Across town Victor and Mary are moving into a bigger place. They are unpacking boxes when Victor comes across three baby books. One is labeled Joe another labeled Franks baby book, and the other is labeled Hanks baby book.
Victor: Mary who is Hank?
Mary turns and sees Victor holding the baby books. A sad look crosses her face, and a tear runs out of her eye.
Mary: Hank was Franks Identical twin brother. He died of S.I.D.'S the same day he was born. I only saw him for 5 minutes after he was born. Then both boys were rushed off to the nursery. By the time I got out of recovery Hank was dead. I didn't get to see him again. I wanted to but Frank Sr. didn't think it would be good for me to see my dead son.
Mary starts to cry. Victor goes to her and wraps her in his arms.
Victor: Oh my dear Mary I'm so so sorry. I know what it is to loose a child.
Mary: It's alright I don't think about it much anymore. I try not to anyway.
Victor: Do Frank and Joe know about their brother?
Mary: Yes but it's not something we really ever talk about.
Victor: But you've kept his baby book?
Mary: I just couldn't bare to part with it. It was hard enough moving on, but to have thrown out that book it just.
Victor: Would have been to much.
Mary: Exactly, Well enough of this sadness lets get going on this unpacking.
Victor: Alright where would you like these?
Mary: They can go in the closet.
Victor smiles and takes the baby books to the closet. 

Across town at Ellen's place Matt and Ellen are cuddling on the couch after a romantic dinner.
Ellen: You're quite a cook Dr. Harmon
Matt: I'm glad you liked it, I thought after a long day of saving lives we could use a good dinner.
Ellen: Today was certainly long that's for sure.
Matt notices Ellen's somewhat upset look.
Matt: Hey Babe what's wrong?
Ellen sighs.
Ellen: Oh I guess I was just thinking about the Scanlon's. Did you hear how Frank got Joe in trouble?
Matt shakes his head in disgust.
Matt: I know he really stabbed Joe in the back. Luckily Joe didn't loose his job.
Ellen: I just don't understand what's happened to Frank. He used to be this great guy who couldn't do enough for his brother. Now he's a back stabbing jerk! It's like he's a totally different person.
Matt: I know I think Joe was more hurt by the fact that Frank got him in trouble then by the fact that he was in trouble.
Ellen: How did you come to terms with your brothers betrayal?
Matt thinks.
Matt: I'm not sure I guess time just heeled some of it. Also we were never close like Frank and Joe were. People really change don't they? I mean when we started out Frank was a saint. Julie was a great Dr. And well now.
Ellen: I know everyone has changed so much.
Matt: At least we haven't.
Ellen: Amen to that.
They kiss passionately. 

Back in Franks room a stunned Lark is reading in disbelief. Her heart is pounding in her ears and she is sweating buckets. With shaking legs she gets up and shoving the diary under her arm runs out the door. She drives as fast as she can to the police station. Lark runs in all out of breath.
Lark: I need to see detective Garcia it's urgent!
Detective Rick: He is really busy right now can I help you?
Lark: Look an awful crime has been committed and I need to talk to him now! It's an emergency! Please Please I need to talk to him now.
Lark is trembling as tears stream down her face. Rick helps lark to a chair.
Rick: I'll let him know and he'll be with you right away. Can I get you some water while you wait?
Lark shakes her head.
Lark: NO! I need detective Garcia now!
Rick runs to get Garcia.
Soon Lark and Garcia are in an empty interrogation room.
Garcia hands Lark a tissue.
Garcia: Detective Rick said you had discovered some kind of crime?
Lark: Thanks for the tissue. Yes I was cleaning up Franks room after Frank and Joe had a big fight. And I came across Franks Diary.
She hands it to Garcia. Garcia starts to read it. 

Back in the cold dark cell somewhere in Port Charles. A disguised voice starts speaking to the prisoners as it has for so long.
Voice: Just thought you should know Joe nearly lost his job today. To bad poor Joe's life is coming all undone. And when all is said and done Joe will be no more! Then it will be off to punish sweet sweet Mary.
The voice laughs insanely.
And one of the prisoners wails in agony
Prisoner: No no please you can't please don't hurt Joe please don't hurt Joe!
The prisoner shakes with fear. The other prisoner reaches around the wall that separates them and searching desperately finds the other prisoners trembling hand and squeezes it.
Voice: To late poor Joe He's suffering so and as we speak the wheels are in motion to hurt him even more.
The other prisoner now speaks.
Prisoner 2: Why why do you want to cause such agony!
Voice: Why revenge of course.
The voice laughs and shutting off the microphone. leaves the prisoners in deafening silence once more.
Prisoner2: Don't worry one day someone will figure it out, and come find us.
Prisoner: But what if it's one day to late for Joe? 

At the hospital Joe is working silently, Karen comes up beside him.
Karen: So how is Neil?
Joe: No change the leukemia is running out of control and the chemo isn't helping stop it!
Karen rests her hand on Joe's shoulder.
Karen: I'm sorry. Hey don't you have tonight off why don't you go sit with Neil? Or get some fresh air.
Joe: Well I would love to do either one but Frank got me in trouble today and now I'm trying to look good to show that I'm still a good Doctor.
Karen sighs.
Karen: I heard about that. I'm so sorry Joe I wish I'd never set foot in a lab. Then DL-56 would never have been created.
Joe: That isn't your fault besides if you hadn't of worked in a lab Lucy would be dead.
Karen: I guess so. But I should have stopped there.
Joe: Then you wouldn't have been a good Doctor. Besides Frank would be Dead if it hadn't of been for DL-56. And that wouldn't have been any better.
Karen: At least he would have died a good man.
Joe: Listen I got a break in 10 minutes want to join me in the cafeteria?
Karen: Sure that sounds good.
They get back to work. 

Back at police headquarters Garcia is running around barking orders in every direction. He has commissioner Scorpio on the phone.
Mac: Okay Garcia I we've gotten the search warrant now lets move! I'll meet you there.
They hang up. Lark looks tensely at Garcia.
Lark: Now what?
Garcia: Now why try and rescue them. If I were you I'd try to get ahold of Joe, and Mary.
Garcia runs out the door. Lark goes to the phone and calls the hospital.
Nurse: General Hospital how may I help you?
Lark: Could you please page Dr. Joe Scanlon. It's extremely urgent.

Chapter 2
Lark holds the phone nervously to her ear, as her hole body trembles.
Lark: Come on Joe where are you answer the D@MM page!
Finally she hears someone pick it up.
Joe: Dr. Scanlon here.
Lark: OH THANK GOD! Joe I'm so glad I found you. It's Lark and we've got a major problem on our hands. It's Frank.
Joe sighs exasperatedly.
Joe: What has he done now? Are you hurt? Is he hurt? Where are you?
Lark: I'm at the police station, and you need to listen to me carefully.
Joe: Okay I'm listening.
Lark: Joe promise me you will listen to everything I have to say.
Joe: Okay I promise now spill what's going on?
Lark takes a deep breath and begins to speak.
Lark: I was cleaning up Franks room after your fight with him tonight and I found a diary. Something made me stop and read it. I'm very glad and I think you will be to that I did. Did you know that Frank had a twin?
Joe: Yeah Hank he died at birth.
Lark: No he didn't Joe no he didn't. He was given up and bounced from foster home to foster home. Sometimes he didn't even have that much and had to live in a children's home. Any way as he grew he became more and more resentful of his family for giving him up. Along the way he became best friends with Greg Cooper. Who was also carrying around a lot of anger. The two of them wound up in Port Charles, when Hank learned of his twin he was lived he wanted revenge so bad he could taste it. At the same time Cooper wanted someone to kill for him. When Cooper kidnapped Julie he took a million pictures of her face. Greg dose have a sister Joe her name is Marcia and she's as big a nut as Cooper is. He got her to let him perform plastic surgery on her. He made her look just like Julie. The plan was to kidnap Julie and hold her hostage while Marcia acting as Julie killed those people. Then Cooper would release Julie while he and Marcia would leave town and he'd give Marcia her real face back. Then Julie would be forced to take the wrap for Marcia's crimes. However their plan went a miss when Marcia was caught. And rather then get in even more trouble by admitting to kidnapping they chose to keep quite and let Julie stay locked up. The only other hurtle is they new Frank would be able to tell the difference between Julie and Marcia no matter what. And since Hank was so wanting to hurt his family kidnapping Frank seemed the most logical thing to do. So the night I went on the roof before Frank ever got to the hospital his rig was car jacked by Cooper and Hank. Hank took Franks place and has been acting as Frank ever since. The day Devlin died an hour or so before the murder Julie was kidnapped and Marcia took her place. Frank and Julie have been locked in a cell in Rex Stanton old place. It seems that Rexs and Greg became friends awhile back so he was more then happy to lend Greg some men to watch Frank and Julie while their imposters were free to run loose.
Joe: OH MY GOD MY BROTHER'S BEEN KIDNAPPED AND I DIDN'T EVEN KNOW IT!! We have to call the cops! Is he alive! Is Julie alive!
Lark: Joe take a deep breath and calm down. That's why I'm at the police station. Garcia and half the police department are on there way to the Stanton house as we speak to rescue them. As far as I can tell from this diary Frank and Julie are still alive but I'm not sure if they are well.
Joe: Where is Hank now?
Lark: I'm not sure but there is an APB out on him. The best thing you can do now is stay at GH because as soon as they're rescued they'll be brought to GH. I'm heading there now.
Joe: I can't believe this I just can't believe this. What THE HELL DO I TELL MA!
Lark: I know it sounds like some kind of horror movie. Tell Mary the truth she's a very strong women stronger then you give her credit for. And besides she's got Victor at her side now.
Joe: How did Hank get given up anyway!
Lark: I don't know Joe, but we can't worry about that right now. Just stay put and I'll be there soon.
Lark hangs up. She goes over to officer Rick's desk. He is the only officer left in the area at this point.
Lark: Please tell Garcia if he needs to talk to me anymore I'll be at GH.
Lark races out the door. 
Back in the dark, cold, and filthy cells Frank and Julie have fallen asleep with there arms reaching through the bars so that they may clutch each others hands. Suddenly off in the distance wailing sirens are heard coming closer and closer. Julie moans.
Julie: Frank?
Frank: I'm right here.
Julie: What is that noise.
Frank: Just a siren.
Julie: It sounds like it's getting awfully close.
Frank: It's sounded that close before sweetie. I don't me to be pessimistic it's just I don't want you to get disappointed again. You've heard siren's so many times that you believed were coming for us. And every time they don't.
Julie sighs.
Julie: I know I know.
They both try to fall back asleep. But the whale of the sirens gets louder and louder. Then they can here dogs barking and car doors slamming.
Frank: Julie someone is here! Maybe this really is it!
Just then gun fire erupts. They hear people yelling dogs barking and guns going off like crazy.
Julie: What's going on out there! It sounds like a war of some kind?
Frank in a trembling voice speaks.
Frank: They're coming for us Julie we're about to be rescued. We are going to be free again! We will be back with are friends and family very soon Julie. THIS IS IT THIS IS IT!
Just then two guards that Frank and Julie know all to well race in and open their cells. They quickly grab them and not allowing them to even catch a glimpse of each other they take them in different directions.
Julie: FRANK FRANK FRANK HELP HELP!!
Frank: Let us go just give it up you're not going to get away with this!
Guard clutching Franks arm and holding a gun to the back of his neck.
Guard: We'll see about that.
He shoves him through a door way and down some stairs. Meanwhile the other guard is taking Julie down some long and winding stairs.
Julie: HELP SOMEBODY HELP!
Guard holds a gun to her head.
Guard: SHUT UP YOU! 

Back at GH Mary and Victor have joined an irate Joe a flabbergasted Karen and a scared beyond words Lark. After Joe and Lark finish filling Victor and Mary in on the situation Mary just shakes her head in disbelief near tears.
Mary: I just don't understand this I just don't understand! How could he be alive! And how could I not have seen that the man pretending to be Frank wasn't Frank. And how could anyone be so hateful as to do this! I just don't understand.
Mary starts crying.
Victor: Oh my sweet Mary I'm so sorry you have to endure this. I love you so much. We will get through this confusion and try to find the answers to your questions in due time.
Karen: I remember last February when I went to see Julie or rather Marcia I remember thinking she doesn't sound like her and she doesn't even look like her anymore. If only I'd known how close I was to the truth.
Joe: I don't think any of us could have guessed this. The DL-56 really covered Hank well and Julie well who would have guessed this anyway. I'm just glad Lark decided to snoop.
Lark: I really don't know what made me do it. I just got this feeling that I needed to.
Victor: Well it's a good thing you listened to that feeling.
Mary: Oh yes a very good thing.
Karen: I'm relieved that we know the truth and are going to save them but I'm confused dose this mean DL-56 doesn't alter personalities?
Joe: I don't know and to be perfectly honest I don't want to know!
Lark: I think it probably added to Hanks behavior but for the most part I don't think it's all that different.
Joe gets up and starts pacing what the Hell is taking them so long!
Karen goes over to him.
Karen: Hey calm down okay getting yourself all worked up isn't going to do anyone any good. They are going to get them okay. Everything is going to be fine.
They hug. 

Back at the Stanton place the guard who has Frank shoves him out a door. Garcia jumps out from behind a bush and shouts.
Garcia: Freeze!
The guard grabs Frank around the neck and holds him in front of him like a shield while he holds a gun to Frank's head.
Guard: You better step back cop or Frankie boy gets it! 

Meanwhile Julie has been forced into the back of a truck and the guard who had her is about to drive away. She is banging on the doors wildly. She hears guns shots then the truck stops suddenly and the back door is flung open Julie falls into Mac Scorpio's arms weeping.
Mac: Your okay now, everything is going to be okay. The truth is out we're rounding up the bad guys and you're going home.
Julie: What about Frank? Is he safe where is he!
Mac: Were still trying to locate him. But don't worry we'll find him.
Mac helps a shaking Julie to a near by ambulance. 

Hank is at the recovery room drinking when three cops come in.
Cop: Hank Scanlon
Hank: There is no one here by that name.
Cop: Give it up Hank Lark found your diary the jig is up. Frank and Julie are being rescued as we speak.
Hank: LEAVE ME ALONE!
Cop: No can do we have a warrant for your arrest on a mountain of charges.
Hank tries to deck one of the cops. And they cuff him and hall him off. 

Garcia keeps his gun steady as the guard hold Frank like a shield.
Guard: Move it or Frank gets it I mean it! The guard cocks the gun.
Frank: Garcia is Julie okay! Where is Julie! Did they find Hank? How's Joe?
Garcia shakes his head and smiles.
Garcia: Everything is going to be fine Frank. Okay now let him go and know one gets hurt.
Guard: You wish!
The guard puts his finger on the trigger Garcia aims his gun at the guards head.
Garcia: Let him go!
Garcia and the guard sensing that neither is going to give in start to pull there triggers.
There is a loud bang!

There is a loud bang and smoke fills the air. The guard falls back and onto the ground from the blast to his head. Garcia breaths a sigh of relief as Frank who'd fallen forward and landed face down on the ground jumps up unharmed. Frank looks around and seeing the injured guard rushes to him and starts administering first aid. Garcia watches for a minute in aw of Frank tending to the man who just a second ago nearly blew his brains out.
Frank: Get an ambulance over here!
Several ambulance attendants and some cops rush over. Garcia grabs onto Frank.
Garcia: Frank are you okay? How do you feel? We need to get you to GH for a complete exam.
Frank: What about Julie? Where is Julie? Did you find her is she okay?
One of Franks old friends from the ambulance company comes over to take a look at him.
Pat: Hey Frank it's great to see you! Listen Julie is fine she's already been taken to GH for a complete exam. She is fine though no sign of any problem.
Frank: Thanks Pat, I need to go to her. How is Joe has anyone seen him? Who ever was holding us said he was going to hurt him.
Frank looks pale and near tears when he says this.
Pat puts an understanding arm around Frank and leads him to the ambulance.
Pat: I took in a major MI earlier today and he was in the ER. He looked just fine to me.
Frank climbs in the rig and Pat and the other EMT start assessing his vitals.
Frank: Thanks Pat but I need to see him with my own two eyes and hold him in my arms before I can believe that.
Pat: Well you're going to get to real soon.
The ambulance screams off to GH. 
 

At GH Mac hurries off the elevator and runs over to the Scanlon's.
Joe: Mac what's going on! Are Frank and Julie alive?! Are they okay?! Where are they?!
Karen: Mac have the cops been able to locate Hank yet? Has a rescue of Frank and Julie been attempted yet?
Mary: Tell me you have good news.
Lark: What have you found out?
Mac: Frank and Julie are both alive and as far as we can tell despite being tired, hungry, thirsty and dirty they are fine. They were fed a lot or given much to drink from what we have gathered. But other then that they are fine. We've rescued both of them and they are on their way here right now. In fact they may already be here. Hank is in police custody, as are all of the men we found on the Stanton property.
Mary: Oh Thank God!
Victor: Well I'm glad to see that the PCPD was able to correct this so quickly.
Lark: Thank you commissioner.
Mac: No thank you Lark you're the one that found out the truth and alerted us. This rescue would never have happened if you hadn't of found that diary. You are a hero.
Lark blushes bright red.
Lark: No I'm just a girl that did what had to be done.
Joe: Thank you commissioner, I'm going to go down to the ER I want to be there when they're brought in.
Karen: So do I lets go.
Mary: I'm coming to.
Mac: Lark I need to ask you a few questions.
Lark: yeah sure no problem. It won't take long will it?
Mac smiles
Mac: No just a few minutes.
Victor: I'll stay with you Lark. You three go on ahead we'll catch up in a bit.
Mary: Alright
Mary, Joe, and Karen rush for the elevators. 
 
 

In the ER Julie has arrived. She is nearly hysterical.
Julie: FRANK WHERE IS FRANK? I NEED FRANK! OH MY GOD WHAT HAVE THEY DONE TO HIM!! PLEASE LET ME SEEM HIM! PLEASE I HAVEN'T SEEN HIM NOT HIS FACE FOR A YEAR AND A HALF!
tears are streaming down her face and she is thrashing around.
Julie: I WANT MY LIFE BACK! PLEASE I JUST WANT MY LIFE BACK!!
Matt: Julie everything is going to be fine. You have your life back you've been rescued and you're going to see Frank real soon. Just try and calm down. Okay just calm down.
Karen comes rushing into Julie's cubical.
Karen: Julie! Hey oh my gosh this is so amazing!
Julie: Please Karen where is Frank?! Is he okay be honest is he okay!
Karen reassuringly pats Julie's arm and moves the hair out of her eyes.
Karen: Julie he's fine. He just isn't hear yet. But Commissioner Scorpio assured us that he is just fine. He'll be her soon. Now lets get you cleaned up and checked out so once we get him cleaned up and checked out you two can see each other okay? Everything is going to be fine Julie I promise.
The two friends hug. 
 
 

Back in the ambulance that Frank is in he's getting more and more worried about Joe.
Frank: What if he's been hurt since you saw him! What if he's being hurt right now! Oh God what's going on with Joe!
Pat reassuringly
Pat: Frank I doubt he's being hurt right now since Hank and the others have been taken into custody. And I just saw him a couple of hours ago and he was fine. You need to relax.
Frank: But who ever was holding us kept saying that Joe's life was crashing down.
Pat: He's had some problems with Karen and a few run in's with Quartermaine but Karen and Joe are working things out and well lets face it Joe having run in's with anyone is not exactly news.
Frank smiles a little at this.
Frank: I guess so I just really need to see him.
Pat: And you will very soon.
Frank: And you're sure Julie is alright?
Pat: She's fine, She's pretty upset but all things considered I think that's pretty understandable.
Just then they arrive at GH and Frank is wheeled in. When Frank doesn't see Joe right away he panics.
Frank: OH MY GOD WE'RE TO LATE! JOE JOE WHERE ARE YOU!! OH NO WHERE IS MY BROTHER WHERE IS MY BROTHER.
Franks start crying hysterically. Karen who has been on the phone with the lab ordering some blood work on Julie comes running.
Karen: FRAN FRANK!! Frank it's okay calm down.
Frank: What has Hank done to him! Where is he!! Hank said he was going to destroy him! Where is Joe where is he!
Karen looks at Franks face full of terror and rubs his arm reassuringly.
Karen: Well he didn't destroy anything. Joe is fine Frank he's just fine.
Frank: Karen you have to take him back he loves you he needs you!
Karen smiles.
Karen: We're working on it.
Frank: Where is he I need to see that he's okay with my own two eyes!
Karen: Hold on he's examining Julie I'll go get him.
Karen rushes off to get Joe.
Karen: Joe you need to come see Frank now!
Julie: What's happened what's wrong with him!!
A still mildly hysterical Julie cries.
Karen: Julie it's nothing like that he's fine.
Joe: Then what is it?
Karen: Well apparently Hank told Frank that he was going to destroy you. Frank is hysterical when he got here and didn't see you right away. Well I think he thought you were dead or something. I told him you were okay but he needs to see you with his own two eyes.
Joe nods
Joe: Okay I'm on it.
Joe rushes to find Frank. Pat is standing at Franks side in a near bye cubical.
Frank: I just wish I new what Hank had done to him. Then I could start fixing things right away but I have to wait for Joe to tell me what he's done. If he can tell me.
Frank starts crying Joe comes in.
Joe comes in and rushes over to him with pure joy.
Joe: Frank I'm right here!
Frank looks up and seeing Joe in one peace grabs him and hugs him tightly.
Frank: OH THANK GOD YOU'RE ALIVE!
The brothers look at each other threw their tears of joy.
Frank: Okay now Joe don't worry just tell me what exactly Hank has done and I'll undo it. Just give me the list and I'll get your life back in order I promise.
Joe laughs so happy to have Frank back.
Joe: Frank it's nothing that bad. I'm still a doctor, and Karen and I are working things out. Don't sweat it. I don't know what Hank told you but my hunch is he exaggerated. And Frank no offense but I wouldn't exactly call Hank a reliable source.
They both laugh.
Frank: Good point. So you're really okay? No tough talk now Joseph are you really alright?
Joe: I'm really fine, especially now that you're back.
Frank breaths a sigh of relief.
Frank: I'm glad. Can I see Julie we haven't actually seen one another since we were kidnapped about a year and a half ago. We've only been able to reach around and grab one another's hands. I really want to look into those deep brown eyes of hers I've been dreaming of them for ever.
Joe smiles.
Joe: Lets get you cleaned up and then you can okay.
Frank: Okay, she is alright though isn't she?
Joe: She's just fine. A little hysterical due to everything but she's going to be just fine. 
 
 

Back in Julie's cubical Karen is finishing up examining her.
Julie: Karen can you call Dr. Knight for me please?
Karen: The plastic surgeon? Why?
Julie starts to cry.
Julie: Because a serial killer is the last person I want to look like.
Karen goes over and hugs her.
Karen: Julie you don't need a plastic surgeon. This is already all over the new and radio and by morning all of the news papers and magazines as well. No one is going to think you are Marcia.
Julie: But what is someone dose? What is I walk into some patents room and they start screaming! What if some one related to one of the victims comes after me not knowing the truth?
Karen: Well you can explain it to the people who don't know, and I'll doubt that there will be many. Especially since this has become national news. And all of the victims families are being notified so I doubt that would happen.
Julie: Every time I look in the mirror I'll have to know that I look like a killer.
Karen: No that a killer happens to look like you. Julie you have been though a lot and now is not the time to be making these kinds of decisions relax and try to get some sleep. How about if I call Kevin? He might be able to help after all his brother was a killer and they looked alike.
Julie: Okay that sounds good. Can I see Frank now?
Karen: Let me go check I'll be right back.
Karen leaves and a very shaken Julie just curls up and falls asleep. Suddenly she feels someone watching her and she opens her eyes. Lark is standing there.
Lark: Hi I didn't mean to wake you. I just well I just wanted to see how you were.
Julie nods.
Julie: I'm not sure how I am. Have you seen Frank? Is he okay?
Lark: yeah I peeked in and he looks fine. I didn't stay though, I'm not really sure where I fit in anymore.
Lark stairs at her feet. Remembering the night she ran away Frank was going to send her back to Juvenile hall.
Julie: Well I know Hank adopted you so I guess you fit in right here.
Lark: The adoption is probably invalid since he did it as Frank.
Julie smiles.
Julie: Well knowing Frank I'm sure you are still going to be right here.
Lark smiles.
Lark: Maybe.
Karen walks in.
Karen: Oh hi Lark I didn't know you were down here yet.
Lark: Yeah commissioner Scorpio finished asking me questions so I came down.
Karen: What did he want to know?
Lark: Oh just how I found the diary, and stuff like that.
Julie: What diary?
Karen puts an arm around Lark
Karen: Julie Lark is the reason you and Frank were rescued tonight. She found Hanks diary and in it was a detailed confession of everything. She took it to the cops and the rest as they say is history.
Julie: Lark I don't know what to say thank you.
Lark: Hey I just did what I had to. I'm just glad something made me read it.
Karen: Julie are you ready to go see Frank?
Julie: Really! Oh yes! How do I look?
Lark: Well no better then he dose at the moment so it will be fine.
They laugh.
Julie: I know my hair is a mess.
Lark: Here let me help. Lark grabs a brush and a clip. She quickly gets Julie's tangles combed out and puts her hair up.
Lark: What do you think?
Karen: That looks really good Lark.
Julie looks in a little mirror That Lark gave her.
Julie: That's a very nice Job thanks Lark.
Lark: Your welcome.
Karen: So are we all ready now?
Julie: yeah I think so.
Karen and Lark help her into a wheel chair and take her to see Frank. Joe has combed and cut a little of Franks hair and Frank has quickly shaven. Frank is now sitting in a chair by the gurney. Karen brings Julie around the corner. And for the first time in over a year their eyes meet. A flood of emotions take over. Frank and Julie struggle close together and embrace each other tightly as tears of joy race down their cheeks. Then they pull back and look at each other. And like the day they met Frank fumbles for words.
Frank: I you uh oh oh Julie I've missed you. I've dreamed of this moment for so long I I oh Julie!
He rubs his hands gently against her face as if trying to memorize ever inch. She reaches up and strokes his face. They gaze deep into one another's eyes.
Julie: Oh Frank you are more handsome then I ever remembered. I have missed your smiles so desperately. I love you Frank I can't even express it.
They are both crying as they stair at each other their hands trembling as they reconnect with one another's faces.
Frank pulls her to him and they hold on tight as if their very lives depend upon it.
Frank: I've missed your smell, your eyes I' ve missed everything!
Julie: Oh Frank I can't even begin to explain how much I've missed you. Only being able to hold your hand was like being in the desert and only being given a drop of water a day.
They look at each other and Frank kisses her passionately as they hold each other as close as they can.
Karen: Well I think we should go and let these two love birds re connect. I need to call Kevin.
Joe: yeah and Mom has been pacing franticly back and forth out side the ER I better go fill her in. They Leave as Frank pulls Julie out of her chair and onto his lap. They cry as they hold each other so thankful that this nightmare is over soon wrapped tightly in each others arms they fall asleep.

Chapter 4
It is early the following morning. Frank and Julie are being kept for observation at the hospital. Joe arranged for them to share a room. Their beds are pressed up against each other so they do not have to be apart. Mary is sitting in the room quietly watching them sleep. She's been there all night. Frank moves a little and Mary goes over to him. She gently strokes his head, and he opens his eyes and smiles.
Frank: Hi mom
Mary: Well hello my little Frankie sunshine.
Frank smiles.
Frank: Oh come on Ma don't call me that.
They both laugh a little.
Mary starts to cry.
Mary: Oh Frank I'm so sorry you had to go through all this. I should have known. What kind of a mother am I that I can't tell the difference between my own son and an imposter.
Frank reaches up and wipes a tear from her cheek then takes her hand.
Frank: Mom you have nothing to feel guilty about it's not your fault. Besides Hank is your son to.
Mary: A son that until last night I believed died at birth. I just don't understand any of this!
Frank: Join the club.
Julie stirs in her sleep and starts talking still dreaming.
Julie: NO no stop it! Get away from me get away from me!
Frank starts gently shaking her and rubbing her face.
Frank: Julie sweet heart wake up you're dreaming sweetie it's okay open your eyes.
Mary goes over and tries to help wake Julie up.
Julie bolts upright screaming and then falls back on the pillows crying.
Mary: It's okay now Julie you're safe.
Frank pulls her close and starts rubbing her back.
Frank: And we're going to stay that way.
Julie pulls back and looks at Frank and Mary.
Julie: So it's true we really were rescued I didn't just dream it?
Frank: It's true Julie we're at GH and everything is going to be okay.
Mary: Can I get either of you anything?
Julie: I'm really thirsty.
Mary hands Julie some water.
Mary: That's to be expected you were both extremely dehydrated. Here Frank drink up.
She hands him some water to.
There is a knock at the door. Julie jumps startled.
Mary: it's okay Julie. Who is it?
Kevin: It's Kevin.
Kevin pops his head in.
Kevin: May I come in?
Frank: Hey Kevin it's good to see you come on in.
Julie: Hi Kevin.
Mary: Kevin how nice to see you.
Kevin comes in smiling.
Kevin: Well it's nice to see all of you. How are you both feeling?
Frank: It's hard to say at this point. Mostly just ready to go home.
Julie: I just wish I could crawl under a rock till I can have plastic surgery.
Frank squeezes Julie's hand.
Frank: Julie you don't need plastic surgery.
Julie: Well that's easy for you to say! You don't look like serial killer!
Julie starts crying. Frank wraps her tightly in his arms.
Kevin: I remember when I first came to Port Charles, I was greeted with a less then favorable response at first. Because of my twin and all.
Julie looks up.
Julie: How did you handle it?
Kevin: Well I did my best to stay calm. Repeatedly explained who I was and who I wasn't. And as word got around about me and I made some friends it stopped being a problem. The last time I had to explain myself was back in 1995, and I wasn't even in Port Charles. But the good news is Julie you have a great head start.
Julie: What do you mean?
Kevin: Well you see when I first came to Port Charles no one new Ryan had a twin. And even after some people new it was never really announced. So naturally I had to explain it time and again. But you are lucky, you see it's been all over to television, radio, and news paper, not to mention magazines. And were talking nation wide. So the odds of anyone mistaking you for Marcia are slim because there is so much publicity about this.
Julie: But didn't it ever bother you that you looked like a killer?
Kevin ponders this for a minute.
Kevin: A little I suppose, but mostly because he was my brother and I felt that I should have been able to help him and or stop him.
Frank: I can't help thinking that if Hank had been raised with us none of this would have ever happened. I'm angry at what he did but he's still my brother. And I can't help but wonder if I could have helped him.
Mary: I still wish I know who gave him up and why? it certainly wasn't me. But even if it had been where dose he get all of this anger?
Kevin: Frank one thing I've learned is that what if's only drive you crazy. Mary I wish I could tell you who had taken him you certainly deserve to know. As for the anger it's hard to say. Some people I suppose are just predisposed to being bitter about life.
Frank: I suppose you're right. Right now my biggest concern is just making sure everyone around me is okay. After I take care of everyone else then maybe I'll worry about him.
Kevin: And who worries about Frank and makes sure he's okay.
Frank shrugs.
Frank: I don't think I really need to be worried about. Besides Mom worries enough for all of us.
Mary: Well you're my son how could I not worry about you. And speaking of sons Frank something pretty big happened while you were gone.
Mary shows them her wedding band.
Mary: Victor Collins and I started dating and got married. Which makes Kevin your step brother.
Frank: Oh Ma that's fabulous! Congratulations! Oh I wish I could have been there for the wedding.
Mary: Well we have it all on tape so you can see it when ever you like.
Julie: Oh Mary that really is wonderful, congratulations.
Mary: Thank you both of you.
Kevin: Well I guess that makes me Franks big brother. And since Big brothers do tend to look after little brothers well I guess I can worry about you.
Frank: I've always wanted a big brother.
Kevin: Well you've got one.
Mary: I hadn't thought of that. But that's exactly right!
Frank: So big brother when can Julie and I go home.
Kevin: I'll go find out, try and get some rest. I'll be back.
Frank: Thanks Kevin.
Julie: Thanks Kevin see you soon.
Mary: Well how about if I go get the two of you some breakfast?
Frank: Sounds good to me.
Julie: Oh real food sounds so good.
Mary: I'll be right back.
Mary gives Frank a quick hug and leaves. 
 

Karen is going down the hall with some charts when she hears some crying. She looks over and sees Lark sitting in a chair crying softly with a suitcase at her feet. Karen goes over and sits beside her and puts an arm around her.
Karen: Lark what's wrong?
Lark dries to dry her eyes and pull herself together.
Lark: Oh nothing just because in one night I lost my family and my home why would anything be wrong.
Karen: Lark what are you talking about you have a home with the Scanlon's?
Lark: No I had a home with Hank. He's the only one that wanted me around. Karen the night before Frank was kidnapped he had decided that I was to much trouble and was going to send me back to juvenile hall. He was done with me. And Julie has always wanted me out. So the fact of the matter is I know longer have a family or a home. I can't even claim to be Franks niece! The adoption was completely illegal. So once again I'm alone in the world. Don't get me wrong Karen I don't regret going to the cops with that diary it had to be done. I just wish I didn't have to loose everything because of it.
Karen: Lark I think you are really getting ahead of yourself. Have you talked to Frank yet?
Lark shakes her head no.
Karen: Then don't you think this is all a bit premature. Lark Frank takes his responsibilities very seriously and he cares about you a lot. he's not just going to shove you out. He probably wouldn't have gone through with it back then either. Besides from what we know Hank kept Frank and Julie pretty well informed about the going's on around here. So they know that you have become a very responsible, caring, generous, and helpful person. And remember how nice Julie was last night to you. And how you fixed her hair before she saw Frank. That should give both of you a clue as to how the other feels.
Lark: I guess.
Karen: And no matter how the Scanlon's feel about Hank you are more or less his daughter which makes you a Scanlon. And Scanlon's don't turn their backs on family. Come on I think it's time you went and talked to Frank and Julie.
Lark: Well alright.
Karen puts her arm around Larks shoulders and they walk to Frank and Julie's room.
Karen knocks.
Frank: come in
Karen walks in fist Lark stands in the hall unsure of herself.
Karen: Frank Lark seems to be under the impression that she no longer has a home or a family.
Lark tiptoes in behind her with tears in her eyes.
Frank looks at Lark with such compassion.
Frank: Lark you have become part of my family. you have also become a very responsible and good young lady. I care about you very much and you will always have a home and a family with me.
Julie: Lark Hank told us about all the great stuff you've been up to. I was wrong Frank was right to believe in you. I think we could be good friends what do you say?
Lark is crying harder now out of relief.
Lark: I'd like that.
Frank holds his arms open and Lark rushes in. The three some hug. Karen smiles and leaves. 
 
