped short when he saw Robin sitting on the edge of the bed. He approached her slowly and stared at her for a moment before speaking. “It’s you.”

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“We’re going to go horseback riding and have picnics and watch movies.” Emma was talking a mile a minute as Patrick helped her pack up her suitcase. “I can’t wait!”

 

Patrick watched Emma pack with a variety of emotions running through his head. He was thrilled that Robin was home and that she and Emma were getting to spend time together and reconnect but he was sad that they were doing it away from him. He was not happy about Robin and Emma staying at Wyndamere but Mac had guilted him into agreeing.

 

If he were being honest, guilt was what he was feeling the most – guilt over not having seen what was so clear in hindsight. Robin’s fear and panic, the desperation in her voice, the refusal to truly look him in the eyes. All the signs were there – he just had been so blinded by his own emotions he had turned a blind eye to hers. He owed Robin this time with Emma – time she would have had if he hadn’t let her down.

 

“I know you can’t.” He sat down on Emma’s bed and patted the spot next to him. “You are going to have so much fun with your mom but you remember what Grandma Anna told you?”

 

Emma nodded. “Not to tell Mommy anything about the past few years unless she says something first.”

 

“That’s right. Mommy is going to get better and get all her memories back and I bet all her ones with you are what she remembers first. She loves you so much.” Patrick hugged Emma. It was killing him to let her go even though he knew it was best thing for Emma and Robin. Emma got up to finish packing while Patrick continued to watch her. She was so much like Robin, putting everything in the suitcase was a precision that most adults don’t even have.

 

Robin – she had looked so small, so frail lying in that hospital bed. All he had wanted to do was pick her up and hold her in his arms, fix every cut and every bruise on her body with his touch. When she had woken up and reacted the way she did it had broken his heart. He had barely slept at all last night – still trying to wrap his head around what he had found out in the last 24 hours. He had even talked it over with Sam after she got home and they had both felt a huge amount of guilt for not following up on Faison’s claims regarding Victor Cassadine and his involvement in Robin’s staying away from Port Charles.

 

Sam was gone again, she had left early this morning to meet up with Jake again - a common occurrence anymore. Patrick was starting to see the writing on the wall regarding their relationship. As much as he wanted to deny it, Patrick was certain that Sam and Jake were falling for each other. There was something in the way she talked about him, the smile in her eyes that she just couldn’t hide, the way she made excuses to spend time with him that was making it clear to Patrick that he and Sam were almost over. Patrick knew he should be devastated or at least hurt but the truth was that Sam and him were never really meant to be together. He was beginning to see that now.

 

He had already made a decision that he would take advantage of Emma’s time with Robin to sit down with Sam and do what was right – end their romantic relationship. He needed some time to himself to come to terms with what had happened to Robin and the part he had played in it. He needed to figure out what he needed to do to try and help Robin get her life and her memories back. “You almost done baby girl?”

 

“Yes daddy. Can I call Uncle Mac now?” Mac had dropped Emma off to pack and was waiting for the call to come back and pick her up – he didn’t trust himself alone with Patrick right now.

 

“You know what Emma – I have a better idea.” Patrick stood up and picked Emma’s suitcase up off the bed. “Why don’t I take you to meet mommy?”

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Is everything ready?” Nikolas was on the phone in his car, making sure all his instructions were being followed to the letter.

 

“Yes sir. Dr. Scorpio and her daughter’s rooms have been prepared and the dinner plans are set. All unnecessary members of the household staff have been sent away and all of the guards had been put on notice that there are to be no visitors to the island until they receive further notice.” Alfred was very fond of Robin and Emma – he was willing to do anything to make them comfortable. “Will there be anything else sir?”

 

“Just one other thing – we will be having one more guest staying with us and a room will need to be prepared for him. Please place him in the opposite wing of Robin and Emma for the time being. His helicopter will be landing in about an hour. We’ll be home shortly.” Nikolas hung up the phone and smiled.

 

It had taken a little reworking to the plan but things were back on track and the new plan was even better for him. Soon he would accomplish his main goal – wresting full control of ELQ from the Quartermaines permanently. But the new plan gave him something the old one didn’t - a beautiful, intelligent and amazing woman to share his life with.

 

He knew he would never love Robin the way he had loved Emily but he did love her and it was time for both of them to move on and start new lives. What better way to do it than with an old friend? Together he and Robin would create the newest and best generation in the Cassadine legacy.

Edited August 26, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 9

 

Robin looked at the man who had just entered her room curiously. “I’m sorry, do I know you?”

 

Jake studied Robin, shaking his head. “I don’t know. I saw your picture at Sam’s house and I could swear I know you but I don’t know from where. Of course, I can’t remember anything from before a year ago.”

 

Robin couldn’t help but laugh. “Well, I’m a little better – I have only lost the last 5 years.”

 

“So you couldn’t tell me if we have met before?” Jake couldn’t shake the feeling that he not only knew Robin but she was someone important to him.

 

“Not if it was within the last 5 years – sorry.” Robin truly was sorry she couldn’t help him. “You said you saw my picture at Sam’s house – do you mean Sam Morgan?”

 

“Yes – I was helping her move in with her boyfriend and he had a picture on the shelf of you two with Emma.” Jake saw a look a pained look cross Liz’s face. “I’m sorry – did I say something wrong?”

 

“Wait – Sam is living with Patrick? As in boyfriend-girlfriend?” Tears filled Robin’s eyes. “What about Jason? I don’t understand.”

 

Liz took Robin’s hand and gently patted it. “Robin sweetie, Jason is gone.”

 

“Gone? As in…” Robin’s lip trembled as what Liz was saying sunk in. “How?”

 

“He was shot on Pier 52 one night and thrown into the water – his body was never found.” Technically everything Liz told Robin was true.

 

Robin closed her eyes and began rubbing her temples, small shocks of pain running through her head. She bent over as she tried to stop the dizziness that was now taking over her head. “No, no, he’s not dead.”

 

“Robin?” Nikolas walked into the room and saw her hunched over on the side of the bed. “Robin – what happened?”

 

“He’s not dead.” Nikolas wrapped his arms around Robin and she leaned into him. “Jason’s not dead.”

 

Nikolas looked at Liz who quickly covered. “I am so sorry Robin but he is.”

 

Nikolas rubbed Robin’s shoulders and held her close. “I am so sorry you had to find out this way Robin but it’s going to be okay. I’m going to take you home and we will make it through this together.” He looked at Liz. “May I take her home now?”

 

“Yes.” Liz watched Robin and tried to quell her guilty feelings. She and Jake both started walking toward the bed. “Just keep an eye on her and…”

 

“Don’t worry about her.” Nikolas stopped the couple a quick glare. “I’ll take care of her from now on.” He helped Robin off the bed and led her to the door. “Let’s go home Robin.”

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas held Robin’s hand in the car as they headed to the docks. “Are you sure you’re okay? We can always go back to the hospital.”

 

“I’m fine – just a little headache. It will probably take a few days before I get rid of it completely – one of the many fun side effects of a concussion.” Robin smiled at her old friend. “You don’t have to do this you know – I could stay at a hotel or…”

 

“No Robin – I want to do this for you. I promise you that I will protect you and take care of you.” Nikolas pulled Robin close. “In fact, I may have a way to guarantee your safety.”

 

“What’s that?” Robin watched out the window as they drove past the water.

 

“We’ll talk about it later.” The car stopped and Robin saw the launch on the dock. “Right now let’s get you to the house so you can get some rest.”

 

Ever the gentleman, Nikolas assisted Robin out of the car and led her to the launch. They were almost there when they heard Emma call out to them. “Mommy wait!”

 

Robin turned around and bent down so Emma could run straight into her arms. “Oh baby, did you really think I would leave without you? Not a chance. I just got you back and nothing is going to keep us apart again.”

 

Robin stood back up and looked around. “Where’s Uncle Mac?”

 

“Uncle Mac didn’t bring me...”

 

“I did.” Patrick stepped onto the dock holding Emma’s suitcase in his hand. “Hello Robin.”

 

Nikolas moved in between the divorced couple. “What are you doing here Patrick?”

 

Patrick looked past Nikolas at Robin. “Like I said, I brought Emma. I was hoping I could talk to Robin for a minute before you left.”

 

Robin took a deep breath. “Nikolas, could you get Emma’s bag and help her to the launch? I’ll be there in just a minute.”

 

Nikolas turned around. “Are you sure?”

 

Robin gave him a reassuring grin. “I’m sure. I’ll be there in just a minute.” Robin gave Emma one last hug while Nikolas grabbed Emma’s suitcase from Patrick’s hand. She waited until they were on the launch and then turned back to Patrick. “What do you want?”

 

“To talk.” Patrick took a small step forward. “How are you doing?”

 

“Seriously.” Robin laughed sarcastically at his question. “Let’s see - the last thing I remember from before I woke up in the hospital is you telling me you slept with your old college girlfriend while I was in Africa which I was already upset about. Then I am told that it is 5 years later than my last memory and my daughter is…” Robin choked back a sob. “Then, not even an hour ago, I am told by some guy I have never even met that you are living with Sam, followed up with the news that Jason is dead. How do you think I am doing?”

 

Patrick rubbed his neck, feeling like the world’s biggest fool. “I am so sorry…”

 

“I am so tired of everyone telling me how sorry they are, like it makes a difference.” Tears filled Robin’s eyes. “What are you sorry for Patrick – cheating on me? Divorcing me? Sleeping with my ex-boyfriend's widow? Tell me what exactly you are sorry for.”

 

"You remember the divorce?” Patrick was hopeful that Robin was getting her memory back.

 

“No. Mac said I hadn’t spoken to Emma in almost a year and hadn’t been back in Port Charles in a year and a half. You are living with Sam so I put two and two together. Thanks for the confirmation.” Robin shook her head and another wave of dizziness hit her. She stumbled for a moment and Patrick grabbed her to steady her.

 

“Hey, it’s okay – I’ve got you.” Patrick held her in his arms until she regained her balance. “Maybe you should go back to the hospital.”

 

“No!” Robin jumped back out of his arms and took a few steps back. “I’m fine but I need you to just back off. I’m not your problem anymore.”

 

“Robin, I still love you. I never stopped loving you.” He ran his hands through his hair in frustration.

 

“Well divorcing me and moving another woman into our bed tells me differently.” Robin was about to say something else when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

 

“Robin, we need to get going.” Nikolas wrapped his arm around Robin’s waist and glared at Patrick. “We need to get home. Emma will give you a call tonight. Good bye Dr. Drake.”

 

“Robin…”

 

“Goodbye Patrick.” Robin turned with Nikolas and headed towards the launch, leaving a very frustrated and confused Patrick standing alone on the dock.

Edited August 27, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 10

 

“What the hell were you thinking Drake?” Patrick arrived home and wasn't surprised to find Mac standing on his front door step. “I was supposed to take Emma to Robin – not you.”

 

“I needed to see her Mac. I needed to know that she was okay.” Patrick unlocked the door. “Do you want to come in, maybe have a beer?”

 

Mac considered it for a moment. “Are you sure that it’s safe – I still have a gun and a pair of handcuffs.”

 

“Mac, there is nothing you could say or do to me right now that I wouldn’t deserve.” Patrick threw his keys on the coffee table. “Are you coming in?”

 

Mac stepped into the room and studied Patrick. It was obvious that he was beating himself up over what had happened and he needed someone to talk to. “One beer.”

 

“Have a seat.” Patrick left the room and came back in a minute later with the beers. He handed one to Mac and sat down on the couch. “I had to see her.”

 

Mac took a drink and nodded his head. “Why? You have a new life – one you created without my niece.”

 

“I thought Robin had abandoned me and Emma; that she had walked out on us.”

 

“Why would you think that? Robin fought so hard to get back to you, why would you believe for one second that she would willingly leave you?” Mac was honestly trying to understand Patrick’s reasoning.

 

“Because I was hurt, I was hurt that she chose to go after Jason instead of staying home with us.” Patrick paused, “Mac, my son had died and I was already feeling guilty for not being happy when I found out he was coming. When he died, I felt like it was my fault – like somehow my refusal to be there for him in the beginning led to what happened. And then when Robin refused to come home and be with us…”

 

“But that wasn’t what was happened, she wanted to be home with you and Victor was holding her hostage. Meanwhile, she was feeling guilty because she knew that Victor caused the accident to keep her in line and doing what he said. She was trying to bring Jason home to his family, just like her parents brought her home to you.” Mac was really trying to understand Patrick’s point of view. “Is that what your relationship with Sam is about? You felt so guilty that you didn’t want Robin to save Jason that you decided to give her a normal life to make up for it?”

 

“No, I love Sam. Maybe not in the same way I love Robin but I do love her. She is great with Emma and she has really been there for me.” Patrick’s voice betrayed a little doubt.

 

“So she is a great friend but are you in love with her?”

 

Patrick took a drink of his beer and shook his head. “Truthfully I have only been in love with one woman in my life and that is Robin.” Patrick felt like a weight had finally been lifted off his shoulders with this revelation. “I love her but no, I am not in love with Sam.”

 

Mac sighed. “Patrick, I wish I could say that I will be able to forget about the fact that you turned your back on Robin when she needed you the most but I can’t. Anna finally told me about that call and there were so many red flags that you both should have caught. She told you she was broken Patrick. Why weren’t you trying to find her and prove to her that she wasn’t?”

 

“Pride, anger, denial, take your pick.” Patrick finished off his beer. “You know what’s funny – I can see it so clearly now. I replay every moment of that call or when I found her at the clinic and I can see how scared she was. She wouldn’t look me straight in the eyes, she kept looking around like she was worried that someone was going to find me. And when she told me about Jason…” Patrick stood up. “Mac, what if she was lying about that?”

 

“Lying about saving Jason – why would she do that?” Mac wasn’t sure where Patrick was going with this line of thought. It was almost like he was avoiding the real problem.

 

“Why did she lie to me about why she was staying at the clinic – to protect me and Emma.” Patrick stood up and began pacing the living room.

 

“But Jason being alive – are you sure you just aren’t feeling guilty about not being in love with Sam?” Mac stood up. “I think you are focusing on the wrong thing here. We need to be helping Robin get her memories back, not finding your girlfriend’s dead husband.”

 

“But Jason could help with that. If she saved Jason then he can help fill in some of those missing pieces. Maybe he was with her the whole time. We know her treatment worked – Helena and Stavros are proof of that. Is it really such a stretch to believe that she saved Jason first, that he was her first success?” Patrick finally stopped pacing and turned to Mac. “My, uh, Robin is brilliant. If anyone could do it, she could.”

 

“I’m not denying that but I also think you may be clutching at straws here.” Mac set his empty beer bottle down on the coffee table. “However, if Robin did manage to save Jason, he may be our best hope in helping her recover her memories. I will look into the explosion and see if I can find out anything. Meanwhile, I want you to think about how you are going to make things up to my niece.”

 

Patrick nodded. “That is all I have been thinking about since I saw her in that Trauma Room Mac.”

 

“Thanks for the beer and I will see you later.” Mac walked out the door, closing it softly behind him as Patrick walked over and stared at the picture of him, Emma and Robin still sitting out on the shelf. He was so out of it that he didn’t even notice Sam coming in to the living room from the kitchen.

 

“Patrick?”

 

Patrick turned around and quickly wiped his tear filled eyes. “Sam, I’m sorry when did you get home?”

 

“I got home a few minutes ago.” She sat down on the couch and smiled at him sadly. “I think we need to talk.”

 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“So have you thought about it?” Nikolas walked into Robin’s room and sat down on next to her on her bed. Robin was sitting up, reading a book after putting Emma to bed.

 

Robin put her book down and shook her head. “Nikolas, it has only been a couple of hours since you brought it up. I need a little time to think.”

 

Nikolas took Robin’s hand in his. “I can understand that but we really don’t have that much time, do we?”

 

Robin bit her lower lip and considered what he was saying. “I know that.”

 

“Then we really need to make a decision so I can arrange everything.” Nikolas scooted over closer to Robin and wrapped his arm around her. “I really think this is the best thing to do for all of us.”

 

Robin couldn’t help but lean her head on his shoulder and she let him pull her close. “Are you sure?”

 

“Robin, I meant everything I said to you after dinner.” He leaned over and gently kissed the top of Robin’s head. “I love you. I have spent years protecting you – please, let me continue to do it.”

 

Robin closed her eyes and really thought about what Nikolas had said to her after dinner. She made a decision. “Alright – let’s do it.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 11

 

Robert stood in the living room at Wyndamere glaring at his surroundings. “I still can’t believe you were okay with her moving in here.”

 

Robert and Anna had gone back to where Robin was being held after Dr. Marucci had assured them Robin was going to be okay. They had hoped to find out what had happened to their daughter while she was being held there. They did a thorough search of the facility but, unfortunately, all the evidence had been destroyed before they could get the information they needed. They returned to Port Charles the next day to find Robin out of the hospital and living with Nikolas and Robert was not happy about it at all.

 

“Look, she doesn’t know anything about what Nikolas has been up to lately – she just sees one of her oldest and dearest friends.” Mac looked around at the guests and back at Robert. “The truth is that he offered and she accepted. The only thing I could do was get Patrick to agree to let Emma stay here so she could be with her daughter and so I did.”

 

“Boys, the important thing is that Robin heals and gets her memories back and I really don’t care how that happens. If Nikolas can help her than it’s a good thing she moved in here.” Anna had never had any problems with Nikolas, he had proven to be his mother’s son as far as she knew. He was loyal and caring and had proved to be a good friend to Robin over the years. She continued talking while Felicia nodded in agreement. “Now let’s go get another drink and hopefully we will be able to enjoy this wonderful welcome home dinner that Nikolas is throwing for our girl.”

 

As they made their way to the bar, they passed Maxie and Lulu heading back to their dates, drinks in hand. Lulu handed Dante a beer and looked at Maxie. “So have you seen Robin since she was rescued?”

 

“No, we were out of town until yesterday. By then, she was already out of the hospital and had been living here for a few days. Mac said that we have to be careful, she doesn’t remember anything from after she found out that that bitch Lisa Niles slept with Patrick.” Maxie took a drink of her wine. “I wonder if it might not be better if she never remembers – I mean these past few years have been hell for Robin.”

 

“Yes, but she also wouldn’t remember Emma or reuniting with Patrick. She wouldn’t remember the birthdays and anniversaries and Christmases and she needs to remember those things - not only for herself but for Patrick and Emma as well.” Lulu was trying to see get Maxie to see why Robin needed to remember those years. “All the good and the bad things we go through make us who we are. A huge piece of Robin is missing and she needs to get her memories back to be whole again.”

 

Laura walked up right as her daughter finished speaking. “She’s right. No matter how horrible the memories – Robin needs to remember them. It’s the only way she will ever be fully recovered from this whole nightmare.”

 

“Dinner is served.” Alfred led the guests into the dining room and everyone took their places.

 

There were two empty seats at the end of the table and a gentleman seated next to them that no one recognized. Robert was never one to stand on formality. “Who the hell are you?”

 

The gray haired man laughed. “You must be Robin’s father, Robert Scorpio.”

 

“I must be, huh? Well I am so who are you?” Robert was not impressed with the man’s response.

 

“My name is Dr. Calvin Briggs. I am a psychiatrist who specializes in the treatment of PTSD. Nikolas brought me here to treat Robin and help her regain her memories.” He took a drink of his wine and smiled at the group. “Robin is a lovely young woman, it has been a pleasure getting to know her over the past few days.”

 

“Is that Briggs with one g or two?” Robert was already getting ready to research the good doctor.

 

Briggs just laughed. “B R I G G S and that is Calvin with a C. I was raised in Manhattan and went to Yale if you need a head start on that background check.” Robert raised an eyebrow at the doctor. “Robin told me you would want to do one on me.”

 

“And I was right.” Robin hugged her father from behind. “Hi Daddy.”

 

Robert patted his daughter’s arms and smiled. “Hello sweetheart.”

 

Robin let go of her dad and made her way to one of the two empty seats at the table, followed by Nikolas. She sat down with Dr. Briggs on one side and Nikolas on the other. Nikolas looked at everyone and smiled. “I want to thank you all for joining us tonight. It means a lot to both of us that you all could join us to welcome Robin back home to Port Charles. Let’s eat.”

 

Plates were brought around and everyone enjoyed the meal that had been brought before them. Nikolas and Robin participated in the conversations occasionally but mostly they kept to themselves, speaking quietly to each other. Robert watched the two carefully and, as the dinner plates were cleared away, leaned over to Anna and whispered. “Something isn’t right here.”

 

Moments later, champagne and cake was brought around to everyone. Nikolas stood up and smiled at the group. “Everyone, I would like to make an announcement. As many of you know, Robin and I have known each other for many years. We have been through many things together, including several life and death situations. Through it all, one thing has remained constant – our love and respect for each other.” He reached down and took Robin’s hand in his, smiling at her. “We realized after her recent rescue that life is too short to ignore what is staring you right in the face. That love is a gift that you need to grab with both hands and hold onto with all your might.”

 

Robert tensed up and glared at Nikolas. “What the hell are you saying?” He looked at Robin. “Don’t tell me that you and the dark prince here are engaged.”

 

Robin stood up, still holding on to Nikolas’s hand. “No, dad we’re not engaged.”

 

Robert relaxed. “Thank God – for a minute there I thought you had lost your mind.”

 

Robin shook her head and Nikolas wrapped his arm around her. “No sir, we’re not engaged - we’re married.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 12

 

Robin shook her head and Nikolas wrapped his arm around her. “No sir, we’re not engaged - we’re married.”

 

The words had barely left Nikolas’s mouth and Robert was around the table and ready to attack. He grabbed Nikolas and pulled him away from Robin. Robert shook the man as he began yelling at him. “What the hell did you do to her?”

 

“He didn’t do anything to me.” Robin was quick to defend Nikolas. “I made this choice on my own.”

 

“Like hell he didn’t.” Robert didn’t loosen his grasp on Nikolas. “He’s a Cassadine and he will do anything to get what he wants. He's probably brainwashed you into thinking this is what you want but it's not.”

 

“He hasn't brainwashed me - he has been nothing but supportive and loving to me."

 

"I am getting Emma and you out of here - he's a Cassadine and he cannot be trusted."

 

"No, he’s the man who saved my life just a few years ago. Remember – when I was shot and he carried me out of a building that was about to explode?” Robin paused and looked at her father. “That’s right – you weren’t there but Mac,” she turned to her uncle in hopes he could calm her father down, “you were. You remember how he risked getting shot to save my life.”

