Erica, Kendall, And Opal

 

          Kendall sits in one of the set chairs reviewing her sketch as the stage hands move items into place and compares it to what she sees before her.
        "Hey Frank?" She shouts out stopping one of the stagehands as he moves across the set.
         "Could you please have someone move the large palm about five feet to the right where I've put the tape maker?" The man shades his eyes to the stage lights above as he peers out into the darkness auditorium.
         "You got it Mrs. S" He says with a wave and smile then shouts orders to the men behind him.
          "Thanks Frank." She shouts back then goes back to comparing her sketch to the actual set.
          "Kendall! Kendall! Have you seen my dressing room!" Erica screeches as she storms down the aisle behind her.
          "And good morning to you too Mother." She says between gritted teeth and a roll of her eyes as she turns towards her.
          "Never mind all that! What it is going on with my dressing room Kendall?" Erica continues her anger still brewing. How am I supposed to function in the cracker box you've cleverly disguised as a dressing room!"
           "I'm the stage designer Mother not Procurement. Besides all the dressing rooms are the same." She says distractedly going back to her work and ignoring her mother's ranting. Erica had worn away any patients she had ignoring her childish whining was all she could do after her two day rampage.
           " Considering it's my show I'm the star and I have a hundred times the work and responsibility as the window dressing Gavin hired I need no, I demand a space that will accommodate my needs immediately!"
           "That's it! You've called us window dressing for the last time! We're all just as much a part of this show as you are!" Opal snaps coming to stand beside the two of them as all movement and talk ceases and all eyes focus on the trio. Erica take a step back shaking the hair back from her face her eyes narrowed. Her voice cold the tone prickling Opals skin like sleet on a windy day.
           "Let's be honest here shall we? New Beginnings was doing just fine before any of you got here!" She continues in the same dismissive tone. Opal glares back at her as each word further ignites her anger into a roaring flame.
           "If YOU and YOUR Show were really doing so well Gavin wouldn't have hired us. You even told me yourself not too long ago remember? You needed some "big story" to boost ratings. You harassed everyone you know trying to get the "big story" that would save your show. You even went as far to harass my grandson's wife about the birth of my great grandson. So obviously YOUR show needed something besides snooze festival you, to make it interesting to the audience." Opal finishes  her eyes and stance challenging Erica to dispute what she'd said.
         "Are you saying I'm boring? That's is one thing Erica Kane never was or will ever be!" She shouts back to an unperturbed Opal who smiles smugly and shrugs
         "Well if the pillow fits ,put your head on it!" She say smoothly enjoying the red flush of rage stain her cheeks.
         "Why I aught too...." She starts as Opal cuts in.
         "Careful Erica remember I hit back!" She says stepping within inches of Erica and stooping down so they were face to face.
          "LADIES!" Gavin shouts stepping between the two. "And I believe as of this moment I am using the word rather loosely." He finishes and receives a quelling look from them both.
          "What the hell is this all about?" Gavin asks looking from one to the other.
          "Oh well Miss Priss here thinks everything is about her and the rest of us are just filler or some kind of support group."
           'Because that's exactly what you are!" Erica snipes back as she pushes toward Opal trapping Gavin between them.
           "Okay you two back off!" He shouts above the fray. "Erica realized this morning with all the work we have to do on both shows your present accommodations won't sacrifice so I've booked you the penthouse for the next two weeks and you'll have use of the private elevator."
           "Well that's fine for her but what about the rest of us?" Opal breaks in her arms crossed over her chest glaring at him expectantly.
            "I've arranged for the rest of the ladies to share the other penthouse each will  have their own room to use as they please. Mr. Slater's has graciously given us the assistance of his assistant Dax if you need any furniture changes etcetera and so forth. Now, Opal I believe you have a fitting for your photo shoot and Erica we have a meeting shall we go? I expect you All to be ready to film!" He says turning toward Erica the expression on his face giving her no choice but to join him. Kendall sighs in relief glad to have the both of them gone even if it was only for a few minutes. She thought looking back at the stage with the hands standing idle.

         "Gentlemen? The shows over lets get back to work shall we?" She yells startling them all back into motion before referring back to her sketch pad. Not noticing the young man sitting in the back of the auditorium absorbing it all.

          "Hey Kendall!" Francessca calls from behind her as she walks down the center aisle carrying her camera case and lights. 

         Hey niece!" She calls back placing her pad down on the seat as Francessca comes towards her and gives her a hug. 

            "It's so good to see you! How are you?" Francessca smiles as she releases her then places her equipment on the floor next to her.

             "I'm good! How are my boys?" Francessca asks as she ones her case and pulls out one of her cameras and inspects it as she speaks.

            'Good missing their big cousin just like their Mommy." Kendall teases making Francessca laugh.

            "I miss you guys too. I've just been so busy with the baby, work Jamie and least I forget the founders day stuff! I feel like all I do is run. Oh, and to top it all off Logan is beginning to cut teeth so that's been a laugh riot! " Kendall laughs.

             "Oh I remember those days! At least you have Sophia. That woman's a dynamo! I hope when I get to be her age I have half as much energy as she does." Kendall jokes making them both laugh.

             "You and me both! Listen I'm on a really tight schedule today do you know where and when Gavin wants these shots done?" She says looking around the auditorium her eyes stopping on an attractive young wavy haired man about her age sitting in the back if he hadn't moved at that moment she might not have seen him. He'd smiled as their eyes had locked The moment between them giving her an odd sense of familiarity before he'd looked away and reached for his ringing phone.

              "I can help you with that." Corbin smiles as he comes toward the two of them. 

              "Corbin James this is Francessca Logan-Martin of "Tempo" Magazine. Francessca Corbin James is the producer for both  "New Beginnings" and "Raising Fire"." He says taking Francessca's hand  and shaking it. 

               'Very nice to meet you if you want to grab your stuff and follow me I'll show where you can set up." He says with a smile picking up Francessca's case and leading the way. 

               "I'll call you later!" Kendall calls after them watching as they leave and Vinny comes towards her.

               "Hey beautiful! I have that reclaimed wood you wanted for the kitchen set out in my truck you want to take a look?" 

                "Vinny did anyone ever tell you you're a life saver?" Kendall's eyes light up at the news as she tosses her sketchbook down on the seat and follows him up on the stage and out the stage door. 

               The young man that had been sitting quietly in the back of the auditorium moves to the front where Kendall had been standing. He looks along the aisle spotting Kendall's purse and sit down next to it. He opens it reaching for her wallet. He flips through till he comes to her license then quickly takes a picture of it before slipping the wallet back in her purse and casually strolls back up the aisle and out the door.  