 

Over at ferncliff Chris signs in to see Marcia his stomach is in knots to say the least. He paces in the visiting room waiting for her. All the time trying to make since of it all. And trying to figure out what he's going to say to her. He has been up all night tossing and turning.
Marcia comes in.
Marcia: Wasn't sure if I was going to see you again after the news broke. After all I have no money for you.
Chris: I wasn't sure if I was going to see you again either but I needed to.
Marcia: Why to tell me in person that the deal is off. And don't you even think about telling the world about Christina or you'll be thrown in jail for aiding and abiding.
Chris: I didn't come here to be threatened or to tell you off.
Marcia: Then why come? Our deal can't really work now now can it?
Chris: Well it will need some adjustments but getting you out isn't a total impossibility.
Marcia: Chris did you have one to many martinis last night?
Chris: No, I just don't see a reason to give up.
Marcia: I CAN'T PAY YOU!!
Chris: Keep your voice down! I don't want money!
Marcia: Then what what can I possibly give you!
Chris: How about your heart.
Marcia: Excuse me?
Chris: Marcia I know this started out to be just about money. But it's become much more then that.
Marcia: What are you saying Chris that you love me?
Chris: So what if I do? 

Officer Rick goes to bring Hank is breakfast in the holding cell. He walks over to the cell and his jaw drops as dose the tray of food. He runs back to his desk and calls Garcia still at home.
Garcia: Alex Garcia here.
Rick: Detective Garcia it's officer Rick we have and emergency Hank has escaped!

Chapter 5
After Frank and Julie are released Joe, Karen, Mary, Victor, Kevin, and Lark escort them home. Upon arriving Frank and Julie take a long look at the house.
Frank: Oh have I missed this place.
Julie walks over to the basketball lying near the steps. She effortlessly throws it into the basket. She then smiles at Frank.
Julie: You remember the first time we played?
Frank nods
Frank: It was right after the nurses ball. You beat my and won a month of no rent.
They all laugh.
Julie: Want a rematch?
Frank smiles.
Frank: In a bit.
Lark: Wow and I thought Frank was the athlete.
Joe: In foot ball yes, in Basket ball well it's undecided.
They laugh
Kevin: Why don't we go inside.
When they enter the kitchen once again Frank and Julie reflect.
Julie: I remember the first time I entered this kitchen. I felt like I was home.
Frank: This kitchen sure has a lot of history that's for sure.
Mary: Whose hungry?
Joe: Mom I'd love to stay but I have to get back to work.
Karen: So do I, I'm do in the OR in a couple of hours.
Lark: I have to get over to Lucy's to watch Christina and Serena.
Joe: We can give you a lift if you like?
Lark: Oh that would be great.
Everyone says goodbye and they leave.
Mary: Well alright how about the rest of you? Waite I know I'll make you all some Irish Stew.
Victor: Why Mary my sweet that sounds simply delightful.
Kevin: I agree that sounds great.
Julie: May I help you make It I'd love to learn how.
Mary: Why certainly Julie as long as you're sure your up to it. I don't want you over exerting yourself.
Julie: I'll be fine, being free has given me so much energy.
Frank: Irish stew I haven't had that in so long. It sounds great. Now if you'll excuse me I'm going to go take a hot shower.
He kisses Julie and Mary and heads up stairs.
Victor: Mary may Kevin and I help?
Mary: I have a better Idea why don't you go and watch some television while Julie and I make it.
Kevin: Alright.
Victor: As you wish my sweet.
Just then Frank walks back in with a very confused and some what sad look on his face.
Frank: What happened to our living room?
Julie: What's wrong with it?
Frank: It's totally redone. New furniture new everything.
Kevin, Victor, and Mary look at one another.
Mary: Frank you know that Hank was on drugs right?
Frank nods.
Mary: Well he tried on time before Joe found out to kick the habit but the withdrawal was to intense for him to handle. Anyway at one point he basically just went crazy and totally destroyed the living room. He ransacked and vandalized everything. There was nothing salvageable. So we had to totally redo it.
Frank looks at the ground sadly. Kevin goes over and puts an arm around Frank.
Kevin: At least no one was hurt. We have you and Julie back and that's what counts. Besides the living room is replaceable.
Frank: It's just I had so many memories there.
Just then they hear Julie sniffling. She has opened a cabinet door to get something and is staring at the door crying.
Frank rushes over to her.
Frank: Julie what's wrong!
Then he sees what she's looking at. The paper towel that had the contract which said Julie could live here for 500 a month is gone.
Frank: Well this we can fix real quick!
Mary: What's wrong?
Julie: When I first rented the basement Frank made up a little contract on a paper towel and taped it to the door now it's gone. It just meant so much because it was the beginning of us.
Frank grabs another paper towel.
Frank: Well now we can have another new beginning.
Frank scribbles on the towel.
Frank: I Julie Morris will live here for as long as I want for $5 hundred a month. Frank Scanlon land lord.
He hands Julie the towel she smiles.
Julie: Dr. Julie Morris tenant.
Mary: But your not really going to make her pay anymore to live here. I mean Frank she's your girlfriend!
They all laugh.
Kevin: Well I certainly wouldn't make Eve pay to live with me.
Frank: I agree she won't be paying anymore
Frank rips up the towel.
Julie: Frank!
Frank: Julie the times have changed this contract is no longer valid we need a new one.
Frank grabs a paper towel and begins scribbling.
Frank: I Julie Morris Devlin will live here with my boyfriend for as long as I want for at least one kiss a day.
Everyone laughs.
Frank: Frank Scanlon boyfriend.
He hands the towel to Julie.
Julie: Julie Morris Devlin Girlfriend.
Mary: I like that better.
Kevin: I agree.
Julie: I suppose it is a more updated version.
They tape it to the cabinet door.
Julie gets a sad look on her face.
Frank: Julie what's wrong?
Julie: I was just thinking about my Dad. Can you imagine what was going through his mind when Marcia killed him. He thought it was me!
Mary: Julie I'm sure with in the minute he died he new the truth.
Julie: I hope so but even if he did I didn't get to say goodbye.
Frank: Well how about if after we eat I take you bye the cemetery so you can.
Julie: That would be great.
Mary: Oh Julie he was cremated and his ashes were sent to Chicago.
Kevin: But you could always go to the chapel at the hospital and say goodbye. After all that's where the memorial was held.
Julie: Thank you Kevin.
Frank: So we'll do that after we eat, and I'll look into buying us a couple of plane tickets to go to Chicago in the near future.
Julie: Oh that would be nice.
Frank: Alright well I'm going to go take a shower now.
Victor: Come on Kevin I think there is a game on.
Mary and Julie happily cook as the men go about their things. Just then the phone rings.
Victor: I'll get it!
Victor: Hello?
Garcia: This is detective Garcia who am I speaking with?
Victor: This is Victor Collins, how may I help you detective.
Garcia: I'm calling to tell you that you and the Scanlons are going to need to be extra careful. Hank has escaped.
Victor drops the phone and goes pale.
Kevin: Victor?
Victor: Kevin go upstairs and check on Frank this instant Hank has escaped!
Kevin runs upstairs. Victor rushes into the kitchen.
Mary: Victor who was on the phone? What's wrong?
Victor: Hank has escaped. 
In the secret apartment across from Karen's place Hank is hiding out. He is on the phone to someone.
Hank: Look it isn't my fault! That pip squeak Lark ratted on me! Hey you said you'd take care of this if it happened don't you dare back out now! What do you mean the truth has to come out! If we stay on course we never have to reveal that! Listen she promised me a lot of money if we kept her from being found out! Well I'm not in Jail I'm on the run so I do need it! Look if it leaks and I loose all that money I'm coming after you!
Hank slams down the phone grabs a duffle bag and leaves. 

Over at Ferncliff Marcia is staring at Chris in confused disbelief.
Marcia: Excuse me! You what!
Chris: You heard me I love you.
Marcia laughs.
Marcia: You love me oh that's a good one! You should be locked up here with me you're crazier then I am.
Chris: Your right I am crazy I'm crazy about you. And I believe in you Marcia. I believe that you are innocent I think your brother made you believe you killed those people. I love you Marcia it started out as a fake arrangement I know but now it's grown into something very very real. And I don't believe for a second that you don't have some feelings for me.
Marcia: You really are serious aren't you?!
Chris grabs her and kisses her passionately.
Chris: what dose that tell you.
Marcia: You really think we can make this work? How how Chris! And even if I do have feelings for you how after everything that's come out am I going to be with you!
Chris: We can proceed with the same plan. Why couldn't he have brain washed you?
Marcia thinks for a minute then sighs.
Marcia: If we're real and honest then we should get to be together by being real and honest.
Chris: What do you mean?
Marcia: I mean I didn't kill anyone.
Chris: Exactly we stick to the plan.
Marcia shakes her head.
Marcia: No Chris listen to me. I didn't kill anyone and either did Cooper. My brother and I have been covering for our Mother.
Chris: Your mother! But your mother is dead!
Marcia: No Chris she faked her death that's why they never found a body. But when she did this she caused Greg and I to be given up. when her other son Buddy died she came looking for Greg and I.
Chris: Hold on her other son Buddy?
Marcia: Yes Chris Nicole Devlin is really Marcia Cooper. Greg and I are her children and she is the true General Homicide Killer.

Chapter 6
Chris steadies himself and looks at Marcia trying to let what she has just said sink in. He shakes himself back into reality.
Chris: Okay Marcia lets sit down and you can tell me everything.
Chris pulls out a chair for her, and she sits. Chris sits across from her and holds her hands.
Chris: Okay Marcia lets start from the top.
Marcia takes a deep breath and begins to speak.
Marcia: When my mother met Victor she was already married to two other men.
Chris: Two other men!
Marcia: What can I say she got around. She was married to Greg and my father, and she was married to Bennett Devlin. She went buy the name of Nicole with him and Marcia with Victor and our father. She had a son with Bennett named Buddy.
Chris: Didn't Bennett notice her pregnancies with you and Greg? And didn't your father notice her pregnancy with Buddy?
Marcia smiles.
Marcia: Where do you think I learned to hide a pregnancy? Actually both Bennett and our father were workaholics. And our Mother in both lives traveled a lot. So it was fairly easy to hide it since they would go such long times with out being close. But finally one day Bennett found out about Greg and I along with my father and Victor. He was naturally lived with her for having this double life and for cheating on him. He told her if she didn't end her ties with her life as Marcia Cooper he'd have her sent to jail. So not wanting bad press or to make Buddy and I ashamed she faked her own death. She thought she could count on our father to raise us but she was wrong. He gave us up and ran off with some floozy. Our Mother was in a very deep state of depression after loosing us. For a couple years she just couldn't get herself together. This emotional stress sent her into premature menopause. This made her virtually suicidal. She felt she was being punished. So Bennett Mr. Fix It himself wanting her to stop her crying and be a good mother to Buddy. And also wanting another child decided to buy one. I mean why waste time with adoption when buying a baby is so much quicker. And that's how Julie entered the picture.
Chris: Julie's not even a Devlin! He bought her!
Marcia: Yep, then they named her Julie. Anyway after Buddy died our mother decided to find us in secret. She found us rather quickly. Greg had been adopted by a well known doctor in the medical field so he was easy to trace, I on the other hand never got a family I bounced from foster home to foster home through out my growing up years. We wrote and spoke on the phone many times. We were even able to visit each other a few times. We grew very close. Anyway in April of 98 I was to kill Devlin. Only when I got to the lab someone else had already done the job. I went to the on call room and called Greg. I told him what had happened. He told me to sit tight and just follow the plan as if I had. And he'd try to figure out what had happened. Later that day he called me with the news that our mother upon learning that Devlin was largely responsible of Buddy's death had gone into a blind rage and killed him.
Chris: Wow that must have been quite a shock.
Marcia: I suppose but it was quite understandable really all things considered. Anyhow all Greg and I wanted to do was to protect her. After all she was just as much a victim as we we're. But all she wanted to do was protect us. We let her in on the whole story about Hank, and I, along with the gen hom plans. She decided that she didn't want her real children killing anyone and since we'd already planned to pin it on Julie who she'd never really loved anyway she offered to kill for us. So we kept her in hiding and brought her out to kill. The plan was when all the murders had been committed the three of us would flee the country letting Julie take the wrap. Only we got caught.
Chris: Oh My God! Where is Nicole now? Dose Julie have any idea that Nicole and Bennett aren't her real family? Do you know who her real family is?
Marcia: Our mother is in a hide away in the south of France. No Julie has no clue she thinks she's their biological child. She was bought from a mob family. She had a fraternal twin brother who the father wanted to keep but he had no interest in her. And since her mom and know say she was sold. I believe their last name is Mancusi.
Chris nearly jumps out of his skin.
Chris: Salvador and Angela Mancusi are Julie's parents!
Marcia: Yep, hey that's right that's Matt's real last name. Actually I do remember hearing that her brothers name is Eric. So they must be one and the same.
Chris stairs at Marcia dumbfounded. 
At the hospital Joe is going over some files when Frank comes charging off the elevator with Julie, and Kevin in hot pursuit.
Frank: JOE!
Joe jumps about a mile then seeing the frenzied look on Franks face becomes concerned.
Joe: Frank what's wrong?!
Frank: Joe Hank has escaped no one knows where he is or what he's planning. You've got to be careful. When he was holding me hostage he swore he was going to destroy you. Joe you've got to be extra careful there is know telling what he could do!
Joe: D@MM IT! What kind of morons are running the police department anyway! We better all be careful. He looks just like you Frank. He could fool anyone of us and we could pay the price.
Julie: Oh when is this terror going to end!
Julie starts crying. Frank pulls her in close and rubs her back gently as he sways back and forth.
Frank: Soon Julie very very soon.
Kevin: Well until he is caught since Hank dose look just like him I think we better figure out away to tell them apart.
Joe: Sounds like a plan.
Julie: What did you have in mind?
Kevin: Well when Ryan was on the loose I drew a sword fish on my arm so the cops could tell me from Ryan.
Frank: That's a good idea. If I do something like that Hank won't know about it and we'll all be a lot safer.
Joe hands Frank a pen. Frank rolls up his sleeve and starts to drawl.
Julie: What are you drawling?
Frank stretches out his arm and lets the group see. He has drawn a big heart and in it is written Julie is my heart.
Julie: Oh that's so sweet.
Julie kisses him passionately.
Kevin: Well it is more creative then a swordfish I'll give you that.
They all laugh.
Joe: Hey where are mom and Victor?
Kevin: Oh they went to there new place to get some rest. 

Victor and Mary open their new apartment door turn on the light and gasp in horror at the sight in front of them. Pictures have been pulled down off the walls, windows have been smashed, furniture torn apart and or over turned, plants thrown on the floor, clothes thrown about everywhere. The place looks like a tornado went through it.
Mary: Uh what is this what has happened!
Victor pulls Mary back towards him not letting her go in further.
Victor: SSh Mary we mustn't make to much noise who ever did this might still be here. And we can't touch anything that might be evidence.
Victor and Mary go out side and Victor calls the cops. Mary then spots a small note by the door. She picks it up and reads it.
Mom
You gave me up and now you're going to pay.
Hank. 

Hank sits in a old abandoned where house Talking on the phone.
Hank: What do you mean she's going to tell Chris the truth! Well you better stop her if Nicole is found out she won't pay us one red sent of that money! What do you mean you can't stop her! Look I don't give a D@MM about Ramsey! You shut that girl up! Fine Fine I'll handle Ramsey myself! No one is keeping me from my money! What do you mean how am I going to handle him, I'll just include him on my list of victims. Hank grins devilishly and hangs up. Then he sets to work with the wires, dynamite, and clock in front of him.
Hank: And they all fall down. BOOM!
He laughs insanely. 

At GH Courtney sits at Neil's bedside. Neil opens his eyes sleepily.
Neil: Mom
Courtney: Hey there sleepy head did you have a nice nap?
Neil: Yes I'm thirsty.
Courtney gives Neil a glass of water.
Neil: Mom is it true that the guy that I thought was uncle Frank wasn't uncle Frank?
Courtney: Yes sweetie Uncle Frank was kidnapped by some very bad people and someone else was put in his place.
Neil: Do you think my real uncle Frank will like hanging out with me just as much as the fake one did.
Courtney: Well I don't see why not. Who wouldn't love hanging out with you?
Just then there is a knock at the door. And Joe comes in followed by Frank.
Joe: Hey slugger how you feeling?
Neil: I'm okay I guess.
Frank extends his hand to Courtney.
Frank: Hello Courtney.
Courtney shakes his hand.
Courtney: Hi Frank
Neil looks at Frank.
Neil: You must be my real uncle Frank.
Frank smiles.
Frank: I sure am. So I here you play a pretty mean game of go fish?
Neil lights up.
Neil: Wanna play?!
Frank: Sure I'd love to. If you're up to it.
Neil: Yeah I'm up to it.
Frank pulls out a deck of cards.
Joe smiles as Frank settles down in the chair next to Neil. It's so great to have him back.
Joe: Courtney can I talk to you out side?
Courtney: Yeah sure. I'll be back sweetie. Frank I'm glad you're okay.
Frank: Thanks it's good to be free.
Neil: Mom can you bring me back a new comic book please?
Courtney: Sure honey.
Courtney and Joe go outside.
Courtney: You must be thrilled to have Frank back.
Joe: There are know words.
Courtney notices the file in Joe's hands.
Courtney: Do you have more test results on Neil?
Joe's smile vanishes.
Joe: Courtney the chemo isn't working at all. The cancer is overwhelming his system if we don't find a bone marrow donor soon and I mean soon Neil won't make it.

Chapter 7
Courtney stairs at Joe with tears welling up in her eyes. She takes a deep breath and tries to pull herself together.
Courtney: Okay how long are we talking here Joe?
Joe swallows the mounting lump in his throat.
Joe: If we don't find a bone marrow donor in the next three to five weeks it will be to late.
Courtney Bursts into tears.
Courtney: Oh no no Joe I can't loose him.
Joe hugs her tightly as he fights back his own tears. Then he pulls back and makes her look him in the eye.
Joe: Now listen to me we are not giving up on him. Okay this fight isn't over. There is still a chance a donor will be found. We can't lose sight of that Courtney we have to stay strong for Neil.
Courtney pulls herself together.
Courtney: You're right we can't give up. So what are the chances of a stranger matching Neil's bone marrow.
Joe looks down.
Joe: 1 in 20, 000.
Courtney: 1 IN 20,000! Joe what kind of odds are those! It's going to take a miracle!.
Joe: Courtney I know the odds sound bad, but there are so many people in the bone marrow registry and so many more join everyday. Those to facts make the odds better then they sound.
Courtney: So why haven't we found a match yet Joe!
Joe: They just haven't found that 1 in 20,000 yet for Neil. But we can't give up.
Courtney: Is there any kind of treatment we can give him while we wait?
Joe: All we can do is keep him comfortable and as healthy as we can so he'll be able to receive the bone marrow if and when it becomes available.
Courtney: I hate Joe I absolutely hate this.
Joe looks sadly at Courtney.
Joe: I do to Courtney I do to.
They hug.
Courtney: Neil asked me to go get him a new comic book.
Joe: I think the gift shop just got some new ones.
Courtney: Okay I'll go see. Joe all braveness aside what do you really think his chances are?
Joe bites his lip as tears well up in his eyes.
Courtney reads the fear in his eyes. She swallows hard as a few tears trickle down her face. She nods.
Courtney: Not good that's what I thought. She walks off.
Joe throws the file up against the wall as Frank comes out of the room.
Frank: Take it easy Joe what's up?
Joe: I just got Neil's latest blood work back.
Joe is near tears.
Frank: It's not good huh.
Joe: I think he's going to die.
Joe starts crying. Frank walks over and takes his brother in his arms and holds him tightly.
Frank: I'm so sorry Joe.
Joe pulls back.
Joe: I hate this I just hate this! My son is dying and there is not a D@MM thing I can do!
Frank: Joe keep your voice down Neil might be able to hear you. Listen you can't give up Neil is still here and as long as he is there is a chance you might be able to save him. You can't give up not yet. This is to crucial a part of the game for you to walk away now. You got to keep the faith.
Joe: Frank he's going to need a miracle. His absolutely only hope is a bone marrow donor. And the odds of finding one since he doesn't have a sibling are 1 in 20,000.
Frank puts his hands on Joe's shoulders.
Frank: Well if a miracle is what we need then a miracle will just have to be found.
Joe smiles.
Joe: God I've missed you.
Frank: I've missed you to.
They hug tightly.
Joe: Is Neil resting?
Frank: Yeah we were playing cards and he got really sleeping so I told him a story instead and he fell asleep real soon after I started it.
Joe shakes his head sadly.
Joe: He's so weak and tired.
Frank: Well that's to be expected but it's good that he sleeps so much it will keep her strength up so that he'll be ready for the new bone marrow when a donor is found.
Joe: How can you be so sure one can be found?
Frank: Besides the fact that he reminds me so much of you at that age and you have never lost any battle that ever truly mattered? Well I've come to believe that positive thoughts bring positive results and negative talk speaks for it self.
Joe: I wish I had your confidence. So what do you think of your nephew?
Frank smiles.
Frank: I think he's a great kid. He reminds me so much of you at his age it's spooky. He's got your strength Joe and your fire. He can beat this I just know it.
Joe: I hope you're right.
Frank: Speaking of being tired you look pretty beat why don't we go get a bit to eat down in the cafeteria.
Joe: What if Neil wakes up?
Frank: I doubt he will he seems pretty wiped out. And Courtney should be back soon anyway right? Besides you need to keep your strength up so you can be there for him.
Joe: Okay.
The brothers head off. 
Back at Victor and Mary's the cops are swarming the place taking pictures and finger prints. Garcia is talking to Mary and Victor.
Garcia: Did you notice anything strange when you were driving down your street. A car that didn't belong here, or a person walking nervously?
Mary: No we didn't see anything out of the ordinary.
Victor: We just walked in and found our place like this.
Mary hesitates.
Mary: I did find this.
She hands him Hank's note.
Gracie reads it.
Garcia: Hank I should have known. Nice little calling card that's for sure.
Victor: Do you have any leads on where he might be?
Garcia: No but hopefully something will turn up.
Mary: Detective have you come up with anything on how my son ended up being given up in the first place?
Garcia: Actually we do have a possible lead in that area.
Victor: Well please tell us.
Garcia: Well back in the mid 60's to early 70's there was this radical group who believed that children were evil. They felt that the only way to rid the world of evil was to put children into orphanages and foster care where they wouldn't be taken very good care of. They thought love breeded evil. I know this sounds crazy and believe me we were very happy when we were able to catch all the members and lock them away. But before we were able to close to 1000 babies had been taken from their families. They prayed on poor and deeply religious people. They convince them they'd be helping there child by doing this. That God would reward them for this sacrifice then they'd pay them any where from 5,000 to 10,000 dollars. We looked into your sons date of birth and matched it up with where this group was. During the month your boys were born they wee in Port Charles and succeeded in gaining several babies. One of the dates corresponds with Hank's supposed death. We then checked your late husbands bank records and sure enough on that same day 10,000 dollars was deposited into it.
Mary looks like she's going to pass out and nearly fall over. Victor and Garcia help her to a couch.
Mary: My husband my own husband sold our son to a bunch of insane lunatics! And then told me that he was dead. All these years he allowed me to grieve for my lost son. I thought it was odd that he was so against seeing Hank after he died. Now I know why! Oh how could I have ever loved such a man!
Mary starts crying. Victor wraps her in his arms.
Victor: Oh Mary I'm so sorry. Oh my sweet what can I do?
Mary: Help me find a way to help him.
Garcia: I'm afraid it may be to late for that.
Victor: Well one doesn't know unless he tries.
Mary: I have to try. I have to help him see that I never wanted to give him up. 

Hank stands over the little table he's been working at. In one hand he holds a bomb. In the other a mask.
Hank: Now witch shall I do first. Hmm maybe I should go let Karen know what she's missing.
Hank puts the bomb back on the table, and pulls the mask over his face. He looks in the mirror at his now disguised face.
Hank: Yes you look enough like Joe now to get into her place.
He pops a Polaroid camera into his bag and leaves. 

Courtney is sitting next to Neil's bed holding his hand as he sleeps when Joe returns.
Joe: Has he woken up any?
Courtney: No he was sound asleep when I got back and hasn't woken up since. Where did you go anyway?
Joe: I was in the cafeteria with Frank getting a bite to eat. Frank went home to get some sleep so I thought I'd come back up and check on him.
Courtney: I heard on the news that Hank escaped I hope Frank's being careful.
Joe: He is he drew a little on his arm so now we'll know the difference.
Courtney: That's a good idea. It's strange how to brothers who are supposed to be identical can be so different.
Joe: I know I guess it really points to the nurture side of the argument in that whole nature verses nurture argument.
Courtney: I guess so. Joe I once read that they gave a baby a baboon heart. Do you remember that case? It was all over the news.
Joe: yeah it was very controversial.
Courtney: Well is there any chance that some animal could help Neil?
Joe: I'm not sure, they have had some success with bone marrow transplants given by monkeys but that's mostly for AID'S patients.
Courtney: Would it hurt to investigate it?
Joe smiles.
Joe: No it wouldn't I'll go to the library and see what I can find.
Courtney: Thanks Joe.
Joe leaves. 

Lark arrives home and finds Frank sitting in the dark. She switches on the light.
Lark: Frank you okay?
Frank: Hi Lark yeah I guess so. How was work?
Lark: It was good I made some good tips. So why are you sitting in the dark?
Frank sighs.
Frank: I went to meet my nephew Neil today. He is so sick. He doesn't have much time left Lark if we don't find a bone marrow donor in the next few weeks he'll die.
Lark: Oh My God that's awful! He's to young to die! He's a great kid!
Frank: I know, he doesn't deserve this no kid dose. I hate seeing any kid suffer but he's so much like Joe that it just makes it that much harder to watch. I'd give anything If I could help. I got tested to see if my bone marrow would match but it didn't.
Lark: What are the odds of finding a donor?
Frank: Well since everyone in the immediate family has been tested they fall to 1 in 20,000.
Lark: Oh My God the poor kid is going to need a miracle!
Frank sighs.
Frank: I know. I'm going to bed Lark it's been a long day. Sweet dreams.
Lark: You to.
Frank goes upstairs. Lark sits thinking for awhile.
She thinks about what a cool kid Neil is and how much she'd miss him. She thinks about how sad Frank looked and how much she wishes she could help him. Then a thought occurs to her.
Lark: What if by some fluke I'm that 1 in 20,000 person. What if my bone marrow could save him? I'm probably not but what if I am?
Lark gets a determined look in her eye and grabbing her coat races from the house. 

Over at Karen's the door bell rings. Karen opens the door. And smiles upon seeing Joe.
Karen: Hey there come on in. I didn't expect to see you tonight.
Joe comes in and grabs her. He pulls her close and kisses her passionately.
Joe: I've missed you Karen.
Karen pulls away a bit surprised.
Karen: Joe I've missed you to but didn't we decide we were going to take things slow?
Joe: I think we were wrong. Karen we know we were tricked we both feel bad about it. We both want to be together so lets be together.
Joe pulls her in close again and kisses her passionately. Karen runs her hands through his hair and down his back as he undoes her shirt and plants fiery kisses everywhere. She pulls at his shirt and runs her hands over his chest. Joe swoops her up and lays her across her bed.
Karen: Oh Joe I've missed you so much!
She arches her back up to meet his body and as he tears at her clothes and places hot kisses over he neck they melt together as one. For hours they wrestle as one climbing higher and higher reaching explosive peaks of passion then they cuddle in the after glow. Soon Karen has fallen asleep Joe gets up and places a note beside Karen then he leaves. 

Chris is sitting in his apartment dialing Rachel's number for the 80 ith time that day.
Chris: Come on come on where are you!
Rachel picks up.
Rachel: Hello
Chris: Oh Doctor Lock thank God I reached you. It's Chris Ramsey.
Rachel: Well hello Chris I wasn't sure I'd hear from you again.
Chris: Marcia and I need your help. Please Rachel she doesn't belong there.
Rachel: I'm listening.
Chris Tells Rachel all about Nicole and the scheme that Greg and Marcia cooked up with her.
Rachel: Nicole Devlin what a concept.
Chris: So can we get Marcia out?
Rachel: Well since she helped plan the murders it may be tricky. Although if she's willing to claim that Greg tricked her and she really had little if anything to do with it we might be able to.
Chris: Thank you so what's are first move?
Rachel: Let me think about it, I'll meet up with you around noon tomorrow at Ferncliff.
Chris: That works for me. Goodnight Rachel and thanks again.
Rachel: Goodnight Chris and you're welcome.

Lark arrives home awhile later, Julie is in the kitchen.
Julie: Hi Lark are you just getting in?
Lark: Hi Julie I came in a little while ago but I had something really important to do. I felt it couldn't wait so I went back out. Don't worry it's nothing bad.
Julie notices a band aid on Larks arm.
Julie: What's the band aid about?
Lark seeing she's going to have to tell takes a deep breath.
Lark: Okay look, I heard that if they don't find a bone marrow donor for Neil in the next couple of weeks he's going to die. I know it's a long shot but I felt I had to get tested just in case. So that's where I was. But please don't tell anyone. I mean if I am then great I'll do it and we'll tell everybody but if I'm not I'd rather it didn't get out. Okay?
Julie smiles and shakes her head.
Julie: My gosh you've become a true Scanlon. I think that's wonderful Lark. You have my word I won't tell. But regardless you should feel very proud of yourself.
Lark blushes bright red.
Lark: Thanks well I'm going to bed now.
Julie: Okay sleep tight.
Lark heads off to bed. 

Karen rolls over expecting to find Joe but he is gone. She opens her eyes and looks around she calls his name but there is no sound. Then she sees the white envelope by her side she opens it. Her eyes grow wide with terror and she screams.
Karen: NO NO NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!
In the envelope is a Polaroid picture of Hank holding a Joe mask. And written at the bottom of the picture are the words. GOT YA!

Chapter 8
As the sun comes up over at the fire house Scott rolls over expecting to find Lucy but instead finds a cold side of the bed. Scott opens his eyes and sees Lucy standing at the window gazing out.
Scott: What'cha looking at?
Lucy turns and comes towards him with a very worried look on her face.
Lucy: Scott something is wrong. Something is very wrong.
Scott sits up on red alert.
Scott: What's wrong! Is Serena sick? Is Christina okay? Did D.V. call again?
Lucy: No no I think the kids are okay and D.V. hasn't tried anything yet. But something something is very wrong.
Scott: Well what is it!
Lucy: I'm not sure I just have this really bad feeling. I woke up with this really violated and scared feeling in the pit of my stomach. Something very bad has happened.
Scott: Ah Hell Lucy not this Psychic mumbo jumbo again!
Lucy: It's not mumbo jumbo! And I can't help what I feel. Something is wrong Scott something is very wrong.
Just then the door bell rings.
Scott: Who the hell is it at this hour!
Scott gets out of bed and goes downstairs with Lucy behind him in her robe. Scott opens the door. Karen is standing there in sweats crying.
Scott: Karen what?
Karen falls into her Dad's arms and he hold her while she cries.
Lucy: Oh no Karen what's wrong?
Karen pulls back.
Karen: Last night, Oh I feel so violated.
Lucy looks at Scott. Scott helps Karen to the couch.
Scott: Karen what's wrong? What happened last night.
Karen: Last night Joe came over and he said he wanted me back no matter what. We made passionate love and I fell asleep. When I woke up he was gone and I found this.
She hands Scott the picture of Hank holding the Joe mask with the words GOT YA written on the bottom.
Scott throws the picture on the floor.
Scott: I'LL KILL HIM!
Scott starts for the door. Lucy grabs his arm.
Lucy: No Scott no! Now you listen to me your daughter needs you here with her not running off half cocked getting yourself thrown in jail!
Karen: What am I going to tell Joe?
Karen buries her face in her hands. Lucy goes to her and wraps her arms around her.
Lucy: You tell him the truth. Karen you have done nothing wrong. You here me this wasn't your fault! You have nothing to feel bad about. You didn't ask for this? And you most certainly didn't deserve this.
Karen: I swore no man would ever violate me like this again.
Scott goes over and takes her hand in his.
Scott: I'm sorry I couldn't protect you.
Karen: It's not your fault you didn't know I was your daughter back then.
Scott: Yeah well I know now!
Scott grabs the phone.
Lucy: Scott who are you calling?
Scott: The cops, @ss Whole isn't going to get away with this! 
Matt is at the nurses station looking at some test results done late last night. Matt's eyes grow wide with excitement.
Matt: YES!!
Matt heads off down the hall full of excitement. 

In Neil's room Courtney is up watching Neil sleep when he starts to stir.
Neil: Mom.
Courtney: Good morning baby. How did you sleep?
Neil: Okay I'm really thirsty.
Courtney gives Neil some water. Just then Joe comes in.
Joe: Hey there.
Neil: Hi Dad.
Courtney: Hi Joe.
Joe goes over and hugs his son.
Joe: So how is my little slugger.
Neil: Okay I guess. But I'm tired and I just woke up?
Joe: Well sometimes when your sick that's how you feel.
Neil: Dad if I ask you something you promise you'll give me an honest answer.
Joe: Sure champ what do you want to know?
Neil: Well some kids with what I have die right?
Joe and Courtney look at each other.
Joe: Yes some do but others get all better. And you're going to get better.
Neil: Are you sure I'm not going to die?
Joe swallows hard.
Joe: I'm going to do everything in my power to make sure you get better.
Neil: But you can't promise me I won't can you.
Joe: No no I can't slugger. But I can promise you that your Mom and are going to fight this with everything we've got. And you can help us when.
Neil: How?
Joe: By staying positive, eating well and getting plenty of sleep. Those things will help fight the disease.
Neil: But what if I don't have it in me to win.
Frank: You have it in you Neil. I know you do.
Everyone turns and sees Frank standing there.
Neil: Uncle Frank how do you know I do? You just met me.
Frank smiles and walks over to him.
Frank: I've spent enough time with you to know you're just like your Dad was when he was your age. And I know Joe like I know myself. Your Dad has more determination, more guts and more perseverance then anyone I've ever know. And I see that same strength and stubbornness in you when I look in your eyes. You can fight this Neil.
Joe smiles at Frank.
Joe: Listen to your uncle Neil he has been advising me since I was in diapers and he hasn't been wrong yet.
Courtney: And sweet heart don't forget on top of all that we could find a bone marrow donor any day. And that donor is your ticket to getting back to health.
Neil: Yeah I know but sometimes this waiting is scary.
Frank: Well you know what to do with fear don't you?
Neil shakes his head. And Joe smiles knowing the advice that is coming.
Frank: You make it work for you.
Neil: How?
Frank: You take all the energy from that fear and you put it into reaching your goal. Make that fear make you move towards success. Which in this case means fighting off the Cancer.
Neil: But how do I do that?
Frank: Well there are lots of things that have been proven to help fight off cancer. Relaxation for example. Next time you start to worry try to relax, go to a favorite spot that you love in your mind. And let your whole body enjoy it. Your Mom and Dad can help they can massage your arms and legs to work some of the stress out. Also laugh, laugh every day.
Neil: Why?
Frank: Because laughter has been proven to help boost your bodies abilities to fight.
Neil: Really?
Frank: Yep.
Joe: Listen to him Neil I am where I am today because of him.
Frank blushes.
Just then Joe's beeper goes off.
Joe: Oh I have to go. Neil I'll be back to check on you in a bit okay?
Neil: Okay Dad.
Frank: I better go to. I'm having breakfast with Ma.
Frank and Joe hug Neil and leave.
Joe: Thanks for the back up in there.
Frank: You're welcome. I hope I wasn't stepping on your toes but I wanted to help my nephew.
Joe smiles.
Joe: Frank you can help anytime. 

