GH Fanworks/Fanfic/Fanart: We Do It Better

[cmahorror]

Chapter 19

 

8 days before the wedding

 

“Anna, please tell me you are closer to finding Robert and bringing him home.” Patrick, Mac, Noah and Anna were all sitting in Patrick’s living room discussing their plans to break up the wedding.

 

“I am actually heading out tonight. I am almost positive that I have found him locked in a clinic by Obrecht in Norway. I think when he was captured after he finished helping Holly with Ethan.”

 

“Like father, like daughter. Do you think you will be able to get him home in time for the wedding?” Patrick was getting worried. They were running out of time and while he hadn’t been able to speak to Robin since the engagement party.

 

“I hope so. Look, I need to be heading to the airport. I will call you as soon as I have any news.”

 

She hugged Noah and Mac and then walked with Patrick to the front door. “Do not give up hope. We brought her home to you before and we will get her home to you again.”

 

After Anna left the three men sat down and had a beer together. Mac told Patrick what happened after he left the engagement party. “Nikolas never came back. Maxie and Lulu pulled Robin over to the bar and gave her some tequila and a good talking to.” Mac looked at Patrick. “People were already having doubts about this marriage Patrick. Even the people who love Nikolas don’t buy this romance between him and my niece. Her reaction to your declaration just confirmed what they thought.”

 

“Did Maxie tell you what Robin said?”

 

Mac sighed. He really didn’t want to tell him. “She said that Robin told her that she would always love you but her future was with Nikolas and the sooner you accepted it, the better off everyone would be.”

 

“She’s lying Mac.” Mac began to interrupt but Patrick put up his hand to stop him. “Mac, I know that woman like the back of my hand. She was lying. She knows the truth and so do I – she is being forced to marry Nikolas. We need to get to the bottom of this before the wedding Mac. I need your help – please don’t bail on me now.”

 

Mac thought for a moment and then smiled at Patrick. “Of course not. Let’s save our girl from becoming a Cassadine.”

_________________________________________________________________________________

 

“Patrick! No!” Robin woke up screaming in her room. Nikolas burst through her bedroom door and rushed to Robin’s bedside.

 

“Robin, Robin, come on.” Caressing her face, Nikolas spoke to her softly. “Hey, I’m here and you’re ok.” Robin was sobbing hard, her nightmare had upset her that badly. “Tell me what your nightmare was. I am assuming it had to do with Patrick?”

 

Robin nodded her head sadly and caught her breath. “We were getting remarried and we had just finished the ceremony. He leaned down to kiss me and,” she stopped and took a breath, “then his shirt was covered in blood and he fell to the floor. He was dead. Nikolas, promise me that no matter what you will protect him from Helena. I don’t think Emma or I either one could handle it if something happened to him.”

 

Nikolas felt an enormous rush of guilt for his recent thoughts of getting rid of Patrick. He had let his insane jealousy overtake his reason for a brief time. Would he have gone through with it? No, he may be a Cassadine but he wasn’t his father. He could and would co-exist with Patrick forever if it made Robin and Emma happy. Besides, he had what he wanted - Robin and him were going to spend the rest of their lives together raising their son.

 

Nikolas looked Robin straight in her eyes. “Of course I will. I promise.”

Chapter 20

 

“Stupid boy. What is it with the men in this family doing stupid things for the women they love?” Helena glared at the monitor. She turned around and yelled at the man behind her. “What are you going to do about this?”

 

Dr. Endicott swallowed hard. Helena did not deal with disappointment well. “I explained to you and Victor both that eventually we would have to make adjustments to his medicine. He has been on this combination for a year and a half, it makes sense that its potency would begin to wane. Plus, he will not do anything that is against his basic nature. He is not a killer.”

 

“A fact that never fails to disappoint me.”

 

Endicott continued. “His feelings for Dr. Scorpio have always been there, we just intensified them. I will adjust the medication and it should be ready in time for his schedule dose.”

 

“You mean it will be ready in time for his scheduled dose.” Helena gave the man a withering look.

 

“Of course madam, it will be ready.”

 

“Good.” He stood there waiting to be dismissed. “What are you waiting for?” Endicott scurried away to his lab.

 

She was looking forward to welcoming Dr. Scorpio into the family, in spite of her father. The woman may be too virtuous for her own good at times but she was also beautiful and brilliant. Victor had chosen her as the perfect mate for Nikolas and Helena agreed. She had briefly considered brainwashing her into the marriage but Helena knew Robin was too strong willed for it to work. An added bonus was that Helena loved Robin knowing that she alone was in control of Robin’s future.

No, Robin was a perfect match to her grandson. Since Nikolas had promised her that Patrick would be safe, Helena needed another form of motivation to ensure that Robin would walk down the aisle in 8 days. She picked up her phone.

 

“Have the arrangements been made? Good – I’ll see you tomorrow.”

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

 

“Nikolas, you need to drink your tea.” Nikolas rolled his eyes but did as he was told. Once a day he came down to the catacombs and had tea with his grandmother.

 

It made her happy and kept her from bothering Robin too much.

 

“Grandmother, we need to talk.” Helena raised her eyebrows and stared at Nikolas. “I think we need to call off the wedding.”

 

She calmly put down her teacup. “Why? You are so close to getting everything you want.”

 

Nikolas ran his hands through his hair. “Because it’s tearing Robin apart. I thought that given everything that has happened she would be able to let her feelings for Patrick go and start a new life with me but I don’t think that is going to happen. Her feelings for Patrick are just too strong.”

 

Helena put down her tea and took Nikolas’s hands in hers. Staring into his eyes, she spoke to him. “Nikolas, Patrick is the past and you are her future. She deserves a better life than anything Patrick could ever give her. You, however, can give her that life. She will grow to love you and together you will raise your child together. Yes, this is an arranged marriage but one built on love. Trust on your love for her and trust me.”

 

Nikolas found himself suddenly feeling better about everything. “You’re right Grandmother. I can’t believe that in only 7 days until the wedding.” Nikolas yawned, he always felt a little tired after his afternoon tea. “I’m going to the launch; I have a board meeting in an hour.”

 

He got up and headed towards the door. “Thank you Grandmother.”

 

Helena nodded and smiled at her grandson. “Have a nice day. I will see you tomorrow.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 21

 

5 Days before the wedding

 

Anna crept through the hallways of the clinic slowly, taking her time to look in every room. She knew Robert had to be here somewhere. The place was in complete disarray and it looked like things were being packed up for a move.

 

She opened the door to the last room and looked inside. It appeared to be a file room. Suddenly she was shoved violently into the room, hitting the filing cabinets and dropping her gun. She reached for it when a voice stopped her.

 

“What a surprise – Anna Devane. Had I known you coming I would have arranged a guided tour so you didn’t have to sneak around like a common criminal.” Liesel’s disdain was obvious.

 

Anna watched as Liesel picked up her gun. Behind her stood two guards, weapons pointed at Anna.

 

“Obrecht, I knew you were behind Robert’s disappearance.”

 

“While I would love to take credit for it, someone else made that man disappear. I just merely contained him for awhile.” Anna didn’t believe her. “But you are too late, he is already gone.”

 

“Where did you take him?”

 

“I might be persuaded to tell you if you tell me what you did to Cesar.”

 

Anna shook her head. This woman was never going to give up. “I already told you, Robert and I handed him over to the WSB.”

 

“LIAR!” Obrecht already knew that the WSB didn’t have Cesar.

 

She calmed down. “Well, it doesn’t matter right now. I think that you can stay in here for now. I’m sure you can find some very interesting reading material in here.”

 

Anna looked at Obrecht strangely. What was she talking about – these looked like medical files. If there was something in these files that Anna would be of interest in, what are the odds that she would understand it? Obrecht left and Anna began looking around the room. She looked at the cabinets and it hit her. She walked over and pulled out the S drawer. She found the file she was scared was in there – Scorpio, Robin.

 

She opened the file and began to read through it. She wasn’t seeing anything that worried her. Robin’s medical history, details about her protocol and general information. It looked like all her medical records had been copied from GH. Obrecht must have made copies before she left and had someone sending her information since Robin’s return. It wasn’t until she got to the last page in the file that she realized why Obrecht wanted her to read the file.

 

“Oh my God!” Anna leaned against the file room wall and slowly slid down it in shock. She was still sitting there an hour later when Obrecht came back in the room.

 

“I don’t understand, how did this happen?”

 

Obrecht shook her head. “Is that really important - what matters is that now you know. You will need to stay here for a few days so that I can make arrangements to get my Britta to safety and hide. After that, you will be allowed to return to Port Charles and do whatever it is you want to do.”

 

Anna eyed Obrecht suspiciously. “Why are you doing this? You hate me.”

 

“I do, but I hate someone else more.” With that she walked out the door. Seconds later it shut and Anna was once again locked inside to contemplate her next move.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 22

 

Robin was sitting in Mal’s room, rocking him to sleep. She had him on her chest, softly rubbing his back as she moved slowly back and forth. He was such a blessing, a positive in all this chaos. After she had Emma, she had almost died due to DIC and then battled Post-Partum Depression. The truth was that Robin had given up all hope of having another child, afraid of what might happen, and yet here she was holding her son.

 

She still couldn’t believe that she was lucky enough to have two beautiful children. When she was first diagnosed with HIV, she had instantly given up any hope of becoming a mother. It was Patrick who first told her not to give up her dream of being a mom. That very dream would eventually drive them apart and it was only when that dream became a reality that they found their way back to each other.

 

Mal became a little heavier and Robin smiled as she heard a little snore come from him. He was sleeping deep now and she could lay him down in the crib. Placing him carefully on his back, she stood and just watched him for a while. Emma and Spencer were still at school and she didn’t have to be anywhere until tomorrow for her final dress fitting, unless Nikolas had found a way to stop the wedding. He had promised to protect Patrick but until she got a guarantee from Helena she couldn’t relax.

 

“He’s such a darling boy. You are truly blessed, dear little Robin.” Robin hadn’t heard Helena come in the nursery. She instinctively tensed up. Helena noticed and took great pleasure in Robin’s response. “Oh dear, and I came to bring you wonderful news. Nikolas and I have spoken and I have agreed that your ex-husband will no longer have to worry about me. Whether you go through with this marriage or not, nothing will happen to Patrick.”

 

Robin turned around, shocked. “Really?”

 

“Yes my dear, on one condition.” Robin should have known it was too easy. She looked at Helena. “Before you call off the wedding, you must take a walk with me.”

 

Robin looked at Helena curiously. “When?”

 

“No time like the present. Malcolm is sleeping and Alfred will keep an eye on him, the children are still at school and Nikolas is at work. It’s just us girls.” Helena turned towards the door. “Come on, I have something I want to show you.”

 

Robin was nervous. Helena seemed entirely too calm. She took a moment, watching her sleeping son to consider her choices. She was certain that Helena was planning something but if she could guarantee Patrick’s safety, it was worth the risk. Besides, Helena needed her alive and healthy if she wanted Robin to go through with the wedding.

 

Taking a deep breath, Robin gave Helena her answer. “Let’s go.” With one last look at her son, Robin followed Helena out the door.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 23

 

4 days before the wedding

 

Robin was at the dress shop for her final fitting. The dress was beautiful and she was putting her best smile on but tears filled her eyes. The seamstress mistook these for tears of joy over how she looked in her wedding dress and Robin let her.

 

Last night she had went to Nikolas and told him she still wanted to get married. He assumed that Helena had reneged on her agreement to not go after Patrick but Robin assured him that wasn’t the case. She told him that she had done a lot of thinking and realized that her future was with Nikolas and raising their son together. They even discussed her turning one of the many rooms in Wyndamere into a home office for her. She could do some consulting work from home and still be home with Mal, Emma and Spencer. He was thrilled and assured her that they were going to have a wonderful life together.

 

Robin was sure she could be happy as long as she was with her children and Patrick was safe. She was doing what was necessary. Robin knew life wasn’t a fairy tale, she had known that since the day she watched her grandmother Filomena get murdered in front of her. Still, she had hope once she met Patrick that maybe she had found her Prince Charming and she would get her happy ending.

 

She should have known better.

 

“I prefer the one you wore to our wedding.” Robin looked in the mirror and saw Patrick standing behind her. She watched him walk up to her and put his arms around her, his chin resting on the top of her head.

 

Sighing, she decided to give herself this feeling for just a moment. She leaned back into his body. “Which one?”

 

“When we actually got married, you know the ceremony our daughter didn’t interrupt.” Holding her, they both laughed remembering Emma’s decision to enter the world just as the preacher was starting the ceremony.

 

He turned her around so she was facing him. “Don’t get me wrong, you look beautiful, as always, but I don’t see the point in continuing this charade – you are not getting married to anyone but me.”

 

Robin leaned her head down into his chest, trying to hide her tears. Patrick wasn’t fooled. He reached down and gently lifted her chin until she was looking at him. “If you truly loved him and wanted to marry him, I would be in the front row cheering you on. But you don’t love him and you don’t want to marry him.” He took a deep breath, then leaned down and kissed her. It started gentle but became intense quickly as they both gave in to their true feelings.

 

Robin put up her hands and pushed away from him, ending the kiss. Patrick held on to her tightly. “Robin, I know you don’t want to go through with this so let’s just grab the kids and go. I’m sure that Anna and Mac can get us someplace safe.” Patrick was getting desperate. “If someone is threatening me, Emma or Mal then you need to tell me and we can go into hiding. I don’t care where we are, as long as we are together.”

 

Robin broke free from him. “No one is threatening you or the kids,” she told him honestly.

 

She took a few steps back, needing to distance herself from him just a little bit. “Patrick, you need to accept this. I am marrying Nikolas and nothing you say or do is going to change that. I shouldn’t have let you kiss me. I’m sorry that you can’t accept my decision but I need you to leave - now.”

 

Patrick’s frustration overwhelmed him. “Damn it Robin, let me help you!”

 

The seamstress came through the door. “Oh, I’m sorry. Is this the groom?” With a twinkle in her eye she teased him. “You know it is bad luck to see the bride in her dress before the wedding.”

 

Robin begged him with her eyes to please leave. He complied but answered the seamstress before he left. “Well, I’m the right groom but this is the wrong wedding.”

Edited November 20, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 24

 

The day before the wedding

 

“Mac, is there any word from Anna yet?” Patrick was worried and decided to call Mac. The wedding was tomorrow and no one had heard a word from Anna in 4 days.

 

She had decided to go by herself to the clinic. She said that since she had no proof that Robert was actually at the clinic the WSB refused to help her. She didn’t want to involve anyone from the PCPD and Mac needed to stay and keep an eye on the wedding and Robin.

 

“Not yet. Don’t worry Patrick - this is Anna we are talking about. She is one of the most stubborn, determined women I know. Do you honestly think that there is anything that is going to stop her from being here by tomorrow?” Mac wasn’t sure who he was trying to convince – Patrick or himself.

 

“Look Patrick, the minute I hear anything I will let you know. Right now I have to get ready for the rehearsal dinner. Robin will kill me if I am late.”

 

“I know Mac. I’ll talk to you after you get back. Bye.”

 

Patrick was going crazy. He had not seen or spoken to Robin since the incident at the dress shop. He spoke to Emma every night before bed but never Robin. Nikolas made the calls for her, saying she was busy finishing up last minute wedding details and she asked him to help her out.

 

He didn’t know if she was avoiding him or being kept from him. It didn’t matter. He had less than 24 hours to stop the wedding and he was beginning to think that they weren’t going to be able to pull it off. He was looking at the phone, debating whether or not he should try calling Robin again when he heard a knock on his front door. He opened the door and found Nikolas standing there.

 

“Aren’t you going to invite me in?”

 

“No.” Patrick didn’t feel like being polite.

 

“Fine – I don’t mind everyone hearing what I have to say.” Nikolas was daring Patrick to make a scene.

 

“Please come in, your highness.” Sarcasm dripped from every word Patrick spoke.

 

Nikolas came in and sat down on the couch while Patrick sat in the chair closest to the door. On the coffee table in between the two of them was Patrick and Robin’s wedding picture. Patrick turned it so Nikolas couldn’t see it.

 

“I thought it would be a good idea to clear the air between us before the wedding.” Nikolas was hoping to get Patrick to back off, for Robin’s sake. She had spent the past 3 days reassuring him that she was marrying him because she wanted to not because she was being forced to. He loved her and wanted to protect her from Patrick’s constant badgering which is why he had been handling Emma’s nightly phone calls with her dad.

 

“Look, I know this isn’t easy for you. I know you want to believe that there is some nefarious plot going on that is forcing Robin to marry me but that just simply isn’t true. Robin and I love each other, we have a child together and we are getting married because this is what we both want.”

 

Patrick glared at Nikolas. He had never really trusted Nikolas but now he honestly hated him.

 

Nikolas noticed but didn’t let it stop him. “I understand your feelings for Robin and that there were a lot of unusual circumstances that led to your separation and divorce but the fact is that you have never treated Robin the way she deserves to be treated. You have lied to her, you undermined her authority when she was Chief of Staff at the hospital and you took the word of that psychotic Lisa Niles over Robin. Not only that, you cheated on her with that woman!”

 

Patrick spoke quietly. “I’ll admit I made some horrendous mistakes in the past but Robin and I worked through it together and created an even stronger marriage. We were finally going to have a normal life until Jerry Jax faked her death and kidnapped her.” Patrick fought back the tears remembering that horrible day. “But she fought her way back to me and Emma.”

 

Nikolas sneered. “After I found her and brought her home. Face it Patrick, you wouldn’t even know she was still alive if it weren’t for me. And where were you when she found you? Oh that’s right, you were about to get married to some nurse that you barely knew.”

 

Patrick felt like he had been punched in the stomach. Over time he had come to realize that he never truly loved Sabrina - his proposal was based on trying to find a mother for Emma and everyone telling him it was time to move on. He couldn’t truly regret their time together, because of Gabriel, but deep down he had known it was never right.

 

Nikolas continued, standing up to pace the living room. “Did you take her in your arms and vow to never let her go again? Standing in that church, looking at the love of your life, did you say you needed to end things with Sabrina and you would be back to take her home? No. You let her wait for almost a month before you suddenly decided that she was the woman you wanted.”

 

Patrick stood up and got in Nikolas’s face. “That is not what happened! You may question my actions but never question my love for Robin!”

 

Resisting the urge to punch him, Patrick walked away from Nikolas and towards the front door. “The reason Robin and I are not together right now is because of your Uncle, Nikolas. He and his lackey Obrecht destroyed my marriage with manipulations, threats and brainwashing. Robin and I are meant to be together and you know it.”

 

“Maybe once upon a time Patrick, but that time has passed. Robin has spent these last days entrenched in wedding plans and setting up an office so she can work from home.”

 

Patrick was confused. “What are you talking about work from home?”

 

“As in working at Wyndamere so she can be there for the children and still be a doctor. It was her idea by the way. Does that sound like a woman who doesn’t want to get married, who doesn’t want to be there?” Nikolas walked to the front door. Patrick opened it, wanting Nikolas out of their house immediately.

 

“I think it would be best if, instead of you picking her up, Alfred brings Emma to you here after the wedding. I’ll tell the guards not to expect you tomorrow.” Heading out the front door, Nikolas paused and looked Patrick straight in the eyes.

 

“Robin and I will be married tomorrow and there is nothing you can do to stop it. Think of someone other than yourself for once and let her go. Patrick, let her be happy.” Having said his peace, Nikolas left.

 

Patrick slammed the door. He walked over and sat back down in the chair, picking up their wedding picture. He kicked the coffee table, knocking it over.

 

Nikolas was wrong, Patrick knew it. Now he just had to prove it.

Edited November 21, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 25

 

Robin checked the vitals on her patient. BP, pulse, pulse ox, and temperature were all normal. Why wouldn’t they be? The patient wasn’t sick, they were just in a medically induced coma courtesy of Helena.

 

Robin should have known that Helena wouldn’t let her go that easy. When Nikolas told her that he would talk Helena into agreeing not to harm Patrick, Robin had given into a weak moment and allowed herself to have a little hope for the future. But Helena still had one card to play.

 

Flashback

“Dear Robin, I want to discuss your plans for the future.” Helena was leading Robin to the one of the many entrances to the catacombs. “I know you want to leave here and take Emma and Mal, my great grandson, to go back to that Patrick. I am asking you to think about it before you do anything rash.”

 

“Why should I?” Robin followed her into the catacombs, nervous but knowing what was at risk if she didn’t. “I don’t understand, why are you so intent on me marrying Nikolas?”

 

Helena smirked at her. “How do I explain this to you?” Helena took a moment and led Robin into a room. The room was full of furniture and she led Robin to a table and chairs in the corner. Helena took a seat and then gestured for Robin to join her.

 

As Robin sat down, Helena spoke. “My grandson has made some horrible decisions with the women in his life - Emily, Courtney, Liz, and, of course, that dreadful Britt. None of them have been worthy of him or the Cassadine name. But he always held a torch for you, Dr. Scorpio, always.”

 

“I want to expand the Cassadine interests. Nikolas is free of scandal and that makes him the perfect person to do it. But he needs an appropriate mate to help him. Someone who is not just another pretty face but also brilliant, well rounded, a paragon of virtue and respected, someone that everyone trusts. You, my dear doctor, are all those things. Luckily for Nikolas, he also loves you very much. ”

 

Robin was beginning to understand where Helena was going with this – Helena was hoping to remove some of the stain to the Cassadine name using her and Nikolas to do it. There were many companies that did not want to work with Cassadine Industries because of past dealings with the family but a new generation, especially two upstanding citizens like Robin and Nikolas, would open up many doors.

 

Robin tried to reason with her. “But I don’t have to marry Nikolas, I could just work with him.”

 

Helena gave Robin a condescending smile. “No, no – there are many social obligations that come with my plans and Nikolas needs you by his side personally and professionally. In addition, I want to give my grandson a gift. Your wedding dress is my version of a bow.”

 

Robin shook her head, stood up and headed towards the door. “Well, I am returning your gift to where it belongs – with Patrick. We had a deal - I took your walk with you and listened to what you had to say. Now, I am going to go get our things packed and leave.”

 

Helena’s guards stepped in front of the door and stopped her. “Oh, but our walk is not over. This was just a short rest for a little conversation. Now please come with me.” Helena walked over to the door and the guards moved to let her and Robin through it. She walked down the hallway to another door, stopped and turned around to face Robin.

 

“What you are about to see you will not tell anyone. My grandson has no idea what is going on down here and it will remain that way. Now, after I show you what is in this room I am sure that you will go to Nikolas and assure him that you want to marry him and build a life with him and the children. I suggest you offer to work from home.”

 

Robin was scared. “Why would I do that?”

 

“Because I imagine you will want to stay close to home my dear. You have a special patient to take care of here.” Helena smiled at Robin and opened the door.

 

Robin stepped in and saw a familiar figure lying in the bed. She ran to his bedside.