* Copyright Takeitish Pine Valley Chronicles 2018

Palmer, Opal and Peter

     

     
        Palmer glances up from his paper at the landscaper mowing the lawn in the distance and smiles to himself. He was enjoying his morning for the first time in as long as he could remember. He'd finally come to a decision after speaking with Nina and Ross he was more than satisfied with it. In fact it had bought him a kind of peace he hadn't felt in sometime.
       "Good Morning Dad!" Pete says joining his father at the patio table and helping himself to the coffee and pastries before taking the seat opposite his father.
        "Good Morning my boy! Good Morning! Good to have you home! How was your vacation? Did you and Jeanine enjoy yourselves?" Palmer asks placing the paper down on the table.
        "It was great!" Pete replies between mouthful's as Palmer smiles and nods in agreement.
        "Wonderful! You deserved it after what you've done for the company!" He says turning the paper over and showing him the headline and photo of Pete and Rhea adorning it.
        "I can't tell you how proud I am of you and all the work you've done. Especially this new acquisition. This is going to revolutionize the industry and knock Jay Stanton right on his pompous ass!" Palmer says chuckling devilishly. Pete smiles back at him pulling himself up in his seat and meeting his fathers stare squarely as he speaks his tone assured and firm.
      "That may be but that's not why I made the decision. I did a lot of research on Preston and Chase's project before making the acquisition. I didn't let you or the fact they were friends of Francessca Martin's' color my decision.  It was good for them and even better for Slater-Cortland." Palmer smiles back at him proudly.
        "I know,
     "That's what made me the most proud. That deal of yours will make Slater-Cortlandt millions if not billions. It also confirmed my decision." Pete looks back at him his jaw taunt unsure what his father was referring to and determined not to allow his statement to shake his confidence.
       "And what decision is that?" Peter asks laying his napkin on the side of the plate,
       "I've spoken to both your sister and brother and they both approve of what I'm about to do."
       "What exactly is that Dad?"
       "You son are the future of Slater-Cortland. As of today you my boy are the new CEO of "Slater-Cortland Electronics". The Announcement will be in the afternoon addition! Congratulation my boy! You've more than earned it!"
        "Oh! Congratulations Sweet potato!" Opal yelps as she come through the patio doors and wraps her arms around her sons shoulders and squeezes him tight before landing kisses on his cheek. "Your father and I are so proud of you!" She says giving his shoulder a final squeeze before taking the seat adjacent to him.
         Pete looks from his father to his mother in shock and speechless making both his parents laugh.
        "I told you he'd be speechless when you told him." Opal laughs as she gives her sons hand a quick squeeze.
       "Well son what do have to say for yourself?" Palmer slaps his son on the back and chuckles.
       "I....I ....I'm honored and overwhelmed that you all have so much faith in me." Pete stutters feeling overwhelmed by the news.  'But what about Bobby I thought he would...." Pete trails off as Palmer throws up his hand silencing him.
      "Don't worry about Bobby. The decision was unanimous. Bobby's never been interested in the business he's happy doing what he's doing and living his life. Son you're the only one that ever showed any interest or had any electronic acumen. No, son the position is yours you've more than earned it." Palmer finishes as he stands and stretches out his hand towards his son.
      "You're going to make a fine CEO even better than your old man." Palmer smiles up at him shaking his hand firmly before pulling him into a hug and patting his back.
       "I promise Dad I won't let you down." Peter says choking back the tears gripping his throat.
        "Ohhhhh! Look at my boys!" Opal coo's and embraces both of them. "I never thought I would live to see my little Petey all grown up and so handsome! Running the family business! I'm so proud I could just burst!" She say as she mushes Peter's cheek and then kisses him before hugging him tightly to her.
       "Okay now I want you both to sit down and finish your breakfasts while I tell you my good news!"  Peter and Palmer both look up at her puzzled as they take their seats.
        "Well I've talked to my Boss Gavin you know the real boss not Erica's lap dog!" She snarks still smarting from the encounter she'd had with Erica the other day. "And he's going to let me interview you for our show "New Beginnings". Your Dad arranged for you to do the interview as part of the publicity for your new project but Gavin wanted me to be the main interviewer when you come on the show! And now because of your Dad I get to make the big announcement! Isn't that wonderful?" She asks looking excitedly from Peter to Palmer and back.
        " That's great Mom but when is this all supposed to happen?" He asks looking from one to the other wondering what exactly he'd fallen into. Palmer rolls his eyes tossing his napkin down on the table in disgust.
         "Your Mother came home yesterday in a snit..." Palmer grumbles as Opal cuts in.
         "I did not come home in a snit!"
         "All right then you came home in a rage, better?" He says his voice dripping with sarcasm as Opal pleads her case.
         "I was just a little annoyed at Erica and her high and mighty ways was all!" Palmer snickers.
         "Oh is that all? The way you were acting I thought she'd stolen your favorite cauldron!" Palmer snorts out as he smothers a laugh at Opal indigent expression and continues for her.
         "Anyway to one up Erica your Mother made me promise we'd make the announcement of your promotion on her show."
         "You'll do it for me won't you honey?" Opals pleads.
         "For you Mom anything, you know that. I was going to go by Jeanine's and I'll meet you at the station okay?"
           "That would be perfect! Thank you Honey." She squeals making Peter grin as he finishes eating.
           "Don't mention it Mom." Opal sneaks a peak at Palmer who nods then holds up his paper pretending to read it as he listens intently.
           "By the way how is Jeanine hope you two are going to come by some night this week and tell us about your trip."
             "Jeanine is perfect as always why don't you give her call about dinner. I'd better get going! I'll see you both at the studio." He says leaning down and kissing his Mothers cheek before heading back through the terrace doors. Opal watches him walk away then leans towards Palmer smiling a conspiratorial smile.
            "Did you see the way his face lit up when I asked him about Jeanine?" Palmer chuckles patting Opals hand.
             "Yes I did. At least one of my children has decent tastes when it comes to a mate!" He says snapping the paper in front of him trying to hide the prideful smile from his wife and failing miserably.     