Back at the Scanlon house Julie is in the kitchen when Lark comes racing in with a small suitcase.
Julie: Going somewhere?
Lark: Matt called me a little while ago. Remember that blood test to see if I was a match for Neil.
Julie's eyes grow big as water melons.
Julie: You matched!
Lark smiles.
Lark: Yep I'm that 1 in 20,000. I have to get to the hospital right away.
Julie: I'll take you, we'll call Frank from the car.
Lark: Thanks.
As they leave Julie stops her and gives her a hug.
Julie: I hope you know what a special gift your about to give. You are a hero Lark.
Lark blushes bright red.
Lark: I'm just trying to help a sick kid that's all.
Julie smiles and shakes her head.
Julie: Spoken like a true Scanlon.
They head off. 

Joe is at the nurses station when Matt rolls up.
Matt: Just the guy I've been looking for.
Joe: Hey Matt what's up?
Matt: What would you say if I told you we have a donor for Neil.
Joe's jaw drops and his eyes nearly pop out of his head.
Joe: A donor A DONOR! We have a donor!!
Matt: Yep the donor was added to the list late last night. She's on her way here right now for the bone marrow extraction.
Joe: This is amazing! I have to go tell Courtney and Neil!
Joe races off. Just then Scott, Lucy and Garcia help a shaking Karen off the elevator.
Karen: I really don't want to go through this.
Lucy: Oh I know Karen but we need you to be examined. So that every bit of evidence that is to be found can be gathered so Hank can be locked away for a very very long time.
Scott: That's right and we'll be right here for you the whole time.
Lucy: That's right Lee and Gail said they could keep the girls all day so we're here for as long as you need us.
Karen: Thanks.
Matt comes over to them.
Matt: what's going on?
Karen: I I um
Karen starts crying again.
Lucy: Matt could you please page Dr. Medows she's expecting us.
Matt: Right away, Karen did something happen to you what's going on?
Scott: I'll tell you what's going on! Hank made the biggest mistake of his life that's what happened!
Matt takes in Karen's shattered look and everything that has been said. His jaw grows ridged and his eyes narrow.
Mat: I'll get Dr. Medows right away.
 

Frank, Mary, and Victor are just getting to the recovery room when his cell phone rings.
Frank: Hello?
Julie: Frank, lt's me you need to get over to GH right away!
Frank goes on red alert.
Frank: Is it Neil? What's happened?
Julie: Well Lark decided that she wanted to help Neil. So last night she went to the hospital and got tested. And guess what! she's the 1 in 20,000 Frank! Neil has his donor! Lark and I are on our way to GH right now for the bone marrow extraction!
Frank: This is unbelievable! Okay Mom Victor and I will meet you there. put Lark on real quick.
Lark: Hi.
Frank: Lark you are a very brave and strong young lady I'm very proud of you.
Lark smiles
Lark: Thanks.
Frank: I'll see you in a few.
Frank hangs up.
Frank: We have a donor for Neil!
Victor: Oh that's splendid!
Mary: oh this is a miracle. And Lark is the donor?
Frank: Yes, she's quite a lady isn't she.
Mary: Oh yes she is.
They head off. 

Courtney is reading to Neil when Joe comes running in.
Neil: Hey Dad.
Joe: I have the most awesome news!
Courtney: Well you certainly look happy.
Joe: We got a donor!
Courtney: WHAT! Joe are you serious! Neil has a donor!
Neil: Alright! So I'm going to get better now?!
Joe: You are on your way buddy! The donor is on her way here now to get the bone marrow extracted.
Courtney runs over and hugs Joe he twirls her around.
Courtney: Oh Joe we have are miracle we have our miracle!
The three some hug. 

Over at Chris's place Chris is making breakfast when the phone rings.
Chris: Hello
Marcia: Chris it's me
Chris: Well hello poocky face.
Marcia: Chris I'm scared, I think you and Christina are in danger.
Chris: What's wrong what happened?
Marcia: Hank called me. He's very very angry at me for telling you about Mom.
Chris: What dose Hank have to do with this?
Marcia: Hank was put in Franks place so know one would realize I wasn't Julie. Nicole promised to pay each of us a very large amount of money if we protected her. Hank made it very clear to me that if he looses out because of me that he'll destroy everyone that matters to me. Namely you and Christina.
Chris: I'm on my way.
Chris hangs up and grabbing his coat runs out the door. 

Back at the hospital Joe is heading to the nurses station to call Frank. He sees Frank, Julie, Mary, Victor, Kevin, Eve, and Lark all there. Lark is in a wheel chair.
Joe races up to them.
Joe: Hey this is great! What luck you're all here I can tell you all together! Waite why are you all here? Lark why are you in a wheel chair.
Frank is beaming with pride.
Frank: Last night I was telling Lark about Neil's dire situation and she decided she wanted to help. So she went and got tested.
Lark: Early this morning they called to tell me that I'm a match. I'm here for the bone marrow extraction.
Joe stairs at Lark in disbelief.
Joe: Lark I I don't I don't know what to say. Thank you.
Joe hugs Lark as tears well up in his eyes.
Joe: Thank you oh thank you thank you. 

Hank sits in the where house smoking a cigarette feeling very satisfied with himself.
Hank: She'll never forget me now.
Hank laughs and puts out the cigarette on a picture of Karen and Joe.
Hank: Now I should hurt Frank a little and everyone knows the best way to hurt Frankie boy is to hurt those he loves. Hmm I think it's time I paid Joe a little visit.
Hank holds the bomb up with a sinister look in his eyes.
Hank: Time to say night night Joey.
He laughs crazily.

Chapter 9
Chris paces nervously in the visiting room of Ferncliff. Marcia comes in and they run to one another and hug tightly.
Marcia: Oh Chris I'm sorry I'm so sorry. If Hank hurts you I'll never forgive myself. And my poor baby! Oh my baby what if he hurts her?!
Chris pulls back and holding her by the arms looks in her eyes.
Chris: Hey now you listen to me, no one especially that brainless @ss is going to hurt Christina. I love that little girl as if she was my own. I think of her as my own. And when you get out of here the three of us are going to be a family. And as far as I go, well I can take care of myself just fine. Now take a deep breath and calm down.
Chris helps her to a chair.
Chris: Now what exactly did Hank say?
Marcia: He just said that he knew I had told you all about Nicole and if he lost as much as one cent because of it he was going to come after those I love.
Chris: Well I doubt he's going to have the chance there is a nation wide man hunt going on for him. How dose he know about Christina anyway?
Marcia sighs.
Marcia: I made the stupid mistake of confiding in my brother. Silly me I thought he'd keep quite.
Chris: That psycho not likely.
Marcia: So what are we going to do!
Chris: Well I think first off we need to come forward right away with the truth in a big way. I'm talking nation wide media blitz about it.
Marcia: WHAT! Are you nuts! That's exactly what Hank warned me against!
Chris: Here me out, once we do that we immediately follow that with the truth about Christina. Only we make it that I'm the father instead of Hank.
Marcia: Chris think this will put the two of you right out in the open!
Chris: Which will work fairly well. I will sue for sole custody as her father. And I'll make Hanks threat public knowledge. By letting people know that baby Christina and I are in danger from this mad man that will force the cops to help Christina and I hide out till Hank is caught.
Marcia: What about the time in between?
Chris: Scott and Lucy are keeping a close eye on her because of DV anyway so she's safe and I know how to watch my back. I think this is the best plan Marcia I really do.
Marcia: And what about my case?
Chris: I will leave it in Rachel's and Leopold's more then capable hands. The court knowing you have a family and that all three of us are in danger will move quickly to reach a decision in your case and soon we'll all be together.
Marcia: You make it sound so easy.
Chris: Well it's going to be hard work, but I have no doubts that we can do it.
Marcia: Dose Rachel still want to work with me?
Chris: I talked to her last night and she'll be here in a bit. She thinks we can get you out.
Marcia: How can you be sure the court will believe your Christina's father? And what if they don't give you custody?
Chris: Well I'll fool around with blood samples to make it look as if Christina is mine. And I'm going to have Leopold work the custody case. He's good Marcia with him in our corner we can't loose.
Marcia smiles.
Marcia: You always make me feel better.
Chris smiles.
Chris: Well that's my job.
Chris and Marcia kiss tenderly.
Marcia: Dose Rachel know about Christina yet?
Chris: No but we need to tell her today. She's the key to getting the three of us together and free. So when she comes you've got to tell her Marcia it's the only way.
Marcia takes a deep breath.
Marcia: Okay Chris I trust you if you think I need to tell her now then I will.
Chris: Good, and don't worry okay she's on our side.
Marcia: I know. I have had trouble trusting her, but I know that going along with her is the best way out. And you haven't steered me wrong yet so if you say tell I'll tell.
Chris gently strokes her face.
Chris: And I'll never steer you wrong.
They lean close and kiss. 
Back in the ER of GH. Dr. Medows has just finished Karen's exam. Scott and Garcia are waiting in the waiting area while Lucy is in with Karen.
Dr. Medows: Well I believe all the evidence that can be collected has been. I'm going to go give these pictures to Garcia as evidence along with the rest of your exam information.
Lucy: What exactly dose Garcia need the exam information for? I mean I understand the pictures but the other stuff. It just seems like such a violation.
Dr. Medows: Well it corroborates the pictures as evidence and it will show that Karen and Hank did indeed have intercourse.
Karen: I can't believe he tricked me.
Lucy: Well we're going to get the last laugh. You just wait and see Hank is going to be put away for a very very long time.
Lucy hugs Karen.
Karen: I hope you're right.
Dr. Medows: Karen you can get dressed now.
Karen: Thanks.
Dr. Medows leaves.
Lucy: Can I get you anything?
Karen: Some apple juice would be great.
Lucy: One apple juice coming up!
Karen: Thanks Lucy
Lucy: Well it's the least I can do for my future step daughter.
Lucy smiles and leaves. Karen dresses, and as she finishes Matt rolls in.
Matt: Hey Karen.
Karen: Matt oh hi.
Matt: I hope I didn't startle you.
Karen: Oh no not at all. It's always good to see you.
Matt smiles.
Matt: Thanks you're pretty good company yourself. So uhm I heard what happened. I'm so so sorry Karen you didn't deserve that. Not that any woman dose but, is there anything I can do for you Karen?
Karen smiles.
Karen: I think just having your friendship and support is enough.
Matt: Well you'll always have that. So that animal is pretending to be Joe now huh
Karen: It looks that way. This whole thing has become like a science fiction movie or something.
Matt: Invasion of the body snatchers.
Karen: Pretty much.
Matt: Well at least we know Hank is human and once he is caught we can punish him.
Karen: But it's not going to be easy to catch him. He can copy either of his brothers so easily.
Matt: Well at least we know that much so we can be prepared.
Karen: But we don't know what he's going to do next so we really aren't prepared.
Matt: We do know that he's capable of anything so we can be somewhat prepared.
Karen: I guess. Have you seen Joe, I need to tell him. I don't want him learning about this from someone else.
Matt: Well actually he's with Neil right now. A miracle has happened. There is a donor!
Karen: Oh that's wonderful! Joe must be walking on air!
Matt: Somewhere pretty close to that. The news gets even bigger guess who the donor is.
Karen: Who?
Matt: Lark she heard how bad Neil was doing and wanted to help. So last night she went and got tested. The results came in this morning and she's a match they are doing the bone marrow extraction as we speak.
Karen: That's amazing! Wow has Lark changed or what!
Matt: She is certainly acting like a Scanlon that's for sure.
Karen: Frank must be so proud.
Matt: Oh he is, do you want me to page Joe?
Karen: No no this can wait right now he needs to focus on Neil. I guess they'll be giving him the bone marrow as soon as they are done with Lark?
Matt: Yep, they're going to get it and make a mad dash to Neil. It's a good thing that Joe opted to continue his chemo because that means his system is all ready for the new bone marrow.
Karen: I know if he'd gone off of it. Then he'd have to go back on it for a bit before he could have the donor marrow.
Matt: So what now?
Karen: I guess I'll hang out here until Neil has had his new bone marrow. Then I'll go back to the fire house.
Matt: I got a better idea. How about if I take you out to lunch. I'm just getting off and I'm to wired to sleep. What do you say.
Karen: That sounds great, I could use some food. And I need some time to collect myself before I see Joe.
Lucy reenters with the juice.
Lucy: Here you go one juice. Oh hi Matt
Matt: Hey Lucy.
Karen: Thanks Lucy.
Karen takes the juice and drinks some of it. Then gets up.
Karen: Lucy I'm going to go out to lunch with Matt and then I'll him drop me off back here. Neil is getting new bone marrow today and I want to be here for Joe.
Lucy: Oh okay, well then we'll see later. But Karen our you sure you're up to it?
Karen: Lucy I'm not going to stop living my life. I'm going to move on with my life. What happened last night was awful but if I sit around and dwell on it it is just going to make it more awful.
Lucy: Boy are you strong.
Karen: Thanks.
Lucy: Well I'll go let Scott know. If you need anything please page us right away and we'll come running okay?
Karen: It's a deal.
Matt: I'm going to go change and then we can go.
Karen: Sounds good to me. 

Hank fixes the bomb to the motor. He wraps the wires around every fiber of the engine he can and attaches it to the ignition. He then slams the hood. And starts laughing wildly.
Hank: Well they don't call him exploding Joe for nothing.
Hank walks away feeling very proud of himself. 

Lark is lying in her hospital room. The sleeping medicine is starting to where off. She moves a little and groans. Then sensing people in the room opens her eyes. Frank and Julie are sitting at her side. Frank is holding her hand.
Frank: Well hello there hero.
Lark laughs.
Lark: Oh ow don't make me laugh it hurts.
Julie: You're going to be sore for a few days now. But you'll feel better in time. You really are a hero you know.
Lark: I just wanted to help Neil. How is he? Has he gotten my bone marrow yet?
Frank: They are giving it to him as we speak.
Lark: I'm glad, it doesn't hurt him dose it?
Julie: No not at all. His part is very simple they give it to him through an IV.
Lark: Boy I wish all medical procedures could be that simple.
Frank: Can we get you anything?
Lark: I'm thirsty.
Julie pours a glass of water and hands it to Lark.
Lark: Thanks.
Julie: You're welcome.
Frank: Well I want to go check on Neil. Will the two of you be okay for a bit?
Lark: Sure, oh please tell Neil I said hi.
Frank smiles
Frank: I will.
Julie: And give Neil a hug for me.
Frank: One hi one hug got it.
They laugh and Frank leaves. 

Frank goes into Neil's room. Victor, Mary, Courtney, Joe, Kevin, and Eve are all gathered around Neil as the IV drips Lark's bone Marrow into Neil's body.
Frank: Hey slugger! I see you got your bone marrow. Now what did I tell you about you being a winner.
Neil smiles.
Neil: Lark gave it to me. She's my best friend.
Frank smiles.
Frank: I know she did she cares about you very much and asked me to say hi. And Julie wanted me to give you this.
Frank leans over and hugs Neil.
Neil: Where are they?
Frank: Well Lark is in her own hospital room resting and Julie is in with her.
Neil: Is she okay?
Frank: Oh she's fine. She just needs to rest after giving bone marrow.
Neil: Will you tell her I said thank you?
Frank smiles.
Frank: I sure will and in a few days you can tell her your self.
Courtney: We are very grateful to her.
Joe: She really did come through for us. Frank I'm so glad you didn't listen when I was trying to convince you after the towel incident to give send her back to juvenile hall.
Frank: I'm glad I didn't listen either.
Everyone laughs.
Frank gets up and goes over to Joe and puts his arm around Joe.
Frank: Well you got your miracle.
Joe: I know, I guess when we got you back I should have known the tide was turning.
Neil: Dad did you bring me that new space comic book?
Joe: Oh Neil I left it in the car buddy. I'll go get it.
Frank: I should go to. Work calls and I want to check in on my girls first.
Neil: Bye uncle Frank.
Frank: Bye champ.
Frank leaves.
Courtney: I'll walk you to the elevator I could use a breather.
Joe: Okay, we'll be back kido.
Neil: Okay.
Courtney and Joe walk to the elevator. Just then Joe's pager goes off.
Joe: Oh no one of my patients is in trouble.
Courtney: Oh well go ahead I'll get the comic book. Where in your car is it.
Joe: Thanks Courtney it's in the trunk. But the car has been acting kind of screwy the only way to get the latch on the trunk to release is to start the engine.
Joe hands her the keys.
Courtney: Okay no problem
Joe races off and Courtney head down to the car. 

Marcia and Chris are sitting side bye side when Rachel walks in.
Rachel: Well hello you to. So how are the love birds today?
Chris: A little over whelmed but doing okay.
Marcia: Rachel we need to talk. I have something I need to tell you and I'm counting on you helping me with it.
Rachel: Marcia I'm your Doctor I'll help you however I can. What is it.
Chris and Marcia look at each other.
You remember awhile back when I was ranting and raving about my baby?
Rachel: yes.
Marcia takes a deep breath. 

Courtney walks through the parking lot till she finds Joe's car. She smiles to herself.
Courtney: Joe is going to be mine yet I mean Neil has brought us so close and now he's having me get things from his car! Yep Joe is going to be mine real soon.
Courtney unlocks the front door jumps in and puts the key into the ignition turns it and
BOOM!!!!!

Chapter 10
Marcia feeling scared stairs at Rachel unsure of where to go from here.
Rachel: Marcia what is it? What about the imaginary baby?
Chris: Rachel maybe you should sit down.
Rachel comes over and sits across from them.
Rachel: Okay I'm sitting down what's going on. Marcia you don't have to be scared with me I'm here to help you.
Marcia: The baby isn't imaginary Rachel. You see when I was arrested at Jasmine Island last November I already new I was pregnant. I was so scared and excited. But my biggest concern was that my baby would be taken from me and I'd never see it again. So for awhile I pushed everyone away so I'd have time to figure things out. When I was brought here to Ferncliff I had the answer I could make people believe I was faking it after all everyone thought I was insane. So I stuffed a pillow up my shirt and made sure everyone got a look at it. As my baby got bigger and bigger I used a smaller and smaller pillow. Then the day I was due I broke out and found my way to Chris. He took me to a hiding place where I gave birth then he and the baby split and I came back here.
Chris: I had hired a women who I thought I could trust to care for Christina and keep her mouth shut until Marcia was released but she bailed on me. And little Christina was left being handed around at the nurses ball like a foot ball. That's how she ended up with Lucy.
Marcia: Chris couldn't come forward to claim her because he'd be sent to jail for aiding and abetting then he wouldn't be able to help me and Christina would be adopted by Lucy or someone else.
Chris: So we've just been keeping our fingers crossed that we'd be able to get Marcia out before the adoption is final.
Marcia: I love my baby and I want her back very much.
Chris: The thing is that Hank has found out that Marcia told me about Nicole and he has threatened to hurt everyone Marcia loves if he looses one red sent including me and Christina.
Marcia: You see I made the mistake of telling my brother about Christina and he blabbed it to Hank.
Chris: The reason Hank could loose money is because Nicole was going to pay each of them a large amount if they could keep the truth hidden.
Marcia: But now that it's coming out that isn't going to happen.
Chris: I love Christina more then words can say and I as dose Marcia want her safe.
Marcia: Chris thinks that if we make a big media blitz out of this and spill everything about Nicole, Christina and Hanks threats then Chris can get custody of Christina quicker and the two of them with the cops help can go into hiding.
Chris: Then Marcia can join us when she is cleared and we'll stay in hiding till Hank is caught.
Rachel stairs at them speechlessly. 
Matt and Karen sit at the recovery room eating lunch.
Matt: So how are things with you and Joe?
Karen: Well they're getting better I guess.
Matt looks at Karen questioningly.
Matt: You don't seem to sure about that.
Karen: Well you know Matt even though I know he was set up well there is still some stuff that really bugs me.
Matt: Such as?
Karen: Well Matt even though he was framed the evidence wasn't light. I mean I would have had to been a fool not to have had my doubts. And Joe finds it so hard to forgive me for not having blind faith in him when if the same evidence had been against me he probably would have left to. I mean Matt I don't think blind faith is always the best thing. It's good to trust someone but to not be willing to look at what's around you. I don't know, Matt am I wrong?
Matt: No not at all there is a big difference between having faith in someone and being blinded to what's around you by someone. I wouldn't want to ever be so trusting that I stopped paying attention to what's around me. I mean Karen there was a lot of evidence and since most cheaters do deny it what were you supposed to think.
Karen: So why doesn't Joe get that?
Matt: I don't know. Joe is a good friend but sometimes I think his expectations of people are a little to high and a little unfair.
Karen: I know which is one of the reasons why I'm really having doubts about my relationship with him. I mean I do love him but his views on things sometimes get in our way among other things.
Matt: Other things being Neil.
Karen sighs.
Karen: I love Neil don't get me wrong he's a great kid. And if Neil was the only other person to deal with there wouldn't be a problem. But that isn't the case. Neil comes with Courtney and with Courtney comes memories and a past that she would I'm very sure like to make the present.
Matt: And you think Joe might take her back?
Karen: Well he didn't break it off she did. They have a son together along with all these memories it just makes me worry. I mean maybe it shouldn't and if I trusted Courtney or if Joe would acknowledge the fact that she flirts with him then maybe I could just look past it. But with those two things not in place it's very hard.
Matt: I can understand how it would be, especially when you've been cheated on before.
Karen: That part certainly doesn't help. I guess I'm also mad a little anyway at Joe. When we found out for sure that he'd been framed and by who he acted like I was the one with the problem. Like I needed to go get professional help for not blindly trusting him. And that just bugs me.
Matt: Have you talked to Joe about any of this?
Karen: No the time never seems right. I mean Neil has been so sick, and with all this stuff with Frank and then Frank turning out to be Hank and then Frank and Julie being found and brought home. It's not like the time has ever really presented its self.
Matt: The two of you have talked about getting back together though right?
Karen: Oh yeah we've had several dates.
Matt: Well Karen you need to be discussing these things at that time. Getting past something like this doesn't mean hiding it in a closet it means talking about it. It won't go away and I know it's fun and easy to just go out and talk about other stuff. But if you really want to get back together then you have to talk about the tough stuff first.
Karen: I know you're right it's just so hard.
Matt: You were expecting love to be easy?
Karen laughs
Karen: I wanted the fairy tale what can I say. Besides when Joe and I first got together it was easy.
Matt: That's because you had just gotten together and relationships in the beginning are always easy. The baggage comes later.
Karen: I guess the reason I don't want to deal with it is I'm afraid if we do I'm going to realize I don't want Joe.
Matt: Well that's the million dollar question Karen. Do you still want Joe? 

Julie is sitting beside Lark.
Lark: So how long will it take before Neil gets better?
Julie: Well it will take time. It's hard to say how long. But if it's going to help then we should see a sizeable decrease in the cancer cells with in the next week or so.
Lark: So it's not a sure thing?
Julie: Unfortunately it's not how ever it dose triple his chances of beating this. So now that he has new bone marrow instead of there being only a 20% chance that he will make it there is a 60% chance that he'll make it.
Lark: Well that sounds really good.
Julie: Oh it is there is no doubt about it.
Lark: Will he have to have other treatments to still?
Julie: Yes the bone marrow can't do it alone. It works with the other medicines to kill the cancer. The hope is that with the new bone marrow his body can fight better.
Lark: Will he need more marrow from me?
Julie: He might it depends on how well this works.
Lark sighs.
Lark: Well if he can withstand all he's been through I certainly can give more marrow.
Julie smiles.
Julie: Well hopefully you won't have to. So can I get you anything?
Lark: A magazine would be great.
Julie: Okay I'll run down to the gift shop.
Just then Julie's beeper goes off.
Julie: As soon as I deal with this.
Lark: No rush It's not like I'm going anywhere
They both laugh.
Julie: Okay I'll be back. So what would you like?
Lark: YM
Julie: Will do.
Julie goes into the hall and calls the number that paged her.
Pat: Hello, Julie?!
Julie can hear sirens, yelling and what sounds like Frank screaming in the back ground.
Julie: Yes this is Julie who is this?
Pat: Julie it's Pat listen you better get down to the 6th level of the GH parking lot ASAP! Joe's car has exploded and we think Joe was inside. Frank needs you!
Julie's heart starts pounding in her ears a flash of the day Buddy died springs to life in her mind and she shivers she can hear Franks agonized wailing in the back ground.
Julie: I'm on my way!
Julie runs to the parking lot as fast as she can. When she gets there she sees the awful scene. Joe's car completely engulfed in flames tons of fire fighters feverishly pouring water on it simply trying to make sure it doesn't spread while the flames roar with intensity. She sees several police cars along with Garcia's and Mac's. The cops are all watching and talking. Then she sees two ambulances and hears Frank crying in pain. She races towards the three EMT's standing around Frank. Frank trembling and sobbing as Pat and two other EMT friends try to console him. Julie burst through the trio and grabs on to Frank she pulls him close to her and they cling to each other for dear life as he sobs.
Frank: NO NO NO NOT MY LITTLE BROTHER NOT JOE NO NO NOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Julie holds him tightly rocking him from side to side. As he sobs uncontrollably in her arms.
Julie: I know Frank I know, I'm so so sorry Frank I know this pain. I love you Frank I'm here for you I'm so so sorry. You cry all you need to I'm here for you.
From a distant corner Hank watches the scene as a smile spreads across his face.
Hank: Well well well it looks like Frankie boy lost his little brother oh what a shame.
Hank chuckles and quickly leaves smiling devilishly. 

Back in Neil's room Neil is playing a video game.
Neil: Hey when do you think Dad is going to get back?
Kevin: Oh I'm sure he'll be back real soon.
Eve: You know he might have gotten called to another patents room.
Mary: Well how about if I go page him?
Just then Joe walks in.
Joe: Hey guys!
Victor: Ask and you will receive.
Mary: We were just about to page you.
Joe: Well I'm here, so slugger how you feeling?
Neil: Okay I guess did you get the comic book?
Joe looks confused
Joe: Didn't your Mom bring it to you?
Neil: No she hasn't come back yet.
Mary: I thought you were getting it?
Joe: I was but I got paged to an emergency so I gave Courtney the keys so she could get it. I bet she's having trouble with the latch I'll go down and see what the hold up is. I'll be back okay slugger.
Neil: Okay Dad.
Joe leaves for the garage. 

Back at the fire house Lucy is home alone with the girls. Serena is playing down stairs and Christina is taking a nap. Scott is having lunch with Lee a tradition they started after he was released from the hospital. Lucy is up in her room pacing back and forth.
Lucy: Could I be? I mean I am late and I have been feeling sick lately. No no it's not possible Dr. Medows said it was nearly impossible. Although nearly impossible and impossible are two different things. But no no it couldn't be I mean we weren't even trying so how could it happen. I've been way to focused on Christina and Serena for this to happen. Although you don't have to be focused I guess. Oh what is taking that test so long!
Just then the little bell rings and Lucy runs into the bathroom.
Lucy: Finally!
Lucy picks up the stick and looks at it then grabs the box it came in to check what the different symbols mean for the 80 zillionth time. She looks again at the stick and her eyes fill with tears.

Chapter 11
Julie holds Frank tightly and rubs his back as he cries. Frank takes a deep breath and pulls back. He rubs his face.
Frank: Oh God this can not be happening. This just can't be real!
Julie takes his hands away from his face and strokes his cheek with her hand. as she squeezes his hand with her other hand.
Julie: I know, I remember when my brother died it seemed like a bad dream. I kept thinking this is not real any minute now I'm going to wake up screaming and Buddy will be alive.
Frank: I just can't imagine my life with out him. He's been the center of my life since I was 3. Oh God what am I going to do with out him around. Julie I've never told anyone this but for most of my life I have loved Joe more as my son then as my brother. I mean all Joe's life since dad was always drunk and died when Joe was still in high school I did most all of if not all of the things Dad's do for their sons. Oh God I wish I could just hug him one more time and tell him how much I love him.
Frank starts crying again. Julie hugs him.
Julie: I'm sure he knows how much you love him I'm sure he dose.
Frank regains some of his composure.
Frank: Julie you don't think he suffered do you? I've seen conscious burn victims before and the idea of Joe.
Frank breaks down in tears.
Julie hugs him tightly
Julie: Considering it was an explosion I'd be willing to bet that he never new what happened. I'm almost certain that he didn't suffer.
Frank: I hope you're right Oh God I hope you're right.
Frank wipes his face.
Frank: How am I going to tell my Mom that her baby is dead? And Neil what about him? He's been through so much now he has to loose his Dad!
Julie: I won't be easy for them that's for sure. Or Karen either. I'll help in any way I can. Maybe I could tell Karen?
Frank: No I think Joe would want me to but thanks anyway. I definitely want you there when I do but I think I should be the one to tell her.
Julie: Okay.
Frank: There is something else I think Joe would want me to do.
Frank looks sadly at the burning car.
Julie: What?
Frank: I must make one last pledge to my brother. I will love, protect, support, teach, and help Neil in every way I can for the rest of my life. I will give to him as if he was my own. I will make his life as perfect as it can be.
Julie smiles.
Julie: I'm sure Joe new you were going to do that before you even said it.
Frank: I hope he dose know it. I hope he nose that I will give my all for Neil just as I did for him. Oh God I can't believe he's gone.
Frank rubs his tear stained face. Julie hugs him.
Julie: It will get easier Frank it will. And in a very real way he'll always be here with you.
Frank: I know I just wish he was all the way here.
Frank sighs.
Frank: I better go tell Ma before someone else dose.
Julie: I'll come with you.
Frank: Thanks
Frank stands up and the two of them head for the elevator. They stand side by side waiting for the elevator while Frank tries to stop the stream of tears racing down his face. Just then the elevator arrives and out steps a very alive Joe!
Julie: OH MY GOD IT'S A MIRACLE!
Frank's tears of sorrow quickly turn to tears of total joy. Frank grabs a surprised and confused Joe and hugs him tightly.
Frank: OH THANK GOD YOU'RE ALIVE! OH JOE I LOVE YOU SO MUCH I THOUGHT I'D NEVER SEE YOU AGAIN! OH THANK GOD YOU WEREN'T IN THAT CAR!
Frank takes his brother by the shoulders and looks him in the eye through his tears.
Frank: DON'T YOU EVER DIE! YOU HERE ME JOSEPH DON'T YOU EVER DO THAT!
Joe taken aback and unsure of what is going on chuckles.
Joe: Okay, now dose someone want to tell me what the heck is going on. Frank what has you so upset? What made you think I was dead?
Julie runs over and hugs Joe.
Julie: Oh Joe I'm so glad you are alright! I've come to think of you as my brother to and I don't know what I'd do if I lost another brother.
Frank rubs his face as his composure comes back.
Frank: You car exploded. When the fire trucks and EMT's got here it was completely engulfed and they couldn't get it under control they are finally getting it out now. I new you had been going to get Neil that comic book and. . .
Frank gets chocked up and hugs Joe again tightly.
Frank: I thought I'd lost you.
Joe hugs Frank back.
Joe: I'm fine I never made it to the car I was paged to another room so I sent Oh God!
Joe goes pale as a ghost as the horrible truth sets in.
Julie: You sent who?
Joe: I sent Courtney to get the comic book! She's the one that's dead! That's why she isn't back in Neil's room! I was coming down to see if she needed help opening the trunk or something! Oh My God my sons mother is dead!
Frank and Julie look at each other.
Julie: Oh that poor baby. What is he going to do with out her.
Frank: Maybe she isn't maybe she got the book before the explosion and had to do something before coming back to the room and you just missed each other in the hall.
Joe: No to much time has passed besides where Neil is concerned she doesn't let other things come up.
Frank: Well at least he has us. He's not alone and I'll help you with him Joe in any way I can.
Just then Garcia comes over to the group.
Garcia: Joe it's good to see you weren't in the car. I'm glad you're alright.
Joe: Thanks but we think my sons Mother was.
Garcia: How come?
Joe: Neil wanted a comic book out of the trunk and I had an emergency with another patient so I gave Courtney my keys and she went to get the book.
Garcia looks somberly at the ground.
Garcia: Poor kid my Mother died when I was young it's one of the hardest things for a kid to deal with.
Julie: Any idea what caused the explosion?
Garcia: Joe do you have to turn the motor on to get the trunk to open?
Joe: Yeah why?
Garcia sighs.
Garcia: Joe you'd better be extra careful it looks like this was a bomb. When Courtney turned the car on it must have triggered it. And since it was in your car odds are it was meant for you.
The three some look at each other in shock. Just then an officer runs over.
Officer: Detective Garcia you'd better look at this.
The officer hands him a Polaroid picture.
Garcia: D@MIT! What is this his calling card!
Joe: Whose calling card?
Julie: What's it a picture of?
Garcia hands the trio the picture. In the Polaroid Hank is standing next to Joe's car holding a bomb at the bottom of the picture are written the words GOT YA!
Officer: We found it not far from the car.
Julie: Oh My God! Why won't that Psycho leave us alone!
Frank: HE'S TRYING TO KILL MY BROTHER!
Joe: Well he's not going to.
Frank: You got that right!
Garcia: He means business that's for sure. Listen Joe I'm going to have some cops following all three of you around I don't want to take any chances.
Julie: Thank you.
Just then a fire fighter comes over.
Fire fighter: We got the fire put out. There was a body in there but it was burned far beyond recognition.
Julie: Poor Courtney.
Frank: Poor Neil. That kid has been through so so much.
Joe: To much if you ask me. So where were the two of you headed?
Julie: Well we were on our way to tell your mom and Neil what had happened. It's a good thing we didn't miss each other.
Frank: I'll say.
Joe: Well do you want to help me tell my son that his mother is dead?
Frank: Sure, he's going to need all the comfort he can get.
Julie: I agree he needs to see that he isn't alone.
The three some somberly get on the elevator. 
Rachel: Wow Marcia you have been keeping quite a few secrets.
Marcia: It hasn't been easy.
Chris: So can you help us? Even as we speak Hank is plotting.
Rachel: Of course I will, and I like your plan Chris in fact I was going to suggest we go to the press with the truth about Nicole anyway.
Marcia: But won't that only increase the danger?
Rachel: Actually just the opposite. Knowledge is power Julie and with this knowledge out there it's going to be a lot harder for Hank to do anything.
Marcia: And you think we can get the court to give Chris Christina?
Rachel: Chris is a well respected Doctor and Christina's father. It shouldn't be to hard. And since it sounds like Chris had you come back here the court won't really have a case for aiding and abetting. It shouldn't be a problem. But we do need to move fast. If you are willing I will call Leopold and have him start working on getting Christina to Chris and I'll alert the press. How do you feel about a press conference in a little bit?
Marcia looks at Chris with uncertainty.
Chris takes her hand in his.
Chris: Don't worry Marcia everything is going to be fine. I really believe this will work.
Marcia smiles.
Marcia: Alright then lets do it.
Rachel: Good I'll go make the calls.
Rachel leaves the room.
Marcia: Wow nothing phases her dose it.
Chris: Well she strikes me as having a real poker face. There is no telling what's on the inside.
Marcia: Well for our sake I hope more then a bluff. 

