Laura sat up and reached for the worn sheet of paper lying on the coffee table.  She gazed at the words that had haunted her for days now, words that touched her deeply but didn’t feel quite right.  She had gazed at the familiar handwriting in Stefan’s letter for so long now that the words had begun to blur, but she knew there had to be some clue in the touching, if cryptic words.  Just as she knew in her heart of hearts that Stefan Cassadine – a man she had both hated and loved at different points in her life – was very much alive.

 “Stefan,” she whispered to the darkened room.  “Where are you?”

 ~*~

 “Mon cher, comment vas-tu?”  Isabella stroked her long, slim fingers down his chest, pulling her arms tightly about him and resting her fair head on his back.

 Sighing, Stefan gently disentangled her arms from around him and stepped onto the hotel terrace, gazing at the breathtaking Parisian skyline.  “Bella, please, I am fine . . . just not in the mood right now, mon amie.”

 A frown marred her lovely forehead as she followed him into the pitch black, turning to rest her elbows on the railing as she gazed into his haunted face.  “Why so sad?  Do tell.”

“Bella, you know me too well,” Stefan used the affectionate nickname he had bestowed upon her so many years before.  He liked to think he was the only one to use it, but he knew Bella – and her libido – all too well.  They had fallen into a passionate, lustful three-week liaison at least fifteen years before.  Stefan had still been reeling from Laura’s decision not to return to him and Nikolas, and Isabella had been resigning herself to one last fling before she married Luciano Scotti, an incredibly wealthy – and incredibly ancient – shipping magnate from the Amalfi coast.  They had consoled one another and proceeded to develop an odd sort of friendship that had certainly withstood the test of time . . . as well as Bella’s blessedly short yet magnificently lucrative alliance with Signor Scotti.  She was now one of the richest and most powerful women in Eastern Europe, and one of the sharpest businesspersons he had ever met.

 But most of all, she was a friend who had never hesitated to help him, no questions asked.  He didn’t have to pretend or make excuses when he was with her, and that was most definitely what he needed now. 

“Ma Bella” his husky endearment never ceased to send chills down her spine, “I can’t thank you enough for your assistance and hospitality in your fair country . . .”

 “Hospitality?”  Her green eyes wanted to spit fire, but she was always too charmed by him to stay mad for long.  “You know I’m always ready to offer you so much more, non?”

 Stefan chuckled as he cupped her face in his hands, gazing with fondness at her oh-so-familiar features.  “Tell me again why we never married and had a dozen children?”

 “Because, mon ami,” she whirled away from him and threw over her shoulder, “I don’t DO stretch marks.  And there’s that whole ‘monogamy’ thing that’s never been my style.”  At the door she turned back to smile softly at him.  “Oh, and of course there’s the small fact that you’re desperately yet inexplicably in love with another woman.  Puts a damper on any relationship, n’est-ce pas?”

 ~*~

 “Morning, Mom,” Laura leaned across the table to brush cheeks with her mother and planted a kiss on Lesley Lu’s upturned cheek.  “And how’s my baby girl doing?  Is that another loose tooth I see?”

 Lulu shyly nodded her head, ducking to avoid eye contact as she spooned more Cheerios into her mouth.  Her continued reluctance to speak still worried Laura, but Dr. Malloy, the speech pathologist at GH, had assured them that Lu’s reticence was very common in some children.  In short, when she had something to say, she’d say it. 

“So, baby,” Lesley glanced over the top of the PC Herald to lock gazes with her daughter, “what’s on for today?”

 “Well, I have an exciting day of casework, meetings, and counseling ahead of me.  I just know you’re both supremely jealous.”  She chucked Lu under the chin as she sat down to sip her orange juice.

 “Actually, I am.”  Lesley’s eyes twinkled as she qualified, “Well, jealous of everything but the staff meetings.”

 Laura chuckled, but her eyes became serious as she broached a subject she and Lesley had always avoided up until now.  “Mom, how about you come with me today?  I’m heading to the women’s center first thing, and there are always more people there than I have time to see.  I think you’d be wonderful with them.”

 Lesley froze for a moment, then reached slowly for her cooling coffee.  “Ah, Laura, I think I’d really enjoy that, but . . . but who would watch Lu?  And I did promise to take her to feed the ducks in the park today.”

 Raising her eyebrow at the flimsiest excuse she’d ever heard, Laura called her mother on it.  “You know Peggy’s mom is always ready to take care of Lu during the day – she offers at least twice a week.”  Laura turned to her daughter and said, “And I do believe I heard Mrs. Wilson say something about ice cream cones and a trip to the summer movies.  What do you say, honey?  Sound like a plan?”

 Lesley Lu was nodding her head vigorously as she wiped her mouth on her pajama sleeve – much to Laura’s chagrin – and bolted from her chair.  “Please, Lu, wear something clean!  You do own more than your pink dress, you know!”

 “Laura, really, I don’t appreciate your making my decisions for me,” Lesley was none too pleased as she stood and started clearing the dishes from the breakfast table.  “I haven’t done anything in a medical capacity in . . .” the years of banishment and inactivity flashed before her once again, reminding her of all that she had lost.

 “But this isn’t medical.  This is simply you meeting with women and girls who just need someone to listen to them for a while.  Someone to give them some sound advice and a friendly ear.  Lord knows you can do that!”  Laura grabbed her mother’s shoulders and turned her around.  “Just tell me you don’t want to do this, and you’re completely off the hook.  Go and feed the ducks ‘til your heart’s content.”

 Lesley smiled secretly as she shouted up the stairs, “Hurry up, sweetie!  It’s almost eight – we don’t want to keep the Wilsons waiting!”

 Laura laughed and helped clear the dishes.  One worry down, one to go.  She aimed to make the most of her time at the hospital that afternoon, looking for any information she could on Stefan’s sudden disappearance.

 ~*~

 Stefan was at his laptop that afternoon when Bella let herself into their suite, her arms laden with packages, a satisfied look on her face.  “Ahhh.  I had forgotten what lovely shopping there is in Paris – my townhouse here has been unoccupied for too long.  If it weren’t for my passion for the cote d’Azur . . . we really must do this more often, Stefan.”

 “Mmmm hmmm,” Stefan acknowledged the sound of her voice yet little else as he perused his mother’s bank statements on the CD-rom Andreas had managed to send him.  “It is a lovely day, isn’t it?”

 “Oh, mon cher, you must at least pretend to listen to me when I speak.  You still owe me for getting your magnificent derriere out of . . . Port Caroline, is it? . . . swiftly and without a trace.”

 “Port Charles, and yes, I do owe you for lending me your jet and your incomparable assistance,” he concurred as he snapped his laptop closed and stood to remove his glasses.  “What sort of payment did you have in mind?”

 Her seductive gaze swept him from head to foot, taking in his bare feet, jogging pants, and naked torso.  “I can think of something fun to while away the afternoon.”

“Ah, excellent!  So a late lunch, and then an incognito evening stroll along the Champs-Elysees?  Just what I had in mind.”

 “Stefan, really, I just came back from shopping.  You know the old saying, ‘Too much shopping and . . .’ well, whatever.  We’ll go to dinner and then . . . you can tell me more about the life you left behind in Pearl Harbor.  It sounds positively rustic!”

 “Bella, Port Charles really isn’t the backwoods at all.  It has computers and fax machines and even a traffic light or two.  More than one of your business associates resides there, as well.  Jasper Jacks.  Ned Ashton.  Actually, the headquarters of ELQ is located there.  See, not so rustic after all, hmm?”

 “You?  Jax?  Ned?  Even Big Eddie himself?  Almost sounds like my kind of town!”  Stefan didn’t even want to know how she was on such familiar terms with all three men – some things really were better left unsaid.  “Nikolas, Alexis, and I,” Stefan paused for a moment and cleared his throat as he thought of what his absence must be doing to his family,  “Nikolas, Alexis, and I came to regard Port Charles as home.”

 “Hmmmmm.  Your son/nephew, your cousin/sister,” she chuckled at his smirk, “is there no one else who will be mourning your ‘death’?”

 “Sadly, no,” he stated, yet his eyes didn’t quite meet hers as he began clearing his papers and files from the desk.  “I did not spend a great deal of my time in Port Charles endearing myself to others.  I thought there were more . . . important things to accomplish.”

“What could that be, I wonder?  Perhaps a lover or ten were involved?  Come now, mon ami, I know you – there is no possible way you were celibate for that long.”

 “I had my share of attachments, both emotional and physical,” Stefan admitted as he slowly began to pace the room.  “None were serious.”

 “Oh, I beg to differ!  Weren’t you married for five minutes to some commoner, and engaged for five minutes to yet another?  Surely they would be considered ‘serious.’”

 “Barbara and Katherine were both special to me, but they were really just a means to an end.  Barbara was a misguided attempt to obtain revenge, and Katherine was my way of . . .”

 “Attempting to forget one Laura Spencer?”  At Stefan’s narrowed glance, Bella shook her head, her green eyes sparkling with dislike.  “Stefan, that bitch tied you in knots two decades ago, and she’s still doing it to this day.  When will you finally cut her out of your life for good?”

 ~*~

 Laura began to knock softly on the door out of habit, then caught herself as her eyes welled with tears.  Don’t lose it, Laura.  Just walk in – you used to have a standing invitation to enter at will.  How long ago that seemed . . .</I>

 She turned the knob and pushed the heavy door open, unable to take the necessary steps forward as she gazed around the office.  It was neat, almost painfully so.  She had teased Stefan so many times about his compulsive neatness . . . of course, each time she had dared to rib him, he had simply proceeded to sweep everything from the nearest surface and ravish her thoroughly.  On his big, mahogany desk.  Against the bookshelf.  On the conference table.  Even once up against the door as the rest of the General Hospital board stood just outside awaiting the impromptu meeting Stefan had called here in his office.

 The meeting had been slightly delayed due to “unforeseen circumstances,” of course.

 Laura shook her head and stepped into the room, feeling his presence even more intensely than she had earlier.  She knew in her heart that Stefan was still alive – he had to be alive.  Even after all of the hurt and pain they had caused one another, the bond they shared was as strong as ever, and she had to find him.  For Nikolas.  For Lesley Lu.  For herself.

 Her hand reached out to touch the medical journals adorning the bookcase, remembering how he had insisted on reading each and every one at least once in order to be “well-informed in the running of the hospital.”  She rounded his desk and slowly seated herself in the big leather chair she had never graced alone until now.  She recalled the hours she had spent in his arms in this very chair, weeping, gaining strength in the wake of Lucky’s ‘death.’  She knew she had gone back to work too soon after the supposed tragedy, but it was those quiet hours of reflection and comfort right here in Stefan’s arms that had helped to get her through those dark times.

 Laura shook herself from the reverie and forced herself to focus on the task at hand:  Finding anything that could pertain to Stefan’s disappearance.  She opened drawers, rifled papers, not knowing what she was looking for but sure she would recognize it if she found it.  She paused only once when she came across the framed photographs lying in the top drawer – one of her and a young Nikolas, an exact replica of the one he had framed on his desk at Wyndemere, and one of Stefan and Nikolas at the cove in Greece that she vaguely remembered snapping herself.  She wondered how many more hidden memories he had stashed about . . .

 “What the hell do you think you’re doing here, Laura?”

 ~*~

 “Well, are you going to answer me, mon cher?”  Bella picked at her room service meal, knowing there were fabulous five-star restaurants mere steps away that they couldn’t risk going to at this hour.  “Why have you continued to devote your life to that Spencer woman when it’s obvious that she can cause you nothing but pain?”

 His fork clattered to his half-empty plate as he stood, wiping his fingers on the fine linen napkin.  “Laura is nothing to me now, Bella.  Have you heard me mention her once since I arrived?  My goal here is to bring down my mother, not reclaim Laura’s heart.”  He stated emphatically as he tossed back the rest of his Chablis. 

 “Mmm hmm,” Bella eyed him speculatively as she weighed his words.  “Sometimes that which we consciously do not mention means ever so much more to us than what we state outright, non?  I know vanquishing your evil maman is why you have put this grand plan in motion.  But why am I to believe you are over this . . . this insipid inferior when she and Nikolas have been the center of your world for as long as we have known one another?”

“Because I say it is so, mon amie.  Because Laura and I tried to make it work, to no avail.  Because I loved her with my whole heart, but because she could not trust me, she turned to yet another man she cannot trust.  Because we shared but a moment of utter happiness until it was destroyed by my stupidity and Laura’s foolishness.  Because it has taken me months to rid my life of the constant reminders of her, yet they are still there in force – at work, at my home, she is even there when I look into Nikolas’ eyes.  He no longer trusts me, either . . . so like his mother.”  Realizing how much he had said, he reached to refill his wine glass without meeting Bella’s knowing eyes.