*Copyright Takeitish "Pine Valley Chronicles 2018

Molly, Dani and Barbara

       

         Molly smiles back at her reflection in the mirror wondering if anyone would be able to see the change in her on the outside that she felt on the inside. She felt happy and carefree and even more than that she felt loved. Something she hadn't felt in a long time. She had Justine and last night to thank for that.
       After they'd made love the first time he'd held her in his arms and he'd talked about his life. He'd told her about his father who'd been in his life and not all at the same time and a mother who'd been more concerned with social standing and climbing. They'd mostly used him to accomplish both hauling him out like a show pony to perform and used his accomplishments for their own bragging rights much like her own parents she'd confessed to him. It felt like they'd confessed all their past worries and sins then he'd done something no one other than her Uncle had ever done he'd promised to protect her from whatever came. Not that she needed protection she'd always been able to stand on her own. But what had totally melted her her defenses and her heart was when he'd said they'd face whatever came at them together. And that's when she'd known she loved him and that he loved her.
     Everything seemed right with the world for a change even work. Not that Erica hadn't been Erica or Corbin, Corbin but at least Gavin had been able to put the two in check and work was being done. Gavin had been the life saver for many an employee during Kendall's set rebuilding at the studio and the temporary design for the set at the casino.
      Erica had been on a two day rampage. She'd even laid into her 'Best girlfriend" Opal. If it hadn't been for Gavin and Corbin interceding it would have turned into a prize fight. No one knew what exactly had set her off but she'd been that way since she and Corbin had spent the evening working on 'Raising Fire". The rumor mill had it that one or the other had made a pass at the other but Molly didn't think so. She thought it had to do with her Uncle based on the questions she'd asked her about Tea and her reactions to Molly's responses. Hopefully Ms. Kane got the message that her Uncle had moved on. Maybe being a raving bitch was Erica's form of therapy she thought with a laugh as the doorbell rang. She walks to the door looking through the peephole before opening it to Dani. 
 "Thank God" Dani squeals rushing towards Molly and grasping her arm as she leads her quickly to the sofa.
       "What the hell is going on?" Molly asks surprise and shock taking turns with her features.
       "Jesus! I've been trying to talk to you all morning! I went over to your Uncle's and he said you'd gone out with Justine so, I tracked you down here."
      "Well you found me what's going on?" She says walking to the kitchen and pouring herself a cup of coffee as Dani trails behind her.
        "Where's Justine?" Dani asks craning her neck as she looks around the room for signs of him.
        "He walked down to the "Bagel Store" why?" Molly shrugs then walks back to the sofa and opens her laptop on the coffee table and types in her password as Dani sighs in frustration.
      " Didn't you get any of my messages."
      "Yeah I got them. I just haven't listened to them." Molly says distractedly quickly clicking through her emails as Dani stares on her eyes wide with shock.
      "Oh my God so you don't know!"
      "I don't know anything! I was with Justin all night and I had my phoned turned off. It was the first time in weeks Justin has had two consecutive days off  and it was magical Dani!' She says her smile bright and eyes sparkling. Dani hated to be the one to take her happiness away but she needed to know before she got bombarded.
       "I'm really happy for you Justin is a great guy. And, I'm really sorry to ruin your morning but I thought you should know before you got to work."
       "Dani you're scaring me." Molly says grasping Dani's hand in hers and squeezing it.
       "I'm sorry Moll's I didn't mean to scare you. I just wanted to tell you your Mom got arrested last night on a drunk and disorderly."
        "Well that explains the phone calls." She snorts as she gets up and walks to the kitchenet and pour coffee in a cup then takes a sip.
        "What else is new? When Barbara's drinking it's always something." She shrugs coming back to the sofa and sitting down.
        "Let me guess she into some loan sharks really bad dudes?" She says with a snort of laughter.
        "I don't know if you would call them loan sharks more like gangsters. She was at the casino last night got drunk lost some money and tore up a hotel room." Molly gives another snort of laughter tossing her hair back over her shoulder.
     "Relax Dani. This is the norm for "Drunk Bab's" She says with a laugh as Dani glares at her not annoyed at her callous attitude. She couldn't imagine ever being that flippant about her mother.
      "Did her past include being a drug mule?" She blurts out regretting her words as soon as she'd spoken them. The look of shock paralyzed Molly's expression. Dani's words finally penetrating through the wall she put up at the mention of her mother's name replaced by fear.
      "Moll's there's more." Dani says slowly rising from the sofa and pacing the space between them as she speaks. " I'm not even sure I should tell you this but you're my best friend." Molly stares back at her the seriousness of Dani's expression scarring her into a momentary silence as Dani sits down again.
       "What the hell Dani? What the fuck are you talking about?"
     "I did something I shouldn't have and now know stuff I shouldn't and I told Brooke and before it all comes out I have to tell you! I just have to!"
        "Dani what did you do?"
        "I, I went into my Mother's files and found out your Mom is working for some guy a Mr. Robert Broderick."
       "Yeah I know she said he was some corporate guy she was doing some legal stuff for."
       "He is but according to my mother's notes she thinks he some big drug guy working for some other guy they're investigating."
       "What guy Dani you have to tell me!"
       "You swear you won't tell anyone?"
       "Are you serious Dani? Do you think I'm an idiot? What am I going to do walk up to someone and go oh yeah by the way so and so a major drug dealer? As if my Mom's drinking isn't embarrassing enough or I'm stupid enough to want some physco drug dealer coming after me!"
      "Okay I'm sorry." She concedes as she looks around the room and lowers her voice.
      "They don't have all the evidence they need to bust him yet but it's Devereaux St. Jacques! Then this morning when I went down to the precinct to check some women paid your mother's bail."
      "So considering what going on that's not that weird probably the guy she works for."
      "That's just it I checked it wasn't them this woman worked for Lenka Gregorian the same guy who's room she trashed last night! And according to one of Brooke's sources she's also into them for a lot of money Mol! It's Bad!"
      "Well wait a second I get your mother and my Uncle spying on my mother. But, why the hell are you and Brooke investigating her? What are you trying to do destroy my life? I thought you were my friend!" She stares back at Dani her defenses up all of it reminding her of the time before she come to Pine Valley. The treachery of her so called friends. Was Dani really one of them underneath she wonder frantically. Her mind beginning to conjure the horrible memories from the past.
         " Molly come on! Your my best friend. I would never do anything to hurt you ever. That's why I've been calling all over the place and came running over her as soon as I could since you weren't answering your phone!"
         "You still haven't answered my question. Why are you and Brooke snooping around my mother? What she have to do with this Devereaux guy?"
         "Okay I'll tell you if you promise you won't tell anyone."
         "Let me hear what it is first and I'll let you know." Dani searches Molly face noting her tough exterior but also seeing the fear flickering just behind her eyes.
          "We weren't investigating your Mom I swear. We were actually investigating the company she works for and I just came across the stuff about your Mom." She lies knowing the truth would only hurt her further.
          "You're like my sister Moll." She says wrapping her arm around her and pulling her close. "I just didn't want it hitting out of no freaking where okay? I swear I didn't tell you or do anything out of malice. Okay" She says with a smile giving Molly's shoulder a reassuring squeeze making the later smile back hesitantly.
          "God! Everywhere she goes it's disaster! Why couldn't she have just stayed in Washington where she belongs?" Molly moans standing and walking to the sink tossing the now cold coffee down the drain before refilling it. "Why Dani? Why is it whenever I'm happy and things are going good does she have to come to ruin it?"
          Barbara averts her eyes from Lenka's penetrating stare her mind reeling. She'd been frozen for a moment as fear gripped her mind. Her ears still not registering his words until he spoke for the second time.
          "I asked you if you wanted a drink?" Lenka says holding up the brand new unopened bottle for Barbara to inspect before breaking the seal. "I figured you could probably use one after your night." He says pouring the amber liquid into a glass and handing it to her as Barbara reaches to take it with shaking hands drinking it in one gulp. "Relax, if I wanted you dead you would be dead already. What I want is the money you owe me." He says refilling the glass and handing it to her. He looks over to Sergei and raise one brow at how quickly she finished the second glass then snatching it from her. "Enough!" He shouts startling Barbara back to reality of her situation.. "When do you plan to pay me what you owe me?"
        Barbara swallows hard desperately trying to stamp down the fear that threatened to choke her. She had know idea how she was going to pay him. She'd lost every penny she'd made from the Calisco Group last night. She'd frittered away every cent on the room the alcohol but most of it she lost at the poker game plus some. She had nothing left not even a dollar for a cup of coffee. She was at their mercy with no way out.
         "I.....I umm.....I'm not sure but I promise I'll pay you back every dime I swear I will." She stammers looking from one to the other. Their expression set in stone giving her no indication as to what they were thinking.
          "That's not going to be good enough Mrs. Montgomery. So, I'm going to tell you exactly what you're going to do." He says his smile as cold as the chilling words he'd uttered chilling her through.


