Natalia and Brot 11/04/2016

               

         
                Natalia  peeps out of the kitchen door and watches Preston laughing at something Jamie was saying then turns back to her task arranging the pastries on a plate. She'd known better than to look at him it had been that way between them all evening. Since she'd met him at the door there had been that instant connection between them again as if time and heartache hadn't happened. That spark of anticipation she'd always felt whenever they'd come together was still there and knowing that had instantly set her on edge. What the heck was it? She loved Brot she knew that but what was it Preston had stirred in her and why did she feel exhilarated and a sense of foreboding at the same time?
          "So what did you think of the Slater-Cortland facilities?" She heard Jamie ask as she turned to Francessca hoping to get a little clarity before going back in there. Francessca looks at Natalia knowing something was of with her all night and she knew why. Natalia was finaling being forced to deal with what she had ignored for so long.
           "Preston's being here is really driving you crazy." She asks bluntly before Natalia  even had to phrase her words. Natalia sighs in relief  then scream whispers.
           "Yes! Ever since he got here! He's like a mosquito bite and I'm having a hard time not scratching it." Francessca nods in agreement her tone understanding.
            " I get it completely you're dealing with stuff you thought you had all tucked away neatly. Preston opened the door and now it's all spilled out on the floor and you're bewildered trying to stuff it all back in there. Am I right so far?" She smiles placing the cups on the tray then reaching for the the milk to fill the creamer. Natalia nods in agreement.
              "It was easy dealing with him as a memory or even your wedding but having him right here in my face is completely different." Francessca looks at her friend reaching over and putting her arm around her shoulders and giving her a squeeze.
               "Honey that's because you wouldn't deal with it then now it's just all coming to the surface and you can't stuff it down anymore. Now you're forced to deal with them." Natalia nods in agreement then sighs heavily.
                "All I want to do right now is get through this night and go home." She says as she reaches in her pocket and checks her phone letting out a grunt. Of course he wasn't coming that was just the cherry on her night.
                 "Brot's not coming! My Dad put him on some BS watch duty tonight." She groans flopping back against the counter and staring down at her phone shaking her head. "I mean seriously could this night get any worse?" She asks looking over at Francessca her eyes almost pleading.
                  "Why don't you stay here tonight? Logan's staying with my parents, we could talk if you want?" Natalia shakes her head laughing at the ridiculousness  of the situation.
                   "Thanks I really appreciate that but no, I'm going to go home. Slip into a nice hot bath and wash this day off me." She sighs again moving towards the table and picking up the pastry tray.
                    "You ready to go back in." She says turning towards Francessca a smile plastered on her face making Francessca laugh.
                     "Come on I have the coffee tray, lead the way." She says smothering another laugh as Natalia stretches her grin to the extreme her eyes wide making her expression cartoonish.
                     'Brot walks into the lobby of the Pine Valley Inn  positioning himself so he had a good view of both the elevators and the stairs. He was annoyed at having to be there he would have much rather gone to Cessca's had a great meal some of her Grandmother Ricotta Pie  and gotten a real good bead on that Preston guy and what he was all about. Sure he was here on business and according to Natalia he would be here for awhile as he and his friend started up their new venture with Slater-Courtlandt but wasn't exactly sure how he felt about that. He'd never met him but from what Natalia said and didn't say there were still some tension between them. What type of tension he wasn't sure and that was what nagged at him. Was this guy here just to get his business started or did he have some unfinished business to attend to. Tonight would have been a great time to check that out especially with them all in the same room but thanks to Jesse and this stupid babysitting assignment he was here. He reaches for his phone checking to see if she'd responded to his last text message. The only thing she'd sent back was a sad faced emoji no words and he wasn't sure how to take that. He knew she be pissed he just wasn't sure how pissed she'd be or was she so involved with her ex that was all she had time for? God! He was just being ridiculous. It was like they had gone on some romantic dinner. It was dinner with friends and nothing had changed between them since yesterday or this morning. Why the hell was he suddenly being so insecure? He looks up as the bell for the elevator rings and the doors open. He watches the passengers exit his eyes catching his mark as she comes out and walks to the desk.
              "Ahh good evening  Ms. Montgomery. I hope everything is to your satisfaction?" The clerk ask looking up from his monitor at Barbara standing in front of him.
              "Everything is fine. If you could have someone come up and remove the liquor from the courtesy bar I would appreciate it. My religion has very strict rules." She lies smoothly keeping her demeanor pleasant but businesslike. The clerk smiles back at her his pudgy cheeks turning his small eyes into slits.
                "Certainly! I'll send someone up right away" He reaches for his phone presses a button waits a moment then directs the person on the other end to attend to her request before turning back to her.
                "Oh and Ms. Montgomery this came for you a few moments ago." He says reaching in the box behind him and hands her a sealed envelope. Barbara takes it from him looks a curiously as she mutter a thank you and walks away from him. She looks about the lobby then tears if open reading it hastily. She smiles happily to herself stuffing the note back inside the envelope and into her pocket. She presses the call button for the elevator waits a moment for the doors to open then enters looking pleased Brot noted. He places his phone back in his pocket reaching for his badge as he walks.
             "Hello! I'm Detective Brot Monroe Pine Valley Police." The clerk looks up at him surprised and a little frightened.
              "Yes sir how may I help you?"
               " Is something wrong?" Brot smiles at him hoping to calm him before he jumped out of his skin.
               " No sir nothing wrong I just have a couple of questions. Could you give me the name of the courier that dropped off that letter for Ms. Montgomery please?"
                "Oh that was delivered by USA Expedient" He replies his voice less squeaky some of his nervousness having dissipated.  Brot thinks a moment not having heard of them.
                 "They aren't local are they?" The clerk shakes his head.
                 "No, I believe they are based out of New England somewhere." Brot nods thanking him for his time and also asking him not to discuss their conversation then goes back to his seat pulling his phone from his pocket. He searches the name of the courier flipping through the home page till he came to the information he was looking for. They were subsidiary of the "Calisco Group" Jesse might find that tid bit of information very interesting.    
          

          Takes Pine Valley Chronicles Natalia and Brot 11/04/2016

Gavin, Opal and Erica 11/03/2016

           

