The docks were deserted as Elizabeth Webber walked back to her studio after closing Kelly’s. The cold December air froze her cheeks, but her leather jacket and scarf kept the rest of her warm.

She paused and sat on the bench for a few minutes, looking out over the water towards Spoon Island. Since moving back into her studio two months ago, she and Nikolas had managed to patch their friendship back up. It’d been the right time for both of them. Lucky had left town to spend time with Laura in London and Gia was out of town, having reapplied to Columbia for the second semester. Elizabeth had cut ties with Jason after the whole Sonny debacle and Zander had taken off for greener pastures–namely Florida.

So in the end, Nikolas and Elizabeth had no one else to turn to. For once, Nikolas listened sympathetically as Elizabeth related the month and half she’d lived in Jason’s penthouse while Elizabeth tried to help him with missing Gia. The friendship seemed back on the right track.

Too bad nothing else in Elizabeth’s life was. She missed Jason. She wasn’t sorry for leaving and she thought she had a good reason to be angry. After everything they’d been through, after nearly getting shot and bringing Zander to them, Sonny and Jason had clearly not trusted her enough with the plan until Sonny had returned. But that didn’t mean she didn’t miss Jason at all. She’d thought they were moving forward–on their way to being more.

Her job at Kelly’s was no longer satisfying and Nikolas kept asking her to help out at Deception where he’d taken over in Laura’s absence. Elizabeth was reluctant to leave the job she’d held since arriving in Port Charles five years. Through everything–through all her problems with Sarah, through the rape, Lucky’s death, the brainwashing…the only constant thing in her life had been her job waitressing. She used to love serving the people and eavesdropping on conversations. But cutting ties with Jason and Sonny had sucked all the fun out of that job. One of them were always in there and if it wasn’t the two of them…it was Carly.

She stood and put her hands in her pockets. Just as she was heading up the stairs, she heard his voice. “You shouldn’t be out this late.”

Elizabeth sighed and turned. “I was on my way home.” She shifted. “How are you?”

Jason shrugged. “Good. You?”

“I’m all right.” An awkward moment passed before she cleared her throat. “See ya around.”

“See ya.”

She turned back around and finished going up the stairs. That had gone pretty well actually. It’d start out all right, but if they talked too long, the subject of Sonny’s death inevitably came up. She’d get angry, he’d try to explain, she’d get angrier and inevitably, she’d start crying. He’d feel guilty and she’d leave. It was a vicious cycle Elizabeth was desperate to break.

She headed up the stairs to her floor and opened the stairwell door. She paused in the hallway. A man was standing outside her door. She frowned. He looked familiar but she couldn’t place him.

Elizabeth drew closer to her door. “Can I help you?”

He turned to face her and Elizabeth knew she’d seen him before. “Elizabeth Webber?”

“That’s me….” Elizabeth trailed off and smiled. The accent did it. Bobbie’s ex-fiancé, Jerry Jacks. “You’re Jerry Jacks.”

“That’s me.”

“Is there something I can do for you?” Elizabeth asked, pulling her keys out of her purse.

“I have something I need to tell you. About your parents.”

“My parents?” Elizabeth repeated, frowning. “I haven’t seen them in…God…five years.”

“I can explain why.” Jerry hesitated. “They found out you weren’t their daughter.”

“I’m not?” Elizabeth echoed. She looked away, trying to process the information. It shouldn’t come as a surprise to her–she’d never felt like she was part of the family.

“Can I come in?” Jerry asked.

Elizabeth nodded numbly and unlocked her studio door. She entered it and Jerry followed. Once inside, she shut the door and looked at him expectantly.

“You’re not their daughter…” Jerry began. “I suppose I should come out and say this…I’m your father.”

+5

Jason entered Sonny’s penthouse after his meeting with Elizabeth on the docks. Sonny looked up and sighed.

“Saw Elizabeth again, huh?”

Jason stared at him. “How’d you know?”

Sonny shrugged. “You’ve got that look.”

“The look?”

Sonny looked back at him. “Yeah. I know you, Jason. You’ve had the same look every time you’ve seen her since she moved out. Did you two argue again?”

Jason shook his head. “No.”

“Well, that’s a good sign,” Sonny said, encouragingly. “Maybe she’s starting to come around.”

“Maybe she’s giving up,” Jason replied, miserably. Sonny shot him a sympathetic look.

“I’m sorry’s not gonna cut it this time, huh?”

“You have nothing to be sorry about,” Jason reminded him. “I’m the one who never came home, ignored her, shut her out so I didn’t have to lie to her. I don’t blame her for being angry.”

“Still,” Sonny murmured. “If I had let you tell her…”

“Too late for that,” Jason replied. “Anyway, I just came by to let you know the shipment got in safely.”

“Thanks,” Sonny said, marking something on a paper. He turned to look at him. “You think it would help if I talked to her?”

Jason shrugged. “I don’t know anymore. I think…I think I might have lost her this time.”

Sonny shook his head. “After overcoming Lucky and Zander, I don’t think that’s possible.”

Jason looked away. “Yeah…well…anything’s possible.”

—-

Elizabeth stared at Jerry in pure shock. Her eyes were so wide he was afraid they might fall out. Her mouth kept opening as if she wanted to say something, but she kept closing it before anything came out.

“What do you mean you’re my father?” Elizabeth finally managed to say.

Jerry scratched his head. “I suppose that didn’t come out right.”

“So you’re not my father?” Elizabeth asked. She put a hand to her forehead. “I think I’ve finally lost my mind.”

“No, I am your biological father,” Jerry clarified, “but I think I should have come up with a better way to say it.”

“Uh huh,” Elizabeth murmured. Suddenly her legs felt too weak to support her and she sat on her couch. “You want to elaborate a bit?”

“Can I sit?” Jerry asked, motioning to the cushion next to her.

“Yeah,” Elizabeth replied.

He sat and took a deep breath. “It’s not an easy thing for me to admit, but about twenty-two years ago, I was in Port Charles. On some WSB business…” he trailed off. “Pretend you didn’t hear that.”

“WSB?” Elizabeth echoed. “What’s that?”

“World Security Bureau. We used to have an office here then,” Jerry replied. “Anyway, I met this girl. One thing led to another…and well, she got pregnant.” He shifted. “It’s kind of embarrassing…I wasn’t ready to settle down and the girl hadn’t wanted children in the first place. I said I’d raise you, take you around the world, but she wanted to put you up for adoption.”

“Uh huh.” Elizabeth frowned. “So I wasn’t wanted then either.”

“You were very much wanted,” Jerry said, firmly. “I would have raised you, but she left town and I couldn’t find her. By the time I knew you’d been born, she’d already completely disappeared and you’d been adopted. Steve Hardy’s son, Jeff, was already living out of town, but he and his wife wanted to adopt a third child. He must have put the girl in touch with Jeff because he adopted you.”

“Who was the girl?” Elizabeth asked.

Jerry scratched his head again. “Well, that’s the funny thing. See, the name she gave me…it wasn’t real. I don’t know who she was.”

“How long have you known it was me?” Elizabeth asked curiously. She wasn’t sure she believed this story yet, but if anything, it confirmed her life long belief that she wasn’t really a Webber. She smiled a little. Which meant that Sarah the back-stabber wasn’t really her sister and that perfect doctor Steven wasn’t her brother.

“I just found out before I came back to town,” Jerry replied. “I wish I’d known the last time I was here.”

“You left because…” Elizabeth paused trying to remember. “Weren’t you being arrested?”

“Well, I put in a few calls…got it cleared up.”

Elizabeth stared straight ahead. “I’m not sure I believe this.”

“Don’t blame you.” Jerry shrugged. “You and my brother should talk–the last time I sprung something like this on him, he went to jail. You should be glad you’re not there.”

“Thanks…I think,” Elizabeth said.

Jerry stood. “Well, I suppose you want to think this over.”

She nodded. “Yeah.” Elizabeth stood. “Where can I reach you?”

“The Port Charles Hotel,” Jerry replied. He hesitated. “I did some research on you before I came back.”

Elizabeth tensed. Here came the lecture that always seemed to pop up. “Look-”

“You’re a gutsy girl,” Jerry cut in swiftly. “You’ve got a backbone of steel and you don’t take any shit from anyone. I’m proud that you’re my daughter.”

Elizabeth blinked. Twenty-one years and Jeff Webber never once said that to her. And now, a man she’d only known through Bobbie Spencer, whom she’d barely said five words to, was proud of her. Gotta love life’s little ironies. “Thanks,” she said, finally. “That means a lot to me.”

“I’d like to get to know you…if you’d let me.”

Elizabeth nodded. “I’d like that.”

—-

Once Jerry was gone, Elizabeth started pacing her studio. Her life had been a little unstable lately–but this new information turned it upside down. Jerry Jacks was her biological father. Jeff and Allison Webber had adopted her and abandoned her after finding out…

Elizabeth frowned. Jerry had said they stopped contacting her when they found out….but if Jeff had arranged for her adoption…

Something didn’t add up.

Before she even realized she was doing it, she was dialing a number. She needed to talk to someone–and fast.

“Hello?”

Elizabeth squeaked and hung up real quick. She hadn’t meant to call Jason. She hoped like hell it hadn’t rung long enough for her number to show up. She bit her lip and tried to calm her breathing. It was perfectly natural she’d called him. For months, she’d call him. And whenever he was in town, she’d gone to him. Of course, natural instincts took over. At least she’d stopped them there.

She was trying really hard to get over Jason Morgan and turning to him now would not help. She took a deep breath and picked the phone up and dialed a different number.

“Nikolas? It’s me…can you meet me at Kelly’s tomorrow? I need to talk to you.”

—-

Jason was sitting in his penthouse staring at the caller ID. Elizabeth. She’d called him and hung up.

Maybe Sonny was right. Maybe she was coming around.

—-

Jerry Jacks slipped back into his hotel room and scratched his head out of nervous habit. He couldn’t believe it–his first meeting with his daughter and he’d already lied to her. That couldn’t be good.

“Long day?”

Jerry glared at the visitor sitting at the desk, the chair turned around to face the door. “How did you know I was in town?”

“A little birdie.” Jasper Jacks stood and looked at his brother. “I take it that the authorities aren’t looking for you?”

“Nope.” Jerry grinned. “Got rid of them right quick.”

“Good to know,” Jax replied. He crossed his arms. “Is there a reason you’re in town?”

“Uh, congratulating you and Skye?” Jerry said. He hadn’t expected to see his brother this soon and hadn’t an excuse ready.

“Try again, Jerry.”

“Well, little brother, you might want to sit down. There’s something I haven’t quite told you.”

“Seems to be a habit with you,” Jax replied. “Do I need to sit down?”

“For this you might,” Jerry replied, completely serious. “Jax, my dear brother, you’re an uncle.”

“An uncle,” Jax repeated slowly. “And I don’t think this means you’ve married and your wife’s pregnant.”

“No, not quite,” Jerry replied. “You actually know this girl. She’s about twenty-one, dark hair, blue eyes…”

“Jerry, you have a twenty-one year old daughter that I haven’t met?” Jax demanded.

“Calm down. I just met her myself tonight.”

Jax rubbed his eyes. Sometimes talking to Jerry was enough to give him a headache. “All right. Who is she?”

“Elizabeth Webber.”

“Eliza-” Jax stared at his brother. “Elizabeth Webber. Jason Morgan’s girlfriend Elizabeth Webber?”

Jerry shrugged. “I don’t think they’re that close.”

“They’re close enough.” Jax shook his head. “How did you manage fathering Elizabeth Webber?”

“Well, you see when a man cares about a-”

“Spare me, Jerry. And tell me what in the hell is going on.”

Jerry sat on his bed and started pulling his shoes off. “Honestly? It would take a while.”

“Skye’s visiting Rae. I have all night,” Jax replied, taking his seat in the desk chair. “Explain.”

“Well, you remember back in the seventies, I was working for the WSB?”

“You still are, Jerry. Don’t try and fool me,” Jax replied. “What does that have to do with anything?”

Jerry glared at him. “Anyway, in ’79, I was assigned to the PC office. I met this girl. Told me her name was Vanessa Perkins. We dated, she got pregnant.” Jerry shifted. “I convinced her to have the child and let me raise it.”

“Let you raise the child?” Jax’s eyebrows shot up. “You’ve kidding.”

“Well, Vanessa didn’t want to at first, but I convinced her. After Elizabeth was born–which is what I named her–Vanessa split town. I got reassigned to Africa. I knew with this assignment I couldn’t take Elizabeth, so I left her with someone here in Port Charles. I returned two years later. Elizabeth was gone. She’d been adopted into a family who’d moved. I’ve spent the last twenty years searching for her.”

“Jerry, Elizabeth has lived here for years,” Jax reminded him.

