Circle of Love-16

by Kathleen

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Thank you for all the feedback on this story. Please continue to drop me a note. This one is dedicated to Geneva and Lynnette as appreciation for their feedback.

RATING: "R"

Please note, this is the only version of this chapter of Circle of Love.

CHAPTER 16 -- The Past Meets The Present

Wednesday, July 25, 2001

The Jacks Residence -- 6:00pm

Jerry's head was spinning, the whole day had been like a nightmare. Julia was at the airport fleeing from him and the news that Brenda was carrying twins and Teddi, the woman he had promised himself he would forget, suddenly was not so forgettable as she stood before him in the driveway. Teddi still looked like a porcelain doll with her dark hair, ebony eyes and flawless complexion. Incredibly, Teddi was even more beautiful than she had been when he had left her in London almost eight years ago.

Teddi realized that Jerry was a million miles away and she repeated her statement. "Yes, Jerry. It's me."

Jerry took a deliberate breath as the sound of her British accent brought more memories into his head. "Teddi, I can't believe it's you."

She gave him a bewildered look. "You didn't know that John had invited me to Port Charles?"

Jerry returned her look with an even more perplexed one. "No." He shook his head slightly. "How would I know Tei Ling Kwan was Theodora Reed?"

Teddi sighed softly. "I stopped using my western name after I returned to Beijing several years ago."

"I didn't know." His voice was not much louder than a whisper.

Teddi looked at him intently. "Is it a problem?"

Before Jerry could speak, the front door opened and John stepped outside. "Jerry, have you already scared off the new head of our management team?"

Teddi turned around and smiled at John. "I'm not that easily scared off."

John chuckled. "Somehow I knew that about you." He then spoke to Jerry. "I see you two have met."

Jerry took a deep breath. "Yes, we have met."

"Good, now we can go inside before we head into town." John extended his arm to Teddi and they walked toward the door. He looked over his shoulder at Jerry. "Son, are you going to stand out here all night?"

Jerry finally began to move his feet forward and walked into the house behind John and Teddi. Jane was in the foyer speaking to Teddi about her flight when Jerry came through the door. A few moments later, Jax and Jillian came down the stairs.

John turned to Teddi. "Tei Ling, this is my son Jax and his lovely daughter, Jillian."

"It is a pleasure to meet you." Jax smiled brightly as he shook Teddi's hand. "Welcome aboard."

Teddi returned Jax's smile. "Thank you Jax. I am honored to be a part of J & J Jacks." She then knelt down in front of Jillian. "And hello Jillian. You are a beautiful little girl."

Jillian beamed. "Hello. You look like Mrs. Yee's doll in the restaurant. She is sooo pretty."

"Thank you." Teddi brushed her fingers along Jillian's chin. "How old are you sweetheart?"

"This many." Jillian held up three fingers. "But my birthday is soon and I'm gonna be four years old."

"You are a little lady then." Teddi stood back up. "I have a little boy who is going to be five very soon."

Jerry was taken aback by Teddi's statement. He was not sure he could picture the rebellious young woman he once knew in her new role as a mother. He stood in the corner of the foyer and watched the interaction between Teddi and Jillian. They seemed to be instantaneous friends and suddenly he realized that Teddi fir the maternal role to a tee.

Jillian looked up at Teddi. "What's his name?"

"His name is Tsao Tron but we call him Tron."

Jillian nodded. "Tron. That's a good name." She then looked behind John and saw Jerry. Jillian began waving at him. "Hi Uncle Jerry. Mommy is upstairs waiting for you."

Jerry waved back. "Hello Jillian. I will see your Mommy in a few minutes."

Jane looked at her watch. "We had better head into town for dinner so that we can get Tei Ling to the hotel at a decent hour."

John nodded his head. "Yes, we should. Tomorrow we will discuss the final plans for the management team and fill Jax in tomorrow night."

Teddi turned to Jax. "I heard your wife is recovering. I hope she is feeling better soon."

Jax smiled. "Thanks. Brenda is much better but I'm going to make sure she takes it easy for the next few days. I hope you get the chance to meet her before you leave town."

"So do I." Teddi returned his smile.

John clapped his hands together. "Okay, let's be on our way."

Teddi waved to Jillian and Jax. "Good night. It was a pleasure to meet you both."

Jax and Jillian waved back to her. "Good night."

Teddi then turned to face Jerry. "Good evening. I will see you tomorrow."

"Good night. We'll talk in the morning." Jerry slowly exhaled as he finished speaking.

Jane kissed Jillian good-bye as Jax opened the door for them and signalled for Virgil. As John, Jane and Teddi walked out the door, Jerry's eyes followed each of Teddi's steps until she reached the limousine. It was still unreal to him that Theodora Kwan had just walked back into his life.

Jax's voice brought him out of his fog. "Jerry, are you all right?"

Jerry took a sharp intake of air. "Yes, fine."

Jax took Jillian's hand. "We are going to go outside for a few minutes before dinner and Brenda wanted to see you alone."

Jerry swallowed hard as he was brought back to reality. He suddenly felt the weight of Julia's letter in the inside breast pocket of his jacket. "All right. I'll go up."

Jax looked at him with pleading eyes. "Jerry, she's upset about Julia. Whatever you can say to..."

"I understand." Jerry hated the look of fear that he saw in Jax's eyes. It was the same look that Jerry saw when he looked in a mirror these days.

Jax took a deep breath. "Thanks."

"You're welcome." Jerry patted him on the arm as Jax led Jillian outside.

Jerry walked into the den and poured himself a drink. He drained the glass in one gulp and then took a deep breath before going upstairs. He tapped on the door to the bedroom area of the master suite and Brenda called for him to come in. Jerry found her sitting on the chair by the window. She was watching Jax push Jillian on the swings.

Jerry cleared his throat. "I thought you would be resting."

Brenda turned to face Jerry as he approached her. "I was but the calls of nature don't allow for long stretches of rest."

Jerry walked over and hugged her. "Congratulations!" He gave her a smile. "It's wonderful news."

Brenda bit her bottom lip. "Jerry, you don't have to say that. I don't want you to..."

He shook his head. "Don't. You and Jax's happiness means a lot to me and I am delighted for you." He then gave her a devilish grin. "Besides I can't wait to see what you look like carrying two children in that body."

Brenda exhaled softly. "Thank you." She took his hand. "But I'm still worried about you. You look like hell."

Jerry sat on the chair next to her. "Don't worry about me, you just worry about yourself and those babies. And the same goes about Julia."

Brenda took a sharp intake of air as she shook her head. "I'm sorry that she's gone. And I'm sorry about how upset she must be."

"Please don't." Jerry shook his head again. "Julia wants you to be happy too." He pulled the letter out of his breast pocket. "This is for you."

She reached out and took the envelope. "When did she write this?"

"This morning." Jerry stood up. "I will give you some privacy."

Brenda reached out and grabbed his hand. "Stay... Please. I think you should hear this. I think you need to hear this."

"Okay." He sat back down in the chair.

Brenda removed the stationery from the envelope and let out a ragged sigh as she opened the letter. She then began reading.

My Dear Brenda,

I am not sure that you will ever be able to understand this but I must leave town for now. I won't go until I am sure you are home safely and that the twins are fine. But at that point, I will be gone and I have to hope you can come to terms with that.

I can't leave without wishing you and Jax my heartfelt congratulations. You both deserve so much and I will pray that you be given every ounce of happiness that is out there for you. I know that such wishes should be given in person but I have neither the courage nor the strength right now to do so. I hope one day that you can both forgive me for that. Until then, I can only trust that this letter will convey at least a portion of what I am feeling right now. I will never be able to capture it completely with words but I must try for you, for both of us.

You were always the brave one, Brenda, even when life took its toll on you. Since you were a little girl, you have reached for everything you have ever wanted even when the odds were stacked so high against you that success seemed unattainable. But that never stopped you, in fact I believe it inspired you. You have not changed and that tenacity will see you through all your fears now. I can't begin to imagine what you are going through right now but in my heart, I know your dreams will come true.

Please hold onto that thought now as you and Jax face the next several months. Brenda, you are courageous and determined and those qualities will continue to guide you through all your emotions and during the good times and bad. I see those attributes in Jillian all ready and I only wish I could find them within me now. Until I do, I'm afraid I will not be of much help to you or Jerry but I need for you to know how I feel. I hope you can understand and forgive me one day. I have to hope the same about Jerry but I have to leave for now. It is not brave nor determined, but it is where I am now. It is the answer for me.

I must ask you to make me a promise. I need to know that you are only concerned with Jax and Jillian and those precious children you are carrying. Please promise me that you will leave your worries about me and Jerry to us. It is the only answer for you now and I must ask that you do this for all of you. I love you and I need you to promise me this. I'm counting on all your dreams to come true.

All my love,

Julia

Brenda could barely get through the last paragraph as her tears were clouding her eyes. Jerry took the letter from her and passed her a kleenex from the bedside table. His own tears stung his eyes.

Brenda blew her nose. "I'm sorry."

Jerry shook his head slightly. "She won't let me help her and I can't do anything until she does."

"I know and I'm even more sorry about that." Her voice was still choked with tears. "I did the same thing and I know how costly it could have been."

Jerry looked at Brenda and took her hand. "She's right though about you. And you have to stop worrying about Julia or me and just concentrate on yourself." He helped her get up. "I think you should get some rest before Jax comes up here and sees you like this and proceeds to tear my head off."

Jerry helped her into bed and handed her another kleenex. "Okay, now you just envision all those dreams that are going to come true." He put Julia's letter on the nightstand. "Take care Brenda."

