Saturday, June 8, 2002
General Hospital Auditorium -- 1:30pm

What good is sitting alone in your room?
Come hear the music play;
Life is a cabaret, old chum,
Come to the cabaret.

Lucy's voice echoed through the auditorium as rehearsal for the Nurse's Ball was underway. With the Ball now less than two weeks away, there were sets to design, costumes to be fitted and song and dance numbers to be finalized. The auditorium on the ground floor of the hospital had been set up to model the Versailles Room in the Port Charles Hotel where the Nurse's Ball would again be held.

As Lucy came off the stage, Emily began preparing her number from The Sound of Music. Ned gave Emily a quick wink and then headed back stage to talk to the band before the rehearsal of the next number. Lois sat in the first row of seats along with Brooke and Jillian as the girls excitedly enjoyed the treat of seeing the rehearsals. Brooke and Jillian nodded at Lois when she put her finger in front of her lips as the music began for Emily's song. The girls grinned as they remembered Emily's number from her lead in the fall production of the musical at PCU.

After rehearsal of Emily’s song had finished, Jillian and Brooke clapped and Emily curtsied causing the girls to giggle. Emily came down the steps and sat next to them in the seats as Lois went up on stage.

"You singed just like Maria in the movie," exclaimed Jillian.

Brooke nodded her head. "And you twirled around too but there's no grass or sky."

Emily smiled at both cherubs. "Not yet, but later on there will be paintings on stage that look like the sky and the grass and the mountains. Remember when you came to see me before Christmas at the theater, it will look like that."

"I remember now, it was pretty," responded Brooke with a bob of her head.

"Oh yeah, they had clouds too," added Jillian. "The men pushed them off the stage when it was dark but I could still see them."

Brooke tapped her finger on the arm of the seat. "Me too, they made noise."

Emily laughed aloud at Brooke and Jillian's astute observations. She then looked toward the rear of the auditorium to see Edward enter with a sour look on his face. At the sight of Jerry laughing as he walked him, Emily shook her head and smiled. "Here comes Grandfather."

The girls turned their heads and heard Edward's grumbling. Brooke sighed. "He's not in a good mood today."

Jillian sighed in return as Jerry slapped Edward on the shoulder. "Uncle Jerry's teasing again."

At the sound of Edward's muttering, Julia looked up from the promotional materials she was looking over for Lucy and glared at Jerry. She got up from her seat and stepped into Jerry's path of tormenting Edward. "You were supposed to meet me here a half hour ago."

"I had things to do," Jerry said with a groan.

"Yes, to be here," she replied. "You are not getting out of this, Jerry Jacks, so just forget any thoughts of that. No more suspected cases of malaria or talk about your sudden need to show me where you saw your first kangaroo in the Outback."

Edward chuckled. "That's it, Julia, give him hell. I mean heck," he blustered as he saw Jillian and Brooke looking up at him.

Jillian gave Jerry a beaming smile. "Uncle Jerry, I came to see you practice singing. Mommy telled me you're gonna be like a cowboy."

Jerry rolled his eyes and looked around the auditorium. "Where is that mother of yours, I have several things to say to her."

"She's coming after Jessica and Jonathan go to sleep," Jillian answered as she leaned over her seat. "Aunt Lois bringed me and Brooke to see you but Daddy says we can't cover our ears even when you sing bad."

Brooke confirmed the instructions. "Right, no covering our ears, and Uncle Jax said the song will be over soon."

Edward laughed raucously and Jerry grit his teeth. "My, my, maybe there is a positive to having that ruthless shark around."

"I'll have a talk with that father and Uncle Jax of yours too," Jerry declared. "After I fall on the floor laughter after seeing him up there failing to make a giraffe look like a singer and dancer."

"Daddy's not a giraffe," Jillian announced. "Mommy showed me the movie and there are no giraffes. Mommy's gonna look pretty and Daddy is gonna twirl her around."

Jerry sat down in a seat behind Jillian and Brooke and had to stop himself from smiling at Jillian's staunch expression. "We'll see how long it takes for your father to fall flat on his ..."

"Jerry.....," Julia muttered as she shot him a telling look.

"Face. Fall on his face," Jerry said as he completed his statement.

Jillian shook her head. "No, Mommy and Daddy have been practicing. Virgil and Mommy moved the sofa in the living room and Daddy came home from work and Mommy said it was practice time."

A deep chuckle fell from Jerry's lips at the image of that scene. "Oh, I bet your father loved that."

Jillian put her hand over her mouth as she giggled. "That line was on his head, right here," she reported as touched the center of her forehead. "Then he called Mommy her long name like he does when he's in a bad mood."

Julia and Emily turned their heads away to hide their mirth but Jerry laughed out loud. "What else did he say?"

"Lots of things but I couldn't hear since he was talking real soft," Jillian responded as she turned her head to talk to Jerry. "But then Mommy whispered in his ear and he practiced."

Jerry rolled his eyes and muttered under his breath. "That dumb Aussie never learned anything about willpower."

"So, that runs in the family," Julia murmured with a telltale smirk as she sat down beside Jerry. For added emphasis, her right breast pressed softly again his arm as Julia leaned in to speak to him.

A deep exhale was expressed from Jerry's lungs as he thought back to Julia's own words this morning about what exactly would happen, or more accurately NOT happen, if he failed to show up at rehearsal. His willpower around Julia was at an all time low since her passion meter had been on overload since their reunion. Jerry had never experienced such a bounty of thirst quenching and hunger satiating feasts and he was not about to go on a starvation diet now.

He cleared his throat and tipped his head toward Julia. The band then began doing a sound check and Brooke rubbed her hands together. "It's Mommy and Daddy's turn now."

Edward groaned as he sat across the aisle. "Not those leather pants again. Confound it, he's got Lois in them too."

Emily laughed. "Grandfather, they're performing a song from Grease and that is the appropriate wardrobe."

"There is nothing appropriate about it, young lady," he growled.

Jerry leaned into the aisle and baited Edward. "Just admit it, Eddie, you're just jealous that you don't have the ass-ets to wear them. I see how much Lila eyes a retreating pair of tight pants."

Emily choked back her laughter and Edward grumbled at her. "Watch it, young lady, or I will see to it that you wear that habit from your act every day in a convent. You have lots of experience being a nun so they will take you on early admission."

"So, when does the zoo come to get you, Edward," Jax asked as he gripped Edward's shoulder from behind. "You've been an old goat since the day you were born."

"Daddy," Jillian exclaimed as she heard Jax's voice. "Where's Mommy?"

"She's in the hall talking to Aunt Robin," Jax replied as he sat down next to Jillian. "Have you and Brooke been having fun watching rehearsal?"

Jillian leaned closer to him as she began speaking at breakneck speed. "It's sooo fun, Daddy. I saw Aunt Lucy sing and then Uncle Matt and lots of other people sang to her when she was Dolly."

Brooke joined in at the same warped rate. "Then Aunt Felicia and Uncle Mac sang, they were funny, and Uncle Alan sang and Emily did too."

"Oh, Miss Karen and Mr. Joe singed `Beauty and the Beast' just like on my tape. And then Miss Karen and lots of other people singed and kicked in a line. And Ingo and lots of people signed and danced too. Ingo waved at me and Brooke.

Jax pushed back the curls from Jillian's face and smiled at the awestruck look on his daughter's face. "What a special day you two have had then."

"I hafta to tell Mommy too," Jillian chirped with a beaming grin. "Then we can sing when we watch the movies."

"Mommy will be here in a few minutes. She wanted to make sure Uncle Matt was feeling okay and tell Aunt Robin all about the trip to the beach."

Jillian smiled at him. "I saw Uncle Matt after he singed and he wants to look at my sea shells tonight. He says he's not sick." She turned back to look at Julia. "Right Aunt Julia?"

She nodded her head. "That's right, he's just fine." Julia let out a slow exhale in relief. It had been a very long week since the ventilation system malfunction in the lab and it had taken five days before the test results could determine whether Matt and his assistant had been exposed to the dangerous bacterial strain they had been analyzing. Thankfully, neither had been infected and Lois and Julia had been with Robin while Matt was in isolation since Robin had been adamant that Brenda not be told of the accident until the family's return from Malibu.

The Idle Rich then began playing and Ned and Lois began signing their rendition of "You're the One that I Want" as Brooke and Jillian danced in their seats along with the music. Edward scowled and rolled his eyes as Ned swiveled his hips while Jax and Jerry chuckled at Ned's theatrics. As the number ended, Brooke and Jillian applauded and Emily took Brooke backstage.

Jillian turned to Jax and Jerry and grinned. "Are you gonna shake and dance like Uncle Ned does when you sing?"

"Jillian, neither your father nor Uncle Jerry will look like that, Julia choked out amidst her mirth. "Not in a million years."

"You're a real riot, Julia, do you know that?" Jerry glared at her as she continued to laugh. "You're the one who is playing the town jezebel, not me."

"You wanted to play a jezebel?" Julia began laughing even harder. "We can go with something from La Cage Aux Folles then so at least you could wear the costume."

Jax snickered loudly and Jillian joined in on the giggles. Jerry glowered at her as he spoke, "Hey munchkin, you don't even know what you are laughing about."

"Jerry, you're funny looking, she does not need any other excuse," piped in Jax.

Brenda walked up to the hilarity and winked at Jillian before facing Jerry. "I see nothing has changed in the ten days since we left. Everyone is still making fun of you, Jerry."

"I still blame you for all of this," he declared. "If it weren't for you bamboozling your lesser half into this farce, I would never be in this trap."

"If that was supposed to garner some sympathy, you are really going to have to work on your delivery," Brenda said with a sigh. "Otherwise, you are going to make a bigger fool of yourself on stage than even I imagined."

"The term fool will take on a new meaning when Jasper gets up on stage and you will just be brought down with him," Jerry announced. "Talk about a crash and burn situation. At least I am not trying to be a hoofer."

Lucy then bounced over to the group. "Oh, good you're all here. We are already running late since Kathy decided to pull her usual stunt and throw a snit with the seamstress. As if the woman would ever think anyone in the universe would believe she is a size 6. She could not get one hip into a size 6."

Brenda ignored the dig at Katherine. "Yes, we're here, even though I can think of about a hundred other places these two gentlemen would rather be."

"I think a thousand would be the more accurate number," Jax retorted.

"At least that many," Jerry countered.

Lucy waved her hand at both men. "You sound just like my Doc. Trust me you all will be great and it will be so much fun."

"Care to make a wager on that?" Jerry lifted his eyebrow at Lucy. "I'll give you great odds."

"Nonsense, you are both my big draws," Lucy declared with a huge grin. "Never have we sold entire tables to people on two other continents. This is going to be the biggest success yet, thank heavens the expansion and renovations are completed at the Port Charles Hotel to facilitate the biggest crowd ever."

"Julia Elizabeth, entire tables?" Jerry glared at Julia as he spoke.

Jax looked at Brenda and shook his head. "Brenda Barrett Jacks, two other continents?"

As both Julia and Brenda shrugged, Jerry and Jax groaned in unison as they each turned to their spouse. "You didn't?"

"Thao and Teddi are so looking forward to this," Julia answered with a smile. "Oh, and since he had freed you from a Turkish prison once, Charlie said he had to be here to witness this. He said you owed him."