“She moved here five years ago,” Jerry said, slightly irritated. “I didn’t know if her name would be the same. It took me a few years to track down the person I’d left her with. They told me she’d been adopted by a nurse named Annie Logan. That was lie that took another two years to find out. I searched until last year before finding out that my daughter was back here. I narrowed it down and of course, Elizabeth jumped out because of her name. A little more checking and discovering her parents, I decided it made perfect sense what happened.”

“You gonna tell me?” Jax asked.

“No,” Jerry replied. “I still don’t have any proof. I haven’t even told Elizabeth is yet. I told her that Vanessa and I decided we couldn’t handle a baby and put her up for adoption. I lied to her.”

“Why not tell her?” Jax asked curiously.

Jerry shifted uncomfortably. “Look, I’m not completely sure my theory’s right and if it’s not than there’s no reason to worry her. I mean, she’s my daughter. I want to get to know her.”

“Makes sense. But you’re already lying to her,” Jax pointed out. “That’s not a good thing.”

“You always have to point out the negatives don’t you?” Jerry snapped. “I’m hoping when I tell her the truth, she’ll be understanding.”

“So, there’s another member of the family,” Jax said slowly. “Why do I feel like there’s something you’re not telling me?”

“Probably because your instincts are right on as usual,” Jerry replied, smoothly.

“Have you told Mom and Dad?”

Jerry shook his head. “I’m not doing anything until I find out how Elizabeth wants to proceed. For all I know, she’ll want to pretend that I never came by.”

“I don’t know Elizabeth that well…” Jax paused. “Actually, I don’t know her at all. But I don’t think she’ll want to do that. I have a feeling…it’s been a difficult few months.”

“Since Corinthos faked his death, causing Elizabeth to move back to her studio,” Jerry stated. At Jax’s curious expression, he explained, “I wanted to know everything about her.”

Jax shook his head. “Just when I think I know everything about you, you manage to throw me another curveball.”

“Yes, because confusing you is the reason I live,” Jerry replied.

+5

In all the time that had passed since Nikolas Cassadine had first laid eyes on Elizabeth Webber in the children’s ward at the hospital, he never thought he’d be the person she’d turn to with this secret. She’d turned to Lucky after the rape; to Jason after Lucky’s death; to Jason after finding Lucky in bed with Sarah; and Jason when she’d been shot at. Not once in their friendship had Elizabeth come to him with something.

As she looked expectantly at him from across their table in Kelly’s, Nikolas began to appreciate just how much they’d come to depend on each other since she’d left Jason and his family had left town. He thought their friendship was probably stronger than ever, and he had every intention on helping her get to the bottom of this latest problem.

He looked at Elizabeth thoughtfully. “Why does it feel like your life never slows down?”

Elizabeth groaned and put her head in her hands. “Ugh, I know. And I was doing so good, Nikolas. I saw him last night and we didn’t even argue. We had a short conversation. I didn’t cry–he didn’t try to explain. And I get back and Jerry was waiting…”

Nikolas sighed. “What are you going to do? I mean, he didn’t tell you the whole story.”

“And in my experience, that can’t be good,” Elizabeth muttered. “I don’t know. I mean, he said he was proud of me. I can’t ignore him just because he may have left some things out.”

“And you’re going to give him a chance to explain?” Nikolas asked.

“I think so,” Elizabeth said. She frowned. “I am such a hypocrite.”

“Why?”

“Because I won’t give Jason that chance.”

Nikolas rubbed his eyes. “Liz, you know it’s not the same thing. Jerry has just come into your life. He never promised you anything. Jason did. He said he’d never hurt you on purpose.”

“I know,” Elizabeth remarked. She leaned forward. “But maybe he had a really good reason. I haven’t even tried to hear him out. Maybe–” she broke off and smiled at him weakly. “Maybe I’m not over him.”

“It’s okay,” Nikolas said, squeezing her hand. “You’re in love with him. That doesn’t go away just because you want to.”

“Where’s Helena and that dumb diamond when you need them?” Elizabeth muttered, sitting back in her chair.

“Liz, maybe…” Nikolas shook his head, laughing a little. “I can’t believe I’m telling you this. Me, of all people. But maybe, you should let Jason explain. At least…you’ll know.”

Elizabeth was about to reply when Kelly’s door swung open. She automatically looked at the new customer and froze. It was Jason. He met her eyes and stood there for a second.

Nikolas turned and saw him. Glancing back to her, he said, “What do you say?”

She broke the stare and looked at Nikolas. “No. I’m…I can only concentrate on one problem at a time.” She closed her eyes briefly as Jason passed their table and headed to the counter.

“Right,” Nikolas agreed. “So what are you going to do?”

Elizabeth frowned. She bit her lip and looked at the table. “Can we leave?”

Nikolas understood immediately and stood. “Come on. I have to get back to Deception anyway. We can discuss your new job there.”

Elizabeth laughed weakly. “I haven’t agreed to come there.”

Nikolas glanced at Jason’s back. “Well, I think Deception would be a good career move. You wouldn’t have to stay at Kelly’s.”

Elizabeth glanced at Jason as well and turned back to her friend. “Maybe you’re right.”

“Come on.” Nikolas grabbed Elizabeth’s hand and led her out of the diner.

—-

“Jerry Jacks,” Nikolas mused as he sat behind his desk in Laura’s old office. “I still can’t believe it.”

“You and me both,” Elizabeth murmured, pulling her gloves off. She rubbed her hands together and blew into them, trying to warm them up. She sighed and rubbed her eyes. Seeing Jason at Kelly’s reminded her for the billionth time why Nikolas’s job offer would be a brilliant move. If she wasn’t at Kelly’s and if she could learn to avoid the docks, maybe…just maybe these accidental run-ins with Jason would finally end. And maybe she could get on with her life.

Stop thinking about Jason, she chastised herself. You just found out that your parents aren’t your parents, that Bobbie’s ex-fiancé is probably your biological father. Get your priorities straight.

Nikolas had to grin as he watched Elizabeth argue with herself. She was thinking about Jason–he could tell by the irritated expression on her face. He’d become more tolerant of Elizabeth’s relationship with Jason since he and Elizabeth had become friends again. He supposed the tolerance came from the fact that she didn’t really have a relationship with him anymore–just what was left. He always had to bite his tongue when the subject of Jason came up. He wanted to congratulate her on getting away from Jason before getting herself killed, but he had a feeling that wouldn’t go over well. She was still quick to defend him. But she was in love with him–a fact that Nikolas could hardly ignore and he knew eventually she’d let Jason explain what had gone on that previous fall and that she’d forgive him. An eventuality Nikolas was trying to prepare himself for.

“So, how are you feeling about this?” Nikolas asked finally.

Elizabeth frowned. “I know what I’m not feeling. I’m not feeling betrayed or lost or anything…” she sighed. “All my life I wondered…what went wrong. Why I never measured up to Sarah and Steven. Why I didn’t get good grades, or why I didn’t look like the rest of the family. I thought it was my fault.” She gave her friend a little smile. “You want to know something funny? I feel relieved. I never have to see them again–their disappointed faces…” Elizabeth bit her lip. “Does that sound weird?”

Nikolas shrugged. “You get to feel how you want to feel.”

Elizabeth frowned and looked away. She’d never tell Nikolas–but his last words sounded like advice Jason would give her. But either way, he was right. She didn’t have to justify the way she felt to anyone.

“Do you think I should talk to him?” Elizabeth asked, trying to clear her thoughts of Jason. “Should I march into his hotel room, demand the truth or let him tell me?”

“I think you should demand the truth,” Nikolas replied. “I think you’ll be much happier in the end if you don’t have to wait. That doesn’t work remember?”

“Yeah…I remember,” Elizabeth replied, softly.

Nikolas studied her. “You should talk to him.”

“I thought we established that I was going to.”

“I meant Jason.”

Elizabeth shook her head vehemently. “No. He’ll try to explain and I’ll just get irritated that he put Sonny’s wishes in front of a promise he made me. And I have to remember…he’ll always have to put Sonny in front of me. And I don’t think I should have to settle for it.”

“I just think that the longer you avoid it…the more it’s going to hurt,” Nikolas said, gently. “Liz, there’s no love lost between Jason and I, I’m not going to try and pretend that we’ll ever be friends. But he saved my life once, remember?”

“Yeah.” Elizabeth looked away. “I remember holding Sarah back from throwing herself on you. She was so worried. That whole experience…with Lucky visiting you and you pushing Sarah away…” she shook her head. “It feels like another life time doesn’t it?”

“It does,” Nikolas agreed. “But anyway, I think…I think you should hear him out. It’s the only way you’ll move on.” He looked down at the desk. “I miss Gia sometimes so much that it’s hard to breathe and we’re still technically together. I know she’ll be home for Christmas soon and that eventually, she’ll graduate and we’ll get married, but that doesn’t change the fact that right now…she’s not here. Liz, it’s a terrible feeling to miss the person you love–you know that. And it’s harder for you. You have to see Jason ever-”

“Nikolas,” Elizabeth cut in. She flashed him a smile. “I appreciate what you’re trying to do–really. But like I said at Kelly’s…I can only concentrate on one thing at a time. And right now, I have to deal with this. I don’t want to think about Jason and what’s happened between us.”

“All right, fair enough,” Nikolas conceded. “Look, I think you’ve pretty much made your decision. You’re going to go talk to him and demand the full story right?”

Elizabeth nodded firmly. “Right.” She stood and pulled her gloves on. “No time like the present,” she said, cheerfully. She zipped her leather jacket and frowned. “You know…it’s no wonder I can never stop thinking about him.”

“Why?” Nikolas asked.

“I still wear this jacket.” She looked down at the jacket and smiled fondly. “It was the first thing he ever gave me. It’s not always warm enough but that never bothered me–I loved it. He gave it to me that Christmas he spent in the studio.”

Nikolas gave her a sympathetic look. “Maybe you shouldn’t wear it.”

Elizabeth frowned. “You’re probably right. But I can’t not wear it. It reminds me of one of the best times of my life–oddly enough. I know you don’t believe me–but if it hadn’t been for helping Jason that winter, I don’t know if I could have moved on from Lucky, stopped grieving.”

“Maybe you’d still be with Lucky,” Nikolas said.

Elizabeth shook her head. “Even if I hadn’t changed or moved on…Lucky still would be who he was when he came back.”

“You’re probably right.”

Elizabeth smiled. “I’d better go.”

“See ya.”

—–

She entered the lobby of the Port Charles Hotel and cringed. Sonny was there. She briefly considered leaving and waiting until he was gone, but Elizabeth knew he’d already seen her.

“Elizabeth!” Sonny came towards her, Johnny and Francis in tow.

Elizabeth took a deep breath. “Hello, Sonny.”

“How have you been?” Sonny asked. “I haven’t seen you much since…” he stopped, not sure how to phrase it.

“Since I broke up with Jason?” Elizabeth supplied. “Or since you faked your death?”

“Yeah…” Sonny said, scratching his forehead. “Listen, about that–”

“There’s nothing to say,” Elizabeth said, cutting him off. “I’m glad you’re alive–but that’s it. I can’t…” She stopped and shook her head. “Goodbye, Sonny.”

“Wait,” Sonny said. “Just…just let me say this. Please. Jason’s walking around–”

“I don’t want to hear about Jason,” Elizabeth cut in. She sighed. “Look, I’ve made a decision. I thought…I thought I could handle Jason’s life–and most of it…I probably could.” She stopped and met his eyes. “But the second he broke a promise to me…I can’t settle for a life where promises are broken because of his loyalty to you. And I’m sorry if that makes me a selfish person, Sonny, but I know what I need in a relationship and…” She rubbed her eyes. “I can’t do this right now.”

“He loves you,” Sonny said, to keep her from walking away. Elizabeth turned and sighed.

“I know. He told me that one of the last times we argued,” she remarked sadly. “But it’s not enough, Sonny. And I can’t sit around and pretend that it is. And I’m not going to make demands he can’t meet–it’s not fair to either one of us.” She shrugged her shoulders slightly. “I have to go.”

Sonny watched Elizabeth get on the elevators, frowning. “I don’t know what to think anymore,” he muttered.

Johnny traded looks with Francis. “It’s too bad about Ms. Webber,” he said. “She could have been good for Jason.”

Sonny shot him a dark look. “You don’t have to remind me that this is all my fault.”

“I was only saying,” Johnny replied.

—-

Elizabeth raised her hand hesitantly to knock on Jerry’s door. It swung open and Jerry grinned at the sight of her.

“Elizabeth!”

“Hi,” she said. “We need to talk.”

Jerry frowned. He hoped she hadn’t inherited his little brother’s uncanny ability to tell when Jerry was keeping something. “Come in.”

“I don’t have a lot of family,” Elizabeth began, standing in the middle of the room. “And I’m not stupid enough to dump someone who obviously wants to be part of my life. But there are some things we need get straight.”

Jerry closed the door and leaned against it. “I’m all ears.”

