Tony hesitates before opening the door to hisapartment. He remembers the scene in the hospital where Luke tellsthem that Carly is Bobbie's daughter. He unlocks the door and enters.He is surprised to see the table with a romantic setting. The candlesare lit and the lights are dimmed. Carly comes out of the bedroomwearing a new negligee. When she sees him she rushes to him with abig smile.
Carly- I'm so happy to see you. I was afraid youwould be late. I have a surprise for you.
Finally Carly notices the hurt and anger in Tony'sexpression.- Tony? What's wrong?
Did something happen to Lucas? (sarcastically) Oris it Bobbie?
Tony-Tell me the truth Carly. Did you ever love me?Or is all I am to you a way to hurt Bobbie?
Carly- I don't know what you're talking about.What's going on Tony?
Tony- You tell me. You know, it's so obvious now, Ican't believe I didn't see it. The way you insinuated yourself intoBobbie's life. She was right all along, you were out to steal herlife and you did. I must be the biggest fool around.
Carly- Tony? What brought this on? What have I donewrong now?
Tony- I KNOW Carly. I know the truth now and it'scost me my son!
Tony shows Carly the newspaper.
Her face gets pale and her eyes fill withtears.
Carly- We love each other. That's all that mattersTony. It has nothing to do with Bobbie. (Carly lays the newspaperdown on the table)
Tony- How can you say that! The only reason youslept with me was to hurt Bobbie! My God Carly, you are mystep-daughter!
Carly- No I'm not! You aren't married to Bobbieanymore.
Tony- I was when I first slept with you!
Carly- We haven't done anything wrong! I loveyou!
Tony- I was an easy way for you to rip Bobbie'sheart out. You must really hate her!
Carly- You have no idea! I wasn't good enough forher. That's why she gave me away.
And when I came here and tried to get close to her,she pushed me away. But you were different. No one has ever treatedme the way you do. That's why I love you.
Tony- I don't know who you are. I guess I neverdid.
Carly- I'm the sweet young thing that keeps yourbed warm, that's who I am! Don't act so above it all Tony! If youwere so happy with Bobbie, then you wouldn't have been looking atme!
Tony- Oh I blame myself alright. And my stupiditycost me Lucas. There is no way I can continue with the custody suitnow. I don't stand a chance.
Tony goes to reread the newspaper article. When hereaches for it he notices a baby rattle in one of the plates. Hepicks it up and looks at Carly questioningly.
Carly smiles bitterly- Surprise, I'm pregnant.
**********************************************************
Luke steps around an officer and barges into Mac'soffice.
Luke- Don't worry darlin, me and Bubba are oldfriends.
Mac looks up from the report he is reading.-It'sall right, I've been expecting him.
The officer looks dubious but let's Luke passanyway. She closes the door so they can have privacy.
Luke- I envy you Bubba, beautiful women guardingyour door.
Mac-Don't let her looks fool you, that fragilelooking beauty specializes in martial arts. I don't think she wouldhave any trouble whooping your butt.
Luke- Promises, promises.
Mac-You're married remember.
Luke-I may be married, but I ain't blind.
Luke lights a cigar.
Mac- I doubt you came down here to ogle myofficers. I already got your statement at the hospital remember?
Luke- I need to know what you got. Who did this tothe kid?
Mac-Can't help you. This is an on-goinginvestigation.
Luke-Don't give me that Bubba! How would you feelif this were Robin?
Mac-Same as you I suppose, I'm sorry Luke, thismust be weird for you. Finding out about the kid then finding himhalf dead.
Luke-Weird ain't the word for it man. I'm chasingmy tail on this one. The only thing I know for sure is I gotta takeaction. I have to find out who did this to Nikolas.
Mac- And then what?
Luke-Well, turn him over to you, of course.
Mac-I'm serious.
Luke-So am I. I'm going to be honest with you, ifthis were Lucky, ever who did it would be dead. But it's differentwith Nikolas, we've never had a chance to know each other.
Mac-Well, I don't know how true that is, he's beenin town what seven, eight months.
Luke-That's a low blow man.
Mac- You're right. Your relationship with your sonis none of my business.
Luke-But I can't let them get away with it either.As much as I wanted to, even I couldn't do this to him. So are yougoing to tell me what you got?
Mac- We don't have a lot. We got blood samples atthe scene, most of it will belong to Nikolas. It'll take several daysto do the test. We couldn't find the knife. But we're going to keepsearching. They're going to drag the river today. We got a fewimpressions of the footprints. The most important evidence we have issome tissue found under the kids fingernail. Also his watch had sometissue and blood on the broken crystal, if we're lucky it won'tbelong to Nikolas. Other than that we don't have much to go on.Unless he can tell us what happened, this is going to be tough tosolve. Alan said he would let me talk to him a few minutes today.From what I hear, he don't remember much.