 

Mac walked over and pulled Robert away. “Of course I do and I will always be grateful to him for doing that but…”

 

“And how he has always been there for me, no matter what.” Robin took a deep breath and looked at their assembled guests. “I know that this is a shock to all of you but we need you to respect our decision and marriage, even if you don’t agree with it.”

 

Nikolas was about to add something when he noticed Robin starting to sway. “Robin?” He quickly put his arms around her to steady her.

 

“I’m okay – really.” Robin took a moment and regained her balance. “I just got a little dizzy.”

 

Anna and Laura both left the chairs and went to Robin’s side. Nikolas smiled at the women. “Would you be so kind as to help Robin to our room – I think this evening might have been a bit much for her?”

 

“Of course and I quite agree with Nikolas, you need to get some rest. Plus, I can check in on my granddaughter while I am up there.” Anna gently took Robin’s left arm while Laura took her right.

 

The two women led Robin out of the room. As soon as they were gone, Nikolas turned his attention back to Robert. “You need to back off. Robin and I do love each other and I will do everything in my power to protect her.”

 

“Your room – together?” Robert was barely holding it together at the moment.

 

Nikolas rolled his eyes. “We’re married Robert, of course we share a room.” He looked at Lulu and Maxie. “I apologize for the abrupt end to our evening but I really need to check on my wife.”

 

“We understand completely.” Lulu stood up and Maxie followed her quickly. “We were going to get going anyhow but I was wondering if I could throw you and Robin a wedding reception at the Haunted Star?”

 

Maxie jumped in. “I would love to help plan it. I mean, I planned her other wedding receptions so I know what she likes.”

 

Nikolas smiled at his sister. “I think that Robin and I would love that. Thank you and get home safely.” Nikolas hugged his sister and Maxie. He accepted their congratulations and then bid the two couples good night.

 

Soon it was just Mac, Felicia and Robert alone in the dining room with Nikolas. “I am watching you Cassadine.” Robert stared Nikolas straight in the eyes. “There is more to this sudden marriage then you or my daughter are telling me and I will find out what it is.”

 

“Robert, I want to protect Robin from my grandmother and this is the best way to do it. She will not touch Robin as long as she is under my protection. I love Robin, I have loved her for years and I will do everything I can to make sure that she and Emma have a long, happy and safe life together.” Nikolas looked up to see Anna and Laura entering the room. “How is she?”

 

“Lying down – I think that the excitement of the past few days finally caught up with my new daughter-in-law.” Laura wasn’t sure how she felt about this marriage but she did love her son’s choice for a wife. “I am going to be on my way but I want to tell you congratulations.” Laura walked over and hugged Nikolas. “I hope you and Robin are very happy together.”

 

“Thank you mother.” Nikolas returned her hug. “I’ll escort you to the door.”

 

Nikolas led Laura out of the dining room. Robert turned his attention to Anna. “How is she?”

 

“Upset but okay. What the hell were you thinking, attacking Nikolas like that?” Anna wasn’t happy about the marriage either but knew it was in their best interest to bide their time and investigate it. “She needs us to act like rational adults. You can be upset but don’t hurt the man – like it or not, they have been friends for a long time and he protected her from Faison for weeks while we were locked up by Jerry Jacks. We need to give him just a little benefit of the doubt.”

 

“But that doesn’t mean she has to marry him.” Robert was frustrated with this most recent turn of events.

 

Mac finally had enough. “Look Robert, no one is happy about this but attacking Nikolas isn’t going to accomplish anything. What we are going to do is leave here and get together tomorrow to formulate a plan of attack.”

 

Felicia smiled at her husband. “Mac’s right. Meanwhile, one of us needs to go and talk to Patrick. If he hears about this from Robin herself he may say something he doesn’t mean. I think it’s best if he already knows about the marriage before Robin sees him again.”

 

“Agreed. I will drop Felicia off and then go by to see Patrick while you two go home and start doing a background check on Dr. Briggs. We can meet up at our place tomorrow morning.” Mac took Felicia’s hand. “Let’s go.”

 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Robin – are you awake?” Nikolas walked into their room and laid down next to her on the bed.

 

“Of course – everyone head home?” Robin felt Nikolas put his arms around her so she wrapped her hands around them.

 

“Yes, but not after a few more threats and an offer to throw us a wedding reception at the Haunted Star.”

 

Robin giggled. “Lulu? And let me guess, Maxie offered to help?"

 

Nikolas laughed. "Yes."

 

"Poor Lulu has no idea what she is in for.” She got quiet again. “Are we doing the right thing Nikolas?”

 

“Of course we are. We are protecting the people we love and getting some happiness for ourselves at the same time. How can that not be the right thing?” He kissed the back of her head. “Besides the worst of it is over. We knew tonight would be difficult and that your father wouldn’t take it well but now he knows and we can settle into our lives together. Now get some rest – you need it.”

 

Robin didn’t say another word, just closed her eyes and began to drift off to sleep. Nikolas was right, the worst was over.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas woke up and slowly slid his arms from around Robin. Making sure she was sound asleep, he got out of the bed and left the room, taking his phone with him. He made his way to his office and shut the door before making his call. “Grandmother, I need your help.”

 

“What is it dear? Troubles already in paradise?” Helena understood the changes Nikolas had made to their plans even if she didn’t agree with all of them.

 

“No but I need a distraction – something that will take the focus off of Robin and mine’s marriage.” Nikolas could already see a storm brewing with regards to his in-laws.

 

Helena had been walking down a corridor at an outbuilding on Cassadine Island while speaking to her grandson. It was a little shack that no one ever paid attention to but it held some wonderful secrets in the underground lab beneath it. She stood in front of the cryogenics room and smiled. “Don’t worry Nikolas, I’m sure I can come up with something.”

 

"What are you planning Grandmother?"

 

"You'll figure it out soon enough. Good night Nikolas."

[cmahorror]

Chapter 13

 

Mac knocked on the door and listened as Patrick yelled out. “Just a minute.” Patrick threw open the door and was startled to see Robin’s uncle standing there. “Mac? What are you doing here?”

 

“I hope it’s not too late.” Mac wasn’t sure how the hell he was going to tell Patrick about Robin and Nikolas’s marriage.

 

“Of course not – come on in.” Patrick opened the door wider and allowed the man to enter in before shutting it behind him. “What can I do for you? Have you heard from Frisco?”

 

Mac had told Patrick yesterday that he had left a message for Frisco at the WSB to get more information about the explosion at the clinic. “Not yet.” He sat down on the couch and looked around. “Is Sam here?”

 

Patrick sat down in the chair at the end of the coffee table and shook his head. “Sam moved out yesterday. She and Danny are back in the Penthouse.”

 

“I really am sorry to hear that.” The fact that Patrick was alone now was just going to make the news even worse.

 

“It’s okay. She was in the kitchen when we were talking the other night and overheard me telling you that I wasn’t in love with her.”

 

Mac was worried. “Does that mean she heard our discussion about Jason as well?” Mac didn’t want to get Sam’s hopes up if it turned out Jason was dead.

 

“No, she immediately left the kitchen to call her mom and make arrangements to move out.” Patrick leaned back in the chair. “Do you want to know the sad part? Neither one of us was upset – we both realized that we are just not right for each other.”

 

“Is Danny okay?”

 

“Yes, he and Jake get along so he will still have a father figure in his life.” Mac raised his eyebrow at Patrick’s statement. “Just a feeling I have. So, why are you visiting me so late if you haven’t heard from Frisco?”

 

“We were invited to a welcome home dinner tonight for Robin at Wyndamere.” Mac decided to go in cautiously. “Emma came down before dinner to see us and she was so happy. She is having so much fun with her mom.”

 

“I know – I talked to her earlier tonight and she was so excited to be there, said she was spending a lot time horseback riding and playing with her mom.” Patrick laughed as remembered the conversation. “She also said something about meeting a judge the other day but I think she was confused.”

 

Mac sighed. “She wasn’t confused – she did meet a judge the other day.”

 

“Mac, what is it?” Patrick could sense something was wrong.

 

“Patrick, there is no easy way to say this so I am just going to come out and say it.” Mac faced Patrick and looked the man straight in the eyes. “Robin married Nikolas.”

 

Patrick got a confused look on his face and then let out a little laugh. “What? No, you must be mistaken. Robin wouldn’t do that. I mean, she thought we were still married a few days ago. It just doesn’t make any sense that she would marry him now.”

 

“You’re right – it doesn’t make any sense and yet, it happened.” Mac tried to reassure Patrick. “We are working on getting her out of it right now. We’re investigating this doctor that’s staying with them and…”

 

“Wait a second – what doctor?”

 

“A Calvin Biggs or …” Mac had forgotten about the man in light of Nikolas’s announcement.

 

“You mean Calvin Briggs?” Mac nodded and Patrick stood up. “Calvin Briggs is a leader in the treatment of PTSD. I have read a couple of his papers and the man is brilliant. I hate to admit it but if I were to pick a doctor to help Robin through this – he would be my pick.”

 

That was not going to be good news to Robert – he was hoping to get some dirt on the doctor. “So you are saying he may be on the up and up?”

 

“It is a good possibility.” Patrick stood up and walked over to the photo of him with his family. “She really married him?”

 

“That’s what they said.” Mac stood up and went over to Patrick. “We decided it was better if you found out before you saw Robin again.”

 

“What did he do to her Mac?” Now that the news had sunk in, Patrick was getting angry. “We both know that Robin would never just jump into this marriage, she is not the impulsive type. Hell, we were madly in love and having a baby and it took 3 proposals before we finally agreed to get married.” Patrick took his fist and slammed it down on the shelf. “What did he do to her?”

 

“Robert accused him of brainwashing Robin but I’m not sure I agree with him.”

 

“Why not? She is still confused and weak between her accident and the memory loss – it would be the perfect time to do it.” Patrick trusted Mac’s instincts about Robin above anyone else’s.

 

Mac thought about it for a second. “Because she didn’t seem confused or weak, at least not mentally.”

 

Patrick’s head whipped around to look at Mac. “What do you mean mentally? Was she sick?” Patrick knew Robin had a concussion.

 

“She got a little dizzy at dinner and seemed a little tired, that’s all.” Mac gave Patrick a questioning look. “But that’s normal with a concussion, right?”

 

“Yes, but if it continues then I would be concerned that she might have a brain bleed or swelling in the brain.” Patrick bit his lip and thought for a moment. “What if that’s it? What if the reason she made this decision was because of an altered mental status? Do you think we could get her away from Nikolas and get this marriage annulled?”

 

“I don’t think so. Robin was very rational and clear when she told us about marrying Nikolas – very Robin.” Mac wanted to be clear with Patrick.

 

“Damn it!” Patrick ran his hand through his hair in frustration. “So what are you thinking Mac, blackmail?”

 

“Maybe not overt, she seemed comfortable around Nikolas and we all know Robin is not the best liar, but maybe he convinced her that it would be in the best interest of her family. Nikolas said something about this being the best way he knew of to protect Robin and Emma. If he preyed upon her fear of being separated from her little girl again…”

 

“But Robin doesn’t remember that, right?” Patrick was hoping he was wrong and some of Robin’s memories had started returning.

 

Mac gave Patrick a weak smiled and explained his theory on why Robin had married Nikolas. “Not yet but she does know she missed the last year of Emma’s life and we both know that she will do anything to protect her daughter. If she thought that Nikolas could keep her and Emma safe from Helena by marrying him, I have no doubts she would do it.”

 

Patrick considered what Mac was saying. “You’re right – she would do anything to protect our little girl. So what do we do now?”

 

“The first thing we need to do is act like we respect Robin’s decision.” Patrick began to protest but Mac stopped him. “I’m not saying that you need to pretend that you are happy about it but Robin will close herself off if we attack her about this marriage and why she did it. We need her to trust us and remain open to us – respecting this marriage is the way to do it.”

 

Patrick hit the shelf again, frustrated that Mac was right. “Fine, I’ll do it. I won’t like it but I’ll do it.”

 

“Thank you. Meanwhile, we will continue to look into the explosion and see if Jason survived. I think you’re right, finding Jason could be the key to Robin getting her memories back from the past few years.” Mac headed to the door. “I’ll let you know as soon as I find out anything. Meanwhile, I need you to be Robin’s friend again. Be her shoulder to lean on , the one person who doesn’t judge her or pressure her. Earn her trust again Patrick.”

 

“I will do anything I can to help Robin and Emma.” Patrick walked Mac to the door. “Believe it or not – those two are my life. I’m just sorry I couldn’t see it until now.”

 

“I’ll talk to you later.” Mac headed out the door and left Patrick alone once again.

 

Patrick walked back over to their photo and picked it up, carrying it over to the couch with him. He sat down and just stared at it. The picture had been taken right before the last time Robin had left. They were so happy, thrilled about the second chance they had received, just weeks before the bottom fell out of their world again.

 

Patrick thought about what Mac had said and knew in his heart that Mac was right. Robin didn’t need her jealous ex-husband right now, she needed a friend. More than that, she needed her best friend, the man he used to be before he let his pride and anger overtake his life. He would be that man again, not because he was jealous or angry. No, he would be that man again for her for one reason and one reason alone.

 

Because she was Robin and it was what she needed.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 14

 

Robin was sitting on the couch in the living room when Alfred opened the door and smiled at her. “Dr. Drake is here to see you madam.”

 

“Thank you Alfred. Please show him in.” Robin took a moment to calm herself before her ex-husband entered the room. She was certain that Patrick was now aware of her marriage to Nikolas and she wasn’t sure what mood he would be in.

 

Patrick strolled into the room as casually as he could. He was still upset about her sudden marriage but he needed to keep his emotions in check – this wasn’t about him. It was about getting Robin out of this ridiculous marriage to Nikolas. “Hello Robin.”

 

“Patrick, uh, Emma is at school but if you want to pick her up and take her to dinner after…” Robin wasn’t sure why Patrick was there if not to see Emma.

 

“I actually came to see you but if you don’t mind I would love to pick Emma up from school tomorrow and have dinner with her. I miss her – phone calls just aren’t the same.” He sat down next to her on the couch and handed her a folder. “I have a patient I was hoping you could help me with.”

 

Robin eyed him suspiciously. “Really? You’re not here to check up on me or maybe question my recent decisions?”

 

“Maybe a little bit of the first but if you are talking about your decision to marry Nikolas, no I am not here to question it. I may not like it but I will respect it because I respect you.” Patrick reached his hand out to touch her but she pulled away. “I’m sorry.”

 

“Patrick, I know it has been five years since you cheated on me and it obviously led to our divorce but…”

 

“No it didn’t.” Patrick could not let her believe that they had divorced over Lisa.

 

“What do you mean it didn’t?” Robin was confused, she couldn’t imagine staying with him after he cheated on her.

 

“We didn’t get divorced after Lisa. We found our way back to each other and made our marriage stronger.” Patrick stopped speaking – he had already said too much.

 

“If our marriage was so strong than why are we divorced?”

 

“You know I have already said more than I should have. You need to remember things on your own.” Taking a different tact, Patrick smiled at her. “Speaking of, have you remembered anything yet?”

 

“I remembered something about Emma.” Robin’s smile filled her face. “We were at a church and she was wearing a flower girl dress, I don’t know whose wedding it was. I was holding her in my arms and then I set her down and we told each other that we loved each other and never stopped. It was only a short memory but it’s a start, right?”

 

Robin was so caught up in telling Patrick what she had remembered that she failed to notice his reaction to the memory. Patrick scooted back from Robin just a little bit, his heart breaking at the realization that soon she would remember where the memory took place – at his wedding to Sabrina. It was a wedding that never should have happened in the first place and was interrupted when Robin, his wife, came back from the dead. Patrick gave Robin a weak smile. “That’s great Robin.”

 

Patrick’s reaction worried her – she thought he would be happy about this. “What’s wrong – is it not a real memory?”

 

“No it’s a real memory.” Patrick stood up and began pacing the room.

 

“Do you remember the rest of what happened or whose wedding it was?” Robin really wanted to have the complete memory.

 

Patrick took a deep breath and looked at her. “I do.”

 

Those two words triggered something in Robin’s brain. She looked at Patrick and gasped. “Oh my God – it was your wedding. You were marrying someone else.”

 

“Robin please…” Patrick hated the pain that he was causing her.

 

“Please go.” Robin choked back a sob as she turned away from him. “I’ll review your file and see you tomorrow when you bring Emma home but I need you to leave now.”

 

Patrick sat down by her again and took her hand in his. “Robin, please understand…”

 

“I believe my wife asked you to leave.” Nikolas walked into the room and placed his hand on Robin’s shoulder. “Are you okay?”

 

Robin nodded her head. “I, I just need to lie down.” She started to stand up but dizziness overtook her.

 

Nikolas caught her as she started fall over. “Robin?”

 

Patrick went into doctor mode as he began checking on his ex-wife. “Hold her still.” He felt for her pulse and it was racing. “Has this happened before?”

 

“A couple of times, usually when she gets upset or has a memory. Is that what happened? Did she remember something?” Nikolas was worried that Robin would get her memory back before he could finish his plans.

 

“She remembered my wedding to Sabrina. Not exactly my best day. I think we need to get her to GH and get her checked out.” Patrick reached for her but Robin pulled away from him.

 

“No, I’m fine – just a little overwhelmed.” Robin opened her eyes. “This may happen sometimes when a memory hits me and Dr. Briggs said it is to be expected. All I want to do right now is lay down.”

 

Nikolas helped Robin up off the couch as Patrick kept a close eye on her. “Are you sure?”

 

“I’m sure.”

 

Robin leaned on Nikolas as he helped her out of the room. “I need to take care of Robin. I believe you know your way out Dr. Drake.”

 

“Yes. Robin, I will check on you later.” Nikolas threw Patrick a quick glare. “If that is alright with you?”

 

Robin flashed Patrick a small smile. “That will be fine. Goodbye Patrick.” Nikolas led Robin to the staircase as Patrick headed to the front door.

 

“Goodbye Robin.” Patrick left the house and headed to launch. He needed to get to the hospital, he was on shift tonight. Once he was safely off the island he pulled out his phone to make a call. Mac needed to know what had happened today and that Robin was getting her memory back.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“What do we have?” Patrick had been called into the ER for an unconscious woman found in the park.

 

Epiphany rattled off the facts as they hurried to the Trauma Room. “Unconscious female, mid-to-late 20’s, unresponsive. She was found in the park by a maintenance worker, EMT said there were no visible signs of trauma.”

 

“Do we know who she is?” There was a possibility that her medical records were on file at GH which would help them in diagnosing her.

 

“No ID.” Epiphany and Patrick entered the room and walked over to the gurney to examine their patient. “Oh my God.”

 

Patrick took a moment and then looked at Epiphany. “Are you seeing what I’m seeing?”

 

“Yes I am – I don’t know how, but I am.”

 

Patrick looked back at the patient and touched her, making sure she was real. Taking a deep breath, he began his exam. “Epiphany I need you to call…”

 

Epiphany interrupted him. “Already on it.”

 

Epiphany ran out of the room while Patrick continued working on the woman lying there in front of him. “How the hell did this happen?”

Edited September 1, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 15

 

Mac and Felicia walked into the ER with Anna and Robert, all of them unsure of why Epiphany had summoned them there. They didn’t have to wait long before Epiphany called them over to the trauma room.

 

“What is going on – is it Robin?” Robert had tried calling his daughter after he heard from Epiphany but he had been unable to get through to her.

 

“If you will just wait, Dr. Drake will be out to speak with you.” Epiphany wasn’t sure what to say to the people assembled before her. “He’ll be out in just a minute.”

 

Patrick walked out of the room looking absolutely shell shocked. He handed Epiphany the patient’s chart. “She is ready to be admitted. I will let her family know what is going on.”

 

Epiphany nodded and went to her desk to find the patient a room while Patrick walked over the patient’s parents. “We need to talk – something I can’t really explain happened here tonight.”

 

Robert was about to ask what was going on when his phone rang. He answered it nervously. “Robin?”

 

“Sorry dad, I was laying down and I had my phone on vibrate. Is there something you need?” Robin sat up in the bed and rubbed her eyes.

 

“No sweetheart.” Something about the way Patrick looked worried him. “Just wanted to see how you were doing after dinner the other night.”

 

“I’m fine daddy, I promise.”

 

Robert took one more look at Patrick. “Look sweetheart, I have something I need to take care of but I will call you tomorrow. Maybe I can come out and have a little lunch with you and Emma?”

 

Robin hoped this meant her father was backing off a little bit about her marriage to Nikolas. “That sounds wonderful dad. I’ll let you go. I love you.”

 

“I love you too sweetheart.” Robert hung up and looked at Patrick. “Since it’s not Robin, you want to tell me what has you so shaken up.”

 

“A patient was brought in tonight. She was found unresponsive in the park.” Patrick stumbled over the words as he attempted to figure out how to tell them what was going on. “There is nothing physically wrong with her. She has been drugged but we are hopeful that she should be waking up soon.”

 

“Oh my God – is it Maxie?” That was the only reason Felicia could think of why Patrick had called them down there. “Is she going to be okay?”

 

“No Felicia it’s not Maxie.” Patrick bit his lip and looked at Mac. “I don't know how but, it’s Georgie.”

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas sat down next to Robin on the couch as she reviewed the file Patrick had left her. “So, you want to talk about what happened earlier today?”

 

“I think that this patient may be a good candidate for one of my drug protocols.” Robin kept her head buried in the file. “I’ll touch base with Patrick tomorrow when he drops Emma off.”

 

“So Patrick is coming back over here tomorrow? Do you think that’s wise Robin?”

 

Robin put the folder down on the couch and looked at Nikolas. “He's just picking up Emma from school and taking her to dinner.”

 

“Good – Emma needs time with her dad and I certainly do not object to a little time alone with my wife.” Nikolas picked up the folder and placed it on the end table. He leaned over and kissed Robin. It lasted for only a few seconds before Robin pulled away. “I’m sorry – I have just wanted to do that for days now.”

 

“No, I’m sorry. You’re my husband and you shouldn’t be afraid to kiss me. It’s just,” Robin paused, “I’m still trying to get settled into this new life. I know that Patrick and I are divorced and that our relationship apparently ended a long time ago but…”

 

“But you are still in love with him?” Nikolas wrapped her in his arms, comforting her. “It’s okay. I meant what I said when I proposed Robin – I love you and I want to have a life with you. I want this to be a real marriage in all ways but only on your timetable. I will wait for you and give you all the time you need to be ready for us to be together.”

