Thursday, January 1, 1998
The Jacks Residence -- 9:00am

Everyone had left the Quartermaines' New Year's Eve party around 1:00am. Jerry had taken Francesca home and then returned to the house. Julia had already gone to bed by the time he had returned so there had been no further battles concerning yesterday's events. Today Ned, Lois, Brooke, Kevin, Lucy, Justus, Scott and Serena were coming over to watch the Bowl games.

The household staff had the day off for the holiday so Brenda was in the kitchen making breakfast. She still was no cook but she was able to prepare simple meals. She was making scrambled eggs and bacon and putting bagels and toast into the toaster when she heard footsteps. As Brenda turned toward the doorway, she was met by a camera flash.

Jerry grinned. "Who would have believed it? Now I have the evidence."

"Very funny, Jerry."

Jax then walked into the kitchen. "Good morning. What is going on in here?"

Jerry lifted up the camera and showed it to Jax. "I have recorded proof for my goddaughter that her mother actually was using the stove."

Brenda glared at Jerry as Jax tried to suppress a grin. "I see we are in rare form this morning."

"In rare form and thinking ahead. Don't worry, I have put them on alert."

Brenda gave Jerry a confused look. "Who?"

"The fire department. I called them as soon as I heard you come down here."

Brenda threw a pot holder at Jerry. "You are treading into dangerous territory, brother-in-law. One more step and you will lose your dining privileges."

Jerry walked over to Jax. "Come on Jax, tell Brenda that I am just trying to ensure that she does not burn the house down."

Brenda turned to Jax. "Think carefully before you respond to that. You have more than dining privileges to lose." She raised her eyebrow at him. "Far more than dining privileges."

Jax thought back to the pleasure that a certain privilege had given him this morning. He smiled as he walked over to Brenda. "Sorry Jerry, but I have no idea why you are worrying about the house burning down. Brenda is completely at home in the kitchen."

Jerry shook his head. "Selling me out just to be able to make love to your wife. What kind of brother are you?"

Jax laughed. "A very satisfied one."

Jax poured himself a cup of coffee as Jerry looked at the food Brenda was pulling out of the refrigerator. He grimaced when he saw her preparing a bowl of cottage cheese and apple butter for herself.

"Good grief, how can you eat that? My God, you're pregnant again, aren't you?"

Jax immediately dropped the spoon he was holding and Brenda laughed. "Honey, don't worry I am not pregnant," She then turned to Jerry. "What are trying to do Jerry, give Jax heart failure?"

Breakfast was put on the table and Julia walked into the kitchen. "Good morning Jax and Brenda." Julia simply glared at Jerry.

Jax poured Julia a cup of coffee and everyone sat at the kitchen table. You could cut the tension with a knife between Julia and Jerry. Neither had said one word to the other. Brenda tried to lighten the mood by asking Julia about the renovations on the loft.

"They are on schedule. You should see the prism window that has been installed. The work should be completed by the end of the month and then I will finally be able to move in. It still seems so far off though."

Jerry picked up the sports section of the paper. "Tell me about it. That date can't come soon enough for some of us."

Jax quickly changed the subject. "So Jerry what do think about the odds on the Rose Bowl?"

No words were spoken between Jerry and Julia as breakfast was finished. Each left the kitchen through different doors. Brenda sighed as she loaded the dishwasher. "I don't know what is worse, when they are screaming at each other or giving each other the silent treatment."

"At least this afternoon there will be other people around. Maybe it will ease some of the tension." Brenda shook her head and Jax took a deep breath. "You're right. They are hopeless."

The Jacks Residence -- 3:00pm

The guests had arrived and the men were in the den watching the bowl games on the big screen television. The women were getting the food together in the kitchen. Lois had made chili and Brenda had made nachos to accompany the popcorn, chips and other snacks. Lucy had brought dessert and Scott and Justus had brought over beer and wine.

As they prepared the food, Brenda noticed the grin plastered on Lois' face. "Lo, what are you so happy about? You look like you are about to burst."

"Nothing. Can't I just be happy to be around friends?"

Brenda put down the bowl of nachos and walked over to Lois. "No, that is not the reason and you know it. Let us in on it."

Lucy looked up from the loaves of bread she was cutting. "Yes, Lois, what gives?"

Brenda saw the twinkle in Lois' eye and smiled. "It's about Ned. I know that look. Please tell me you spent last night in his arms after the party."

"Back up, girlfriend. No, that is not it."

Brenda rolled her eyes. "Lois, what I am going to do with you? Let yourself be happy. I am begging you."

Julia laughed. "Lois, you realize that Brenda feels it is her mission in life to get you and Ned back together."

Lois nodded. "I know. She has not exactly been subtle about that fact."

Brenda picked up Brooke who was playing on the kitchen floor with her blocks. "I owe it to my goddaughter. If you didn't spend last night in Ned's arms, tell me what has you so pumped up."

Lois hesitated and then Lucy piped in. "Lois, you know how determined Brenda can be. You might as well just tell all of us now and get it over with. Save yourself the aggravation."

Lois shook her head. "Fine, I give up. I am going to ask Ned to move back into the gate house."

Brenda hugged Brooke and then Lois. "I am so happy for you."

Lucy smiled. "That's great news, Lois."

Julia completed the trio of good wishes. "Congratulations. I know that you two belong together."

The ladies finished the food preparation and brought the platters into the den while Jax was acting as bartender. Brooke and Serena played in the corner and Jillian was in the swing. The game continued and battle lines were drawn. Jerry, Ned and Scott were routing for USC while Jax and Justus were pulling for Washington. Kevin was still trying to learn the finer points of the game so he chose to abstain from the wagering. At half-time, Washington lead 17-14.

Jerry looked at Ned and Scott. "Don't worry, USC is a second half team."

Jax chuckled. "So is Washington, prepare to pay up."

Jerry looked at the spread of food sitting on the table. "No hot dogs smothered in sauerkraut and onions? No hot pretzels?"

Brenda looked over at him as she picked up Jillian from the swing. "The grocery store is right down the street. Feel free to get whatever you want."

Julia refused to even look at Jerry as Ned offered her a glass of wine. "Ned, has your family recovered from the festivities of last evening?"

Ned sat on the love seat next to Lois. "You know my family, Julia. They are as recovered as they ever can be."

Lucy picked up a bowl of chili. "Kevin and I had a very nice time. I will have to send a note to Lila." Lucy then turned toward Julia. "Julia, it was very nice to meet your friend, Andrew. Charming and handsome, what a combination."

Kevin nodded. "Yes, he seemed like a very interesting person."

Brenda and Jax both looked at Jerry and saw the frown on his face. Then they saw the glean in his eyes. "Kevin and Lucy, what did you think of Francesca?"

