Chapter 5 A little girl in white flannel pajamas decorated with a tiny pink rose pattern pads down the hall on an exploration mission. She rounds a corner into the waiting area in front of the nurse's station and promptly runs into a pair of gabardine-clad legs. Nikolas, who had been walking and reading a clipboard containing the week's volunteer schedule, trips over himself as he tries not to step on the child. Emma gasps in surprise and expects she'll be busted and sent back to her mother's room. Nik: Whoa there! (Noticing the pajamas and taking her for a patient, he crouches down at eye-level with Emma) Are you lost? Emma: (looking down) No sir. Nik: Oh, I see. Is your mother lost? Emma: No sir. Nik: Hey, what's this "sir" stuff? You can call me Nikolas. Emma: (still looking down) Mama says to call grownup boys "sir". Nik: Oh she does, does she? Well, where is she right now? Emma: (hesitating) I don't know. Nik: Where is your room? Emma: I don't know. Nik: (lifting her chin with one hand and looking into her eyes) How about you tell me what you're doing up so early wandering around by yourself? Emma: Um... Nik: Does your mother know where you are? Emma: Um... Nik: Well, why don't you show me your new bracelet and we'll find her. He lifts up her pajama sleeve, only to find no bracelet. Nik: Uh oh, where's your bracelet? Emma: What bracelet? Nik: What's your name? Emma: Emma Ashton Jacks. I'm 4. Nik: You're 4? Emma: Well... almost. Nik: Emma, it's nice to meet you. What's your mother's name? Emma: Leez. She's a doctor. Nik: So we should look for Dr. Jacks? Emma: (giggling) I'm not a doctor, silly! Nik: But your mother is, right? Emma: Yeah. She's smart. They continue back and forth, with Nikolas struggling to acquire any identifying information out of Emma. In the hospital room, the morning sunlight streams through the windows onto Ned, who is stretched out awkwardly on a chair with his legs up on the bed. Lise begins to stir, making little sleepy sounds, rousing Ned from his shallow slumber. Lise rolls over and stretches. Her sharp cry makes Ned jump. Lise: Ow! ow ow ow. (she pulls her arms back down quickly to her side and holds her abdomen in pain) Ned: What on earth? Lise: Forgot about those ribs under all that coma dust... Ned: Are you ok? Lise: Oh yeah, I just can't stretch like that again. Ned: Sheesh, you scared me to death. The pause and realize at the same instant that Emma is missing. Lise: Oh God. Ned: Don't panic, I'm sure she's fine. The hospital is very safe. I'll go find her. (He stumbles up out of the chair) Lise: (starting to get up) Safe? You call that psycho hostage taker Cooper guy safe?? Ned: Don't get up. I'll find her. Stay here in case she comes back. Be right back. He throws the door open and starts out when he runs into Nikolas, holding Emma's hand, with his hand raised about to knock on the door. Ned leans against the door frame in relief. Lise: Emma, get yourself in this room right now. (to Nikolas) Thank you so much, I'm so sorry. Nik: No problem at all, Dr. Ashton. Ned: Thank you Nikolas. We were all asleep and when we woke up, she was gone. Lise: Nikolas? As in the nephew? Ned: That's the one. Nikolas, this is my sister, Lise. I see you've already met Emma. Nik: Nice to meet you. It took me a while to extract your identity and location from Emma. Otherwise I would have brought her back earlier. Lise: Don't you worry at all about it, I'm just grateful. It takes a while for a 3 yr old to explain that her mama has a totally different name. Nik: Yes, I was surprised, because I know of a Mr. Jacks, who lives nearby. I don't suppose you're related? Lise: Well... Ned: Very distantly. Lise: (Eager to change the subject) So Nikolas, your uncle told me that you were 16. What on earth are you doing out of bed and at the hospital before school? Nik: You met my uncle? Lise: Oh yes, he's a delight. We talked about you and adolescence. Nik: (raising his eyebrows, not sure whether she's teasing or not) Ok. Um, well, I work with the volunteer program in the children's ward. And as for school, it started 10 minutes ago. I guess I got distracted here. Lise: That's wonderful that you work with the children. I do too. Nik: Really? Lise: Really. Now, you'd best be getting your heinie to school. Nik: Oh, it's no big deal. I have some more stuff to do here. I'll head over there later when I get a chance. Anyway, it was nice meeting you and you too, Emma. I'd better get back to work. (he starts out the door) Lise: Nikolas, my dear boy, get yourself back in here. Nik: (turning around surprised and somewhat indignant) Excuse me? Lise: What school are you attending? Nik: (with