 

“Thank you for being so understanding.” Robin settled into his arms and closed her eyes. “I really don’t know what I did to deserve you.”

 

“I feel the same way Robin.” He kissed the top of her head and settled in with her on the couch. “So tell me about what you remembered today.” Robin started crying so Nikolas started rubbing her arms gently. “Hey, whatever it is we will get through it together.”

 

Robin let him wrap his arms tighter around her. “It started off wonderful – I was holding Emma and we were telling each other how much we loved each other.”

 

“That sounds wonderful.” Nikolas leaned over whispered in her ear. “So what happened to upset you?”

 

“I remembered where the memory took place – at Patrick’s wedding to another woman.” Robin sniffled as her tears subsided. “It hurt to remember that.”

 

“Oh Robin, I am so sorry.” Nikolas settled his chin on Robin’s shoulder. “I would do anything to stop you from being hurt by these memories.”

 

“I know.” Robin turned her head and kissed Nikolas’s cheek. “Thank you.”

 

Suddenly Robin’s phone rang. She looked at the caller ID, confused. “It’s my dad?” She answered quickly. “Dad? What is it?”

 

Nikolas watched Robin carefully as he listened to her side of the conversation. “What! How? We’ll be right there.”

 

Robin hung up the phone and looked at Nikolas. “Robin, what is it?”

 

“I know I shouldn’t be surprised at this thing happening anymore but…” Robin stood up and headed for the door. “We need to get to GH – now!”

 

Nikolas jumped up and followed her to the door. “Robin – what is going on?”

 

She smiled at Nikolas. “It’s Georgie – she’s alive!”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 16

 

“Patrick!” Robin and Nikolas came running down the hall towards Georgie’s room. Patrick was waiting outside for her and Maxie. Mac had not told Maxie what was going on yet – they were afraid it would be too much of a shock to her. He had just asked her to meet him there as soon as possible so he could tell her in person.

 

Patrick’s smile turned to a brief frown as Nikolas placed his hand on Robin’s waist. Ignoring the pit forming in his stomach, he focused his attention on Robin.“Hi.”

 

“Is it true?” Robin felt tears of joy coming but she didn’t care. “Is she really…”

 

“Yes, she’s alive.” Patrick felt a wave of complete joy as Robin grabbed him and pulled him into a big hug.

 

“Oh my God.” Robin realized what she was doing and let go, immediately turning to Nikolas. “She’s alive!”

 

Nikolas picked Robin up, hugged her close and then kissed her. “This is wonderful news. I am so happy for you.”

 

“What’s wonderful news?” None of them had heard Maxie walk up. “Why did Mac tell me that I needed to get down here right away?”

 

“Because we have some wonderful news for you.” Mac stepped out of the room and smiled at Robin. “Hey sweetheart, it is so good to see you.” He looked at her husband. “Nikolas, thank you for bringing her.”

 

“Of course Mac, anything for Robin.” Nikolas noted the coldness in Mac’s tone but chose to ignore it.

 

“Enough about them – what is this wonderful news you have for me? Mom better not be pregnant because I am not ready to have a sister that is younger than my daughter.” Maxie was nervous and she tended to babble when she was nervous. “Besides, mom is way too old for that and…”

 

“Maxie, I need to have your full attention. Something miraculous happened tonight, something I never thought in a million years would happen.” Mac took Maxie’s hands in his. “It is the best news I could have ever hoped to get.”

 

“Way to minimize Robin’s return from the dead there Mac.” Maxie noted the shocked look on Robin’s face. “Sorry Robs, I forgot you don’t remember that time yet.”

 

“It’s okay, I think it might explain something I remembered earlier today.” Robin looked at Patrick who nodded his head. “I’m sorry.”

 

Patrick just shook his head. “It’s okay – you didn’t know.”

 

Maxie looked back at Mac. “We’ll talk about that later. So, what, did someone else come back from the dead?” Maxie started to laugh but noticed no one was joining in. “Seriously, someone else? Who?”

 

Mac smiled at her. “Sweetie, I want you prepared before you walk into that room. I don’t want you to get too excited.”

 

Maxie stepped back as Nathan put his arms around her. “Mac? It can’t be…”

 

“But it is.” Mac stepped towards her. “She’s home Maxie.”

 

Maxie gasped. “I swear to God Mac if you are lying to me…”

 

“I’m not – she’s in there with your mom and Anna and Robert. Maxie, your sister is alive. Georgie is alive.” Mac pulled Maxie into his arms and held her close. He then reached over and did the same with Robin. “All my girls are home.”

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Where did Prince Charming go?” Robert walked over and sat down next to Patrick.

 

“To call Dr. Briggs – Nikolas offered up his services to help Georgie adjust to being back in Port Charles, especially since she is in the same boat as Robin and has no memories of the last 8 years.” Patrick looked at Robert. “What are you thinking?”

 

“I’m thinking it’s no coincidence that Georgie was brought back now. Mac said he was looking into the explosion at that clinic Robin was being held at?” Mac had let Robert know about his and Patrick’s conversations. Patrick nodded. “What better way to distract him than bringing his youngest daughter back from the dead?”

 

“You’re thinking Helena?” Robert nodded. “But how?”

 

“There are dozens of drugs that can mimic death – it’s not outside the realm of possibility that Helena had one of her goons drug Georgie and stage the attack. I just can’t figure out why.” Robert could understand taking Robin – she was a brilliant doctor and the daughter of two spies, but Georgie was just a college student when she was taken.

 

“Mac was police commissioner when she was presumed dead – maybe she thought Georgie would be good leverage in case she got in trouble.” Patrick couldn’t pretend to understand the workings of the Cassadine mind.

 

“Maybe but the point is that Mac, Felicia, and Frisco - they are all going to be focused on Georgie and trying to figure out what happened to her over the past 8 years – pulling the focus off of Robin and Nikolas.” Robert was pissed about the hell Helena had put his family through.

 

“So what now?” Patrick was thrilled that Mac had his daughter back but he was still worried about Robin and Emma. “We need to find out what really happened to Jason – I truly believe he is the key to solving this whole mystery.”

 

“Well then you and I will start our own investigation.” Patrick looked at Robert in surprise. “Look Drake, I am still mad as hell at you for abandoning my little girl but I also know that you love her and want to keep her and Emma safe.”

 

Robert stood up and headed back into Georgie’s room. He stopped before he opened the door and turned back to Patrick. “Here is your chance to prove that you deserve a second chance with my little girl – don’t screw it up.”

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas shut the conference room door and locked it before dialing his phone. “What the hell did you do grandmother?”

 

“I gave you a distraction – a rather brilliant one I might add.” Helena had been expecting the call and took a sip of her martini as she stared at the fire. “How is the young Miss Jones doing?”

 

“You had Georgie this whole time – how?” Nikolas was still trying to wrap his brain around what had happened tonight.

 

“I stumbled onto the fact that Diego Alcazar was the Text Message Killer on complete accident. I was planning my latest return to Port Charles and ran into him as he ran away from Wyndamere the night of the Black and White Ball.” Helena explained.

 

“After he killed Emily? And you let him go?” Nikolas couldn’t believe that Helena had let the man who killed Emily escape. “How could you?”

 

“In my defense, I didn’t know until after I let him go that he had killed your Emily.” Helena took another drink before continuing. “Anyway, I found the boy again and convinced him to help me fake Miss Jones’s death. The poor boy had quite the crush on her and wanted to get her away from her family so he agreed. Of course, I did have to lie to him later and tell him he really did kill her but que sera sera.”

 

Nikolas was in absolute shock. Georgie’s death had actually brought Robin and Patrick back together. It was after her funeral that they had briefly reunited and Robin had gotten pregnant with Emma. After months of fighting, for a majority of Robin's pregnancy actually, the couple had finally gotten engaged and then married. Who knew if Georgie's resurrection might have the same effect? “Why now?”

 

“You needed something to distract everyone. Miss Jones is the daughter of the head of the WSB and the stepdaughter of Mac Scorpio. They will be so concerned about her that they will leave Robin and you alone and isn’t that what you wanted?” Helena really thought her plan was brilliant.

 

Nikolas sighed. “Yes, I guess it was. Look, I have to go but I will talk to you later.” He hung up the phone without even saying goodbye. Maybe his grandmother was right – Georgie’s return was the perfect distraction. Everyone would be so concerned about her that they would turn their attention away from him and Robin and focus it on Georgie. Their life together would be so much easier without a dozen prying eyes.

 

Nikolas took a moment to compose himself and left the conference room to head back to Georgie’s room – his wife needed him.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 17

 

2 weeks later

 

Robin giggled as Nikolas followed her through the front door. “That was so much fun. I think it was a great idea to combine our wedding reception with Georgie’s welcome back party. Did you see how happy she was?”

 

Nikolas wrapped his arms around her and smiled. “Yes, especially with Dillon by her side all night. I think those two may be on the way to a reconciliation.”

 

Robin sat down on the couch. “I do too. You know he was coming to take her away on a location scouting trip when she died, well when her death was faked?”

 

“Really?” Nikolas poured them each a glass of water and brought it over to her. He sat down next to her and clinked her glass. “Cheers.”

 

“Yeah – he was devastated that she died without knowing how much he loved her. Now, they are getting a second chance.” Robin felt a tear coming to her eyes but blinked it back. “I’m happy for them.”

 

“Me too – second chances in life are rare, almost as rare as coming back from the dead.” Nikolas smiled at her and then leaned over and hugged her. “I cannot tell you how happy I am that you came back to us.”

 

Robin leaned into the hug and closed her eyes. Suddenly several memories flooded over her. She pulled back and looked at Nikolas. “You were the one that found me, weren’t you?”

 

“Are you getting another memory?” Nikolas gave Robin a look full of concern and worry.

 

“I was in a lab and you opened the door. I thought it was Jerry but it was you. I was so happy to see you standing there.” Robin reached out and touched Nikolas’s face.

 

“I was in complete shock. I wasn’t expecting to find you and seeing you again, it was just amazing.” Nikolas put his hand on Robin’s and pressed it against his face.

 

Robin closed her eyes. “There was one more memory – I was here and Faison was threatening me. You came out of nowhere with a gun and made him let me go.”

 

“He was a guest in my house – he should have known better than to threaten someone I care about.” Nikolas gently stroked her cheek.

 

“You saved me.” Robin’s tears flowed down her cheeks. “You saved me and brought me home to my little girl.”

 

Nikolas wiped away her tears. “I would do anything for you Robin – I love you.”

 

“I love you too Nikolas.” Robin leaned over and kissed him.

 

Unable to resist, Nikolas wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer. He was pleasantly surprised when Robin didn’t pull away from him. He let the kiss go on for a few more minutes before he finally pulled away. “Robin…”

 

Robin smiled at him. “Nikolas, let’s go to bed.”

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Robert handed Patrick a beer and smiled at him. “You handled yourself very well tonight Drake. I was almost certain that you and Nikolas would come to blows before the night ended.”

 

Patrick looked around the Haunted Star at the remnants of the party. “If it had just been their wedding reception I might have but Georgie deserved a happy night.”

 

“Yes she did.” Robert sat down at the bar next to Patrick. “Are you any closer to figuring out what happened to her?”

 

“Based on the results of her blood work, it is a pretty safe bet that Georgie was kept in a cryogenic stasis. Since she was healthy when she was taken, her recovery time is minimal. The fact of the matter is that Georgie has basically been in a medically induced coma. With physical therapy, she should be out of the wheelchair soon and then it is just a matter of readjusting to life here in Port Charles.” Georgie’s muscles had atrophied during her time away. She was currently in a wheelchair because of it but her prognosis was very good. “Fortunately, she has a great doctor and a lot of loved ones to help her through it.”

 

“That she does.” Robert took another sip of his beer. “How does it go with my daughter?”

 

“She is slowly starting to trust me again. It helps that she is getting some of memories back. She remembered our last Christmas together before the explosion and parts of her HIV scare. The bulk of her memories are about Emma.” Patrick took a drink. “That’s the way it should be.”

 

“Agreed – so I spoke to Frisco a little bit tonight.” Frisco had come back to Port Charles after Georgie’s resurrection. He knew he could never take Mac’s place as the girls father but he hoped to be able to at least be a part of their lives in some small way. “He said that there were cryogenic tubes found in the rubble of the clinic but no bodies were found in them.”

 

“So Jason was probably there but we can’t prove that Robin saved him.” Patrick ran his hand through his hair. “Damn it Robert – we need to find him. Are there any security cameras or traffic cameras – anything that can help us?”

 

“The security footage was destroyed in the explosion. We have our best men working on the servers we recovered from the clinic but it is delicate work.” Robert understood Patrick’s frustration, he felt it too.

 

“What about Spinelli? The kid is weird but a computer genius – I bet he could figure it out.” Patrick also knew that Spinelli had worshiped Jason. If there was the slightest chance that Jason was alive, Spinelli would stop at nothing to prove it.

 

“You know, that’s not a bad idea. Where is he now? I know he left Port Charles.” Maxie had mentioned that her daughter lived with her father out of town.

 

“Seattle – his girlfriend got a job there.” Patrick finished his beer and set the bottle down. “Normally I would stay and have a couple of more with you but I need to get going.” Robert looked at him curiously. “I’m on call starting at 8 tomorrow morning. Get Spinelli to look at those servers – you won’t regret it.”

 

“Will do." Robert raised his beer to Patrick. "Have a good night Dr. Drake.”

 

Patrick gave Robert his best smirk. “You too Agent Scorpio.”

Edited September 4, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 18

 

Emma smiled at Georgie as Robin led her into Mac's house. “I brought both Frozen and Tangled Georgie!”

 

“Sounds great – I have eight years of Disney movies to catch up on and I fully expect you to show me the best ones.” Georgie smiled at the little girl, still in shock that this was Robin’s little girl. Emma and her talked every time Georgie was at Wyndamere and the two became instant friends. It was Georgie’s idea to have Emma spend the night so they could bond over movies and pizza. “Why don’t you go see how Dillon is doing with the snacks? He is in the kitchen.”

 

Emma hugged her mom goodbye and then ran into the kitchen. Robin gave her cousin a sly grin. “So, Dillon’s here?”

 

“Yes – I even got Mac to lift the no guys rule for a night so Dillon could stay here with Emma and I tonight." Georgie looked back at the kitchen door. "She really is amazing Robin.”

 

Robin sat down next to Georgie. “Yes she is. She has been adjusting to all of this so well. I mean my coming back, my marriage to Nikolas…”

 

“Yeah, how is that going?” To say Georgie was shocked when she found out about Robin’s marriage would be an understatement. “You two seemed very happy last night at the reception.”

 

“We are. Nikolas and I have always been good friends.” Robin changed the subject. “How are things going with Dr. Briggs?”

 

“Great – I love working with him. He’s helping me realize that I don’t need to worry about what may have happened while I was gone – to just focus on my present and not to put any pressure on myself. And you?” Robin and Georgie were both going through a similar experience and they were only growing closer because of it.

 

“Really well, my memories are coming back. I remembered Nikolas finding me and bringing me home to Emma. I remembered one of Emma’s birthdays. Emma had fallen asleep before the party even started. Patrick and I taped us celebrating for her so she would have it for when she was older.” Robin smiled at the memory. “I remember Nikolas defending me against Cesar and protecting me when Cesar was holding us hostage.”

 

“That’s great! I am so happy for you. How does Patrick feel about this?” Georgie quickly put her hand over her mouth. “I’m sorry – I meant Nikolas.”

 

“It’s okay.” Robin took her cousin’s hand in hers and squeezed it. “Nikolas is thrilled – he just worries about Patrick.”

 

“That you may leave him once you remember the love you have for Patrick?” Georgie couldn’t blame him – Robin and Patrick had a once in a lifetime love.

 

“Yes, but I am not going anywhere. Even though I don’t know the reason why, Patrick divorced me. He made the decision to give up on our marriage and that is something he has to deal with. I am married to Nikolas now and I will do everything I can to make sure that our marriage is a successful one.” Robin knew she would never feel the same passion for Nikolas that she felt for Patrick but she did love him. “I need to get going but I want you to have fun with Emma tonight. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

 

Georgie leaned over and hugged Robin. “See you tomorrow and Robs, I love you.”

 

“I love you too Georgie.”

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Patrick was waiting in the living room when Robin returned home. “Patrick, Emma isn’t here – she’s spending the night with Georgie.”

 

“I know but I wanted to talk to you about a patient. I really think surgery is the best option but his family wanted a second opinion. I thought of you immediately.”

 

Patrick held out the folder and smirked at Robin. “Unless, of course, you’re not up for it.”

 

Robin grabbed the folder from his hand and sat down on the couch. “Of course I’m up for it. Have a seat while I review the file. Do you want some coffee?”

 

“Coffee would be nice.” Patrick sat down on the couch as Robin made a call to the kitchen and then started reviewing the file. She was still reviewing the file a few minutes later when Alfred brought in a tray.

 

“Your coffee Dr. Drake.” He handed Patrick the cup and then turned to Robin. “Your tea madam.”

 

Patrick raised his eyebrows at her. “Tea?”

 

Robin shrugged her shoulders. “Cutting back on the caffeine – helps me sleep at night. Now, are you ready to listen to my recommendation?”

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas walked into the house and heard Robin’s voice loud and clear coming from the living room.

 

“You said you would at least listen to my recommendation.” As much as she hated to admit it, she was enjoying this little verbal battle with Patrick. She had missed it.

 

Patrick took the file from her hand. “I did listen – I just don’t agree.”

 

Robin rolled her eyes. “Of course you don’t – why am I not surprised. Same old Patrick. Cut first, ask questions later.”

 

“Robin, I think the drug protocol will take too long and the patient doesn’t have that kind of time.” Patrick loved getting her riled up – seeing the passion in her eyes. He wasn’t completely convinced he was right but he was willing to push it if it meant seeing more of this Robin.

 

“But if you give the protocol time to work than the tumor will shrink enough that the ocular nerve will no longer be in danger of being damaged during surgery. Surely your patient wants to be able to still see after their operation?” Robin stood up and began pacing the room. She needed to put space between the two of them - his arrogance was almost intoxicating.

 

Patrick would not be deterred. He followed her. “With me doing the surgery it won’t even be an issue.” Patrick stared her straight in the eyes. “We both know I am the best.”

 

Robin’s breath caught in her throat as she stared into his dark brown eyes. She was about to speak again when she felt an arm encircle her waist. “While there is no denying your skill in the operating room Patrick, my wife is still the best when it comes to drug protocols.” Nikolas kissed her cheek. “Did you get Emma dropped off?”

 

Robin leaned back into Nikolas but her eyes never left Patrick’s. “Yes, she and Georgie are probably watching Frozen right now.”

 

“She does love that movie.” Nikolas gently turned Robin around. “I thought we were having a nice evening in by ourselves. I already arranged for a candlelight dinner for two.”

 

“I dropped by unannounced to ask for Robin’s help with a patient. I am hoping that she will come back to GH soon so I won’t have to bother her here at Wyndamere.” Patrick refused to call this place Robin’s home. “But I have taken up enough of her time – I should be going.”

 

Patrick walked over to the couch and picked the file up off it. He smiled at Robin. “I will recommend that the patient do the drug therapy so that we can shrink the tumor and lessen the risk of damaging the ocular nerve. I'll let you know what they decide but I would like you to scrub in on the surgery either way.”

 

“We’ll have to see what Dr. Briggs recommends, right Robin?” Nikolas kept his arm tightly wrapped around Robin’s waist.

 

Robin was shocked by the possessiveness Nikolas was showing – he had never been this way before. “Of course but I am certain he will be fine with it. Let me know when it is and we will go from there.”

 

Patrick took great pleasure in noticing that Robin was uncomfortable with Nikolas’s behavior. There was no way she was in love with Nikolas and his behavior would only cause problems – no one controlled Robin. “You’ve got it. I will talk to you later Robin.” He looked at Nikolas. “Goodbye Nikolas.”

 

Patrick left the room and Robin turned around, glaring at Nikolas. “What was that?”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 19

 

“What was what?” Nikolas didn’t understand the change in Robin’s mood. “I thought we agreed you would take it easy for a while.”

 

“Yes and only consulting on one patient is taking it easy.” Robin walked away and went to the drink cart. She poured herself a glass of water and took a long drink before continuing. “Nikolas – I am a doctor. I have spent years building my career and reputation. Patrick and I are well regarded for our work together and that is important to me.”

 

Nikolas sighed and sat down on the couch. He placed his elbows on his legs and leaned over, putting his head in his hands. “Of course is it and I certainly was not trying to tell you what to do. I’m just worried that you may be pushing it. You have only been back for three weeks and I don’t want you moving too fast.”

 

Robin softened a little. “I understand that but I need you to trust me.” She walked over and sat down next to him. “Is there anything else going on?”

 

Nikolas shook his head. “Fine – maybe I was a little jealous.” He sat up and put his arms around her. “You and I have just started this marriage and I am scared he is going to try and steal you away from me and I don’t know what I would do if that were to happen. You mean so much to me Robin.”

 

“Nikolas, I am here with you because it is where I want to be.” She took a moment and turned to look at him. “I understand what you are saying – Patrick was the love of my life and I will always have feelings for him and he will always be a part of my life because of Emma but he is my past. You are my future.” Robin wrapped her left hand in his and softly clicked their wedding rings together. “I am your wife and you are my husband – I love you and I respect the vows we took.”

 

Nikolas smiled down at their hands and then turned that smile towards Robin. “I love you too.”

 

“That being said,” Robin gave him a playful glare, “Patrick and I will be working together and you need to be a little more accepting of that. I am not going back to work full-time but I do want to start consulting again.” Robin winked at him. “Seems a shame to waste all those years of medical school.”

 

Nikolas laughed. “Fine – you win but only as long as you promise not to push yourself too hard.” Robin began to protest but Nikolas stopped her. “I know you Robin, you push yourself and get worn out and that wouldn't be good for you or Emma or me.”

 

“If I have learned anything since starting to regain my memories it's that that life is too short to spend all my time at the hospital. Our family is my priority but you don’t want a little woman who stays at home and knits all day and I don’t want to be that kind of woman. I want to help people and use my knowledge and skills to make people’s lives better.” Robin stood up and pulled Nikolas off the couch.