               Gavin sits at his desk staring down at the framed photograph and feeling the melancholy that always came over him when he did. It was still a long way coming but he was going to be with them soon. Everything was falling into place. He just needed to follow the path he carefully laid out. He smiles to himself as he places the photo back in the drawer then turns to the photos on the desk in front of him. It had been a long meeting but productive. Everyone was up to date. His cast was comfortable in their new roles and getting situated downstair. Even Erica had surprised him after her initial entrance. She'd been cooperative and insightful especially after the other were dismissed and they began work on "Raising Fire". She couldn't help but be captivated. Why not Corban and his staff had done an excellent job formating the book to a working outline for a soap opera. They'd hired some truly brilliant writers foregoing the usual cycle of re-cycled writers and going with a couple of independents instead. Their ideas were fresh and the dialogue crisp and relevant to today's viewer. They even decided to give the director of their independent work a shot. Since it was in part his work behind the camera that had caught their attention as well. Erica's had also been impressed when they'd shown it to her and had agreed wholeheartedly. If she displayed more of that behavior they could actually be successful. He doubted it. It was just a ploy but there was always hope she'd actually liked it and was just being Erica. Like earlier with Opal.
               He pulls Opal's photo from the stack and smiles. She reminded him so much of her cousin Marjorie it was almost uncanny. Although, there was a softness around Opal's eyes and mouth that Margie lacked. Making the difference notable at least to him. Not that she wasn't a very fine woman but there was a kindness you could feel in Opal where with Margie there was a certain coldness about her that is until she lets you in. Then she the very best friend anyone could ask for and she had been that with him. He wouldn't have gotten this far without her. But, Opal Cortlandt was a force to be reckoned with on her own and he looked forward to working with her in the coming weeks. She didn't take any flack from anyone and stood her ground with tancity. She wasn't about to be pushed around or be lost in the shuffle. She would be a formidable host on the show. He wasn't much for whims of fancy but he'd been right about this one. He thought with a smile placing the photo back on the pile as a knock came on his door.
           "Come in." He calls waiting for the door to open relieved to see Corban come in and not Erica. He had enough of her antics this morning what he needed now was to get down to business. Pleased to see Corban was as well as he handed him the first show choice he and Erica had decided on as well as her signature on the final draft.
           "Well this is unexpected good news!" Gavin nods in approval looking over the paperwork again checking for any changes and finding none. "She agreed to all of it without the drama?" Gavin looks up surprised and impressed. Corban looks back at him as bewildered as he was.
           "Yeah it wasn't exactly easy but yeah. I don't get it either but yeah." Corban shakes his head then shrugs making Gavin feel  leery at Erica's sudden contrite attitude and wondering what she had in store for them both later. It was a good start anyway he'd take it.
             "Good. I think she's ready to start stepping up for "Raising Fire". He says looking at the pile he had on his sofa.
            "Have that all taken down to her and let her know we're meeting tomorrow at one. That should keep her busy while we finish up "New Beginnings"."He winks while Corban pulls out his phone and dials.
           "Molly it's Corban I'm in Gavin's office bring your cart I need you to run an errand."
            "Thanks." Gavin looks at him with a raised brow. Corban smiles "Just breaking in my new intern. Things are going to get bumpy I needed to know she has the chops now." Gavin nods in agreement. He had a point but he couldn't help feeling like a general sending some fresh faced kid into battle.
            Erica sits back on the sofa in her dressing room reading over the finals for the first show. She had to admit they were actually beautiful and exactly what she was looking for but she couldn't let them know that. She still needed to show some tenacity or they wouldn't have that healthy fear of her they should. She still needed to keep the upper hand. She also had to admit she was really intrigued by "Raising Fire" Gavin had been right as much as she hated to admit that too. Of course there were definitely some changes that would need to be made nothing drastic.  What she liked to call clarification. She chuckles to herself as someone knocks on the door.
           "Ms.Kane I have a delivery from Mr. Blackwood and Mr.James for you." Molly calls from the other side of the door hoping she could get this over with! She'd been so excited about the job she'd forgotten about this draw back. This huge drawback!
           "Delivery?" Erica yelps coming to the door and throwing it open. Shocked to see Molly standing on the other side smiling back at her.
           "Molly!" She gasps "What are you doing here?" Erica says peering out into the hall checking it in both directions.
            "He's not here Ms. Kane I'm Corban James' new intern and he asked me to bring you all the stuff on "Raising Fire". Molly says pushing her way past Erica and piling the folders and envelopes on the table. "Mr. Blackwood said to tell you there's a meeting on this tomorrow afternoon and that your new office would be ready by tomorrow morning." She says wheeling back towards the exit ignoring a shocked Erica.  "All the information is in this envelope." She says handing her the thick envelope. Erica looks at her closely. She could see a lot of Travis in her face but there was also Barbara there too. Especially the way her yes lit up at a challenge and the hint of a smirk teasing the corner of her mouth.
            "You're very efficient." Erica quips wondering how she could use this newfound situation to her advantage and it wouldn't hurt to build a peaceful working relationship with his niece. Even if she was an arrogant brat like her father.
            "I try to be. I know everyone's time is valuable." She says turning to leave hoping to get away without further interaction. She saw that look on Erica's face. As soon as she saw her she was thinking of ways to use her to get close to her uncle through her.
              " Tell Mr. Blackwood thank you. Oh and I hope you enjoy your time here Molly." Molly smiles politely. Thinking how much was she really going to enjoy her time here now that Erica was back in stalker mode. That was one thing she hadn't thought of when she'd applied for the position.
               "I will Ms. Kane and thank you." She says with a nod then move back down the hall toward the elevator. Erica watches her leave a moment then close the door to her dressing room. This wasn't going to be easy if nothing else she was as smart as her father and just as shrewd as her uncle. No this wasn't going to be easy at all. Maybe she should give Opal a call. After this morning's meeting she didn't want there to be any hard feelings. Besides she was going to need someone on her side when they started filming. Yeah she should give her a call that's what best girlfriends were for!
               "Opal lounges on the chaise lounge in her bedroom reading over the the packet from the meeting this morning. When she said okay to this she hadn't thought it would be so much work. Gavin assured them all that it was only because of the retooling of the show and she prayed he was right. This was exhausting! She place it all to the side and looks out the window at the late summer sky enjoying the smell of early fall in the air. Then reaches for her ringing phone hoping it wasn't another call from the studio. Then smiling when she see her cousins number flashing and picks up.
              "Hey Margie! How are you?" She smiles sitting back down on her lounger happy for the distraction.
               "I'm doing very well my girl couldn't be better! How about you?" Marjorie smiles as she pours tea from the pot into her cup. Opal sighs leaning back against the cushions.
                " Honey if I had known it was going to be this much work I would have told them to keep walking!" Marjorie laughs.
                "Come on! In a few days when the rush is over you're going to be telling me how much you love it!" They both laugh.
                 "How's Tad doing?" Marjorie asks listening for telltale signs in Opals sigh.
                 "He's doing better each day but he's still going to be in there awhile. Between work my business and now this I'm kind of stretched thin. But I have to admit it's been kind of fun too. Hey! I heard from Palmer that Wellington and his friends closed on there deal with Slater-Courtlandt. Congratulations!" Marjorie laughs but her brow furrows her voice getting serious.
                 " It means a lot to the people of this town. That's why you can't let it slip to anyone about your relationship to Wellington. It's seems silly but it's very important." Marjorie says sounding urgent. Opal rolls her eyes to the ceiling as she answers.
                 "I know! I know! Honestly you and Palmer both!" She sighs as Marjorie laughs I know honey it's just very important for my family and everyone else in town I can't help it." Opal laughs.
                 "I get it honey and I promise you. You've never let me down when I needed you. I won't let you down. I just wish you would tell me why. " Marjorie sighs in relief her tone brightening. She knew she could always count on Opal in a pinch.  " I promise as soon as humanly possible I will tell you everything. Anyway let's move on to more pleasant things tell me all about your new career? Am I going to like the changes to my secret morning pleasure?" Opal laughs.
             "I really think you'll like it better. Because you know I'll be there. " She says with false modesty making them both laugh.


     Takes Pine Valley Chronicles Gavin, Opal and Erica 11/03/2016



   

Cassandra and Rego 11/02/2016

               