 

“Daddy?”

End Flashback

 

Helena told her that after Victor’s death, partially due to Robert’s sending in of agents to assist Anna, she had spent months tracking down and then kidnapping Robert. She had originally planned on taking out her revenge on him but soon realized that he held much more value as leverage to get Robin to do what she wanted.

 

Robin had been allowed to cut the medication off that put him in this condition. If all went well, he would be awake by the wedding but he would remain a permanent guest of Helena’s. Any action Robin took after the wedding would have a direct effect on Robert’s care. If she did as she was told, Robert would be treated well and she would be allowed to visit him. If she didn’t do as she was told, Helena would take it out on him and Robin would have to witness it.

 

One point Helena made very clear: if Robin didn’t say I do, Robert would die.

 

Robin reluctantly left the catacombs and headed back up to the house. She had to get ready for the rehearsal dinner.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 26

 

Anna wasn’t sure when the door was unlocked. She had spent three days sitting in that room. There were no windows, one door and the air vents were way too small for her to fit through. She was given three meals a day brought in by a guard with two other guards behind him, guns drawn and fingers on the triggers. Anna needed to be alive to help Robin so she bided her time and waited. She slept in short bits. The rest of her time was spent going through filing cabinets.

 

It was while she was going through the cabinets that Anna had found a file on Robert also. She was shocked to discover that he had been placed in a medically induced coma. The files also gave Anna the one bit of information she had been missing. Anna had been under the mistaken impression that Obrecht was behind everything but it turned out that she was just a pawn in the game. The true mastermind was Helena Cassadine. This bit of information cleared up a lot for Anna. She was fairly certain that she now where Robert was and why Robin was so adamant about marrying Nikolas. She just had to get back to Port Charles in time to stop the wedding and save Robin and her father.

 

She had begun to think that Obrecht had lied to her and had no intentions of letting her go. Leading Anna to Robin’s file was a way to torture her and it was working. But this morning when she woke up, Anna was surprised to see the door was cracked open. She carefully crept over to the door, opened it and looked into the hallway. It was deserted. Everyone was gone.

 

Anna quickly made her way out of the clinic and found her car still where she had hidden it. Even though the hospital was in a cellular dead zone, purposely, Obrecht had still had the guards take Anna’s cell phone so Anna couldn’t call anyone on her way to the airport. She got to the airport and boarded the first flight she could to Port Charles. She would have a short layover in New York City but she would be back in Port Charles tonight.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Robin was standing on the dock looking out over the water towards Wyndamere. She was meeting Nikolas here and they were going to walk over to the Metro Court together for the rehearsal dinner. Robin had chosen this spot for a particular reason. This was one of her favorite places to think and gain perspective. Something about looking over the water calmed her and helped her regain focus on what was important. Her loved ones were safe and she did love Nikolas even if she would never be in love with him. That was enough, it would have to be.

 

She felt a pair of arms wrap around her. She knew instantly that it was Nikolas – the grip was too low to be Patrick. “What are you thinking about?”

 

“How tomorrow night at this time I will be Dr. Robin Scorpio-Cassadine.” This wasn’t a lie, she just didn’t mean it the way Nikolas thought.

 

“I know what you mean. I can’t wait either.” Nikolas was truly excited for the wedding but there was something else in his voice and Robin heard it.

 

“So, you want to tell me what you did or should I just guess?” Robin turned around and looked at him. She was pretty sure she knew what had happened - Nikolas had gotten into it with Patrick.

 

“You got me. Don’t be mad.” Robin opened her mouth to speak but Nikolas stopped her. “Let me speak first and then you can yell at me. Yes, I went to speak to Patrick and yes, we did have a small disagreement but he needs to back off. I know you don’t want to hurt him but he needs to understand that we are together now.”

 

Robin shook her head sadly. She knew Nikolas thought he was doing what she wanted. “Anyway, I said my peace and left however I did tell him not to come to Wyndamere to pick up Emma tomorrow because I would have Alfred drop her off.”

 

Robin pulled away, upset. “That was not your decision to make. Damn it Nikolas, I’m trying to make this work and avoiding Patrick is not the way to do it. He needs to see us happy together so he understands.”

 

Nikolas was surprised at her anger but he understood it. “You’re right and I’m sorry.”

 

Robin settled down and laughed. “You keep saying that and we will have a very long and happy life together. Here is what is going to happen. Tomorrow we will drop off Emma together after the reception and let Patrick see for himself how happy we are. We will be on our way to the honeymoon suite at the Metro Court and it will only take a minute.”

 

Nikolas sighed. “Fine - I guess you have a point.” He looked at her. “I meant to ask you, are you sure you don’t want to go somewhere else? I have a jet at my disposal you know.”

 

“I appreciate it but the truth is that I have spent too much time away from Emma and home as it is. I want to start having a normal life as soon as possible, something I haven’t had in years. You know – working, homework and dinner with the kids, date nights. Once we get settled into our lives maybe we can take a family vacation but for now I want to stay in Port Charles. Do you understand?”

 

“I do.” Smiling, he held out his hand. “Shall we, the future Dr. Scorpio-Cassadine?” Robin took his hand and walked with him to the Metro Court.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 27

 

Patrick sat in the lobby of the Metro Court waiting for Liz and Jake. Liz wanted to take him out supposedly to catch up but the reality was she wanted to try and get his mind off the wedding. She knew how hard this had to be for him, watching Robin marry Nikolas. Her mistake was that she allowed Patrick to pick the place. If she had known that this was where the rehearsal dinner was being held she would have never agreed to eat there, but he would deal with her anger later.

 

He was watching the door when Nikolas and Robin came through it. Robin was texting Emma and didn’t notice him but Nikolas did. “You have got to be kidding me!”

 

“What?”

 

“Just look.” Nikolas pointed at the couch and Robin saw her ex-husband sitting there with a big grin on his face. He gave the couple a quick wave.

 

“I will handle this.” Nikolas glared at Patrick and started towards him but Robin stopped him.

 

“No, I will. I need to tell him that we are dropping Emma off tomorrow anyway.” Nikolas looked at her, doubtful about this idea. “It will be fine. Head on up and I will be there in just a few minutes. I love you.” She started to give him a quick kiss but Nikolas quickly grabbed her and pulled her into a passionate embrace. He then let her go and walked past Patrick to the elevator.

 

Robin walked over to Patrick, shaking her head at him. “Why are you here?”

 

“It just so happens I am having dinner with Liz and her friend Jake tonight.”

 

“And it just happens to be at the same place Nikolas and I are having our rehearsal dinner?” Robin raised her eyebrows at him.

 

Patrick played innocent. “Really? You’re having it here? I had no idea.”

 

“Of course you knew. Let me guess, Uncle Mac told you.” Patrick quickly looked away. “Yeah, that’s what I thought. He and I will discuss that later. Anyway, I’m glad I ran into you. I was going to call you later tonight.”

 

Patrick grabbed Robin’s hand and started dragging her to the door. “Finally, you come to your senses. Let’s get you and the kids packed up while they are all here.”

 

Robin pulled away and glared at him. “No, I am not calling off the wedding. What I was going to talk to you about was that instead of Alfred dropping Emma off tomorrow, Nikolas and I will. We are staying here tomorrow night and it just makes sense.”

 

“Oh.” Patrick couldn’t help and be disappointed. “So you expect me to wish you well as you go off on your honeymoon with your prince?”

 

“No, I just expect you to be civil to him in front of our daughter.”

 

“Where is Mal going to be? He could stay with us to – he is Emma’s brother after all.”

 

Robin swallowed hard. It meant so much to her that Patrick was accepting of Mal. “He is going home with Mac and Felicia after the reception. Mac said something about finally getting a boy to play with.”

 

Patrick laughed. Mac’s hope for a boy in the family after years of girls was well known. “Well the offer still stands.” He took Robin’s hands in his. “It’s not too late Robin. Even if you say I do it won’t be.” He leaned down to kiss her when Robin saw Liz walk up behind him.

 

“Liz!” Robin pushed past Patrick and hugged her friend. “God I have missed you. I’m sorry I haven’t gotten in touch but things have been so crazy with Mal and the wedding. How are Cam and Aiden?”

 

Liz smiled at her. “Great thanks! And I know how it goes– congratulations by the way, on both of course.”

 

“Thanks!” Robin pulled out her phone. “You want to see some pictures?”

 

“Of course.” Liz looked at a picture of Emma and Mal together. “Aww – Robin, he’s beautiful.”

 

Patrick was looking over the two women’s shoulders looking at the picture. He put his arm gently around Robin’s waist and leaned in closer to her. “Of course he is, he looks just like his mom.”

 

Robin closed her eyes and tried to maintain control. Having him this close to her was driving her crazy.

 

“What are you looking at?” Jake walked over the threesome and gave Liz a quick kiss on the cheek.

 

“Baby pictures.” Liz moved to stand by him and introduced her friend. “Jake, I would like you to meet one of my oldest friends, Robin Scorpio.”

 

Robin’s heart stopped. Helena was not lying, Jason was unrecognizable. She knew that she could not tell the truth even though she desperately wanted to so she just put out her hand. “Nice to meet you Jake.”

 

Jake took Robin’s hand and really looked at her for the first time. All of sudden he felt a sharp pain in his head as a rush of memories overcame him. He grasped her hand tightly. “Robin?” He looked at Liz and Patrick for a moment and then back at Robin.

 

“Robin!” He screamed out her name one last time and passed out.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 28

 

Robin was out on the balcony of the Metro Court looking out over Port Charles, lost in thought. She had known at some point in time she would run into Jason but she had not expected it to be so horrifying.

 

Flashback

Jason dropped to the floor. Patrick and Robin reacted instantly, dropping down next to the unconscious man and checking his vitals.

 

“Liz, call an ambulance.” Patrick didn’t mean to yell but he was still reeling from the man’s reaction to Robin. He looked at her. “Robin, what the hell is going on? Do you know him?”

 

“I, I don’t know. I have never seen his face before.” Robin answered truthfully. She was getting good at hiding the truth in simple statements.

 

“The ambulance is on its way.” Liz stroked Jason’s face. “Patrick, what do you think happened?”

 

“I don’t know – I can’t tell you anything until I can get a CT and blood work.” The paramedics came in the front door and began getting Jason ready for transport to GH.

 

“Liz, ride with him and I will meet you in the ER.” The paramedics and Liz left with Jason as Patrick turned back to a clearly shaken Robin. “Robin, hey are you okay?”

 

“Yeah, just was caught off guard for a moment. You should get going – Liz will be expecting you.” Robin was worried about Jason but she couldn’t let Patrick know who he was.

 

“Aren’t you coming with me? I think Liz would appreciate both of us working on Jake for her.” He hoped to drag her away from the rehearsal dinner to work with him, side by side, all night.

 

She saw right through him. “No, he is in the best hands possible with you. I tell you what, if you haven’t figured it out by Sunday, I will come in and do a consult.”

 

“What about your honeymoon?”

 

“I don’t want to be away from home and the kids for very long. Nikolas understands.” Robin couldn’t tell Patrick the whole truth - she was staying close to home because she needed to take care of her father. “Let me know how he is doing.” She smiled at him. “Be brilliant.”

 

Those two words affected Patrick more than anything in their entire conversation tonight. He looked at her and grabbed her, kissing her with a passion she only felt with him. Smiling, he let her go. “Good night Robin.”

End Flashback

 

Robin was still waiting for word on Jason. She had wanted to go to the hospital but she didn’t know where Helena’s men were and not showing up for her rehearsal dinner would have had terrible repercussions for her father.

 

“Hey, there you are - I’ve been looking for you.” Nikolas had been worried since Robin came up to the dinner that night. She had explained what had happened to Jake and he knew she was worried about him and Liz. “Penny for your thoughts.”

 

Robin gave a small laugh. “I’m not sure they’re worth that much.”

 

“For me, they are priceless. So come on, spill it.” Nikolas wanted her to know she could tell him anything.

 

“I’m just worried about Liz and Jake. From everything I have heard they are very happy together and I don’t want anything to ruin it for them.”

 

He put his arms around her and hugged her close. All he wanted was to make all her hurt and pain go away. He thought for a second and then said the one thing he knew would make her feel better. “He is in the best hands possible.”

 

Robin turned around and looked at him, surprised.

 

“What? Look, I may not like the guy but even I have to admit he is one of the best doctors in the country.”

 

Robin kissed him. “Thank you.” She took one last look at the city and then turned back to Nikolas. “Let’s go inside and say good night to our guests. We have a big day tomorrow.”

Edited November 24, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 29

 

Mac and Felicia had just gotten home from the rehearsal dinner when they heard a loud pounding at their door. Mac ran over to the door and threw it open, ready to chew out whoever was standing there.

 

“Anna!” He was thrilled to see his ex-sister-in-law standing there. She pushed past him into the house. “Where have you been? Did you find Robert?”

 

“No, but I know where he is and I know who is behind all of this.”

 

“Where is he?” Mac knew that something was wrong with Robert from Anna’s voice.

 

“I am almost positive he is here in Port Charles being held in the catacombs at Wyndamere.”

 

Mac was surprised. “Nikolas has him? I just can’t believe he would do that to Robin.”

 

Anna set him straight. “Not Nikolas, Helena. She is using Robert to force our girl to marry Nikolas, I am certain of it. Mac, we have to rescue Robert and then we can get her out of there. Do you have your phone? Mine was confiscated by Obrecht and I need to get in touch with Patrick. He needs to know what is going on.”

 

Mac sensed there was more to the story. “Anna, is there something else I need to know?”

 

Anna didn’t say a word, just handed Mac the file on Robin and let him read it for himself. She tried Patrick while Mac was reading but there was no answer. Suddenly she heard Mac yell out.

 

“Son of a bitch!” She knew that he had reached the last page. “What are we going to do?”

 

“I’ve had some time to think about it. The first thing we need to do is secure the children. Do you think Felicia and Maxie could come up with a reason to get Emma and Mal away from Wyndamere tomorrow morning before the wedding?”

 

Felicia walked into the room as Anna was talking. “Why would we do that?”

 

Mac quickly caught Felicia up on what was going on. “I’ll call Maxie right now. Have you thought about asking Nathan and Dante for help?”

 

Anna shook her head. “I don’t want too many people involved. Besides, Dante is Nikolas’s brother-in-law.”

 

Felicia wouldn’t be dissuaded. “I think that both men would help. Besides, if Helena is back, Lulu could be in danger too.”

 

Anna thought about it for a minute. Both men could be of use and both were already planning at being at the wedding tomorrow. “Fine. When you talk to Maxie make sure Nathan is included in the conversation. Mac, will you call Dante? I’m going to take the file and try Patrick at home.”

 

Mac nodded in agreement. “And if he’s not there?”

 

“I’ll leave the file and a note for him.” Anna headed for the door. “I’ll be back within an hour. Get everyone here so we can make our plans.”

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Patrick parked his car and headed for his house. He was exhausted. He had gone over all of Jake’s tests and had seen nothing that would explain why he had collapsed. After assuring Liz that she could call him anytime, he headed home to try and get some rest.

 

He was at the front door when he saw a folder on his front porch. He picked it up and saw Robin’s name on the tab and a note clipped to it written in Anna’s handwriting.

 

Patrick,
I need you to look at the last page of this file and then call me at Mac’s ASAP.
Anna

 

Patrick tore open the file and pulled out the last page. He read it and discovered they were doctor’s notes on a patient. He read it carefully, making sure he didn’t miss a thing. It turned out it wasn’t necessary, what he was looking for stood out like a sore thumb. “Oh my God!”

 

Patrick ran back to the car and headed back to the hospital. He would call Anna after he got to the lab.

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Liz sat by Jake’s bedside, worried and confused. Why had happened to him and why had he reacted so strongly to Robin?

 

“Robin.” Jake was beginning to wake up. “Robin. No!”

 

Jake shot up in bed and looked around as Liz jumped to his bedside. “Jake, it’s okay.”

 

“No.” He was suddenly calm and looked straight at Liz. “It’s not okay. And my name isn’t Jake, it’s Jason. Jason Morgan.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 30

 

Patrick called Anna after he got to the hospital and explained what he was planning to do. She understood completely and wished him luck. After he finished the call, he threw his phone off to the side.

 

Everything was starting to make sense. Anna explained that Robert was being held hostage by Helena Cassadine and she was positive that was why Robin had agreed to marry Nikolas. Patrick was sure that Nikolas was in on it but Anna wasn’t convinced. Nikolas's involvement could be sorted out later - there were more important matters to take care of at this moment.

 

Patrick stared at the paper in his hand in disbelief. It was true, he didn’t know how, but the lab report in his hand confirmed it. He picked up his phone from where he had thrown it earlier.

 

He called her to let her know what he had found out. “Anna, it’s true.” He was stunned and she tried to reassure him.

 

“It’s going to be okay. We know the truth now and we are going to take care of it. We can’t risk doing anything tonight but meet me at Mac’s at 7 tomorrow morning and we’ll give you the full plan. I can tell you that Felicia and Maxie are getting the kids away from Wyndamere in the morning.

 

Anna paused for a moment. "Try not to worry Patrick, by tomorrow night you and Robin will be at home with kids, safe and sound.”

 

“God I hope so Anna. It’s time for this nightmare to end. Robin deserves to have some peace for once. I’ll see you in the morning.”

 

He looked at his phone and noticed several missed calls from Liz. “Well, I’m already here, might as well go and see what she wants.”

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

"Try him again Liz. I need to talk to Patrick.” Jason was getting frustrated. He had gotten dressed and was desperate to talk to Patrick and then get the hell out of the hospital. Robin was in danger, he knew it.

 

“Why do you need to talk to me? Are you having any pain?” Patrick walked in to the room carrying Jason’s chart.

 

“Where have you been?” Jason was calm but obviously worried. “Nevermind, Patrick we need to get to Robin – Helena Cassadine is forcing her to marry Nikolas.”

 

Patrick was shocked. “How do you know that?” He dropped the chart and got in Jason’s face. “Who are you? How do you know Robin?” He grabbed Jason by his shirt. “What the hell is going on?”

 

Jason didn’t even blink. “Patrick, it’s me, Jason.”

 

Patrick looked at him and then at Liz. She nodded her head. He let go of Jason and sat down in a chair, putting his head in his hands. “I don’t understand. How is this even possible? ”

 

Jason said just one word. “Robin.” Nothing else needed to be said.

 

Patrick thought about it for a moment. “How can I be sure that you really are Jason Morgan?”

 

Jason was prepared for this. “The night Robin was shot at the Metro Court, you were here at the hospital. I came and tracked you down to see how the surgery was going with Lorenzo because we needed him to give us the code to the briefcase. While we were talking Spinelli called and told me that Robin had been shot. I was the one who had to tell you. I’ll never forget the look on your face, you were almost confused and then you looked like you had just lost your best friend.”

 

Patrick remembered that night very well. He still had nightmares about it. “Because I thought I had. So, what now?”

 

“We need to get Robin out of there. Patrick, you have to know that she didn’t want to leave you and Emma.”

 

“I know, but we have to wait.”

 

Jason couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “Why would we wait?”

 

“Because Helena has Robert! How do you think she has kept Robin in line?” Patrick looked Jason straight in the eyes. “Look, Anna knows about all of this and we have a plan to get her and the kids out of there. Meet us at Mac’s tomorrow morning at 7. I will call Anna and let her know that you will be joining us.”

 

“What can I do?” Liz was still in shock over everything she had learned in the past few hours.

 

“Anna said that Felicia and Maxie are getting the kids out of there in the morning, can they bring them to your place?”

 

“Of course, anything I can do to help.”

 

“Thank you Liz.” Patrick stood up and hugged her. “I’m going to go home and try and get a little rest before tomorrow.” He shook his head, quickly realizing that wasn’t going to happen. “Or maybe I’ll see if I can find Emma’s old crib or bassinet for Mal to use until we can get him furniture of his own.”

 

After picking up the chart, he began walking to the door. “I’ll give the nurse your discharge papers right now. Jason, I’ll see you in the morning at Mac’s."

 

Jason nodded at him and Patrick walked out the door.

[Lillybee]

cma. TPTB on GH really need to hire you as a writer. This stuff is so much better than the crap that they have been coming up with.

[cmahorror]

Thank you Lillybee! I appreciate any feedback I get.

 

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American counterparts!

 

Chapter 31

 

9:00 AM - 5 hours before the wedding

 

Patrick paced Mac’s living room, driving Mac crazy. Felicia and Maxie would be there any moment with the kids – Patrick had wanted to see them before they went to Liz’s.

 

“Patrick, I have a very nice carpet, please do not wear a hole through it.” Mac knew the waiting was killing Patrick and he wanted to try and calm him down a bit.

 

“I’m sorry Mac but I am just so worried about Robin and the kids. I’ll relax when they are safe and away from the crazy Cassadines.”

 

As if on cue, the front door opened and Emma came running through it. “Daddy!” Emma launched herself into her dad’s arms as Felicia followed with Mal in her arms.

 

Patrick held her tight. “There’s my girl. I was just thinking about you. How you doing kiddo?”

 

“Great! Aunt Felicia said we’re going to go spend the day at Aunt Liz’s with Cam and Aiden. But what about Mommy’s wedding?” The little girl was thrilled to spend time with her ‘cousins’ but confused about what was going on.

 

“Well, Mommy and Nikolas aren’t going to get married today after all." He paused for moment and thought about what to say next. "In fact, she is going to come home and we are all going to live in our house again as a family.” He had confidence that Anna’s plan was going to work. It had to, for all their sakes.

 

“Mal too?” Emma loved her little brother with all her heart.

 

“Of course Mal too.” Patrick put Emma down and took Mal from Felicia. He sat down on the couch with both children. “This is our family Emma – you, me, Mommy and Mal.” He felt tears threatening but held them back. “But for now I need you to go with Aunt Felicia and Maxie to Aunt Liz’s while I get Mommy and bring her home. Can you be good for me?”

 

“Yes, Daddy.” She hugged him close and he felt like his heart would break. He had missed this, getting hugs from his daughter whenever he wanted. Mal was asleep on his chest and Emma gave him a little kiss and snuggled in closer to her Dad. For the first time in over a year, all felt right with the world. The kids were home and by tonight Robin would be too.

 

They sat there like that for a few minutes until Mac spoke up. “I hate to interrupt but Patrick you need to get going if you are going to be on time.”

 

Patrick nodded. He knew Mac was right but he was enjoying this moment. “Alright, now you and Mal go and have fun with Cam and Aiden.” Emma got up from the couch and Patrick reluctantly handed Mal back to Felicia.

 

“Keep them safe, please.” Felicia nodded but it was unnecessary for him to ask, she would protect the children with her life.

 

After she left Patrick took a deep breath and looked at Mac. “Ok, let’s go over this one more time.”