Matt and Karen are still at the recovery room finishing up lunch.
Matt: You haven't answered my question do you still want Joe?
Karen: I don't know. And that scares me more then anything. There was a time I thought we were a match made in heaven but now I just don't know.
Matt: Then I think you need to move very slowly so you can figure out the answer.
Karen: I know I need to, I don't want to hurt Joe he's a great guy and my best friend but I'm just not sure anymore about us as a couple. I mean if he can't stand me having enough of a back bone to stand up to him, and to question what he's up to when there is plenty of evidence to make me wonder. Well I'm not sure if that's a man I want to be in a relationship with much less married to.
Matt: I think you should tell Joe how you're feeling. He has a right to know. And unless you talk things out the problems will never get resolved.
Karen sighs.
Karen: I know I know. But after last night I need to feel his strength.
Matt: Is that why you're here eating with me rather then with Joe?
Karen: Well you're my friend and I needed a breather before I saw him.
Matt: Karen I know you better then that. If you had really wanted his strength and or support you'd of had him paged the minute you got here.
Karen: Neil was having his new bone marrow I couldn't.
Matt: Karen you didn't even know about that till I told you after your exam.
Karen: Your point being?
Matt: I think you need to reopen your eyes and look around Karen. The problem goes way deeper then what Hank did and what Joe said.
Karen: I have to go it's getting late and I really want to be near Joe right now since Neil is getting his bone marrow.
Karen gets up and starts to go, Matt grabs her by the arm.
Matt: Karen I didn't mean to upset you, but you're my friend and I care very much about you. And I think ever since you found out about what Hank did you have put blinders on. I'm just trying to take them off.
Karen: I know you're just trying to help Matt I have to go.
Karen rushes out Matt watches her go.
Matt: Brains, loyalty, a good heart, and beauty what a combo. 

At the fire house Lucy is sitting on her bed staring at the stick in disbelief.
Lucy: I I I am I'm pregnant! Oh My God thank you thank you thankyou!
Lucy rubs her stomach.
Lucy: Oh baby oh my little baby. I've wanted you so long. But please please don't come early I just couldn't bare it if I lost you. Oh my sweet little baby. Oh Scott I have to tell Scott! Oh baby your Daddy is going to be so happy! I can hardly wait to see the look on his face!
Just then she hears Scott come in.
Scott: Hey apple sauce!
Serena: Daddy!
Serena runs to Scott and he gives her a big hug.
Serena: How's grampa?
Scott: He's doing good and he told me to give you this.
Scott plants a big wet kiss on her cheek.
Lucy comes to the top up the stairs with tears in her eyes as she watches the two of them.
Lucy: Scott can you come up here please.
Scott looks at her tear stained face.
Scott gets a worried look on his face.
Scott: Uh Serena why don't you watch some TV.
Serena: Okay
Scott goes up to Lucy.
Scott: Is everything alright? Is something wrong with Karen?
Lucy: What oh no no Karen is fine she hasn't called me. You know Mr. Baldwin you create pretty tough little girls.
Lucy takes his hand and puts it on her stomach.
Lucy: Maybe this time you'll create a little boy as tough as you are.
Lucy smiles.
Scott looks confused.
Scott: This time what do you mean?
It suddenly hits Scott.
Scott: Lucy your not, I mean are you well uhm
Lucy: Pregnant.
Lucy beams at Scott.
Scott: We're having a baby!
Lucy: Yep
Scott: But how I mean I know how but didn't Dr. Medows tell you that you had to much scar tissue to get pregnant the old fashioned way?
Lucy: Well Mr. Baldwin I guess one or your little sperm was just to tough for that scar tissue.
She giggles.
Scott grabs Lucy and twirls her around. 

Back at the hospital Frank, Julie and Joe are going down the hall to Neil's room.
Joe: Lets stop for a minute I need to think for a sec about what the heck I'm going to say.
Frank: I could use a breather myself.
Julie: I have to run to the ladies room so I'll be right back.
Julie heads off when she bumps into Karen.
Julie: Hi Karen did you hear what happened.
Karen: yeah I saw Mac and he filled me in. I can't believe that Courtney is dead. And that it almost was Joe just makes me sick. How could Hank be related to them?!
Julie: I do not no. Listen Joe and Frank are going to go break it to Neil about his mom I'm just heading to the washroom and then I'm going to as well. Why don't you come to I mean if you and Joe work things out then you're basically going to be his mom.
Karen: Good point
Julie: Okay they are waiting around the corner.
Karen: Okay thanks.
Joe rubs his face and paces.
Joe: How do I do this?!
Frank: I guess just be straight forward and assure him he's not alone.
Joe: I can't believe she's gone. You know I used to have dreams about her coming back to me. Then Karen and I got together and I buried the idea. But since she's been back and especially since Karen and I broke up the ideas have been resurfacing.
Frank sees Karen from the corner of his eye
Frank: Karen!
Karen runs off nearly bumping Julie over.
Joe: KAREN WAITE!
Joe runs after her. Julie comes over to Frank.
Julie: What was that all about?
Frank: Oh my brother just basically told Karen that he has feelings for Courtney.
Julie groans.
Joe comes back out of breath.
Joe: She got on an elevator before I could catch her. I'll go to see her later right now I need to focus on my son anyway.
Frank: You ready?
Joe: As I'll ever be.
The trio go on to Neil's room. 

Lark is watching her soaps from her hospital room when a news bulletin cuts in.
Lark: AHG Why of why must they always cut into Port Henry with news bulletins!
Reporter: We interrupt today's regularly scheduled program for an important development in the General Homicide case. It has just been learned that Nicole Devlin not Marcia Cooper is responsible for the killings. And that she is actually the earlier presumed dead Marcia Cooper.
Lark drops the remote as the news continues her eyes widen and her jaw drops.

Chapter 12
Joe, Julie, and Frank somberly enter Neil's room Mary is reading a story to Neil, while Victor and Kevin are talking in the corner. Eve has gone back to work. Everyone turns when they walk in.
Neil: Hey Dad did you find Mom.
Mary notices the sad look on there faces.
Mary: Is something wrong?
Frank, Joe, and Julie exchange a look.
Julie: Uh Mary, Victor, Kevin can I see you in the hall for a minute.
Mary and Victor exchange a worried look.
Neil: Nothings wrong with Lark right. She's okay isn't she?
Neil gets a very worried look on his face. Frank and Joe exchange a smile at this.
Frank: Lark is fine slugger no trouble there.
Julie: Yeah I just need to speak privately with Mary, Victor, and Kevin that's all.
Mary: Well alright then.
Mary, Victor and Kevin follow Julie out the door.
Joe sits up at the head of Neil's bed and puts an arm around his son. Frank sits on the side of the bed and takes on of Neil's hands.
Neil: Something is wrong isn't it. I want Mom.
Frank: Neil there is nothing to be scared of. But your Dad dose have something very serious to talk to you about. But I want you to know that both of us will be here for you okay.
Neil: Okay.
Joe: Neil your Mom was hurt very badly a little while ago and she had to go to heaven.
Neil: NO no she didn't she wouldn't leave me! My Mom is not dead!
Tears start to fill Neil's eyes.
Frank holding tight to Neil's hand
Frank: She never wanted to leave you champ and she'll always be with you in a very real way right in your heart. But she is dead.
Neil: Stop saying that she's just getting me a comic book she'll be back any minute.
Joe: I'm sorry Neil but she is gone. But I'm here for you as Is Uncle Frank, Aunt Julie, Kevin, and Grandma and Grandpa. We all love you very much and we are going to help you through this.
Frank: That's right Neil you can always count on us. We will always be right here for you.
Neil: It's not fair it's not fair!
Neil breaks down into uncontrollable sobs. Joe and Frank wrap him tightly in there arms and hold him close.
Joe: I know it isn't kido I know it isn't. 
Out in the hall Mary has just finished telling the trio what happened in the garage.
Mary: He tried to kill Joe! How could someone so evil have come from me! And Neil my poor little grandson is with out his mother now because of him!
Julie: It's going to be hard for Neil that's for sure. Garcia is going to have cops watching all of us since we don't know what Hank is going to do next.
Kevin: Do they have any idea where he might be?
Julie: Not so far. But I'll tell you this much just knowing he's out there gives me the creeps.
Victor: Well that's very understandable. Especially after what that man put you and Frank through.
Julie: Well right now my biggest anger towards Hank has to do with what he put Frank through. I mean I love Neil and I'm sorry he has to go through this but when Frank thought Joe was dead I have never seen anyone so devastated. I wanted to hang Hank from the toes for the misery he inflicted on Frank.
Mary smiles.
Mary: I'm glad that Frank has found such a loyal lady.
Julie: Well I'm just glad we ran into Joe before we got to Neil's room we were on are way to tell you that Joe had died.
Victor: Talk about perfect timing.
Mary: I'll say.
Frank pops his head out.
Frank: I think we need a female in here.
Mary: I'm coming.
Mary goes in, Neil hold his arms open still crying. Mary takes him in her arms and holds him tight. She starts singing softly to him.
Mary: You are my sunshine my only sun shine you make me happy when skys are gray you'll never know dear how much I love you oh please don't take my sun shine away.
Neil falls asleep in her arms.
Mary: Works every time.
Mary lays Neil back up against his pillow and sits there holding Neil's hand. 

Back in Larks room the news has ended Lark stairs dumbly at the TV.
Lark: Nicole is Marcia! She killed those people and let her children take the wrap! Julie isn't even her real daughter! Matt's her brother! Christina belongs to Marcia and Chris! If this doesn't give Julie a nervous breakdown nothing will!
Lark flashes back to the night Frank and Julie were rescued. She recalls how hysterical Julie was.
Lark: She can't hear this from a stranger she has to hear it from Frank. He's the only one who can tell her. I have to find Frank!
Lark tries to get out of bed.
Lark: Owe Owe Oh I'm sore.
Lark eases her feet onto the floor and holding on to her IV she starts to walk to the door. Just then Lark's friend from her days as a volunteer comes in.
Leia: Hey Lark I heard you were here. Should you be out of bed?
Lark struggles towards Leia.
Lark: Leia I have to find Frank it's an emergency.
Leia: I think I saw him going into Neil's room a little while ago.
Lark: Then that is where I have to go. Oh ow.
Lark nearly falls down. Leia catches her and helps her to a chair.
Leia: Lark you can barely walk hold on I'll get a wheel chair and take you to him.
Lark: Thanks Leia that would be great.
Leia goes and gets a chair. She helps Lark into it and they head off. 

Back at Neil's room Kevin and Victor have left for home. Frank, Julie, Joe, and Mary are watching Neil sleep.
Frank: He looks so peaceful when he sleeps just like Joe did at his age. I wish his problems were as easy to solve as Joe's were at his age.
Mary: Well the important thing is that he's not alone. I just thank God Courtney finally told you about Neil or he'd really be all alone.
Joe: I know, when I first met Neil it was just the two of them. Of course you have to wonder if I didn't know Neil was mine would Courtney have been in my car today?
Julie: Joe don't there isn't anything you could of done. Besides you were already Neil's friend before you ever new that.
Frank: Julie is right Joe there is no sense beating yourself up over something that could of easily happened anyway.
Joe: I suppose I mean I don't regret being Neil's father not for a minute but even so. I'd give anything for my son to not have to go through this.
Mary: No child should have to go through any of this.
Suddenly there is a knock at the door and Leia peeks her head in.
Leia: Excuse me I don't mean to bother you but Lark needs to speak with Frank right now she says there is some kind of emergency.
Lark tries to walk in to the room and starts to fall.
Frank Joe and Julie all rush to catch her and help her to a chair.
Leia: Lark I said I'd get him why did you get up.
Frank: Lark what are you doing out of bed?
Lark: Frank I need to talk to you in private.
Lark then notices everyone's long faces.
Lark: What's wrong? Neil is okay isn't he? My bone Marrow is working for him right.
Frank smiles he can see these to have a bond like his and Joe's.
Frank: The bone Marrow is working just fine. Here let me take you back to your room and you can tell me what's wrong.
Lark: Alright.
Frank helps Lark back to the wheel chair and Leia and Frank proceed to take Lark back to her room.
Mary: I wonder what that was all about?
Julie: She probably just needs Frank in there. She's been pretty insecure since Frank and I were rescued. Poor thing she doesn't seem to get the fact that we know she's changed. 

At Matt's apartment Matt has just gotten out of a long hot shower. He suddenly hears the door bell, he grabs his jeans and pulls them on quickly.
Matt: Just a minute.
Matt opens the door in Jeans no shirt and little water beads still on his stealth chest.
Karen is standing there in tears. Matt sees her very upset look and becomes instantly concerned.
Matt: Karen what's wrong? Are you okay? Come in please.
Matt takes her by the hand and guides her to his couch. She sits he gets her a tissue and as she dries her eyes he sits by her side patiently.
Matt: Karen what is it what's wrong? Did Hank do something again? Joe doesn't blame you dose he? Did the two of you have a fight?
Karen: I over heard Joe tell Frank he still has very real feeling for Courtney. He told Frank that he's been dreaming of her coming back into his life for a long time. And he tried to forget about her when we got together but especially since she's come back to town all those feeling are coming back.
Karen breaks down into tears. Matt hugs her tenderly and rubs her back.
Matt: I'm sorry you had to hear that. What a horrible thing to hear especially when you're having so many doubts.
Karen pulls back and wipes her face.
Karen: It hit me like a ton of bricks. I mean he is allowed to have his feelings and I know he had know intention of acting on them. But Matt when Courtney came to town I asked Joe point blank if he still had feeling for her and he said no. So now I find out he lied to me.
Matt: Maybe at the time he thought he didn't. What did Joe have to say to you about it.
Karen: I haven't spoken to him about this.
Matt: Karen you need to.
Karen: Oh he knows I know what he said he saw me but I ran away. I just didn't know what to say.
Matt: Do you have any ideas yet?
Karen: Matt I hate to say it but with all the other doubts and now this I don't know I just don't think it's going to work. Dose that make me a horrible person?
Matt takes her hands in his.
Matt: No Karen not at all. You are a wonderful person. You are smart, kind, pretty, generous, loyal, a great friend, talented. Karen you're incredible. You deserve better then this.
Karen: You think I'm incredible huh.
Matt leans close.
Matt: I think you're amazing.
With there faces inches apart Matt places a soft kiss on Karen's lips. She returns and equally soft kiss and it then it becomes a full fledged kiss. Karen suddenly pulls back.
Karen: No I can't be doing this! I have to go.
Karen practically fall over Matt trying to get out.
Matt: Karen I'm sorry I didn't mean for that to happen.
Karen is out the door.
Matt looks on after her.
Matt: Well at least she didn't slap you. 

Back in Larks room Lark has just finished telling Frank everything that she heard on the news.
Lark: Frank if Julie hears this from a stranger she's liable to go into shock!
Frank shakes his head in disgust.
Julie: I can not believe this. Double lives, buying babies, framing adopted children, This whole this is sick! And you're right Julie can't here this from a stranger. Thanks Lark.
Lark: Well she's a friend and I wanted to make sure you knew. You're welcome.
Frank hugs her.
Frank: I'll go talk to her right now.
Lark: Okay.
Frank rushes out. 

In Neil's room the three of them are still watching Neil sleep.
Julie: Would anyone like something from the cafeteria?
Joe: No thanks I'm not hungry.
Mary: Maybe in a bit.
Frank comes in with a very strained look on his face.
Julie: Frank is everything alright?
Mary: Frank what's wrong?
Frank: Julie I need to speak with you in the hall right away.
Julie gets up and follows Frank into the hall as Mary and Joe exchange worried looks.
Julie: What's wrong? Dose this have something to do with why Lark came down before? Is she okay?
Frank: Julie lets sit down okay. We need to talk it's very serious. 

At the fire house Serena is reading to Christina. Lucy is taking a nap which Scott ordered her to. And Scott is making dinner. The phone rings Scott grabs it.
Scott: Yeah.
Lee: Scott it's Lee I'm afraid I have some terrible news. Christina's biological parents have come forward and her Father is suing for sole custody. 

Back at Ferncliff Chris comes back to see Marcia.
Marcia runs to him happily and they hug tightly.
Chris: Great news!
Marcia: I'm getting out tonight.
Chris: Well not that great. But the news about Christina and Nicole is out. And I've filed for sole custody. Leopold doesn't think it will be long till I get her.
Marcia: That's great! Uh Chris do you know anything about babies?
Chris: Excuse me I'll have you know that I practically raised my sister and brother so this will be a walk in the park.
Marcia laughs.
Marcia: So did Leopold say how long it would take? And what about me getting out of here?
Chris: Well there is a chance that Christina could be with me in two weeks. And as for you getting out. Well you'll probably have to stand trial unless Nicole just admits to everything. So you could be out in three months.
Marcia: What a great way to start the new year. Any word on Hank?
Chris: Not yet but hopefully they will very soon.
Marcia: I love you Chris.
Chris: I love you Marcia.
They kiss passionately. 

Hank slams around the where house angrily.
Hank: D@MM THAT STUPID COURTNEY SHE'S ALWAYS MESSING THINGS UP! Why why did she have to go to Joe's car for him! Joe could be nice and dead now but nooooooo she had to ruin it! Well at least she's dead and gone. One less problem for me. Maybe murder is to severe anyway. I mean okay Frank and Mary would be sad but they'd move on. What if they had to endure Joe being hurt.
Hank gets a devilish grin on his face and his eyes flash with insanity. He rubs his hands together.
Hank: Oh yes Courtney I do believe I was wrong to be angry at you. For this idea I'm forming is simply ingenious.

************Author’s note*******************
It was brought to my attention the other night in chat that I made a goof in my story. In chapter one I have Matt and Ellen being a happy couple. After chapter 1 I decided I wanted to explore Karen and Matt. I forgot about that scene. So with blushing cheeks I apologize and ask the readers to try and forget that seen. In this story Matt and Ellen did break up and she is in New Orleans as the show it's self claims. Sorry about the mess up.
******************************************************
Lark is propped up against a bunch of pillows. Leia is sitting at her side.
Leia: So Julie isn't a Devlin at all?!
Lark: Nope she's a Mancusi.
Leia: Aren't they mobsters?
Lark: Well most of them are but Matt isn't. I guess that is one nice thing that could come out of this for both Julie and Matt they could have siblings again.
Leia: But why did Nicole do that to Julie I mean if she didn't love her why buy her?
Lark: Well from what I gathered from the news story, Bennett Devlin bought her as a way to stop Nicole from being so depressed.
Leia: Wow talk about a dysfunctional family. But why let her own children take the wrap?
Lark: Why do any of this. Lets face it the whole thing is insane.
Leia: True. So how do you think Julie will take it?
Lark: I'm not sure I hope by Frank telling her she'll be okay. It's a lot to deal with you know.
Leia: I can't even begin to imagine. So how are you feeling?
Lark: Sore but happy that I could help. You know I used to wish that I could make a difference in the world but I never thought I could. Then I became part of the Scanlon family and now I feel like I just might be able to make a difference.
Leia: Well you certainly have for Neil. You probably saved his life.
Lark: It is an awesome feeling, I mean it was just I fluke that I matched but knowing you can make that kind of difference it's just awesome.
Leia: Do you think you might go into medicine?
Lark: Actually I've been thinking a lot about that lately. I might it's a toss up between being a Doctor or a Social Worker.
Leia: Wow become what you've never liked.
Lark laughs.
Lark: Well in the past I suppose I didn't like them much because when they would come around I'd have to leave where I was living. But the reality is they do great things for kids, and adults as well. And I think I could really help those kids since I understand where they are coming from.
Leia: Makes sense to me.
Lark: So are you still planning on becoming a nurse?
Leia: Yeah, I've always wanted to be one. You know when I was 4 my parents and I were in this horrible car crash. They were taken to intensive care and I was taken to the children's word. I was so scared. I wanted my parents but of course they couldn't be there. I'll never forget there was this nurse in the pediatrics wing, she read to me, sang to me, played games with me. She took care of my every need and stayed at my side almost 24, 7 and when I was well enough she took me to see my parents. I new when I was released I wanted to be a nurse just like her.
Lark wipes a tear from her face.
Lark: That is so beautiful.
Leia blushes.
Leia: I guess I really hope one day I can meet her again and say thank you.
Lark: Dose she live here in Port Charles?
Leia: Oh I have no idea.
Lark: What was her name?
Leia: I believe her name was Mary Brennen.
Lark's jaw drops open and she stairs at Leia in amazement.
Lark: You're kidding me!
Leia looks confused
Leia: No why?
Lark: Mary is my grandmothers name and Brennen is her maiden name she worked under the name Brennen for many years! 
In the hall outside of Neil's room Frank and Julie sit side by side. Julie is motionless she has been silent for a long time and the silence is defining.
Frank: Julie honey? Julie, you know it doesn't really change who you are as a person. I mean you still have the same beliefs, values, morals, and goals you had this morning. You still have the same friends, and the same dreams. And you still have me. Julie I love you very very much.
Julie just stairs into space with a blank look on her face.
Frank: Julie can you hear me? Are you okay? Julie please say something.
Frank squeezes her hand
Frank: Julie you're not alone I'm here for you. and think of it this way you've gained a brother.
Frank rubs her back.
Frank: Julie please say something you're really starting to scare me.
Julie just keeps on staring straight ahead.
Frank: Julie! JULIE PLEASE!
no response.
Frank claps his hands in front of her face nothing.
Frank: JOE JOE GET OUT HERE!
Joe hearing Franks frantic scream comes running. Joe comes out and sees Julie's vacant look and Franks worried expression.
Joe: what happened?
Frank: I think she's in shock we have to get her to the psych ward now!
Joe runs and gets a wheel chair. Frank lifts her into it. Julie doesn't even move. Joe looks at her with concern.
Joe: Frank what happened? What caused this?
Frank: She just found some really big news having to do with her family. I guess it was the straw that broke the camels back.
Joe: Okay hold on one sec.
Joe pops his head back in the room.
Joe: Mom there is a medical emergency can you watch Neil?
Mary: Of course I'd be happy to, but what
Joe: thanks
Joe exits and taking control of Julie's chair Frank and Joe head off. 

Back at Matt's place Matt is sitting by a roaring fire alone with his thoughts.
Matt: You stupid jerk! She is taken and you go and kiss her? She is a good friend and the girlfriend of another good friend. How could you kiss her! It doesn't matter if they are having problems you have to wait until the relationship is cold at least! You are no better then Sebastian. But it's not like Joe treats her right, or like their relationship is on stable ground and she did kiss you back. But she was in a very vulnerable state what kind of man are you to take advantage of a woman like that especially one you care so much for. But it's not as if you haven't had your eye on her for awhile now. I mean when you met her if she hadn't of been married and if Joe hadn't been so hung up on her maybe... Not that you didn't love Ellen with all that you had to love her with, but Karen. When she walks into a room you feel it move. Oh what the heck are you going to do now!
Just then the phone rings.
Matt: Hello?
Karen: Matt it's Karen.
Matt: Oh hi Karen I was just thinking about you. Listen about earlier.
Karen: That's what I'm calling about I
Matt: Karen I'm sorry I know I was way out of line.
Karen: Matt I kissed you to, and the thing is I liked it.
Matt: You did? Uhm I did to. I never planned on it you know that right?
Karen: I know you well enough to know that. I never planned on it either.
Matt: Uhm what now I mean
Karen: I've decided to break up with Joe permanently.
Matt: Karen
Karen: It's not just because of today things have been going down hill with us for awhile now. And the fact is the way I'm feeling right now tells me to leave him. You see there was a time when I couldn't imagine myself with anyone else and now I can. So regardless of what dose or doesn't happen I know that being with Joe isn't right for me anymore.
Matt: Do you want something to happen?
Karen: I don't know Matt, I've had a failed marriage, and a failed engagement. But I can't deny that I felt something today and that scares the hell out of me.
Matt: I'm scared to.
Karen: You are?
Matt: Karen I have feelings for you and they go beyond friendship. The last time I ventured out in this area I got my heart torn out thrown on the floor and had the cha cha done on it.
Karen snickers.
Karen: Sorry don't mean to laugh it's just a funny picture.
Matt: That's alright the point is I'm not feeling real sure of myself these days.
Karen: Join the club.
Matt: Maybe we could be brave together?
Karen: That might work. Any ideas?
Matt: How about dinner at the grill.
Karen: That sounds good.
Matt: I'll pick you up in an hour.
Karen: Okay I'll see you then.
Matt: Okay bye
Karen: Bye Matt
Matt: yeah
Karen: This is crazy.
Matt: I know.
They hang up. 

Scott is sitting by Lucy when she opens her eyes. There are tears in his eyes.
Lucy: Scott?
Scott: You know I should get a portrait done of you sleeping.
Lucy smiles.
Scott: Did you sleep good?
Lucy: Scott what's wrong?
Scott: Lucy I want you to relax okay just lay back down and take deep breaths while I talk. Okay I don't want you to allow yourself to get excited I'm sure this pregnancy is high risk.
Lucy looks scared.
Scott: Lucy lay back deep cleansing breaths
Lucy lays back and breaths deep.
Scott: Lee called Christina's biological father has come forward and wants sole custody.
Lucy: WHAT NO NO NOOOOO!
Scott: Lucy please calm down you have to relax for the baby! Now just settle down. We don't want Serena to hear this.
Lucy: But Scotty she's our's! Where has this man been?! DV is doing this isn't he!
Scott takes Lucy in his arms and holds her to his chest.
Scott: No Lucy it's legit. We knew this could happen Lucy we knew it could. Her Daddy has a right to her.
Lucy: You're her Daddy!
Scott: No Lucy I'm not. And this man from what Lee has told me has a lot of string pulling ability.
Lucy starts bawling.
Lucy: This isn't happening this just isn't happening!
Scott holds her tight and rocks her side to side.
Scott: I know Lucy I know.
Lucy tries to pull herself together.
Lucy: Okay well how long do we have to fight this?
Scott: Lucy there is not much way we can fight this. He's her father and if he can show that he has the ability to care for her and that he won't abandon her then shell probably go to him.
Lucy: Just like that! You're giving up just like that! Scott what's gotten into you!
Scott: Lucy we have a baby of our own on the way this is not the time to be taking on battles. You have to take care of yourself so that we don't loose this baby to.
Scott puts his hand on Lucy's stomach.
Scott: Lucy I don't know what made you miscarried those other times but the one thing that was true about all three times is you were in the middle of a battle and you were under a lot of stress. I love Christina but I'm not going to let you risk this baby for her when the likelihood is we'd end up loosing both.
Lucy rubs her stomach.
Lucy: Well I certainly don't want to risk our little miracle. But couldn't you fight for both of us.
Scott: Of course Lucy I will go into court and show how much we love her and how she's already bonded with us. I'll make the best case I can. But that is really all I can do.
Lucy: Well then that will just have to be enough. How long till the hearing?
Scott: Well a blood test has to be performed to make sure this guy really is the Dad. Then once the results are in they'll schedule a hearing. I'm guessing it will happen in a week or two.
Lucy and Scott hug tightly. 

Chris and Marcia are sitting in the visiting room.
Marcia: How are you going to prove you're her father when you're not her father?
Chris: Not a problem. Hank has been in and out of the hospital so many times all I have to do is switch his blood sample with mine.
Marcia: And you're sure this will work?
Chris: I'm positive.
Marcia: What happens if Hank comes forward.
Chris: Marcia after the things Hank has done it's very doubtful that people would even listen enough to wonder. Besides he doesn't seem like the Daddy type to me.
Marcia: That's true.
Chris: Well I have to go handle the blood switches.
Chris kisses Marcia tenderly.
Marcia: Good luck.
Chris leaves smiling. 

Back in Neil's room Neil wakes slowly Mary is still holding his hand.
Neil: Did I dream it or is my Mom really gone.
Mary strokes his face softly.
Mary: I'm sorry sweetie she really is gone.
Neil starts to cry again.
Mary: Did you know she can see you?
Neil wipes his eyes
Neil: She can?
Mary: She sure can. She can hear you, and see you. And she'll always be with you, right by your side.
Neil: How come I can't see her?
Mary: Because you can't see spirits which is what she is now. You see her body is gone but her soul well the soul never dies. It goes on and on and on. And as long as you keep her in your heart she'll never be far.
Neil: That's cool. Where is Dad?
Mary: He had a medical emergency but he'll be back.
Neil: Will you stay here until he dose?
Mary smiles.
Mary: Of course I will I'll stay here as long as you want me to.
They hug. 

Frank, Joe, are standing outside Julie's hospital ring.
Frank: How is she? Has she spoken or moved at all?
Joe: No she's completely catatonic. I'm sorry Frank.
Frank rubs his face.
Frank: Oh God what a day.
Joe: You can say that again. Listen we've got her on some medicine that should help and Kevin is on his way.
Frank: Good Kevin is very good at this sort of thing. I guess I should have talked to him before I told her. I thought she could handle it.
Joe: Frank you can't blame yourself. She's been through so much and news like that. I can't get over it it's unbelievable.
Frank: It's down right sick if you ask me.
Joe: No arguments here.
Frank: So are you going to call Karen about earlier?
Joe: No I'm going to go over there when my shift ends though and talk to her.
Frank: Any idea about what you're going to say?
Joe: Just that it better be good.
Frank smiles.
Frank: yeah it better. Hey why don't you pick up some dinner for the two of you at the Grill. That will be a nice surprise for her. And it might help smooth things over better.
Joe: That sounds good to me. I'll work things out with her then come back here and check on Julie and Neil.
Frank: Sounds like a plan. So do you think I should call Matt?
Joe: It couldn't hurt and besides he has a right to know.
Frank: Yeah well I think I'll talk to Kevin first. I think putting one person into a catatonic state is enough for one day.
Joe: Frank it's not your fault you did the best you could. And it's not like she wouldn't have found out. This probably would have happened regardless of who told her.
Frank: I suppose. 

Hank busily runs around checking things off his list.
Hank: Whip, Check, Chains, Check, switch blade knife, check, Matches, check, electric shocker, check, two sets of hand cuffs, check, Masking tape, check, metal chair, check, Video camera, check. Well it looks like I have everything but the main ingredient. Hanks eyes sparkle and he rubs his hands together
Hank: Joe 

Chapter 14
Mary is reading to Neil when there is a knock at the door.
Mary: Come in?
Leia, and Lark in a wheel chair come in.
Lark: Hi I hope we're not disturbing you guys but I wanted to come see how Neil is doing.
Mary smiling
Mary: You could never disturb us.
Lark: Thanks, hey Neil how are you feeling?
Lark moves over to his bed.
Neil: Crummy.
Lark gets a concerned look on her face.
Lark: What's wrong do you hurt somewhere?
Mary: Didn't you hear?
Lark looks puzzled and worried.
Lark: Hear what?
Neil: My mom got hurt earlier today and died.
Lark gasps.
Lark: Oh My God! Oh Neil I'm so so sorry. I remember when my mom died I felt so lost and confused.
Lark takes him in her arms and hugs him.
Lark: Is there anything I can do for you? Any thing you need?
Neil: No I don't think so. Oh I did want to thank you for the bone marrow.
Lark smiles
Lark: Well you're very welcome. And if you really want to thank me you just get better okay.
Neil: Okay, you know it's strange I mean this morning I was worried about Dying now I'm alive and my mom is gone.
Neil starts crying. Lark hugs him tightly.
Lark: I know Neil I know.
Leia: I guess I better leave.
Lark: Leia hold on a minute. Neil I want you to know something you can always count on me anytime okay. Anything you ever need I want you to count on me for okay?
Neil: Okay.
Lark smiles and tussles his hair.
Lark then turns to Mary.
Lark: Grandma I was wondering about 14 years ago did you take care of a little 4 year old girl name Leia whose parents along with her were in a terrible car crash?
Mary thinks.
Mary: This as a matter a fact I did. Her name was Leia Cana. I remember she was so scared poor baby. I read to her and played with her. I basically acted as her mom till her parents were well enough to take her home. Why do you ask.
Leia's eyes fill with tears.
Lark smiles and points at Leia.
Lark: Grandma I'd like to reintroduce you to Leia Cana.
Mary looks at Leia in amazement.
Leia: Hi nurse Brennen.
Mary: Oh my little Leia!
They hug as happy tears run down their faces.
Leia: I always wanted to thank you for what you did for me.
Mary: Oh sweetheart it was my pleasure. So how are you? How is your family?
Leia: My parents are good. And I'm training to be a nurse just like you. I hope I can help others the way you have.
Mary smiles.
Mary: Well I'm sure you'll be great at it.
Leia: Thanks I hope so.
Neil: Lark can you stay in here awhile?
Lark smiles.
Lark: Sure I can. Would you like me to read to you?
Neil: Yes please.
Leia: I'll be going then.
Mary: I'll walk you out. Neil I'll be right back.
Neil: Okay Grandma.
Leia and Mary walk out and Lark begins reading to Neil.

Matt has just finished getting ready to go pick up Karen. He is whistling to himself.
Matt: Man I can't believe I'm this happy about going to dinner with a friend. I haven't felt like this since Ellen and I were just starting to get together.
Matt grabs his keys and heads out the door. As the door closes the phone begins to ring and voice mail gets it.
Frank: Hey Matt it's Frank listen I need you to call me on my cell phone as soon as you get this message it's very urgent.

Back at the hospital Kevin arrives and finds Joe and Frank standing outside Julie's room.
Frank: Kevin I'm glad you could come. Julie's in a real bad way.
Joe: She's completely catatonic. There has been absolutely no response for awhile now. I have her on several different meds but what she really needs right now is a shrink.
Kevin: Well I'm here, and I'll always come for my stepbrothers.
The three smile.
Kevin: Joe filled me in on what caused this and I did here a bunch on the news. I'll go take a look at her.
Frank: Thanks.
Kevin goes in.
Frank looks near tears.
Joe: Hey Kevin can help her Frank don't worry she's going to be okay. Remember what you told me last night about positive thoughts.
Frank smiles.
Frank: As I'm sure you know that's easier said then done.
Joe: True, but since we know what caused this and Kevin is a great Doctor I really think we can relax a bit.
Frank: I hope so.
Joe: Well my shift is up and I want to talk to Karen before it gets to late. Are you going to be okay If I take off for a bit?
Frank: Yeah no prob go ahead. And don't forget the dinner I'm sure she'll like it.
Joe: I won't I'm just going to drop by Neil's room and then I'll head out.
Frank: Okay see you in a bit.
They hug. Joe goes towards Neil's room.

At Karen's Matt rings the bell. Karen answers it wearing a short low cut black spaghetti strapped dress. Matt looks at her in aw.
Matt: Oh Karen uhm wow!
Karen laughs.
Karen: I take it you like the dress.
Matt: It's beautiful, although it pales in comparison to you.
Karen blushes. Matt hands her a dozen white roses. Karen smells them in.
Karen: Oh Matt they're beautiful.
Matt: I'm glad you like them.
Karen: I'll go put them in some water.
Matt watches her as she dose this.
Karen: You look very handsome tonight Matt.
Matt: Why thank you.
Karen: I don't think I've seen that tie before is it new?
Matt: It's my lucky tie I only where it for good luck.
Karen smiles.
Karen: Well you should where it more often it looks great.
Matt: thanks, so you ready to go?
Karen: This feels kind of strange. I mean I want to go but.
Matt: But you can't stop thinking about Joe?
Karen: Exactly.
Matt: I know I can't stop thinking about Ellen.
Karen: I guess the first date is always hard after you've been in a serious relationship.
Matt: I imagine it is.
Karen: So I guess we should just go for it right? Sort of like jumping into a cold pool.
Matt: I certainly want to.
Karen: So do I lets go.
Matt and Karen leave her apartment.

Back in Neil's room Lark and Mary are sitting quietly while Neil sleeps. When Joe pops his head in.
Joe: Hi how is he?
Mary: He's hanging in there. He's a very brave little boy.
Lark: He fell asleep right after I finished reading to him.
Joe smiles.
Joe: He's lucky to have such a doting cousin. But shouldn't you be in bed Lark.
Lark: I'm really feeling alright, besides I've been sleeping a lot today I'd rather be sitting in here
Mary: Don't worry I'm keeping and eye on her.
Joe: Good.
Mary: So what was the emergency?
Joe sighs.
Joe: Well apparently some pretty disturbing stuff has surfaced about Julie's family and she went into a catatonic state. Kevin and Frank are with her right now.
Mary: Oh know that poor girl she has been through so much.
Lark: How is Frank? What is Kevin saying about Julie? She's going to get better right?
Joe: He's hanging tough. Kevin thinks he can help her. And I certainly hope she can get better but at this point we just don't know.
Lark: Is there anything I can do?
Joe: I think the best thing you can do is to take care of yourself so that Frank won't have to be worrying about you to.
Lark: I can do that.
Mary: I'm going to go check on Frank.
Joe: I'm sure he'll appreciate that. I'm heading out for a bit to see Karen I'll be back in awhile.
Lark: Alright I'll stay here with Neil. Say hi to Karen for me.
Joe: Sure thing.
Joe and Mary leave.

At the Grill Matt and Karen are seated.
Waiter: Would you like anything to drink?
Karen: I've have a White Zinfandel.
Matt: I'll have a Merlot.
Karen: Wow I haven't been to this place in ages.
Matt: Me neither it really is more of a couples place.
Karen: Yeah I agree. This place has a lot of memories.
Matt: All good I hope.
Karen: Some good some not so good. So Are you off tomorrow?
Matt: Yeah I am, how about you?
Karen: Yep I'm really looking forward to it. So what kinds of things do you do on your day off?
Matt: I lift weights, do yoga, listen to music, meditate, read, and write stories.
Karen: Wow I wish I was that good to myself. I sleep late, watch TV. and run a million and one errands.
Matt laughs.
Matt: Well I don't do that stuff every time. But I try to get a few of those things in.
Karen: What kinds of stories do you right?
Matt: Mostly romances. So what things do you do besides run errands.
Karen: Well I do enjoy to paint a little. I've been doing it for years. Gail go me doing it when I first went to her for therapy. It really helped me work through some tough times. And now I just do it because I really enjoy it.
Matt: That sounds nice. I'd love to see them sometime.
Karen blushes.
Karen: Under one condition I can see yours sometime.
Matt: Okay it's a deal. So what do you recommend getting here?
Karen: Well there Eggplant Parmesan is wonderful.
Matt: Sounds good.

Joe is driving to the grill to get some dinner for him and Karen. He calls her place and leaves a message.
Joe: Hi Karen it's me listen I know you're there please pick up.
He waits.
Joe: Okay listen I know you're mad at me but I can explain. I'm going to the Grill right now to pick up some Eggplant Parmesan for us I know how you love it. Anyway I'll be over soon. I love you.

Back at the hospital Frank is sitting in the hall with Mary at his side holding his hand. when Kevin comes out. Frank jumps up.
Frank: How is she?
Kevin: She is completely non responsive. Until she comes around a little there isn't much I can do. I made some adjustments with the meds Joe put her on and hopefully it will help. The best thing we can do for her now is to give her a lot of love and support.
Frank: I can do that.
Frank goes into Julie's room and sits by her bed. He takes her hand in his and squeezes it.
Frank: Hey there beautiful, listen I know you're scared and tired. But I'm here for you and everything is going to be okay. You're going to get better and I'm going to help you every step of the way. I know it all seems sick and scary and you're right it is. This whole situation is sick. But you're not alone Julie and you still have a life. One I want to share with you always. I love you.
Frank leans over and kisses her tenderly.

Joe arrives at the grill. He walks in to pick up the delivery he has ordered and stops dead in his tracks when he sees Karen and Matt sitting together having dinner. They are laughing and smiling. And worst of all Karen is wearing the dress she wore on their first official date. His face turns beat red and his blood starts pumping His fists clench. He then sees Matt reach across the table and take Karen's hand.

Chapter 15
Matt and Karen are looking at each other happily as Matt holds her hand.
Matt: This evening is so nice.
Karen: It really is. So was I right about the Eggplant?
Matt: It's great.
Just then they sense someone standing at there table. They look up and see Joe standing there. His eyes are piercing through them like daggers his jaw ridged as steam practically comes out of his ears. His fists our clenched tightly and you can practically see the vain in his neck pulsing.
Karen: Joe! Uh what are you doing here?
Joe: WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON HERE! YOU ACCUSE ME OF CHEATING WHILE YOU RUN AROUND WITH MATT!
Matt: Joe that's not how it is just calm down.
Joe turns angrily towards Matt.
Joe: DON'T YOU TELL ME WHAT TO DO YOU GOD D@MM BACK STABBING, TRADER OF A DOG!!!!!! YOU WERE SUPPOSED TO BE MY FRIEND AND YOU STEEL MY GIRLFRIEND!
Karen: Now Joe you hold it right there we haven't exactly been together lately,
Joe: OH SO THAT GIVE YOU THE RIGHT TO JUMP IN BED WITH THE FIRST GUY THAT COMES ALONG MY MOM WAS RIGHT ABOUT YOU. YOU ARE A TRAMP.
Matt grabs Joe by the arm.
Matt: DON'T YOU EVER TALK TO KAREN LIKE THAT AGAIN!
Matt: AND WHO THE HELL IS GOING TO STOP YOU SOB! YOU'RE NO BETTER THEN SEBASTIAN.
Karen: DON'T YOU DARE TALK TO HIM LIKE THAT.
Karen slaps him. Joe angrily pushes her and she fall backwards over her chair onto the floor.
Matt grabs Joe by the arm and twisting it behind his back then ramming his chair into Joe's leg is able to bring him to his knees. then pulling his head back says through clenched teeth.
Matt: Don't you ever lay a hand on Karen again or you'll see a side of me that you don't want to see. He then flings Joe on the floor. Security comes in at this point.
Security guy: What seems to be the problem?
Matt: My Date and I were having a very enjoyable dinner until this looser came in and disrupted our dinner.
The security guy grabs Joe and tries to lead him out. Joe slugs the guy in the stomach and runs over to Matt and slugs him across the face hard. Two security guys pounce on him and drag Joe out.
Karen races over to Matt. She runs her fingers over his bruised jaw.
Karen: Oh Matt I'm so sorry are you alright?!
Matt: Karen there is nothing for you to be sorry about. I'm fine don't worry it's just a bruise.
He takes her by the hands.
Matt: Are you alright? Do you want to go home?
Karen: I'm fine a little bruised from falling over the chair but nothing serious. Besides Joe just did me a great favor. He helped me know for sure I made the right decision. If I had any doubts about breaking up with him they just disappeared. And no I don't want to go home we came here to have a nice dinner and that's exactly what we're going to do. I mean unless you want to go home?
Matt: Not me, I enjoy your company immensely. And I'm glad that you've decided not to take him back. Men with a temper like Joe's are dangerous. You could really get hurt and I'd hate to see you get hurt. Joe has some great qualities don't get me wrong. But he's got some issues he needs to work through before he starts a relationship. Although I can understand why he was upset.
Karen: Yeah I'd be upset if I were him. I guess the difference is I wouldn't of handled it like that.
Matt: Either would I. Mature adults don't let there tempers just run wild like that.
Karen: Enough about Joe, where were we?
Matt: Well I was just about to tell you that I think you are wonderful. And I feel very lucky to be having dinner with you. Karen Joe blew it you are the cream of the crop. And I hope tonight is the beginning of something wonderful.
Karen: I hope so to. Matt I've always been a little in aw of you. And I feel so privileged to be here with you. You never sees to amaze me.
Matt smiles and leans over to her and they kiss softly. 
Joe is driving through the streets like a mad man when he finally arrives back at GH. He comes barreling down the hall and sees Kevin and Mary talking.
Joe: Where is Frank I need Frank!
Mary and Kevin look at Joe he looks ready to put both fists through a wall and at the same time ready to crumble into a little ball and cry.
Mary: Joseph is everything alright? What's wrong?
Kevin: Frank is in with Julie is there something I can help you with?
Joe: I NEED FRANK!!!
Frank is sitting next to Julie's bed singing to her softly when he hears this.
Frank: Uh Oh sounds like Joe's talk with Karen didn't go so good I better go check this out. I'll be back my love.
He kisses her softly and gets up.
Mary: Joseph this is a hospital keep your voice down! Now what is the problem!
Kevin: Is Neil okay?
Frank comes out of Julie's room.
Frank: Joe what's up?
Frank sees the tears in Joe's eyes and the rage on his face. He goes over to him and hugs him tightly.
Frank: Come on lets go down to the cafeteria and get something to eat. Mom will you please sit with Julie till we get back?
Mary: Of course.
Mary goes in to see Julie and Frank and Joe head to the cafeteria. 

Matt and Karen arrive back at Karen's.
Karen: I had a great evening, minus the Joe part of course.
Matt: Tonight was great.
Karen: So lets not let it end just yet. How about coming in for some coffee. I think I have some frozen yogurt in the freezer as well.
Matt: Sure that sounds good.
They go inside and Karen puts the coffee on.
Matt: Can I turn on some music?
Karen: Sure go ahead.
Matt turns on the cd player then settles onto her couch. Karen sits beside him.
Karen: So what is your fave kind of music?
Matt: It depends on my mood. Right now I'm in the mood for romantic happy music.
Karen: Sounds good to me. How is your jaw?
Karen reaches up and lightly touches it. Matt takes her hand and kisses it.
Matt: It's a little sore.
There eyes lock as the heat rises.
Karen: Maybe I should take a closer look.
She moves in near and they kiss.
Matt: So what's the verdict doc?
Karen: I think I need to do more tests.
She leans in again and they kiss with a long drawn out passion that ignites like a match. Matt runs his hands up and down Karen's arms and back as she undoes his shirt. They fall back onto the couch as the passion takes over.
Their clothes fall to the floor as their bodies entangle as one. 

With out you With out you
I always thought that everything was fine
Without you never knowing you'd be mine.
Suddenly my world has changed and I just wonder why all it took was just one smile now it's you out of the blue love appeared before
my eyes with you dream come true I never thought I'd realize what love was what love was. I need you I need more everyday I love you more and more suddenly I see you there and everything's okay don't know why I feel this way. Now it's you out of the blue love appeared before my eyes with you dream come true I never thought I'd realize what love was what love was what love was here with you. We are together now never take my heart away all love that's now is here to stay it's like a dream come true I never thought I'd fall in love with you love appeared before my eyes with you dream come true I never thought here with you out of the clear bleu oh it's like a dream come true I never thought before my eyes with you dream come true I never thought I'd fall in love with you 

Matt and Karen hold each other tightly threw the night as there bodies wrestle as one. 

Joe and Frank sit in the cafeteria eating some pie and coffee.
Joe: I can't believe she cheated on me and with Matt of all people!
Frank: Joe I'm so sorry I know how much you love her. But are you sure she cheated on you. I mean friends go out all the time for dinner it doesn't necessarily mean anything.
Joe: You didn't see them Frank it was real clear that they were on a date.
Frank: Maybe she thought you weren't interested in getting back together.
Joe: She knows I wanted her back I just wanted her to trust me completely first that's all.
Frank: I thought she did, didn't she only dump you after Hank put some really heavy evidence out there.
Joe: She shouldn't have dumped me then either Frank. I expect absolute trust out of her.
Frank: Joe that's a lot to expect out of anyone especially when there is a lot of evidence to contradict that trust. I mean do you want her to live with blinders on?
Joe: She should just know that I'm never going to cheat and leave it at that. That's not the same thing as having blinders on because she knows me.
Frank shakes his head
Frank: Joe what you're asking of Karen would be nearly impossible for anyone. Knowing someone or not if there is a lot of evidence it's only natural to question it. I think the fact that you refused to acknowledge that she had a right to be suspicious.
Joe: So what are you saying that I drove her into Matt's arms?
Frank: No but you didn't make it easy for her to come back to you. And you basically lied to her about your feelings for Courtney. And after the seen you made at the Grill I think you need to do a lot of damage control.
Joe flops back in his chair
Joe: So I blew it
Frank: Only if you give up. I suggest that you show up at Karen's first thing in the morning with her favorite breakfast and the two of you talk this out calmly like two mature adults with know yelling and certainly no hitting. I'd also take flowers.
Joe: That sounds like a plan. But what about Matt?
Frank: Joe we're still not sure about the extent of their relationship. Get all the facts before you jump to any conclusions.
Joe smiles.
Joe: Thanks Frank you're right.
Frank: You're welcome, so are you okay now?
Joe: Yeah I'm fine. I'm going to go check on Neil. How is Julie?
Frank: No change, but Kevin has her on a bunch of meds and I'm giving her all the love and support I can. Hopefully she'll come out of this.
Joe: I'm sure she will.
The brothers head off. 

As the sun streams in through Karen's window she rolls over and opens her eyes. She can hear noise in the kitchen and she smells pumpkin muffins baking and coffee brewing. She sits up and stretches. Matt comes over and hands her a cup of coffee and a fresh baked pumpkin muffin.
Matt: Good morning
Karen: Good morning, oh pumpkin muffins. Matt thank you they are my favorite.
Matt smiles
Matt: I know
Karen: We'll see do you have something for me to read?
Matt whips out the comic strip.
Matt: One morning laugh for the lovely lady.
Karen: I'm impressed. Uh Matt about last night.
Matt: It was amazing.
Karen: yeah it was.
They smile at each other not sure what to say next.
Karen: Uh I didn't know you could cook
Matt: Yeah I really enjoy it. I think I like the creative aspect to it, it's also a great way to keep my hands limber.
Karen: Well you're very good at it. This muffin is delicious.
Matt: Well I'm glad you like it because I made two dozen of them.
Karen laughs.
Karen: Well I hope you plan on helping me eat some of them.
Matt: I'd be happy to. After all a good cook must sample his work.
Karen: Well then by all means
Karen breaks off a peace of the muffin and puts it in Matt's mouth Matt kisses her fingers. Karen leans in and they kiss.
Just then Joe walks in.
Joe: Well I guess I wasn't wrong after all.
Karen: Joe what are you doing here!
Joe: Well I felt I might have over reacted last night with out having all the facts so I came over to apologize and bring you these. He throws a basket of pumpkin muffins at her.
Joe: But I guess I wasn't here is your key back!
He storms out. 

At ferncliff Marcia answers the phone.
Marcia: Hello?
Chris: Hey there beautiful, how are you this lovely morning?
Marcia: Alright I guess, I've been worrying about you.
Chris: Well worry no more the switch went out with off a hitch. This place is in such an uproar they didn't miss a thing.
Marcia: That's great! What is the uproar about?
Chris: Well Neil's mom got killed by a bomb meant for Joe planted by Hank, Neil got his bone marrow from Lark, and Julie is catatonic after leaning the news of her family.
Marcia: Wow sounds like yesterday was quite a day. So are you going to come visit me later?
Chris: I have a meeting with Leopold in a bit but I'll be over sometime after lunch.
Marcia: I look forward to it. I love you.
Chris: I love you to. 

Hank is setting some last minute things in place in the ware house.
Hank: Oh I do hope Joe enjoys today come tonight his night mare will begin. Although I suppose it will even be worse for Frank and Mary since they will be receiving these little tapes of it all.
He laughs insanely. 

Neil is writing a letter when Frank comes in.
Frank: Hey slugger what are you up to?
Neil: I'm writing a letter to my Mom. Grandma said when Grandpa died you and dad wrote letters to him.
Frank: We did and it's a good idea. It really helped us.
Neil: When will the funeral be?
Frank: Tomorrow or the day after probably.
Neil: Uncle Frank can I ask you a question?
Frank sits down next to Neil.
Frank: Sure kiddo what's up?
Neil: How did she die? I mean I know she got hurt. But how did she get hurt?
Frank takes a deep breath.
Frank: Neil a very bad person put a bomb near where your mom was and it went off.
Neil: Someone killed her? But why who would want to kill my Mom? Will they come after me?
Frank: No absolutely not! Neil we don't think the bomb was meant for your mom she was just in the wrong place at the wrong time that's all. You have nothing to be scared of.
Neil: But where was she? And who was it meant for?
Frank: Neil I know you're curious but all that really matters is that you are safe. All you need to know is that we're going to find the person who did this and they will be punished and that your mom loves you very very much. Okay.
Neil: Okay uncle Frank.
They hug.
Mary comes in with a tray of food.
Mary: Hi sweetie how about some breakfast?
Neil: Okay
Frank: Well I'm going to go check on Julie, I'll be back in a bit okay.
Neil: Okay uncle Frank.
Mary: I'll see you in a bit.
Frank leaves.
Mary: So how is that letter coming?
Neil: Okay I guess I want it to be really good.
Mary: Well I'm sure it will be just fine. After all it's coming from your heart and what comes from our hearts is always just fine. 

Back in Julie's room Frank sits down beside her. He picks up her limp hand and begins talking.
Frank: Hey there gorgeous it's time to wake up. You've been out long enough. Julie please come back to me I love you and I need you. You mean the world to me.
Frank lays his exhausted head down beside her and starts crying. He suddenly feels her fingers wrap around his hand. He looks up and sees her gazing right at him with tears in her eyes.
Julie: Frank 

Chapter 16
Julie: Frank
Frank jumps and excitedly starts talking.
Frank: Julie you're awake! Oh it's a miracle! Hi honey. How are you how do you feel?
Julie has tears running down her face as dose Frank. He grabs a tissue and starts drying her eyes.
Frank: Julie it's going to be okay everything is going to be okay. You are at GH your mind needed a little rest.
Julie: Frank I feel so lost.
She starts crying. Frank wraps her in his arms and rocks her side to side.
Frank: You'll be okay you'll be okay. You're not alone I'm right here and we're going to figure all this out together. I know it was an awful shock. It's sick and demented and you deserve so much better. But no matter what just remember I love you.
Julie: I love you to. I'm just so tired, I just want to go to sleep.
Frank lays her back on the bed and starts stroking her face.
Frank: I know you're tired and you have every right to be. But I think you should stay awake at least till Kevin gets here.
Kevin walks in.
Frank: Hey Kevin talk about timing I was just about to call you.
Julie: Hi
Kevin: Well hello I'm glad to see you're awake.
Julie: What happened?
Kevin: What do you remember.
Julie: Well Frank told me about my so called family.
A tear runs down Julie's face. Frank squeezes her hand and kisses her.
Frank: It's going to be okay Julie.
Julie takes a deep breath.
Julie: Then everything just basically stopped. I could hear people talking to me and some of it I could understand but other parts were all muffled. The only person I always understood was Frank.
Frank smiles and blushes.
Julie: But I couldn't respond. I couldn't move I couldn't do anything.
Frank: You were completely catatonic. You had me real scared there for awhile. But you're going to get better don't you worry about that.
Kevin: Absolutely now that you're awake there is no reason with counseling why you can't get through this.
Julie: I definitely need help sorting all this out. But can I take a nap first I'm exhausted.
Frank looks at Kevin with concern.
Frank: Is that alright? I mean I don't want her going back to her catatonic state.
Kevin: That's fine, once a person has woken from one unless something major happens with in the first few hours it's unlikely that they'd slip back into it.
Julie: Why am I so tired?
Kevin: Because you're mind and body are on overload. And all of the reserves you have used for stress are used up. That's why you need to be counseled your body's ability to deal with difficult things in life has been put through such a test that it needs rest and repair. So I think sleep is a great idea. I'll come back later this after noon and we can get started. Dose that sound good?
Julie: Yeah that sounds fine thanks Kevin.
Frank: Yeah thanks Kevin I'll walk you out. Julie I'll be right back.
He kisses her tenderly and walks Kevin out. Once in the hall Frank turns to Kevin.
Frank: Is there anything I can do to help?
Kevin: You're doing it right now. Your love and support is giving her the strength that she's out of.
Frank nods.
Kevin: Don't worry Frank the fact that she is awake and ready to start working on getting better so quickly after the catatonic state began tells me that it was not as severe as we thought and there is no reason to think she won't be just fine. She'll be in counseling for awhile but beyond that there really is nothing to worry about.
Frank: Thank God. Kevin thanks I really appreciate everything you're doing. I mean I know it's your job but still.
Kevin smiles.
Kevin: I'm glad I can help. Julie is a nice lady who has been through hell if anyone deserves to be helped it's her. Besides it's the least I can do for my little brother.
Frank smiles and they shake. Kevin leaves and Frank goes back to Julie. 
Matt and Karen are sitting on her couch talking after cleaning up from breakfast and Joe's little visit.
Karen: Thanks for helping me clean up.
Matt: Well I did help make the mess.
Karen smiles.
Karen: It sure is a change to be with a man who cleans up after himself.
Matt: Well I guess it comes from always relying on yourself. I never had someone to help me. When I was a kid I was expected to do everything on my own. And as an adult I didn't have a choice.
Karen: I became very independent early on to. With my mom always drunk and no Dad around I didn't have anyone to take care of me either. It was sink or swim.
Matt strokes Karen's face.
Matt: Well maybe now we can take care of each other.
Karen smiles.
Karen: Well that certainly sounds nice. But before we start taking care of each other there is something I have to do. I have to talk to Joe. I can't just leave things the way they are, I nearly married him. We have to sit down and talk. Not about getting back together. But about why were not. And I have to let him know I never meant to hurt him.
Matt: I understand and you're right you can't leave things like this. it isn't like you're never going to see him again you work together. You both need to sit down and have a calm conversation.
Karen: Calm being the operative word. I know I can do it but I'm not sure about Joe.
Matt: Well I'm sure he realizes that you need to talk.
Karen: I hope so.
Matt: Well I bet he will and in time he'll come to appreciate the fact that you have enough respect for him and what you had to talk to him. I wish Ellen could have done that with me instead of just leaving.
Karen compassionately strokes Matt's cheek.
Karen: I know it's so much worse when things are left unresolved.
Matt: Do you want me to wait here while you do this?
Karen: Would you mind to?
Matt smiles
Matt: No not at all.
They kiss. 

Joe pops his head into Julie's room
Joe: Frank?
Frank signals Joe to keep it down he kisses Julie's for head and follows him into the hall.
Joe: I heard she woke up.
Frank: Yep she did, I'm so relieved. Kevin thinks she'll be just fine.
Joe: That's wonderful I'm happy for you Frank I know how much you love her.
Frank: Thanks, yeah she is my world. So did you go to Karen's this morning? How did it go?
Joe sighs and shakes his head.
Frank: That good huh, okay spill what happened.
Joe: I got up early and went to the corner bakery and bought some pumpkin muffins since they are her favorite. Then I go over to her place and let myself in. And what do I see when I walk in but Matt and Karen barely dressed sitting in bed eating breakfast.
Frank: Ouch! I'm sorry man I know how much you love her.
Joe: It's my own fault I guess. I expected to much from her. Didn't put her first enough and lost my temper to much.
Frank: It's not all you Joe don't beat yourself up over it. Karen made some choices here to. Is there anything I can do?
Joe: I don't think so.
Frank: What did Karen say?
Joe: I left before either could say anything.
Frank: Joe you and Karen need to talk.
Joe: What's there to say Frank I mean it's over that it.
Frank: Joe the two of you were nearly married. You have to talk to her. You can't just leave things as is. You're going to be working together you need to clear the air for both your sakes. And when I say clear the air I don't mean yelling I mean sitting down like to grown adults and talking calmly and rationally.
Joe: yeah you're probably right I mean we've been to close for to long to not talk this out. Our relationship deserves more respect then that.
Frank: Exactly.
Joe: Thanks Frank
Frank: Anytime
They hug. 

Chris is at home when the phone rings.
Chris: Hello?
Leopold: Hi it's me. Listen I just got a call from the hospital. The blood tests show you to be the dad.
Chris grins ear to ear.
Chris: Was there ever any doubt. So how long before my little girl can come home with me where she belongs?
Leopold: Well I'm going to try and convince the judge that it is in everyone's best interest for a decision to be reached quickly. So if everything goes our way with in a week.
Chris: Works for me.
Leopold: I'll see you later then bye
Chris: Bye.
Chris calls Marcia.
Marcia: Hello
Chris: How do you feel about yellow for the nursery?
Marcia: You got her!
Chris: Well not yet but Leopold thinks that by the end of the week I just might. After all the blood tests show that I'm the proud papa and what judge wouldn't keep my little girl away from me.
Chris grins.
Marcia: This is great! We really are getting close aren't we?
Chris: We're right on track sweet heart. I have to go now by my sweet.
Marcia: Bye sweet heart.
They hang up. Just then the phone rings again.
Chris: Hello
Rachel: Hi Chris it's Rachel. Listen I just heard the good new from Leopold which means you have a lot of work to do.
Chris: What do you mean?
Rachel: Chris that custody judge is going to be looking at where Christina will get the best life. Now Scott and Lucy have an entire nursery done up for her, tons of toys and baby supplies. All of which you have none of. Now don't you think the judge is going to take note of this.
Chris: Good point I guess it would look better if I was ready to take her.
Rachel: My thoughts exactly. So meet me at the mall in half an hour we're going to make the perfect nursery.
Chris: yes mam.
They hang up. 

Joe is at the nurses station when Karen comes off the elevator. Karen takes a deep breath and walks over to him.
Karen: Hi
Joe turns around.
Joe: Hi
Karen: Can we talk?
Joe: Yeah I think we better.
They go over to the couch in the waiting area and sit down.
Karen: Joe about last night and this morning. I'm sorry I never meant to hurt you.
Joe: Do you love him?
Karen: I'm not sure Joe. We are just starting. We didn't plan on sleeping together so soon it just happened. Last night was our first date and after the dinner we went back to my place for coffee. We had the music playing and we were so close.
Joe: That was your first date then with him?
Karen: yes, I had been totally focused up until yesterday on working things out with you. Then some things happened and I realized that things have changed between us. And there is no going back. I went to Matt for comfort and we ended up kissing. I called him later to talk about the kiss and we ended up going out to dinner. What were you doing there anyway?
Joe: I wanted to surprise you with dinner. So I was going to pick it up and bring it to you.
Karen: That was very thoughtful of you. Joe the bottom line is when if comes to relationships our views are different on what is fair and what is unfair to expect, and on top of that my feeling for you have changed. But I never meant to hurt you.
Joe: I know you didn't and I'm sorry about the way I lost it yesterday and this morning. Karen I only want you to be happy and if Matt makes you happy as much as I hate it I'll except it.
Karen: Thank you. Joe can I ask about what I heard you say about Courtney?
Joe sighs.
Joe: You certainly have a right to. Courtney was my first love. I don't think you ever get over first loves not completely anyway. I tried to and when you came along I felt like did because I thought you were my true love. But then she showed up back in town with Neil and at first I felt very little if anything. Now I don't know I guess I feel more then I realized.
Karen: How is Neil?
Joe: He's pretty miserable but he's hanging tough.
Karen: I'll go bye and see him later if that's okay.
Joe: Sure you've always been a good friend to Neil and he needs all the friends he can get right now.
Karen: Thanks. Uhm Can we still be friends?
Joe: I don't know Karen so much has happened. I'd like us to but I'm going to need sometime. Can you understand that.
Karen: Yes of course.
Joe: I always thought we'd get back together.
Karen: For along time I thought we would. But I guess it wasn't meant to be.
Joe: I guess so. Maybe we're just soul friends and not soul mates.
Karen: Maybe so.
Joe: I'm sorry I was so hard on you. I mean regardless of whether or not I was being set up. The evidence was there and it was strong. I'm sorry that I wasn't able to see that.
Karen: I'm sorry I couldn't look past it. I wish I was able to have unconditional trust but I just don't work that way.
Joe: No one should have to. Frank helped me see that last night.
Karen: I'm glad Frank is back. I know he helps you a lot.
Joe: I think I'd be bouncing off the walls right now if he wasn't.
Karen: How is Julie? Eve told me what happened when I got here. Is Matt really her brother?
Joe: Apparently he is. Julie woke up a little while ago and Kevin is certain that she'll be okay.
Karen: That's good. I'm sure Matt will want to come see her. Should he wait though?
Joe: I think you should ask Kevin he may think Matt should wait but I'm not sure.
Karen: This is going to be pretty awkward isn't it.
Joe: It isn't going to be a cake walk that's for sure. But I guess for Julie we'll need to try.
Karen: I think what's going on with Matt and I needs to be kept separate from Julie being his sister.
Joe: I agree.
Karen: Well I better go.
Joe: Yeah I have work to do.
Karen: Bye
They shake hands and Karen walks to the elevator as Joe watches her go with tears in his eyes.
Joe: Bye Karen. 

At the fire house Lucy has just put Christina her bottle when Scott walks in.
Scott: Hey there.
He walks in and kisses Lucy.
Lucy: Hi you look upset. Oh no he's her father isn't he.
Lucy starts to cry. Scott hugs her.
Scott: Lucy we new this could happen when new her family might come for her.
Lucy: Do we know anything about him? Did DV find him?
Scott: I don't know but according to the blood tests he's definitely Christina's father and according to Lee he wants his little girl in his arms as soon as possible.
Lucy: How soon?
Scott sighs
Scott: There is a chance we may have to hand Christina over to him by the end of the week.
Lucy: Oh no he can't do this! We can't loose her!
Scott hugs her tightly and rubs her back.
Scott: I don't want to loose her either but she's not ours and if her Dad wants her there may not be anything we can really do. Think how we'd feel if our little baby was taken from us. That's how this man is probably feeling.
Lucy rubs her face.
Lucy: That's true I guess I mean what if he didn't even know about her till recently the mother could have lied to him.
Scott: It's a possibility.
Lucy: So when is the hearing?
Scott: On Thursday, listen while Christina is napping why don't you do the same. You are pregnant and I want you to take care of yourself.
Lucy: Okay what are you going to do?
Scott: Go over my law books. I can be understanding about this guy and fight for Christina at the same time.
Lucy smiles and they kiss. 

Frank is sitting at Julie's when Kevin comes in.
Kevin: Hi there.
Frank: Hi Kevin.
Julie: Hi.
Kevin: How was your nap.
Julie: Good I slept really soundly.
Kevin: I'm glad to hear it. Are you ready for your first session?
Julie: As I'll ever be.
Frank: Well I guess I better leave.
He kisses Julie softly.
Frank: I'll be back.
Kevin: We'll be done in about 45 minutes.
Frank: Okay I'm going to go check on Neil.
Julie: Please tell him I said hello.
Frank: Sure thing
Frank leaves. 

In Neil's room Joe has just finished reading the letter Neil wrote his mom.
Neil: Do you like it?
Joe has tears in his eyes.
Joe: Neil I love it, it's absolutely beautiful.
Neil: I wanted it to be just right.
Joe: It's perfect Neil.
Neil: So when is the funeral?
Joe: Well the wake is tomorrow night and the funeral will be the next day.
Neil: I can go to both right?
Joe: Absolutely.
Just then Joe's cell phone rings.
Joe: Hello.
Hank: Joe it's Frank listen are you busy it's about Julie.
Hank pretends to cry a little.
Joe: what's wrong? Has she gotten worse? Where are you?
Hank: I'm over at the recovery room.
Joe: I'm on my way.
Joe hangs up.
Joe: Neil I need to go but I'll be back real soon okay?
Neil: Okay Dad.
They hug. Joe leaves. A couple minutes later Frank walks in.
Frank: Hey kiddo, how are you feeling?
Neil: Hi uncle Frank I'm okay. Is Julie feeling better?
Frank: yeah she's doing better. In fact she asked me to tell you hi.
Neil: please tell her I'm glad she's feeling better.
Frank: Sure thing pal. So where's your Dad?
Neil: He was here a minute ago but there was some kind of problem he had to deal with.
Frank: oh okay, so how about if I hang out with you?
Neil: Sure hey how you want to play battle ship?
Frank: Sounds good. 

Joe goes running out side and is suddenly grabbed from behind. Hank injects him with a drug and Joe immediately goes to sleep. Hank then quickly stuffs him into the trunk of a car he stole and drives away.
 
 

Chapter 17
When Joe comes to he is sitting in a hard metal chair. His hands are chained behind him and his feet are chained to the feet of the chair. He tries to yell but there is a peace of cloth stuffed in his mouth and masking tape is across his mouth to hold it in. He is completely naked except for his underpants. There is a bright light shinning right in his face and a video camera pointed right at him. Joe struggles pointlessly then he hears foot steps and out of the shadows steps Hank. Upon seeing Hank Joe starts jerking even more violently against his chains. Hank laughs.
Hank: Got Ya! I thought it was time that you and I spent some quality time together little brother. Oh but don't worry I wouldn't dream of leaving Frank and Mary out of this.
He grins devilishly. 
Back at Karen's place, Matt and Karen are cuddling on the couch.
Matt: It sounds like you and Joe had a good talk.
Karen: Yeah we really cleared the air. I think it was good that we did.
Matt: I agree. So are you both sure it's over?
Karen: Well no one can tell the future but for now it is. I mean I've definitely learned to never say never but we just aren't right for each other right now. We make great friends but that's about it. Matt most of our relationship revolved around childhood memories, and sex. You can't build a relationship on those two things alone. The truth is when we were acting like adults I don't know I don't think we meshed. I mean we did sometimes but as best friends you know what I'm saying?
Matt: Yes you know Karen sometimes two people can both be wonderful people but just not be right for each other. Look at me and Ellen.
Karen: What if Ellen came back and wanted you?
Matt: Well the way I see it Karen you can't build a relationship on regrets and what if's. I mean I'd probably be her friend but if we're a couple then that is where it would be left.
Karen: What if Ellen wanted more?
Matt: You mean like Courtney did with Joe?
Karen: Yeah
Matt: Then I would simply sit her down and say that she has a choice she can have me as a friend or not at all. Those are her only two choices because I'm with Karen now.
Matt smiles.
Karen: That sounds good.
Matt: So what if Joe tries to win you back?
Karen: Then I will simply tell him if he wants me as a friend he better back off because I'm with Matt now.
Matt: That works for me. So how about if I take you out on the town tonight?
Karen: Well that sounds great but there is some stuff I need to tell you about first.
Matt: Sounds serious.
Karen: It is. 