attitude) PC, why? Lise: Wonderful. Because you have exactly 15 minutes to check into the attendance office there. If you're not there when I call, I'll be hunting down your uncle. Nik: (laughing sarcastically) You do that. You'll get an earful on the horrific inadequacies of public education. Lise: Best you lose that attitude, slugger. Perhaps your uncle doesn't care, but the police sure do. Truancy is illegal, darlin'. Now I like you, and heaven knows I appreciate your taking care of Emma, but if your uppity li'l behind isn't at that school in 15 minutes, it'll be in juvee court instead. Nikolas looks thoroughly put out. He huffs and puffs but eventually turns to go. He doesn't know whether to take this woman seriously or not, so he decides to save his work for later and leaves the hospital. Ned holds his laughter in until the door is shut. Ned: You are so full of it. You know that a 16 yr old can't be hauled in for truancy. Lise: Yeah, but he doesn't know that. That boy needs the fear of God put into him a wee bit. What kind of man doesn't care if his kid's in school or not? Ned: Ah, you're starting to see why everyone thinks the Cassadines are freaks. Lise: Just a little wayward. Freaks, no. But threatening them with legal action is always a good thing, because they are probably here on tenuous green cards. (she turns her attention to Emma) Speaking of the fear of God... Lise proceeds to sternly rebuke Emma for wandering away and gets her dressed from the small suitcase she brought from Virginia. When she's finished and the little girl is both dressed and chagrined, Lise paws through her wallet in search of a phone number. Ned: Who are you calling? Lise: Mind your own beezwax, Ricki Lake.... Hello, may I speak with Katherine Bell? (Ned cringes) This is Lise Ashton... Thank you... Hey hey hey, I hear you're all un-handicapped of late... I'm so glad that your recovery was so fast... I'm doing fine... Little car wreck... Yeah I'm in the hospital... GH... Well, you know how Ned is... (Ned rolls his eyes and takes Emma's hand)... Yeah, so I'm in town. But the thing is, I'm checking out of the hospital and I don't have any clothes, because the ones from last night got all cut off me, so I was wondering.... Oh would you?... God bless you... I knew you'd be fabulous in a fashion crisis... Room 428.... Thanks Katherine.... See you soon. (She hangs up and looks smugly at Ned). Ned: You did that just to annoy me. Lise: Actually I did it because I don't want to walk out of here naked. Annoying you was just a delicious bonus. Ned: Spiteful vamp. Lise: Hey, I like Katherine. Ned: I was talking about you. Lise: She's ballsy. Anyone who would blackmail you into marrying her is my kind of woman. Ned: Ugh, I can't take it. (taking Emma's hand) We're going downstairs to get breakfast. Want anything? Lise: Diet Coke. Ned: Why'd I ask? Chapter 6 Katherine Bell steps off the elevator, carrying a Wyndam's bag, only to run into Ned and a little girl stepping off the adjacent one. Ned: Well, I know *someone* who will be happy to see you. I'm sure there aren't too many. Kat: Ned, have you ever heard of pretending to be civil? It's a social grace you might want to pick up. Ned: For your benefit? I think not. Kat: (looking pointedly at Emma) No, perhaps for those who might be watching you. (Suddenly making the connection) Oh my goodness, is this Emma? Ned: The one and only. Kat: I didn't realize she would be so old now! She was a baby last time I saw her. She's huge! Ned: She is. Kat: Are you going to introduce me? Ned: Hmm... thinking.... No. Kat: Ugh, I hate you. Ned: Now now, Katherine, we don't like to use that ugly word when we talk to people, do we Emma? Emma: (looking at Katherine, oblivious) You're pretty. Kat: (smirking at Ned) Thank you sweetie. (Breezily to Ned) Au revoir! Katherine sails off toward Lise' room. Ned: (to Emma) Well, why don't we go find the play room on the children's ward for a little while. Katherine knocks on the door and calls out. Kat: I come bearing fabulousness! Lise: (laughing on the other side of the door) You spoke the magic password! Enter freely. Kat: Oh wow, you look much better than someone who had to have her clothes cut off her because of injuries in a car wreck. Lise: Who said anything about a car wreck? I think the paramedics just wanted to see me naked! Kat: (laughing) Well, without any further delay, may I introduce you to the Wyndam's fall line? (She unzips the clothes bag and reveals a sexy straight red dress, an ultra-trendy chartreuse pantsuit and a pair of Levi's and a white poet's shirt) What's your fancy? Lise: Two words. Broken ribs. Kat: (sighing melodramatically and handing