______________________________________________________________________________________

 

Robin checked her father’s vitals one more time. She was worried that with the wedding she would not be able to get to see her dad today but then Maxie called and offered to take the kids out to breakfast. As much as she loved her children, this gave her the perfect opportunity to go to the catacombs and see if he had come out of his coma yet. She was just about to head back to the house when she heard her father start moaning.

 

“Daddy?” Robin grabbed his hand and squeezed it. He squeezed back.

 

“Robin?” He was a bit groggy and confused. He had just left Holly’s to head back to Port Charles when…everything was a blank after that. He looked around the room he was in. “Where the hell are we?”

 

Robin spoke cautiously. “Wyndamere, in the catacombs.”

 

“How the hell did we get here?” He tried to get up but was still weak and could barely move.

 

“Hey, stop that. You need to rest. You have been in a coma for the last 4 months. You have had physical therapy but you are still weak.” Robin started to re-evaluate his vitals.

 

“I don’t understand Robin, why are we here?”

 

“Because I brought you here.” Robert glared at the door. Helena was standing there with two of her guards behind her, guns drawn and at the ready. “Now please do not try anything. I would hate to hurt the bride on her wedding day.”

 

Robert looked at Robin. “Wedding day?”

 

Helena walked over and smiled down at Robert. “Yes, today your dear little Robin becomes a Cassadine.”

 

Robert struggled to sit up. “Like hell! My daughter will never be a Cassadine.”

 

“Oh, but she will.” She motioned and the guards entered the room. One grabbed Robin and pulled her away from Robert while the other held him down. Helena pulled out a gun and pointed it at Robin. “Stay still please, Mr. Scorpio, for your daughter’s sake.” Robert saw the gun trained on his daughter and stopped fighting.

 

“I thought we might need to do this.” She signaled the guard holding Robin to let her go. “Over here dear Robin.” Robin walked over to where Helena stood, eyes locked on her father the whole time. Helena then looked at the guard. “Go get the restraints. Mr. Scorpio is a little too dangerous to be left to his own devices in this room. However, I would never dream of you missing your daughter’s wedding day. I will bring you a TV so you can watch the whole ceremony.”

 

She looked at Robin. “You need to start getting ready my dear. I want you to look perfect for my grandson.”

 

Robin nodded. “Can I at least say goodbye to my father?”

 

“Of course dear, I brought him here for you after all.” Robin winced at those words. Her father was in danger because of her. Usually it was the other way around.

 

Robin walked up to her father, now restrained to the bed. “I love you Daddy.” She kissed his forehead.

 

“I love you too which I why I am telling you that you don’t have to do this. I’ll be fine, I’ll figure a way out of this but don’t marry Cassadine.”

 

Robin shook her head sadly. “I can’t risk her killing you because I won’t do what she wants. I will not have your death on my hands, not when I can save you.” She left Robert’s room to go and get ready for the wedding.

 

“Robin! Robin!” He stared at Helena, full of anger. “Why? Why force her to do this?”

 

“I have many reasons but I have to admit that it gives me great delight to see you in so much pain. Oh, these next few years are going to be so much fun for me.”

 

She walked over to the bed and ran her fingers down his arm. Robert tried to pull away but couldn’t. “But even if by some miracle you were able to stop this wedding today, I still win. You see, there is already a Cassadine in your family.”

 

“What are you talking about?” Robert was confused.

 

“Oh that’s right, dear little Robin didn’t get to tell you. Thanks to modern medicine and Dr. Obrecht, we now have something in common, a grandson. Nikolas and Robin have a beautiful baby boy.”

 

“That’s not possible. I would have heard if…”

 

Helena dismissed him with a wave of her hand. “Well, they both did just find out a couple of months ago. Dr. Westborne was kind enough to act as a surrogate for the child, but he is still their little boy.”

 

Helena stared down at Robert. “Robin and her children are part of my family now Mr. Scorpio, and you know how I feel about family.”

 

“The ceremony is at 2. I’ll make sure you get to see the whole thing. I wouldn’t want you to miss seeing your little girl walk down the aisle.”

 

Helena and her guards then left Robert in his room to contemplate his next move. Somehow, he was going to save his little girl and his grandchildren from that woman.

Edited November 27, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 32

 

10 AM – 4 hours before the wedding

 

Patrick paced the dock. He, Anna, Jason and Nathan were waiting for the boat that would take them to Wyndamere. Thanks to a lot of money and Anna’s skills at persuasion, one of the guards from Wyndamere had told them about an area where only Helena’s personal guards were allowed in. It wasn’t an exact location but, given the size of the catacombs, it did narrow the search area considerably.

 

“How much longer?” Patrick was starting to drive Anna crazy with his impatience.

 

“He’ll be here soon.” Anna stared Patrick down. “We need to be patient. I know you, you tend to act before you think when it comes to Robin but I need to you to be calm today. It may take a little while to find Robert and I have no idea what shape he’ll be in when we do find him so we all must be as calm as we can today.” She softened her stare. “Can you do that? Because if you can’t then I will tie you up and lock you away until this is all over.”

 

Patrick took a few deep breaths and nodded. He focused on Robin. “I can do this. It’s just I have waited so long to get her back.”

 

“I know and we will get her back but you need to trust me.” Anna found Patrick’s love for her daughter and the children one of his best qualities.

 

Nathan was watching for the boat while the other two talked. “Hey, it’s here.” He flagged the driver down.

 

The man landed the boat and the foursome boarded. Giving the man a small wad of cash, Anna waved him off the dock – he wasn’t going with them. Anna knew that this boat was their best means of escape and she wanted to know exactly where it was when she needed it.

 

20 minutes later they landed on the far side of the island and made their way to the catacombs. “According to our new friend, we want one of the entrances close to the garden. We need to make sure which one Robert is in before we launch a full assault.”

 

She looked at Jason and Patrick. “We are going to find a place for you two to hide out while Nathan and I do recon.” Both men began to protest but Anna cut them off. “I have some experience with these catacombs and Detective West will have my back. Jason, I need you to stay with Patrick.”

 

She looked Patrick straight in the eyes. “Patrick, you are a very important part of this mission but the reality is that you have never even shot a gun. For now I need you to just stay with Jason. Robin would never forgive me if I let anything happen to you.”

 

Patrick knew she was right. He didn’t like it, but she was right. He nodded his head in resignation.

 

They found a place for the two men to hide themselves in the garden while still being able to keep an eye on Anna and the entrances. Anna was not going to actually retrieve Robert without them, she just was going to figure out where he was. Once she had figured out where he was, they would go in as a group and rescue him.

 

“Hey man, don’t worry.” Jason was trying to keep Patrick calm. “Mac is going to be with her soon and he will stall the wedding until we get there. Maxie and Felicia are with the kids and I sent Max and Milo over to Liz’s place just in case Helena decides to try anything.” He placed his hand on Patrick’s shoulder. “It’s going to be okay. We are bringing her home today.”

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Robin lay on her bed just thinking and playing with the engagement ring on her finger. It was beautiful but it didn’t feel right on her hand. That was because Patrick didn't give it to her.

 

She stood up and shook her head. It didn’t matter now. In four hours she would marry Nikolas and there was nothing she or any else could do about it, short of a miracle.

 

And she had given up on miracles a long time ago.

 

Resigned to her fate, she started to get ready for the wedding.

Edited November 28, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 33

 

Noon – 2 hours before the wedding

 

Mac was waiting for the launch. He was giving the bride away in lieu of Robert and needed to be there early for moral support. Anna was supposedly stuck on a mission and would not be able to make it. The entire guest list was very small, Alexis was coming by herself as Molly was out of town with her dad. Sam and Silas had planned to come but she had called Mac and told him to give Robin and Nikolas her best but Danny was sick and they were staying home with him.

 

Dante and Lulu arrived to ride over with Mac. Lulu was unsure of how she felt after finding out about Helena and the circumstances surrounding the wedding. Her brother seemed truly happy and in love with Robin but if what Anna had told them was true, it wasn’t fair to him to go through with the wedding. Lulu had spoken to Robin after Patrick left the engagement party and she did not seem like a woman in love, at least not in love with Nikolas.

 

Her part of the plan was simple – she was to make sure Spencer was out of harm’s way if anything happened. She was going early to talk to Nikolas and see if she could figure out what he knew about Helena and her plans. She was hoping she could prove her brother’s innocence, that he was just another pawn in Helena’s sick chess game.

 

“Did you bring it?” Dante looked at Mac and smiled.

 

“Of course I did Mac.” Dante had brought something to throw into the engine of the launch after they landed at Wyndamere. They were literally going to throw a wrench in the works, a heavy duty one at that. With the launch shut down, no one would be able to get out to the island, including the kids. There was no way Robin would agree to walk down the aisle without Emma and Mal.

 

“Now are we all clear on what is going on today.” Dante looked at Lulu when he said it.

 

She glared at her husband. “Yes, crystal clear.” He wasn’t as convinced of Nikolas’s innocence as his wife was. He wanted to believe in him but he had seen some changes in Nikolas over the past year and not all of them were positive. He seemed almost obsessive about Robin and, while he understood how a man in love feels, he wasn’t completely convinced that what Nikolas felt was love. He worried that Nikolas’s Cassadine side was finally making itself known and his wife would be hurt in the process.

 

Mac sensed the tension between the two and tried to diffuse it. “So, where is Rocco today?”

 

“He’s with my mom. She was thrilled to get a little alone time with him.” Dante appreciated the effort.

 

“Where are Emma and Mal, Mac?” Lulu was worried about keeping all the children out of harms way.

 

“Hiding out at Liz’s with Felicia and Maxie. Jason sent Max and Milo over to play guard dogs until we can guarantee Helena has been neutralized.”

 

“I still can’t believe that Jake is Jason. He should have come up in the database when I ran his fingerprints.” Dante was skeptical of this latest revelation.

 

“I get what you are saying but he knows things that only Jason Morgan would know. Right now we need to concentrate on getting Robert and Robin away from that madwoman and then we can straighten out this mess with Jason.” Mac wanted Dante focusing on the problem at hand.

 

“Of course Mac.” Dante saw the launch approaching. He took Lulu’s hand and smiled at her. “Come one everybody, it’s show time.”

 

The trio boarded the launch and headed to Wyndamere.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 34

 

1:30 PM – 30 minutes before the wedding

 

“Nikolas, I just want to make sure that you really want to marry Robin. I don’t think she is over Patrick and I want you to be happy.” Nikolas was pacing the room arguing with his sister. Lulu had been trying to get Nikolas to call off the wedding for the last half hour but nothing she said was getting through to him and Nikolas was beyond frustrated with her.

 

“Lulu, you need to listen to me – I want to marry Robin. I have never wanted anything more in my life.” He stopped pacing and went over to her and, grabbing her by the arm, let his anger overtake his common sense. “Damn it Lulu, you have no idea what I have had to do to get us to this day!”

 

Lulu pulled away from him, shocked at his behavior. Trying to calm him down, she backed away and quietly asked “What have you done Nikolas?”

 

Nikolas stood there for a moment, realizing what he had just said. He took a few deep breaths to calm himself and looked back at her. “Lulu, God I am so sorry. I have been under so much pressure and not sleeping much because of the baby and I took it out on you. Please, please forgive me. I only want to be happy today and I want you to be happy for me. Please Lulu, forgive me?”

 

Lulu looked at Nikolas and realized that Dante was right – something was wrong with Nikolas. She wondered if his brain tumor was back or if he was being drugged again because he was not the brother she knew. She hated that Dante was right but if she was going to protect her brother and her nephew, she would need to go along with their plan.

 

“Of course I do. I shouldn’t have pushed you – I just needed to be sure that you weren’t going to get hurt." She headed for the door. "I love you. I’m going to go down to the ballroom and check on Dante and Mac.”

 

“That’s a great idea. Hey, maybe you could find out how close Maxie and Felicia are with the kids – Robin won’t walk down the aisle with them.” He gave a little laugh to try and alleviate the tension in the room. “And Lulu, I love you too.”

 

She gave him a small smile and walked out the door.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Patrick and Jason had been in that same spot for hours, watching as Anna and Nathan explored the catacombs. Jason had managed to keep Patrick calm by telling him to keep his focus on getting Robin home. The calmer he stayed, the better their chances of rescuing both Robert and Robin. But Patrick was at the end of his rope. It had been over 3 hours and the wedding was happening in less than 30 minutes.

 

“Jason, we are running out of time.”

 

“I know man, but you have to trust Anna.” He looked Patrick in the eyes. “Robin isn’t going to start the ceremony without the kids and the kids are hidden away at Liz’s. I’m sure Dante and Mac managed to put the launch out of commission so we have more than just 30 minutes.”

 

Patrick wasn’t so sure. Robin wouldn’t want to get married without the kids, that was true, but since she was being forced to marry Nikolas anyhow, he doubted Helena would care what Robin wanted.

 

He was about to tell Jason that when Anna and Nathan came running up. “We found him – there are 4 guards on him but that shouldn’t be a problem. Timing is going to be the key issue. I’m sure Helena is still down there and I want to wait until she heads up for the ceremony.”

 

Patrick couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Wait until Robin is marrying that man – no way!

 

Anna could see what Patrick was thinking and answered his unspoken question. “Patrick, we are not going to allow that ceremony to happen. Jason and I will take care of the guards down here and get Robert while you and Nathan will go up to that damn castle and stall the wedding. We will meet you up there and then we will all leave this horrible island together and go home.”

 

She hugged him. “Now go on, go up there and let’s save our girl.”

 

Jason and Anna stayed and waited for Helena to leave as Patrick and Nathan made their way up to the wedding.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 35

 

1:45 PM – 15 minutes before the wedding

 

“Where are they Uncle Mac?” Robin was furious that her children weren’t there yet.

 

“I told you, there was a problem with the launch and they are still trying to fix it. I told Felicia and Maxie to take the kids to lunch until it’s fixed.” Mac hated lying to her but right now it was the best way to protect her. The less she knew, the safer she was.

 

Robin was certain that there was more to this story than her uncle was telling her. She had been so worried about her father that she had missed the fact that it was Maxie, not Felicia, who had called and offered to take the kids off her hands for the morning. She loved Maxie but taking on 3 kids, including Maxie’s daughter Georgie, at once was a little much for her, even with her mom’s help. No, there was definitely something else going on here. She gave her Uncle a stern glare.

 

“Oh my God, how could I have not seen this – you’re trying to stall the wedding! You know I won’t get married without my kids here with me so you arranged for them to be off the island.” She began tapping her foot, glaring at Mac accusingly.

 

Mac thought quickly. “Come on Robin. Do you really think I would do that?” Robin raised her eyebrows at him. “Well, maybe I would but how do you explain the launch? I don’t know a thing about boats. I think that maybe this is a sign that you should rethink this whole marriage. I mean, most of the people you love aren’t here. Your mom, the kids, your dad…”

 

Robin winced at the mention of her father and Mac noticed. “Robin, is there something you want to tell me?” He was hoping to get her to tell him the truth but she didn’t budge.

 

“Just that I am so happy and proud that you are here to walk me down the aisle again. I know we didn’t get to finish the ceremony, but it meant the world to me to have you give me away at Patrick and mine’s first wedding.” Her eyes glistened with tears, remembering the day their daughter was born.

 

Mac put his arms around her and hugged her close. He hated knowing how upset she was and not being able to fix it. He decided to try to get her to open up to him one last time. “Sweetheart, you don’t have to do this. Say the word and I will find a way to get you off this island.”

 

She shook her head and pulled away. “No, what I need you to do is to see if there is a way to get my children here. I need them with me Uncle Mac. You check on that and I am going to fix my makeup.”

 

She smiled at him as he walked out the door.

 

Robin sat down at the vanity and fixed her makeup. She was trying to act the part of the happy bride but it was getting harder to do in these last few minutes before the wedding. She leaned on the vanity and, closing her eyes, put her head in her hands. She was in the middle of taking some deep breaths in order to calm herself when she heard the door open. “How soon until the kids get here?”

 

“I am certain I do not know, nor do I care.” Helena entered the room with her guards standing by her as always.

 

“But I can’t get married without my kids.” Robin looked at Helena in disbelief. Even she could understand how important it was for the children to be there.

 

“You can and you will. This is obviously a pathetic attempt by your ex-husband to stop this wedding but it will not work.” Helena walked over and stared at Robin in the mirror. “Now, put on your best smile and head to the ballroom. It is time for you to officially join the Cassadine family.”

 

“But my kids…”

 

“They will understand.” Helena was starting to get angry. “My dear little bird you have two choices: you can either go to the ballroom and start the wedding on time or I can arrange for your father to bear the brunt of your refusal by, say, having a bone broken for every minute past 2 you delay the wedding. Which will it be?”

 

“I hate you.” Robin spat the words at her but Helena just smiled at her.

 

“Spoken like a true Cassadine. I will be watching the ceremony dear Robin. If anything goes wrong, your father will pay. Are we understood?” Robin nodded her head. “Good – I will see you downstairs.”

 

Before she left, Helena took one last look at Robin. “You really are a beautiful bride. My grandson is a lucky man.”

 

Robin took a moment to steady herself. She then went down to the ballroom to start the wedding.

Edited November 29, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 36

 

Dante was waiting for Mac when Lulu came up and grabbed him. He saw the look in her eyes and realized it not gone well with Nikolas. “Hey, it’s ok. Just tell me what happened.”

 

Lulu hugged him close, then pulled back and looked at him. “You were right, there is definitely more going on here than meets the eye and, unfortunately, my brother in right in the middle of it.”

 

Dante knew something big had to have happened to cause her reaction. “Just take it slow and tell me what happened from the beginning.”

 

Lulu held on to her husband. “He knows Dante, he knows that Robin is still in love with Patrick. He knows but he doesn’t care. He said,” she paused remembering the moment, “he said I had no idea what he had done to make this wedding happen. Dante, it scared me. It was like I was looking at Stavros, not Nikolas.”

 

He pulled her close and held her as the tears she had been fighting finally came out. “Oh God Lulu, I am so sorry. But maybe you’re right, maybe there is a logical explanation for the way he is acting and we will find out once we get Helena.” He needed to give her a little hope that she hadn’t lost her brother for good.

 

“I hope so Dante. I really do.” She was wiping away the last of her tears when she heard Nikolas come up behind her.

 

“Lulu, may I speak to you for a moment?” Dante started to move towards him but Lulu tightened her hold on his arms and slightly shook her head. She turned around to face Nikolas.

 

“Yes Nikolas, what do you need?”

 

He noticed her red eyes. “Are you okay? Lulu, I could never forgive myself if…”

 

She stopped him and Dante both with her response. “Don’t be silly, you know I always cry at weddings.”

 

“If you’re sure.” She nodded at him. “Well, the kids are stuck in Port Charles since the launch has broken down but we decided to go ahead with the wedding as planned.” Dante and Lulu were both surprised to hear that the wedding would continue even though Emma and Mal weren’t there. “The problem is that Emma was supposed to stand up for Robin. We were wondering if you wouldn’t mind standing up with Robin today.”

 

“Of course I wouldn’t mind. Is Spencer still the best man?”

 

Nikolas laughed. “Of course he is, he wouldn’t forgive me if he wasn’t.”

 

Lulu smiled but inside she was wondering if he or Helena had given any consideration to how Robin and Emma felt about the situation. She knew Robin would not willingly walk down the aisle without her children being there so she was obviously being forced into it. She turned to Dante.

 

“I guess I better go check on the bride.” She kissed him and went in search of Robin.

 

Dante looked at Nikolas. Every part of him wanted to punch Nikolas for scaring his wife but he knew that he needed to keep it together. He decided to try one last time to stop the wedding.

 

“Are you sure you don’t want to wait until we can get the rest of the family here? I mean it’s not much of a wedding with just the 6 of us.” Alexis had not been able to catch the launch before it “broke down”.

 

“I can assure you that we are perfectly happy with our guest list. But, I have already promised Robin that we will do a second ceremony so that Emma, Mal and all our family can be there for it.”

 

It was not a complete lie. He was shocked when Helena said that Robin wanted the wedding to go as planned, even without her children and assured him that they would do a second ceremony for everyone else as soon as possible.

 

Dante thought about it for a moment and then smiled at his brother-in-law. “Well if you’re sure. Hey, I’m going to go check on Lulu, Mac and Robin. I guess I’ll see you in a couple of minutes.” He held out his hand. Nikolas took it and they shook. “Good luck.”

 

Nikolas looked at Dante strangely, almost like he was in a trance. “I don’t need luck, I have Robin.”

 

Dante tried not to shudder at those words as he walked away. Lulu was right, Nikolas was acting like his father. He prayed for Robin’s sake that they were able to get her out of here before she said I do. There may be no stopping him or Helena after that.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

“Thank you Lulu, I truly appreciate you stepping in for Emma like this.”

 

“Not a problem. I’m just sorry she won’t be here to see her beautiful mom walk down the aisle.”

 

Robin held back her tears. “Me too.” She had to put on a brave face and pray Emma would be able to forgive her someday for doing this without her.

 

Lulu decided to try and give Robin a clue that help was coming. “Hey, do you remember when we went to rescue our dads on the Markham Islands?”

 

Robin laughed out loud. “Of course! It was you, me, Dylan and,” she paused, smiling “Patrick. God, I really surprised him when I killed the snake with that machete.”

 

Lulu began giggling. “Then there was my plan to distract the bounty hunters.”

 

“Patrick and me making out in the bathtub. I got so caught up I barely even noticed that my dad and Holly were standing over us.” Remembering that day, she laughed even louder. That memory of her with Patrick was one of her favorites, it was right at the beginning of their relationship and he saw a side of her that she rarely showed to anyone.

 

Then it turned from a happy memory to a painful one – a sharp pain to her heart. Memories of the love of her life who she could never be with again.

 

“I know!” Lulu failed to notice the change in Robin. “But he had to leave and then we ended up being rescued by your mom.” Lulu prayed she was getting through to her. “You know, your mom may not be there for you all the time but she has this strange way of showing up just when you need her most.”

 

Robin nodded at Lulu and looked at the grandfather clock in the hallway – 1:58. “I know, except today. I could really use her today.”

 

“You never know, stranger things have happened – especially to us.”

 

Robin looked down the hallway and saw Mac and Dante standing at the ballroom doors, deep in conversation. She let out a little laugh. “Well that’s true but we need to get going – can’t keep your brother waiting.”

 

Lulu just nodded her head and walked with Robin to join the men.

 

Mac looked at her and smiled. “Are you sure you’re ready to do this? Say the word and…”

 

“I’m sure Uncle Mac.” Robin hugged him and held on tight while Lulu kissed Dante. Dante opened the doors and entered the ballroom.

 

Less than a minute later, the wedding march started and Lulu began walking down the aisle.

Edited November 29, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Just a short chapter before we head into the last part of our story!

 

Chapter 37

 

Patrick and Nathan had slowly made their way to the house. They were just getting ready to head in the front door when they heard the music start.

 

“Damn it Nathan, I tried to tell you that Helena wouldn’t care if the kids were here or not!” Patrick was furious that there was a possibility that they could be too late to stop her from marrying Nikolas.