 

Nikolas happily wrapped his arms around her. “And that is one of the many reasons why I love you.” Nikolas leaned down and kissed her. “I’ll try and control my jealousy. I trust you Robin, I really do, and if you say that you want to be with me than I believe you.”

 

“Thank you.” Robin hugged him close and then pulled back. “Now, didn’t you say something about a candlelit dinner?” Nikolas nodded. “Good, because I am starving.”

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Patrick was relaxing with a beer when he heard a knock on his front door. He got up and found Robert standing on the other side. “It took you long enough.”

 

“Excuse me Drake but if you had actually told me you were going to see my daughter today I might have been waiting here for you.” Robert had the launch under constant surveillance so he knew who was coming and going from Spoon Island.

 

“I didn’t see the point – I knew you would have someone watching the island and they would tell you I went over there. I also knew you would want to know what happened.” Patrick walked over to the kitchen. “Beer?”

 

“Of course.” Robert sat down on the couch and looked at the TV. “Watching the Rangers?”

 

Patrick walked back in the room with a beer for Robert and another for himself. “Of course.”

 

Robert studied his former son-in-law. “So, I take it she didn’t throw you out?”

 

“No. Actually we had a consult.” Patrick smirked at Robert.

 

“Oh, so was it a real consult or a, uh, ‘consult’?” Robert smiled at the doctor as he waited for the answer.

 

“Real patient, real discussion,” Patrick gave a small laugh, “real fight over the treatment options. I tell you Robert, it felt just like it used to be between us.” Robert noticed the pure happiness on Patrick’s face as he talked. “To tell the truth, I knew she was right but I needed her to feel that way again, to remember the passion we bring out in each other.”

 

“Did it work?” Robert was hoping that Patrick had made a dent in Robin’s walls.

 

“I think so. Robert, it took every ounce of restraint I had to not grab her and kiss her but I didn’t.” Robert looked at Patrick curiously. “Robin needs to trust me again and start thinking of me as her friend – the person she goes to when Nikolas does something to make her mad.”

 

Robert nodded his head. “You be the shoulder for her to lean on and remind her of the connection you two have and that she should be with you and not him.”

 

Patrick took another long drink of his beer. “And that may not take too long.” He looked at Robert. “He tried to stop Robin for observing a surgery with me. Told her she needed to check with her doctor first.”

 

Robert shook his head laughing. “The hell he did. Foolish boy – you don’t tell my daughter to do anything.”

 

“Yeah, it went over like a lead balloon. I’m sure Robin had quite a lecture for him as soon as I left.” Patrick turned his attention back to the game. “Quite frankly if he keeps this up I won’t have to do anything to undermine him – he’ll do it to himself.”

 

Robert thought about what Patrick was saying. “You need to be careful Patrick. If she suspects for one second that you are trying something…”

 

Patrick interrupted. “Let me make this clear, all I want right now is to get Robin out of that marriage and that house. Nikolas is not the man she used to know and we need to get her and Emma away from him. I can work on putting my family back together after that.”

 

“Good – then we’re on the same page.” Robert took another drink of his beer. “Now, how about a little wager on the game? I’ll take the Blues.”

[ulkis]

Let's all briefly bask in a universe where Sonny actually died from the gunshot. This features Michael and Dante.

 

"Dante, can I tell you something?" asked Michael.

 

Dante took a sip of his drink. He and Michael were the last holdouts of the evening, everyone having left or gone to bed. they were in Sonny's living room. Dante tried not to think about how this room was supposed to have held a wedding reception and instead, there had been a wake. He had a feeling everyone had been trying not to think about that.

 

"You know you can tell me anything, Michael," he said.

 

Michael smiled slightly. "Well, sure, but I'm certain there are some things you'd rather not hear."

 

"Did you do something illegal?" Dante asked. It was a joke though. Well, mostly.

 

"The truth is, I'm glad Sonny's dead," Michael said, with no venom in his voice.

 

Dante nodded. "That doesn't surprise me."

 

"Don't get me wrong," Michael said. "It's not from vengeance. In fact, it's the exact opposite. Now I don't have to feel guilty for loving him. Now I can just love the man he was and not feel like I'm betraying my father. My other father."

 

"Yes, I realized that," said Dante.

 

"You did?"

 

"Yes," said Dante. "You're not the vengeful type."

 

"Not most of the time," said Michael.

 

"All of us have one button that can drive us far enough," said Dante. "As long as it's just the one thing. That doesn't make you a vengeful person."

 

"What about you?" asked Michael. "Is that how you feel?"

 

"Am I glad Sonny's dead?" asked Dante.

 

"If you're not, you can tell me truth," assured Michael. "I won't be angry."

 

"No, I'm not glad Sonny's dead," said Dante, after a moment. "I'm mostly sad. At all the fucking waste, you know? I'm sad that death was the only thing that could get him to change, in the end." He thought of Carly at the memorial service, how she broke down in the middle and screamed and cried and flung herself on the ground. He tried to prick the contempt he felt for the woman. After all, when it came down to it, Sonny was much worse than her. Whatever her flaws, Carly wasn't a cold-blooded murderer. And wasn't he guilty of deifying Sonny to a certain extent? But, he supposed, Sonny had been another connection to Jason, gone.

 

Dante sighed. "I wanted him to be . . . good."

 

"You know, I never thought Sonny was good," said Michael. "I've always known what he was capable of. I just thought that when it came to people he loved, he had a different standard."

 

"He did, to an extent," said Dante absently.

 

"Can I confess something to you?" said Michael.

 

"Isn't that what we're doing?" replied Dante.

 

Michael looked down for a moment. "I guess what I meant was . . . do you promise not to hate me?"

 

Dante looked at him. He would have laughed if it were another day. "Did you kill my dog? Not that I ever had a dog."

 

"I said that I always knew what Sonny was capable of. I was the reason Sonny and Jason figured out you were an undercover cop. I overheard you talking about it with Johnny, I told them."

 

Dante shrugged. "That's so long ago now. You were just a kid."

 

"I was 17 years old, Dante! A kid, but since when is homicide okay in a kid?" Michael said, his head on his hands. He was a bit drunk.

 

"Homicide?" said Dante.

 

"Yes. I knew they were going to kill you. And - and I wanted them to. I was so jealous of you, it killed me. And of course . . . " he laughed lightly in self-depreciation, "it literally did almost kill you."

 

Dante was silent for a moment. "I think the whole "my sending you to prison" cancels out any wrong you may have done me." The words and "and you getting raped" weren't said, but perfectly heard between both brothers.

 

"Come on Dante," said Michael. "If you had died, going to prison would have been the least I deserved."

 

"Well, I didn't," said Dante. "And I'm going to take a guess and say you don't want me dead anymore."

 

"Most of the time, no," said Michael. He smiled for a moment. "It's so weird to think of that time now, for me. I was so stupid! To be jealous about Sonny!"

 

"Most 17 year olds are," said Dante. "All the crap you went through . . . I think I would want everybody dead, too, to suffer, too."

 

"Yeah," said Michael.

 

"But Sonny is gone now and maybe we'll finally have peace," said Dante. "Maybe we can get that at least from his death."

 

"I hope so," said Michael. "But I worry. Who will move into Sonny's territory now? And my mother . . . and Morgan . . . this is hard for them."

 

"They have you," said Dante. And if that wasn't enough for Carly, she could go screw herself, he thought. "And Morgan has me too. They will get through this."

 

"I really hope so," repeated Michael.

 

"We will just have to wait and see," said Dante.

*

[cmahorror]

Chapter 20

 

“That was amazing.” Robin was beaming as she walked out of the OR with Patrick. It had been two months since they had agreed on the treatment for their patient and today was the final step in the process. Robin’s protocol had shrunk the tumor to a size that made the surgery Patrick just performed less invasive and gave the patient a shorter recovery time.

 

“What did you expect?” Patrick gently nudged Robin with his elbow as they stood at the entrance to the OR. “I was the one doing the surgery.”

 

“It’s nice to know some things never change.” Robin rolled her eyes at her ex-husband but she was just kidding him. Patrick had earned his arrogance and they both knew it.

 

“Just some things.” Patrick smiled at her as they both removed their surgical gear.

 

Patrick had spent the past two months rebuilding Robin’s trust in him. They dealt with any issues regarding Emma together. They worked together on four different cases at the hospital, fighting and compromising each time. He was also there for her each time Nikolas got a little too controlling, something that seemed to be happening more and more often. Robin had tried to hide her concerns but Patrick knew her too well. She was doing a good job of talking Nikolas down but Patrick could see the effort was wearing on her.

 

Patrick was also helping Robin with her memory recovery. Unlike Nikolas, Patrick had been there for almost everything she had remembered. After every memory she recovered, he talked to her about it and helped her figure out the circumstances surrounding it. The good news was that Robin now had a majority of her memories back, at least up to the point where Victor coerced her into leaving Port Charles. The bad news was that her brain seemed to have a block on all memories after that, including Patrick finding her at the clinic and her last call to him.

 

“How about we celebrate with burgers at Kelly’s? We can pick up Emma from dance class and have a family dinner.” Patrick knew that Nikolas was out of town for the week on business.

 

“Emma is on her way to New York City with Georgie and Dillon, remember? They are taking her to see Aladdin.” Robin couldn’t believe that Patrick had forgotten about that – Emma had been talking about it non-stop for the last two weeks.

 

“That’s right – sorry, was still in doctor mode.” Patrick hadn’t actually forgotten – he just wanted Robin to think that. It would be easier to get her to go out with him if she thought he didn’t have an ulterior motive. “Well, we can still get a burger together, right?”

 

Robin sighed. “I am hungry so I’ll meet you there in 30 minutes?”

 

Patrick smiled at her. “Sounds great.”

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Wait, so Emma tried to con you into the weeknight concert too?” Robin shook her head as she looked over the menu. “I already told her no.”

 

“This is why it is good that we talk about these things.” Patrick laughed. “Our daughter is definitely not stupid.”

 

“Well with our genes was there really any doubt?” Robin giggled. “Our girl is going to try and play fun daddy against mean mommy – we just need to be prepared for it.”

 

“We’ll deal with it the way we deal with so many things – by doing it together.” Patrick reached over and was just about to touch Robin’s hand when his phone went off. He pulled his hand back and looked at the caller ID. “It’s the hospital. Order me a cheeseburger and fries and I will be right back.”

 

Patrick walked away from the table just as the waitress came up to take their order. Robin ordered their food and waited patiently for Patrick to return to the table. He sat back down a minute later smiling. “The patient has been doing excellent in recovery and will be moved to his room in an hour.”

 

“That’s great but not a surprise considering who did the surgery.” Robin took a drink of her water. “Patrick, we need to talk. I remembered something, nothing big but still I want to talk to you about it.”

 

“Really?” Patrick stared her straight in the eyes. “You can tell me.”

 

“It’s not complete but I was in a lab of some sort and I was on the phone talking to you. I don’t remember anything else just that you were upset.” Robin looked away from Patrick and then looked back at him with tears in her eyes. “Why were you upset?”

 

Patrick quickly reached over and took Robin’s hands in his over the table. “I can’t tell you that, as much as I want to. I just want you to know that I made a lot of mistakes based on grief and I hope you don’t hold them against me.”

 

Robin nodded her head. “I won’t as long as you don’t hold the mistakes I made during that time against me. You have become such a good friend. You don’t know how much I appreciate that.”

 

“I appreciate you giving me the chance to be your friend.” Patrick reluctantly let go of her hands. “So friend, any other memories?”

 

“More like filling in the little missing pieces. Some are good,” Robin cringed, “some are not so good.”

 

Patrick realized what she had remembered. “Lisa?”

 

“Yeah, Lisa.” Robin shook her head. “She was insane.”

 

“Robin, I am so sorry for everything she did to you, to us.” Patrick leaned forward on the table. “You have to know that I…”

 

“Patrick, I told you years ago to stop apologizing for that mistake. You have more than made up for it.” This time it was Robin who took hold of Patrick’s hands. “Okay?”

 

Patrick shot Robin a small smile. “Okay.”

 

The waitress arrived at their table with their food and Robin let go of his hand. “Great – I am absolutely famished!”

 

“Alright, I have a bacon cheeseburger with fries for the gentleman and, for the lady, ribs with fries.” The waitress set the plates down in front of them and smiled at the couple. “Do you need anything else?”

 

Robin smiled sweetly at the woman. “Could I have some extra sauce please? I forgot to ask when I ordered.”

 

“Of course sweetie.” The waitress turned to Patrick. “Do you need anything else sir?”

 

Patrick stared at Robin for a moment and then answered the waitress. “No, not at the moment.”

 

Robin dug into the ribs, savoring her first bite. “These are so good, I have been thinking about ribs all day. Do you want any?”

 

Patrick shook his head. “No, I’m not so hungry anymore.”

 

“Well if you change your mind just let me know.” Robin went back to her ribs while Patrick poked at his food.

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Thank you for dinner and next time it is my treat.” Robin stood up and got her jacket on. “I am completely wiped so I'm going to head home.”

 

Patrick jumped up to help her with her coat. “Are you sure? I could always take you to the launch, make sure you get back to Wyndamere safely.”

 

“That’s very kind but the car is waiting for me outside – Nikolas insisted that the driver be wherever I am. I feel sorry for the poor guy, having to follow me around; I’m not very exciting.” Robin pulled her hair out of her jacket as she headed to the door.

 

Patrick followed close behind her. “Well at least let me walk you to your car.”

 

“Thank you.”

 

It took less than a minute and the two reached Robin’s ride. “Here I am. Send me updates on our patient and I will talk to you later.”

 

Patrick opened up the door for her and helped her into the car. “I will. Have a good night Robin and get plenty of rest.”

 

“I will.” Robin let him shut the door and she rolled down the window. “Good night Patrick.”

 

Patrick watched the car drive off and made sure it was out of sight before he pulled out his phone. “Robert, we need to meet. We have a problem.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 21

 

Mac watched Patrick as he paced back and forth across the living room. “Patrick, calm down. Robert and Anna will be here shortly and we will fix this problem you discovered.”

 

Patrick stopped and shook his head. “You don’t understand Mac, this problem cannot be fixed.” Patrick read the confusion on Mac’s face. “I’ll explain it better once they get here.”

 

Patrick walked over to the front window and watched for Anna and Robert while Mac tried to figure out what was going on. Despite what Nikolas may think, Georgie’s reappearance had not distracted the Scorpio family from what was going on with Robin. The group had decided that there was a connection between Robin's marriage and Georgie's return and they were determined to get to the bottom of it. Mac wondered if Patrick had finally found a piece of the puzzle. “I’m going to put on a pot of coffee – let me know when they get here.”

 

Mac left the room while Patrick continued staring out the window. His mind wandered back to years ago when Robin was pregnant with Emma. He had stopped by to check up on her and she had asked him to go and get her some dinner.

 

 

Flashback

 

Patrick opened the door to Robin’s apartment and slammed it shut behind him. “Ah, hunter kill dinner for woman.”

 

Robin ran over to him. “I'm starving. Thank you.” She took the bag and pulled the food out of it, setting it on the coffee table.

 

“Knock yourself out. I got some more sauce here, too.” Patrick sat down on the couch.

 

Robin groaned happily. “Oh, more sauce. Mmm.”

 

Patrick couldn’t help but laugh a little at the sight of his ex-girlfriend getting excited about ribs. “Obviously, you feel better.”

 

Robin stuffed a napkin down the neck of her shirt so she wouldn’t spill anything on her it. “Well, you know, I have to take advantage of these opportunities where I feel like I am not going to puke, so I actually can take my meds and keep them down. Mmm.” She took a bite and looked at him. “Want some?”

 

Patrick waved her off. “I'm ok.” He watched her with a doctor’s curiosity. “This whole pregnancy thing is so interesting. When we were together, you never ate ribs. You barely ever touched red meat.”

 

Robin took a bite before answering him. “I have no control. My body tells me what I need, and I have to have it.”

 

Patrick began to diagnose her. “Ok, so red meat, I'm thinking iron deficiency.”

 

Robin shook her head. “Oh, come on. Don't make a big deal out of it, ok? Tomorrow it's gonna be dairy, pickles, maybe even both. This being inside of me is only this big,” Robin held her fingers about an inch apart, “and it already controls my life. I mean, I am not longer in control of my own destiny.”

 

End Flashback

 

 

 

Patrick was pulled out of his memory as the front door slammed open. “Well, Drake, you got us here, what is this big problem we have?”

 

Robert walked over to the couch and sat down while Anna stopped to give Patrick a hug hello. “Where’s Mac?”

 

Mac strolled into the room as Anna was asking her question. “Right here. Coffee?” He passed out the cups and looked at Patrick. “We’re all here now so spill – what is going on with Robin?”

 

Patrick stared down in his cup and went through all the signs he had been ignoring since Robin’s return – the dizziness, the exhaustion, avoiding caffeine and now the cravings. He took a deep breath and looked at the small group. “I’m pretty sure that Robin is pregnant.”

 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“I promise you Nikolas that I was only on my feet for 3 hours. The surgery went quick and we were basically in and out.” Robin was talking to Nikolas as she sat in bed. She was tired and looking forward to going to bed early. “You’ll see tomorrow when you get home.”

 

Nikolas smiled into the phone. “I’m sorry – I just worry about you. Did you take your pills?”

 

Robin sighed. “Yes and I drank a huge glass of milk with them – satisfied?”

 

“Not until I am home with you again.” Nikolas went over to his computer and opened up his calendar. “I have some good news though – I got everything done I needed to on this trip so I will be able to stay home for the foreseeable future.”

 

“Really? That’s great news.” Robin was happy to hear that Nikolas’s business was concluded so quickly. “But I thought you were going to be needed there off and on for at least the next year?”

 

“Well, I managed to clear up the only loose end I had so from now on I will be home with you and Emma. We can finally have a nice, normal home life.” Nikolas looked at the guard and nodded his head. “Just a minute. Look Robin, I have to go but I will be home in the morning and then we can talk about when you want to tell everyone the happy news.”

 

“Nikolas…” Robin started to argue but he cut her off.

 

“It’s time Robin. I promise you, it will be okay. I love you.” He hung up the phone and followed the guard out into the hall. “So, is she here?”

 

“Yes sir.” The guard led Nikolas down the hall and to a locked door. He unlocked the door and allowed Nikolas to enter the room before closing it behind him.

 

“Hello Britt.” Nikolas smiled at his ex-fiancée. “We need to talk about the procedure you performed on Robin.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 22

 

“That son of a bitch.” Robert stood up, ready to charge over to Wyndamere and beat Nikolas up himself. “I’m going to kill him.”

 

Mac stopped him. “Nikolas is out of town, remember?”

 

Patrick waited until Robert was sitting back down before he continued the conversation. “Robert, there is more to this than Robin’s being pregnant.” Patrick looked at Mac. “You were with her in the hospital after she met with Marucci – did she say anything?”

 

“No.” Mac took a moment to think about that day. “She was upset after I told her the year. She wanted to know when the last time she saw us was and I told her…”

 

Patrick noticed the hesitation. “What is it Mac?”

 

“Well, she was a little upset when I told her about the year but she got almost hysterical when I told her that she hadn’t seen you or Emma in over a year. She actually had to be sedated.” Mac looked at Patrick. “Do you think she knew?”

 

“I think that is what Marucci had to tell her. Once you told her that she hadn’t seen me in over a year she realized that she has no idea whose baby she is carrying.” Patrick couldn’t even begin to imagine the horror Robin felt at that moment.

 

Anna finally spoke up. “Maybe we’re wrong – maybe she’s not pregnant and there is something else going on with her.” Anna gave Patrick a hopeful look. “I mean she hasn’t said anything, has she?”

 

“No, but I know her Anna.” Patrick frowned at her. “No offense, but you and Robert weren’t here for the first part of Robin’s pregnancy with Emma – Mac and I were. The dizzy spells and cravings – Robin barely ever eats meat and the only time I have ever seen her eat ribs is when she was pregnant with Emma. Throw in her giving up her beloved coffee and I am almost positive she is pregnant.”

 

“But you don’t think it is Nikolas’s baby?” Robert watched Patrick carefully.

 

Patrick sighed. “I don’t know but I do think it is suspicious that he would swoop in and convince Robin to marry him as soon as she was rescued.” Patrick sat down on the couch next to Anna. “I think he convinced her that they only way she could be safe and protect her child from Helena was to marry him.”

 

“I don’t understand why he would do this though. He has been after ELQ – how does Robin or her child fit in to the equation?” Anna was confused.

 

“Maybe it doesn’t.” Everyone looked at Mac. “Let’s face it, Nikolas was in love with Robin before Emily. Maybe this is just about getting her.”

 

Robert spoke up. “No, there is definitely more to this. He’s a Cassadine and they always have a hidden motivation for what they are doing. Somehow, someway this all ties together – we just need to figure out how.” He turned to his brother. “Has Frisco made any headway with the security tapes?”

 

“Yes – he called me a little while ago but I got distracted by Patrick’s news. It looks like Robin and Jason escaped from the clinic together the night of the explosion. There is footage of the two of them in a car leaving together headed towards Port Charles.” Mac took a drink of his coffee. “They are now searching all traffic cameras in the city on that date hoping to find them.”

 

“You need to check with the Metro Court too – Robin might have come to see me.” Anna was hopeful that their records went that far back. “And see if Sonny Corinthos might have footage from that night as well – Jason’s first instinct would be to go see him.”

 

“Wait a second – you said they escaped the same night as the explosion?” Patrick stood up and began pacing the room once more.

 

“Yes – why?” Mac could almost see the wheels in Patrick’s head turning.

 

“Because that is when Jake Doe was found and brought to General Hospital.” He looked at Mac. “Is it possible that Jake is really Jason?”

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Jake walked into Liz’s house and saw her picking up dishes from the table. She smiled at him. “Hey, it's about time you got in. I have a plate for you in the kitchen…”

 

He walked over and took the dishes from her hands, setting them back down on table. “Liz, we need to talk.” Jake had been putting off this conversation long enough. He cared about Liz but the feelings he had for Sam were too intense for him to ignore. He was confused about what he should do and he needed some time to figure it out.

 

He took her by the hand and led her to the couch. “Liz, you know that I love you.”

 

“I love you too.” She leaned over and kissed him. “So why don’t I get you something to eat and then we can tuck the boys into bed.”

 

“Please listen to me – I think we need to take a break.”

