The Brenda #9A wasn’t too hard to compile, but the #9B I was pulling my hair out as so much of the show was about Brenda but without her being directly involved....like the old days when the show was about one storyline and everyone was involved, but made it difficult to edit as I know some fans want more of the Brenda/Sonny (without Suzanne, Jason, Dante, Carly) but others want the whole thing. This is one of those time frames that complete episodes are another choice as there was so much of everyone talking about Brenda that I couldn’t include it all. So I edited it down a bit to show Carly’s plot (but not ALL of Carly talking about Brenda or it would turn into a Carly edit!), and not ALL of Dante talking about Brenda as that is all he did for a coupe of months, Jason’s storyline is almost completely about finding the Balkan but that is all about Brenda, even Spinelli’s universe becomes centered around our girl’s return. I do have all of Jason’s storyline edited on the Jason & Sam edits, and all of Dante’s storyline edited on the Dante & Lulu series.
Brenda Returns 2010 #9A October 21, 2010 - December 15, 2011: 8 hr original edit
Dvd #9A At the penthouse, Brenda thanked Jason for everything that he had done for her, but she thought that the threat to her was affecting too many of her loved ones, so she had decided to take her chances by leaving town. Jason promised to take Brenda wherever she wanted to go, if she would trust him with the truth about why the Balkan was after her. Jason was certain that Brenda knew more than she was saying because he could see the fear growing in Brenda every day. Jason implored Brenda to cooperate, but Brenda was determined to fix things on her own.
Jason pleaded with Brenda to trust him; he promised not to breathe a word of what she told him. Jason's frustration mounted as Brenda remained tightlipped. Jason switched tactics by revealing that he had told Sonny to stay away from Brenda and that Sonny had agreed. The ploy didn't work because Brenda refused to tell Jason what she knew about the Balkan. Jason hoped that it wouldn't be too late when she finally worked up the courage to confide the truth to him.
At Pozzulo's, Sonny questioned Suzanne about Brenda's whereabouts. Suzanne made it clear that she didn't have any intention of providing him regular reports on Brenda's activity. Sonny reminded Suzanne that she had been the one to tell him that Brenda was in love with him. He couldn't understand why Brenda had pulled away from him since then. Sonny was concerned because he could tell that Brenda was scared. Suzanne suggested that Brenda had good reason to be afraid because the Balkan had targeted Brenda several times. Sonny suspected that there was more to it than that. He was certain that Suzanne knew what was really bothering Brenda. Suzanne acknowledged that Sonny's presence upset Brenda. Sonny immediately defended his reasons for seeking out Brenda, but Suzanne thought they were just excuses to justify his attempts to pressure Brenda to change her mind.
Sonny remained certain that something else was going on. Suzanne argued that Sonny robbed Brenda of the emotional growth that Brenda had gained since leaving Port Charles. Sonny didn't believe her because Brenda had been different in Rome when he had seen her. Suzanne was stunned when she realized that Sonny and Brenda had recently had an encounter in Rome. She insisted that Brenda needed distance from Sonny because he drew out the worst in Brenda. Suzanne explained that Brenda was terrified to get close to Sonny because she feared that she might lose herself again. Sonny stubbornly argued that something else was wrong with Brenda; he was concerned because it was clearly tearing Brenda apart. Sonny was desperate to help Brenda because he loved her. Suzanne urged Sonny to stay away from Brenda, but Sonny refused to stand by while Brenda fell apart.
Jason showed up shortly after Suzanne left. Jason briefly updated Sonny on how Brenda was doing and what was going on with the Balkan. Conan entered the office to deliver a perfumed envelope that had arrived for Sonny. It was from Claire.
Suzanne went to the penthouse to see Brenda, who was in a foul mood. Suzanne realized that Brenda was taking her frustration out on Suzanne, so she suggested that Brenda open up to Jason about the Balkan, so that they could all get back to their lives. Brenda refused to consider it, so Suzanne tried to find out why. Brenda grew tired of the "interrogation," so she stormed out of the penthouse.
On the pier, Brenda asked Max and Milo to give her some space. They respected her wishes, but remained close enough to keep an eye on her. Brenda looked out at the water as she remembered Dante surprising her with her favorite dessert in her suite years earlier. Brenda returned to the present when she heard someone approach her from behind. It was Dante.
Sonny was impressed when Claire arrived for dinner. He complimented her on how beautiful she looked before they were led to a table in an upscale restaurant that appeared to be deserted of other patrons. Sonny confessed that he had called ahead to order the wine. Claire was impressed, but she clarified that she wanted to enjoy the evening instead of engaging in sexual banter. Sonny raised his glass to offer a toast for a pleasant evening.
10/22 Sonny wined and dined Claire at a French bistro. They chitchatted about mundane issues, including Sonny's failed attempt, years before, at French cuisine. Claire asked whom he had been trying to impress, until she realized that it must have been Brenda. Claire apologized for being so insecure, but Sonny said he was sorry that he'd wooed Claire and then announced he wanted to resume a relationship with Brenda. Sonny explained that, even though he and Brenda had never been good for each other, he wasn't sure if he'd turn down an offer to attempt a reconciliation with her. Claire asked to clarify the situation. Was Sonny actually telling her that he wanted to reserve the right to resume romantic relations with her but wanted the option to end things if Brenda decided she wanted him back, Claire wondered. Sonny replied that it was a moot point because Brenda would never allow him back. Sonny and Claire differed on who had invited whom to dinner that night. They both realized that Carly had set up the rendezvous. Claire made clear to Sonny that she had no intention of sending Michael back to prison.
Sonny went to see Carly at the Metro Court. Carly was defensive, but Sonny thanked her for setting up the dinner. Sonny let her know that, when Claire had threatened Michael, it had been a bluff. Carly said that she never wanted to see Michael have to worry about returning to prison again.
Max and Milo watched over Brenda at the waterfront as she bumped into Dante. Dante confirmed that Sonny was still unaware of the secret Brenda and Dante shared. Max and Milo escorted Brenda away. After they left, Dante reminisced about his past with Brenda. Dante went to Pozzulo's and continued to think about his days with Brenda. Sonny walked in, noticed Dante staring at a magazine photo of Brenda, and stated, "Hard to keep your eyes off her."
Lucky met Jason on the waterfront and explained that he was pretending to be Ronan O'Reilly. Lucky told Jason that the Balkan wanted Brenda kidnapped and that Lucky was supposed to carry out the abduction. As they spoke, a man took photos of them from a distance.
10/25 The Balkan's man used his cell phone to snap a candid shot of Lucky and Jason meeting on the docks. He was not close enough to hear their conversation as Lucky and Jason discussed staging a fake kidnapping so that Lucky could identify the Balkan and fulfill his mission for Interpol. Lucky told Jason that the Balkan was an evil man who exploited children and was responsible for many other heinous crimes. Both Lucky and Jason questioned the Balkan's fixation on Brenda and Brenda's reluctance to tell what she knew. After agreeing to meet again, Jason left. Lucky heard a noise and pulled a gun, but did not see the Balkan's thug lurking in the shadows. Once Lucky was gone, the Balkan's man sent the photo he had taken along with a text message that read, "Don't trust him."
Lulu went to Jason's penthouse to see Brenda, who wanted to get caught up on Lulu's life. Lulu told Brenda about Laura's recovery and Luke's wild plan to win back Tracy. Lulu did not notice Brenda's discomfort, when she said that Dante was her boyfriend. Talk turned to Lulu's job at Crimson. She told Brenda that her assignment was to get Brenda to appear on the cover of the magazine. Lulu's magazine mock-up impressed Brenda, but she still declined the offer. Lulu said that it had originally been Jax's idea to put Brenda on the cover, but he could not because of Carly. Brenda said she would reconsider appearing on the cover if Jax asked her personally.
Sonny called Dante to his office to ask him to go easy on Brenda the next time they met. Dante said that he probably would never see Brenda again. Sonny said that even though Brenda was fragile, she was stubborn when she wanted something. Dante asked if Sonny meant that she wanted to meld them together as father and son. Sonny said yes and asked Dante to be nice to Brenda. Dante agreed, but said that he would not be going out of his way to see her. Sonny told Dante about his love for Brenda and the connection that they had. Dante was obviously uncomfortable, but Sonny was oblivious as he detailed his lifelong love for Brenda.
After leaving Sonny, Dante got a call from Claire summoning him to her office. Once there, he told her that he had more information on Brenda. Claire said that she no longer wanted info on Brenda. She told him that she had decided to give Brenda police protection, since there was the possibility that Brenda could become collateral damage if someone decided to go after Jason. When Dante said that Ronnie would be perfect for the job, Claire said that she wanted Dante to do it. Dante resisted, but Claire said that she had made up her mind, and that starting immediately, Dante would be responsible for Brenda's safety.
Jason went to Sonny's office and told him what he had learned from Lucky. Sonny liked the fake kidnapping plan that Lucky and Jason had devised, but told Jason that he could not use Brenda as bait. Jason told Sonny to trust him to keep Brenda safe. Sam went to see Jason at the penthouse, but met Brenda instead. When Brenda wanted to know why Sam had not been around, Sam said she had been working, but had some free time and wanted to spend it with Jason. When Jax arrived to see Brenda, Brenda took that as a cue to leave with him.
Jax and Brenda ditched Max and Milo and went down to the pier to talk. When Jax asked how she was doing, she said she was okay, but Jax did not believe her. He blamed Sonny for her depressed mood. Brenda defended Sonny and said that he was leaving her alone as she had asked. Jax said that Sonny would start after her again because he did not care whom he hurt to get what he wanted. Brenda said she was older and wiser and would not fall under Sonny's spell again. She said that she would be okay. Jax asked what she would do if she was not okay. Brenda laughingly said that she would call her sponsor. Jax put an arm around her when he said it would be him. At that moment, Sonny walked onto the pier and saw them together.
10/26 On the pier, Jax promised Brenda that the Balkan would be caught soon, so she would be able to return to Rome. Jax felt bad that she'd had to return to Port Charles and revisit the past. Brenda assured him that it was okay; some of the memories were better than others. She wondered if he had ever returned to New Orleans. Jax smiled softly as he admitted that his business hadn't taken him there in a very long time. Brenda and Jax recalled their trip to New Orleans when Jax had professed his love for Brenda in the pouring rain. Brenda fondly recalled their beautiful hotel room in the French Quarter. They wondered if the hotel were still there. They seemed lost in their private thoughts for a moment before Jax reminded Brenda that she had built a good life for herself. Brenda agreed, but she wanted him to know that some of her happiest days had been with Jax.
Brenda remembered how they had broken tradition by seeing each other in their wedding clothes before the marriage ceremony. Brenda recalled that she had been eager to tell Jax how much she had loved him. Jax admitted that he had been head over heels in love with Brenda too. However, Jax confessed that he didn't have any regrets over their broken engagement because it had led him to his wife and daughter. A short time later, Jax took Brenda to the penthouse.
Brenda and Jax arrived at the penthouse to find Jason and Sam in the living room. Jax informed Jason that he had arranged for a police guard for Brenda. Jason assured Jax that it wasn't necessary because Jason had it handled. Jax ignored the comment and then left. Brenda was annoyed by the way that Jason had treated Jax, but Jason didn't apologize. He insisted that Jax didn't know what he was doing. Brenda didn't want Jason to be rude to her friends while she was in Port Charles. Sam sat quietly on the steps as Jason informed Brenda that it would be over soon because he had arranged to meet the Balkan on Friday. Brenda was relieved until Jason revealed that he intended to use Sam as the bait. Brenda worried that Sam would be hurt, but Jason argued that Sam was experienced with weapons and worked well with him.
Brenda sarcastically commented that she was certain that an international criminal would walk right into Jason and Sam's trap. The argument ended abruptly when someone knocked on the door. It was Dante. Dante informed everyone that he had been assigned to guard Brenda. Brenda immediately objected, but Dante explained that she didn't have a choice because Jax had made the arrangements. Jason didn't mind because he was confident that he could use Dante's help. Dante assured them that he would report for duty in the morning and then left. Brenda was more determined than ever to go to the meeting with the Balkan. Jason and Brenda continued to argue until Brenda stormed off to her bedroom.
10/28 At Kelly's, Sonny claimed that he had stopped by to visit Mike and enjoy the food. Mike smiled because he saw through the lie; Sonny had hoped to run into Brenda. Mike revealed that he hadn't seen Brenda since her arrival, but he had heard that she was staying with Jason. Sonny told Mike about Brenda's recent troubles. Mike realized that it had to be serious if Brenda were willing to move in with Jason, since they were like oil and water. Mike wasn't surprised when Sonny revealed that he had hoped to rekindle things with Brenda, but that she had made it clear that she wasn't interested in exploring a relationship with Sonny. Mike was proud that Sonny had decided to respect Brenda's wishes by staying away from her. Mike suggested that Brenda was like a drug to Sonny. He reminded Sonny that Sonny and Brenda hadn't always been good for each other.
At Jason's penthouse, Jason explained to Sam that Brenda was upset because she didn't want Sam to risk her life. Jason agreed that Brenda had a point. Sam didn't get a chance to respond because Suzanne arrived. Suzanne was curious what was going on with Brenda. Jason told Suzanne about their plans to lure the Balkan out of hiding by "kidnapping" Brenda. Suzanne thought that it was a great plan, but she didn't think that Brenda would go along with it. Spinelli entered the living room moments later, babbling about Brenda. Sam suggested that they spare themselves lots of trouble by simply locking Brenda in her room until the Balkan had been dealt with. According to Spinelli, Brenda hated Jason's plan because she thought that it was stupid and would likely get everyone killed because the Balkan would see through it. Spinelli insisted that Brenda didn't want anyone to get hurt. Suzanne urged Jason to talk to Brenda; she was certain that, deep down, Brenda wanted Jason's respect. Jason just wanted to get it all over with. Suzanne realized that she wasn't getting anywhere with Jason, so she decided to make the necessary arrangements to put his plans into motion.
Jason and Sam returned to the penthouse a short time later. Jason was satisfied that Spinelli had found the perfect place for the ambush. Spinelli warned Jason that Brenda continued to have reservations about the plan, but Suzanne was trying to ease Brenda's fears. Jason promised to make another attempt to explain things to Brenda. Suzanne entered the living room moments later to announce that Brenda had agreed to stay put. However, Suzanne suspected that Brenda had been lying because Brenda had capitulated too easily.
Dante went to Jason's penthouse to report for duty. After Suzanne left, Jason filled Dante in on the plans. Their attention shifted to Sam when she entered the living room to show them her disguise. She looked eerily like Brenda.
Later, Robin went to Pozzulo's to talk to Sonny. Robin apologized for dropping by without calling, but she explained that her head was about to explode. Robin ranted about Patrick and Lisa for several minutes until Sonny admitted that he couldn't understand why Patrick would work with Lisa. Robin conceded that Patrick hadn't been given a choice. She couldn't believe that Shadybrook had released Lisa. Robin confessed that Lisa drove her crazy. Sonny wondered if Robin wanted him to "intervene." Robin thought about it for a long moment, but then declined Sonny's offer. Robin realized that the real problem was Patrick. She admitted that she missed him and the life that they had shared.
Robin couldn't help but wonder if all of it had been a lie. Sonny was curious if anything in the marriage had been worth saving. "Yes," Robin admitted, but she didn't know how to forgive Patrick. Sonny opened up about how Lily had forgiven him, even though he had planned to leave his wife. Sonny confided that it had felt wonderful when Lily forgave him. Sonny suggested that Robin should forgive Patrick, even if she didn't take him back. He warned her that if she held onto the anger and resentment, she might be blind to a love that could be right in front of her. Robin returned to the hospital a short time later to let Epiphany know that she had taken Emma's birthday off to throw her daughter a party. Robin's good mood soured when she heard Steve ask Patrick how the surgery had gone. Patrick admitted that Lisa had done a good job.
