Prologue
Brenda Barrett was a famous singer. Her sister Julia was her manager and her two best friends helped. Ned was in charge of security and Lois was...well Lois was just in charge. The mail came for the day and she opened it. Her cry filled the room as she screamed out in fear. The letter fell from her hand. Ned was closest and he rushed into the room. Brenda looked up at Ned, fear apparent in her eyes. She shakily held out her hand to Ned so that he can take the letter. He took it curiously. It read in cutout letters from magazines "You are so beautiful, but nothing beautiful ever stays that way." Then there was a picture of her with her face cut up and blood everywhere.
N: "Who would do such a thing?" (He embraced her) "It's okay. I won't let anyone hurt you."
L: (ran in) "Hey, what's going on in here?"
B: "Oh Lo." She ran to her and threw her arms around her best friend.
N: "Someone has sent her a hate letter. Whoever it is the bastard is delusional, if he thinks he can ever get to Brenda."
J: (walked in. She looked at the scene unfolding feeling a tinge of jealousy course through her) "What's going on?"
Brenda turned tearful eyes to her sister and looked at Lois as she explained it to her.
L: "Someone's just trying to scare Brenda. It's nothing but an overzealous fan."
J: (she immediately felt guilty for feeling jealousy over her sister's success. Everything that came with the job wasn't fabulous) "Are you okay?" She walked over to her, taking her in her arms.
J: "I'm sorry."
B: (wrapped her arms around Julia and immediately felt comforted) "Thank you. I just want to know how I'm going to get through tonight's show."
N: "I'll double the security, it will concrete."
Lu: (walks in with a glass of vodka) "Why the hell everyone looking so gloomy?"
L: "Some jerk scared Bren. We're trying to calm her down."
B: "Well it's not helping!"
N: "Yeah, she's worried about the show tonight. You know anyone who's a good bodyguard? We will need extra protection."
Lu: (smiled) "Actually I do."
N: "Great. Can you call him?"
J: "Why does it have to be a male? You are so sexist Ned Ashton!"
L: "Ah put a sock in it Julia! We don't know who we're dealing with here. We need a guy!"
J: (looked shocked. She had only been teasing Ned, but she always did have the feeling that Lois had a crush on him. Well, whatever she thought) "So Luke what's his name?"
Lu: "Sonny Corinthos. He's the best I know."
N: "Sonny? What kind of name is that? Come here Sonny boy?" (He laughed) "Are you kidding me Luke?"
Lu: (shot daggers at Ned) "He's the best."
N: "All right, if you say so. Give him a buzz. We need him tonight. Then I'll see."
Luke shook his head and walked out of the room.
B: "I never got one of these before. It scares the hell out of me." She took the drink that Lois held out to her.
Sonny's phone rang and he picked it up.
S: "Corinthos." (All he could hear was grumbling on the other end about where he stayed, and why he lived so far from society and... he cut him off) "Spencer? Is that you?"
Lu: "Corinthos. Long time no speak! What you been doing with yourself lately?"
S: "Nothing much, just hanging around. To what do I owe the pleasure of hearing from you?"
Lu: "I've got a job for you."
S: "I'm out of that business. You know that."
Lu: "It'll be a huge favor for me if you do this."
S: (sighed as he rubbed his face) "What kind of job?" (Luke sighed in relief) "Don't get happy yet. I didn't accept."
Lu: "Protecting a friend of mine. She's been getting some nasty fan mail lately."
S: "What does she do?"
Lu: "She's a singer."
S: "Whoa, man that's out of my league."
Lu: "You won't regret this one man."
S: "Luke, I don't know. I'm not into the entertainment business."
Lu: "Brenda's more than an entertainer. She's a nice girl and this scares her."
S: "I'll meet her, see how things work, and then decide. Agreed?"
Lu: (thought for a moment and then nodded) "Agreed. What time do you think you'll get here?"
S: "Where does she live?"
Lu: "We're in New York. Manhattan."
S: "Give me 2 hours. I have to catch a plane. Meet me at the airport."
Lu: "I'll be there."
Sonny hung up the phone wondering what he was getting himself into.
?
-Chapter 1
Sonny pulled up into the estate and got in without any problem. He walked up to the door and tried the knob, it was unlocked. He walked in and looked around, no one was in sight. He heard music playing and walked towards the sound. There she was the most beautiful woman he had laid eyes on. He was spellbound as he watched her move to the beat. He didn't hear Luke come up behind him.
Lu: "Long time no see."
S: (turned around) "Luke, how's it hanging?" (He shook his hand pulling him into a hug) "Wow, you've lost some more hair! I didn't think it was possible."
Lu: (ran a hand over his head and laughed) "Respect your elders man! I can still kick your ass!"
S: (laughed) "I'd like to see you try old man." (He turned around) "So that's the gorgeous Brenda Barrett. She is beautiful."
Lu: (looked over at Brenda and nodded) "That she is. She's more beautiful on the inside though."
S: "Luke man, I'm not sure about taking this job." He would be distracted enough, considering the place had no security which worried him. But Brenda... she would be in a category all by herself.
Lu: "You haven't even given it a chance man. Give it a week. At the least!" He smiled. He knew what was going through Sonny's mind about Brenda. While his face remained impassive, Sonny's eyes always told another story.