 “Yes, Stefan, tell me!  Tell me everything.  I know you – you’ve kept all of this bottled up inside of you, not sharing it with anyone.  Am I right?  Then tell me!”

 “It’s quite simple, Bella.  Laura and Nikolas were my heart . . . and now my heart is broken.  Forever.”

 ~*~

 “I asked you a question, Laura,” Alexis strode into the room, slamming the door behind her, her eyes spitting fire.  “What the hell are you doing in Stefan’s office?”

 “Hello to you too, Alexis,” Laura would never admit it, but she had always been completely intimidated by this woman.  “As you can see, I’m sorting through some of Stefan’s papers.  I thought . . .” her eyes misted over as she asked quietly, “Has there been any word yet?”

 “Any word?  Oh, you mean any word on my brother’s disappearance and probable death?  Any word on your wayward husband’s implication in said homicide?  Any word on the complete chaos afflicting the Cassadine empire as we speak?  Any word on Nikolas’ utter devastation that seems to be escaping the notice of his amazingly self-involved mother?  Any word, Laura?  To what “any word” would you be referring?”  By the end of her tirade, Alexis’ chest was heaving, her eyes were burning with unshed tears, and the sheer antipathy emanating from her was unmistakable.

 Laura stood slowly, gathering her strength and nerve as she rounded the desk to stand face to face with Alexis.  “Alexis, I know you have no use for me, and I must admit you’re not high on my list of favorite people, either.  But we both love Stefan and Nikolas – isn’t that something we can agree on?”

 “Love?  LOVE?  My God, Laura, what do you consider ‘love’?  Abandonment, denial, coldness, betrayal, lack of emotion?  Is that love to you?  Well, it’s not in my book, not in Stefan’s, and most definitely not in Nikolas’.”  Alexis looked her up and down insultingly, her opinion of Laura quite clear.  “Maybe you and Helena are quite alike, after all.”

 Laura gasped as she remembered one of her last encounters with Stefan where he had said virtually the same thing.  It didn’t hurt as much coming from Alexis, but it still smarted.  “I am NOTHING like Helena, and you know it, Alexis.  I’ve made mistakes – I freely admit that.  We can’t all be perfect, you know.  Some of us do things we regret, like not being there for those who need us.  Like betraying those who’ve loved and trusted us since birth.  Like putting the welfare of others, even the almighty dollar, before those we’re supposed to love more than life itself.  Don’t we, Alexis?”  Laura asked softly, watching as Alexis seethed with embarrassment at having her own misdeeds thrown in her face.  “Don’t we?”

 “Damn you, my brother is DEAD!  And you helped to kill him, as surely as you pointed the pistol or injected the poison.  Laura, you broke his heart.  AGAIN.  You destroyed him.  AGAIN.  All he asked for was your love, and you couldn’t give it to him in more than tiny bits and pieces.  AGAIN.  You promised him the world and then took it all away.  AGAIN!”

 “NO!”  Laura, so angry she couldn’t see straight, fought the urge to slap the superior smirk off of Alexis’ face.  “Shut up, Alexis!  Just shut up!  I came here today for several reasons, not the least of which is that I don’t believe Stefan is dead.  There!”  She turned away and began to pace the floor in front of Stefan’s desk.  “What do you say to that?”

 “What is this?  The famous Laura Spencer ‘intuition’ kicking in?  A gut feeling?  Or just a guilty conscience you’re trying to assuage?  Please, Laura, enlighten me!”

 “I – I can’t explain it, Alexis – I truly can’t.  It’s just this . . . feeling.  This . . . knowledge that he isn’t gone.”  Laura looked directly into Alexis’ icy eyes, silently begging her to understand.  “I don’t have any proof . . . yet.  But I intend to find it.”

 The two women stared at one another for an endless moment, measuring the other’s sincerity, unable to trust but needing to understand.

 Suddenly, Alexis turned on her heel and stalked to the door.  Before she exited, she turned slowly to Laura and stated calmly, tears glistening in her hardened eyes, “You do what you have to do, Laura.  God knows you will, anyway.  But, if you can make the time, please try to visit your son.  You know, your OTHER son.  The one who’s grieving so deeply he hasn’t left Wyndemere in over a week.  The one who just lost the only father he’s ever known.”  Alexis’ words – as well as the sharp slamming of the office door – rang in Laura’s ears long after Alexis had departed, long after Laura realized the utter truth of her words.  

~*~

 “Well, darling, you can’t make a statement like that without explaining yourself.”  Moving to stand nose to nose with her ex-lover, Bella waited for an explanation.  And waited.

 “Drinks at La Grenadine?  This hotel suite is getting a little too . . . close for my tastes.”  Stefan neatly side-stepped her and walked purposefully to his bedroom door.  “Fifteen minutes, Bella – I am in serious need of quality alcohol.”

 “Bastard,” she called after him with narrowed eyes.  She knew there was much more bothering him than simply his mother’s duplicity.  Stefan had always lived his life for Nikolas and Laura, so something had to have happened to make him cut them from his life as he had.  He was much too loving and considerate of those who held his heart to put them through such agony . . . not that they didn’t occasionally deserve it, as far as she was concerned.

 A soft buzzing noise startled her, then she realized it was Stefan’s cell phone.  She glanced surreptitiously toward his door, heard the muffled noise of the shower running, and decided to be of assistance as she snapped the phone from the desk.  “Salut.”

 “Um, I’m trying to reach Stephen Kassidy, please.”

 “Mr. . . . Kassidy has stepped away for a moment,” Isabella smiled again at the least convincing alias she’d ever heard.  “This is his assistant, and I’ve been instructed to take a message when you call, Mr.” she glanced at the information displayed on the face of the cell phone, “Andropolous.”

 Flustered that the woman with the smoky voice knew his name, Andreas Andropolous cleared his throat and proceeded, “Please tell Mr. Kassidy that the package is en route from Port Charles.  It should arrive by midnight Paris time and will be delivered directly to his suite.  Should he have any questions, he knows where to reach me.”

 “Why, Mr. Andropolous, how wonderfully vague of you!  Stephen has trained you well, no?  Just the facts, no details, and most certainly no names.”  As she heard the shower cut off in the other room, she decided it was best to end this conversation quickly.  “It’s been enlightening, mon cher, and I shall relay your message posthaste.  A bientot!”  She hit the “end” button and lay the phone on the desk in the precise position it had been in before when the door opened.

 “To whom were you speaking, Bella?”

 “Myself, of course.  And may I say I’ve never had a more intelligent, witty conversation?”  As Stefan rolled his eyes and moved to shut the door again, she called, “Drinks in five, mon beau.  And maybe we can take in a show?”

 ~*~

 “Yes, come in,” Laura called as the knock sounded on her office door later that afternoon.  She had resolved to go and visit Nikolas as soon as she was finished here, but she had several important appointments at the hospital and the women’s clinic that simply couldn’t be avoided.  But she would visit Nikolas – tonight!

 “Um, Laura?”  Carly Roberts’ blonde head popped around the door, her wide eyes questioning whether she was welcome.

 “Carly.  And Michael!  What a . . . surprise,” Laura stated the obvious as she rose and rounded her desk, ushering Carly and her toddler son into her office.  “What on earth are you doing here?”

 “Well, I’m not really sure, to tell you the truth,” Carly sat her son on the rug and pulled his toy truck from her over-sized shoulder bag.  “Here, baby, play with this.  Mommy has to talk with Aunt Laura.”  At Laura’s rounded eyes, Carly said, “I hope you don’t mind me calling you that.”

 “No, of course not.  I am his aunt, and yours, in a roundabout way.  It was just a bit of a surprise.”

 “Yeah, I know.  We’ve never really . . . um . . . that is, we don’t really talk, do we?  I mean, I hardly know anything about you, do I?”

 “I could say the same for you, Carly.  I’ve always wished we had been closer, you know.”  At Carly’s startled expression, Laura hastened to reassure her.  “Trust me, that’s not just talk.  But I have a feeling you’re here for something besides girl chat, huh?  What can I do for you?”  Laura leaned back on her desk as Carly nervously took a seat.

 “Honestly, I’m not sure.  Well, first I wanted to say how sorry I am about Stefan . . . and everything.  Are you holding up okay?  I know you must be thrilled to have Lucky back, though.” 

 Laura nodded stiffly as Carly rambled, albeit sweetly.  “Thank you, Carly.  It’s a . . . difficult time, but we’re trying to get by.”

 “I just stopped in on a whim, actually,” Carly changed the subject, seeing how painful all of this was for Laura.  “I was originally here for Michael to see Dr. London.”  Laura’s eyes immediately flew to the healthy-looking boy, and Carly assured her, “Oh, he’s fine.  Fit as a fiddle, the doctor says.  But, you know, he was real sick as a baby, so I have to keep a close eye on him.”  Carly’s eyes shone as she gazed at her son.  “He’s my whole life.”

 “I see,” Laura smiled understandingly.  “Are you . . . taking care of Michael by yourself these days?”

 “You mean, am I shacking up with anyone at the moment?”  Carly laughed bitterly, automatically on the defensive.

 “No, Carly, I meant what I asked – do you have any help caring for Michael?”

 “Oh.”  Carly was unused to questions about her welfare with no deriding undertones.  “Well, kind of.  I had Leticia, but since I moved out of Sonny’s . . . well, I never realized how expensive nanny’s really were until I had to pay for one out of my own pocket.”

 “Why did you move out of Sonny’s?  I thought you and he were forging some sort of relationship.”

 “We tried.  But when I lost the baby,” Carly paused as the pain hit her once again, so grateful for Laura’s hand that reached out to cover hers.  “When I lost the baby, things just started going downhill.  We both kind of realized we’d gotten together for all the wrong reasons.  So, in typical un-Carly fashion, I walked away from a situation before it got even worse.  Of course, now I’m looking for a place to stay and some way to make ends meet, so I guess I did it in Carly fashion after all – totally by the seat of my pants.”

 “A place to stay?”  Laura was instantly concerned.  “Isn’t Bobbie letting you stay at the brownstone?”

 “Um, that’s kind of a long story.  Michael and I are staying there temporarily, but Momma’s made it clear we need to find alternate accommodations as soon as possible.”

 “What?  She’s kicking you out?”  Laura couldn’t believe what she was hearing.

 “Well, it’s not totally her fault.  Michael and I aren’t exactly easy to live with, you know, and Momma and Roy are trying to . . . make up for lost time, if you know what I mean, so we sort of cramp her style.  You know.”  Carly flushed as she finished rambling.

 “Yeah, I know,” Laura smirked.  “Sounds like Bobbie’s doing more than making up for lost time – she’s trying to erase it completely!”

“Something like that,” Carly grinned, feeling comfortable in Laura’s presence.

 “Well, it sounds like you’re in a bind.  And, as luck would have it, I think I may be able to help.  You interested?”

 “Of course!”  Carly pounced on the offer.  “What did you have in mind?”

 “Well,” Laura scrambled to think of something, anything, to offer Carly, “I have a free room at my house.  As you know, Roy moved out a couple of weeks ago, so Lu, Mom, and I are actively searching for another border.”  She neglected to tell Carly they had all but decided not to rent the room out again. 

Carly’s eyes were wide with disbelief.  “You—you’d rent to me?  Honest?”

 “Of course.  Why not?  I’m warning you – it’s not the Quartermaine mansion or a luxury penthouse.  Just one room and a hall bath you have to share with a messy six-year-old.  But it’s clean, safe, and cheap, and there’s always someone around to chew the fat with.  We have 3am ice cream conversations every so often,” Laura grinned conspiratorially.

 “Ah, my favorite kind,” Carly laughed.  “It sounds wonderful, Laura!  I’d love to accept, but I think I need to solve the job situation before I jump into new living arrangements, don’t you?”

 “Well, now for the second part of my offer.  The Charles Street Women’s Clinic is looking for a new receptionist – I saw the job posting go up just as I was leaving there this morning.  I can’t guarantee you the job, but I can definitely put in a good word for you, if you’re interested.”

 Carly’s lip began to tremble and her eyes welled with tears.  “You –“ she cleared her throat self-consciously.  “You’d do that for me, Laura?  Really?”

 “Sure, honey.  Why not?”

 “I . . . I mean . . . well, no one’s ever done anything that nice for me in my life.  Why would you, someone I barely know?”

 “Because I want to, Carly.  And because you look like someone who could use a stroke of luck about now.”  And because you remind me so much of myself, it’s scary.  “Am I right?”

 Carly smiled and stood, throwing her arms around Laura.  “You have NO idea!”

