Alexis wakes up. She smiles as she thinks about earlier this morning. What a wonderful way to ring in the new year. Speaking of the new year, she had better start it off on the right foot at work. Before she can get up, the phone rings.

N- What the...

A- Hello.

Helena- Congratulations, you made it to another day. Don't worry, you won't live to see 1999. Have a good day.

N- Who was that?

A- Who else? She told me I wouldn't live to see 1999. Damn it, Ned! If she is going to kill me, I wish she would just do it and get it over with.

N- Is that any wasy to start off a new year?

A- No, but this morning was.

N-(kissing her shoulders) I agree. Want another perfect start?

A- What time is it? N- 8:00. We have time. A- No, I don't. I wish I did.

She wants to stay. She really, really wants to stay, but duty calls.

A- I do. Maybe I can just go in for a couple of hours.

N- I should go home, anyways. Grandfather is probably having a fit. But I have an offer for you.

A- Which would be?

N- I'll accompany you to the shower.

A- I accept your offer.

N- Sure. That was the best damn shower I've ever taken.

A- (smiling) Me too. See you.

N- Bye.

Alexis gets in her chauffeured limo and goes to the hospital. Ned drives to the gatehouse. He's only been home for 5 mins. when there is a knock on the door. It was Helena.

H- Hello, dear.

N- (hiding his surprise) Good morning, Helena. Do come in. Would you like something to drink?

H- No thank you. How are you?

N- Fine, thanks, and you?

H- Great.

N- If you're looking for Alexis, she is at the hospital.

H- Poor thing, she has to work today. But it's you that I want to see.

N- May I ask why?

H- I need you give me Alexis's head on a platter. Not literally, of course. Just tell me where I can get her alone. I know you can't really care for her.

N- No. I do care for her.

H- Mr. Ashton...Ned, you are a very intelligent man. You should know not to cross me. The consequences are unfathomable. I promise you an incentive.

N- My answer is no. Would you be so kind as to leave my home?

Helena walsk behind Ned and puts her hands on his neck. They're warm, but feel frigid to him. Suddenly, he is a petrified little boy. He doesn't move. She takes out a syringe and puts it in his neck, leaving him unconscious.