 

Liz’s heart felt like it was going to pound out of her chest. “A break from what?”

 

“Us.” Jake gently stroked Liz’s hand. “Everything between us has been moving so fast and I just think that I need to step back and really think about what I want to do next. And you need time to help Jake get used to being home.”

 

“Is that really all there is to this break?” Liz pulled away from him, tears filling her eyes. “Are you sure that this isn’t really about Sam?” Jake looked away and Liz smirked at him. “I should have known, all these years and I still can’t win against her.”

 

“There is nothing going on between Sam and I but friendship. I will admit that there is a connection between us that I haven’t done anything with her. I just need a little time to figure out what I want.” Jake stood up and headed for the staircase.

 

Liz shook her head. “And who you want it with. Are you moving in with her?”

 

“I’m actually moving into the Metro Court for the time being – Carly offered me a room.” Jake hated seeing her so upset. “I am trying to do what is best for all of us.”

 

“I’m sure you are.” Liz watched him go up the stairs and then sat down on the couch, crying softly. The truth was he was leaving her for Sam. Once again, she had lost Jason.

 

After a few minutes of crying Liz straightened up and made a phone call. “Steve, it’s Liz. I was wondering if the boys and I could come for a visit?”

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Jake came downstairs in time to hear the end of Liz’s conversation with her brother. “Good, we’ll see you tomorrow. I love you too.”

 

“Going somewhere?” Jake was surprised to hear Liz was leaving town.

 

“Yeah, to visit my brother in New Orleans. I think the boys and I need to get away from Port Charles for a little while. Maybe you are right – maybe we do need a break.” Liz stood up and gave him a hug. “I will let you know when we get back to town. Until then, take care of yourself.”

 

Jake hugged her back. “You take care of yourself and the boys. I will see you when you get back.” He gave her a soft kiss of her cheek and left the house.

 

Liz went over to her computer and opened up her email. She wasn’t lying to Jake, it was time for her to leave Port Charles but not before she blew Nikolas’s little secret right out of the water.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 23

 

“It’s ridiculous – there is no way he could have held his breath that long.” Dillon was complaining about the movie they had just seen as he and Georgie entered The Haunted Star. The couple was meeting up with everyone for a family dinner.

 

“Sweetie,” Georgie gave him a soft kiss on the lips, “let it go.”

 

“Fine, but you won’t see anything ridiculous like that in my movie.” Dillon sat down at the table next to Nathan. “How are you?”

 

Nathan just laughed. “Fine and right there with you. Maxie and I saw it last night and I…”

 

“Don’t even – you enjoyed it just as much as I did.” Maxie gently elbowed her boyfriend in the ribs. She looked across the table at her best friend. “We all did.”

 

Lulu nodded her head. “Yes we did.” She took a drink of her wine and looked at Maxie. “So, do you have any idea why Robin and Nikolas wanted us to come over for a family dinner?”

 

Maxie shook her head. “No, not a clue. What I can tell you is that Mac looks like he is ready to throw up and Uncle Robert could kill Nikolas with the looks he is throwing his way.” Mac, Felicia, Robert and Anna were at a separate table while Robin, Nikolas, Emma and Dr. Briggs occupied a third one. She turned to her sister. “You have any idea?”

 

“No but didn’t you say that the last time they got everybody together was to announce their marriage?” Georgie waited for Lulu and Maxie to both nod their heads. “Then maybe this is another announcement?”

 

Laura, who was sitting next to her daughter, turned around and looked at Robin. “It could be.”

 

Maxie and Lulu both looked at each other in shock. Maxie looked at her sister. “No, it couldn’t be.”

 

Georgie was about to say something when Nikolas stood up. “I want to welcome everyone here and thank you for coming on such short notice. It is important to Robin and I that our families spend time together and get along.”

 

He smiled at his mom and sister and then continued his speech. “Now I know you are all wondering about why we asked you to come here and eat with us tonight and we decided to tell you before dinner instead of after this time. Emma has something very important to tell you.” Nikolas picked Emma up as Robin stood up beside them.

 

“See, the news is about Emma.” Maxie relaxed a little bit. She still wasn’t convinced that this marriage was a good idea and throwing a child into it would be a disaster.

 

Emma giggled and smiled at her mom. “Mommy’s having a baby!”

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Patrick was at his desk, reviewing Jake’s brain scans and comparing them to Jason Morgan’s. They were remarkably similar but Jake had had additional surgeries and there was no way to know what was done to him before the car accident that had brought him into General Hospital initially. He reviewed the files and noted that there was vocal chord damage which would explain the change in his voice. It was still possible that Jake was Jason but, without a DNA test, there was no way to prove it.

 

He looked at the clock. By now everyone was at the dinner that Nikolas had arranged and he was certain that this dinner was to announce Robin’s pregnancy. Patrick hated that she had been treated this way, that someone had violated her and used her body to further their own agenda. He hated that she had no memory of what happened and no way of knowing whose child she was carrying. Most of all he hated that his own ignorance and pride had made it possible for this to happen.

 

Patrick gathered up the files from his desk and put them back in the desk drawer. It had been a long day and he was ready to head home and wait to hear from Robert. The Rangers were playing tonight and he had some leftover Chinese food and beers in the fridge calling his name.

 

Patrick was just about to shut down his computer when he decided to take a look at his hospital e-mail one last time before he headed home for the night. He was surprised to see a message from Liz, usually she would just call him. He opened it up and began reading. “Son of a bitch!”

 

Patrick quickly hit the print button, grabbed the e-mail and headed out the door. He pulled out his phone as he ran towards the elevator and made a call. “We need to meet - now!”

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Patrick walked into the restaurant and joined his party at their table. “Thank you for meeting me.” He pulled the e-mail out of his pocket and slid it across. “You need to read this.”

 

Sam picked up the piece of paper and began reading it. “What is this?”

 

“Just read it.” Patrick leaned back in his chair and waited to see her reaction.

 

“Oh my God.” Sam looked at Patrick. “It can’t be true, can it?”

 

“I don’t know but I think the best option is a DNA test. Do you think Jake would agree to it? Compare his and Danny’s DNA?” Patrick didn’t want to tell Sam that he absolutely believed it was true.

 

“Well, I guess so.” Sam thought about it for a moment. “Wait, this is crazy I mean the odds of Jason being alive and that Jake is him? It's just crazy.”

 

“Let’s look at the facts. Helena is alive so we know Robin’s protocol worked. We know that Jake was in a car accident the same night as the explosion at the clinic and had to have facial reconstruction surgery.” Patrick leaned over the table and smiled at her. “Sam, you and Danny both have a connection with Jake – everyone can see that. If there is even the slightest chance that he is Jason, don’t you want to know?”

 

Sam nodded her head. “Yes, I do.” She sighed and then stood up. “Let’s go see Jake.”

Edited September 8, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 24

 

Laura jumped up from the table and ran over to hug her son and his family. “Congratulations, that is wonderful news!”

 

“Thanks mom.” Nikolas hugged her as he looked at the rest of the shocked faces in the room over her shoulder. “We are all thrilled at the news.”

 

Anna looked at her companions and sighed. Patrick had warned them that this was coming but it was still a shock to have it confirmed. She stood up and walked over to her daughter. “Yes, congratulations darling.” She gently pulled Robin off to the side as the other guests walked up to echo hers and Laura’s sentiments.

 

She reached over to Robin and gently tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. “How are you feeling about this Robin, really?”

 

Robin felt tears spring to her eyes. “When I first found out I was shocked and upset.”

 

“Upset?” Anna was choosing her words carefully – she needed her daughter’s trust.

 

“I may have exposed,” Robin stopped, “anyhow I was just so unprepared for the news and I needed a little time to adjust but now,” Robin smiled, “now I am happy. This child is a part of me and I love it.”

 

Anna was in full spy mode now. “A part of you and Nikolas you mean?”

 

“That goes without saying.” Robin placed a hand on her slightly swollen belly. “You know I always wanted Emma to have a brother or sister. Nikolas didn’t know his brother or sister growing up, neither did Patrick for that matter. We were all raised only children and I wanted Emma to have more than I had.”

 

Anna noticed that Robin’s eyes saddened for a moment as she wiped away the tears starting to fall. “You just always thought that the child would be yours and Patrick’s.”

 

“It doesn’t matter how this child came to be, she is my child and I love her already.” Robin reached over and took her mom’s hand and placed it on her belly. “I hope you do too.”

 

Anna smiled at her beautiful daughter. “Of course I do.” Anna gently patted the belly. “So, when do I get to meet this newest addition to the family?”

 

“In a little over 6 months.” Nikolas walked over and wrapped his arms around Robin, subtly pushing Anna’s hands off her belly.

 

Anna noticed Nikolas’s move but let it go. “Really, that feels like a little more than 3 months.”

 

“Are you saying I’m fat mom?” Robin was trying to joke with her mom in an attempt to stop the increasingly awkward moment from continuing.

 

“Of course not sweetheart, you are beautiful. Maybe it’s twins – they do run in the family.” Anna laughed as Robin shook her head.

 

“Nope, the ultrasound just showed one baby and that is fine with me.” Robin leaned back against Nikolas. “It’s fine with us both.”

 

“So Nikolas,” Anna addressed her new son-in-law, “Robin keeps saying her when she talks about the baby – what are you hoping for, a boy or a girl?”

 

“As long as the baby and Robin are happy and healthy, I don’t care.” He kissed the top of Robin’s head. “But another little girl just like Emma would definitely be a wonderful blessing.”

 

Anna was about to ask another question when the waiters came out with their food. Nikolas smiled at Anna. “Right now we need to eat.” He turned Robin around. “Hungry Robin?”

 

“We’re starving.” Robin turned back around and looked at her mom. “We’ll talk again after dinner.”

 

Nikolas took Robin’s hand and led her back to their table while Anna rejoined the Scorpio clan. “How is she Anna?” Robert was worried about his little girl.

 

“She says she is happy, that this child is a part of her and that she doesn’t care how the child came to be, she already loves her.” Anna took her ex-husband’s hand in hers. “I think that is the truth. Did anyone let Patrick know – he needs to be prepared.”

 

Mac pulled out his phone and quickly typed out a message. He hesitated for a moment before hitting send. “Done. Look, we can't do anything about this right now so let’s eat supper and then we can talk about this latest development once we get home.”

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Patrick sat in the lab with Sam, Jake and Danny as they took the samples for the DNA test. Jake had been surprisingly willing to take the test. He had a strong connection to not only Sam and Danny but Robin as well and his being Jason Morgan would certainly explain it. “So how long until we get the results back?”

 

“I’ve put a rush on them so hopefully no more than 24 hours.” Patrick’s phone vibrated in his pocket. He pulled it out and read the message Mac had sent him: You were right. “Damn it!”

 

“Patrick, what’s wrong?” Sam was worried about her ex-boyfriend – she knew it was killing him to see Robin with Nikolas.

 

Patrick ran his hand through his hair and sighed. “Robin’s pregnant.”

 

“Patrick, I am so sorry.” Sam hugged her son closer as she watched Patrick carefully. “But that doesn’t mean that she won’t leave him once she finds out what he has done. I love my cousin but if what Elizabeth said is true, Robin will never forgive him.”

 

“Thank you Sam but there is a lot more to this story than you know.” Patrick sat down on a stool and took a couple of deep breaths.

 

Jake watched Patrick carefully. “Why don’t you tell us – maybe we can help?”

 

“Thank you but…”

 

“Look, if you are right, then you are helping us bring our family back together. Let us do the same for you.” Jake put his arm around Sam as he spoke. He truly believed that this was where he belonged and who he should be with.

 

Patrick bit his lip and thought about what Jake was saying. “Here’s what I know…”

Edited September 9, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 25

 

Robin approached Patrick’s office door with some trepidation. It had been two days since they had formally announced her pregnancy to their families and she had no doubts that someone in her family had told Patrick. He had texted her this morning and asked her to meet him and go over a patient file but she was certain that he what he really wanted to talk to her about her baby.

 

Robin put her hand on her stomach and gently patted her baby. When Mac had told her that she had been missing for over a year and Robin realized that this couldn’t be Patrick’s baby she had been devastated. She even briefly considered terminating the pregnancy but her conversation with Nikolas helped her understand that, no matter what, this child was a part of her and she could never give her up.

 

Nikolas had been sitting there with her in her hospital room when she had a brief memory of Helena standing over her.

 

 

 

Flashback

 

Robin started shaking as the memory flooded over her. “Oh my God.”

 

Nikolas pulled her close. “Robin, what is it?”

 

“Helena – she did this to me.” Robin leaned into him. “I just remembered her standing over me and talking about these so-called wonderful plans she had for me. This must have been it.” She started crying. “Nikolas, what did she do to me?”

 

“Robin,” Nikolas began stroking her hair, “it will be okay. I am here and I will protect you and your child no matter what. I don’t know what my grandmother did but as long as you are with me she won’t touch you. All you have to do is trust me.”

 

Robin nodded as she cried in his arms. “I do.”

 

End Flashback

 

 

Robin took a deep breath and knocked on Patrick’s door. She heard him yell for her to come in so she entered the room and put her best smile on. “Hey – you wanted to see me?”

 

“Yeah, uh, why don't you have a seat on the couch?” Robin sat down and Patrick sat down next to her. He pulled a piece of paper out of his pocket and handed it to

 

Robin. “I need you to look at this.”

 

Robin looked at him curiously but took the piece of paper from him. She opened it up and was surprised to see it was an e-mail from Liz.

 

Patrick,

 

I have discovered something and I needed to tell you because I know you will do the right thing. I am taking my boys and leaving town, we need to get away from Port Charles, but I wanted to tell someone what I found out – Jake is actually Jason Morgan. I don’t know how it happened but you need to help him get his memory back.

 

The reason I know this is because I overheard Nikolas talking on the phone about it when I was visiting him at Wyndamere. He was ranting about how no one could ever know the truth and threatened me if I came forward. I feel horrible that I didn’t tell anyone sooner but I was scared for me and my children.

 

Please Patrick, set this right and help Jason get his memory back.

 

Liz

 

 

Robin sat there is shock. “It can’t be true.”

 

“It is. We did a DNA test between Danny and Jake – Jake is Danny’s father which means that Jake is Jason.” Patrick reached over and grabbed Robin’s hand. “You saved him Robin.”

 

Robin smiled as the tears flowed down her face. “Jason’s alive!” She pulled Patrick into a hug. “He is really alive.”

 

Patrick hugged her close, enjoying this moment. “Yes, Robin, he is. In fact, he is with Sam and Danny right now. He is hoping that by spending time with them he will be able to recover his memory.”

 

Robin pulled away as she wiped her tears away. “He doesn’t remember anything?”

 

“No, all his memories as Jason are still locked away somewhere in his brain and we just have to wait for them to come back.” Patrick looked Robin straight in the eyes. “Did you read the whole e-mail?”

 

Robin stood up. “She’s wrong. Patrick, Nikolas would never keep Sam away from her husband – he wouldn’t do that.”

 

“So how did Liz know that Jake was actually Jason?” Patrick got off the couch and walked over to her.

 

“Liz has been in love with Jason for years, they even have a child together. They were living together and maybe she figured it out by herself.” Robin didn’t know what to believe but it was a possible explanation. “Nikolas and Liz have a very rocky history – maybe something happened between the two of them and this was a parting shot at him before she left town.”

 

“Robin, you don’t actually think that.” Patrick couldn’t believe she was defending him.

 

“What I think is that Liz has left town so we can’t ask her which means there is only one other person to ask – Nikolas.” Robin took one last look at the e-mail in her hands and then walked to the door. “I am going to go talk to my husband.”

 

“Wait – I’ll go with you.” Patrick went to grab his jacket but Robin stopped him.

 

“No, I need to do this alone.” Robin smiled at him. “I’ll be fine. I’ll talk to you later.”

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas was sitting in the living room going over an ELQ file when Robin walked in the door. He put the file down and smiled at her. “You’re back.”

 

Robin took a deep breath and walked over to the couch, sitting down next to him. “Yes and I need to talk to you about something.” She handed the e-mail to him. “You need to read this.”

 

Nikolas looked at her curiously as he took the paper from her. She watched him read it and saw a look of shock cross his face. “Jake is Jason – how did this happen?”

 

“Apparently I saved him although I don’t remember doing it.” She was still missing most of her memories from the past couple of years. “Did you read the whole e-mail?”

 

Nikolas looked back down at the piece of paper. “What the hell?” He looked at Robin. “Robin, I didn’t know – I wouldn’t have done that to Sam and Danny.”

 

“Then why would she say that Nikolas?” Robin was trying to make sense of this.

 

Nikolas stood up and walked over to the fireplace. “Oh my God, I was in here talking to a staff member at ELQ on the phone right before I left for my trip and they mentioned Jake. I said that he reminded me of Jason. I turned around and Liz was in the room.” He looked at Robin. “You were running some errands in town.”

 

He sat back down on the couch. “Anyway, she told me that she was not in love with Jake and she wanted us to try again. I told her I love you and I am married to you. She got very upset and told me I would regret my decision, that she would make me pay for rejecting her.” Nikolas took Robin’s hands in his. “I guess this was her plan, make you think I knew about Jason so you would leave me. Given that fact that I just took control of ELQ, it was certainly a good idea. I swear to you Robin, I did not know Jake was Jason.”

 

Robin studied Nikolas’s face, looking for even the slightest sign he was lying to her but she didn’t see anything. His seemed as shocked by the news as she had been. She smiled at him. “I knew it wasn’t true but I had to ask. You know everyone else is going to believe it.”

 

“I don’t care about everyone else – I care about you.” Nikolas leaned back on the couch and pulled her into his arms. She laid down against him as he wrapped his arms around her and placed his hands on her belly. “You, Emma and this child are all that matters to me – to hell with what anyone else thinks.”

 

“But…”

 

“But I will talk to Sam and assure her that I didn’t know. I owe my cousin that.” He kissed the top of her head. “I love you Robin.”

 

“Love you too."

Edited September 10, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 26

 

Nikolas stood by the front door, waiting for Robin to join him so they could go and see his cousin and her returned-from-the-dead husband. Robin had arranged the meeting so she could talk to Jason and see if they could possibly jog each other’s memories. It would also give Nikolas a chance to do a little damage control. He hadn’t been able to stop Liz’s email from reaching Patrick, he didn’t find out about it until after it was read, but he had been given enough time to come up with a cover story.

 

Liz’s sudden attack of conscious was an issue Nikolas hadn’t expected. He had her house under surveillance and when she took off, he was notified. He immediately demanded that all forms of communication be monitored so he could see if she let anyone know the truth about Jason. By the time the e-mail came to light it was too late. He was actually shocked that it took as long as it did for Patrick to come to Robin with the news but, he had to admit, it was smart of Drake to wait until he had actual proof that Jake was Jason. Of course Nikolas already had a story ready to go and plenty of time to practice being shocked by the news. Robin believed him but she really had no reason to doubt him – he hadn’t given her one.

 

“Ready to go?” Robin came down the stairs and smiled at him. Her belly was just starting to pooch out and he gently placed his hand on it, smiling.

 

“As ready as I’ll ever be. I just hope Sam believes me.” Nikolas sighed. “I hate that Liz decided to hurt you and Sam this way – lying about Jason.”

 

Robin hugged him. “It will be alright – I promise.” She pulled away and gave him a quick kiss. “Let’s go.”

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Sam opened the door and greeted Robin and Nikolas. “Please come in.”

 

“Thank you Sam.” Nikolas walked Robin in and helped her to the couch. “How is Danny doing? I would love for him to come out to Wyndamere and visit. Maybe I could teach him how to ride?”

 

Sam closed the door and sat down in a chair near the couple. “I don’t think I want Danny on a horse just yet.”

 

“Oh.” Robin took Nikolas’s hand in hers and gave it a gentle squeeze. He took a deep breath. “Maybe he could come out and do something else. Maybe he could play hide and seek in the maze with me and Emma?”

 

“Emma loves doing that and I won’t be able to chase her much longer.” Robin laughed and Sam turned her attention to the researcher.

 

“I heard the news – congratulations. When are you due?” Sam was well aware that Robin was lying about the baby’s due date but she couldn’t let on, not yet.

 

“6 months.” Nikolas answered the question. “Sam, where is Jason?”

 

“Right here.” Jason came down the stairs and stood behind his wife. “It is so good to see you both. I hear congratulations are in order.”

 

Nikolas put his hand on Robin’s belly and smiled. “Thank you.”

 

Jason gave Sam a quick peck on the cheek and held out his hand to Robin. “Why don’t we go somewhere and talk while Sam and Nikolas catch up?”

 

Robin took his hand and stood up. She gave her husband one last smile and walked into the kitchen with Jason. Jason held open the door as she walked through it. “I thought we could work on supper while we talk. I understand you love ribs and I have a great sauce to put on them.”

 

Nikolas couldn’t help but laugh at Robin’s little squeal of joy as the door shut behind them. He turned back to Sam. “Sam, I am so sorry. I swear I didn’t know about Jason.”

 

“Why should I believe you? You have been acting more and more like a Cassadine every day, hiding the fact that Jake was Jason is certainly not outside of the realm of possibility.” Sam shook her head. “I don’t want to believe that you did that but why would Liz say you knew?”

 

“I don’t know. I mean, I know she was upset when I told her I was staying with Robin but I had no idea the lengths she would go to hurt me.” Nikolas stared his cousin straight in the eyes. “I swear, on the life of my unborn child, that I did not know Jake was Jason.”

 

Sam carefully studied Nikolas, using every instrument in her PI training to see if he was lying or not. “Fine.” She stood up. “I’m going to go check on Danny – will you be okay for a few minutes by yourself?”

 

“Of course – I need to make a couple of phone calls anyhow. I’ll go out on the balcony and enjoy this beautiful night until you get back.” Nikolas stood up and headed to the balcony while Sam went upstairs.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Wait, so this Victor Cassadine had me and you left your family to save me?” Jason stood at the counter finishing up the ribs while he and Robin discussed the last time she remembered seeing him. “Why would you do that?”

 

“Because I understood how important it was to get you back home to Sam and Danny.” Robin smiled at him. “You would do the same for me. Anyway, the last memory I have gotten back was me talking to Patrick on the phone and I couldn’t go home when his son died. He told me if I didn’t then…” Tears filled Robin’s eyes.

 

“Robin…” Even though he had no memories of Robin, he felt extremely protective of her. “Robin, what is it? Are you remembering something?”