“First…are you just passing through town?” Elizabeth asked. “Because…I don’t want to let you in my life only to have you leave. That doesn’t work for me.”

Jerry looked away. “In my line of work, I have to travel a lot…it’s part of my job. And I usually just go with the flow. But I’d be willing to set roots down in town again. Get an apartment. I’ll have to go away often–but I’d come back.”

Elizabeth nodded. “Fair enough. Second, you were bullshitting me with that story yesterday.” She crossed her arms. “Who is my mother, why did I end up with the Webbers and what else aren’t you telling me?”

Jerry grimaced. She had inherited Jax’s irritating ability.

+5

Jerry stared at his daughter. She had her arms crossed, her eyebrows raised and she was looking for him for answers. He had a feeling he shouldn’t have lied to her–or to Jax for that matter. Because it was obvious that both were able to pick up on it.

“You know, you and my brother would get along fabulously,” Jerry said, moving away from the door and towards his desk. “He gets that look in his eye when he’s calling me on something as well.”

“You’re stalling,” Elizabeth remarked. Her foot started tapping. “I don’t like lies and I hate secrets. I learned the hard way when to cut my losses. You get one more chance. I want the truth.”

Jerry smirked. Yeah, she was a member of his family, all right. “All right. Take a seat.”

Elizabeth looked around and settled for the desk chair. “Let’s hear it.”

Jerry started pacing. “I told you I was assigned here as an agent for the WSB right?”

“Right,” Elizabeth replied. “Do you still work for them?”

Jerry nodded. “But you never heard a thing,” he said. “Anyway, I met a girl. Very lovely girl. We fell in love, she got pregnant. We had every intention of getting married.”

“What happened?” she asked, uncrossing her arms. She rested them on her thighs and leaned forward.

“When she was nine months along, she was in a car accident,” Jerry continued. He looked away. “She was killed. But they managed to save the baby–you.” He cleared his throat. “I was devastated of course, but I brought you home. I named you for her.”

“My mother’s name…was Elizabeth?” she asked quietly.

“Yes,” Jerry replied. He paused. “You look like her. A lot, actually. I don’t know why I didn’t see it the last time I was here. Maybe you were too young.”

Elizabeth tried to speak over the lump in her throat. “I look like her?”

“Are you all right?” Jerry asked.

“I’m fine,” she answered faintly. “I just…all of my life…the Webbers are all blonde and green-eyed. I’m the only person with brown hair and blue eyes. I always wondered why I looked so different.” She shook her head. “What happened after that?”

Jerry scratched his head. “When you were about two months old, I found that your mother’s death wasn’t an accident. That she’d been killed, her brake lines cut. I wanted to find her killer and…take care of him. I left you in the care of a friend and went after them. After about two years, I gave up. I don’t know why it took so long, but I decided you needed me more. But my…friend…had sold you. He’d run into trouble with the local mob and selling you apparently saved his life.”

“So why did the Webbers think I was their child?” Elizabeth asked, confused. “I wasn’t a newborn…”

Jerry frowned. “See, I have my theories. The most logical one is that they switched you with the Webber’s real child. I don’t know why and I don’t know where the real daughter is either. But I think that’s the most plausible.”

Elizabeth bit her lip. “Who was this friend?” she asked curiously.

“It doesn’t matter,” Jerry said. “He got into trouble again with the mob and they eventually killed him. Look, I’m sorry I lied to you. I lied to my brother yesterday when he came by. I spun a pretty tale for him as well.”

“Why not tell either of us the truth?” Elizabeth asked, recrossing her arms. She shrugged. “Why keep it to yourself?”

“I wanted some time to find out if my theory was correct. Now that I know which family you grew up with, I can try and track down why that was the family. The Webbers were already living in Boulder when you were born. Why that family?” Jerry shook his head. “I don’t know why yet.”

“I want to help,” Elizabeth said. At Jerry’s surprised expression, she went on, “Look, I want to get to know you. And I guess you’ll be spending most of your time trying to find out. I’ve done some investigating–helped my best friend catch her blackmailer once.”

“Emily Quartermaine,” Jerry remembered. “I read about your involvement when it happened.”

“I also hate being left out,” she said, stiffly. “This also has to do with me–with my past. I want to help.”

“That’s fine with me,” Jerry replied. He grinned. “So, is there anything else?”

“Yes,” Elizabeth said, hesitantly. “You said you lied to your brother about this…how long has he known?”

“Jax has known since yesterday. He had no idea before then,” Jerry said. “I think the two of you would get along.”

Elizabeth smiled. “I’d like to get to know your family. What about your parents?”

“Oh, they’re going to adore you,” Jerry said firmly. “I can tell already.”

—-

Sonny entered the penthouse in a worst mood than when he’d left. Carly saw the look on his face and grimaced.

“What’s with you?” she asked. “How’d your meeting go?”

“The meeting was fine,” Sonny replied, stiffly. He poured himself a Scotch and downed it. “I got confronted with the mistake again.”

“The mistake?” Carly echoed. “And I thought only Jason talked in circles.” She crossed her arms and frowned. “What’s going on?”

“I saw Elizabeth,” Sonny explained. “I tried to explain to her…tried to convince her to let Jason at least explain–”

“He’s better off,” Carly interrupted. “Elizabeth made a decision–she couldn’t handle the secrets and left. It’s better she realized this now instead of a year from now. She saved Jason a lot of heartbreak.”

“She walked away because the way Jason handled the situation,” Sonny reminded her.

Carly shrugged. “Then she didn’t love him enough. Michael’s Christmas pageant is–”

“Carly, do me a favor?”

“What?”

“Don’t say anything like that in front of Jason.”

—-

Nikolas headed towards the launch, his hand over his eyes. Since Elizabeth had left the office earlier, everything had started to go wrong. The search for the new Face of Deception wasn’t going well, the new ad campaign wasn’t developing…sometimes he wished he could just sell Deception.

But he’d made a promise to his family to keep the company going until Laura could take over again.

He hoped Elizabeth would come to work with him–it might make this a little more bearable.

“Hey!”

Nikolas turned at the sound of her voice. “Hey, what are you doing out this late?”

Elizabeth grimaced as she came down the steps. “You sound like–” She stopped and sighed. She’d been about to say Jason. “I saw Jerry.”

“Did you get the whole story?” Nikolas asked sitting with her on the bench.

“Yeah.” Elizabeth looked out over the water. “He told me my mother’s name was Elizabeth–that I looked like her.”

Nikolas gave her a small smile. “I know how much that must have meant to you.”

She stared at her hands for a few moments and then looked back to the water. “He’s going to call his parents and see if they’ll come down for Christmas. And he wants me to meet his brother.”

“Jax?” Nikolas said. “That should be interesting.”

She nodded. “It’s nice, Nikolas.”

“What is?”

“Having someone who wants to be part of my life, who wants me to be in theirs.”

—-

“You know, sometimes I wonder why I bother asking you questions,” Jax remarked handing Jerry a drink. “I never get a straight answer.”

Jerry shrugged. “Not my fault. Where’s the wife?”

“She’s at the club.” Jax stared at his brother. “So, how did she take it?”

“Surprisingly well.” Jerry grinned. “She’s a member of this family. She looks just like her mother but she seems to take after you.”

“After me?” Jax repeated. “What makes you say that?”

“She knew I was lying to her. Called me right on it. I think the two of you will get along rather well.”

Jax shook his head. “So, when do I get to meet my niece?”

“Part of the reason I came here. I called Mom and Dad. They’re flying down next week.”

“And how did they take the news?”

Jerry shrugged and grinned. “They’re used to surprises from me. Anyway, they’re coming to meet her, but I was wondering if you and Skye would have dinner with us tomorrow at the Grille.”

“Sure. She always seemed like a nice girl–I wonder how she ended up being your daughter.”

—-

“I’ll see you, tomorrow,” Nikolas said. He kissed Elizabeth’s cheek and got onto the launch.

Elizabeth watched as the boat headed across the water until she couldn’t see it anymore. She folded her arms over her chest and turned away towards the steps. She stopped when she saw Jason leaning against the bottom of the steps.

“Hey,” he said.

She sighed. “Hello.” She walked towards him, intent on going up the stairs and continuing home. As she passed him, he caught her arm.

“Are you ever going to listen to me?” Jason asked quietly.

She rubbed her eyes and turned around. “Jason, I can’t do this right now. There’s so much going on and I just…I can’t do this.”

“What’s going on?” Jason asked, picking up on her frustration. “Elizabeth-”

“No,” Elizabeth said firmly. “Look, I told you before. I can’t deal with your loyalty taking priority over promises you make–and there’s nothing you can tell me that’ll make this okay. I’ve listened to your explanations and you know what? They’re not good enough for me. It’s not that you didn’t tell me–Jason, you shut me out. You stopped talking to me. You wouldn’t come home for days and when you did, you barely looked at me. I can’t deal with that again. And you can’t promise me it won’t happen again. You can’t tell me that you won’t be put into a position where you’ll have to lie to me–” Elizabeth stopped and looked away. “I can’t deal with this right now.”

He let go of her arm and stepped back. “I’m sorry, Elizabeth. You know–”

“Goodbye, Jason.” She looked at him another moment and stepped up another stair before he put his arm out to stop her.

“No,” he said. She turned and crossed her arms.

“Jason-”

“We don’t say goodbye, remember?” Jason said. “I’ll see you later.” His eyes searched hers. “If you need me, you know you can come to me, right?”

“I did need you, Jason.” Elizabeth bit her lip and looked over the water. “I needed you to be there–to be part of my life. But you–” She stopped. He’d done it again. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. “Look, maybe one day, I’ll come find you and you can explain to your heart’s content, okay? Maybe. But I don’t want to hear it right now. I have other things going on–I don’t need this. Please…don’t do this anymore.”

“All right. Fair enough.” Jason took another step back.

She hesitated another moment before turning and continuing up the stairs.

+5

Jax shifted in his seat at the Port Charles Grille. Across the table, his obviously irate wife had her arms crossed and a pissed look in her eyes. “Skye–”

“I don’t want to hear it,” Skye snapped. She glared at him. “It’s only out of respect for your family that I’m even here right now.”

“You misunderstood–”

“The hell I did,” Skye bit out angrily. “You. Brenda. Lips. Attached. You want to clarify the situation? Be my guest.”

Jax rubbed his face, irritated. “I thought we were going to trust each other.”

“We were,” Skye replied, stiffly. “But I saw the entire situation. And you kissed her. So you know what? Don’t pull the trust issue with me.” Her eyes flicked around nervously. “Where are they?”

“Um…hi…” Elizabeth said, hesitantly approaching the table.

Jax stood, glad for a distraction from his wife. “Hello, Elizabeth. Where’s Jerry?”

“I guess he’s not here,” Elizabeth replied, nervously clasping her hands in front of her. She bit her lip. “Um…”

Skye glared at her husband one last time before taking pity on the girl. She stood. “We haven’t been introduced, not formally anyway. I’m Skye Jacks,” Skye said, extending her hand.

“Elizabeth Webber,” Elizabeth said, shaking the woman’s hand.

“Sit,” Skye directed, pointing at an empty chair. The three sat and another uncomfortable silence fell. Skye decided she had two choices–she could stew over Jax and Brenda or she could try to get to know the brunette sitting next to her. “So, Jax tells me you’re an artist.”

“I try,” Elizabeth said. “I haven’t sold anything, but I’ve done some work for the Nurse’s Ball.”

“The Nurse’s Ball,” Skye murmured. “Are they going to have that again or is it permanently off?”

“I think it’s on the schedule for this year,” Elizabeth said. “Why? Would you perform?”

“Heavens, no,” Skye said, shuddering at the idea. “Have you?”

“Twice,” Elizabeth reported. “The first time I was absolutely terrified–”

“I remember that,” Jax spoke up. “You were with the Spencer kid and Dara Jensen…and that utterly irritating police officer…”

Elizabeth nodded. “Taggart. We did Jailhouse Rock.”

“You were good,” Jax assured her. “Brenda-” he stopped. “You were good,” he repeated.

“Sorry, I’m late,” Jerry said, pulling a chair out. “An appointment that couldn’t wait.”

Jax muttered something under his breath before giving his brother a weak grin. “We were just getting to know one another.”

Elizabeth smiled as Jerry took his seat next to her. “Hi.”

“Hi.” Jerry looked at his brother and his wife. “Are we interrupting a family dispute?”

Skye glared at Jax. “Why don’t you tell your brother where you were when I picked you up for dinner?”

“Skye, don’t do this,” Jax warned.

“By all means, Skye,” Jerry said, sweeping his hand as if to give her the floor.

“Jerry-” Elizabeth tried.

“He was with Brenda,” Skye snapped. “Kissing Brenda.”

Jerry turned to his brother. “Is that true?”