Kevin smiled. "Very lovely. I enjoyed speaking Italian again. It had been quite some time since I have had the opportunity."

"She was very beautiful, Jerry. Was she ever a model?"

Jerry grinned as he saw Julia fuming across the room. Jax put his hand to his head and Brenda took a deep breath. Julia then made an excuse and abruptly left the room.

Brenda handed Jillian to Jerry and whispered to him. "Take her for your own protection."

"What are you talking about?"

Brenda glared at him. "So I don't kill you."

The second half of the Rose Bowl started as Brenda went to find Julia. Julia was not in the mood to talk and Brenda left her alone. Everyone mingled for the rest of the afternoon. Washington was victorious in the game so Jerry, Scott and Ned owed Jax and Justus dinner some night. A short while later Justus, Kevin, Lucy, Scott and Serena left. Lois stayed to help Brenda clean up. They were in the kitchen talking.

"When are you going to tell Ned?"

"He leaves Saturday for San Francisco for a few days so I am going to wait until he gets back into town."

"I can't tell you how happy I am for the two of you. Ned is going to be thrilled. Now if I could only figure out what to do about Jerry and Julia."

"Brenda, they are in a terrible position since they are family. It just adds even more to a very difficult situation."

"I am not advocating them running off and getting married or anything like that, I just want them to be honest with themselves and each other."

"They are terrified. It is written all over their faces."

"I know. Julia leaves for Boston tomorrow for a college friend's wedding and then some business for J & J Jacks. Maybe the separation will do them so good. This certainly is not working. Otherwise, I will have to come up with a plan."

"Good luck. You are going to need it."

The Jacks Residence -- 11:00pm

The evening had continued just as the afternoon had. Julia had spent most of the evening upstairs getting ready for her trip to Boston. Brenda had taken Jillian into Julia's room to say good night and Brenda noticed how sad Julia's eyes looked. Jerry had the same look on his face as he watched the evening Bowl games. The two of them were going to drive her completely nuts.

Brenda was in bed reviewing the latest information from Audrey on the Kanga's Kradle project. Next week the project was going to swing into high gear. Justus had prepared the documents to set up the foundation and the accountants were preparing the necessary tax filings. There was a press conference scheduled for next week. Brenda was making the initial contribution to the project by donating the entire value of her contract with Jacks' Cosmetics for the year.

Justus was going to continue to act as her counsel in assisting her in the application process for federal and state grants and Alan was helping Brenda in the grant process for the various health organizations. Brenda had refused to let J & J Jacks make a cash contribution at this time. Jax had persuaded her to set up the initial office for Kanga's Kradle in the corporate offices of J & J Jacks. There was some surplus office space down the hall from the main office that she could use. Brenda was looking into setting up an internship program with PCU to get some office assistance provided for college credits rather than salaries. She was doing her best to keep the overhead to a bare minimum.

Jax came up the stairs and stopped in the doorway to watch Brenda pouring over the documents. She was taking notes on a legal pad and she was completely enthralled in what she was reading. Jax knew she was enjoying every minute of it. After a few minutes Brenda looked up and saw Jax standing in the doorway.

Brenda put her pen down. "What are you doing?"

"Admiring the view."

Brenda smiled. "Come in here, you."

Jax walked over to the bed and Brenda threw the folder and legal pad to the bottom of the bed. "Is the game over?"

Jax sat next to Brenda on the bed. "Yes. Jerry lost again. Would you care to try your luck?"

Brenda put her arms around Jax's neck. "What did you have in mind?"

Jax wrapped his arms around Brenda's waist. "How about a game of two hand touch?"

"What does the winner get?"

Jax flashed her his classic grin. "A glimpse of heaven but in this game, there are no losers."

Brenda moaned. "Then what are we waiting for?"

Jax pulled her closer to him and their lips met. Brenda kicked the files and legal pad off the bed as she unfastened Jax's belt. Jax stood up and stepped out of his shoes, socks and pants as Brenda knelt on the bed and unbuttoned his shirt. He threw his shirt on the floor and climbed back into bed next to her. He slid Brenda under the covers and covered her lips with his. His control was already slipping as his hands moved down her chest to her stomach. Jax lifted the nightgown over her head and his hands explored her body. He moved on top of her and she began gentling nibbling on his ear lobe. Their lips met again and Brenda's tongue met his as she shifted her lower body to join with him. He murmured the words of Robert Browning into her ear as he joined her. She whispered "I love you my darling " as they saw heaven together.

Their bodies glistened with cool moisture from the trip to paradise they shared. They both were laying on their sides and Jax had his arms around Brenda's waist. He kissed her neck as she covered his hands with hers.

"Brenda, I love you."

"I love you too."

Jax began nuzzling her neck. "Believe me, I don't intend on doing anything to give up this privilege for at least the next sixty years. I don't care what my brother says."

Brenda laughed. "They always said you were a smart man."

"Of course. I married you, didn't I?"

Brenda brought Jax's hand to her lips. "It will always be like this, won't it? Tell me we will always be this happy."

"I promise. Like I said earlier, there will be no losers in our game of love. We both will be victorious."

Jax snuggled closer to her and rest his chin on her shoulder. They fell asleep in each other's arms.

Wednesday, January 7, 1998
The Jacks Residence -- 8:30am

Jax was sitting on the bed watching Brenda with sheer amusement. She was walking in and out of the closet with different outfits trying to decide what to wear. Today she was making a presentation in front of the Board of Directors at the hospital.

"What do you think about this?"

"It is beautiful."

"No, it's too flashy." She walked back into the closet and returned. "What about this?"

"You know how much I like that on you."

"No, it is just not right either."

"Sweetie, you will look gorgeous in whatever you wear. Please try to calm down."

"Jax, you are used to these presentations, I am not. I probably won't even be able to open my mouth when I am in front of the board. I can see it now -- lockjaw."

Jax stood up and walked over to her. "Listen to me, you are going to be brilliant. You have such a passion for this project and that passion is contagious. You will have them eating out of your hands."

Brenda smiled and slipped into his arms. "How can you have so much confidence in me? I have never done anything like this before."

"I love you and I know what you have in your heart and your soul, You are going to do this, Brenda. No one can stop you."

Brenda trembled in his arms and Jax looked at her. "What is it?"

"I was just thinking about that moment on the Isabella before we took our vows when I asked the heavens if you were the best thing that ever happened to me. You were and you are. I must have a very special guardian angel looking down on me."

"We both have very special guardian angels. I can come with you if you want. You don't need me though."

"God, I want you there with me but I have to learn to do this myself. You can't be with all the time so I may as well start now."

Jax kissed her on the forehead. "You are going to knock them dead."

Brenda looked at her watch. "I am late. I have to take a shower, throw something on and then drop Jillian off at the Spencers. Okay, I am going with the navy dress and scarf."