*Copyright Takeitish Pine Valley Chronicles 2018

Brooke and Dani
Molly, Justin and Barbara
Molly and Justin



      

Jamie and Zach

       

        Jamie slams the file into the rack before leaving the nurses station and heading down the elevator then through the lobby. He'd finished his morning rounds and was stopping by Krystal and Carmen's to meet Zach for lunch then it was back to the clinic to interview pediatricians for the rest of the afternoon. He was glad to be busy it had kept him from thinking about seeing Francessca in Rego's arms last night.
         He'd walked into the foyer on his way up the steps to check on Francessca and Logan. She'd gone up to check on him some time ago and hadn't come back when he'd spotted Rego kissing his wife! She'd said it was just a spontaneous action on his part after a close moment! Way too close if he had anything to say about it but he hadn't. He'd remained cool and nonchalant he'd just nodded at their explanation and made the momentary small talk until he'd left. Maintaining his composure had been his close moment his fist had itched to punch the polite grin right off his smug face!
            "Oh hello Jamie. What's going on is your absolutely wonderful wife just sold me a house." He says looking at Francessca and winking making the later laugh. Jamie looks from one to the other confused and mildly uncomfortable with their closeness.
           "What?" Jamie says the look on his face making both Francessca and Rego laugh.
           "Francessca will explain it to you I have to get going. Good to see you Jamie. Thanks again Cess I'll be in touch." Francessca smiles back as Jamie looks on.
           " Bye, try to have a good night" Rego laughs turning back as he get to the door.
           "From your lips to God's ears love." He says making them both laugh as he opens the door.
           "See ya Rego, talk to you soon." She says watching him walk toward the door as Jamie watches her. He waits a moment for the door to close behind him before turning back to his wife.
             "Do you mind explaining what the hell that was that all about?" He grumbles his eyes burning into hers. Francessca glares back him annoyed by his tone yet amused by his jealousy.
             " What's with the attitude?" She asks her eyes and tone challenging him back. Jamie steps away from her rolling his eyes as he runs his hands through his hair.
             "Come on you know what the attitude is about. I don't like him hanging around."
             "He wasn't hanging around he was moving out. If you remember your step father threw them out this afternoon.  I went upstairs to check on Logan and Rego was putting our son to sleep. All I did was give him Miriam's phone number so he could find a place to live. You have a problem with me not wanting your stepbrother and his pregnant wife to be homeless? I didn't know you thought I was the world's biggest shrew!" She glares back at him aggravating him more.
              "You know that's not it and you know darn well why I don't want him around and neither should you!"
               "What is wrong with you Jamie? What do you want me to do? How unnatural would it be if I didn't want the man that delivered my son around? The same person who is also his Uncle a member of his family. Oh, and acted like an overprotective idiot every time I saw him?" She finishes her voice dripping with sarcasm as Jamie stares back at her shamed into silence.
                "You know if I didn't know any better I'd say you were jealous." She says walking past him and back into the living room smiling to herself.
             She was wrong about the other thing she'd said he wasn't jealous he was worried. Of course he didn't want Rego around for the obvious reason and neither should she. But, she was also right when she pointed out how ridiculous it was to hide Logan from him. That would only be more suspicious. Still he didn't trust Rego or the strange bond that had developed between them. He especially didn't like the way he still looked at her. There was that longing in his eye. It had been there since the delivery and he didn't like it. Then again who could blame him with the albatross he'd rung around his neck. But it wasn't envy or a longing for what should have been he still wanted her. He could tell! Why else would he constantly be in their orbit? Everything about Rego was too close lately for his liking and today was proof!
            The image was burnt into his brain and as hard as he tried he couldn't fight the overwhelming feelings of jealousy he'd felt at that moment as irrational as it was. He knew his wife loved him he didn't doubt that and he trusted her. What he didn't trust was Rego and his wife's ability to not tell him the truth about their son. What telling him about Logan would do to the family they had built together and what having Rego back in their lives as a constant would do to it as well. He was happy with the status quo. He loved his wife and his son he loved their life and he didn't want any of that to change not if he could help it and keeping their secret was the best way to keep it that way. He thought as he walked through the entrance of the restaurant. He looks around quickly spotting Zach at one of the tables and heads towards it.
          "Hey Zach! Thanks for meeting me." He says quickly shaking his hand then sliding into the booth across from him.
          "Nice to see you Jamie. I umm have to admit I was a little surprised by the invitation. Everything okay with my niece and great nephew?" He says leaning back in the seat his eyebrows raised questioning smirk on his lips. Jamie shakes his head as he leans forward lowering his voice as he speaks.
          "No, they're perfect. I ahh just had a couple of questions I wanted to ask you?" He says nervously then waiting as the waitress sets glasses of water in front of each of them then handing them menus before leaving. Zach smiles and nods his head at the waitress as he opens the menu speaking to Jamie as he reads it.
          "What's on your mind Jamie?"  Jamie looks back at him sheepishly. Now that the moment had come he wasn't sure exactly how to phrase his question. The moment made even more difficult as Zach sat staring back at him expectantly.
          "If you could do it all over again would you have ever let Ryan know he was Spike's father?" He blurts out. Zach raises one brow as he sits back in the seat and contemplates Jamie's question. What would he have done? He thinks back to everything that had happened in his mind since he'd switched the sample vials all those years ago. Telling the truth back then may have saved them all a lot of pain but would he have the life he had now?
           "Jaime things happen the way they do for a reason. What's going on with you? Are you worried about Rego and Francessca?" Jamie grimaces pushing the menu to the side.
            " I'm not worried about Francessca." He grumbles.
            " So you're worried about Rego why? What's he done?" Jamie stares back at him feeling silly and ashamed. He couldn't think of anything Rego had actually done all of it was within the lines of brother or uncle would do the exception kissing his wife.
            "Honestly nothing other than being his normal irritating self." Zach looks at him feeling slightly irritated.
             "Then I don't understand the problem Jamie?" He says as he raises his hand signaling the waitress they were ready to order. Jamie groans in frustration.
              "Honestly Zach I don't know I just feel something. Somethings not right Zach I can feel it." Zach sighs heavily.
               "Jaime, and trust me on this. You can't spend your life worrying about what might happen. You can't prepare for it and you can't avoid it. And from my experience no matter what you do to try and stop it, it's going to happen anyway.  Whatever is coming is going to come and there's not a dam thing you can do about that. Look you have a a beautiful wife who loves you and a beautiful son. Don't go looking for trouble okay? Just enjoy what you have now. The future will take care of itself." Jamie nods his head in agreement knowing Zach was right. He was just buying trouble.
          "I know, you're right, you're right" Jamie mutters. Zach sits back in the booth stretching his arm along the back of the seat and takes a good look at Jamie. He looked pensive and mildly annoyed but he wasn't sure at whom and there was something else he couldn't quite put his finger on.  
       "You want to tell me what's going on with you Jamie? Are you really that worried about Rego from what I hear he's got his hands full."
           "I don't know he just seems to always be around more and more lately and he and Cess..." He starts his voice trailing off for a moment as he swallows hard. He and Cess what? Stopped hating each other and you liked it better when they did? Whispered the small voice that had been haunting him.
           "I'm just afraid that she's going to...." His voice trails off again as he stops and looks around them. Zach smiles and nods in agreement.
           "When and if she ever does you'll deal with it but I know my niece well enough to know she wouldn't do anything without discussing it with you first. Jamie nods his head.
            "I know." He grumbles. Zach smiles remembering his Ryan years and the complete albatross he'd been.
             "I empathize with you Jamie I really do. Perhaps now that he's no longer living at your mother's and this "Founders Day" thing is over they'll have a lot less chance running into each other." He smiles reassuringly hoping his words would somehow help and his next ones not hurt.
          "But, even if she does it's her choice remember that. " He warns then looks down at his ringing phone.
            "Hold on a second I have to take this.... What's going on?" Dax breathes a sigh of relief in the other end.
            " Zach I have a bit of a situation here. I've managed to contain it but I think you should get back here." He says as Zach's brow creases.
             "What are we talking about?" Dax chuckles into the phone.
              "We're talking trashed ex sister in-law of district attorney, wild party trashed room a sundry of alcohol and catering bills and the icing on the cake gambling debts to certain members of our professional gambling community as well as to us. Entire suites of rooms shut down. Oh and did I mention Cops everywhere."
               "I'll be right there and I'll call you back from the car." Zach's says ending the call and turning back to Jamie as he pulls his clip from his pocket pulling off a couple of bills and laying them on the table.
              "Sorry Jamie I have to go I have an emergency at the casino but I'll make it up to you. Lunch is on me and why don't you stop by the house later and watch a per game with me we can talk some more if you want." He says rising from his seat as Jamie stands to meet him.
             "I have late shift at the clinic I'll give you call. Thanks." Jamie smiles shaking his hand.        
     "Good and one more thing Jamie don't let your jealousy get the best of you and do something stupid. I'll see you later" He says reaching for his ringing phone as he walks toward the exit.