Lise the jeans and blouse) You always were a fashion-"don't". Lise: More like a fashion-"whuh?" Kat: Just kidding. I know you'll be back to your former fabulousness once you're feeling in tip-top again. At least you're not in the hospital for longer than a day. Talk about bad clothes. There are only so many pairs of pajamas a woman can wear before she feels like a 3-yr old. Lise: I hear that. Kat: Speaking of 3-yr olds, I ran into Ned. (Lise laughs) Oh, and Emma too. She's adorable. When did she get so big? Lise: Must have happened yesterday because I missed it entirely. Isn't she just huge? Kat: She's gorgeous. Do you think she'll stay blond? Lise: Oh I hope not. If she looks too much like her father, I might accidentally throw her out of the house. Kat: She doesn't, she looks just like you, don't worry. Those dimples are unmistakable. Lise smiles as she finishes getting dressed and sits down on the end of the bed. Lise: So, Ned tells me that you had a li'l fling with this Stefan person. Do tell. Kat: Don't remind me. Lise: That bad? He seems kind of challenging. And you know how I like a challenge. Kat: Lise, listen to me. Don't EVEN think about it. I couldn't hate anyone more. Lise: Worse than Damian? Kat: Way worse. Lise: Hm. He seems so charming. Thanks for the warning. Kat: Don't tell me, he's been visiting you in your hospital room. Lise: Is that his M.O.? Kat: And I thought it was only if he's the one who put you there. Are you sure your car wasn't tampered with? Lise: Ugh, he's really that bad? Kat: Words can not express. Lise: Thanks for the warning. Kat: Well, on that cheery note, I have to get to work. How long will you be in town? Lise: Not long, I hope. Kat: (leaning over and kissing Lise on the cheek) Alright, well, take care of yourself. And send me a picture of Emma once in a while. Lise: I will. Thank you so much Katherine, for coming over. Keep in touch. Katherine leaves the room and Lise returns to her thoughts about Stefan. Who knew he was so bad? Maybe its just Katherine. After all, she hates Ned. She has a way of making her own enemies. It's not like she's a romantic expert. Lise grabs her purse to leave the room. She opens the door to find Alexis about to enter. Alexis: Oh, I'm sorry. I was looking for Ned. Lise: You and me both. He's kidnapped my child. Well, I suppose if I disappear from here, we might miss each other when he actually brings her back. So maybe I should wait. Want to join me? Alexis: (not sure whether the invite is casual, or an attempt to corner her, she hesitates for a moment before agreeing) All right. (The women sit down) I see you found some clothes. I presume you finally got those release forms you were craving. Lise: My uncle eventually ran out of excuses to stall, yes. Alexis: Strange, I never have thought about Alan Quartermaine being Ned's uncle, but I guess he is. Lise: Oh yes, we're all one happy family unit. Alexis: You'll forgive me if the concept is somewhat unfamiliar. Lise: On that note, why don't you let me in on what happened between your cousin and Katherine Bell? Alexis: (she freezes momentarily before recomposing herself) I *thought* I saw Ms. Bell leaving this room before I came in. Lise: (not wanting to offer anymore information) Yup. Alexis: (waiting for more details on the relationship between Katherine and Lise, she is silent for a moment when they are not forthcoming) What did she say had happened? Lise: Doesn't matter, I was wondering what your take on it was. Alexis: Well, I believe that they were interested in each other for a few months and then Stefan decided it wasn't working and ended the relationship. Fairly generic situation, wouldn't you say? Lise: Your cousin doesn't strike me as the generic type, so I expect there's nothing generic about his relationships. Alexis: Well, perhaps that's precisely why he lost interest, it became too boring for his taste. I don't really know. We rarely discuss our personal lives with each other. Lise: Do you not know each other well? Alexis: (sensing an annoying persistence in this line of questioning) Define "well". Lise: Well, for instance, I barely know my cousins. In fact, there's one that I've never even met. But we didn't grow up on a Greek island together.. On the other hand, Ned and I were never even in the same school or house when we were growing up, but we're still thick as thieves. Sometimes a shared background or experience is enough. Alexis: (fishing for what Lise knows) So Ned has told you about our upbringing? Lise: Some. Alexis: Well, Stefan and I are important to each other, but we don't talk about everything. Lise: Yet you live in the same house as he does, surely