 

Nathan was trying to keep Patrick calm but he also understood Patrick’s frustration. He had been in this same position with Maxie and that idiot Levi. But he also knew that Anna would get Robert and they needed to wait until they knew he was secure. “Listen, we cannot stop this wedding until we know that Anna has Robert.”

 

Patrick started to protest but Nathan smiled at him.

 

“Like I said, we may not be able to stop the wedding yet but we sure as hell can stall it.”

 

Patrick smiled back at him as they headed into Wydamere.

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Robin and Mac made it down the aisle and he reluctantly gave her hand to Nikolas.

 

“Robin, you look amazing.” Nikolas had never seen anything as beautiful as his bride at that moment.

 

“Thank you.” Robin was about to say something else when she saw Helena standing to the side, phone in hand. She smiled at Nikolas. “Let’s get married.”

 

The preacher began the service. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to join these two people in the bonds of holy matrimony. Marriage is a serious institution and should not be entered into lightly so I ask, before we begin the ceremony, if there is anyone who can show any just cause why these two people should not be joined in holy matrimony, let him speak his objection now or forever hold his peace.”

 

Patrick ran into the room. “I object.” He ran down the aisle to Robin and stared deep into here eyes. “There is no way in hell that you are marrying Nikolas today." He glared at Nikolas "Or any other day. She will never be your wife.”

Edited November 29, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 38

 

Robin stood there in shock as her ex-husband interrupted the ceremony. “Patrick, what are you doing?”

 

“Paying you back - you stopped me from making a huge mistake and marrying someone I wasn’t in love with and now I am doing the same for you.” Patrick smiled at her, purposely putting himself in between Robin and Nikolas.

 

Lulu reached over and grabbed Spencer’s hand. “Spencer, why don’t you and I go to your room and you can show me your new game?”

 

Spencer was confused. “But what about the wedding?”

 

“We’ll come back down after your dad and Aunt Robin have a chance to talk to with Patrick, ok?” Lulu looked at Nikolas who nodded his consent. “Let’s go.” Spencer reluctantly led Lulu out of the ballroom.

 

Nikolas grabbed Patrick by the arm and turned him around. “What the hell do you think you are doing Drake?” Nikolas was doing his best not to lose his temper.

 

“I think I have been pretty clear about why I am here and what I am doing – Robin is not going to marry you. I know the truth and I am getting her out of here now.” Patrick stayed in front of Robin while Mac and Dante moved up and stood behind her.

 

“I have no idea what you are talking about - Robin and I are getting married because we want to. Robin, please tell him.” Nikolas didn’t notice that she wasn’t looking at him, she was looking behind him at Helena.

 

Dante followed her stare and saw Helena. Looking to the side, he got Nathan’s attention in the doorway and tilted his head in her direction. Nathan went back out and around to try and find another way in the room out of Helena’s sight.

 

“Robin, please tell him.” Nikolas was pleading with her now.

 

Patrick turned back around and gently grabbed Robin’s arms. “Look at me Robin, I know the truth – all of it. You need to trust me when I say that everyone is safe now – you don’t have to do this.”

 

Robin was confused. She could see in Patrick’s eyes that he truly believed what he was saying but Helena was right there and she didn’t know if Patrick knew about her dad. “Patrick,” she started but before she could say anything else, he kissed her. Just as soon as the kiss started, it ended as Nikolas grabbed Patrick and pulled him away from her.

 

“You son of a bitch!” Nikolas punched Patrick right in the jaw.

 

“Nikolas stop!” Robin started to go towards the men but was pulled back by Mac.

 

“No Robin, I won’t.” Patrick hadn’t gone down but he had stumbled back down the aisle, further from Robin than he wanted to be. Nikolas suddenly became calm, too calm. “It is our wedding day and he is trying to destroy it. He is trying to take you away from me and I will not have it.”

 

Robin was shocked by Nikolas’s sudden change and thought about what Patrick had just said. “What did he mean by the whole truth?” Nikolas’s face drained of color. “Nikolas? What did he mean?”

 

He thought fast and took a few steps towards her. “Robin, you know he would do anything to stop us from getting married. I have no idea what he is talking about.”

 

Patrick stepped forward, putting himself between Nikolas and Robin again. “It’s over Nikolas. Whatever you and your grandmother had planned for Robin is over.”

 

He reached behind his back and took Robin’s hands in his. “We are leaving this island, getting our kids and going home.”

 

Nikolas looked at Patrick in disbelief. “There is no way I will ever let you take my son anywhere.”

 

Patrick tightened his grip on Robin’s hands. “Trust me, I would never dream of taking Spencer from you.”

 

Nikolas shook his head. “Not Spencer, mine and Robin’s child – Mal.”

 

“You two don’t have a child and you know it.” He turned around and smiled at Robin. “Mal is ours.”

 

Robin couldn’t believe what she was hearing. “But how is that possible?”

 

Patrick shook his head. “I don’t know but since it apparently involved Obrecht, are you really surprised?”

 

Nikolas didn’t believe it for one second. “Robin, he is lying to you. It is just another trick to try and stop us from getting married.” He glared at Patrick. “Why should she believe a word you are saying?”

 

“Because he is telling the truth.” Everyone turned to see Anna standing in the doorway with Jason and Robert.

Edited November 29, 2014 by cmahorror

[BestestAuntEver]

Cmahorror, my dad wants me to tell you that you write, " a damn good story", he kept wanting to know what I was reading and I finally showed him. He's finished the first and is currently reading the second.

[cmahorror]

BestestAuntEver, please tell you Dad thank you very much! I am a Daddy's girl myself so I consider it very high praise!

 

Chapter 39

 

Robin ran down the aisle and hugged her parents. “Daddy, are you okay?”

 

“Of course sweetheart.” He held on to her as Patrick, Mac and Dante came down the aisle and joined the group. He looked at the men. “Please tell me that you stopped her from saying I do.”

 

Robin looked at Patrick. He answered for her. “Of course I did.” He walked up behind her and put his arms around her. “She’s the love of my life, the only person she is marrying is me.”

 

Suddenly they heard a voice coming from the other side of the room. “Bravo! I have to admit, I underestimated all of you.” They turned around to see Helena standing next to Nikolas with a gun in her hand. “But nothing that has happened here changes any of our plans.” She pointed her gun at Patrick. “Now, dear Robin, please come and finish the ceremony.”

 

Robin put herself in front of Patrick. “No! It’s over Helena.” Nikolas looked at her, confused. “Nikolas, I’m sorry but Helena had my father and...”

 

Nikolas finished her statement, “she blackmailed you into marrying me.”

 

Robin nodded her head. “I am so sorry. I care about you but I am in love with Patrick. I always have been and I always will be.”

 

Nikolas shook his head and turned to look at his grandmother. “Is this true?” He didn’t need to wait for her answer. “Why?”

 

“We will discuss this after the ceremony.” She didn’t hear Nathan walk up behind her.

 

“There will be no ceremony. Now put the gun down and your hands up lady.”

 

Helena just smiled. “Oh my dear boy, do you really think this is the only gun I have control of in this room?” She nodded her head and 6 guards with machine guns came out of various hiding places, quickly securing the room and taking away any weapons that the group had. Nathan was pushed towards the group.

 

“Now then, where were we? Oh that’s right – dear Robin was walking down the aisle.”

 

As a whole, the group surrounded Robin as Patrick held her close. Robert stared Helena down. “I told you before, there is no way in hell that Robin will ever become a Cassadine. I mean come on Helena, there is no point to this whole charade anymore. Everyone knows the truth and you don’t have any leverage anymore. Just let Robin live her life with her family. If you want revenge on me, then take me but leave my daughter in peace.”

 

Helena thought for a moment. “But what better revenge could I have than to separate you from your only child.” She walked towards Robert, slowly. “No, whether she says I do or not, Robin is coming with us. Her talents in the medical field make her invaluable to me.”

 

Patrick held Robin so close that it was impossible to see where one began and the other ended. “You’ll have to kill me to get her.”

 

Helena laughed. “Do you honestly think I care what happens to you?”

 

“Enough!” Nikolas’s voice echoed through the room. “I promised Patrick’s safety and I intend to keep my word.” He looked at Robin. “I promise you, I did not know about Robert or,” sadness filled his eyes, “Mal.”

 

Robin studied him before she spoke. “I believe you.” Nikolas looked relieved. “But I think you know more about this whole situation than you are telling me.”

 

“Whatever I have done, I have done because I love you and want the best for you.” There was something in his face that Robin didn’t like. “Grandmother, I have no doubts that there is back up coming at any moment, we need to collect Spencer and go.”

 

Helena looked at her grandson in surprise.

 

He continued. “We need to make new plans – better to surrender the battle than lose the war.”

 

Helena took a moment and then nodded at Nikolas, a little smile on her face. “Go and fetch my grandson and Mrs. Falconeri.” Two of the guards left and returned with the pair. Lulu jumped into Dante’s arms while Spence ran to his father.

 

“Are you okay?” Lulu nodded at her husband and then watched her brother as he walked towards her.

 

“I would never let anyone hurt you Lulu.” He gaze then shifted to Robin. “We will be together someday, we both know it.” He then glared at Patrick. “Someday soon, I promise.”

 

He walked over to Spencer and took his hand and began to lead him away. Helena turned to follow but Robin yelled at her, stopping her in her tracks. “What did you do to him?”

 

Helena smirked at Robin. “I took what he felt for you and enhanced it, got him to focus on his future with you.” She took a small step forward and Patrick instinctively blocked Robin from her. “Don’t worry Dr. Drake, I am done with dear little Robin – for today.”

 

Helena followed her grandsons down one of the many interior entrances to the catacombs while the guards kept the group in the ballroom. 20 minutes later they heard a helicopter leave the island and the guards disappeared down into the catacombs.

 

Patrick held Robin the entire time they waited. As soon as the guards left, they rushed out of Wyndamere and headed to the boat that would take them home.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 40

 

He held Robin’s hand all the way to the boat, refusing to lose contact with her for even a moment. Her father helped her onto the boat, hugging her again. Robert went to drive the boat with Nathan while Jason and Anna got the boat ready to cast off. Dante took Lulu below deck so he could calm her down, she was upset about what Nikolas had done and trying to wrap her head around it.

 

Patrick took Robin to a seat in the middle of the boat and sat her down, wrapping a blanket around both of them.

 

“I hope you still have my clothes at home. I would really like to get out of this dress.” Robin told him, laughing softly.

 

“I can’t wait to get you out of that dress either.” He gave her his best come hither look. “But to answer your question, of course I still have your clothes at home. I was thinking that first we could get you home and changed. Then we can call Liz and ask her to bring our kids home. You know, I found Emma’s old bassinet last night and brought it up so that Mal would have a place to sleep tonight.”

 

Robin smiled when Patrick used the phrase our kids. “Of course you did, thank you. But Patrick I still am confused as to how Mal is your son. Don’t get me wrong, that is the best news you could have given me but I don’t know how it happened.”

 

Anna had been listening to them and spoke up. “I have a theory about that.” She sat down across from the couple. “Patrick, Dr. Obrecht had full access to your house for months on end. I am assuming that you and Sam were...”

 

Patrick unhappily answered the question that was being asked. Looking away from Robin he said a quiet yes.

 

Robin turned his face back to her. “It’s okay. We were divorced and you were being brainwashed. I am not happy about it but I understand. It’s not like before.”

 

Anna continued, “and I assume that given your history with Robin, you took proper precautions.”

 

“Of course, always.” Patrick couldn’t believe Anna would even ask him that.

 

“Well, I could see Obrecht using that to help her with her plan.” Robin and Patrick were both surprised at how far Obrecht would go. “She hated working for Helena and doing her bidding. I believe that this was her way of getting the last laugh on her – stopping Helena from getting the grandchild she wanted to create between Nikolas and Robin.”

 

They all sat there in silence for a few minutes, absorbing the scenario Anna had laid out. Finally Patrick spoke. “I really don’t care how it happened, I couldn’t be happier to be that little boy’s father.”

 

“Hey, can I at least get a hug?” Jason had walked up behind the couple and been listening to the conversation. He couldn’t be happier for Robin and Patrick and was proud to have played a part in reuniting the couple.

 

“Of course!” Robin jumped up and hugged her old friend. “I still can’t believe it’s you! When did you get your memory back?”

 

“I woke up with my memory back after the collapse.” He paused for moment and looked Robin straight in the eyes. “All of my memories.”

 

Robin was shocked. “You mean, you remember everything from when you were Jason Quartermaine?”

 

“Yes. I was as surprised as you are. I remember everything.” He was still uncertain how he felt about it. “Now that you are safe I need to figure who I want to be – Jason Morgan or Jason Quartermaine.”

 

Robin considered what he was saying. “Who says you have to be either one?”

 

Jason looked at her and nodded his head. “That is true.” He sighed. “Well, I don’t have to figure it out tonight. Tonight is a celebration.” As they approached the dock he gave his former love a hug. “Tonight, we are finally going home.”

 

Patrick stood up and pulled Robin into him, his chin resting on top of her head, his chest against her back, his arms wrapped tight around her. Robin smiled and relaxed into him. “I am home.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 41

 

“Seriously, you do not need to carry me over the threshold.” Robin laughed as Patrick picked her up and carried her into their house.

 

“I know but maybe I just like having you in my arms again.” Patrick walked with her in his arms into the living room. He whispered in her ear “welcome home Robin,” set her down and kissed her.

 

She looked around the house – it hadn’t changed, even their wedding picture was in the same place. She walked over to the coffee table and picked it up, hugging it. Patrick put his arms around her and felt wetness on his arms. Turning her around to face him, he saw she was crying. “Robin, what’s wrong?”

 

“Nothing it’s just…” she paused, wiping her tears away, “I never thought I’d be here. This morning I thought that my life with you was over. I thought I would never come home, never be with you again. Even now, I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. I am so afraid that I am going to wake up and this has all been a dream. I’ll wake up still at Wyndamere, still being forced to marry Nikolas.”

 

Patrick leaned over and kissed her again, running his hands down her back and then pinching her bottom. “Ouch! What was that for?”

 

“So you did feel that? I guess that proves you aren’t dreaming.” Robin laughed, a real happy laugh, the first time she had done that over a year. “It’s over Robin. Helena and Nikolas are gone. Mal is our son and Nikolas has no claims on either one of you.”

 

He gently put his hand under her chin and lifted it up until she was staring straight into his eyes. “You are home now and no one is ever going to take you away from us again.” He looked at her dress. “I think you might want to get out of that now.”

 

She had completely forgotten she was still in her wedding dress. “Oh God yes!” She set down the picture and started heading to their bedroom. She looked back over her shoulder at him. “When are Felicia and Maxie bringing the kids home? I assume that’s what you and Mac were talking about before you got out of the car.”

 

Patrick smiled at her. “Actually, Mac thought that we might want to have a little time to ourselves so they took the kids for the night." She looked at him, surprised. He explained, "I love our children and I can’t wait to start our life together as a family but tonight I need to be with you and give you my undivided attention. Tomorrow we are going over there so we can do a big family reunion brunch and Emma is going to spend the night teaching Mac how to make the best chocolate chip pancakes.”

 

“Like the ones her daddy makes?” Robin smirked at him.

 

“Exactly.”

 

“Well, I think that is an excellent idea. In fact, I see only one problem right now.” She turned around and walked back to him.

 

“What’s that?” Patrick didn’t see anything wrong.

 

She looked him, full of want and love. “I don’t think I can get out of this dress by myself? Do you think you can help me?”

 

Patrick picked her back up in his arms as she started giggling again. “I thought you’d never ask. Let’s get this damn thing off you. I’ve got something much better for you to wear.”

 

“Really, what’s that?” Robin wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him.

 

Patrick deepened the kiss, only pulling away for a moment to answer her. “Me.”

 

He carried her into their bedroom so they could properly begin their reunion.

Edited December 1, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 42

 

Patrick woke up and stretched out only to find an empty space next to him. He jumped up and looked around the room, praying that it wasn’t a dream, that Robin was really home. He looked at the floor and saw her dress there, lying in a heap but where was she?

 

“Hey, you’re awake!” Robin came through the bedroom door wearing one of his old t-shirts and carrying two cups of coffee. She looked so damn good in his shirt.

 

“You were snoring soundly when I went to get the coffee started.” She sat down on the bed and kissed him while handing him the cup.

 

“Thank God!” Robin looked at him, confused. “When I woke up and you weren’t here I thought that I had dreamed yesterday or, even worse, that…”

 

“Helena and Nikolas had taken me again.” She put her cup down and leaned into Patrick. He immediately followed suit so he could take her in his arms again. “Look, my parents have a guard outside the house and I am sure that Helena and Nikolas are out of the country by now. Let’s just enjoy this morning. We still have another 3 hours until we need to be at Uncle Mac’s and I can think of much better ways to spend it than worrying about the Cassadines.” She reached up and kissed him.

 

He smiled at her. “Who?”

 

He grabbed her and they slid back under the covers, deciding to take full advantage of the time they had alone together.

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Mac heard the knock on the door from the kitchen. He looked at Felicia and Emma and quickly wiped his hands on a dishrag. “I’ll get it – you two finish making the batter.” With a quick smile to Mal, sitting in his car seat, he headed through the living room to the front door. He opened it to see his niece and her ex-husband deep in a kiss.

 

“Uh, hello?” Mac tried to act bothered by it but the fact was he couldn’t be happier to see Robin and Patrick back together and so happy.

 

Robin at least had the decency to look embarrassed. “Sorry Uncle Mac.”

 

Patrick, on the other hand, didn’t care. He smirked at Robin. “I’m not.”

 

She rolled her eyes and came into the house, taking off her coat as she asked where the kids were. Mac directed her to the kitchen. Giving Patrick one last kiss, she headed to the kids while Patrick stayed behind to talk to Mac.

 

“How’s she doing, really?” Mac was concerned about his niece, she had been through a lot over the past 4 years and he just wanted her to be happy.

 

“You know Robin, she seems to be okay, putting on a brave face. I am going to encourage her to talk to someone, maybe Kevin.” Mac nodded his head, it would be good for Robin to have someone to talk to who wasn’t directly involved with the situation. “The biggest problem we have is I think she is still in denial about how involved Nikolas was in this whole plot.”

 

Mac looked at Patrick in disbelief. “What do you mean? She heard Nikolas admit that he was involved in this, maybe not everything but he certainly isn’t innocent. I have to admit Patrick, I am worried. Whatever Helena did to him has pushed what was a teenage crush into a full-fledged obsession and I don’t think he wants to come back. He’s more like his father than any of us knew.”

 

Patrick nodded his head in agreement. “I know Mac but Robin still sees the man who was her friend all those years, not what he has become. I think we have time on our side and we need to take full advantage of it. They aren’t going to make a move anytime soon and I think that between us, Anna, Robert and Jason, we can keep Robin and the kids safe and here with us.”

 

Mac sighed, hoping Patrick was right. “Alright, we can talk about this after everyone gets here. I invited your Dad but he called and is going to be here later, something about covering an emergency at the hospital. Maxie, Nathan and Georgie should be here soon, Maxie wanted to come early to spend some time with Robin. Anna and Robert are at her place. He is resting so they’ll get here right before we eat.” Mac suddenly had tears in his eyes as a realization hit him. He put his hand on Patrick’s shoulder. “Our whole family together under one roof – I didn’t think that would ever happen again.”

 

“Me either Mac.” Patrick looked at the man who had been with him and Robin constantly since they first got together, the only parent to witness firsthand all the highs and lows they had been through.

 

“There is just one thing left to do.”

 

“What’s that?”

 

Patrick pulled Robin’s engagement and wedding rings out of his pocket. “Ask Robin to marry me – again.”

Edited December 1, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 43

 

Robin smiled as she carried Mal into the house. “Welcome home son.”

 

Patrick and Emma came in shortly after carrying in supplies for Mal including diapers and formula. The couple had already decided to go furniture shopping for Mal’s room the next day. Between brunch and the meeting of the minds regarding Robin and the kids safety, they were all exhausted by the time they left Mac’s and only had the energy left to pick up the basics. Robin placed the sleeping boy in the playpen Patrick had set up in the living room while Emma ran upstairs to play. He came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her, smiling at their son.

 

“He has my dimple, why didn’t I see that before?” Patrick knew he felt a connection to Mal from the first moment he held him but he had thought it was just because of Robin.

 

“Because we didn’t think it was possible. Now that we know the truth, we can see how much he looks like both of us.” Robin pulled his arms around her even tighter – she was never safer than in his arms.

 

“If Anna hadn’t found that file…” Robin stopped him.

 

“But she did.” She turned around and put her arms around his waist. “And let’s be honest, it was your stubborn refusal to give up on us that brought us here. You never gave up on me or us.” She was on the verge of tears, getting ready to broach the one subject they had avoided since her return.

 

“Hey, Robin what’s wrong?” He saw the tears there, threatening to spill out but he didn’t know why.

 

“Come on,” he sat her down on the couch, “tell me what is going on in the pretty little head of yours.”

 

Robin took a deep breath and looked at their sleeping son before speaking. “It’s about Gabriel.”

 

Patrick shook his head. He knew where this was going and he needed to put her at ease. “Robin, that is not your fault. Victor caused that accident because he could, not because of anything you did, you know that.” He took her hands and stared into her dark brown eyes. “You were doing everything you could to protect not only me and Emma but Gabriel as well and I know that.”

 

“But I wasn’t there when you and Emma needed me the most!” Robin stood up and began pacing the living room. She was trying to speak quietly so as not to wake Mal but the pain and guilt was evident in her voice. “If I hadn’t gone with Victor in the first place, Gabriel would still be alive. It is my fault!”

 

Patrick needed her to know he didn’t blame her. “If you hadn’t gone with him that night I have no doubts he would have made you disappear again and he would have done the same thing to keep you in line. The only person responsible for Gabriel’s death is Victor Cassadine.” He stood up and pulled her into his arms, holding her as close as he could. “Victor was a powerful and dangerous man who made our lives a living hell for almost 2 years. Let’s not give him another day.”

 

Robin wanted to believe him, she really did, but the guilt still hung on her. Patrick could almost feel it weighing her down and suddenly realized why it was so hard for her. Sabrina and Patrick had lost their son but he and Robin had theirs.

 

“Robin, I will never forget Gabriel. He was a beautiful baby and I will always love him, but please do not feel like it is unfair that we have our son when Sabrina doesn’t. This is in no way your fault and what happened with Sabrina after he died is not your fault either.”

 

After Gabriel's death, Sabrina had had a nervous breakdown and attempted to kill Ava Jerome’s unborn baby girl, mistakenly believing that Ava was responsible for the accident that killed their son. She have been found not guilty by reason of temporary insanity and placed in a psychiatric facility until the judge felt she was no longer a danger to herself or others. “I will talk to Carlos and let him know about Mal so he can explain it to Sabrina the next time he visits her.”