 

Robin suddenly burst out into to tears. Nikolas came rushing in to the room and quickly pulled Robin into his arms. “Robin, what is it?” He glared at Jason. “What did you do to her?”

 

“He didn’t do anything.” Robin choked out the words in between her sobs. “I just remembered why I didn’t come home when Gabriel died. It’s because Victor wouldn’t let me.”

 

“I know and I could kill my uncle for what he did to you, but Obrecht took care of that for me.” Nikolas began rubbing her back in an attempt to comfort her. “I know it hurts to remember but…”

 

“You don’t understand – Victor did it to keep me in line.” Robin cries became more intense. “I killed Patrick’s son.”

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Dr. Briggs, thank you for coming over so quickly.” Jason opened the door and let the doctor in. “Sam and Nikolas have her in the guest room.”

 

“I take it that this was a particularly bad memory.” Briggs had his medical bag with him and followed Jason down the hall to where Robin was.

 

“It seemed to be. Just tell me you can help her.” There was a pleading tone to Jason’s voice that caught Dr. Briggs off guard.

 

“I’ll do everything I can for her.” They entered the room to find Robin still sobbing in Nikolas’s arms. Briggs ran over to her and began to gently check on her.

 

“Robin, I know you just remembered something horrible but you need to calm down - not only for your sake but for the baby’s as well.” He pulled out a syringe. “Robin, I am going to give you a sedative to help you calm down.”

 

“The baby…” Robin kept crying as Nikolas held her.

 

Nikolas stroked her hair and looked at Dr. Briggs. “It won’t hurt the baby, will it?”

 

“I promise this is safe for both Robin and the baby.” Dr. Briggs smiled at Robin. “It’s going to be okay.”

 

Robin nodded her head and Dr. Briggs gave her the shot. A few minutes later her sobbing slowed down and Nikolas laid down with her on the bed as Dr. Briggs stood up and led Jason and Sam out of the room. “Let’s give them a few minutes. Could one of you please tell me what happened?”

 

Jason looked at Sam before starting. “She was talking about the last thing she remembered and she was hit with another memory on top of it.”

 

“What was it – do you know?”

 

Sam answered this question. “Actually I do. Her ex-husband was in a car accident the beginning of last year. It turns out that the man who was holding Robin caused the accident to keep her in line.”

 

“I can understand that upsetting her but not this much. I mean, he is fine now, isn’t he?”

 

“Yes but he wasn’t in the car alone. Their daughter and the woman having his son were in the car with him. Emma had some minor injuries but the accident caused the woman, Sabrina, to go into premature labor.” Sam felt Jason’s arms wrap around her as she recounted the story. “The baby didn’t make it.”

 

“And Robin is blaming herself for his death.” Briggs shook his head. He wasn’t surprised by Robin’s reaction – the time he had spent with her showed him that she was a kind and very sensitive woman. “That poor woman.” He looked at the couple. “I will work with her to help her understand that it wasn’t her fault.”

 

“I appreciate that.” Nikolas walked into the room. “Robin is finally sleeping so I am going to call the car around and take her home.”

 

“Of course – do you need any help with Robin?” Jason hugged Sam and started to move but Nikolas stopped him.

 

“That’s okay – I can take care of her. Why don’t we try this again next week at our house?” Jason nodded and Nikolas went back down the hall to get Robin.

 

Dr. Briggs turned to the couple and smiled. “I’m glad I am getting to meet you actually. I would like to help you Mr. Morgan.”

 

Sam was immediately suspicious. Although Patrick had vouched for the man and Robert had found that the doctor was completely legitimate, she wasn’t sure she wanted him working with her husband. “Why?”

 

“Because your case fascinates me.” Briggs saw no reason to hide his curiosity. “I would love to be able to help you recover your memories. I am willing to meet with you wherever you want, even here.” Nikolas came back into the room holding a now sleeping Robin. “Just think about it and let me know. Good night Mr. and Mrs. Morgan.”

 

Jason and Sam saw their guests to the door. Jason shut the door and looked at Sam. “What do you think?”

 

“About what?” Sam leaned on him as he leaned against the door.

 

“About Dr. Briggs offer?” He gave her a kiss. “I think it might help me but I also think that it would be a good way to have regular access to Wyndamere.”

 

“Well we can go over there at anytime.” Sam wasn’t sure where he was going with it.

 

“Yes, but if I have regular appointments than we can work with Patrick, Mac and Robert to get surveillance equipment set up one bug at a time.”

 

“I knew I married you for a reason, even if you can’t remember it yet.” Sam smiled at him. “Let’s go to bed and we will call Patrick in the morning and tell him what is going on.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 27

 

“Excellent work Mr. Morgan.” Dr. Briggs shook Jason’s hand as they walked out of his office and down the hall at GH. “I am thrilled with your progress.”

 

“I told you, I am going by Quartermaine now.” It had been 5 and a half months since Liz had told everyone the truth about Jason being alive. During that time Jason had managed to recover a good chunk of his memories, including ones from his life as Jason Quartermaine. He was now in counseling with Kevin Collins in an attempt to not only reconcile the two lives but also come to terms with the thing he had done as Jason Morgan.

 

One thing that didn’t need reconciled were his feelings for Sam and Danny. The family was stronger than ever and the couple was even working on adding another member to the family. Jason left Sonny, Carly and the mob behind to work with Michael. Together, the two men were trying to wrestle back control of ELQ from Nikolas.

 

Jason had not only cut Sonny and Carly out of his work life, he had cut them out of his personal life as well. Sonny had murdered AJ in cold blood and Carly had helped cover it up – both acts he could never forgive. Jason Morgan may not have cared about AJ but Jason Quartermaine loved his brother.

 

Liz was still gone – she had decided it was time for a new start in a new town. She had moved in with her brother and gotten a job working at a local hospital. Last that Jason had heard, Lucky had moved to New Orleans to be close to the boys and Liz. Jason had considered going after custody of Jake but ultimately decided against it. Jake had a normal life now that he was away from Port Charles and Jason wasn’t about to destroy that.

 

Dr. Briggs left Jason at the nurse’s desk and headed back to his office. He was surprised to see Robin standing there waiting for him. “Robin, what can I do for you?”

 

“Right now, a place to sit down would be wonderful.” Robin rubbed her huge belly and laughed. “This one is weighing me down a little bit.”

 

Dr. Briggs led her into his office and helped her sit down on the couch. Robin was actually two weeks overdue with her second child but everyone else thought she was at 8 ½ months. Nikolas had brought in an obstetrician to help her through her pregnancy and all her appointments were done at Wyndamere. Besides Nikolas, the obstetrician was the only one who knew what Robin’s actual due date was.

 

“You look beautiful my dear.” He gave her hand a fatherly pat. “We didn’t have an appointment scheduled for today, did we?”

 

“No, I am just hanging close to the hospital in case I go into labor. Wyndamere is great for appointments but I prefer to have my baby here, thank you very much, and Nikolas agreed with me.” She smiled at him. “I just wanted to see if everything was okay with your office and if you were settling in okay.”

 

Dr. Briggs had started on staff at GH a few weeks ago. “Yes I am, thank you for asking. How are you doing? Any more memories?”

 

Robin shook her head. She had managed to get all her memories back up to the point where Jason and her escaped the clinic but everything after that was a blank. She had finally accepted that she was never going to get that time of her life back. It was disturbing but there was nothing she could do about it. “It’s okay – it just gives me more room for happy memories with my children.”

 

“That is a wonderful way to look at it.” Dr. Briggs had been impressed by the way Robin had handled all the things thrown at her through the years. He admired the doctor greatly. “Speaking of – you look like you are ready to pop.”

 

Robin laughed. “I am.” She sighed. “And now I have to get up – I’m supposed to meet Georgie and Maxie for lunch in the cafeteria. They are both volunteering today.” Robin attempted to stand up but was having some problems. “Could you lend me a hand?”

 

“Of course.” Dr. Briggs gently took her hand and helped her off the couch. “Why don’t I walk you to the elevator?”

 

“You don’t need to do that – I’m sure you have some files to review.” Robin gave him a hug and headed to the door. “I will see you later.”

 

“See you later dear.” Dr. Briggs gave her a quick kiss on the cheek and then went back to work as Robin headed out into the hall.

 

She was almost to the elevator when a familiar voice called out to her. “Robin.” Patrick ran to her. “What do you think you are doing?”

 

“Going to meet my cousins for lunch.” She pushed the down button. “Why?”

 

“Well, do you think you should be wandering around here alone? I mean, considering your condition?” Patrick had watched Robin carefully over the past months. He had been her shoulder to lean on if she and Nikolas had a fight, her active co-parent when it came to Emma, her colleague at the hospital and he had taken an active interest in the baby. He had worked hard to become her friend while also doing everything in his power to figure out a way to get Robin out of the mess he was certain she was in. Although the bugs Jason had planted around Wyndamere had not revealed anything incriminating about Nikolas, Patrick still didn’t trust the man.

 

“I was this pregnant when we walked down the aisle for our first wedding.” Robin couldn’t help but laugh at him. “Trust me, I’m fine.”

 

“Well, at least let me escort you down to the cafeteria.” The elevator doors opened and Patrick made a come in gesture with his hand. “After you, my lady.”

 

“Why thank you sir.” Robin boarded the elevator and pushed the button for the cafeteria. “Any good surgeries lately?”

 

“It’s me – they are all good.” Robin rolled her eyes at him. “I actually have a really interesting case that I thought you might be interested in…”

 

Patrick was interrupted with the elevator suddenly stopped. Robin looked at him. “Are we stuck?”

 

Patrick began pushing buttons on the panel but nothing happened. He pulled out the emergency phone from under the panel and listened for a moment. “Yes, we are in the elevator and it is stopped between the 5th and 6th floors. Okay, thank you.” He turned to Robin. “They are aware of the situation and are working on it.”

 

“Patrick, we have a problem.” The look on Robin's face was one of panic.

 

“Robin, it will be fine. They are working on it and will have us out of here in no time.” Patrick wondered if she maybe was claustrophobic due to her years in captivity. She had never said anything but that didn’t mean it wasn’t possible.

 

“No, you don’t understand.” Robin suddenly clutched her belly and screamed out in pain. “My water broke.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 28

 

“I’m sorry, what did you just say?” Patrick was praying he had heard wrong.

 

“My water…” Robin was interrupted by another contraction and fell back against the wall of the elevator. “They’re coming so fast.”

 

Patrick grabbed the phone off the wall once more. “We have a woman in labor. Get OB ready and have Dr. Lee paged stat. We will need to get her to labor and delivery as soon as we get out of here.”

 

He kneeled down next to Robin. “It’s going to be okay.”

 

“No it’s not.” Another contraction hit Robin. “This baby isn’t going to wait for the elevator to be fixed. It’s coming now!”

 

Patrick took a deep breath and moved to where he could examine her. He smiled at Robin. “I need to see how far dilated you are – is that okay?”

 

Robin nodded her head and began doing her breathing exercises. “I trust you Patrick but…”

 

Patrick pulled a pair of gloves out of his lab coat and put them on. “You should know by now that I am always prepared for any occasion. I was a Boy Scout after all.”

 

“Patrick Drake, you have been many things in your life but Boy Scout is not one of them.” Robin cried out again as another contraction hit her hard. “This is happening too fast. We had hours with Emma.”

 

“This one is apparently a little impatient. Set their mind to something and decided to get it done. Sounds just like their mom to me.” Patrick did a quick exam of Robin and shook his head. “Robin, the baby is coming. Have you been having any pains – I’m no OB but I think you may have been in labor for a while.”

 

“My back is been hurting for the past few days and I had some indigestion pains earlier today but…”

 

“My guess is that you have been in mild labor for days now and the baby is done playing around.” Patrick smiled at her. “Robin, the baby is crowning – you need to push.”

 

Panic and fear overwhelmed Robin. “I can’t give birth in an elevator.”

 

“Well, you can and you will.” Patrick could see how scared she was so he reached over and took her hand in his. “Robin, I promise you that I will not let anything happen to you or your child.”

 

Tears filled her eyes as another contraction wracked her body with pain. Patrick took off his lab coat and set it on the ground so he could wrap the baby up in it after it was born. He had a pair of trauma scissors in the pocket and pulled them out so he could cut the umbilical cord. He turned to Robin and nodded. “It’s time Robin – push.”

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Georgie and Maxie heard a commotion coming from the elevators and walked over to see what was going on. Georgie grabbed a nurse. “Is the elevator stuck again?”

 

The nurse recognized the young volunteer. “Yeah and get this, Dr. Scorpio and Dr. Drake are in there. She went into labor and he may be delivering the baby as we speak.”

 

“Robin!” Maxie immediately pulled out her phone. “Mac, you need to get to the hospital immediately. Robin is having the baby.” She shook her head. “I can’t tell you anything because she and Patrick are trapped in an elevator and she is having it there.” She paused while she listened to her father’s answer. “Okay, we’ll see you soon.”

 

“Is Mac on his way?” Georgie hoped that Robin could hold on until they could get her to labor and delivery.

 

“Yes and he is calling Robert and Anna. He also said we need to call Nikolas.” Maxie didn’t even try to hide her disdain. Over the past six months she had become more and more convinced that Robin’s marriage was a huge mistake. Nikolas was always trying to keep Robin at Wyndamere, away from her family. It didn’t work but it was suspicious.

 

“I’ll do it.” Georgie shared her sister’s suspicions regarding Nikolas but was much better at hiding it.

 

“Fine.” Maxie took a few steps away as Georgie made the call. She watched the elevator intently. “They are going to be okay – they have to be.”

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Push Robin.” Patrick smiled at his ex-wife. “I can see the top of their head so this won’t take long. Just a few more minutes and you will be holding your baby.”

 

Robin took a deep breath and pushed with all her might until Patrick told her to stop. “Is something wrong?”

 

A cry filled the air. “No, the head is out but I want to make sure I am in a better position for the rest of the delivery. Okay, push.”

 

Robin pushed again as the baby continued to cry, the sweetest sound she had ever heard. Within a minute, it was over. “She’s here Robin!” Patrick cut the umbilical cord and wrapped the little girl up in his coat. “You have a beautiful and loud baby girl.”

 

He handed the baby over to her mom as Robin cried happily. “You’re here.”

 

Patrick studied the little girl. “She looks exactly like you Robin.”

 

Robin gazed lovingly at the little girl lying in her arms and had to agree. Inside she gave a private thank you to God that this had been her child she was carrying – it had crossed her mind that Helena might have had someone else’s child implanted in her. “Yes she does.”

 

“Does she have a name?”

 

Robin smiled at her ex-husband. “Hope. Her name is Hope.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 29

 

“Where is she?” Nikolas came running up to Robin’s family as they waited at the nurse’s hub for the elevator to be fixed.

 

Anna walked over to him. “They are still in the elevator. Maintenance said that they should have it moving shortly – there was some kind of short circuit on the electrical board.” Anna took Nikolas’s hand.

 

“The baby?” Georgie had told him that Robin was in labor.

 

“Patrick helped Robin deliver her.” Anna laughed. “We could hear her cry all the way up here. Patrick said that she and Robin are both doing well and OB is waiting by the elevator doors to take them and check them out as soon as those doors open.”

 

Nikolas relaxed for a moment and then gave Anna a questioning look. “I’m sorry, did you say that Patrick was in the elevator with her?”

 

“I thought you knew.” She could see the anger boiling up in Nikolas’s eyes. “Thank God he was – I would hate to think of Robin going through that alone.”

 

“Yes, of course, it’s just that I wanted to be there when she was born – that’s all.” Nikolas quickly regained control. “They are both okay?”

 

“Yes, Patrick said she is the spitting image of Robin.” Anna tried to read Nikolas’s reaction but he was in complete control.

 

“That’s wonderful, perfect actually.” Nikolas smiled at his mother-in-law. “I couldn’t imagine a more beautiful baby.”

 

The conversation stopped when they noticed a commotion around the elevator. The group walked over to Dr. Lee who had been standing by the elevator waiting for Robin and the baby. Mac took the lead. “Kelly, what is going on?”

 

Kelly looked at the family, deciding that blunt was the best way to go. “They are having some issues with the cables connected to the car. Apparently maintenance was about to shut the elevator down because the cables were beginning to fray. They are working on getting the car raised so that they can get them out.”

 

Everyone jumped when they heard the screech of the elevator dropping a little bit more.

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Patrick,” Robin looked around the elevator fearfully, “it’s going to…”

 

“…be fine.” Patrick smiled at Robin and then at the sleeping little girl in her arms. “So Hope? What’s her middle name?”

 

“Mackenzie, Hope Mackenzie Cassadine.” Robin gave her little girl a kiss on the fore head. “We need to get her to the nursery so that she can get her AZT shot and examined. I need to make sure that she isn’t HIV positive.”

 

“She’s perfect Robin. We’ll get out of here and get her to her big sister.” Patrick moved over so he was sitting next to Robin and he put his arm around her. She leaned into him and he smiled down at Hope. “Emma is going to love her.”

 

“Yes she is.” Robin sighed. “Thank you for taking care of us.”

 

“It is my privilege.” Patrick gave Robin a kiss on the cheek and then placed a soft kiss on Hope’s forehead. “I will do anything for you and your children Robin. I hope you know that.”

 

“I do.” Robin’s tears fell down her cheeks. She missed this, being so close to him not only physically but emotionally. “I love you Patrick. No matter what has happened or what will happen, I want you to know that.”

 

“I love you too Robin – always.” He looked at her and leaned over to kiss her when the elevator dropped again and stopped him. He held her closer, attempting to protect her and Hope as best he could. They heard a loud creaking sound and the doors to the elevator slowly opened.

 

The next minute was a flurry of commotion. The elevator wasn’t quite all the way down so Patrick carefully picked Robin and Hope up in his arms and slid them to the opening. The cot lined up almost perfectly to the opening and Robin was on it and headed to maternity before Patrick could jump out. He got out of the elevator and watched as Robin was wheeled down the hall, Nikolas by her side.

 

Anna hugged Patrick. “Patrick, thank God…” Her words were cut off by the sound of the elevator crashing down the shaft.

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“She is beautiful Robin.” Nikolas helped Robin get settled into her bed while Hope was being checked out in the nursery.

 

“She is, isn’t she?” Robin smiled at him. “Did they give her the shot?”

 

“Yes and the nurse’s were all marveling at how beautiful she is. 7lbs, 10 oz, 18 inches long and the spitting image of her beautiful mother.” Nikolas kissed her. “Is there anything I can get you?”

 

“No, just being here is enough.” Robin closed her eyes and sighed. “She’s finally here. She’s here and there is no doubt that she is my daughter.” She looked at Nikolas. “Did you…”

 

“It’s all taken care of.” He took Robin’s hand in his. “You get some sleep. I promise, I’ll take care of everything.”

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Patrick stood outside the nursery with the rest of Robin’s family, happily watching as Hope slept peacefully in her bassinet, completely unaware of the chaos surrounding her or her birth. “She is beautiful, isn’t she?”

 

Mac put his hand on Patrick’s shoulder and gave it a soft squeeze. “Yes she is. She looks like Emma, doesn’t she?”

 

“Yes, she does.” Patrick wiped a tear away from his eyes. “We have to figure out what Nikolas has planned for them and stop it.” Patrick smiled at the little girl one more time. “Somehow, I have to protect them.”

Edited September 14, 2015 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 30

 

Emma smiled at Hope as she sat on her mom’s bed. Hope was lying on the bed next to Robin, sleeping soundly. “Hope, I’m only going to be gone for a couple of days – don’t forget me.”

 

Robin laughed. “Emma, she could never forget you. Are you all packed and ready to go to your dad’s?”

 

Robin was home from the hospital and Patrick had offered to take Emma for the weekend so that she and Hope could get settled back in at home. Nikolas had some business to attend to in town so he had offered to drop Emma off on his way.

 

“Yep.” Emma smiled at Nikolas as he walked in the door. “Nikolas already took my bag down to the launch.”

 

Robin smiled at Nikolas as he sat down on the bed next to her. “Always the gentleman.”

 

“Of course.” Nikolas turned to Emma. “Why don’t you check your room and make sure you didn’t miss anything and I will meet you downstairs?”

 

“Okay.” Emma hugged her mom and Nikolas and then gave her little sister a kiss on her forehead. “Bye mommy – I love you.”

 

“I love you too.” Robin watched her daughter bounce out of the room.

 

Nikolas instantly began fussing over Robin and Hope. “Do you need anything? Does she need changed before I leave?”

 

Robin expertly picked Hope up from the bed and laid her down in the bassinet next to the her. “I just changed her and she shouldn’t be ready to eat for another couple of hours. In fact, I think I am going to take a nap while she’s sleeping.”

 

“That sounds like a great idea.” Nikolas got off the bed and tucked the covers in around Robin before giving her a kiss. “You get some rest and I will see you both in a little bit.” He looked over at the night stand and took Robin’s phone. “I am taking this with me so I can make sure you rest. I’ll leave a guard outside your door if you need anything.”

 

Robin shook her head. “Nikolas…”

 

Nikolas was already at the door. “The world can live without you for a few hours Robin. Get some rest and I will be back before you know it. I love you.”

 

Robin yawned, she was tired and maybe not having her phone by her for a little bit would help her get some sleep. She closed her eyes. “I love you too.”

 

Nikolas closed the door and motioned for the guard to come over to him. “Is everything set?”

 

“Yes sir.”

 

“Good. I will call you when a decision has been made.” Nikolas looked at the door. “Take care of them for me – nothing is to happen to either one of them. If anything does, I will hold you personally responsible. Do you understand?”

 

“Yes, sir.” The guard pulled an envelope out of his pocket. “I believe you wanted this before you left.”

 

Nikolas took the envelope and opened it up. He read the contents and smiled. “Thank you – this is exactly what I needed. I will call you soon.”

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Daddy!” Patrick opened the door and was almost immediately knocked down by his little girl running to him.

 

“Hey baby girl, are you ready for a fun weekend with Daddy?” Patrick picked up Emma and hugged her close. Emma nodded and smiled at him. “Good, why don’t you take your bag to you room and I will show Nikolas out, okay?”

 

He set Emma down and she went over to her stepdad. Emma gave Nikolas a kiss and a hug and then took her bag upstairs to her room. Patrick waited until he heard her going up the stairs before he finally spoke to Nikolas. “Thank you for bringing her by. How is Robin doing?”