Jax laughed as she grabbed the dress off the bed and raced into the bathroom. He knew this was just the start of Brenda's new venture and he knew he was going to enjoy every moment of it with her.

J & J Jacks -- 1:00pm

Julia was on her way to the office from the airport after her trip to Boston. After her friend's wedding on Saturday, she had spent the next three days working in the Boston regional office of Atlantic Shipping. Jerry had been walking around like a grouch for the past few days and Julia did not sound like she was in any better mood when Brenda had spoken to her on the phone.

Jax was waiting to hear from Brenda about the board meeting. He was in his office on the phone when Brenda walked into the outer office and stopped at Addie's desk.

"Mrs. Jacks, what a surprise. You look lovely."

"Thanks Addie. It is nice to see you again. Is Jax in the office?"

"Yes. I know he has been anxious to hear from you."

"I thought I would surprise him. I'll just go in. Thanks."

Jax had his back to her as Brenda eased open the door. She silently shut it and walked behind his chair. He put the phone down and swiveled his chair around at which time she fell into his lap. "Surprise!"

Jax put his arms around her. "Hey you. What a wonderful surprise! How did the meeting go?"

Brenda wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned her head back. "They loved the idea. Amanda Barrington actually said she would see what Barrington Industries could do in terms of underwriting. The Board is going to try to find something in the budget next year to help with some of the costs. In the meantime, they will do whatever it takes to assist with the federal funding. Even Edward seemed impressed."

Jax grinned as he watched Brenda's eyes dance. She was talking a mile a minute. "I knew it. You are going to take this town by storm."

Brenda leaned against Jax's shoulder. "I wanted to tell you in person. I spoke with Laura and Jillian is sleeping so she told me not to rush back so I came here."

Jax tightened his arms around her. "I am so glad you did. You have made my day. Hey, do you want to see your new office?"

"I have seen it, remember? I have to get cracking and get it repainted and furnished so it will be operational. Things are happening so fast."

Jax lifted her out of the chair as he stood up. He gently placed her feet on the ground and then took her hand. "Let's go see what it needs."

Jax led Brenda out of the office and across the hall. They walked to the office suite and Brenda smiled and shook her head when they entered the office. What had been empty, unpainted and unfurnished office space two weeks before was now a fully equipped office suite. Lighting had been installed, phone lines had been run and the outer office, conference room and smaller offices were furnished. "Jax, what have you done?"

"You wouldn't let me or the company be one of the original contributors so this is the least I could. I left your office untouched so you could choose what you wanted but I insist on covering whatever it costs."

Brenda buried her head in his shoulder. "You are too much. I love you so."

In the meantime, Julia had come off the elevator and walked into the main entrance just as Jerry was passing though the main hallway of the office. "Well, look who is back. I guess the peace and quiet of the last two and a half days is over."

"Great. You would have to be the first thing I see when I get back. Why didn't I stay in Boston?"

"Good question. Did you miss me?"

"In your dreams. No, I guess that would be Francesca."

"I guess you came back to keep a leash on Andrew. He looks like a little lost puppy without his mommy here."

Julia folded her arms. "I have had enough of this. I do not see any reason for us to speak to each other unless it is regarding business or a life or death situation, preferably your death."

Jerry chuckled. "You will never be able to keep that up, Julia. You can't go without speaking to me for any extended period of time and you know it."

"I know of no such thing. You are the one that can't shut up."

Jerry shook his head. "I beg to differ."

"We will just see about that."

"We shall. Ms. Barrett, I accept your challenge."

"Fine. Prepare to be decimated."

Julia shot him a glare and marched off toward her office. Jerry shook his head and smirked. "Ms. Barrett, you don't stand a chance. This is going to be fun."

The Jacks Residence -- 8:00pm

Jax, Brenda and Julia were eating dinner in the dining room. Jillian was in the swing sitting next to Brenda. Julia had told Brenda all about the wedding and her trip to Boston and they were talking about the plans for Kanga's Kradle.

"I can't believe you knew about Jax's plans for furnishing the office and you didn't even tell me."

Julia laughed. "It was a surprise, Brenda, why would I have told you?"

"Because you are my sister."

Jax shook his head and looked over at the baby. "Jillian, your mother is too much. I hope you don't have the same curiosity and need to know streak that your mother does."

Brenda looked up at Jax. "Hers will be worse than mine. We are going to drive you crazy."

Julia smiled at the obvious love between Jax and Brenda. "When are you going to officially open the office?"

"Before the end of the month. The funding applications need to get filed as soon as possible."

"Have you decided what you are going to do with Jillian?"

"Simone gave me a referral who seems perfect. Maggie O'Reilly has twenty years of experience and will work three days a week. I will either work at home or at L&B the other two days of the week. When I go into the office, Maggie will come with us. One of the offices is going to be used as a nursery. Except for my photo shoots and meetings outside of the office, Jillian should be able to be with me. Laura has even offered to be my back-up sitter. Lulu just loves Jillian."

"That sounds like you have all the bases covered."

Jax grinned. "Of course she does. Your sister is going for the title of Superwoman."

The sound of the front door opening and then closing was then heard. Jerry walked into the dining room. "Hello Jax and Brenda." Jerry then walked over to the swing. "Good evening Roo. Did you take any wooden nickels today?"

"Are you hungry?"

"No, I had dinner at the Grille. Jax told me that the board meeting went well. Congratulations!"

Brenda immediately noticed that Jerry and Julia were avoiding eye contact and conversation. "Thank you. Have a seat and at least have some coffee and dessert with us."

Jerry sat at the table and Jose brought out coffee and dessert. The cream and sugar bowls were placed in front of Jerry. Once the cups were passed around, Jerry offered cream and sugar to Jax and Brenda. They both declined and Jerry returned the bowls to their original place in front of him.

Jax shook his head. "Julia, cream or sugar?"

"Cream please." Jax frowned at Jerry as the cream was passed to Julia.

Brenda cleared her throat. "Julia, I have been meaning to ask you if you have found a chandelier yet for the dining room in the loft."

"No, not yet."

"I know you are looking for Venetian glass. Jerry gave us the two chandeliers in this house as a housewarming gift. I am sure he could lead you to the best place to find what you are looking for."

"I don't think so, Brenda."

After a few more minutes of strained silence, Brenda cold not take it anymore. "Would someone please tell me what is going on here?"

Jerry took a sip of his coffee. "I don't know what you mean."

Brenda sighed. "I mean between the two of you. Has it become to a crime for either of you to speak to or acknowledge one another?"

Jerry laughed. "Not exactly -- more like an act of surrender."

Jax put down his coffee cup. "Jerry, what are you talking about?"

"It is not big deal. Julia and I are not speaking to each other unless it is absolutely necessary."

Brenda momentarily closed here eyes. "You aren't serious?"