 

“Victor is the bad guy here Robin, not you – okay?” He looked at her and she nodded her head unconvincingly. “But, I do want to talk to you about something and this seems like the best time to bring it up.” He led her back to the couch and sat her down.

 

“You have been through hell over the past 4 years. You have been kidnapped several times, blown up, held at gunpoint, given shock treatments, physically intimidated and emotionally manipulated. You were forced to lie to me, Emma and your mom as well as lied to by someone you trusted literally with your life. That is a lot to deal with, even for someone as strong as you.” Robin was crying again as he held her.

 

“I’m not saying this to upset you; I’m trying to make a point. I think that it might be a good idea if you made an appointment with Kevin and give yourself a chance to talk to someone who isn’t as close to the situation as everyone else you know is.” Robin slowly sat up and looked at him. “Physically I know you are okay. You were given your meds, 3 meals a day and a place to sleep but there is much more to your health than just that so please just consider it?”

 

Robin nodded her head and then laid back against Patrick. “I think it’s a good idea and I will call him first thing in the morning but for tonight I just want to enjoy spending time with my husband and our children.” She winced when she realized what she had just said. “I’m sorry Patrick, I meant, I just…”

 

Patrick got a small smile on his face. “I know Robin. That is actually something else I wanted to talk to you about.” She turned around and looked at him, her face still showing traces of the tears she had just shed. “I have something for you.”

 

He reached into his pocket, pulled out her engagement ring and held it in his closed fist while he spoke. “I have spent the past 6 weeks telling you over and over again that you were never going to marry Nikolas because you were supposed to be married to me. I wasn’t just saying that because I was trying to stop the wedding, I was saying it because it was the truth. You and I are soul mates, meant to be together, to comfort each other, drive each other crazy, and love each other for the rest of our lives. You are the only woman I have ever loved or made love with. In my heart you have always been my wife. This is our family and I want it back.”

 

Robin’s tears flowed down her face again but this time they were happy tears.

 

“Robin, please do me the honor of marrying me – again.” He opened his fist revealing the ring.

 

Robin didn’t hesitate for even a moment. “Yes! Of course I will marry you.”

 

She kissed him as he slipped the ring back on her finger. Like her, it was finally back where it belonged.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 44

 

One month later

 

Robin stared at herself in the mirror in Monica’s bedroom. Anna came up behind her and smiled at her beautiful baby girl – standing there in her wedding dress. “Oh Robin, you are so beautiful.”

 

“Grandma’s right mommy, you look beautiful. Daddy is going to love it!” Emma was beyond thrilled that her mommy and daddy were getting married today.

 

“I certainly hope so but I think he is going to love what the other beautiful girl walking down the aisle is wearing more.” Robin smiled at her little girl. “Emma, you have great taste in dresses. Have you been hanging out with your Aunt Maxie again?”

 

Emma giggled. “Maybe.” Emma had picked out her own dress for the wedding and had helped Robin pick out hers. Robin had insisted on something a little simpler for this wedding. Emma protested but eventually they found a dress they both loved.

 

Anna picked up Emma and then hugged Robin. “Look at us, three gorgeous ladies. The men downstairs won’t know what hit them.”

 

“You can say that again.” They heard a voice say from the hallway.

 

“Grandpa!” Emma squirmed out of Anna’s arms and ran over to Robert, jumping onto him. “Doesn’t Mommy look beautiful!”

 

Robert picked up his granddaughter and then smiled lovingly at his little girl. “She certainly does.” He looked back at Emma. “Do you think I could get a moment alone with Mommy before the wedding?”

 

“Sure Grandpa. Grandma Anna and I will go and check on Daddy and Grandpa Noah. I’m sure he is getting nervous,” she said, sounding very serious. “He needs me to check on him.” She ran back and grabbed Anna’s hand. “Come on Grandma.”

 

Anna laughed as her granddaughter pulled her out the room. “Robin, we will see you in just a few minutes. I love you.”

 

“I love you too Mom.” Robin laughed at the sight of her daughter pulling her mom out the door. She looked back in the mirror and sighed.

 

“You okay luv?” Robert knew that Robin and Patrick belonged together but he hoped that it wasn’t too soon for them to get remarried.

 

“I’m great Daddy. I just,” Robin paused gathering her thoughts, “I guess I’m just scared. What if Helena or Nikolas try something?” Tears began to run down her face as she looked at her dad. “Patrick and I have worked so hard to get back here, back together and I am just so afraid that something is going to happen that stops us from getting married. Kevin says it is perfectly normal, especially after everything I have been through but still…”

 

“But still you are scared.” Robert hugged Robin. “I promise you that nothing is going to stop this wedding today unless you want it to.” He looked at her. “Do you believe me?”

 

“Of course I do.”

 

“And do you want to marry Patrick today?”

 

She smiled and nodded her head. “More than anything.”

 

“Then that is all that matters. Now I think I had better get you out to that garden before that soon to be husband of yours has a nervous breakdown. You know he is driving his father and your uncle nuts right now.” Patrick was in Edward’s old office getting ready. Jason had recently begun rebuilding his life and part of that was moving back into the Quartermaine mansion to get to know his family again. The second he heard that Robin and Patrick were getting remarried he insisted they do it in the rose garden.

 

Robin laughed and wiped her tears away. “Of course he is. You should have seen him earlier, trying to get that little bow tie on Mal. It took him forever and it was a clip on.”

 

“Hey, you saw him before the wedding? That’s bad luck.”

 

Robin looked her father straight in the eyes. “After everything we have been through, I think seeing each other on our wedding day is the least of our worries. Anyway, it is only if I am in my dress that it’s bad luck and I wasn’t.”

 

Robert raised his eyebrows at her. “You weren’t in your dress?”

 

“Dad!” Robin rolled her eyes at her father. “Not like that – Emma and I took Mal to Patrick so I could get ready.”

 

Patrick and Robin had decided that they would have their children stand up for them, Emma as maid of honor and Mal as best man. Of course, since Mal couldn’t actually walk down the aisle, Noah would carry him and hold him during the ceremony. It was really more of an honorary title but it was important to Patrick to have Mal up there with him, especially since they had missed their first few months together thanks to Helena and Obrecht.

 

“Alright. So my beautiful girl, shall we go? Your family awaits.” Robert held out his hand to her and she took it, smiling.

 

They left the room and headed out to the garden. Her father was right – nothing was going to stop her from marrying Patrick today.

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Of course I had to find dresses for Patrick and Robin’s wedding.

 

Robin: http://www.dressilyme.com/p-stunning-tulle...ress-45455.html

Emma: http://www.girlsdressline.com/flower-girl-dresses/ivory-purple-satin-n-tulle-flower-girl-dress-with-petals-n-sash.html

Edited December 3, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 45

 

Patrick stood at the altar with Noah and Mal. Although he was trying his best not to, he was shaking like a leaf. Noah noticed even though he was busy cradling his grandson. “You okay sport?”

 

Patrick looked at his dad. The sight of his father and son standing there together made him smile. “Just want to get this over with.”

 

Noah laughed. “Ready for the honeymoon?”

 

Patrick shook his head. “It’s not that, although I definitely am. No, I am just worried that something is going to happen to stop us from getting married.” He reached over and patted his sleeping son’s back. “Maybe we should have just done what Robin suggested and gone to city hall.”

 

“Patrick, there is nothing wrong with wanting a real wedding with both your children and your family to witness it.” Mal whined a little bit so Noah began gently rocking him. “Today isn’t just a celebration of your remarriage, it is a testament to how much you and Robin love each other. Trust me, there is not a person here today who is not thrilled to see you two get remarried, especially me. You two have earned this, enjoy it. Now you tell me what is really going on.”

 

Patrick sighed. “What if Nikolas or Helena do something today? I interrupted Nikolas and Robin’s wedding and I could see them stopping ours in retaliation.”

 

Noah understood what Patrick was saying and tried to comfort him. “Son, the same people who stopped that wedding are making sure this one happens. Security is tighter here than at a prison. Jason has spared no expense with the guards and the security system is top of the line.” It didn’t work - Patrick wouldn’t relax until he and Robin were actually said I do.

 

The preacher came up to the altar and the music started up. Patrick took a deep breath and concentrated on the end of the aisle. He saw his beautiful daughter walk down the aisle, smiling broadly at her daddy. He smiled back at her but his heart felt like it was going to beat out of his chest. She took her place on the left side of the altar as Robin and Robert appeared at the end of the aisle.

 

She was beautiful, arm in arm with her father as they strolled down the aisle. She kept her eyes on him, tears of joy already forming in her eyes. Within moments she was with Patrick and their children standing in front of the preacher as her father sat down in the front row with Anna and Mac.

 

“Welcome everyone. Patrick and Robin have chosen you, those special and important to them, to witness and celebrate the reuniting of their life together. Today, as we create this marriage, we also create a new bond and new sense of family - one that will undoubtedly include all who are present here today. I ask who gives this woman to this man today.”

 

Smiling, Robert stood up. “Her mother, her uncle and I do.” He sat back down after giving his daughter a wink.

 

“Very well. The bride and groom have decided to skip the formalities and go straight to their vows.” The crowd laughed as Patrick smiled at Robin. The couple had decided to make the ceremony as quick as possible; to them this was just a formality. They also didn’t want to give anyone a chance to object.

 

Patrick took a deep breath and then took Robin’s hands in his. “I am a jerk.” Robin looked at him in shock. “There’s a point, just let me get to it. I let my selfishness and hurt stop me from seeing what was actually going on with you and I gave up. I believed the lies I was being fed and not what I felt and knew in my heart. I forgot that walking out is acceptable, giving up isn’t.”

 

He began shaking with emotion as the tears came. “But then I got a miracle, a second chance. You came back to me. You came back to me and we were blessed to get not only another chance but a beautiful son. I promise you now, in front of everyone that we love, that nothing will come between us again. We will fight, it’s in our nature, but we will always find the compromise. We will challenge each other to always be our best in and out of the hospital. Most importantly, we will love without doubt because we are soul mates and nothing and no one will ever separate us or make me question it again. I love you, beyond reason, always.”

 

Robin’s tears cascaded down her face. “Patrick, the only reason we are standing here today is because of your faith in our love and our family. You were my strength when I didn’t have it, my faith when I lost it, my courage when I was too afraid to fight. You have given me more than I could ever repay.”

 

“From the moment we met, you have made a point of showing me that I could have everything I never thought I could. You have given me a future when I was certain one wasn’t possible. You have given two beautiful children.” She paused to smile at Emma and Mal. ”You have given me you and I could not want or ask for more. You are my soul mate and nothing and no one will ever separate us again. I love you, beyond reason, always.”

 

There wasn’t a dry eye in the garden after the two finished their vows. Even the preacher took a moment before continuing the ceremony.

 

"Do you Patrick take Robin to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, for richer or poorer, in sickness or in health, til death do you part?"

 

Patrick smiled at Robin. "I do."

 

"Do you Robin take Patrick to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, for richer or poorer, in sickness or in health, til death do you part?"

 

Robin nodded happily. "I do."

 

“Do you have the rings?”

 

Noah and Mal handed Patrick Robin’s wedding ring. He took Robin’s left hand back in his and spoke. “With this ring, I thee wed.”

 

Emma handed her mom Patrick’s ring. She took his left hand in hers and spoke. “With this ring, I thee wed.”

 

The preacher smiled at them but they remained fixed on each other. “By the power vested in me by the state of New York, I now pronounce you husband and wife. Patrick, you may kiss your bride.”

 

The words were barely out of his mouth and Patrick grabbed Robin and kissed her. Oblivious to the people around them cheering, they kept kissing until Noah finally got Patrick’s attention. “Uh Patrick, you’ve got plenty of time for that later.”

 

Patrick laughed, holding his wife in his arms. “You’re right dad.” He looked down at Robin. “We have all the time in the world.”

 

Taking his son in his arms and with Emma walking between them, the Scorpio-Drakes walked down the aisle to start their lives together.

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Nikolas sat at his desk and stared at the photographs in his hand of the wedding. His investigator had gotten some wonderful shots for him. Robin looked beautiful in her wedding dress and they all looked happy, especially Patrick.

 

He picked up a photo of Patrick and his father. “Enjoy it while it lasts Drake. Robin and I will be together again, soon.”

 

Dr. Endicott knocked and came into the room. “Everything is ready Mr. Cassadine. The subject has been prepped and the procedure will begin shortly.”

 

“Thank you – I will expect to kept up to date on all developments.” He dismissed the man with a wave of his hand. He picked up a picture of Robin from the desk.

 

“Soon, Robin, soon.”

 

The End

 

I am having too much fun doing this so you guys get a part two to this story! I will post the first chapter tomorrow.

Edited December 3, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Update

 

It has been 4 years since Patrick and Robin’s 2nd wedding. Emma is 10 and in grade school while Mal is 4 and in preschool. Patrick and Robin are both working at the hospital and are department heads. Patrick is the Chief Neurosurgeon while Robin is the Lab Director. Except for medical emergencies and occasional work for the WSB, their lives are normal but definitely not boring.

 

Jason and Liz realized that once he got his memories back there was only one woman for him and that was Sam. Following Jason and Sam’s reunion, Liz remarried Ric and they are raising her sons together. The three couples and their children regularly get together for family outings and couples nights.

 

Silas left town after breaking up with Sam. The last anyone had heard, he had moved to Llanview, PA.

 

Jason has successfully integrated his two lives. After seizing control from Duke, he had ELQ buy all of Sonny’s businesses and dismantled them.

Working with his nephew Michael, Jason successfully saved the company after it was nearly destroyed during the whole Fake Luke debacle. They have actually become very close through the past 4 years and Michael has become like a brother to Jason.

 

 

Chapter 1

 

“You are unbelievable!” Robin stormed in to Patrick’s office without knocking. She was furious and did not hesitate to let Patrick know.

 

He smirked at her. “Tell me something I don’t know.” Her glare cut him short. “Ok sunshine, what did I do?”

 

“Mr. Thompson.” A look of understanding came over him. “He was doing fine with my drug therapy, progressing nicely and the next thing I know, he’s scheduled for surgery with you!”

 

“You asked me to look at the scans.” Patrick wasn’t seeing any problem so far.

 

“Yes, to see how much the tumor had shrunk using my protocol, not so you could swoop in and convince him to let you cut him open.” Robin couldn’t believe he didn’t understand why this upset her.

 

“Robin, your protocol allowed the tumor to shrink enough that I can go in and safely remove it. Isn’t that that what we do? You shrink it and I remove it.” He stood up and went over to the door, softly closing and then locking it.

 

“But you did it without talking to me first. You should have reviewed the scans and then talked to me so we could go and discuss it with Mr. Thompson together.”

 

The light finally went on in Patrick’s head. He walked over to her and put his arms around her. “This was not personal. You were in the middle of working on your grant proposal and I didn’t want to disturb you.” She turned around and looked at him. “It was my mistake and I won’t do it again but I stand by my decision to recommend surgery at this time.”

 

Robin sighed, she couldn’t stay mad at him and he was right – it was as good a time as any to operate. “I guess you’re right but I still wish you had included me.”

 

He nodded his head in agreement. “Noted and from now on, I will. Now, do you have time for a consult?” He gave her a wink and raised his left eyebrow at her.

 

She laughed. He still amazed her; they still amazed her. This family they had created was more she could have ever hoped for. “I might have a few minutes for a quick consult.”

 

“Oh come on Robin, you know nothing about one of our consults is quick.”

 

She laughed out loud and threw her arms around his neck. “Then why are we wasting time talking. Shut up and do me.”

 

Picking her up, he whispered softly in her ear “your wish is my command,” and carried her over to the couch.

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

She was throwing clothes in a suitcase when he walked in. “Is the jet ready?”

 

Nikolas watched her pack. “Yes – are you ready?”

 

She looked at Nikolas and smiled. “I’ve been ready for a long time. Let’s go home.”

 

Nikolas nodded at her and left her to finish packing. By tomorrow morning, they would be back to Port Charles. He picked up a picture of Robin he had on his dresser and smiled. Lovingly, he ran his finger over her face. “It’s almost time.”

 

 

Chapter 2

 

Robin was at the nurse’s station later that afternoon when she felt him come up behind her. His arms wrapped around her waist and she leaned back into him. “We have to careful, my husband might see us.”

 

He laughed. “Very funny Robin.” He tightened his grip around her. “I was going to offer to pick up Mal and dinner but now…”

 

She turned around in his arms and crinkled her nose at him. “Now what?”

 

He shook his head. “Now I’ll still do it but you don’t get pot stickers.”

 

“Hey, no fair.” She jokingly swatted his chest with her hand. “Anyway, if you bring home Chinese food and no pot stickers, your daughter will never forgive you.”

 

“Like mother, like daughter. Speaking of, have you given any more thought to our discussion from last night?” Patrick had broached the subject of having another child the night before after they had made love. They had tried artificial insemination immediately after the wedding but it hadn’t taken and Robin had decided that one attempt was all she wanted to do at the time. Patrick had agreed but now that Mal was in school he hoped that she might change her mind.

 

“Patrick, I need time to think about it. I know neither pregnancy went the way it should, hell we didn’t even get to experience Mal’s, but we still have 2 beautiful children and I don’t want to push our luck.” She turned back around and went back to her chart.

 

“You want to tell me what is really going on Robin?” He knew her too well to not understand what her other fears were but she needed to say them out loud.

 

She sighed and leaned on the counter. “Ok, let’s start with the chance that I could pass on HIV to the baby.”

 

“Less than 2% - next issue.”

 

“I have an incompetent cervix and while bed rest was fine when I was pregnant with Emma, we now have two very active children and they need both their parents to be healthy and able to take care of them.”

 

Patrick smiled. “We know about it which means that we will be able to deal with it if anything happens. Plus, your parents are both living here now as well as Mac and Felicia. Not to mention Maxie, Lulu, Liz, Sam and Jason, all of whom are more than willing to help us out. Besides we are talking about 9 months, not years. Next.”

Robin swallowed and dove into the final concerns. “Patrick, I almost died after Emma was born and then I battled PPD. Quite frankly, between the DIC and the PPD, I am scared to death to get pregnant again.”

 

Patrick knew he had gotten to the root of her objections. “It is so sexy when you talk in acronyms.” He turned her around and smiled at her. Putting his arms back around her and hugging her close, he spoke to her softly. “We both know that the chances of either one of those happening again are extremely low. The doctor even explained that to us 4 years ago when we did AI the first time.”

 

He eased up on his hold so she could look at him. “This is up to you. I love our children and if we never have another child, I am fine with it but I also know that I want the chance to do it with you from the beginning. I missed the first trimester with Emma and we missed everything with Mal and I can’t help but feel a little cheated.”

He saw her wince at his words and realized he had hurt her. “Not that I am blameless with Emma, it was my own stubbornness about not having children that led to your decision but I still regret it. My point is that I love you and no matter what you decide, I will always love you. All I am asking is that you think about it. Okay?”

 

Robin nodded her head and smiled at him. “Okay. So you get the boy and supper and I will get Emma from dance practice?”

 

Patrick reluctantly let her go. “Yep – see you at home in an hour.”

 

“You got it and don’t forget the pot stickers.”

 

“Aye, aye captain.” He gave her one last kiss and headed off to pick up their son and supper.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 3

 

“You forgot to turn the alarm on again Robin.” Patrick was not happy that Robin kept forgetting to reset the security alarm after she got home.

 

“Sorry, I was talking to Emma and I just didn’t think about it.” That wasn’t completely true. In all honesty, she just didn’t see the point to the alarm anymore. They had not heard a word from Helena or Nikolas in years and she was convinced that any threats were long since over.

 

“Well, start thinking about it please.” He pulled her into him and kissed her. “It would kill me if anything happened to you or the kids.”

 

She nodded, feeling guilty for not considering his feelings. After all they had been through there was no harm in making sure that Patrick had a little extra peace of mind. If setting the alarm did that for him then she would make sure to do it. “I promise.”

 

She kissed him again and then went to cleaning up supper. “Are you giving Mal his bath tonight or do you want me to do it?”

 

“I’ve got it if you want to clean up the kitchen. Besides, I promised both kids the princess story tonight.”

 

Robin laughed and rolled her eyes. The princess story was actually a story about him and Robin - of his rescue of her, the fair maiden princess, from the Evil Prince Nik. The hero of the story was Patrick the Magician. Each time he told it Nik got a little more evil and Patrick became more and more noble.

 

“Then I am going to pour myself a glass of wine and catch up on my research.”

 

He knew how intense she could get with her research. “Go ahead, but I want you to relax and get plenty of rest. I have a long weekend planned for us and I want you in tip top shape for it.” Robin cringed remembering the conversation she had earlier with the Chief of Staff, Tom Hardy.

 

She spoke hesitantly. “Yeah, we need to talk about this weekend.”

 

Patrick didn’t like the tone of her voice. “Robin, it’s our anniversary. Neither one of us are working or on call. Mal is spending the weekend with Mac and Felicia and Emma is excited that she is getting a girl’s weekend with Maxie and Georgie. What is there to talk about?”

 

“Go and get the kids to bed and I’ll tell you when you get done. I promise you, it isn’t that bad.”

 

Patrick sighed but realized that he wouldn’t get anything out of her until after the kids were down for the night, so he went to get the kids put to bed.

 

An hour later he joined her on the couch. She handed him a glass of wine. “Thank you, but don’t think this is going to delay this conversation. This weekend is our anniversary and I am spending it with you.”

 

“Yes, you are,” she agreed, “but our actual plans may have changed a bit.”

 

“What do you mean?”

 

“Tom came to see me today. Apparently we have a new donor at GH and they are throwing a benefit ball on Friday night. This donor has specifically requested that I be there since a majority of their funding is going into my research. Plus, there may be able enough funding available to secure you the new Doppler you have been wanting.”

 

“I knew the benefit was this weekend but I thought we didn’t have to go. What changed?” Patrick was suspicious about this sudden request.

 

“I don’t know, but the Chief told me I am being specifically requested and with the amount of money at stake, I couldn’t really say no.” She cuddled up to him on the couch. “Besides, it isn’t like we are going to a medical conference, we are spending the evening at a ball. We will be having a wonderful dinner, wine and then spend the rest of the evening dancing with each other. After that, we can spend the rest of the weekend in bed celebrating not only our anniversary but all the additional funding we helped the hospital secure.”

 

Patrick groaned. He knew she was right but that wasn’t going to stop him from playing it up a little bit. “But Robin, it’s our anniversary and I don’t want to share you with anyone.”

 

“I know you don’t play well with others, but could you please try for one night?” She batted her eyes at him. “I promise I willl make it up to you.” She slowly began undoing the buttons on his shirt. “In fact, if you agree to go right now, without anymore complaining, I will give you a preview of exactly how I plan to make it up to you.”