Jillian clapped her hands together in enthusiasm. "And Tron gets to come too."

Brenda nodded as she spoke, "And Augustin, Serafina, Paola and the Contessa would not have missed this for the world."

"You're going to pay for this," Jerry mumbled under his breath.

Julia leaned over and kissed his cheek. "I know, but it will be well worth it." She then gave him a sly grin as she whispered. "You're a cowman, so maybe we can work a lasso into the number and then forget to give it back to the prop department."

Jerry snickered in spite of himself as he leaned over to murmur to Julia. "Only if I get to use it first."

Meanwhile, Jax continued to lock gazes with Brenda until he finally rolled his eyes and grinned. "You are going to be the death of me yet, Mrs. Jacks, but I must admit, life is never dull with you."

Brenda sat on the edge of Jax's lap and hugged him. "They're not going to know what hit them when they see you."

"As long as it is them and not me," Jax declared with a sigh. "All I can think of is rotten fruit and vegetables aimed at my head."

"I promise that you can forget chivalry and duck to let any flying food hit me," Brenda pledged as she laughed aloud. "It's not going to happen, it would not go with Lucy's theme anyway."

"Right, right," Lucy affirmed. "Champagne glasses maybe, but not food."

Everyone laughed and Lucy then was given the cue that it was time for the next act to rehearse. "Okay Edward, you're on."

He rose from his seat and pointed at Jax and Jerry. "Now, you can see how this is supposed to be done."

Ned, Lois and Brooke came off the stage then and Ned motioned toward Edward. "That's it, Grandfather, humility has always been your strongest trait."

"You don't even realize what you missed not being around during the era of the musical rave when your grandmother and I were painting the town red," Edward rebutted. "Thankfully, you can see a glimpse of it now."

"That's it, Mr. Q., strut your stuff," Lois exclaimed.

Edward looked over at Lois and then Brenda and winked at them. He then put his finger to his cheek and tapped it. "I will do that but I just remembered that I need two beautiful little girls to help me when I'm on stage."

Brooke's mouth opened immediately. "Two little girls?"

Edward bobbed his head. "Yes, and now I just need to see if I can find any."

"Me," Brooke shrieked as she raised her hand as if she were still in school. "I want to help."

"Me too," chimed in Jillian. She and Brooke then turned to their respective mothers. "Please Mommy, can we help?"

Lois and Brenda both nodded in unison. "Yes, you can help."

Jillian and Brooke both shrieked and began jumping up and down. Jerry covered his ears at the high pitched sound as Lois shushed them. "Okay, it's time to help now."

Edward tipped his head at the girls and extended both of his elbows toward Brooke and Jillian to accompany him up the steps to the stage.

Ned sat down with Lois beside him and murmured aloud. "Two stars are born."

"They sure are," Jax replied as he put his arm around Brenda. "And something tells me that life is never going to be the same."

Laughter filled the seats as music then began to play on stage and the magic of another era began.

The Jacks Residence -- 6:00pm

Jax turned down the flame on the grill as Jerry brought out another platters of hot dogs and hamburger patties for the impromptu cook-out. Out in the lawn, while Jonathan cooed in the baby swing next to her, Brenda rocked a sleepy Jessica in her arms before putting her into the playpen. Lois stood beside Brenda and they watched Jillian and Brooke on the swings as Robin and Matt pushed both girls in a soaring race to the sky. The scene was complete as Ned followed behind Anthony through the plush grass while the toddler chased after a butterfly.

Jerry set down the tray and shook his head at Jax. "You wouldn't survive in the outback one night with those fire building skills."

"Meat is to be slowly grilled and cooked through in order to be properly savored," Jax declared. "Not incinerated at breakneck speed."

"We will be here all night at this rate," Jerry countered. "That's a kindergarten flame."

Jax spoke as he turned over the first set of burgers. "Hey, I don't need any assistance from the galloping gourmet."

"At least, I won't be serving hamburgers and hot dogs for breakfast like you will be at this rate with those barely orange embers," Jerry rebutted.

He glanced over at Jerry while continuing to grill. "Jerry, you never did understand the concept of `less is more,' did you?"

"Bloody hell, no," Jerry responded with a smirk. "Less was your forte, baby brother, I am more than happy with all my assets and I have never heard any complaints from any woman in my life."

Julia rolled her eyes at the comment as she came out the French doors, carrying two pitchers of iced tea onto the terrace. "Now, you can move those assets and get out of my way." She put down the drinks and turned toward Jerry. "And as far as complaints, if you actually knew how to listen, you would have heard plenty of them."

"Excuse me, I think you are confusing me with someone else," Jerry quipped. "Either that or those spotlights on stage have destroyed your brain cells."

"No confusion nor any destruction of brain cells," Julia countered with a smug smile. "You know what they say about the truth."

He leaned against the stone wall of the terrace and glared at Julia. "Yes, it hurts those who speak it. Now, where is Will's rope when I need it? That could be a showstopper, even more so than Lucy in her skivvies."

Brenda walked up the steps onto the terrace and flashed Jerry a smirk. "Now, what did I tell you? I knew you would find something enjoyable in your act."

"Too bad it is only pure torture for the rest of us," goaded Jax.

Jerry poured himself a glass of tea as he spoke. "At least I am not the one pirouetting around the stage. Wait till the Contessa gets a look at that, she'll cast you as a peppermint fairy the next time she choreographs The Nutcracker."

"That's sugarplum fairy, I will have you know," Jax replied.

"It's worse than I imagined," Jerry retorted with a chuckle. "You already know the characters."

"One of us had to pay attention while you were shooting rubber bands from the balcony at the opera house," Jax declared with a cunning glint in his eyes. "Especially that evening in New York with Swan Lake when you stole the show."

Jerry spoke through gritted teeth as the memory of that teenage prank flooded his mind. "You know that is an off limits subject."

"Not to me it isn't," Jax stated through a hearty laugh.

"Oh, then I have to know," Julia announced as she sat down in a lounge chair.

"Me too but wait a minute, we have to be ready," Brenda poured glasses of tea from the decaffeinated pitcher and then pulled out a chair for herself. "Okay, start from the beginning."

Julia took a sip from her tea. "And don't leave out even one detail."

"Don't you dare," Jerry cautioned Jax. "Not if you want to be alive in the morning."

"Well, we can wait till Ned and Lois come over here," Julia suggested.

Brenda struggled to keep her composure. "And Robin and Matt too."

"No," Jerry wailed as his face lost some color.

"Then I guess you'd better start talking," Julia prodded.

If looks could kill, Jax would have been ten feet under at that moment as Jerry stared at him. Jax snickered even louder at Jerry's expression. "Does the cat have your tongue? Fortunately, I am not suffering from that affliction."

"That's enough," Jerry groaned. "It was really nothing, just a blip on the screen of life."

"A blip? The newspaper reports had much better descriptions of your debut than that," Jax remarked with a laugh. "Of course, the photo coverage was my personal favorite."

Julia sat up in the chair. "Okay, spill it, Jeremiah."

"My insufferable baby brother is harassing me about an evening when Lady Jane dragged us to the Met for a so-called cultural training." Jerry rolled his eyes toward the sky as he continued. "She thought just because we now had money, we had to experience and learn to appreciate the arts."

"All the money in the world could never give you the taste or class you needed for that," Jax heckled.

"Class my ass," Jerry spouted. "It was like Chinese water torture. Seeing the Royal Ballet ranked up there with getting a tooth drilled for me."

Jax slapped Jerry on the shoulder. "The Company enjoyed your presence too that evening. Those rubber bands left quite an impression as they struck their designated targets."

"Hey, even I did not know my aim was that good," Jerry commented with a boastful tone. "That was some elasticity in those things."

Jax nodded his head and grinned. "Oh yes, Mum was sooo proud."

"Your input is not necessary," Jerry announced. "Just like it was not needed that evening."

"Someone had to lead the standing ovation," Jax countered as he continued flipping the hamburgers. "I mean how many teenagers have a host of prima ballerinas from the esteemed Royal Ballet, pirouette around them on center stage and then have every ballerina kiss them in front of a full house?"

"Oh no, you've got to be kidding," Julia said as she laughed at Jerry. "No wonder you hate to dance and refused to even consider it for the Nurse's Ball."

"What a sight that must have been," Brenda exclaimed. "Now, we need details."

Jax related the rest of the story through his own bouts of mirth. "Lady Jane decided it was an evening to make a lasting impression on the delinquent so after the apology to the Company, he was the star of the show."

"She never even saw one rubber band leave the balcony," Jerry muttered. "It should have only been circumstantial evidence."

"Well, I never said a word to her," offered Jax as he bit back a chuckle.

"You didn't have to," Jerry seethed as he put his hands on his hips and glared at Jax. "Writing my name on the inside of each rubber band did the trick."

Brenda hid her face in her hands as she giggled and Jax smirked at Jerry. "Hey, I had nothing else to do with my time when you stranded me in the woods three days before with your jacket. I never told you to shoot them at the chests of any prima ballerinas."

"Well, I did not tell you to yell `Encore' from the balcony at the top of your lungs," Jerry spit. "Did you have nothing else to do then either?"

"No," Jax responded as he waved his hand in the air. "I did that purely to see you squirm on stage as the torrent of kisses continued. I needed more photos anyway from the press for my scrapbook."

"I have to get copies of all those pictures," Julia announced. "I will have blackmail material for the rest of my life."

Brenda nodded her head and grinned. "I need copies too. If it ever comes time for Jillian's first recital, she has to know she isn't the youngest Jacks ballerina to have ever been on stage."

"No one is seeing any photos or ever bringing this up again," Jerry threatened as he shot them all a murderous look. "No jury in this country would ever convict me."

"Paying off judges and juries again, Jerry," asked Ned as he came onto the terrace. "What a surprise that is."

"Ashton, finally your bad timing is a help," uttered Jerry. "Jasper was just about to call everyone to come eat."

Jax piled the hamburgers and hot dogs on a tray. "Yes, Jerry is having crow for his meal."

The food was served and after dinner, everyone went inside the house to spend the rest of the evening. Lois and Brenda had gone upstairs to the nursery to change Anthony and the twins and Robin and Julia had accompanied them to see the new painting for the master suite that Jax and Brenda had found in Catalina. Downstairs, Jillian and Brooke were re-telling the plans for their participation in Edward's act. The girls were bubbling over even more with excitement since Brenda had shown them the scene from the musical on tape. It was going to be a long two weeks before the girls made their stage debut.

"Mommy says I'm gonna wear a pretty white dress and have little gloves on," Jillian announced to Julia.

Brooke completed the wardrobe elements. "And we are going to have a pretty umbrella with lace on it. We can even open it in the house."

The two starlets then squealed for the tenth time of the evening and twirled around the den. Jerry chuckled as he finished his brandy. "It's a real shame that those two are incapable of showing any sign of excitement or enthusiasm."

"A real pity," echoed Matt as he tipped his head to the girls.

"Why do I think that Grandfather has created two soon to be monsters," suggested Ned.

Jax poured himself a drink as he goaded Ned. "Your daughter craving the limelight and roar of applause? Who in the world would she ever have inherited that from, Nedley?"

Ned snickered. "Coming from an attention seeking snake like you, that is some question."

"Hey, I'm not the one in leather pants trying to turn back the clock now that middle age is setting in," Jax quipped.