 Laura laughed and returned the hug.  “Now, nothing’s guaranteed on the job front, but I think you’re a shoo-in.  It’s a good job, but usually pretty hard for the clinic to fill – very few applicants.  You used to be in the nursing program here at GH, right?”

 “Um, yeah.  For about five minutes.”

 “Well, every little bit helps,” Laura smiled.  “Should I give your name to the clinic administrator?”

 Carly nodded her assent.  “And the room?”

 “Now that is definitely a go.  Get your things ready and you can move in anytime you want.”  Laura scribbled on a notepad quickly and handed the folded page to Carly.  “My address, just in case you need it, and the name of the clinic administrator.  She’ll be contacting you soon – I’ll give her your number at the brownstone, okay?”

 “No, not okay.  Wonderful.  Fabulous.  Thank you so much, Laura!  I promise, you won’t be sorry you gave me this chance.”

 Laura smiled as Carly gathered Michael into her arms and nearly danced out of the room.  She may live to regret what she had just done, but it felt pretty good at the moment.  And feeling good was something she desperately needed.  With a renewed focus, she set about completing the pile of work in front of her, anxious to catch the launch to Wyndemere and do something she should have done weeks before – comfort her son.

 ~*~

 “Bitch.  Loser.  Mean . . . hateful . . . clueless . . . skank!”  Alexis paced back and forth in front of the park bench, walking off the stress and tension of her encounter with Laura, whispering every epithet she could imagine.  “How I’d love to wrap my hands around your neck and squeeze until your big eyes bulge out and the veins pop from your neck and . . .” 

“Just come from a meeting with Helena, ex-wife?  How does she always put you in such a lovely mood?”  Jax stopped as he rounded the bushes, gazing at his dear friend and former spouse as she nearly pulled her hair out in anger. 

“You’d think, wouldn’t you?”  Alexis huffed as she crossed her arms in front of her chest and parked herself on the bench in what he assumed was an invitation to join her.  So he did.  “No, it wasn’t Helena.  But someone I’ve come to realize is just as lethal in her own way – Laura Spencer.” 

Jax chuckled and his blue eyes began to sparkle.  “Laura Spencer?  She’s a lovely person, and she wouldn’t hurt a fly!” 

Her eyes narrowed as she turned slowly to face him.  “Oh, God, you too?  What IS it about this woman?  Every man I know looks at her and sees Grace Kelly.  Is it something genetic that makes you people only think below the waist?” 

“Ouch!  That’s not it at all.  I’ve only spoken to the woman a few times since I’ve been in Port Charles, but she’s never been less than polite.  And, of course, she isn’t too hard to look at.  What did she do to you, Alexis?  Or maybe I should ask what did you do to her?” 

“Unbelievable!”  She threw her hands in the air, gazing skyward in exasperation.  “I didn’t do a thing to her!  She . . . she was . . . IN STEFAN’S OFFICE!  That’s what!” 

“Honey, it’s not a crime to be in someone’s office.  Well, not automatically.  What was she doing there?” 

“Oh, I don’t know.  Rummaging.  Probably looking for a stray credit card he may have left behind.”  At Jax’s raised eyebrow, Alexis relented.  “Oh, all right, she CLAIMED to be searching for some information, anything to help her . . . she . . . well, she seems to feel that Stefan isn’t . . . that he . . . that . . .”  At the mention of her brother’s name, Alexis’ entire demeanor changed – her shoulders slumped, her face crumpled, and tears began to course down her cheeks. 

Jax gazed at this strong, broken woman before him and gently took her into his arms.  Although she was unused to being comforted and coddled like a child, Alexis fell naturally into his embrace, her head buried against his strong shoulder.  And finally she wept. 

~*~ 

Laura knocked softly on the front door of Wyndemere, then knocked more firmly when there was no answer.  She heard the sound echoing down the hallway, and wondered where Nikolas and the servants were.  It was late, so surely everyone was home.  “Hello?  Is anyone home?”  Reaching out, she turned the knob, and the door swung silently inward. 

“Nikolas?”  She crossed the foyer to the conservatory, glancing into each room as she passed.  “Mrs. Lansbury?  It’s me, Laura.”  She was standing in the doorway of the conservatory, remembering the happy evenings she, Stefan, Nikolas, and Lesley Lu had spent there together, when she heard a soft noise behind her.  Whirling, she was relieved to see a familiar face. 

“Mrs. Lansbury!  I was beginning to think no one was home.  I know it’s rather late, but . . .”  At the poorly disguised look of panic on the kindly housekeeper’s face, Laura’s smile froze and she rushed to the bottom of the stairs.  “What is it?  What’s wrong?” 

“I . . . I just came from Master Stefan’s room . . . Master Nikolas has been sleeping there in his . . . absence.”  Both women glanced to the floor at that statement – Mrs. Lansbury because she knew the truth of Stefan’s whereabouts but was sworn to secrecy, Laura because she knew “absence” was an understatement.  “But when I went to check on him a few moments ago . . . he was gone.  The bed hasn’t been slept in.  I left him there earlier this evening, gazing out the window.  He looked so tired . . . despondent . . . and he said he would be retiring shortly.  But now . . .” 

“Well, there’s no need to panic yet,” Laura’s words were to reassure herself as much as the housekeeper.  “Maybe he’s out riding?  Or he could’ve taken the shuttle to the mainland, or simply gone for a walk on the beach.”  Laura had already started back to the front door, calling over her shoulder, “Please go down to the stables and ask the groom if he’s seen Nikolas in the past few hours.  I’ll check with Wenders and meet you back here in ten minutes.  Check anywhere else you think he might be, as well.  I’m sure he’s here, we just have to find him.” 

Yet several hours later, the entire island having been combed by members of the staff and later the PCPD, Laura knew he was gone.  But where?  “Lieutenant Taggert,” she approached him just as he was wrapping up a call on his cell phone, “are there any signs of forced entry?  Any indication of foul play whatsoever?” 

“I wanted to ask you the same question, Laura.  My men noticed none of the classic signs of a breaking and entering, but sometimes, something that looks right to us looks out of place to someone familiar with the scene.  Did anything . . . ?” 

“I – I don’t know, Detective,” Laura lowered here eyes, remembering how long it had been since she’d been to Wyndemere, much less Stefan’s private quarters.  “The room has been redecorated and rearranged since I last saw it.  You should check with Mrs. Lansbury, though, she should be able to tell you if anything is out of place.” 

“I already have, and she said the room was just as she left it earlier this evening.  Laura, usually a person missing for several hours wouldn’t be a cause of concern for the PCPD.  However, given Stefan’s mysterious disappearance only a few weeks ago . . . well, we’re making this a matter of utmost importance.” 

“Thank you.”  She tried to muster a smile, yet her face seemed frozen.  Taggert awkwardly patted her on the arm, a small measure of reassurance, as he turned to make another call.  “Peters?  Taggert.  I want you to run a check of the airport, bus and train stations, car rental agencies,  then GH and Mercy, just in case.  We’re looking for Nikolas Cassadine, 21 years of age.  5’11”.  Brown hair.  Brown eyes . . .” 

Laura left as he was giving Nikolas’ physical description, remembering the last time she had seen her eldest son as her lip began to tremble.  He had been so upset about Stefan’s sudden disappearance, crying on Alexis’ shoulder, and she had been so certain everything was all right.  Instead of comforting her son, she had brushed off his anguish and blindly defended Luke.  God, Laura, what kind of mother are you?  One who was determined to find her missing son, she vowed as she made her way purposefully for the house to get what she would need, knowing there was one place to find the answers she sought. 

~*~ 

As Stefan used his card key to open the suite door, he knew instinctively that something wasn’t right.  He had left Bella at the club, dancing seductively, sipping martinis, and making eyes at every eligible – and not-so-eligible – man there.  The alcohol had had a pleasantly numbing effect on his senses, but he knew his problems could not be solved by succumbing to inebriation.  As easy as it would be to drown his sorrows, he had to keep a clear head and his eyes focused on the goal – his mother. 

His eyes sharp and his body tense, he pushed the door open and gazed around the well-lit entry way.  Empty.  He silently moved to the sitting area, still seeing nothing, and he had begun to relax slightly.  It was probably just his guilty conscience sneaking up on him yet again . . . 

Just then, he was tackled from behind and fell to the floor, a tangle of arms and legs with his unknown assailant.  “What the . . .”  Stefan quickly escaped the hold, his years of martial arts training enabling him to pin the other person – definitely a man – to the floor in mere seconds.  He finally got a clear look at his opponent’s stunned eyes and face. 

“Nikolas!” 

“U—Uncle!  Wh . . . what are you . . . You’re alive!”  Jubilation replaced disbelief as Nikolas drew his arms from Stefan’s suddenly slack grip and threw them about his uncle’s neck.  “I’ve been so worried about you, Uncle,” he let go long enough for them to stand, albeit unsteadily, and engulfed him in yet another hug.  “Where . . . how . . .?”  Seeing the remorse mixed with love on his uncle’s face made Nikolas draw back, his joy at seeing Stefan alive already being shadowed by doubt and budding anger. 

“Nikolas, I can explain,” Stefan said, following his nephew to the sofa as he took a seat. 

“Explain?  Explain what?  That you’ve apparently been vacationing while those who love you mourn back home?”  Nikolas spit out. 

“Nikolas!  You know me better than that,” Stefan barked. 

“Do I?  Then tell me what REALLY happened, Uncle.” 

“I shall, Nikolas.  If you think you’re man enough to understand.”  Uncle and nephew who were once closer than any father and son gazed at one another, a love and a battle of wills that had existed for over two decades still alive and well in both. 

~*~

“Thank you for seeing me home, Jax.  I’m not sure what happened to me out there,” Alexis tried to explain as she fumbled to unlock the door to her penthouse and called a shaky greeting to Francis, Sonny’s door guard. 

“Alexis, we both know what happened,” Jax gently admonished as he took the key from her usually steady hand and unlocked the door, ushering her into the pitch dark apartment while turning on the overhead light.  “You were grieving, something I’ll wage you’ve been doing very little, if any, of since Stefan disappeared.” 

“You know me too well,” Alexis’s mouth curved into a half-smile as she began shedding her bag, blazer, and pumps.  “Are all ex-husbands as observant as you, Mr. Jax?” 

“Only those lucky enough to have been married to you, ex-Mrs. Jax.”  He led her to her sofa, sat down, and tugged her feet onto his lap.  “Settle back, Ms. Davis, and get ready for your first JaxRub in months.”  He began to gently massage her aching feet, knowing exactly the spots to start releasing her tensions. 

“Mmmmmm,” Alexis’ head fell back against the plump couch cushions as Jax’s hands instantly began to work their magic.  “Remind me again why I divorced you?” 

“You didn’t.  We divorced each other . . . something about us loving other people, I think.  I’m kinda fuzzy on the details.”  He grinned as he continued to rub. 

“Oh, yeah, right.  Nelson and Cleo.  Almost forgot about them.”  Her smile faltered as she gazed into his warm blue eyes.  “I’m sorry for falling apart out there.” 

“Hey, we all do.  It just happened to be your turn.” 

“Yes, well, maybe so.  But it’s never come easily for me.  PDEs have never been my style.”  At the wrinkling of his forehead, she clarified, “Public displays of emotion.  Cassadines, as a rule, only break down in private, maybe once a year.  The rest of the time, we’re horribly repressed.” 

“You seem to be referring to yourself as a Cassadine more often than before, Alexis.  I thought you were trying to break that bond.” 

Her laugh was a bit bitter.  “Break a Cassadine bond?  Impossible.  But you know what?  I discovered I don’t really want to.  Jax, your family’s fabulous . . . Jerry notwithstanding.”  She got a toe pinch for that one.  “Okay, even he’s not so bad.  But, you can’t choose your family, as much as you may want to.  You can fight and beg and scrape and steal, but you’ve got what you’ve got, and you have to make the best of it.”  She paused, not sure how to continue.  “Stefan, Nikolas, and I . . . we are a family.  We love one another.  We always have.  It was foolish of me to think that was something bad or wrong.  It’s family, and it’s definitely right.”  Her eyes shadowed as she remembered recent events.  “Well, it was.” 

“Want to talk about it?”  Jax’s movements had slowed, but he was still stroking her feet comfortingly. 

“I can’t,” her eyes watered as she tried to explain.  “Not yet.  It’s still . . . it’s just too soon for me to even acknowledge the fact that Stefan might be gone for good.  He was . . . he IS so alive, so vibrant, and so damn frustrating.  My heart keeps telling me he’ll show up, say he had some urgent business in Bangkok, and ask me where the hell the Claxton report is and why I haven’t finished it.  But my head,” she ground the heels of her palms into her aching, gritty eyes, “my head tells me he’s gone, Jax.  How can that be?” 