you know what happened with Katherine. Alexis: I really don't feel comfortable sharing the details of -- Lise: (interrupting) Let me help you out, Ms. Davis, I know something bad went down that makes your cousin worse in Katherine's eyes than my brother and even worse than this other psycho she was in love with. People don't feel that vitriolic about relationships that just got boring, now what did he do to her? Alexis tries to control her temper, not wanting to make an enemy of Ned's sister. Lise: For that matter, what did he do to Bobbie Jones? Alexis: Dr. Ashton, I am not trying to annoy you, and I don't mean to get defensive, but this is really none of your business. Lise: Au contraire. You live in the same house as this man. You are obviously more loyal to him than you are to the concept of full disclosure, which leads me to believe that you and he are hiding something. And my brother is rather smitten by you. He's had enough heartache in his life with bad relationships, and I'm just trying to figure out whether he's mingling with the Addams family or whether you're all just somewhat quirky, but misunderstood. Don't tell me you wouldn't do the same thing for your cousin. Alexis looks away as she thinks about the lengths to which she would go to protect Stefan from a bad pairing. Lise recognizes that she has hit home. Lise: Aha... now I see. You *did* do the same thing, didn't you? Tell me, did you do a little background check on Katherine and you and your cousin decided that she wasn't acceptable? (studying Alexis closely) Or maybe you decided that *for* him? Alexis: (angry and cornered, she takes the offensive) Perhaps you're not as interested in protecting Ned from a family like mine as you are in finding out just exactly what Stefan is really like? Perhaps you yourself are interested in him? If that's the case, he's not on the market. He's been betrayed by 3 women in the past year, and that's enough. Both women stare at each other, aghast. Lise, for having her motives detected, and Alexis, for disclosing such personal information about Stefan. And as each studies the other, they realize how alike they are. Chapter 7 Alexis and Lise stare at each other in an awkward post-confrontation silence. Alexis: Forgive me. I didn't intend to have an argument with you. Lise: Seems that we're both worried about protecting the hearts of men who should be able to protect themselves. Alexis: Yes. For some reason, however, Stefan gets irrational when he's in love or infatuated. When he's irrational, my life is hell. Lise: I see. Sounds to me like you're the one left holding the ball when that happens. Alexis: Exactly. Lise: I take it all back. You're perfect for Ned. He feels a self-imposed need to "handle" as well. If it were I, people would actually have to deal with the consequences of their behavior. But you and Ned prefer to cushion the blow in the name of family. Alexis: What's wrong with that? Lise: Everybody learns from their mistakes. But if there are no consequences to mistakes, what is there to learn? And so cycles are just perpetuated. The behavior is condoned, so then it is repeated, so then you're needed again, after which you justify yourself and feel all righteous and martyred, yadda yadda... Alexis: Well thank you for that in-depth analysis. Lise: Sorry. Alexis: (shoulders sagging) No, no, I'm sorry. You're right. But at least Ned understands me, no matter how pathetic I've made my life. Lise: Taking care of family isn't pathetic. It just can get a bit psychotic. An orderly opens the door. Orderly: Dr. Ashton? Your brother asked me to tell you that he's down on the pediatric floor. Lise thanks the messenger and the two women head out of the room to the elevator. They arrive a few minutes later at the GH day care center on the pediatric floor, where Emma is playing happily with legos with another little girl while Ned hovers nearby. Stefan Cassadine is watching the two girls as well, and looks up when Lise and Alexis arrive. Lise: (to Ned) Where's my diet coke? Ned: You're sick. Alexis: Stefan, may I speak with you a moment? Lise: (to Alexis, but loudly enough so that Stefan hears) Oh yeah, you better warn him! Don't forget the part where I said he had a cute butt. Alexis and Stefan confer in the corner. Ned: What was that about? Lise: Oh nothing. Ned: Take the "s" out of your name and what do you have? Lise: Oh for God's sake. If you must know, she thinks I'm going to blackmail him into marrying me, break his heart and steal all his money. Ned: If you do, the mayor might just give you the key to the city. Alexis: (with Stefan) What are you doing here? Stefan: Watching the children