Julia looked up at Brenda. "Yes, we are. It will be much easier this way."

Brenda shook her head. "Easier for whom?"

Julia finished her coffee. "All of us, you'll see. You will have a more peaceful home for the rest of the month before I move. I have work to do so I will see you tomorrow. Good night Jax and Brenda."

Julia got up from the table and walked over to the swing. "Good night Jillian. I'll come see you before you go to sleep." Julia then went upstairs.

Jax finished his coffee. "Jerry, what is going on here?"

"I told you we are not speaking to each other unless we have to regarding J & J Jacks. Actually, I am not speaking to her. She won't last too long on her supposed threat not to talk to me. She won't be able to keep her moth shut for that long."

Brenda was exasperated. "Why are you doing this?"

Jerry laughed. "It's a challenge that the lady is going to fail and I can't wait for that to happen. She will never be able to live it down. I have some phone calls to make to Australia and the business day has started there. I will see you both later. Roo, I'll see you later as well."

Jerry then left the dining room. Brenda put her head in her hands. "I don't believe this. How old are they?"

"Six and getting younger every day."

"Jax, how long can they keep this up? This is going to be a nightmare."

"The office is going to be a problem as well. I wonder if I can convince Jerry to manage Canadian Timber from Alaska?"

"That will not solve anything though in the long term. They are under each other's skin and it is scaring them to death. Separation is not going to remedy that problem. You know how they both were when Julia was gone for five days."

Jax took Brenda's hand. "All we can hope for is that they figure out some way to work this out. I know that is a tremendous leap of faith but we don't really have any other choice now. It can't get much worse than it is now."

"I guess you're right about that but somehow it doesn't make me feel any better right now." Brenda looked over at the swing and Jillian was sucking on a set of toy keys. "Jillian, your godparents are complete lunatics and are going to drive us all totally insane."

"Don't worry princess, we will make it up to you somehow for saddling you with such loons. Prepare to be spoiled rotten."

"God help us all."

"My sentiments exactly."

Thursday, January 15, 1997
The Jacks Residence -- 7:30am

More than a week had passed and Julia and Jerry still were not speaking. Fortunately between their work schedules and Julia's time spent at the loft checking on the renovations, they were not together that much at the house. Brenda was about at the end of her rope.

Kanga's Kradle was proceeding as planned. Brenda had arranged for two interns to start working the week after next. Meetings had been scheduled with various Port Charles businesses to discuss potential underwriting; three potential properties adjacent to the hospital were for rent/sale and the construction engineers were determining the feasibility of using them as the housing facility.

L&B was also generating work for Lois and Brenda. Two new artists had been signed and promotional packages were being put together. Dara also had another performance scheduled for next week. The best news of all was that Ned had moved back into the gate house. Brenda was ecstatic and Lois and Ned were very happy.

Besides the Jerry and Julia situation, the only other thing which wasn't just about perfect for Jax and Brenda now was the lack of time they had to spend together. Between the needs of Jillian, J & J Jacks, Kanga's Kradle and L&B, there were not enough hours in the day. Romance had to take a back seat for now.

Brenda had fed Jillian earlier and the baby had fallen back to sleep. Brenda went to the nursery to check on her as Jax got into the shower. Jillian was sleeping soundly so Brenda decided this would be a golden opportunity for she and Jax to have some time together.

She went into the bathroom and quietly removed her nightgown and robe. The bathroom was like a sauna from the steam of the shower. Brenda silently opened the shower door and tiptoed into the large marble stall. She wrapped her arms around Jax's chest and her hands massaged his chest. "Hello stranger."

Jax moaned at the feel of her touch and he turned around to face her. "Hello beautiful."

Brenda picked up the soap and body sponge. "Can I interest you in a full body wash?"

Jax pulled Brenda into his arms. "You can interest me in just about anything, my lady."

Brenda lathered up the sponge and ran it across his shoulders and down his chest. As the sponge moved down his body, Jax groaned. Brenda moved the sponge as if it were in slow motion as she moved to his thighs. She looked into his eyes and smiled as saw the fire in his eyes. Jax gasped at her torture and pulled her face to his. His lips hungrily met hers and they both moaned. Jax lifted Brenda into his arms and turned off the shower.

Their lips never separated as he carried her to the bed. He gently laid her on top of the sheets and finally released her lips. She looked so beautiful with the water droplets glistening from every inch of her body. Brenda extended her arms to him beckoning him to join her. "I'm all yours my darling."

Jax eased on top of her and Brenda pulled his lips to hers. The kisses immediately became more and more demanding as Jax kicked the comforter onto the floor. As Brenda began to arch her back to further entice Jax to begin their trip to paradise, Jillian's cries were heard from the baby monitor.

Jax rolled off Brenda and tried to catch his breath. Brenda sunk back into the pillows and put her hands over her face. "I'm sorry honey." She then got out of bed and threw on Jax's shirt from last night and went to the nursery as Jax went into the bathroom to get his robe.

Jillian was screaming now. "What is it, precious? Mommy's here." Brenda picked her up and gently rubbed her back as Jillian calmed down. Brenda walked back to the bedroom gently rocking Jillian.

"Look, Daddy's here too."

"Good morning princess. What's the matter with Daddy's little girl?"

Brenda laid down on the bed and rested Jillian on her legs. "You can't be hungry and you aren't wet. Did you miss us?"

Jillian settled down and smiled. Jax sat down next Brenda. "All that fuss for a little loneliness."

Jax looked at Brenda. His shirt was clinging to her still wet body. He caught his breath as she gazed at him. She looked so damn sexy sitting there with the water dripping from her hair. Jax got up and walked to the bathroom.

"Honey, where are you going?"

"To take a shower."

"Another shower?"

"Yes, but this one will be a cold one. A very cold one."

Brenda smiled at him as he closed the bathroom door. "Jillian Veronica, you have quite a sense of timing kiddo." Jillian smiled again and Brenda kissed her cheek. "You are forgiven this time but I make no promises about the next time."

The Jacks Residence -- 1:00pm

Brenda, Audrey and Simone had been together all morning in the dining room reviewing some of the reports from the construction engineer concerning the use of the available property adjacent to the hospital. Jillian was in the swing.

Audrey took off her glasses. "I think that the Wellington Hotel is the best choice. Now I have no idea how much these renovations are going to cost."

Simone nodded. "Brenda, I agree with Audrey. I think it is the best choice of these three. Of course, there could be another property out there that we are missing."

Brenda looked up from the feasibility study. "The real estate agency has had three agents working on this so we probably have knowledge of everything that is available. We don't want anything miles from the hospital. I also believe that the Wellington Hotel is the best property available. Now we need to address the needs of the property outlined in the study."

"Brenda, these renovations are going to be quite costly. Is the Foundation going to be in a position to cover these costs in the near future?"