She looked up at Jerry as he headed to the door. "You too. If you ever need to talk, just call."

"Get some rest." Jerry waved as he left the bedroom.

Brenda lifted her head from the pillow and took the letter from the table. She slipped it under her pillow and then rested her head back down. Tears crept from the corners of her eyes once again. Outside in the hall, Jerry leaned against the wall for support. It was finally safe to let his tears fall for the second time today. This time, the ache in his heart seemed even more intense than it had been this morning and he wondered if it would ever subside.

The Jacks Residence -- 9:00pm

Brenda leaned her head back against the pillows and rested her eyes for a minute. A bed tray was positioned over her lap as she and Jax had just shared a light supper. Brenda had given Jax the letter from Julia to read and had cried again when she talked to him about it. She was worried about Jerry and Julia but like they had also advised her, Jax had asked Brenda to try not to worry about them. There were too many other things to be concerned about right now. Jax had gone to check on Jillian while Brenda finished eating. Her appetite was not great but she needed to eat enough to be able to keep her medication down or face IV antibiotics to get rid of her infection.

Jax returned to the master suite and Brenda opened her eyes at the sound of his footsteps. "Sweetie, are you sure you've eaten enough to keep those antibiotics down?"

"I think so." Brenda smiled as Jax approached the bed.

Jax lifted the tray from her lap and carried it across the room. "I hope your appetite is better tomorrow so you can feel better."

"Me too." She sat up further in bed. "Is Jillian asleep?"

Jax nodded. "Yes, just like an angel."

"Good." Brenda smiled as she straightened the collar on her ivory satin nightshirt. "Since you insist on staying home with me tomorrow, maybe you can take Jillian and Lady to the park."

"Maybe." Jax slid back into bed next to Brenda. "I want to see how you are feeling tomorrow and be sure that you are resting."

Brenda arched both of her eyebrows at Jax. "So you've made yourself my keeper?"

"Guilty as charged." Jax flashed her a lopsided grin. "You're just too irresistible for me to withstand."

"I see." Brenda took his hand. "And I love you for it but we both know that there is only so much we can do."

He squeezed Brenda's hand. "I know sweetie."

Brenda's voice quaked as she spoke. "We've got a long road ahead of us." She shook her head slightly in amazement. "Especially now with.....two babies to worry about."

Jax brought her hand to his lips and tenderly kissed it. "It's still unbelievable, isn't it?"

"Yes, it is." The words were barely audible as Brenda fought to control her emotions.

Jax reached over and picked up the ultrasound picture from the nightstand. "It's true though." His entire face lit up as he gazed down at the photo. "Just look at them."

Brenda leaned her head against Jax's arm as tears brimmed her eyes. "Oh Jax, all I want to do is love them."

"Of course you do, you're their Mommy." Jax pulled Brenda into his arms.

"I'm trying really hard not to panic but it's so hard not to." Tears rolled down her cheeks. "Sometimes I swear that I'm dreaming about them but then I wake up and I'm afraid to remember that I do."

"You will remember everything when you are ready just like Melanie told us would happen." He kissed Brenda softly on top of her head.

"You're right." Brenda buried her head deeper into Jax's chest. "I love you Jax and thank you for being my keeper."

Jax rocked her gently in his arms. "I love you and we're going to do everything we can for our little marsupials."

Brenda could not help giggling through her tears. "Stop that!"

"That's right, we're going to do everything we can for our little joeys." Jax spoke amidst his laughter."

"You are impossible." She pulled away from Jax's embrace. "If that is how it is going to be, you can call them marsupials or Joey A and Joey B and I will refer to them by my own terms."

Jax choked back his mirth as he saw the steadfastness in her eyes. "And what would that be?"

Brenda successfully kept the glee from showing on her face as she spoke. "Jaspy and Jaxxy."

He shook his head immediately. "Forget it."

Brenda laughed out loud. "Excuse me but if you can call them joeys, I can call them Jaspy and Jaxxy." She laughed harder. "Jaspy and Jaxxy Jacks, you're mother will love it."

Jax's blue eyes gazed directly at her. "You think you are amusing, don't you?"

"Actually irresistible according to a reliable source just a few minutes ago." Brenda winked at him.

Jax rolled his eyes. "Damn, my own words coming back to haunt me."

She smirked at Jax. "And then there's always the fact that you consider me adorable." Brenda bit the inside of her mouth to stop from giggling. "I will be sure to let Jaspy and Jaxxy know."

"Mrs. Jacks, you've made your point." Jax shook his head at her antics.

Brenda wrapped her arms around his neck. "I always knew you were an intelligent man, Mr. Jacks."

He slid his arms around her and eased Brenda back against the pillows. "I'm not so sure about that when it comes to the fact that I chose a wife who refers to our unborn twins as Jaspy and Jaxxy."

"How in the world will you ever cope?" Brenda beamed as she gazed up at him.

A broad grin formed on Jax's face. "I'll think of something." He then captured her mouth with his and they engaged in a slow and sensual kiss which sent currents of electricity through each of them.

Their mouths finally separated and Brenda gently touched his lips with her fingers. "My darling, I love you and in a few days, I'm going to be able to show you just how much."

Jax stroked her swollen stomach. "I know how much you do, my love." He then gave her a lopsided grin. "But I will love the reminders when the time comes."

Brenda ran her fingers through the back of Jax's hair. "I can guarantee you will love the reminders."

Jax nuzzled Brenda's neck and then the sound of a knock and Jane's voice were heard outside the bedroom door. Brenda softly laughed and called out to Jane. "Come on in."

Jane came into the bedroom with John following behind her. "We just returned from town and wanted to say good night."

John chuckled as Jax propped up his pillows and sat down next to Brenda. "We figured we wouldn't be interrupting anything since Brenda is already pregnant."

"John!" Jane turned around and glared at John.

"What?" John shrugged. "The boy still has his clothes on and Brenda is recovering but we still knocked just in case."

Jane let out an exasperated sigh. "Good heavens John."

John swatted Jane on the behind. "You remember those sultry, summer nights, don't you?" He turned and spoke to a snickering Brenda. "She could never keep her hands off of me."

Jane put her face in her hands. "How do I ever put up with you?"

Jax shook his head as he laughed. "I have wondered the same thing for years."

Brenda winked at Jane and then changed the subject. "How was dinner?"

"It was lovely." Jane returned Brenda's smile. "I hope you managed to eat something."

"I did, thank you." Brenda glanced at Jax and then back at Jane. "Obsession with one's eating habits must run in the family."

"Dinner was very productive and tomorrow should prove to be even better. We have a lot to do before we head to Toronto for a few days." John stroked his beard. "I think Tei Ling is going to be a great asset to J & J Jacks Asia."

"I understand from Jillian how lovely she is." Brenda shifted as she sat up in bed. "I hope I have the chance to meet her before she returns to Hong Kong."

"I hope so too." John nodded his head. "She and Jerry will have a great deal to do over the next few months so they will be meeting here and in Hong Kong so Tei Ling will be in Port Charles quite a bit."

Jane touched John's arm. "Enough business talk, Brenda needs to get some sleep." She walked over to the side of the bed and kissed Brenda. "Good night my dear. Sleep well and have sweet dreams."

Brenda hugged her. "Thank you. Good night. We'll talk tomorrow. Jax and Jillian are taking Lady to the park so we will be all alone."

Jane patted Brenda's hand. "That would be wonderful."

Jax got up from the bed and walked over to Jane. "She only wants me to go to the park so that I can stop at Marinelli's Bakery on the way home and pick her up a one of Angelina's canollies."

Brenda stuck her tongue out at Jax as he flashed her a devilish grin. "Jax, haven't you heard how a canolli has been proven to increase appetites? You are the one so worried about my eating habits."

"Pardon me." Jax smirked as he put his hand on his chest. "I must have missed that finding in The New England Journal of Medicine."

Brenda nodded her head in agreement. "You must have."

"That's our cue." Jane then turned to Jax and hugged him. "Good night Jax."

"Good night dear." John kissed Brenda good night and then patted Jax on the shoulder. "Night son."

Jane led John to the door. "We'll look in on Jillian."

"Thanks." Brenda waved at them as they left the suite. She then turned to Jax and shook her head at him before changing the subject. "So tell me, just how beautiful is Tei Ling?"

"Worried about some competition?" Jax chuckled at her as he slipped out of his socks, jeans and shirt and slid into bed next to Brenda. "There is no need, you know how afraid of you I am."

Brenda nodded her head. "Wise man."

"We'll continue with this bantering tomorrow. You need to get some rest." He turned off the lamp next to the bed.

Brenda looked at him. "Will you hold me?" The nights were still frightening at times for her.

"All night my love. All night." Jax pulled Brenda into his loving embrace.

Brenda rested her head against Jax's chest and sighed heavily as she closed her eyes. Jax delicately stroked the side of her hair as she relaxed in his arms. He knew one day the nights would no longer be frightening to her and that Brenda would share the dreams he had about the babies. He still had not told her about his visions but one day, the perfect moment would arise and she would be ready to hear them. Until then, he would just love her and be there for her.

Brenda finally drifted off to sleep and Jax then kissed the top of her head and whispered to her. "Sweet dreams my angel. Sweet dreams."

Thursday July 26, 2001

J & J Jacks -- 9:15am

Jerry stared out the window of his office trying to make some sense of the world around him. Most of the previous night he had stood at the bedroom window in the penthouse attempting to find some answers. Neither the sun nor the moon had brought him any answers. A trip to the gym at dawn had not brought any resolutions either. Jerry was alone again and he did not remember ever experiencing the depth of loneliness he felt in his soul at this very moment. Julia was gone and he felt as if he had lost a piece of himself.

He had heard from Julia via a message she had left on his voice mail at the office. The message had explained that she had arrived safely in London several hours before but her voice had sounded no more assured than it had late yesterday afternoon. The same problems were still there, the only difference was that now they were physically thousands of miles apart. Jerry had listened to the message five times since he had first heard it in the wee hours of the morning.

Jerry rubbed his tired eyes as the images of yesterday flashed through his head. He could not shake the image of the expression on Julia's face right before she had walked out of the bedroom with the suitcases. A sense of almost panic had struck him at that moment and the feeling suddenly returned now as the morning sun rose higher in the sky. It was reminiscent of the fear Jerry had felt as he watched Jax dangling from the rocks in the Grand Tetons when Jax was in despair about Miranda. It was so soon after that experience that Jerry had escaped to the British Virgin Islands and the private beach on Tortola. And that was where he had found her...

Teddi.

Jerry took a deep breath and shook his head as the events of last evening now filtered through his mind. He still could not believe that Teddi was in Port Charles and would be in the office at any moment. Yesterday had been a whirlwind and seeing Teddi in the driveway at Jax's was a major contributor to that. It was as if his past was coming back to haunt him.

It was suddenly that fateful day in London eight years before when Jerry had last seen her. He could still remember the look on Teddi's face when he had walked away from her as she stood outside the flat in Kensington. Jerry could also recall every word she had said to him. It had taken months for him to be able to sleep without hearing them in his dreams.

Jerry closed his eyes and rested his forehead against the window pane as her words echoed in his head once again. Teddi had called him a coward and told Jerry that he was deceiving only himself when he told her that he did not love her. In her mind, Jerry had convinced himself that he was incapable of loving anyone but she knew that he was wrong and she had let him know that at the top of her lungs. He was running away because he was scared of her, scared of the two of them and the life they could have together.

Jerry could still hear her British accent ringing in his head. "Damn you, you're running away."

He let out an exasperated sigh as he reflected on the fact that he had uttered almost the exact same statement to Julia yesterday morning. Life had put him in the shoes of Teddi eight years later and suddenly he knew exactly what she had felt that day. Jerry roughly threaded his fingers through his thick hair and moved across the room to his desk. As he sat down in his chair, Jerry glanced down at the dossier sitting on top of the desk.

Jerry picked up the report and once again perused the information on Tei Ling Kwan aka Theodora Reed. Last night after seeing Teddi, he had arranged for Charlie Chan to forward him copies of everything he had collected for John when the search for the management team members was undertaken. Jerry recognized much of the information about Teddi's life. He knew she was the eldest daughter of Sir Laurence Reed, a British diplomat, and Mei Ling Soo, a member of the renowned Soo family of Beijing. Teddi had spent most of her life in Europe and had been educated in some of the finest schools in Great Britain and Switzerland.

Jerry laughed to himself as he saw the number of schools attended by Teddi during her teenage years. He was sure she had been thrown out of most of them due to her propensity to speak her mind and disregard anyone trying to stop her. Teddi was still a spitfire when Jerry had met her on the beach in Tortola that day but she had somehow managed to keep her tongue in check long enough to have graduated from Oxford the month before. While her parents were making plans for her to start in the business world, Teddi had quietly left London and boarded a plane to find refuge on the beach at Tortola. It was the first stop in a list of at least eight and she had planned to spend the next several months listening to no one and catering to what her soul wanted. Teddi had been rebelling for the past ten years at that point and saw no reason to stop then.

Jerry shook the images from his head as he recalled that momentous day on the beach when Teddi had dumped buckets of sand on him after he had dared to interrupt her private retreat. They then ventured across the globe and Teddi matched Jerry almost step for step in her adventurous spirit. She was the only woman he had ever taken into the deepest jungles of Kenya on safari and Teddi had loved it. But five months after that momentous day on Tortola, he had left her amidst the wisteria in the garden and Jerry had detested the smell of the flower ever since. Jerry had believed that Teddi would be out of his life forever after that day but now, eight years later, she was about to become an integral player on the team of J & J Jacks. Eight years suddenly did not feel so long ago.

A sigh escaped from Jerry's lips as he reviewed the information concerning the past eight years of Teddi's life. Sir Laurence Reed had died six months after Jerry had left Teddi and shortly thereafter, Teddi had accompanied her mother back to Beijing. It was also at that time that Teddi had started using her Chinese birth name. She had begun managing part of the Soo business holdings in Beijing and it was there that Teddi had met Tsao Lee Kwan. Tsao Lee was heading the entire South Asian conglomerate for the Soo business empire, including Thailand. A year later Tsao and Teddi had been married and the following year Tron had been born. Their life had seemed so complete until tragedy had struck two and a half years later and Tsao was killed in an automobile accident outside of Bangkok. Teddi had been alone for over two years now and was ready to move on with her life and her career again. She had decided that the opportunity presented by J & J Jacks was the perfect way to start.

Jerry closed the portfolio and then shut his eyes as he wondered how Teddi had coped with the events of the past eight years. Outwardly she still looked the same, actually she looked even more stunning. There was an inner strength that radiated through Teddi's ebony eyes and her high cheekbones gave her the classic look of royalty. Her hair was almost the color of sable and, although much shorter than it had been eight years before, it still shimmered like fairy dust. She was a regal beauty and the only element that seemed to be missing was a tiara atop her head.

A knock at the outside of his office door jarred Jerry from his thoughts. He looked up and saw Teddi standing outside the office.

Teddi smiled as she spoke to him. "Do you have a minute?"

He motioned for Teddi to enter. "Come in." He then rose from his chair and walked to the front of the desk and pulled out a chair. "Please have a seat."

"Thank you." Teddi sat down in the chair.

Jerry walked back to the front of the office and closed the door. He moistened his dry lips and then returned to his seat behind the desk. "How are you Teddi?"

She lowered her eyes for a moment and then met his gaze. "You know about Tsao?"

Jerry nodded his head. "Yes. I am very sorry."

"I appreciate that." Teddi leaned further back in her chair. "He was such a wonderful man." She paused for a moment. "I'm ready to move on. I have to for Tron."

"I can't imagine what you've been through." Jerry exhaled slowly. "How is your son?"

Teddi smiled again. "Tron is a wonderful little boy. He is in Geneva now with my sister and her family but he is meeting me here in a few days after John and I come back from Toronto. Then Tron and I will do some sightseeing before we return to Hong Kong."

Jerry looked directly at her. "I hope everything works out for the best."

A look of slight trepidation appeared on her face. "Jerry, I need to be sure that you know that this was not some pre-planned surprise assault...."

Jerry put up his hand to interrupt her. "Stop! That thought never crossed my mind. I am fully aware that Charlie recommended for Dad to approach you."

She took a deep breath. "Charlie knew that I was seeking a management position headquartered from Hong Kong. Beijing and Soo Industries are just filled with too many memories now."

"I understand," Jerry nodded his head. "Dad and Mum made the team decisions and I would have realized it was you if I had paid closer attention to your credentials." His voice wavered a bit. "Things have been complicated here and in Hong Kong that I have not been able to give as much attention to the perspective management team as I should have."

Teddi cleared her throat. "If this is going to be a problem..."

Jerry shook his head. "If it won't be a problem for you, it won't be for me."

"Okay, I just wanted to be sure." Teddi took a sharp intake of air. "We'll just leave the past where it belongs, in the past."

Jerry nodded. "Agreed."

Teddi looked over at the picture of Julia on Jerry's bookcase. "I've heard a great deal of praise about your wife."

"Julia is a very astute business women and just a wonderful person all around." His voice lowered a bit. "She's in London now unfortunately but she should be back before you leave for Hong Kong again."

"I'm looking forward to meeting her." Teddi then looked at her watch. "I need to get back to the conference room with the latest reports before I meet with everyone about the logistics."

He stood up to show her to the door. "Still the conscientious one I see."

"Someone had to be." Teddi turned around and smiled at him. "It's nice to see you again."

Jerry returned her smile. "You too Teddi." He hesitated and then spoke. "Oh, I guess it's Tei Ling now."

"Teddi is fine." She sighed softly. "It's nice to hear again."

"Okay." Jerry extended his hand to her. "Welcome to J & J Jacks Teddi."

Teddi grasped his hand momentarily. "Thank you. I look forward to it."

Jerry opened the door and watched her leave the office suite and head around the corner to the conference room. He saw some changes in her but underneath it all, she was still the same Teddi. Jerry sighed as he walked back to his desk. Somewhere deep within him he knew that his life was about to change again.

The Jacks Residence -- 4:15pm

Brenda had spent all morning and early afternoon in bed under the watchful eye of Jax and Jillian while John and Jane had met with Tei Ling at the offices of J & J Jacks. Jane had returned to the house an hour ago and Jax had then taken Jillian and Lady for an outing in the park. Now as the heat of the summer afternoon had begun to dissipate, Brenda had moved to the bedroom balcony and was resting in a lounge chair in the shade.

The sound of melodious music flowed through the air and Brenda looked at the gardens below and saw Snowflake sitting atop the pine tree. Brenda smiled at the sight and involuntarily began to hum along with the song. The melody had become so familiar over the past several months. A moment later Snowflake fluttered his wings and then flew from the tree to the edge of the balcony wall. The bird then began singing again as he sat a few feet away from Brenda. She was almost mesmerized by the sound of the melodic tune.

Jane walked out onto the balcony and intently watched the scene before her. She put her hand on Brenda shoulder. "It appears that you are the recipient of a private serenade this afternoon?"

"It seems so." Brenda turned to face Jane. "I don't know what it is but the sound of that melody always makes me smile."

"I can see that." Jane put down the tray she was carrying and sat in the chair next to Brenda. "Snowflake seems to have the same effect on both Jillian and Jax."

"I know he does." Brenda nodded as she looked at the bird again. "I used to think I was crazy until I realized how much Snowflake follows Jax and Jillian around the yard."

Jane laughed softly. "Yesterday before you came home from the hospital, Jillian was playing in the sandbox and Snowflake was perched atop the bush next to her and I swear they were carrying on a private conversation."

"Jillian is so adorable when she talks to the bird or tries to sing with him." Brenda sighed in contentment. "What am I saying, she is adorable doing just about anything."

"Yes, she is." Jane shook her head slightly as the memories of years ago filtered through her mind. "She reminds me so much of Jax at times."

Brenda's face lit up. "I'm so glad."

Jane lifted the pitcher of cranberry juice off the tray and poured a glass for Brenda. "Here you go my dear."

"I see Jax gave you the marching orders before he left for the park." Brenda shook her head as she took a sip from her fifth glass of cranberry juice of the day.

Jane could not help from smiling. "I know he can be a tad overzealous at times but he loves you so much."

"I know he does." Her voice caught in her throat. "And he's as scared as I am but he tries to hide it from me."

"But you can read him like a book just like he can read you." Jane caressed Brenda's cheek. "And that is what makes you two so special and such a gift to one another."

She then turned to Jane and spoke in a tone filled with the deepest sincerity and gratitude. "In case I haven't said it today, thank you.... Thank you for Jax."

Jane took Brenda's hand in hers. "My dear...."

Brenda choked back her emotion. "He's made Jillian and me the two luckiest people on this earth."

"You all are blessed and soon those babies will make you the five luckiest people on this earth." She squeezed Brenda's hand. "Thank you for giving my son all that he has ever wanted in this life."

Brenda tried to sniff back her tears. "All I've ever wanted to do was to try to make him as happy as he has made me."

"Brenda, you have done that and more." Jane wiped away the tear that had escaped from Brenda's eye. "I can't tell you what it means to me to see Jax's face light up every time he sees you or mentions your name. He absolutely adores you."

Brenda exhaled sharply. "I love him more than I thought was humanly possible." She then unconsciously put her right hand on her protruding stomach. "And now...."

"My dear, I understand and that love is going to get you both through this." Jane's eyes glistened with unshed tears.

Brenda nodded. "In my heart, I know it will." She then let out a jagged sigh. "I wish Julia would realize that about her love for Jerry."

Jane patted Brenda's arm. "I know how worried you are but you have other things to concentrate on now. Leave the worrying about Jerry and Julia to me for the time being."

"Now I truly understand where Jax gets his words of wisdom and guidance." Brenda smiled as she shook her head.

Jane laughed. "You are smart and beautiful."

Jane hugged Brenda just as Jax and Jillian came into the master suite from their trip to the park. Jax walked to the open balcony door and smiled as he witnessed Jane and Brenda's embrace.

Jillian ran up from behind Jax and saw Brenda on the balcony with Jane. "Mommy, I'm here."

Brenda pulled back from Jane's embrace and beamed as she saw Jillian. "Hello sweetie. Did you have a good time at the park with Daddy?"

Jillian scurried over to the lounge chair. "Yes Mommy. WE saw the ducks and I threw them bread." She then put her hands on her hips. "Then Lady barked sooo loud and they quacked."

Brenda re-fastened the barrette in Jillian's hair. "Did you tell Lady that it was not polite to bark at the ducks?"

Jillian bobbed her head up and down. "Yes, but she still barked. Lots and lots."

"We will have to remind Lady of the rules." Brenda stroked Jillian's arm.

Jane smiled at Jillian. "What else did you and Daddy do in the park today?"

"Slid down the sliding board and went sooo high on the swings." Jillian spoke through her giggles.

"Sooo high? Brenda softly laughed. "Did you fly in the sky?"

Jillian nodded. "Just like Snowflake." She then patted on Brenda's arm and spoke quickly. "And Daddy swung me all around and we laid in the grass and saw all the snowmen in the sky."

Brenda gave her a lopsided grin. "The snowmen?"

"Yes, way up in the sky." Jillian spoke deliberately. "They're not clouds, they're really lots of snowmen. I saw 'em Mommy."

Brenda exchanged a smile with Jax and then hugged Jillian. "I am so glad that you saw all the snowmen and that you had such a nice time with Daddy."

Jillian then clapped her hands together. "Daddy got you a surprise. And for me too."

An exaggerated gasp fell from Brenda's lips. "What kind of surprise?"

Jillian giggled as she looked at Jax. "Can I get it now Daddy?"

Jax tweaked her nose. "You can get it now princess."

Jillian scampered back into the bedroom and took the box from the table by the balcony doors. "Here it is Mommy."

Brenda took it from Jillian and immediately recognized the aroma of Marinelli's Bakery. "Why don't you help me open it?"

Jax lifted Jillian into Brenda's lap and Jillian helped her open the lid to the box. "See Mommy, look. There's a colli."

"They're canollies sweetheart." Brenda winked at her.

Jillian spoke excitedly. "See the big one for you and the baby one for me."

Jax shook his head at the sight of his two princesses drooling over the italian pastry. "Angelina made Jillian a very special one."

"With lots of chocolate chips," Jillian said as she licked her lips.

"Yum-Yum." Brenda grinned broadly at Jillian. "What are we waiting for? Let's eat."

Jillian squealed as Brenda grabbed a napkin from the tray on the table next to her and handed Jillian the baby canolli. "Here you go."

Jillian dipped her finger into the sweet filling and then moved her finger to her mouth. "Uuhhmm! Good."

Brenda took a bite of her own and moaned in satisfaction at the taste of the delicacy. "Uuhhmm is right."

Jillian then dipped her finger into the filling again and offered her finger to Brenda. "Taste mine Mommy."

Brenda kissed away the filling from Jillian's finger. "Yummy. Thank you Jillian." She then dipped her own finger into her pastry. "Taste Mommy's canolli."

Jillian sucked the filling from Brenda's finger. "Yum-Yum." She then handed the baby canolli to Jane and wrapped her arms around Brenda's neck. "Love you Mommy."

Brenda hugged her back and kissed Jillian's forehead. "Love you too sweetie."

Jane glanced over her shoulder and beamed at the sight of Jax standing in the doorway completely captivated with the picture before him. As he watched Brenda and Jillian, Jax realized that he had never seen anything so beautiful nor so meaningful in his life. His entire collection of Picasso coupled with all the works of Michelangelo and Rembrandt could not begin to even remotely equate to the worth of the portrait before his eyes. Not in magnificence or in significance. Picasso, Michelangelo and Rembrandt had merely created works of art, Jax had a treasure.

Tuesday, July 31, 2001

J & J Jacks -- 11:30am

Teddi sat behind the desk in the office that had become her temporary home over the past few days. She had accomplished quite a bit since she had arrived in Port Charles. Teddi and Jane had travelled to Toronto on Friday and Saturday and met with the remainder of the North American executive staff. Yesterday morning, Teddi had met her sister at the Port Charles airport and picked up Tron from his transatlantic flight. He was spending the day in the office with her and then they were heading to Disney World tomorrow for a three day visit to the attractions.

Tron was sitting at a small table in the corner of the office and was reviewing his studies. He was fluent in both English and Chinese but Teddi wanted to ensure that he continued his instruction even over the summer holidays. Tron had enjoyed his time in Europe with his cousins and his aunt and he was anxious to visit Mickey Mouse.

Tron put his book down on the table. "I am all finished Mother."

Teddi looked up from the reports and smiled at him. "Good. Thank you for being so cooperative."

"You're making the young man be cooperative?" Jerry walked into the office. "I feel sorry for Tron."

She raised her right elbow. "I know cooperative is such a foreign word to you."

Jerry shrugged and then walked over to Tron. "Are you bored yet? Ready to come back and drive the speedway again?

Teddi gave Jerry an incredulous look. "Drive the speedway?"

Tron's face brightened with a smile. "Mother, it is so neat."

"Tron has been here for three hours and you have tainted him already?" Teddi shook her head. "What is with you and games?"

Jerry rolled his eyes and then addressed Tron. "Women, they will just never learn."

Tron laughed. "You are so funny, Mr. Jacks."

"Oh no!" Teddi shook her head. "My son is now officially corrupted."

"What has Jerry done now?" Jane smiled as she walked into the office with Jax behind her.

Teddi sighed deeply. "Thank heavens. Reinforcements."

Jax chuckled deeply. "At your service ma'am. The calvary is often needed when Jerry is around."

"Very funny Jax and Teddi." Jerry folded his arms in front of him. "Are you going to take your comedy act on the road?"

Tron smiled at the sound of Teddi's name coming form Jerry's lips. he looked up at Jerry. "Aunt Alex said Mother's name used to always be Teddi. I like it."

Teddi nodded. "I like it too and Mr. Jacks knew me a long time ago so he still calls me by that name."

Jane noticed the look exchanged between Jerry and Teddi. It was not the first time she had seen it since Teddi had arrived in Port Charles last week. Jerry had simply told John and Jane that he had become acquainted with Teddi several years before but they had lost touch since then. It was all true, there were just details which had been omitted from the story. The past had been left in its resting place.

Jane stood next to Jerry. "Jerry, are you causing trouble again?

Jerry put his hands on his hips. "I was merely trying to spare Tron from this tedium and Teddi is convinced I am trying to debauch the child."

"Good for her, she knows a scoundrel when she sees one." Jax smirked as he spoke.

"Thank you." Teddi winked at Jax.

Jax stepped closer to the desk and patted Jerry on the back. "I know you can't help yourself but your motives were good. Fortunately we have already taken care of giving Tron some entertainment for the rest of the day."

Teddi sat up in her chair. "Jax are you sure this won't be too much for your wife? I know she has been recovering."

Jax put up his hand. "Brenda insists and believe me, once she makes up her mind, there is no changing it."

"Yes, Brenda sounded rather determined when I spoke to her an hour ago on the phone about it." Teddi laughed softly.

"That is Brenda and she would be disappointed if she did not meet you and Tron." He grinned broadly. "And I know Jillian will enjoy it."

"I will be there to give Brenda a hand if she needs it." Jane walked over to the side of the desk.

Teddi turned to Tron. "Do you still want to go and spend the afternoon at Mr. Jack's house and spend some time with his daughter, Jillian?"

Tron nodded his head. "Yes Mother. Please."

"Okay then." Teddi smiled. "Mrs. Jacks will take you when she is ready to return home and you are to be respectful and listen to everything both Mrs. Jackses say to you."

Tron quickly organized his books and papers and placed them in his bag. "I am ready."

Jerry knelt in front of Tron. "You will have lots of fun with Jillian but stay away from the furry beast she likes."

Jane rolled her eyes. "Jerry, you are impossible."

Jax shook his head. "Tron, Jillian has a dog named Lady. Lady is very big but she loves everyone but Jerry. The dog has great taste, don't you think?"

Everyone but Jerry laughed and then Teddi's intercom buzzed for Jax. He picked up the phone and spoke to Brenda briefly and then ended the call. "That was Brenda. She has planned an early dinner for everyone so that you and Tron can get back to the hotel to get ready for your trip tomorrow."

Thank you, that is very kind." She took a deep breath. "With this wonderful hospitality, I don't know why I should be planning to return to Hong Kong over the weekend."

Jax flashed Teddi a big grin. "We're looking forward to it. I have a meeting but I will see you at the end of the day." he waved as he walked out of her office.

Jane looked at her watch. "I am going to make two phone calls and then Tron and I will be ready to go to the house for lunch." She looked at Tron. "I will come get you when I am ready to go."

"I will be all ready Mrs. Jacks," Tron stated as he nodded his head.

Jerry rubbed his hands together as he spoke to Tron. "Well then we better get to the speed race game before you have to leave."

Tron beamed and then looked at Teddi. "May I?"

Teddi looked at Tron and then Jerry and then back at Tron again. They both had the same anxious expression on their faces. "Yes, you can go. Just remember to be a charitable winner when you beat Mr. Jacks."

"Ha, ha." Jerry waved his hand at her. "You're a real comedian today."

"No, I just remember the raceway in Monte Carlo." Teddi gave him a lopsided grin.

Jerry let out an exasperated sigh. "You only crossed the finish line first because I blew out a tire."

Teddi stifled a laugh. "Whatever you say."

Jerry shook his head as he put his hand on Tron's shoulder. "Let's get to that game before your mother continues her delusions."

Teddi called out as Jerry and Tron walked through the door. "Tron, remember the checkered flag."

Jerry looked over his shoulder and Teddi smirked as she gave him a small wave. He sighed again, she was as infuriating as ever.

Fifteen minutes later, Jerry was sitting at his desk while Tron was looking at some of the hunting and sports photos on the bookcase in the front of the office suite. His private line rang and Jerry picked it up. "Jacks here."

Her voice was quiet. "Hello Jerry."

"Julia." He exhaled slowly. "Where are you?"

"At the office between meetings. I have to go to Frankfurt tomorrow and will be tied up the rest of the week so I thought I would try to reach you now."

Jerry felt his teeth grinding. "I thought you'd be home by mid-week."

"I'm sorry but that is impossible now."

Jerry looked over at Tron and saw that he was still occupied with the photos. He tried to keep his voice even as he spoke to Julia. "That's debateable."

A frustrated sigh was expelled from Julia's lips. "I don't have the time to argue about this now."

"Neither do I Julia. Nor do I have the energy." He felt his jaw tightening more with each word he spoke.

"I have to go but I will try to call you later tonight."

His mood deteriorated very quickly. "Please do if it does not interrupt your busy schedule. Otherwise just leave me a message. You are such an expert at using the voice mail these days."

Julia's voice had an edge to it now. "Jerry, stop it."

He took a deep breath. "Fine, call me. I'll be home where I wish you would be."

"I'll call you." Her voice softened. "I should be back on Saturday. I love you."

Jerry swallowed the lump in his throat. "I love you. Good-bye Julia."

Jerry hung up the phone and shook his head as he leaned his head back in his chair. Teddi then walked into the office suite to get Tron since Jane was ready to leave. Teddi noticed the change in Jerry's demeanor immediately.

"Tron, Mrs. Jacks is ready to go. She is waiting in the main lobby."

Tron crossed the room and stood in front of Teddi. "I'm ready."

Teddi handed Tron his book bag. "You remember that you are to be on your best behavior and need to thank Mrs. Jacks for taking care of you."

"I will." Tron smiled at her and then turned to Jerry. "Thank you for letting me drive the race car. And you have awesome pictures."

Jerry chuckled. "Thank you. Have a good time and stay away from the beast and her slobbering drool."

Tron laughed and then waved as he walked out of the office to meet Jane in the main lobby. Teddi went to follow Tron but took another glance over her shoulder at Jerry when she reached the door. She stopped and spoke to Jerry. "Jerry, are you all right?"

Jerry nodded. "I'm fine. I just am jealous that Tron gets to meet Mickey Mouse and I don't."

"Now who's the comedian?" Teddi rolled her eyes as she spoke.

"And a much better one if I do say so myself." Jerry grinned at her.

Teddi shook her head as she walked out the door. "You would."

Jerry could not help but snicker as he watched Teddi walk down the corridor. She could still make him laugh even after all these years. As Jerry looked at the photo of Julia on his desk, he knew what a real feat that was these days.

The Jacks Residence -- 4:30pm

Brenda stood at the door to the den watching Jillian and Tron. The children were in the middle of the floor drawing pictures while watching 101 Dalmatians. There was a plate of graham crackers between them and both Jillian and Tron had a cup of pink lemonade in front of them. Lady was laying beside the terrace doors trying to sleep. A moment later, several of the dalmatian puppies started to bark in the movie and Lady lifted her head and began barking at the television. Jillian and Tron began to giggle at Lady's antics and the den was filled with the sound of sweet laughter.

A bright smile formed on Brenda's face as she observed the scene before her. She felt a comforting hand on her shoulder and turned around to see Jane standing behind her in the doorway. Brenda sighed softly as she met Jane's gaze.

"They are adorable, aren't they?" Jane whispered as she watched Jillian and Tron return to their artistic masterpieces.

Brenda nodded. "Absolutely adorable." She then stepped into the den. "How are you two?"

"Good Mommy." Jillian beamed as she looked up at Brenda.

Tron reached for a blue crayon. "Lady thinks the puppies are barking at her."

Brenda flashed Tron a big smile. "Yes, Lady is a very silly dog at times."

Tron looked over at the dog who was now sleeping again and then back at Brenda. "She is the biggest dog I ever saw. Lady looks like a pony."

Jillian giggled. "No, Lady is a doggie. Ponies are this big." Jillian held her arms out as wide as she could.

"Yeah," Tron said as he nodded his head. "But Lady is still big."

Brenda laughed softly. "Grandmom and I are going to go into the living room so just call us if you need us."

"Okay Mommy." Jillian beamed as waved to Brenda.

Lady lifted her head and Brenda shook her finger at the dog. "And you stay away from the graham crackers."

The dog lowered her head to the floor and sighed loudly. Tron and Jillian started giggling again and Brenda shook her head and laughed. She and Jane then walked down the hall to the living room.

Jane sat next to Brenda on the sofa and patted her hand. "Are you all right, my dear?"

Brenda took a deep breath. "I want her to have someone to grow up with."

"I know you do." Jane put her arm around Brenda.

Brenda's voice was almost a whisper. "She's supposed to be a big sister."

"You're doing everything you can to see that she will be." Jane squeezed Brenda's shoulder.

"I hope so." Brenda took a sharp intake of air. "It's still so scary.... and with twins....... there are just more complications along the way."

"Everything was fine when you went to see Dr. Meadows yesterday, wasn't it."

Brenda nodded. "Yes, so far." She bit her bottom lip. "But there are more potential problems now."

Jane gave her a reassuring smile. "But so many more rewards in the end." She patted Brenda's hand again. "They're gifts of love."

A slightly dazed expression appeared on Brenda's face. "Gifts of love..." She exhaled deeply. "That's what it was."

Jane's face now displayed a look of confusion. "What, my dear?"

"In my dream." Brenda spoke in a hushed tone. "This morning when I woke up, it was in my head."

Jane reached out and brushed her fingers against Brenda's cheek. "Your heart has always known that, you just needed to realize that you possessed the strength to embrace that hope."

"That's almost exactly what Melanie said to us yesterday." Brenda moistened her lips as she met Jane's gaze.

Jane's eyes sparkled as she spoke. "When the time is right, you will embrace every moment of that dream."

Brenda smiled as she swallowed the lump in her throat. "I am going to miss you so much when you go back to Alaska tomorrow." She hugged Jane. "You and John have helped us so much."

"We're going to miss you too." Jane rocked Brenda in her arms. "If you need us, we will be on that plane on a moment's notice."

"I know you will." Brenda finally pulled away from the embrace. "Thank you so much for everything."

Jane held both of Brenda's hands in hers. "We will back in a few weeks and by then, you will be truly blossoming."

Brenda lifted her right eyebrow as she spoke. "I think you are being very generous with that time frame. Something tells me that my lap will be in hibernation very soon."

"That just means you will be even more radiant than you are now." Jane laughed but then spoke in a determined voice. "And don't let with of my sons say anything to the contrary."

She gave Jane an acknowledging nod. "Yes ma'am." She looked down at her abdomen which was definitely protruding a bit more each day. "I don't know how much longer it will be before Jillian starts asking questions."

Jane cleared her throat. "She is a very bright little girl."

"She most certainly is and she has seen enough pregnant women to have an idea." Brenda took a sharp intake of air. "I just don't want her to be hurt if there is another problem."

Jane stroked Brenda's hand again. "I know but when the time is right, you and Jax will figure a way to tell her about the babies."

Lady began barking and then scampered into the foyer with Jillian and Tron following behind the dog. Jillian called out to Brenda. "Daddy's home."

Brenda and Jane rose from the couch and a few moments later, Jax, John and Teddi walked through the front door and entered the living room. Jax took Brenda's hand and introduced her to Teddi. "Teddi, this is my wife, Brenda Jacks."

Brenda smiled and extended her hand. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you."

Teddi returned her smile. "Likewise Brenda. Now I can put a name with a face. Thank you so much for entertaining Tron for the afternoon."

Brenda nodded. "You are very welcome. He and Jillian have become close friends already so it was wonderful to have him here."

Jax motioned to Teddi. "Please have a seat."

The adults sat down and then Jillian raced to Jax while Tron went to Teddi.

"Hello princess." Jax lifted Jillian into his arms. "Can you say hello to Mrs. Kwan?"

Jillian waved at Teddi. "Hello."

"Hello Jillian." Teddi then turned to face Tron. "Tron, did you enjoy your afternoon with Jillian?"

Tron nodded. "Yes. Jillian and I watched 101 Dalmatians."

Jillian tapped her hand on Jax's shoulder. "Daddy, Tron is going to see Mickey and Minnie tomorrow."

"I know." Jax brushed his fingers under Jillian's chin. "Did you tell Tron that you saw Mickey and Minnie a few months ago?"

Jillian bobbed her head up and down. "Yes. It was so fun with Brooke."

Tron grabbed Teddi's hand. "Jillian has a pony and she rides her."

"She does? That must be wonderful." Teddi smiled as she spoke to Tron.

Tron nodded his head. "I saw a picture of her and the pony."

Jax lowered Jillian to the floor and then looked down at Tron.

"Tron, maybe the next trip you make here, you can come with us to ride the ponies. Would you like that?"

"Yes sir." Tron rubbed his hands together.

Jillian clapped. "Daddy, yes. We can ride two ponies."

Teddi grinned and then sighed softly. "Well Tron, seeing Mickey Mouse on this trip and ponies on the next, you are very lucky."

Cocktails and then dinner was served and the evening was spent getting better acquainted. Jax played a game with Jillian and Tron and then they accompanied him on a walk with Lady. It was then time for Teddi and Tron to go back to the hotel to get ready for their trip to Orlando in the morning.

Teddi squeezed Brenda's hand. "Thank you for a lovely evening."

"You are quite welcome." Brenda gave her a big smile. "Have a wonderful trip."

As Teddi was saying good night to Jane and John, Tron and Jillian were saying their good-byes as well.

Jillian waved. "Bye Tron. Ask Mickey and Minnie and Cinderella if they remember me."

"Okay." Tron nodded. "I will after I see the pirates."

Everyone walked out front to the limo and Jillian and Tron ran to see the swans in the fountain one last time for the evening. Teddi then called Tron over to the limo so that they could leave for the hotel.

Tron bowed to Jillian. "Bye."

"Ooohhh just like Mrs. Yee does at the restaurant." Jillian beamed and then bowed so far forward that she almost fell over. Luckily Jane was able to grab her in time. "Bye Tron."

Tron then quickly kissed Jillian on the cheek. Jillian giggled and then opened her mouth and blew him a big kiss as Tron slid into the limo next to Teddi.

Jillian turned and smiled at Jane. "I blowed a kiss just like in the movies Mommy likes to watch."

Brenda turned to look at Jax and had to cover her mouth to keep from laughing. The expression on his face was priceless as his eyes were bugging out of his head. Jane was well aware of her son's astonishment and stifled her own laughter as she waved to the departing limousine.

A devilish grin formed on Brenda's face. "Honey, are you all right?"

Jax was muttering. "She is not even four years old and she already has the allure of her mother."

Brenda fought to keep her composure. "What Jax?"

Jax looked over at Jillian splashing water in the fountain and she giggled at him. He then simply shook his head. "She is getting locked in this house." He continued to murmur under his breath. "This will be the death of me yet."

Brenda wrapped her hand around Jax's upper arm. "Come on honey, we'll go inside so you can sit down." This time she failed to stifle her laugh. "I'll make you some warm milk."

Jax gathered his wits back as he glared at her. "You did this purposely to drive me crazy." He let out an exasperated sigh. "You had to have a daughter who was just as captivating as you are."

Brenda and Jane exchanged a knowing look as Jane took Jillian's hand and they walked into the house. Brenda then led Jax back toward the house. "Sorry honey."

Jax rolled his eyes and Brenda laughed out loud as they reached the front door. Brenda was enough to drive a man insane and Jillian was likely to follow suit but they owned his heart and he was powerless against their charms. Jax chuckled to himself as they entered the house that it was the only time in his life that surrendering to the opponent meant such rewards.

Friday, August 3, 2001

J & J Jacks -- 7:15pm

Addie looked up from her desk as Scott, Andrew and Alicia walked out of Jax's office, closing the door behind them. Each looked like they were ready for a vacation. They had been with Jax for over four hours and were still trying to piece together how the Dunlap shipping deal had unraveled. Jax had been in a foul mood since Wednesday morning when the transaction had taken an irreversible nose dive. Two months of time and money had been wasted and Jax hated nothing more than waste.

On top of being extremely agitated over the loss of the Dunlap deal, Jax was trying to monitor all the holdings while being the only one in the office. John and Jane were in Alaska, Julia was still in Europe and Jerry had flown to San Francisco yesterday to handle a union meeting concerning the shipping fleet. Teddi was still in Orlando but was due back in Port Charles tomorrow morning. On Sunday, she and Tron would return to Hong Kong. A minor crisis had developed yesterday in the Asian quadrant but Teddi and Jerry had been able to temporarily resolve it over the phone. A permanent resolution would be the first order of business for Teddi once she was installed in her management position next week.

Brenda walked into the main entrance of the corporate headquarters as Scott, Andrew and Alicia went back to their respective offices. Brenda was the epitome of a summer day, dressed in a golden yellow sundress with a matching jacket with her hair tied in a ponytail with a yellow ribbon. She shook her head at the weary look on Andrew's face as she waved to him. Brenda then walked to Jax's office suite and smiled as she saw Addie still diligently working.

"Good evening Addie."

Addie looked up at her and returned Brenda's smile. "Good evening Mrs. Jacks. This is a surprise."

Brenda leaned against the side of the desk and spoke softly to Addie. "I am hoping to get my husband away from here and out of the surly mood he is in." Brenda sighed. "For everyone's sake."

Addie nodded. "That will be a feat but something tells me that you are up for it."

"I guess this means that he is in no better frame of mind?" Brenda crossed her arms in front of her.

At that moment, the intercom buzzed and Jax's voice was heard. "Addie, have you seen the projections for Westinghouse? I had them here an hour ago." Before she could even answer, Jax spoke again. "Forget it, I don't have time for this. Just have Cindy print another copy of Andrew's and bring them to me." His tone was short and sharp and his communication ended as abruptly as it began.

Brenda put up her hand. "No need to answer my question, I see he is in a fabulous mood."

Addie nodded her head. "Yes, a fabulous mood." She then picked up a folder from her desk. "And these are the Westinghouse projections he asked me to hold onto an hour ago."

"He won't be needing them tonight." Brenda shook her head as she walked toward Jax's office. She then knocked on the office door.

"Come in." Jax did not even bother looking up from his reports. "Cindy, please just leave them on the end of the desk."

Brenda came through the door and closed it behind her. "One day you are going to regret calling me by the name of another woman."

"Sweetie, I'm sorry." Jax looked up and then rose from his chair. "Is everything all right?"

She exhaled sharply. "That depends on how much you admire the grinch."

Jax's voice became softer as he approached her. "Is it that bad?"

Brenda lifted her right hand to Jax's face. "No, but I don't want it to be." She brushed her index finger over the worry lines in his forehead. "You need to leave the office and its problems here for the night."

Jax placed his hands on Brenda's upper arms and tenderly caressed them. "Are you here to see that I do that?"

"Of course," Brenda nodded as she spoke. "And to ensure that the troops don't riot since it is 7:30 on a Friday night and everyone is still working."

He took a step closer to Brenda. "So you are here to save me from my staff and myself?"

"Exactly." Brenda gave him a big smile. "Mostly from yourself."

Jax finally let himself drink in the entire image of her. She looked as tempting as a cold lemon popsicle in the blistering desert sun. "Come sit down." Jax led Brenda over to the sofa. "Where is Jillian?"

Brenda sat sideways in his lap with her legs stretched out on the leather couch. "Felicia called this afternoon and asked if we could keep Georgie tomorrow night while she handled a retirement party at The Outback. Mac has to be out of town on a case. When I said yes, Felicia insisted that she keep Jillian tonight so I dropped her off an hour ago." Brenda traced his jawline with her fingers. "And now I am here to rescue you and your staff."

Jax pondered for a moment. "So I can stay here beating my head against the wall or spend the evening alone with my wife?"

"A brilliant deduction, honey." Brenda smiled as she spoke.

He exhaled slowly. "This one really gets to me." Jax was speaking through clenched teeth. "Allied came in right behind us and got to Dunlap before we could mount a defensive."

"Then in a week or a month or a year when you raid Allied and add it to the list of J & J Jacks holdings, it will be an even more lucrative take-over." Brenda gave Jax a heart-stopping smile.

"Damn, you're good." Jax grinned as he reached over and hit the intercom button on the phone. "Addie, please let everyone know that it is time to call it a night. We will start back on Monday morning. Have a good night and thank you."

"A very wise choice, Mr. Jacks." Brenda threaded her fingers through the back of Jax's thick golden hair.

Jax kissed the middle of her forehead. "I can't guarantee I will be the best company this evening."

"We'll see about that." Brenda gave him a smug smile. "I know that you think I can take you out of the office but not take the office out of you but I assure you it will happen and you won't be disappointed."

"That sounds promising." Jax gave her a devilish grin before stroking her stomach. "But first I want to feed you and ...."

A warning glare appeared on her face. "Watch it."

"The term joeys was not going to pass from my lips." Jax snickered. "I was going to say the little ones."

"Sure you were." Brenda shook her head. "Don't worry about feeding us. This evening is my treat, remember." She looked at her watch and then patted Jax on the arm. "Dinner should be about ready now so let's go."

Jax gave her a confused look as he helped Brenda to her feet. "Ready where?"

She rolled her eyes. "It's a surprise. Can't you show just the slightest patience?"

"No," Jax sighed. "You know I hate surprises except when I am giving them."

She smirked. "First of all, I don't believe that. You love surprises. And even if I did believe it, that is just too bad."

"Such sympathy from my wife." Jax chuckled out loud.

Brenda winked at him. "Glad to see you understand me. Now we just need to call Jillian to say good night and we will be off."

As the rest of the staff of J & J Jacks cleared out for the evening, Jax and Brenda called the Scorpio house and spoke to Jillian. Jillian had to tell them all about one of the big blue fishes in Maxie and Georgie's aquarium having babies. After the news was announced, they said good night and ended the call.

Brenda grabbed Jax's jacket from the back of his chair. "Okay, let's get out of here."

Jax put his jacket on and took the car keys out of his pocket. "Just tell me where to go."

"We won't need these," Brenda claimed as she grabbed the car keys from Jax. "Oh, but we do need these." She then crossed the office and scooped up two throw pillows from the sofa.

Again a bewildered look crossed Jax's face. "Brenda..."

She rolled her eyes again and grabbed his arm. "You are so bad at this. The faster we move, the faster you will find out."

Jax sighed loudly as she led him out the door. "I don't know how I get myself into these things with you."

"Just lucky I guess." Brenda quipped as Jax shut the main lobby door and she hit the button for the elevator.

Jax chuckled out loud at her. "Madame Luck, you just hit the up button for the elevator instead of the down button."

"Very perceptive dear." Brenda nodded as the elevator doors opened. She stepped inside and turned around to face Jax. "Are you coming up or are you just going to stand there?"

Jax took a deep breath as he entered the elevator and then watched her insert the private passkey and hit the button to the roof, two stories above them. Brenda shrugged as she gave him a lopsided grin. The elevator doors opened and she took Jax's hand and then led him out onto the roof. In the center of the rooftop garden were two huge blankets spread out with a picnic basket sitting in the middle. The tiny white lights wrapped around the rooftop trees were illuminated as the sun began to set over the Port Charles River below. Music was playing from a portable CD player next to the blankets. The flowering potted plants and lanterns bordering the walls of the roof terrace completed the scene.

A broad grin appeared on Jax's face. "Pretty sure of yourself I see."

"It's the influence of a certain person in my life." Brenda locked the elevator door and then took Jax's hand and led him over to the blankets. "You're going to see that you can leave the office at the office even when you are just two floors above it."

Jax could not help shaking his head, damn she was getting better at this than he was. "My little protector."

"You are going to have change that description soon because I will be far from little." Brenda tossed the pillows on the blanket and then turned to Jax with her hand out. "Now, first things first, you are in violation of the dress code. No jackets nor ties allowed so they are coming off."

Jax flashed her a look of mock exasperation. "You haven't even fed me and you are already taking my clothes off?"

Brenda shrugged as she pushed the jacket from his arms. "I learned from the master." She then unloosened Jax's tie and he slipped it over his head.

Jax sat down on the blanket and helped Brenda sit down next to him. She grabbed one of the throw pillows and put it on her lap and then slipped off her jacket. "Now, it's time for you to relax before I don't have a lap left."

Jax did not respond for a moment, he was captivated by the way the painted orange and yellow sky was reflecting from her shimmering brunette locks. She was tanned from the summer sun and her face was glowing as love danced in her eyes. Brenda cocked her eyebrow at him and pointed at the pillow. "Honey, are you all right?"

Jax nodded as he rested his head on her lap. "I am now."

Brenda brushed a loose tendril from his forehead. "Good, now I hope you are starving." Brenda then leaned over and started unpacking the gourmet picnic dinner she had picked up from the Pampered Pallet.

His eyes were fixed upon the incredible view of her blossoming breasts he was privy to as she leaned over him to reach the basket. Jax cleared his throat. "Yes, I am starving."

Brenda looked down and immediately recognized the look in his eyes. "I hope your hunger also includes dinner."

"If it has to, then yes," Jax winked at her as he spoke.

Brenda layered strips of salmon on the bread and then fed it to him. "It does.... For now."

Jax and Brenda enjoyed a meal of cheese, fruit, salads, salmon and bread and toasted each other with chardonnay and sparkling water. Brenda then massaged Jax's temples as the first stars of the clear summer night appeared in the sky. There were very few words spoken aloud but their communication was deeply inspiring.

Jax turned his head so that his cheek was resting against Brenda's protruding stomach. He loved feeling close to the miracles that were growing inside her. "A private paradise. Now I know why you suggested we turn this into a rooftop garden."

Brenda looked toward the river and sighed softly at the lights of the city below. "It's such a beautiful night."

"It has to be, you are here." Jax lifted his hand and took Brenda's right hand in his as he sat up. He smiled as his eyes met hers. "Do you know how much I love you?"

A bright smile formed on Brenda's lips. "Yes, almost as much as I love you."

"I don't know about that." Jax cupped her chin with his thumb and index finger. "I do know that you are the only person in this world that can make me feel the way I do." He shook his head in amazement. "I told you a long time ago that I never thought I was capable of loving anyone like this and every day it just gets more astounding."

Her voice was filled with love as she spoke. "I'm glad I'm not the only one who feels that way. We're living a dream of hope and love." Brenda smiled as the CD changed and one of their favorites began to play. She extended her hand to him. "Dance with me."

I'll be your dream, I'll be your wish, I'll be your fantasy

I'll be your hope, I'll be your love, be everything that you need

I love you more with every breath -- truly, madly, deeply do

I will be strong, I will be faithful

Cause I'm counting on a new beginning

A reason for living

A deeper meaning in the end

Jax held her close as they swayed to the melody. She smelled so good and felt so warm in his arms. Brenda moved her hands to his chest and unfastened the top button of Jax's shirt. She placed a feather kiss on the bronzed muscles of his chest and then unbuttoned the rest of his shirt while dropping baby kisses on each patch of skin she uncovered. Brenda pushed the shirt from his shoulders and Jax then lifted her chin and captured her mouth in a blistering kiss. At that moment, no one else in the world existed except for the two of them.

I want to stand with you on a mountain

I want to bathe with you in the sea

I want to lay like this forever

Until the sky falls down on me

Their hands roved of each other as their lips continued an erotic dance of their own. Moans were uttered from both Jax and Brenda as their tongues joined in the union. When their lips finally separated, they were swollen from the passionate kiss. Brenda's fingers stroked the taut muscles of Jax's arms and then moved down his chiseled chest. Jax unzipped the back of Brenda's sundress and then watched as it fell to her feet. He untied the ribbon from her hair and dropped it on top of the dress and then watched as Brenda's hair spilled over her shoulders. Their lips met again as Jax lifted Brenda into his arms and carried her to the blanket. With the stars shining brightly overhead, he eased her to the ground.

And when the stars are shining brightly in the velvet sky

I'll make a wish, send it to heaven and make you want to cry

tears of joy for all the pleasure and the certainty

that was surrounded by the comfort and protection of the highest power in lonely hours, the tears devour you

The remainder of their clothes were quickly shed and Jax and Brenda relished in the feel of each other. With each caress and each touch, their passion and love grew. Each kiss became more scintillating than the one before and as Jax covered her with his body, Brenda whispered words of love to him. Murmurs of pleasure passed from both of their lips as they became one. Their lovemaking was gentle and soft and sensual as they savored each stroke and embrace. It was an extraordinary display of the love that they so deeply felt for one another.

I want to stand with you on a mountain

I want to bathe with you in the sea

I want to lay like this like forever

Until the sky falls down on me

When their passion culminated in the sweet release of love for both Jax and Brenda, the sound of both of their names echoed in the night air. From the top of their heads to the tips of their toes, Jax and Brenda could feel the love pulsating through them. Every hunger had been fed and every thirst had been quenched in the fervent outpouring of adoration and devotion. As incredible as the union of their bodies had been, it was almost trivial when compared to the union of their hearts.

Oh, can you see it baby?

Don't have to close your eyes, just standing right before you

All that you need will surely come

I'll be your dream , I'll be your wish, I'll be your fantasy

I'll be your hope, I'll be your love, be everything that you need

I love you more with every breath -- truly, madly, deeply do

The moon was high in the midnight blue sky above as Jax and Brenda remained entwined in each other's arms. The second blanket Brenda had brought from the house was now covering them as they clung to every moment they shared in their private paradise. Jax tenderly kissed the side of her face as Brenda nuzzled his neck. "I love you, my darling, with every ounce of my heart." Brenda snuggled closer to him. "My love, I will love you always." Jax rested his head against hers as they basked in the love emanating from their hearts. They both knew that this was the true meaning of forever.

I want to stand with you on a mountain

I want to bathe with you in the sea

I want to lay like this like forever

Until the sky falls down on me

San Francisco Airport -- 11:15pm/Heathrow Airport -- 7:15am

Jerry turned the power off on his laptop and looked at his watch again. A lousy day was getting worse as each minute passed. The mechanic was making a minor repair to the electrical system of the jet and Jerry's return trip to Port Charles was already two hours late. Jerry gulped down his last sip of coffee and then stood up and began pacing in the waiting area.

It had been a rough week to begin with and this was one hell of a way to end it. The Dunlap deal had fallen apart and Jax was trying to limit the losses. Julia's leave of absence meant that they were shorthanded to begin with and the tension in the office over the past few days had been apparent. Jerry knew that Jax needed Julia in Port Charles but Jax had maintained his silence on the subject. Then yesterday's tariff problems in the Asian quadrant were another obstacle which needed to be overcome immediately. Teddi and the management team were going to have their work cut out for them from the start and Jerry knew that he needed to be in Hong Kong next week. He had rejected that idea since Julia was supposed to finally be home tomorrow but now that was not happening either.

All day long, his latest telephone call with Julia had played over and over again in Jerry's mind. Julia was extending her stay in London yet again and Jerry had lost all patience with her in their conversation. Jerry had spent the past nine days doing nothing but thinking about Julia and their relationship and he had become more worried with each passing day. They could not do this anymore, something was going to have to change.

This morning, he had tried to talk to Julia to explain his feelings but it was impossible to do when they were thousands of miles apart. His frustration had led him to say some things he immediately regretted but it was too late, they had done their damage. Julia had ended the phone call in tears and Jerry had felt as though a dagger had been driven into his heart at the sound of her sobs.

Jerry sat back down in the chair and rubbed his temples as Julia's voice echoed in his head. "Jerry, I'm sorry, I never wanted to hurt or disappoint you but that is all I seem to be able to do anymore." The words still cut through him even twelve hours later. He slammed his hand down on the arm of the chair and the sting barely registered. The pain in his heart was intense enough to overshadow any other form of suffering.

Jerry looked out the window and saw the foggy mist rolling in and blanketing the area. It was a perfect reflection of his mood and the dreary state of his soul. He looked at his watch one more time, the day was almost over on the west coast and it was past dawn in London now. Jerry could only hope that a bit of brightness and clarity would be on the horizon for both of them.

Julia sipped a cup of tea as she waited for the flight to be called. She had not slept all night and had decided four hours ago to get on the first plane to New York. She knew how much she was hurting Jerry and herself and it had to stop. Julia had no idea how this torture would ever end but she also knew that hiding in London was not going to make it any easier.

She too had spent the past nine days thinking but she had come up with more questions than answers. Every time she had heard Jerry's voice on the phone, she had heard nothing but pain. And their last conversation had been so difficult for both of them. Julia could still hear his voice ringing in her ears.

It was the closest she had every heard to Jerry sounding like a frightened little boy. "Julia, don't you understand why I need you back here? You're running from me and from our home for God's sake. Do you know how that makes me feel?"

Julia closed her eyes and her trembling hand managed to place the tea on the table before the cup slipped from her grasp. She felt empty and the void seemed to have penetrated every fiber of her being. Julia was certain that her anguish and emptiness were apparent to the whole world. It felt as though there was a huge hole in her heart and soul that was visible to anyone that looked at her. At times Julia was afraid to even look in a mirror, fearful that she would see right through herself. It was amazing what heartache could do.

She looked out the window and the grey skies had returned once again. The clouds threatened rain at any moment and it was another bleak day. It seemed as though darkness and gloominess had followed her from Port Charles and now she was taking them back with her. Julia wondered when she would ever feel the brightness of a day again.

Julia looked up at the clock and saw that it was the early morning hours in Port Charles. She knew that Jerry had been in San Francisco and figured he should be half way home by now. When she had decided to return home and leave the remainder of the Barrett merger duties with Hopkins, Julia had not called and left word with Jerry. She would arrive early in the morning on the east coast and then just meet Jerry at home. Julia had no idea what would happen from that point on, but she had to get home first before getting any answers about what would happen next.

Within the hour, both Jerry and Julia were on their respective flights heading back to Port Charles. Jerry tried to get some sleep but his mind continued to race. Periodically he would reflect on the fact that he was getting firsthand knowledge of the feelings that Teddi must have had when he shut her out and eventually walked away from her eight years before. It made Jerry feel ashamed all over again and he realized that he had been guilty of some of the things that Teddi had accused him of. Now he felt as though Julia was mirroring some of his earlier actions and the reality of the entire situation was like a sudden douse of cold water.

As the jet crossed the Atlantic, Julia felt the knot in her stomach tightening. As each hour passed, her trepidation became more intense. She was not sure exactly what she was afraid of but it was terrifying whatever it was. Julia was sure that some of it was about facing Jerry and about seeing Brenda but she knew that most of was about confronting her own fears. She had always been in control of her emotions and her life and somehow that had disappeared now. And then there was Jerry and her worries and concern about him. It was overwhelming and frightening.

Jerry looked at his watch as the Port Charles airport came into view. The storms over Ohio had delayed the flight even more and it was almost 10:00am in Port Charles now. As they touched down on the runway, Jerry saw the same fog and overcast skies he had left in San Francisco. It was going to be another dismal day.

Once the plane was at the gate, Jerry turned on his cell phone and called his voice mail. There was a message from his liaison in Hong Kong that there was another problem brewing with the tariffs. Jerry shook his head and quickly punched in Francesca's home telephone number.

"Francesca, we've got more problems in Hong Kong. I'm going to have to get over there."

She was already prepared for his call. "Mr. Jacks, I received a message from Mr. Chen earlier about the trouble so I have already made tentative arrangements for you to leave tomorrow."

Jerry nodded. "Good. Have you heard from Mrs. Kwan?"

Francesca continued. "Yes, she left Orlando on the first flight this morning and should be in Port Charles shortly. She and Tron are still scheduled to leave tomorrow morning for Hong Kong."

He tapped his finger on the arm of the seat. "Since we both have to go now, we'll take the jet. I need you to make those arrangements. I will call my father with the update when it is a more decent hour there."

Jerry ended his call and then picked up his briefcase and laptop and went into the cockpit. He spoke to the pilot briefly and then left the airplane. Tomorrow he would be back.

Jerry walked away from the gate and was walking through the baggage claim area to the exit when he heard the sound of an animated voice behind him. "Mr. Jacks, I'm here too."

Jerry turned around and Tron was quickly moving toward him. He was rather noticeable wearing a pair of Mickey Mouse ears. Teddi was walking behind the child carrying Tron's backpack and a carry-on bag. Jerry laughed for the first time in three days. "It's Mickey Mouse I see."

Tron giggled. "No, it's Tron." He bowed. "Hello Mr. Jacks."

"Hello Tron." Jerry knelt down next to him. "Did you have a good time with Mickey and all the rest of the those creatures?"

"Yes, it was so good," Tron said as he beamed.

Jerry turned to Teddi. "What about for you mom?"

"We had a wonderful time, thank you." Teddi gave Jerry a smile. "But I hear we have more trouble."

Jerry nodded. "Yes. Francesca is making arrangements for us to take the jet tomorrow. We need to get control of this before it gets any worse."

"Agreed." Teddi sighed softly. "May as well start off with a crisis."

Tron looked up as Jerry rose to his feet. "Are you coming with us?"

"Afraid so. Do you think you can manage that?" Jerry pinched one of Mickey's ears on top of Tron's head."

Tron rubbed his hands together. "Yes. Can you teach me to play those card games with the chips like you have the picture of in your ofice?"

Teddi shook her head as Jerry suppressed his mirth. "Let's go Tron."

"I've got a limo outside so we'll get the bags and then I'll drop you off at the hotel." Jerry gave her a smirk and Teddi just rolled her eyes.

Meanwhile Julia was one of the first people through customs and a skycap grabbed her bags as she headed to the exit. As she neared the door, the shoulder strap of her purse eased down her arm and she turned to grab it. As she did she saw Jerry standing in the center of the baggage claim area. He grabbed Teddi's suitcases and then met Teddi and Tron at the exit and the three of them then walked outside. Julia could see them laughing and she walked to the window and saw Jerry lifting Tron into the limousine and then sliding into the seat next to him.

Julia stood motionless at the window and watched the scene. The anguish in her heart seemed to have doubled in the past sixty seconds. Then as the limousine pulled away, it began to rain and the weather truly mirrored her anguish.

To be continued

SONG CREDITS: "Truly, Madly, Deeply" by Savage Garden