*Copyright Takeitish Pine Valley Chronicles 2018

Rego and Francessca
Cassandra and Rego
         

Krystal and David

     

       David leans back against the tree trunk and wraps his arms around Krystal who leans back against his chest and smiles. 

      "This is nice isn't it?" She says wistfully watching Jenny, Darius and Endre play. David smiles down at her holding her a little closer.

       "Yeah it is." Krystal looks up at him out of the corner of her eye making sure the picnic lunch and wine had, had the proper effect. He looked contented and relaxed. The kids were off playing and they were finally alone now was the time to broach the topic of Michael without him knowing it was about Michael. 

         "I was a little worried about Darius at the beginning of the school year but he's coming along just fine." She says with just enough lilt in her voice to peak his interest. 

         "What about Darius?" He asked sounding mildly concerned. Good she had him now if she could just keep him. 

          "His teacher and I were kind of worried about him. He didn't seem to want to socialize with anyone other than Jenny and AJ. But since Endre's been here he's just blossomed! Now he's Mr. Popular every day there's a gang of kids tearing my house apart!" She laughs as three other children run over and join her three and then two more.

        "See what did I tell you!" She laughs again making David chuckle. 

        "Takes after his old man." David chuckles as Krystal sit's up then turns to face him. 

         "Not anymore and I couldn't be happier." David' brow furrows his words tight.

         "What's that supposed to mean? Oh I get it this whole conversation is about me and Michael isn't it?" Krystal shrugs then kneels and begins to place the containers back in the basket as she speaks. 

          "I'm not going to get into what happened between you two I don't know and I don't want to know. All I'm going to say watching you mope around the house the last couple of days. You didn't just lose your business partner you've lost your best friend. That little bounce in your step you've had in your step the last few months isn't there anymore. I have to be honest I've been kind of missing it. So whatever happened between you two don't let it ruin your friendship." David looks at her then down at the blanket and begins to gather the empty plates not speaking until Krystal hands him a trash bag to place them in.        "I think we're already past that." Krystal sighs leaning back on her heels and looks at him and shakes her head.

        "So you're not going to even try? You're going to turn your back and walk away? If this were your son and AJ what would you tell him?" David looks at her unable to reply knowing exactly what he say to both his son and grandson and feeling disappointed in himself. Krystal smiles to herself knowing she had him exactly where she wanted him. 

        "Whatever you did to make Michael so angry." She says looking up at him and silencing whatever retort he had with the expression on her face.

         " Michael the best friend you've ever had and he's really good for you. Whatever you did to make Michael angry I think you should march right over there this second and make it right." She finishes her lips becoming one thin line as she crosses her arms across her chest. 

           "Well go on! The kids can help me back up the car you go on and get!" She says with a wave of her hand. David chuckles as he stands then reaches down and pulls Krystal to her feet. 

           "You know Mrs. Hayward you can be a real nag sometimes." Krystal laughs then kisses him.

           "That's only because you mister are a big pain in my you know where! Now get goin and do like I said! I'll see you at home. I love you." 

           " I love you too." He says kissing her deeply before sprinting across the grass to the parking lot. Krystal watches him go then reaches into her purse for her phone. 

            "Hey Sophia it's me........Yep he's on his way now........well you just make sure you get Michael into the same mindset and I think we can get these two babies back to work!..... No it was pretty easy actually I know he's been wanting to all day....... Well thank hon give me a call when he leaves okay?........Oh and Sophia thank you so much for your help. If I had to look at that sour puss another day I don't know what I do........You too and thanks again bye!" She says hanging up the phone and smiling to herself then crosses her fingers and says a quick prayer.   