play. Alexis: That's not just any child, Stefan. Stefan: Little Emma is adorable. Alexis: Don't play games. I'm talking about LesleyLu (They both sneak furtive glances at the little girl playing with Emma). If Laura caught you here, she'd have a fit. Stefan: I stopped caring about what Laura thinks ages ago. (Alexis doesn't buy it and is about to say so) Besides, I was looking for you. I thought you might be with Ashton. Did it ever occur to you to return your pages? Alexis: I was busy getting grilled about you and Katherine when you paged me. Stefan: Grilled? By whom? Alexis: I'll give you one guess. (She stares pointedly at Lise. Stefan looks in that direction and his eyes narrow slightly) Be careful with her. She's not nearly as oblivious as she pretends. Stefan: Yes, I noticed that about her last night. Ned strolls casually over to Stefan and Alexis. Ned: (taking Alexis' hand and pulling her away a bit) Can I interest you in coffee? Alexis: (seeming relieved to get away from both Lise, Stefan and LesleyLu) No. But a vodka will do nicely. Ned: My kind of woman. Stefan takes her other hand as she and Ned begin to walk away and pulls her back to whisper in her ear. Stefan: You worry too much Alexis. Take the day off. (he kisses her cheek as she looks at him anxiously). Alexis: (sarcastically) Right. Lise pretends to be watching the girls playing, but notices that she is alone with Stefan. Stefan: So, (walking over to her) why does my relationship with Ms. Bell interest you, Dr. Ashton? Lise: She's a friend. Stefan: You seemed like a woman of good judgement. Lise: It's in poor taste to insult a woman behind her back, Mr. Cassadine. Let's just say that Katherine is always entertaining and anyone who can take on my family and live to tell about it has earned my respect. Sounds like she didn't fare as well with yours. Stefan: No one ever does (looking over his shoulder at Lulu). Just then, Laura Spencer comes in the daycare center to check on Lulu. She gets halfway across the room and Lulu runs toward her. Stefan turns back to Lise and pretends not to notice. Laura: (putting Lulu down) Go back and play honey. I'll be right back. (she walks toward them) Stefan. Stefan: (coldly) Laura. Laura: What are you doing here? Stefan: (ignoring the question) Laura, have you met Dr. Ashton? Lise: Laura Webber! Good heavens, it's been forever. You probably don't remember me, but I was at your wedding centuries ago. I'm Elisabeth Ashton? Laura: (still distracted and annoyed by Stefan, but attempting politeness) Elisabeth? Oh! Yes, I remember. You're Tracy's daughter. Why, you were just a teenager then! Lise: So were you, if I recall. I go by Lise now, actually. It's good to see you again. How's Luke? Stefan shudders almost imperceptibly at the name, and his effort at nonchalance is not unnoticed by Lise, who has heard all the rumors. Laura: Oh, he's just wonderful, actually (smiling icily at Stefan). We have 2 children now. That's our youngest, Lulu, over there. Lise: (the lightbulb about Stefan's presence in the daycare facility suddenly turns on and she is amused to be in the middle of the emotional daggers being thrown between the two people on either side of her). Oh, so she's yours? She's so precious. Mine is the blond one with her. Laura: Oh my, I always thought of you as so young, I can't believe you're a mother and a doctor and all grown up! Lise: Well, I remember your wedding day like yesterday. It was such a big event here in Port Charles! (throwing a wicked side glance at Stefan) I remember a Cassadine presence there as well... Mr. Cassadine, were you at the wedding of the century? Stefan: (realizing that Lise knows more about he and Laura than he thought) I must get back to business. If you would excuse me... Lise: Oh no, excuse *me*! I'll let you two reminisce, I really have to run. Emma, come on baby, get your coat. Laura, it really was a pleasure to see you again. Especially alive. I'm so glad that I didn't pay for a flight to your funeral a few months ago. Y'all take care now. Stefan tries to suppress a smirk, surprised and amused by the sudden change of conversational loyalty on Lise' part at the end of the awkward scene between the three of them. Laura: (bitterly) Funny, she looks more like her father, but clearly takes after Tracy in the ways that matter. (turning back to Stefan) Now, you never answered my question. Why are you here with my daughter? Stefan: Don't flatter yourself, Lasha. I was simply looking for my cousin. I thought Alexis would be with Ned, and Ned was with his niece Emma earlier. Laura: You stay away from her Stefan. I mean it. Stefan: From whom? Alexis, Dr. Ashton, or her