 

Patrick smirked. She knew she had him just where she wanted him. “The sacrifices I make for you.” He pulled her into him and began kissing her. They stood up. "Come here." She jumped up on him, wrapping her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist. He held on to her tight and carried her into their bedroom to get his sneak peek of their anniversary weekend.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 4

 

“Robin, come on – the sooner we get there, the sooner we can get home.” It was Friday night and they were already running late thanks to their last surgery.

 

“I’m almost ready. You just have to throw on a tux and you’re ready to go, I have a little bit more work to do.” Robin was yelling out to him as she finished getting ready. “There’s the dress, the shoes, my hair and makeup…”

 

“You know you don’t need the make up by the way, you are a natural beauty.”

 

“Aww, you are so sweet but I really am almost done.” She looked in the mirror. Even though they were going to the benefit for the hospital, the look she put together was only for her husband. She walked into the living room. “How do I look?” She gave a quick spin as she walked into the room to give him the full effect. The dress was dark green, with a halter top that fit her like a glove. There was a thigh high slit in front and when she did her little turn, the chiffon skirt spun up just  enough to show off her gorgeous legs.

 

“God, you are killing me!” He was across the room in two steps and pulled her into his arms. “As great as you look in that dress right now, all I want to do is take it back off you. You look amazing. You are poetry in motion. Do we have to go tonight?”

 

“Yes, they are officially announcing the funding and I have to be there to accept it since it is my research that is being funded.” She played with his tie. “I have to do all the hard work, all you have to do is stand there by me and look pretty.”

 

He gave her his best smirk. “I think I can handle that. Now we better get going. Our ride is out front.” Jason had sent a car for them as an anniversary present. He and Sam were attending the benefit as well and the two couples were planning on spending the evening together.

 

“Alright Dr. Drake and I promise, as soon as we get done with the presentation we can head back home and officially start our anniversary.”

 

“Sounds perfect, Dr. Scorpio-Drake.” He kissed her. “Anyway, I can’t wait to get my present. Any hints?”

 

She gave him a little wink. “No, just that I know you will love it. But you’re right, we need to get going.” She took his hand and led him to door.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

The ball was in full swing by the time they got to it. Jason and Sam were waiting for them at their table and supper was served shortly after they arrived. The two couples had plenty of good food and conversation to fill the entire dinner.

 

“I’d like to propose a toast. To my good friends Robin and Patrick, Happy Anniversary – to four great years and at least 40 more.” Jason raised his glass to the couple after he made the toast.

 

“Here, here.” Sam raised her glass to join his. Robin and Patrick picked up their wine glasses and all four clinked them together.

 

“Thank you.” Patrick smiled at Jason. The two men had become good friends over the past 4 years. The man now known as Jason Quartermaine-Morgan was intelligent, ruthless in business but a loving and devoted husband and father. He also happened to be a huge hockey fan and Patrick had gotten him into NASCAR. The two men had bonded over sports and their love for their families.

 

Patrick kissed his wife. “We are two very lucky men. And right now, this lucky man wants to dance with his wife. Shall we?” He stood up and held out his hand to Robin.

 

“I thought you’d never ask. Excuse us.” She took his hand and walked with him to the dance floor.

 

“So how long do we have to stay again? We have had supper, some pretty good wine, and now a little dancing. I have shared you long enough – now I want to get you home,” he leaned in to whisper in her ear, “and out of that dress.”

 

She closed her eyes and sighed. The feel of his breath on her skin never failed to excite her. “Not much longer I promise. In fact, I am supposed to meet with Tom and the donor in just a few minutes, before the presentation. So as soon as I finish this dance, I will go back stage and get the show on the road. I promise that as soon as the presentation is over, we will get the hell out of here.”

 

The song ended less than a minute later. Patrick gave her one last kiss. “Go on, let’s get this over with. I love you.”

 

She smiled back at him. “I love you too.” She gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and headed back stage.

 

She went up to the stage and walked behind the curtain. She saw someone standing by the back stage door and walked up to him. “Excuse me, I was wondering if you could help me? I am Dr. Scorpio-Drake and I am supposed to be meeting Dr. Hardy and another gentleman back here.”

 

The person turned around and Robin was shocked to see Nikolas standing there. He smiled, nervously, down at her. “Hello, Robin.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 5

 

Dr. Tom Hardy walked up to the microphone 10 minutes after Robin had left Patrick. “Ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank you for your support tonight. The funds raised tonight, in addition to the very generous donation made by our host, will help fund the research in traumatic brain injuries being performed by the very talented Dr. Robin Scorpio-Drake.”

 

The audience applauded as Robin stepped out on stage. Patrick, who had sat back down with Jason and Sam, knew immediately that something had upset his wife. Robin was pale and shaking. He looked at Jason. “Something’s wrong.”

 

Jason nodded at him. “I know.” He took a moment and nodded at the door where Max was posted. Even though he was no longer involved in the mob, he still kept guards on Sam and Danny at all times. He pointed to the stage and Max quickly realized that Jason’s concern was for Robin so he focused his attention on her.

 

Robin looked at Patrick and attempted to smile but her mouth just wouldn’t do it. Instead she just mouthed the words “I’m ok” and watched Tom finish the presentation.

 

After the applause died down, Tom continued. “Additional funding has also been afforded to the acquisition of a new Doppler for use in detection of brain injuries. As a Level 1 Trauma Center, this equipment will help guarantee that our patients receive the best possible care in a timely manner.”

 

Again, applause filled the room but Patrick, Jason and Sam kept their focus on Robin. She was taking deep breaths, trying to keep herself calm. Dr. Hardy made a final announcement.

 

“I am proud to introduce our donor, host and returning board member, to you – Mr. Nikolas Cassadine.”

 

Patrick jumped up from his seat but Jason grabbed his arm. “He is not going to do anything with all of these people here. Just wait for the presentation to end and then we will get her out of here.”

 

Jason waved Max over to Robin and Max headed to the stage, ready to pull her out of harm’s way at the slightest hint that she was in danger.

 

Nikolas stepped up to the microphone. “I am thrilled to be back home in Port Charles and working with the wonderful staff at General Hospital. I plan to be a hands-on member of the board and look forward to closely working with Dr. Scorpio-Drake, as well as the other members of the senior staff in all areas of the hospital to help it become one of the best medical institutions in the country. Thank you.”

 

As soon as Nikolas finished his speech, Robin was off the stage and in Patrick’s arms, headed for the exit. Jason and Sam followed them outside, Max keeping guard on the foursome the entire way.

 

As soon as they got outside to the cars, Patrick spoke. “Are you okay?” He was holding Robin’s face in his hands, gently rubbing his thumbs up and down her cheeks. “Did he hurt you?”

 

Robin shook her head. “No. Patrick, I’m fine. He didn’t do anything to me.”

 

Patrick pulled her into his arms. “Thank God.” He turned to Jason and Sam. “What the hell is he doing back in Port Charles?”

 

Jason was holding Sam in his arms, leaning against their car. “I don’t know. Technically he was never charged with any crimes. We could never prove he was a part of Robin’s kidnapping or mine. Helena specifically told Robin he didn’t know about Robert so he is free to come and go as he pleases.”

 

Patrick tightened his hold on Robin. “Damn it. So there’s nothing we can do?”

 

Jason shook his head. “Legally, no. But I will put guards back on you two and the kids. Also, you need to let Robert, Anna and Mac know he is back. I know you’re worried about Nikolas but the bigger concern here is Helena. I find it hard to believe he came back without her.”

 

Patrick held Robin close. “Jason, with or without Helena, you and I both know the real reason Nikolas is back in Port Charles – it’s because he wants Robin.”

 

Jason nodded. He knew Patrick was right. “Ok, you aren’t going home until I can make sure everything is secured. Mal is with Mac so call him and let him know what is going on immediately and then call Nathan so he can take care of Emma. I will call the Metro Court and get you the best suite in the place and you can spend your anniversary weekend there. Max will stand guard outside your room and by Sunday we will have your home completely safe.”

 

It was a situation like this that brought out Jason’s “Morgan” side. While he was ruthless in business, he was doubly so when it came to protecting the people he cared about. Nikolas was a threat and one not to be taken lightly.

 

With two short phone calls, Mac and Nathan were made aware of Nikolas’s return and assured them that the children were protected. While Robin and Patrick were doing that, Jason called the Metro Court and secured the honeymoon suite for them.

 

After saying their good nights, Jason and Sam headed back to the Quartermaine mansion while Max took Robin and Patrick to the hotel so they could try to salvage what was left of their wedding anniversary.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 6

 

“You’ve been quiet since we left the ball.” Patrick was concerned; Robin was only this quiet when she was upset. He sat down next to her on the bed in their suite and put his arms around her. “You want to tell me what happened with Nikolas tonight.”

 

Robin sighed and then nodded her head.

 

Flashback

 

“Hello, Robin.” He made no attempt to touch her, didn’t move towards her and yet she stepped back away from him a step.

 

“Nikolas – what are you doing here?” She was trying to look around her to make sure there was no one else there, waiting to grab her. He noticed.

 

“I’m by myself Robin.” He made a point of taking a step back, putting additional distance between them. “I just wanted a chance to apologize and maybe explain what happened 4 years ago.”

 

Robin thought about it and then nodded her head.

 

“Thank you. It turns out that my grandmother was brainwashing me, just the same as Patrick. It was part of her plot to unite our families. I won’t lie to you and tell you that I didn’t love you, because I did, but those feelings diminished and have gone away now that I have escaped from her. I want to assure you that I am not back here to cause problems for you or your family.”

 

Robin looked at him. A part of her wanted to believe what he said but she still had a lot of doubts. “How much did you know about Helena’s plans?”

 

Nikolas shook his head. “Not as much as you and Patrick think. I knew that she brainwashed Patrick and Sam. What she was doing to me had me believing that it was best for you. I didn’t know Jason was still alive, I didn’t know she had kidnapped Robert and I certainly didn’t know about Mal.” He looked at her shyly. “How are the kids doing?”

 

“They’re fine, getting big. And Spencer?” Robin still didn’t believe what Nikolas was telling her. She was hoping that small talk would kill time until Tom got there.

 

“Good. He’ll be joining me soon.” He smiled at her. “Robin, I am back in town to make amends. I am helping fund your research because it is important but also to show you my sincerity.” He finally took a step towards her. “I am hoping that, in time, we can be friends again.”

 

Robin studied him carefully. Before she could say anything else she heard Tom come backstage. “Well, are we ready? Robin, I believe you know Mr. Cassadine.”

 

Tom had been in Africa with his ex-wife Simone when everything had happened 4 years ago. The reality was that Tom had no clue about Patrick and Robin’s past with the man.

 

“Robin and I know each other very well.” Nikolas took another step forward. Robin took another step back.

 

Tom noticed the awkwardness and quickly stepped in. “Good, let’s get this over with.” He gently took Robin’s hand. “Shall we?” Robin just nodded as they headed to the curtain.

 

End Flashback

 

 

“Robin, don’t tell me you believe him?” Patrick did not believe that Nikolas was done with Robin, not by a long shot.

 

“Except for the fact that he knew that you were being brainwashed - no, not a word. He was too calm, too rational, like he was right before he took off 4 years ago. He’s back for a reason, I just don’t know what it is.”

 

Patrick pulled her down on the bed so they were lying side by side, her back against his chest, his arms wrapped securely around her. “We do know the reason – he wants you Robin.”

 

Robin nodded her head, knowing that Patrick was unfortunately right. “Well he can’t have me and I don’t want to talk or think about him anymore tonight.” She rolled over and looked her husband straight in the eyes. “For the rest of the night and this weekend, the only thing I want to do is celebrate being married to the most wonderful husband and father in the world. Sound good?”

 

“That is the best idea you have had all week.” His hands were still around her and she felt them slowly start unzipping her dress. “Happy Anniversary Robin.” He leaned in and began kissing her, starting with her lips and moving down to that spot in her neck that drove her crazy.

 

She smiled and began to unbutton his shirt. “Happy Anniversary Patrick.”

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Nikolas sat in his car, watching the hotel. They had done exactly what he had thought they would do. He had heard their entire conversation, thanks to the listening device he had in the suite. No one knew that he had bought out Jax’s share of the Metro Court, not even Carly. He had counted on them being scared and staying there, most likely on Jason’s dime. He had even made sure the honeymoon suite would be available. God, they were so predictable.

 

The only thing that surprised him was that Robin did not believe his story. This was going to take a little longer than he had thought. Oh well, all the pieces were in place and he had all the time in the world.

 

He picked up his phone and made a quick call. “Did you get all settled in?”

 

“Yes. Did you see them?”

 

He smiled, remembering his brief time alone with Robin. “Yes.”

 

“And…” She was curious about how Robin and Patrick were.

 

“They were good although I think I may have put a damper on their anniversary celebration for a little bit.”

 

She laughed. “Oh, that really is too bad. You on your way back?”

 

He took one last look at the hotel where Robin was staying. “Leaving right now, we have a long weekend ahead of us. I want to get things ready for Spencer, he’ll be here on Sunday and…”

 

She interrupted him, “and we still need to finalize our plans for next week, I know. I’ll see you in a little bit.” She hung up. There was no need for pleasantries, they weren’t friends. They didn’t even like each other. She wasn’t doing this to help him, she was doing this for herself.

 

“Alfred, let’s go home.” He would see Robin again soon enough.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 7

 

Robin was digging through the refrigerator, looking for something to snack on. They had gotten home a couple of hours ago after getting the all clear from Jason and immediately got reacquainted with their own bed. But now Robin was starving and wanted food. She saw some left over roasted chicken from the other night and pulled the container out. She grabbed a fork and stood at the counter. She had eaten a few pieces of chicken breast when she felt Patrick’s arms come around her.

 

“Hey, nothing for me?” She giggled and then fed him over her shoulder. “Mmm, thank you. I think we both worked up an appetite up there. Why don’t I get a plate so we can eat like civilized people?” He grabbed a plate and she put some of the chicken on it and then put the container back into the fridge.

 

They went to the table and she sat in his lap as they shared the chicken. “Not warming it up?” He was surprised, she usually didn’t care for cold chicken.

 

“Not today. It will take too much time and we only have another hour before the kids get home. I was hoping for a quick snack and then a long shower with my husband.” Robin fed him another piece of chicken and gave him her best sexy smile.

 

“Oh really? Well, I think that can be arranged although I have to ask what has gotten into you this weekend? Not that I am complaining, but you have been insatiable.” He grabbed another piece of chicken off the plate and fed it to her.

 

She thought about it for a moment. “I guess seeing him Friday night just made me appreciate us even more.” She purposely didn’t mention Nikolas’s name, there was no need. “I am so grateful every day that you saved me from marrying him and that we were given this amazing second chance. I love our children, I love our life and I love you, so much.” Tears formed in her eyes as she spoke, overwhelmed with emotion.

 

“And I love you and our children and our life, so much. Don’t ever doubt that.” He looked down at the plate and realized that they had finished their snack. “How about instead of telling you how I feel, I take you upstairs, take you into that wonderful shower of ours and show you?”

 

He kissed her and then picked her up, carrying her up the stairs to their bathroom to make another memory in their shower.

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

“Mommy!” Emma ran into the house and jumped on her mom’s lap, closely followed by Mac, Mal and Felicia.

 

“Hey baby. Did you have fun this weekend?” Emma nodded her head enthusiastically while Robin smiled at her. “Whoa.” Robin was caught off guard when Mal decided to join his sister on her lap. “Careful buddy, Mommy is not 21 years old anymore.”

 

Mac and Felicia laughed at the sight before them. Mac looked around the living room. “Where is Patrick?”

 

Patrick walked out of the kitchen. “Right here Mac. You really didn’t think I was going to leave her alone, did you?”

 

Emma looked at her Uncle Mac. “Uncle Mac, why can’t Daddy leave Mommy alone?”

 

Robin quickly covered. “He just meant that since it’s Daddy and I’s anniversary, he hoped he would be wherever I am. Why don’t you two go upstairs and unpack? Daddy and I need to talk to Uncle Mac and Aunt Felicia for a few minutes.”

 

Emma looked suspiciously at the adults. She was 10 now and had started catching on to the fact that she was sent to her room whenever the adults didn’t want her to hear what they are talking about. “Okay but if there is something going on, I want to know about it.”

 

Robin laughed. “I promise if there is anything you need to know I will tell you myself, okay?”

 

Emma studied her mom and then nodded her head. “Come on Mal.” She and her brother both picked up their overnight bags and, after giving kisses and hugs to their aunt and uncle, headed upstairs to unpack.

 

Mac smiled at Robin. “She is so much like you.”

 

“I know and it scares the hell out of me.” Robin shook her head.

 

Patrick could sense that Robin needed a moment alone with her uncle. “Hey Felicia, I know you are responsible for those amazing cheese fries at the Haunted Star and I was wondering if you could come in the kitchen and help me add it to our recipe book?”

 

Felicia caught on right away. “Of course.” The pair headed into the kitchen and left Mac and Robin alone to talk.

 

Mac sat down on the couch with his niece. “Okay Robin, you want to tell me what is going on?”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 8

 

“They aren’t exactly subtle are they?” She was laughing as she sat on the couch.

 

“Hey, after everything we have been through together I hope you know you can tell me anything.” He took her hand and gently squeezed it.

 

“It’s just, when Emma looked at me just a minute ago the way she did, all those old memories came flooding back of when I was her age. Being kidnapped, Grant Putnam’s attack,” tears filled Robin’s eyes, “Grandma Filomena’s murder, Mom’s kidnapping, my catatonia, all things I had gone through before I was her age and all I have ever wanted was to make sure the neither she or Mal ever went through anything like that but now, with Nikolas back…”

 

Mac finished “You’re afraid for the kids and Patrick.”

 

She nodded her head. “Mal is still young enough that he may not remember but Emma, she’ll remember and she knows something isn’t right, I could see it in her eyes.”

 

Mac nodded, he had seen it too. “Then be honest with her. Tell her that Nikolas is dangerous and she needs to make sure she stays away from him and to let you know if he comes near her or Mal. You’re right - Emma is a bright and intuitive girl. She is also curious and determined. If you try to hide this from her it is just going to make her more determined to figure it out. I know from experience.” He smiled at her.

 

“Of course you do. I know you’re right but I just wanted to protect them from that world. I thought being a doctor and not a spy would give me that security. Leave it me to get involved in the Cassadines.”

 

“Robin, you are a brilliant doctor and a caring, beautiful woman. Unfortunately for us, that combination will attract people who want to use your intelligence for their own gain or men, like Nikolas, who want you for themselves.” He looked her straight in the eyes. “Nikolas’s obsession with you isn’t your fault. I want you to know this - everyone who loves you is on alert and we will use every resource available to protect you, Patrick and the kids.” He patted her hand. “So, what did Cassadine have to say?”

 

Robin rolled her eyes. “Just that he was brainwashed too and he had no feelings for me anymore.”

 

Mac studied her carefully. “Do you believe him?”

 

Robin was blunt. “No. I can’t explain it but I am certain that nothing has changed with regards to his feelings towards me. And I don’t have a choice; I have to deal with him for now. He is back on the board of the hospital and planning to be hands-on, especially when it comes to funding my research.”

 

Mac cringed at the thought of that bastard getting anywhere near her but he knew that for the moment their hands were tied. “Well, l don’t want you alone with him - ever. If he requests a meeting, make sure someone else is with you. If he comes to your office, leave the door open or call someone to listen in on the conversation. We need to be proactive with this guy.”

 

Robin nodded her head in agreement. “I will. Thank you Uncle Mac. I love you.”

 

Mac hugged her close. “I love you too.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 9

 

Robin rubbed her eyes while she sat at her desk going over the latest test results. This weekend had been wonderful but exhausting. She smiled, remembering being with Patrick and the kids last night, watching ‘Tangled’ while eating pizza – a loaded one from Impruzzio’s. It was a perfect family night and, after the kids were sleeping, they continued with some mommy/daddy time. She heard a knock on her door.

 

“Come in.”

 

“Hello Robin.” Nikolas stood in the doorway. “I just wanted to stop by to set up some meetings to go over disbursement of the funding. Dr. Hardy said that all decisions were to be made by you.”

 

Robin waited to see if he attempted to come in the door. He didn’t and she didn’t invite him in. “Instead of meetings, why don’t you write up your ideas, send them to me and I’ll review them and get back to you.”

 

“Robin, this is silly. We used to do things together all the time.”

 

Robin straightened up behind her desk. She pulled her cell phone out of her pocket and quickly pressed the speed dial button for Patrick. Keeping the phone out of Nikolas’s sight, she answered him. “That was before you tried to trick me into marrying you.”

 

Nikolas ran his hands through his hair. “Robin, I have already explained what happened. I had hoped that you of all people would understand the damage brainwashing can do. I know you know about forgiveness, you were the one who taught me.”

 

He took one small step in the room. He smiled at her. “We were sitting outside. You had finally succeeded in helping me learn to speak again after my stroke, you know after I had been shot in the throat. I spoke to you about my mother, how I felt about her and the decisions she made, abandoning me and focusing on her other children. Because of you, I forgave her and was able to build a relationship with her. Are you telling me there is no chance that you could ever forgive me?”

 

Robin sat there thinking about what to say. She knew Patrick had picked up the call and was aware that Nikolas was in her office. She hoped he was able to get there soon. “I honestly don’t know Nikolas, you are talking about two completely different situations.”

 

Nikolas took another step into the office. “But you forgave Patrick?”

 

Robin couldn’t believe he was bringing Patrick into this. “That’s not the same.”

 

Another step closer. “Why not?”

 

“Because I wasn’t trying to force her into something she didn’t want to do. I wasn’t lying to her and using the people she loves to push her into marriage.” Patrick walked around Nikolas and over to Robin’s desk. He looked at his wife. “Are you okay?”

 

“I’m fine.” Now that Patrick was there she had the little extra courage she needed to deal with Nikolas. “Nikolas, as I said before, please write up your ideas and send them to me. Between email and phones, I really do not see a need to meet face to face.” She stood up and walked over to Patrick, standing by him. “Now I am asking you to please leave.”

 

Nikolas looked at her and then sighed. This wasn’t going the way he had hoped. “If this is what you want, fine.” He looked at Patrick. “I assume that is how you would like to handle our communication as well.”

 

Patrick nodded. “I think that it is for the best.”

 

“Very well, I’ll have proposals to both of you by the end of the week. Robin,” he bowed his head to her, “Patrick.” He smiled at Patrick but there was something in it that Patrick didn’t like. Instinctively, he put his arms around Robin before Nikolas turned and walked out the door.

 

As soon as Nikolas left, Patrick turned her around and just looked at her. After making sure that she was okay, he pulled her close and held her.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Nikolas held his temper until he got home. He walked into the living room and over to the bar cart, pouring himself a glass of scotch. He took a long drink, trying to calm himself and finally gave up, throwing the glass into the fireplace with all his might. “Damn you Drake!”