             David stand in the living room waiting impatiently for Michael what had seemed like a great idea on the way over luster dulled the longer he stood waiting. Krystal was right he'd missed his friend and he was sure exactly how to approach him when he'd stepped out the car. He just hoped Michael wasn't as angry as he was when he'd left yesterday. He'd tried calling him several times and was half glad each time he hadn't answered. What exactly would he had said if he had? He would have been still too angry to listen let alone understand. Hopefully he was more qualm today and he could try to reason with him and make him understand that what he'd done he done for the good of the project nothing else. And he'd only don't it the way he had for expedience not because he thought of him as inferior. But what really mattered now was getting the rest of Michael's notes to complete the project. The deadline was creeping upon them and he still didn't know if Michael had solved the stability problem and without his notes he couldn't continue. One thing was for sure he wasn't leaving without them and if he couldn't regain Michael's friendship he was going to get those notes. If he didn't then what he'd done was for nothing.      

             "Good afternoon David how can I help you?" David glares at him his mouth twisted in annoyance.

              "Good afternoon David? Is that all you have to say to me Michael after stealing all my research!" Michael glares back at him his face and voice betraying nothing of the rage he felt.

               "I didn't "steal" anything. I took All my research when I left yesterday. I took nothing of your work. Sit down David would you like a drink" He continues walking toward the small rolling bar in the corner and pouring scotch into a tumbler for himself.

               "No, I don't want a drink I want the research you stole!" David growls his lips curled in disgust. Michael glares back at him a half smile playing on his lips.

               "I didn't take any of your work I only took what belongs to me."

               "Don't be flip with me Michael! You know dam well I can't complete the work without it! You quit yesterday remember? I still have a formula to complete or have you forgotten that I have a deadline to meet." David spits back his anger increasing with every moment.

               "I'm well aware of  the deadline David. It's the deadline what brought us here in the first place?" Michael shoots back one brow raised and challenging. David stare back at him his anger and frustration mounting.

   "I have just as much right to it as you do!" Michael laughs as he swirls the drink in his hand.

     "I don't think so David. If you recall, at your insistence I might add we both agreed to keep possession of our intellectual property. So if you want to complete your project on time, with my work you and I are going to have to rethink the terms of this business partnership." David looks back at him weighing Michael's words and expression. This wasn't the Michael he'd come to know he was somehow different. He was stronger more confident and less trusting and there was something else in his eye. A little fire just behind them that hadn't been there before. Otherwise his expression gave nothing away. He had been confident on the drive over he'd known exactly how to approach him, exactly what to say. But the man before wasn't one he recognized and the previous approach now seemed in adequate at best. He had to admit he'd missed his company around the lab not just his work. Krystal was right Michael was more than just his partner he was his friend. Probably the only real friend he had in this entire town. He had never needed one or cared about actually having one since he'd moved to Pine Valley. The only person who even came close was Bianca but even that was different. No he hadn't realized how much he'd liked having a friend since Michael had walked out the lab.

          " I want you to come back to work with me and I'm really sorry if I hurt you and betrayed your trust. I really am. I want to make it up to you. Is there anything I can say to make this right between us." David concedes. Michael looks back at him his expression unchanged.

           "No David I'm to blame really. I came into this looking at it all all wrong. I forgot there are two David's." David's brow drawn into a "V" across his forehead his face filled with shock and anger at what he'd just heard.

             "So what are you saying Michael? Are you just like everyone else in this town? One mistake and "poof" no more friendship? Now you can join the ranks of the We Hate David Hayward Fan Club." He shouts then laugh's bitterly as he turns and walks toward the door. Then turns back his face filled with rage his voice stinging with venom.

             "Oh I forgot! Your daughters married to Jamie Martin! He's on the board of directors! What have they all been hissing in your ear?" Michael looks back at him his expression unchanged his voice even and firm.

            "If you're finished I looked at our relationship wrong there's David Hayward my business partner and David Hayward my friend. Just like there's David Hayward my friend and Dr. David Hayward Scientist and businessman." He pauses as David looks at him puzzled, angry yet curious as he nods silently.

              "From now on I'm separating business from personal." David expression relaxes but Micheal could tell his guard was still up.

               "I'm listening" Was David's only reply before Michael continues.

               " I'm going to give you access to my data and you are going to give me access to yours and that includes our business transactions along with all the notes from the investors meeting you went to yesterday and all the previous meetings hand delivered from the chairs office with his signature. I'm going to come back to work because I think what we are doing is important and someday will save lives." David stares back at him surprised and relieved but still a little hesitant knowing instinctively there was more.

              "I still hear a but in there." Michael smiles for the first time during their entire meeting but it wasn't one David recognized it was cold and in direct contrast with his eyes that burned.

               "If you ever treat me like some naive fool again and excluded me from the business of running this research again I will crush you." He finishes leaving no doubt in David's mind he meant every word. "As far as our friendship goes eventually that will work itself out most friendships do. Anyway my lawyers will be dropping off our knew agreement this afternoon and I'll see bright and early in the morning." He says as the maid appears at the doorway.

              " The maid will see you out and I will see you in the morning." Michael says then drains his glass before setting it back down on the cart and leaving the room.

*Copyright Takeitish Pine Valley Chronicles 2018 

Molly and Justin

       