"You're just jealous that you don't have a swarm of young women trying to beat down your door," Ned declared.

A smug smile covered Jax's face. "Lois and Brooke trying to get you out of the bathroom does not constitute a swarm."

Matt rubbed his hands together as he laughed. "I really could have used you both when I was holed up in isolation. At least I would have had some entertainment."

Jerry drained his glass. "Then be sure to keep your eyes peeled on the stage for the Nurse's Ball. My little brother will be quite entertaining although I'm not sure if it will be more of a show before or after he is in traction."

"We'll just see who is the most entertaining," Jax rebutted with a wide grin. "Of course with age before beauty, all of you should be on stage WELL before me."

Jerry, Matt and Ned all rolled their eyes at Jax who simply nodded his head and chuckled. It had been another entertaining evening all around.

Meanwhile, Lois had changed Anthony's diaper and Brenda and Julia were putting sleepers on the twins. The painting of the sunset over Catalina had been given rave reviews and the consensus was that the front wall in the living room area of the suite was the perfect spot for its display.

Once he was dressed in his Winnie the Pooh sleeper, Brenda handed Jonathan to Robin. "Here's your godmother, even though Mommy is still not happy with her for keeping me in the dark for a whole week." Brenda then looked to both Julia and Lois. "That goes for these other two as well."

Robin shook her head. "I told you that I insisted that no one say anything to you. You and Jax needed your time away together."

"Jax was not any happier than I was when he found out what had happened here," Brenda replied.

"I know, he told both Matt and me," Robin said with a small smile. "It just confirmed what I already knew, you would have come home and that was the last thing that either of us would have wanted."

Lois handed Anthony a toy to play with as she spoke to Brenda. "Everything's fine now, girlfriend, so we all can just chill out."

Julia put Jessica over her shoulder. "Brenda, you know that if there had been a problem, we would have called you immediately."

"All we could do was sit and wait and you could not have done anything to change that," Robin murmured to her. "Uncle Mac and Felicia and Lois and Julia and so many other people were there for me. What I wanted most from you and Jax was for you to enjoy every minute of your trip. You have to remember that every moment has to be treasured."

Brenda sighed aloud. "Now, how can I be upset with you when you say things like that?"

Soft laughter fell from Robin's lips. "You can't be so stop pretending to be."

Brenda groaned and then hugged Robin. "Okay, I'll forgive you this time." She looked over at Julia and Lois and groaned again. "And the both of you as well but there had better not be any next time."

"Trust me, I don't want a next time," Robin said with a jagged sigh.

"Okay then, what about taking your own advice," Brenda asked. "How much longer are you going to keep Matthew at bay?"

"Jeez Louise, ain't that the truth," Lois crooned. "How many times does the poor guy have to pledge his undying love to you before you commit to a life of nagging him and picking up his socks?"

Julia joined in on the badgering drill. "They're right, Robin, he is crazy about you and we know just how much you love him. You could not hide any of that over the past week."

Robin exhaled sharply. "What is this, gang-up on Robin night?"

"I think it constitutes as one," Brenda acknowledged with a wink. "We just want you to have everything in this world that will make you happy and we know that Matthew Perry is at the top of that list. You have taught us all how much each moment has to be cherished so why are denying yourself that?"

"The guy's gaga over you," Lois added as she stopped Anthony from crawling under the bassinet. "Almost as much as you are about him so it's time to get this show on the road."

"Matt loves you, virus or no virus," Brenda said in an emotional voice. "Whatever the time that you have together, or any of us have for that matter, all you can do is love each other as if it today were your last together and when tomorrow comes, there will be just that much more to treasure. I don't want you or Matthew lamenting anything or living the life of Adelaide. Performing about her life at the Nurse's Ball is one thing but mirroring your life around it is another thing entirely."

Robin's voice was barely above a whisper as she spoke. "I know that you're right. You all are right."

A triumphant beam covered Brenda's face. "You know?"

"Yes, I said I know," Robin rolled her eyes at the look of victory on Brenda's face. "This past ten days has made things very clear to me. I know now that making a decision based on what could happen to me in the future will only hurt both of us even more."

"Oh, I am so happy for you. For you both," Brenda crooned as she hugged Robin closely. Jonathan cooed as he was trapped between the two of them. "See, even your godson is happy."

Julia smiled brightly at her. "That's wonderful to hear, Robin."

"Thank heavens you finally got that through your thick skull," Lois proclaimed. "Now, when are we going to be throwing rice or birdseed or waving bubbles or whatever the wedding festivity gods are allowing these days?"

Robin put up her hand to stop the runaway train. "Let's not jump the gun here, there's been no talk of any rice right now."

"That's because you went nuts when Matthew even broached the subject months ago," Lois reminded her. "We will have to do something about that."

Brenda tapped her finger against her cheek. "Yes, there has to be a way to get the dear doctor thinking along those lines again."

"Time out," Robin said as her she shook her head. "I appreciate it, I really do, but we will just leave things as they are now and take one day at a time. The issues of marriage and commitment will come up when Matt is ready to discuss them again."

"You know, some men just need a little more prodding than others," Lois commented.

"Oh yes, I married one who needs a cattle brand at times," Julia offered and everyone laughed.

"Thank you all for everything but we will manage," Robin explained. "We both understand each other and know what we want."

Brenda took a fussy Jessica from Julia. "That is the best news I've had in a long time."

Lois lifted an energetic Anthony into her arms. "Ditto for me and from this guy who needs to get home and get to bed."

"This one needs to be right behind him," Brenda announced. "Let's see what damage they are inflicting on each other downstairs."

A minute later, the joyous group of friends walked into the living room and found all four men in what seemed to be a serious conversation that immediately ended upon the women's entrance into the room.

Brenda curiously looked over at Jax. "What's going on in here?"

Julia stared at Jerry and saw him cast his eyes down to the floor to avoid eye contact with her. "Yes, gentlemen, it looks like we've interrupted something."

Lois saw Ned exchange a look with Jax. "It sure does. What's up?"

"Nothing of any importance," Jax replied. "Ashton was trying to convince us that he was still young."

"Really, Jax was trying to hide his envy over the fact that women only scream for him when they are running in the opposite direction," Ned declared. "He really has such a self esteem problem."

A suspicious look crept onto Brenda's face. "Really. Where are the girls?"

"They went into the kitchen to check on Lady," Jax responded as Jillian and Brooke then came back into the living room. "Here they are now."

Jillian scurried over to Brenda. "Mommy, we looked and Lady still has water in her bowl. Daddy said me and Brooke could look."

"That's good," Brenda stated with a smile to both girls and then a telling look at Jax. "That was nice of Daddy to ask you to check."

Anthony took that moment to start shrieking to be put down and Ned quickly rose from the sofa and took the toddler in his arms from Lois. "It looks like that is our signal to say good night."

"We need to get going too," Matt said as he got up from the chair. "I will be filling out paperwork for a week after this ventilation system malfunction."

Jax took Jonathan from Robin while Brooke helped Lois gather up Anthony's toys. Thereafter, everyone moved into the foyer where hugs and good night wishes were shared. Jillian waved good-bye to everyone and watched them get into their cars before Jax closed the front door.

Brenda rubbed Jessica's back as she spoke to Jillian. "Jillian, you can go upstairs now and put on your nightgown and then we'll be in to read and say good night."

"Roo-Roo wants the new book about the ponies," Jillian chirped as she trotted up the stairs. "I'm gonna tell him about my white dress and umbrella."

"We will do that," Jax answered with a smile to her.

As Jillian disappeared at the top of the steps, Brenda turned to Jax and lifted her eyebrow. "Now, what was all that about in the living room when we came downstairs?"

"Just guy talk," Jax announced as he flipped off the light switch.

"Why don't I think you're telling me the whole story," Brenda asked. "It must have been something significant for you to send Jillian and Brooke into the kitchen under the guise of checking the dog's water bowl."

He flashed her a lopsided grin. "It was a warm day so it was a valid concern."

"Jasper Jacks, you are not funny," Brenda groaned. "What is the problem in merely telling me what you all were talking about?"

A deep chuckle escaped from his chest. "You are so adorable when you are aggravated."

"Jax," she moaned again. "I know something is going on and you know that I am going to drive you crazy about this so why not make it easy for both of us and just tell me now?"

"But that would take all the fun away," Jax crooned in a husky voice as he kissed her softly on the mouth. "I love the challenge of you and how you drive me crazy."

"I know you were all involved in something and I know that it wasn't the usual case of Jerry merely telling his dirty jokes." As Jax kissed her again, Brenda whispered against his mouth. "Kissing me will not make me forget this."

His teeth nipped at Brenda's lips as he murmured to her. "Then I'll just have to put more intense training time into it." Jax's mouth captured hers once more, this time intensely enough to stifle the air in Brenda's lungs.

A conquering smirk covered Jax's face at the dazed look in Brenda's eyes as he turned and walked up the first three steps. He then pivoted so that Jonathan was facing Brenda at the bottom of the stairs. "Peanut, this is your mother's exasperated look. Isn't she absolutely beautiful?" Jonathan cooed exactly on cue and Jax chuckled at his son's perfect timing.

Brenda glared at the two most important men in her life. "You both think you are so cute."

"Should we remind her of how many times she calls us irresistible as well," Jax chimed as he bounced a laughing Jonathan in the air? Brenda swatted Jax's behind as she came behind him on the steps. He looked back at her and then snickered as he whispered to Jonathan. "See, we're still irresistible."

She kissed Jessica's cheek and muttered to the baby. "Remind me to teach you and your sister to run the first time a blonde, blue eyed man even looks at you."

Brenda then shot Jax a glare as they continued up the stairs to Jillian's room. He sighed contentedly at the thrill of the latest challenges she would bring for him.

Friday, June 21, 2002
Port Charles -- 5:30pm

The evening had finally arrived and the Nurse's Ball was a mere ninety minutes away from its start. Lucy had been at the Versailles Room all day making the final arrangements for the big night. Liz and the others students from PCU's art department had completed the sets while the lighting designers were making the necessary adjustments from last evening's final dress rehearsal. With the usual frenzy, Amy had already threatened to quit her duties as Lucy's dresser for the event. As all that went on, Miguel, who had just arrived in town this morning from South America, was getting in his final rehearsal with Emily for "A Heart Full of Love" from Les Miserables.

Around town, the attendees were donning their finest fashions and accessories for the evening. The Quartermaine household was abuzz with activity as everyone readied themselves for the Ball. Emily and Keesha were with Lila in her sitting room and had just been given the grand woman's approval for their jewelry choices. Monica was reviewing her notes before her presentation of the fellowship award later that night and Alan was looking over the music for his opening number once again. Edward was downstairs with AJ awaiting Justus and Dara's arrival as well as the entrance of Emily's escort for the evening. Edward was laying bets whether Emily's latest companion would show up in long hair and jeans with a black necktie in hand to meet the clueless generation's definition of black tie attire. Justus and AJ were well aware that Trevor Mitchell's apparel would be nothing of the kind but they had goaded Edward with talk of a diamond nose ring as well for the festive occasion.