 

She walked in. “Bad day?” She smirked at him and poured herself a drink.

 

“That damn man is ruining everything.” He poured another drink and sat down on the couch. “He convinced Robin that all communication between me and her needs to be done by e-mail or phone.”

 

“Hmm, well that does sound like Patrick.” She smiled. “But you are the one donating the funds, not him. I am sure that you can convince the other board members and Dr. Hardy that you and Robin need to actually have face to face meetings. After all, it would certainly be a lot faster than to send e-mails back and forth.”

 

Nikolas smiled back at her. “This is true. Actually, there is a very important neurology conference next week in California that board is requiring Dr. Drake to attend.”

 

She sat down next to him. “Well, then I suggest you get on the phone with the board.” She raised her glass and they toasted and then drank. “Just wait until he’s gone before you arrange the meeting. Don’t give him the chance to interfere.”

 

“I know. Now let’s discuss your part of the plan.”

 

Settling in on the couch, the two spent the rest of the evening planning the demise of the Scorpio-Drake marriage.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 10

 

“Can we please discuss this?” Patrick couldn’t believe that Robin was turning him down. They were arguing as they walked in the front door after a 12 hour day at the hospital. The kids were on their way home from dinner with Mac and Felicia.

 

“Nothing has changed – I still can’t go with you and the kids next week. I am right in the middle of my trials and the grant proposal is due a week from Friday.”

 

“Wrong Robin, something has changed, something big – Cassadine is back.”

 

Robin shook her head at him. “Which is why Jason has given us this lovely, updated security system and the security guards. I will be well protected and the kids are looking forward to spending some time with their Grandpa Noah and Uncle Matt.”

 

After his release from prison, Matt had returned to Port Charles briefly in hopes of reuniting with Maxie. Once he realized that she was truly happy with Nathan he made the decision to move across to the country to California for a new start. Noah went with him, hoping to build a better relationship with his youngest son. Patrick had understood completely.

 

They were all meeting up next week for a Drake family reunion during the neurology conference Patrick had to attend on behalf of GH. Patrick had been fine with Robin not going with them until Friday night when Nikolas Cassadine walked back into their lives. “I’m sorry but that is not enough for me. Nikolas isn’t some regular guy off the street, he’s a prince with money and connections.” He put his arms around her and stared into her eyes. “We can bring your paperwork with us for the grant and Kavi can oversee the trials.” He gave her his best sad puppy dog eyes.

 

She laughed at him. “Yeah, that look doesn’t work for the kids and it sure as hell won’t work for you. I’m not changing my mind. Plus, this will give me a chance to catch up on some sleep.”

 

“Hey, that’s not fair – especially since you are the reason we haven’t been getting much sleep lately.”

 

“What can I say, I’m addicted to my husband.” She kissed him, taking her time and letting her lips linger on his for a little longer than was safe when the kids were due home soon.

 

“And I am most definitely addicted to my wife,” He lowered his forehead down to hers. “which is why I don’t understand how you are okay with being away from me for a week.”

 

“I’m not, it is just the way things worked out this time. But maybe I could arrange some phone consults next week for after the kids go to bed?”

 

He pouted. “Not as good as the real thing but it will have to do. Meanwhile, we will just have to make the most of this week before the kids and I leave.”

 

Robin leaned back and smiled at him. “Now that sounds like a great plan, Dr. Drake. So what are you thinking for supper?”

 

“I don’t know. It’s too late to get something started so leftovers or do you want to order something?”

 

“Oh, you know what I could go for – some ribs from Kelly’s with extra barbecue sauce.” Her eyes lit up at the thought of them.

 

Patrick gave her a strange look. “What? Patrick, what is it?”

 

“Are you feeling okay?”

 

She scrunched up her nose at him. “What do you mean?”

 

He didn’t know how to put his next statement. “Well Robin, you have been having some weird, um, cravings lately. I mean cold chicken, the loaded pizza you insisted we have last night, those crazy cookies and now ribs with extra sauce.”

 

“So?” She really wasn’t getting his point.

 

“Robin, when was the last time you wanted ribs from Kelly’s, I mean specifically from Kelly’s?”

 

Robin thought about it. “I don’t know, I mean it’s not something I eat a lot of.”

 

“It’s not something you ever eat. The only time you ever wanted ribs from Kelly’s was when you were pregnant with Emma.”

 

“Ha ha.” Robin pulled out of his arms. No, it couldn’t be.

 

“Does it look like I’m kidding?” Patrick started thinking back over the last few weeks. “Really think about it – how many times have you cried over the past few weeks? Hell, you were crying last night over that damn movie.”

 

“He was dying.”

 

“Robin, you have seen that movie at least two dozen times and you never even teared up, let alone cried.”

 

She started thinking, when was her last period? They had been so busy lately with the kids and work she sometimes lost track of time.

 

“This is ridiculous and I am going to prove it to you.” She pulled up the calendar on her phone and started counting.

 

7 weeks. “Oh my God – I’m pregnant.”

[cmahorror]

Chapter 11

 

“Oh my God – I’m pregnant.”

 

Patrick heard her say the two words he had been waiting to hear and grabbed Robin in his arms, swinging her around. “Yes!”

 

“Easy there cowboy, maybe I should rephrase that - I may be pregnant.” She began pacing around the room. “I’ll call Kelly right now and see if she can squeeze me in tomorrow.” Dr. Kelly Lee had returned to GH 2 years ago and was now Chief of Obstetrics. Kelly told her she would see her first thing in the morning.

 

She got off the phone, still in shock that she may be pregnant. “How did this happen?”

 

“Well, when a man and a woman really love each other…” Robin glared at him. “Robin, you are not on birth control and condoms are only 97% effective. Let’s face it, with our sex lives it is more surprising that this hasn’t happened sooner.”

 

He pulled her onto the couch and held her. “Robin, I know this isn’t planned but I am happy about it. I get tested every other month and I tested negative just last week so I am ok. This is a good thing.” He pulled out his phone. “Now, I am calling Jason.”

 

Robin was surprised. “We are not telling anyone until we are sure.”

 

“No, I’m calling him because there is no way in hell I am letting you stay here by yourself next week. I was already not sure about it before but now that you’re pregnant…”

 

“Possibly pregnant and let’s not do anything until we know for sure.” She gently pushed Patrick’s phone down from his hands. “I will make you a deal – if I am pregnant, I will stay with Jason and Sam next week. If not, I stay home. Fair enough?”

 

Patrick sighed, knowing it wasn’t an argument he was going to win. “Fine, but either way I am still going to worry about you.”

 

“I know and that is one of the many reasons why I love you Dr. Drake. Now, use your phone to get the mother of your children some ribs.”

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

“You’re pregnant!” Dr. Lee was thrilled for her old friends.

 

“Really? You’re sure?” Robin had gotten used to the idea over the past twelve hours and wanted to be certain.

 

“Yes, I’m positive. Given your symptoms you really shouldn’t be surprised.” Kelly smiled at the couple.

 

Robin began crying. Patrick quickly took her in his arms. “Robin, honey?” He looked at her face and saw she was smiling.

 

“We’re having a baby.” She kissed him and looked at Kelly. “When?”

 

“Based on your hormone levels, I’d say approximately 4 weeks. I can give you an actual due date when I do your exam but that won’t be until next week. Right now I want to concentrate on getting your protocol adjusted and getting you on prenatal vitamins. Are you still working with Dr. Makaba?” Robin nodded. “Good, I have all the information he will need and I will send it over to him immediately. You two go and celebrate the good news.”

 

He walked Robin back to her office. She smiled at him as she unlocked the door. “So Dr. Drake, do you have time to celebrate?”

 

“Why Dr. Scorpio-Drake, I thought you’d never ask.” He followed her into her office, closing and locking the door behind them.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 12

 

Robin and Patrick sat at the dinner table with the kids. Tonight they let Emma choose what they were having for supper and, to no one’s surprise, she had chosen pancakes.

 

“May I have more syrup please?” Mal smiled at his mom, using the dimple he inherited from his dad to full effect.

 

Robin laughed out loud at their son and put a little more syrup on his stack of pancakes. “Yes, but only because you asked nicely. How was school today?”

 

Mal took another big bite, chewed, swallowed and then spoke. “Fun – I have a new friend. Her name is Stephanie.”

 

“Really, a girl friend?” Patrick smiled proudly at his son while Robin rolled her eyes.

 

“No Daddy, she’s little, she’s 3.” He held up 3 fingers to illustrate the point.

 

“Oh, so you are like her big brother at school?” Robin asked. His classroom was 3-4 year olds and the older kids helped out with the younger ones. Mal nodded his head enthusiastically. “Good.”

 

“How about you, Emma? How was your day?” Robin noticed her daughter got quiet when they started talking about school.

 

“Fine I guess.” She took a quick bite of her pancake.

 

“Emma, what happened?”

 

Emma looked at her parents. “We got a new student at school – Spencer Cassadine.”

 

Robin nodded her head. Emma still remembered living at Wyndamere and Robin’s almost marrying Nikolas. Patrick and Robin had never told Emma why the wedding didn’t happen.

 

“I see.” Robin looked at Patrick. “How was he?”

 

“Fine, he stopped and talked to me at lunch. He said he had missed us and that he and his Dad wanted us to come and visit.” Robin cringed while Patrick stood up quickly and walked away from the table to regain his composure.

 

“Emma, there is something your Dad and I wanted to talk to you about. You remember when Mal was a baby and I almost married Spencer’s dad, right?”

 

Emma nodded her head, watching her parents closely.

 

“Well, there were a lot of reasons why I didn’t marry him, the biggest one being that I am in love with your Dad.”

 

“But if you were in love with Daddy, why were you going to marry Spencer’s dad?” Emma was confused.

 

Robin considered how best to answer her. “Because Grandpa Robert was in trouble and the only way to help him was to marry Spencer’s dad. But then Grandma Anna, Uncle Jason and your daddy saved Grandpa Robert and I could marry your daddy instead.”

 

Emma thought about what she had just heard. “Did Spencer’s dad know that was why you were marrying him?” Robin nodded her head yes. “Is that why Uncle Jason has people following us?”

 

Robin sighed. “You are too smart for your own good sometimes. Yes.”

 

Patrick jumped in. “Spencer’s dad, his name is Nikolas, isn’t someone we want around you or your brother around right now. Do you remember what he looks like?”

 

Emma nodded her head. “Good. I need you to promise me that if he tries to talk to you or Mal you will let one of us adults know as soon as possible. Okay?”

 

Emma looked at her mom and realized she was scared. “Mommy, will he hurt us?”

 

Robin quickly went over to her daughter and pulled her into a tight hug. Patrick answered her. “No, but he may try to get you or Mal to go someplace with him and we don’t want you to go anywhere with him. So, promise?”

 

“I promise Daddy. Is it time for code words?” Robert had come up with code words so that Emma knew it was safe to go with someone. If they didn’t know the words, she would scream and thrown a fit until help came. They hadn’t had to use them in years.

 

Patrick thought for a moment and then nodded his head. “So which one do you two want to use?”

 

Emma walked over to her brother and whispered in his ear. He nodded eagerly. She looked at her parents. “Bear the butterscotch.” Butterscotch the bear was Emma’s and she had given it to her brother when he was a baby. Switching up the words made it harder for someone to figure out the phrase.

 

“Bear the butterscotch it is.”

 

“What about Spencer? Can I talk to him?” Emma didn’t think it was fair that she couldn’t talk to Spencer because of his dad.

 

Robin was torn but came up with a compromise. “At school is fine but that’s it, at least for now. I am also asking you not to tell Spencer what we talked about tonight – okay?”

 

“Okay mommy.” Robin smiled at her and felt herself tearing up again. She was getting so big.

 

“Alright, well I am going to clean up supper while you two go with Daddy to get your baths. Head on up and pick out your pjs and Daddy will be right behind you.”

 

The kids ran up the stairs while Patrick walked over and hugged Robin. “That went well, all things considered. The important thing is keeping them and you safe.”

 

“I know I just didn’t want this for them.” She was crying now, finally releasing the tears she had been holding back.

 

“I know but it is all going to be okay, I promise you.” He wiped away her tears and gave her a kiss before heading upstairs to help get the kids ready for bed as Robin finished cleaning up supper.

Edited December 16, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Just wanted to thank you for the shout outs in the episode forum. I sometimes wonder if people are reading so it makes me happy to know you are!

 

Chapter 13

 

Alice opened the door to the Quartermaine mansion and welcomed the Drakes in. Patrick and the kids were dropping Robin off before they headed to the airport.

 

“Hey man, about time you got here.” Jason smiled at his hockey buddy as he came down the stairs.

 

“Don’t blame me, my wife kept changing her mind about what she was bringing with her.” Robin rolled her eyes at him. Jason came over and hugged Robin.

 

“Some things never change.”

 

She playfully swatted his chest. “You’re stuck with me for the next week so you might want to be on my good side.”

 

“Good point.” He knelt down and greeted the kids. “Hey Mal, Emma. Danny is in the living room playing, why don’t you go see him before you leave.” The kids ran off while Patrick brought Robin’s suitcase in and set it down in the front hall.

 

“I’ll take that up for you in just a minute. Robin, we are thrilled to have you here with us. Sam has been dying for some girl time with you.” Jason was surprised that Robin agreed to leave her house while Patrick was gone but more than happy to have her there. At least he and Patrick would know she was safe from Cassadine.

 

Patrick stood behind his wife and placed his arms around her. His hands settled lower than normal, on her stomach. “Thank you again. This way I’ll be able to sleep at night knowing she is someplace safe.” He unconsciously gave Robin’s belly a little rub.

 

Jason watched this and realized exactly why Patrick insisted on Robin staying with him and Sam. He smiled at the couple and nodded at Patrick’s hands. “Got something you want to share with me?”

 

Robin looked at him shocked and then gave a little laugh. “Don’t tell anyone, the kids don’t even know yet.”

 

Jason pulled her out of Patrick’s arms and hugged her again. “I am so happy for you!” He looked down at her. “We have come a long way from the boy without a past and the girl without a future, haven’t we?”

 

“Hey, should I be jealous?” Sam came out into the hall, smiling.

 

Robin ran over and hugged her friend. “Just celebrating a little good news. Don’t tell anyone but Patrick and I are having another baby!”

 

Sam screamed out in happiness for her friend. “Oh my God, that is great news!”

 

“Well, it’s still really early in the pregnancy so we don’t want to announce it just yet but your husband figured it out.”

 

“Hey blame your husband.” Jason interrupted. “He was the one rubbing your belly like he was expecting a genie to pop out of it.”

 

The four of them laughed so loud that the kids came running out of the living room. “What’s so funny?”

 

Robin smiled at her daughter. “Nothing, Daddy was just being silly. Now you guys need to get going so you don’t miss your plane.” She gave her daughter and son kisses and hugs. “Be good for Daddy, Grandpa Noah and Uncle Matt.”

 

Both kids nodded their heads and ran out the door to the car yelling “love you Mommy.”

 

“I love you too.” She turned to Patrick. “And I love you. Go, have fun with the kids and your dad and brother and send them my love. I will talk to you tonight.” She kissed him and he grabbed hold of her, holding her close, not wanting the moment to end.

 

She finally pulled away. “Now go. I love you, so much.”

 

He sighed and reluctantly headed towards the door. “And I love you, so much. I will call you when we get to the hotel. Goodbye.”

 

“Goodbye.” He left and she watched him and the kids drive away.

 

Sam came up and hugged her friend. “I know you are going to miss them but we are going to spoil you rotten this week.” She turned to her husband. “Jason, take Robin’s bag up to her room and we will be right behind you.” She looked back at Robin. “Let’s get you settled in.”

[Lillybee]

RC should be jealous of you. Your stories are so much better than what he is writting.

[HeatLifer]

I read this to cleanse myself after watching the show. Ha. Great job, cmahorror!

[cmahorror]

Chapter 14

 

She sat there with a headache starting while the little kids running around the room. It's not that she minded this job that much but she preferred when she was working at GH with Patrick. Unfortunately that wasn’t part of the plan. Right now, the plan was to get close to Mal and slowly gain his confidence and her job here as a teacher aide was the perfect way. She didn’t interact with the parents so she didn’t have to worry about Patrick and Robin but she still had full access to Mal. He was a bright and beautiful boy and she missed him being here this week while he was in California with his Dad.

 

“Miss Talbot?” She felt a tug on her hand.

 

“Yes Stephanie?” The little girl stared at her with big brown eyes.

 

“Where’s Mal?” The little girl adored him and was missing him this week.

 

She smiled at her and pushed a lock of dark brown hair behind the little girl’s ear. “He’s visiting his Grandpa but he’ll be back soon.”

 

“Okay.” Stephanie ran off to play.

 

She looked at the window and ran her fingers through her hair. They would all be home next week and then the real fun would begin.

 

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

Robin heard a knock on her office door.

 

She had learned from the incident with Nikolas last week. “Who’s there?”

 

“It’s Tom.” The chief of staff stuck his head in the door and Robin waved him in.

 

“Hi Tom! What brings you by?” Robin was always happy to see him. A genuinely nice guy who also happened to be an excellent doctor, Tom was a great chief of staff who ran the hospital a lot like Alan Quartermaine had a decade before. He was popular with the staff and the board and ran the hospital in an efficient manner.

 

And today he did not look happy to be in Robin’s office. “We need to talk.”

 

Robin gestured to a chair. “Please have a seat. What’s wrong?”

 

“It’s about Nikolas Cassadine. The board feels that it is in the hospital’s best interest if you and he meet face to face to discuss the disbursement of funds for his donation.” Tom clearly looked uncomfortable. After the ball, Robin and Patrick had met with him and explained their past with Nikolas.

 

“Tom, you can’t be serious.” Robin couldn’t believe it.

 

“Unfortunately, yes. There is even discussion of reducing the amount you will receive if you continue to refuse the meetings.”

 

Robin sighed. “Do I have to meet with him alone?”

 

“His only request is that your husband not be allowed in the meeting but I don’t see a problem with you bringing another staff member or board member with you.” Tom was trying to help Robin out. “I am sorry about this.”

 

“I know you are. Set up the meeting, make it someplace public and I will go from there.” Robin was already trying to figure out how she was going to explain this to Patrick. “Thank you for telling me in person Tom.”

 

He stood up. “Not a problem. I’m thinking Thursday, if that is okay with you?”

 

“That’ll be fine. Just give me a time and a place and I’ll be there.” She stood up and walked Tom to the door. “I’ll see you later.”

 

“See you later.” He left, feeling horrible but knowing he didn’t have a choice.

 

Robin sat back down at her desk and thought about her options for a few minutes before she picked up her phone and made a call. “Hi, I need your help with something.”

Edited December 19, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 15

 

Nikolas sat in the Metro Court waiting for Robin. Patrick and the kids were still in California visiting Noah and Matt so he still had a few days to try and make a dent in Robin’s walls. Tonight was just the first step.

 

He heard the elevator door open and saw Robin walk in. She was dressed for work in a simple black skirt and dark green blouse. Her hair was pulled back in a ponytail but she was still the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.

 

He was so focused on her that he didn’t notice that someone else walked off the elevator with her. It took him a second to realize who it was – Jason.

 

"Hello Nikolas.” Jason walked over with Robin and held out his hand. Nikolas didn’t take it.

 

“I’m sorry Jason but this is a private meeting about hospital business so I am going to have to ask you to leave. This doesn’t involve you.” He motioned back to the elevator.

 

Jason put his hand down and maintained his position in between Nikolas and Robin. “Actually Nikolas, it does involve me. I am here with the permission of the board and the chief of staff to act as a mediator in these discussions.” He looked around the restaurant, noting that there were no other diners. “I take it the kitchen is closed.”

 

Nikolas glared at Jason. “No, I just didn’t want any distractions tonight so Robin and I could concentrate on our work. Now I am not sure who told you that you could be a part of this discussion but as I said this is private hospital business so unless you are on staff at the hospital, I need you to leave.”

 

Jason still didn’t move. “Again Nikolas, I am not going anywhere. You see, I recently took on a new position in the community. As of yesterday I have taken a position on the board at General Hospital which means that I have every right to be here. Also, I am Robin’s ride tonight so I am not going anywhere without her.”

 

Nikolas couldn’t believe it – once again Jason was coming between him and Robin. He knew Robin was staying with Jason and Sam while Patrick was out of town but he had hoped to get her alone for just a few hours. “Fine, shall we have a seat?”

 

Jason pulled Robin’s chair out for her and then sat down next to her while Nikolas took a seat directly across. The waiter came over to take their drink orders.

 

“Some wine Robin?”

 

“We are working tonight Nikolas. Water will be fine.” Even if she weren’t pregnant, she still wouldn’t have drunk any alcohol tonight.

 

“Same here.” Jason gave Nikolas a fake smile.

 

“Fine, three waters please.” He handed Robin the proposal. “Now if you would like to review my plans for the funding.” He cringed as Jason scooted his chair over and leaned in close to Robin, putting his arm around her chair so he could read it with her.

 

It was going to be a long night.

 

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Robin and Jason were laughing as they came in the door.

 

“What’s so funny?” Sam was waiting up for them.

 

Jason walked over to his wife and gave her a long kiss. “You sure you want to hear? It involves your cousin."

 

Sam nodded her head. Nikolas was her cousin, that was true, but she hadn’t seen or heard from him in over 4 years. He had also played a part in brainwashing her to get to Robin, not caring what it would do to her. Robin and Patrick had helped her get her husband back and the two couples had been close friends for a long time. The reality of it was that she was much closer to Robin and Patrick than she was with Nikolas and his obsession with Robin scared her. Especially now that Robin was pregnant.

 

“Okay. It’s just his look when I came off that elevator was like,” he thought for a moment, “you know when a cartoon character gets mad and their face turns red, with steam coming out of their ears - that was Nikolas tonight. If looks could kill, I would have been dead before I stepped foot off that elevator.”

 

Sam giggled at the picture Jason was painting. “The other people in the place must have been surprised.” She saw Robin and Jason exchange a look she didn’t like. “What?”

 

Jason answered. “He bought out the restaurant for the evening. We walked into a romantic setting at an empty restaurant. It was clearly not set up to be a business meeting.”

 

Sam couldn’t believe it. “Thank God you went with her then.” She walked over to Robin. “Are you okay?”

 

Robin smiled. “Yes, I’m fine. We ate supper, drank a ton of water and finalized all the plans for the funding so there is no need for us to meet again.” She yawned. “Look, I am really worn out. I’m going to call Patrick and then go to bed. I need to get to the hospital early in the morning to put the finishing touches on my grant proposal.”

 

“And then we are spending the afternoon at the spa – my treat – a Mommies day out.” Sam hugged Robin and gently rubbed her cheeks. “It’s going to be okay, you’ll see. Say hi to Patrick and the kids for me.”

 

“Will do.” Robin said her good nights and then headed upstairs to call Patrick.