        Molly rolls over and picks up her phone from the nightstand and checks the time ignoring the message symbol flashing. Right now she didn't want anyone or anything to interrupt her beautiful evening which rolled into an even better morning. It was still early and Justin was still sleeping peacefully she thought laying back against the pillows and smiling to herself.
        He was probably exhausted from the hours he'd been putting in at the hospital beside the hours they had spent making love last night. And it was love they had been making he'd told her so both before and after. She'd felt it in every touch, every whisper and with every kiss. She'd felt truly loved by a man for the first time in her life and it was glorious and she wasn't going to let anything or anyone spoil the moment. She just wanted to lay there quietly and watch him sleep. He looked peaceful and happy. A little smile tickled his lip as he slept lending his features a boyish charm the way his hair fell back from his face. So different from the sexy, aloof tough guy image he exuded in his waking hours and a far cry from the thoughtful and gentle man he was last night with her.
         Justin was special more special than she'd like to admit to anyone especially to herself. That was until last night. Last night had changed everything for the two of them. They'd sat in their secluded booth in the "Speak Easy" he'd found. They'd laughed and talked for hours about nothing and everything all at the same time. All of it reminding her just how much Justin had always been there for her. Through all her wild child antics and drunken debauchery he'd always been there. Holding her hand holding her sometimes her hair while she tossed her cookies over the side of his family's boat. He'd stayed in the lobby with her and missed an entire concert when she'd become falling down drunk before it had even started. The guy she'd gone with had just left her there. Justin had kept her from wandering off with some rando from a bar so many times she couldn't count He'd always answered his phone when she'd called or called her right back if he couldn't. He'd always been a friend she could count on when there was no one else. When he told her he loved her last night she'd realized just how much she loved him. 
        She hadn't know it at the time but he'd planned the entire magical day for her. He'd started by taking her to lunch earlier. Later he'd met her at the station and taken her out for the evening. He hadn't allowed her to go home and had instead had Danny pack her a bag and had told her if she hadn't liked the outfit Dani had chosen for her they could stop at any shop she wanted and pick one his treat. Of course Dani had chosen the perfect dress and shoes for her so that hadn't been necessary. Then he'd taken her to the "Chateau" for dinner then to a Club for a little dancing. The dancing she was sure he'd done just for her since Justin never danced. Throw down in a Pit maybe but dance nah. she thought almost laughing aloud at the memory of his attempt. Although, he had been unmatched when a slow song came on he had twirled her around the floor like a professional. Surprise had been an understatement.
         "Where in the world did you learn to do that?" She'd asked as he'd led them to a couple of spots at the bar. He'd smiled shyly waiting until the bartender had departed before speaking.
         "Can you keep a secret?" He'd asked as she nodded excitedly.
         "I'm serious you can't tell anyone." He'd whispered before looking around them again his voice lowering.
         " When I was about twelve my Dad moved us down to to Georgia and we lived with my Grandmother in her ridiculous house with all her stupid rules and social nonsense. She and my Mother forced me to go to charm school so I could be the proper little southern gentleman." He finished with a groan as the bartender placed their drinks in front of them. She'd stood there a moment unable to utter a word then had broken into peels of laughter it was a few moments before she could control herself.
          " I knew I shouldn't have told you!" He muttered turning his back to the room and staring into his drink trying not to laugh himself.
           "That is hilarious! You poor kid!" She manages before bursting into another fit of laughter.
           " Just keep yucking it up." He says then finally gives into his laughter.
           "Come on you know it's funny." She says giving him a quick kiss and hugging him to her." 
           "Yeah it is, come on you want to get out of her go someplace else?" He asks smiling down at her and swaying to the music as he talks.
           "Like where? It's that weird time of night." She asks smiling up feeling closer to him in this moment than she had to any man.
            "I know just the place. Come on." He'd said leading her out of the club and to the car. They'd laughed and chatted the entire way. Ending their ride in a small "Speak Easy" just before crossing into "Center City" then back to his place where they'd made love for the rest of the night she thought closing her eyes and sighing contentedly.
           "Happy?" Came the strong deep voice beside her. She opened her eyes smiling back at him.
           "I've never been happier." He smiles his eyes dancing with delight at the expression on her face.
       "Me too." He sighs as he wraps his arm around her and pulls her close.
       "You know if I wasn't starving I could stay here all day." He says snuggling with her further into the covers.
        "I was just thinking the same thing." She purrs running her fingers along the corded muscles of the arm he had wrapped around her.
         "Man, I am starving." He laughs as his stomach growls.
          "Why don't you stay here and I am going to make us some breakfast." He says kissing her forehead before rolling away from here and standing then grabbing his jeans from the chair as he walks. Molly sits up and watches him smiling at the sight of his nakedness then blushing at the naughty thoughts running through her mind.
         "Do you need any help?" Justin walks back to the bed and leans down kissing her upturned lips.
         'I got everything under control. You just sit here and stay beautiful." He says turning from her and walking to the closet. He opens it pulling out fresh towels and a new toothbrush and laying them on the bed.
        "Here's clean towels and a toothbrush incase you you want to take a shower while I'm in the kitchen." He says with a wink then walks toward the door.
         "Oh and I almost forgot to tell you," He say turning back towards her just as he reaches the door frame.
         "I love you Molly Montgomery." His smile lighting his face lending a sparkle to his eyes then leaves whistling merrily down the hall before she can respond.
          " I love you too. " Shout after him then murmurs it again with a giggle surprising herself at how deeply she felt it. She glances at her ringing phone hesitating for a moment deciding whether to answer it or not instinctively knowing who ever was on the other end had nothing good to say.
          "You concentrate on you." Came Vicky's comforting voice bringing the smile back to her lips and heart as she ignores it instead she grabs up the towel and toothbrush and heads into the bathroom. 
          "Damit Molly answer your phone!" Barbara growls as she slams the phone receiver back into it's cradle.
          " I see you're as popular at home as you are here." The Matron says with snort making the other's in line laugh.
          "Come on Montgomery back to your cell."
          "Please just let me call one more person please?" Barbara begs her fear at having to go back to the jail cell mounting.
         "You've had your turn! Other people are waiting! Now come on!" She says pulling at Barbara's arm and pushing her in front of her. Barbara jerks from her grasp wishing she could slap the bitch hard.
         "I'd check the attitude if I were you Princess cause it looks like you're going to be with us for a good long while." She says with a laugh making the other guards and the prisoners they were attending laugh Just  as the call comes over the radio.
       "Becker? You have Montgomery?" The voice crackles over the radio the later grimaces as she reaches for the receiver on her shoulder.
        "Becker, transferring the prisoner back to her cell."
        "Orders are to bring the prisoner to the front." The voice from the radio making Barbara gleam with glee.
        "Looks like someone cares after all. Come on princess." The matron says pointing her down the hall toward the doors she had come through hours before.
        "I knew Molly wouldn't let me down!" She murmurs as they walk her smile getting broader the closer they got to the release desk and the daylight beyond. She mumbled in agreement glancing quickly at her belongings spread on the counter before being scooped up and placed back in the envelope and handed to her. She peered anxiously out the small hole in the portal hoping to see Molly's face on the other side to see if she could gage her temperament and seeing no one.
        "Montgomery!" The voice of the matron booms in her ears causing her head to spin towards it at full attention.
         " I walk this way!" She said pulling her arm and leading toward another door.
          "Where are we going?" She asks stopping mid stride and pulling from her grasp.
          "Well Princess who ever paid your bail made arrangement for you to be released out the back entrances so you could avoid all the "Hawks!" She snarled referring to the gang of reporters who normally rubber necked by the desk Sargent. She lead her to a fenced in area nodding to the man sitting guard at the gate.
           "One release Montgomery, Barbara...." She continued as Barbara ignored her. She tried to see past the double door frustrated there was nothing she could see other than the inside of a solid steel door. Frustrated she answered mechanically to the guards questions confirming the information the matron had given.
         "Step inside the cage please  then place your hands in the opening." He said as the door buzzed opened then slammed closed behind her. She placed the envelope in her teeth then placed her hands through the opening wincing slightly as the guard pushes down on her handcuffs and unlocks them.
        "Thank you. When the alarm buzzes please step through the double door. When it buzzes again please step quickly through the outer door. Thank you." He says sounding more like a drone than a human to her then forgetting him complete as the door buzzed and she took her first steps to freedom. She practical ran through to the outer door in her rush to see her daughter. Even happier as the door to the the limousine opened from the inside. Her girl knew how to treat her old  Mom after all. She'd probably used her uncles clout to make all the arrangements or perhaps Jack himself. Yes, more likely Jack. Who else would be able to have her released out the back away from the prying eyes of reporters. She walks quickly to the car stopping abruptly as a man steps from it and another from behind her trapping her between them and the open limousine leaving her no place to run. 
        "I'm sure you remember me Mrs. Montgomery." Comes Lenka's smooth voice chilling her to her core.
         "Get in! You and I have things to discuss." He say sliding in ahead of her as Sergei pushes her in sliding in behind her trapping her between them fear gripping her chest like a vice. As the limousine speed out of the alley she longed for the safety of her tiny cell.

