A Grand Romance Chpt 9 & 10

by: Venus

Here is the next installment of this story. As always comments, opinions, ideas and even constructive criticism is welcome. Thanks again to all those who continue to encourage me..........especially Deb (DKH23), I do appreciate it!

Chapter 9

Mac Scorpio’s House 9:00 am

“Let’s review what we know so far, okay?” Mac had been going over the evidence, what little he had with Felicia, V, and Robin for about an hour now.

“Alright, I’m ready”, Robin said as she entered the living room from the kitchen, carrying a glass of orange juice, “I just still don’t understand why someone kidnapped you and replaced you with a look a like Why do they need the look a like?”

Felicia sat down next to Mac on the couch. She reached across the table to the stack of documents Mac had sitting on the coffee table. As Felicia picked up a piece of paper Mac slapped her hand.

“Hey knock that off. See Robin this is your Uncle Mac, always needing to be in charge.” Felicia laid the paper back down and scooted herself further back on the couch.

“Felicia, I have spent the better part of an hour, putting these documents in chronological order. Now we need to go back through this and see if anything seems out of place, or doesn’t fit.” Mac flashed a look of concern to Felicia.

“Sir, I mean Mac, I’ll take notes just to see if you say something that might click later.” V said as she opened up her notepad, and took her pencil from behind her ear.

“First we have the picture of me taken in Australia which Tess gave Felicia the first night they met. Now since this was about the time I was protecting Miranda, and posing as her husband, I think we should start there with the investigation.”

Mac stated matter of factly.

“Do you think there could be a connection between Miranda and this plot to kidnap you?”, Felicia asked tentatively.

“Well, other than Jax, and his family, Miranda is the only one who would have pictures of me during that time period.” Mac stated with certainty.

“Uncle Mac, how can you be so sure it doesn’t involve someone you locked up while being Police Commissioner?” Robin questioned, still a little uneasy that he had been kidnapped.

“Robin, I am sure I have made my fair share of enemies, it comes with the territory. What we have here are some clues, and we have to start there first. The picture, the lack of information Jimmy had about me and you Robin.”

“That’s true, he didn’t seem to know about mine and Jason’s relationship or lack thereof, so if it was mob related, I would think they would have certainly exploited it. Plus he didn’t seem to know my connection to Brenda, or why me leaving

school would be a big deal to you, or not spending time with me.”

Felicia shook her head in agreement and spoke “I think that is what made me question the behavior most Mac, that Jimmy didn’t seem to want to spend anytime with Robin.”

“It would sure help if we could get more information from Jimmy.” V interjected.

“I really don’t think he was given much, I think he is just a pawn in all this, a means to an end. That’s the question to what end?” Mac asked as he spread his arms wide open.

V stood up and started pacing, she turned towards Mac and said, “Why don’t you tell us about that time in Australia, when you met and protected Miranda. Possibly those same people are still after Miranda and they are trying to find her

through you.”

“It’s not a story I like to share. Those were some of the worst days of my life, and although I have never tried to be someone I wasn’t like Jax, I still have tremendous guilt over the actions I took. Those actions changed several people lives

forever.” Mac had lowered his eyes as he spoke.

“Uncle Mac maybe this is something you would feel more comfortable just working with V or Felicia on. I don’t want you to think that I would love you less for what you did in the past but I can understand if you don’t want to share those times.

Everyone has secrets they don’t like to share. I’m glad you let me know what was going on so I can play along, and so I can keep an eye out but if you would feel more comfortable without me here.” Robin’s eyes were filled with compassion.

“Thanks Robin, I think it might be better to just keep you informed on the need to know basis. I am really glad we got to spend some time together last night and this morning.” Mac stood up and met Robin half way and embraced her. “I love

you.”

“I know.” Robin returned the hug and kissed him on the cheek. She went up to her room to get her bag.

“Mac do you have any pictures of the time period? Maybe some of you and Miranda? Felicia questioned hoping that they could get a break and find out why all this was happening.

“Yeah, I do have some things from that time, not many but a few. I’m sure they are up in the attic with all my old stuff.” Mac answered.

“Why don’t you and Felicia see what you can find, and I’ll go check on my guest Jimmy. If you come up with something why don’t you come up to my loft before starting you shifts at the Outback. In the meantime I will run a search on Miranda.”

V said as she put her notepad in her purse and put on her coat.

“Alright but don’t say anything yet to Jax about this, especially investigating Miranda.” Mac warned V as he opened the door.

“Mums the word Mac. This is a needs to know basis case.” V nodded in agreement as she walked towards her car.