Luke-Nah. He's faking the four weeks bit. Trying tobuy time, so he don't have to deal with his old man. You gotta gethim to tell you the truth. Take it easy on him though, he ain'tfaking being traumatized.
Mac- Alan said, he's been having nightmares.
Luke- At this point, I'm sure he thinks his wholelife has turned into a nightmare.
**********************************************************
Nikolas stirs when the needle is stuck into hisarm. He mumbles and falls back to sleep without ever fully waking.The doctor breaths a sigh of relief. He looks around nervously as hetakes a blood sample. Then slips it into his coat pocket. He jumpswhen his name is called.
Amy- Tom, what are you doing here?
Tom- I'm head of psychiatry, remember? Tony thinksNikolas is suffering from a psychological memory loss.
Amy-I specifically heard Tony say he didn't thinkyou should handle Nikolas' case.
Tom-Really? Why not?
Amy-Your anti-Cassadine standpoint. So why are youreally here?
Tom- Just checking on the kid for Luke and Laura.They wanted my professional opinion about his condition.
Amy-Sounds like a good excuse to me. Except isn'tit hard to do a psychological evaluation on a patient who isunconscious?
Tom- Not really, I heard he's been having violentnightmares. I wanted to observe his reaction to them first hand. (Tomlooks at his watch) But unfortunately I have an appointment withanother patient. Tom leaves with the hidden vial still in hiscoat.
Amy makes a note of Nikolas vital signs in hischart and leaves too. She stops to talk to the guard outside Nikolas'room.
A woman is hiding in a room across the hallwatching Amy flirt with the man outside ICU unit 3. The man followsAmy a few steps down the hall and ask if he can call her after work.When Amy writes her phone number on the man's hand, the woman makesher move. She sneaks into unit three. As she looks at the boy lyingin bed, she remembers a different time. It has been nine years sinceshe last watched him sleep. She thinks back to that time. The boy issix and has just fallen to sleep. She watches him for what isprobably the last time. Soon her fate will be decided, she closes hereyes and refuses to allow the tears to fall. Stefan enters thechild's room. His face is an icy mask. He makes sure the boy isasleep. He motions for her to follow him outside, but she will notleave.
Stefan- It is decided. You are to be exiled.
woman-I thought as much. Do you realize how muchthis will hurt him? First his beloved Nanny, and now me! For God'ssake, why don't you stand up to her?
Stefan- Tell me, little sister, where has it gottenyou? You will be exiled, permanently removed from the family.
Woman-I will be free of the family!
Stefan-And is your freedom worth Nikolas' soul?What good can you do him in exile? Woman- What of your own soul? Howcan you claim to protect Nikolas, while carrying out an execution ofhis own Grandmother?
Stefan-(coldly).You underestimate me. But hear meand hear me well, I will do anything necessary to protect Nikolas.Even say good-bye to you. Because one day, when the time is right, Iwill free him of her. This I swear!
Woman- You will never free him of her! None of uswill ever be free of her, even in exile.
Stefan-That may be true, but I will not forsakehim.
As the woman watches the injured Nikolas sleep, shefinally allows those unshed tears to fall.
Woman- I should have been there for you. Can youever forgive me?
She caresses his face and kisses his cheek.
Nikolas responds to a familiar and loved voice. -Isabella?
Isabella-Yes, I'm here.
Nikolas forces himself to open his eyes, he issurprised when he sees the woman before him.
Nikolas-I'm sorry, I thought you were someone else.You're a friend of Katherine's aren't you? Miranda, right?
Miranda-Yes, That's right. Katherine was worriedand sent me to check on you.
Bobbie enters Nikolas' room. She seems startled tosee Miranda visiting Nikolas.
Bobbie ( with a big smile)- Nikolas! I'm glad tosee you awake. How are you feeling?
Nikolas-I'm fine.
Bobbie-Stefan is speaking with Alan, he'll be in tosee you in a few minutes.
Miranda looks uncomfortable and tells Nikolas sheneeds to be leaving. When they are alone Bobbie turns to Nikolas.
Bobbie-So tell me, how are you really?
Nikolas-I told you, I'm fine.
Bobbie - Nikolas, this is General Jones, remember?Tell me the truth.
Tears well in Nikolas' eyes-No... actually yourGeneral Cassadine,... which is more than I can say for myself.
Bobbie-You remember ?
Nikolas- I never forgot. I'm sorry I lied, Bobbie.I just couldn't deal with them.
Bobbie- You don't have to apologize Nikolas. Not tome and certainly not to them.
Nikolas smiles- Thanks Bobbie, I love you.
Bobbie-Well, the feeling is mutual. (Bobbie givesNikolas a hug). I really don't know what we would have done if welost you.
Stefan-(Who has just entered the room). Mysentiments exactly. How are you feeling Nikolas?
Nikolas ignores him.
Bobbie- Maybe Nikolas is tired. He should rest.