“Skye, this isn’t the place–”

“I’ll decide where the place is,” Skye hissed, leaning forward. “I came here to support you. To meet your niece and your brother. And how do you repay me for months of compassion and understanding? You kiss her!”

Elizabeth’s eyes darted between the arguing couple. As sick as it was, she already liked this family more than her own. At least they were passionate people.

“Skye, you don’t understand,” Jax said, almost pleading.

“No, you know what? I do understand. For the first time, I understand completely. You were settling for me–because Brenda was dead. But now that she’s alive, you–”

“Damn it, Skye. I married you. I’m with you. I love you,” Jax argued.

“All right, time out,” Elizabeth spoke up. Jax and Skye turned to look at her, stunned. “Hey, I’m sorry for interrupting but I think you both need to take a deep breath and calm down. You don’t want to say things you don’t mean.”

Skye stared at the woman and took her advice. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. “She’s right.”

Jerry stared at his daughter, his mouth opened wide. “You just–” He shook his head. “Wow.”

Jax looked at his brother amused. “She’s your daughter all right.” He looked to Skye. “Look, can we talk about this at home? Please.”

Skye nodded. “That sounds like a good idea to me.” She put a smile on her face and looked at Jerry and Elizabeth. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine,” Elizabeth said. She took a deep breath. “I know how awkward this is. It’s a weird situation for me as well.”

“Hey, this family…we give new meaning to the phrase awkward situation,” Jerry said. “Isn’t that right, Jax?”

“Always the comedian,” Jax said, his grin back full force. He looked to Elizabeth. “Elizabeth, welcome to the family. I think my parents are going to adore you.”

Elizabeth smiled nervously. “I hope so.”

Skye studied her thoughtfully. “What are you doing tomorrow?”

“What?” Elizabeth asked startled. She shifted to look at the redhead. “Nothing.”

“We’re going shopping,” Skye announced.

Jerry and Jax exchanged glances. “That’s probably not a good thing, is it?” Jerry asked.

—-

“She’s with the Jacks’ brothers,” Sonny said, staring across the room. Carly looked over her shoulder to see Elizabeth sitting with Jax, Jerry and Skye. “When did Jerry get back in town?”

Carly turned back to Sonny and shrugged. “Don’t know. More important question…what’s she doing?”

Sonny frowned. “I don’t know–but it can’t be good.”

Carly glared at him. “You always think it can’t be good. What’s wrong with Elizabeth having friends that don’t include Jason?”

“She’s not including Jason at all,” Sonny said, testily. “She’s not giving him a chance–”

“She gave him plenty of chances,” Carly cut in. “Two months, she kept coming to me and asking if I’d heard from him–if he was okay. Where he was, what was he doing. He wasn’t telling her anything. She waited for two months. Don’t blame this on her because she’s taking control of her life.”

“I thought you hated her. What happened to her not loving Jason enough?”

Carly frowned. “I don’t hate her. Do you know what she did after you supposedly died? She made me brownies. She cleaned the penthouse–you know what…if you want to blame this on Elizabeth, go ahead and do that. But you know you’re wrong.”

Sonny swore under his breath and looked away. “I know that. I know I should have let Jason tell her–you think I don’t know that? But I need to know how I can fix this.”

“Sonny–some things…they’re not meant to be fixed. Yeah, so he loves her. She probably loves him, too. But they’re the only ones who work this out. And as guilty as you feel…it’s not going to change that.”

“When did you get so smart?” Sonny muttered.

Carly glared at him. “You know what? You’ve been in a bad mood all night. And I don’t think I should have to deal with this anymore.” She threw her napkin down and pushed her chair back. “Get over yourself, Sonny. This isn’t about you.” She stood and stalked angrily out of the restaurant.

—–

The temporary truce that Skye and Jax had called lasted until dessert when Jax mentioned Brenda again. Instead of making some bitter comment or snapping at him, Skye threw him an angry glare and left.

Jax, in an uncharacteristic move, dropped his head to the table and started slamming gently down. “I just can’t win,” he muttered.

Jerry shifted. “You want me to go after her? Make sure she gets home all right?”

Jax raised his head. “Would you? Because I think she might hurt me right now.”

Jerry grinned. “Might?” He stood. “Elizabeth, thanks for your help, but I think the two of them are hopeless.” He turned to Jax. “Make sure Elizabeth gets home?”

“I’ll be fine,” Elizabeth protested.

“Sure,” Jax said, pulling his wallet out. He put a few bills on the table. “It’s no problem. Except…well, I think Skye may have taken the car, so I’ll have to walk you.”

“There’s no need,” Elizabeth said, standing. Jax and Jerry both stood. “Really.”

“You live in a building next to the docks,” Jerry pointed out. “It’s not a safe place this late at night.”

“You know–” Elizabeth stopped. She had this new family that seemed to care about her–the least she could do is let them. She smiled. “Thank you. I’d appreciate it.”

—-

Elizabeth pulled her coat tighter around herself as she and Jax came down the dock steps. “I’m sorry about your wife,” she said, breaking the silence.

Jax looked at her. “Yeah? Me, too. You’d think I’d learn not to mention Brenda in her presence.”

“Does she think you’d rather be with her?” Elizabeth asked curiously. She shook her head. “I’m sorry, it’s none of my business.”

Jax stopped walking and looked out over the water. “She thinks that I still love Brenda. And I do.”

“Oh.” Elizabeth bit her lip, not sure what to say.

“Have you ever been in love with someone…you thought they were the love of your life and had things been different, you would have stayed with them the rest of your life?”

“Actually, yeah,” Elizabeth responded, a bit surprised.

Jax turned to look at her. “Really?”

“Yeah.” Elizabeth put her hands in her pockets. “My ex, Lucky Spencer. We were inseparable before this fire that I thought killed him. And we wanted to be together forever. But he’d been kidnapped and I was forced to move on, find a way to survive without him. And I did.” She sighed. “But Lucky came back…but he wasn’t the same and neither was I. We both refused to see it and we tried to recreate the past, but it didn’t work. And I ended up hurting the person that I really wanted to be with.”

“I’ll always love Brenda,” Jax said, shrugging. “But Skye’s my wife. I don’t take those vows lightly. I wouldn’t have married her if I didn’t love her. Brenda’s…she’s part of the past. I just haven’t learned to put her there.” He looked to her. “How did you finally get out of your situation?”

“Lucky slept with my sister–and Helena used this diamond to make him lose any feelings for me, so it was really a moot point by then anyway. I don’t think that’s going to help your situation.”

“Probably not. But you did end up with the person you really wanted right?” Jax asked.

“In a matter of speaking,” Elizabeth remarked bitterly.

“Ah, Morgan,” Jax said.

“You know about that?” Elizabeth asked curiously.

“When I found out Sonny faked his death, I got curious. You remember…Alcazar was after me as well. I made it my business to keep an eye on Sonny and Jason. I couldn’t ignore that two days after Sonny returned home–you moved out of the building.”

“I got tired of being treated the way I was,” Elizabeth replied softly. “I knew he couldn’t tell me Sonny was alive–I got that. But he never came home. He never called. I didn’t know if he was dead or alive. When he was around, he didn’t talk to me. He spent a lot of time protecting Sonny’s sister. I just…I can’t be in a relationship where his loyalty to someone else takes precedence over a promise he made not to hurt me intentionally.”

“I don’t blame you–I would have removed myself from a situation like that.”

“Now, Jason wants to explain,” Elizabeth remarked bitterly. “I don’t know what he’s so adamant on explaining. He hurt me so he didn’t have to lie. I caught that much. I don’t understand how that logic works.” She looked up at Jax. “Does it make sense to you?”

“Depends,” Jax said. “On how he was thinking. He obviously thought lying to you was the greater of the two evils.”

She bit her lip. “I guess I can see where he’d get the impression. When I found Lucky in bed with Sarah, it was after a lot denials that they were even attracted to one another. They’d lied to me. I was in a car accident last March where…” she stopped. “I remember telling him that I couldn’t handle him lying to me, too.” She grimaced. “I guess he took that seriously.” She rubbed her eyes. “I just don’t want to go to that place where my life revolves around him. I did that with Lucky and it took me so long to figure out who I am.”

Jax studied Elizabeth thoughtfully. “Well, now you’re a part of our family…trust me, being Jerry’s daughter will keep you busy.”

+6

Jerry was nursing a Scotch when Jax entered the lakehouse. He barely looked up as he said, “She’s in the bedroom and she’s given me explicit directions to let you know you’re on the couch.”

Jax didn’t answer as he shrugged out of his suit jacket. He hung it on the back of a chair and turned to his brother. “So, where were you before dinner?”

“Working an angle,” Jerry replied, absently. He stood and went over to the bar to refill his glass. “I’m thinking it’s connected to the friend who sold her in the first place. Except it was a mob hit so I haven’t the foggiest idea how to get any information on that without causing any suspicion.”

Jax shrugged. “You could ask Elizabeth to ask Sonny Corinthos. They are, or at least were, good friends. He’d be more than likely to give her any information he might have.”

“That’s true,” Jerry replied, thoughtfully. “But I’d have to tell her the name and I don’t want to have to do that.”

“Why not?” Jax asked curiously. “You wouldn’t even tell me.”

“Because I’m not at all sure he’s completely dead,” Jerry replied. “You know mob hits in Port Charles–they never go right.”

“What does that have to do with telling me?” Jax asked.

Jerry shrugged. “Just some things you keep to yourself that’s all…and having made the decision to trust this fool…well, it makes me look bad.”

“You do realize that Elizabeth will eventually find out that you’re keeping that from her,” Jax pointed out. “Better if you volunteer it now.”

“Did she get home all right?” Jerry asked.

“Yeah. Why in the world does she live in that drafty building?” Jax asked. “You’d think she’d move into a more suitable…heated place. It was absolutely freezing in her hallway.”

“She’s lived there for three years now–and unless she moves back in with Morgan, I don’t see that changing. Luckily, that seems like a far off prospect,” Jerry said cheerfully.

“I don’t know. She loves him, you know.”

“How can you tell?” Jerry asked curiously. He sat up to peer at his brother. “Did she say something?”

“Well she didn’t say it so many words but I could tell,” Jax replied. He poured himself a drink and sat on the couch. “She’ll forgive him eventually. Pity–she’s a good girl.”

“I wish she wouldn’t pin her hopes on that thug,” Jerry said, distastefully. “She’s better than him.”

“Jerry, if I were you, I wouldn’t go trying to make myself look better than Morgan–you forget…you’re no choir boy,” Jax reminded him.

Jerry shrugged and grinned cheerfully. “Yes, but it when comes down to it, I’m on the right side of the law more often than not. Especially lately.”

“Still…guys like Morgan…they tend to draw the women in. And they never break free.” A dark shadow passed over Jax’s face briefly.

“You’re talking about Brenda,” Jerry said. “You’re married–don’t worry about her.”

“I have to worry about her–she’s got a terminal illness,” Jax snapped. “She’s going to die.”

“And when she does, you’ll still want Skye to come home to. If you don’t play your cards right, little brother, you won’t have that. So no more kissing Brenda,” Jerry ordered. “And anyway, didn’t she choose you in the end?”

“Yes, I suppose so.” Jax studied Jerry. “Elizabeth’s a nice girl–don’t do anything stupid. I think she’ll fit in with the rest of the family well.”

“Yes,” Jerry agreed. “She will. She and Skye seemed to get along famously at dinner.” He frowned. “I saw Corinthos there with some blonde. He knows I’m in town.”

Jax nodded. “His wife, Carly. And what does that matter?”

“Corinthos and me…we don’t exactly have a good track record. We’ve had a few run-ins while I’ve been gone. The man hates me.”

“A lot of men hate you,” Jax said absently. “Anyway, that’s why it’d be a good idea to let Elizabeth help. She’s got connections–she might as well get some use out of it.”

“And then I’ll just be pushing her closer to Morgan. No thanks. I’ve only been a father for two days, but I’m pretty sure I don’t want that.”

“Now if someone had told her mother that about you…” Jax trailed off.

“I was a little more law-abiding when I was with Beth,” Jerry argued.

“Beth?” Jax’s ears perked up. “Is that what you called her?”

“Her name was Elizabeth Robinson,” Jerry said. “But I called her Beth. She looks like Elizabeth.”

“Maybe you should show her a picture,” Jax suggested. “I’m sure she’d appreciate that.”

Jerry nodded thoughtfully. “She would.”

“So you going to let Elizabeth help?” Jax asked, finishing his drink.

Jerry shrugged. “I’ll give it some thought.”

—-

Elizabeth slipped her key in the door and opened it. Her conversation with Jax on the docks had been interesting to say the least. It had given her a few things to think about. She’d never really known Jax before dinner tonight and now suddenly, he was her uncle. And they seemed to have something very big in common. They’d both been in love with people who they thought were dead. They’d both moved on–developed feelings for other people when the first people came back.