                  Cassandra Sits across the living room from a quietly fuming Rego. She'd sat quietly watching him covertly not daring to say a word. She was waiting for him to settle on an emotion but his face was still a kaleidoscope. The best she could do was wait, If she knew him as well as she though she did he would say something to her first that's when she'd be able to gage her explanation. Right now the best thing she could do was to silently wait.
                 Rego stares at her a moment his revolution waning it way up his throat. He could barely suppress the urge to grab her by the neck. She made a fool of him once again. She'd embarrassed him in front of  his family again. Now he was married to her. He knew what she was waiting for. She was waiting for him to say something to her. No matter what he was damned if he would say a word to her. She was going to be the one to do the talking. What he needed to was wait her out. She'd eventually have to talk she had a lot on her mind now. She was probably wondering why her tears and blubbering had no effect on him or her raging and accusations. She'd cried for a few minutes once they'd gotten up to there part of the house. She raged about his father and his cruelty and his having sat there and done nothing. Then accused him of being weak and then the Francessca comparison. That had been the hardest part to remain silent but he'd seen his silence had hurt her more so he'd kept it.  He'd sat in this chair just waiting patiently for her to talk about what his father had just said about her. In all her twaddle not one mention of what his father had actually said about her time in Europe with St. Jacques. Until she bought it up there was no point of him just sitting here doing nothing he had actual work to do.
             He walks across the room to the desk pulls his laptop from the drawer and turns it on then reaches for the legal pad in his briefcase and reads through the pages stopping when he gets to the date he circled for tomorrow afternoon she had till then. He flips the page then sets it down and types in his password. He opens his email skipping the ones from the office and straight to the one Francessca had sent him and opens the file. He smiles as he clicks through the photos stopping to stare at the one she'd taken earlier. He smile as he goes back to the moment between he and Logan and then the one he'd had with his mother. She'd wished him happiness with Cassandra he thought then laughs bitterly as he closes it moving on to his next email reaching back and scratching his back where Cassandra's stare bore a hole through him.
              Cassandra glares at the photo on his laptop wishing she could burn it! She hated that brat but what she hated more was the way he looked every time he saw it. That weird goofy look that came over his face the whimsical smile she broods. It was just a reminder she hadn't gotten that bitch out of his life. The only good thing the brat was good for was the sample she'd gotten from him. She'd had to dip into her savings but she had what she needed to pay Joe off. All she had to do was wait till they went to the hospital and Joe would take care of the rest. At least now other than the baby there was nothing more to hide and she could focus her energy one that. Screw you Oliver she was one step ahead of him. She wasn't leaving this house anytime soon and not one day before she was ready. Rego could stay or leave with her. It was really up to him.
            She had to admit if he did leave her she would miss him. She let him get closer to her than any man she'd ever known. He actually cared about her and cared for her. Deep down she actually felt a little guilty for hurting again. She'd made him start to trust her and she'd broken it and now his father was breathing down his neck and they had been literally banished to this side of the house at least when he was with her. She couldn't really blame him she'd be angry to if it were her but he'd had to understand she just couldn't bring herself to tell him. How do you tell someone that the only way to survive was to do what you were told and try to move up the ladder. It wasn't like Devereaux had given her a choice. Once he decided he wanted her there was no turning back and no way to say know and survive. Her proof of that was in a sanitarium in France. That wasn't going to be her end. She liked where she was right now and she liked who she was with. She had no intention of changing it anytime soon if ever.
            What the hell was he doing anyway? Why the hell was he working? How the hell could he be working? He'd ignored her since they come back from Brooke and Oliver's. He hadn't even bothered to comfort her. He'd just sat in that chair and stared at her watching her un-moving and unmoved. Even now it was if she wasn't even there in the room with him. She needed to change that but how? Maybe she should try a different approach. She could afford to be honest with him now. There was nothing more to really hide from there. If they found out about Gigi which she was sure Oliver had. He was probably holding it for a later dates blackmail she could beat him to the punch and just be completely honest about that part of her past. He knew what a brute he was so he'd understand the why if she threw in Gigi there would be a bigger why. That wouldn't be a lie either. No, the truth would be her best defense for now. She just needed to play it right and she couldn't go to him now. She needed to wait she needed to play the hurt she'd felt when he just stood there and let Oliver attack her work to her favor. What she needed to be was cool and aloof and keep the hurt in her eyes which shouldn't be hard at all. He had hurt her that was also not a lie. She smiles inside warming to the truth thing and rises from the sofa. She walks to her bedroom closing the door quietly behind her then into the bathroom turning on the bath water. She needed a long soak and good long think if she was going to pull this off just right. The one thing that put her mind at easy was having taken care of her baby problem.
             "Don't worry little one momma's going to make sure you have everything you ever want and deserve and your Daddy is going to pay for it all ." She whispers smiling brighter.
              Devereaux looks at his phone checking the message from Joe then dials Lola phone number.
             "Hello Dr. Colgate I'm sorry for calling so late this is Devereaux St. Jacques.
             "Good evening Mr. St Jacques how may I help you." She says coolly sounding her normal professional self. Good he thought.
            " I haven't been feeling well of late my doctor recommended I do a follow up with you and have some blood drawn." He say in the same cool manor Lola following suite. What ever he had up his sleeve he was keeping this call on the up and up. Anyone listening would think it was completely normal. She flips through her calendar seeing an opening for the following morning. The sooner the better she thought.
            "I have an opening around ten thirty tomorrow." She says her fingers poised at the keyboard.
            "Thank you that would be perfect. Thank you so much for squeezing me in."
             "You're welcome sir see you then." She says hanging up the phone. Devereaux smiles to himself as he places his phone in the charger. In a few days he would have the answer he needed and Cassandra would be getting the answer she wanted.


Takes Pine Valley Chronicles Cassandra and Rego 11/02/2016

Molly, Jack and Barbara 11/01/2016

     

         Molly sits up on the bed wiping the tears from her eyes as Jack knocks on the door and calls to her.
        "Come in?" She says bracing herself for whatever was coming concerning her mother. Since she was sure she had told him something. More than that "I just wanted to see you bull". Her being here had very little to do with wanting to see her and she needed to know what it was. She thought as he came through the door.
         "Hey honey how are you doing?" He says coming to sit on the edge of the bed taking her hand in his.  Molly smiles then leans in giving him a quick hug.
           "Thank you so much for not letting her stay here." She says letting go as she snuffs back a tear. Jack sits back and sighs not wanting to tell her what he knew he had to.
            " Talked to Bianca she told me what happened with your mother." He says trying to be as gentle as possible knowing how sensitive and fragile she was at the moment.
            "Why didn't you tell me honey?" He asks his voice comforting and pleading at the the same time making her somehow feel better but didn't lighten the embarrassment she felt.
             "Because it was just so embarrassing Uncle Jack and I came here to try to forget it." She murmurs looking away from him.  Jack sighs again then clears his throat trying to hold back his own emotions.
            "I would have understood sweetheart and I will stand by you whatever you decided. If you don't want to see her I'm not going to force you and I will try my hardest to make sure Barbara gives you the space you need. Okay?" Molly smiles then reaches over giving him a hug.
             "Thank you Uncle Jack. And not just for today for everything." She says kissing his cheek before releasing him. Jack smiles back at her happy to see the relief in her smile.
             "But you have to promise me two things.' He says with a reassuring smile making Molly grin.
             "Whatever you want." She says looking more cheerful then she had in hours.
             " You have to come talk to me you can't hide anything from me and two you can't let your mother's being her distract you. You promise?" His voice taking on a serious tone giving her no other option than to agree. Besides it would be nice to actually be able to talk to him a lot easier than the cat and mouse game she'd been playing to avoid the subject.
               "I promise I won't. I promised a very smart woman that I wouldn't." Jack smiles back at her liking the determined tilt of of her chin.
               "I'm glad. If you want I can get out of here and let you get some rest" He says moving toward the door.
               "Uncle jack!" She calls to him just as his hand reached the handle.
                "Yeah honey." He answers back as he walks back towards her.
                "Why do you really think she's here? There's no way it's all about seeing me." Her tone curious yet cautious catching him by surprise.
                " I have to be honest honey but I'd have to agree with you. I wasn't buying any of that either. But I promise you I'm going to find out. And if you hear anything you'll tell me promise?" Molly smiles back at him nodding in agreement.
                  'I promise I will. Night Uncle Jack." She says sliding down under the covers. Jack smiles turning back as he opens the door.
                  "Good night honey." He says closing the door behind him.  Molly lays her head on the pillow thinking about Barbara and trying to look at it objectively. She was still a lawyer so her visit could have something to do with a client. Tomorrow she was going to have to look up every single one of them. She had to know why she was here before she destroyed everything.
                   Barbara looks around her suite pleased with what Jack had found for her much better than what she could afford on her own. That was at least until she got paid. Squashing that scandal had taken all the money she had and then some. She walks over to the wet bar. She was really tempted but she needed to keep her head straight. At least till finished her business here. When she was done here she'd be back on easy street. She looks away from the bar then back to her phone wishing he would hurry up. She was exhausted seeing Molly had worn her out and all she wanted right now was a hot bath and some sleep. She jumps as the phone rings then calms herself letting it ring twice before answering it.
            "Hello?" She says trying to keep the trepidation from her voice.
            "Hello Ms. Montgomery I hope you have everything I asked for?" Barbara looks over at her suitcase as she talks going through her mental checklist.
             "Yes, everything is ready." She says praying that their meeting would take place in the morning so she could get out of Pine Valley as soon as possible.
           "Very good I'll send a messenger with instructions. Have a good evening." The caller hangs up leaving Barbara angry and frustrated. She tosses the phone across the bed then stares at the mini bar again. She quickly grabs her purse and heads toward the lobby. First things first she needed them to remove the liquor from her room. The last thing she needed was to botch this up with her payday so close.