The Ashtons had just made their exit after stopping by so that Brooke could give Lila and Edward a first look at her dress. Gloria and Carmine had come into town to attend the Ball and had accompanied them. They were now on their way to Jax and Brenda's for a pre-event cocktail party and to leave Anthony with Maggie for the evening. Brooke had been thrilled with the reaction that her great grandparents had shown her after seeing the white chantilly lace dress trimmed with pearls and satin ribbons. The wide brimmed hat had a satin bow with two long ribbon tails cascading down her back and the lace gloves with the pearl buttons were the perfect accompaniment. Lila had beamed at the sight of her and was grateful that both Brooke and Jillian would be carrying a piece of her own childhood with them on stage that evening. She had invited Brooke and Jillian for a tea party in the rose garden the day before and had given each beloved little girl a small pair of white lace gloves from her trousseau of cherished mementos. The sight of two sets of gleaming blue eyes looking back at her when she had bestowed the gifts had made Lila feel as if she were dancing. The same feeling had returned to Lila later that afternoon when she had seen the same warmth and emotion in each of their mother's own eyes. She knew that it was going to be quite an evening.

At the Jacks residence, while Brenda finished getting dressed after feeding Jessica, Jax played host to the multi-continental contingent as well as to other friends and family with aperitifs and hors d'oeuvres. Yesterday, Augustin and Serafina had arrived from a performance in Vienna and Paola and the Contessa had traveled from their summer home on the Amalfi coast. Teddi and Tron had come into town earlier in the week so that Teddi could spend a few days with Jerry, Julia and Brian on the preliminaries for the acquisition of a new shipping line for the Asian quadrant. Thao and Charlie had just arrived this morning from Hong Kong. Jane and John were in town to see their entire family participate or disown them if they laid an egg as John had needled both of his sons the day before.

The Ashtons and Cerrullos had just arrived and Jillian and Brooke were already flitting around the house with Tron. The girls' matching ensembles had now been covered by aprons from Josee to protect the dresses from harm. Anthony was putting on his own show for the group since he had discovered three days before how ice cubes in his sealed cups sounded like maracas. Robin and Matt had already arrived so only Jerry and Julia were still due at the cocktail party.

Augustin took a canapé from Corrine's serving tray as he baited Jax. "So, is the international press prepared to cover your stage debut?"

"No, I will leave the press to you and your stunning partner," Jax said as he tipped his champagne flute toward Serafina. "She does make you look good."

"And we know what a feat that is to salvage even a shred of his reputation," Paolo mocked. "The poor soul has no talent."

Thao sipped from his champagne and then smirked at Jax. "Well, we may have a new definition of no talent after this evening's performances from the Jacks brothers. I will have to protect Jonathan from you both. It is fortunate for the bambino that he has me for his padrino."

Jax clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth. "I really have to check into the procedures for replacing a godfather. I don't want you anywhere near my son."

"At least the signore is going to show up, who knows about that brother of his," Paolo said with a chuckle.

"I can just see Julia now, cara is threatening the scicco (fool) with a guillotine to get him out of the house," Augustin declared in jest.

"I have other things in mind for a guillotine at this moment," announced Jerry as he joined the group.

Thao set down his flute of champagne and applauded. "You actually showed, I am most impressed."

Jerry glared at Thao as Corrine served him a glass of champagne. "Thao, you are impressed when you manage to get out of bed in the morning without breaking your neck."

Julia, Teddi, Serafina and the Contessa then walked over to the handsome group. It was a rainbow of hues as each woman had chosen a different color for their gown, Julia in royal blue satin, Teddi in emerald silk, Serafina in red chiffon and lace and the Contessa in gold tulle and organza. Their escorts were all in black tuxedos with Augustin and Paolo wearing ascots in shades of red and gold respectively to complement Serafina and the Contessa's ensembles.

The men greeted Julia and Thao goaded Jerry by kissing the entire length of Julia's arm until Jerry forcibly removed it from Thao's grasp. Jax looked around the room and then through the doors into the foyer and saw no sight of Brenda as of yet. Jonathan had not had a cooperative day so she was getting dressed now. Robin then came down the steps from the second floor and caught Jax's gaze. She motioned to him that Brenda would be down in a minute and Jax nodded to her with a smile. Jillian, Brooke and Tron then appeared in the foyer from the den and moved into living room behind Robin.

Jillian saw Jerry and Julia and scurried over to the large group with Brooke and Tron following. "Aunt Julia, see me and Brooke's dress." She lifted the apron to show off the lace and Brooke followed suit.

"You both look so beautiful," Julia acknowledged with a big smile.

"We have hats and gloves too but Grandma is keeping them till it's time," Brooke reported as she clicked the heels of her white Mary Janes.

Julia nodded her head. "I can't wait to see you both looking so pretty with your hats and your gloves."

"We all want to see you," added Teddi as she winked at the girls.

"Piccola principesse, you will be magnifico," crooned Serafina as her dark eyes shined brightly. (Little princesses, you will be magnificent.)

A lopsided grin formed on his mouth as Jax watched Jillian's enthusiasm grow about the evening. He then looked up and caught sight of Jane coming down the stairs. Brenda was at the top of the stairs, fastening her earring before lifting the full skirt of her gown as she began to negotiate the stairs. "Excuse me for a moment," Jax murmured as he headed into the foyer.

The Contessa sighed softly and whispered aloud at the devotion she had seen in Jax's eyes while he gazed at Brenda descending the stairs. "Amore genuino e cosi bello." (True love is so beautiful.)

Jax met Jane at the bottom of the staircase. She patted his arm and then continued into the living room with the rest of the guests. As Brenda reached bottom step, Jax held out his hand to her. "Milady, you are just too radiant for words."

"So are you," Brenda responded as the short train of the gown cascaded behind her. "Now let's just hope it stays up," she muttered with a cock of her eyebrow.

A deep chuckle erupted within Jax's chest. "Yes, I am not interested in you competing with Lucy tonight and ending up in your underwear. That privilege belongs only to me."

Brenda's cheeks became tinged with soft pink and Jax's eyes drank in the full effect of her as they stood there. The dress was strapless, black satin with white satin trim at the bustline and around the hemline. It had a tight fitting bodice and a narrow waist and then the gown fanned out slightly to the floor. The train and the high slit up the right thigh showed the white satin material of the inside of the dress. Brenda wore a pair of long white satin gloves trimmed with a black satin border and the final touch was a shoulder stole, white satin on the outside and black satin on the inside, to pull the elegant ensemble together. An onyx and diamond pendant hung around Brenda's neck as matching earrings adorned her ears. Lastly, diamond combs pulled back her hair as soft curls framed her face.

"Simply breathtaking," was all that Jax could manage to vocalize at the moment.

"Thank you." Brenda beamed up at Jax and then put her arm through his as the reality of their duties overtook the magical private moment. "Shall we get back to our guests?"

Thirty minutes later, it was time to make the way to the Port Charles Hotel. Jax had arranged for three limousines to provide the transportation to and from the hotel for the party guests and Virgil was on duty this evening for the Jacks family's transport. The three hired limousines made their way into town while Brenda made sure Maggie had everything she needed for the twins and Anthony for the evening. Jane made sure that Jillian's pajamas were packed since Gloria was going to take the girls and Tron up to Teddi's suite before the Ball was over and get them ready for bed. The costumes for the performances were already at the hotel so everything was now set.

The clock in the hallway struck half past six and John called up the stairs that it was time to go. Jillian was more than ready, having been standing at the door for the past five minutes. As Jane came down the stairs muttering at John for trying to wake the dead, Julia went looking for Jerry who had disappeared ten minutes earlier. She found him in the game room and dragged him to the front door as Jax and Brenda came down the steps after speaking with Maggie.

"Are we finally all ready?" John asked sarcastically. "Jillian and I have been waiting here patiently for the rest of you so we can go."

Jane flashed John a telling look. "It did not sound so patiently to me."

"And as far as going, I have an idea, let's not and say we did," Jerry proposed.

"That's definitely our cue to go," Julia announced as she led Jerry out the front door.

Jillian followed next as she held Jane's hand and John moved out behind them. Jax shook his head at the family's antics and then took Brenda's hand. "Shall we?"

Brenda laced her fingers through Jax as they floated out the door. "Let's go, on with the show."

The Versailles Room -- 7:00pm

The mood music from the orchestra had just ended as the evening was set to begin. The renovated ballroom was even more ornate than before and the guests in all their finery would only add to the elegance of the setting. Glistening candlelight and luxurious sprays of flowers adorned the entire room and the new lighting system cast an almost luminous glow over the scene as if fairy dust and twinkling starlight were sparkling overhead. Alan took the stage and begin the introductory number as the guests were photographed and then shown to their seats.

What good is sitting alone in your room?
Come hear the music play;
Life is a cabaret, old chum,
Come to the cabaret.

Edward and Lila were lead to a front row table with Monica behind them. AJ, Keesha, Justus and Dara followed and were seated at the same table. Besides her number from Lady Sings the Blues, Dara was teaming up with Ned tonight on their own rendition of "You'll Never Walk Alone." The Ashtons were led to the table next to the Quartermaines and were joined by Carmine and Gloria and then Trevor and Emily. Emily was still overwhelmed from her afternoon of rehearsals with Miguel and wondered if her feet would ever touch the ground again after having had the opportunity to grace the stage with him.

The Scorpios were the next to arrive with Georgie and Maxie excitedly posing for the photographer before Mac and Felicia and then Robin and Matthew had their turn. Mac and Felicia's final rehearsal the day before had brought a round of applause from the crew as they accentuated the comedic elements of Cole Porter's "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" from High Society. Kevin and Lucy had been photographed first that evening so Kevin joined the Scorpio table as Lucy prepared for her first duties as mistress of ceremonies backstage.

Come taste the wine,
Come hear the band,
Come blow the horn.
Start celebrating,
Right this way,
Your table's waiting.

The Spencers arrived next with Luke making his own fashion statement with a silver gray vest and matching tie and dark gray sunglasses glittered with the same silver. He carried a glittered silver walking stick to be used in his number on stage. In true Luke Spencer form, "The Lady is a Tramp" would take on a whole new image after the performance was completed. Lucky and Liz and then Tony, Bobbie and Ruby were led to the table. Lucky and Liz were in a group number from West Side Story with Nikolas and Ingo and the Angels and Tony was going to perform in "The Impossible Dream" in the second act of the show.

Stefan and Katherine and various other members of the hospital personnel were shown to their seats as the Versailles Room began to quickly be filled. Katherine had been in her usual turf war with Lucy over control of the Ball and Jax had pawned off those conflicts to Jerry to deal with. Several members of the hospital and Kanga's Kradle staff, including Ellen, Matthew, Eve, Gina and Keesha would close the first half of the show with "Seasons of Love." Lee and Gail Baldwin were seated with Audrey and Simone and Scott, Francesca and Serena joined them to complete that table. Scott and Serena were singing a duet from Annie and once again Audrey would lead several female staff members in "One" from A Chorus Line, the traditional ending performance of the evening.

No use permitting some prophet of doom
To wipe every smile away;
Life is a cabaret, old chum,
Only a cabaret, old chum,
So come to the cabaret.

Augustin, Serafina, Paolo and the Contessa followed Thao, Teddi, Tron and Charlie to a table in second row. Jax had asked Lucy to put everyone together rather than having Teddi, Thao, Tron and Charlie sit with the J & J Jacks table. This way, Jax figured, he would only have to keep an eye on one table when it came to possible flying objects while he was performing on stage. He had seen to it that Jerry would not be a factor for projectile missiles when Jax had promised his brother that even the sight of one rubber band would lead to the entire Royal Ballet story being reported in agonizing detail to everyone at the Ball.