daughter? He smiles condescendingly at her exasperation and smugly walks out of the room. In the hospital garage, Ned and Alexis are getting into a limousine. Alexis: Now remind me, why am I getting in this car? Ned: Because I have to go to ELQ and you need to get away from this place. They settle in on opposite sides of the seat and the driver takes off. Alexis: ELQ? Not much like Bora Bora. Ned: Honey, I hate to burst your bubble, but there is no Bora Bora. It was all a fantasy. Alexis: The story of my life. (pausing) Did you just call me "honey"? Ned: I promise it wasn't an oppressive attempt to equate womanhood with sweetness and docility in a centuries-old male technique to retain power. Alexis: I think I like it. Ned: You do? What a relief. Alexis: Oh please. Don't pretend you don't know the power you have over me. For instance, why on earth am I not working? Cassadine stability and financial salience are probably slipping away as we speak. Ned: (Grinning) You can't resist me. She gives him an annoyed look, whose effect is lost because of the concomitant twinkle in her eye. He crosses his arms and studies her in silence until she can hardly sit still under the weight of his scrutiny. Alexis: Stop it. Ned: What? Alexis: You're making me antsy. Ned: Come here. Alexis: No. Ned: Get over here. Alexis: Shut up. Ugh, I should be at work. What am I doing? Ned: I'll tell you what you're doing. You're sliding those cute buns over here next to me. Alexis: You and your sister are obsessed with cute buns. Ned: Must be your family. Your buns are irresistible. He grabs her hand and starts to pull her. She sighs heavily and scoots over toward him. She sits with her hands fidgeting nervously in her lap. Alexis: There, are you happy? Ned: The question is, are you? Alexis: Why, because I'm now within range of your heat-seeking pheromones? Ned: No, because I'm doing this. His hand slides behind her and begins to caress her neck, moving into her hair. As he massages, she inhales sharply, tilts her head downward and closes her eyes. Alexis: (sleepily) I'm utterly impervious to your attentions, Ashton. Ned leans over and whispers in her ear, his breath making her shudder. Ned: I know, but a guy can hope, can't he? He kisses her cheek, then her temple, as his other hand finds its way to her thigh, caressing just under the hem of her skirt. She turns her face to his as he plants kisses all over it, his hand moving up the outside of her thigh until he feels her tense ever-so-slightly. Then he puts both his arms around her and pulls her body in close to his and kisses her deeply until she breaks away, breathless. Alexis: I don't think your sister likes me. Ned: Ok, next time you bring up my sister when we're making out, we're breaking up. Alexis laughs and looks down coyly. Ned lifts her chin and kisses her softly. Alexis: (in between kisses) I wasn't aware that we were going steady. Ned: That's the problem with American boys. We don't ask before we move in. We've been going steady for ages now. I just hadn't informed you yet. Alexis: I think this counts as legal notification. Ned: Alexis, Alexis, didn't your family ever warn you about sleeping with the natives? Alexis: Who's sleeping? Ned pushes her down with her back on the seat and covers her with his body, her skirt hiking up more and more as she wraps her legs around him. Alexis closes her eyes and moans softly as he kisses her neck... The next thing they know, tires are screeching and they've been thrown onto the floor of the limo, still tangled up in each other's limbs, bracing themselves as the car crashes. Neither of them moves after the limo has stopped. Ned: Are you ok? Alexis: Did we get in a wreck or are you just an incredible kisser? Ned: Shall I really answer that? The door opens and Reginald peers in the doorway. Reggie: Are you both alright? We had a little accident. Ned, with Alexis on top of him from the fall, looks up. Ned: Yes, I think we're fine. What happened? Reggie: Um...the other driver ran a stop sign. Ned: Well, be sure to get his insurance information. Reggie: Sir, I think you'd better handle that. Ned: What? Reginald looks up at someone approaching the car and scurries out of the way. Ned and Alexis look out and see Edward's beet-red-angry face peering in the doorway. Ed: What in God's name do you think you're doing Ned? Ned: Oh God. Ed: Reginald was probably trying to sneak a peak at the skin flick in the back when he crashed into my car. Alexis struggles to get her skirt back down. Together, they roll around on the floor, trying to get up and separated from each other, smoothing out their clothes. Alexis: Tell me this isn't happening. Ed: Shouldn't you be working at the hospital, little missy, instead of romping around in the back seat of a car with this good-for-nothing? Alexis: (to Ned) Do you think we can pay to shut him up? Ned: It's been tried. You didn't think our fortune was made in pharmaceuticals, did you? Chapter 8 Later that day at the Cosmopolitan Hotel... Lise: (on the phone) Look, I'm sure that you can find just 2 little seats... You don't understand... I *have* to get back today... What about one seat and I'll put my child in my lap?... You're not hearing me... Perhaps I'm not being clear... I've tried the other airlines, why do you think I'm calling you???... I realize there's nothing you can do... I'm not yelling... Can you do ANYTHING?? (she slams the phone down) Emma: Mama, what's wrong? Lise: Oh nothing, baby. Um, don't ever talk to people that way, ok? Emma: Why not? Lise: Well, it's bad. It's not very nice that I did that. Emma: Ok. Lise: Well, there's just one thing left to do... (picking up the phone again). Hi Susan. Lise Ashton... Oh no, don't get him.... Listen, could you do me a favor?... Could you arrange for the jet to fly my daughter and I to Virginia tonight?... Wait, you mean he's right there?... Oh damn. Damn damn damn.... Fine, let me talk to him. Ned: (at the other end of the line) Trying to escape are you? Lise: She told me you weren't in your office. Ned: I'm not, I'm in hers. Lise: Oh for crying out loud. I tried everywhere, I even called Valujet. Nothing is available to Richmond tonight, not even to Washington. Can I take the jet? Ned: Listen, I really wanted to talk to you about this. Lise: Ned, don't even try to keep me here. You brought me here against my will. I didn't want to come, and I don't want to stay. Hello?? I have a JOB. Crazy concept, I know. What are you doing at yours, anyway? Ned: I've been trying to make up for some previous neglect that led to the loss of millions a few weeks ago. Lise: Tsk, tsk. What on earth did Grandfather say? Ned: You don't want to know. Fortunately, I distracted him from my business failures today with my social anti-grace. Lise: What happened? Ned proceeds to tell the tale of the limo accident and Alexis and Edward, etc. Lise: Oh God, you're making that up. Ned: I wish. Lise: You're killing me. Ned: You're not the only one. You should have seen Alexis. Little miss dignified professional. She hailed a taxi and was outta there before I had gotten out of the limo. Lise: I would have done the same thing. Ned: Yeah, I'm going to have to call her later. But back to you. I really would like you to meet Emily and get to know her. She could use your influence. Lise: Ned, I'm not going to stay here, not even for Emily. Ned: But I'm afraid she could fall into the wrong crowd. Lise: Sounds like she's been there, done that already. She fell into the wrong crowd when she moved into the House of Usher. Besides, what do I know about staying out of the wrong crowd? I married a Jacks. Ned: But you've learned from your mistakes. Lise: So will she. Speaking of which, exactly which brother is in Port Charles right now? Ned: The good son. Lise: Oh, so there's a third? Ned: Ha, ha. No, but it's not your beloved ex. But good ol' Jasper is no better, Lise. Lise: All the more reason to get the hell out of Dodge, Ned. I don't want to be running into the in-laws with Emma. Now will you give me the bloody plane or what? Ned: No way. Lise: I hate you. Ned: You're not the first woman to say that and you won't be the last. Speaking of which, I have to call Alexis. So I'll see you at dinner tonight? Lise: Sure, I didn't notice that hell had frozen over. Ned: Come on Lise. Grandmother will want to see you. Besides, I need you to deflect Grandfather's attention. Lise: Oh just what I live for. I am not going over there. Ned: Will you have dinner at the Grill? Lise: Ugh. You won't give me the plane and you expect me to show up for dinner? Ned: 8:00. Bring Emma. Lise: Did I mention that I hate you? Ned: Come on, tell me how you really feel. Lise slams the phone down. Emma: Why do you hate Uncle Ned? Lise: Oh I don't, baby. Emma: I thought that's a bad word. Lise: It is. Emma: Then-- Lise: Honey, like I said, don't ever say things that Mama says. It's just a good policy. At the hospital: Alexis: (answering the phone) Alexis Davis. Ned: Do you hate me? Alexis: Yes. Ned: Come on, you have to admit, it's a great story for our grandchildren. Alexis: The leap from today's incident to grandchildren is so vast, I'm not even going to address it. Ned: So my grandfather knows we're an item. Who cares? Alexis: An item? Ned: Steady dates. Main squeeze. Hot ticket. Alexis: Do you want me to throw