Takes Pine Valley Chronicles Molly, Jack and Barbara 11/01/2016

Jesse Brot,Adrian and Aidan 10/30/2016

     

             "Hey! Hey!"  Sergi looks back at Lenka and Aidan yelling excitedly. "I think I finally got something!" Both bolting from their seats and coming towards him.
         " I went back to the time the limo went through and then the truck. Then Lenka and I took turns going thorough the numbers that pinged off the tower. We found one call that went through about fifteen minutes after the limousine. I finished searching all footage from the cameras I could find I found this at the red light camera." He points at the screen. "The car never gets close enough where I can see the type or licenses plate but you can see it turn around here." He says pointing at the square on the screen. " And then this from across the ravine from the accident." He says pointing at another square on the screen. Aidan looks at him shocked.
         "How did you get this?"
         'It wasn't hard the guy didn't even realize he had it. Lenka sent a couple of our guys over the morning after the accident posing as the maintenance from the security company we just made a copy. But even after cleaning it up with Rhea's imaging equipment you can't see much. You can't see who is up there but you can see one set of lights they go out, then another set come from the other direction of the accident and both headlights come on. Then you see two sets of lights for about ten fifteen minutes and then one set of lights leaves and the one left go out. But you can still see faint red lights moving here and here. Then look here." He says showing them a print out from the phone company. "Another call comes through to the police station about five minutes after that." He sits back smiling proudly.
          " So Tad was right there were lights up there way before the cops showed up. That's why Adrian and I never saw the truck. They must have moved the stuff to the other car and never made the drop off!" Aidan says aloud as they walk back to the table and Lenka pours them each a drink.
"What's going on?" Adrian yells from the door as comes in joining them around the table.
           "The bug you planted in Tad's room paid off." Aidan says reaching for a glass and pouring vodka in it and handing it to him.
           "Yeah? You got something?" Adrian asks taking the drink offered and looking at Sergi.
           "Yeah we figured what happened to the shipment that night and why they never made the drop off. Your brother was right there was a lot activity up there that night. We figure they moved it from the truck into the limo." Adrian nods approvingly as Lenka refills his glass.
            "That puts all the pieces together now we just have to figure out where and when he's making that delivery."
            "There's one thing though Tad also told Jesse. So it won't be too long before Jesse puts this all together too."  Aidan nods in agreement as Sergi sits back in his chair staring up at the ceiling as he talks.
             " Our guy in the field said his courier landed earlier. So something should be happening very soon." He says looking at the others.
             "Any word from Fats?" Aidan asks. Lenka shakes his head.
             " No but he said we should see some action in the next few days." Adrian sighs and raises his glass. Let's just hope we get there before Jesse figures this all out." They all clink raise glasses before draining them.
              Jesse stares at the computer and the file in front of him trying to enter the data but distracted by what Tad had said about the accident and the new worries it bought concerning his step daughter. Oliver had been in earlier and the information he had on her and her deep involvement with St.Jacque had him worried and scared on both a personal and professional level. After reading it what the hell was he supposed to tell Angie? She'd lied to both of them again! What the hell was he supposed to do with that? If he told she'd be hurt if he didn't tell her she'd be hurt later when it finally came out. Doubly if she ever found out he had known and didn't tell him. But how was he going to tell her.? How much more hurt would he be responsible for laying at her doorstep? Should be the one to tell her or should he allow his stepdaughter the chance to finally tell her the real truth? If he did tell would Cassandra continue to lie or make him out to be the villain? Would she even have the chance too? The way Oliver left he couldn't imagine him keeping it to himself for long. No when he got home he'd have to find some way of breaking it to her. He just hoped this wouldn't be the last straw to break her.
           He sighs and looks down at the file in front of him. If this man was guilty of everything this file alleged he had one of the most dangerous men in Europe living right under his nose disguised as a legitimate businessman. That explained Adrian's continued presence here in Pine Valley. Now he had to figure out just exactly how much they knew and what.
              Now with his man power already thin the DA's office wanted him to pull an officer to babysit. As if anyone had time for that mess, but one hand washes the other and someday he might need a favor from them.  
              Jesse looks up from his desk as Brot knocks on his door waiting a moment until Jesse waves him in.
              "I've pulled all the the video footage I could from the red light cameras and I had some of our guys canvas the house across the ridge and pull any camera footage they could. They just came back and I had them sent to forensics for analyse." He says looking down at his clipboard.
              'Good what about the phone company were you able to get the records?" He asks rising from his desk to face him.
              " I have a team going over those too." Jesse nods in agreement.
              "Good good good. I want you to keep an eye on somebody for me starting tonight." He says leaning back against the desk watching Brot squirm uncomfortably.
              " I had plans for tonight sir." Brot stutters looking at Jesse and shaking his head. Jesse
nods his head his mouth set firm.
              "Break them." Brot shakes his head hoping his next words would have some influence on his decision.
              "They're with Natalia." Jesse's shakes his head again his body language his words succinct barring anymore argument.
              "I don't care who they're with I  need you on this tonight understood?"
              "Understood sir." He mumbles as he heads from the room and reaches for his phone. Bracing himself for the fireworks he knew were going to be coming.
 

Takes Pine Valley Chronicles Jesse Brot,Adrian and Aidan 10/30/2016















  

Cassandra and Rego 10/28/2016

       