As J & J Jacks was the sole sponsor of this year's Nurse's Ball, it was not until everyone else had been seated that Alan made the special introduction. Amidst the flash of cameras and the sound of applause, the entire family was shown to their table in the center of the front row. John and Jane led the family with Jerry and Julia and then Jax, Brenda and Jillian following behind. Jillian felt as if she were Cinderella as she walked between Jax and Brenda, holding both of her parents' hands. They made a perfect picture together of black and white and if the magic of love were to be ever accurately defined, it would have been the image of them at that moment.

As they reached the table, waiters pulled out the chairs for Jane, Julia and Jillian. When a waiter moved toward Jillian's seat, Jax put up his hand. "Thank you sir, but I'll take this honor." He pulled out Jillian's chair and then lifted her up into the booster seat which would enable her to see more of the stage. "There you go, princess."

John winked at Jillian as he spoke. "Look at you, my dear. Up here with all the rest of us."

"I can see all the lights now," Jillian responded with a wide-eyed grin.

"Roo, tell your father that you want a throne for the house to sit in all the time and rule your royal subjects," Jerry whispered to Jillian as he leaned over to her.

"What an idea, then she could issue a proclamation ordering uncles to take a vow of silence," suggested Jax. "We can look for one tomorrow."

The orchestra began playing again and the curtain was drawn as AJ and Justus led the male ensemble in a rousing rendition of "Hello Dolly." Jillian's mouth made a perfect little "O" while she watched in utter fascination as the men sang and then Lucy appeared at the top of the red carpeted stairs descending from the back wall of the stage area. Lucy promenaded down the staircase as she was serenaded by the group. When she reached the last step, the music continued as Lucy was waltzed around the stage by each gentleman. As the number ended, the entire ensemble stepped behind Lucy and knelt down as they introduced her to the audience.

Jillian enthusiastically joined in the crowd's applause as Lucy took her bows and acknowledged her ensemble. Brenda whispered to her as she clapped. "Did you like that, sweetie?"

"Oh Mommy, it was soooo good," Jillian chirped as she looked down at her arms. "I have goosebumpies all over."

Julia flashed Jillian a smile and then looked over at Brenda. "Your mommy used to get them too when she was your age and was excited."

Jerry smirked at Jax as he spoke. "Just more proof that you have two she-devils to deal with, little brother." The next sound from him was a groan as Brenda leveled a swift kick to his ankle.

"She has very good aim as well," goaded Jax at the look of satisfaction on Brenda's face.

The crowd then became quiet as Lucy stood at the microphone. She welcomed everyone to the 9th Annual Nurse's Ball and thanked Stefan for all the assistance from the General Hospital Staff as well as ELQ for the provision of the facilities at The Port Charles Hotel. She then gave a brief overview of what the proceeds of the evening would be used for in terms of research. Matthew's latest results and work with NIH were highlighted as part of the progress over the past year. Lucy then expressed her appreciation for all the community support and the sponsorship by J & J Jacks of this year's event. She also begrudgingly acknowledged Katherine's assistance in the promotion of the event. Lucy spoke of the Broadway and Hollywood musical theme of the evening and then introduced Katherine in the next number to continue the show.

As the music of "Broadway Baby" began and Katherine started singing, Jillian sat up higher in her seat. "Me and Brooke have to go now."

Brenda leaned over to Jillian and whispered to her. "Yes, now do you remember what we practiced yesterday?"

"No talking when we wait and watch Grandma Gloria tell us to walk," Jillian responded with a bob of her head.

"Good and now you and Brooke just have fun," Brenda murmured against Jillian's cheek as she hugged her.

Gloria and Brooke quietly moved to the aisle and Jax lifted Jillian out of her chair. "Princess, you look beautiful and we'll be right here watching."

Jane smiled at Jillian as Gloria and Brooke waited for her in the aisle. When she passed behind his chair, Jerry touched Jillian's cheek and gave her a thumbs up sign. As Gloria led the girls to the stage door at the end of the amphitheater, Brenda felt the butterflies in her stomach grow to the size of bats. She looked over at Lois at the next table and saw the same nervous tension on her face. Brenda took off her gloves and rubbed her hands together nervously. She then folded her arms against her chest and took a deep cleansing breath before feeling Jax's hand cover hers. Brenda's mouth curved into a smile as she looked at Jax and he gave her a reassuring wink as she wrapped her fingers around his hand.

After what seemed like an eternity, the final notes of Katherine's number were heard. After a round of applause, Lucy appeared on stage again and announced that the setting would now move from the City of Broadway to the City of Lights. She then introduced Edward and the curtain opened to find him strolling through the greenery of Paris looking distinguished in his black top hat, white gloves, light gray trousers, vest, bow tie and tailcoat. He was carrying his walking stick as he reached the park bench and took a seat. His spoke to the audience with a pronounced French accent as he explained his story. Brooke and Jillian then appeared as they walked from stage left to center stage where Edward sat. Donning their white lace dresses, lace tights, white shoes, hats and Lila's gloves, the girls each carried a lace parasol to complete their outfit. As they moved toward him, the music began.

Each time I see a little girl of five or six or seven,
I can't resist the joyous urge to smile and say,
Thank heaven for little girls,
For little girls get bigger every day.
Thank heaven for little girls,
They grow up in the most delightful way.

Brooke and Jillian twirled their parasols as they took a seat on either side of Edward. He smiled and motioned to both girls as he looked back and forth at their angelic faces. Edward touched the tip of Brooke's nose as he continued to sing and he was rewarded by a soft laugh from his granddaughter. He turned to Jillian and brushed his fingers under her chin and she flashed him a beaming grin which caused her whole face to light up as the music played on.

Those little eyes, so helpless and appealing,
One day they will flash and send you crashing through the ceiling,
Thank heaven for little girls,
Thank heaven for them all, no matter where, no matter who,
Without them what would little boys do?
Thank heaven, thank heaven,
Thank heaven for little girls.

Edward rose from the bench and placed his walking stick under his arm. He then extended an elbow to both Brooke and Jillian and he and his angelic companions sauntered around the bench before returning to the spot right in front of it. As he reached the final stanzas of the music, Edward sat down on the bench again as Brooke and Jillian stood on either side of him. Both girls cast their eyes down to the tables in the front row and caught sight of their beaming families smiling up at them. When the last note of the song then rang out, Brooke and Jillian leaned in and kissed Edward's cheeks.

Those little eyes, so helpless and appealing,
One day they will flash and send you crashing through the ceiling,
Thank heaven for little girls,
Thank heaven for them all, no matter where, no matter who,
Without them what would little boys do?
Thank heaven, thank heaven,
Thank heaven for little girls.

As the sound of almost deafening applause resonated through the amphitheater, it was coupled with a standing ovation tribute from some special family members. The excitement of the moment distracted both Brooke and Jillian slightly. Edward bowed but the girls had missed their cue to curtsey beside him. Tiny gasps fell from their mouths at the realization of such and Edward grinned at both girls and nodded his head as he bowed again. This time, Brooke and Jillian curtsied beside him on cue and the crowd extolled another round of praise, including chants of "Perfetto" and "Brava" from a few partial spectators. Such acclaim delighted the girls, so much so that they curtsied three more times before Edward finally got them off the stage, now amidst the music of laughter along with the ovation.

A deep chuckle resonated from John's chest as the starstruck Jillian finally left the stage. He leaned over to Jane and teased her. "And you were worried that she could be frightened up there."

Jerry joined in on the laughter and then turned to Jax and Brenda who were heading into the aisle. "Instead, they have a starlet on their hands."

"We're off to get the starlet now and take her into the hallway to wind down," Brenda murmured with a smile.

Jax winked at Jane as they walked past her chair. "We'll have her back here when the chatterbox is on low volume."

Ned and Lois met Jax and Brenda outside the side stage door and they took the stairwell to the reception area where the photographer was set up to take shots of all the performers. The proud parents watched as Chase snapped photos of Edward with Brooke and Jillian and then each girl individually.

Chase flashed the girls a big smile. "That's it, ladies, and the camera won't take pictures of anyone more beautiful than the two of you this evening."

Brooke blushed and Jillian coyly dipped her chin at the compliment. Ned shook his head and whispered, "So now they're shy."

Jillian caught sight of Jax as she turned her head. As she went to open her mouth, Jax quickly put his finger to his lips and then flashed her a gleaming smile. Brenda extended both of her hands out toward Jillian and the little princess scurried over to her as the heels of her shiny white shoes clicked against the floor. Ned and Lois took Brooke back to the dressing room area since Ned's number with Dara was coming up shortly.

Jax took Jillian's parasol as Brenda hugged and kissed her. Mac and Felicia then moved onto the stage to sing "Who Wants to be a Millionaire?" and Jax motioned for his two brunette beauties to follow him out into the vestibule.

Once they made their way out of the stage area and into the hallway, Jax lifted Jillian into his arms. "Oh princess, you and Brooke looked so beautiful and did such a good job."

Jillian then began chirping like a bird. "Daddy, it was fun and the music was pretty. The lights were so shiny and it was dark to see you and Mommy but I did. I sawed the candles and Mommy's combs in her hair, they sparkled."

"Daddy and I could see you perfectly and we're so proud of you," Brenda crooned.

She looked down at Brenda's arms and giggled. "Mommy, you have goosebumpies just like me," Jillian exclaimed as she showed Brenda her arm.

"I love my two excited princesses so much," Jax said in a lilting voice as he kissed both of their foreheads.

"I hafta tell Grandmom and Aunt Julia about the lights and about all of Mr. Chase's pictures," Jillian replied with twinkling eyes. "And Uncle Jerry too so he doesn't get scared when he sings. It's fun, not scary."

Jax chuckled loud and Brenda caressed Jillian's cheek. "We'll go see everyone in a few minutes. I bet you're thirsty after all that work."

Jillian licked her lips. "Uh-huh, really thirsty."

Jax took Jillian's hand as they all walked over to the bar. He tipped his head to the bartender. "Claude, we need something very special for this young lady after her debut on stage."

"I have something that I think will be perfect for you," Claude responded as he prepared the drink. "How about this for you, beautiful? You look like you're really thirsty for a Shirley Temple and I bet you like cherries."

Jillian squealed as the bartender dropped two more cherries into the hurricane glass and then added a straw. "Mommy, it's a Shirley Temple." Brenda grinned at her joyous expression and took Lila's gloves from Jillian's hands before Jax handed over the glass.

"Thank you," Jillian murmured before taking a long sip. "Yummm, cherry."

"Not so fast, sweetie," Brenda warned. "You'll get the..."

Before Brenda could even finish her statement, the sound of a loud hiccup/burp combination resonated in the air. It was a followed by a giggle from Jillian, "Oops....Scuse me."

Brenda could not stop the smile from curving on her lips. "What have we said about drinking too fast?"

Jax bent down and whispered into Jillian's ear. "Remember, you don't want to sound like Uncle Jerry."

Jillian started giggling louder and hiccuped again and Brenda lifted her eyebrow at Jax. "You're such a big help."

"You are quite welcome," Jax teased as a devilish glint flashed in his eyes.