 

“Good. She and Hope are taking a nap right now but they are both doing very good.” Nikolas put out his hand. “I wanted to thank you again for your help in delivering Hope.”

 

Patrick ignored the hand. “I would do anything for Robin. I heard that Hope’s first test came back negative.”

 

“Yes, we were thrilled.” An uncomfortable silence filled the room and Nikolas turned towards the door. “Well, I have a meeting to get to but I will see you on Sunday when I pick up Emma. Have a good weekend.”

 

“Thank you.” Patrick followed him to the door. “Goodbye Nikolas.”

 

“Goodbye Patrick.” Nikolas walked out the door and Patrick slammed it shut behind him.

 

He leaned against the door and took a few deep breaths, needing to calm himself down. It had taken every ounce of restraint he had to not throttle Nikolas and demand to know what his plans for Robin and Hope were but it wouldn’t do any good. Nikolas was far too smart and controlled for that. No, they needed to wait for him to make a mistake and, when he did, this whole nightmare would be over.

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Jason stood on the docks waiting for Nikolas. Nikolas had contacted him and asked him to meet him, alone, to discuss a matter regarding ELQ.

 

“Jason, so glad you could make it.” Nikolas, followed by his guards, walked up to his ex-brother-in-law and smiled. “This shouldn’t take too long.”

 

“What do you want Nikolas?” Jason had been working with Patrick and the Scorpios to try and figure out what Nikolas’s plans for Robin were. So far they had not had a break but maybe tonight would be a turning point.

 

“I’ll make this short and simple – you are going to sell me all of your shares of ELQ, for a reasonably discounted amount of course.” Nikolas knew that Jason’s shares had reverted back to him after it was discovered he was alive. All previous proxies had been invalidated by Jason’s miraculous return.

 

Jason shook his head. “Like hell I will. I will never give you those shares.”

 

Nikolas just smirked at him. “Yes you will. You will do it and you will do it today or you will never see your child again.”

 

Jason grabbed Nikolas’s jacket and pulled him roughly towards him. The guards reacted but Nikolas waved them off. “You will not touch a hair on Danny’s head.”

 

Nikolas pulled himself out of Jason’s grip. “Not Danny.”

 

“Jake…”

 

“Not Jake.” Nikolas pulled the envelope out his pocket and handed it to Jason. “No, I was talking about your daughter, Hope.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 31

 

Jason stared at the paper in disbelief. “Hope is my daughter?”

 

“Yes.” Nikolas stood there and just let Jason absorb the news.

 

Jason eyed him suspiciously. “How did you get my DNA sample?”

 

Nikolas laughed. “Do you really think it was that difficult to collect a hair sample from the penthouse?”

 

Jason knew in his heart that Nikolas was right, collecting a sample would be easy for him. “Does Robin know?” Jason could not believe Robin would keep this from him.

 

“Not yet. Once you sign over the shares, I will let her know and we can set up a reasonable visitation schedule.” Nikolas smiled at him. “Aren’t you happy to have a daughter?”

 

Jason pulled out his phone and made a call. Nikolas watched him. “Who are you calling?”

 

“Robin, she needs to know…” Jason heard a ringing coming from Nikolas’s pocket just as Robin’s phone started ringing on his end.

 

Nikolas pulled out the phone. “Robin needed some rest so I brought her phone with me.” He answered it. “Hello.”

 

Jason hung up the phone in frustration. “You did this? How could you use Robin, a woman who has stood by you no matter what, this way?”

 

“No, I didn’t know anything about it until after Robin’s rescue – I truly thought she was in Paris like Patrick said.” The lies came easily from Nikolas’s mouth. “My grandmother wanted me to kidnap Robin again – I refused. She told me what she had done to Robin and finally agreed to leave Robin in Port Charles under my protection as long as she married me.” Nikolas stepped closer to Jason. “Everything I have done has been to protect Robin and Hope.”

 

“I don’t believe you. This is about ELQ, getting control of my family’s company.” Jason stared at the paper once again. “You knew that I would never choose the company over my child.”

 

“It’s true I did see an opportunity when Helena told me what she had done but I do love Robin and Hope.” Nikolas stared Jason straight in the eyes. “We can build a new life together far away from Port Charles where you will never find us. I have guards waiting to move them at a moment’s notice so I would think carefully about your next move.” Nikolas wanted all of this over today.

 

Jason sighed. “And what do I tell people – I’m assuming you don’t want them to know the real reason why I am signing over the shares?”

 

“No, tell them that you want to spend time with your children or that you realized that I really am the best person to run the company.” Nikolas smirked at him. “I honestly don’t care what you tell them, just make it convincing. I’ll meet you back here in an hour.”

 

It took every tool Dr. Briggs had taught him to maintain control and not strangle Nikolas. Jason got a curious look on his face. “You knew I was Jason all along, didn’t you?”

 

“Maybe but it doesn’t matter now.” Nikolas wasn’t surprised that Jason had figured it out.

 

“What if I didn’t get my memory back? What would you have done then?”

 

“I would have gone to Monika and told her that if she wanted to spend time with her grandchild, she needed to convince Michael to give up his shares.” Nikolas had no issues revealing his plans to Jason – the man had too much to lose to risk telling anyone the truth. “But I think it worked out better this way. You and Sam have a life together, Robin and I are together and Hope gets to have people who love her in her life.”

 

“And you get ELQ.” Jason spat the words at him. “You son of a bitch.”

 

Nikolas put out a hand. “I take it we have a deal.”

 

Jason didn’t take the hand but glared at Nikolas. “I don’t think I have a choice, do I?”

 

“Not if you want to be a part of your daughter’s life.” Nikolas began to turn around but stopped and looked at Jason one last time. “You will tell no one about this. If I get even a hint that you have spoken to Sam, Robin’s family or Patrick about any of this, Robin, Hope and I will disappear.”

 

Nikolas waited for Jason to nod his head in understanding and turned to leave. “I will see you back here in an hour so we can finalize our deal.”

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Okay, why don’t you get your jacket and then we can head to the park?” Sam had just picked Danny up from her mom’s house and he had wanted to go swing. She opened the door to the penthouse and ran right into Jason leaving with a folder in his hand. “Jason?”

 

“Sam,” he smiled at her and then down at their son, “hey buddy.” He kissed them both and headed out the door.

 

Sam grabbed his arm. “Hey, where are you going?”

 

Jason lost his hold on the folder in his hand and dropped it. He bent down to pick the papers he had dropped up and Sam went to help him. She looked at the papers and then at her husband. “What are you doing with your ELQ shares?”

 

Jason sighed. He had hoped to have a little more time before Sam found out what he was doing. “I’m taking them to Nikolas. He made a generous offer and I decided to accept it.”

 

“But why?” Sam was confused. They had spent months trying to get the shares of ELQ Nikolas currently had back from him and now Jason was willingly handing over the shares that would give him full control of the company. It didn’t make any sense. “Jason, talk to me.”

 

“I just want to concentrate on being a husband and a father. This company has already taken up too much of my time and I just need it to end.” Jason placed his hand on Sam’s face, softly rubbing her cheek. “I have already lost too much time to the Cassadines and it ends today.” He kissed her. “I love you.”

 

Sam watched Jason as he went down the hall and then shut the door. “Danny, go get your jacket.” She waited until Danny was upstairs to pull out her phone and made a call. “Something is wrong – Jason is headed to Wyndamere to turn over his shares of ELQ to Nikolas.”

 

Patrick listened to her and then looked at Mac. "Don't worry Sam, we'll figure out what is going on."

[cmahorror]

Chapter 32

 

Nikolas smiled as Jason met him at the docks an hour later, stock certificates in hand. “I worried that you might have changed your mind.”

 

“I have a few questions before I hand these over.” Jason held up the folder. He had been caught so off guard by Nikolas’s claims and threats that he had reacted without thinking. Now, he wanted details before he traded away his family’s legacy. “First off, how did this happen?”

 

“My grandmother told me that she had her scientist do some experiments on you while you were in stasis, take a few samples. Modern medicine is a wonderful thing.” Nikolas shook his head. “I also know that you and Robin still are missing quite a few memories from that time period. I can assure you that neither one of you broke your wedding vows if that is what you are worried about.”

 

“That’s not what I am saying – how do I know you are telling the truth about Hope?” Part of Jason really wanted to believe that Hope was his - better his daughter than Nikolas’s.

 

“Well, you can have another test run but you would have to have Hope to do that and the only way Hope and Robin are staying in Port Charles after tonight is if you turn over your shares of ELQ.” Nikolas tapped his foot impatiently. “So which is going to be – the ELQ stock or Hope and Robin?”

 

Jason ran his hand through his hair. The truth was it didn’t matter if Hope was his daughter or not, Robin had given up her entire life to save him and paid a horrible price for it. She had lost years with Emma and her marriage for him, giving up his share of ELQ hardly seemed like a great sacrifice. He owed her so much more than that. “Here.” He threw the folder at Nikolas. “I want your assurances that Robin and Hope will remain here in Port Charles and safe from your grandmother.”

 

“I will protect them with my life.” Nikolas opened the folder and inspected the contents before handing a check to Jason. “Do you want to wait until we have a second DNA test done before we tell Robin who Hope’s dad is?”

 

“I think that would be best.” Jason didn’t want to bond with Hope unless the he knew for certain she was his little girl. “I’ll make the arrangements and let you know when to bring her in for the test.”

 

“Fine, then I will talk to you later.” Nikolas looked towards Spoon Island. “Now I really need to get home to Robin and Hope. Good night Jason. It was wonderful doing business with you.” Nikolas and his guards boarded the launch and headed towards Wyndamere while Jason turned to leave.

 

“Just a minute Jason.” Mac came out of the shadows. “I think we need to talk.”

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Patrick paced the living room waiting for Mac to come back to his house with Jason. He had no idea what was going on but Mac was adamant that they needed to meet as soon as possible. He was just about to call and see where they were when the front door opened. “Where have you guys been?”

 

“I needed to make sure we weren’t followed.” Mac sat down on the couch. “Where is Emma?”

 

“Felicia took her to your house to visit with Georgie and Maxie. Why?” Patrick noticed that Jason stayed at the door, not even attempting to sit down. “Jason, aren’t you going to have a seat. You’re kind of making me nervous.”

 

Jason nodded his head and sat down in the chair closest to the door. “Sorry, I just,” he put his head in his hands, “it’s been a hell of a night.”

 

Patrick sat down in the chair opposite of him. “I guessed that from Sam’s call. What is going on Jason? Why did you hand over your shares of ELQ to Nikolas?”

 

Jason looked at Mac. Mac nodded his head so Jason spoke. “I did it for Robin and Hope.”

 

Patrick’s face turned red with anger. “Did he threaten them?”

 

“He said he would take them away from Port Charles if I didn’t give him the stocks - that I would never see Robin or Hope again.” Jason was trying to figure out how to tell Patrick about the DNA test.

 

“That bastard!” Patrick ran his hands through his hair and took a few deep breaths. “Wait – why did he wait until now? And why was he so sure that you would agree?”

 

Jason took one long, deep breath before handing Patrick the DNA test. “Because he was waiting for this - it says that Hope is my daughter.” Jason waited while Patrick read the piece of paper. “Is it possible – could they have done something while I was at that clinic? Maybe something while I was unconscious?”

 

Patrick studied the paper for a few more moments and then kicked over the coffee table. He stood up and began pacing the room once more. “Unfortunately, yes it is and it would have been a very simple procedure.” Patrick walked over to the shelf and stared at the picture of him and Robin with Emma. “I don’t understand how he could do this to her. Hasn’t she been through enough?”

 

“He claims that he knew nothing about it until after Robin was rescued.” Jason stood up. “I owe Robin my life; I couldn’t let Nikolas tear her away from Emma again. And if Hope is mine – Patrick, I have already given up one child, I won’t give up another.”

 

“I take it Robin doesn’t know.” Jason shook his head. “Of course not - she could never keep something like this from you. Are you going to tell her?”

 

“Not until I get another DNA test done. Would you do it?” Jason trusted Patrick.

 

“I’ll collect the samples and monitor the testing.” Patrick looked at Mac. “No matter what the test says, we need to get Robin and Hope out of there as soon as possible. I don’t believe for one second that Nikolas didn’t know anything about this.”

 

“Agreed.” Mac pulled out his phone. “Robert, we need you and Anna over here at Patrick’s right now. Nikolas made a move.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 33

 

“You look like hell man.” Jason walked into the lab and was greeted by a very rough looking Patrick. “Rough night?”

 

Patrick shook his head. “I had a couple of beers while watching the hockey game and then passed out – missed most of the second half. Woke up with a hell of a headache but I’ll be fine.” He turned to Brad. “Do you want to go ahead and get Jason’s sample while we wait for Hope?”

 

It had taken over a week but Jason had finally convinced Nikolas that Patrick was the best person to supervise the second DNA test. Nikolas produced a letter from Helena stating that she had made all the arrangements for the pregnancy and that the father was Jason so that Patrick wouldn’t be suspicious about the request. Patrick didn’t believe one word in the letter but it did give him a chance to be in contact with Jason without raising any suspicions.

 

Brad put on a pair of gloves and grabbed a sealed tube with a cotton swab in it. He labeled the tube with Jason’s name and then opened it up. “Okay – say ah.”

 

Jason opened his mouth and Brad took the sample from inside his cheek. He then shut the tube and set it on the table. “All done. How long until Hope gets here?”

 

Patrick and Jason turned around at the sound of the lab door opening. Both men glared at Nikolas as he walked through the door carrying Hope in his arms. It took everything they had not to just rip Hope out of his arms. “Sorry, Robin’s doctor was running a little behind.” Robin was here for a checkup and Nikolas had convinced her that he was fine with watching Hope while she met with the doctor.

 

Brad walked over to Nikolas and pulled out another sealed swab, this one with Hope’s name on it. He broke the seal and quickly swabbed the inside of the two week old little girl’s cheek. She let out a soft cry but Nikolas quickly comforted her and she calmed right down. “That’s right baby girl – I’ve got you.”

 

Patrick rolled his eyes while Jason just stood seething at Nikolas. Patrick finally spoke up. “Did you bring Robin’s hairbrush?”

 

Nikolas pulled a bag out of his pocket containing Robin’s brush. “I still don’t see the point.”

 

Brad took the bag while answering him. “So we can eliminate the strands of DNA that belong to Dr. Scorpio.” He collected the hair from the brush, put it in a specimen bag marked with Robin’s name, and handed the brush back to Nikolas. “I should be able to get a full genetic comparison to you by the end of day tomorrow.”

 

“How can we make sure that the results are not compromised before that time?” Jason wanted to make sure all bases were covered.

 

“The lab security was recently updated. There is a camera going and recording at all times. The samples are going to be stored in an area that is only accessible through a key card system. In addition, I am not doing any analysis on a hospital computer. Dr. Drake has brought his laptop in and I will be doing all my work on it. He will take it home with him when he leaves tonight.” Brad went to a door in the back of the lab carrying the bag and the two swabs with him. “Good enough?”

 

Jason just nodded while Nikolas smiled at Hope. “Sounds great Brad. Thank you for your help.”

 

“I’ll get started on processing these right away.” Brad looked at Patrick. “You ready Dr. Drake?”

 

“Yeah.” Patrick walked over and smiled at Hope. “I’ll see you later baby girl.” He ignored Nikolas completely and turned to Jason. “I’ll let you know when the results are ready.” He went over to Brad and the two men entered the secure room to begin the testing.

 

“Do you want to hold her for a minute?” Nikolas stepped closer to Jason. “I’m sure Robin won’t mind.”

 

Jason hesitated for only a moment before taking Hope from Nikolas’s arms. “Hey there little girl.” She slept soundly in his arms, her little chest going up and down in a steady motion, dark brown hair framing her face. Jason smiled at her. “You are so beautiful, just like your mommy.”

 

Nikolas looked at his watch and then the door. “Look Jason, I hate to be a spoilsport but Robin will be done with her appointment any minute now and I would prefer that she didn’t find us here in the lab – she may get suspicious.”

 

Jason reluctantly handed Hope back to Nikolas. “Yeah, well I will call you once I get the results from Patrick.”

 

“Of course.” Nikolas opened the door. “I’ll talk to you later.”

 

Nikolas left and Jason sat down on a stool, taking a moment to himself. All he could do now was wait and that was the hardest part.

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Robin was just leaving the doctor’s office when Nikolas walked back up with Hope. She smiled at Nikolas and quickly took Hope from his arms. “Hey baby girl – were you good for Daddy?”

 

“She was perfect – slept the whole time.” He gave Robin a kiss and walked with her down the hall. “How are you doing? Is everything okay?”

 

“Everything is great. The doctor says I am healing perfectly and that I should be ready to come back to work in another 6 weeks.” Hope began to fuss so Robin shifted the little girl to her shoulder and gently rubbed her back, instantly calming the little girl down. “By then Emma will be home from camp and we can get settled back into a normal routine.”

 

Anna had approached Robin about a science camp in Maine that Emma really wanted to go to. Although Robin was hesitant to let her go, she understood her little girl’s need to do something by herself. In an attempt to keep Robin from being too nervous, Anna had found a cabin near the camp and was keeping an eye on Emma for her. Thankfully, Emma was calling Robin every night with updates. She was having a ball and Anna was able to visit and take pictures that she sent to Robin on an almost daily basis.

 

“Are you sure?” Nikolas pushed the down button on the elevator. “You don’t have to rush back to work. If you want to take a little more time and spend it with the girls, everyone would understand.”

 

“I know but I miss my work. I’m a doctor Nikolas, it’s not just my job, it’s part of who I am.” She smiled at him. “It’s part of the reason you love me.”

 

“I just don’t want you to push yourself too hard, that’s all.” The doors opened and Nikolas helped her onto it. Robin shivered as the doors shut and the elevator started descending. Nikolas put his arms around her. “It’s okay – both elevators have been replaced and passed the toughest inspections.”

 

Robin shook her head. “Sorry, it’s just going to take a little while before I’m relaxed in an elevator.” The doors opened and Robin quickly walked through the doors.

 

Nikolas followed her and helped her into their waiting car. He secured Hope into her car seat while Robin settled in next to her daughter. “Better now?”

 

“Yes.” Robin reached over and took Nikolas’s hand in hers. “I appreciate the concern but I do want to work. I’m thinking that I will come back part-time for the first few months and then see how it goes from there. Sound fair?”

 

“Sounds great. Ready to get this little girl home?” Nikolas checked to make sure Hope was secured in her seat before giving the driver the okay to leave.

 

“Absolutely.” Robin smiled at Nikolas and then turned her attention back to Hope as they headed back home to Wyndamere.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 34

 

“Okay Dr. Drake, we’re done.” Brad printed out the results and handed them to Patrick.

 

Patrick took a deep breath before looking at the results of the paternity test. “Damn it.”

 

“Not the result you were hoping for?” Brad was packing up his stuff so he could head home to his fiancée Lucas. He had been in the lab for two days straight working on this and he just wanted to leave.

 

“I don’t know, I really don’t know.” Patrick picked up his phone and made a call. “Jason, we’re done.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Jason paced the penthouse floor while he waited for Patrick to arrive. Sam tried to calm him down. “It’s going to be okay. No matter what the test says, it will be okay.”

 

Jason had told Sam what was going on after they had the DNA done yesterday – it was just too much for him to deal with by himself. “But Sam, if Hope is my daughter…”

 

“Then we will welcome her with open arms into our home.” Sam stood up and wrapped her arms around him. “Jason, you didn’t cheat on me or do anything wrong. You and Robin are both pawns in this sick game Helena and Nikolas are playing. No matter what that test says, we still need to get them away from Nikolas. Does Robin know about you giving up your shares of ELQ yet?”

 

“No one does – he wanted to wait until the next board meeting to make the announcement.” Jason was worried about how his family would react to the news. He felt like he had let Monica and Michael down.

 

“They will understand why you did it. Besides, once we prove that Nikolas used illegal methods to obtain the shares we can get them back.” Sam was certain that this was just temporary setback for the Quartermaine family.

 

“But we can’t do that until we guarantee Robin and Hope’s safety.” Jason hugged Sam tighter. “Even if Hope isn’t my daughter, we can’t let them get caught in the crossfire.”

 

“Of course not – Robin saved your life. We owe her so much.” Sam hated that Robin had lost so much to save Jason’s life. It was time for her to get some of it back.

The doorbell rang. Sam reluctantly pulled away and opened it, letting Patrick in to the apartment. “Come on in.” She took Jason’s hand and they sat down on the couch. “Well?”

 

Patrick handed Jason the results of the DNA test. Jason opened it and read the results to Sam. “She’s mine – Hope is my daughter.”

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas watched Robin as she and Hope slept on the couch. Jason had called with the results of the DNA test and now Nikolas was going to let Robin know. After that, Jason and Sam were going to come over so they could come up with a reasonable visitation schedule.

 

It still amazed Nikolas how well things had worked out for him. He had it all: control of ELQ, money, power and a beautiful wife to share it with. Maybe he and Robin could add another member to the family in the near future. He loved Hope and Emma but they weren't his, not really. He smiled at her before giving Robin a kiss on her forehead. “Hey you, time to wake up.”

 

Robin opened her eyes and yawned. She sat up slowly so as not to disturb Hope and gently laid the little girl down in the bassinet by the couch. “Sorry, still trying to get used to being woken up every 3 hours.”

 

“You know, if you would move back into our room I could help you out with that.” Robin had decided it was better for her to stay in another room while Hope was still getting up so often since Nikolas had to go to work. “Or you could let me hire a nanny to do it.”

 

“I want to do it and besides, you work hard at the office all day. You need your sleep at night.” Robin sat up and smiled at him. “Speaking of, why are you home so early?”

 

Nikolas sat down next to her. “I need to talk to you about something. I received this letter from Helena after Hope was born.” He handed her an envelope.

 

Robin opened up the envelope and pulled out the letter. Tears began falling down her face as she absorbed what the letter said. She set it down on her lap and looked at Nikolas. “Could this be true?”

 

“It is true – I had a DNA test run with Jason’s consent.”

 

Robin glared at him. “You did what? Without talking to me about it? How could you do that?”

 

“Robin, I know you are upset but I wanted to make sure what Helena was saying was true before I told you. I didn’t want to upset you unnecessarily.” Nikolas reached for her hand but Robin pulled away from him. “I love you and I wanted to protect you.”