S: (looked at him) "Luke man, you just don't know. I got into this place without a hitch. No one showed me in, besides you, no one even knows I'm here. What kind of security set up is this?"
Lu: "I know it's slacking. That's why we need you."
S: "Who runs security around here?" (Luke looked down at his feet. He cleared his throat and shifted) "You? Oh come on, man. I know you know better than this!"
Lu: "I just came back not to long ago. Personal problems." (He looked at Sonny and sighed) "It's not working huh?"
S: "No. Okay, here's how it is going to be. We're all going to sit down and talk about this. It will be my way or the highway. If anyone disagrees, they are gone or I am. You got it?"
Lu: (nodded) "We'll do it your way. But watch your tone. Brenda may be a looker, but she also has an attitude."
S: (looked over at Brenda) "I wouldn't doubt it. Well, let's get this show on the road. I'd like to know if I'm going to be staying or leaving. I could still catch a plane out."
Lu: "You'll want to stay. Trust me."
S: "Okay get everyone together."
He walked into the living room. He had to pass through and looked around as everyone started to come in. Sonny turned around at the sound of his name. Luke was making introductions. Lois, Ned and Julia nodded. Brenda was still to the side listening to music. Luke walked over to her and tapped her on the shoulder. Brenda slightly jumped and turned around quickly. She looked up at Luke and laughed. She took off the headphones.
B: "Hey, what's up?"
Lu: "There's someone I want you to meet darlin'." (He walked her over to Sonny) "This is my very good friend Sonny Corinthos."
S: (held out his hand) "Nice to meet you Ms. Brenda Barrett. I'm not sure on what you want to be called, Brenda or Ms. Barrett?"
B: (shook Sonny's hand) "Brenda. All my friends call me that. And hopefully you and I can be the same."
S: (dimpled) "I would like that." (He looked around the room) "I guess you are wondering why you are all here. I came here today to check and see if I wanted this job. I normally don't do entertainment, but Luke asked. I get here and I get in without a problem. Door is unlocked and I walked right to where Brenda was. No one saw me. I had enough time to kill her if I wanted to." (Brenda's eyes flickered and she instinctively moved over to Luke. Sonny looked at her sympathetically) "I'm sorry Brenda, I'm not trying to scare you. I just want all of you to realize how serious this is. You say she has a stalker, so security should be doubled. I see that hasn't happened. If I'm to accept this job, a lot of changes have to be made and my way. If you don't like it or don't want to be under me, let me know now please."
B: "Well I...."
N: (cut her off) "Who the hell is this guy Luke? No one comes in here and tells us how to treat Brenda. We LOVE her. We know what is good for her. Who the hell do you think you are?"
S: (looked at him) "You know what is good for her? What if I was stalker Ned, right? Okay Ned, what if I came in here and sliced her neck. Nobody was around to stop me. I could've done it and been gone by the time Luke saw me."
Lo: "You know he's right. We need to protect Brenda especially now. So what do you have in mind Mr. Corinthos?"
S: "A whole new security system. More bodyguards at events, the whole nine yards. I want to be your personal bodyguard, and be around you 24/7, but if you would feel more comfortable with someone else, I'd understand."
B: (slightly scowled) "I don't like the idea of someone having to follow me around everywhere I go."
S: "I understand that, but believe I don't like the idea of invading another person's privacy. I wouldn't do it if I didn't think it was absolutely necessary. Luke showed me the note, and it could be some psycho messing around or it could be someone who is dead serious. I don't want to take that chance of it being someone who's serious and I treat it lightly. Not to mention the fact that if you die, I don't get paid." He laughed trying to lighten the mood once he saw the fear register in her eyes.
B: (smiled) "Do you always make jokes at the worst times?"
S: "Sometimes. I guess my attempt to lighten the mood failed, huh?"
B: "No, you did all right. So when do you start?"
S: (smiled) "I can start right now if you would like?"
B: (cocked her head to one side and looked at Luke who was smiling) "If Luke trusts you then so do I. Welcome to our family Mr. Corinthos."
S: (dimpled) "Thank you… (slowly letting it roll off his tongue) …Brenda."
B: (slightly blushed and then looked at Lois) "Rehearsal right?"
Lo: "Right. Let's go."
Julia followed them as they left the room. Sonny sat down and looked between Luke and Ned. Ned was scowling.
S: "Excuse me, but do we have a problem?"
N: "No, everything is just fucking hunky-dory." He got and left.
S: (looked at Luke) "What crawled up his ass?"
Lu: (turned to Sonny) "He didn't think you would do a good job. He usually finds the security."
S: "Oh, well he didn't do a good job. So now tell me, what is Brenda Barrett like?"
Lu: "Brenda is the sweetest person you would ever meet, unless you cross her. She's a likes jumping the gun every now and then, which can cause a problem." (He looked at Sonny to gauge his reaction and continued) "She's single."
S: (laughed) "She seems like a really nice girl. Fiery, I like that. Hey, you think you know me so well don't you? I wasn't even wondering about her in that way!"
Lu: "Yeah right. I know you better than you think I do!"
S: (smiled mischievously) "Okay, well she is beautiful. A man is free to look! Besides, if I got involved with her it would only complicate my job. I need to be as objective as possible." (He listened to the music coming from the next room and could picture her moving) "Which is going to be damn hard."
Lu: (laughed as he lit a cigar) "I'd love to see you try to resist her."
?