Stefan-Barbara, will you excuse us please. I thinkNikolas and I should discuss this in private.
Bobbie-Stefan, I really don't think you should pushthis.
Stefan- Barbara, please.
Bobbie-Nikolas?
Nikolas-It's okay, Bobbie.
Bobbie reluctantly leaves them alone. Nikolasstares angrily at Stefan.
Nikolas-I won't let you do it.
Stefan- Do what?
Nikolas- Use and manipulate me anymore. I will nolonger be your pawn.
Stefan- Is that how you see yourself? As apawn?
Nikolas- Aren't I
Stefan ( Who has tears in his eyes)- God no!!Nikolas, I love you with every fiber of my being! No father couldlove his child more! Yes, I lied about who your biological fatherwas, but it was because I had to protect you from Helena. From theday you were born, I have lived my life for you. Think about itNikolas. Do you really think I could fake our bond? It is real.Granted, it has been twisted and tested, but the feeling behind it isreal, and it is strong. Deep in your heart you have to know this!
Nikolas has tears in his eyes but he refuses toanswer Stefan.
Stefan-I can see you are tired, so I will let yourest.
He starts to leave then turns back to Nikolas-Nikolas, I will always love you, that will never change. And I willalways consider you my son. It is my greatest hope that you willsomeday forgive me. (Stefan waits a few moments then adds).Commissioner Scorpio will need to speak to you later today. We haveyet to discuss who did this to you?
Nikolas looks genuinely surprised- Who did this tome? I.. don't...I don't know.
Stefan- Nikolas, please this is important. I knowyou were not being truthful about not remembering your mother isalive.
Nikolas-Obviously, considering ourconversation.
Stefan-Tell me what you remember.
Nikolas-Uncle......or should I call you Stefan?
Stefan- Nikolas please...
Nikolas sees the hurt in Stefan's face and regretsthe remark.
Nikolas-I didn't see them, it was dark. I mean, atfirst there was a lantern, but... but I was ...I was...
Stefan-Still in shock?
Nikolas-Yes, I wasn't aware of my surroundings. Idon't even remember going to the catacombs. Then all the sudden, thelights went out and these men... these men... came...they....came...
Nikolas starts to breath hard and sweat beads onhis forehead. He closes his eyes trying to stop the memories.
Stefan goes to Nikolas and embraces him.
Stefan-It's all right Nikolas, they can't hurt youanymore. You are safe now.
Nikolas- Am I?
Stefan-Yes, I will make sure of it.
Nikolas breaks down in sobs and allows Stefan tocomfort him. Stefan's heart breaks as he feels his child's pain.Bobbie watches through the window, her face wet with tears.
**********************************************************
Tony- You're pregnant?
Carly- Well you don't have to look sohorrified.
Tony sits down slowly. - Oh God! What have Idone?
Carly- I thought you would be happy. Tony don't actthis way!
The phone rings and Tony just sits there. So Carlyanswers the phone.
Carly- It's for you, it's Alan.
Tony takes the phone- Alan this is really not agood time.....Oh I see. Well I guess that was to be expected. Isuggest you get Gail Baldwin to consult. Okay.....Thanks for callingto let me know. Bye.
Tony hangs up the phone.
Tony- Stefan has removed me as Nikolas' physician,Alan is taking over. I guess they got the court papers today.......or just read the newspaper.
The phone rings again.
Tony- Hello, Dr. Jones speaking. No I do not wishto comment.....Because it's none of your business....I'm really notinterested.
Tony hangs up again and again the phone rings.
Tony- Listen I told you no comment! Oh it's youJustus, sorry about that. I thought you were the press. But I wasabout to call you, there's been a further complication.
Carly looks furious at his choice of words.
Tony- Already heard what? I haven't heard anythingfrom Bobbie. I see....Can they do that? Can we meet somewhere? FineI'll be right over.
Tony hangs up the phone.
Tony-The Cassadines are counter suing. They havepetitioned the court to allow only supervised visits with Lucas. Itold Justus I would meet with him. I think it would be better if Istayed at the brownstone tonight.
Carly starts to cry- Tony.. please don't go! We canwork this out.
Tony gets his coat and walks out. Carly picks up avase and throws it at the door.
**********************************************************
Stefan and Bobbie watch Nikolas through the window.He is restless and is mumbling in his sleep.
Bobbie- I was hoping he would sleep peaceably afterthis morning. He was so exhausted.
Stefan- I should have listened to you. It was toosoon, he was not ready.
Bobbie- Stefan, what happened today was the bestthing for him. He got a chance to release some of the anger and fear,as well as bond with you. He may be angry with you, but he stillneeds you.
Bobbie looks at her watch.
Bobbie-Uh-oh, I promised I would pick Lucas up fromschool today. I better go or I'll be late. He's worried about his bigbrother so I think I should spend so time with him. I hate to leaveyou alone though.
Stefan-Do not concern yourself Barbara, Iunderstand parental responsibilities. I will call you if anythinghappens.