 

Robin stood up and walked over by the fireplace, needing some space. “Did you know – before Helena sent that letter? Did you know that Jason was Hope’s father?”

 

“No.” Nikolas stood and walked over to her, taking his hands in hers. “I am so sorry about what she did to you but can you really say you regret having her?”

 

“Of course not, I love her but I wasn’t given a choice and I don’t understand why Helena did it. It just doesn’t make any sense.” Robin made her way to the bassinet and stared lovingly at her daughter. “What does Helena get out of this?”

 

“A chance to make Sam miserable? The joy of messing with yours and Jason’s lives? I don’t know, the woman is insane and sometimes there are no reasons for what she does.” Nikolas put his arms around Robin. “I made a promise to protect you and Hope from her and I will continue to do that but we need to deal with Jason and Sam right now. They want to come over in a little bit and discuss visitation.”

 

“No!” Even Hope jumped a little at her mother’s shout. “Sorry, I just need to a little time to myself to think about everything I just found out. I’ll take Hope to them at the penthouse and that will give me some time on the launch and in the car to adjust to the news. Plus I wanted to pick up a few things for a care package for Emma and this will give me a chance to do it.”

 

Nikolas didn’t loosen his grip on her. “Are you sure? I can go with you.”

 

“Well, you aren’t exactly Jason’s favorite person so it might be better if it starts out with just me, Jason and Hope. Maybe you could come with me next time.” Robin turned her head and smiled at him.

 

Nikolas sighed. “Okay but a guard comes with you and that is not negotiable.” He kissed her cheek. “Well, if you are sure about this then I am going to get a little work done in my office. When are you leaving?”

 

“I’ll text Jason, pack her diaper bag and head out. Hopefully Sam will understand what happened.” Robin was worried about Sam’s reaction to finding out that Robin had a child with Jason.

 

“I’m sure she will. You and Jason didn’t have an affair, you were both victims of my grandmother.” He released his hold on Robin and gently stroked Hope’s cheek before heading out of the room. “I’ll see you both in a little while.”

 

Robin’s smiled disappeared from her face the second that Nikolas was gone. “Come on little girl, let’s go see your dad.”

 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Robin sat on the launch as it left Spoon Island and headed towards Port Charles feeling horrible. She was a fool, a complete and total fool. How could Nikolas have betrayed her like this? The man, the friend she had once known was gone and a cold, calculating Cassadine had taken his place. He had fooled her for months on end but last night she had finally discovered the truth.

 

 

Flashback

 

“Finally sleeping little girl?” Robin yawned as Hope finally started doing little snores in her ear. “Good because mommy needs some sleep.”

 

She put the baby girl in her bassinet by the bed and turned on the monitor. “But first mommy is getting a midnight snack.”

 

Robin carefully closed the door to her room and put the receiver in her pocket before heading down the stairs to the kitchen. She was passing Nikolas’s office and heard him on the phone.

 

“Of course I know what is at stake – if Jason changes his mind and goes to the police, we all go to jail.” Robin wasn’t sure what was going on but she couldn’t stop listening. “All we have to do is keep him in line. He’ll do anything for Robin and Hope. As long as they are with me, he will do what he should.”

 

She heard him laugh. “Yes, I have all his shares but we aren’t making the announcement until the board meeting next month. I’m going to increase Robin’s security just in case Jason decides to mount a rescue but I’m not too worried about it – she trusts me completely.”

 

Robin backed away from door and ran back to her room. She wasn’t hungry anymore.

 

End Flashback

 

 

There was one thing Nikolas said that Robin hadn’t understood – why Jason would do anything for her and Hope. Now she knew why, it was because Hope was Jason’s daughter. As soon as she found that out, all the pieces fell into place. Nikolas had blackmailed Jason into giving over his shares of ELQ in return for his daughter.

 

Now she needed to figure a safe way out of this situation for her and her daughter. Nikolas was keeping her under constant guard and she was certain that she and Hope would disappear if Nikolas had even one clue she was trying to leave him. Robin pulled out her phone and sent a quick text message.

 

She needed help and she knew just the person for the job.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 35

 

Robin watched Jason and Sam as they sat on the couch with her little girl. Jason held Hope, gently speaking to her while Sam just stared at the little girl. “I am so sorry for this Sam.”

 

“Sorry for what – saving my husband’s life? Being the yet another victim of Helena’s game?” Sam shook her head and smiled at Robin. “You did nothing to apologize for. Yeah, I was shocked when Jason told me there was a possibility that Hope was his daughter but I also know that you didn’t do this. No, this was Helena.”

 

“Yeah, Helena.” Robin scoffed. Sam and Jason were so wrapped up in Hope that they didn’t notice the disbelief in Robin’s voice. Between the phone call last night and finding out that Jason was Hope’s father, Robin had become convinced that Helena didn’t arrange this – her husband did. Helena may have facilitated the process but this was Nikolas’s idea, she was certain of it.

 

“I am going to spoil you rotten.” Sam couldn’t help but laugh as Jason talked to the little girl.

 

“We are going to spoil you rotten, along with your mom of course.” Sam could feel how scared Robin was and wanted to reassure her. She stood up and walked over to Robin. “Do you want to go in the kitchen and get something to drink with me – give them a few minutes alone?”

 

“That sounds nice.” Robin stood up and headed to the kitchen with Sam, her guard close at her heels. “I’m just going to the kitchen.”

 

“Mr. Cassadine said that I am not to let you out of my sight while we are in Port Charles.”

 

Robin sighed in resignation. “Fine.”

 

Jason and Sam both watched the scene unfolding before them with interest. Robin was obviously upset and the guard’s insistence on following her everywhere was strange to say the least. There were no windows in the kitchen, it wasn’t like anyone could get to her in there. Sam looked at the guard and put on her best smile. “You know, I wanted to have a chance to talk to Robin alone. A little girl talk about some, uh, rather personal issues I have been having.” The guard looked uncomfortable. “Why don’t you check out the kitchen and then stand guard outside it? That way you can keep an eye on Hope and still watch out for Robin.”

 

The guard considered Sam’s proposition and nodded his head. “I don’t need to check out the kitchen but I will be right outside the door.”

 

Robin smiled at Sam. “Thank you.”

 

The two women walked into the kitchen while Jason went back to talking to a still sleeping Hope.

 

Sam shut the kitchen door and looked at Robin. “You want to tell me what is going on?”

 

“Nikolas is being overprotective – I think that letter from Helena scared him.” Robin sat down at the table and starting playing with the edge of the placemat in front of her.

 

Sam got them each a bottle of water and sat down with her. She watched Robin for a minute before speaking again. “I meant what I said – none of this is your fault.”

 

“Thank you Sam – I appreciate how understanding you are being about everything. I know this can’t be easy for you.” Robin stopped messing with the placement. She took a drink of her water and looked at Sam. “I know I have no right to ask you for anything but would you do me a favor?”

 

Sam watched Robin carefully, her concern slowly mounting. “You have every right and you can ask me for anything – we’re family.”

 

Robin looked at the door and then back at Sam. “I need you to get me something and you can’t let anyone know about it.”

 

Sam reached over and patted Robin's hand. "What do you need?"

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Nikolas sat at his desk reading the text messages on Robin’s phone. One could never be too cautious which is why he had cloned Robin’s phone and always kept the cloned phone close, so he would know if she had any suspicions about him or had figured out his plans.

 

He read the message one last time. It wasn’t alarming in the least but he was still bothered by it.

 

Dad, miss you. Please come visit.

 

Robert had left Port Charles just days after Robin had given birth to Hope, Frisco had needed his help with an old case of theirs and Robert, after checking on his daughter and granddaughter, had left the country to meet up with him. That was almost two weeks ago and Robert had been almost unreachable the entire time. Nikolas hadn't been concerned about the message until Robert actually texted her back.

 

Five minutes ago, Robert had texted his daughter back to tell her that he would be back in Port Charles by the end of the week. Robin was thrilled and immediately invited him to stay with them. Robert had accepted and now Nikolas was getting a new house guest.

 

Nikolas wasn’t surprised that Robin missed her father, especially with Emma and Anna at camp, but he was concerned that having a spy in the house could compromise his plans.

 

Nikolas thought about it for a minute and made a call. “Yes – I need some extra security set up at Wyndamere.” Nikolas listened to the man on the other end of the phone. “I want full surveillance, cameras and sound in every room. I want to be able to see and hear what is going on in every room of my house whenever I want by the end of the week.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 36

 

Robin walked up to the front door to Wyndamere with her daughter in her arms and her guard on her heels. She was shocked when she walked into the house and saw the mass chaos going on. Men with wires and electronic were moving through the hallway in a hurried pace. One of the men accidentally bumped Robin’s arm and woke up Hope. Hope let out a soft cry and Robin began to gently rock her back and forth. “Sorry ma’am.”

 

Robin turned to the guard. “What is going on here?”

 

The guard shrugged his shoulders. “I’ve been with you all day ma’am.”

 

Robin continued to try and calm Hope down as she walked into the living room and found Nikolas talking to an older gentleman in a nice suit. “And I’ll be able to access all of this through my phone?”

 

“Yes sir.” The man looked at Robin and smiled. “Hello Mrs. Cassadine.”

 

“Hello and please call me Robin.” Robin placed the now sleeping Hope in the bassinet by the couch and put out her hand. “I’m sorry, have we met?”

 

The man shook his head and laughed. “No but your husband just can’t stop bragging about his beautiful wife and daughter. I’m Ken Adams – your husband’s security advisor.”

 

“Nice to meet you.” In her head she was trying to figure out why Nikolas would need a security advisor at Wyndamere. She turned to Nikolas. “What is going on?”

 

“Ken, please go supervise the changes while I talk to my wife.” Nikolas smiled at Robin.

 

Ken nodded his head. “Of course sir.” He turned his attention back to Robin. “It was nice to finally meet you Robin.” Ken left the room while Robin stared at Nikolas.

 

“So how was your visit with Jason?” Nikolas took her hand and led her to the couch.

 

“Fine – they are going to come by here in a couple of days for another visit with Hope.” Robin took a deep breath. “What is going on Nikolas?”

 

“Helena called today after you left and threatened to take you again. She said that she still had many plans for you.” Nikolas squeezed her hand. “I told her that you weren’t going anywhere and I never let her take you away from me or our girls. I promised I would do everything I could to protect you – this,” he gestured at the many workman wiring the room, “is just my way of proving it.”

 

“But what is all of this?” Robin was certain she already knew the answer but she was really hoping she was wrong.

 

“You don’t need to worry about that – you just focus on this beautiful baby girl.” Nikolas reached over and picked up Hope from the bassinet. He placed her on his chest and she immediately curled into him. “I missed you both today. Did you get your shopping for Emma done?”

 

“No, I got distracted by the visit with Jason. I was planning to take Hope and go tomorrow.” Robin watched Hope closely as she slept on Nikolas’s chest.

 

“I’m afraid that won’t be possible.” Confusion clouded Robin’s face. “You two need to stay here for the time being – no more excursions off Spoon Island until I can make sure Helena is no longer a threat. We have everything we need here and it shouldn’t be for more than a couple of weeks.”

 

“But Nikolas, this is silly. Helena surely wouldn’t try and grab me from out in the open.” Robin could feel the walls closing in and was trying to push them back in any way possible.

 

“Better safe than sorry.” Nikolas rubbed Hope’s back and smiled. “Isn’t that right baby girl? And this will give you, me and Mommy getting some quality family time together.”

 

Robin’s heart sank at Nikolas’s words. “Nikolas, I think you may be overreacting a little bit…”

 

“There is no such thing when it comes to yours and Hope’s safety.” Nikolas stood up and walked the floor with Hope still in his arms.

 

“Well, uh, there is something else I wanted to talk to you about.” Nikolas stopped walking and Robin stood up to stand beside him. “My dad is coming back to town and I asked him to stay here with us for a few days.”

 

“Robin…”

 

“I know I should have asked you first but I was so excited about him coming home and I really miss him.” Robin had tears in her eyes as she looked at him.

 

“What I was going to say was he is more than welcome to stay here.” Nikolas leaned over and kissed Robin. “Maybe he will finally warm up to me as his son-in-law while he is here.” Hope started crying and Nikolas rubbed her back. “Meanwhile, I think someone is hungry. Come on little girl, let’s go get a bottle.”

 

“I can take her.” Robin reached for Hope but Nikolas turned away and headed for the kitchen.

 

“Nope – you have been doing almost everything since you got home from the hospital. It’s time for me to earn my keep. Get some rest and we will see you in a little bit.” Robin started to follow him but her guard stopped her.

 

“Mr. Cassadine has asked me to escort you to your room so you can take a nap.”

 

“But he just left…” Robin was confused about how Nikolas could have told him this so quickly.

 

“He sent a message to me while we were on the launch.” For the first time all day, the man smiled at her. “Please Mrs. Cassadine – your husband really wants to give you a break, let him. Besides, you don’t want to get me in trouble, do you?”

 

“Of course not.” Robin took one last look at the kitchen. “He’ll bring her back to me after he gets done feeding her, right?”

 

The guard nodded his head. “Of course he will.” He motioned to the staircase. “After you.”

 

Knowing she didn’t really have a choice, Robin headed reluctantly up the stairs to her room.

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Patrick was just getting to leave for the day when he heard his name over the speakers. Turning away from the stairwell, he headed towards the nurse’s desk and was surprised to see Jason standing at the nurse’s desk waiting. “Did you page me?”

 

“Yeah – is there somewhere we can talk?” Jason looked worried which Patrick didn’t take as a good sign.

 

Patrick turned to the nurse behind the desk. “Is there an open exam room?”

 

The young nurse checked the computer and smiled sweetly at Patrick. She knew everyone said that Patrick was still hung up on his ex-wife but a girl could dream. “Exam Room 3 is open doctor.”

 

“Thanks Jan.” Patrick barely noticed the woman as he led Jason to the room.

 

“It’s Jeanette.” She barely got the words out before Patrick disappeared from her sight into the room.

 

“What happened? Are Robin and Hope okay?” Patrick hadn’t heard from Robin since Emma had left for camp. Anna had said that Robin and Emma were talking every day but it didn’t make Patrick feel any better.

 

“They’re fine. Robin brought Hope by for a visit today.” Jason leaned against the counter.

 

“And?” Patrick sat down on the exam table. “Jason, if something is wrong, I need to know.”

 

“I think Robin is having doubts about Nikolas.” Jason was careful with his wording.

 

Patrick couldn’t help but feel a little bit of hope at Jason’s words. “What makes you say that?”

 

Jason smiled at Patrick. “She asked Sam for a favor today when they were finally able to be alone.”

 

Patrick couldn’t help but scoff. “Yeah, I imagine Nikolas won’t let her out of his sight.”

 

“Nikolas wasn’t there.” A look of surprise crossed Patrick’s face. “Don’t get too excited – he made sure there was a guard on her. In fact, Sam had to work to get the guy to let her and Robin have 5 minutes alone together. Apparently Nikolas told him not to let Robin out of his sight.”

 

“That’s not good Jason. If Nikolas is keeping that close an eye on Robin…”

 

“Then it is going to be even harder to get her and Hope away from him. Yeah, I know.” Jason felt bad for Patrick. The man was still obviously in love with his ex-wife and wanted nothing more than to save her.

 

“You said she asked Sam for a favor?” Patrick questioned.

 

“Yes, she asked Sam to get her a burner phone and sneak it to her the next time we went to Wyndamere. Robin wants a phone that can’t be traced back to her.” Jason knew that there was only one reason Robin would want a burner phone – she was in trouble and didn’t want Nikolas to know.

 

Patrick was about to say something when his phone buzzed. He pulled the phone out of his pocket and looked at the caller ID. “It’s Anna.” He answered. “Yes?”

 

Jason watched Patrick’s reaction carefully. Less than a minute into the call, Patrick was smiling. “That’s great news. Thanks Anna. I have to go but I will talk to you later tonight.” He hung up the phone and turned to Jason. “Robert got a text from Robin earlier today asking him to please come and stay with her at Wyndamere.”

 

“Really?” Jason couldn’t help but smile at Robin’s little maneuver. Robert’s hatred for all things Cassadine was legendary – he was going to have a field day staying at Wyndamere. “When will he get here?”

 

“End of the week. Until then, you need to get Robin that phone and make sure I have the number so I can pass it on to Robert and Anna.” Patrick walked over to the door. “It’s time to end this and bring Robin and Hope home.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 37

 

“Hi mommy.” Nikolas walked into Robin’s room with a sleeping Hope in his arms. He laid the little girl down in her bassinet and sat down next to Robin on the bed. “She took a whole 6 ounces and burped like a pro.” He smiled at Robin. “She is so amazing.”

 

“Yes she is.” Robin was finally able to relax now that Nikolas had brought Hope into the room. “I’m glad she was good for you.”

 

“Of course she was.” Nikolas waved at the open door and one of the maids came in. “Please pack up all of their things and move them back into our room.”

 

“I thought we agreed that Hope and I would stay in here while she was still waking up in the middle of night.” Robin was trying to not to let her nervousness show.

 

“After all, you need to get a decent night’s sleep if you are going to be able to function at work.”

 

“Well, I have a surprise for you.” Nikolas looked like the cat that ate the canary. “I have arranged to work from home for the next few weeks so we can have time to bond as a family. You, me, Hope and, when she gets home, Emma. Our family is the most important thing to me and I want to prove it to you.”

 

“Wow, that’s great.” Robin knew she couldn’t argue with him about this – she had to play along for now.

 

“It’s not like I was sleeping that well anyhow.” He wrapped his arms around Robin, holding her close. “I got used to having you in my arms.”

 

“That’s sweet.” Robin watched as the maid finished packing up her things. “I’ll take Hope if you want to grab her bassinet.”

 

“Of course.” Nikolas waited until Robin had picked up the baby before reaching for the bassinet. “Let’s go to our room.”

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“Here is the number – we are meeting Robin tomorrow at Wyndamere so we will slip her the phone then.” Sam and Jason were meeting with Patrick at his house. They sat on the couch while Patrick paced the floor.

 

“Okay – Robert texted me a little bit ago and he is stopping by to see Anna and Emma before he heads to Port Charles.” Robert had finally starting thawing towards Patrick again. “I have already spoken to Alexis about preventing Emma from moving back into Wyndamere. I don’t want to separate her from Robin but…”

 

“But the girls safety needs to come first – I know.” Jason looked at Sam. This was a discussion they had had with Alexis as well. “I have already filed paperwork to have Nikolas’s name removed from Hope’s birth certificate and have me named as her legal father. Nikolas is fighting it.”

 

“You have to be kidding me – on what grounds?” Patrick was confused. Nikolas was the one who had told them about Hope’s paternity in the first place.

 

“Because he and Robin are married so legally Hope is his daughter.” Jason sighed. “He needs to keep control of her – she is his leverage against me and the entire Quartermaine family.”

 

“How much longer does he think he can drag this out? We have the DNA test, we can prove he is not Hope’s father.” No matter how much he tried, Patrick would never understand Nikolas’s way of thinking.

 

“To be honest, I’m not sure how long Nikolas can drag this out. Legally speaking, he is Hope’s father and that means that he can disappear with her and Robin and I can’t do anything to stop him. He needs me to know that so I don’t say anything at the board meeting next month.” Jason grabbed Sam’s hand and held on to it tight. “I won’t risk Robin or Hope’s safety for anything.”

 

“I know.” Patrick looked at his watch. “Look, I have to get to the hospital but I will send the burner phone number to Anna and Robert. I’ll talk to you both tomorrow after you visit with Robin and Hope.”

 

The couple stood up and headed to the door. Jason smiled at Patrick. “Sounds good. We’re going to see if we can have Hope overnight so we can have some time alone with her. If we can get a routine started with her it will help with us in getting custody.”

 

“That’s not a bad idea.” Patrick knew that Jason felt guilty for even considering taking Hope away from Robin but he needed to protect his daughter. “Could you forward me any pictures Robin sends you of her? I just want to see for myself she is okay.”

 

Sam pulled out her phone and quickly sent him a picture. “I took this one while she was at our place.” Patrick opened up the phone and looked at the little girl. He got a strange look on his face as he studied it. “Patrick, what is it?”

 

“Nothing.” Patrick was sure he was imagining it. “It’s just, in this photo, it almost looks like she has a little dimple in her cheek. Probably just a trick of the light.”

 

Sam looked at the photo. “I didn’t even notice that before. Funny, huh?”

 

“Yeah.” Patrick put up his phone. “Well, I need to get going so let me know how things go tomorrow.”

 

“Will do – and Patrick,” Sam smiled at him, “try not to worry – Robin and Hope will be safe soon enough. Who knows, maybe after this whole mess is over the two of you can try again.”

 

“I hope so Sam, I really do.” Patrick led the couple out and then shut and locked the door. The truth was Patrick truly believed that there was only one way this whole nightmare would end – with him, Robin and the girls together as a family.

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Lucas watched as Brad stared out their apartment window. Brad had been quiet and withdrawn for the last few days and he was worried. He walked up and put his arm around his fiancée. “Penny for your thoughts.”

 

Brad shook his head and leaned back against Lucas. “Have you ever done the wrong thing for the right reasons?” Brad’s actions a few days ago were haunting him.

 

“What do you mean?” Lucas gently turned Brad around so he was facing him. “What did you do Brad?”

 

“Nothing it’s just, I was thinking about when I lied and said I was the father of Britt’s baby. I thought I was helping out my friend but…”

 

Lucas interrupted him. “I don’t understand – where is the coming from?”

 

“I guess I just miss her. I mean, yeah, she did some pretty terrible things but she was a good friend to me in her weird Britt way and sometimes I miss being able to talk to her.” Brad smiled at him. “I bet she would walk me down the aisle if I asked her to.”

 

“Is that what this is about – not having someone to walk you down the aisle?” Lucas knew Brad’s family was not accepting of their marriage. “Why don’t you call Britt and see if she can come back for the wedding?”

 

“That’s not possible.” Brad turned back around.

 

“I don’t like the woman but why don’t you ask Obrecht to get in touch with Britt?” Lucas couldn’t help but get a nagging feeling that there was more to this than Brad was telling him.

 

“No!” Brad took a deep breath before continuing. “It’s just that Britt doesn’t like her mother so I don’t think she can help me. No one can.”

 

“Brad…”

 

“I’m okay – I promise.” Brad turned back around and smiled at Lucas. “Enough talk for tonight - let’s go to bed.”