The only difference? Jax managed to get married. Elizabeth could barely get Jason to talk to her half the time.

Certainly didn’t seem to be a problem now, Elizabeth thought bitterly. She kicked her shoes off and changed into sweatpants and a sweatshirt. Had Jason really considered lying to her to be worse than hurting her? She thought about it. Above all else–they’d always been honest with each other. They’d never really lied–Elizabeth had made tiny one in the park the previous year when she said she’d rather be with Lucky than be free, but Jason was willing to overlook that and Elizabeth was chalking it up to temporary insanity.

But the one constant in her friendship had always been honesty. She’d hurt him–he’d hurt her. Of course, not nearly as much as she’d managed to hurt him. First with Lucky, then with Zander. She frowned. If Jason had actually lied to her–accepted her comfort over Sonny’s death and told her to her face how much he missed him, etc…would she have felt betrayed when the truth came out?

The answer was a resounding yes. She would have been hurt–she would have felt untrusted and betrayed. And she probably would have made the same decision. She would have left.

So what was different? She still felt that neither of them trusted her–something that wasn’t easily remedied. She could see why Jason would have a few small problems trusting her–after the whole Zander ordeal, she’d have problems trusting her, too. But Sonny? To decide she wasn’t worth the truth? Had he done it because of what she’d done to Jason?

A thought occurred to Elizabeth that seemed cruel but altogether plausible. Sonny had probably never considered telling Elizabeth the truth–probably hadn’t even thought about her. And if Sonny wouldn’t mention telling her, then Jason probably wouldn’t bring up it to him. She thought back to the days before Sonny had faked his death. The last time she’d had a real conversation with him had been the day of the explosion–when he’d asked if she wanted to stay for Jason. She realized that had been the first time in a long time she’d actually spoken to him–and the first time in well over a year that they’d discussed Jason. Maybe…Sonny didn’t consider her a permanent part of Jason’s life. Maybe he thought she’d give up at the first sign of trouble.

If that were true…he was probably right. She had walked away–the first time they’d come up against something like this. She’d moved out and told Jason she wanted out. She hadn’t given him a chance to explain–to redeem himself. She cut him off every time he tried.

Suddenly, Elizabeth felt horrible. She’d walked away and cut him out of her life without knowing the whole story. She should have at least heard him out before making that sort of decision. After everything he’d been to her, how could she have done that?

She bit her lip and sat on the couch. Maybe Jason, in acting the way he had, had been keeping a different promise to her–one that he’d made a long time ago. One they’d both made. He’d always been the one person she could be honest with, not to hide her feelings. Maybe he really had thought lying to her would be worse than hurting her.

Was it? She thought about how betrayed she’d felt when she found out Nikolas and Gia had been lying to her. She’d cut them out of her life and it’d only been recently that she and Nikolas had gotten back on track. Sarah and Lucky had lied about their attraction and she still wasn’t talking to either of them.

She stood up and started pacing the room. She’d told him she couldn’t handle him lying to her–and with all the evidence, she certainly couldn’t blame him if he thought that she’d cut him out of her life the second he did. She’d done it before.

She sat back on the couch. Hadn’t she made the decision to concentrate on her new family and finding out why she’d been sold and to whom? Didn’t she make that her top priority? She’d made the resolution that Jason–or anyone else–would never become her whole life.

She’d meant it when she’d said it–but maybe…maybe she couldn’t concentrate fully on her new problem without properly dealing with her last one. Maybe she should give into her instincts for once. She should pull on a jacket, shove her feet into some shoes and go to Jason’s penthouse now.

Her eyes darted to the clock. She should go now if she was ever going to go–she’d certainly never get the courage going again any time soon.

—-

Twenty minutes later, Elizabeth emerged from the elevators and hesitated. It’d seemed like a good idea back at her studio. But now…mere feet from Jason’s door…she was beginning to reconsider the situation. Surely…she could wait until the next time she saw him. Port Charles was a small town–she was bound to run into him soon.

She took a deep breath and mentally smacked herself. She was here now–she might as well go through with it.

She strode forward and raised her hand to knock on the door. She thought briefly back to the days when this had been her temporary home–when she’d had a key and could come and go as she pleased. For a while…she’d thought she’d never go back to the studio. That she’d actually been home.

Forcing those thoughts out of her mind, Elizabeth squared her shoulders and knocked briskly on the door.

A few moments passed and just as Elizabeth had convinced herself that he asleep or not there and that she should leave–the door swung open.

“Elizabeth.” Jason didn’t bother to hide his surprise.

“Hi,” she said, biting her lip. “Is this a bad time?”

“No.” Jason took a step back to let her in. She walked in hesitantly and gave a small sigh. For so long, she’d thought of this place as theirs that it seemed weird to have knocked and asked admittance.

Jason closed the door behind her and leaned against it. “Is everything all right?”

She turned and for the first time, realized that he’d either been asleep or on his way to bed. Because he was shirtless and only wearing sweatpants. She cleared her throat. “I’m sorry to come over like this but I was afraid if I didn’t do it while I had the courage, I wouldn’t do it at all.”

“Do what?” Jason asked.

She licked her lips nervously and decided to just go with it. “I, ah, um…I’ve been doing a lot of thinking. And someone said something really interesting tonight about this…and it got me thinking…” She ran a hand nervously through her hair. “I shouldn’t have walked away without giving you the chance to explain. That was wrong–and I’m…I’m sorry.” She clasped her hands in front of her. “It’s occurred to me that you never would have hurt me without a good reason–and I think I understand why.”

“Really?” Jason asked, warily. It couldn’t be this easy.

“Yes. I once told you I couldn’t handle you lying to me–and I think you might have took that a little more literally than I meant it. I realize now how it looked…I’d cut anyone who’d ever lied to me out of my life and I think you might have thought I’d do it to you.”

Jason took a deep breath and straightened. He walked past her and flipped absently though some papers on his desk. “It crossed my mind.”

“Jason.”

He looked up and for the first time he met her eyes. “I didn’t want to be like Sarah or Lucky. They’d lied to you–and I…I knew if I accepted the comfort you wanted to give, I’d feel like a…” he stopped. He put his hands on his hips. “I thought at first if I could avoid the topic–then maybe I wouldn’t be lying. But I realized that you’d know something was wrong–and I couldn’t tell you what was going on. So I decided to avoid you all together. I didn’t know what else to do. I could lie to you…or avoid you. I guess…” he took a deep breath. “I didn’t realize how much it was hurting you until that day at Kelly’s.”

Elizabeth nodded. “I have to ask you something.” She bit her lip and looked away. “The reason you didn’t tell me…was it because…was it because you couldn’t trust me? Because I don’t…I don’t…Sonny told Carly so she wouldn’t worry,” Elizabeth said. She wasn’t sure exactly how to phrase the thought that she felt she should have known. “Why…why wasn’t I given that same consideration?”

“Sonny only wanted Carly to know,” Jason said. “It had nothing to do with trust–I wanted to tell you. But it was Sonny’s decision.”

She nodded and decided her theory was right. “He never even thought about telling me did he?” she asked, hesitantly. “It never even occurred to him that you’d have to lie to me, did it?”

Jason didn’t want to admit that she was right. That Sonny had been so centered on how it affected Carly, Courtney and Mike that he had hadn’t stopped to think about how the ruse affected Jason and his life. He didn’t want to admit that his friend was that selfish–that he hadn’t realized the position he’d put Jason in until it was too late to fix it. It was bad enough Jason knew it–there was no reason for Elizabeth to realize it as well.

She took his silence as confirmation and sighed. “All right. Can’t really blame him. I don’t see where I’d be at the top of his list. I’m glad it wasn’t because he couldn’t trust me…because I think I might have had to hurt him. After hiding you in my studio twice, I really think that I could have handled the knowledge he was alive.”

Jason looked away. He known all along that Elizabeth could be trusted with the knowledge–the times she’d stuck up for him and protected him had been in the forefront of his mind. He’d known she could deal with it–she’d faked her own death after all. But it had never occurred to Sonny to tell her and Jason had never brought it up.

“And my next question…” Elizabeth crossed her arms. “If it never occurred to him…why didn’t…why didn’t you ask him to tell me?”

Jason looked down and tried to explain his reasoning. He’d felt it was none of his business–that he had no right to ask it? That he’d been unconsciously testing her…to see if she could handle the secrets his life could have? He didn’t have a good answer for her because he couldn’t answer the question himself. Why hadn’t he asked Sonny tell Elizabeth? Had he been hoping Sonny would pick up on his frustration and offer the suggestion?

“I don’t know,” Jason said, finally. “I don’t have a good reason–I don’t have any reason, actually. Not one you’d understand.”

She arched her eyebrows. “Try me.”

Jason sighed. “I guess I was expecting Sonny to pick up on it…I mean, it’s stupid, but I guess I wanted to prove to myself…that he was still a friend and not just the man I work for.”

Elizabeth’s eyes softened with sympathy. How many times had she wondered about Sonny and Jason’s friendship? She’d always felt it was slightly one-sided, but she’d never spoken up. He’d never butted into her life when she didn’t ask, and she wasn’t about to do it to him. She’d always seen Jason run to do Sonny’s bidding or go help Carly whenever she called…but other than the sparse lectures Carly had given her…she’d never seen either one of them do anything for him.

She didn’t know how to respond to that–so she didn’t.

Jason hesitated before speaking, but he finally asked the question. “Where does this leave us?”

“Honestly?” Elizabeth asked. “I don’t know.” She hadn’t expected the conversation to go this way or this far and hadn’t dealt with the idea that she’d understand and even forgive Jason’s reasoning. She bit her lip. “I wish I could say that all’s forgotten, but I can’t. Because I know…I know your loyalty to Sonny will always come first…and that’s…that’s not something I was prepared for.” She tucked a piece of hair behind her ear and continued. “I was ready for the amount of worrying…the lack of phone calls…being away all night…because you’d pretty much warned me. And you’ve always told me there are things you can’t tell me. So…I was prepared for all that. But…you never…you never made it clear that Sonny always comes first–even over promises. And…I don’t…” Elizabeth hesitated seeing the look in Jason’s eyes. She suddenly wished she could handle that–because she’d do almost anything to be with him…tell him she loved him. She’d never said it–he’d only said it once to her, in the midst of one of their arguments, but she hadn’t said it back. She didn’t want to say it while she was angry or hurt. She wanted it to be different. She took a deep breath and continued. “I don’t think that’s something I can handle. And I…I’m not going to compromise the way I feel just because…” She bit her lip. “Just because I’m in…I care about you,” she finished.

He nodded and looked away. “He doesn’t always come first,” Jason said quietly. “When I told Zander to leave town…” he hesitated and looked at her. “Sonny didn’t ask me to do that…he wanted me…he didn’t want Zander to just leave town. He wanted him gone–permanently. But I…told him to leave. Because I’d promised you I wouldn’t hurt him.”

Her heart skipped a beat. Somehow, Elizabeth had known that Sonny wouldn’t just send Zander out of town. She’d been around Jason, Sonny and their business long enough to know that probably wasn’t the way things were handled. But she hadn’t dared to think any differently–afraid she’d get her hopes up or that she was reading into the situation too much. She bit her lip. “I…thought…I thought that might have been the way it happened…but I…didn’t want to think…”

“When you were kidnapped,” Jason continued, “I went to Taggart.”

Elizabeth’s mouth dropped. “You went to the police?” she asked, stricken.

“Yeah.” Jason drove his fingers through his hair. “I even went to Edward and AJ because I thought it had something to do with ELQ. It was the initials of the crypt you were in–but I didn’t know that. Sonny…wasn’t happy with that decision either, but I guess he let it go. Because Carly sort of…something else came up and he forgot it.”

Jason had gone to the three people he hated the most to save her life. All she could do was stare at him in wonder.

He shifted. “I didn’t tell you that because I wanted to…I just thought you should know that I’ve put you first.”

She crossed her arms tightly and shifted her weight from one foot to the other. “I wish I’d known that,” she said quietly. “Maybe…I don’t know. Maybe I would have heard you out a little earlier.”

Jason didn’t say, only nodded. She took a breath and made a conscious decision. That even though she’d already confided in Nikolas, she wanted Jason to know about her new family. To let him know that she still trusted him–and that she’d decided something else important.

She wanted him in her life.

“Do you remember the other night on the docks when I said that I have a lot going on?” Elizabeth asked.

“Yeah,” Jason said, crossing his arms.

“Well…it’s true. And I…” She stopped and bit her lip. “I found out that…well…Jerry Jacks…he’s sort of…well, he’s… he’s my biological father.”

+3

Elizabeth bit her lip and slid her hands into her back pockets. Jason was still silent–going on his third minute. She shifted her weight from one foot to another and looked down. She probably could have come up with a better way to break the news.

“Jerry Jacks is your father,” Jason repeated slowly.

“Yep.”