-Chapter 2
Brenda was in her dressing room. Julia was finishing Brenda's manicure. Luke was reading a paper. Lois was checking the final touches on everything. Sonny was looking around to see if there was anything out of the ordinary and Ned, was in a corner scowling. Ned knocked on Brenda's door, opening it. He walked in.
N: "You look beautiful. You're going to knock them dead tonight."
Brenda smiled nervously. Julia finished with her nails and walked out of the room. Ned leaned against the vanity.
B: "Is everything secure?"
N: "I don't know, ask that Corinthos fellow. Brenda, I still don't see why we need him. All his damn rules, I could've handled it fine you know!"
B: "Ned, let's not get into this." She stood up.
Ned just looked at her. He felt bad, this was his best friend, but he wasn't able to protect her. He had placed that job, his job, in the hands of a complete stranger and it hurt like hell. "Okay, Brenda. I'll drop it, but just tell me one thing. Do you really trust this guy?"
B: "Luke trusts him and I trust Luke with my life."
N: (sighed) "Okay. I guess I'll give him the benefit of the doubt for you. I want you go out there and feel safe is all."
B: "I'll be fine. And you'll still be there." (She walked up to him and hugged him tight) "You're still my best friend Ned."
N: (He held onto her tight) "I know, I just feel so helpless. I'm supposed to be the one making you feel safe not him. But then again you always did say I was jealous. I'm only proving you right, so from now on no more complaints from me."
B: (pulled back and smiled) "Good, cause I hate when you whine!" He poked out his tongue and exited the room. He gave Sonny a hard look but didn't say anything. Sonny knocked on Brenda's door.
S: "It's me Sonny, are you decent?"
B: "Yeah, come in."
S: (walked in. He stopped dead in his tracks) "Wow, you look lovely."
Brenda looked down at herself. She was wearing a form fitting long skirt with a slit down on side that reached mid-thigh. The tank-shirt was tight and covered her halfway. Her sculpted stomach was exposed.
B: "Just part of the job."
S: (having problems breathing) "Uhh... I just wanted to tell you... umm, everything looks good out there."
B: (let out a sigh) "Are you sure? I mean I don't want to be anymore nervous than I already am."
S: "Believe me everything is fine. If something goes wrong I'm going to be right there to help you."
B: (She nodded and spoke softly) "I'm trusting you on this."
S: (his voice got low) "Thank you. It means a lot to me."
Brenda smiled and looked away after a minute. She needed to get focused and this man was dangerously distracting. Luke walked into the room.
Lu: "We're ready for you darling."
Sonny smiled at the interruption. He knew if he was trapped with her any longer, he would do something, his mind was begging him not to. He held open the door. "After you pretty lady."
Brenda blushed and walked out of the room.
Lu: "Sonny...."
S: (shook his head) "I know man, I know. Believe me I'm trying to resist it, but the urge is so damn strong."
Lu: "Promise you won't break her heart, I'll have to hunt you down!"
S: "If I break her heart you won't have to hunt me down. I'd willingly die. She's so damn beautiful; she's too good for me. I shouldn't have took this job."
He looked out on the stage as the MC announced Brenda to the crowd. The crowd cheered as Brenda stepped onto the stage. She smiled brightly and waved at everyone. She looked over at Sonny and took a deep breath as she tried to relax. He nodded to her that everything would be okay. Brenda shushed the crowd by placing her finger on her lips and then began to sing sweetly.
~I know that when you look at me
There's so much that you just don't see
But if you would only take the time I know in my heart you'd find
A girl who's scared sometimes
Who isn't always strong
Can't you see the hurt in me?
I feel so all alone~
The crowd was mesmerized by her voice. They sat in silence swaying to the sound of her mellow voice. Sonny was spellbound. He had never listened to her before and he realized how much he was missing. Brenda continued to sing throwing a glance his way.
~I wanna run to you (oooh)
I wanna run to you (oooh)
Won't you hold me in your arms
And keep me safe from harm
I wanna run to you (oooh)
But if I come to you (oooh)
Tell me, will you stay or will you run away~
Sonny's eyes locked on hers for a second, before she was forced to look away. His palms were sweaty and his breathing became ragged. He couldn't believe she was doing this to him. She was just a woman, a beautiful woman, but a woman.
~Each day, each day I play the role
Of someone always in control
But at night I come home and turn the key
There's nobody there, no one cares for me
What's the sense of trying hard to find your dreams
Without someone to share it with
Tell me what does it mean?~
Sonny couldn't believe the words to the song. They fit his life exactly. Why? Why was everything starting to unravel? Why did she have this effect on him? He didn't know how he was going to get through this job or if he even could. He wiped the perspiration off his face.
~I wanna run to you (oooh)
I wanna run to you (oooh)
Won't you hold me in your arms
And keep me safe from harm
I wanna run to you (oooh)
But if I come to you (oooh)
Tell me, will you stay or will you run away~
S: (under his breath) "I'd stay."
He realized what he had said and looked around hoping no one had heard him. Luke was the closest one to him, but wasn't paying him any attention. Just then a crazed fan jumped on stage with a flower, extending it to Brenda.
~I need you here
I need you here to wipe away my tears
To kiss away my fears
If you only knew how much
I wanna run...~
Brenda threw a panicked glance at Sonny as she accepted the rose. Sonny walked out of the stage and gently removed the boy from the stage. He looked at Brenda asking with his eyes if she was okay. Brenda nodded.