Inside the ballroom, Lucy began speaking again while Jillian slowly finished her drink in the vestibule. After she and her mischievous father had both settled down, they all returned to the ballroom before Ned and Dara's number from Carousel. As Jillian beamed at everyone on the way to her seat, Jax carried her closed parasol.

Thao began chuckling as Jax neared. "Capitano, how fortunate. You and Jillian sharing parasols in your acts."

Jax feigned hooking Thao's neck with the handle before he slid the parasol under the chair. Meanwhile, Jillian went over to John and Jane for hugs and accolades before moving over to where Julia and Jerry were sitting. Julia kissed her and Jerry then murmured to her. "Next time people clap for you, tell them to throw money."

"Don't pay any attention to Uncle Jerry," Brenda suggested. "He is only teasing you."

"Yes, and when he is up there in a few minutes, they will be throwing rotten eggs and dead fish at him," Jax countered.

Brenda took Jillian to the next table to see Lila briefly. As Jillian moved back to her seat, Lila blew her a kiss which Jillian returned with a loud smack of her lips. Teddi was sitting directly behind Jillian in the next row of tables and she scooted her chair closer to lean over to speak to Jillian. "Jillian, I'm so glad that Tron and I were able to see you."

Tron bobbed his head. "It was okay, you and Brooke were a little pretty."

Augustin snickered in his baritone timbre as he reached forward and patted Jax across the back. "It's starting already, papa."

As Jax cringed at the comment, Brenda stroked his arm and smiled. Ned and Dara then took the stage and the amphitheater became silent. The audience was treated to a melodious gift as Ned and Dara's voices melded together and the lyrics had a special meaning for the evening and its cause.

There was a brief break for the silent auction and the set up of the stage for Ingo's West Side Story number with the Lucky, Liz, Nikolas, the Angels and the other performers. Jerry and Julia would be the next act after Ingo so they got ready to head to the dressing rooms to change.

Augustin, Paolo and Thao started laughing as soon as Jerry begrudgingly rose from his seat. John and Jax then joined in on the mirth. John folded his arms against his chest as he then spoke. "Son, don't do anything more than the usual to disgrace us."

"Think of Julia's reputation too," Thao goaded. "It is bad enough she has to admit to being your wife but being dragged into the bottomless pit with you after your dive on stage, that is just too much."

Jillian simply smiled at Jerry as she clapped her hands together in front of her. "It's okay, Uncle Jerry, you can have a Shirley Temple after. With three cherries," she added as she held up three fingers in the air.

"Oh yes, I'll order one for you right now," Jax declared through his mirth. "It will be waiting for you when you come back."

Paolo pulled out a pair of high-powered opera glasses from under his seat as Jerry approached him. "I'm all ready for this, now I can see every bead of sweat rolling down your face as you wilt up there."

The Contessa grabbed the glasses from Paolo, "E basta." (That's enough.) She then looked up at Julia. "Buona Fortuna!" (Good luck!)

As Jerry moved between the tables, Augustin grabbed his arm. "Break a leg and I don't mean that literally," he exclaimed with a hearty chuckle.

Jerry glowered at the group and then turned to Teddi. "You don't have anything derogatory to say before I leave? That is not possible."

Teddi flashed him a small smile as she shrugged. "It will keep. Timing is everything."

Amidst the laughter of both tables, Jerry and Julia moved through the aisles and then disappeared through the side stage door. After a few moments, the short intermission then ended as Katherine came out on stage and introduced Ingo and the ensemble in their production number of "The Jets Song."

Jillian swayed in her seat to the beat of the music as the fast stepped number rocked the ballroom. She was wearing her usual spellbound look at the sight of Ingo performing. Brenda drummed her fingers against the tabletop to the rhythm and then laughed to herself at the sight of Jax's eye roll as he watched Jillian become entranced. Lucky, Liz and Nikolas danced around the stage with the Angels as Ingo's voice lead the group and enthusiastic applause greeted the performers when the final notes of the music rang out.

Lucy made her way on stage and thanked Ingo and L & B Records for arranging his availability to perform for the charity event.

Lucy then introduced Jerry and Julia's act as The Versailles Room was now transformed into the territory of Oklahoma. Tron moved into Jerry's seat to get a closer look at the stage as the number began.

The curtain rose as Jerry sauntered along the split rail fencing and background of vast land. Along with the green shirt, yellow bandanna, black vest and tight black pants, a black cowboy hat and pair of boots completed Jerry's wardrobe in the role of Will Parker. Julia donned an off the shoulder pink and white dress. Its tight bodice and full skirt were reminiscent of the apparel used for Ado Annie and Julia's hair was pulled up and back with a pink bow to complete the ensemble. As the music began, Jerry and Julia moved into character and Will and Ado Annie came to life.

He tapped his foot as he sought some answers.
--  I hear'd how you was kickin' up some capers
    When I was off in Kansas City MO.

She shook her head in response.
--  No!

He folded his arms against his chest as he continued his query.
--  I hear'd some things you couldn't print in papers
    From fellas who been talkin' like they know.

She shrugged her shoulders as she lowered her eyes to the ground.
--  I only did the kind of things I oughtta, sorta,
    To you I was as faithful as can be, for me.
    Them stories 'bout the way I lost my bloomers, rumors,
    A lotta tempest in a pot of tea.

With a deep sigh, he countered her response.
--  The whole thing don't sound very good to me.

She rubbed her hands together trying to think on her feet.
--  Well, you see.

He put his hands on his hips and wanted some answers.
--  I go and sow my last wild oat, I cut out all shenanigans,
    I save my money, don't gamble or drink in a back room down at Flanigans,
    I give up lotsa things that a gentleman never mentions,
    Before I give up anymore, I want to know your intentions.

He walked around the corral area with his hat in his hand.
--  With me, it's all er nothin', is it all er nothin' with you?
    It can't be in between, it can't be now and then,
    No half and half romance will do.
    I'm a one woman man, home lovin' type,
    All complete with slippers and pipe,
    Take me like I am or leave me be.
    If you can't give me all, give me nothin',
    And nothin's what you'll get from me.

She cocked her head as she questioned him.
--  Not even somethin'?

He put his hat back on as the music continued.
--  Nothin's what you'll get from me.

She tapped him on the shoulder as he stooped down beside her.
--  It can't be in between?

He shook his head emphatically.
--  Uh-uh.

She squatted next to him.
--  It can't be now and then?

He turned his head and looked at her.
--  No half and half romance will do.

She drew the shape of a house in the air with her index fingers.
--  Would you build me a house, all painted white,
    Cute and clean and pretty and bright?

He rose to his feet and gave her a serious look.
--  Big enough for two but not for three.

She dipped her chin as she looked away.
--  Supposing that we should have a third one?

He locked gazes with her as he made his point perfectly clear.
--  He better look a lot like me.

She put up her hand as if she were taking an oath.
--  The spitting image.

He reconfirmed his position.
--  He better look a lot like me.

In the musical interlude, he strolled beside the fence posts enjoying the fresh air and the clarification of his position with her. Meanwhile, she tapped her foot and shook her head as she realized just exactly what he expected from her.

She stepped in front of him and pointed at him.
--  With you, it's all er nothin',
    All for you and nothin' for me.

She continued with a coy smile and sweet voice.
--  But if a wife is wise, she's got to realize,
    That men like you are wild and free.

He triumphantly smirked as she reeled him in further.
--  So I ain't gonna fuss, ain't gonna to frown,
    Have your fun, go out on the town.
    Stay up late and don't come home till three.

She turned toward him and lovingly patted his cheek.
--  And go right off to sleep if you're sleepy,
    Ain't no use waiting up for me.

He frowned as she walked away from him, grinning.
--  Awww Ado Annie.

She continued walking and waved to him over her head.
--  No use waiting up for me.

He smiled and then ran after her.
--  Come on and kiss me.

She tried to escape his romantic hold and hurried into the corral. He pushed the gate closed, and she realized that she was trapped inside the corral. He flashed her a devilish grin as he stepped up onto the lower rail of the gate and then swung the gate into the corner. As she became cornered against the rails, he climbed over the gate and stood in front of her with a mischievous smile. Then, as laughter flowed from the crowd and the curtain began to be lowered, they both "kicked up some capers."

As applause filled the ballroom, the curtain was raised and Jerry and Julia stood in the center of the stage and took their well deserved bows. Whistles of cheer and shouts of "Bravo" filtered through the air and the rest of the Jacks family as well as the continental contingent were leading the applause.

John shook his head and chuckled as he applauded. "Mother, didn't I tell you that the fear of being heckled off stage would give the boy the incentive to shine up there?"

Jillian and Tron waved at them on stage and Jerry touched his nose and pointed toward both children as he Julia exited the stage. Jillian clapped her hands loudly together. "Uncle Jerry see-ed us waving."

"I saw him," Jane said as she smiled across the table at Jillian. "Didn't he and Aunt Julia look like they were having fun?"

"Uh-huh, lots of fun," Jillian agreed with a quick bob of her head.

Brenda nodded at Jillian and then smiled at Jane. "It was the perfect number for them."

Paolo motioned to Jax. "Now, the gauntlet has been passed to you, Jax. We'll see how short you fall of our paltry expectations."

Thao took a sip of his champagne. "The charming Brenda will have to save him just like Julia did for his brother. She'll have to hold him up on the dance floor."

"Trust me, Jax won't need saving or any help on the dance floor," Brenda declared as she shook her head at Thao and then leaned her head against Jax's shoulder.

"Thank you darling," Jax said as he kissed Brenda's cheek. He then whispered against her ear. "Of course, you can still hold me close."

Brenda laughed softly as his breath and sentiment tickled her ear. "I guess I can make the sacrifice."

Scott and Serena took the stage for their duet and Jillian hummed along to the familiar tune from Annie. As that number ended, Jerry and Julia returned to the ballroom wearing their formal attire.

"Here they come," chirped Jillian and she waved at Jerry and Julia as they approached.

"Welcome back," Brenda said as she grinned at Jerry and Julia's glowing faces. "You were great up there."

"Yes, son, you're still in the will for this particular moment," John quipped with a chuckle.

Jane waved her hand to dismiss John's teasing. "Stop it, John, they were wonderful and you know it." She turned to Jerry and Julia. "Congratulations!"

Jax slapped Jerry across the back. "Yes, thanks for not embarrassing the entire family."

"You surprised us," heckled Thao. "We expected a pack of howling dogs and there was not even one in sight."

"Julia's voice saved that from happening," Augustin added with a laugh.

Serafina shook her head at Augustin and his cohorts and then spoke to Jerry and Julia. "Trust me, even the fools were impressed."

"Aunt Julia, your pink bow was soo pretty," Jillian offered as she looked up at Julia with a smile.

"Thank you sweetheart," Julia replied as she sat down at the table. "Do you think the bow would match some of your dresses if I gave it to you to take home?"

Jillian's mouth flew open as she excitedly answered Julia. "Oh yes, Mommy can put it in my hair."

"I thought so," Julia said as she pulled the pink bow from her purse. "Here you go."

Jillian squealed a bit as she took the bow from Julia. At Jax's prompting look, she remembered her manners. "Thank you."

Jerry helped Tron from the table and back to the seat next to Teddi. "Hey hot rod, you still like cowboy hats?"

A big grin covered Tron's face. "Yeah, they're awesome."