*Copyright Takeitish Pine Valley Chronicles 2018

   Molly, Justin and Barbara              

Michael and Sophia

       

         Michael sits in his home office working on the formula on his computer trying to ignore his ringing phone. He knew who it was without even looking at it. David had called him non stop since he'd walked out on him yesterday. He didn't have any more patients to deal with him today than he did yesterday. David needed to know that he wasn't a child or some dupe he could cuckold. He was supposed to be his partner! Instead he treated him like a child! Worse a pet! Just pat ol' Mike on the head every now and then and send him back to work like a good little dog! David need him and they both knew it. Without his work David would have nothing and as of today's stability trials he would definitely be needing him.
        The formula had held up David was going to need that data and he was the only one who had access to it now. That's why all the calling. If David wanted to talk to him he could damm well come see him! He thought as he stood and began pacing the room muttering to himself. Why was it when it came to business everyone treated him like a child. As if he was some freshed face kid straight out of college all doe eyed and hopeful. Did they think that all the years he'd spent locked in that hell    somehow sheltered him from the evils of men. It was quite the opposite it had made him an expert and now David would finally see that. He'd make him see it! Was his last thought as he threw the glass across the room the shattered pieces scattering across the floor.
           'Hey! What's going on in here?" Sophia shouts coming through the door looking down at the pieces then back to Michael.
            "Let me make sure I understand this. You're mad at David so you break your stuff?" Her voice chastising as she folds her arms across her chest. Michael looks up at her surprised and ashamed.
             "I'm sorry Sophia." Michael sighs. Sophia smiles back at him then moves to the sofa and sit down. She slides her hand over patting the place next to her.
            "Come sit next to me. Let's you and I have a little talk." Michael smiles back at her weakly before sitting down next to her. Sophia reaches out and takes his hand in hers and pats it gently.
             " You and I have to stick together you know." Micheal looks back at her one eyebrow raised in confussion.
              "Why that Sophia?" Sophia chuckles a little as she pats his hand.
               "You and I we're really the newcomers here. I mean sure we both have family here but our roots aren't here. You and I we're transplants. We just picked up and planted ourselves well, in your case you were never able to really put down your roots anywhere. You and I were just getting started. We don't really know any one here all we have to go on are what people tell us and our own instincts. So honey don't kick yourself if you make a few mistakes along the way." Micheal looks back at her and shakes his head.
              "So you think I made a mistake with David too?" Sophia shakes head.
              "I've seen you around here lately you were happy. With your work and your life so no I don't think you made a mistake in trusting David as much as you did."
               "I don't know why I did! You don't like him and no one else does either. I should have listened." He grumbles.
              "I didn't say I didn't like David. He's a very charming man. He can be very kind and he is absolutely marvelous with his patients. I remember how he was with you." She smiles patting his hand again. "All I'm saying is you were so excited about what you were doing you kind of blinded yourself to David's nature. When it comes to medicine he's fearless and single minded he going to get want he wants. If that means he has to lie or use a little trickery he will. In his mind the good of his patients outweighs everything else that includes friendships. You on the other hand have a very exact moral compass. You are a compassionate and caring man you really only want to see the good in people and you deal honestly with them. When you're a person's friend you think about how your actions will affect the other person. Those are very admirable qualities but not necessarily in business. You just have to remember who you're dealing with this work you're doing isn't friendship. Just because you're honest doesn't mean everyone is being honest with you."  Michael grimaces the words hitting him like a slap.
             "So you think I'm a fool too?" Sophia looks back at her him her expression shocked and angry her words sharp cutting him deep.
              "You just hold on there mister! I said no such thing! I have never since the day you were born have I thought of you as anyone's fool! Neither does anyone else. Stop sitting around feeling sorry for yourself! Do you think you're the first person to ever been hurt by a friend? Listen I've been walking this earth a lot longer than you. I've been betrayed by my friends and people much closer than that! Now stop whining and put your big boy pants on! You go march yourself over there! You tell David exactly how it's going to be from now on and you continue the work of saving lives! I didn't raise a coward! " Sophia finishes her face flushed from the force of her anger. She glares at Michael who stares back at her his face beaming from ear to ear surprising and confusing her.
              "Sophia sweetheart you didn't raise me at all." He says with a laugh as he reaches over and wraps his arms around her hugging her close before letting her go. Sophia blushes deeply as she looks up at him tears glistening the corners of her eyes.
            "I'm so sorry it's just for a moment you reminded me so much of Mikey I forgot who I was talking to." Michael smiles back  he takes a clean handkerchief from his pocket and dabs the corners of her eyes before handing it to her.            
            "Don't be sorry that is probably the nicest thing you could have said to me. It's been a really long time since I've had a Mom it's nice to know there's someone out there that thinks of me that way. Thank you." He say hugging her quickly.
             "I'm going to do exactly what you said." He says as he walks to his desk and begins to gather his paperwork. Sophia smiles back watching him as he gathers his things.
             "Good! Let me know what happens. And, when you get back I'll have a nice Panna Cotta waiting for you." Michael comes around the desk his arms full.
              " I look forward to it." Sophia pats him on the back walking beside him toward the door.
              "That's my boy." She says with pride making Michael smile.
              "Mr. Slater," The maid yelps coming towards them.
              "There's a Dr. Hayward in the living room asking to speak with you" She said looking from Michael to Sophia the two grinning back at her then at each other.
              "Well kid looks like the mountain came to Muhammad." She winks and nudges him in the ribs.  "I'll be in the kitchen." Her chuckle trailing behind her as she walks the opposite direction to the kitchen. Michael laughs as he watches her go then steels his expression as he walks down the hall to the living room. He didn't want David to know his feelings one way or the other a trick he'd learned after years in that hell his father had thrown him in. He realized now he'd have to employ a few more of them if he and David were going to keep working together.


*Copyright Takeitish Pine Valley Chronicles 2017

David and Michael
Opal and Sophia