"I agree with Simone. Just the renovation and rental costs of the property itself are going to be exorbitant. I know how committed you are to this project but I wonder if we need to step back and take it slower."

"Audrey and Simone, I understand your positions but I want you to tell me what you need. I will worry about the logistics. Your focus is ensuring that I have all the information I need to provide the families what they need."

Simone smiled. "I can certainly do that."

Audrey picked the report up. "As can I."

Brenda summed up the first part of the report. "Good. Now, the first floor will function as the kitchen and dining facility and entertainment center for the facility. A few modifications will be necessary to make the main level handicap accessible. Fortunately, the building is equipped with the necessary sprinkler and fire alarm systems. The area is also obviously zoned for commercial/residential use so we are okay in that regard."

"It does not look like that much has to be done for the six residential floors. There is elevator access as well as fire escapes for each floor."

Audrey nodded. "The fact that they were hotel rooms is perfect."

"All they will need is to be furnished, carpeted and painted. Of course that will be a major undertaking in and of itself."

Brenda grinned. "Not quite as much of an undertaking as you may think."

Audrey looked at Brenda. "What is going on in that head of yours?"

"Port Charles has three major furniture suppliers so I thought that they could each agree to furnish two floors of rooms."

Simone turned to Brenda. "What did they say about this?"

"I have only seen two of the three but those two agreed. I know I will be able to convince Thomasville. If they don't agree, everyone in town will know that the competition agreed to help the community but they chose to decline. They would be making a huge marketing error if they refuse."

Audrey crossed her arms. "Something tells me that you used the same approach on both Bassett and Kimball to get them to agree to provide the necessary furniture. I bet you told each supplier that the other two were willing."

Brenda chuckled. "Exactly."

Simone laughed. "Why am I even worried about this? Knowing you, you will convince the owner of the Wellington Hotel to hand it over to you for nothing."

"Not quite, but I do intend to get a long term lease on the property for a bargain rental price with an option to buy. It is for charity you know."

Simone looked at her watch. "Look at the time. Afternoon rounds await."

"Yes, I have to get back for a staff meeting."

Brenda got up from the table. "Thank you so much for coming over here."

"Don't mention it. There is no reason that you had to drag Jillian out in the cold to come to the hospital."

Audrey agreed. "Here there were no distractions or interruptions. We really accomplished a great deal today."

"I think so too."

Simone looked at Jillian. "I see we bored someone to sleep."

Brenda showed Audrey and Simone out and then took Jillian upstairs and put her in her cradle. Brenda came back downstairs and gathered up the files from the dining room table and walked into Jax's office to log her notes from the meeting into the computer.

As she was finishing her notes, a pair of hands quietly covered her eyes and she felt a trail of warm kisses move down her neck. Brenda closed her eyes. "May I help you?"

"You sure can."

"What do you have in mind?"

Jax removed his hands from her eyes. "Guess."

"I have to warn you I am a married woman."

Jax continued nuzzling her neck. "Good, I love a challenge."

Brenda lifted her hand to stroke his cheek. "My husband is at the office and won't be back for hours."

Jax turned Brenda so that she was facing him. "Foolish man. He will have to pay for the errors of his ways."

"What errors?"

"Leaving a beautiful wife alone when it is a perfect day for love in the afternoon."

"Love in the afternoon, it sounds like a dream."

"It is." Jax covered her lips with his in a kiss as sweet as candy. Brenda moaned as Jax lifted her into his arms and carried her upstairs. They spent the next hour and a half enjoying their afternoon of splendor. It was more than a dream, it was paradise.

The Jacks Residence -- 8:00pm

Once Jax had gotten back to the office after enjoying his afternoon delight, he was forced to play chaperon. Julia and Jerry had engaged in a shouting match again over the financial projections for Canadian Timber. Jax's good mood from his afternoon with Brenda had sailed out the door once he had returned to the office. He did not know how much more he could put up with between Jerry and Julia.

When everyone had arrived home for the evening, another altercation developed which caused both Jerry and Julia to storm from the dining room just as dinner was served. Brenda was at the end of her rope now. She decided it was time to put an end to this once and for all. She and Jax ate reveling in the momentary silence and Brenda decided what she was going to do. Once dinner was over, Jax took Jillian into the den to feed her and Brenda put her plan in motion.

Brenda walked up the steps to the attic and left a radio, blankets, pillows and a picnic basket of food and drinks in the corner. She then went to Julia's room to ask her to come up to the attic to go through Veronica's trunk. As soon as they reached the attic, Brenda told Julia she had forgotten to give Jax a message and she walked back down the steps. Brenda then asked Jerry if he would take the box of Jillian's clothes to the attic for storage. As soon as Jerry walked up the attic stairs, Brenda closed and locked the attic door. Julia and Jerry were trapped and Brenda went downstairs to escape the yelling which was about to occur.

Jerry walked up the steps and saw Julia sitting on the floor next to the trunk. "Just what I needed. Why are you here?"

"Are you following me?"

"In your dreams, lady."

"Where is Brenda?"

"How the hell should I know. Am I supposed to be her keeper?"

"I am getting out of here. Get out of my way."

Jerry moved off the stairs. "Don't let me stop you."

Julia walked past Jerry and went down the steps and tried the door but it would not budge. Jerry laughed at Julia's inability to open a door. "You are completely helpless, aren't you?"

"Shut up."

Jerry rolled his eyes and put the box of clothes down on the floor. He walked down the steps. "Move out of the way." Jerry tried the doorknob but it would not turn.

Julia put her hands on her hips. "You are completely useless."

"The door is locked. I am sorry but I did not bring my spy kit so I could jimmy the lock. Next time I am anywhere in your vicinity, I will be sure to bring it."

Julia started knocking on the door and yelling. "Brenda. Jax. Help!"

Jerry plugged his ears. "Stop. You could wake the dead."

Julia kept yelling but to no avail. "Do something."

"Like what?"

"Break the door down."

"I don't think so. As you can see, there is no room at the bottom of these steps to get a running start. I can't even stand up straight until I get half-way up the steps. I am not breaking that door down."

"What do you suggest we do then?"

"How about shutting up and waiting for Brenda or Jax to come back upstairs. It is not like they have left for Siberia, they are downstairs."

Jerry walked back up the steps and sat on the floor. Julia finally followed behind him and sat on the trunk. She noticed blankets in the corner and walked over to them. She picked up a blanket and found the radio, pillows and the picnic basket. Julia opened the basket and found among the food and drinks, a note.

Jerry stood up when Julia picked up the blankets. "What is all that?"

Julia read the note and shook her head. "Thanks a lot Brenda."

"Let me see that note." Julia handed Jerry the note and he opened it. "Jerry and Julia, it is time to stop this madness. Use this time to decide how you two can deal with each other like civilized adults. If not for yourselves, do it for Jillian. Brenda."

"What the hell does she think she is doing? When I get my hands on her...."

Julia moved closer to him and put her hands on her hips. "You'll what?"

Jerry ignored the questions and started pacing. "What is she using for brains?"

Julia sat down on the trunk. "Stop pacing. You are making me dizzy."

Jerry looked at his watch. "8:45pm. How long is she going to keep us confined?"

Julia walked down the steps and started knocking on the door and calling for Jax. Jerry shook his head. "Do you honestly think that is going to help? We are stuck here at the mercy of a crazy woman."

"Stop talking about my sister like that."

"Fine, what would you like me to call her? How about a lunatic or a madwoman? What about a nut or a psycho?"

"Stop it right now."

"What in the world does she expect to accomplish with this little stunt?"

Julia held up the note. "I think she made her point rather clearly."

Julia sat down on the trunk and Jerry sat on the floor as the minutes slowly ticked by.

Meanwhile Jax had finished feeding Jillian when Brenda walked into the den. Jax put the baby in the swing and then sat next to Brenda on the couch. He looked at her and frowned. "What is going on?"

"What do you mean?"

"I see that look in your eyes. What have you done?"

Brenda smiled. "How do you do that?"

Jax kissed her cheek. "I know you very well, Mrs. Jacks. What did you do?"

"I decided that we have put up with enough of this nonsense from Jerry and Julia and told them they had to work something out so we could all co-exist."

"I know you have the best of intentions but I really don't think requesting such is going to faze either of them."

"Of course not so I had to take more drastic measures."

Jax closed his eyes for a moment. "Okay, tell me."

"Let's just say they are each other's captive audience right now."

Jax looked her in the eyes. "Captive audience? Where are they?"

"In the attic and they are going to stay there until they resolve things."

Jax tried to look upset but he couldn't suppress his laughter. "You didn't?"

"I most certainly did and I do not regret it one bit."

"But, Brenda, don't you think that was a tad extreme?"

"No, they are both so hard-headed, ordinary tactics would not work. Don't worry, they have light and blankets and food up there. They will survive."

Jax chuckled. "You may not once they are released from captivity."

Brenda rested her head on Jax's chest. "You will just have to protect me."

"It's a rough job but I guess someone has to do it."

Julia was now pacing the attic floor. "What time is now?"

Jerry rolled his eyes. "Ten minutes since you asked the last time. This is all your fault you know."

"My fault? This is your fault not mine."

"No, you started this by parading Andrew around by a leash. Why you ever thought I would be jealous of him, I have no clue."

"I did no such thing and why would I try to make you jealous? You mean nothing to me."

"Your lips have said otherwise on numerous occasions."

"You were the one trying to make me jealous. That explains your little stunt with Francesca."

"Julia, that is bull and you know it. Why would I care about what you think? We shared a few kisses so what?"

"What do you think I just said to you? There is no commitment here; there has been no pledge of everlasting love."

"There sure as hell hasn't been from me."

"Well there hasn't been from me either. I don't care what women you decide to string along."

"I certainly don't care who you use as your boy-toys."

"I'll be out of this house in two weeks and then we won't have to deal with each other outside of the office except for family occasions."

"Trust me, I am counting the days down."

Julia glared at him. "I am counting down the minutes."

"Until then, what happens?"

"For Jillian's sake, we need to call a truce. Of course, I am not sure if you are man enough to do that."

"That is not really an insult from someone who does not meet the definition of a lady."

Julia glared at Jerry. "You..... Forget it. I am above this. I can tolerate your presence for the next two weeks for the sake of Jax, Brenda and Jillian."

Jerry folded his arms. "Well, if you can then I know I can."

"Then we have called a truce. I will stay out of your way and you stay out of mine. When we are forced to be together we will be as civil as possible."

"No problem."

Julia sat down again on the trunk. "Fine."

Jerry rested his head against the attic wall. "Fine."

Julia turned on the radio and opened up the picnic basket and took out a piece of fried chicken. She looked at Jerry and rolled her eyes. She pushed the picnic basket across the floor toward him. "Don't ever say I never did anything for you."

Jerry grabbed a piece of fried chicken and propped a pillow behind him. Kenny Loggin's "For the First Time" began playing over the radio. Jerry looked over at Julia out of the corner of his eye. His mind raced back to their first kiss in the elevator and the kiss in the nursery a few days later. He shook his head trying to dissipate the memories. This was the right thing to do. Julia Barrett was not his type anyway.

Julia took her shoes off and sat down on a blanket on the floor. She rested her head on one of the pillows as she listened to the words of the song. Memories of the kiss in Alaska and the kiss under the mistletoe crept into her mind. She closed her eyes in an effort to remove the images from her head. This was all for the best. Jerry Jacks was not the man for her.

Two hours later, Jax and Brenda walked up the stairs. "I don't hear any screaming."

Jax shook his head. "They probably have killed each other by now."

"I guess I have let them stew long enough."

Brenda walked down the hall to the attic door and unlocked it. She then opened the door. "Are you children ready to come out of your rooms?"

Jerry looked over at Julia who was sleeping. He walked over to her and looked down at her face before he gently stroked her cheek. "What? Jerry, what do you want?"

"The madwoman has opened up the prison gates." Jerry extended his hand to Julia and helped her get off the floor. "Thank you."

Julia grabbed her shoes and they walked down the stairs to find Jax and Brenda waiting in the hall.

"Brenda Barrett Jacks, I should wring your neck."

Jerry looked at Julia. "You were mad at me for calling her crazy and now you are threatening bodily harm?"

"She is my sister so I have the right."

Jax put up his hand. "You two set yourselves up for this. Please tell me that you resolved things. Otherwise, I will not be responsible for Brenda's next plan."

Julia took a deep breath. "Yes, Brenda you accomplished your goal. We have called a truce. I figure we can keep it for the next two weeks before I move to the loft."

Brenda folded his arms in front of her. "Is this true, Jerry?"

"Yes, Lucretia."

"Good. I will expect both of you to keep your word. Good night."

Jerry and Julia walked down the hall to their rooms and Jax put his arms around Brenda. "Well, it worked."

"Maybe, we will just have to see."

Thursday, January 22, 1998
The Jacks Residence -- 7:30am

The past week had been very busy for all in the Jacks household. Kanga's Kradle was occupying most of Brenda's time while the Canadian Timber deal was progressing for J & J Jacks. Jerry and Julia had managed to co-exist for the past week. Brenda was still not satisfied because she knew they were still in denial over their real feelings for one another. She was determined that something still had to be done but not today. Today there were many more important things to do.