Conan popped his head into Sonny's office to let Sonny know that Claire was there. Moments later, Claire entered the office. She thanked Sonny for the beautiful flowers. Sonny smiled as he confessed that he had sent them because he had hoped to invite her to dinner. Claire wanted to accept the invitation, but she thought that he should know that he was the prime suspect in the Zacchara car bombing. She also revealed that she had assigned Dante to protect Brenda. Sonny thought that Dante would do a good job, but he was curious why Claire wanted to pursue the investigation. Claire explained that everything pointed to Sonny as the person responsible for the bomb; he'd had motive and opportunity. Sonny argued that she had a conflict of interest with the case. Claire explained that she couldn't prosecute Sonny, but she couldn't condone murder.
10/29 At Sonny's home, Claire told Sonny that, though she cared for him, she could not look the other way if it turned out that he had any connection to Johnny's car bombing. Sonny denied having had anything to do with it and asked Claire out on a date. She tried to resist but gave in to him when he kissed her. Claire's phone rang and, against Sonny's advice, she answered it. Ronnie was on the other end. "I got something on Corinthos," he told her. "And I think it's a game changer."
Later, Sonny made reservations for two at the French restaurant. Alexis walked in and let Sonny know that Claire was hell-bent on proving Sonny's guilt in the car bombing. Alexis worried that Kristina would be destroyed if Sonny were to go to prison or on the run. Alexis made it clear that Sonny dating Claire was a bad idea. It would only be a matter of time before he'd slip up or Claire would find evidence, Alexis fretted.
Claire later listened to a tape in which the mechanic confirmed to Sonny that Johnny’s car had been rigged to explode. She made a call to check on legal precedents regarding the admissibility of a wiretapped recording. Sonny arrived and swept Claire off her feet.
At Jason's penthouse, Sam, dressed as Brenda, assured Dante that she'd be as effective as an undercover cop at luring the Balkan. Jason reminded Dante that the plan was Lucky's but that it wouldn't work if they couldn't control Brenda. The three of them went over the details. Sam, posing as Brenda, would be led to a car. Lucky, posing as Ronan, would abduct her. Dante worried that the Balkan would know that Jason would kill Ronan in such a situation. Max and Milo showed up, having been invited by Dante who explained that they would pose as "Brenda's" bodyguards.
In the "regrettably pink room," Brenda had a nightmare about a scuffle between another man and Dante. In the dream, she'd picked up Dante's gun and shot the man. Brenda woke up screaming, which prompted Spinelli to run into her room. Brenda explained that she'd just had a nightmare. Spinelli wanted to analyze the dream, but Brenda said that she'd be less likely to have bad dreams if she knew more about the plan to convince the Balkan that Ronan had kidnapped her. Spinelli let it slip that the deception would go down at the warehouse. Brenda sent Spinelli on a wild goose chase to get her some tea that would help her sleep.
Brenda walked into the living room and announced to Dante and Jason that their plan would fail. She argued that she should be the one to be "kidnapped" by Lucky. Jason put his foot down and left. Brenda told Dante that, since the two of them were the only people who knew that the Balkan was after her because she'd accidentally killed a man named Aleksander, they needed to thwart Lucky's plan. Brenda wondered why, after all those years, the Balkan would pursue her. Dante explained that, six months before, the New Jersey police had discovered Aleksander's body, where Dante had dumped it. Brenda made Dante promise that he'd never admit to his involvement in the death. Dante assured Brenda that, once the Balkan was apprehended or killed, their past would remain buried. As Dante momentarily turned away, Brenda hit him over the head with a vase and ran out.
11/1 At the warehouse, Jason, Sam, and Lucky prepared for the upcoming meeting with the Balkan. Meanwhile, at Jason's penthouse, Dante woke up to find that Brenda was gone. In the lobby, Brenda bumped into a couple of painters as she ran out of the building. Spinelli arrived that the penthouse a short time later to find the front door wide open and everyone gone. He immediately called Jason. Jason had Spinelli check the surveillance footage, which showed Brenda racing out of the lobby, followed by Dante two minutes later. Jason was confident that Brenda would be fine, since she didn't have any idea where the meeting with the Balkan had been scheduled to take place. Jason realized something was wrong when Spinelli remained silent. Jason demanded to know what Spinelli was hiding, so Spinelli confessed that he had told Brenda where Jason and Lucky had planned to ambush the Balkan. After Jason ended the call, he let Sam and Lucky know that their plans had hit a snag.
Jason decided that it would be best to pack things up, but Lucky argued that their plan could still work. Jason disagreed. In the alleyway, Brenda raced to the warehouse, but before she could enter the building, one of the Balkan's goons caught her. Brenda struggled violently with the man until Dante arrived. Dante managed to free Brenda from the thug's grip, but Brenda didn't run to safety. She watched as Dante tried to overpower the burly man, until she spotted a gun on the ground. Brenda picked up the gun as she began to have flashbacks of another violent fight in an alleyway between an unknown person and Dante. Distraught, Brenda took aim and then fired at the goon, who had gained the upper hand on Dante. The thug stumbled away from Dante and then collapsed to the ground. Brenda became hysterical as she realized that she had killed the man. Jason, Sam, and Lucky arrived seconds later.
Jason gently talked Brenda into lowering the gun and then giving it to him. Brenda threw herself into Jason's arms as she sobbed. Sam watched Jason and Brenda as Dante insisted on calling the police. Lucky didn't want to involve the police because he feared that it would blow his cover as Ronan O'Reilly. Jason argued that Brenda was too upset to deal with the police, so he wanted to take her home. Dante insisted that Brenda hadn't done anything wrong, so there wasn't any reason to cover up what had happened. Dante suggested that Lucky and Sam leave. Dante thought that Brenda could claim that she had been at the warehouse with Jason and then had gone into the alley when she had heard a noise. Sam didn't look pleased when she walked away. After Lucky and Sam left, Brenda looked at Dante with confusion as she reminded him that he had promised her that no one would know. Dante stared at Brenda with concern, but didn't respond to the comment.
On Spoon Island, Siobhan was abducted by one of the Balkan's men and then spirited to an abandoned warehouse. Siobhan warned the goon that he had kidnapped the wrong woman and that her boss, Nikolas Cassadine, would call the police the moment that he realized that Siobhan was gone. The thug assured Siobhan that no one had noticed that she was missing yet and that she wasn't going anywhere because she was the bait.
At the police station, Dante ushered Brenda and Jason to the interrogation room and then turned to fetch someone to take Brenda's statement. Brenda didn't want to give a statement because she feared that she would be sent to jail. Dante assured her that she hadn't done anything wrong by saving his life. Brenda was traumatized and remained in the grips of the past as she admitted that she didn't understand why Dante was telling the police when he had promised her that they would never talk about "it." Jason demanded to know what was going on. Dante was spared from having to answer Jason because Agent Bates entered the squad room to demand to speak to Dante. Jason closed the door to the interrogation room while Dante approached the Interpol agent. Agent Bates warned Dante that Dante had a "significant situation" on his hands. Agent Bates wanted to know why the Balkan was focused on Brenda.
In the interrogation room, Jason called Diane to ask her to meet him at the station, so that she could get Brenda released. After he ended the call, Jason promised Brenda to get her through the crisis, but he insisted that she had to tell him what had happened. "This time or the time before?" Brenda asked.
11/2 At Greystone Manor, Sonny poured a nightcap for himself and Claire. He was pleased that Claire had opened up about herself over dinner. Claire couldn't believe how much she had shared about herself. She insisted that she was usually sensible and in control except when she was around Sonny. Claire didn't understand why. Sonny suspected that it was because she knew that they were walking a tightrope between the law and breaking it. Claire agreed that it was tantalizing to know that they could fall at any moment. Claire warned Sonny that he probably shouldn't trust her, since she was investigating him. Sonny didn't understand why it was an issue when she couldn't prosecute him. Moments later, the phone rang. Claire was surprised to learn that Brenda had killed a man earlier that evening. She assured the caller that she was on her way to the police station to take Brenda's statement.
At the police station, Agent Bates demanded to know why the Balkan was interested in Brenda. Dante claimed that he didn't know why, so Agent Bates questioned how Brenda had ended up killing the Balkan's henchman, Banovic. Dante would only reveal the barest essentials: he had been assigned to guard Brenda, and she had saved his life when Banovic had tried to kill him. Agent Bates was curious what Brenda had been doing in the alley in the first place. Dante suggested that she had been looking for her ex-husband, Jason Morgan. Agent Bates knew that Dante had a history with Brenda, so he didn't believe Dante's story.
In the interrogation room, Jason questioned Brenda about what she had meant when she had told him that something had happened in the past. Brenda refused to tell Jason. Jason didn't have an opportunity to probe further because Diane had arrived. Diane tried to get to the bottom of what had happened, so that she could figure out how to help Brenda. Brenda made it clear that she refused to give a statement about the shooting. Brenda turned to Jason for help, so Jason instructed Diane to find a way for Brenda to go home as soon as possible. Diane left the room, but returned a short time later. Jason urged Brenda to tell Diane what had happened. Brenda admitted that she had known about the ambush, so she had raced to the warehouse to stop Jason from meeting with the Balkan. Brenda then told Diane about the attack and subsequent shooting.
Diane agreed that it was best for Brenda not to give a statement, since it was clear that she had known far too much about what had been planned at the warehouse. Moments later, Agent Bates entered the room to interrogate Brenda about the Balkan. Diane quickly interceded by informing Agent Bates that she was Brenda's legal counsel. Agent Bates acknowledged that Diane had a right to be present, but he insisted that Jason had to leave. Jason assured Brenda that he would be close by. After Jason stepped out of the room, Diane warned Agent Bates that he didn't have any jurisdiction to question Brenda about a crime that had taken place in the United States. Diane argued that Brenda had acted in defense of Dante, so Brenda hadn't violated any laws. Agent Bates and Diane stepped out of the room when Claire arrived. Diane warned Claire that Brenda would not give a statement. As Diane and Claire argued, Sonny slipped into the interrogation room to check on Brenda.
Jason approached Dante to let him know that Brenda seemed to have the shooting mixed up with something that had happened in the past. Jason was curious if Dante knew what Brenda had been trying to tell Dante in the alley. Meanwhile, in the interrogation room, Sonny found Brenda with her head resting on her arms. She looked up when she heard Sonny. Brenda immediately ran into Sonny's arms. Sonny assured Brenda that everything would be okay because his attorney was working on getting her released. Brenda lamented that everything was her fault. Sonny asked Brenda to trust him to take care of everything. In the squad room, Agent Bates angrily demanded to know who was in the interrogation room with Brenda. Claire was annoyed as she watched Sonny comfort Brenda. Dante explained that Sonny was his father and then entered the interrogation room to ask Sonny to leave.
Diane insisted that Brenda be allowed to go home. Agent Bates finally relented, but he warned Diane that he intended to question Brenda the following day. Jason thanked Diane for her help, but Diane cautioned Jason that it wasn't over. She pulled him aside to explain that Sonny had been "canoodling" with Claire, while publicly comforting Brenda. Diane didn't think that Claire would take that kind of slap in the face lying down. Jason thought that it was Sonny's problem to deal with. Jason and Diane returned to the interrogation room to let Brenda know that she was free to leave. Diane was confident that she could delay Brenda from having to make a statement for weeks. As Jason, Brenda, and Diane walked through the squad room, Agent Bates stopped them. Agent Bates warned Brenda that sooner or later, she would have to tell him why the Balkan had targeted her. Diane insisted that Brenda didn't have any personal knowledge of the Balkan, so Diane threatened to file a complaint if Agent Bates continued to harass her client. After Jason, Brenda, and Diane left, Agent Bates turned his attention to Dante. Agent Bates wanted to know what had happened in the alley with Banovic. Dante stuck to his story.
In the squad room, Ronnie approached Claire to find out if she had reviewed the admissibility of the evidence against Sonny that had been provided by Homeland Security. He was curious if it was sufficient to charge Sonny with attempted murder. Claire explained that she couldn't be the one to determine if the evidence could be used against Sonny. Ronnie was annoyed because he suspected that Claire intended to bury the tape. Claire called her superiors in Washington to notify them that evidence had surfaced tying Sonny to the Zacchara car bombing.
Sonny appeared to be deep in thought as he sat before a roaring fire in his parlor. Claire walked in moments later. Sonny began to explain why he had comforted Brenda, but Claire didn't want to hear it. She just wanted them to have the night to themselves. Sonny didn't object when Claire passionately kissed him.
Lucky received a call from Agent Bates ordering Lucky to go to the police station because they had news on the Balkan. Lucky arrived at the police station a short time later. Agent Bates revealed that the Balkan had almost captured Brenda Barrett. Dante left as Lucky pointed out that the attempted kidnapping had failed, so he didn't understand why Agent Bates was upset. Agent Bates explained that Interpol was not happy with Lucky's performance. Lucky explained that the Balkan had taken the woman that had been helping Lucky. Lucky expected Interpol to back him while he searched for Siobhan. Agent Bates made it clear that Lucky was no longer of any use to them, so they were cutting Lucky loose. Agent Bates added that the missing woman was Lucky's problem. After Agent Bates left, Dante returned with grim news. Dante had received an email addressed to Lucky. It was a picture of Siobhan tied to a chair. Lucky's fears were confirmed when he realized that the Balkan had Siobhan and was aware of Lucky's true identity.
Jason and Brenda arrived at the penthouse to find that everything was dark and no one appeared to be there. Jason suspected that Sam was in bed, sleeping. Brenda took the opportunity to thank Jason for his help. Jason suggested that Brenda get some rest, so she went to her bedroom. Jason went to his own bedroom, where Sam was sound asleep in his bed. Jason glanced out the window for a moment and then curled up in bed with Sam. Brenda threw the pillows off of her bed and then flopped down. In the other bedroom, Jason and Sam were sound asleep when they woke up to the sound of Brenda screaming. Jason raced to Brenda's bedroom to find her sitting up in bed after a terrifying nightmare. Brenda threw herself into Jason's arms just as Sam arrived. Sam watched Jason comfort Brenda for a moment and then quietly turn away with a troubled expression.
11/3 At Greystone Manor, Claire wore Sonny's robe as she joined him for a cup of coffee in the parlor. Sonny kissed Claire, but she pulled away. He sensed that Claire was on edge because of what had happened at the police station. Claire didn't want to get into it, but Sonny explained that he had gone to Brenda because Brenda had been a mess. Sonny insisted that Brenda would have completely unraveled if he hadn't calmed her down. Claire pointed out that Brenda had plenty of people to lean on. Sonny claimed that he had merely helped an old friend who had been falling apart. He thought that Claire understood how he felt about Brenda and was okay with it. Claire started to tell Sonny that she didn't want to have any regrets, but Diane chose that moment to walk in. Diane took one look at the cozy couple and then warned Sonny that things were about to change; Claire intended to slap a pair of handcuffs on Sonny.
Sonny wasn't in the mood for Diane's "paranoia." Diane explained that she had received a call from Claire's bosses instructing Diane to make sure that Sonny appeared at the police station for questioning later that morning. Diane informed Sonny that new evidence had surfaced in the Zacchara car bombing and that Claire had been the one to turn it over to the prosecutor. Claire insisted that she had followed procedure and that her superiors had made the decision to follow up on it. Claire excused herself to change into her clothes. After Claire left the room, Diane warned Sonny that comforting Brenda would cost him.
At the police station, Sonny and Diane were shown to the interrogation room. Sonny suggested that Ronnie make himself useful by fetching Sonny a cup of coffee. Ronnie smiled as he happily agreed. Diane warned Sonny that Ronnie's good mood didn't bode well for them. Moments later, Claire entered. Claire was all business as she immediately began to question Sonny about the night of the car bombing. Claire wondered if Sonny had any knowledge that Johnny's car would be bombed. "No," Sonny answered. Claire cautioned him to think twice before responding because she had evidence that he was "perjuring" himself. Ronnie stood at the window, watching the interrogation.
Dante arrived at the police station a short time later to find his father sitting in the interrogation room. Sonny explained that Claire and Diane were hashing out whether Sonny should be arrested immediately or after an indictment had been handed down. Dante was shocked to learn that Ronnie had discovered evidence that implicated Sonny in Johnny's car bombing. Dante immediately questioned the validity of the evidence, so he went to find Ronnie. Dante confronted Ronnie about framing Sonny. Ronnie argued that Dante's reaction was proof that Dante had been compromised. Dante argued that Ronnie had tried to frame Sonny for shooting Johnny, so Ronnie played the recording of Sonny discussing the car bomb.
In the interrogation room, Claire informed Sonny that the judge was reviewing the evidence, so they would have a decision at any moment. Sonny was disappointed because he thought that he could trust Claire. Claire insisted that she had never lied to him; she had warned him that she wouldn't bury evidence against him if it landed on her desk. Sonny was curious if she had decided to turn over the evidence before or after she had seen him with Brenda. Claire claimed that she wasn't a woman scorned, but she couldn't suppress evidence. Sonny claimed that he had just wanted honesty from Claire. He was certain that she had known what would happen when she arrived at his home the previous night.
Later, Jason and Sam went to the alley where Brenda had shot the Balkan's thug. As Jason and Sam reviewed the events of the previous night, they realized that Brenda's comments to Dante hadn't made sense unless Brenda had known Dante in the past. Sam didn't understand why Dante had resorted to hand-to-hand combat rather than shooting the Balkan's goon. Sam could understand Dante's reluctance to shoot if Lulu had been in the alley, but Brenda was merely a client. According to Sam, it was harder to keep things professional when someone you loved was involved. Jason agreed that Sam had a point.
11/4 At the police station, Ronnie played the recording of Sonny talking about Johnny's car bomb. Dante realized that the evidence against Sonny was damaging. Dante couldn't believe that Sonny's downfall had been Sonny's attempt to protect Kristina, not the years of criminal activity. Ronnie handed Dante a cup of coffee as he apologized for giving Dante a hard time. Ronnie confessed that he had always considered Dante to be a good cop, which was why Ronnie had hated seeing Dante compromise himself for Sonny.
In the interrogation room, Sonny admitted that he had underestimated Claire. He realized that she had outplayed him. Claire reminded Sonny that she had merely turned over evidence that had been handed to her; she hadn't manufactured it. Sonny accused Claire of choosing her career over him. Claire confessed that she had been hoping that Sonny wouldn't have been caught. Sonny was disappointed that Claire hadn't even bothered to warn him. He had noticed that she had been on edge the night before and that their lovemaking had been different, but he hadn't realized that she had been saying goodbye to him. Claire insisted that she cared for Sonny, but she had never agreed to bury evidence for him. She hoped that Diane found a way out for Sonny because Claire wanted to continue seeing him.
After Claire left, Dante entered the interrogation room to talk to his father. Dante was certain that Diane would find a loophole for Sonny. Sonny hoped that Dante was right, but he asked Dante to do a favor for him. Dante warned Sonny that he was talking to a cop, so Sonny should be careful about what he said. Sonny insisted that he needed Kristina's brother, not the cop. Sonny hoped that Dante would let Kristina know that Sonny loved her and had just wanted to keep her safe.
At the Quartermaine mansion, Edward was delighted to see Brenda standing on the doorstep. Edward took Brenda to the parlor to talk. Brenda apologized for not stopping by sooner, but her life had been crazy. Edward knew about Brenda's troubles, so he completely understood. However, Edward promised Brenda that he could keep her safe if she moved in with him. Brenda appreciated the offer, but turned Edward down. Brenda assured Edward that she trusted Jason to keep her safe. Brenda also confided that Jason loved the Quartermaines, but he didn't know how to show it. Edward appreciated the words of comfort because he knew that Brenda understood Jason in a way that Edward didn't. The conversation then turned to Lila. Brenda regretted that she hadn't returned for Lila's funeral. Edward invited Brenda to Lila's sitting room because he wanted to give her something special that had once belonged to Lila.
Jason arrived home and immediately suspected that Carly and Spinelli were up to something. Carly admitted that Spinelli was about to prove that Brenda and Dante had a past connection. To Carly's surprise, Jason was annoyed. Carly couldn't believe that Jason didn't want to know that Brenda and Dante had been lying to everyone. Jason argued that it didn't matter because he had bigger problems to worry about than Carly's revenge plot against Dante. Jason also pointed out that everyone knew how much Carly disliked Brenda. Jason insisted that Brenda had been through a lot and that she wasn't as strong as Carly, so he felt obligated to help Brenda. Carly was curious whom Jason would save if she and Brenda were dangling over a pit of alligators. Jason thought that it was a stupid question because Carly wouldn't be anywhere near alligators. Carly clarified that it was a hypothetical situation, but Jason refused to answer the question. Carly smiled brightly because she assumed that his silence meant that he would save her. Satisfied, Carly left.
Spinelli admitted that he hated questions like that because there was never a right answer. Jason wondered if Carly might have been right about Dante having guarded Brenda in the past. Spinelli went to work on his laptop. A short time later, Spinelli confirmed that Dante had once been assigned to protect Brenda. Jason asked Spinelli to find out if Dante and Brenda's association had gone further; however, Jason made it clear that he didn't want Brenda to know. Brenda walked in and promptly sensed that Jason and Spinelli had been talking about something that they didn't want her to know about. Jason didn't deny it, but he made certain that Brenda understood that he had ordered Spinelli not to reveal anything confidential to her. Brenda apologized for tricking Spinelli into telling her where the meeting with the Balkan had been planned; she insisted that she was to blame, not Spinelli. Jason was curious where Brenda had been.
Brenda revealed that she had paid Edward a visit, which she thought Jason should do too. "Why?" Jason wondered. Brenda explained that Edward missed Lila. Jason groaned because it was clear that Brenda intended to lecture him. He refused to get into another argument with her, so he changed the subject by asking her about the "other guy" that she had shot. Brenda grew quiet. Jason promised her that he would wait until she was ready to talk, but he knew that something had happened. Brenda was spared from having to respond when someone knocked on the door. It was Dante. Dante told them about Sonny's arrest. Brenda was immediately concerned, so she decided to go to the police station to check on Sonny.
After Brenda left, Jason and Dante discussed the situation with the Balkan. Dante confirmed that the Balkan had taken Siobhan. Jason warned Dante that the stakes were high, so he wanted Dante to be honest about how involved Dante had been with Brenda in 2007. Jason was curious about what had happened in the past that had caused her to mix it up with the shooting in the alley. Dante downplayed his association with Brenda by claiming that he had just been one of four police officers who had opened doors for Brenda. Jason didn't get an opportunity to question Dante further because Dante received a text message informing him that the Balkan wanted to trade Siobhan for Brenda.
Carly went to the police station to talk to Dante, but was told that Dante was out in the field. Carly was surprised when she spotted Sonny sitting in the interrogation room, so she went to find out what was going on. Sonny quickly filled her in. Carly wondered if Dante had been the one to turn Sonny in, but he revealed that it had been Claire. Carly apologized for trying to push Sonny and Claire together, but Sonny assured her that he didn't blame her. Sonny confessed that he was disappointed that Claire had never given a heads-up about what would happen. Sonny realized that not all women were as loyal as Carly. Sonny asked Carly to let Michael and Morgan know about the arrest, but he wanted her to keep the details to herself. Carly promised Sonny that she would handle it. She offered to help him if he needed it and then left. In the squad room, Carly bumped into Brenda. Carly warned Brenda that Sonny was in a bad place, so she advised Brenda to think twice before entering the interrogation room. Brenda thanked Carly and then went to see Sonny. Brenda let Sonny know that she had appreciated his help the night before, so she offered to return the favor if he needed it. Sonny explained that he had made the mistake, so he would handle the consequences. He assured Brenda that her being there with him was enough.
11/5 In the interrogation room, Brenda and Sonny discussed the impact his work had made on his life. Sonny expressed grief that his cockiness had almost cost his daughter's life. He said that he'd thought he wouldn't be suspected because the police wouldn't expect him to commit a murder using the same tactic that had resulted in Lily's death.
Bound to a chair in a room somewhere, Siobhan argued with the man guarding her. She denied knowing anyone named Ronan O'Reilly. The man told Siobhan that she would be killed if she didn't provide what the Balkan wanted. Siobhan worked her hands out of the ropes and attempted to flee, but her guard grabbed her.
Lucky arrived at Jason's penthouse and updated Jason and Dante on the search for Siobhan and the Balkan. Dante informed Lucky that the Balkan had demanded a trade, Brenda for Siobhan. Jason said that they'd make no such deal. Lucky was incredulous and worried that the Balkan would kill Siobhan. Jason replied that the Balkan would kill Brenda if given the chance. Lucky suggested that they take Brenda to meet with the Balkan's men and then stage an ambush. The men would expect that, Dante reasoned. Jason suggested they stall. Lucky was adamant that they not let Siobhan die. Dante and Jason explained that Brenda was too fragile, emotionally, to be involved. Lucky vowed that he'd do anything to ensure Siobhan's safety then left.
Brenda returned to the penthouse, and Jason told her that the Balkan wanted her in exchange for Siobhan. Jason asked Brenda to tell him why the Balkan wanted Brenda so badly. She replied that she wanted to tell Jason everything but that she couldn't. Jason let her know that he was aware of her past with Dante and wanted to know what that had to do with the Balkan. Brenda begged Jason to leave it alone, use her as a target, and stage an ambush. Jason could not guarantee that she'd be safe. Brenda said she was willing to take that chance. She would not allow an innocent woman to die to save her.
Lucky and Dante returned to the penthouse. Brenda informed them that she was going to meet the Balkan's men with them. Jason rejected the idea of going to the warehouse that the Balkan had designated as the meeting point and suggested a bluff where they could place a sniper. Jason and Lucky left. Alone, Dante and Brenda discussed the situation and reiterated how important it was that the truth not be revealed.Lucky made a call to the man holding Siobhan. Lucky told him that they would meet at another location. The man put Siobhan on the phone and inflicted pain to make her scream.
Kristina and Michael walked into the police station and were met by Claire, who told Michael that, because he was on parole, he wouldn't be allowed to see Sonny. Against Claire's advice, Kristina went to speak to Sonny. Kristina told her father that she forgave him and that his actions had been her fault. Everyone had tried to warn her that pretending to date Johnny was a bad idea, she stated. She apologized for having deceived Sonny, but Sonny stopped her. He told her that he loved her more than anything and that he'd failed her as a father. As they hugged each other, Alexis burst in, surprised to see them forgiving each other. After Kristina and Alexis left, Claire walked into the interrogation room and told Sonny that there might be a way out for him. Sonny's recorded confession would be inadmissible in court because Ronnie hadn't gotten a warrant to screen the National Security Agency's recordings.
In the interrogation room, Sonny was curious what would happen to Claire if the evidence against him were thrown out. Claire explained that Ronnie had obtained the damaging recording illegally by not following procedure, so she wasn't doing anything wrong. Sonny realized that she had "jammed up" the wheels of justice because she cared about him. He couldn't understand why she hadn't turned a blind eye to allow the law to take its course. Claire admitted that relying on the fruit of a poisoned tree offended her sense of justice.
Sonny chuckled because he thought it was a "beautiful thing" that she was reluctant to send him to jail. Sonny would never forget that she had put her career on the line for him. He was curious why Claire found it so difficult to admit that she cared about him. Claire insisted that she had merely done what she had to, in order to see that justice had been served. She advised Sonny not to read any more into it. Sonny was curious why it was so important for Claire to appear strong to him. Claire confessed that it was safer. Sonny softened as he admitted that he had never meant to hurt her. Moments later, Diane walked in. Diane hoped that Sonny had learned a valuable lesson; he should never talk to Claire without an attorney present.
Sonny smugly informed Diane that Claire had found a way to have the evidence against him tossed out. Diane was stunned by the news. Claire decided to check on the paperwork, so that Sonny could go home.
After Claire left, Diane warned Sonny that Claire had tanked her career for him. She was curious if Sonny intended to step it up to make it worth Claire's while. Diane assured Sonny that the police had had Sonny dead to rights. She was certain that Claire's superiors would be livid when they realized that they couldn't use the recording against Sonny. Sonny wondered why Diane cared about his relationship with Claire. Diane admitted that it was because Claire had gone very far to protect Sonny. Sonny and Diane watched Claire through the window as Claire received a phone call. Diane suspected that it was Claire's superiors, based on the strained expression on Claire's face. Diane was certain that an investigation would be launched by the Justice Department to see if Claire had done anything inappropriate. Sonny asked Diane to fetch Claire for him. Moments later, Claire returned to the interrogation room. Sonny wondered if she had just received bad news. Claire assured him that it was nothing that she couldn't handle, but Sonny confessed that he knew that she was under investigation because of him.
Lucky was on the phone with the Balkan's henchman, Marko. Lucky vowed to kill Marko if Siobhan was hurt. Marko glanced down at Siobhan, who remained tied to a chair that had been tipped over. Marko warned Lucky that Siobhan would die a slow and painful death if Brenda were not taken to the warehouse. Lucky demanded to talk to Siobhan, but Marko refused. Lucky's temper flared until Jason advised Lucky to calm down. Lucky took a deep breath and then explained that he refused to walk into an ambush, so he insisted on meeting Marko and Siobhan at the bluffs on Adams Road. Marko agreed and then disconnected the call. Jason understood that Lucky was upset about Siobhan, but he advised Lucky to get himself under control before someone ended up dead.
In the penthouse, Brenda confessed to Dante that things were getting tricky. She was certain that the Balkan's men knew why the Balkan wanted her. Dante didn't agree, but he assured her that they would deal with it if that were the case. Brenda relaxed as she admitted that he was exactly the same as he had been when she first met him: calm and collected. However, she made it clear that she didn't want Dante to get hurt because of her. Dante reminded Brenda that it was his choice to make. He wanted her to believe him when he promised her that everything would be okay. Brenda was smiling when Jason and Lucky walked in. Lucky asked if Brenda still wanted to help rescue Siobhan. Brenda assured Lucky that she was ready, so they went over the plans.
A short time later, Jason, Dante, and Lucky put their plan into motion with Brenda's help. Jason and Dante took sniper positions in the brush as Lucky and Brenda stood in a clearing waiting for Marko and Siobhan to arrive. Brenda pretended to struggle against Lucky's strong grip as Marko, flanked by two goons, appeared with Siobhan. Jason warned Dante to hold his fire until Jason gave the word. Meanwhile, Marko wondered how long Brenda had thought that she could run. Brenda screamed in outrage seconds before Dante fired a shot.
At the penthouse, Carly badgered Spinelli to tell her what he knew about Brenda and Dante. Spinelli insisted that he had promised Jason to keep quiet. Carly was relentless as she explained that they owed it to Jason. Spinelli pointed out that Carly seemed more interested in exposing Brenda than in helping Jason. Carly didn't deny it; she argued that Brenda and Dante were snakes who didn't deserve Jason's loyalty. Eventually, Spinelli confirmed that Dante had guarded Brenda in 2007. Carly wasn't satisfied. She demanded to know who else had guarded Brenda because she was determined to question them about what they knew of Brenda and Dante's relationship. Spinelli found the name of one of the police officers who had been assigned to guard Brenda. Carly decided to question Lulu about Dante and Brenda's past. Lulu was stunned to learn that Dante had guarded Brenda in 2007. Carly appeared to take pleasure in feigning shock that Dante hadn't mentioned it to Lulu.
11/9 At the police station, Claire acknowledged that she was being investigated by Internal Affairs. However, she insisted that she welcomed the opportunity to clear her name, so it didn't bother her. Sonny wondered how her involvement with a "gangster" would affect the investigation. Claire assured Sonny that she hadn't done anything wrong, so she had nothing to hide. Sonny wasn't satisfied; he was worried that she would be sanctioned because of her relationship with him. Claire tried to make light of the situation, but Sonny warned her that he was serious. Claire sobered as she assured him that she wouldn't be disbarred. Sonny didn't want her to have to pay for getting the evidence against him tossed out of court. He resented that she might have gotten a raw deal because of him. Claire reminded Sonny that Ronnie had obtained the evidence illegally, so it was on Ronnie. She believed that eventually the evidence would have been thrown out, so she had saved everyone time and money.
Claire decided to check on Sonny's paperwork, since she was certain that he was eager to leave the station to celebrate his good fortune. A short time later, Diane entered the interrogation room to let Sonny know that Claire's superiors were determined to keep Sonny in custody overnight. Sonny confided that he was concerned about Claire. Diane suspected that Claire was putting on a brave front, but Diane insisted that they focus on Sonny's situation. Diane explained that Sonny's troubles weren't behind him just because the incriminating recording had been thrown out.
Sonny thought that Diane should find out why the National Security Agency had obtained a wiretap. Diane couldn't believe he had to ask why the NSA would be listening in on his phone calls. Sonny was certain that his rights had been violated, but Diane disagreed. She suggested that Sonny start heeding her advice by refraining from engaging in reckless acts. Diane advised him to stay away from Claire, for his sake as well as Claire's. Diane warned Sonny that no matter how Claire tried to spin it, helping Sonny had been a slap in the face to Claire's superiors. Diane suggested that Claire would be fortunate if she only lost her job.
At Jason's penthouse, Lulu refused to believe that Dante had known Brenda in the past. Carly assured Lulu that Spinelli had found proof that Dante had guarded Brenda in 2007. Lulu insisted on seeing what Spinelli had found. Spinelli turned the laptop around for Lulu to see all of the damaging evidence. Lulu refused to accept the truth; she was certain that there was some kind of reasonable explanation for why it appeared that Dante might have known Brenda. However, Lulu was forced to accept that Dante had lied to her when Spinelli showed her the picture of Dante and Brenda from 2007.
On the bluffs, Marko, flanked by several thugs, held onto Siobhan tightly as he warned Brenda that the Balkan knew what she had done. Brenda screamed in outrage as she charged Marko. Jason, hidden in the bushes, radioed to Dante to hold his fire, but Dante took aim and then shot Marko. Lucky immediately grabbed Siobhan as gunfire erupted all around them. Once the smoke had cleared, all of the Balkan's men were dead. Lucky quickly confirmed that Siobhan and Brenda were unharmed as Jason and Dante made their way to the clearing. Jason was curious why Dante had taken the shot early. Dante claimed that things had gone south, so he had to shoot Marko or Marko would have taken off with Brenda. Jason accepted the explanation. Lucky and Dante realized that the police would have to be notified, but they didn't want Siobhan and Brenda to be present when the police arrived. Jason agreed to take Siobhan and Brenda to his penthouse while Lucky and Dante dealt with the police. After Jason, Siobhan, and Brenda left, Lucky confessed that something didn't add up. Lucky found Marko's comments to Brenda and Brenda's reaction odd. Lucky couldn't understand why Brenda had charged Marko rather than flee. Dante attributed it to fear.
Jason arrived home with Siobhan and Brenda in tow. He questioned Siobhan about her time spent as the Balkan's prisoner. Siobhan revealed that the men had been instructed to capture Brenda alive. Siobhan also recalled hearing the name Aleksander mentioned several times. Jason turned to Brenda to see if she knew who Aleksander was. Brenda insisted that she couldn't discuss it. Siobhan decided to leave, so Jason insisted on sending a few guards with her. Brenda started to head to her bedroom, but Jason ordered Brenda to wait for him until he had returned. Jason walked Siobhan out of the penthouse, so that he could assign some men to watch over her.
Alone, Brenda became lost in memories of the past. Brenda recalled taking a walk with Dante. Brenda and Dante had ended up in an alley where they a man named Aleksander approached them. Brenda tensed up as she reminded Aleksander that she didn't want to see him. Dante tried to force Aleksander to leave, but Aleksander reacted violently. As Dante and Aleksander struggled, Brenda spotted a gun on the ground. Dante yelled at Brenda to run, but she refused to budge. Eventually, Aleksander gained the upper hand in the fight. Brenda panicked when Aleksander started to choke the life out of Dante. She picked up the gun and then shot Aleksander. Aleksander was stunned as he slowly turned to look at Brenda with accusation in his eyes. "Bitch," Aleksander growled as he stumbled towards Brenda. "I loved you," Aleksander confessed before he crumbled to the ground. Dante quickly confirmed that Aleksander was dead.
Brenda was distraught as Dante wrapped his arms around her and then promised to take care of everything. Brenda shook off the daydream just as Jason walked through the door. Jason joined Brenda in the living room and then demanded that she tell him the truth about Aleksander. Jason warned her that lying wasn't an option. Brenda confessed that she would be breaking a promise if she told him what she knew. Jason assured her that she could trust him. Brenda's lips trembled as she slowly told Jason about Aleksander's shooting. Brenda explained that Dante had hidden the body because they had feared the Balkan's wrath. She insisted that Jason had to keep quiet about what had happened because it could ruin Dante's career. Jason wondered why the Balkan would be so upset about Aleksander's death. Brenda revealed that she had briefly dated Aleksander until she had realized that he was involved in criminal activity. According to Brenda, Aleksander had begun to stalk her after she broke off their relationship, so she had turned to the police for help. Brenda had been told that Aleksander was on the short list of international criminals who were being watched by Interpol, so Interpol had arranged for her to be protected by bodyguards. Jason was stunned when Brenda revealed that Aleksander had been the Balkan's son. The episode featured Hold on Tight by Rie Sinclair
11/10 Carly went to Johnny's penthouse to persuade him to set up a meeting with one of his employees, who was a former New York City police officer. Carly explained that she had some questions for Brad Norman about the time that he had guarded Brenda in 2007. Carly revealed that Dante and Brenda had known each other in the past, so she was determined to find out why they had tried to keep it a secret. Johnny suggested that Dante and Brenda might not have anything to hide, but Carly strongly disagreed. "Why lie?" she wondered. Johnny confessed that his interest had been piqued, so he agreed to help her.
Dante went to Jason's penthouse to check on Brenda. Jason refused to let Dante see Brenda until Jason and Dante had a talk. Jason revealed that Brenda had told him about Aleksander's death and Dante's decision to dump the body. Jason was curious why Dante would risk his badge for Brenda. Dante explained that he had just been trying to help Brenda, but Jason didn't buy it. Jason wondered why Dante would cover for Brenda, but turn in Michael. Dante argued that he had been trying to save Michael because Dante knew what it was like to cover up a crime that would one day return to "bite him in the ass" just as it had Brenda. Dante stormed out and then went to his loft.
Dante recalled a time that he had arrived for a shift change to guard Brenda. His fellow officer, Brad, had accused Dante of sleeping with Brenda, which Dante didn't deny. Brad chuckled as he asked Dante what it was like to "nail a supermodel."
Suzanne arrived at Jason's penthouse shortly after Jason left a message for her. Jason told her about the shootout and then admitted that Brenda had opened up to him about the Balkan. Suzanne was relieved to hear that he had gotten somewhere with Brenda. Jason suspected that Suzanne knew more than she realized, so he began to question her about how she had met Brenda. Suzanne revealed that she had met Brenda in 2007 at a charity event. According to Suzanne, Brenda had been "immediately and passionately" interested in ASEC, so Suzanne had invited Brenda to join the next relief trip to Africa. Suzanne confessed that Brenda's trip had nearly been cut short when Brenda had fallen ill for a week. However, after the illness had passed, Brenda had been more committed to the cause than ever. Jason was curious if there had been any threats or signs that Brenda had been running from someone since 2007. Suzanne didn't think so, but she realized that she hadn't known Brenda as well as she had thought.
Great Promo “The Mystery Unravels, Four Families Are Torn Apart, Murder In Self Defense”
11/11 Ronnie entered the interrogation room at the police station to express his displeasure over the charges against Sonny being dropped. Sonny wasn't in the mood to hear Ronnie's complaints, so he ordered Ronnie to get out of his face. Claire overheard the exchange as she stood in the doorway. She warned Ronnie not to give Sonny cause to file a harassment suit. Ronnie made a snide remark about Claire helping Sonny and then left. Claire assured Sonny that he would be released shortly and then turned to leave because she had to go to a meeting. Sonny wanted her to skip it, but she insisted that she couldn't. Sonny wondered if the meeting had to do with him. Claire explained that the evidence used against him had been obtained through an illegal search and seizure, so she was obligated to discuss it with a judge. After Claire walked out of the interrogation room, Ronnie returned. Ronnie nodded toward Claire as he commented, "Dead woman walking." According to Ronnie, Internal Affairs had put a rush on investigating Claire. Ronnie was certain that Claire would lose her job. "Nice work," Ronnie sarcastically remarked and then left.
A short time later, Dante arrived. Ronnie announced that it appeared that Christmas had arrived early and then handed Sonny's "walking papers" to Dante. Ronnie decided to let Dante do the honors. Dante suggested that Ronnie should have gotten a warrant to screen the wiretap before presenting it as evidence. Ronnie argued that it didn't change what had been on the recording, which meant that justice hadn't been served. Dante explained that the only way to get any charges to stick against Sonny was to go by the book. Ronnie scoffed at the idea because he didn't think that Sonny would ever be charged with a crime while Claire and Dante continued to bend over backwards to help Sonny. Dante ignored Ronnie as he turned to go to the interrogation room with the paperwork.
Dante handed the papers to Sonny as he explained that Sonny would be free to go once Sonny signed the necessary documents. Sonny asked Dante for a favor; he wanted Dante to put in a good word for Claire. Dante was curious what made Sonny think that his word carried any weight. Sonny insisted that Dante had more integrity than any other person on the police force. Dante argued that he had been compromised because he was Sonny's son. Sonny was curious what Claire was facing. Dante was certain that they would make an example of her and that her career would be over. Sonny felt terrible. Dante explained that Claire had broken a cardinal rule of law enforcement; she hadn't remained detached. Later, Claire was surprised to see Sonny in the interrogation room.
Sonny admitted that he had been waiting to see her because he wanted to know about her meeting. Claire insisted that she couldn't discuss it, but Sonny thought that he had a right to know how much trouble she was in because of him. Claire realized that someone had told Sonny about the investigation; she suspected that it had been Ronnie. She assured Sonny that she was a grown woman who had made her own bed, so she would deal with the consequences herself. Sonny didn't want to cause more problems for Claire, so he vowed to stay away from her.
At Jason's penthouse, Sam admitted that she hated that their lives had been put on hold until Brenda was safe. Jason realized that it was difficult on Sam. Brenda entered the living room in time to hear part of Jason and Sam's conversation. Brenda made it clear that she didn't want Jason and Sam to put their lives on hold for her. Sam wasn't satisfied; she complained that she and Jason couldn't even have a conversation without it being about Brenda and the Balkan. Brenda suggested that Jason wasn't much of a talker to begin with, but Sam didn't find any humor in the observation. Sam wanted to know what secret Jason was keeping for Brenda. Brenda explained that it wasn't any of Sam's business, but Sam insisted that Brenda be honest. Brenda argued that there was a difference between lying and personal boundaries. Jason stepped in to assure Sam that he would do everything in his power to try to get everything resolved as quickly as possible.
Sam admitted that she would feel better if she knew what was going on; she assured Brenda that she just wanted to help. Brenda reiterated that she couldn't tell her about the secret. Sam's temper flared because they weren't just talking about Brenda's life; Jason was in danger too. Brenda realized that. Brenda wondered if Sam had ever made a choice that had haunted her. Sam admitted that she had. Brenda guessed that Sam wouldn't want Brenda to know all of the details about Sam's secrets. Sam claimed that she would shout the details for everyone to hear if it meant that it would help someone. Jason smiled, but Brenda was unmoved. Sam accused Brenda of not having any perspective. According to Sam, Brenda couldn't tell the difference between getting her feelings hurt and getting someone shot.
After Sam stormed out, Brenda urged Jason to go after his girlfriend to reassure Sam. Jason didn't want to lie to Sam, but Brenda clarified that she had never suggested that he lie. It was clear to Brenda that Sam was upset about Jason's decision to keep a secret from Sam, so Jason needed to remind Sam how much Sam meant to him. Jason refused to discuss his relationship with Sam, so he decided to question Brenda about Aleksander. However, Brenda continued to try to get Jason to focus on Sam. Brenda advised Jason to romance Sam by buying a bottle of wine, taking Sam out to a nice dinner, or writing Sam a poem. Jason immediately rejected each suggestion. Brenda and Jason were arguing about it when Spinelli arrived home. Brenda tried to enlist Spinelli's help to get Jason to patch things up with Sam, but Jason insisted that everything was fine. Spinelli confessed that he had thought the same thing about Maxie until she had cheated on him. Brenda was surprised by Spinelli's revelation; she had thought that Spinelli had ended things with Maxie. Spinelli admitted that he had been too "nerdy" for Maxie, which prompted Brenda to switch gears. She decided that she and Jason needed to help Spinelli. Spinelli confided the details of Maxie's one-night stand with Franco and then her attempt to make Spinelli jealous by flirting with Matt. Spinelli admitted that he had finally moved on when he had met Brenda.
Brenda was touched, but she made it clear that Spinelli could not waste his devotion on her. Brenda insisted that Spinelli needed a real love. She was curious if Spinelli wanted to work things out with Maxie. "More than anything," Spinelli confessed. Brenda advised Spinelli to fight for Maxie and then asked Jason to back her up. Jason didn't want to get involved, so he decided that Spinelli should focus on work. Brenda insisted that Spinelli shouldn't let a chance at reconciliation pass him by because he might not get another opportunity. Jason realized that Brenda wouldn't give up, so he advised Spinelli to get back with Maxie if Spinelli wanted to. Spinelli decided that he had a lot to ponder, so he went to his room. Afterwards, Brenda announced that she would pay Dante a visit to let him know that she had told Jason about their secret. Jason assured Brenda that he had already told Dante. Brenda was surprised, but she remained determined to talk to Dante to make certain that he was okay with everything.
On the pier, Dante remembered saying goodbye to Brenda in 2007. Dante had walked Brenda to the car and then explained that the driver would take her to the airport. Brenda thanked Dante for saving her life; she had no idea why he had done it. Dante assured her that he had just been doing his job. Brenda appreciated what Dante had done for her. After she climbed into the backseat, Brenda looked out the window at Dante as the limousine pulled away. Dante was surprised when Jason approached him. Jason thought that Dante should give Brenda a call because she had gone looking for him.
At the loft, Lulu flipped through a fashion magazine. She stopped when she spotted a picture of Brenda. Moments later, Brenda knocked on the door. Lulu explained that Dante was out, but she expected him to return shortly. Brenda accepted Lulu's offer to wait for Dante inside. Brenda was impressed with the loft as she looked around. She was curious if Lulu and Dante lived together. Lulu admitted that she only stayed there occasionally and then changed the subject. Lulu wondered if Brenda realized that Dante had once guarded her in 2007. Brenda smiled, but didn't answer the question.
11/12 Brenda happened by Nik at GH and chatted with the young Cassadine. She shared a story about having fallen off her horse when she was child. She'd vowed she'd never ride again. In time, Brenda went on, she'd returned to the saddle and was glad that she did. Nikolas returned, and Brenda was surprised to learn that Spencer was his son. Brenda and Nikolas chatted for a bit, before Spencer announced that he would ride again.
Brenda went to visit Robin, who explained that Lisa was obsessed with discrediting Robin. Brenda advised Robin not to fixate on Lisa. Claire incredulously asked Sonny if he was actually cutting off all ties with her, and in the interrogation room, no less. Sonny replied that he wanted Claire to salvage what was left of her career. Claire made it very clear that she'd known the risks connected to a life with Sonny but that she'd weighed the options and chose to be with him. Sonny said that, though he cared very much for Claire, he didn't want to be the one to ruin her life.
Sonny returned home, and Jason arrived. Sonny breathed a sigh of relief that he had been cleared of all charges involving the bomb that had been planted in Johnny's car. Regardless, he lamented that he'd caused so much harm to Claire's career. He said he would sincerely miss her. Jason updated Sonny on Brenda and the search for the Balkan. Sonny wanted to know the details, but Jason refused to share them.
Jason and Dante discussed the Balkan's possible next steps. They assumed that the Balkan knew that Brenda had killed Aleksander, the man's son. Jason asked Dante if there was anything else about Brenda's past with Dante that was relevant to the situation. Jason filled Dante in on Brenda's family's mental health history. He explained that Brenda's mother had suffered from mental illness and that Brenda had experienced a nervous breakdown after Sonny had left her at the altar. That was why Jason and Brenda had gotten married, he elucidated. Jason worried what might happen to Brenda's mind should Dante's life be ruined because of something she'd done three years before. Jason urged Dante to discuss with Brenda what had happened in 2007 and to make sure their stories matched.
As Brenda and Lulu sat in Dante's flat and discussed Dante's role as Brenda's bodyguard, Lulu expressed that she'd have felt better about the situation had Dante not omitted the fact that he'd guarded Brenda in the past. Brenda wondered how Lulu had discovered Dante and Brenda's connection. Lulu said that she'd seen an old magazine photo that clearly showed Dante escorting Brenda away from the paparazzi. Lulu and Brenda established that Lulu was not intimidated by Brenda's past with Dante.Brenda admitted that most of the pain she'd gone through with Sonny had been self-inflicted. Lulu reminded Brenda of a time in Lulu's childhood when Sonny's enemies had shot up the Spencer household. Lulu asked how that had been Brenda's fault. Brenda replied that she had chosen to be with Sonny, knowing what the dangers were.
Dante went to see Brenda at Jason's penthouse. Dante let her know that Carly was aware that he'd guarded Brenda three years prior. Brenda worried that Carly would make it her mission to uncover the truth. Dante assured Brenda that Carly only knew of the professional connection in his and Brenda's past. Jason was the only one who knew there was more to the story, Dante confirmed. Dante warned,the Balkan would stop at nothing to know for sure whether Brenda had been responsible for Aleksander's death. Dante said that he would not rest until the Balkan was no longer a threat, because Dante and Brenda were connected by more than Aleksander's death. Brenda became emotional and told Dante she didn't want to talk about the baby.
Carly and Johnny went to a hotel room to wait for one of Johnny's men. Carly relished the knowledge that Brenda had something going on with Dante. Carly told Johnny that she'd understand if he wanted to back out of their agreement. He said that he was curious as to what she was up to, so he was in. The man they were waiting for showed up. He was a cop who had served with Dante in 2007. Carly asked him for any information on Dante and Brenda during that period. He explained that someone connected to organized crime had been stalking Brenda. Interpol had been involved, so the chief had authorized protection. The man reported that Dante had taken double shifts and that he'd been staying in her suite, not in the hall, and that Dante had admitted he'd been sleeping with Brenda.
11/15 Carly and Johnny met with Brad Norman in New York City. Brad is an employee of Johnny's who had been a patrolman working with Dante to guard Brenda when she was in NYC in 2007. Brad told Carly and Johnny that though he had no actual proof, his gut told him that Dante and Brenda had been sleeping together. He said that though Dante had not admitted it, he had not denied that he was sleeping with Brenda when Brad had asked him directly. Brad said that Dante and Brenda were very close and that she had leaned on Dante more than anyone else. Brad said that Dante worked 16-hour shifts as her bodyguard and that he was the only one that Brenda would let take her down the elevator to her car when she left the city.
Jason and Sonny met at the restaurant office. Sonny wanted to know about Brenda, but Jason would not divulge the secrets that she had told him. Jason promised to protect Brenda no matter what.
At Jason's penthouse, Brenda apologized to Dante for messing up his life. Dante assured Brenda that she was not causing trouble in his relationship with Lulu and that he wanted to help keep her safe. Dante said that he had been glad to help her in the past. When he started to mention another secret they shared, Brenda said that she did not want to talk about the baby, and she did not want Sonny to know. Dante said that he would never tell.
Dvd #9B Carly was convinced that Dante and Brenda had been sleeping together. As Johnny drove them back to Port Charles, Carly was gleeful about the havoc that her information would wreak. She was sure that Sonny would hate Dante forever and that Lulu and Dante would break up. She also hoped that finding out that Dante and Brenda had slept together would finally extinguish the torch that Jax carried for Brenda. Carly told Johnny that it felt like her birthday, Christmas, and the Fourth of July all rolled into one. Johnny said that he did not mind family trouble for Sonny, but he did not want Olivia to know that he had a hand in anything hurtful that might befall Dante. Carly agreed to keep Johnny's name out of her plan. She then said that her only problem was deciding whom to tell first.
Jason left Sonny’s office after promising to call him if Brenda needed help. Sonny then made a call to Suzanne, who responded to his summons. He accused her of putting Brenda's life in danger. Suzanne told Sonny that he was the one who had left Brenda emotionally scarred. Sonny said that he had never taken anything from Brenda, but Suzanne said that he had taken Brenda's sanity. Sonny said that in the beginning, when he had fallen in love with Brenda, he had not realized how fragile she was. He said that Brenda had made him happy and that he had believed that they could overcome any obstacle and be together. He said that he finally understood that they could not be together, but that did not stop him from wanting to keep Brenda safe. Before walking out, Suzanne told Sonny that if he meant what he'd said, the kindest thing he could do for Brenda would be to leave her alone.
Spinelli arrived with a bag of organic produce for Brenda, but immediately started mocking Dante and making snide references to Dante's untrustworthiness. After Dante left, Spinelli cast Dante in the worst possible light as he described the events leading up to Michael's prison sentence. When Jason walked in, Spinelli was happy to tell him that he has spilled the beans about Dante's heinous behavior to Brenda. Jason sent Spinelli to his room and gave Brenda a less biased account of the actions that had been taken after Claudia's death. He told Brenda that there was plenty of blame to go around and that he, Carly, Sonny, and Sam had all conspired in the cover-up. He said that he blamed himself the most because he had taught Michael, and he was responsible for how Michael had grown up.
Jax went to see Brenda. He told her that Carly was having a bad reaction to Brenda's reappearance in Port Charles. Brenda said that if not for Carly telling Jax that she had seen Brenda share a "goodbye" kiss with Sonny, Brenda and Jax would be married. Jax said that he was happy with how things had turned out and that he loved Carly, but she could be dangerous. He told a flustered Brenda that Carly was digging into Brenda's past.
As Brenda remembered a happy conversation with Dante, he was remembering the same scene when Carly knocked on his door and told him that she wanted to have a chat about his past with Brenda.
11/16 At Jake's, Jason questioned Siobhan about her time spent as the Balkan's captive. Jason wondered if Siobhan recalled anything of significance that might help them locate the Balkan. Lucky demanded to know what was going on when he spotted Jason questioning Siobhan. Jason explained that Siobhan had recalled the Balkan's men had mentioned the name Jack while she had been held a prisoner.
At the loft, Dante became defensive when Carly questioned him about his assignment to guard Brenda in 2007. She couldn't understand why he hadn't mentioned it to anyone including Lulu. Dante claimed that he had guarded numerous celebrities over the years, so he hadn't thought much about it. Later as Lulu slept, Dante got out of bed and then went to the window. He appeared deep in thought as he stared out at the night.
At the penthouse, Brenda assured Jax that Carly was welcome to dig into her past. She suggested that perhaps Carly could start a new career because she had the same mentality as the paparazzi. Jax explained that Carly was hard to control, so he wanted to warn Brenda about what was going on. Jax suspected that Carly's feelings went beyond mere jealousy. Brenda couldn't understand why Carly feared Brenda's friendship with Jax.
Jax admitted that Carly had good reason to feel threatened because of Jax's history with Brenda. Carly was also aware that Brenda was the cause of Sonny and Jax's hatred for each other. According to Jax, Carly was also upset because Brenda was living with Jason. Jax cautioned Brenda that Carly was dangerous when she was on the warpath, so Brenda shouldn't underestimate Carly. Brenda realized that Jax had finally found someone whom he could love unconditionally. Jax confirmed that he adored his wife. He asked Brenda to call him if she needed anything and then left.
Later, Carly barged into the penthouse, looking for Jason. Brenda informed Carly that Jason wasn't there and then suggested that Carly let herself out. Carly immediately started to argue with Brenda, but Brenda refused to be intimidated by Carly. Carly accused Brenda of using Jason, so she intended to dig into Brenda's past. Brenda was curious why Carly wasn't with Jax.
Carly made it clear that Jax was her business, not Brenda's. "Touché," Brenda conceded. Brenda offered to stay away from Jax if Carly agreed to stay out of Brenda's business. Carly didn't appreciate being threatened, but Brenda quickly clarified that she wasn't interested in breaking up marriages. However, Brenda believed that Jax would be better off with a wife who didn't cheat. Brenda wanted peace in her life, but she refused to be pushed around by Carly. Carly vowed to expose all of Brenda's secrets and then stormed out of the penthouse.
Jason arrived home a short time later. Brenda explained that Carly was determined to expose Brenda's secrets, which threatened to blow Dante's life apart. Jason seemed to realize the enormity of the situation with Carly. Later, Jason saw Brenda sitting at the dinning room table, deep in thought.
11/17 Dante stopped by Pozzulo's at Sonny's request. Sonny was curious why Dante was willing to risk his life for Brenda instead of requesting a transfer. Dante claimed that he simply wanted to see things through. Sonny suggested that Dante tell him the truth. Sonny admitted that he was aware that something was going on with Brenda, and he suspected that Dante knew what it was.
Dante admitted that he had met Brenda in 2007, when he had been assigned to guard her in New York City. Sonny wondered why Dante hadn't mentioned it sooner. Dante claimed that he hadn't thought that Brenda had recognized him; however, she later revealed that she had. Sonny was curious if Dante had requested the assignment, but Dante assured him that he hadn't. Sonny seemed to accept his son's answer, so he questioned Dante about what had happened in 2007 and how well Dante had known Brenda.
Dante downplayed his relationship with Brenda by claiming that he had been one of several officers who had been ordered to guard her and that they had barely spoken. Dante insisted that he hadn't been in a position to ask Brenda any personal questions during the two-week stint as her bodyguard. Sonny wanted to know what Brenda was hiding, so Dante advised Sonny to talk to Jason. Sonny explained that Jason had promised to keep Brenda's secret, so Sonny wanted Dante to call him if Dante discovered anything important. Sonny then confided that he wished that Brenda had called him in 2007 because he would have helped her.
Moments later, Diane entered the restaurant. Diane was happy to see Dante and Sonny because she had news for them about Michael. Diane revealed that Claire had petitioned the court to allow Sonny to see Michael. Sonny was elated to learn that the petition had been approved. Dante was less enthusiastic about the prospect of Sonny spending time with Michael. Dante urged Sonny to consider Michael's situation. Dante feared that one mistake could jeopardize Michael's parole.
After Dante left, Diane followed Sonny to his office. Diane conceded that Dante had made a compelling argument, but it was Sonny's call to make. Sonny explained that Michael was his heart. He revealed that when he had gone to Rome, Michael had told him that he was proud to be his son. Sonny felt that he had to live up to that. Diane encouraged Sonny to sign the paperwork. However, he was worried that the situation might make things more difficult for Claire. Diane explained that Claire had filed the petition weeks before, so it wouldn't have any impact on the Internal Affairs investigation. Sonny was relieved; he didn't want to cause more trouble for Claire. Diane acknowledged that she had been wrong about Claire because Claire had saved Sonny from an attempted murder charge and had given Sonny his son back. Sonny insisted that Claire was a good person. Diane didn't disagree, but she suspected that Claire wanted to work things out with Sonny. She urged Sonny not to give in to temptation for his sake as well as Claire's.
Claire bumped into Sonny. Claire immediately recognized the document in Sonny's hand. Sonny realized that Claire couldn't afford to be seen with him, but he wanted her to know that he appreciated what she had done for him and Michael. He offered to return the favor.
Dante arrived at the penthouse to guard Brenda. Suzanne made it clear that she had done some research on Dante, so she knew about his connection to Sonny. She tried to question Dante about Sonny, but Dante quickly clarified that he and his father were not close. Suzanne realized that Brenda was in love with Sonny, but didn't want anything to do with him. Dante assured Suzanne that Sonny intended to stay away from Brenda, but Suzanne had her doubts about Sonny's willpower. Dante was startled when Suzanne began talking about the first time that she had met Brenda in 2007. As Suzanne talked about the trip to Africa and Brenda's illness, she suddenly remembered that Brenda had called out a name during her feverish delirium. Suzanne revealed that the name had been Dante.
11/18 At the courthouse, Sonny admitted that he was grateful that Claire had made it possible for him to see Michael. Claire was happy that she could help. Sonny worried about the possible consequences, but Claire reminded Sonny that she had been up-front with her bosses about her relationship with him. She assured him that she hadn't done anything illegal. Sonny argued that having the evidence against him thrown out might cause problems, but she insisted that Ronnie had broken the law. Sonny suggested that she could have covered it up. Claire argued that she might have lost her law license if anyone discovered that she had done that. Sonny wasn't pleased when Claire admitted that her bosses might reassign her to "middle America." He wondered if he could help her. "You can," she answered. Claire wanted Sonny to follow his heart, so she encouraged him to go after Brenda.
Later, Michael was delighted when Sonny stopped by the loft to let him know that the judge had lifted the restriction for Sonny to see Michael. Michael wondered how Sonny had managed to do it. Michael was surprised when Sonny explained that Claire had arranged it. Michael recalled that Claire had threatened to send Michael to jail the last time that he had seen her. Sonny admitted that Claire had been reacting to something else, but she had realized that Michael had been working hard to move forward. Sonny then admitted that he regretted that he hadn't been around to help Michael deal with the aftermath of being in prison. Michael reminded his father that Sonny had his own issues he'd had to deal with.
Sonny apologized for putting Michael in a position where he had needed to lie to Kristina about the bomb that had been planted in Johnny's car. Michael admitted that he was just happy that Sonny and Kristina had been able to talk things out. Michael then returned to the topic of Claire; he realized that things were probably serious between Sonny and the prosecutor if she had been willing to get evidence against Sonny tossed out. Sonny admitted that he had ended things with Claire because she had taken enough flak on his behalf. Sonny also revealed that Claire had encouraged him to work things out with Brenda.
At Jason's penthouse, Dante was surprised to learn that Brenda had been asking for him while she had been sick in Africa. Suzanne was curious why Dante and Brenda had kept their association a secret. Dante started to explain that he hadn't thought that Brenda had remembered him. However, Brenda entered the room and immediately made it clear that her trip to Africa was never to be discussed. Suzanne started to explain herself, but Brenda asked to speak privately to Suzanne. After Dante left, Brenda made it clear that Suzanne was not to snoop in her private business again.
Olivia decided to go to Pozzulo's to talk to Sonny about Dante's concerns about Michael. Sonny reminded Olivia that Michael was his son. Olivia argued that Dante was also his son. She wondered how many times Michael would have to pay for Sonny's poor choices or stand in the wrong place when Sonny's enemies tried to gun Sonny down. Sonny understood Dante's concerns, but he refused to turn his back on Michael. Olivia clarified that she didn't expect him to do that, but she warned him if anything happened to Michael then Dante would never forgive Sonny or himself. Olivia reminded Sonny that "the road to hell" was paved with good intentions; she didn't want Sonny to lose Michael and Dante because of a poor choice. Olivia was surprised when she spotted a fashion magazine on a nearby table. She wondered when Sonny had become interested in fashion and if "Connie" was aware that he was checking out the competition.
Olivia recalled that Sonny had always looked for something better, even in high school. Not better, Sonny corrected, just more challenging. Sonny admitted that it was what he lived for. However, he conceded that he could never make a relationship work. Olivia disagreed; he had made things work with Carly for a while. Sonny admitted that Brenda had been his first love. He realized how that sounded, so he amended, "Not counting high school." Olivia chuckled as she acknowledged that they had been too young to know what love was. Sonny revealed that Brenda had always been a challenge and that when it had been good, it had been very good.
Jason arrived home to find Brenda waiting for him. Brenda wanted Jason to have Dante reassigned because she claimed that he was a constant reminder of guns and blood. Jason wanted to know what was really going on, but Brenda stuck to her story. Jason explained that Jax had ordered police protection for Brenda, so Brenda decided to call Jax. Jason told her not to because it would only aggravate Carly further, but Brenda insisted that she didn't care about Carly's insecurities. Brenda once again insisted that she didn't want Dante around and then stormed out.
Carly arrived at Jason's penthouse as ordered, even though she wasn't thrilled at the prospect of Jason yelling at her. Jason assured her that he didn't have any intention of yelling. Carly suggested that Jason talk to Brenda to warn Brenda to stay away from Jax. Jason admitted that he had talked to Brenda and that his guards would let him know if Brenda visited Jax. However, Jason wanted Carly to stop obsessing and move on. Carly wanted Brenda out of Port Charles, but Jason made it clear that it wouldn't happen any time soon. He was curious why Carly always had to make things harder than they had to be. Carly claimed that she was just trying to protect her marriage, so it would be easier with Brenda out of the way. Jason didn't need Carly to make matters worse. Carly resented how Jason bent over backwards for Brenda when Brenda had been lying to him. Jason demanded to know what Brenda had lied about. Carly revealed that Brenda and Dante had an affair in 2007. Jason stared at her in disbelief. "That's right, Sonny's great love was banging his firstborn," Carly smugly clarified.
11/19 Brenda and Robin visited in Robin's hospital room. Brenda admitted that, years before, she had gone to extreme lengths to get Sonny to ask her to move in with him. She giggled as she reminisced about the time she'd awakened Sonny by doing sit-ups in bed. Brenda said that she had never loved anyone the way she did Sonny. It was the kind of love that would last forever. Robin spoke warmly about the good old days when she and Stone, and Sonny and Brenda had fun together.
At Jason's penthouse, Jason sternly told Carly to drop her vendetta. Carly defended herself and said that she could prove that Brenda and Dante had engaged in an affair in 2007. She explained that a former cop, along with Dante, had guarded Brenda during that time, and that Dante had never denied to his partner that he had slept with Brenda. Jason still didn't believe it and told Carly to leave it alone.
Sonny talked about how he'd gotten into the business, when he'd taken over the Port Charles mob after Frank Smith died. Brenda had been with Sonny throughout that period, and it had created a bond between them. After Olivia had gone, Jason arrived and updated Sonny on Brenda's situation. Jason apologized for having taken Brenda back to Port Charles. She'd told him that it would be too painful for too many people, but Jason had thought she'd be safer there. Sonny wondered if he hadn't left Brenda at the altar, if they would have had a family.
Suzanne arrived at Dante's loft. She grilled Dante about his real connection to Brenda. Dante told Suzanne to leave Brenda be. Suzanne replied that Brenda could get killed if everyone stepped back and gave Brenda space. In the other room, Michael eavesdropped. Suzanne told Dante that Brenda's safety would be compromised if Dante couldn't maintain professional detachment. Dante continued to deny any deeper connection to Brenda.
Brenda walked into Jason's to find Suzanne, who questioned Brenda about Dante. Brenda said it was absurd to think that she and Dante had ever been romantically linked, because he was Sonny's son. "What does that have to do with anything?" asked Suzanne. Suzanne wanted to know why Dante, who had been doing a superb job of protecting Brenda, had been reassigned. As an irked Brenda left the penthouse, she replied that, every time she saw Dante, she thought of Sonny.
Later, Jason informed Dante that Brenda had fired Dante. Dante understood and said he wasn't worried about himself, but he was about Brenda. Jason said that was a problem. He let Dante know that Carly had proof of Dante and Brenda's affair years before.
Outside of Sonny's old apartment, Max escorted Brenda out of the limo as a gentle rainstorm began. He reluctantly allowed her to go in by herself. When Brenda entered the apartment, she was pleasantly surprised to find Sonny there.
11/22 At the penthouse, Jason asked Dante if he had slept with Brenda. He said he needed to know so that he could do damage control. When Dante denied sleeping with Brenda, Jason said that Carly believed that he had. Jason told Dante that Carly was out for revenge and would not stop digging until she uncovered the truth. Dante said he could handle Carly's hatred, but wondered why she would put so many lives in jeopardy should the Balkan find out that Brenda had killed his son and Dante had helped cover it up. Jason said that Carly could be very vindictive when her children were hurt. Dante asked Jason to intercede with Carly. Jason said that she could probably be convinced to keep silent until Michael's probation was over so that Michael would not suffer. Jason added that Carly's thirst for revenge would drive her to make sure that Brenda and Dante's crimes were eventually revealed and punished.
In Sonny's former apartment above Luke's old blues club, Sonny and Brenda were each surprised to see the other there. Brenda said that she was there because she wanted to remember what it felt like to be happy. Sonny said that was the reason he was there as well. Brenda and Sonny talked about old times. They recalled the time that he had been shot and Brenda had saved his life. She said that it had been the first time that Sonny had trusted her and shared his secrets with her. Sonny said that she had shared her blood and saved his life. Sonny said that he remembered her as being very happy. He said that the light had gone out of her eyes and had been replaced by a terrible sadness. He asked her what had happened. Sonny wanted to know if he was responsible. Brenda said that he was. She said that even though Sonny had left her at the altar twice, no one had ever loved her like he had and that all through their relationship, she feared that she would never feel that way again. When Sonny wanted to know if she had, Brenda changed the subject and said that as a child, she had tried to get her dad's love and attention, then as a young adult, she had tried to get Sonny's. When she bemoaned how long it had taken for him to tell her that he loved her, Sonny said that he was scared of all the feelings he had for her. Brenda was surprised by Sonny's admission of fear.
Brenda told Sonny that he had been her first love. She said that no matter what happened or how much time passed, he would always be that. Sonny said that he was not good at handling his feelings and he never knew why he had fallen for a spoiled brat with a bad temper. Brenda said he had fallen for himself. They both laughed. Sonny said he was often asked what made Brenda different from the other women that he had known. He told Brenda that it was because she had given her all to him. He told her that as much as she was afraid of losing him, he was afraid of not being with her. Brenda admitted that when Sonny left her, the light had gone out in her. She said that she had waited for him. Brenda said that she wished that they had stayed together. Sonny said that they could not change what had happened, but that they could try to be together at this time in their lives. Brenda moved into Sonny's arms and they began kissing slowly and tenderly. While Sonny and Brenda talked, a man with a gun approached the door. He listened and walked away. When he left the building, it was revealed to be Max, who made a phone call.
Jason took flowers to Robin and said they were from Brenda. They laughed and talked until Jason got a phone call from Max, who informed him that Brenda and Sonny were together in Sonny's old apartment. Jason told Max to interrupt them, but Max said that he would not cross Sonny. When he hung up, Jason said he had to go break up Sonny and Brenda, but Robin persuaded him to stay with her and give Brenda and Sonny a chance to resolve their past.
11/23 In Robin's hospital room, Jason and Robin talked about Sonny and Brenda. Jason was worried about where Sonny and Brenda's relationship was headed, but Robin thought that their friends would have to work things out for themselves. Robin confided that a part of her wanted Sonny and Brenda to work things out because Robin and Stone had been denied a happily ever after. Jason argued that Sonny and Brenda weren't always good for each other. Robin admitted that she didn't think that Sonny and Brenda had ever gotten over each other and never would. Jason talked about his experience on the red carpet with Brenda. Robin laughed as Jason insisted that it had been an "awful and horrible" experience.
At Sonny and Brenda's former apartment, Sonny and Brenda shared a passionate kiss. Afterwards, Sonny confessed that he was waiting for the building to collapse or lightening to strike because Brenda always claimed that they were doomed. Brenda chuckled as she warned Sonny to stop making fun of her. She insisted that there were a million reasons for them not to be together. "Are you sure?" Sonny wondered. Sonny wanted to try to work things out, but Brenda hesitated to agree. She quietly admitted that she had done something after she had left Port Charles. Brenda revealed that she had become involved with a man named Aleksander. Sonny was curious if she had loved Aleksander, but Brenda shook her head as she answered, "No." However, she did admit that she had discovered that Aleksander had been the Balkan's son. Sonny was curious if Brenda had ever met the Balkan. Brenda explained that she had only heard Aleksander talk to his father on the phone. She had broken off the relationship after she had learned the truth about Aleksander's criminal activity. Brenda admitted that afterwards, she had gone to New York, where she had met Dante, who had been assigned to guard her. Sonny confessed that he had known that Dante had once been Brenda's bodyguard.
Brenda revealed that Aleksander had followed her to New York and then confronted her and Dante in an alley one evening. Brenda admitted that the confrontation had turned violent, so she had shot Aleksander to protect Dante and that Dante had covered it up. Brenda tearfully confessed that everyone had been right about her; she was shallow and reckless. Sonny refused to allow Brenda to be so hard on herself; he believed that everything happened for a reason. Sonny suggested that if she hadn't gone through what she had endured then they might not have been where they were at that moment. Sonny wanted to take things slowly, but he made it clear that he wanted to continue to see Brenda. Brenda smiled as she recalled her first date with Sonny when he had picked her up at the Quartermaine mansion. Brenda confessed that she had loved it. Sonny wondered if Brenda would go out on a date with him. Brenda agreed. Afterwards, they stepped out into the rain and then kissed.
11/29 Brenda conversed with Jason at the penthouse. She told him that she was happy for the first time in a very long time. Brenda said that she had told Sonny about killing Aleksander and about Dante's part in the killing. She said that Sonny had told her to forgive herself. Brenda said that she was going on a date with Sonny and wanted to know what Jason thought about it. Jason hedged and said that he would stay out of her personal life and focus on the Balkan. Brenda said that she cared what Jason thought. She tried to get him to wish her well, but Spinelli interrupted before Brenda could get a response from Jason. Spinelli immediately offered to make tea, but Jason said that they had to get over to Sam's office to meet Lucky and Dante. Spinelli refused to go when Brenda said she wanted tea with a shot of whiskey, so a frustrated Jason left alone. Spinelli stayed with a smiling, cheerful Brenda, who told him that she was both happy and nervous. Brenda told Spinelli that her sunny disposition was due to her upcoming date with Sonny.
Sonny met Dante at his restaurant office and told his son that he and Brenda had reconciled. He said that Brenda had told him the secret about killing the Balkan's son and Dante's part in the cover-up. Dante told Sonny that it was his chance to call Dante a hypocrite. Sonny said that as a father, he was glad that Dante had protected the woman that Sonny loved. Dante said he had not known he was Sonny's son at the time. Sonny said that it did not matter. He said he was glad that Dante was keeping Brenda safe. Sonny urged Dante to do everything in his power to catch the Balkan. As Dante opened the door to leave, Suzanne was standing there. Sonny got a phone call and asked her to wait outside, where she cornered Dante about his past with Brenda. He told her that what had happened between him and Brenda was in the past where it would stay. Dante left, and Sonny confronted Suzanne. He told her that he and Brenda were trying again. He advised Suzanne not to get in the way. Jason suggested looking for who had claimed the body of the Balkan's son, Aleksander Janacek six month before. When Lucky refused to proceed until he knew everything that Jason knew, Dante told Lucky what had happened with Brenda three years before. Lucky approved Dante's actions but worried that Carly would eventually spill the beans.
Spinelli opened the door to Sonny, who inquired after Brenda. When Spinelli said that she was dressing, Sonny suggested that he would like to be alone. Spinelli insisted on conversation and wanted to know Sonny's intentions towards Brenda. Sonny was in a good mood and indulged Spinelli when he asked if Sonny intended to bed Brenda then leave her flat as he has so many others. Sonny did not take offense when Spinelli said that Brenda deserved respect. He told Sonny to let Brenda set the pace and to take precautions. He told Sonny that sex implied deep trust and love, and added that Brenda deserved the best. Sonny agreed and said that it was nice that Spinelli was Brenda's friend and looked out for her. He told Spinelli that he would be careful with Brenda. Spinelli then worried about Brenda and Sonny going out. He feared that they were both targets of violence and should stay in. He offered to cook, but Sonny declined the invitation.
When Brenda descended the stairs, both Sonny and Spinelli reached for her jacket. Spinelli turned to Brenda and started telling her all the reasons she should not go out with Sonny. Sonny took Spinelli aside and told him there was a fine line between being concerned and being obnoxious. Spinelli said, "so be it," because he could not in good conscience let Brenda leave with Sonny.
Brenda grabbed Spinelli and told him that she knew what she was doing. She said that she could have a lifetime of "what ifs" or she could take a chance. She told Spinelli that she was alive and happy for the first time in seven years and that she would not trade that for anything, even safety. Reluctantly, Spinelli said okay. Brenda and Sonny were smiling and laughing as they opened the door to leave. Carly was standing there about to knock and said, "Wow, this is just too perfect."
Suzanne met Jax at the Metro Court and told him that Brenda needed his help. When she asked him about Brenda's relationship to Sonny, Jax said that it was very dysfunctional. He said that Sonny had taken advantage of Brenda and that he had almost gotten her killed on more than one occasion. Jax said that Sonny did not take responsibility. Jax said it was not a question of if something bad would happen, but when it would happen. Suzanne noted how much Jax had cared about Brenda. Jax said that his relationship to Brenda was in the past. He said that he was happy with his wife and children. Suzanne said that Carly was strong and capable, unlike Brenda. Suzanne said that Jax seemed to be the only man who had been able to draw Brenda away from Sonny. Suzanne told Jax that she needed him to do that again.
11/30 At McCall and Jackal Private Investigations, Lucky, Jason, and Dante discussed the possibility that the man that they were looking for could have the last name of "Jacks." Jason and Lucky realized that their suspect might be Jerry Jacks. A short time later, the man placed a call to Jerry Jacks to let Jerry know that he had gained access to Sam's apartment. Jerry wasn't pleased that the man hadn't carried out Jerry's orders. The man assured Jerry that he understood what was at stake. The man then wondered when Jerry planned to arrive in Port Charles.
At Jason's penthouse, Sonny became suspicious when Carly calmly accepted the news that Sonny and Brenda had decided to start dating again. Carly was annoyed because she realized that she was in a no-win situation with Sonny. However, Carly insisted that she was happy with Jax, so she didn't care if Sonny wrecked his own life. Sonny didn't buy it, but he decided to leave with Brenda instead of continuing the argument with Carly.
After Sonny and Brenda left, Spinelli offered to let Carly vent if she needed it. Spinelli realized that Carly had to be upset about Sonny's decision to date Brenda. Carly hid her annoyance and then feigned concern for Sonny, Jason, and Lulu because she had discovered some possibly damaging information about Dante. Spinelli was stunned when Carly admitted that she had spoken to someone who had worked with Dante in 2007 during Dante's assignment to protect Brenda. Carly used Spinelli's concern for Brenda to paint Dante as a callous heartbreaker who had ruthlessly seduced Brenda. Spinelli refused to believe the suspicions of a police officer he didn't know, so he decided to find proof that there had been an affair. Carly could barely contain her elation; however, she cautioned Spinelli to keep quiet about the affair until they had all of the information that they needed to decide what to do about it.
At the Metro Court Restaurant, Suzanne confided that Sonny had warned her to stay out of Sonny and Brenda's relationship. Jax wasn't surprised. Suzanne pleaded with Jax to stop Brenda from making a mistake by going out with Sonny, but Jax refused to get involved because of Carly. Suzanne insisted that Jax had some influence with Brenda, so Brenda might listen if Jax tried to reason with Brenda. Jax explained that he and Carly had just worked things out, so he didn't want to risk his marriage by trying to keep Brenda from dating Sonny. Suzanne feared that she would lose her friend to Sonny's lifestyle. Jax admitted that he had already warned Brenda not to get involved with Sonny. Suzanne wanted Jax to try again, but Jax insisted that he had made his choice between Brenda and Carly when he had married Carly. Suzanne warned Jax that he was putting Brenda in danger by refusing to intercede.
At the Metro Court Restaurant, Sonny ordered Brenda's favorite drink. Brenda smiled because she was certain that Sonny had a knack for remembering a woman's favorite drink. Sonny smiled sheepishly, but didn't deny it. Brenda changed the subject to question why Sonny had chosen Jax's restaurant for their dinner. She was curious if it was some kind of test. Brenda suggested that he might be trying to throw their relationship in Jax's face, but Sonny made it clear that he didn't give a damn about Jax. However, Sonny was a bit concerned about Carly's lack of reaction to his earlier announcement. Brenda wondered if Sonny thought that Carly might be up to something. Sonny promised Brenda that he wouldn't let anyone, including Carly, hurt her.
As they sipped their drinks, Sonny confided that Spinelli had questioned his intentions in regards to Brenda. Brenda was touched by Spinelli's concern. She admitted that Spinelli was a sweet person who ran all over town to get her organic fruit and vegetables. Brenda and Sonny then began to reminisce about their past with Robin and Stone. They were laughing when Jax entered the restaurant. Moments later, Jax joined Brenda and Sonny at their table. Sonny made it clear that Jax had interrupted their date, but Jax ignored Sonny. Jax had ordered a bottle of champagne and three glasses. Jax smiled at Brenda as he sat down and then proposed toasting to old times.
12/1 At the Metro Court Restaurant, Jax chatted with Brenda in a clear attempt to put a damper on Sonny and Brenda's date. Sonny smiled indulgently as Jax tried to monopolize Brenda's attention. Brenda was delighted when Jax mentioned that he intended to make a substantial donation to ASEC. Sonny offered to do the same, but Jax warned Sonny not to taint Brenda's charity. According to Jax, nothing was confidential because of the Internet, so someone would find out that Sonny had donated money. Jax was certain that no one would be pleased to discover that Sonny's tainted money was attached to the charity. Jax smiled victoriously as he excused himself and then turned to leave. However, Jax stopped short when he realized that Carly had been standing behind his chair. Jax's smile disappeared as Carly asked everyone how dinner had been. Sonny complained that the service had been a bit slow, so Carly offered to pick up Sonny's tab.
Sonny assured Carly that it wasn't necessary, but Carly insisted on compensating Sonny for the poor service by sending Sonny and Brenda a complimentary dessert of chocolate mousse. Brenda happily accepted the offer. After Carly and Jax left, Brenda admitted that she had been impressed by how Sonny had kept his cool while Jax had been at their table. Sonny realized that Jax had been trying to show off, so Sonny had decided not to rise to the bait. Brenda reminded Sonny that Sonny wasn't exactly innocent, since he had tried to provoke Jax by selecting the Metro Court Restaurant for dinner. After dessert arrived, Brenda once again praised Sonny for not letting Jax goad him into an argument. Brenda hoped that it was a sign that Sonny and Jax might turn over a new leaf. Sonny assured her that would never happen. Sonny explained that he had taken her to dinner at the restaurant to prove to her that he didn't have anything to hide; however, he promised to understand if she didn't want to go public with their relationship. Brenda made her intentions clear by leaning forward to kiss Sonny.
Jason arrived at the penthouse to find Spinelli pacing the living room. Spinelli was upset because Brenda hadn't returned from her date with Sonny. Jason ordered Spinelli to stop interfering in Brenda and Sonny's relationship. According to Jason, Sonny knew Brenda better than most, including Spinelli. Jason suggested that Spinelli could help Brenda by tracking Jerry Jacks's whereabouts. Spinelli was stunned to learn that Jason suspected that Jerry was somehow connected to the Balkan and might be after Brenda. Spinelli assured Jason that he would begin tracking Jerry immediately. Jason suggested that Spinelli start with Jerry's mother, Lady Jane. Spinelli began to work on the laptop, but stopped when he heard footsteps in the hallway. Spinelli sprinted to the door to peek through the peephole. Spinelli was relieved that Brenda had finally arrived home. Spinelli grew livid when he realized that Sonny intended to kiss Brenda, but Jason pulled Spinelli away from the door to give the couple some privacy. In the hallway, Sonny wondered if he would see Brenda again. She assured him that he would, so Sonny leaned forward to give Brenda a passionate goodbye kiss.
12/2 Dante dropped by Sonny's office to give Sonny an update on the Balkan. Dante warned Sonny that Jerry Jacks might be involved, which meant that Brenda might be in greater danger. Sonny wasn't surprised by the news. They briefly discussed Jerry's criminal history before Dante revealed that he didn't want Jerry to realize that they were onto him. Sonny trusted Dante and Jason to do what needed to be done, so he shifted gears to let Dante know that he was dating Brenda. Dante was curious why Sonny wanted him to know. Sonny explained that he and Dante had the same desire to keep Brenda safe. Dante reminded Sonny that Brenda would return to Italy after the Balkan had been captured. Sonny wasn't as certain, which seemed to annoy Dante.
At Jason's penthouse, Brenda informed Jason that she had a date with Sonny. "That's nice," Jason responded. However, Jason added that she wasn't permitted to leave the penthouse. Brenda suggested that Jason take it up with Sonny. Jason explained that Jerry Jacks might be linked to the Balkan, so Brenda was in grave danger. Brenda laughed at the idea of Jerry harming her. Jason warned Brenda that Jerry was not the man that she had known long before. He explained that even Jax couldn't control Jerry. Moments later, Jason received a call from Sam asking him to meet her at her apartment because she had discovered something that he needed to see. Jason promised to be there as soon as possible and then placed a call to Spinelli.
When Spinelli arrived at the penthouse, Jason explained that Brenda was not to leave under any circumstances. Jason made it clear that he expected Spinelli to stand firm. After Jason left, Brenda explained that she had a date planned with Sonny. She assured Spinelli that she would be safe with Sonny. Spinelli strongly disagreed. Brenda tried to work her wiles on Spinelli, to no avail. Eventually, Brenda confided to Spinelli that Sonny actually liked Spinelli, but he just had a hard time showing it. Spinelli had his doubts, but Brenda insisted that Sonny hid his true feelings for Spinelli because Sonny was secretly intimidated by Spinelli's vast knowledge of computers. According to Brenda, Sonny was old school, so Sonny was all about honor and protection. Brenda again assured Spinelli that she was safe with Sonny. Spinelli refused to relent, so Brenda reminded Spinelli that Sonny was Jason's boss. Spinelli insisted that Brenda couldn't leave; however, he had arranged for Brenda and Sonny to have their date in the penthouse. As if on cue, Max and Milo arrived dressed in chef uniforms complete with chef hats. Max and Milo headed straight to the kitchen, ready to cook.
Later, Sonny stopped by the Haunted Star to see Luke. Tracy made it clear that Sonny's money was not welcomed in the casino. She insisted that Sonny had been a plague on the Quartermaines for years. Tracy blamed Sonny for the death of several of her relatives and for others leaving town. After Tracy stormed out, Sonny admitted that he had hoped to reserve the casino for a night to wine and dine Brenda. Luke assured Sonny that it wouldn't be a problem; however, Luke was a bit surprised that Sonny and Brenda were dating again.
Sonny confided that he had given up on working things out with Brenda a long time before. Luke explained that the problem with shark attacks was that one never saw the sharks until it was too late. Sonny chuckled as he suggested that "the great white" had just left the building. "Touché," Luke acknowledged. Luke explained that he was going after Tracy, so Luke was prepared to live with the damage that might result from the pursuit. He wondered if Sonny could say the same. Sonny revealed that he felt that he needed to give it one last shot with Brenda. Luke understood because difficult women were worth fighting for. Moments later, Brenda called Sonny to see where he was.
Sonny revealed that he had made arrangements for his date with Brenda, but Brenda warned Sonny that she couldn't leave the penthouse. A short time later, Sonny arrived at the penthouse to pick up Brenda. Spinelli insisted that Brenda had to stay put. Sonny warned Spinelli that it wasn't Spinelli's decision to make. Sonny started to lead Brenda to the door, but Spinelli blocked their path and then blew on a whistle.
Within moments, Max and Milo materialized in the living room. Max warned Sonny that Jason had left specific orders for Brenda to remain in the penthouse. However, Max assured Sonny that Sonny could still have a date with Brenda because Max and Milo had been hard at work preparing dinner in the kitchen. Sonny was not pleased, but Brenda persuaded Sonny to give them a chance. A short time later, Spinelli poured Brenda and Sonny some white wine as they waited for the first course of dinner to be served. Sonny had his doubts about the food because he knew that Max couldn't boil a pot of water for pasta. Spinelli revealed that Max had been taking culinary classes in the evenings, so Max's skill in the kitchen had vastly improved. Shortly afterwards, Max and Milo served some soup. Brenda was impressed, so Sonny decided to give the soup a try. Sonny was pleasantly surprised when he tasted it.
In an alley, Sam was on her cell phone with Maxie as a mystery man followed her. Eventually the mystery man lunged for Sam, but Jason was there to stop the man before Sam was harmed. As Sam ran to Jason's side, Jason aimed his gun at the man's back and then warned him, "This is where it ends, Jerry."
12/3 Max and Milo made a fancy dinner for Brenda and Sonny at Jason's penthouse. A jealous Spinelli acted as their waiter and tried to keep the couple from talking seriously. As Sonny depicted a possible romantic interlude between himself and Brenda on a yacht, Spinelli interrupted. He asked Max and Milo to switch hats and escort Sonny out, because Sonny was, in Spinelli's opinion, a lothario. Brenda explained that she would be fine. Sonny excused Max, Milo, and Spinelli.
As they prepared to go upstairs, Brenda urged Sonny to ask Jason to go easy on Max and Milo for having let her out of their sight. Sonny assured her that all three men worked for him and did what he said. Sonny expressed his continued annoyance with Spinelli but admitted that Spinelli had been right about Sonny's past with women. Jason phoned Brenda, but Sonny took the call. Jason informed him that Jerry was definitely involved in the attempts on Brenda's life. Soon thereafter, Brenda welcomed Sonny into her room at Jason's penthouse. They joked about how regrettably pink the room was. They reminisced about Brenda's old apartment and lamented the fire that had destroyed it. They kissed.
Downstairs, Spinelli, Max, and Milo entered the living room. Spinelli was worried that Sonny and Brenda had left together. Max and Milo left to check outside. Carly walked in and told Spinelli she could help him keep Brenda away from Sonny. She urged him to help her convince Sonny that Brenda had slept with Dante so that Sonny would drop Brenda. Spinelli agreed.
Jason and Sam faced off with a stranger and demanded to know what the man knew about Jerry Jacks. Jason held a gun on the man and threatened to kill him. Jason frisked the man and found Sam's wallet. Sam asked the stranger why he'd broken into her apartment. As the man explained that Jerry had hired him, he was shot from above. Soon thereafter, Dante responded to Jason's call and showed up at the scene of the crime. Sam updated Dante on what had preceded the shootout. Jason explained that he'd shot at the sniper and found blood on the window frame where that person had been. However, the assassin was nowhere to be found.
12/6 Jason, Sam, and Dante were at Sam's P.I. office. They discussed the best way to flush out the Balkan. Jason was convinced that the Balkan would try to retrieve his son's body from the morgue. Dante suggested taking Aleksander's body to GH for a second autopsy, which, Dante said, was done all the time and would not arouse suspicion. He said it would be easier to lure the Balkan to them than to stake out the morgue in New York. After Dante was gone, Sam said that she did not think the plan would work, but Jason said that if Aleksander really was the Balkan's son, grief might cause the Balkan to make a mistake.
Brenda and Sonny were in the pink room, laughing and undressing each other, when they accidentally broke a vase. Carly and Spinelli immediately rushed into the room. Spinelli said he feared for Brenda, but Sonny told Carly to stop trying to sabotage Brenda because nothing would keep Sonny away from her. After Brenda took Spinelli downstairs, Carly told Sonny that she was not jealous. She said that she did not want Brenda to hurt Sonny, and she did not like the way Brenda used Jason, to which Sonny retorted, "No, that's your job." Carly reminded Sonny that there was probably a reason that both he and Jax had left Brenda at the altar. Sonny told her that everything was different this time around for him and Brenda. Spinelli and Brenda agreed that Carly and Sonny were a lot alike and therefore clashed on some occasions. They heard Carly scream that she did not care who Sonny slept with before she stomped down the stairs and out the door. Sonny followed and told Spinelli that he and Brenda were going to his house. Spinelli protested, but he was no match for Sonny and Brenda's determination to leave.
When Sonny opened the door, Suzanne was about to knock. She insisted that Brenda attend a cocktail party for a large ASEC donor. Brenda did not want to go, but Suzanne deflected all Brenda's arguments. When Brenda insisted that she would attend with Sonny, Suzanne said that Sonny's reputation would make legitimate donors wary. While Brenda dressed for the party, Sonny told Suzanne that she would not be able to use the charity to drive a wedge between him and Brenda. Suzanne convinced Sonny to let Brenda attend the cocktail party without him.
Dante went to Jason's penthouse in response to a summons from Suzanne. Spinelli answered the door and told Dante that Brenda was going to a cocktail party and needed protection. Suzanne hurried downstairs and said that she would meet them there. She said that she would get her own transportation because Brenda was in a mood. After Suzanne left, Spinelli said Brenda was in a mood because she had intended to spend the evening with Sonny. When Brenda descended the stairs, she looked at Dante and asked if he was her date. He said he was the security detail. Brenda smiled and said, "Just like old times."
Sonny left Jason's place and went to Carly's home. He told her to let him live his life. She told him that the truth was that he was breaking her heart. Sonny said that he thought Carly loved Jax. Carly said that she did love Jax but that she would always care about Sonny because he was the father of her children. Sonny said that whenever Carly wanted to meddle in his life, she used the kids as an excuse. He told her to stay out of his business. Carly said that Brenda was an addiction. She said she had seen him go to the dark place, and she did not believe that he could survive another round with Brenda. Sonny told Carly that it would be different with Brenda this time.
12/7 At the penthouse, Dante confessed to Brenda that he had thought quite a bit about their 2007 relationship. Brenda smiled softly as she admitted that she had too. She revealed that she would always be grateful to Dante for saving her life. Dante argued that she had been the one to save him; his only regret had been that his plan to cover up Aleksander's death had only had a "shelf-life of three years." Dante was confident that their troubles with the Balkan would soon be behind them. Brenda was pleased to hear that a stroke of bad luck had revealed some useful information that might help lure the Balkan out of hiding. Dante returned to the original topic of their relationship in 2007. He assured Brenda that he didn't regret anything. Brenda admitted that she didn't either.
Later, in the limousine, Brenda and Dante amicably chatted as they drove the ASEC event. Brenda was curious how Dante had become involved with Lulu. Dante told an amusing, but edited, version of his courtship with Lulu. Brenda realized that Dante was still the same boy who rode his bike downhill without any brakes. Dante was surprised that Brenda had recalled the childhood story that he had shared with her. Brenda and Dante were jolted forward when the limousine suddenly stopped. Brenda thought that it was a sign for her to return home when she discovered that one of her heels had snapped off. Dante promised Brenda that all was not lost. He was curious what her shoe size was. "Seven," Brenda answered.
Dante jumped out of the limousine with promises to return soon. Brenda was stunned when Dante approached a woman on the sidewalk to offer her one hundred dollars for her shoes. The woman was reluctant to part with her shoes, so Brenda suggested that Dante offer more money. After some dickering with the stranger, Dante returned to the limousine with the shoes. Brenda burst out laughing when she realized that Dante had paid three hundred and fifty dollars for a pair of Cartullo knockoffs, but she insisted that Dante was her hero.
Later, Brenda and Dante returned to the penthouse after the ASEC event. Brenda was certain that Dante was the only man who could persuade a woman to part with her stilettos in the middle of winter in upstate New York. Dante bashfully downplayed his success in procuring a pair of shoes for Brenda. Brenda wished that he would just accept her gratitude without trying to joke about it. She wanted him to know how much he meant to her. Dante seemed to muster up the courage to talk to Brenda about something in their past.
However, before Dante could say more than a few words, Brenda's cell phone rang. Brenda asked Dante to hold the thought, while she checked to see who was calling. It was Sonny, so Brenda answered the call. "Hey, sweetheart," Brenda greeted Sonny. Dante scowled when Brenda assured Sonny that it wasn't a bad time to talk.
12/8 At Jason's penthouse, Brenda warned Dante that Sonny might not be in a good mood because Suzanne had put up a fuss about Sonny escorting Brenda to the ASEC event. Brenda appreciated that Dante had taken Sonny's place and that Dante had managed to help solve her broken shoe issue. Brenda wanted to repay Dante's kindness by helping Dante to build a relationship with Sonny. Dante explained that he hardly knew his father, but Brenda insisted that Dante was a lot like Sonny. Dante wished that she wouldn't compare him to Sonny. "Why not?" Brenda wondered. Brenda insisted that Dante and Sonny were good men who were incredibly strong and passionate. Dante argued that Sonny had caused quite a bit of damage to everyone's lives. Dante didn't want to be like that. Brenda acknowledged that Sonny was flawed, but she was certain that Sonny loved Dante and that he wanted to get to know his son.
Moments later, Sonny arrived. "Hey honey," Brenda greeted Sonny. Dante looked uncomfortable as he watched Sonny and Brenda together, so he quickly excused himself and then left. Sonny sensed that something was troubling Dante, but Brenda assured Sonny that Dante was fine. Later, Brenda and Sonny went to Greystone Manor. Brenda was a little surprised by Sonny's home. Sonny confessed that he liked it, but it didn't always feel like home to him. He hoped that she could change that. Brenda was smiling at Sonny when Diane breezed in with paperwork for Sonny to sign. Diane was not pleased to see the happy couple. Diane admired Brenda's work and style, but Diane was certain that Brenda was a complication that Sonny couldn't afford. Diane feared that Claire would cause trouble for Sonny when she found out that Sonny was seeing Brenda. After Sonny ordered Diane to leave, Brenda admitted that Diane might be right. Brenda suggested that they should slow things down to make sure that they were doing the right thing. Sonny tried to change Brenda's mind, but Brenda decided to head home. She kissed Sonny goodbye and then left.
At the loft, Michael admitted that he was curious why Dante had decided to get drunk. Dante revealed that he had guarded Brenda earlier that evening and that he had made her laugh in the hopes that she wouldn't notice that he felt the same way about her as he had a long time before. Dante admitted that he had wanted to be with Brenda in 2007 and that he would have done anything and been anyone that Brenda had wanted. Dante thought that those feelings had been in the past because he had fallen in love with Lulu.
12/9 At Greystone Manor, Sonny gave Max and Milo instructions to pick up chocolates and other gifts for Brenda that Sonny had ordered. Sonny immediately sensed that Max was not happy with the instructions, so he decided to hear Max out. Max thought that it was disrespectful to a certain someone for Sonny to get romantic with Brenda. Max had noticed that ever since Carly had married Jax, there had been a steady stream of women taking their fair share of champagne to Sonny's bedroom. "Get to the point," Sonny ordered Max. Max suggested that Sonny take Brenda to a place that was special and significant to their history. Sonny realized that Max had a soft spot for Carly, but Sonny thought that Max was out of line. Sonny made it clear that Max and Milo were not permitted to comment on Sonny's personal life.
Later, Carly marched into Sonny's parlor. Sonny wasn't in the mood for one of Carly's lectures, but she didn't care. Carly was curious if Sonny had conveniently forgotten how bad Sonny and Brenda had been for each other. Sonny reminded Carly that things hadn't been good between him and Carly either. Carly argued that they had walked away while they had still been sane. Carly didn't think that Sonny would be that lucky with Brenda. Sonny insisted that his relationship with Brenda was none of Carly's business. Carly guessed that Sonny had champagne on ice and chocolates on the pillow in preparation to seduce Brenda. Sonny refused to allow anything that Carly said or did to ruin his plans for Brenda. Carly smiled confidently as she warned him, "Don't be so sure."
Jason showed up before Carly could elaborate. Jason demanded to know what Carly was doing. Carly immediately tried to enlist Jason's help to persuade Sonny to forget about Brenda. Carly insisted that Brenda was wrong for Sonny. After Carly stormed out, Sonny informed Jason that he intended to work things out with Brenda. Sonny was frustrated that everyone seemed to have an opinion about his relationship with Brenda. Sonny explained that he and Brenda were taking a leap of faith; he was scared to death, but he was determined to explore what they had.
Later, Dante went to Greystone Manor to see Sonny. Dante and Sonny briefly discussed Dante's assignment to guard Brenda before Sonny revealed that Dante could have the night off, since Brenda would be safe in Sonny's care. Dante suggested that perhaps Brenda was drawn to Sonny because he was familiar during a time when everything seemed chaotic. Dante advised Sonny not to rush into things with Brenda because she might end up hurt. Sonny explained that he had known Brenda for a long time, so he intended to make things right for them. Dante realized that he might not be the right person for Sonny to talk to about Brenda.
Lucky couldn't understand why the Balkan hadn't left anyone behind at the bank to make certain that there hadn't been some kind of trick afoot. Siobhan dismissed Lucky's concerns as she urged him to open the envelope that they had taken from the safety deposit box. Lucky was surprised that the envelope contained surveillance pictures of Brenda and Aleksander as well as of Brenda and Dante. Lucky realized that Brenda might be connected to Aleksander's death.
12/10 Sonny met Michael at Kelly's. Michael expressed his concern over Sonny and Brenda's rocky past. Sonny told Michael that seeing Brenda made Sonny realize they had a second chance. Dante and Sonny sat in Sonny's parlor and chatted. Dante grew uncomfortable listening to Sonny talk about Brenda. Sonny declared that he wouldn't give up trying to develop a familial relationship with his son. However, he did promise not to share too deeply, for instance, his feelings about Brenda. Dante advised Sonny not to hurt Brenda, and to leave him out of Sonny and Brenda's relationship. Later, Sonny went to see Jason. He asked Jason to share his opinion on Sonny and Brenda's relationship. Jason replied that he'd taken a second chance with Sam and was grateful he had. Brenda ran into the living room and left with Sonny.
In a limo, Brenda tried to get Sonny to divulge his surprise, but Sonny remained tight-lipped. They arrived at a house Sonny had leased, which was just like the one he and Brenda had fantasized about, years before.
Siobhan made a call to one of the Balkan's men and told him that the cops were planning to use Alexander's remains to draw the Balkan out.
Dante went to see Jason. Jason let him know that the photo of Dante guarding Brenda had been found in the box Lucky had gotten from the safe deposit box. Dante was having trouble concentrating. He asked Jason if Jason had ever wanted something so much that he could think of nothing else.
12/13 Dante went to Jason's penthouse and confessed his feelings for Brenda and his regret that he had never told Brenda how he felt. Steve dropped by to let Dante know that Aleksander's body would be released from the east loading dock later that evening. After Steve left, Jason got out his gun.
At the loading dock, Jason and Dante hid out and watched. Dante reminded Jason that the object was to follow whoever showed up to collect the body, not shoot them. A few minutes later, Jerry appeared. Dante noted that Jerry appeared at GH in person. He speculated that Jerry was the Balkan.
Brenda was excited about the cozy getaway home that Sonny had arranged for them. They confessed their love for each other, and then made slow leisurely love. In the afterglow, Brenda said that everything felt perfect to her. Sonny said that he had accepted that Brenda was gone from his life, but had never let completely go. Brenda said that she would have found her way back to Sonny, even if she did not know that she was doing it. Sonny said that he would never lose her again. Sonny started talking about their future, but Brenda said that she did not want to plan ahead. She worried that something would interfere with their love. She said that she wanted to live in the present and savor every moment they had together. Sonny laughed and said that their roles had changed because he was the optimist and she was the pessimist. Sonny said that their being together proved that anything was possible.
12/14 At the loading dock, Jason and Dante hid out of sight while Jerry Jacks claimed Aleksander Janacek's body. Jerry quickly sensed that he was being watched, so Jerry drew a gun and then took the morgue attendant hostage. Jerry ordered Jason to show himself. Jason reluctantly complied, while Dante circled around to get a clear shot at Jerry. Jason demanded to know why Jerry was after Brenda. Jerry couldn't believe how so many men made fools of themselves over Brenda. According to Jerry, Brenda was lethal and far more dangerous than anyone realized. Jerry claimed that no man had ever walked away unscathed from Brenda, so Jerry had decided that it was his job to stop her. Jason was curious what Brenda had ever done to Jerry. Jerry refused to give Jason a direct answer. Things took a sudden violent turn when Jerry decided that it was time to leave.
Jerry inched close to the driver's side door of the van, shot the morgue attendant in the back, and then jumped into the van. Jerry managed to escape while Dante and Jason scrambled to call for help and then coordinate roadblocks with Lucky, in an effort to catch Jerry. Within moments, Steve was at the loading dock to check on the condition of the morgue attendant. The morgue attendant was rushed into surgery while Dante and Jason jumped into Jason's car to follow Jerry's van.
In the van, Jerry was on the phone with someone. Jerry was livid that Brenda had not only gotten Aleksander killed, but she had used her "legion of protectors" to use Aleksander's body as bait. Jerry promised to be at the pier soon, so he wanted the boat to be ready. Jerry explained that they didn't have any margin for error and that it was their last chance to take Aleksander home where he belonged.
Jason and Dante called Lucky to warn him that Jerry was fast approaching Lucky's position. Jason explained that they were on Jerry's tail. Lucky advised Jason and Dante to be careful because a roadblock had been set up. In the van, Jerry saw the roadblock. Jerry apologized to Aleksander and then swerved off of the road. Jason, Dante, and Lucky looked down at the mutilated wreckage of the van. Dante warned Jason and Lucky that it would take some time to pull the van out of the ravine, but Dante was certain that Jerry couldn't have survived the crash. Dante was certain that Brenda and Siobhan were out of danger. Jason revealed that Jerry had survived worse, while Lucky reminded Dante that they hadn't been certain that Jerry had been the Balkan.
12/15 Sonny bumped into Luke on the pier. He noticed the unlit cigar in Luke's hand, so he wondered if Luke had decided to quit smoking Cuban cigars. "No," Luke answered, but he admitted that he had been contemplating going to Havana on December 21st. Luke clarified that it was the day that he was scheduled to marry Tracy. Luke became philosophical as he began to talk about marriage. Luke was concerned because his only legal marriage had ended in endless heartache for his ex-wife. Luke didn't want Tracy to suffer the same fate. Sonny suggested that Luke view his fake marriage to Tracy as a rehearsal marriage that Luke and Tracy had survived. Sonny also thought that Luke should be more concerned about what Tracy would do to Luke rather than the other way around. Luke chuckled as he admitted that Tracy had demanded a prenuptial agreement. Sonny confessed that, as a businessman, he couldn't blame Tracy. "It's still ugly," Luke grumbled, but then suggested that perhaps Sonny should have had one with Carly. Sonny disagreed; he believed that he had cost Carly far more than she had ever cost him. Sonny then confided that Carly was concerned that Sonny and Brenda would hurt each other. Sonny was worried that Carly might be right. Luke didn't have any answers for Sonny.
The conversation then drifted back to Luke and Tracy. Luke confessed that he'd had the perfect scam going with Tracy until he had fallen in love with her. Luke realized that he had to marry Tracy because she would never forgive him if he ditched the wedding. Sonny suggested that Luke view the prenuptial agreement as a challenge. Luke smiled as he admitted that he had been trying to find a way around the prenuptial agreement. Luke seemed to make up his mind about the wedding, so he invited Sonny, and a guest, to attend and then left.
Sonny called Max to make certain that everything had been arranged for Brenda per Sonny's instructions. After Sonny ended the call, he spotted Claire. Claire admitted that she would rather not see Sonny, but Sonny refused to leave until he knew what was troubling Claire. Claire explained that she had been transferred to Alaska. Sonny felt terrible that Claire had paid such a steep price for helping him, so he offered to assist her in any way that he could. Claire admitted that she had been considering other options, but she didn't want to discuss them with Sonny; however, she appreciated that Sonny had offered to help.
Brenda woke up in the house in the woods when she heard a sound. She called out, thinking that it had been Sonny. Seconds later, Dante entered the bedroom. Dante explained that Sonny had left and that Jason had sent Dante to fetch Brenda. Brenda joked that she felt like an unwanted Christmas fruitcake being passed around. Brenda's smile faded when Dante told her about Jerry Jacks.
Brenda felt terrible for Jax. Dante was curious if Brenda had ever met Jerry. "Once," Brenda admitted. She confessed that she hadn't been impressed because Jerry hadn't appeared to have an honest bone in his body. Dante hoped that Jerry was the Balkan and that he was dead, so that Brenda could go back to her life in Italy. Brenda admitted that she might not return to Italy because of her new relationship with Sonny.
Later, Brenda and Dante arrived at Metro Court. Brenda quickly realized that Jax hadn't been told about Jerry, so she and Dante broke the news to him. Jax wondered if they had recovered Jerry's body. Brenda tried to give Jax some hope by suggesting that someone else might have been driving the van. Jax assured Brenda that he could accept his brother's death if it meant that Brenda would be safe. However, he couldn't understand why Jerry would try to hurt the people that Jax loved, especially Brenda. Dante reminded Brenda that they had to leave, so he sent her to the penthouse with the other bodyguards.
At the house in the woods, Sonny led Brenda to the living room to show her the huge Christmas tree that he had arranged for them. Sonny revealed that he wanted to spend Christmas with Brenda at the house. Brenda loved the idea.
**The End**
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