"I'll see that your mother gets the one in the dressing room," Jerry promised as he winked at Tron. "We'll see how long it takes you to grow into it."

"That rocks, thank you." Tron responded with a beaming expression. He snickered as he watched Teddi roll her eyes slightly and then turned to Jerry to explain. "Mom doesn't like that word."

Jerry leaned down and spoke to Tron in a stage whisper. "Ask your mother one day how many words she used that your grandmother didn't like."

"Thank you so much for your input," Teddi remarked as she pulled Tron's chair closer to her and then shot Jerry a look of steel with her ebony eyes. "It is not too late to make use of that rotten fruit. As I told you, timing is everything."

Jerry laughed as he returned to the table. He sat down and wearing a smug smile, he turned toward Jax. "We'll see just exactly who rocks and who is rocked once the second act gets under way and big foot gets up there. I hope you packed your helmet."

"Jer, I'd be careful with those rocks," baited Jax. "Take two more out of that head of yours and it will be completely empty."

The banter was stilled as the large ensemble of hospital staff members took the stage for "Seasons of Love" to end the first half of the show. The audience responded to the message behind the lyrics and everyone knew that there was still much more in store for the magical evening.

The Versailles Room -- 9:15pm

Monica had presented the fellowship award to the deserving resident and then the second half of the Ball had opened with Alan's performance of "Some Enchanted Evening." Luke had garnered quite a reaction from his outlandish rendition of "The Lady is a Tramp" and the crowd was still recovering from the adventure. Karen and Joe Scanlon were now serenading the crowd and each other with "The Beauty and the Beast." Jillian sat up with her elbows on the table and her hands clasped together as her chin rested against her fingers. She sang along softly with Joe and Karen just as she did every time the melody played from her jewelry box. Jax flashed her a lopsided grin as her head moved to the music.

As the song came to an end, Brenda watched Jillian fail to suppress her yawn. "Tired, sweetie?"

Jillian shook her head dramatically. "No, I hafta see you and Daddy sing."

"Are you sure that you're not too tired," Brenda asked. "Remember that soon, Lucy will have a tape of tonight for everyone to watch all the singing and dancing at home."

"I want to see your feathers," Jillian exclaimed. "I can stay awake."

Jax brushed back a curl from Jillian's face. "Okay, you remember this in the morning if the grumpy princess wakes up. She goes right back to bed until the happy princess is around."

"No grumpy princess cause I taked a nap with Jessica," she explained. “Jonathan didn't and he was grumpy aaalll day."

"Yes, you did," Brenda acknowledged with a nod. "So you can stay until you see us after we sing but then Grandma Gloria is taking you upstairs to get ready for bed."

Jillian bobbed her head up and down. "Me and Brooke are sleeping on the cots."

Jax met Jillian's eyes. "Yes, and you're going to go right to bed once you are in your pajamas. There will be no playtime till tomorrow."

Katherine announced the next silent auction bid opportunity and Jax and Brenda had their cue to go backstage to change.

Brenda touched Jillian's hand. "Daddy and I have to go get dressed now so you behave yourself and we will see you out in the hallway after we're finished. Remember that Aunt Robin will come get you and then we'll say good night."

"I'm gonna watch you real good," Jillian declared with an excited tone.

"Thank you, we'll be watching you too," Jax replied as he kissed the top of Jillian's head and then helped Brenda from her seat.

"Too bad the rest of us have to watch the train wreck," Thao muttered behind Jax.

Paolo groaned in mock suffering. "And with Jasper here, we have to listen to it crash as well since he will be singing."

Augustin sat with his arms folded together and laughed. "Let's see how much grace is in those feet of yours."

"Grace?" A deep chuckle fell from Jerry's lips. "Don't you mean disgrace?"

"It will be grace," Brenda retorted with a lift of her right eyebrow. "You're not even going to know what hit you."

Jax leaned down and murmured to Jerry. "And if anything hits me, the Royal Ballet story gets an encore."

Jane moved over to sit on the other side of Jillian. "Now, you two just go have some fun. We'll be cheering you on."

"Or jeering you if such is merited," teased John.

Jax turned to Brenda and rolled his eyes. "And you wondered why I did not do this before?"

Brenda laughed and blew Jillian a kiss before Jax took her hand and they walked together to the stage entrance.

Twenty minutes later, Brenda stood in front of the mirror in the ladies' dressing room and nervously tried to secure the diamond comb within her thick curls. She realized that it would be much easier had her fingers not been shaking so much. An image of the comb sailing across the stage suddenly entered Brenda's thoughts and she felt as if the oxygen was disappearing from the room. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes in an attempt to calm her nerves. When her vision of sliding across the floor straight into orchestra pit returned, Brenda knew that the dressing room was much too small and that she needed to get out into the air. She quickly pulled open the door and then landed in a pair of familiar arms.

"Hey, where's the fire," Jax asked as he held onto Brenda's upper arms.

As a jagged exhale was expelled from her chest, Brenda looked up at him with panic in her eyes. "Jax....."

"Yes, that's who I was the last time I checked," he replied.

"There was no air," Brenda mumbled as she took another deep breath.

A lopsided grin formed on his lips. "What's this? Don't tell me that you're nervous, not the belle of Broadway?"

Brenda took a step back from Jax's embrace and tapped her foot which only caused Jax to continue his teasing. "You don't like that one, then how about the zealot of Ziegfield?"

"Jasper," she groaned as he smirked at her. "Don't give up your day job to become a poet."

Jax reached out for her hand and stroked it with his fingers as they went into the empty dressing room. "You're shaking."

"Even worse, I think I'm going to be sick," Brenda lamented.

"No, you're not," Jax murmured as he caressed her cheek. "No one is going to be able to keep their eyes off of you up there. You're in your color, remember?"

Brenda's cheeks blushed to a shade just slightly darker than the pale pink of her gown. The chiffon had a soft shimmer to it that seemed to accentuate the diamonds in her hair and the glistening of the silver of her shoes. With it's tiny waist and full billowing skirt, the gown would make Brenda look as if she were a butterfly on stage when she moved. The marabou feathers put the final touch on the ensemble.

"Talk about the audience not being able to take their eyes off someone, do you know how debonair you look right now?" Brenda's eyes widened as she drank in the sight of him. "At least I know if I forget the words or open my mouth to sing and nothing comes out, at least the audience can enjoy the sight of you."

He lowered his eyes slightly to the floor at her compliments. His wardrobe choice was pulled from the evening wear fashion of decades earlier just as Brenda's had been. The double breasted slate gray tailcoat was worn open and its wide silk lapels and matching covered buttons made Jax look like a distinguished gentleman of the day. The trousers were straight cut and he wore a single-breasted white pique vest with a wide roll collar along with his white starched shirt and white bow tie. It was the definition of classic elegance.

"Thank you, but standing next to you right now, I may as well be in rags," Jax said in a voice as smooth as silk.

She flashed him a smile. "You're not exactly an impartial observer."

"You look beautiful and when you're on that stage, you're going to light up the entire room." Jax sighed softly as his gaze remained transfixed on Brenda. "If you could only see how your eyes look when the music starts." Brenda became entranced at the sound of his lyrical murmurings. "How they dance as if they are floating on air."

"On second thought, you're already a poet," Brenda whispered to him. "Thank you."

"I had a little help," he acknowledged with a wink. "You've spent the past two weeks reassuring me that I'm not going to fall flat on my face and make a fool out of us."

"We're going to be fine," she pledged as she wrapped her arms around Jax. "It's just my typical preliminary jitters and you'll get me through them."

"And you'll get me through the heckling brigade," Jax countered.

Brenda laughed softly. "We know where they all live, and I mean all their global addresses, so they're on notice."

Lucy's assistant knocked on the dressing room door and announced that they would be on stage in five minutes. Jax let out a deep exhale as he took Brenda's hand in his. "Well, I guess we're going to really do this."

"A kiss for luck," she suggested and their lips softly met. "Much better, now we just need something to forget about the audience."

Jax shook his head as he spoke. "Something tells me that imagining the audience in their underwear is not going to work in this situation. The vision of Edward always makes me laugh."

Brenda threaded her fingers though his. "Just look at me and I'll just look at you." She gave him a reassuring smile. "Then no one else in the room will even exist."

"Sounds like a plan to me," Jax purred as he returned Brenda's smile and then led her from the dressing room to the stage entrance.

Lucy introduced them and Brenda was alone at the front of the stage as the curtain opened. The setting was that of a romantic meadow with a stone path down its center. The pathway wound its way from the front of the stage to the back as flowers blossomed all around and a river flowed off in the distance. Facing the audience, Brenda stood in the meadow on the right side of the stone path as the music began. It was then that Jax appeared at the back of the stage, standing in the meadow on the left side of the path.

As if sensing his presence, she turned her head and greeted him with a smile. As he moved closer to the front of the stage, Jax's voice filled the room.

'S wonderful! 'S marvelous--
You should care for me.

'S awful nice! 'S paradise--
'S what I love to see.

They stood before each other near the front of the stage, still separated by the stone path as if it were the final bridge for their hearts and souls to cross before uniting. He extended his right hand and then felt the softness of her left palm as their hands spanned the path. Luminous smiles covered their faces as their voices then joined together.

You've made my life so glamorous,
You can't blame me for feeling amorous.
'S wonderful! 'S marvelous--
That you should care for me.

Her hand still in his, they turned toward the audience. Hesitantly they took one step and then another as her fingers linked through his. As the music continued to play softly in the background, they reached the start of the stone path at the front of the stage and their motion was forced to stop. They faced one another again, unsure of their next movement, as the path continued to separate them. He moved a half step closer, as his feet were now a mere millimeter from the edge of the path. She followed suit as the silver of her shoes was flush against the stone. He then reached out his left hand and her right hand merged with it as the melody overtook them.

As their eyes locked, his right arm moved to the center of her back and her hand rested against his shoulder. The music captivated them as their feet bridged the path and the dance began. Their waltz took them across the path to the right side of the meadow and then back to the left. Her skirt fluttered as if it were her wings as they floated together. It was as their feet never touched the ground as he twirled her amidst the colorful blossoms of the setting. Moving toward the front of the stage, their cheeks pressed against each other before he dipped her.

As he pulled her back into his embrace, they stood on the path in the center of the stage. Their hands joined together again as they faced each other. As the music softened again, his sentiment was expressed in the lyrics and she echoed the emotions as they began singing.

'S wonderful, ('S wonderful!)
'S marvelous, ('S marvelous--)
You should care for me!
'S awful nice, ('S awful nice!)
'S paradise, ('S paradise--)
'S what I love to see.
You've made my life so glamorous,
You can't blame me for feeling amorous.
Oh, 's wonderful! ('S marvelous --)
That you should care for me!

They moved into each other's arms again and they waltzed through the meadow. As the music built, he extended his hand and twirled her around him in rapid motion. The skirt of her gown billowed around her as if it were a pink rosebud opening to full blossom. In the center of the path, he then pulled her against him. As they stood profile to the audience, their bodies pressed together and their eyes locked in steadfast gazes. Their hands then separated and they each took two backward steps off the path to stand again on each of their respective sides of the meadow. As he began singing, and she began her echoing response, they continued to take backward steps until they were each at the far sides of the stage.