Corrine met Brenda in the nursery with a breakfast tray. Brenda had fed Jillian and changed her. She picked up the baby from the changing table and retrieved the box from the dresser drawer. Brenda tucked the package and envelope into the pocket of her robe and put Jillian over her shoulder. They walked to the master suite and once they got to the door, Brenda took the tray from Corrine and carefully balanced it on her hip as she carried Jillian.

Brenda walked over to the bed and put the tray down next to a sleeping Jax. She quietly climbed into bed next to Jax and put Jillian between them. Brenda turned onto her side so she was facing Jax. He was sleeping on his stomach with his face turned to her. Brenda smiled as she watched him sleep. He looked so adorable when he slept, just like a little boy. Jax stirred and Brenda took Jillian in her arms so the baby was facing him. Brenda smiled as his deep blue eyes gazed at her.

"Good morning. Jillian wanted to be the first to wish her Daddy a very happy birthday!"

Jillian laughed out loud as Jax took her in his arms and kissed both of her cheeks. "Good morning princess."

Brenda slid closer to him. "Now it's Mommy's turn to wish Daddy a happy birthday." Brenda gave him a soft, lingering kiss.

"What a way to start the morning."

"We have breakfast for you too." Brenda reached for the tray and Jax put Jillian between them as Brenda placed the bed tray over his lap. "All your favorites -- granola, yogurt and bananas."

"And my two favorite people in the world. What more could anyone want?"

Brenda reached into her robe pocket. "Here is something else for you." She handed Jax the box and envelope.

Jax opened up the card. Brenda pointed to the water mark. "Jillian even signed it for you. There is her drool mark."

Jax laughed and unwrapped the box. Inside was a diving watch to go with the diving equipment Jerry had given Jax for Christmas. "How did you know I always wanted one of these?"

Brenda grinned at Jax. "The angels told me."

Jax kissed her fully on the lips. "Thank you sweetie."

"You're welcome. Happy birthday Jax! May all your dreams come true."

Jax picked up Jillian and put his arm around Brenda. He pulled Brenda closer to him and kissed her forehead as she leaned against him. "They already have, Brenda, they already have."

The Gate House -- 2:00pm

Lois and Brenda were working on materials for the promotional tour of The Angels, the newest addition to the talent list of L&B Records. Brooke and Jillian were sleeping upstairs and the CD player was blasting downstairs.

Brenda looked up from the publicity photos. "Lo, are you happy?"

Lois sighed. "Yes, I am happy. I can say it out loud now."

Brenda smiled. "Two weeks of reconciliation bliss?"

"You could say that. Six months ago, I would not have thought this was possible. Hell, three months ago I would not have thought this was possible."

"You and Ned are meant to be together and now you are. I could not be happier for you both, for all three of you."

Lois touched Brenda's hand. "I know and I do not know what I would have done without you over the past fifteen months. I know Ned feels the same way. He has even said how much he appreciated Jax's support and advice."

"I'm glad. Now if I only could figure out how to get Jerry and Julia on the right track."

Lois rolled her eyes. "Bren, don't tell me you are still going down that road? You should consider yourself lucky that your house isn't a war zone. Don't push your luck."

"You sound just like Jax."

"Good. He's right about this. Don't get involved."

Brenda looked at Lois. "Easier said than done. They both have money, success, great jobs, friends and family but they are missing that special person in their life. You know as well as I do that there is something between them. They are just scared and therefore building up walls. In the end, I don't want either of them to regret not taking a chance to find true happiness."

Lois shook her head. "I know you want them to be happy but they have to make such decisions for themselves."

"I know that. However, I also know that when Julia moves out in ten days, they will miss the time they have spent together living under the same roof. Neither will admit it but I know it will be the truth. The distance will also make it that much harder for them to admit their true feelings."

"Like you said, Brenda, if they are meant to be together, they will be. Maybe not tomorrow or next week, but some day."

"Yes, when we all are ready for social security."

Lois laughed. "On another subject, is everything ready for tonight?"

"Yes, Jax is coming to pick me up and we will meet you and Ned at 7:30pm for dinner. Emily is going to babysit. Everything else has been arranged."

"Since Brooke should be in bed by about that time, Reggie is coming here to sit with her."

"We are all set then."

"Great. I am going to check on the girls. I will be right back."

Lois went upstairs and a moment later the front door opened and Ned strolled into the room. "Hey Brenda."

Brenda looked at her watch and smiled. "Coming home in the middle of the afternoon, should I make myself scarce?"

Ned laughed. "I like the way you think but not this afternoon. Keep your offer in mind for another day though. I was at the house getting Grandmother's signature on something and I saw your car. I was hoping to get this opportunity to see you privately."

Brenda began whispering. "I know. I was going to call you when I got home. Are you okay for tonight?"

"Yes, we are ready. You?"

"Being handled as we speak."

Ned rubbed his hands together and flashed his dimples. "Perfect."

"Ned, Lois told me how happy she is and it is apparent that you are on cloud nine yourself. I just want you to know how happy I am for both of you."

"Me too, Brenda. Me too."

Lois came down the stairs. "Ned, what a surprise. Is anything wrong?"

Ned walked over and kissed Lois. "No. I was up at the house and thought I would just stop by to see you. Brenda was telling me that everything is set for this evening."

"Yes, it should be fun."

Ned grinned at her. "It will be Lois. Trust me, it will be."

The Outback -- 7:30pm

Lois was watching out the front window of The Outback to keep a look out for Jax and Brenda. Brenda had rented out the restaurant for the evening for the party. John and Jane had flown in from Alaska as a surprise. Robin and Jason had spent the afternoon arranging the balloons and streamers with the help of Keesha and A.J. Felicia and Mac were serving drinks as Ned and Ruby were overseeing the party until Brenda arrived. Monica and Alan were talking to Edward, Lila and Justus at a table while Julia, Jerry, Lucy, Kevin and Scott stood by the stage. After a few minutes, Lois saw the Bentley pull into the parking lot.

"They're here. Everyone take your places."

Everyone gathered near the entrance to the restaurant. Jax and Brenda walked into the room to a chorus of "Surprise." Ned captured the moment on film and Brenda shrieked with happiness at the success of the surprise.

Jax kissed her gently on the lips. "Thank you."

Brenda caressed his cheek. "Happy birthday, my love."

Felicia passed Jax a glass of champagne and Brenda took Jax's hand to lead him to the table. Brenda had arranged to replicate the oyster feast from Ireland as the food had been flown in from Galway Bay. Oysters, cracked crab, salmon, brown bread, churned butter and Guiness had been delivered earlier this evening. A beautiful strawberry romanoff cake had also been flown in from Jax's favorite pastry shop in Vienna.

The guests took their seats and the waiters served the feast. Jerry, Julia, Jane and John sat with Brenda and Jax. Jerry stood up to make the first toast to Jax. "Jax, don't look at it as though you are getting a year older. Instead, think of it as getting better. Of course, you are still not as good or as handsome as me, but being second best is okay."