“How long have you known this?”

Elizabeth thought for a moment. “About forty-eight hours, give or take a few minutes. He came to my studio the day before yesterday and told me. I went to dinner tonight with him and his brother and his wife.”

“Which makes Jax…your uncle.”

“Yes,” Elizabeth said, slightly defensive. She was already slightly protective of the confused blond who’d put her own love life into perspective. “So?”

Jason studied her for a few moments. “What else aren’t you telling me?”

“Well…” Elizabeth stopped and tried to think of the best way to explain it. “Jerry wasn’t married to my mother. When she was nine months along, she died in a car accident. They managed to save me and Jerry took me home. He found out the brake lines had been cut deliberately. He left me with a friend and set out to find her killer. He came home two years later to find out I’d been sold to the Webbers. Or something like that.”

“You believe this?” Jason asked, the skepticism clear in his voice.

“Not everyone lies to me,” Elizabeth said, crossing her arms and raising her eyebrows. “Besides, he has no reason to lie to me and tell me things like my mother’s name or that I look like her. I don’t think he’s lying, but hey, I’ve never been real good at telling the difference.” She turned and headed for the door.

“Wait,” Jason called. “I didn’t mean for it to come out that way.”

Elizabeth stopped but didn’t turn around. “Well, how did you mean it?”

“I just…I’ve had experience with Jerry Jacks,” Jason said. “And he’s not the most…reliable person. I’d hate to see you get hurt.”

Elizabeth turned around and forced down the angry comeback about her being hurt. “Like I said, I don’t think he’s lying. He’d have no reason to tell me anything about my mother, or introduce me to his brother or have his parents fly down to meet me. There’s no reason for him to make up elaborate story like that–there’s not a person in the world who’d want to be part of my family enough to do that.”

“So, what are you going to do?” Jason asked, crossing his arms.

“Well, Jerry’s pretty adamant about finding out how I exactly ended up with the Webbers, etc. I’m going to help him.” She shrugged. “I figure this way, I get to know him. I find out who sold me and I get a family out of the process.” She bit her lip.

“The Jacks family?” Jason said.

“As opposed to the family I have now?” Elizabeth asked. “Let’s see, the Webbers whom I haven’t seen since moving to Port Charles. Steven, who hasn’t acknowledged me since going to college and Sarah who slept with Lucky. And then we come to the people I know in Port Charles. My grandmother, who disapproved of me living here so much that she stopped speaking to me. Zander–who took off to Florida. Emily’s in rehab. Gia’s out of town, Lucky’s in London, I don’t exist on Sonny and Carly’s radar…and then there’s you. So, excuse me if I’m a little happy about the prospect of a family who might actually care about me.”

“I didn’t–”

“Yeah, I know. You didn’t mean it that way,” Elizabeth finished. “Look, I have to go. I’ve got something to do tomorrow–I should probably get some sleep.”

“Elizabeth,” Jason caught her arm as she turned back towards the door. “Will you let me help if I can?”

She hesitated but finally nodded. “All right.”

—-

Elizabeth could tell that Skye was fuming by the way she shuffled through the racks at Wyndams. She shoved perfectly good dresses out of the way, muttering about idiots under breath the whole time.

“Skye?” Elizabeth hesitantly. Skye looked at her. “Are…are you okay?”

“Okay?” Skye repeated. “I’m not okay. I’ve been married for less than four months and it’s already headed to divorce court.” She glared at a red dress as if it were Jax. “Should have known better.”

Elizabeth bit her lip. “We don’t have to do this.”

Skye ignored her comment. “And I’ve been so good, too. I’ve been honest, I’ve been understanding, damn it, I’ve even been compassionate. I’ve treated the Brenda twit with respect when all I’ve wanted to do is rip her into shreds. I entertained his brother and I’m being nice to his niece–”

“You don’t have to be nice to me to earn points with Jax,” Elizabeth cut in. “I’d rather you’d do it because you want to.”

Skye stopped and sighed. “I’m sorry. It’s just…I’ve been trying so hard and it’s like he’s not trying at all.”

“Been there,” Elizabeth replied absently. She fingered a suede skirt. “The guy agrees to try, but you end up making all the sacrifices.”

Skye looked at her oddly. “How did…you’re an intelligent girl. How old are you again?”

“I’m twenty-one,” Elizabeth replied. “And I just got out of relationship like that.”

“With Jason, right?” Skye said. “I heard Jerry and Jax talking in the living room last night.”

“They were talking about that?” Elizabeth asked, surprised. “What did they say?”

Skye looked at a price tag on a red sweater. “Jax said you’d forgive him eventually and Jerry said you shouldn’t pin your hopes on that thug. Jerry’s words, not mine.”

Elizabeth wrinkled her nose. “I think I forgave him–not positive. Have you ever met someone who talks in circles? Who says things that can be taken about a hundred ways, but usually the most obvious way sounds like an insult?”

Skye smirked. “No. But it sounds interesting. So, you and Jason aren’t back together?”

“No,” Elizabeth replied. She pulled a black top off the rack and examined it. “I learned my lesson the hard way. Besides, I have other things to worry about–my life doesn’t revolve around him.”

“Your father will be glad to hear that,” Skye murmured. “How did you do it?”

“Do what?”

“Let go of the idea,” Skye replied. She wandered over to a few chairs and sat down. Elizabeth followed. “I just know I’m going to lose Jax. Brenda’s dying–I can’t exactly compete with that. I need to get used to the idea–how did you let go?”

Elizabeth rubbed her eyes. “I didn’t,” she said quietly. “Do you know how easy it would be for me to tell him I love him? I want him as a friend if I can keep him, but…a relationship…no. I need things that he can’t give me.”

Skye rested her chin on her hand. “What things?”

“He shuts me out,” Elizabeth said, looking at her feet. “He didn’t come home for weeks and he didn’t talk to me. He said he’d try but like I said I’m the one who ended up trying to be understanding and not ask questions.”

Skye shrugged. “I can’t tell you anything–I think I have worst luck in love than you do.”

“You know, I’m not sure that’s possible.”

—-

Jerry entered the lakehouse. “You still on the couch?”

Jax glared at him. “Where have you been all day?”

“Chasing a lead,” Jerry said heading for the bar. He poured himself bourbon. “It didn’t pan out.”

“You’re not going to let Elizabeth help are you?”

“Not if her help involves Morgan or Corinthos,” Jerry replied.

“Will you at least tell me what you’re up to?”

Jerry shrugged. “Where’s Skye?”

“Shopping with Elizabeth. What’s going on?” Jax asked. He leaned back on the couch.

“You don’t think Skye will give her any advice that involves forgiving that boyfriend of hers?” Jerry asked.

“I don’t know–but I don’t think Elizabeth will do anything she doesn’t want to. What’s going on?”

“You’re like dog. You latch onto one thing and you never let go.”

“Jerry.”

“His name was Roy DiLucca,” Jerry said finally. “I met him while he was working undercover, but he had a horrid gambling–”

“Roy?” Jax said, lunging to his feet. “He’s still alive.”

“Yeah, I figured as much,” Jerry said. “I managed to find that out when Felicia Jones said something at Kelly’s today. But he’s left town and my lead today was where he was. It didn’t work.”

“Roy DiLucca sold Elizabeth,” Jax said, trying to work the information out in his brain. “Roy.”

Jerry nodded. “He was dating Bobbie Spencer back then–but I didn’t meet her at the time.”

“Have you seen her since you’ve been back?” Jax asked. “Wait, how did Roy keep a child and Bobbie not know?”

Jerry shrugged. “How the hell should I know? I didn’t ask him–hell, I can’t find him.”

Jax ran a hand through his hair. “Maybe Spencer would know something.”

“Probably–and no, I haven’t seen her,” Jerry said. “I’m not going to seek her out–we didn’t part on the best of terms.”

“Yeah, you getting arrested the day of your wedding didn’t go over very well.”

“Well, Bobbie knew I was a little…” Jerry paused, searching for the right words.

“Stupid?” Jax offered.

Jerry glared at him. “You know, you’re not very supportive, little brother.”

“It’s hard to be supportive when you shoot down perfectly good suggestions because of a personal bias,” Jax pointed out.

“You don’t want Elizabeth near those thugs either, so don’t go playing the white knight with me,” Jerry replied, irritated.

“And keeping information like this from her isn’t going to help,” Jax reminded her. “I don’t think you want to take that chance this early in the relationship.”

Jerry shrugged. “I’ll tell her the next time I see her.”

“And you’ll let her ask Corinthos and Morgan if she wants to?” Jax asked.

“Why are you so hot to trot about their helping?” Jerry asked. He finished off his drink. “You’re not Sonny’s biggest fan.”

Jax shrugged. “Well, some people would say the same about you.”

“Some people would be wrong.”

“You know that you’re infuriating?”

“I thought we established that infuriating you was the reason I exist?”

+7

Elizabeth sipped her hot chocolate and glared at Nikolas Cassadine the next morning over breakfast at Kelly’s. “You know, just once in my life, I’d like to have a straight conversation with a guy without worrying if they’re keeping something from me.”

After ten minutes of staring into his coffee waiting for Elizabeth to explain why she’d called him at seven in the morning, Nikolas finally breathed a sigh of relief. “Jerry or Jason?”

“Jerry,” Elizabeth replied. “And don’t even get me started on Jason.”

“I thought you forgave Jason,” Nikolas said.

“I did–but then I told him about Jerry being my father and I got the distinct impression he’s not thrilled. Well, bully for him.”

Nikolas forced a smile down. “So, all’s not well in paradise?”

Elizabeth frowned. “Paradise? What in the hell are you talking about? I said I forgave Jason–I never said we’re back together.” She flashed a brief smile. “Try not to be too happy.”

“I’m not,” Nikolas said, fighting the urge to grin. “So, why not? You love him, you understand what he did. He loves you–I don’t see the problem.”

“I need things he can’t give me,” Elizabeth replied, shrugging. “Why the hell should I make all the sacrifices?”

“What things are these again?” Nikolas asked. “Refresh my memory.”

“I refuse to come last, I refuse to sit up and worry about him. I refuse to be seen as an extension of him when it comes to Sonny and I refuse to be an afterthought. I really don’t think that’s a lot to ask,” Elizabeth replied. “If maybe he would have called every once in a while so I knew he wasn’t, you know, dead, maybe we should have worked something out.”

“Yeah, maybe,” Nikolas shrugged. “Enough about the thug…what happened with Jerry?”

“Since you’ve been good lately, I’m gonna let the thug comment go,” Elizabeth replied. “Jerry came by last night–found out who sold me.”

Nikolas leaned forward, interested. “Really who?”

Elizabeth smirked. “When you think about it, it’s kind of funny. He sells me, he defuses a bomb in my studio, gives Zander a job that later enables the kid to shoot me…”

“Roy DiLucca sold you.” Nikolas stared at her. “You’re nuts.”

“You know what?” Elizabeth said thoughtfully. “If I am nuts, I wouldn’t blame me. After everything, the rape, Lucky’s death, Lucky’s return from the dead, the Cassadine/Spencer feud, that car accident, being kidnapped, shot, shot at, being locked with an infuriating amnesiac, waiting for sort of boyfriend to come home, dumping said sort of boyfriend, finding out that not only is a complete stranger my father, but that someone I knew sold me…who could blame me for being certifiable?”

Nikolas had to smile–but he forced it down quickly. “So why did he sell you?”

Elizabeth shrugged. “Damned if I know and for once, I think Jerry doesn’t either. He figures Roy, being involved with the mob at the time, got into some sort of trouble. How selling a baby helps him, I don’t.”

Nikolas grimaced. “You know, if it had anything to do with the mob…Sonny might be able to help.”

“That hurt didn’t it?” Elizabeth asked sympathetically.

Nikolas nodded. “You have no idea.”

She shook her head, laughing. “Poor baby, but you’re right. Sonny probably would have information–but it’s not like he’d tell me.”

“Would it hurt to ask?” Nikolas asked. “I mean, he can turn you down, but at least you would have tried. I bet Jerry wouldn’t suggest it.”

“No, no he probably wouldn’t.” Elizabeth paused thoughtfully. “I think I will ask him–what’s the worst he can do?”

“He’s head of the mob. You might not want to ask that,” Nikolas reminded her.

Elizabeth shrugged and smiled brightly. “Alleged head of the mob,” she said, cheerfully.

—-

Johnny knocked and opened the penthouse door where Sonny and Carly were having a late breakfast. “Elizabeth Webber.”

Carly’s eyes immediately narrowed as she stood to pounce. “What does she want?”

“Now, Carly,” Sonny made an attempt. He looked to Johnny. “Bring her in.”

Elizabeth entered. “Before you say anything, Carly, I come in peace.”

“What do you want?” Carly demanded. “Haven’t you done enough damage?”

Elizabeth shrugged and smiled sweetly. “No more than you have. Can I talk to Sonny alone?”

“Whatever you need to say–”

“Carly,” Sonny said. “Go visit Jason.”

Carly looked at Elizabeth triumphantly. “At least I can set foot over there,” she crowed.

Elizabeth shook her head amused. “It’s funny, Carly–I was just there last night.”

Sonny all but shoved Carly out the door before turning back to Elizabeth. “Elizabeth–”

“This has nothing to do with Jason,” Elizabeth cut in. “This has to do with me. I don’t know if he’s told you but I found out Jerry Jacks is my biological father–”

“You’re kidding.”

“Afraid not.” Elizabeth shrugged. “He lived here about twenty years ago, met Roy DiLucca and my mother, my mother was killed, Jerry left me with Roy to hunt down her killer, and Roy sold me.”

Sonny barely blinked. “That doesn’t sound like fun.”

“Jerry’s current theory is that Roy selling me had something to do with…” Elizabeth frowned. “Well, your business.”

“My business,” Sonny repeated.

“Not yours specifically,” Elizabeth said. She stopped for a moment. “Jerry told me the guy’s name. He had run-ins with Luke…what…Frank,” Elizabeth said, victoriously. “Frank Smith. The guy before you I guess.”

Sonny nodded. “Smith wasn’t always a good guy–makes sense. What does this have to do with me?”

Elizabeth fiddled with her purse strap. “I know you don’t like women in business and asking questions and all that…but I was wondering if you knew anything. See, I would like to know how and why I was sold to the Webbers and I thought since it might have something to do with you…or your business…you could…I don’t know…help me.”

Sonny didn’t say anything at first and Elizabeth stayed silent, figuring it was her best attempt at getting anything. Finally Sonny nodded. “All right–because I like you and I feel like this whole situation with Jason is my fault.”

“It is,” Elizabeth assured him.

Sonny smirked. “Thanks.” He headed to his desk and picked up a pen. “Okay, tell me everything you know, including about your mother’s murder. It might have something to do with it, you never know.”

“Okay.” Elizabeth took a deep breath. “My mother’s name was Elizabeth Robinson–”

Sonny dropped the pen and looked up at her. “You’re sure about that.”

Elizabeth frowned. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Elizabeth Robinson,” Sonny muttered. “I haven’t heard that name in years–Frank used to talk about her all the time.”

“He did?” Elizabeth repeated, surprised. “Why?”

“Frank had two daughters, Jennifer whom Luke nearly married and an illegitimate one, Elizabeth.”

Elizabeth groaned and rubbed her eyes. “So he’s my grandfather?”

Sonny grinned. “Appears that way. Man, I should have seen it–you look like her.”

Elizabeth looked at him curiously. “How did you know her?”

“I didn’t. Frank had a picture of her. I could get Benny to dig up one if you want,” Sonny offered.

Elizabeth smiled gratefully. “Thanks.”

“See, the thing about Elizabeth…her death was a mob hit,” Sonny told her, scratching his forehead. “One of Frank’s rivals knew Elizabeth was his favorite daughter and had her killed.”

Elizabeth’s eyes widened. “Are you serious?”

“Frank never mentioned a granddaughter,” Sonny murmured. He picked the phone up. “I’m going to have Benny dig up a report on her. Maybe it can shed some light. It’s possible that you were another way to get to Frank. If you want, I can have Benny start tracking Roy down.”

Elizabeth nodded. “That would be…that would be great.” She frowned. “Sonny?”

“Yeah?” Sonny replied, absently making some notes.

“When you faked your death…” Elizabeth paused before continuing, “Did you ever think about what lying to me was doing to Jason?”

Sonny stopped and looked up at her. “No…no I didn’t, and I’m sorry about that. I should have let him tell you from the get go. You’d always proved yourself trustworthy, there was no reason to think otherwise this time.”

Elizabeth bit her lip. “Then why didn’t you?”

Sonny sighed and turned around to lean against the desk. “I have a tendency to focus on one thing in life. And at that point, it was my family being protected. I didn’t let myself stop and think about anything else. As long as Carly and Michael were okay, then I could rest easy. I made a big mistake–I forgot Jason is more than an employee and he’s paying for my mistake. You walked away from him and there’s no he blames more than himself.”

Elizabeth looked down. “I forgave him last night,” she said quietly. Sonny looked, the hope in his face. “But we’re not getting back together,” she finished. “I love him–but that…that can’t be…it’s not enough.”

Sonny nodded. “I’m sorry to hear that. I wish it were different.”

“Me, too,” Elizabeth replied. “Just do me a favor. Remember that he’s your best friend the next time this happens and that he has feelings too, and the next woman in his life…” she stopped, forcing the words out, “the next person he loves, don’t…don’t treat her like she’s nothing more than temporary, because that…that’s not a good feeling.”

“Elizabeth…” Sonny stopped, not sure how to phrase what he wanted to say without crossing a line. “Elizabeth, Jason loves you–there’s not…there’s not going to be anyone else, you realize that right?”

“Please…please, don’t say that,” Elizabeth whispered, looking towards the door. “The only reason I can walk away is because I believe he’ll move on. You tell me something like that, I don’t, I don’t think I’ll be able to. So…please…”

“I’m sorry,” Sonny said–even though he wasn’t. “But I’m sorry if I ever made you think you were temporary. You are someone I care about, separate from Jason. I’ve let myself forget that these last few years, but hopefully, I can begin to remedy that situation by helping you now.”

Elizabeth nodded. “I have to go.” She opened the door and left.

—-

As soon as Jason heard the elevator, he was out the door with Carly hot on his heels. When they got back to the penthouse, Carly managed to ask the question before could.

“What did the twit want?” she demanded.

“Carly,” Jason warned.

“Elizabeth,” Sonny said, stressing her name, “needed some help. Carly, why don’t you go see Bobbie?”

“You know, you could just say get out of the room,” Carly replied, crossing her arms. “It’s not like you haven’t done it before.”

“Carly.”

“Fine!” Carly yanked her coat out of the closet and left.

“What help did Elizabeth need?” Jason asked.

“She’s trying to find out why she was sold,” Sonny replied. He picked up the phone and dialed. “Yeah, Benny? I need to find out where Roy DiLucca ended up. Oh, and I need a complete report on Elizabeth Robinson, Frank Smith’s daughter. Benny? Include a picture if you can. Thanks.”

“Elizabeth Robinson?” Jason asked. “What do you want with her?”

“She’s Elizabeth’s mother,” Sonny replied. “Mob hit. I think it’s related to Roy selling Liz.”

“Wait, wait, Roy sold Elizabeth?” Jason asked. “And she’s Frank Smith’s granddaughter?”

“Was…” Sonny paused to grin. “After all, Frank Smith is dead.”

“She’s related to one of the former families and we had no idea,” Jason stated, trying to wrap his mind around it.

“She didn’t either until I told her.”

“And you’re going to help her with this?” Jason crossed his arms. “Why?”

“Why?” Sonny repeated. “Because I like her, because I feel guilty about the way I treated her, the way I treated you. I don’t know–pick a reason.”

+6

Jax’s life wasn’t going well at that moment–Skye had moved him to the couch on a more permanent basis and Brenda was dying–but nothing cheered him up more than the sight of his brother speechless.

Elizabeth was standing in the middle of the room, her hair pulled up out of her face. Her eyebrows were arched, as if she were expecting an answer from Jerry. She had her arms tightly crossed and her mouth was set in tight line.

Jerry’s reaction to her news didn’t seem to be putting her in a good mood.

Jax raised his drink to his brother. “You wanted to be a father,” he said before drinking.

Jerry tossed him a look before returning his attention to Elizabeth. “Please tell me you’re joking.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “Why you are men so threatened when another man can provide answers he can’t?”

Jerry frowned. “That’s not why I’m mad.”

“Oh, really? Care to enlighten me?” Elizabeth asked tilting her head to the side in curisority.

“I don’t want you anywhere near Corinthos or Morgan,” Jerry said finally.

Elizabeth let her hands fall to her side. “Oh, for the love of…” She tossed her purse to the side. “At this point, I think I need a drink!”

Jax grinned. “Well, you did just turn twenty-one.”

Jerry glared at his brother. “Don’t encourage her.”

“Look, Jerry, I know this hard for you to understand,” Elizabeth began, “because God knows, you’re not the first person in my life that didn’t get it. Sonny and Jason are my friends and I’m not going to change that because you don’t like it. I didn’t do it for my grandmother, for Nikolas, for Laura, for Lucky, for–”

“All right, all right,” Jerry groaned putting his hands up. “I surrender. I’ll never speak another bad word about them.”

“I’m not that stupid,” Elizabeth retorted.

Jax grinned. “You two really are family,” he said, shaking his head in awe. “So what did Lucifer dig up?”

Elizabeth tossed him a dirty look but sighed. “He knew a lot about my mother.”

Jerry raised his eyebrows. “Why?”

Elizabeth shifted and finally pulled her leather jacket off. She roamed around the room restlessly. “Well…turns out Elizabeth Robinson was Frank Smith’s illegitimate daughter.”

“What in the bloody hell?” Jerry roared.

“Who’s Frank Smith?”

“He was in charge of the territory before Sonny,” Elizabeth murmured. “My mother’s death was a mob hit.” She looked up. “He’s going to get a full report on her and track down Roy.”

“You mean I dated and nearly married the illegitimate daughter of the biggest crime boss in Port Charles?” Jerry yelped. “How in the blue hell did I miss that?”

“You were blinded by love,” Jax suggested helpfully.

“Oh, get more drunk,” Jerry snapped. “Have another on me.”

Jax stood and headed for the bar. “Don’t mind if I do.”

“Does it matter?” Elizabeth asked. “We’re going to find out where Roy is and hopefully, he’ll have answers.”

“He wouldn’t tell me then, why would he tell me now?” Jerry asked, a little more calmly.

Elizabeth smiled sweetly. “He likes me–defused a bomb in my studio once. And you know something I’ve learned from waitressing? You smile the right way and men will do whatever you want.”

Jerry frowned. “I don’t know if I’m comfortable hearing that from my own daughter.”

Elizabeth shrugged. “Deal. And besides, if Roy needs any extra encouragement, I’ll just bring Jason.”

“All right, all right, hold it right there,” Jerry said. “Why would Roy listen to Jason and not me?”

Elizabeth paused thoughtfully. “Jason had a special way of communicating with people.”

“Yes, it’s called say hello to my nine millimeter,” Jax supplied helpfully.

Elizabeth looked at him, concerned. “You’re drunk aren’t you?”

“Just a bit.”

Jerry rolled his eyes. “Pay him no attention–he and Skye had another fight today.”

Elizabeth frowned and sat on the couch next to him. “Is there anything I can do?”

“Can you turn back time?” Jax asked, with the utmost seriousness. “Because that would be most helpful.”

Elizabeth smiled regretfully. “I’m sorry.”

Jax sighed heavily. “Yeah, me, too.” He sat up and swirled the liquor in his shot glass. “So you just going to sit around and wait for Lucifer to call back?”

“No,” Jerry ground out. He pulled his coat on. “I’m heading out on another lead. Elizabeth, do me a favor?”

“Anything as long the words Morgan and Corinthos aren’t included with the phrase stay away because I might have to kill you.”

Jerry frowned. “Okay, a different favor then. Stay with him–make sure he doesn’t drink too much.”

Elizabeth nodded. “Not a problem.” She watched Jerry leave before turning her attention to the increasingly intoxicated man sitting next to her. “Do you want to talk about it?”

“Not right now.” Jax turned his head on the back of the couch to look at her. “How’s your love life? You forgive Spawn yet?”

“Spawn?” Elizabeth raised her eyebrows.

“Morgan,” Jax clarified. “As in Spawn of Satan, as in Lucifer…?”

Elizabeth shook her head, amused. “Yeah, I forgave him.”

Jax looked at the ceiling. “So life is back to normal for you, huh?”

“No,” Elizabeth replied. She turned her body so she was mimicking his position staring at the ceiling. “I’ve decided that a relationship with Jason at this point in our lives where he has a blind loyalty to Sonny is not in my best interest.”

“Yeah.” Jax flicked his eyes over to her without moving his face. “How’s Denial Land doing? Is it nice this time of year?”

“Lovely,” Elizabeth murmured. “Reminds me of Italy.”

“You’ve been to Italy?” Jax asked. “Isn’t it a lovely country?”

“I’ve only been there in my dreams,” Elizabeth said regretfully. “Jason wanted to take me once…but I wasn’t ready.”

“Brenda and I got married in the Mediterranean the first time,” Jax said. “We got married on a yacht if you can believe that.”

“I don’t think she’ll ever think of yachts in the same way again,” Elizabeth replied.

“Probably not. So why weren’t you ready?” Jax asked.

“Because I thought I was still in love with someone else,” Elizabeth replied. “Stupid me–should’ve taken his hand.”

“Yeah, well, we all do things we wish we could take back,” Jax replied quietly. “How do you make someone understand that you don’t mean to do stupid things, but sometimes you can’t help it?”

“You can’t always make someone understand,” Elizabeth replied softly. “It doesn’t work.”

“Yeah. You’re right. So what do you do instead?”

Elizabeth shrugged. “Try to show them what they mean to you, how grateful you are that they’re in your life, and why you don’t regret choosing them.”

“Does that work?”

“Sometimes.”

“Has it worked for you?”

“I haven’t been doing that very well.”

“Pity. You could give me some pointers.”

“You should stop drinking so much when you and Skye fight,” Elizabeth murmured.

“Probably. I always wait until she’s gone. She’s a recovering alcoholic, you know. Damn proud of her,” Jax said.

“You really love her, huh?”

“About as much as you love Spawn.”

“You’re lucky you’re family and you’re drunk.”

“Yeah, well, in this family, the two sort of go hand in hand quite often.”

—-

“Did Roy get in touch yet?” Jason asked, pulling jacket off and putting it in the back of the chair.

Sonny looked up from the file he was reading and shook his head. “Things are in a weird position in Miami–it might be a few days.”

“What are you reading?”

“The file on Elizabeth’s mother,” Sonny replied. He held up a picture. “Beth Robinson, just before she died.”

Jason took it and studied the dark-haired woman in the picture. She was small and petite with blue eyes and porcelain skin–almost the mirror image of Elizabeth now. “She really does look like her.”

“Yeah.” Sonny stood and stretched. “I’m a little worried about this–I think Elizabeth’s being sold does relate to Beth.”

Jason frowned. “How so?”

Sonny looked back down. “Frank Smith met with Roy just after Beth’s death. Shortly after that, Elizabeth was sold or as far as she can tell from Jerry’s story.”

Jason nodded. “So you think Smith had something to do with it?”

Sonny scratched the back of his head. “Yeah. I’ve got a feeling about it. We’ll know for sure when Roy calls in.” He picked the file up and replaced the picture of Beth. “You want to drop this off to her? I promised as soon as Benny got it done. It went a little more quickly than I thought.”

Jason took it. “Sure. I need to talk to her anyway.”

Sonny hesitated before asking the question. “How are things with you and her?”

“She doesn’t hate me anymore.”

“That’s a good start.”

“Yeah, I’d say so.”

+6

Elizabeth was debating on whether to call it a night or continue painting when someone knocked on her door. Grateful to have a distraction, she pulled it open.

“Jason.” Elizabeth shifted from one foot to the other. “What brings you by?”

Jason held up a file. “Benny got the report on your mother.”

Elizabeth’s eyes lit up and she snatched the folder out of his hands. “That was so fast!”

“Benny’s good–” Jason hesitated and stuck his hands in his pockets. “Can I come in?”

Elizabeth nodded and moved away from the door to let him in. He closed the door behind him as she opened the file.

“There’s a picture,” Jason began but she pulled it out before he’d finished. She set the folder down and stared at the picture, her mouth open a little. “You look like her.”

Elizabeth looked up, her eyes shining. “You really think so?” she asked softly. He traced her mother’s face. “I thought you couldn’t see pictures that well.”

Jason shrugged a shoulder. “I know what you look like and you look like the woman in the picture. The brown hair, the eyes, the skin. If you ever had any doubt Jerry wasn’t telling the truth, this pretty much wipes it out.”

“I always wanted to look like someone,” Elizabeth said, studying her mother.

“You do,” Jason said. She looked up and frowned. “You look like you.”

She smiled briefly and looked back down. “It’s different for you–you didn’t grow up as the odd person out–the only person with dark hair, light skin and blue eyes.” She smiled wistfully. “I finally belong somewhere.” She flushed a little. “I’m sorry–I didn’t mean to go on like that.”

Jason shrugged. “It’s all right.” He scratched at the side of his forehead. “I’m sure if this is in there or not, but Sonny told me he found that Roy met with Smith a few days after Jerry left.”

Elizabeth frowned and set the picture down. She flipped the file open. “It’s pretty bare.”

“Yeah,” Jason agreed. “She was only twenty-one when she died.”

“Same age as me,” Elizabeth murmured. The folder contained only the basic information–but it was more than Jerry had, she suspected. But the picture–that was the important thing. She picked the picture back up. “I can’t stop looking at it.” Her eyes darted around the room before settling on a picture frame that she hadn’t taken down yet–of she and Lucky. She frowned a second, wondering why it was still up there, but she took it off, took out the picture and put the picture of Elizabeth Robinson in there. She snapped the back on and put the picture on top of a book about Egypt that was still in her studio.

Jason smiled slightly when he saw the book–it’d been the one he’d gotten three years ago. She’d taken it from him when he’d tried to use it as a piece of exercise equipment.

Elizabeth stepped back and smiled. “There. A picture of my mother where I can look at her for inspiration.” She looked back to Jason. “She was beautiful wasn’t she?”

“Yeah,” Jason agreed. “She was.”

“I know…I know I wasn’t born when she actually died,” Elizabeth said, “but do you think she loved me anyway?”

Jason shifted, not sure how to answer. Somehow the answer that it was impossible not to love her didn’t seem right at this point. “I think she probably did.”

Elizabeth seemed satisfied with the answer. “I’d better call Jerry.” She headed for the phone and quickly dialed Jax’s number. Jason waited–not sure if she wanted him to leave or not.

“Jerry? It’s me…Jason just dropped off the file on my mother–yeah, he said that Roy had a meeting with Frank Smith just after you left town. Uh, huh. Sure, I’ll bring it over.” Elizabeth eyed Jason and grinned. “I’m bringing Jason.” She frowned. “No. Jerry–don’t make me have to tell you again. I thought we discussed this–you know, you’ve been my father for three days, Jason’s been in my life for three years, yeah, well, don’t argue with me, it doesn’t work. Is Jax still drinking? He’s mumbling about spawns and Lucifer? Yeah, he’s still pretty smashed–tell him I’m bringing Spawn with me, but I promise to leave Lucifer at home. Uh huh. And that Denial Land is a great place to visit, but he should remember not to move there. Try to put him to bed–because I don’t think a drunk Jax gets along with Jason anymore than a sober Jax. Jerry…Jerry–don’t argue with me. I said–Jerry, you’re being an idiot, do you know that?” Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “Yes. Yes, I know. Yes, I know. Jason’s a bad man, uh huh. Just so we’re clear–who got arrested on their wedding day? Yeah, that’s what I thought. I’ll be over in about twenty minutes.” Elizabeth hung up the phone and smiled at Jason. “You know, I think he’s growing on me.”

Jason raised his eyebrows. “Spawn?”

Elizabeth flushed. “It’s Jax’s name for you. He’s a little…he’s in a weird place.” She picked up the folder and headed for the door.

Jason closed it behind him them as they headed down the hall. “So I guess Sonny’s Lucifer?”

Elizabeth held the stairwell door open. “Yep.”

Jason shrugged. “I’ve heard worse.”

—–

Jerry was an unhappy man. He’d thought the girl was smarter than this–he’d thought she understood that Morgan was no good. But she was bringing the thug to Jax’s house and he was supposed to be civil to him. Good grief.

He shot his inebriated brother a dirty look. Jax would be no help. He was currently half lying, half sitting on the couch, still clutching an empty shot glass. “You’d better put that away and try and act sober when Skye gets home from the club.”

Jax opened his eyes. “Why are you upside down?”

Jerry rolled his eyes and shook his head. “She’s bringing him.”

“Who?” Jax asked, blinking his eyes and attempting to sit.

“I believe you call him Spawn.”

Jax’s eyes brightened. “So she forgave the boy. Good, she’s no fun when she’s depressed.”

“You’d rather her be fun and with that…that thug?”

Jax swung his legs to the ground in an effort to sit straight but only pitched himself to the other side. Swearing slightly, he said, “I’d rather her be happy. If you didn’t have such a bias against the kid.”

“Kid? Will you stop calling him that? He’s Sonny’s enforcer–he’s a thug. Can we please keep this in perspective?”

“We’re here!” Elizabeth called opening the front door. She entered, Jason trailing behind her. She immediately made a beeline for the blonde on the couch. “Hey, you feeling any better?”

Jax frowned. “You’re upside down, too.”

Elizabeth giggled and helped to push him into a sitting position. “Is that better?”

“Much.” Jax grinned. “Hey Spawn.”

“Hello,” Jason said.

“Ah!” Jerry said, taking a few steps towards Jason. “It speaks.”

Elizabeth rose from her seat. “Jerry–”

“You hurt my daughter, we’re going to have a problem.”

“Jerry–”

“You hurt your daughter and you’re going to have a problem,” Jason replied calmly.

“Jason, don’t you start-”

“How old are you?” Jerry cut in swiftly. This was his moment–he was going to make this thug understood exactly who he was dealing with.

“Twenty-eight.”

“You realize you’re seven years older than my daughter.”

“Jerry–”

“Yes.”

“How long have you known her?”

“About four years.”

“Have you slept with her?”

“Jerry!”

“No.”

“But you’ve lived with her?”

“Jerry, so help me God–”

“Yes. But she moved out.”

“Do you love her?”

“For Christ’s sake, Jerry–”

“Yes.”

“Uh huh. And how long have you been in love with her?”

“Jerry, you’re going to be speaking from your ass if you don’t–”

“About three years.”

“Wait what?” Elizabeth asked, stopping her threats long enough to hear Jason’s response.

Jason shifted. “He asked, I told him.”

“Three years?” Elizabeth asked momentarily forgetting Jerry. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Could we have this discussion some other time?” Jason asked.

Elizabeth looked at her father, who was still glaring at Jason and then at her uncle who seemed to be enjoying the entire scene. “Sure,” she said. “Besides, we should…finish what we came to do.” She turned to Jerry. “I’ve already read through most of it. You read it and I’ll make some coffee for Jax. He needs to be slightly sober when Skye comes home.” She eyed the two of them warily before adding a warning. “Jerry, you’ve been my father for three days and so far, you’re doing a good job. Don’t screw that up. And Jason? You’ve been on my good side for like a day, so don’t…don’t hurt him.”

“I can’t make any promises, princess,” Jerry said, grinning at her. She arched her eyebrow. “All right. The thug will be alive when you get back.”

“That’s not what I was worried about,” Elizabeth said. She looked to Jax. “Jax…just…just stay there.”

“Will do,” Jax said cheerfully.

True to their word, all three men were more or less still standing when Elizabeth emerged from the kitchen with a cup of black coffee. Jax had fallen asleep and was snoring lightly but he woke the second Elizabeth shoved the cup under his nose. He drank it noisily as if knowing Skye would be home in a half hour and didn’t need to see him drunk off his ass.

Jerry was reading the file Elizabeth had given him while Jason was standing in the place she’d left him, hands in his pockets.

“Anything you didn’t know?” Elizabeth asked.

Jerry paused a moment to look up at her. “I’d say so. First of all, her death being a mob hit. Thought it had something to do with me–so I didn’t think of another angle. Second, her whole childhood. Smith loved her–more than Jennifer. Gives me a whole new theory of why Roy sold you.”

“Really, what?”

“Possible Smith sent me a goose chase, knowing I’d leave you with my close friend. The second he could, he called a marker in on Roy. Death or handing you over. Probably wanted you because how much he loved Beth.”

“Smith wasn’t really a family man,” Jason said. “Sonny said–”

“Sonny said,” Jerry said, mockingly. “Do you ever have an independent thought?”

“Jerry.”

“Sorry, princess.” Jerry cleared his throat. “Smith was a family man–at least then he was. He blackmailed Luke into almost marrying Jennifer because that’s what she wanted, Damien went to the best schools and would have taken over the business if Corinthos hadn’t stepped in. And if Beth was the one he loved best, it’s possible that if he thought he could still have her around by raising her child, he’d do whatever it took to get her.”

“But then why turn around and give me or sell me to the Webbers?” Elizabeth asked.

Jerry shrugged. “It’s possible Roy can fill us in on that. When did Corinthos say he’d be checking in?” he asked Jason.

“Sometime this week,” Jason replied. “He checks in once a week and he’s still due.”

“All right then,” Jerry said. “Well, we have a new theory–I guess it’s just matter of waiting until he calls.” Jerry closed the folder and turned to Elizabeth. “Your grandparents called–they’re coming in day after tomorrow.”

Elizabeth smiled. “I can’t wait to meet them.”

Jax, who seemed to have returned to the world slightly. “They’ll love you, don’t worry.” He moaned. “My head.”

“That’s what happens when you drink too much,” Elizabeth said, sympathetically. “You and Skye should talk tomorrow.”

“Yeah, if she doesn’t lock herself in the bedroom again,” Jax groaned.

“I think I liked him better drunk,” Jerry said thoughtfully.

+7