~I wanna run to you (oooh)
I wanna run to you (oooh)
Won't you hold me in your arms
And keep me safe from harm
I wanna run to you (oooh)
But if I come to you (oooh)
Tell me, will you stay or will you run away~
Brenda was still a little shaken and went to walk off stage. A person in the audience yelled out that she couldn't leave them with only one song and two guys broke away and got on stage. Then a couple more. Soon it was a mob of people and Sonny punched his way through the crowd. He got to Brenda and lifted her up in his arms. He continued to kick his way through the mob. Brenda tightly held onto Sonny. She buried her head into his neck and prayed that they got out of there safely. She began to shake involuntarily. He got her out of the club and into the limo. Luke was there and told him to go ahead, he would get everyone else home. Sonny nodded. He shrugged out of his jacket and wrapped it around her.
S: "I'm sorry. I should have got you off sooner."
B: "No, it's okay. You didn't know it was going to turn out that way."
S: "It's my job to know. I don't know if I should stay on working for you." The limo began making it's way to Brenda's house.
B: "Did you get distracted?"
S: (looked at her intensely) "Very."
B: (looking out the window) "Of what?" She turned to him.
S: "What would you say if I said it was you?"
B: (looked at him intently and then began to shake her head) "No..."
S: "But it was, your singing, the way you looked. You had me in a trance and I'm not supposed to be in one. I'm supposed to be able to concentrate and I can't seem to do that when you're around. I'd understand if you wanted to fire me." He looked at her closely, trying to figure out what she was feeling.
Brenda stared into his eyes and gasped softly. He had the most beautiful eyes she had ever seen.
B: (softly) "I don't want to fire you."
S: "Good, because I don't want to leave." (He caressed her cheek, then realized what he was doing and took his hand away) "I'm sorry, I probably shouldn't have done that."
B: (looking at his lips while he talked) "Huh?"
S: (chuckled) "I said "I want to sex you up!" (Brenda looked at him funny) "I'm kidding... I knew not to try my singing voice so soon. I was apologizing for touching you."
B: "Oh, I don't mind. If I did, I would've stopped you."
S: "A woman who speaks her mind, I like that."
B: (smiled) "Well I do that... a lot! So get used to it."
S: (dimpled) "I think I can do that." (He reached out for her again, when the car stopped. He looked at the window) "Well, looks like you're home."
B: (looked out the window) "Yeah, guess I am. Um...are you coming inside?"
S: "Yeah, actually that is something I forgot to talk to Luke about. What is the name of a good hotel, that is near here?"
B: "Well, why would you go to a hotel? This house is big enough. I even have a guest house if you'd like."
S: (looked uneasy. He knew if he stayed there, the temptation would be too great) "Ummm, where's the guesthouse?"
B: (saw the hesitation in his eyes and smiled) "Don't worry, you'll have complete privacy. It's on the end of the land, and as you can see, my property is huge."
S: "I know you need your rest, but do you think you can show it to me?"
B: "Yeah it's no problem." She picked up the phone and rang the chauffeur. "Take me to the guest house."
The car began to move. They arrived and Sonny got out helping her out. He looked around.
S: "Not bad for a guesthouse. It has what 5 bedrooms, 4 baths, large kitchen, TV room, and living room? I've seen better." He smiled.
B: (laughed) "Well, I wouldn't want you slummin' it!"
S: "Oh no, we can't have that." (He extended his arm) "After you, my lady."
B: (smiled and unlocked the door. She turned on the lights and looked around) "So, what do you think?"
S: (looked around) "I think this is wonderful. Of course I will have to make some security changes if you don't mind that is?" He looked at her. God, she was beautiful.
B: "That's your job."
S: "Okay... Tomorrow, I want to sit down and we will get started on the plans. But as for the house. I like it and I would be honored to stay here."
B: "And I'd be honored to have you here. I think you and I could become very good friends." Brenda looked him over. *I think we could become even better lovers*
Sonny looked at her. *I think we could be better lovers.* His eyes broke away from hers guiltily although he could have sworn he saw desire apparent in her eyes.
B: (cleared her throat) "So I um... I'm gonna go home now. I'll see you tomorrow?"
S: "Wait!" (She turned around) "You can't go up there by yourself. Come on I'm going with you. I can walk back over here after the others arrive."
B: "I have the limo, I'll be fine."
S: "No, I insist. Look, Brenda, let me do my job okay?" He escorted her out to the limo and got in after her.
B: (sighed and shook her head) "Are you always this pushy?"
S: "Only when I have to be. Come on admit it, you like it, don't you." B: (smiled softly) "A little. But don't get used to telling me what to do Mr. Corinthos. I don't take orders very lightly."
S: "Believe me, I can tell. Just note I don't take them either." He looked at her intensely.
B: (looked back at him and then felt the car stop. She spoke breathlessly) "We're here."
S: "Yeah."
Neither one made a move. They both jumped when they heard a rapping on the door. Brenda looked out the window and saw Lois. She pressed the button for it to roll down.
B: "What?"
L: "Why are you two waiting out here? Everyone is inside worried sick. Are you okay? Oh, was I interrupting something? Sorry, carry on. I'll just tell them inside..."
S: "Lois, it's okay. We were on our way in. Weren't we Brenda?"