         Cassandra looks around the table taking another covert look at Oliver who catches her again and grimaces making her turn back toward Rego before he caught the fear creeping across her cheeks. She'd known better than to look at him it had been that way between them all evening. She didn't know what she'd expected but the look of controlled malevolence when he looked at her had shaken her more than she would admit. She needed to win over both his and Brooke's approval or at the very least begrudging acceptance but she could see that was never going to happen even after all of Brooke's polite questions and fake smiles.
          "So what are your plans, Cassandra are you going to go back to work for Colby?"
          "Honestly, being pregnant I haven't thought about anything more than preparing for our baby's birth and becoming the best mother I can. I haven't given it much thought past that." She smiles ignoring the sound of Oliver's a disbelieving snort and roll of his eyes as she continues.
          "And you know with everything going on I thought it would be best to stay close to home." Oliver rolls his eyes in disgust he'd listened to enough of her inane chatter. He'd need to end this ridiculousness before he had enough acid in his stomach to melt a hole through the pavement.  
          "Cassandra," Oliver bellows down the table catching her full attention and filling her with dread. " According to my son one of the reasons he married you was to provide you protection from St. Jacque what exactly is he protecting you from and exactly how does this affect the rest of my family? Exactly what kind of danger have you put us all in?"  Cassandra grins nervously her eyes looking at Rego for support and receiving none.
                "I don't believe any of you are in danger it's me he wants." She says hoping that would end the topic but knowing by Oliver's irritated stare it was far from over.
                 "Ah huh," he says with a nod of his head as he tosses his napkin on the table. "If it's you he wants then, wouldn't your being here endanger us all?" He asks sitting back in his chair his eyes practically boring through her. Cassandra looks down at her plate shying away from his probing stare but remaining silent for the moment.
                 " Why exactly does he want you?" He asks pointedly giving her no wriggle room.
                  "Deveraux has always been obsessed with me." She shrugs trying to make light of it. Oliver nods his lips becoming a thin white line. Brooke reaches her hand out to Oliver her eyes pleading.
                  "Please Oliver not now." He shakes his head gives her hand a squeeze then pulls his hand from hers and turns his attention back to Cassandra.
                 "So it has nothing to do with the money you stole from him?" He asks giving her heart a lurch. She stares up at him the knowing smirk on his face telling her he knew more a lot more. Her mind begins to reel as she tries to piece her story together. Oliver grins a knowing smile as he continues watching her every reaction then looks to Rego watching her also and offering no defense.
              " According to my investigators you stole twenty thousand dollars from him then flew to Pine Valley trying to escape. Shortly after he followed you here. Not too long after that you set your sights on my son. Have I missed anything?" Cassandra anger reaches its boiling point her words coming out shrill and tight.
                 " You don't know him! You have to understand! I had no choice! I did what I had to do to survive! I had to get away from him!" Oliver laughs bitterly. "So you planned every move from the moment you got here! Everything you've done has been a well calculated plan! Including this pregnancy! Tell what is your next step? Keep pretending the child you're carrying is my sons? Are you going to try and rob us blind too?"
                "Stop it Father! Devereaux St. Jacque is a monster!" He shouts rising to his feet and wrapping his arms around her shoulders. He glares at his father his voice menacing. Oliver rise throwing the chair behind as he slams his fist on the table jarring the he settings and shattering the crystal glasses at they toppled to the table top startling them. Brooke stares at her husband shocked by his reaction.
                 "No you stop! You are fool once again! Did she also tell you she was madame of her lovers high end brothels in France? She and St.Jacque were more than lovers they were partners!" He bellows slamming his fist on the table breaking the rest of the crystal making Cassandra jump leaving her face pale with fear and shock. Both Brooke and Rego stare at her dumbfounded. She'd never seen him so angry not even in business and she had to admit it frightened her. Oliver nods his head his grin demonic his voice almost a growl.
         "Ah yes I know all about you Ms. Foster. Did you really think I wouldn't thoroughly investigate the woman who ran off and married my son then claims to be carrying my Grandson! And you!" He says turning toward Rego.
          "Did you ever wonder why a man like him with all his power and wealth would be so obsessed with just this one woman?" He looks at his son's ashen face and laughs bitterly.
          "And, do you know the part that has me completely baffled is you never bothered to find out! You just let yourself be guided by your lust!" Rego looks from his father then to Cassandra who looked mortally wounded as stared up at him in dread her eyes welling with tears.
           " You should thank my gracious wife I haven't.If I had my way I'd throw you both out on the street! If it wasn't for the minute chance that you may be carrying my grandson I'd have you removed now! This is the last dinner you will enjoy under my roof. The doors leading to this side of the house will be bolted from the inside. From this moment on you will not use my front door. You will not come to this side of the house ever! You will use your entrance and your entrance only. I don't even want to smell you! If after your DNA test proves that this child is not a Sherrigan. Which, I have no doubt it will. I will have you removed from this property bag and baggage within the hour! As my son Rego, if this proves to be your child you are both always welcome in our home anytime night or day as long as you don't have her with you. Now get her out of my house! NOW!" He stands watches them scurry to their feet and leave then sits down on the chair and messages his temple his thoughts interrupted by Brooke's voice.
           "Well that was some display." Her voice tight and controlled. Oliver looks up at her as if seeing for the first time now that his rage finally stated.
          "I'm sorry darling I just couldn't sit there listening to her trying to make fools of us any longer with her inane chatter. I could feel it welling up like lava from the pit of my stomach and I just couldn't stop it." He shakes his head reaching for her hand as she steps back.
           "I have never seen that side of you Oliver and I don't ever want to see it again." Her voice terse her expression tight and controlled. "I'm going out for a while I'll be back later." Oliver looks up at her bewilder and watches her leave deciding it was best to let her go and say nothing.  His rage had frightened even him. What was it about this woman and her relationship with his son that made him distrust and fear her? When ever she was in his presence he had the intense feeling of foreboding. He'd always felt it in business but never like this. He could feel it deep down when she was done with his family there would be rubble all around them.    
                   
Take's Pine Valley Chronicles.
               

Natalia and Preston 10/27/2016

      

        Natalia looks down at her plate trying to avoid eye contact with Preston. She'd been on pins and needles since she'd opened the door and found him standing there smiling like he'd just won the world. It was all she could do to keep from slapping him in his smug face. 
       "So how are you Talia you look great." He says smiling down at her. Natalia smiles back at him trying to hide the nervousness she'd suddenly felt.
          "I'm great couldn't be happier." She says her voice sounding forced to her ears as she tried to control her anger and excitement. Preston smiles his devilish know it all smile that she remembered so well and learned to hate and tried her hardest not to react to.
           "So whats up with you? What you've been up to?" She says looking behind him wondering what happened to Erin and Chase and wishing they'd hurry up wherever they were. Preston smiles remembering the last last time they'd seen each other and wishing now he could take it all back. He could still see the anger in her eyes and the pain and the forced tone in her voice. He'd missed her more than she could know more than he had admitted to himself at the time and still hadn't till this moment.
          "I'm doing great Now that I've seen you." He says smiling that smile that had always melted her heart. She looks up at him lost in the spell it always cast on her. The tension jumping between them like a downed live wire. She stares up at him her anger fading slightly as memories of happier times came stealing their way back into her thoughts. 
           "Talia I've been wanting to tell you this for a long time..." He starts as Chase interrupts as he and Erin come up behind him smiling and laughing as they walk breaking the tension between them.
             "Hey beautiful!" Chase says with a laugh wrapping his arms around her and pulling her into a bear like hug.
              "Chase!" She squeals hugging him back.
               "How are you Love? It's so good to see you." He says kissing her cheek before releasing her. Giving her a brief second before Erin reaches in.
                "Hey girlfriend!" She squeals hugging Natalia close and rocking her in her arms before releasing her.
                "Being a cop agrees with you!" She laughs looping her her arm in Natalia's as the two walk into the living room Chase and Preston trailing behind them.
                "A great job and a great guy will do that to you." She laughs giving Preston a side glance as she guides them all into the living room.
                "So where's the lady of the manor?" Chase laughs looking around then placing the bottle of wine he'd bought on the coffee table.
                "She lives in that big house you passed on the way in." Francessca says with a laugh coming into the room. She walks to each one hugging and kissing them before inviting them all to have a seat.
                "So how did your meeting go?" Francessca says looking from Chase to Preston expectantly.
                "We closed on our contract with Slater-Cortlandt. Your Mom called us about an hour ago. We just have to go in tomorrow and sign the paperwork!" Chase says with pride looking over to Preston who nods in approval.
                 "That is fantastic guys I'm really happy for you." Francessca says hugging both of them.
                 "Thanks sunshine!" He says as he releases her.
                 "Okay, " He says clapping his hands together. "So where's Jamie I thought he was going to be here?" He says looking around the room. Francessca smiles as she passes him the corkscrew.
                  "He had an emergency at the clinic but he should be here any minute." Erin reaches for the glass that Chase poured for her as she speaks.
                   " I want to know where the real man of the house is?" Francessca laughs as she sips her glass then sets it down on the table.
                   "He was kidnapped by his grandparents for the evening." She says with a laugh as she reaches for the glass Preston passed to her.
                   "Aww I was looking forward to seeing him" Erin says sticking out her lower lip in disappointment"  Francessca smiles.
                    "Come on I'm sure he's still up and bouncing off the walls. My grandmother made cannolis today and I'm positive she shared the cream with him even though I told her not too." She says with a laugh. "We still have to wait for Jamie and Brot so come on we can take a walk across the courtyard." She says rising and walking toward the door as Jamie comes in.
                  "Hey babe I'm here sorry I'm late."  He says coming through the door giving her a quick kiss on the cheek then turns and greets the others in the room.
                   "Hey everyone sorry I'm late. If you guys can excuse me I need to take a quick shower and I'll be right down. Hey hon you want me to check on Logan while I'm up there?" Francessca smiles and winks a Erin.
                   "That's okay we were just on our way to do that. You just hurry up." She says with a giggle as the others follow behind her. Natalia lags behind feeling as if she needed a break.
                    "I'm going to hang back here and keep an eye on dinner you all go ahead." She says walking back into the kitchen as the others exist. She opens the oven then inspects the contents, closes the door and turns the temperature down. She reaches for her phone checking Brot's last message. He finally finished his last call and was on his way back to the station. Good, she thought. Now Preston would see she really had moved on and her life had changed for the better.
               So, why at this moment didn't that fact bring her the comfort it should. Why was her mind suddenly steeped in memories and emotions from the past? Maybe what she needed to do was to concentrate on the present and her future and leave the past where it belonged.
                  "So what's going on?" Natalia turns around startled by Preston's voice as he comes into the kitchen.
                   "I thought you went over to see the baby?" She asks trying to keep her nervousness from her voice. Preston smiles as he moves closer forcing Natalia to take a step back.
                    "So are we ever going to talk about what happened between us?" Natalia turns back towards the stove lifting a lid from one of the pots trying to ignore the the feelings he stirred up in her and focusing on her anger.
                      "There's nothing for us to talk about. You've moved on with your life and so have I." She shrugs trying to look and sound casual and calm as her mind rages. Preston sighs heavily and shakes his head in disbelief.
                       "After everything that's happened between us you don't think we have anything to talk about?" Natalia laughs and shakes her head only adding to his frustrations.
                        "I think we said everything we had to say back then." She says turning away from him and reaching for a serving dishes from the closet. Preston reaches over pulling it from her hand and setting it on the counter forcing Natalia to meet his gaze.
                        "Not everything. Look I've had a lot of time to think about it..." Natalia's glares back at him cutting him off mid sentence.
                         "Look, don't even go there. I've moved on a long time ago. I have a great life and from what you've said your's just got even better. Leave the past in the past Preston you can't resurrect the dead." She finishes staring pointedly at her him her lips set firm her back ramrod straight ending the topic. Preston looks back at her wishing she wasn't so closed. He'd imagined this moment over and over but the outcome in his mind was never like this.
                          " So you and this Brot guy are you serious." He asks trying to to keep the disappointment from his voice.
                           "Yeah very! So whatever thoughts you had on that topic just keep them to yourself. Here make yourself useful and but this on the table." She says shoving the bread basket at him and pushing him out the door. She leans against the sink and inhales deeply wondering if she was going to get through the evening without exploding.
                     