 

Sam walked over to Jason. “Now the truth – I feel like there is something you are leaving out.”

 

Jason led her into the living room and sat down with her on the couch. “He isn’t going to give up, I could see it in his eyes. The whole night, he was staring at her. He occasionally would glare at me but I made a point of provoking him. I sat as close to her as I could and made sure to always be in between the two of them.” Sam raised her eyebrows at him curiously. “I needed to see what his reaction would be. If he were truly over Robin, he wouldn’t care. But the way he looked at me…”

 

He pulled Sam close to him. “I am scared for her. I don’t want to think what would have happened tonight if I hadn’t been there. The truth is, I don’t know if she would have made it home if I hadn’t been with her.”

 

He lifted Sam’s chin until she was looking at him. “He’s dangerous Sam. I don’t want you or Danny anywhere near him right now. As obsessed as he is, I could see him using you to get to her. I couldn’t take it if anything happened to either one of you.”

 

Sam nodded her head in agreement and then laid back in her husband’s arms. As much as she hated to admit it, she knew Jason was right. Nikolas was dangerous and she just hoped he could be stopped before he got the one thing he wanted – Robin.

Edited December 21, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 16

 

Nikolas was in his gym, punching the hanging bag with fury. It was a stupid move, trying to get Robin alone tonight. The smart thing would have been to make sure the restaurant was filled to capacity so that she would be relaxed and begin to trust him again but his desire to have her to himself overwhelmed his common sense.

 

He should have known she wouldn’t show up alone but he would have never guessed that she would show up with Jason. Maybe Kelly or Tom but Jason never even occurred to him. The second Jason walked in with Robin, Nikolas felt like he did over 20 years ago when Jason stole Robin from him the first time. If Nikolas didn’t know better, he would have thought they were still a couple but he knew it was just a show Jason put on for his benefit. Jason was completely devoted to Sam.

 

Sam. He always felt bad for her involvement in this. He had known Jason was alive and hadn’t told her and then used her to help tear Patrick and Robin apart. But she was the best shot he had at the time of getting Robin over to his side, so he took it. He had not spoken to her since before the wedding but he knew that she and Jason found their way back to each other and she was happily living with them in the Quartermaine mansion with her husband and son.

 

No, Sam wasn’t his concern anymore. All his energies needed to be focused on Robin. It was time to regroup and rethink his plans. He needed his partner to step up her part of the plan as soon as Mal got back. Robin’s children were the key to getting to her. He missed her and he missed Mal.

 

Picturing Patrick’s face on the bag he gave it one final punch and then went to take a shower.

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

“So Jason was with you the entire time?” Patrick had been worried ever since Robin had called him earlier that week and told him about Nikolas’s latest ploy to see her.

 

“Yes, much to Nikolas’s annoyance. He sat in between us and stayed right by my side, literally, the entire night.” Robin was trying her best to reassure her husband that everything was okay.

 

“Boy, the other people there must have thought you got back together with Jason and dumped me.” He started to laugh but stopped when he realized that she wasn’t joining in. “Robin, what aren’t you telling me?”

 

Robin sighed, she had hoped she wouldn’t have to tell him this part until after he got home. “There was no one else in the restaurant. Nikolas bought the place out for the night.”

 

“That son of a bitch!” Patrick stood up and began pacing the hotel room. “I should have never left you alone.”

 

“Patrick, Patrick,” Robin was trying to get his attention, “you didn’t leave me alone. I am staying with Sam and Jason. My parents, I’m sure, are watching every move I make and Uncle Mac is keeping tabs as well. His plan didn’t work and now I don’t have to see him again.”

 

“I know. I just feel so helpless being so far away from you. I miss you.”

 

Robin smiled. “I miss you and the kids too but you are heading home on Saturday and in 48 hours I will be back in your arms in our bed. Focus on that.”

 

Patrick smirked and gave her his best seductive voice. “Definitely. In fact, I am going to my happy place right now.”

 

“Patrick!”

 

He laughed. “Just kidding - actually, the only place I’m going to is the bathroom to take a shower. I have some patient files Tom sent me to review and then I am hitting the hay. We’re taking the kids to the zoo tomorrow.”

 

Robin got a little sad thinking about what she was missing by not being there. “Take a ton of pictures and send them to me throughout the day. Sam is taking me to get a massage tomorrow but I will have my phone on me. Right now all I want to do is collapse into bed. Your child is wearing me out.”

 

“So he’s mine when he's making you tired?”

 

She giggled. “You bet.” She yawned. “Now you get your shower taken and I am going to pass out for the night. I love you.”

 

“I love you too.” He hung up the phone and headed for the shower, grateful that they had managed to stay one step ahead of the prince.

Edited December 21, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Chapter 17

 

“Miss Talbot?” Mal was happy to be back in preschool. He had had fun visiting his grandpa and uncle but he missed his friends and teachers.

 

“Yes Mal?” She looked down at the boy and smiled. It would have been next to impossible for her not to love him – he had so much of his father in him.

 

“Can Stephanie come with me to the slide?”

 

“Of course she can honey. Why don’t I take you both over there?” She held out her hand and the little boy took hold of it. “Come on Steph.” She led the children over to the slide.

 

“Mal, tell me about you trip. I heard you say you went to the zoo?”

 

Mal nodded his head enthusiastically. “Yep, we saw monkeys and penguins and lions and phants and…”

 

She gently interrupted him. “You mean elephants.”

 

“Yeah! We rode the train but I fell asleep.” He looked disappointed.

 

She saw an opportunity. “Well, don’t tell anyone but maybe, if you are real good, I can take you to the zoo and we’ll ride the train together. But it has to be our secret, no one else can know. Can you do that?”

 

Mal thought about it for a minute. He wasn’t supposed to have any secrets from mommy and daddy but he really wanted to go on the train. “Can Stephanie come too?”

 

She smiled at the child. “Of course she can. The three of us will go together but only if you promise not to tell anyone.”

 

“Okay! Thank you Miss Talbot.”

 

“Not a problem – just remember that this is our secret.” Just then the teacher blew the whistle, signaling the end of recess. Mal grabbed Stephanie’s hand and led her back in the classroom while Miss Talbot followed them.

 

Nikolas would be pleased. Her part of the plan was going right on schedule.

 

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Patrick walked down the hallway on his way to Robin’s office when he heard a familiar voice call out to him. “Dr. Drake, may I speak with you for a moment?”

 

Patrick steeled himself, he had known that Nikolas would approach him after he returned from the conference but still…

 

He turned around. “Yes, Mr. Cassadine?”

 

“I was hoping to speak to you about the other night. I’m afraid I may have given Robin the wrong impression during our meeting.” Nikolas was doing damage control. “I rented out the Metro Court solely for the purpose of getting the meeting done as quickly as possible. Between the noise and the many people both of us know, I was afraid it would have been too distracting and busy to finish the proposal in one night. But I think Robin and Jason may have taken it as a romantic overture and if they did, I do apologize.”

 

Patrick didn’t believe a word this guy was saying. “Well, thank you for telling me that but I think we both know that isn’t true. Your attempt to seduce my wife was transparent at best and desperate at worst.”

 

Nikolas stood his ground. “I’m sorry you feel that way but I must say that I don’t think that I am the one you should be worried about. Jason and Robin seemed very, should I say, close while we were dining together. I almost wondered if maybe…”

 

Patrick laughed and shook his head. Robin and Jason and both told him about Jason’s attempts to get to Nikolas, so Patrick was prepared for this. “Jason and Robin are best friends, nothing more. I have no worries when it comes to them. What I find curious is why you care? She’s my wife, not yours.”

 

Nikolas smirked at him. “Because Dr. Drake, I know how much it hurts when the woman you love leaves you for a former lover. I would hate to see it happen to you.”

 

Having said what he wanted to say, Nikolas walked away.

 

Patrick stood there for a moment and then pulled his cell phone out of his pocket. “Jason, it’s Patrick. Can we meet for lunch – there’s something I need to talk to you about.”

Edited December 23, 2014 by cmahorror

[BestestAuntEver]

Ugh, cmahorror you are at writing an intriguing story. I keep racking my brain about who the hell "Miss Talbot" is. I've gone between how it could be Britt or Lisa a dozen times.

You are definitely holding my attention more than the show.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 18

 

Robin stood at the nurse’s desk reviewing Mr. Thompson’s chart. The surgery had gone great but that wasn’t surprising with Patrick as the surgeon. He should be ready for release in a few days. As she was making a few notes her stomach began grumbling. Epiphany raised her eyebrows at her. “Getting hungry Dr. Scorpio-Drake?”

 

Robin’s face turned red. She had been fortunate with this pregnancy so far. When she was pregnant with Emma she had a lot of morning sickness. This one had stayed calm but it seemed like she was always hungry. “Probably just in need of a little snack.”

 

Epiphany smiled at her. “I have some crackers in my locker. You know, a simple snack that won’t upset your stomach.”

 

“How did you…” Robin smiled back at her. “Of course you figured it out. Please don’t say anything.”

 

Epiphany made sure no one was close enough to hear and then reached over and patted Robin’s hand. “The only thing I am going to say is congratulations. You and Drake Junior are wonderful parents and this child is a well deserved blessing. I’m assuming he is happy about it?” Epiphany remembered all too well when Robin was pregnant with Emma. There was constant bickering about Patrick’s place in her life and whether or not he wanted to even be a father.

 

Robin laughed. “What do you think?”

 

“You’re right, it was a silly question. That man is a great husband and father. It is hard to believe he fought against it for so long. It helps that he found the right woman to do it with.” Epiphany had a great love for the couple. She had been with them since the day they got together and watched them create a wonderful life together.

 

“What can I say Epiphany, when you’re right - you’re right.” Patrick came up behind his wife and wrapped his arms around her. Robin leaned into him.

 

“Hey, I thought you were in surgery?” She turned around and looked at him.

 

“Surgery was postponed - the patient had a fever so I am going to go meet Jason for lunch. Then I thought I would pick up the kids and make supper. Anything you want in particular?”

 

“Your famous French toast would definitely hit the spot.” She smiled, remembering the first time he made it for her. It was the morning after he first told her he loved her.

 

“I can do that.” He leaned down and kissed her, making a point of gently touching her stomach. “I will see you both at home in a little bit.”

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Jason was laughing so hard he about fell off his chair. “Seriously man, he was trying to make you jealous of me?” He had never heard anything so ridiculous.

 

Patrick laughed with his friend. “I know, I mean I figured he would bring it up but to actually come out and say that?” The two were sitting in Kelly’s having a couple of burgers and going over Patrick’s earlier conversation with Nikolas.

 

“Well, I knew what I was doing bothered him but I have to give him points for using it to try and upset you.” Jason looked at Patrick. “You know that Robin and I are just friends, right? I don’t want you thinking for even a moment that…”

 

Patrick interrupted him, “Jason, trust me, I know that. My wife and I are madly in love as are you and Sam. The four of us have an admittedly odd past, but we are exactly where we want to be. So let’s focus on the big issue, Nikolas. Are you and Sam still attending the benefit next Friday?” A week from Friday was a benefit dance for the Stone Cates Memorial AIDS wing of the hospital.

 

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Jason had taken over as primary benefactor for the wing since Sonny went to prison for murdering Jason’s brother AJ. “And I am betting neither will Nikolas.”

 

Several doctors in the hospital had volunteered to be part of a dinner & dancing raffle. The winner of the raffle will get the doctor for the evening as their date. Patrick and Robin had both volunteered to do it months ago. He was regretting it now but he also knew there was no way they could back out of it. “I know – is there any way we can fix it so Nikolas doesn’t win her?”

 

Jason shook his head. “No, I wish there was. All we can do is be there and, if he is the winning ticket, make sure he can’t go anywhere with her.”

 

Patrick shook his head in frustration. “Jason I just, I just want to protect her and I feel like I am failing. This dance is just another place he can get to her and I can’t stop him.”

 

Jason looked at his friend. He hated that Nikolas was doing this to them. “You are using every resource at your disposal to take care of her. That is what is important. That is how you are protecting her.”

 

Patrick thought about what Jason was saying. He knew in his head Jason was right but it didn’t make him feel any better. “Well, I can’t dwell on it now. I need to go the store and then pick up the kids. I’ll talk to you later.” Patrick stood up to leave.

 

Jason stood up and shook Patrick’s hand. “Yeah, and Patrick,” Patrick looked at him, “it’s going to be okay – I promise.”

 

“I want to believe you Jason, I really do.” He headed out the door to get his kids.

[cmahorror]

Chapter 19

 

Robin was running around the room almost two weeks later trying to find her shoes. Dressed in a simple black cocktail dress with her hair in waves, cascading down her shoulders, Patrick thought she was simply breathtaking. “Don’t just stand there, help me find my shoes so we can get going.”

 

“They’re your shoes Robin, why would I know where they are? Did you check under the bed?”

 

She glared at him. “Of course I did.”

 

“Calm down there Adventure Girl, just asking. Did you take them in the bathroom with you when you got ready? You do that sometimes.” Patrick was trying to remain calm, for her sake, but he was nervous about the benefit tonight.

 

Robin sighed, she hated it when he was logical. She went into the bathroom and found the shoes on floor by the sink. Slipping them on, she headed back into the bedroom. “Just for the record, I get very annoyed when you are right.”

 

“That explains why you are always so annoyed.” He smirked at her.

 

Walking over, he put his arms around her and held her tight. “It’s not too late to back out. We could say you aren’t feeling well and…”

 

Robin stopped him. “No – we promised we would do this and we will. Right now I have something more important to talk to you about. Have you noticed that Mal has been very quiet about school lately?” Robin was concerned about their son. The normally chatty boy had been coming home from school and barely talking about it all.

 

Patrick took a moment to think about it. “I guess so. I have been teaching him about hockey lately so I didn’t notice the whole not talking about school thing. He seems happy enough when I pick him up.”

 

Robin nodded. “Me too but he doesn’t talk about what he did during the day anymore.”

 

“Unless it involves Stephanie.” Patrick interjected.

 

Robin laughed. “Yes, he is quite taken with her.”

 

“I can understand why, have you met her?” Robin shook her head. “She is adorable. She has the biggest brown eyes, and she is kind of bossy for such a tiny thing. She has Mal wrapped around her little finger. He would do anything for her.”

 

Robin noticed his tie was crooked so she worked on straightening it while Patrick spoke. As soon as she was done, she used it to pull her husband down in a sweet kiss. “Aww, he sounds like he is taking after his daddy.”

 

Patrick looked at her proudly. “That’s my boy. But now that you mention it, he hasn’t been talking about school so I will talk to his teacher on Monday since it’s my day off. Will that work for you?” Robin nodded.

 

“Now it’s time to get going. Jason said he would have a bottle of sparkling water waiting for us in the car.” He took her hand and led her towards the door.

 

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

 

Robin and Patrick found their friends immediately upon entering the Metro Court ballroom. Everything was beautiful but they were surprised to see a note in the lobby that the top two floors of the hotel were closed for renovation. “What is going on with that?” Patrick asked Jason.

 

“Don’t know. Last I heard, Carly sold her part of the hotel after she moved to Arizona.” Carly had moved to be closer to Sonny. He was transferred to another facility following an incident at Pentonville a few weeks ago.

 

“I can’t say I miss her.” Robin’s disdain for Carly was not unreasonable. After Jason regained his memories, he shut Carly out of his life. She tried to help Sonny avoid going to jail for AJ’s murder and that was unforgivable. Carly, of course, blamed Robin and told her that whenever she could.

 

“And on that note,” he kissed his wife, “I will be right back.”

 

Robin laughed and waved him off. Sam and her caught up on the past week and were deep in conversation when Patrick came back over and took her hand.

 

“Excuse me Sam but, before the raffle starts, I want at least one dance with my wife.”

 

Sam smiled. “That sounds like a great idea.” She looked at Jason. “Doesn’t it?”

 

Jason laughed. “I can take a hint.” He held out his hand for Sam and followed Robin and Patrick out to the dance floor.

 

Patrick pulled Robin into his arms as the song started. Robin smiled at him, it was the first song they danced to after their second wedding.

 

What would I do without your smart mouth?
Drawing me in, and you kicking me out
You've got my head spinning, no kidding, I can't pin you down
What's going on in that beautiful mind, I'm on your magical mystery ride
And I'm so dizzy, don't know what hit me, but I'll be alright

My head's under water, But I'm breathing fine
You're crazy and I'm out of my mind

 

'Cause all of me, Loves all of you
Love your curves and all your edges, All your perfect imperfections
Give your all to me, I'll give my all to you
You're my end and my beginning, Even when I lose I'm winning
'Cause I give you all of me, And you give me all of you, oh oh

 

Patrick looked at her and smiled, truly happy.

 

How many times do I have to tell you, Even when you're crying you're beautiful too
The world is beating you down, I'm around through every mood
You're my downfall, you're my muse, My worst distraction, my rhythm and blues
I can't stop singing, it's ringing, in my head for you

 

My head's under water, But I'm breathing fine
You're crazy and I'm out of my mind

 

'Cause all of me, Loves all of you
Love your curves and all your edges, All your perfect imperfections
Give your all to me, I'll give my all to you
You're my end and my beginning, Even when I lose I'm winning
'Cause I give you all of me, And you give me all of you, oh oh

 

Taking her hands, Patrick slowly spun Robin out and back into him while she laughed. Neither one noticed that Nikolas had entered the room.

 

Give me all of you
Cards on the table, we're both showing hearts
Risking it all, though it's hard

 

'Cause all of me, Loves all of you
Love your curves and all your edges, All your perfect imperfections
Give your all to me, I'll give my all to you
You're my end and my beginning, Even when I lose I'm winning
'Cause I give you all of me, And you give me all of you

I give you all of me, And you give me all of you, oh oh

 

Patrick dipped Robin to the end of the song, bringing her back up in a kiss as their dance ended.

 

Song: All of Me by John Legend.

Edited December 24, 2014 by cmahorror

[cmahorror]

Merry Christmas (or Happy Thursday)!

Chapter 20

 

Dr. Tom Hardy stepped up to the microphone. “Welcome everyone to the dinner and dancing raffle to benefit the Stone Cates Memorial AIDS wing.” Everyone in the room began clapping. “If the doctor’s who have agreed to participate could please come to the stage.”

 

Patrick and Robin walked up to the stage hand in hand, along with Kelly Lee and 7 other doctors. Participants had bought a draw from the appropriate jar – men or women. In return for their donation, they got a two hour date with the doctor including dinner and dancing. Tom began drawing the names for the ladies first. Sam stepped up with her raffle ticket to be first victim. Tom pulled the name out of the jar. “Dr. Patrick Drake.”

 

Sam smiled and winked at Robin. Patrick leaned down to kiss his wife and then joined Sam and Jason to watch the rest of the raffle. Pretty soon the only two doctors left on the stage were Robin and Kelly and there were only two raffle tickets left, held by Jason and Nikolas. Jason stepped up and handed Tom his ticket. Tom reached his hand in the jar and pulled out a name. Looking apprehensive, he told Jason who his date for the evening was. “Dr. Kelly Lee, which means that Dr. Robin Drake is Mr. Cassadine’s date tonight.”

 

Nikolas smiled at Robin and walked over to the stage, holding his hand out to her to help her off the stage. She reluctantly took his hand and left the stage with him while Patrick and Jason glared at him. He led Robin to their table and pulled out her chair and then sat down across from her. “Must be fate.”

 

“Or God has a very sick sense of humor – take your pick.” Robin had no intention of letting him think for one second she was happy to be with him.

 

“Come on Robin, can we at least be civil to each other for the next two hours? How about some wine?” He reached for the bottle but Robin quickly put her hand over her wine glass.

 

“I can’t, I’m on call tonight.”

 

Nikolas nodded in understanding and then set down the wine bottle. “Then how about some sparkling cider?”

 

“That would be very nice, thank you.” Robin decided to be polite at best. While he got the cider, Robin looked over at Patrick. He was watching her like a hawk. She smiled at him but his look didn’t change.

 

“Looks like Patrick is jealous. I know the feeling.” Robin sighed as Nikolas sat back down at the table and poured the cider into her wine glass. “Well I won you fair and square, for tonight of course.” He smiled at her but she didn’t return it. “Actually, this will give me a chance to apologize for the other night. I was not trying to set you up and I am truly sorry if it seemed I was. Will you accept my apology?”

 

Robin nodded. She didn’t believe him but she didn’t want to spend the whole night listening to him lie to her. She was stuck with him for the next two hours and she wanted it to go as quickly as possible so she could go back to where she belonged, at home with her husband.

 

Dinner was served and polite dinner conversation was all they had. They discussed the grant and the funding from the donation he made. Anytime he attempted to steer the conversation towards her personal life, she would change the subject. Her personal life was no longer any of his business.

 

She kept an eye on the clock on the wall, watching the two hours slowly creep by. It was almost over when Nikolas stood up and held out his hand. “I believe dancing was part of the deal.”

 

She shook her head. “Nikolas, I …”

 

“One dance Robin, that’s all I ask and then you can go back to your husband.”

 

She didn’t say a word, just took his hand and headed to the floor with him. Nikolas nodded at the DJ.

 

He took Robin’s right hand in his left and put his right hand on her waist. She made sure there was enough distance between them so that their arms were the only parts of their bodies touching as the song started.

 

Every breath you take and every move you make
Every bond you break, Every step you take
I'll be watching you.

 

Every single day and every word you say
Every game you play, Every night you stay
I'll be watching you.

 

“Do remember Katherine and my Uncle Stefan’s engagement party?” He tightened his grip on Robin’s waist.

 

Robin was getting uncomfortable but nodded.

 

Oh can't you see, You belong to me?
How my poor heart aches with every step you take.

 

He suddenly moved his hand from her waist and wrapped it around her back, pulling her tight against him. He whispered in her ear, “We danced together all night. I still have many wonderful dreams about it."

 

Patrick recognized the look in Robin’s eyes, it was unmistakable - she was scared. Jason held Patrick back. “The song is almost over. If you cause a scene, he will have you arrested and then you can’t help her. Just wait.”

 

Every move you make and every vow you break
Every smile you fake, Every claim you stake
I'll be watching you

 

Every move you make and every step you take
I'll be watching you

 

I'll be watching you, I'll be watching you...

 

As soon as the song ended Robin tried to pull away but Nikolas held her tight. “The dance is over Nikolas, let me go.”

 

He took one more moment and, after smelling her hair, let her go. “Good night Robin, I hope you have wonderful dreams.” He watched as Jason and Patrick came up behind her. “I know I will.”

 

Nikolas walked out the door as Patrick took her in his arms and held her. He had overheard Nikolas’s last comment to her. She was shaking and it took him a few minutes to get her calmed down. Finally she spoke. “Take me home Patrick, please.”

 

Patrick just nodded and led his wife out the door. Jason and Sam followed close behind. The evening was over for all of them.

 

Song: Every Breath You Take by The Police

Edited December 25, 2014 by cmahorror