“I wish I knew, Lex,” he placed her feet gently on the floor, and she laid her head on his shoulder once more.  “Things happen that just don’t make sense.  They’re so painful, you wonder why God would puts you through them . . . what have we ever done to Him?  You can’t analyze it, you can’t rationalize it, and you sure as hell can’t change it.  But you can make the best of it.” 

“Gee, my own self-help guru,” she smirked as she played with the buttons at the collar of his shirt, already itching to change the subject.  “How much am I paying for this session?” 

“All right, Ms. Sarcasm.  I get it – you don’t want to talk.  That’s fine.  But just for that crack, you owe me a steaming hot bag of the butteriest, most fattening microwave popcorn you can lay your hands on.”  He kissed her on the forehead and stood, pulling her with him.  “But not tonight.”  He walked to the door, and she followed.  “Tonight you need to rest.  And think.  And you always do that best when you don’t have an ex-husband underfoot.” 

“You’d be surprised,” she muttered as she reached up to brush her lips across his cheek.  At that moment, a current passed between them, something that hadn’t happened in all their months together.  It stung her lips and his cheek, and they pulled back to gaze at one another, not sure how to navigate this unknown territory.  Brown eyes met blue, a spark of awareness lighting both.  They had kissed each other countless times over the last year, but this was something very different. 

“Well, thank you, Jax,” Alexis cleared her throat and stepped back from the suddenly unsettling proximity.  “I appreciate your being here, lending me an ear.  And a shoulder.”  She lightly punched his arm, laughing a bit nervously. 

“Anytime, Alexis.  Anytime.”  Their eyes held for a long moment as Jax stepped through the door, suddenly anxious to see Chloe.  And Alexis made up her mind then and there to call Ned.  She was pretty sure he was in Albany tonight, and she really needed to hear his voice. 

~*~ 

Andreas stumbled to the door, anxious to stop the incessant pounding lest it wake Helena.  She was even more of a bear than usual when she was awakened before dawn.  Opening the oak door, he drew up straight, instantly alert. 

“Where is she?”  Laura demanded without preamble, pushing past him and into the main salon.  “And don’t be coy.  You know I’m looking for Helena.” 

Before he could speak, a click sounded across the room.  “Ah, Laura, as courteous and mannered and always,” Helena stepped into the room, as regal in a robe as she was in her power suits. 

“Cut the crap, Helena,” Laura demanded, her voice strong and sure.  “I’m here for answers, and I’m not leaving until I get them.” 

“Coffee, Andreas,” Helena snapped as she narrowed her eyes and took a seat on the divan.  “Mrs. Spencer sounds quite determined.” 

“Yes, Madame,” Andreas backed from the room as Laura stood her ground, blue eyes flashing. 

“Where is he?” 

“Who, Laura?  You must be more specific.  Most of the men in your life seem to go missing at some point or another.” 

“I’m sure it’s a waste to ask again, but I will.  Where is Stefan?  What did you do to him?”  Laura’s voice wavered just a bit, betraying the emotions just under her carefully controlled visage. 

“How tiresome you’ve become in your old age, my dear,” Helena smiled coldly as she crossed her legs and settled back into the chair cushions.  “As I’ve told you time and again, I had nothing to do with Stefan’s disappearance.  I think we both know who Stefan would be trying to get away from, and it certainly isn’t me.” 

“Stefan would never abandon Nikolas, and you know it.  But this is fruitless, isn’t it?  What about Nikolas – where is he?” 

That got her attention as nothing else could.  “Nikolas is missing?” 

“As of last evening.  I won’t go into the details considering you probably know them better than me.  But I want to know if you’re behind this and what you could possibly hope to gain.” 

Helena stood and gazed out the window at the lightening horizon, digesting Laura’s information. 

“Well?”  Laura’s patience was already wearing thin. 

Andreas stood just outside the door, coffee tray in hand, listening attentively to the exchange and not daring to interrupt. 

“God, this is useless, isn’t it?  Why did I think you’d even care about Nikolas’ whereabouts, much less admit that you had anything to do with his disappearance?”  Laura turned disgustedly away, tears beginning to blur her vision, unable to bear the sight of this woman any longer.  “I should’ve known this was a wasted trip.  But if I find out you had anything to do with Stefan’s disappearance, or Nikolas’ . . . well, let’s just say my Cassadine training all those years ago will definitely come in handy.”  She strode from the room, head held high, refusing to let the tears fall. 

“Andreas?”  Helena’s voice was strangely husky as she summoned him into the room.  “Come.  I have an urgent assignment for you.”  She glanced at him, her eyes bright in her pale face.  “Find my grandson.  NOW.” 

~*~  

“So you did this . . . to protect me?”  Nikolas’ disbelief was palpable.  “Was that the plan?” 

“In part, yes.”  Stefan ran his fingers through his already rumpled hair once more, trying to make his nephew understand.  “I wanted you to know from the very beginning what I had planned, but . . .” 

“But what?”  Nikolas all but yelled. 

“But I couldn’t trust you,” he stated, more bluntly than he had intended.  At Nikolas’ hurt expression, Stefan came forward and laid his hand reassuringly on his shoulder.  “I am sorry, Nikolas, but you asked.” 

“How could you not trust me, after everything . . . ?”  His voice faltered as the past year flashed through his mind in an instant. 

“Yes, now you’re remembering.  Nikolas, you have had reason to doubt me more than once.  I kept what I thought was the truth of your paternity from you for most of your life, and more recently I knew that Lucky was alive and where he was, yet I did not tell you immediately.  I regret that more than you know, but I also know that our relationship was damaged, the foundation quite possibly irreparably scarred.  I—I could not be sure you would honor any requests I made, so I convinced myself not to tell you the truth.  I thought it was safer.”  Stefan’s eyes had become misty as he spoke.  “But I realized shortly after I arrived here, fresh from staging my own death, that I could not keep this from you and make you mourn.  At least, no longer than I already had.  You have gone through this once before, and I saw firsthand the damage it did.”  Stefan grasped Nikolas’ face in his gentle, elegant hands, kneeling before him as he explained. 

“I know, Uncle.  I’ve been unbearable to you lately, blaming you for things I now know were not your fault.”  Tears streamed down his smooth cheeks, pooling at the corner of his mouth and wetting Stefan’s hands.  “I can’t say you were right to do what you did – I would have honored any request you made, no questions asked, I realize that now – but I do understand.  I think.”  Nikolas pulled Stefan into a warm hug, his tears dampening Stefan’s shirt just as Stefan’s did his.   

“It does my heart well to hear you say so, Nikolas,” Stefan tenderly kissed the top of his head as he pulled back to look at his nephew.  “I just wish I had known Andreas was sending you here tonight . . .”  A sudden thought struck and he reached into his pocket for his cell phone, scanned back, and saw Andreas’ call the previous evening.  “Why didn’t . . .?”  And then he realized what had happened.  “Damn you, Bella,” he muttered under his breath. 

“Bella?”  Nikolas asked, then realization dawned.  “Bella Scotti?” 

“Yes, Nikolas, Bella assisted me with my exit from Port Charles and has been staying here with me at the hotel.”  At the look of shock on his nephew’s face, Stefan chuckled and hastened to reassure.  “As a friend, Nikolas, only as a friend.  She was such a help to me that when she refused to leave me alone to "wallow in my miserableness,” I believe she called it, I agreed to let her stay.  We would have gone to her penthouse, but so many people know of it and me, we thought it best to stay here with a measure of anonymity.  Actually,” Stefan nodded to his desk, “Bella has been a great help to me, and I believe she shall continue to be in the future.” 

“With your plan against Helena?” 

“Of course, Nikolas.  Honestly, I am still working out the details, which I will not bore you with at this late . . . ” he glanced at his watch and smiled wryly, “early hour.  Just rest assured that Helena will be neutralized, and I will ascertain exactly what was done to Lucky during his enforced captivity.” 

Nikolas’ eyes rounded and his mouth fell open.  “You’re doing this for Lucky?” 

“No.  Well, not precisely.  I am doing this for you, Nikolas, and for myself.” 

“And for Laura?” 

Silence ensued as Stefan weighed his words carefully.  “I will always care for your mother, and yes, she was a motivation in this . . . but what we had is over, Nikolas.   You realize that, do you not?” 

“I know you say it’s over, and my mother says it’s over . . . but I see the way you look at one another when you think no one else notices.  There has been so much pain and anger in your relationship, Uncle, but does that outweigh the love you shared, the love I believe you still share?  I saw firsthand how happy you were together.” 

Stefan sighed and closed his eyes, a mental image of Laura’s beautiful face and smile flashing before him.  “I am afraid so, Nikolas.  What we had was beautiful . . . for a while.  But now it is over.”  He cleared his throat and shook his head, letting Nikolas know the conversation was over.  “Now, why don’t you try to get some sleep, as shall I?  I apologize for the abruptness with which you left Port Charles, but it was something that had to be done.  Please, rest.  We can talk again later, when you awaken.” 

Nikolas rose and walked to the door Stefan indicated was his room.  Looking back, he paused to ask, “Does Alexis know?”  At the shake of Stefan’s head, Nikolas grimaced slightly at the trouble he knew was to come, then whispered, “I love you, Uncle.” 

“And I love you, Nikolas.  Sleep well.”  Lord knew he would not. 

~*~ 

He slept fitfully, regrets and discontent welling inside of him, making his dreams as trying as his reality. 

She approached him, softly, quietly slipping between the silken sheets, draping her body next to his, so close, insinuating her leg between his.  Her hands were everywhere, waking him from his slumber in the most delicious ways.  They drifted from his sleek abdomen, stopping to stroke the medallion on his chest, slowly making their way to the back of his head, pulling him up to meet her mouth.  They kissed as if they hadn’t touched lips in forever . . . and yes, it seemed as if it had been forever.  Lips met and explored, tongues melded in a firestorm of need and desire – they couldn’t get enough of one another. 

Taking control, she pulled her lips reluctantly from his, licking her way down his jaw to his neck, stopping to stroke the hollow there with her moist tongue.  She smiled at the groan that escaped his well-kissed lips.  Her lips and tongue continued their downward journey, paying special attention to his pebble-hard nipples and pausing long enough to lick the skin beneath his medallion – that always made him shudder with pleasure.  Down she went, licking, sucking, reaching and then bypassing the dense thatch of hair at the juncture of his thighs.  She smiled again at the moan of frustration this change of course elicited.  She kissed up one inner thigh, then the other, paying equal attention and working her way up.  After getting as close as she possibly could, she pulled back to look at his lovely erection, already imagining the pleasurable things that magnificent tool would do once it was buried deeply inside of her.  But first things first . . . 

She lightly touched the underside of his penis with the tip of her tongue, feeling it quiver at the slightest touch.  Starting at the base, her tongue then licked all the way up, making lazy circles around the already-glistening tip.  Her lips parted and took just the tip into her mouth, sucking gently, causing his hand to reach for her involuntarily, wanting to bury himself totally in her.  But she held back, bobbing her head slightly, taking a little more of him into the warm cavern of her mouth with each forward motion.  He was gasping now, his hands stroking the back of her head, spreading his legs, urging her down until she’d taken all of him that she could.  The suction of her mouth on his most sensitive place was nearly his undoing, until at the last minute she tore her mouth from him.  But before he could even voice his displeasure, she had straddled him with her long, beautiful legs and impaled herself on his engorged manhood, burying him to the hilt in her honeyed softness.  She didn’t move for a moment, smiling beatifically at the feeling of being filled so completely.  It had been so long.  Lightly, her hips began to grind against his, barely moving, yet sending shock waves throughout each of their bodies.  Her fingernails dug into the tender skin of his ribcage, letting him know the depth of her pleasure as she slowly began to raise and lower herself, all the while maintaining the slight corkscrew motion that gave them both so much pleasure. 

He remained still for as long as humanly possible, but eventually he had to raise his hips to meet hers, burying himself deeply within her.  His hands played with her nipples, fingers pinching them and turning them a dusky rose color.  As he stroked down her ribs and past her soft belly, his thumb found the pleasure button between her legs, rubbing, flicking it lightly with his nail, reveling in the gasps of pleasure such a small action brought from her open lips. 

Her rhythm was beginning to falter, her movements not as steady as before.  They were both nearing the point of no return as he suddenly reached up and dragged her mouth to his, thrusting his tongue into her mouth, echoing the motion of his manhood as it thrust one last time, bringing them both the delicious release they sought.  They collapsed together, arms and legs entangled in a bed of sweat and silk. 