She kisses him and leaves as officer Taggert andAlan approaches them.
Taggert- Mr. Cassadine, I need your permission toask your nephew some questions. You are his legal guardian?
Stefan- His name is Nikolas and yes I am his legalguardian.
Luke (Who just arrives with Mac)- But not for long.As soon as he's strong enough the kid will give you the boot.
Alan- Don't start. I won't have you upsetting mypatient. Must I remind you all, that boy had been severelytraumatized?
Mac-I'm sure Luke can keep a lid on it for awhile,isn't that right Luke?
Luke-Anything you say Bubba. Alan how's hedoin?
Alan- I was just about to go check on himwhen.......
The alarms in Nikolas' room go off. Nikolas springsout of the bed and bolts for the door, tearing the IV from his arm inthe process. He looks terrified as he pushes past Alan and Mac. Heruns past Luke, who manages to grab him from behind. Luke has hisarms around Nikolas' chest, who is struggling to get free. He elbowsLuke in the side, and kicks backwards hitting Luke in the legs. Lukeis amazed at Nikolas' strength but still manages to keep hold ofhim.
Alan- Be careful not to hurt him. Remember hiswounds.
Luke-He's beatin the hell out of me, and yourworried I'm hurtin him? Do somethin already.
Stefan goes to Nikolas and puts his hand on theboy's face and forces him to look at him. He speaks to him inGreek.
Stefan- You are safe Nikolas, you do not have tostruggle. No one is going to hurt you. Nikolas!
Nikolas stops struggling and looks bewildered atStefan- Uncle?
Stefan - Yes....
Nikolas passes out before Stefan could finish. Lukeis still holding him and Nikolas' head rest back against Luke'schest. Luke looks down at his son's face and his eyes fill withtears. He kisses the top of Nikolas's head. He looks at Stefan and hetoo has tears in his eyes.
Luke-Do you think the two of us can manage to gethim back in bed?
Stefan merely nods and bends to pick up Nikolas'legs. Alan starts to protest but Bobbie stops him. They all move outof they way as Nikolas is carried back to his room. The two mengently lay Nikolas on his bed and pull the covers over him. Alanreconnects the IV and monitors. Nikolas is very pale and he lookslifeless.
Stefan- Alan, how is he?
Luke-What's wrong with him?
Alan ignores the two as he continues to examineNikolas. He listens to his chest and lungs. He gently presses aroundNikolas' wounds. He checks his pupils and reads the monitorreadouts.
Alan- I don't think he hurt himself anymore, but wecan't let this go on or he will. I'm afraid we are going to need torestrain him. And Gail Baldwin should start working with him rightaway.
Stefan- I spoke to Gail this morning, she said shewould see him today.
Luke- If he didn't hurt himself, why is he sopale?
Alan- It's the effect of the nightmares. He won'ttalk about his dreams to me, but I suspect he is reliving the attack.At any rate, his adrenaline is pumping like crazy. Trouble is, hisbody is still weak from the attack and it exhaust him. That's why hepassed out. I don't think it's a good idea to question him today.
Taggert-Dr. Quartermaine, It is essential that wequestion the boy as soon as possible.
Amy brings in the wrist bands and Nikolas issecured to his bed.
Alan-I suggest we let him rest, so let's discussthis outside, in the lobby.
The five men go to the lobby and find a secludedcorner so they can talk somewhat privately.
Alan turns to Taggert.
Alan- As you can see, he's in no condition toanswer your questions. When he is, I'll let you know. And furthermoreI recommend that Gail Baldwin be present for the interrogation.
Taggert- I want to ask him some questions, notinterrogate him. I'm not unsympathetic to his situation, but I have ajob to do.
Mac- It will wait Taggert. He's a minor, so we aregoing to follow the advise of his physician. Alan, if you think Gailneeds to be there, that's fine by me. She can even ask the questionsif you think it's best. But eventually we are going to have to talkto him.
Alan-I'll set it up with Gail, if that meetsStefan's approval.
Stefan- Certainly.
When Taggert leaves Luke looks Mac in the eye.
Luke- I was wrong Bubba, you better catch'em beforeI do. Because when I get my hands on them, they're dead.
Stefan- I do not care who catches them first, aslong as they are caught. Because they WILL pay, I assure you ofthat.
Mac- Listen you two, I don't need a couple ofvigilantes on the lose. The law will handle this without anyinterference from either of you. Am I clear on that?
Neither Stefan or Luke answer him.
Laura is apprehensive when she sees Stefan and Luketalking with Alan and Mac. She takes a deep breath before going tojoin them.
Laura- Alan how is Nikolas doing?
Alan- I'm sorry Laura, we had to restrain him.
Laura-But why?
Luke-The nightmares.
Laura-Can I see him?
Alan - Well.. uh...He IS unconscious right now, soI don't suppose it will upset him. I don't see why you can't peek inon him. But only for a few minutes and try not to wake him.
Laura-I won't, I promise. Thanks Alan.
Laura goes the ICU 3. She checks the videomonitor's to make sure he is still sleeping. Then she quietly walksinto the room. She stifles a sob at the site of him so pale and weak,with both his wrist secured to the bed rails. She starts to caresshis face but stops herself, lest she wakes him. It is then that shenotices the letter laying on his chest. Laura almost faints when sherecognizes the handwriting. With a trembling hand she picks up theletter and reads it.
To the Betrayers
Do you think to keep him from me? He is mine! Hebelongs to me! And I can take him anytime I choose. You cannot stopme. I....WILL....HAVE.....HIM!!!!! And you will have my TIMORIA!! Heis the price of your betrayal. Guard that which is precious toyou.
Helena
Laura takes the letter and runs to Luke in apanic.
Laura-Luke! Luke! She was here! She was here inNikolas' room! We can't let her have him!
Luke-Who was here?
Laura-Helena!
She shows him the letter. Luke reads it and looksto Stefan.
Luke- What do you know about this?
Stefan takes the letter and reads it. He is visiblyshaken.
Stefan-My God, where did you find this?
Laura( in tears)- It was laying on his chest! Howcould she have gotten so close to him?
Stefan hands the letter back to Luke and rushes toNikolas' room. The others follow. He speaks to the guard outside theunit.
Stefan-Your employment is terminated.
The guard looks confused.
Luke- Let me translate. You're fired!
They all go into Nikolas' room. He is stillsleeping. Alan quickly checks him over and reads the monitors.
Alan-There's no change in his condition. I don'tthink she hurt him.
Stefan (with a quiet rage)-You have no idea howmuch she has hurt him.
Laura looks at Luke with guilt.
Mac pretends to be intently studying theletter.
Stefan-Forgive me Alan. Is it alright if we wakehim?
Alan-Considering the circumstances, I have noobjections.
Stefan nods and gently shakes Nikolas.
Stefan- Nikolas.
Nikolas answers sleepily-I'm tired Uncle, can't Isleep a few more minutes?
Stefan changes his tactics and speaks to Nikolas inRussian.
Stefan-Young man, you WILL wake up now!
Nikolas opens his eyes and smiles at Stefan.
Nikolas (speaking in English)- You know I hate itwhen you speak Russian to me.
Stefan smiles back- It was necessary.
Nikolas starts to reach for Stefan and for thefirst time notices he is restrained. He looks at the wristbands indisbelieve.
Nikolas- Are these necessary as well?
Stefan grasp Nikolas' arm and speaks to himcautiously
Stefan-You have been having nightmares Nikolas, doyou remember them?
Nikolas-Vaguely...... I think.
Stefan-When you have these nightmares, you have aviolent reaction to them.
Nikolas-Violent?
Stefan-Yes, you wake up fighting. Defendingyourself against an unknown attacker. Do you remember?
Nikolas-No, I don't remember doing that. Is thatwhy I've been restrained? So I won't hurt anyone?
Stefan-Not at all, we were concerned that you mayreopen your wounds.
Nikolas seemed satisfied with the answer- Oh.
Laura-Nikolas, how are you feeling?
Nikolas looks at Laura then Luke, but he speaks toStefan
Nikolas-What are they doing here?
Laura-Nikolas, we love you!
Nikolas- Oh please!! Do you really expect me tofall for that again?
Laura- It's the truth.
Nikolas-You are incapable of the truth!
Nikolas speaks to Luke bitterly- I'll bet this(indicating the restraints) made your day.
Luke smiled-No kid, it didn't. And it ain't gonnawork. You're not baitin me into an argument, so can the tantrum. Nowbe a good little boy and lay there and listen to your UncleStefin.
Laura-Luke!
Stefan-Nikolas, we have something to discuss withyou.
Nikolas- HE IS NOT MY FATHER!!
Luke was surprised at how much those words hurt,still he managed to keep that reaction to himself.
Stefan- Now is not the time or place to discussthat. Listen carefully Nikolas, this is important.
Nikolas grows impatient- What already?
Stefan- Do you remember who visited you today?
Nikolas-Why is that so important?
Stefan-Don't be insolent
Nikolas-Fine! There was you and Bobbie and Amy, butsince she's my nurse I don't think she counts as a visitor.
Stefan- Go on.
Nikolas sighs and continues-Katherine's friendMiranda came to see me this morning. Bobbie saw her.
Nikolas seems troubled about the visit.
Stefan - What are you thinking Nikolas.
Nikolas- It's just that I must have been dreamingwhen she came in, because at first I thought I was talking toIsabella. Then I opened my eyes and it was Miranda.
Stefan smiles sadly- Isabella?
Luke-Who is Isabella?
Laura-Stefan's sister
Mac-Why was Miranda visiting you?
Nikolas-Katherine sent her to see how I was.
Stefan- Did anyone else come to visit you?
Nikolas-I'm not sure. I think I dreamed it.
Luke-Tell us about it.
Nikolas looks directly at Laura, his face isexpressionless.
Nikolas-Someone, I think it was a woman, I was sotired I couldn't be sure. She was speaking to me about fairytales.
Stefan-Fairy tales?
Nikolas-She said, there are many fairy tales inwhich the first born child is promised in payment for a favor.
Laura puts her hands to her face and breaksdown.
Nikolas gets upset at her reaction and everyoneexcept Stefan is made to leave. Stefan stays with him until he calmsdown and falls to sleep.
**********************************************************
While Stefan comforts Nikolas, Mac and Taggert havethe hospital searched. Laura goes to call Lucky to make sureeverything is alright at home. Sonny has some men there for security,but she is still worried. She dials the number and waits impatientlytill Lucky answers.
Lucky-Hello?
Laura-Lucky, this is Mom, how are things at home?Everything under control?
Lucky-Everything's cool Mom. I just put Lulu to bedand Grandma is having some tea. What's wrong? You sound upset.
Laura- There has been some complications. I don'twant to frighten you, but we got a message from Helena. So be extracareful.
Lucky- I've been doing this all my life remember? Iknow what to do.
Laura- I know you do. I'm just worried. TellSonny's men to be on the alert, okay?
Lucky-Anything you say Mom.
Laura- Thanks Lucky, uhm there's one more thing.Looks like we are going to move ahead the plan to go to Switzerland.It's too dangerous here.
Lucky-What about Dad?
Laura- He'll help us get moved, then he's comingback. I need for you to finish packing. Will you do that?
Lucky- Sure Mom.
Laura- Thank you Lucky, I love you.
Lucky- I love you too. bye.
Laura- bye.
Laura hangs up the phone and waits in the lobby forLuke, who has gone to talk with Tom.
**********************************************************
Luke strolls into Tom's office.
Luke- Did you get it?
Tom- Yes, I got it. But let me tell you, I'm notcut out for all this cloak and dagger stuff.
Luke- Nikolas didn't list you among his visitorstoday, so you must have done something
right.
Tom- Nikolas was easy. He was so out of it, I don'tthink he realized I was there. Amy on the other hand almost caughtme. She was suspicious as to why I was there. I barely got the vialinto my pocket when she came in.
Luke- What did you tell her?
Tom- That you and Laura wanted me to check on him.I don't think she bought it though.
Luke- Come on Tom, Amy ain't all that bright.
Tom- You know, I'm going to need blood from you, ifyou want the test done.
Luke rolls up his sleeve.- That's one of thereasons I'm here.
Tom gets out the needle and vial he has hidden inhis desk. He wraps the rubber strap around Luke's upper arm and findsa vein. Then he cleans the area with antiseptic.
Tom- One of the reasons?
Tom sticks in the needle and collects the bloodsample in the vial. He removes the needle and places a cotton ball onthe mark and bends Luke's arm.
Luke- I'm afraid I got another big favor to ask ofyou.
Tom-Now what?
Luke- Seems Helena Cassadine's in town. I need toget Laura and the kids and her mother to Switzerland fast. It'll besafer for them. Do you think you can go help get Lesley into thatclinic?
Tom- I can do that,.....when are we leaving?
Luke- Tonight.
Tom- That soon?
Luke- Yeah, we don't have a choice. The plan is Ihelp them move over and make sure they are safe. Then hightail itback here.
Tom- Why are you coming back?
Luke- Because of the kid. I have to find out whodid this to him. How soon till we find out about the test.
Tom- I'm not having the test done here at GH, toomuch of a chance Stefan finding out. So I'm sending it to a lab thatspecializes in DNA test. Should take about a week.
Luke- That should give you just about enough timeto get Lesley settled in.
Tom- It should. So what's this about Helena?
Luke- God, man, she left a note laying on Nikolas'chest. Threatened to take him. Hell she was taunting us with it. Shesaid he was the price of betrayal and she could take him anytime shewanted.
Luke is quiet for a moment then he half laughs- Youwant to know something funny? When Nikolas shouted at Stefan that Iwasn't his father, it actually hurt. Go figure. I ain't done nothingbut try to turn that kid away and when he does, it's a blow.
Tom- Does that mean you are hoping the test confirmthat you are his Father?
Luke- I don't know. I just don't know anymore. Theonly thing I do know, is that when it comes to the Cassadines, nevertake anything for granted.
**********************************************************
Judge- It is my ruling that the minor NikolasCassadine be placed into the custody of his biological parents, Lukeand Laura Spencer. It is also my ruling that his name be changed toLucas Lorenzo Spencer IV.
Stefan- This is outrageous.
Nikolas-You can't do that! And why do I have tochange my name?
Luke with a big smile- Sorry about the IV part, itshould have been Jr. but Lucky already got that one. Since you arethe fourth one in the family to be named Lucas Lorenzo, we decidedthat IV would be appropriate.
Nikolas- I don't understand why I have to change myname.
Luke turns very serious-Because it's in the plansboy. Plan L, plainly states that all male members of the Spencer clanmust be named Lucas Lorenzo, after me of course. Then there's planLL, All male family members overlooked in the great Lucas Lorenzonaming, must be renamed, you got it, Lucas Lorenzo. Lucky teach yourbrother the plans.
Lucky-Sure Dad, Plan A- is open, it's formedaccording to the situation. Plan B- That's the backup plan forA...........plan D- Double back on your trail..........plan F- Do theunexpected.........plan M- never........
Luke- Your goin to need a nickname so we don't getall us Lucas' confused. So we are going to call you Lewis.
Nikolas-My name is Nikolas.
Luke- It ain't anymore.
Lucky- plan x- always wait one hour after you eatbefore going swimming......plan AA-........
Luke- I understand you been doing university levelschool work.
Lewis/Nikolas-Yes, I have for some time now.
Luke- Well can't nothin be done about it now. Yousee we save the book-learning for the women.
Lucky- I miss one, maybe two months of school at atime, it's no sweat....plan AAA-fake your death and blame it on theSmiths........plan JJJ-.....
Luke-Since you got way more book-learning than youneed, You're going to go ahead and start working with me. From now onyou're the new short order cook at the club, Luke's, (named after meof course). Don't worry, I'll have you flippin burgers with the bestof ëem.
Lucky-plan LLL, All family members must have namesthat start with the wonderful letter L.....
Lucky hesitates then lights up as an idea hithim.
Lucky- Dad, I know why Bobbie turned her back onus!!
Luke-Why?
Lucky- It's so obvious!! She is the only one in thefamily that don't have a name startin with the letter L! I bet she'sbeen feelin like an outsider all these years.
Luke-That's my boy, smart as a whip. I bet if wegive her a ìLî name, she'll come home to us. From now onher name is Loretta Lou.
Lucky- Me and Lewis can call her Aunt Lollie. Nowthat is settled, where was I? Oh yeah, plan MMM- Always remember toput the parachute on BEFORE jumping out of the airplane.........planRRR- Don't ever........
Luke- And Lewis, your gonna need this
Luke hands Lewis/Nikolas a cigar.
Lucky- ........plan CCCCC- If your arch-enemy fakeshis death, have your psychic friend
to track him down........plan......
Luke- We all smoke' em.
Suddenly Luke, Laura, Lucky, Lesley, Lucas, Lollieand Lulu are all in front of him smoking cigars. Luke lights Lewis'for him and makes him smoke it. He gets choked and startscoughing.
Luke- Don't worry, you'll get used to it. ( heslaps Lewis on the back)
Lucky-........plan BBBBBBBB- fake your death andblame it on the Cassadines......plan ......
Lewis/Nikolas- Nooooooooo!
Nikolas jumps and wakes.- Thank God it was only adream.
**********************************************************
Luke, Laura and Tom arrive at the Spencer home.
Laura-I would feel better about this, if I had achance to say goodbye to Nikolas.
Luke- I know, but we gotta do as Alan's says. HeyCowboy, is everything packed?
Lucky-Yeah, Mom already did most of it. I justfinished it up. But...
Luke-Spit it out son.
Lucky takes and deep breath and speaks toLaura.
Lucky-I'm not staying in Switzerland with you, I'mcoming back with Dad.
Laura- It's dangerous....
Lucky- I've been around danger my whole life. I cantake care of myself, besides Dad is going to need someone to watchhis back.
Laura looks at Luke and thinks.
Laura-Okay Lucky, I'm not going to force you tostay with me, but I'm going to miss you.
Lucky-I'll miss you too.
Luke- Why don't you go upstairs and get thesuitcases.
Tom-I'll go check on Lesley.
After Tom and Lucky leave, Luke's and Lauratalk.
Luke- I'm surprised you let him stay with me.
Laura- I realized he needs to spend time with you.It is hard for him to take that Nikolas is your son too. We will beleaving soon, did you ever get hold of Sonny?
Luke- No, I better try one more time.
Luke calls Sonny's apartment when there is noanswer, he calls the club. Mike answers.
Luke- Hello Mike, is Sonny there?.....No?.....Wellhow about Jason?.....Yeah , let me speak to him. Hey Jason, where'syour boss hidin himself? OH he's back with Brenda...Nah, it'll wait.I just wanted to let him know we were going to Switzerlandtonight....Tell him I'll be back in a couple of days.....ThanksJason, see ya.
Lucky and Tom come back downstairs, Lesley and Luluare with them. The men carry the luggage to the car and they all goto the airport.
**********************************************************
The next morning Stefan, Gail, Mac and Taggert arein Nikolas' room. Gail takes off the wristbands so that he will bemore comfortable.
Nikolas- Thank you, I hate being tied to thisbed.
Gail- I don't see any reason for you to berestrained when someone is in here with you and you are awake. IfStefan will agree to put them back on you when you go to sleep thenwe will leave them off for now.
Stefan - That sounds like a reasonablecompromise.
Nikolas looks grateful, but he looks at Mac andTaggert nervously.
Mac- Don't worry son, we just want to find out whodid this to you. We need to ask a few questions in order to do that.Since officer Taggert here, is like a bull in a china shop, Gail willbe asking the questions. But we will need to record theinterview.
Mac places a small recorder on hospital table andturns it.
Gail- Why don't you start by telling us what youremember.
Nikolas-I just heard some....upsetting news. Idon't remember going to the catacombs. I was just there. I walkedinto one of the rooms and some people were already there. I think Ibarged in on them. They blew out the lantern and it was dark. I triedto .........
Nikolas starts to get upset. Tears fall freely downhis face.
I tried....to fight.... them......but....they....they....kept...
Gail- Take a deep breath Nikolas, you are safe now.No one is going to hurt you. Let's go back a little bit. You saidthere was a lantern on and you saw some men. Did you see theirfaces?
Nikolas-I'm not sure, like I said, I was upset andwasn't paying attention. It happened so fast.
Gail- Do you remember how many men were there?
Nikolas- I think there were three of them.
Gail- What was the color of their hair?
Nikolas thinks a minute then answers- Gray, one ofthem had gray hair, he was tall too, about sixfeet....and....he....he....was wearing...a gray suit. I think he waskind of old.
Gail- That's good Nikolas, what about theothers?
Nikolas- One of them had his back to me. He wasabout the same size as the other guy, maybe a few inchesshorter...but....he had dark hair......and ......I think....I thinkhe was younger.
Gail- Your doing great Nikolas, just one more togo. Do you remember the other one.
Nikolas- He was short....shorter than me. He hadblack hair and a.......and a....scar on his hand.
Taggert-What kind of scar?
Mac looks at Taggert in warning.
Gail-What kind of scar was it. Can you describe itto us?
Nikolas-It went across the whole back of his hand.I saw it when he turned out the lantern. Then they came after me andthey were hitting me and the old guy ....had....he... had a knife and....I tried....to.
Nikolas starts to cry and Stefan comforts him.Nikolas clings to him.
Stefan-Perhaps that is enough for today.
Nikolas-No, I want to finish. The third guy...hespoke Spanish and he had an accent.
Gail-Did they all speak Spanish?
Nikolas- No, just the short guy. The old one spokeEnglish. The younger one spoke in both Spanish and English. I thinkhe was the leader. That's all I remember of them.
Mac- I want to thank you Nikolas, I know that wasdifficult for you. If you remember anymore let us know. Mac turns offthe recorder and he and Taggert leave.
Stefan still holding Nikolas- I am so proud ofyou.
Gail-You took a big step today Nikolas. Whensomething traumatic happens to us, we want to forget them and pushthem from our minds. But we have to face them and our feeling aboutthem in order to recover. Like I told you yesterday, I would like tostart visiting you and we can discuss the problems you've been havingwith the nightmares.
Stefan- Nikolas, I think it would be a goodidea.
Nikolas- If you think it's best. But I really don'twant to.
Gail- Why don't we try it for a while and see howit works out.
Nikolas-Fine.
**********************************************************
Later that evening Sonny and Brenda are rescuedfrom the caves and brought to the hospital. Harry had been holdingthem hostage and was killed in a struggle for the gun. Before he diedhe set off an explosion trapping Sonny and Brenda inside thecatacombs.
Sonny is waiting in the ER to be treated. He hasbeen waiting five hours already and has had to endure severalinterrogations by Taggert. Harry's body had been taken to the countymorgue. Sonny hears Taggert being paged to a phone. A few minuteslater Taggert shows up to ask Sonny some more questions.
Sonny-What is it now Taggert.
Taggert-I just got some interesting news from thecoroner.
Sonny-And what, you just thought you'd come overand share?
Taggert-Well, I know how close you and Harry were.What happened anyway, did the kid walk in on your drug pow-wow andyou had to get rid of him?
Sonny- What the hell are you talking about?
Taggert- Come on Corinthos, it's just you and mehere, you don't have to pretend.
Sonny- If you got something to say, say it. Thenget the hell outta my face.
Taggert- Seems your pal, Harry was one of the menthat attacked the Cassadine kid.
Sonny-What? Are you sure?
Taggert- He had a cut on his arm, it even had asliver of the kid's watch crystal still in it.
And now that I think about it, you fit thedescription of one of the other ones. Same height, hair color. Your aknown associate of the assailant. Tell me what do you think yourbuddy Luke Spencer will do when he finds out you tried to kill hiskid?
**********************************************************