           Take's Pine Valley Chronicles Natalia and Preston
  

Molly, Jack and Barbara 10/26/2016

       

             Molly glances down at her new badge fingering the front of it nervously with her fingers then reaches for her portfolio flipping through it quickly making sure everything was still in order. She feels her phone buzzing in her pocket and ignores it. She didn't want anyone or anything ruining the high she had. She smiled to herself she'd been ready for the meeting and when she left the interview the internship was hers! She had gotten there early and had been able to easily sum up her competition and they weren't any. The best part was she'd done it all herself. She'd followed everything Vicky Lord had told her and now she was the new production intern working directly with Corban James! She smiles to herself as she walks to the front door.
          "Uncle Jack!" She calls out closing the door behind her and placing her portfolio on the the coffee table. "Uncle Jack are you here?" She calls again looking around the living room as Jack comes through the Patio door.
            "Hey! Sweetheart what's going on?" He smiles as Molly practically jumps into his arms.
             "I did it Uncle Jack!" She squeals then pulls away from him and reaches for her purse pulling out her WRCW badge giggling as she waves it in front of him.  "I applied for the internship at WRCW and I got it!" Jack eyes open wide as he grasps her in his arms and holds her close. 
             "That's wonderful honey! I didn't know you were even thinking of applying." He says kissing the top of her head as he lets go. Molly grins back at him proudly pulling away from Jack and sits down on the sofa patting the sofa cushion next to her.  "I didn't tell anyone. I didn't want to jinx it and I didn't want anyone's help. I wanted to do it all on my own." Jack smiles back at her enjoying the happy confident Molly he'd gotten to know again over the past few days. 
            "I can't tell you how very proud of you I am." He reaches over brushing the hair from her face and pats her cheek making her blush shyly. 
            "Thank you Uncle Jack I couldn't have done any of it without you." 
             "I didn't do anything." He says feeling a little burst of pride. Molly shakes her head contradicting his assertion.
             "No Uncle Jack you did a lot more than you'll ever know. You let me move in with you and you never asked why. You trusted and believed in me when no one else did. You put up with my craziness and you never gave up on me. You made me feel more loved and wanted than I have in a really long time when I really needed it. I won't ever forget that. Thank you Uncle Jack."  she says hugging him close and kissing his cheek. 
            "Sweetheart it's my pleasure.This is your home and I love having you here." He says giving her a another quick hug. "Tell me about your night and your new job did you and Dani have a nice time?"  Molly smiles less brilliantly thinking over some of her actions from last evening then shaking off the momentary melancholy before continuing. 
           "We had a great time! Her step-mom's club is really cool. We stayed on her Aunt Vicky's estate Llanview I think? She said to say hello." Jack raises his brow then thinks a moment.
         "You mean Victoria Lord the editor of the banner?" He says with a nod. "She interviewed me for her paper after a case I worked on last year. Lovely woman." 
          "I thought so too, a little different than I thought she'd be. I never thought I would ever meet her she and Brooke English are like my heroes!  Anyway, I met her this morning and we talked for a little while she was really cool. I really enjoyed it. Then Dani and I got up we came back here and she dropped me off I drove to the station. Where I walked in summed up my competition found them unworthy and took home the prize! Oh and Mr. James is so cool a lot more laid back than I thought he would be and Mr. Blackwood was pleasant enough I guess he was kind of mysterious yet bigger than life at the same time. I think I'm going to really enjoy it" She giggles still talking a mile a minute looking happier than she had since she arrived. He wasn't sure what had caused the change in his niece but he was happy for it. Things needed to go her way for a change. 
          "I was just out back starting the grill. Reggie and Lilly are coming by for dinner. Oh and I asked Tea and Dani to stop by." Molly grins mischievously.               
          "So you and Ms. Del Gado huh?" Molly teases enjoying the slight blush in her Uncles cheeks. Liking the idea of the pairing more and more. Way better than anything he ever had going with Erica.             
            " Nothing is going on. We've been friends for a long time and it's nice having someone to talk to that I don't have to "Google" every other word." He says making them both laugh.
 " I have everything ready. They should be here any minute why don't you go up and get changed." Molly nods in agreement picking up her things from the table and heading for the stairs. 
            "I'll be right down! I can't wait to tell them! Don't start without me!" She calls from the top of the stairs before slamming into her bedroom making Jack chuckle.
          I wouldn't dream of it!" He says walking toward the front door as Reggie and Lily come through.  
         "Hey Dad!" They say almost in unison. "Where do you want me to put the rest of this stuff?" Reggie asks shifting the tray in his arm to the other hand.
           "Just place it on the counter for now." He says waving toward the kitchen while Lily pushes the door closed then stops and leaves it ajar. 
           " I think that's Ms. Del Gado's car that pulled in behind us" Jack leans out the the door holding the door open for them. 
           "Thanks honey you can put those buns out on the picnic table." 
         "Sure" Lily nods then smiles as Molly comes up beside her and the two walk out to the patio both liking the spark of excitement in Jack's eye as he waits for Tea to get to the door.  
           "Dad seems extra happy tonight don't you think so?" Reggie nods in agreement winking at Molly as they all watch his father through the glass door welcoming Tea and her family. "Yeah, and I can guess why." He smirks as Jack leads Tea and her family out on to the patio almost bursting with excitement. 
           "Heyyyy!" Molly yelps embracing her friend then greeting Tea and Victor. "Hi Ms. Delgado. Hi Victor!" 
          "Tea, Dani I think you already met my daughter Lily and my son Reggie?" 
           "Yes we have, wonderful to see you again." Tea says nodding to both of them.
           "Thanks for coming!" Lily says offering Tea a seat.
           "Would you like something to drink? Soda iced tea?" Reggie asks looking from tea to Dani.
           "Iced tea would be great" Tea says then looks toward Dani.
           "I'll have the same thank you." Dani says taking the seat next to her mother. Jack watches from the grill as the two families talk and laugh amiably enjoying each others company as the glow of the sunset lights the backyard giving the scene a warm family feeling something he could get used to he thought as he stacked hamburgers on the platter and walks to the table.
      He'd really enjoyed the evening he thought some time later smiling to himself as he finishes scrapping the the grill top then closes the lid. Tea's family and his really hit it off they had all spent the evening laughing and talking getting to know each other. They'd all relaxed and just enjoyed the evening and each others company. One of the most pleasant he'd spent in a long time. He picks up his glass and walks toward the table. 
          "Does everyone have a glass  because I have somethings to say." He says raising his glass and turning toward Molly.  "First I would like to congratulate my son on his acceptance to law school. I'm going to really miss having you just pop in at just the right time." Reggie laugh's.  
         "Don't worry Dad you can't get rid of me that easily. Boston's not that far!" He says with a laugh.
         "A lot further than I would like." He says with a laugh. "And Lily who will be taking off to New York City to earn her MBA and Phd in science."  He says with pride as those gathered clap and cheer. "And I especially want to congratulate my niece Molly who became the new production intern for Mr. Corban James at WRCW!" Dani's eyes open wide with surprise as she turns and hugs her friend to her.
            "Oh my God Molly that's great! Why didn't tell me?" She asks feigning insult. Molly laughs giving her friend a quick hug.
           "I didn't tell anyone!" 
          "Oh Molly! I'm so proud of you!" Comes a shriek from behind them causing them all to turn and stare Molly's face white with shock before regaining her voice.