Mac closed the door and leaned against it. “Let’s just hope she is a better investigator than she was a waitress.”

“Mac, she’s the one that convinced me something was wrong with you. I’d say she has proven herself.” Felicia countered.

“Yeah, your right but what if she finds out the her employer or his family is behind all this. Then what side is she going to fall on?”

“One thing I know about V Mac, she will fall on the side of right vs. wrong. You really don’t think Jax had anything to do with this kidnapping do you?”

“No Felicia I don’t but his brother Jerry, now that is another story. I’ll tell you about it as we search through the stuff in the attic.” Mac motioned to Felicia as he started to ascend the stairs. Felicia was right behind him.

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Suite 2901-Port Charles Hotel-10:00 am

The phone was ringing as Ashley entered her suite room. She moved quickly to the desk and laid the photo album down as she picked up the phone.

“Hello.”

“Ashley, it’s Jerry did you find it?”

“Jerry, I just came in. I have it here in my hands.”

“The photo album, you found it?”

“Yes, you are so right about Jax, he is extremely organized.”

“Yep, that’s my bro, a place for everything and everything in its place. So tell me where, and how were you able to get it out of his penthouse without him seeing you?”

“The laundry service was leaving his clothes this morning, and left the door ajar while they were putting them in his room. I was able to sneak in and wait inside the guest room until she left. The photo album was in the top of the closet with

several other photo albums.”

Jerry wondered out loud, “You sure you got the right one?”

“Well it’s just as you described and it did have the dates in it as well as inscribed with “Honeymoon - 1990.”

“How did you get it out of there without Jax seeing you?”

“It was pretty easy considering he wasn’t there.” Ashley smiled at her achievement.

“He wasn’t there?” Jerry questioned a note of concern in his voice.

“No, I figured he must have went to Manhattan on business yesterday, and didn’t make it back due to the snow storm.” Ashley replied.

“Wait Ashley, what are you saying? Are you telling me you haven’t seen Jax at all?” Jerry was trying to not let his emotions show through in his voice.

“I haven’t seen Jax since night before last at the party for the Dock renovation project. We had tentatively said we’d get together last night after his meetings but he never called or showed up, and I tried his room a few times after 6:00 p.m. but

no answer. I checked with the desk clerk who said he saw Jax leave as he was coming on shift around 5:00pm. I guess you found a way to get him out of the penthouse so I would be able to get in and get the photo album? I really didn’t like

getting stood up Jerry, it’s never happened to me before.” Ashley stated a little annoyed.

“Listen Ashley, I’m going to have a car for you outside in about fifteen minutes, to take you to the airport. I want you and that photo album here as soon as possible.” Jerry said anxiously.

“Jerry, what’s going on? I thought you wanted me to stay in Port Charles until the gala and ribbon cutting ceremonies?” Ashley replied confused by Jerry’s quick change in plans.

“I don’t want to take the time to explain right now Ashley, just get packed quickly and meet the car downstairs. I will explain this to you when you get here.” Jerry’s voice was more controlled.

“Okay, if it’s that important I’ll hurry, I just hope they have reopened the airport.”

“I’ll make sure you get here just leave it to me. See you soon.” Jerry didn’t wait for Ashley’s reply he hung up and buzzed Addie.

Ashley stood holding the phone as she heard Jerry hang up without a good-bye. She looked down in disbelief as she put the phone down.

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Chapter 10

Crystal Lake

9:30 am

Jax and Brenda sat on the stone bench overlooking the Crystal Lake, frozen solid from the frigid temperatures of the last few weeks. Several children already were on the ice, laughing, skating, falling. Their parents either watching from the

shore or skating with them. Jax already had put on his skates, and teased Brenda as he helped her finish lacing up her new skates.

“Perfect fit.” Brenda said excitedly as she stood up, and balanced herself. She smiled down at her new skates, admiring the fit and then looked directly at Jax sheer pleasure beaming across her face, “Thanks Jax.”

“Your quite welcome, now let me see just how good you are,” he challenged her.

With that she skated off, leaving him standing on the edge of the lake as she sped out onto the ice. She skated slowly once around the lake to warm up. When she had a strong feel of the ice and the skates, she made her way to the center of

the lake. She raised her arms above her head and started spinning quickly.

Jax stood in awe. “Is there not a winter sport she isn’t good at?” he wondered aloud. She was spinning like a ballerina on ice, so beautiful, so graceful.

He joined her on the ice, coming up from behind he wrapped his hands gently around her waist and she slowly stopped spinning. "You didn't tell me you were a world class skater." He whispered in her ear, as he nuzzled her neck.

“Oh, that. Wait until you race me, then you’ll see how good I am.” She enthusiastically responded.

“Someone sounds a little sure of themselves this morning. Just how long have you been skating Brenda?"

"Ever since Daddy shipped me off to boarding school in Switzerland. It gave me something to do that I was good at. You know how much I liked studying." Brenda shrugged her shoulders and rolled her eyes. "I really thought I might have

been good enough to do it professionally, but I broke my ankle at 16 and I couldn't skate for almost a year. So I found other things to hold my interest. Skating never was important after that." Brenda tried to hide her disappointment.

"Dare I ask what held your interest?" Jax asked mockingly.

Brenda smiled, raised her eyebrow and asked "Jax I don’t think you would want to know, let’s just say those experiences made me what I am today.” She batted her eyelashes and swiveled her hips.

“A total flirt!” Jax laughed.

“It seems my charms haven’t been lost on you Mr. Jacks.” She smiled remembering last night.

“You caught me in a weak moment. Believe me I’ll be on guard from now on.” Jax looked down at her adoring her so, he couldn’t get over the affect she had on him.

”Wanna race?” Brenda asked as she tilted her head back against his chest, her face flushed.

"Sure. Care to make a wager on this race?” he responded mischievously, as he squeezed her tightly.

“Only for the highest stakes possible. You game?” she winked as she skated free of him and positioned herself as though she was in a starting block.

“Well, I don’t believe I can lose with that kind of wager Miss Barrett,” he laughed knowingly. They had played for these stakes many times before, it was their favorite game.

“Maybe you should give me a little head start, considering your stride is two of mine,” she said coyly.

“You think I should do you? Seems to me that is what you said to me the first time we skied those slopes in Banff, and you made me the same wager. Do you remember how that turned out?” Jax was enjoying this little game of cat and

mouse. He had lost too many times to this very petite beautiful woman. What she didn’t have in size she more than made up for in enthusiasm and speed. He knew he was being set up and he wasn’t going to fall for it this time.

“Sure, why not. Ladies first and all.” Brenda still acting innocently rocked gently back and forth on her skates.

“Not a chance. If you are going to beat me, it is going to be fair and square, and with all out speed. No head starts, remember what we are playing for. No way am I losing to you on this wager.” Jax shook he head defiantly.

“We'll we will need someone to do the official start. How about we race two times around the lake and finish back here okay?", Brenda waited for Jax to agree.

"You sure you want to go that far Bren?," Jax questioned uncertain if Brenda was in shape enough.

“Why Jax, afraid you can’t last that long?” Brenda teased unmercifully.

“Believe this Brenda, stamina has never been a problem, you should know that by now.” Jax shot back, he voice filled with confidence.

“Well I manage to keep pace with you quite well Mr. Jacks.” Brenda smiled back at him like the cat the swallowed the canary.

“Okay, two trips around the lake, winner takes all.” Jax agreed.

"There's my paper boy Jimmy, let's ask him, if he will be our official starter.” Brenda waved Jimmy over.

“Hi Miss Barrett.” Jim smiled as he skated up to her.

“Good morning Jimmy.”

Jax could tell immediately that Jimmy had a crush on Brenda, what boy wouldn’t. Jax extended his hand to the young man, probably all of nine years old. “Hi I’m Jax. How would you like to be our official starter and judge of this small race

between me and my friend Miss Barrett?”

“Sure. You really going to race her?” the boy questioned Jax.

“She thinks she can beat me, I have to prove to her how wrong she is.” Jax answered almost to cocky, as he flashed Brenda his trademark grin.

Brenda winked at the boy, she had been paying Jimmy to be her official starter for the past few weeks. Her and Jimmy had become great friends and business partners. She was sure he had made more money in the past few weeks

wagering on her races, than he ever made on his paper route. Most of her competitors were male, and all had been suckered into giving her a head start, not that she would have needed it, but it gave them something to fall back on when their

egos had been deflated from losing out to a “girl”.

“Can you believe he won’t even let me have a head start?” she asked demurely to Jimmy.

“Boy mister you are alot bigger than her, don’t you think you should give her a head start?” Jimmy asked innocently, the same question he had posed to all her previous marks. He had witnessed first hand her speed over the past few weeks,

she hadn't lost a race yet.

“Jimmy, Miss Barrett has been challenging me to various races for two years. I have been set up by her head start program, more than once. No, this time we have agreed she needs to win on pure speed alone.” Jax eyes sparkled as he

confirmed their decision.

“How many times around are you going?” Jimmy asked now wondering if Brenda had finally met her match.

“Twice.” Both Jax and Brenda said in unison.

“We’ll need something to use as markers for the turns.” Jimmy said.

Brenda took off her hat and scarf and Jax did the same and handed them to Jimmy. He took them and placed them on the ice.

Jax positioned himself on the right side of Brenda and also extended himself into the ready position. He placed his palm out upright. Brenda nodded and slapped her palm against his sealing their wager.

Jimmy skated back to them and raised his arm. “On your marks, get set, ready, go!” Jimmy hollered, as he dropped his hand.

Jax broke first off the starting line. Brenda had caught and passed him by the first turn. Jax passed her again on the straight a way and was ahead by five or six strides as they entered the second turn.

Everyone on the ice had moved to the outside of the lake, and became onlookers, cheering Brenda the supposed underdog. Brenda was making up ground by the 3rd turn, but Jax pressed on still maintaining a four stride lead.

Jimmy had skated to the sidelines and began taking wagers the moment they had left the start line. He had backed the underdog Brenda as he had each time she had raced, but this time he was a little uncertain on whether or not that was

wise.

Jax definitely wasn’t letting up as he flew into the 4th turn, and blew past Jimmy completing the first lap around the lake. Brenda was now almost 15 strides back and the onlookers felt the race, was surely over. As Jax neared the 1st turn on

the second lap he glanced over his left shoulder to see Brenda still skating fast, trying to keep up but clearly falling back. Jax was beginning to wonder if this race might not be to tough on Brenda, since she really hadn’t been working out much

since the breakdown. He eased up his speed feeling confident he had the race in hand and didn’t want to beat her too convincingly.

Brenda saw Jax straighten ever so slightly, slowing his speed gradually. She loved it, he was still so predictable. He would always be the gentlemen, making sure he never embarrassed her. It was what she appreciated the most about him,

but also the one thing she could exploit when a wager was on the line. She had been pacing herself on the first lap, basically building up her momentum, getting the feel of the ice, and now she could make her move. Brenda went into the 2nd

turn of the second lap hugging the curve, keeping her body as close to the ice as possible, swaying her arms back and forth in large sweeping strokes.

Jax had just entered the 3rd turn when he heard the crowd on the sidelines start to cheer. Before he could look over his shoulder to see how far behind Brenda was, she was passing him on the inside of the curve, her body grazed his.

Stunned he staggered briefly, then just as quickly regained his balance but not without losing speed.

Brenda was now a full six strides ahead of him and was three quarters the way down the back stretch on her way to the 4th and final turn to home. Jax knew he had to pour it on but was sure he could still catch her. Jax bent himself down

closer to the ice and stretched his strides as long as he possibly could. He was closing in on Brenda as they hit the final turn for home. Brenda yelled out over her right shoulder, “Catch me if you can!” and with that she exploded with a burst of

speed.

Jax was now just two strides behind her. He made a move to come up on the inside of her, they were less than 20 feet from the finish line. Just as he approached her she cut him off and he pulled back, had he not he surely would have

crashed into her full force. With that moment of hesitation, she was able to keep the lead and win by a skate length as he steadied himself on her right and leaned forward a step to late to the finish line.

“Winner and still champion, Miss Barrett!” Jimmy yelled excitedly as he skated towards her to congratulate her.

“What did you say, still champion?” Jax head turned towards Jimmy wondering if he had truly heard him correctly.

Jimmy smiled, “Yes, winner and still champion. She has owned this lake this year. No one has beat her yet. Boy was that close." Jimmy wiped his brow amazed she was able to pull off the win.

“Oh really, so she has been practicing has she.” Jax said as he shook his head and wagged his finger at her.

Brenda laughed, and clapped her hands together. “Well I wanted to practice before I used the new skates you bought me. You're right these are lightning fast.”

Jax had skated up to Brenda and had wrapped his arms around her waist facing her, he looked down on her. “You can still surprise me, but we both know you cheated.” he whispered in her ear as he tickled her sides gently.

Brenda twisted slightly side to side to keep Jax from really tickling her. She moved in closer, their bodies now tight against one another. “I won fair and square! You ready to pay up?” she teased as she kissed him full on his lips. Passion

and desire, mixed with the pure pleasure of winning.

Jax reached down and picked her up in one swoop and tossed her over his shoulder. He skated off the ice with her. She just smiled to the onlookers and extended her arms as though she was flying. At that moment she felt she was,

happiness was such a freeing emotion.

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Just my thoughts and opinions once again!

Venus

goddess of love

&

"official J&B angel"

IRFC