~*~  

Laura awoke with a start.  She hadn’t thought she’d be able to sleep, but sleep she had.  And dreamed.  God, what a dream, she thought as she ran her hands through her ruffled cornsilk hair and rose to don her robe.  No way she could go back to sleep right away after THAT dream, she smiled secretly as she glanced at the bedside clock.  5am.  As good a time as any to continue her little project, she decided, before prying eyes and ears were up and about. 

Laura descended the stairs being careful not to wake anyone else in the house, seated herself at the dining room table, and pulled the equipment she needed from the small metal lock box.  She fastened the small listening device to her ear, adjusted the tuner on the small handset, and began listening to what had transpired during the last few hours. 

She sent a silent prayer of thanks to Stefan for showing her how this equipment worked and where he kept it.  It had been one of their plans for catching Helena faking her incapacitation last year, if she hadn’t tipped her hand so soon on her own.  The bugging device was no larger than the head of a pin and was made of an almost-clear plastic substance that was virtually undetectable with the naked eye.  As she was leaving Helena’s yacht the night before, Laura had dropped one just inside the main stateroom, one on the main deck, and one on the docks for good measure. 

There was little activity from any of the bugs – except for one amorous couple taking a stroll in the moonlight and mistaking the bench there for the backseat of their car.  That was until Laura caught a faint sound coming again from the dock bug.  The beeps sounded like . . . someone dialing a cell phone?  She turned the volume up and waited to hear who was making a phone call outside at this hour. 

“Sir?”  Andreas’ whisper was almost undetectable.  “I was calling to make sure the package had arrived safely.  Of course I left the yacht.”  He paused, listening to the voice at the other other end.  “Yes, I did speak to a woman earlier.  She said she was your assistant.”  He was obviously having a difficult time explaining this to whomever was on the other end of the line.  “But she answered your phone, sir, and I knew you were anxious to hear when the package would arrive!”  He stopped abruptly and began to apologize.  “I am sorry, Mr. Kassidy, I will only speak with you in the future.  Yes.  I know.  I understand that, sir.  Helena is asleep, I made sure before I came ashore.”  He paused another moment and continued.  “No, nothing out of the ordinary has occurred.  Laura, Mrs. Spencer, was there earlier, quite upset about the disappearance.  She has already involved the police, but they have nothing to go on, sir.”   

Laura’s eyes had widened incredulously as she listened to this exchange.  Who was Andreas talking to, and what did they know about Nikolas, and maybe Stefan? 

“Yes, sir, I plan to make sure of it.  Will the other Mr. Kassidy be staying with you or return in advance?  Yes, please let me know once you have decided.  I must make plans for his arrival.”  A few more seconds and Andreas bade the other person good night. 

Laura slumped back, shock and disbelief all over her face.  What was going on?  And what did Andreas know?  Could he be the key to her finding Stefan and Nikolas?  Mr. Kassidy . . . could he . . . ?  No!  She wouldn’t even entertain the thought.  There was no way Stefan would put Nikolas and Alexis – and herself? – through so much pain.  She mulled the name over as she put away the state of the art equipment, trying not to get her hopes up while at the same time more sure than ever that things weren’t what they seemed.  She didn’t know what Andreas knew, but she was damn well going to find out! 

~*~ 

“Where have you been?”  Nikolas began grilling Stefan as he entered the hotel suite just after noon. 

“At a meeting with the specialist who is helping me to investigate Lucky’s case,” Stefan explained as he shrugged out of his suit jacket and unbuttoned his collar.  “Does that meet with your approval?”  His slight smile softened the question. 

Nikolas blushed slightly as he defended himself, “I’m just getting used to having you back, Uncle – I couldn’t handle losing you again.”  As he turned to walk away Stefan lightly placed a hand on his shoulder, turned him around, and enveloped him in a bear hug, tears stinging his eyes as he reveled in how much he loved this boy.  This man. 

“I apologize for making you worry, Nikolas.  You were asleep when I left, and I did not want to disturb you.”  They pulled back and moved to sit on the sofa.  “Where is Bella?” 

“Shopping, I think,” Nikolas smiled conspiratorially at his uncle.  “I made the mistake of commenting that I’d seen a sweater like the one she was wearing on another woman when I went downstairs for breakfast this morning . . . her face turned beet red, she grabbed her purse, and I haven’t seen her since.  For such a savvy businesswoman, she really cares a lot about fashion, doesn’t she?” 

“You have no idea,” Stefan groaned as he reached for his laptop.  “Every time I reach for the Times, I wind up with a Cosmo instead.  Do you know there are 101 ways to use vinegar as a beauty product?”  Stefan asked with mock seriousness. 

“I’ll have to read that one.”  Nikolas chuckled lightly and waited for Stefan to explain what he was typing, but waited in vain.  “Uncle?” 

“Hmmm?” 

“What did you learn from the doctor this morning?” 

Stefan glanced over the tops of his glasses and rested the laptop back on the coffee table.  “Are you sure you want to know?” 

Nikolas was perplexed.  “Of course!  Why wouldn’t I?” 

Stefan sighed as he laid his glasses beside the computer, crossed his legs and gazed at his nephew intently.  “Because, Nikolas, I know how much Lucky’s disappearance and subsequent return, not to mention the thought of what Helena actually did to him, has hurt you.  Are you certain you want to know what I have discovered?” 

Nikolas nodded and waited. 

“Well, there is still much to learn, but the specialist here has been poring over Lucky’s records and all of the tests that were run on him after I got him away from Helena earlier this year.  They have been inconclusive so far, but a new battery of tests has revealed some interesting information.”  Stefan hesitated before he continued. 

“Yes?  What kind of information?”  Nikolas’ basic curiosity warred with his concern for his little brother. 

“When Lucky was under Helena’s care,” Stefan used the term loosely, “among more traditional modes of brainwashing, Helena had a small microchip placed just under Lucky’s skin at the base of the back his skull.  It’s invisible to the naked eye, and is virtually undetectable in any other way, as well.  Luckily one of the tests run earlier this year detected it . . . I just hate that it took me so long to follow up on all of the indications that were there and that I simply did not see until recently.” 

“What’s the purpose of this microchip?  And will it harm Lucky in any way?” 

“I am afraid that I do not have a definitive answer for either question, Nikolas,” Stefan sighed.  “It is obvious the chip is to control Lucky in some way, to make him follow orders, but I have yet to figure out what those orders are.  We all know Helena wants more than for Lucky to simply dismiss his parents and Elizabeth Webber.  As far as the chip harming Lucky in any way . . . that remains to be seen.  Helena obviously wouldn’t want anything to happen to Lucky until she has achieved her goal, so I do believe he is relatively safe and in no immediate danger.  However, there is some concern from Dr. Stancelle that simply removing the chip could have an extremely adverse effect on him.  That precludes us simply grabbing him and removing the chip – the last thing I want is for the boy to suffer any more than he already has.” 

“Thank you for that,” Nikolas’ voice cracked as he thought of what Lucky had been through and what he would most likely continue to endure for some time.  “Uncle, was there any sign of . . . abuse?” 

Stefan closed his eyes, breathed deeply, and continued.  “I am fairly certain there was merely emotional abuse from Cesar Faison, mother’s accomplice.  But with Helena . . . honestly, there is no telling the extent of her abuse, until Lucky decides to confide in one of us.”  He could only hope that Helena had not treated the boy in ways that would permanently scar him, as she had other young men. 

Nikolas blanched but vowed to remain strong for his brother.  “How can I help, Uncle?” 

“Nikolas,” Stefan’s voice became sterner as he fell into overprotective guardian mode for the first time in weeks.  “I would really rather you not be more involved than you already are . . .” 

“Not involved?”  Nikolas jumped to his feet and began pacing the suite.  “How can you say that?  I’m so involved in this . . . whatever it is that I couldn’t possibly extricate myself if I tried.  And I damned well refuse to sit on my hands and do nothing.  I’ve done too much of that recently, and no more.” 

Stefan’s eyes shone with pride at how decisive and brave this young man he had raised had become.  So unlike his father . . . he thought absently.  “I am certainly glad to hear you feel that way.” 

“Uncle . . . ?”  Nikolas was perplexed. 

“Well, I could desperately use your help, but I was not comfortable asking.  This really could get quite dangerous, and I do not like the idea of your possibly getting caught in the crossfire.  In fact, the more I think about it . . .” 

“No way!  I’m in this with you now, all the way.  So,”  Nikolas asked again, his eyes sparkling with determination, “how can I help?” 

~*~

“Mr. Andropolous?”  Laura’s soft voice was deadly with intent.  “Please turn around so that I can see your face.” 

“Mrs. Spencer?”  Andreas whirled and found himself face to barrel with quite a lethal-looking pistol and quite a pissed blonde.  “Wh—what?   How did you . . . ?” 

“Mrs. Spencer?  Spencer . . . “  Laura mused aloud as her hand remained steady, the gun – quite appropriately the only thing of Luke’s left at her home – not two feet from Andreas’ handsome face.  “My divorce was finalized some weeks ago, did you know that?  No, probably not,” she stated at his total lack of reaction to anything but the gun.  “I’ve decided to change my name back to . . . Webber.  Yes, Laura Webber.  You may call me Ms. Webber in the future, Mr. Andropolous, should you wish to call me at all once this visit is over.” 

“M—Mrs. Webber,” his use of her correct name brought a pleasant smile to her face, “how may I assist you today?” 

“You may assist me by telling me everything you know about Stefan’s ‘death’ and Nikolas’ ‘disappearance,’” she stated calmly, “and don’t leave out a single word.” 

Once again, Andreas was speechless . . . for a moment.  “What could I possibly know . . . ?” 

“Oh, don’t play dumb, sweetie.  It may turn Helena on, but it does nothing for me.”  Laura sighed as no information was yet forthcoming, “What would Madame say if she knew, for instance, that you . . . were making mysterious phone calls to a Mr. Kassidy late last night, or rather early this morning, when you should be here on the yacht, doing whatever it is you do that keeps her . . . satisfied?  What would Helena say, Andreas?” 

“How do you . . . ?” 

“The how isn’t important.  And now I’m just getting impatient.  As you probably know, impatience, fire arms, and skittish women do NOT mix.”  The anything but skittish Laura leveled the gun at him once more, waiting for answers. 

“Okay!  Okay!  I’ll tell you everything you want to know, Ms. Webber.  But please, put down the gun?” 

~*~ 

“Lucky?”  Emily stopped in front of Kelly’s, wondering how her friend was holding up.  “Has there been any word on Nikolas yet?” 

Lucky glanced up unseeingly, his eyes clouded with memories and fear.  “No, none.” 

She sat down at the outside table, placing her hands over Lucky’s, gazing intently into his eyes.  “I’m sure he’s fine, you know.  Nikolas doesn’t answer to anyone anymore, and you know how he’s been since Stefan died.  He just sort of closed off from everybody.  He probably just needed some time alone to deal, that’s all.”  But even Emily knew her theory was half-hearted at best.  They both knew Nikolas too well to believe he would intentionally let them all worry about him so. 

“You’re probably right,” Lucky’s lips quirked in a small smile and he turned his hands over to grasp hers in his.  “He just got caught up in his grief, decided to split for a while, and forgot to call.  We all need some down time, right?” 

“Amen,” she whispered, wishing she could believe that was all it was.  “Have you or Laura tried to find Nikolas at all?  Or are you just waiting for him to show up again?” 

“Mom and I met this morning for a few minutes, but she was so distracted.  Who can blame her, though?  She lost Stefan just a few weeks ago, and now Nikolas is missing.  Not to mention all the stuff she went through that year I was presumed dead, the divorce, holding down that job with the outreach program . . . I don’t know how she does it, Em.” 

“Laura’s an amazing woman, Lucky,” Emily stated matter-of-factly.  “She’s gone through a lot and has always made it through.  She definitely passed that on to her children.”  She paused before bringing up what was sure to be a sore subject.  “Have you heard anything from your dad?” 

Lucky’s smile vanished and he quickly pulled his hands from Emily’s, crossing his arms over his chest in a position of near-defiance.  “No, and I don’t expect to.  He ran, Emily.  Luke’s a lot of things, but I never figured him for such an outright coward.” 

Emily wished she could defend Luke to Lucky – Mr. Spencer had never been anything but kind to her – but even she was unable to figure why a man who declared himself innocent of a crime would then run from the charges and convince everyone of his guilt.  It made no sense at all. 

“Well, we’re not going to do Nikolas or Laura any good out here, twiddling our thumbs,” Emily declared as she stood, grabbed Lucky’s hands, and pulled him up to stand beside her.  “How ‘bout I buy you a shake, Mister, with extra chocolate syrup and whipped cream on top?  Then we can regroup and figure out what the heck is going on in this town.  I’d make it a grape snow-cone, of course, but you know those only taste good in the middle of the desert . . .” 