Back at the hospital Kevin has just finished up with Julie.
Kevin: Well I think that's enough for today.
Julie: So you'll be back tomorrow right?
Kevin: Yep I'll be here at the same time.
Julie: Okay just as long as I know when you're coming. I know that sounds silly but.
Kevin: Julie it's not silly at all knowing what time someone is coming is to have security which is exactly what you need right now.
Julie: When do you think I can go home?
Kevin: We'll see how your next couple of sessions go and then make a decision on that.
Julie: Okay, uhm what if Matt calls?
Kevin: Would you like to talk to him?
Julie: I guess I need to.
Kevin: But would you like to those are two separate things Julie.
Julie: I think I would.
Kevin: Then if he calls talk to him.
Julie: Okay thanks Kevin.
Kevin: You're welcome.
There is a knock on the door and Frank pokes his head in.
Frank: Can I come in?
Kevin: Sure can I was just leaving.
Frank comes in and kisses Julie.
Frank: So how did your first session go?
Julie: I think it was good.
She looks at Kevin for reassurance of this.
Kevin: It went very good.
Frank: Thanks Kevin
Kevin: You're welcome.
Kevin leaves.
Julie: So what have you been up to?
Frank: Well I have been getting my butt kicked playing battle ship with Neil. I'm telling you that kid has talent.
Julie laughs.
Julie: So how is he doing?
Frank: Well physically he is doing okay it looks like Lark's bone marrow is fulfilling all of are hopes.
Julie: Oh Frank that is great!
Frank: I mean it's to soon to know for sure but the tests results they got today were really really good.
Julie: Well that is great. At least there might be one less thing to worry about. How is he emotionally?
Frank: He is trying to hang tough but he's pretty emotionally raw right now.
Julie: I can imagine, that kid has been through so much. So have you talked to Joe how is he doing? I remember you saying something abut a meeting with Karen not going well?
Frank sighs.
Frank: Well it seems that Karen and Joe are officially and for at least the near future permanently over.
Julie: Oh no poor Joe. I know how much he loves Karen. He must be heart broken. Maybe you should go spend some time with him instead of sitting with me. I'm fine really.
Frank smiles.
Frank: He is doing okay. It is hard for him but he's hanging tough. Besides he's on duty tonight so if he needs me he can come find me he knows where I am. Right now I just want to focus on you.
They kiss. 

At the nurses station Monica goes to one of the nurses.
Monica: Have you seen Dr. Scanlon? He was paged three times to come to the ER but he never showed.
Nurse: No I haven't I'm sorry Dr. Quartermaine. I thought he was off tonight since I saw him run out of here with his coat on a little while ago.
Monica: He left a little while ago! That doesn't make any sense he isn't off till tomorrow morning. 

Back at Karen's place Matt is wheeling back and forth in his chair.
Matt: Julie is my sister! My Dad sold her! Well I guess that part shouldn't surprise me but still! My Sister! I need to go to her. How is she? You said she's awake right?
Karen: Yes she is awake but given her fragile condition I think we need to talk to Kevin first.
Matt: You're right I don't want to do more harm then good. Seeing me might be to much for her at the moment. And Oh My God!
Karen: Matt what's wrong?
Matt: Karen Joe is like a brother to her I'm the last person she's going to want to have anything to do with! And Joe and Frank probably wouldn't want me to have anything to do with her anyway. I'm sure I'm not on the best of terms with them right now.
Karen: Actually Joe and I talked about that. And we agreed that what ever is happening between you me and Joe has to be kept separate from Julie. She should be able to get to know her brother with out worrying about all of this other stuff.
Matt smiles.
Matt: That is a very generous conclusion for Joe to have reached. I'm not sure I could be as gracious.
Karen smiles
Karen: Of course you could.
Matt: A sister I can't believe it. I have a sister! You know I've missed having a sibling so much. When I was little I loved my brother so much. And we were close make no doubt about that. We were close as to brothers could be.
Karen: Like Frank and Joe?
Matt: Yeah a lot like them. But then we went separate directions in life. But even though I don't regret for one minute the choices I've made I still miss having that closeness that siblings have.
Karen: I remember when I was little dreaming about having a sister or brother to be close to. Then Serena came along. And she's even better then I imagined.
Matt: I'd love to get that closeness with Julie. I just don't know if it's going to be possible.
Karen: Well you won't know unless you try now will you.
Matt smiles and shakes his head.
Matt: No I definitely need to try.
Karen hands Matt the phone and he calls Kevin.
Kevin: Hello
Matt: Hi Kevin it's Matt. Listen I was think about going to see Julie. I really would like to get to know her since she is my sister and all. But I don't want to upset her. Do you think it would be to much for her if I went over there.
Kevin: Hey Matt I was wondering when you were going to call. I think she's ready to talk to you but I think you should make the first contact a phone call. And let her lead from there.
Matt: Okay thanks Kevin.
Kevin: No problem, oh and Matt if you need to talk I'm available.
Matt: Thanks Kevin I just might. Bye.
Kevin: Bye.
Karen: So what did Kevin say?
Matt: That I should start slow. He thinks a phone call would be best.
Karen: That makes sense. 

Back in Julie's room the phone rings. Frank picks it up.
Frank: Hello
Matt: Uh Frank hi it's Matt, can I speak to Julie please?
Frank: Hi uhm hold on a minute okay?
Matt: Okay.
Matt covers the mouth peace with his hand.
Matt: Frank answered he's asking her now I think. Dose he know about the deal?
Karen: Oh I'm sure Joe told him besides Frank is a great guy I'm sure he realizes this must be kept separate with out even being told that.
Matt: You're probably right.
Frank: Julie Matt is on the phone. He'd like to talk to you. Would you like to or should I tell him to call back another time?
Julie takes a deep breath.
Julie: I think I'd like to talk to him.
Frank hands her the phone.
Julie: Matt?
Matt: Julie, hi
Julie: Hi.
Matt: Uhm I'm glad to hear you're feeling better.
Julie: Thanks, so how are you?
Matt: I'm good, a little shell shocked but good.
Julie: Yeah it's quite a shock that's for sure.
Matt: So uhm have you started working with Kevin yet?
Julie: yeah I had my first session a little while ago. I think he'll really be a help.
Matt: Oh I'm sure he will. He's very good at what he dose. I might see him to.
Julie: Couldn't hurt. So uhm what do you think about all this?
Matt: I'm not really sure, it's a lot to take in. I guess the only thing I really know is that I'd like us to get to know each other. I mean as brother and sister. But at your pace of course I don't want to rush you or anything.
Julie: I'd like that to. I think in this whole mess that is one of the few things I really know for sure.
Matt: I know what you mean. You know I've always wanted a sister.
Julie: I've really missed having a brother.
Matt: Well them maybe some good can come out of this.
Julie: I think it could.
Matt: Would it be okay if I came to see you? Maybe tomorrow?
Julie: I'd like that. Uh Matt am I in danger now?
Matt: No Julie not at all. You were never in the family so there is no reason for you to be in danger just because you know about it.
Julie: That's good. I kind of wish I had been I mean maybe I could have protected you or something.
Matt smiles.
Matt: That's a nice idea but the truth is I don't think much of anything or anyone could have protected me from the Mancusi's.
Julie: Maybe, so when tomorrow do you think you'll come. I would just like to have an idea if that's okay.
Matt: Sure how about around 11am.
Julie: That sounds fine.
Matt: Well I guess I should let you go.
Julie: Okay have a nice evening.
Matt: yeah you to. Try and get some rest.
Julie: I will thanks. Bye
Matt: Bye.
They hang up. 

Karen: So how was it?
Matt: Well a little nerve racking and strange at first but over all I think it was okay.
Karen: Well I heard you say that you're going to see her tomorrow so you two must be on the same page.
Matt: It seems like we are. Should I bring her anything tomorrow?
Karen: Hmm sweet potato casserole. She loves sweet potato's.
Matt laughs.
Matt: You're kidding me so do I.
Karen laughs.
Karen: You really are twins. So what now?
Matt: Now put on your favorite dress cause we're painting the town.
Karen: Sounds good.
They kiss tenderly and Karen runs to change. 

Back in Julie's room Frank is sitting on the edge of her bed.
Frank: So how was it?
Julie: It really wasn't bad at all. I'm looking forward to seeing him tomorrow. I think we both want the same thing.
Frank: Well that's good. Everyone should have a brother.
Julie smiles.
Julie: I've definitely missed having one. I just wish I had something for him tomorrow.
Frank: Julie I'm sure he doesn't expect you to have something for him.
Julie: I know but I would like to have something for him just the same.
Frank: Like what?
Julie: I'm not sure, maybe a nice card.
Frank: That sounds nice. You could make one from scratch. Those kind of gifts always mean more in my opinion.
Julie: I agree
Frank gets Julie some paper and markers. Just then Monica comes in.
Frank: Oh hello Dr. Quartermaine.
Julie: Hi Dr. Quartermaine what brings you by?
Monica: Hello Mr. Scanlon, Hi Dr. Morris it's good to see you awake. How are you feeling?
Julie: Much better thank you.
Monica: Mr. Scanlon I was wondering if you'd heard from your brother. He was supposed to be on duty all night but he hasn't been answering his pager, or his cell phone and a nurse saw him leaving the hospital.
Frank looks confused and worried.
Frank: That doesn't make any sense. Joe cares to much about his career to just run off and even if he didn't he wouldn't just leave his son alone. Something isn't right here.
Just then Mary rushes in out of breath.
Mary: Frank what is it what's wrong!
Frank: Mom why are you all out of breath? Nothing has happened nothing is wrong? What made you think something was wrong? Here sit down.
Frank helps Mary to a chair.
Mary: Frank you called me a little while ago nearly hysterical bagging me to come to Julie's room right away and then you hung up?!
Frank: Mom I never called you. Nothing is wrong. Oh no.
Frank and Julie's eyes lock.
Frank: Hank!
Julie: Hank!
Just then a man from FedEx comes into the room.
FedEx man: I have an urgent delivery for a Frank Scanlon.
Frank: I'm Frank Scanlon.
FedEx man: I need you to sign right here.
Frank signs the man hands him a package and leaves. Frank rips it open inside there is a video tape with the words WATCH ME NOW!! on it.
Frank puts the tape into into the VCR and presses play. First thing they see is a big white board with the words GOT YA! on it. Then the board is dropped and there stands Hank.
Hank: Hi Frank and Mom. I'm guessing you'd like to know where Joe is?
He steps back and they see a almost naked except for his underpants Joe chained to a chair. He is jerking around feverishly.
Everyone in the room gasps in horror. Hank walks over to Joe still grinning into the camera.
Hank: Hey Frank what do you think about me doing this to your precious brother.
He picks up a leather belt with a metal buckle at the end and violently whips the metal buckle across Joe's face. Joe yells out and Frank screams covering his own face as if he felt it to. Mary starts crying.
Mary: Oh my baby oh my poor baby.
Hank: Hey mom what would you think about me doing this to your little baby.
Hank slugs Joe as hard as he can in the gut. Joe yells out in pain. Mary buckles over in tears.
Hank: Well that's all for now folks.
The screen goes black.
Mary: That monster has my baby!!!
Julie: He's coming after all of us he's coming after all of us!!!
Frank: He is not going to get away with this! I will find Joe I will find him!!!
Monica: I'll go call the police
Monica rushes out of the room.
Julie is hyperventilating and rocking back and forth. Mary is sobbing into her hands. Frank goes to Julie and hugs her.
Frank: Julie he isn't going to get us he isn't going to win. Everything is going to be okay just try to relax. He hugs her and rubs her back as his own heart pounds with unspeakable terror. Then he goes to his Mom and hugs her.
Frank: Mom it's okay I will find him I swear on Dad's grave I will find him and bring him hone where he belongs and Hank will rot in Jail.
Julie now a little more composed.
Julie: I want to help Frank Joe is like a brother to me I want to help.
Frank goes over and hugs her.
Frank: Julie the best way you can help right now is to concentrate on getting strong.
He kisses her softly on the head. Then he looks at the blank TV screen. I will find you Joe and when I do Hank will regret the day he ever met me.
Franks eyes flash with anger as he thinks of the tape

Chapter 18
It is early the next morning Matt and Karen have been out all night. They come into Karen's apartment all giddy from the night on the town and plop down on the couch.
Karen: Oh my gosh I do not remember the last time I was at so many dance clubs in one night in my life!
Matt: You could have fooled me you were right out there rocking and rolling I could hardly keep up.
Karen: Oh really Mr. Get up on stage and start singing with the band.
They both start laughing.
Matt: Hey I was just given you a good tune to dance to!
Karen laughs
Karen: Oh yeah great tune! b bb bbad bad to the bone I'm bbbb bad bad to the bone
Matt: Hey are you making fun of my singing.
Karen laughs
Karen: Oh never
Karen giggles.
Matt: I will have you know that that song is a classic!
Karen laughs.
Karen: I really had a great time.
Matt takes her hand.
Matt: So did I, oh and that 80's club you found was fantastic. Where did you hear of it?
Karen: Oh and old friend of mine is good friends with the owner. It was a fun place wasn't it.
Matt smiles
Matt: Any place with you is fun. You were pretty good when you got up there and sang that song what's it called?
Karen: How Will I Know.
Matt: Here's how you know.
Matt leans in and kisses her softly.
Karen laughs
Karen: Oh I just played right into that one didn't I.
Matt: Pretty much.
They laugh.
Karen: Where did you learn to dance like that anyway? Those moves were pretty fancy.
Matt: Well after I got shot I wanted to make sure it didn't slow me down any. So since I'd always loved to dance I took some classes especially for people in wheel chairs.
Karen: Well it payed off. I'd love for you to teach me some of those moves.
Matt: Well maybe we can make a deal.
Karen: Uh oh what kind of deal.
Matt: I'll show you how to dance like that if you help me make the sweet potato casserole for Julie.
Karen: I think I can manage that.
Karen looks at her watch.
Karen: And I think we should get started now.
Matt: Works for me.
They head into the kitchen. 
Over at the fire house Lucy is giving Christina her morning bath and is singing to her.
Lucy: You are my sunshine my only sunshine you make me happy when sky's are gray you'll never know dear how much I love you oh please don't take my sunshine away.
Lucy struggles to hold back her tears as she baths her. Scott watches her from the door way sadly. Lucy turns and sees him.
Lucy: Oh hey Scott I was uhm just singing to Christina you know because I'm trying to bathe her and well she doesn't hold still unless I sing to her. And I think that's such a pretty little song. Well actually I guess it's a pretty sad song if you think about it isn't it. But she seems to like it. But you know some people like blue songs. In fact I think there was a song writing called sad songs say so much.
Scott: Lucy I just got off the phone with Lee. The judge has to go out of town on Thursday some kind of emergency so the hearing is tomorrow.
Lucy: What no they can't do that! We're not ready were not prepared! You just call them back and tell them that we'll have to wait till the judge gets back!
Scott: Lucy the father won't wait.
Lucy: Well he's just going to have to! Scott no no please don't let them take her from us.
Lucy picks up Christina in her arms and starts sobbing.
Scott runs over and hugs them both.
Scott: I'm sorry I don't want them to but I I can't stop this Lucy I just can't. I want to I I don't want to loose her either but her father is pushing to get her really hard.
Lucy: So they could take her from us tomorrow.
Is that what you're saying? We could go in there and they could just rip her right out of our arms! That's what your saying isn't it! We could go in there with our little girl all wrapped up in our arms and this man who she doesn't even know could just pick her up and walk out with her!
Scott: Lucy I hate this to and I'm going to fight it but we have to be prepared the odds aren't good.
Lucy: And when have you ever paid attention to odds before!
Scott: Lucy please calm down I don't want you to risk a miscarriage. We have are own baby to worry about.
Lucy: Christina is our baby to Scott!
Scott: Judges typically don't see it that way. In fact the fact that you are pregnant may make it easier for the father to get Christina.
Lucy: Well then we just won't tell them!
Scott: Lucy they know.
Lucy: What do you mean they know! What do they have spies everywhere!
Christina starts to whimper.
Lucy: it's okay it's okay.
Scott: Your appointment yesterday with Dr. Medows. Apparently word got out.
Lucy: They are going to use are baby against us! Oh this is just great!
Scott: How about if you go lie down and I'll get Christina dressed.
Lucy: No If I'm going to loose her tomorrow then I'm going to savor every minute that I have with her now! Excuse me.
Lucy takes Christina into her room. Scott looks after her sadly. 

Chris is waiting in the visiting room at Ferncliff when Marcia comes in.
Marcia: Chris what a nice surprise! I didn't expect to see you so early!
She runs to him and they hug and kiss tenderly.
Chris: Hey there poocky face, what can I say I just could stay away.
Marcia: So how is the nursery coming?
Chris: Well actually I have some exciting news on that front. The judge has to go out of town on Thursday which was the original date of the custody hearing. So with Leopold's help it's been bumped up to tomorrow. Which means by tomorrow night Christina could be with me!
Marcia: Oh Chris that is wonderful news! I can't believe this everything is falling into place! Wow Chris you really need to get a room ready.
Chris: I'm all ready way ahead of you. Rachel and I spent most of yesterday buying stuff for a nursery and most of last night setting up. We're going to finish today and tonight.
Marcia: What dose Leopold think are chances are?
Chris: Well considering I'm her real father and Lucy just found out she's pregnant. He thinks we have and excellent chance.
Marcia: Lucy is pregnant? I thought she couldn't have kids?
Chris: Well apparently she can and it comes at a perfect time for us since this will make the judge less sympathetic to the we can't have children claim that they could have used. Now they really have very little if anything on there side.
Marcia: Except that they've had her from the get go.
Chris: Well if she was 8 months or above that could work but she isn't at the age where babies really start to be attached to one care taker yet. You know where they recognize and cling to one person. She isn't at that stage yet. So it's unlikely that the judge will give it much weight.
Marcia: What about our reputations?
Chris: Well since you are still here and I'm suing alone they will only be looking at mine verses theirs. And mine I assure you is a lot cleaner then either one of theirs. We are getting Christina Marcia there is no doubt about that.
Marcia: It sure sounds like it.
They kiss happily. 

The on call room at GH is flooded with cops, reporters and volunteers wanting to help find Joe. Frank is handing out fliers while Mary and Victor talk to a reporter about Joe, when Kevin comes in.
Kevin: I just heard what happened. Can I do anything to help?
Frank: Hey Kevin you can tell me that I'm hallucinating and non of this is happening.
Kevin puts a hand on Franks shoulder.
Kevin: I wish I could.
Mary: Hi Kevin thanks for coming.
Kevin hugs Mary
Kevin: Anytime. So has Hank tried to contact you again in anyway.
Frank: Not since that damm video showed up last night. Just thinking about it makes me sick.
Mary: I just keep thinking about Joe and what that monster may be doing to him.
Mary breaks down. Kevin, Victor and Frank help her to the couch.
Kevin: Mary I know it's hard but you need to try and think positively. Maybe he only wants you to think he's hurting Joe maybe he isn't really. You know we are going to find him Mary. We know who has him now all we have to do is find Hank and we'll be able to bring Joe home.
Frank: Kevin is right mom. We need to think positive that's what Joe would want us to do. Besides I'm sure with has cocky as Hank is he is going to slip up and when he dose we'll be there to catch him.
Kevin: Frank is exactly right Mary. Everyone makes mistakes and the more cocky you are the more you're going to make. All we have to do is be prepared to catch his mistake.
Victor: Oh dear Mary I'm sure we'll find Joe soon. Perhaps I should call upon some of my old friends to help us.
Kevin: Now there is an idea. Do we have any idea of Hanks where abouts?
Frank: We think he is somewhere in Port Charles the question is where.
Mary: I'm not sure what hurts more knowing my baby is being held captive and is being hurt. Or knowing that the man holding him is also my son.
Frank: I can't help but wonder what if I'd been the one given up, would everyone have been spared this? Would Joe be here with his son instead of chained up somewhere. Would Mom be at home sleeping in on her day off instead of here worrying. Would Julie be on duty instead of recovering from a catatonic episode. I just keep wondering why I was the one to get the family.
Kevin: Frank you know I know about those feelings. Every night I wonder why I was rescued from my mother and Ryan wasn't. Why was I aloud to have a good life and my brother wasn't. If Dad had taken him instead would all those people still be dead. Maybe I could have handled it better. I have fought with all of that.
Frank: Any conclusions?
Kevin: As a matter a fact yes. I can't change the past so asking myself what if is pointless and only causes pain. And that in the end I'm not to blame. You see I like you had no choice in who was kept where. I didn't have a choice of whether I went or Ryan went. And you didn't have a choice as to whether you or Hank was given up.
Victor: I wish I could have saved both of them but I couldn't.
Mary: I know I wish I could have raised Hank I'm sure I could have made a difference.
Kevin: I'm sure you could have.
Frank: Mom we'll find Joe I'm sure of it.
Mary: I know it's the condition he may be in when you do that worries me.
Kevin: Well then we'll just fix him up. Mary try not to worry about that now anyway. Lets only focus on what we can control right now. And right now we can control this investigation.
Victor: Kevin is right we need to get to work.
Kevin: So what's next?
Frank: fliers that need to be distributed and phone calls to radio, and TV. stations to get the word out.
Kevin: I'll distribute the flyers, under the circumstances I don't think you should be out right now.
Victor: Good thinking we don't want you accidentally getting arrested by someone thinking you're Hank.
Frank: I agree thanks Kevin I'll get on the phone then and start making calls.
Kevin: Your welcome
Garcia runs in.
Garcia: We just got another tape.
Everyone gathers around the TV. as the tape begins to play.
Hank appears on the screen.
Hank: Hey dear family! Ready for some more family fun!
He laughs insanely.
Hank: Well before we get to it I'm sure you're all anxious to know where I am so here is part of a riddle so you can start looking. Pink Sky at night sailors delight, pink sky in morning sailors take warning. Okay enough of a clue now lets get in some fun.
He steps back and they see a naked Joe chained to a table face down. He lifts a leather whip and with all his might starts violently striking Joe's back with it. Joe wails in pain. Mary faints and Joe turns green and falls to his knees.
Frank: Oh God make him stop!!
Kevin and Victor help Frank and Mary to the couch. Garcia turns off the tape.
Mary is crying.
Mary: Oh my baby oh my sweet baby.
Frank: We have to find him now! Mom it's going to be okay we'll find him we'll find him! We have to!
Kevin: Okay both of you take a deep breath everything is going to work out I'm sure. Now lets look at the clue Hank gave us. And see if we can figure it out.
Frank having regained his composure.
Frank: You're right we can't let Hanks actions side track us from focusing on finding him because that's exactly what he wants us to do. Okay I remember that saying from it has to do with boats. and the whether.
Victor: Could Hank be at sea with Joe?
Frank: No I don't think so the tapes would be taking longer to get here.
Kevin: That's true, but it also has to do with the whether. Hmm hey maybe we should check out places around some whether vains or around water?
Frank: Maybe vacant building's around bodies of water. Although perhaps we should also check where Julie and I were held.
Victor: Garcia where are your men looking?
Garcia: They have already checked the Stanton place it's empty. They are already looking in vacant houses but I'll have them start looking especially hard near bodies of water.
Frank: Tell them to triple check everything my brothers life may depend on it. 

Lark goes into Neil's room.
Lark: Hey kiddo!
Neil: Hi Lark hey you're all dressed. Are you going home?
Lark: yep I'm blowing this Popsicle stand. So how are you feeling?
Neil: I'm okay I have more energy actually.
Lark: Well that's good.
Neil Yeah it's strange I feel like I could get up and go play or something. Hey have you seen my Dad?
Lark hesitates knowing what has happened.
Lark: Not this morning kiddo, hey since you have so much energy how about if I take you down to the cafeteria for some real food.
Neil: Cool!
Lark helps Neil into a chair and they head off. 

Matt and Karen arrive at the hospital.
Karen: Yikes I haven't seen these many cops and reporters since the Genhm murders.
Matt: I know, it's kind of creepy.
Karen: Well I better get to work. Hey come find me after your visit with Julie. I want to know how it goes.
Matt: Sure thing.
They kiss and Matt head off to Julie's room.
Eve then rushes up over to Karen.
Eve: Karen did you hear what happened?
Karen: Hi Eve good morning to you to. No I haven't hey what's up with all the cops and reporters.
Eve: Karen Hank kidnapped Joe and his holding him hostage somewhere. But no one knows where. Joe was seen leaving the hospital early last night then a little while later a video was delivered to Frank. It was Hank letting him know that he has Joe.
Karen: OH MY GOD! Is there nothing that monster won't do! Do they have any leads at all?
Eve: Not since I checked last. I'm surprised no one called you.
Karen: Eve Joe and I broke up for good yesterday. I've started a relationship with Matt.
Eve: Oh My God, Wow this place is turning into a soap opera!
Karen: Yeah no kidding. Is there anything I can do to help? I mean he's still my friend.
Eve: I'm not sure go to the on call room they've set up in there just like they did when Julie was kidnapped. I'm sure they can give you something to do.
Karen: Thanks
Karen heads off to the on call room. 

Matt knocks on Julie's door.
Julie: Who is it?
Matt: Julie it's Matt.
Julie: Come in.
Matt wheels in and finds Julie sitting in her robe over by the window.
Julie: Hi
Matt: Hi you look nice, I like the robe.
Julie smiles.
Julie: Thanks Frank gave it to me as a birthday present.
Matt: It's very pretty. Well this is for you.
Matt hands her the sweet potato casserole.
Julie: Oh Matt this looks great! Thank you so much! I love sweet potato's and the food around here is so bad. It looks great!
Matt smiles.
Matt: Thanks I'm glad you like it. I wanted to bring you some, and I got it from a very reliable source that you like sweet potato's so I made it for you. Here try some.
He hands her a fork. She takes a bite.
Julie: Oh Matt this is great thank you so so much.
Matt: You're welcome, I'm glad you like it.
Julie: Oh here I have something for you.
Julie pulls reaches into her bathrobe pocket and pulls out a card she has made for him.
Matt looks at it.
Matt: Oh Julie this is so nice thank you.
Julie: You're welcome.
Matt: So how are you feeling today?
Julie: Very scared and worried considering.
Matt looks confused
Matt: considering what?
Julie: Haven't you heard?
Matt: No obviously not. What has happened?
Julie: Hank has stuck again. He kidnapped Joe last night. We have know idea where he is. All we know is that Hank has him because a tape was delivered to Frank last night on which Hank showed Joe all chained up.
Matt: Oh My God that's awful!
Julie wipes a tear from her face.
Julie: It really is. From what we saw Hank is not treating him well at all. I'm scared for him.
Matt: Well I'm sure the cops will find him.
Julie: I just hope it's not to late for Joe.
Matt takes her hand and squeezes it.
Matt: Do you want me to get Kevin or Frank for you?
Julie: NO they're busy trying to find Joe, I'd be helping to but Frank and Kevin felt at this point I should just concentrate on myself.
Matt: I think that's a good idea. So have you had any luck keeping your mind off of it.
Julie: Not really.
Julie spots some cards on the shelf.
Julie: You play?
Matt: Sure do.
He gets the cards and deals.
Julie: So how are you doing? I know it hasn't been easy for you lately.
Matt: Well I think things are getting a better.
Julie smiles.
Julie: Well that's good to hear. You know the best thing for you might be to just start dating a lot you know play the field. They say nothing heels a broken heart like love.
Matt realizes she doesn't know.
Matt: Well I think that's probably true.
Julie: So do you have today off?
Matt: yeah I'm working tonight.
Julie: You know I've never been able to decide which is worse back to back day shifts or night shifts.
Matt: It's a toss up that's for sure.
They both laugh.
Matt: So where did you learn to play cards?
Julie: Buddy and I used to play a lot. And poker night at the Scanlon's is a weekly event don't forget.
Matt: How could I forget I usually win
They both laugh.
Julie: Did you ever play games with your brother before you got into the family business? I'm sorry was that to personal?
Matt: Oh know not at all. Yeah we played a lot of games. As Kids Bobby and I were very close. It's only as we grew that we drifted apart. I guess you and Buddy were very close?
Julie: We were a lot like Frank and Joe. Always there for each other in every way. We did so much together we were practically inseparable. Then things just started changing. He started spending more and more time alone and then that thing with my father I mean my adopted father
Julie starts crying.
Matt takes her hands.
Matt: Julie it's okay it's okay you don't have to talk about Buddy if it hurts to much.
Julie: It's just I wish I could have saved him. I feel like I let him down because I didn't see the signs. I know in my head it's not my fault but in my heart I'm just not so sure.
Matt: Sometimes are hearts can be very stubborn about things like that.
Julie: Yeah anyway we we were very close.
Matt: Well that's good that you had that.
Julie: Yeah I think so. UHm can we change the subject?
Matt: Sure what kind of music do you like?
Julie giggles.
Julie: I'm really into good dancing music. You know music with a real beat to it. But if it's slow I want it real slow. How about you?
Matt: I like all kinds I guess it really depends on my mood.
Gail pops her head in.
Gail: Hi Julie
Julie: Oh hi Gail
Matt: Hi Gail
Gail: Oh hello Matt. Julie Kevin and Frank wanted me to check in on you.
Julie: I'm doing okay please tell them not to worry about me and to just focus on finding Joe.
Gail smiles.
Gail: I'll pass it along.
Gail leaves.
Matt: Well I should probably get going.
Julie: Okay thanks for the casserole it was very nice of you.
Matt: You're welcome, and thanks for the card it's nice.
Julie: You're welcome.
Matt: I'll check back in tonight when I'm on duty if that's okay.
Julie: I'd like that.
They shake hands.
Matt: Okay then bye.
Julie: Bye
Matt leaves.

Chapter 19
Matt goes looking for Karen, to tell her how his meeting with Julie went. He goes to the nurses station where Eve is at.
Matt: Hi Eve, have you seen Karen?
Eve: Hi Matt yeah I saw her a little while ago putting up some fliers. You heard about Joe right.
Matt: Yeah Julie told me it really is horrible. Do they have any new clues?
Eve: As a matter of fact they do. They think Hank is holding him somewhere near water in Port Charles.
Matt: Well that's a start. You think I could help?
Eve thinks.
Eve: Well Matt to be perfectly honest knowing how much Frank loves his brother and that you and Karen have hooked up I don't think Frank would want to see you at the moment.
Karen walks up at this point.
Karen: Hi Eve.
She turns to Matt
Karen: Hi there cutie.
She gives him a peck on the cheek.
Matt: Hey gorgeous. Eve I would think Frank would want everyone and anyone helping.
Eve: Well I guess it wouldn't hurt to ask. Just don't play kissie face in front of Frank okay.
Karen: Come on Eve we have more tact then that.
Eve: Sorry just trying to help. Well I have patients.
Eve leaves. Karen turns to Matt.
Karen: So how did your visit with Julie go?
Matt: Well I think it went pretty good, I guess. We talked and laughed a little. She loved the casserole by the way thanks for helping me make it.
Karen: You're welcome I'm glad I could help. So it went well huh.
Matt: Yeah I think we enjoyed each other and I'll check in on her tonight. My only concern is how she's going to react to me when she learns I'm dating you. You know she cares very much about Joe.
Karen sighs.
Karen: I doubt she will let that color her relationship with you and if she dose it's her loss.
Matt: I guess so. So uhm how are you holding up with this whole Joe thing?
Karen: Well I'd be lying if I said it hasn't shaken me or that I'm not scared for him. But we were best friends long before we were ever a couple so I don't think that proves anything.
Matt: Of course not except that you're human. I mean who wouldn't care if someone they new was kidnapped. How did Frank to you wanting to help?
Karen: Well I didn't actually talk to him. He was on the phone when I walked in. Kevin was about to leave with a bunch of fliers and he asked if I wanted to help. I said yes and he gave me some to put up. But I think your right, I'd be really surprised if he refused to let you help. I mean right now Joe's physical well being is in a lot more danger then his emotional state.
Matt: I agree. So how about if we go to the on call room and see what we can do next.
Karen: Sounds like a plan.
They head off. 
In the on call room Frank has just gotten off the phone.
Frank: Well that's the last of the calls. All of the radio and TV. stations have the information. Victor any luck reaching your friends?
Victor: Yes, I've managed to reach several they are all very eager to help. Especially since several of them owe me big time for saving there lives.
Mary: Just what every family needs a 24 hour on call spy.
The three of them laugh.
Matt and Karen come in.
Karen: Hi Frank, I distributed all of the fliers Kevin gave me. Has there been any breaks in the case.
Frank: Thanks Karen I appreciate your help. No nothing as of yet.
Matt: Frank I just heard a little while ago. Is there anything I can do to help.
Frank looks at the two of them holding hands and thinks of Joe he takes a deep breath and bites his lip.
Frank: Well right now we've really done all we can do. Unless you want to go patrolling the area looking for clues.
Matt: I have the day off, so yeah I can do that. Do we have a general Idea of where I should look?
Just then Kevin and Garcia come in.
Garcia: Frank a letter just arrived for you. We think it's from Hank.
Frank tears it open. A Polaroid picture fall out. Frank looks at it and turns green. He covers his mouth and turns his head.
Kevin: Frank what is it?
Kevin takes the picture and note from Frank as Victor helps Frank to a chair.
The picture is of Joe. He has a blood gash on his forehead. His face is swollen and black and blue. And he has what appears to be razor marks on his chest, along with small burns.
Kevin: That animal!
Frank is near tears.
Kevin: Frank we will find him I promise you.
Frank: Well we better make it fast. Judge from this picture Joe doesn't have a lot of time left. What dose the note say?
Kevin reads aloud.
Hey Frank! 

Just thought you'd like to see how your brother is doing. I also wanted to give you the next clue. Where boats unload is called this.
Karen: The docks!
Frank: Of course that's near a body of water!
Garcia calls his men to search the area around the docks.
Frank: I'm going.
Kevin: No Frank you need to stay here.
Frank: THAT'S MY BROTHER OUT THERE!
Kevin: And until we pin point him you being out there is only going to make it harder to. Once we have him pin pointed then you can go.
Matt: I'll start driving around there and see if I see anything.
Frank: Thanks Matt.
Karen: I used to work down there at a restaurant let me make some phone calls maybe someone has seen something.
Matt and Karen leave. 

Lark and Neil come up from the cafeteria and are headed back to Neil's room, when they hear a TV. going.
Reporter: There are still no leads in the search for Doctor Joe Scanlon who was kidnapped early last night by his own Brother Hank. We do know that Joe is being tortured so naturally the family is very eager to find him. if you have any information that could result in Joe being rescued please call 555-1997.
Neil turns ghost white Lark realizes he has heard this.
Lark: Lets go see uncle Frank.
Neil: My Dad has been kidnapped! He's being tortured! Why why, he isn't going to be killed is he.
Neil starts crying. Lark gives him a big hug.
Lark: Neil everything is going to be okay. I know for a fact that Uncle Frank, Grandma and a ton of other people along with the police department are searching right now.
Neil: But what if it's to late? I don't want to loose my Dad to.
Neil breaks down crying.
Lark holds him tightly.
Lark: I know Neil I know. We just have to pray that it won't be to late. Come on lets go find Frank.
Lark takes a terrified and crying Neil to the on call room. She brings him in.
Lark: Frank I was bringing Neil up from the cafeteria after getting some food. A patents door was open and he heard a news report about Joe.
Neil: Is my Dad going to die?
Frank goes over and hugs Neil tightly. Then looks him straight in the eye.
Frank: Neil I'm doing everything in my power to make sure that doesn't happen. I promise I won't give up. We will find him.
Neil: The report said he's being hurt. Why would anyone want to hurt my Dad?
Frank: There are some very nasty people in the world Neil. And unfortunately one of them got your Dad. But we will find him and when we do we will fix him up good as new. I promise.
Neil: But what if he is dead?
Neil starts crying Frank holds him tightly.
Frank: Then we will make sure the person who killed him gets punished severely. But you do know Neil you won't be alone. You know that right? I'm here for you always and forever. I love you Neil.
Neil: I love you to Uncle Frank. Do we have any idea about where he is?
Frank: Well we do have some and we're hoping to have more real soon.
Neil: Can I hang out in here with you for awhile.
Frank: Sure I could use some company. Oh Lark uhm.
Lark smiles.
Lark: Don't worry about it I called Leia this morning and explained the situation to her. She's waiting in the hall to take me home and will stay the afternoon with me.
Frank: I'll be home later this after noon to get ready for Courtney's wake.
Lark: Oh that's right that is tonight. With everything that has been going on I nearly forgot.
Frank hugs Lark.
Frank: I'm sorry I can't take you home but
Lark: But a mad man has your brother and you need to find him. Frank no explanation is necessary.
Frank smiles.
Frank: Boy you've grown up.
Lark laughs.
Lark: Thanks I guess I have. Neil I'll see you later buddy okay, and try not to worry. Everything is going to be okay.
Neil: Okay Lark thanks. Will you be there tonight?
Lark: Absolutely.
They hug and she leaves
Victor brings Mary some coffee.
Victor: Here you are my sweet.
Mary: Oh thank you.
Victor: How are you holding up?
Mary: Did you see the picture that arrived a little while ago?
Victor hugs Mary.
Victor: Yes I did, but Joe is strong and I'm sure he'll be fine. We just have to keep looking.
Mary sighs and shakes her head.
Mary: I just hope it's not to late. There is only so much anyone can take. I just can't believe this is happening I just can't believe it.
She starts crying and Victor hugs her tightly.
Kevin comes in.
Kevin: Frank I brought you some food. You need to eat.
Frank: Thanks Kevin but I don't think I can.
Kevin: Frank you've got to keep your strength up. When we find Joe he's going to need you.
Frank sighs
Frank: I guess you're right.
Frank tries to eat.
Karen comes in.
Frank: Any news?
Karen: No one that I spoke to has seen anything out of the ordinary I'm sorry. Hi Neil, it's good to see you out of bed. I take it you're feeling better?
Neil: Hi Karen, yeah I'm feeling a little better I guess. I'm just really worried about my Dad.
Karen goes over to him and hugs him.
Karen: I know you are but you know your Dad is super tough and I'm sure he's going to be just fine.
Neil: I hope so.
Karen: Hey would you like me to read you a story?
Neil: yes please.
Karen gets a book and takes Neil over to one of the cots and begins reading to him.
Kevin: It's nice to see how close Karen and Neil are.
Frank: I guess but if this thing with Joe wasn't going on I'd throw her out of here and tell that little tramp to stay the hell away from my family. But Neil needs a friend and she wants to help. Now isn't the time to be angry. We have to put are differences aside till Joe is safe.
Kevin: Wow what's got you so mad at Karen?
Frank: Joe caught her and Matt in bed together. Then Karen permanently dumped him for Matt.
Kevin: Ouch well that's not good. But weren't they basically apart anyway.
Frank: They were supposedly trying to work things out. My brother has loved her since elementary school that will never change. I just hate how she broke his heart. But what Hank is doing to him now is worse.
Kevin: What are you going to do after Joe is found. I mean Julie is good friends with Karen and Matt's sister she needs them.
Frank sighs.
Frank: I know, I'm going to do my best to not let this interfere with Julie. But I don't have to like it.
Kevin smiles.
Kevin: No you don't. 

Later that night after the wake Frank brings Neil back to the hospital and gets him settled in his bed.
Frank: You feeling okay slugger?
Neil: I guess so. I would feel better if my Dad was here.
Frank hugs him
Frank: So would I kiddo so would I.
Neil: How come my Mom's coffin was closed?
Frank: Well you want to remember your mom alive right? You know all pretty and smiling?
Neil: Yeah
Frank: Well since she got hurt so bad to make sure you remember her that way we thought it would be better if we had a closed casket. Because sometimes people look different when they are dead. And we thought it would be better if you didn't see that. Dose that make sense?
Neil: I guess so.
Frank: Okay well I'm going to go check on Julie you try and get some sleep okay?
Neil: Okay Uncle Frank.
Frank hugs him and leaves. He goes to Julie's room. She is propped up in bed reading.
Frank: Hey there beautiful.
Julie: Hi there I was wondering when you'd be coming by.
They hug and kiss tenderly.
Julie: Any news on Joe?
Frank shakes his head sadly.
Frank: No not yet. You know I'm not sure what scares me more the idea that Joe might not being around anymore or the idea of what he's being put through.
Frank starts to cry. Julie puts her arms out and they hug. Frank pulls back.
Frank: I'm sorry I'm sorry. I can't be loosing it on you. Listen I don't want you to worry about a thing okay. Everything is going to be fine, you don't need to worry about me or Joe or anything just concentrate on yourself.
Julie smiles
Julie: Frank even if I wanted to block you and Joe and all of this out my heart wouldn't hear of it. So just forget about that. Besides I should be the one place where you can dump your troubles. You can be a take care of the rest of the world but I want to take care of you.
Frank: Oh I'm sure Kevin would think that's a great idea.
Julie laughs.
Julie: Frank the idea isn't for me to become totally me oriented it's for me to learn how to deal with life. And helping you through this is part of dealing with life. So how are you holding up?
Frank: Well one minute I think I'm going to throw up, the next I want to put my fist through the wall and then I want to curl up in a ball and cry.
Julie: Maybe you should talk to Kevin.
Frank: I've been talking to him, and I'm sure I'll continue it. So enough about me how was your day?
Julie: Well I'm doing good. Kevin is pleased with my progress so far and he thinks that I can go home in a few days.
Frank: That's great!
Julie: Oh and Matt came by to see me today.
Frank takes a deep breath trying not to show is rage at Matt.
Frank: And how did that go?
Julie: It went pretty well. It was a little nerve racking but over all I'd say it was good.
Frank: I'm glad you deserve a brother.
Julie: It would certainly be nice to develop a relationship with him. So how was the wake for Courtney?
Frank: Very sad and scary. I think we were all having the same thought what if the next wake is for Joe.
Julie: Oh Frank I'm so sorry. Neil must be so scared. How is your mom?
Frank: Mom and Neil are hanging tough but they are scared. So when are you going to see Matt again?
Julie: He dropped in a little while ago. He made me sweet potato casserole earlier today it was really good.
Frank: That was nice of him. Well I better get back to the on call room. I'll check in on you later.
Julie: Okay I hope you have good news when you do.
Frank: Oh would that be great.
They hug and kiss and Frank leaves. 

Early the next morning the on call room is full of people when another letter arrives. Kevin opens it as Mary and Frank watch nervously.
Inside there is another picture of Joe he looks like he's been battered and burned all over his body. He is unconscious in this picture.
Frank: DAMIT!,
Frank takes a deep breath as Mary bursts into tears.
Frank and Kevin help her to the couch.
Kevin: Mary you can't give up yet we still have hope.
Mary: But we're running out of time!
Frank: Mom we will find him we just have to. What dose the note say.
Frank 

See Joe asleep, see Joe go night night, where is a house where boxes go.
Hank.
Garcia: What the hell dose that mean!
Frank: He's talking non sense is that even a clue?
Kevin: Well lets look at it. Where are boxes kept.
Mary: Maybe in an attic?
Frank: wait a second! Where is a house if you change it around it says where house and boxes are kept in where houses!
Kevin: And some where houses have bedroom supplies stored in them! Which would explain the see Joe sleep!
Garcia: There is an old abandoned where house with bedding supplies in it down on the docks!
Frank: And we know that according to the last two clues he's on the docks!
Frank, Kevin, Mary, Victor along with Garcia go charging out. 

Over at the court house Lucy and Scott arrive with baby Christina and Lee who is representing them. They go into what looks like a board room and sit down. Soon in walks Leopold and a slender brown hard woman.
Leopold: Mr. Baldwin Ms. Coe I'd like to introduce you to the social worker handling this case Val Backet.
Val smiles.
Val: It's nice to meet you.
She shakes there hands.
Scott: So where is Christina's father? I'd think he'd be on time for this?
Val: Oh he's been here for awhile he had to make an important phone call. He's a doctor and there was a problem with a patient of his. He will be here momentarily.
Just then Rachel and Chris walk in.
Scott: What's Ramsey doing here?
Val: Mr. Baldwin this is Christina's father Chris Ramsey.

Chapter 20
Scott and Lucy stare dumbfounded at a grinning Chris and a smirking Rachel.
Lucy: Excuse me! Chris is Christina's father?!
Scott: Okay what's the scam here Ramsey you after DV's money or something?!
Chris with a very innocent look on his face shakes his head no.
Chris: No Scott I simply want my little girl with me where she belongs. Oh she is a cutie.
Lucy makes a disgusted noise.
Lucy: Excuse me she belongs with Scott and I. We have loved her as our own since day one! We have given her a secure home environment with lots of love! We are her parents!
Chris: No you are not! That is my little girl and I want her back!
Chris pretends to start to cry.
Scott: Oh hell give it a rest Ramsey everyone knows the only things you love are money and power! If you love her then where the hell have you been for the last 4 months!
Val: Mr. Baldwin Ms. Coe lets all sit down shall we. There is no need to yell.
Just then the judge comes in. Everyone sits down.
Judge: Okay lets get started. Mr. Leopold Mr. Ramsey lets here from you first.
Chris: Your honor, back in late Feb. of 98 I fell head over heals in love with an incredible woman. She was everything I'd ever hoped to find and more. She made me happier then I've ever been. At first we only had a very intense friendship because she was involved with someone else. But in mid may her relationship with him fell apart and she turned to me. We had a very strong and very powerful love affair over the following months. We acted as though we hated each other to hide it because she hadn't decided for sure that it was over with this guy. This isn't to say we didn't have are ups and downs. We even broke up once or twice but our love for each other was so strong that we could never stay apart for long. Then it was discovered that she had been brainwashed and at the time was believed to be the genhom murderer. That naturally pushed me away for a couple of months. But I simply couldn't stay away from my true love especially after she was placed in an insane asylum. When I went to see her in March she informed me we were going to be parents. I was naturally over joyed. My first reaction was to go out and scream from the tops of the roof tops I'm going to be a daddy! But then reality set in. We realized that this baby would be ripped out of Marcia's hands and probably given away. Marcia was inconsolable she was so scared and depressed about the idea of loosing our first born. She begged me to keep it a secret that she was pregnant. I told her I would until we could figure out a plan to get her released and protect our little miracle. Your honor I love children I always have. I basically raised my little sister and brother so when it comes to kids I'm a pro. Anyway I wanted nothing more then to watch my little one grow up. But as the months went on a viable plan just didn't seem to be coming to us. Until I got the idea one day to hire someone who might be willing to take care of the baby till I could get Marcia released. The original plan was for me to be with Marcia in ferncliff when she delivered I was going to help her deliver and then smuggle the baby out and to this nanny who I thought I could trust. But then Marcia was given a pair of scissors by another inmate there and I was blamed for it.
Chris starts crying.
Chris: Do you have any idea of the emotional pain and grief that comes from being kept from the woman you love more then life itself? I was beyond grief stricken. And my poor sweet Marcia panicked that our little angel was going to be ripped from our arms. I tried to reassure her that I wasn't going to let that happen but she was to scared to be calmed so she broke out and found her way to my door. I was horrified for all three of us. What would they do if she got caught? What would they do to our baby? what was I going to do? Marcia being so emotional and scared for my well being left my place before I could decide what to do. Only she went into labor and showed back up at my place having contractions. Right or wrong I could not call the cops on the love of my life while she was having our baby. So I decided to take her up to my friends cabin in the woods but her labor was getting so strong that the cabin was just not close enough so we found our selves over in an empty children's amusement park giving birth in sleeping beauty's castle. For me it made since after all she is a beauty and our baby is nothing less then a princess. Once our little girl was here we had a serious talk about what to do next. We both agreed she had to go back. So we called the cops and let them know where she was then Christina and I left and I took her to her new nanny while Marcia went back to Ferncliff. That was the most painful sight of my life. Having to watch Marcia's heart break as she bid fair well to our daughter for an indefinite amount of time. Then having to leave her there knowing the cops were coming for her. I cried the whole way to the nanny's house. I thought I could trust this nanny I believed in her. I found out much to Marcia and my dismay that she was completely untrustworthy. She abandoned our poor little baby at the nurses ball and our little angel got passed around like a foot ball.
Chris starts crying. Rachel hands him a tissue and rubs his arm.
Chris: I heard that a baby had been abandoned but I had no idea it was my little sweet heart until Lucy showed up with her the next day at GH. I wanted to rip her right out of Lucy's arms and hold her to me and tell her that her Daddy is right here and that I love her and I'm sorry about what happened. But I couldn't I was afraid of what might happen to all of us. I talked to Marcia that day telling her what had happened to our sweet baby and we agreed that for the time being Lucy would be a good nanny. We had no plan and were scared beyond words. Thank God Rachel came into our lives. She helped us so much. She looked at the situation and assured us that nothing bad would happen to Christina or Marcia or myself if I clamed her. So here I am. Your honor that is my little girl and she belong with me. I love her more then life itself she is everything and I want to be able to love her take care of her and watch her grow into the fine young lady I know she will become. Please your honor we didn't knowingly abandon our little girl we were trying to do just the opposite we our victims of an irresponsible nanny and victims of a lack of knowledge of the legal system. Please your honor Scott and Lucy will never be able to love her the way her mother and I do. And it's not as if Scott and Lucy can't have kids of there own, infact Lucy is pregnant. I don't know that Marcia will ever get out for sure. I pray she dose but one never knows. All I do know is I love my little girl and I want her with me always. Thank you. Chris sits down. Lucy leans over and whispers to Scott.
Lucy: You don't think the judge bought all that do you.
Scott: I hope he didn't but it did sound very compelling and sincere.
Leopold stands up
Leopold: Your honor this child should never have ended up in foster care much less ended up being up for adoption. The parental right shouldn't have been terminated. Her parents never intended for her to be in need to care takers. There child was more or less kidnapped from them. There for the only just and right thing to do is to give her back to her father where she belongs. Mr. Baldwin and Ms. Coe have had questionable histories at best and even if Christina was unwanted I'd have serious doubts as to whether or not they should be aloud to raise her anyway.
Scott: WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT WE WERE APPROVED FOR ADOPTION!
Christina whimpers Chris looks at her lovingly with a sad expression.
Chris: It's okay Chrissy
Lucy: Stop talking to her!
Judge: Order in the court! Mr. Baldwin Ms. Coe another outburst and you'll be held in contempt. Continue Mr. Leopold.
Leopold: Your Honor I think that out burst alone should raise serious doubts about Christina's safety with them. What happens if she dose something wrong is Mr. Baldwin going to hurt her.
Chris dabs his eyes. And Rachel rubs his arm reassuringly. Scott whispers to Lucy.
Scott: I do believe Chris is going for an Emmy.
Leopold: Further more her biological father is more then capable of caring for her. Mr. Ramsey is a successful doctor at GH. He has a healthy income and a very nice apartment to bring his daughter up in.
Chris: I have the nursery all ready and waiting for her. Tons of toys and cloths and other baby stuff.
Leopold and Rachel smile approvingly at Chris.
Leopold: Further more Mr. Baldwin has had many brushes with the law that have resulted in jail time. Mr. Ramsey has had no such problems and is a very calm and cool headed man who will always do what is right for his little girl.
Leopold sits down. Rachel stands up.
Rachel: Your honor I realize that Christina has been in Lucy and Scott's care for awhile now but as a trained psychiatrist I assure you that taking Christina from Scott and Lucy at this point would not harm her. Had this happened a few months from now when Christina was 8 months or more then it would be a concern. However babies do not form a recognizable attachment to one care giver till the 8 month. So Christina will not suffer from it at her tender 4 months. And as for Scott and Lucy's well being, Lucy is pregnant and since she has miscarried in the past this is a high risk pregnancy. Lucy will probably go on bed rest which means that Scott will be focusing on Lucy the baby she's having and Serena so Christina wouldn't get the attention she needs.
While her Father is ready willing and able to give her everything she needs. Please your honor allow this loving father to be with his little girl where she should have been the whole time.
Rachel: Sits down.
Judge: Mr. Baldwin
Scott stands up.
Scott: Lucy and I have made our mistakes but those mistakes have made us better stronger people. We have learned from them and our doing are best to ensure our girls don't make the same one's. Your honor genetics don't make a family love dose. And Christina could not be more loved then she is with us. We are good parents and would never ever under any circumstance hurt our children. And we would do what ever is necessary to ensure that Christina got all the attention she needs. She has been with us since the beginning and she belongs with us.
Scott sits down.
Lucy: Your honor I've wanted to be a mother for a long time. When Christina came into my life I was overjoyed. She means the world to me. I couldn't love her anymore if she was my own. I can't imagine her not being in my life. This new baby is a blessing but it in know way replaces Christina she is a separate blessing all by herself. And whether it is noticeable or not we have bonded she is my baby and I am her mommy.
Lucy sits down.
Lee: Regardless of what Mr. Ramsey intended to have happen the fact is the parental right were eliminated and the adoption process was started. Scott and Lucy have had her from the get go and have been great parents for her. I also question Mr. Ramsey's intelligence in hiring a prostitute as a nanny.
Chris gives the room a confused look
Chris: She was a prostitute?
Lee: Further more Scott Lucy were approved to adopt so their qualifications shouldn't be questioned. Thank you.
Lee sits down.
Judge: Okay we'll take a short break and I'll come back with my decision. 
Over at the docks Kevin, Frank, Victor and Mary along with half the police force and two ambulances arrive. Everyone immediately descends on the area around the bedding where house.
Frank: Joe JOE CAN YOU HEAR ME JOE!
Kevin: Frank we don't want to make Hank run keep it down.
Just then they hear Joe's voice
Joe: Frank Frank over hear help me help me!
Frank and Kevin along with Mary and Victor go racing towards the sound. When they get there they find a tape recorder sitting on some garbage cans.
Frank: DAMIT!
Mary: Where is my baby!
Frank: He's in there I just know it. I'm not waiting another second.
Frank goes charging into the where house.
Kevin: Frank wait
Frank is already inside before Kevin has even closed his mouth.
Frank searches through the where house. It seems deserted. Suddenly he hears a noise coming from somewhere he follows it and find a secret door. He forces it open. He falls in after banging against it several times. When his eyes focus he sees Hank standing there holding a half unconscious badly beaten, burned and scared Joe in front of him like a shield. While holding a gun to Joe's head.
Hank: I was wondering when you were going to get here twin bro.
Hank laughs insanely. He then tosses his gun to Frank and quickly pulls another out of his pocket and cocks it at Joe's head.
Joe moans.
Joe: Frank Frank help me help me Frank where are you.
Frank swallows hard as not to loose it.
Frank: Joe I'm here hang in there. Let him go Hank
Hank puts his fingers tightly against the trigger.
Hank: Make me
Frank lifts the gun with his hands shaking.
Frank: Please Hank
Hank: Oh come on Frankie you are my twin! I gave you the power it's right in your hand. Why don't you show the world how much like me you really are hey bro. Come On Frank lets see the dark side of saint Frankie. We all know that identical mean identical right? All you got to do to save Joe is pull that trigger. Unless you want to watch me blow little baby Joe's head off.
Hank laughs Frank hold the gun aimed at Hanks head. His hands are shaking.
Frank: I'm nothing like you! We look alike but that is where it ends!
Hank laughs.
Hank: You wish! Come on Frankie don't you feel that burning anger. Don't you feel that overwhelming hate. You know you could kill me. Come on Frankie boy do it! You know you want to. Oh but that's right your the chosen one the one mom and Dad loved! You are the saintly good one. I'm the other son that prefers the dark side. But you know Frankie you could where it just as well.
Joe: Frank!
Franks hands tighten on the trigger.
Frank: Mom never meant to give you up. And even if she did you have no right taking it out Joe. Let him go now Hank!
Hank: Oh so you say! You wish I would just be more like you huh. Or like Lark and just bow at your every command! You know it's really to bad that I didn't get to stay longer with her I bet I could have gotten her to sleep with me.
Fire practically shoots out of Franks ears
Frank aims at Hanks head.
Frank: I am not your brother I stopped being your twin the day you went bad. If I killed you now it would be self defense plain and simple.
Hank: And doesn't that scare you to know that you could? To know you could blow my brains out and not even care. You are my twin like it or not Frankie. You can be as bad as me!
Franks fingers grip the trigger as tears of rage build up.
Hank: come on Frank do it do it.
Joe: Frank Frank where are you!
Frank cocks the gun and starts to pull back on the trigger. 

Back in the court room the verdict is being waited on.
Lucy: So what do you think our chances are? I mean do you think we'll get to keep her?
Scott kisses her sadly.
Scott: I hope so but we are up against some real proes.
Lucy: We can't give up!
Scott: Lucy I'm not giving up but a good lawyer always prepares for the worst and my gut says we better be ready for the worst.
Lee: They were very convincing truthfully we don't have much on our side here.
Chris: So what do you think?
Rachel: I think you are about to take Christina home.
Chris: Really?
Rachel: between your moving speech the evidence Leopold and I gave along with Scott's out burst?
Rachel: I'd say we should start breaking out the champagne.
Judge: alright I've made my decision.
Everyone sits back down and the judge clears his throat.

Chapter 21
The Judge waits till everyone is seated then he begins.
Judge: Custody battles are never easy because someone always looses a child they love. It's even harder when both parties involved would make good parents for the child. Mr. Baldwin Ms. Coe I'm sure you realized when you chose to adopt that it doesn't always work out. Adoption isn't a sure thing for the simple reason that parents can and do come to claim the child. I do not expect that to make my decision easier on you but it is something to keep in mind in the future should you try to adopt again.
Lucy: Oh no
Scott squeezes Lucy's hand.
Judge: Mr. Ramsey as spoken very eloquently about his love for his daughter. And it is clear to me that he never meant for her to be given away. That coupled with the other evidence leads me to my judgment. I here by grant sole custody of Baby Christina to her biological father Chris Ramsey affective immediately.
Chris: Yes! Oh Thank you thank you so much your honor.
Lucy: NO NO PLEASE NO!!! SHE IS MINE SHE'S MINE.
Lucy breaks down in mournful sobs Clutching Christina to her.
Scott hugs her tightly.
Scott: I'm sorry Lucy I'm sorry, I told you this could happen but I know that doesn't make it any easier.
Lucy: But I love her.
Scott: I love her to but we have to give her back.
Val comes over and bends down in front of Lucy and Scott.
Val: These situations are always tough, but unfortunately they happen. I'm sorry Ms. Coe but you're going to have to hand her over now. Her father wants to take her home.
Rachel: And you should probably get home to Lucy and rest up after all you're pregnant.
Lucy angrily.
Lucy: My pregnancy is non of you business! You had no right using that against me none! I love this little girl and no one will ever love her the way I do!
Val: Ms. Coe lets not make this any harder then it already is.
Scott and Lee gently but firmly unwrap Christina from Lucy's arms as Lucy cries mournfully. Scott hands her to Val and turns to Chris.
Scott: You better give her all that love you were promising to. Because if I ever find out you haven't been good to her I will come after you!
He then wraps a crying Lucy in his arms and holds her tight.
Val turns and hands Christina to Chris.
Val: Congratulations Dad.
Chris's eyes are fool of tears as he holds Christina and stairs down into her little face.
Chris: Hi there Chrissy remember me I'm your Daddy. I'm sorry I haven't been here for you but I promise that will never happen again.
Christina giggles.
Rachel: She looks so happy in your arms.
Chris: Well of course she dose I'm her Daddy.
Val: As the social worker assigned to this case I'm required to accompany you home.
Chris: Well then lets get going I want to get my little girl home where she belongs.
Chris, Christina, Val, Rachel and Leopold head out along with the judge. The board room is dark and empty except for Lee putting papers away and Lucy and Scott holding each other while they cry. 
Back at the where house Franks fingers are tightening against the trigger as Hank still hold Joe like a shield with a gun to his head taunts him.
Hank: Oh come on Frankie you can do it. You're my brother after all. Just think of the headlines. Big bro kills twin bro to save little bro!
He laughs insanely. He whacks the side of Joe's head with the gun. Joe moans.
Frank: YOU ARE NOT MY BROTHER!
Hank: You wish I wasn't that's for sure. So what are you going to do just sit here holding that gun and crying like the big woos you are? Joe could die if you don't act. But if you do act you'll have to live with the fact that you killed your own twin.
Frank is shaking with anger and fear.
Frank: So what if I am your twin! What the hell dose that prove! What do you want from me you peace of trash!
Hank's eyes burn with anger.
Hank: BROTHERS TO THE END HUH WELL JOE'S GOING TO MEET HIS END RIGHT NOW!
Hank pulls back the trigger of his gun. Frank aims and cocks the gun at Hanks head.
Joe: HELP!
Suddenly from behind some boxes Kevin who no one had noticed sneaking in jumps out and nocks Hank over the head. Hank falls to the floor dropping Joe and the gun. Frank drops his gun and lunges towards Joe catching him just before he hits the ground. Kevin pounces on top of Hank and ties his hands together. Frank wraps Joe in his arms and holds him as close as he can. Joe clutches at Franks coat as both of the brothers cry.
Frank: You are okay Joe I'm here you're going to be just fine. You're safe now Joe I'm here everything is going to be okay. I have you I have you.
Kevin walks over two them.
Kevin: Is he okay?
Frank having regained some of his composure lays Joe on the ground and takes a look at him.
Frank: He needs and ambulance now!
Joe shivers in the cold. Frank takes off his coat and covers him with it.
Joe: Frank?
Frank: I'm right here Joe I'm right here.
Frank squeezes Joe's hand.
Kevin calls on his cell phone to get the cops and ambulance in here. Pat and the other EMT's come rushing in.
Frank: Pat get over here he's in bad shape!
Pat and the other EMT's start attending to Joe. While cops swarm the place and drag a still unconscious Hank into custody.
Kevin grabs Frank by the arm.
Kevin: You okay? Hank was really taunting you there.
Frank looks at Joe's tortured form on the gurney as Pat and the others work on him.
Frank: Yeah I'm okay, Joe is the one in need right now. Thing is Hank was right.
Kevin: How so?
Frank looks at Kevin dead in the eyes.
Frank: I could've killed him and still could for what he did to Joe and with out a second thought.
Frank walks over to the gurney and takes Joe's hand.
Frank: I'm here little brother I'm here.
Garcia comes over to Kevin.
Garcia: So what happened?
Kevin: Well Frank went rushing into the where house to save Joe. I thought he might need some back up so I followed. Only I went in the back way and snuck behind some boxes. I could here people yelling but I couldn't find them. I finally found a secret entrance to this room. I snuck in behind some boxes. Frank and Hank were having a very intense conversation so they didn't even notice me. Hank had Joe in a choke hold. He was using him as a shield and had a gun at his head. Frank had gotten a gun from somewhere I think it was one of Hanks. Anyway Hank was taunting Frank really bad. He was trying to get Frank to kill him. Why I don't know, it sounded like an argument I might have with Ryan.
Garcia: Well this guy is certainly psycho enough to be like Ryan that's for sure. what happened then?
Kevin: Well Hank was about to blow Joe's brains out, and Frank was about to blow Hanks brains out. I saw a peace of wood and jumped out hitting Hank over the head with it.
Garcia: Sounds like you really saved the day.
Kevin: Well I don't know about that. I just did what I had to do to protect my family.
Frank comes over to Kevin and Garcia.
Frank: They are about to transport him now I'm going to ride in the ambulance. I just wanted to thank you Kevin for everything.
Kevin: I'm glad I could help.
Joe: FRANK!
Frank jumps and runs to Joe.
Frank: Joe I'm right here it's okay I'm right here. We're going to take you to GH now and get you all fixed up okay. Don't worry you're going to be fine everything is going to be okay.
They group leaves the where house.
Mary is waiting out side with Victor they franticly run over.
Mary: Is he alright, is he alright!
Joe: Mom
Mary: I'm right here baby I'm right here.
Mary strokes his head.
Frank: He's going to be just fine, we're going to take him to GH to get fixed up.
Victor: I take it Hank is in custody?
Frank: Yeah he is thanks to Kevin.
Frank looks at Kevin and smiles.
Kevin: I didn't do that much really.
Frank: Oh yeah you only stopped him from blowing Joe's brains out by knocking him over the head and tying his hands together.
Victor: Well alright Monk! That's my boy!
Kevin blushes and smiles.
Kevin: Well Frank you did just as much. You found them and kept Hank distracted while I got in there. I wouldn't have ever been able to do that with out you helping me.
Mary: Well I think you're both pretty terrific.
Mary gives them both hugs as they load Joe into the ambulance.
Joe: Frank Frank where are you!
Frank jumps into the ambulance and hold Joe's hand.
Frank: It's okay Joe I'm right here you're safe now and Hank is all locked up there isn't anything to be scared of.
Pat checks Joe's vital.
Frank: You remember my good friend Pat don't you? Remember when you were still and EMT and you and I would challenge Pat and his partner to see who could clear across town and back to base the quickest. Remember those ambulance races? Yikes we most have had those at least once a month.
Joe smiles a little.
Pat: We should have another one some time.
Frank: Oh that would be fun. What do you say Joe once you're feeling better lets do it okay?
Joe: Okay.
Kevin, Mary and Victor are driving behind the ambulance.
Mary: Did he seem okay to you? I mean he really is going to be okay right?
Victor: Well he looked like he was doing okay physically but he was acting awfully clinging to Frank. He was griping Franks hand so hard when we first went over to him I'm surprised Franks hand wasn't broken. Did you see how white Joe's knuckles were? And did you hear the way he yelled for Frank when they were separated for just a few seconds as he was being loaded into the ambulance?
Kevin: Well hopefully that's a temporary reaction to what has happened to him. Although Kevin's voice trails off.
Mary: Although what?
Kevin: Well sometimes people who have been through intense trauma like Joe has been through. They regress to a very child like state. They become clinging and needed. They behave more like small children then adults and they require much of the same attention and reassurance a child would need.
Mary: Oh no you don't think that's what's going on with Joe do you?
Victor: he did seem very clingy.
Kevin: Well it's really to soon to tell at this point. I mean he was just rescued and I'm not even sure he's fully conscious. He may have been drifting in and out and not realized that he'd been rescued. We will have to wait and see.
Mary: If he dose have this problem is it correctable?
Kevin: With time and counseling along with a lot of love and support. Yes absolutely.
Victor: How much time?
Kevin: It's hard to say. There are very few absolute rules when it comes healing the mind. If Joe has this problem it could be gone in a month or it could last years, there is just no way to predict it. 

Back at Chris's pent house Chris still carrying Christina, Rachel and Val come into his apartment.
Chris: Welcome home Christina, this is where we live. And one day maybe your Mommy will come live with us to.
Rachel: Well Leopold and I will do our best to ensure that she dose. Oh Chris she is beautiful.
Chris: Thanks, isn't she though. I think she looks like Marcia.
Val: She is a beautiful baby. This is a very nice place you have here.
Chris: Thank you. Would you like to see her nursery?
Val: I'd like that very much thank you.
The three some walk into the back room Chris and Rachel have made up. The walls are covered with soft water cooler type animal wall paper. There are stuffed animals and toys everywhere. Chris lays Christina who has fallen asleep in her new crib. He winds up the whinny the pooh mobile and lightly strokes her head.
Chris: Welcome home my girl.
Val: This is a very nice nursery.
Chris: Thanks it's even nicer now that Chrissy is in it. So you mentioned you handle a lot of cases like this huh.
Val: Yes many times a baby is given up and the parents or one of them change their minds. And sometimes I have cases like yours where a child is wrongfully taken away.
Chris: Well I want to thank you for your help.
Val smiles
Val: Well you're very welcome I always like to see happy endings. I should be going now have a good day.
Chris: Oh thank you I know I will. You have a nice day to.
Chris shows her out then turns to Rachel
Chris: Well one more hurdle down. I can't believe how easy this was!
Rachel: Well with you being her father and all it really wasn't that hard. Now we come to the final and most difficult hurdle getting Marcia out.
Chris: She's not going to have to stand trial is she?
Rachel: Well unless Nicole comes forward she probably will. But I'm working on it. Speaking of Marcia I'll leave now so you can call her and tell her you have Christina. She is going to be so happy.
Chris: I know I can hardly wait to hear the excitement in her voice. Hey do you think I could take Chrissy to ferncliff to visit her?
Rachel: I don't think it should be a problem. I'll call and make some arrangements and you'll probably be able to tomorrow.
Chris: Sounds good.
Rachel leaves.
Chris goes and gets the phone then goes into Chrissy's room and stands over the crib as he calls.
Marcia: Hello
Chris: Guess who I'm looking at right now.
Marcia: Christina?!
Chris: As we speak she is sleeping peacefully in her new crib, in her new nursery in our apartment. We Won Marcia we won!
Marcia: Oh Chris this is fantastic! I can hardly believe it! The judge gave you custody! This is wonderful!
Chris: It was a cake walk Marcia. We went in I made an emotional speech, Leopold talked of injustice, Rachel talked of what was best for everyone. The Baldwins made an out burst then sobbed about how much they love her and the judge handed her over to me.
Marcia: Oh I wish I could have been there. Chris what dose she look like now? Has she grown a lot?
Chris: Yeah she's gained a couple pounds and has more hair it's coming in light brown by the way. Her eyes are brown now and she's is just as beautiful as they come.
Marcia: She sounds perfect.
Chris: Well she is just like her Mommy.
Marcia: Everything is really starting to go our way isn't it?
Chris: Every peace of it. I love you.
Marcia: I love you to.
They hang up. 

Back in the ER they are trying to examine Joe but he is acting up. He is thrashing around and crying and screaming.
Joe: LEAVE ME ALONE GET AWAY FROM ME! WHERE IS FRANK I WANT FRANK.
Joe starts crying hysterically.
Karen comes running into the hall where Mary, Victor and Frank are waiting.
Karen: Frank you better get in here Joe is throwing a fit.
Frank goes running in with the others in hot pursuit
Joe: GET AWAY GET AWAY!! FRANK FRANK WHERE ARE YOU!!!!!!! MAKE THEM LEAVE ME ALONE MAKE THEM LEAVE ME ALONE.
Frank grabs hold of Joe and holds him to his chest tightly.
Frank: It's okay Joe it's okay I'm right here you're safe now. They just want to examine you that's all. You're okay Joe calm down.
Joe is clutching onto Frank like his life depends on it. His face his buried in Franks shoulder and he's crying inconsolably.
Joe: Make them leave me alone please just make them leave me alone! I'm scared I'm scared. Please don't let them hurt me please.
Victor, Mary, and Kevin exchange worried glances. Frank has tears in his eyes as he realizes Joe is not okay. He holds him tight and rocks him from side to side.
Frank: You're going to be okay there is nothing to be scared of Joseph I'm here I'm here.