           "What the hell are you doing here?" Molly shrieks bounding out of her seat and running toward her mother. Barbara places her suitcase down opening her arms to her daughter who stops a few feet in front of her arms crossed her brow drawn.
             "I said what the hell are you doing here?" Molly asks again her anger on the verge of erupting.
             "I just wanted to see you honey. You won't talk to me you won't answer my letters or phone calls. I just wanted to see for myself that you're okay" Barbara sniffs reaching out to touch Molly's cheek the later pulling away from her touch in repulsion. 
             "Barbara, what are you doing here?" Jack says coming towards her looking as shocked as his niece. Barbara smiles nervously looking from Jack to Molly before noticing the others gathered.
             "Good to see you again Lily, Reggie you're looking well" She says with a nod to each before turning her focus to Tea and Dani. "Hello I'm Barbara Montgomery Molly's mother." Tea nods in Barbara's direction.  
             "Tea Delgado and my daughter Dani." She says then looks from Molly to Jack for some non verbal clues and receives none. She can only watch feeling helpless as the scene unfolds and Barbara turns her attention back to Molly. 
             "You look really great honey." She says reaching out for Molly again causing Molly to cringe away.
             "Answer the question. Why are you here? I don't remember Uncle Jack inviting you and I sure as hell didn't?" She finishes growling the last part.
             "I had to see you honey. I missed you." Molly lets loose a bitter laugh.  
             "So as always the hell with what I want as long as Barbara gets what she wants! How many times do I have to tell you I don't want to talk to you or see you I don't want your letters or phone calls! I don't want you in my life? You've seen me I'm fine why don't you go back to where ever you came from!" Barbara glares at Molly hurt and pain etched on her face.
             "You can't still mean that? Not after all this time you still can't be so angry?" Molly laughs bitterly staring back at her mother in disgust.
             " I meant it when I said it the first time and I still mean it. I'm telling you for the last time. Why don't you crawl back inside a vodka bottle! I don't ever want to see you again for as long as I live! Get out! GO! Don't come back!" Molly finishes with a scream then begins to sob. Jack wraps his arms around Molly holding her close not comprehending what was happening between the two of them. 
           "Please make her go Uncle Jack! I don't want her here! She going to ruin everything like she always does! Please Uncle Jack don't let her stay!" Jack peels his niece from him her face ravished with tears but the fear in her voice is what frightened him.
            "Promise me Uncle Jack no matter what she says you won't let her stay!" She calls back at him as Dani wraps her arm around Molly trying desperately to console her. Jack looks at his niece again then back to Barbara's stricken face and her body almost rigid with what seemed to be fear but his instincts told him her fear wasn't for Molly but more about what Molly wasn't telling and he needed to know what that was now.   
          "Reggie you and Dani take Molly inside." Tea watches Reggie takes a distraught Molly into the house knowing instinctively that Molly would need Dani right now but unsure if they had any place in the situation. After all hers and Jack's relationship was just a game or was it?
             "Perhaps I should get going?"  Jack waits a moment for the door to close.
             "No, I'd like it if you could stay for a moment." Tea nods in agreement noticing Lily still seated at the table curious confused and beginning to look upset.             
           "Lily if you could do me a favor and check on Victor I'd really appreciate it." 
           "Yes" Lily says rising from the table watching Barbara as she does. " Your color is dark and scary. I think Molly's right you should go." She says turning and walking toward the house leaving Jack feeling chilled by his daughter's words. He looks back at Barbara who wipes a stray tear from her cheek and smiles back weakly.
           "Not exactly the welcome I expected." She sighs plopping down on the table bench. Jack glances over a Tea who shrugs not sure where to begin deferring it back to Jack.
           "Do you want to explain why you show up on my door step bag and baggage no warning? But first I want to know why Molly just reacted like your arrival was the beginning of the end?" Barbara sighs not sure where to begin but definitely not ready to tell him the entire story which was evident that Molly hadn't.
           "Molly and I had a big fight before she left and I'm afraid she still hasn't forgiven me." 
           "I'd say that's a bit of an understatement!" Tea scoffs pulling Barbara's attention back to her. She read about this Ms. Delgado on the plane she was the new assistant district attorney and rumored love interest of Jacks. She would have to tread very carefully around her. 
           "I'm sorry who are you again?" Tea looks at Jack and rolls her eyes as she watches the wheels turn inside Barbara's head. She knew in an instant Barbara's drama and concern for Molly were only superficial to something deeper flowing through the undercurrent. 
           "Tea Delgado Assistant district attorney and family friend." She says her eyes challenging waiting while Barbara calculates her next move.
           "Never mind Tea, answer my question what are you doing here? I thought we agreed you were going to give Molly some space." 
          "I know, I know I just needed to see her. I needed to know she was okay."
           "Okay so you needed to see her. That still doesn't explain why Molly reacted the way she did. What the hell is going on?"
           "I told you Jack we had a fight and we still haven't worked it out."
           "Okay you had a fight. What the hell were you fighting about?" Barbara closes her eyes her hands folded in her lap as if in prayer then looks up at him her eyes pleading.
          " That's between me and Molly." 
          "You need to give me more than that! I want to know what the hell is going on or you aren't coming anywhere near her!" 
          "You can't do that Jack she's my daughter you can't keep me from seeing her!" She barks.
           "Look Barbara I don't care what you want my only concern here is Molly. And from what I can see she wants nothing to do with you. Until she does I think the best thing you can do for her is to do what she asks." 
           "I can't do that Jack we need to fix this between us." 
           "And I can't let you upset her any more that you already have." 
           "I'm not going anywhere until I've fixed this between us." Jack lets loose a heavy sigh knowing he wasn't going to change her mind.
          "Where are you staying?" Barbara looks up at him her eyes once again pleading. He glares at her incredulous of her sheer nerve.
           "No! No way are you staying here! You saw how she just reacted!" 
          " I don't have any place else to go Jack and I don't have any money!"
          " What! What do you mean you don't have money? What happened to the law firm and the money Travis left you?"
          "It's a long story Jack and right now I don't have it in me to go into that right now."
          "What the hell is going on Barabara?" 
          "Look Jack I'll explain it to you but I just can't get into it all right now. Please Jack." She pleads then begins to weep. Jack looks to Tea who shrugs again watching Barbara's performance and not buying a moment of it and from the look on Jacks face neither was he.
         "Give me a minute and I'll get you a room at the Pine Valley Inn. Tomorrow morning you and I are going to have a very long conversation and you're going to tell me everything you understand?" Barbara smiles weakly nodding her head in agreement as Jack reaches for his phone. Tea watches as Jack dials the phone and begins to make arrangements for Barbara watching Barbara closely the later flashing a brief satisfied smile before hiding it behind her facade of concern.
          "I'm going to go check on the kids. I'll be right back." Tea says walking back towards the house.
         "Nice to have met you. I just wish it had been under better circumstances." Barbara calls after her stopping Tea for a moment.
         "Same here." She smiles and waves then turns back toward the door pulling her own phone from her pocket and dialing as she closes the door.
        "Hey! It's me. I need you to do me a favor. Yeah sorry about the hour. But I'm going to give you a name and I need you to get me everything you have on a Barbara Montgomery and I mean everything. If she had the signs of a cold yesterday I want to know about it and I need it ASAP. Thanks a lot and don't worry I'll make it worth your while."    
           