“Yeah,” Lucky smiled at her, his worries temporarily on hold as he gazed at her sweet face, wondering how she always managed to make him feel better about himself and the things that were seeming to happen out of control in his life.  “If we can’t do the snow-cones, a shake it is.”  He put his arm around her slight shoulders and squeezed her to him tightly, opened the door, and escorted her inside. 

~*~ 

“Nikolas, are you certain you want to take part in all of this?”  Stefan asked his nephew for seemingly the hundredth time as they finalized the plans that had been made over the last few hours. 

“Of course, Uncle.  Anything I can do to help my brother and you is worth it.”  Nikolas began ticking off what had to be accomplished in the next 48 hours.  “First, I’ll fly back to Port Charles on the next available flight.  It’ll be the middle of the night in Port Charles when I land, so I’ll go straight to Lucky’s room at Jake’s and explain the situation.  The basics, at least.  He’ll believe me, I know, and then it’ll just be up to us to convince Helena that I need Lucky to help me get over your death, and that I want him to go out of town with me . . . to the country house?  No,” Nikolas shook his head, not even waiting for Stefan to veto the idea, “that’s too close and too easy for Helena to ascertain that we’re not where we say we’re going to be.  I’ll come up with something appropriately vague.  As long as I’m somewhat civil to her and fawn a bit, she’ll be putty in my hands, grateful for any crumb of affection the almighty prince chooses to bestow upon her.” 

Nikolas and Stefan shared a smile as Stefan took over the plan. 

“Once you have convinced Helena that you need Lucky with you to recover – I would say have Andreas relay the message, but I think you would have much more of an impact telling her face-to-face – you and Lucky will fly back here to Paris.  I will have another suite of rooms awaiting you, and we shall go from there.  I think having Lucky here will not only protect him, but hopefully give us more insight into what Helena did to him and what she expects him to do for her.” 

“You really do want to help him, don’t you?”  Nikolas asked his uncle, already sure of the answer. 

“Of course I do, but you should know helping Lucky recover is not my motivating factor here.  That is and has always been ridding all of our lives of my mother.”  Stefan looked away for a moment before continuing.  “And speaking of mothers . . . what do you plan to tell yours about all of this?” 

“Exactly what I’m going to tell Helena, of course.” 

“Nikolas, is that wise?  You know firsthand how the most well-intentioned lies are capable of backfiring on you without a moment’s notice, as do I.” 

“Do you want me to tell her . . . everything?”  Nikolas asked increduously. 

“Would that be such a bad thing?” Stefan asked almost defensively. 

“After everything, all of the accusations and lack of faith, you would trust Laura to do as you ask without question?”

“Despite the differences Laura and I have had in the past, I always expect her to do what is in her childrens’ best interests.  Maybe knowing the truth could possibly set her mind at ease . ..  in some way.”   

“Well, if you’re sure.  I don’t want to keep secrets from Laura, but it may be less painful for her in the long run if she doesn’t have to know what’s going to happen.  This could get ugly, couldn’t it?” 

“Unfortunately, I believe so, Nikolas.  And because it most likely will, I will leave it up to you as to whether Laura knows the entire truth or only part of it.  You know your mother far better than I do these days, and I trust your judgment in the matter.”  Stefan turned from Nikolas, believing the conversation to be over as he moved to the sideboard to pour them each a glass of water. 

“Uncle?” 

“Yes?” 

“Laura once told me that you understood and accepted her more than anyone else she had ever known.  Why do you think that has changed now?” 

“Nikolas . . .” Stefan’s voice was a warning as he set down the water pitcher and turned to face his nephew. 

“I know, I know.  You and Laura are over.”  Nikolas threw up his hands in mock defeat, then rose to face Stefan.  His hands reached out to cup his uncle’s face in his hands, mimicking that classic Stefan move.  “So why are you the only one who believes it?” 

~*~ 

“Oh, this is my lucky day.” The sarcasm was unmistakable in Laura’s voice as she ascended her porch steps only to encounter a very out of place Alexis Davis . . . sitting in a rocking chair. 

“I feel an overpowering urge to knit and pop out a few kids.  Is a rocking chair really supposed to have that sort of effect on a person?” 

Laura wasn’t in the mood for jokes, even if they were quite amusing.  “What can I do for you, Alexis?  I don’t really have time for another lecture, if that’s why you’re here.”  Laura moved to unlock the front door as Alexis stood and followed her inside.  “Really, Ms. Davis, I’m in a bit of a hurry.”  She had to pack and get things in order before leaving on the flight she had booked just a few minutes before. 

“I’m no more thrilled to be here, Laura, than you are to have me.  Of that you can rest assured.” 

Laura waited, arms crossed, eyebrow crooked, for the rest of what was evidently supposed to be passing for an explanation. 

“After that little . . . incident in Stefan’s office the other day, I realized how childish we were being.”  As the eyebrow went even higher, Alexis corrected herself.  “Okay, how childish *I* was being.  Laura, as much as we may not want to admit it, we really are on the same side in all of this.  We both want to find out what has happened to Nikolas and . . . and to Stefan.” 

“Why this sudden change of heart, Alexis?”  Laura asked suspiciously. 

“Truthfully?  I realized that acting childish and petty would do neither of us any good . . . and I hope you’ve realized that too.  We may not like one another, Laura, but we certainly can help each other.  And besides, if we work together, we can keep an eye on each other at all times, right?” 

Laura knew she was right, though she hated to admit it.  With Alexis’ resources and knowledge of the Cassadine family, and the information she herself had been able to obtain from a gun-shy Andreas, they would be quite a formidable team. 

“Okay.  I don’t trust you in the slightest, but I do know you love Stefan and Nikolas more than life itself.  I hope you know the same about me.” 

Alexis’ slow nod of assent was anything but encouraging, but Laura continued anyway.  “I just came from visiting Helena’s towel boy, Andreas.  Given the right . . . incentives, he became a veritable fount of useful information.”  Laura reached into her purse and began to draw out the small handgun. 

“Whoa whoa whoa!”  Alexis protested as she covered her eyes with both hands.  “I didn’t see that, Laura.  Why is it I can feel my law license slipping through my fingers even as we speak?” 

“Alexis, really, I have a permit for it . . . somewhere,” Laura opened the closet door, drew down the small metal box, and packed away the gun.  It didn’t have any bullets, but it was quite effective even then.  “And you’d be amazed at the information one little unloaded handgun can elicit from an unwilling source.” 

“Well, don’t keep me in suspense.  Does Andreas wear boxers or briefs?  Does Helena wear teddies or . . . never mind, I’m starting to feel a bit queasy thinking about that one . . .” 

“There is a man named Mr. Kassidy staying at the George V in Paris who knows Nikolas’ whereabouts . . . and possibly Stefan’s.”  Laura imparted excitedly. 

“Wow.”  Alexis slumped down in the chair, her mind racing and trying to place the name.  “Kassidy?  Kassidy.  Why does that sound familiar?  And Paris?  Oh, my,” Alexis snapped her fingers as she thought of who was there.  “Bella Scotti.” 

“Bella who?”  Laura asked as she went about straightening up and packing her carry-on. 

“Bella Scotti.  She is . . . or was . . . or is an old friend of Stefan’s.  If there is a Mr. Kassidy in Paris who knows anything about anyone Cassadine, Bella Scotti will know him, his location, and his shoe size.  Among other things.” 

Laura paused in her packing, wondering why she had never heard of the wondrous Ms. Scotti.  “Why don’t I know this Bella Scotti?” 

Alexis smiled to herself, already seeing a flash of the green-eyed monster in Laura’s usually blue gaze.  Payback could be fun, she thought.  “She and Stefan didn’t see one another very often, so you probably never had the chance to meet her.  You and Stefan never did make it to Paris, did you?” 

“That was harsh, Alexis, and totally uncalled for,” Laura warned. 

“You’re right, and I apologize.  Stefan and Bella hadn’t been involved for years, but they remained very close friends.  And Bella knows anyone and everyone who means anything in Paris.  Hell, all of France and most of Eastern Europe.  If we’re searching for Mr. Kassidy, she’ll know where to find him.” 

“Well, it sounds like Ms. Scotti should be my . . . our first stop,” Laura corrected as she met eyes with her new partner in whatever.  “You’d better call the airline and get a ticket – mine was horrendously expensive, and I think I’m sitting somewhere on the wing.  Literally.” 

“Laura, please, I’m a Cassadine.  Cassadines and coach don’t mix.”  Alexis whipped out her cell phone, speed dialed a number and stated, “Arthur, fuel the jet and file a flight plan for Paris.  Charles de Gaulle or Orly?  You choose.  My guest and I aren’t picky as long as we get there yesterday.” 

Laura smiled at the ultra-efficient Alexis, already glad she had struck what was shaping up to be a mutually beneficial partnership.  

~*~ 

“Finish your shopping?”  Stefan questioned Bella as she reentered the suite late that afternoon.  Nikolas was in the other room finalizing details, while Stefan had been researching information on the computer. 

“Darling, shopping is never finished, merely on pause,” Bella smiled brightly, depositing her bags on the sofa and collapsing elegantly – as she did everything – alongside them.  “Shall I model what I purchased?  C’est magnifique . . . ” 

Stefan could tell by the gleam in her eyes that it wasn’t a sweater and slacks she was looking to show off.  “Maybe next time?”  He asked as he rose to retrieve papers from the fax machine as well as the express mail envelope delivered moments before by the hotel porter. 

“Spoilsport.  Just for that, I may not show you the leopard-print thong I purchased for YOU to model for ME . . .” 

“Oh, now I am heartbroken,” Stefan smiled slightly as she stood behind him, attempting to read the documents to no avail.  “May I assist you?” 

“Don’t offer unless you’re willing to act, mon cher,” Bella snapped.  “What are you reading?” 

“Papers.” 

“What kind of papers?” 

“Faxed papers.” 

“What kind of faxed papers?” 

“Important faxed papers.” 

God, Bella thought, this could take all afternoon.  “Listen, Stefan, I have better things to do than continue to save your beautiful body and hide you anonymously in this hotel suite.  If you no longer need me for anything, nor can you show me even a modicum of respect, I shall simply leave.”  She turned to stalk across the room, her dramatic almost-exit eliciting the desired effect – Stefan stopped her. 

“Bella, please, dramatics are wasted on me.” 

That was so not what she wanted to hear, and she turned to tell him so. 

“Wait!  That did not come out the way I intended.”  He threw up his hands in self-defense as he saw her eyes flash even more.  “I simply meant that I am busy, and tired, and getting more stumped by the minute as to how to make this situation with my mother work to my advantage and her detriment.  And that little stunt you pulled with Andreas still does not sit well with me.  But,” he continued, “I realize you meant well, to an extent, and the rest was just pure Bella, keeping me on my toes.”   His right hand reached up to cup her cheek.  “Forgive me for being ungrateful and insensitive?” 

She could never resist him when he was penitent and sexy – a deadly combination, for sure.  “D’accord.  I forgive you this time . . . if you’ll tell me what’s going on.  I promise,” she drew her fingers across her closed lips, “my mouth is sealed.” 

Stefan chuckled at how untrue that statement was, but began to relay the plan he and Nikolas were preparing to put into motion.  After laying out the basics, he stated, “I have been having my mother tailed since my ‘death,’ – well, since long before that, but not to this extent.  Helena must still be reveling in the fact that she finally killed me and has Luke Spencer take the fall for it . . . she really has been quite inactive for weeks now.  I keep waiting for her to enact whatever plan she has in mind, yet she doesn’t.  And now since Lucky will be here with us, she will not be able to exact her revenge even when she decides the time is right.” 

“So Helena hasn’t been using your absence to her advantage?” 

“Surprisingly, no.  She seems to be sitting back and relishing the fact that everyone’s life is in shambles even without her grand scheme being put into effect, whatever it may be.”  Stefan glanced at the most recent report on his mother’s activities.  “When she learned of Nikolas’ disappearance, though, that all changed.  She has been actively seeking any information she can find and I'm sure she is suspicious of the suddenness of it.”  He opened the envelope and loaded the enclosed CD to the suite’s shelf system.  “This is Andreas’ latest surveillance recording.” 

“Where is she?  And don’t be coy.  You know I’m looking for Helena.” 

At the unfamiliar voice, Bella looked up to ask him who was speaking . . . but she didn’t say a word as she saw the haunted look in his eyes.  This was her – his Laura. 

“Where is he?” 

“Who, Laura?  You must be more specific.  Most of the men in your life seem to go missing at some point or another.” 

“I’m sure it’s a waste to ask again, but I will.  Where is Stefan?  What did you do to him?” 

“My, your little mouse has a bigger roar than expected.  I thought you said she didn’t care if you lived or died?”  Stefan was still transfixed and did not answer Bella’s sarcastic question. 

“Stefan would never abandon Nikolas, and you know it.  But this is fruitless, isn’t it?  What about Nikolas – where is he?” 

“Are you regretting making her believe you and Nikolas are both lost to her forever?”  Still no answer, though Stefan’s face had paled considerably. 

“God, this is useless, isn’t it?  Why did I think you’d even care about Nikolas’ whereabouts, much less admit that you had anything to do with his disappearance?  I should’ve known this was a wasted trip.  But if I find out you had anything to do with Stefan’s disappearance, or Nikolas’ . . . well, let’s just say my Cassadine training all those years ago will definitely come in handy.” 

Stefan reached out quickly to turn off the stereo, his hands shaking slightly. 

“Stefan?”  Bella reached him and placed her hand on his arm.  “Stefan, do NOT feel badly about anything you’ve done.  From what you’ve told me, Laura was not a saint by any stretch of the imagination.  Who cares if she is suffering because of what is happening?  I think she deserves to reap what she’s sown.” 

“I care,” Stefan rasped.  “I have done the very thing I lambasted Laura for three years ago.  I have allowed those I love to believe I am dead . . . Nikolas has come to understand, but Laura, Alexis . . .” 

“So you count Laura among those you love?  Still, Stefan, after everything that has happened?”  Bella was incredulous.  “As far as I’m concerned, she deserves no consideration in the matter.” 

“Yes, I love Laura.  I always have . . . and I always will.”  With that hoarse statement, Stefan turned instinctively and buried himself in Bella’s outstretched arms, awash in guilt and memories as she stroked his hair and murmured soothingly in his ear. 

~*~ 

“What do you mean, the plane isn’t here?”  Alexis questioned as she and Laura stood in the waiting area of the Port Charles International Airport, bags in hand. 

“I mean exactly that, ma’am.  Mrs. Cassadine arrived moments after you requested the plane be made ready.  Since she is now trustee of the estate, she was most concerned that she was not consulted.  Sh—she commanded that the jet be readied for HER departure right away . . . and so it was.”  Arthur clearly hated being the bearer of bad tidings. 

“I don’t believe this!”  Alexis threw her arms up in frustration, dropping her bags at her feet.  “You’re fired, okay?” 

“Ah, Ms. Davis, only Mrs. Cassadine can fire me, since she has been named trustee . . .” 

“How I despise that phrase,” Alexis’ eyes were spitting fire at this little man who stood between them and Paris.  “You’re fired again!”  She turned to Laura.  “Okay, a bit of a change in plans . . .” 

Laura sighed, sympathetic to Alexis’ plight, yet ticked with one more delay in their departure.  Lulu hadn’t wanted to let her go, though she had promised she would call her every hour until she reached Paris, then every other hour after that.  Lesley had been worried about Laura taking off at the last minute, with a Cassadine no less, and for supremely vague reasons – Laura had seen no point in explaining the unexplainable to her mother, at least not this early in the game.  And as a topper, Carly had shown up just as Laura and Alexis were leaving for the airport, bags and Michael in hand, anxious to move into her “new place,” as she called it.  When Laura left, Carly was pouting at not receiving a ticker tape parade hearlding her arrival, Lulu was sulking because she missed her mommy already, and Lesley was eyeing their new housemate with equal parts amazement, surprise, and antipathy – Laura had been so frazzled of late, she had neglected to mention a new tenant, least of all who said tenant was.  Laura hated to leave a mess in her wake, but they really were in a rush.  And now this . . . 

“I hate to say it, Laura, but it looks like commercial is the way we’ll have to go.  God only knows when we’ll be able to get a flight out of here . . .” 

“Well, never let it be said that a gentleman would ignore two such lovely ladies in distress.  May I be of assistance?”  The lilting Australian accent was music to both Alexis and Laura’s ears. 

“Jax!”  They exclaimed in surprised. 

“Oh, my favorite person!”  Alexis threw her arms around her ex-husband, knowing that he was the answer to their prayers.  “May we borrow your plane?  Pretty please, with sugar on top?” 

Jax extricated himself from Alexis’ firm embrace.  “You know I can never deny you anything – for the most part – but maybe I could get an explanation before I hand you the keys?”  He glanced between Alexis and Laura, knowing there was no love lost between the two and wondering what could be brewing. 

“Ah, long story,” Alexis stated, hoping futilely that that would be enough. 

“So it would seem.”  Jax obviously needed more of an explanation. 

“Mr. Jacks . . .” Laura began, only to be interrupted. 

“Please, it’s Jax.  I never let a beautiful woman stand on such formality.”  His eyes were twinkling as he shook Laura’s hand and brought it gallantly to his lips. 

“Oh, brother,” Alexis rolled her eyes. 

“Jax,” Laura shot Alexis a silencing look, “Alexis and I are on a bit of a . . . mission, if you will.  We really don’t have time to go into details, and I know it’s quite forward of us to ask, but do you think it would be possible for us to borrow your jet?” 

“Of course, Laura.  I may call you Laura?” 

“Certainly, Mr. . . . I mean, Jax.  Thank you for your kindness.”  Laura flashed her 1000 watt smile and bent to retrieve her bags, only to have Jax move to take them from her first. 

“Come ladies, I shall escort you wherever you need to go.  On one small condition, of course.”  Jax smiled as he and Laura turned to walk across the concourse, a speechless and thoroughly annoyed Alexis stumbling to keep up with them – what WAS it about Laura that had men falling all over themselves to help her? 

“And what condition is that, Jax?”  Laura asked, thoroughly charmed by this man she had only met casually once or twice over the years. 

“Actually, make that two.  That I be allowed to accompany you, of course, and that you explain to me exactly what the hell is going on.”   

 ~*~ 

Carly bounded down the steps fresh from a shower after unpacking her and Michael’s meager belongings and putting him to bed, already feeling at home in this roomy, comfortable house.  “So, what’s for dinner, Les?” 

Lesley turned in her chair, glancing up from her cross stitching to shoot Carly a withering look.  “I don’t know.  What are you fixing . . . Carl?” 

“Ooookay,” Carly rolled her eyes as she plopped on the sofa, tucking her sock-clad feet beneath her.  “Bad question.  I get that.  And I can cook, I just haven’t had to in a while.  How does . . . grilled cheese sound?” 

“Actually, Lu and I have already eaten a bit earlier this evening, so you go ahead and do whatever you want.”  Lesley stood abruptly to take her leave, but was stopped in her tracks. 

“Lady, what *is* your problem?  Have we even met before today?”  Carly was bewildered at the icy reception she was receiving in a place that already felt a little like home. 

“I’ll tell you what my problem is, honey,” Lesley swung around, her eyes flashing fire.  “I don’t like you.  I don’t like what I’ve heard about you.  I don’t like what you’ve done to people in this town that I care about.  I don’t like the way you dress, I don’t like the way you talk, I don’t like the way you think this world owes you something when it seems to me you owe it a helluva lot more . . . and I don’t like that you manipulated my daughter into giving you a roof over your empty, gold-digging head.  Laura’s been vulnerable for a while now, and you knew just when to capitalize on that, didn’t you?” 

“Oh, yeah, Les, this is my dream life!  Living in a run-down shack when I could be sitting in the lap of luxury with everything handed to me on a silver platter!  Contrary to what you seem to think, I’m not the devil incarnate and I did NOT manipulate Laura into letting me and Michael move in here.  I went to see Laura at the hospital when I was there for my son’s monthly check-up, and I stopped by her office on a whim.  No ulterior motives, I promise you.  And your daughter was nice . . . okay, some may call it stupid enough to line me up a job AND a place to live.  And I’m damn grateful to her for doing so.  So there!” 

Carly and Lesley were standing mere feet apart, glaring at one another, each waiting for the other to back down.  It was going to be a long wait. 

“Mommy!” 

“Grandma!” 

They both realized how out of control they’d gotten when they heard their raised voices had awakened the children upstairs. 

“Mommy’s coming, Michael,” Carly glared at Lesley for a few more seconds before taking the stairs two at a time to help her son get back to sleep. 

“Lesley Lu, I’m on my way,” Lesley shouted as she took the stairs more slowly than Carly had.  Already that girl was wearing her out. 

~*~ 

“Nikolas, be careful,” Stefan hugged him tightly as they said good-bye at Charles de Gaulle.  “That is all I ask of you.” 

“I know,” Nikolas returned the hug, then drew back, chuckling at what he saw.  Stefan was in disguise – beret, dark sunglasses, oversized trench coat.  Actually, he looked like one of a hundred Frenchmen milling about the airport . . . which was the idea.  “Just think, the sooner we accomplish everything, the sooner you can start dressing normally again.” 

They shared slight smiles as Stefan handed him his small carry-on.  “That is quickly becoming my most motivating factor in this affair.”  

“I love you, Uncle,” Nikolas gave Stefan another quick hug, then turned to board the plane – one that had been chartered in his name, just as the other had, albeit without his consent – and set their plan into motion. 

“And I love you, Nikolas.  I will see you in 48 hours, or less.  Be careful.” Stefan reiterated as he watched the most important person in his life descend to the tarmac, wave one last time, and board the chartered plane . . . just as the second most important person in his life strode through the concourse sandwiched between his sister and his nemesis.  “Laura!”  Stefan whispered as he whirled to avoid making eye contact with her.  What the hell was Laura doing here in Paris, and with Alexis and Jax?!? 

“Ladies, Paris is my city, and I can get you anywhere you want to go.”  Jax’s boasting set Stefan’s teeth on edge as they passed by him. 

“Let’s start with a cab, Lothario, and go from there,” Alexis’ acerbic reply was the last thing Stefan could make of their conversation before they got too far away for him to hear.  Laura, here in Paris.  It took him the entire cab ride back to the hotel to even begin to comprehend that Laura was here and what that could possibly mean. 

~*~ 

“Are you certain?”  Alexis questioned the desk attendant at the George V, and at his nod of affirmation picked up their room keys and turned with a terse, “Merci.” 

“So?”  Laura gazed at Alexis intently, tired from the long trip yet desperate and excited at finding any information on Stefan and Nikolas. 

“I’m sorry, Laura, but there are no Mr. Kassidys registered at this hotel.” 

Laura’s shoulders slumped and she felt Jax’s comforting hand on her shoulder. 

“However,” Alexis eyed that hand with a mixture of emotions, “Ben Franklin and I were able to ascertain that there is a Bella Scotti registered here, and has been for several weeks.” 

“Bella?  Stefan’s friend?”  Laura’s eyes lit up at this bit of information.  “Well, surely that can’t be a coincidence, can it?  Why would she be staying at a hotel where Andreas was making phone calls to someone named Mr. Kassidy who he says has information on Nikolas?  Alexis, this has to mean something!”

“I agree.  I think we should put our bags in our rooms then pay a visit to Ms. Scotti.  It is too much of a coincidence for her to be here, and I think in this instance it truly would behoove us to go directly to the horse’s mouth . . . so to speak.”  Alexis handed a key card to a still-silent Jax, then dangled the other in front of Laura.  “I got us a two-bedroom suite, Laura.”  Turning back to Jax, Alexis smiled sweetly, “I didn’t want us to cramp your style, Romeo . . . but don’t forget about Chloe, hmm?” 

“Alexis, you know I couldn’t do that if I tried,” there was an odd note in Jax’s voice as he bent to retrieve their luggage and escort his companions upstairs. 

~*~ 

“Damn.”  Stefan cursed as he stepped into the suite and began removing his beret, glasses, and trench coat.  “Damn, damn, damn.” 

“Darling,” Bella strolled in from her room, wondering what could make the usually unflappable Stefan Cassadine lose his cool.  “I know the traffic in Paris is terrible, but you really shouldn’t let it upset you so.  Did Nikolas get off safely?” 

“Yes,” Stefan muttered absently as he began dialing on his cell phone again.  Damn, where was Andreas when he needed him?  And why hadn’t Andreas  informed him  of Laura’s trip to Paris?  “Nikolas is fine.  Have you heard from Andreas or anyone else?” 

“Stefan, you know no one calls you here in the suite – all contact has and will be by cell phone.  What in the world is the matter, cher?” 

“Laura is in Paris, accompanied by my sister and Mr. Jasper Jacks.  And I want to know what the hell they’re doing here!” 

Bella was stunned.  Laura . . . here?  “Stefan, are you certain?  Maybe it’s just someone who bears a resemblance . . .?” 

“To Laura, Alexis, and Jax?  Please, Bella, give me a little more credit than that.”  Stefan sat the useless cell phone forcefully upon the desk and strode across the room to open his laptop.  “I am sorry for snapping,” he said at her silence, “this is just a bit unnerving for me.  As far as I knew no one was even looking for me, and now I find that half of Port Charles has just touched down in Paris.” 

“But they don’t know where you are, do they?  If they are here looking for you, it will be like looking for a needle . . . in a bale of hay.” 

“And that is what I am counting on, Bella.  Alexis does know of you and that you live here in France, but servants at your home have been instructed to give out no details of your whereabouts, yes?” 

“Of course.” 

“Good, then that will be a dead end for them, as well.  I have no idea what they’re doing in Paris, but I certainly know they cannot discover I am here without endangering everyone and everything!” 

~*~ 

“Well, that was a waste of time.”  Laura threw her purse on the sofa and plopped down beside it.  “Could that . . . woman have been any more unhelpful?” 

“I knew it was a long shot,” Alexis stated as she sank into the chair opposite the sofa and propped her nylon-clad feet on the coffee table.  “Bella has never been what you would call cooperative, but I thought for sure she would know something.  If she does know anything, which I highly doubt now, she definitely isn’t in a talking mood.” 

Laura nodded slightly, her mind on their recent visit to Bella Scotti’s suite.  She had at first been taken aback by the stunning blonde who had answered the door – she was quite possibly the most beautiful woman Laura had ever seen with her golden blonde hair, petite figure, and delicately lovely features.  Then, Laura had been taken aback by her attitude.  For two people who had never met before, they took an astonishingly quick disliking to one another.

Or maybe not so astonishing after all . . . 

Laura didn’t like the vibes she was getting from Ms. Scotti.  She knew something, of that Laura was sure.  But what?  I certainly plan to find out, she vowed as she rose with apologies to Alexis to rest and plan her next course of action. 

~*~

“Thank you, Bella,” Stefan stated as he came in from his bedroom.  He had heard Laura and Alexis’ visit and couldn’t have been more pleased with the way Bella had handled all of their questions.  “Maybe I should hire you and drop that ineffectual fool, Andreas?” 

“Darling, it sounds as if Laura had to pry the information from him.  And with Alexis sharing that Andreas and Helena had suddenly taken the Cassadine jet to parts unknown, I guess that explains why he was unable to call and warn you of Laura’s visit.” 

“My men informed me of Helena’s trip a few hours ago.  It seems she filed a flight plan for Nova Scotia, but will be returning in just a few hours.” 

“What is in Nova Scotia?” 

Stefan sat in the chair opposite Bella and crossed one wool-clad leg over the other.  “It is the place where Helena held Lucky during the last leg of his captivity.  I can only figure something there will assist her in whatever plan she intends to set into motion.  I have men following her every move, but they were only able to see her retrieve some papers from the safe in the compound, make a few telephone calls, then return to the jet for the return flight to Port Charles.  Hopefully by keeping an eye on her we’ll be able to abort anything she may try to put into motion.”  He sat back in the chair and crossed his arms over his chest, gazing at Bella intently.  “Of course, I will feel much better when Nikolas and Lucky are back here safe and sound.  Without the instrument of her revenge, Helena will effectively be neutralized.  For a time, at least.” 

“Well, it sounds as if your mother is well under control.  But what of Laura and your sister?” 

Stefan paused before responding.  “I honestly do not know.  They seemed to be satisfied with your explanation that you are renovating your townhouse and have been living here for several weeks until the construction is complete.  But if I know Laura and my sister – and I believe I still know them both very well, in many ways – they will not give up until they have discovered ‘Mr. Kassidy’ and all of his secrets.” 

“I must ask, Stefan.  Have you never thought of using a more . . . original alias?”  Bella chuckled as she stood and crossed to him to seat herself on his lap, her arms about his neck.  “Isn’t Kassidy just a bit too close to Cassadine for comfort?” 

“You would be surprised,” Stefan reached up and pushed her hair gently from her face, treasuring her friendship and wit.  “It is a bit akin to hiding in plain sight – the names are so similar, that no one ever suspects Stephen Kassidy and Stefan Cassadine are one and the same.  Well, usually no one.”  Alexis and Laura had asked too many questions not to have been wondering if Mr. Kassidy were someone they knew.  “Would you mind terribly if I did not accompany you out this evening?  I think it is probably best that I remain inside as much as possible since Laura, Alexis, and Jax could now be around any and every corner.” 

“I suppose I can spare you this evening,” Bella leaned down and planted a soft kiss on his lips, longing to deepen it but knowing that was not what Stefan needed at this time.  She stood and crossed the room, stopping to glance at him from her bedroom door.  “I must say, darling, Laura Spencer didn’t impress me in the slightest.  I’ve certainly seen you with more gorgeous creatures in the past, including me.”  Only Bella could make such a bold statement without an ounce of vanity.  “Whatever did you see in her?” 

Stefan thought for a moment.  “Her smile.  Her smile can light up a dark night, Bella – she brought her light into my life all of those years ago, and it’s never left me.”  He stroked his goatee as he gazed out at the darkening Parisian skyline, lost in memories of Laura both old and new.  Her smile had always dazzled him, even from that first night.. 

Bella backed from the room, knowing that for all of Stefan’s protestations that he was over Laura, nothing could be further from the truth. 

~*~  

“Wow, it’s getting late,” Emily proclaimed as she rose from the floor of Lucky’s room to leave, placing her empty bottle of pop on the nearby night stand.  They had spent all afternoon and evening talking – about the old days, about Nikolas, about Lucky’s issues with his parents and Elizabeth.  Everything but that year he spent away from everyone – that subject hadn’t come up yet. 

“Yeah, it is,” Lucky agreed, but hesitantly.  It was so nice having someone here to talk to – no pressure, just easy friendship.  “Look, Em, if you want, you can stay the night.” 

Emily glanced at the single bed in the room, then her rounded eyes met Lucky’s disbelievingly.  “Oh, I don’t mean that way!”  He hastened to make her understand.  “It’s just felt so good talking to you, and it is late.  Do you think your parents would mind you staying and keeping me company?  You can have the bed, and I’ll bunk down on the floor.” 

She hesitated only for a moment, not wanting to leave her best friend alone when he obviously needed her so much.  “Well, they won’t like it, but I’ll just tell them I’m staying with a friend.  They’re usually pretty cool about things like that, even if I do spring it on them with short notice.”  She reached for her cell phone and explained to Reginald – evidently Alan and Monica hadn’t gotten home from the GH benefit being held at the Port Charles Hotel that evening – why she wasn’t coming home and where she could be reached.  Reginald, as cool as ever, simply told her to be careful, have fun, and check in first thing in the morning. 

Emily ended the call and turned to see Lucky laying blankets and pillows on the floor, constructing a makeshift pallet for his bed.  “Lucky, really, you don’t have to give up your bed . . .” 

“Hey, Em, my head may be messed up, but even I wouldn’t let you sleep on the floor when I’m the one who asked you to stay.”  Lucky finished straightening the blankets and reached for the light.  “You ready?” 

“Yeah.”  Emily kicked off her shoes and climbed between the sheets of Lucky’s twin bed, quickly getting accustomed to the dark as she heard Lucky settling himself on the floor just beside her.  They lay quietly for several minutes, neither speaking, until Emily broke the silence. 

“Lucky?” 

“Yeah?” 

“Were you scared?”  Emily broached a subject neither had touched on earlier. 

Lucky didn’t respond for the longest time, as if weighing his answer carefully.  “Yeah, I was scared.”  

When he didn’t elaborate, she decided to press a little more.  “Do you want to talk about it?”  Emily asked. 

“I—I wish I could, Em,” Lucky stated softly.  “I’ve tried and tried to remember what happened, but I just . . . can’t.” 

“Can’t or won’t?” 

Lucky chuckled.  “Maybe a little of both.  I know some big things happened, but it’s like I remember the before and the after, just not the during, you know?  I can remember Faison visiting me, and Helena, then Stefan rescuing me . . . but all the stuff in the middle is just a big jumble.  Random encounters and things like that.” 

“It has to be frustrating for you,” Emily whispered into the darkness, remembering the dark days surrounding her drug use and how she used to have periods of time she simply couldn’t remember.  “If you need to talk, I hope you know I’m here for you.” 

“Yeah, I do know,” Lucky whispered back, reaching up to grasp her soft hand that was hanging slightly over the edge of the bed.  “Thanks, Em.  Things are so strange now with everyone . . . everyone but you and Nikolas.  Thanks for being here.”  He brought her hand to his lips and kissed it softly, a sweet kiss of thanks. 

Her hand turned to stroke his cheek lightly, feeling the bond between them growing even stronger.  “Anytime, Lucky.  Anytime.” 

~*~ 

Laura waited until she had seen Bella leaving the hotel on her nightly excursion – or so the concierge had described it – before crossing the lobby of the hotel.  She had left Alexis in the room, dead to the world.  This was something she felt she had to do on her own, though she did feel a bit guilty leaving her new “partner” in the dark, so to speak.  Laura could feel that something was amiss, and the only thing she knew to do was investigate Bella Scotti’s suite. 

She and Bella really did look quite similar, and Laura was sure she could pass as the French heiress as long as she talked the talk and walked the walk.  She strode to the reception desk, confident and sure, and spoke with what she hoped was a slight French accent.  “My name is Bella Scotti, and I seem to have locked myself out of my suite.”  She batted her eyes at the attendant standing just behind the desk.  His ears got redder the longer she smiled.  “I’m sure it’s against hotel policy, but could someone let me in . . . just this once?”  Laura leaned forward, her blue eyes sparkling as she got up close and personal with . . . Pierre, his name tag indicated.  “Please, Pierre?  I promise not to bother anyone again.” 

“Uh . . .”  He glanced about at the nearly empty lobby, then shot her a look of uncertainty.  “Un moment, s’il-vous plait.”  He hesitated for just a moment, grabbed a key card from behind the desk, and rounded the counter to stand just beside her.  “This way, Madame Scotti.” 

Laura was beaming as the elevator ascended to the penthouse floor.  “I can’t thank you enough for this, Pierre.” 

“Please, madame, just do not say anything to anyone.”  He looked so scared and nervous! 

“Of course not,” Laura affirmed as they stepped into the plush pile carpeting of the hallway.  “My lips are sealed.” 

That brought his eyes to her lips, and Laura regretted using that phrase – the last thing she wanted was for him to believe any . . . physical favors of thanks would be forthcoming.  “Thank you,” Laura murmured as Pierre unlocked the suite door with a click, leaning forward to give him a light kiss of thanks on the cheek.  “Merci, mon ami.” 

His ears were the color of a fire engine and his grin was a mile wide as he stepped back onto the elevator.  Laura had a total conquest there, and it made her smile as she stepped into the darkened hotel suite.  She glanced about, seeing nothing out of the ordinary.  The curtains were open, so the soft moonlight flooded the room, making it easy to see what was in the room.  Exquisite furniture – Laura had admired the damask-covered chaise earlier – a laptop computer, papers lying about.  She went immediately to the desk and began shuffling through the papers, looking for anything that could give her clues about Mr. Kassidy or his link to Stefan and Nikolas.  Most documents were in what looked like Greek, to Laura’s frustration, and nothing looked even slightly familiar. 

That was when her eyes lighted on a pair of shoes on the floor.  Men’s shoes.  And where there were men’s shoes, there were usually men.  Laura hadn’t seen Bella with anyone on her way out, so that meant whoever it was could still be here!  Her breath was coming in short gasps and her hands were shaking as she began picking her way across the room, not wanting to disturb anything or leave any trace that she had been there. 

The first door was closed, so she tried it, silently twisting the knob and pushing the door open.  It was obviously a bedroom, and there was a lump of some kind in the middle of the king-size bed.  It’s him!  She thought excitedly as she crept up alongside the slumbering form.  This had to be the Mr. Kassidy she and Alexis had been searching for – obviously Ms. Scotti had been keeping his identity a secret for some unknown reason, Laura fumed silently as she reached into her purse for the most threatening weapon she possessed.  A nail file. 

Better than nothing, she convinced herself as she stopped beside the bed, trying to make out details of the figure burrowed beneath the covers.  I just want a little information, and this should definitely do the trick, she decided as sat her bag down . . . then unceremoniously jumped on top of the sleeping figure, grabbing his hair and bringing the nail file to his throat.  “Okay, mister, who are you and what do you . . . Stefan?!?”  The disbelief was evident in her voice as the file slipped uselessly from her hands to the coverlet. 

“Laura?  What in heavens name are you . . .?”  But Stefan didn’t get the chance to finish the question before Laura’s mouth met his in a resounding kiss . . . then, as her fist connected with his jaw, he slipped into oblivion.