It is late in the afternoon at GH. Frank, Mary, Victor and Kevin are sitting next to Joe's hospital bed. Joe has fallen asleep after being given a strong sedative. Frank is holding his hand and is standing over him protectively.
Mary: I don't even remember the last time I saw him that upset. He gets angry but crying. That's just not Joe.
Kevin: It's clearly a reaction to what has happened with Hank.
Frank: I should have killed that animal when I had the chance.
Mary: FRANK!
Frank: Mom, look at him look at Joe! He's a mess! Physically and emotionally. I'm sorry I know it's wrong to hate but hate is what I feel when I think of what that man did to Joe.
Frank starts to cry.
Victor goes over and puts his arm around Frank.
Victor: I understand, and you have nothing to feel sorry about. You have a right to your feelings and after what Hank but Joe through it would be hard to feel anything but hate.
Kevin: The good news is that this problem is correctible.
Fran: How long will it take? And what do we do in the meantime?
Kevin: Well as I said before with the human mind healing is a guessing game at best. He could be okay in a matter of weeks or it could take years. As for what to do in the meantime give him lots of love and support. Basically respond to his needs. He's not trying to act like this he can't help it.
Mary: My poor baby, all of this is just so unreal.
Kevin: I know, I remember the first time I found out Ryan had become a killer I just couldn't believe a part of me could be that bad.
Frank: When Hank was taunting me in that where house I felt emotions I've never felt before. They scared me big time. Because they were emotions I never thought I could feel before. The scariest part is thinking that there could a part of me that is like him.
Mary: Well if there is it's a microscopic part. I wouldn't worry about it. Right now we have to focus on Joe.
Frank: I agree.
Kevin: Well don't focus so much that you loose track of yourselves. You need to take care of yourselves just as much so you can take care of him.
Victor: That's right and we also don't want to justify is fears to the point where he thinks he really is in danger. We shouldn't all hover over him at once. If we act all panicky he'll be even more panicked.
Kevin: I agree, while it is important to give him a lot of love and support. And we do need to respond to his needs we don't want to reinforce his fears.
Frank: Yeah that's true we don't want to shoot ourselves in the foot with this.
Mary strokes Joe's head.
Mary: Kevin when you say he can get better do you mean all the way better to where he's working at GH again? Or do you mean to where he can be on his own but still needs a lot of support and therapy?
Kevin: Mary some people do make complete recoveries where they don't need help any longer. However Others spend there whole lives in this state. As I said there is simply no way to know.
Frank: Mom don't worry I'll take some time off and look after him.
Mary: Frank what about your job?
Frank: When I was rescued my boss offered me time off. I chose to go back I'll just explain to him that my family needs me. EMT's are allowed to take of for family crises and this is definitely one of them. Joe needs my full attention and that's what he's going to get.
Victor: I hate to bring this up but what should we tell Neil? And who is going to Courtney's funeral?
Frank: Oh that's right her funeral is today I nearly forgot. Well Joe certainly can't go. And I need to stay with Joe. But Neil needs to go and he needs people there with him. Okay Mom, Victor can you take Neil to the service?
Mary: of course but what should we tell him? And what if Joe needs something?
Frank: Mom I won't leave his side I swear. As for what to tell Neil. Well tell him his Dad's been rescued, and I'm staying near him while he heals.
Victor: That sounds good.
Mary: Alright I guess we should go then.
Mary leans over and kisses Joe's head lightly.
Mary: Bye sweetie.
Mary hugs Frank.
Frank: Mom don't worry we'll get him back to the way he was. I'll get him there if it's the last thing I do.
Mary smiles.
Mary: Well if anyone can you can.
Mary and Victor leave.
Kevin: I need to go to. Julie's session will start soon.
Frank: Tell her I love her and I'll be down later to see her.
Kevin: Will do.
Frank: Kevin
Kevin: Yeah?
Frank: Thanks for everything.
Kevin smiles.
Kevin: Just glad I could help.
Kevin leaves and Frank sits by Joe's bedside holding his hand.
Frank: You are going to get better Joe you just are. 
In the on call room Karen is sitting on the couch having some coffee when Matt comes in.
Matt: Hey there, did anyone ever tell you that you look very hot in scrubs?
Karen smiles.
Karen: No no one has ever said that before.
Matt comes over and sits beside her.
Matt: Well then let me be the first to say how incredibly hot you look in scrubs.
He leans over and kisses her softly.
Karen: Well you're looking pretty good yourself. So are you as tired as I am?
Matt: Considering I've been on duty since late yesterday afternoon. Yeah I'd say so. So how are you doing? That was pretty intense with Joe in the ER huh.
Karen: I'm okay I guess just really tired. It was very hard to see Joe like that, so scared and lost. I don't think he even recognized us. I mean he's my friend and seeing him in such a bad way was just, just hard.
Matt: Karen you don't have to pretend you have no feelings for him. I know you two were almost married. You'd have to be nonhuman to be able to not react to what went on in that ER. It was like he was a little kid instead of a grown man.
Karen: I know, poor Frank and Mary they're going to have a lot of rough times ahead of them with him. I'm just glad Frank's around.
Matt: Yeah but poor Frank he hasn't had it easy either. First he's held hostage for over a year, then his girlfriend has a breakdown, then his evil twin kidnaps his brother. I'm surprised he hasn't cracked.
Karen: I know Frank must be made out of steel or something. Kevin said he'll start treating Joe as soon as he can.
Matt: That's good.
Karen: How is Julie?
Matt: She's doing real good. In fact they're going to let her go home the day after tomorrow.
Karen: Oh that's wonderful. I'm so glad to hear that. So I take it things are going well with you and her?
Matt: For now yes we have a lot of fun just hanging out. But I'm really worried about what she'll do when she finds out about us. I mean she thinks of the Scanlon's as her family way before me.
Karen: Maybe you should tell her about it since you're worried. Maybe getting out in the open will help.
Matt: Maybe I'd just hate to loose the chance to get to know my sister.
Karen: Well from what I know of her, she wouldn't want you to be scared of telling her this. I really think she'll be okay with it.
Matt: Maybe. Well enough about Julie, lets talk about us.
Karen: Okay what about us?
Matt: How about coming to my place for dinner tonight. I'll make you my famous eggplant casserole.
Karen: That dose sound good. When do you get off?
Matt: In an hour and a half.
Karen: Okay I get off in two and a half hours. So I'll come over after.
Matt: Sounds good. I'll be waiting with dinner when you do.
Karen: I look forward to that, and more.
She pulls him close and they kiss tenderly. 

Lucy and Scott enter the house sadly. Gail is playing cards with Serena when they enter.
Serena: Daddy!
Serena runs to Scott and gives him a big hug. Then hugs Lucy. Lucy holds onto Serena for awhile as tears run down her face. Then tussles Serena's hair.
Lucy: Hey pumpkin head.
Scott: So what have you been up to apple sauce?
Serena looks at them with concern sensing something is wrong. Gail watches them. It's clear to her that Christina has gone to her biological Father.
Serena: We were playing cards. What's wrong? Where is Christina?
Lucy bursts into tears at Christina's name. Then quickly tries to pull herself together.
Scott: Uh Serena why don't we go sit on the couch and talk.
Gail: Oh yes that's a good idea. Why don't the three of you come right over here.
Serena: Something bad happened didn't it?
Lucy: Well not really bad for Christina just bad for us. You remember when we first brought her home after the nurses ball we talked about how we might not get to keep her. Remember we said her real Mommy and or Daddy might want her?
Serena: Yes.
Scott: Well you know how much I love you right apple sauce.
Serena: Yes
Scott: Well Christina's Daddy loves her the same way. And wanted her to be with him. And the judge thought that would be a good idea. So Christina has gone to live with her Daddy.
Serena: But I wanted her to stay with us! She was going to be my little sister!
Serena starts crying. Lucy hugs her tightly.
Serena: Oh I know munchkin I know. I wanted her to stay to. And I know were all going to miss her very much. But sometimes life doesn't work out the way we want it to. And even though it hurts big time. Well it's something we have to deal with.
Serena: But why did her Daddy take so long to find her. Didn't he know where she was?
Scott: Yeah he new but he was worried about some things and that stopped him from coming. But now he isn't worried anymore so he came for her.
Serena: Dose he really love her?
Lucy: Oh I think Christina is going to get lots of love. And you know what Serena your Daddy and I do have some good news for you.
Serena: What?
Lucy: Well even though no one can ever take Christina's place, you are going to be a big sister. I'm pregnant.
Serena: Really?! And no body is going to take this baby away right?
Lucy: Never ever.
Scott: This kid is going to be ours no matter what.
Serena: AWESOME! When is the new baby going to be here?
Lucy: The new baby will be here in May.
Gail: Well won't that be an exciting thing to look forward to.
Serena: I'm going to go start working on a present for the new baby.
Scott: Sounds like a plan.
Serena runs upstairs.
Gail: That really is wonderful about the new baby. But I am awfully sorry about Christina I know how much you both loved her.
Lucy on the verge of tears.
Lucy: Thanks Gail, I don't think I've ever been so happy and so sad all at once.
Lucy runs upstairs crying.
Scott: The hell of it is I don't think her real parents are going to give her even half the amount of love we could've given her and there isn't a dam thing I can do about it!
Scott grabs his coat.
Gail: Scotty where are you going?
Scott: Hell if I know.
Scott slams the door behind him. 

At the hospital Frank is sitting at Joe's bedside. Still holding his hand. When Joe opens his eyes.
Joe: Frank?
Frank: I'm right here.
Joe: Frank you got to stop him he's going to kill all of us you've got to stop him.
Joe starts crying.
Frank hugs Joe tightly.
Frank: No he isn't he isn't going to hurt any of us ever again. Hanks all locked up and he can never reach you or anyone of us again.
Joe: He was going to kill me!
Frank wipes the tears from Joe's face.
Frank: But he didn't, you're safe now. You're at GH and you will heal.
Joe starts crying.
Joe: I'm just so scared!
Frank takes Joe by the shoulders and makes Joe look him in the eye.
Frank: Hey have I ever failed you.
Joe shakes his head no.
Frank: Have I ever lied to you?
Joe shakes his head no again.
Frank: Okay then listen to me I will not let Hank ever hurt you again. You are safe and you will stay that way.
Joe starts crying and grabs a hold of Frank like his life depends on is.
Joe: Just don't leave me please just don't leave me!
Frank holds him tightly swallowing the mounting lump in his throat. He rocks Joe back and forth.
Frank: I'm not going to leave you Joe I will never leave you. You have my word. 

Kevin is just finishing with Julie when his beeper goes off. He quickly calls the number which is Gail's cell phone.
Kevin: Hello?
Gail: Oh Kevin I'm so glad you called me back. Listen I really could use your help if you're not to busy.
Kevin: Sure Gail what's up?
Gail: Well Scott and Lucy just lost Christina today. Her biological father came forward to claim her and he was granted custody.
Kevin: They must be devastated. I'm sorry Gail I know how attached you'd all grown to that little girl. How is Lucy? What can I do?
Gail: Oh I'm so glad you asked that. You see Scott went out all in a huff and I don't no where he went. Lucy has locked herself in her bed room and won't come out. And Serena is playing in her room. I have an appointment but I don't think Lucy should be left alone she's a wreck.
Kevin: And you were wondering If I'd come over?
Gail: Oh would you?
Kevin: I'm on my way.
Gail: Oh thank you Kevin I really appreciate it.
Kevin: Don't mention it.
They hang up and Kevin heads off to the fire house. 

Julie sits in her room thinking. She heard on the news that Joe had been rescued but Frank never came down. This must mean Joe is in very bad shape. Which mean Frank needs someone now.
Julie: Well girl you wanted the job now get moving.
Julie gets her robe and slippers on and goes in search of Frank. She bumps into Eve in the hall.
Eve: Hey Julie what are you doing up?
Julie: Hi Eve I heard Joe had been rescued and I want to go see how he and Frank are doing. Where is his room?
Eve: Are you sure you should be up?
Julie: Eve you're a good doctor but sometimes you have to put your heart first now where is Joe's room.
Eve seeing she's not going to stop Julie takes a deep breath.
Eve: Room 453
Julie: But that's in the physic ward?
Eve: Yep it is, Joe's in real bad shape.
Julie rushes off. She quietly opens the door to Joe's room. Joe is sound asleep and Frank is sitting next to him. Frank is hunched over his elbows resting on his knees while his face is buried in his hands. His shoulders are going up and down so it's clear to Julie that he's crying though he is making no noise. Julie walks quietly over to him and kneels down in front of him. She rubs his arms with her hands. He looks up at her. They look deep into one another's eyes Julie strokes his tear stained face as more tears continue to overflow. They need know words as they fall into each others arms and hold on for dear life. All that can be heard as they hold one another is Franks soft sobs and Julie's unspoken but very heard I'm here I'm here. 

Kevin arrives at the fire house in record time. On the way there a million thoughts flood his mind. He thinks about when they had lost their baby. He remembers the look of absolute despair in Lucy's eyes. He remembers the cold emptiness that flowed through him. He shivers thinking of that horrible time. Once there he sprints to the door. Gail opens the door.
Gail: Oh Kevin I'm so glad you could come. I still haven't been able to reach Scott, Lucy won't even talk to me through the door, and I'm already running late.
Kevin: Anytime, I'm here. Now don't worry I'll handle this.
Gail: Thank you Kevin.
Gail rushes out the door. Kevin goes upstairs and knocks on Lucy's door.
Kevin: Lucy? Lucy you okay in there?
Lucy: Doc?
Kevin: Yeah It's me, can I come in?
Lucy: Just a minute.
Lucy tries to pull herself together quickly. She rubs her face with a tissue and takes a few deep breaths. She opens the door. Kevin looks into her eyes so full of despair and loss. Lucy looks into his eyes so full of love and concern.
Kevin: Hi I heard about Christina and I thought you might need someone to talk to.
Lucy collapses in his arms crying. Kevin picks her up and goes into her room. He sits in a chair holding her just letting her cry. He strokes her head and thinks of all the times she held him through his dark times. Is heart suddenly starts aching like it hasn't ached in months. They sit there for awhile as she cries. Finally she pulls herself together.
Lucy: I I I'm sorry I just
Kevin: Lucy you never have to say your sorry to me. Besides loosing a child is definitely something to cry about.
Lucy: I just don't see how Chris could be a better parent then me. But for Christina's sake I pray he is.
Kevin: Ramsey is Christina's father!
Lucy: Yep and serial killer Marcia is her mother.
Kevin: And the judge gave them custody!
Lucy: Yep some system isn't it. Oh doc I really don't want to talk about this right now. But I don't want to be alone.
Kevin: Then how about if don't talk about it. Have you had dinner?
Lucy: I don't think I could eat.
Kevin: Lucy you need to eat, you're pregnant after all.
Lucy: I know but I just
Kevin: What if I make you some spaghetti it's a great comfort food you know.
Lucy: Okay I guess should eat and Serena is probably getting hungry.
Kevin: Well then it's settled. Come on lets go down to the kitchen and get busy with dinner.
They walk downstairs hand in hand. 

Back at the hospital Julie and Frank are watching Joe sleep.
Julie: He seems okay now.
Frank: Well that's because he's asleep. When he's awake he is scared, clingy, and sobbing.
Julie: Well I'm sure Kevin can help him.
Frank: I hope so.
Just then Lark and Neil walk in.
Lark: Excuse me I don't mean to bother you guys but Neil wanted to see his Dad.
Neil comes in and looks at Joe.
Frank goes over to Neil.
Frank: Hey slugger how are you feeling?
Neil: I'm okay I guess. We just got back from Mom's service.
Frank: I know that must have been tough kido. I'm sorry I couldn't be there but your Dad needed me.
Neil: Is he going to be okay?
Frank: In time he will be okay. But it's going to take some time. You know how when you have chemo it has some nasty side affects?
Neil: Yeah
Frank: Well this kidnapping had some nasty side affects on your Dad. One of them is that he's really scared and insecure right now. So he needs a lot of love and support.
Neil nods, then goes over to Joe's bedside. He takes of his baseball cap and looks at it.
Neil: You know, when I got sick again I was really scared to. Dad gave me this hat and told me this hat and told me not to worry that everything was going to be okay.
Neil puts the hat on Joe's head. Joe weekly opens his eyes.
Neil: Don't worry Dad everything is going to be okay. I love you.
Neil hugs Joe, and Joe hugs him back.
Frank, Julie and Lark have tears in their eyes as they watch. 

At Chris's apartment Chris is watching TV. when Christina starts to cry. Chris jumps up and goes into her room and picks her up.
Chris: Hey Chrissy girl what wrong don't cry. Come on I'll give you some money
Chris flashes her his grin. Christina continues to whale.
Chris: What are you wet?
Chris check nope she's not wet.
Chris: Are you hungry?
She pushes the bottle away with her hands.
Chris: What do you want sweetie?
Christina wails louder.
Chris: okay okay calm down. Do you want me to sing to you?
Okay lets see what songs do I know. Well I guess I could sing to you what my Mom used to sing to me. How about that would you like me to sing that to you?
Chris settles down in the rocker with Christina against his shoulder. He begins rocking and patting her back as he sings.
Chris: Baby Mine don't you cry. Baby mine dry your eyes. Rest your head close to my heart never to part baby of mine. Little one when you play, pay no head what they say. Let your eyes sparker and shine never a tear baby of mine. If they new all about you, they'd end up loving you to. All those same people who scoled you what they'd give just for the right to hold you. from your head down to your toes. Your not much goodness knows but your so precious to me sweet as can be baby of mine.
Christina has fallen fast asleep.
Chris lays her back in her bed and watches her sleep.
Chris: Yeah that song always put me out to. I can't believe I remembered it. I was 6 the last time I heard it. Well sleep tight Chrissy.
Chris leaves the room closing the door behind him. 

Back at GH Karen is about to leave but decides to check on Joe first. She goes into his room and finds Frank sitting on his bed watching him sleep.
Karen: Hi I uh just wanted to check on him before I head out for the night. How is he?
Frank: When he's asleep he's fine.
Karen: He's still pretty shaken up huh.
Frank: yeah Kevin thinks it will be awhile before he's well again.
Karen: Well Joe's tough I'm sure he'll get better.
Karen checks his vitals.
Karen: I hear you and Kevin were big hero's today?
Frank: I guess so, we just did what we had to do. You know Joe's well being is very important.
He gives Karen a look she's only used to seeing from Mary.
Karen: it's still important to me to Frank.
Frank goes over and removes her hands gently from Joe.
Frank: If that is true then with all do respect could you please leave. My brother can't handle you at the moment. And to be quite honest either can I.
Karen is taken aback.
Karen: I I I'm sorry I just wanted to check on him. Karen Leaves quickly.
Frank looks down at Joe after she leaves.
Frank: I'm a man of my word and as God as my witness Joseph I will not allow you to get hurt again. 

Lee has been driving around for hours looking for his son. He finally sees Scott's Car at an old bar in a bad part of town. Lee parks and goes inside. Scott is sitting at a bar stool drinking one beer after another. He is wasted beyond words.
Lee: Come on Scott let me take you home
Scott pushes Lee away.
Scott: leave me alone I'm not going home and you can't make me!
Lee: Scott you've had a little to much to drink and you need to come home. Lucy needs you.
Scott: Well I need to be left alone!
Scott gets up tries to punch Lee and passes out in his arms instead. Lee with the bouncers help gets Scott to his car and Lee takes him back to his house so he can sober up before going home. 

Karen rings the door at Matt's place. She has tears in her eyes.
Matt: Karen what's wrong?
Karen: Matt just hold me okay.
Matt takes her over to the couch and they sit together as Matt holds her close.

Chapter 23
The morning sun streams through Matt's bed room window and across his bed. Matt opens his eyes and looks down at Karen sleeping peacefully in his arms. He lightly brushes a strand of hair that has fallen across her face away. She opens her eyes and looks up at him. Matt smiles.
Matt: Good morning.
Karen: Good morning.
Matt: How did you sleep?
Karen: Once I fell asleep I slept fine it was falling asleep that was hard.
Matt: I'm sorry Frank upset you so much last night. He had no right to treat you like that.
Karen: I'd like to believe that but the truth is he had every right. I dumped his brother for you. I mean Matt what kind of a brother would he be if he wasn't protective.
Matt: But the two of you were pretty much apart when we happened.
Karen: That doesn't matter. The fact is I hurt Joe and now Joe is in very bad shape.
Matt: Because he was kidnapped not because of you.
Karen: But it's hard to not wonder if we'd been together If he new he had me to come back to if maybe he wouldn't have been affected as badly.
Matt: You can't really blame your self for this.
Karen: No but I can see how Frank can.
Matt: Well if that is the case wouldn't you being around help Joe?
Karen: I'm not sure. You saw how he was in the ER. Maybe it wouldn't have been good.
Matt: Or maybe it would have been just fine.
Karen: I doubt it's a risk Frank and Mary want to take.
Matt: So what are you going to do just stay away from his room? You're a Doctor Karen you work there
Karen: But I don't have to see every patient. And for the next few days. At least until Kevin starts really working with him I think I should steer clear of his room. I don't need to see him and maybe it would be better for him if I didn't.
Matt: If you think that's best but I don't want you blaming your self for this.
Karen: I'm not. But I don't want to hurt his well being and if there is a chance that my presence would do just that then maybe for a couple of days I should stay away.
Matt strokes Karen's face and kisses her tenderly.
Karen: So what are you going to be up to today?
Matt: Trying to figure out what to say to Julie when she finds out.
Karen: Matt
Matt: You don't think Frank is going to tell her? Come on Karen even if for some odd ball reason he doesn't Mary will.
Karen: But that doesn't mean she'll have a bad reaction.
Matt: Karen loyalty and family along with love and friendship are all things that are very important to Julie.
Karen: Which is exactly why she will stand by you.
Matt shakes his head
Matt: which is exactly why she'll stand bye the Scanlon's and leave me out in the cold. Karen at this point we are still forming a bond. Her bond with the Scanlon's is already concrete.
Karen: Who says she's going to take sides though
Matt: Karen she loves Joe she told me she sees him as her brother. I stole the women her almost brother loves you think she's going to just shrug it off. Especially when the man she loves is so angry at you and I because of it.
Karen: I really doubt Frank would make Julie take sides.
Matt: Make no cause yes. And don't forget Mary she is the closest thing to a mother Julie has ever had. Julie will turn back flips to keep herself in Mary's good graces.
Karen: Well then maybe you should be the one to tell her. Maybe that would help.
Matt: I bet she already knows.
Karen: She might not. Why don't you give her a call.
Matt: I will but after breakfast.
Karen: Hmm that sounds good.
Matt: You stay here and I'll surprise you.
Karen: Oh that sounds very good.
Matt: Well keeping you in bed is a side benefit.
Karen: MATT
Karen laughs and playfully throws a pillow at him. They kiss and Matt goes on into the kitchen Karen watches after him smiling. 
Over at the fire house Kevin opens his eyes. His neck is stiff from sleeping sitting up on the couch last night. He looks down at Lucy who fell asleep with her head on his shoulder. Her eyes are red and puffy from crying most of the night. They stayed up till nearly 4 talking and crying. He looks at her and thinks how many times he woke from some horrid nightmare to find her right by his side. She never failed him. Kevin sighs and brushes her hair from her face. Lucy opens her teary eyes and looks up at him.
Kevin: Hi
Lucy: Hi, I I guess I finally fell asleep.
Lucy sits up and rubs her neck.
Kevin: Yeah you finally past out around 4am.
Lucy: Thank you for staying.
Kevin smiles
Kevin: Anytime
Lucy: I just don't think I could have handled being alone last night.
Kevin: Well I'm sure you would have managed you're very strong but I'm glad I could help.
Lucy: Really?
Kevin: Lucy you are one of the strongest people I know. And I'm always happy to help you.
They smiles the silence is awkward but familiar.
Lucy: Well uhm I guess you have a busy day ahead of you huh.
Kevin: Well I have a meeting in a little while with Julie. If she is doing as good as I suspect she is I'm going to let her go home this afternoon.
Lucy: oh that's good. I'm glad she's getting better.
Kevin: She really has been through a lot. I also need to check in on Joe.
Lucy: That's right I heard you and Frank rescued him. You are a hero Doc.
Kevin blushes.
Kevin: Well I don't know about that. At any rate he's doing really bad. Physically he's not to bad off but mentally he's like a child.
Lucy: That's awful, well at least he has you for a doctor as well as a step brother I'm sure you can help him.
Kevin smiles.
Kevin: You still can make me feel like super man you know that.
Lucy blushes.
Lucy: Well you are something special that's for sure.
They look at each other as a strange and familiar feeling passes between them.
Kevin: Uh well would you like me to make you some breakfast? You always loved my omelets.
Lucy: Oh nobody makes omelets like you.
Kevin smiles.
Kevin: One omelet coming up.
Kevin leaves for the kitchen. Lucy watches him go. 

Over at Chris's apartment a very tired Chris is busy dressing Christina.
Chris: Time to get ready Chrissy today we're going to go see Mommy! She is going to be so excited to see you. She is going to hug you and kiss you and hold you.
Christina giggles and Chris gets her all dressed in a little yellow dress with a white frilly lace around the cuffs and neck. He then puts a little yellow bonnet with white fringe and little yellow booties with white fringe around them on her feet.
Chris: Okay now we're all set to go see Mommy.
Chris puts her in her pumpkin seat.
Chris: Now she doesn't know you're coming okay this is a complete surprise so no telling.
He puts a finger to his lips and grins broadly. Then takes her down to his car and fastens her in.
Chris: You know for a few minutes your Mommy and I thought you might be born in this car.
They drive off. 

At the hospital Mary and Victor come into Joe's room. Joe and Frank are both fast asleep. Mary walks over to Joe and lightly kisses his forehead. Joe opens his eyes.
Joe: Hi Ma
Mary: Hi there. How are you feeling this morning?
Joe: Where is Frank?
Frank upon hearing his name bolts upright from his sleep and is holding Joe's hand with in half a second.
Frank: Hey Joseph I'm right here. Did you sleep okay?
Joe: I dreamed Karen came in to see me.
Frank and Mary exchange a look.
Frank: I think she's at home Joe. How are you feeling?
Joe: I feel sore.
Frank: Well you're probably going to for a few days but that will get better I promise.
Joe: Neil was in here right or did I dream that?
Frank: No you didn't dream it Neil was in here. He gave you his base ball cap see.
Frank shows Joe the hat beside his bed.
Joe: Frank why do you suppose Hank did all this?
Frank: I wish I new but he isn't going to get away with it that's for sure.
Joe starts crying.
Joe: I thought I was going to die there.
Frank hugs him tightly.
Frank: You're okay now Joseph you are okay now. Everything is going to be fine. You are safe at GH and Hank is locked up. I'm sorry he hurt you I'm so very sorry you had to go through that. I promise I will do what ever it takes to keep you from ever being hurt again.
Joe clings to Frank as he cries and Frank holds him tight. Finally Joe calms down and Frank lays him back down.
Frank: How about if I go get you some breakfast?
Joe turns white as a ghost and grabs onto Frank for dear life.
Joe: NO NO NO PLEASE DON'T LEAVE DON'T LEAVE HE'LL GET ME HE'LL GET ME!!
Joe starts crying hysterically.
Mary: Joe it's okay it's okay he isn't going to get you.
Victor: He can't we won't let him.
Frank holds Joe tightly.
Joe: PLEASE PLEASE DON'T LEAVE ME DON'T LEAVE ME!
Frank: I'm not going anywhere Joe I'm not going anywhere. I'm right here Joseph I'm right here I have you I have you. It's okay it's okay.
Frank, Mary, and Victor exchange very worried looks. 

Over at Lee and Gail's Scott stumbles into the kitchen with sunglasses on. His head is throbbing from the hangover. He sits down and puts his head on the table. Gail puts a cup of coffee in front of him.
Gail: Here Scotty drink some coffee it will help.
Scott: Coffee can't fix this! My daughter is living with a con man and a killer! A cup of coffee isn't going to cut it!
Gail: Oh Scotty I know you miss Christina. I'm so very sorry you lost her. I know how much you and Lucy loved her. But you have to try and move on. You have Serena and a new baby on the way not to mention Lucy. They are all depending on you. They need you Scotty.
Scott: Oh yeah a lot of good I've done them! If I was the old Scott the second Lee called with the news about Christina's father I'd of gotten my family on a plain and we' d be half way around the world by now with Christina, not here grieving!
Gail: But Scotty you know better now. You know that that wouldn't have been a good life for the girls or your new baby. Being on the run always looking over your shoulders.
Scott cocks his eye brows.
Scott: It works for the Spencers.
Gail: And you think Luke's life has turned out well?
Scott: Aw Hell Gail I don't need to be analyzed!
Gail: I'm not trying to analyze you I'm trying to help you.
Scott: Well you can't help me! Christina's gone and it's my fault! I let my whole family down!
Gail: You did not let anyone down Scotty!
Scott: Then what would you call it! Lucy and Serena's hearts are broken and Christina is living with a man who has spent his whole life in love with his wallet! Oh hell I'm going to go take a shower!
Scott stomps up the steps. 

Over at Ferncliff Marcia is sitting in the visitors room. She's not sure who her visitor is since no one called ahead and Rachel isn't due for a few hours.
Chris pokes his head in
Chris: Hi
Marcia starts to get up.
Marcia: Chris!
Chris: Hold it right there sit back down.
Marcia gives Chris a strange look and sits back down.
Chris: Now close your eyes.
Marcia: Why?
Chris: Just do it please.
Chris smiles.
Marcia: Okay.
Marcia closes her eyes.
Chris walks in and sits the pumpkin seat down on the table and lifts Christina out.
Chris: Now keep your eyes closed.
Marcia: They're closed what are you up to anyway.
Chris: You'll see.
Chris sits down directly in front of her with Christina in his arms.
Chris: Okay open them.
Marcia opens her eyes. She squeals in delight upon seeing Christina in Chris's arms.
Marcia: CHRISTINA!
Christina giggles.
Chris: Surprise!
Marcia picks Christina up and holds her close. Tears are streaming down her face.
Marcia: Oh my baby oh my sweet little baby! Let me get a look at you.
Marcia looks over every inch of her.
Marcia: Oh you're more beautiful then I ever imagined. Oh my baby my precious little baby girl.
Marcia looks at Chris with tears in her eyes.
Marcia: Thank you thank you Chris thank you from the bottom of my heart. I love you so so much.
Chris strokes her cheek.
Chris: You my dear are welcome.
He leans in and they kiss tenderly. 

Back at the fire house. Kevin, Lucy, and Serena are sitting at the table eating omelets.
Lucy: Kevin thank you for making these they are as good as ever.
Kevin: I'm glad you like them. And I'm glad I could help.
Lucy smiles.
Serena: They really are good Kevin. My Daddy can cook good to. Where is Daddy?
Lucy: Oh he he decided to spend the night at Lee and Gail's. But he'll back in awhile I'm sure.
Serena: I wish he was here.
Serena looks sadly at the empty chair.
Lucy: Oh pumpkin head he'll be back soon.
Serena: But what if someone comes to take him like they did Christina.
Kevin: Serena no one is going to take your Daddy away from you. It doesn't work like that. Christina went away because she had a family already and they wanted her with them. But this is your Daddy's family so no one is going to take him away and no one is going to take you away either. You belong here.
Lucy: Absolutely, Kevin is right Serena we are a family and we aren't going anywhere.
Serena: I'm glad.
Kevin: Well I'd better go Julie is expecting me.
Lucy: Oh okay I'll walk you out.
Kevin and Lucy walk to the front door.
Lucy: Thanks again for coming and just for everything.
Kevin smiles he looks into those deep green eyes of hers and feels himself moving closer.
Lucy tilts her head back and looks into those piercing brown eyes of his and feels something inside shift there lips meet for an instant. Both shocked they jump back.
Kevin: Uhm well I'm glad I could help I better go. I'll call you later.
Lucy: Yeah I'd better get Serena ready for School bye.
Kevin rushes off, Lucy quickly shuts the door behind her, and leans up against it.

Chapter 24
Matt and Karen sit in bed eating their breakfast.
Karen: Mmmm I love French Toast with cinnamon.
Matt: I love making you happy.
Karen smiles.
Karen: Well you do a great job of it.
Matt: So do you have to work today?
Karen: No not till later this afternoon. But I have to go in early because I have a session with Gail.
Matt: Oh because of what Hank did.
Karen: Yeah he hurt me very badly and I'm wise enough to know pretending it didn't happen isn't going to help. Gail helped me a lot when I was dealing with what Ray did to me so it makes sense to see her now for this.
Matt: Is there anything I can do to help?
Karen smiles.
Karen: You just being here really helps.
Matt pulls her close and kisses her tenderly.
Matt: Then here is where I'll stay.
Karen: So how about you? Do you have to work today?
Matt: No I have the day off. I'll probably go see Julie or something.
Karen: That sounds good. So are you going to tell her?
Matt: Yes I am. Any relationship regardless of the kind has to be based on trust. If I want her to trust me I have to be honest and open with her.
Karen: That makes sense. Trust is very important and Julie will probably appreciate you telling her.
Matt: I hope so. Hey how much time before you go see Gail?
Karen: A couple of hours why?
Matt: Perfect! Pull some close on I'm taking you on a little trip.
Matt starts dressing.
Matt: Come on get dressed.
Karen: But where are we going?
Matt grins devilishly.
Matt: You'll just have to wait and see. Now hurry up and get dressed.
Karen hops out of bed and begins dressing. 
Back at the light house Eve is sitting having some coffee when Kevin comes in. She goes over and hugs him.
Eve: Hey you must be exhausted. I can't believe she kept you over there all night. Let me guess she sobbed on your shoulder till the break of dawn.
Kevin: Eve she didn't make me stay I wanted to. She was hurting very badly, Lucy loved Christina as her own. And her being ripped out of her arms by that friend of yours shattered her heart. You know I'd think that you having lost a child yourself would be a little more sympathetic to Lucy then your being.
Eve looks at him in total shock.
Eve: I I I'm sorry I didn't mean to upset you. But Kevin when has Lucy ever showed me any compassion or sympathy.
Kevin: Well have you ever tried showing her any? I mean really Eve you haven't exactly given her a ton of reasons to be nice to you.
Eve has tears in her eyes.
Eve: Kevin!
Kevin: Look I've barely had any sleep and I have a full day ahead of me. I'm going to go shower and change then I'm off to see Julie.
Kevin goes upstairs leaving a shocked and hurt Eve standing dumbfounded in the living room. 

Back at the fire house Serena has left for School and Lucy has showered and dressed when Scott comes through the door.
Lucy: Hi there.
Scott goes over and hugs Lucy.
Scott: So how are you doing this morning.
Lucy: Oh rotten, how about you?
Scott: I've been better.
Lucy: So I hear you got pretty wasted last night?
Scott: Yeah well I didn't know what else to do.
Lucy: Well you could have stayed here and we could have comforted each other. We're both going through the same loss you know.
Scott: What's that supposed to me.
Lucy: It's supposed to mean that I really needed you last night! I was beyond heart broken Scott I was shattered I could barely think. And where were you of drinking! Serena and I really needed you Scott!
Scott: Look I needed to get away for a bit okay. Besides you are okay now!
Lucy: No Scott I'm not okay now I'm coping now! And the only reason I am is because Kevin came over and stayed with me all night!
Scott: Well why the hell did you call that bag of nuts!
Lucy: I didn't call him Gail did because she couldn't reach you and she was afraid to leave me alone!
Scott: So why didn't she stay!
Lucy: Because she had to get to a patient! Unlike some people she takes her commitments seriously! Kevin was a big comfort but it would have been nice if you could have come through for me. Now I'm going to pack up Christina's things and send them to Chris. Do you think you could help me or is that asking to much of you!
Scott: Why don't you just go call Kevin I'm sure he'd love to ride to your pathetic rescue again!
Scott grabs his coat and heads for the door.
Lucy: Now where in God's Name are you going!
Scott: OUT!
Scott leaves slamming the door behind him.