B: "Yeah, I just brought him back from the guest house. He's going to be staying there"
Brenda looked at Sonny and then stepped out of the car.
S: (looked at her, knowing the moment was lost) "Well, you have someone here with you so I guess I'll be leaving. I'll see you in the morning?"
B: "The meeting. Right." (Brenda took a deep breath and let it out slowly) "Thanks for tonight. I owe you."
S: (looked at her with desire) "I'll hold you to it."
He walked away towards the guesthouse, thinking about all the things he wanted to do to her.
?
-Chapter 3
The day after, everyone was gathered around the living room waiting for Sonny to start talking about the changes he was going to make. Brenda sat on the love seat, her legs tucked underneath her. She ran her fingers through her hair as Sonny began to speak. Sonny eyes flew to the movement of her hands.
S: "We are hair...I mean here today because I want to change a few things security wise. This place is secluded which can be a good or bad thing. I like it, but we need to get cameras all around the estate, and a security system at the gate. Ned, I know you are supposed to be in charge, so if you would like, I'll give you run of that."
N: "Oh, thank you for granting me the honor." He sneered at him.
B: (sighed and looked at Ned) "You think we can stop with the sarcastic comments just for today?"
Ned looked at Brenda apologetically. "I'm sorry. If you don't think I'll screw it up." Brenda glared at him. "I was being serious. If I'm going to mess something up I'd prefer to stay out of it."
S: "I wasn't offering to soothe your ego Mr. Ashton. I wouldn't recommend it if I thought it would be a danger to Brenda." He stared at her hard.
Brenda slowly turned her eyes to Sonny. Their gazes locked. She felt her face heat up and looked down at her hands.
Lu: "We know you want to do what's best Sonny. Don't we Brenda?" He looked at her.
B: "Of course we do."
S: "Good. Ned, I will put in the calls for the necessary equipment, then TOGETHER you and I will go over what should go where. Then I leave the overseeing of it in your hands."
N: (looked at Brenda) "Thanks."
S: "No problem, I think you are very capable. Brenda? I need to ask this one more time, are you comfortable with me being your personal bodyguard?" His eyes filled with desire as she licked her lips to moisten them.
B: (her heartbeat quickened. She took a deep breath) "Very comfortable."
Lo: "I need to know we can REALLY trust her with you Corinthos. Remember what happened last night."
S: "Did I not handle the situation?"
J: "A bit too late."
B: (spoke up) "That was my fault. I told Sonny beforehand not to get involved unless I gave him a signal."
S: "Look, I can't predict when people are going to rush the stage all at once. If it was left up to me, she wouldn't have any gigs until this guy was caught."
B: "Well it's a good thing that's not up to you."
S: (looked at her) "Yeah, guess not."
J: "You should've been there before it got that hectic."
B: "I just told you that it was my fault Julia, don't blame him."
S: (looked at Julia addressing her) "Look Ms. Barrett, if you want me gone then just say the words and I'm gone."
Julia started to speak up but Brenda interrupted her. "Julia doesn't have a choice in this matter."
S: "Whatever, I need to get out of here for a while." He walked out.
B: (watched him go and then turned to Julia) "Just what the hell is your problem?"
J: "What? His job it to protect you. That was not what I would call protecting you last night."
B: "And I already told you what happened last night. I'd appreciate if you'd keep your thoughts on Mr. Corinthos to yourself. No one here needs to hear it." She stood up and walked out of the room.
Sonny was walking down the path to the guesthouse when he heard Brenda calling his name. He turned around to wait for her.
S: "I don't need your help."
B: "Too bad, you're gonna get it anyway."
S: "What is it with you? Didn't I tell you, that I can't do this with you. I can't do my job correctly if emotions are involved."
B: (stepped up to him and looked into his eyes) "You can't help what you feel Sonny....and I wouldn't want anyone else protecting me but you."
S: (looked at her) "Brenda... don't... I can't do this now."
B: "Do what?" She reached up and slowly carressed his cheek.
S: "Oh God, do that... or this." (He reached down framing her face and brought his lips crashing down upon hers. Brenda moaned and opened her mouth under his gentle probing. She placed her hands on his as they kissed each other passionately. They slowly pulled away from each other. Brenda looked up into his eyes, desire apparent. Sonny brushed away a strand of her hair off her face) "We can't do this Brenda."
B: "But it feels right Sonny... look me in the eye and tell me that it doesn't."
S: "I can't because it does FEEL right Brenda, but it's NOT right. If I got involved I would be doing a half ass job and I can't go for that."
B: "Don't you see? If you get involved you'd do a better job because you don't want to see me hurt. This could work."
S: "Picture this for me, okay? A guy breaks in and we have just finished making love. How am I going to protect you after that, huh? It would make me vulnerable and weak."
B: (tears sprang to her eyes) "And you're saying that sitting outside my room all night is a better solution?"
S: "At least then I could protect you. Oh baby, please don't cry. I want this just as much as you do, but it is my job to think straight and when I'm with you, I can't."
B: "I don't want to let this go Sonny. I...I don't want this to stop just when it's starting."
S: "C'mere." He pulled her into his embrace. "When this is over, I promise you, we will explore this."
Brenda settled herself in his arms. She placed her head on his chest. "What if it's never over?"
S: "It will be. I won't let this bastard hurt you Brenda. I will find him. I promise you that, and I keep all my promises."
B: "Then you promise that we can try again as soon as this is all over?"
S: "I promise sweetheart. But you can't keep doing this to me. I can't resist you, so you are going to have to help me make this work."
B: (looked down at her hands) "I can try, that's about all I can give you." (He tilted her head up) "That's all I can ask." (He kissed the tip of her nose) "Let's go back to the house. I want to go over that note again."
Brenda sighed and nodded. They silently walked back to the house. Lois greeted them at the door.
Lo: "Bren, we gotta go over the costumes for next week."
B: (nodded. She looked at Sonny) "I'll meet you later."
S: "Yeah." (He watched her walk away then felt an hand on his arm. He turned around.) "Hey Luke, what's up?"
Lu: "I was about to ask you the same thing."
S: "What do you mean? Everything's fine. Julia just pissed me off earlier. I needed to take a walk."
Lu: "Well Julia can do that to a person. But I mean what's up between you and Brenda?"
S: (looked away) "Nothing, why would you think there was?"
Lu: "I love the way you still act like I don't know a thing about you. I see it in your face."
S: "Damn, I hate that you know me so well. Luke, I can't stop thinking about her. She's in my waking and sleeping thoughts. All I want to do is hold her in my arms and rip off her clothes and... Oh sorry, you probably didn't want to know all that. But man it is so hard to deny myself her."
Lu: (nodded and they silently began walking towards the study. As they settled themselves on the couch, Luke began to speak) "I don't think you should deny yourself. You're fully capable of being with her and protecting her at the same time."
S: "I tried that before and you know what happened. I can't put myself through that again. I won't."
Lu: "Things are different now. You learn from your experiences."
S: "Right! I learn not to get involved with the boss."
Lu: (sighed and shook his head. He withdrew a cigar from his inside pocket and examined it) "What happened wasn't your fault."
S: "I was supposed to be there for her."
Lu: "You were there."
S: "I was there and I didn't save her. I couldn't protect her. Do you know how that eats me up inside to know I was right there. She died because I was helpless, because I was vulnerable. I will not let that happen to Brenda."
Lu: "You were shot in the process of saving her, doesn't that count for anything?"
S: "NO! I shouldn't have been shot, because I shouldn't have been in her bed! Don't you get it! If I had of been doing my job and not fulfilling my needs then she would still be alive today." He ran his hands through his hair as the memories flooded his mind.
Luke didn't speak. He watched as Sonny stared off into space. Ned and Julia walked into the study and looked at them.
J: (to Sonny) "Aren't you supposed to be working?"
S: "Julia, do you have a problem with me? Is there something I did to you in a past life? Because whatever the fuck your problem you need to get over it because I'm not going anywhere."
J: "I won't have someone kill my sister because you don't know what the hell you're doing!"
S: "Well, I think Brenda has already made it clear that this is no business of yours. She thinks I'm the right man for the job, so I could care less what you think. Luke, I'm going out. Ned, come with me please."
N: "What for?"
S: "We need to go look at those things I was talking about." Ned nodded and followed Sonny out of the room.
Lu: (turned to Julia) "What do you have against him? The truth this time."
J: "I don't like him, that's all."
Lu: "What is it his looks? The dimples? The way he walks? Wears his clothes? Or are you just going to be a bitch because that's what you do best?"
J: "Shove it up your ass Luke. The man is doing a bad job protecting my sister. She rushed on the stage yesterday, hello? Does anyone find that a bad thing besides me?"
Lu: "He got her out of there. And you didn't like him BEFORE that, so bring on another excuse."
J: (looked away guiltily) "I see the way they look at each other. Shouldn't he be concentrating on keeping my sister safe and not on getting her into bed."
Lu: "He's concentrating on his job which is why he can't let anything happen between him and Brenda, no matter how much he wants to." Luke paused. "Are you jealous?"
J: "What would give you a crazy idea like that? The man repulses me!"
Lu: "Yeah right." Luke stood up and walked towards the door. "Just keep your comments about him to yourself. We wouldn't want to make your little sister unhappy now would we?" He walked closed the door behind him.
Julia stared at the door. It was always about Brenda, no one cared about her. But she would show them all.
?
-Chapter 4
Sonny and Ned were scoping out the where the best places for the cameras would be. They walked past the balcony where Brenda was standing. Sonny's eyes were immediately drawn to hers at they connected. Electricity coursed through his body as he saw the look in them even from the distance he was at. He licked his lips and looked away, knowing if he didn't he would never be able to. Brenda leaned against the railing and watched Sonny and Ned walk. Her gaze lingered on him as he tried so hard not to look back. She smiled. There was NO WAY he was going to be able to stay away from her. They finished up and Sonny left Ned to direct the workers. He went into the house for a glass of water. He saw Julia and changed his mind. He didn't feel like a confrontation with her again. Then again, he wasn't going to let her run him off.
S: "Hello Julia." He walked over and poured him a glass.
J: "Sonny."
S: (continued to drink his water. Julia stared at him as it slid down his throat. Sonny looked over at her) "Is there something wrong?"
J: (shook her head) "How's the uh... the security thing going?"
S: "Fine, Ned is handling it well."
J: "I thought you were in charge."
S: "Did you even pay any attention in the meeting? I gave Ned the job of being in charge because I know he is in charge of security. I want him to get the feel of it for when my job is over."
J: "When do you think that will be?"
S: "When I catch the bastard."
J: "Will it be soon? I'm sorry for all of the questions, but I'm worried about my sister."
S: "I don't know Julia. The guy hasn't tried anything, which is good. This could mean that it was just a cruel joke. But it could also mean that he is plotting. I will stay as long as it takes."
J: (nodded) "Don't leave her sight."
S: "I would die before I let anything happen to your sister. You can believe me when I say that."
J: (stared at him for a while and gave a nod) "I believe you."
S: "Good. Now if you would excuse me, I need to go check with Ned." He turned and left.
Julia stared after him and sighed.
Sonny stalked down the hall and almost out the door when he ran straight into Brenda.
B: "Sorry."
S: "No, I should've watched where I was going. Are you okay?" He stared into her eyes. Damn she was so beautiful.
B: "Yeah I'm fine. I just came in from taking a walk. Needed to sort some things out."
S: "Oh, be careful. We aren't through with security yet."
B: "Well, I don't want to feel sheltered in my own home."
S: "You won't be. I just want you to hold out on long walks until the security system is up and running. Is that too much to ask?"
B: (tilted her head and smiled softly) "Anything for you Mr. Corinthos."
S: (couldn't help but to dimple) "Are you flirting with me Ms. Barrett?"
B: (innocently) "Who me?"
S: "Is your sister lurking somewhere around? Yes you."
B: (smiled) "Well I can't help myself when I'm with you."
S: (held her hands) "But you have to, remember our deal?"
B: "That little thing?"
S: (groaned) "There is no way I'm going to be able to do this without your help. I want you too bad. I want you so much right now, I can taste it. BUT, it can't happen. I thought you understood and agreed."
B: "I understand... didn't really agree..."
S: (sighed) "So, are you going to make it difficult or easy for me?"
B: "Haven't decided yet."
S: "OH?"
B: "I mean..." (She trailed her finger down Sonny's chest) "...it depends on my mood."
He caught her hands, pulling her to him. His mouth inches from hers. "Why can't you let well enough alone?"
B: "It's not my style."
S: "What is?"
B: "Getting what I want."
S: "This isn't sounding good for me. Dare I ask what you want?" His eyes lighted with mischief.
B: "You... in my bed."
He knew what she was going to say, but the sound of her voice saying it, sent chills through his body. Then it all came back. He pulled away from her turning his back. His voice started to crack.
S: "I can't... Brenda, please, just trust me on this. It is not in your best interest."
B: "What do you know about what my best interests are?"
S: "I know they are to be alive. I know I can't protect you if we are "together." I know that... I just know okay."
B: "What are you keeping from me Sonny?"
S: (tears came to his eyes) "Please, Brenda. Don't make me remember."
B: "I wanna understand."
S: "I... I fell in love with a girl I was protecting once. I would've given up the world to save her. I came close. Once after making love, the guys after her came in and shot me. They killed her but made sure I was awake to see it. Then they shot me again for good measure. I didn't die, and I have to live with that on my conscious everyday. I'll be damned if I let that happen again. Not to you." (His hand ran down her cheek.) "Not to you."
B: (held Sonny's hand to her face and sighed) "I'm so sorry."
S: "Do you see? Do you see why I can't allow myself to get involved with you? I can't let that happen again. I would kill myself before I let anything happen to you sweetheart." His hand continued to stroke her cheek.
B: "But you loved her..."
S: (looked away) "Yeah..."
B: "Then it's different."
S: "Is it?"
B: (looked at her) "Yes because you don't love me. You don't have that extra weight on your shoulders."
S: "The weight is there, Brenda. I don't care how beautiful a woman is, I don't sleep with people without there being something there. So maybe it's not love, but it is something. And if you don't feel it then I'm sorry, maybe what I thought was in your eyes wasn't." He turned to walk away. Brenda quickly grabbed his arm.
B: "Sonny, no!" (He turned to look at her) "It's more. So much more."
S: "Is it? I don't know anymore Brenda."
B: "Can't you see? Can't you feel it?"
S: "If I didn't feel it, I wouldn't care so much Brenda. I mean yes, it is my job, but I want to fucking kill this bastard for scaring you. I want to hold you in my arms and shelter you from the pain. But I can't knowing that I might inflict more pain on you in the process."
B: "I can't be without you Sonny... and the sad part is, I haven't even had you yet."
S: (pushed his hands through his hair) "What are you saying Brenda? Are you saying that you don't care about what I just told you? A woman is dead because of me. I will not let that happen with you! I won't! You know I want you, but it can't happen. I won't let it! I'm sorry. I really am." He left her staring after him.
?
-Chapter 5
Brenda was on her bed looking through fan mail. She picked up the last one and ripped the envelope open. She began to scream as she looked down at it. Sonny, Ned, and Luke ran into the room. Sonny knelt down beside her.
S: "What is it?"
Brenda pointed a shaky finger towards the note that was on the bed. Sonny picked it up. He looked at it with a look of disgust. Written in blood were the words: YOUR TIME IS COMING TO AN END SOON! Her picture was beneath it with her face cut in shreds. Sonny handed it to Luke and sat down beside her. He put his arms around her.
S: "You okay? I'm here, nothing is going to happen to you. I swear."
B: (began to cry uncontrollably) "I... want... this... over."
S: (rocked her back and forth, stroking her hair) "Shhh, sweetheart. I know you do." (looked towards the others) "Can you give us a minute?" (Ned sighed and walked out of room. Luke nodded slightly and walked out. He closed the door behind him) "I hate seeing you like this. What can I do to take away the pain?" (Brenda didn't answer, she just looked into his eyes. His hands ran under her cheeks wiping away the tears with his thumbs. He brought her back into his embrace laying back against the bed, her head against his chest) "I promise to never let anyone hurt you, ever. You trust me don't you?"
B: "Yes."
S: "Then believe me when I say you are safe with me. And I will do everything I can to find this sick fuck."
B: (softly) "I know you will Sonny. Thank you."
S: "Don't thank me yet. Besides the faster I find him the faster we can explore what we have between us."
B: (supported herself on her elbow and looked into Sonny's eyes) "I'm looking forward to that."
S: "So am I." (His hands moved the hair of her face.) "You are so beautiful. I can't believe you aren't taken."
B: "I'm waiting for the right one." She looked over his face. "I'm waiting for you."
S: "Oh God, Brenda. Do you know what you do to me when you look at me like that? You are making this so hard on me."
B: "I'm sorry. I'm trying here Sonny... I really am."
S: "I know you are. I do. I think it is best if I leave. Do you want me to send Lois or Julia in to be with you?"
B: "No."
S: "So you would prefer to be alone? Are you sure?"
B: "I want you to stay here."
S: "Brenda... that probably wouldn't be wise."
B: "I'll behave. I promise."
Sonny looked at her wearily. He couldn't resist those eyes, that mouth… that… whoa he had to get his mind back on track.
S: "Okay. I'll stay. What do you want me to do?"
B: "Just hold me."
S: "I can do that. C'mere." (He sat back down on the bed, leaning against the headboad. Brenda went into his arms. He laid his head against hers, kissing the top of her forehead.) "I'll always be here for you Brenda."
B: "You promise?"
S: "I promise."
B: "Then I know you'll do eveything in your power to keep that promise."
S: "Of course." (He tilted his head down and looked at her) "What are you getting at?"
B: "That I know you're gonna be around. For me. For us. You told me that you never break a promise."
S: "I never have and I never will. But you also must understand that I'm a bodyguard. That is what I do for a living. I go where I must to work."
B: "Yeah. I know. I'll get used to that."
S: "I could die at any given moment. Are you sure you want a relationship based on that?"
B: "Rather than have none at all?"
S: "I don't want to cause you undue stress. Not knowing if I'm dead or alive can be hard on a person."
B: "You're starting to get on my nerves."
S: (looked surprised) "Okay fine, go into it with your eyes closed. I don't care."
B: (sat on the bed) "This is MY choice, not yours!"
S: "I will not have you coming to me because I didn't WARN you about my life! Most people would be APPRECIATIVE of the fact that I was laying everything straight, but oh no, not you!"
B: "I appreciate it and I'm saying that it doesn't matter. Don't you see that I love you?" Brenda gasped as the words flew out of her mouth.
S: (looked at her) "What?"
B: "I..."
S: (he went over to her) "Say it again." Brenda shook her head. "Why not? Did you not mean it? I want to hear you say it again."
B: (tears in her eyes) "And then what?"
S: "And then we go from there. I... Damn it! It wasn't supposed to be like this. It's all happening to fast. I love you too, but..."
B: "What?"
S: "We are supposed to be taking our time. We're not supposed to... Oh God, Brenda you have no idea how much I want you right now. To kiss you, hold you, make sweet love to you."
Brenda gasped. Tears slowly slid down her cheeks. "Tell me you love me again."
S: (smiled as he touched her tears) "Why? You wouldn't tell me again?"
B: "I love you. I love you more than anything."
Sonny couldn't resist any longer. His hands framed her face as he brought her face into his. Their lips connected as his tongue probed her lips apart. Brenda moaned and leaned into him as she kissed him back passionately. Sonny pulled her closer as Brenda wrapped her arms around him. Sonny laid her down on the bed as his hands ran up and down her thigh, bringing her leg up around his hip. His hand traveled under her shirt to touch her skin. It was hot to touch as though there was a fire inside of her yearning to go out. He pulled back.
S: (whispering) "What are we doing?"
B: "What's right."
S: "But it's not."
S: "Not yet… anyway."
B: "Sonny..."
S: "Brenda listen to me. I want to cherish every moment that I spend with you. I want us to have something to look forward to. I want us to wait on this. Please, understand?"
B: (let out a deep breath) "I understand."
S: (caressed her cheek, as he rolled to his side) "Are you disappointed?"
B: "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't."
S: "I'm not saying we have to wait until I catch this guy. Quite frankly I don't think I can wait that long either. But I do want us to wait, and like actually go out on a date or something."
B: "I guess I can live with that."
S: (chuckled) "I never thought I would be the one putting the halts on a night with a lovely lady. Something must be wrong with me."
B: "No... it's me. I should learn when to drop things."
S: "Whoa whoa. I don't want you to drop anything. I want you, Brenda." (He could see the doubt in her eyes) "I do. I just want the moment to be perfect."
B: "Okay."
He knew she was disappointed and nothing he said would make her feel otherwise. He felt this was his cue to leave, and maybe if she thought about it, she would see his side.