           Takes Pine Valley Chronicles Molly, Jack and Barbara
                 

Erica and Gavin 10/25/2016

             

                 Gavin looks down at the stack of folders in front of him and begins to place one at each seating. In less than two minutes he was going to be meeting with Erica and the new cast of "New Beginnings" and from her attitude earlier this was not going to be an easy meeting. But, he also knew she would come around to his thinking especially after she took a good look at all the revamping that was going to be done more so when she realized it would also contain the "Raising Kane" Productions copyright. He looks at his watch then picks up one of the folders and flips through it just as Krystal, Carmen and Opal step into the conference room all beaming and chatting happily. Well at least seventy five percent of his cast were showing excitement for this project.
              "Good morning ladies!" He smiles coming toward them and greeting each one.
                "We're still waiting for a couple more people to join us in the meantime please help yourselves to coffee pastries courtesy of the "Serving Spoon". I would have had them delivered from "Krystal & Carmen's" but I didn't want this to feel anything like a PCTA meeting where you have to bring your own snacks." He says with a chuckle making them all laugh. He looks down at his watch again then smiles up at the ladies who sit and chat amiably. He walks to the intercom just as Conrad comes into the room carrying his his leather bound folder.
                "Good morning everyone." Coban says nodding to Opal, Carmen and Krystal as he makes his way to the head of the table followed by Kendall and Corban's other staff members. Kendall walks to the group and squeals of delight erupt among them. Gavin looks at his watch as he reaches out to Coban's extended hand and shakes it then turns to his cast seated at the table for the exception of Erica. More than likely she was waiting to make her grand entrance. He checks his watch noting the time he should be annoyed at her grandstanding tactics but instead decides to proceed with the meeting on schedule.
               " We didn't know you would be here too!" Carmen says coming to Kendall and kissing her cheek.
               " Yep! I won the bid I put in for the redesign of the set!" Kendall says with a squeal hugging an equally squealing Carmen to her as Opal watches on with a frown.
               "Does your mother know?" She hoarse whispers and Krystal and Carmen lean in listening intently. Kendal shrugs then pulls her shoulders back her chin tilted definitely.
               "She will when she gets here." She says reaching for a cup and pouring coffee into it as she mentally braces herself for her mother's wrath.  
               "Good morning Corban! Everyone if you'll be seated please. This is Corban James he's one of our new producers here at WRCW. He's going to be consulting on the revamping of "New Beginnings." He announces pausing for the polite and approving applause before continuing.
               " Everyone here was chosen for the unique abilities they bring to our project. Our new host represent the viewers in each of our demographics. Mrs. Hart-Slater brings her award winning design expertise. We'll also be using Ms. Lavery's remarkable Marketing talents to develop our campaign and lastly Mr.James and his team will be developing our programing. So if you all would turn your atten..." His voice fading off as Erica burst into the room pulling all eyes to her.
             "Good morning everyone sorry I'm late!" She announces as she looks around the table spotting Kendall sitting across the table her suspicions peaked.
              "Kendall! What are you doing here?"  Her voice filled with honey and silk her eyes speaking a different tone of annoyance and betrayal.  
               " Thank you for joining us Ms. Kane. Had you been on time you would have heard the announcement that Ms. Slater-Hart is our set designer. Please have a seat so that we may continue. You'll find the details of our meeting in front of you." He says enjoying the snap of her mouth and purse of her lips as she sits down quietly fuming as he continues without missing a beat.
              "So if you would all turn your attention to Ms. McDermott." He finishes waving his hand towards Anne who stands.
              " Good Morning everyone. As you all know I'm Anne McDermott I'm going to working on the marketing plan for the relaunch of "New Beginnings"." She pauses reaching for the the remote control and lowering the screen and projector as Kendall hands out the packet of information she'd bought.
             "Kendall and I have been talking since Gavin approached us a couple of days ago and we decide our theme is going to be "New Beginnings" New beginning! Mind you this is just an idea right now but..." She stops as Erica snort silences her. Gavin quietly grinds his jaw keeping his annoyance in check.
             "Do you have something to add Ms.Kane?" He asks staring at Erica pointedly. The later stares back at him smiling devilishly then glaring at Kendall as she speaks her words venomous.
              " It sounds rather trite to me." she says receiving a chuckle from a couple of people on Cobans staff and they in turn getting a quelling look from him and a satisfied smile from Erica. Gavin clears his throat and smiles.
             " Anne and Kendall showed us the galies before the meeting and the two of us were very impressed. We found it quite clever considering the theme of the show please, continue." He quips effectively shutting down her rebuttal leaving Erica once again seething.
             Erica glares at Gavin a moment as Anne continues pulling the mocking stares back to her. Gavin grins then picks up his pen and continues taking notes effectively dismissing her. She sits back in her chair and watches the short presentation flipping to the pages of the galies and begrudgingly admits to herself it was very good and probably just what the project needed but she would never admitted that to her traitorous daughter or equally traitorous friend Anne.
          No she wasn't going to make it easy for either of them to come in here and hijack her show even if it was for the better. She just had to be more careful of the battles she picked and use her head not her anger. When Anne is finished she hands the floor to Kendall who reviews her plans for the new set which Erica again had to admit were gorgeous. That admission leading to another, that this Gavin Blackwood knew his business and knew it well. He'd chosen his team well their thoughts were both insightful and well planned. What she still wasn't sure of was what Corban had planned she watches in distaste as Corban climbs to his feet and begins to speak.
           "Thank you Annie and Kendall. I speak for Gavin, Erica and myself when I say we appreciate all the wonderful work you have both done in such a short amount of time. If this what you both come up within less than seventy two hours to do it I personally can't wait to see what you come up with when we give you actual time to do it. " He finishes with a laugh waiting a moment for the chuckles to die down before continuing.
           " My staff and I have come up with what we think will be interesting and very sensational topics that will take us through the first ratings quarter." He continues as his assistant distributes the documents.
           " We tried to stick to topics that we thought would be interesting to our audience as well as fit your comfort zones or strike a cord of decent because we all know people won't keep watching if everything is sunshine and lollipops everyday."
           "Oooo! I like this one "The value of the mature workers in the workplace" Opal shouts out nodding in approval as Krystal taps on the paper excitedly.
           "Or this one 'The struggle women face when opening a business" 
           "and this one we thought you would especially enjoy researching Erica since it's something you personally are experiencing. Changing Life in mid gear how stay in the fast lane. This particular segment will chronicle you through the changes happening to new beginnings as well as your new role as a a producer on "Raising Fire". We also thought of it as way for to help separate fact from fiction." He finishes directing a bright hopeful smile at Erica as he braces for the worst.
            Erica glances down at the galley's actually liking what she saw surprising her self at the same time. Corban's selections were both insightful and tailored to the skills and strengths of each host yet contained a common core to the topic that would add spice and controversy without devolving pandemonium.
           "I have to admit Corban when this was all first mentioned I was extremely skeptical" She says pausing then looks form Corban to Gavin who's expression remained blank giving her nothing to weigh her next comment with before speaking them.
            "But, I can see you and your team have done a wonderful job with your topic searches and with a little fine tuning they will be absolutely perfect. However I do have one question exactly how much of this behind the scenes filming are we going to do? As you all know this has been quite a difficult year for myself and my extended family I would prefer to have them involved and or affected by this as little as possible." Corban stares at her a moment mildly dumbfounded by her response while Gavin looked on seemingly amused but still saying nothing. Unlike Corban who couldn't hide his enthusiasm at her acceptance of his plan he was practically gushing. 
           "This is only in the planning stages and I'm sure we can work around your personal life and keep as much of them out of this as the subject matter will allow." Gavin internally shakes his head and rolls his eyes and Corban groveling and Erica lapping it up.
         "I have absolutely no reservation that the two of you will find some common ground. Now shall we move on we have a lot more to cover." He says flatly hoping to end the conversation and having to listen to Corban's placating tone. He just hoped in his zeal to please her as well as make this project successful he didn't lose himself in the process. Erica watches Corban and then Gavin then smiles to herself. One down and one to go. 
             

Takes Pine Valley Chronicles Erica and Gavin