'S wonderful! ('S wonderful)
'S exceptional! ('S why I fell!)
'S magnifique! ('S what I seek!)
'S elegant! ('S what I want!)
'S exceptionnel! ('S no bagatelle--)
'S wonderful! ('S marvelous--)

As the music built to its final crescendo, their voices united as their arms extended to each other.

That you should care for me!

He then floated to the center of the path as she moved toward him and then sprung into his arms. He lifted her over his head and then they spun around the path. As the applause of the audience overpowered the last measure of the melody, she slowly slid down his body. They turned to face the crowd and took their bows and then both tipped their heads and waved to the excitedly waving little princess dressed in white lace in the first row.

The curtain closed and Jax lifted Brenda into his arms again and twirled her around as she squealed. "No flying fruit," he murmured to her.

"And my hair combs did not knock anyone out in the orchestra," Brenda countered in an exhilarated tone.

"What?" he crooned with a beaming grin as he put her down.

Brenda hugged him as she spoke. "It doesn't even matter, we did it."

"Yes, we did," he replied as he rubbed circles along her back. "And you were as incredible as I knew you'd be."

"We were incredible." Brenda pulled slightly out of his embrace. "It was just us up there. Once I saw you, there was no one else."

"I know," Jax whispered as his thumb traced the softness of her cheek.

She flashed Jax a radiant smile and then her excitement took over. "Let's go find Jillian."

They hurried to the backstage area and saw Robin bringing Jillian up the steps. Jillian's face lit up as she saw them and Brenda scurried over to her. "There you are."

"Mommy, you're so pretty." She stroked the feathers of Brenda's dress. "Can I have feathers when I get big?"

"I think that's a possibility," Brenda responded as she hugged Jillian. "Did you like the dance?"

"Oh yes, lots. 'Specially when Daddy spinned you all around and your dress looked like a bird." She giggled and then beamed up at Jax. "Daddy, Aunt Julia and Grandmom said you looked handsome. I said you looked real, real handsome." "

"Thank you princess," Jax responded with a chuckle.

Robin came over and hugged Jax and then Brenda. "You two were amazing. Even Uncle Mac admitted it," she said with a laugh.

"That will come in handy some day, " Jax exclaimed with a chuckle.

Robin shook her head and smiled. "Now, how am I supposed to go on after that?"

"Stop, you're going to be great." Brenda assured her. "You had the whole place in stitches at rehearsal with that Brooklyn accent."

A soft laugh escaped from Robin's lips. "Lois certainly came in handy with that. She could have been Adelaide with no practice."

"You just remember that we're going to work on you not being Adelaide after this Ball if over. Matthew Perry is not going to pull a Nathan on you either, " Brenda commented. "No more of this waiting around to start your life together."

Robin rolled her eyes. "Okay, that's my signal to get dressed. My robe will be the fashion statement of the evening," she said in jest.

"Well, are you wearing something under the robe," Jax teased. "If not, you could pull a Lucy and give everyone a show."

Robin swatted Jax's arm as she moved toward the dressing room. "Sorry but I'm passing up that opportunity and wearing a dress under it." She then waved at Jillian. "Good night Jillian. I'm so glad you had fun tonight."

“Nite-Nite Aunt Robin," Jillian replied as a yawn overtook her.

At the sight of Gloria in the doorway, Brenda smiled at Jax as he lifted Jillian into his arms and hugged her. "Okay, I think Mr. Sandman is waiting for you upstairs. You have sweet dreams."

Brenda kissed her cheek and then stroked her curls. "It was such a special night and we're so happy that you were here with us. We love you."

Jillian rested her cheek against Brenda's as she yawned again. "I love you too. I'm gonna dream about feathers and the pretty dresses."

"That's good," Brenda murmured to her. "Here's Grandma Gloria to take you upstairs. You and Brooke and Tron can play in the morning before the picnic."

Jax put Jillian down and Gloria took her hand. "Sweetie, let's go so you can get into your pajamas and we'll hang up your pretty dress. Then everyone can get some sleep."

"Roo-Roo has to go to bed too," Jillian reminded her.

"We'll be sure that he gets to sleep too," Gloria promised.

Jillian waved as she and Gloria walked down the step. "Nite-Nite."

Jax waved back at her. "Good night princess. You look so beautiful."

Brenda blew her a kiss. "Good night."

Jax and Brenda then changed out of their costumes and returned to the amphitheater. They passed Matt in the aisle on the way back to their seats and he commended their performance. As they made their way to the table, Jax turned his head to give Matt a quick nod and smile.

As they then approached the table, Thao stood up and baited Jax. "Vuoi ballare?” (Do you want to dance?)

"Not with an amateur like you," Jax countered with a smirk.

"Congratulazioni!," Serafina said in her lilting voice. "Ottimo!" (Great!)

"Amico, you were most magnifique," Augustin declared as he shook Jax's hand. He then kissed Brenda's hand. "Brava!"

"Grazie," Brenda said with a bright smile.

After speaking to Teddi and Paolo, Jax and Brenda sat down with the family again.

"I knew you were fast on your feet, son, but never that fast," John remarked.

"Brenda obviously dropped some ice cubes down his trousers before they went on stage," Jerry quipped.

"No, Jerry, that is your M.O.," Jax retorted. "I remember the stories about the senior prom."

"You two were wonderful," Julia praised. "Brenda, that dress was just perfect."

"Thank you." Brenda linked her arm through Jax's. After some initial jitters, it was actually a lot of fun."

Jane nodded her head and smiled. "It's evident that we have some untapped talent throughout this family. You all were magnificent."

The final silent auction had just ended and Katherine came back on stage to introduce Robin's performance as the evening was winding down. The curtain opened up to a dressing room setting with Robin sitting in her robe at the dressing table. She was reading a medical book and blowing her nose as Adelaide lamented her single life.

It says here, the average unmarried female,
basically insecure due to some long frustration,
may react with psychosomatic symptoms difficult to endure,
affecting the upper respiratory tract.

She coughed and sniffled as she rose from the chair and began walking around the dressing room with the book. Laughter was heard throughout the audience as her thick Brooklyn accent added to the number's effect.

In other words, just from waiting around for the plain little gold,
A person can develop a cold.

Brenda and Julia sat back in their seats and smiled as Jax and Jerry exchanged knowing grins.

It says here, the female remaining single
constantly in suspense,
shows a neurotic tendency.
See note, see note, note --
chronic, organic symptoms, toxic or hypertense,
involves, the eye, the ear, the nose and throat.

She continued to read from the medical textbook as she walked around the dressing room. She sneezed and coughed and then blew her nose again.

In other words, just from wonderin' whether the weddin' is on or off,
A person can develop a cough.

She picked up the vitamin bottles from her dressing table and read the detailed labels before shaking her head and coughing again. She stood in front of the dressing table mirror and began singing to her image.

You can feed her all day with Vitamin A and Bromo fizz,
But the medicine never gets anywhere near where the trouble is,
If she's kinda gettin' a name for herself and the name ain't his,
A person can develop a cough.

She moved to the center of the stage as her lamentations continued and as her final note of music ended, she sneezed.

From lack of community property,
And a feeling she's getting too old,
A person can develop a bad, bad cold.

The audience enthusiastically applauded the entertaining performance and Robin bowed in gratitude. She bowed again and awaited the lowering of the curtain but it did not come down. She looked up and saw that there was no sign of the curtain moving. Robin took a step to exit the stage and then heard Matthew's voice from the side of the stage. "You can't leave here just yet."

In the meantime, one of the stagehands appeared at the back of the stage and carried the chair from the dressing table to the center of the stage.

Robin looked at Matt as if he were crazy. "What are you doing?"

"Taking the word lament from your vocabulary, Adelaide will have to fend for herself," he responded with a shrug. "First, I need you to take off that robe." As the audience began to murmur, Matthew turned to the crowd and put up his hand. "Don't worry, this is not an indecent proposition. I have it on good authority that she's fully clothed."

Brenda looked over at Jax who was speaking to Jerry and refused to meet her eyes.

A very confused expression covered Robin's face and Matthew repeated himself. "You need to take off the robe and then sit down." When she continued to stand there motionless, Matthew clicked his tongue against the roof of his mouth. "Are we going to be here all night?"

With a deep sigh, she muttered, "You're crazy," and took of her robe and then sat down.

"Yes, I am crazy -- about you," he murmured to her. "And I didn't want you to think back on this moment thirty years from now and lament that you were wearing a bathrobe when I gave you this." He pulled off the diamond solitaire from the midpoint of his pinkie finger. "Remember, the word lament is not part of your vocabulary any longer. I don't want single to be either, not for either one of us." He then got down on one knee, took her hand and then placed the ring on her finger. "I want you to be my wife, Robin Scorpio, and for us to spend the rest of our lives together. Will you marry me?"

It wasn't clear if the louder gasp was from Robin on stage or Brenda in her seat. There was no question as to what the loudest comment was. That was Lois' "Holy Toledo!" from the next table.

Robin's hand was shaking as she brought it to her face in a useless attempt to stop herself from stammering.

Matthew flashed her a smile. "Well, are you going to make me look like the biggest comedian of the evening and keep me waiting for an answer?"

The tears flowed down her cheeks and she finally found the power to whisper the words he wanted to hear. "Yes."

He lifted her into his arms and hugged her as thunderous approach and shouts of joy erupted from the audience. Brenda's face was covered with tears and she struggled to speak as she swatted Jax's arm. "You knew all about this." It was a statement, not a question, as Brenda realized exactly what that earlier conversation between Jax, Matthew, Ned and Jerry had been about. Jax simply flashed her a lopsided grin as he handed her a handkerchief to wipe away her joyous tears.

Julia was well aware of the truth now as well and she shook her head at Jerry. "You were in on this too."

A chuckle rolled off of Jerry's lips. "You two are just irritated that we actually could keep something from you. Let's just call it payback for your setting us up to be on stage to make a fool of ourselves tonight."

"You didn't make a fool of yourself and even if you did, what's so new about that," Julia asked.

"Don't you even try to give me a line about making a fool of yourself tonight," Brenda said as she pointed at Jax. "I knew you were up to something all along and it had nothing to do with you performing tonight."

Jax shook his head and bit back his mirth as she looked at him. When he had nothing to say Brenda swatted at his arm again. "Stop that."

"It was a wonderful evening and now this has just added to it," Jane commented as she smiled at both of her daughter-in-laws. "I know Lucy well enough to know that she already has you on the program for next year." She tapped her finger against the side of her cheek. "You'd better get thinking now about next year. Everyone will be expecting you to outdo yourselves."

Both Jerry and Jax groaned aloud as Julia and Brenda laughed. "That's right Jane," Julia replied as she placed her palm over Jerry's hand. "Next year, we'll have to dance."

Brenda linked her arm through Jax's again as she smugly smiled. "Honey, we'll definitely have to do something from The Sound of Music next year. We can start practicing next week."

John let out a raucous laugh as Jax and Jerry glared at their beaming wives. Brenda and Julia then winked at Jane. It had been some entertaining evening, one that no one would ever forget.

SONG CREDITS: "Adelaide's Lament" from Guys and Dolls by Frank Loesser
“All er Nothin'" from Oklahoma by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II
"Cabaret" from Cabaret by John Kander and Fred Ebb
"S's Wonderful" from An American in Paris and Funny Face by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin
“Thank Heaven for Little Girls" from Gigi by Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe