Dominik's pleasant voice rang out as he rose from his seat at the private table to greet Dara. Smoothing his dark blue Ralph Lauren as he stepped from behind the table, Dara's tense expression relaxed slightly, responding to his calm, inviting manner. She wasn't sure what it was, but meeting up with Dominik had instantly seemed to create a stillness within her, something she needed to calm her nerves after her panic inducing meeting with Mac that morning. Pushing worried thoughts about Sonny from her mind, Dara firmly decided to enjoy her lunch with Dominik. ''Thank you for waiting,'' she responded warmly, feeling the color come back to her cheeks already. Dominik took a moment to appreciate Dara's arrival. Her professional suit that complemented her style, the healthy glow in her manner as she was seated and her beauty, as always, breathtaking. As he took his own seat, his gaze catching hers, worry filled him as her eyes seemed to express something more troubling than her outward demeanor. Dominik chose to probe gently.
''Is everything all right?'' he asked after the waiter had taken their orders and left, securing the privacy of their surroundings once again.
Dara's troubled eyes widened, surprised by the unusual question. ''What do you mean?'' All of a sudden, her fears flooded back with a fierceness she wasn't prepared for.
Dominik leaned forward. ''You seemed preoccupied, worried about something. My company will be protecting you, rest assured that from now on, you will be untouchable. Are there any concerns you have that you wish to discuss with me? Any questions?'' He smiled reassuringly, hoping this would break the ice.
Dara's face broke into a small smile. ''I'm sorry, I am a little preoccupied with a personal matter,'' she started softly, a fleeting thought of Sonny passing through her mind, ''but I assure you, I have no concerns about the security, although I can't wait for the P.C.P.D. to arrest whomever is behind it.''
Dominik nodded slowly in agreement. ''It is a troubling matter, but it pleases me that you feel confident about being under our protection.'' His eyes shone, his charming smile exuding the seamless confidence that seemed to radiate from within him. Instinctively, Dara leaned forward, his words and manner giving her the comfort she needed. His aura was contagious and Dara felt herself drawn in, captivated by this quiet, regal man.
Dominik broke the moment with a quick flick of his eyes to the waiter. ''A little wine before we begin discussing the arrangement?'' he suggested as the waiter approached their table.
Dara nodded. ''That would be nice.'' Taking a sip of her water, Dara let the cool liquid swirl around her mouth before swallowing. Her stomach fluttered as Dominik's head tilted slightly, his dark eyes settling on her, a flirtatious grin appearing as the waiter listed off a selection of the restaurant's finest wines. His eyes never left hers as he made a selection and waved off the waiter. Feeling her face flush, Dara's eyes lowered, intensely focussing on the cutlery in front of her, overcome with a sense of foolishness. What was she doing? A man she barely knew was flirting with her in the most demure manner she had ever experienced. And she was responding. Acknowledging him and responding.
*******************
Vitali Estates
Theresa Vitali sat in the studio, immersed in her painting, the small brush delicately nestled between her weary and worn fingers. Her hands moved fluidly, one creating the picture on the canvas, the other carefully mimicking her deep thoughts. Always a gifted artist, she had set aside her talent and turned matters to her family after marrying Francis. Occupied by her husband's world and the two sons they shared, she had little time in the past to nurse her love for painting. Once Francis had died and Dominik began to take his place as head of their family, she had turned her attention finally to herself. But the years of sacrifice had taken its toll on her. She was frequently ill, her immune system unable to handle the stress that she had endured for most of her life. On the rare occasions where she was healthy and strong enough, she threw herself into her first love, painting in the studio Dominik and Danté had built with their own hands one summer. So involved in her project, Theresa paid little attention to the sound of someone approaching her.
''Qué bella,'' he murmured approvingly from behind her. Theresa's eyes lit up.
''Anthony!'' she cried, standing to receive her brother's warm embrace. ''It has been far too long since I've seen you.''
Anthony's dark eyes were warm with affection as he pressed kisses gently against her cheeks before pulling up a seat adjacent to her. ''I know it's been long, but I've been very busy the past few months,'' he admitted, waving off the servant who'd brought them hot tea.
Theresa nodded, knowing better than to ask any further about his business. ''Marie is well?'' she asked. v Anthony's eyes darkened briefly at the mentioned of his estranged wife. Their marriage had once been a loving relationship, but soon became one of convenience. His world was too much for her, but she was the Mother of his children and he still cared for her. They had made arrangements to keeping up appearances long ago. She had her life and he had his. ''She's traveling through Italia with Isabella, she's doing fine,'' he replied with a reassuring smile.
Theresa squeezed his hand happily. ''Then everyone is healthy and happy,'' she affirmed. This was a rare occasion, she was going to enjoy it.
Anthony frowned slightly. He hated dampening her good mood, but pressing matters were at hand and he needed to gage her reaction. ''I wanted to speak to you about Danté,'' he started softly, taking her small hands in his larger ones. He squeezed them gently. ''I think he is getting involved in matters that I cannot control. I'm not sure if I can protect him any longer. He refuses to listen to me. Dominik has tried talking sense into him, but he's inherited his Father's stubbornness. I worry about his safety,'' he concluded, hoping that Theresa would take the hint. Losing Francis had been terrible for her, but perhaps the thought of losing her youngest son to the same world that claimed her husband would push her into persuading Danté to back down.
Theresa's eyes flickered suspiciously. She was no fool and Anthony's attempts to guilt her into reigning Danté in would not work. She had cried for days when she found out how he was choosing to live his life, but she knew then and she knew now.
It was Danté's choice.
She could not change that no matter how much she wanted to. ''Anthony, do not speak to me as though I am not aware of what is going on or what you want from me.'' Her voice was cool now, firm and controlled. Her gaze met his, unflinching as she spoke. ''I will ask you this one time and this one time only. Do not involve me, not like this. If you force my hand, if you ask me to choose between you and my son, I assure you, it will not fall in your favor.''
''I just,'' Anthony interrupted.
''NO, let me finish,'' she demanded, waiting until he quietly nodded. Her sad eyes drew towards the windows. ''I hate this world. I hate that it has consumed all the people that I love. I hate the fact that I have learned to live with it, but what I hate more, are the times where I am prepared to use it to do my bidding.''
Anthony drew back, surprised by the chill in her tone. Theresa turned back, her face hard. ''Francis has been gone for many, many years, but do not think for a second that those loyal to him would not be loyal to me. I am well aware of the fact that if I asked, my request would be granted without question. So I warn you, do not force my hand when it concerns the welfare of my son.''
Anthony bit back the urge to spit back insults, to shake some sense into her. Shaking his head, he knew better. She had made her choice, just like Danté had. The pain was hard to accept, but there was nothing he could do now. Coming here had been a mistake. ''I understand,'' he said, his tone neutral.
With a kiss to her cheek, he rose. ''I won't trouble you anymore,'' he promised. Theresa nodded, her eyes fixed on her painting. She swallowed, tears threatening to spill down her cheeks. ''I love you Anthony, please be careful,'' she declared, her voice quivering with fear and sadness. Anthony turned, blinking back his own tears, before silently filing out.
****************
''Mmm, that was delicious,'' Dara sighed, leaning back in her chair, examining the empty plate before her. Dominik smiled at the sight of seeing the content look on her face. He could certainly get used to seeing that more often.
''Would you care for dessert? You certain I can't offer you any wine?'' he asked.
Dara shook her head. ''I'm stuffed,'' she declared. She examined the empty bread basket, along with the appetizers and main course plates. ''I guess I was hungry,'' she said with a gentle laugh. With a look at her watch, she sighed, this time with resignation. ''And now I have to get back to the office,'' she said, rising to her feet.
Dominik also rose, hiding his disappointment smoothly. ''I enjoyed our lunch, I hope we can do it again sometimes,'' he suggested warmly. Dara smiled. ''Me too.'' Dominik was a good man, she'd hoped that he would become a good friend as well.
Dominik scribbled his signature on the bill and with a nod, placed his hand against the small of her back to escort her out of the posh restaurant.
Neither had noticed the eyes of Jason Morgan zero in on them from across the room. Dominik Vitali may not have been associated with the organization, but his brother and Uncle certainly were. Jason's clear blue eyes cooled as he watched the attractive pair chatter easily as they left the room. From his point of view, things were getting more complicated.
Never a good sign.
Quickly, he rose, throwing a few bills on the table and exited.
**************
The man smiled icily at the display. Jensen and Vitali looked awfully cozy during their eatery. What was more interesting was Morgan's reaction to their behavior. The smile grew as a few more pieces of the puzzle came into view. Either Morgan had a vested interest in Jensen or someone he was loyal to was.
And one didn't have to look much further to see Sonny Corinthos mysteriously enter the unfinished picture. The man snapped open his cell phone and dialed the number.
''Moreno,'' came the sharp answer.
''Hey boss,'' the man drawled out, taking a sip of his drink. ''Jensen just left with your prestigious nephew.''
''So? Dominik's got nothing to do with this,'' Moreno bit out as he maneuvered his vehicle through the city streets. The dark gray clouds hung low and the rain had started to fall a few minutes after leaving Vitali Estates.
''He seems awfully smitten with Ms. Jensen, sending all sorts of signals her way.'' The man crunched on his ice as the earlier moments flashed through his mind. Dominik had been with various women before, but none seemed to capture his attention quite like this new one.
''I don't care, gimme something I need to know,'' came the terse reply.
''You'll never guess who else was privileged to view the private lunch.''
Moreno paused as he drove down the long, winding road leading to his home. ''Who?''
''Jason Morgan. And he looked mighty peeved.''
Moreno quickly pulled off to the side of the road, now this conversation had his full attention. Jason Morgan? Now that wasn't a name he expected to hear, although it seemed to fit into the equation. An equation that seemed to have Sonny Corinthos popping up at every turn. Moreno rubbed his chin thoughtfully, ''Morgan huh? That's interesting.''
The man nodded in agreement. ''This Jensen chick is all over the place. She's the A.D.A. but she's hanging around Harborview Towers, Morgan ain't happy she's sharing meals with Dominik and Danté seems pretty desperate in getting whatever Jensen has on him. It's like they all belong to the picture, but you have no idea how they fit together.''
The man waited patiently for Moreno's response, but received nothing. ''Boss?''
''Shut up for a minute, let me think.'' Moreno's face tightened with concentration, the rhythmic sound of the windshield wipers swishing back and forth lulling him. Ideas swirled around in him mind as he pondered each avenue carefully.
Until something finally came to him.
Moreno's head lifted with genuine surprise. The idea seemed crazy and he almost dismissed it entirely the moment he thought of it. It didn't seem possible.
Unless it was.
As he gave the theory more consideration, the rain outside his Land Rover became hard, pounding against the vehicle. Moreno smiled, his instincts telling him he was on the right track. It was too crazy to be true, but there was a chance.
''Boss?''
Moreno blinked, his attention turning back to the man on the other end of the line. ''Get back to the house,'' he instructed firmly. Checking the road, he pulled back onto it, speeding up.
The man sat up in his seat. The tone in Moreno's voice had changed. Something was up. ''What's going on?''
Moreno let out a laugh, pleased with his discovery. ''I'm not entirely positive, but I think I know what this whole game is about.''
The man was halfway out the restaurant before Moreno continued speaking.
''Danté doesn't want anything from Jensen, he never has. What he's always wanted comes from Corinthos.''
The man slid into the leather seat of his Mercedes and revved the engine. ''What about the break in at her place? And Morgan following her around?'' he asked as he pulled out of the parking lot.
''You know Corinthos, he keep a guard on the people he cares about. He's kept one on the Scorpio girl for years. Maybe Ms. Jensen is the recent addition to that list.''
The man tilted his head thoughtfully. So far Moreno's theory strangely made sense, especially if Corinthos asked Morgan to keep an eye on Jensen. ''Keep going, I'm listening.''
Moreno shook his head as he pulled up the driveway. ''No, I've got some phone calls to make to test my theory. I need to know what Danté wanted from Jensen's apartment. If I can get my hands on it, it might be just the thing I need to crush him completely. Taking Corinthos with him would be icing on the cake.''
*********************
Dara's Office
''So this is your office?'' Dominik took observant steps around the office of Dara Jensen, A.D.A. Like most things about Dara, it had a sleek, professional tone, but upon closer examination, a warm, comfortable look seemed to grow in its place. Dara nodded as she placed her leather briefcase on the mahogany desk. ''Home for the past 3 years,'' she replied, leaning against the front of the desk, watching Dominik's careful examination of her work space.
''It must be rewarding work,'' he noted, turning to her with a smile. He knew he was stalling the inevitable. He had piles of work waiting for him at the office, yet, he had no real desire to leave.
Dara scrunched her face in disagreement. ''Sometimes it is, but more often than not, it's frustrating. I'm starting to think maybe a change is in order. I've had offers from other law firms on the West Coast but I haven't seriously considered them. Not yet at least.'' Not without Sonny by her side, she thought with determination.
Dominik's face tightened with slight panic. ''You have enormous potential Dara, if given a pleasing offer, would you consider staying?''
Dara's eyes widened slightly at the obvious gesture. He wanted her to come work for Vitali Inc. It was a flattering declaration, one that surprisingly sent heat hurtling to her cheeks. His penetrating gaze did more to her than she was willing to admit.
''Oh, I'm sorry, am I interrupting something?'' Outside, the lightning flashed and a few moments later, the thunder clapped. A violent rainstorm was building.
The tight voice cut through the moment like a sledgehammer as both Dara and Dominik turned to the new visitor. Dara's face paled considerably. The day had gone from bad to good and now, to worst.
''I could always come back later,'' Taggert said, his eyes boring into Dara's.
Dara said nothing in response but Dominik stepped forward, sensing the two had much to talk about. ''No no, I'll leave, I have much work to do. Dara, it was a wonderful lunch and if you have any further questions, you know how to reach me.'' With a nod to both, he left.
Dara remained frozen to her spot, her entire body tight with fear. Marcus looked furious, as if barely containing an obvious desire to scream. She knew this moment would eventually come and that when it did, it wouldn't be pretty. Her eyes flickered to the raging storm outside.
By the looks of it, one was about to happen inside as well.
************************
Vitali Estates
Tori examined her evening wear thoughtfully. Something sexy, but not too flashy. Something that would let Sonny know everything he'd missed while she was gone from his life, and what he would yearn for when she walked back out.
''Are you sure you're ready to do this?'' Vincent's soft voice floated across the room. Tori turned, sucking in her breath slightly at his smart Armani suit that fit him perfectly.
Placing the outfit back into her armoire, Tori nodded, but truthfully, she was more nervous than she wanted to be. A lot was at stake for this evening. For her, for Vincent, for everyone. It could be a huge success or it could all go up in smoke.
''No problem. Danté will be at his meeting, a neutral guard will drive me there and back. Nobody will know other than the ones who already do.'' She turned back to find Vincent standing directly in front of her. She exhaled slowly, her breath coming out in a ragged whisper. Vincent's aquamarine eyes bore into hers, studying her carefully. She appeared to be confident, but her facade wasn't entirely convincing.
''Corinthos isn't someone to play with. We can get him another way without you doing this,'' he said. Tori's expression darkened. ''I know what I'm doing,'' she insisted but his words rang true, making her more nervous than before. ''Trust me Vincent, this is what needs to be done. Danté can't survive this war without Sonny in his corner.'' Feeling the tears prick her eyes, she turned from him. The thought of Danté dying gripped her in a way that hadn't before. This was now more than real.
Vincent nodded his head slightly, he shared her fears. Danté had become a good friend over the years and they had grown close in their partnership. They were a lethal combination, Vincent had pegged most of the problems they faced and Danté had crushed each one in brutal, violent battles. It was an unbeatable partnership. But of all the things he knew about this final impending war, Vincent was crystal clear on one thing. Danté would die unless he had Corinthos do his bidding. There was simply nothing else that could be done. Permission from the families was the only way to safetly remove Moreno and take control. Moreno had the seniority and respect that Danté didn't. It was the painful, cold reality.
Taking a step forward, Vincent placed comforting hands on her shoulders. ''I know,'' he replied simply.
*********************
Sonny's PH
Sonny glanced around the room numbly. The table was set. The food was just a few hours from completion. All that was left was a shower and clean clothes and then he'd swallow his shame and allow Tori back into his life, for just one night. The thought of betraying Dara like this made his stomach tighten with self-loathing. With a quick swipe of his hand, the fresh tears that sprung forward were quickly removed. Stick to getting through this, he instructed himself. Blocking painful thoughts of Dara from his mind, he set about putting the finishing touches. The fire was lit until it could manage without his attention. Wine was selected and arranged at the table. Johnny was dismissed for the night. Each step towards the inevitable made his heart shudder and moan with discontent, but Sonny pressed on.
After showering, he dressed, leaving his jacket and tie on the bed and went down to the kitchen to check on the three course meal he'd prepared.
''Hey, big night?''
Sonny turned, startled at the interruption. Jason leaned against the door frame to the kitchen, eyeing the busy chef curiously.
''Yeah, something like that.'' Sonny's eyes averted Jason's stare.
''So you made up with her,'' Jason commented. Sonny visibly tensed at the question, but managed to nod.
Jason noted Sonny's silence but didn't comment on it. ''Okay, I'll be at the shop if you need anything.'' He paused waiting for Sonny's reaction.
Sonny blinked, forcing a smile. ''Don't work too hard. I'll see you in the morning.''
Jason nodded. ''Later.''
Sonny waited until the sound of the front door closing came. Letting out a sigh, he pinched the bridge of his nose. He hated lying to Jason, but telling anybody about this was out of the question. The more people knew, the greater the chance it would get back to Dara and he wouldn't risk that for anything.
Like a prisoner, he trudged from the kitchen to the dining area, bringing the steaming food and arranging it on the individual plates with painstaking precision. He was not a man to take things for granted when the safety of others were on the line.
The clock struck six, and as if on cue, their was a sharp rap at the door.
Sonny looked at the oak door with dread. ''Forgive me,'' he murmured.
The door opened and in sauntered Tori, a mischievous smile playing about her lips. She took two steps towards him, shutting the door behind her.
''Good evening Michael,'' she purred.
Sonny cringed visibly. ''Hey,'' he responded shortly. His closed his eyes and offered up a silent plea to anyone above who might be willing to listen.
Forgive me.