up? Ned: Ok, ok, I want to make it up to you. Tonight. Alexis: No. Ned: Please. Alexis puts the phone down while she covers her face with her hands, searching her heart for some remnant of resolve. Finding none, she sighs dramatically and puts the phone back to her ear. Alexis: What time? Ned: 8:00. Alexis: What should I wear? Ned: Well, considering it's going to be a family event, I would recommend clothes. Alexis: A family event?? No chance. Ned: Do I have to beg? Alexis: That would help. Ned: Please please please with sugar on top? I'm on my knees. I'll bring you flowers and chocolate everyday for the next month. Alexis: Make that champagne and caviar instead and I'll consider it. Ned: God bless you. Alexis: Is your sister going to be there? Ned: Yes. I'm hoping that Grandfather will harass her more than us. Alexis: You owe me. You owe me huge. I'm giddy with how hugely you owe me. Ned: I promise I'll make it up to you. Dinner can only last so long. Alexis: (smiling to herself more than she'd ever admit to him) I'm counting on that. As she hangs up, Stefan walks in her office. Stefan: Making plans for tonight? Alexis: Yes. Don't say a word. Stefan: Your personal life is your own, Alexis. Alexis: It doesn't count if there are no witnesses to hear you say that. Stefan: You didn't sound very enthusiastic about your plans. Alexis: Don't get all giddy. I was only being hostile to Ned because he wants me to have dinner with his family. Stefan: I see. Does that include the lovely Doctor? Alexis: I assume you're speaking of the sister, and yes, it does. Stefan: She doesn't strike me as being interested in family togetherness. Alexis: Ned probably strong-armed her too. (She sighs with resignation) Maybe I'll get to sit next to Justus . Later that day, Lise returns to the hospital. She drops Emma off at the daycare facility, stops by Alan's office to borrow a password to use a computer to check email and do some research. She's in the library, cruising through a Medline search on pediatric asthma when Stefan interrupts her. Stefan: Dr. Ashton Lise: (looking up from her work) Are you stalking me? Stefan: (smiling slightly) No, I noticed your daughter in the daycare facility a while ago and asked Alan if he knew where you were. I thought you had left the hospital. Lise: I had. I tried to get a flight home tonight but they were all booked, so I checked into a hotel and decided to come here and try to get some work done. So you just couldn't stay away from that Spencer kid, could you? Stefan: I'm interested in her welfare. My nephew donated bone marrow to her a year ago and I've been concerned for her ever since. Lise: Bone marrow? Isn't that sweet? How on earth did a European of Slavic descent match the marrow of Laura's child? Stefan: (nonchalantly) Nikolas is Laura's biological son. Lise: (with a cheshire grin) The plot thickens. Stefan: Don't pretend like you didn't already know that. Lise: (shrugging) I hear the rumors in my brother's emails, but I prefer to ask the source. (changing the subject) So why is it that you were looking for me? Stefan: Looking for you? Lise: Did you or did you not ask my uncle where I was? Stefan: Well, I heard about the Quartermaine quality time on tap for tonight. I thought I might make you a better offer. Lise: It wouldn't take much. Stefan: Are you aware of the New York State Society for Pediatric Medicine conference this week? Lise: No, but that would explain why my colleague in Albany hasn't answered my emails this week. Stefan: The ending banquet is tonight. I was planning on going alone, but I thought the time would be infinitely more interesting if you joined me. Lise: Right, I'm sure you just dig those peds conventions every chance you get, huh? Stefan: (annoyed at her teasing) If you must know, I was looking for a replacement for Simone Hardy, who recently left our Pediatric department. So I've been going to some of the conference to meet potential applicants. Lise: (crossing her arms as the lightbulb flashes in her mind) Oh really? Did my brother set you up to this? Stefan: I don't know what you're talking about. I assume your brother expects you at dinner tonight. Lise: (warily) Well, alright. But don't think for one minute that there's any chance of my staying in Port Charles. I'm not looking for a new job. Stefan: Dr. Ashton, I'm sure your credentials are impressive, but please don't flatter yourself. I simply wanted the company. Lise: (not buying it) Uh-huh, sure. Stefan: (bluffing) If you'd rather spend the evening with your family, I'd certainly understand. Lise: I'd rather have a root canal. Stefan smiles knowingly as he always does when he gets his way.