Jane shook her head. "Jeremiah, sit down."

As Jerry sat down, he saw Julia put her hand to her mouth to hide her laughter. He cringed. Why did his name cause such mirth for her? It was simply aggravating.

After the food was served and everyone had enjoyed the feast, Jax and Brenda mingled with the crowd. Brenda got the high sign from Ned and a few minutes later, she snuck away from Jax and walked onto the stage.

"Good evening everyone. I am so happy that you could all join us for this celebration. The party is just beginning and we have another treat in store for you. We are privileged to have some entertainment this evening -- a revival/reunion of sorts. If everyone will take their seats, the show is about to begin. Without further adieu, it is my pleasure to present to you Eddie Maine and the Idle Rich."

Brenda exited the stage as Ned and the band appeared. She watched as the look of surprise registered on Lois' face. Brenda sat down next to Jax and he took her hand.

Ned, dressed in his black leather ensemble, went to the microphone. "Good evening. It is our pleasure to appear before you this evening as part of the celebration of Jax's birthday. We are anxious to get started so we will begin. Enjoy the show!"

The music began and Brenda glanced over to Lois who was sitting with A.J., Keesha, Jason and Robin. Lois was completely mesmerized by Eddie just like always. Brenda looked over at Edward and he actually was not scowling. This was a major improvement from the past. Lila was keeping the beat of the music by tapping on her knee. The band was as terrific as ever.

Ned and the band played a few more numbers and then the cake was cut. Ned lead the group in a chorus of "Happy Birthday" as Jerry took pictures of Jax blowing out the candles. As the cake was served, Ned sang his final number which was a love song dedicated to Lois. Brenda saw the tears in the corners of Lois' eyes. As the song ended, Lois walked over to Brenda.

"You knew all about this and didn't tell me. Some friend you are."

Brenda giggled. "Ned wanted it to be a surprise. I think next week we should start planning a revival tour."

Ned walked behind Lois. "Sounds great to me."

Lois turned around. "Ned, you're still my Eddie."

Ned grinned at her. "What do you think I have been telling you for the past six months?"

Brenda smiled. "I guess this means we will be taking some road trips soon."

Lois hugged Ned. "It sure does."

Jax and Brenda mingled with the rest of the guests. John and Jane were staying through the weekend. Robin was leaving for New Haven on Saturday for the spring semester. Kevin had his first draft of his book on personality disorders at the editor. In honor of Jax's birthday, Edward was actually civil. Monica and Alan spoke to Brenda about the latest activity on Kanga's Kradle and Scott and Justus were already talking about the odds on the Super Bowl game.

Brenda looked over at John, Jane, Jerry and Julia. They were in the midst of a discussion but Brenda was watching the looks passing between Jerry and Julia. Brenda had seen Julia's reaction to hearing Jerry's proper name again and Jerry's response to that reaction. Brenda knew there was still a great deal that went unspoken between Jerry and Julia.

As the evening drew to a close, Jax and Brenda expressed their thanks to all the guests. Jerry gave his parents a ride to the house and Lois, Ned, Robin and Jason stayed behind. Ned and Jax were taking the gifts to the car and Lois and Jason were gathering decorations. Brenda and Robin made plans to have lunch tomorrow before Robin left for Yale.

Once the foursome had left, Brenda made a final check of the restaurant and thanked Mac and Felicia for all their help. Mac and Felicia went into the back as Jax walked back through the front door after saying good night to the Ashtons and Robin and Jason.

Jax walked over to Brenda and took her in his arms. "I love you. Thank you for everything, especially thank you for loving me."

Brenda sighed. "You own my heart so it is out of my hands now. I have no choice but to love you."

"As you own mine. You know I will protect your heart with my life."

Brenda stepped back from his embrace and took his face in her hands. "I know. Believe me, I will protect your heart as well. I will protect it for all I am worth."

Brenda brought his lips to hers and softly kissed him. "Happy birthday my darling!"

Thursday, January 29, 1998
The Jacks Residence -- 7:00am

Jillian had just awakened and Brenda had carried her into the master bedroom. Brenda was getting herself situated on the bed to feed Jillian when the phone rang. She put Jillian in her lap and reached over and picked up the receiver while unbuttoning her night shirt with the other hand. "Hello."

"Good morning sweetie."

Brenda immediately smiled. "Good morning. It's early, I didn't expect to hear from you until later this morning."

"I pushed up the meeting in hopes of getting out of here earlier and back home. I miss you so much."

"I miss you too. This bed hasn't been the same without you in it for the past three days."

Jillian started fussing. "Okay, Miss Impatience. Give me a second." Brenda lifted Jillian to her breast and the baby started loudly cooing as soon as she saw that breakfast was ready. Brenda stroked Jillian's cheek with her finger as the baby eagerly began to nurse.

"Sorry darling. I'm back."

Jax grinned. "An anxious little thing this morning I hear."

Brenda laughed. "It seems so especially now that I am only nursing her twice a day."

"Not that I blame her enthusiasm. I wish I were being cradled at your breast right now."

"I wish that as well."

"Tonight, I promise."

"What time are your meetings?"

"I have one at 8:00am and another at 10:30am. I should be out of here by noon or so. Then we will spend the evening and the next few days together -- just us."

"I will be counting the minutes. I heard Ontario has been hit by terrible storms this week. How is the weather right now?"

"It looks like it is trying to clear here."

"It is snowing here now and expected to snow all day. There is a major storm system that has come in from the Mid-West. It is supposed to dump several feet in the mountains. Promise me you will keep on top of the forecast. I wish you had the jet there."

"Don't worry Brenda. You know that Jerry needed the jet to get back and forth from Munich this week. I love this classic and my favorite time of year to fly is the winter."

"I still am not sure I agree with the term 'classic' to describe her. How many knobs have fallen off on this trip?"

Jax chuckled. "Only one. This vintage aircraft has charm, Brenda."

Brenda shook her head. "Whatever you say honey."

"I will call you when I reach the Port Charles airport. What are your plans for the day?"

"Jillian has a doctor's appointment this morning and then I am meeting with Alan at the hospital."

"Be careful on the roads."

"You be careful yourself."

"I had better get into the shower so I can get out of here. Kiss Jillian for me. I will see you both late this afternoon. I love you."

"Good luck with the meetings. I love you Jax."

J & J Jacks -- 3:30pm

Since Jerry had been in Munich until late yesterday and Jax had been in Ontario all week, the office had been quiet. Julia and Andrew had made some headway on Canadian Timber and Scott was working on the draft documents for Jax's newest deal in Ontario. Today Jerry was back in the office and he and Julia had already had a disagreement about a press release for Canadian Timber.

Jerry was in the conference room reviewing the latest materials for Canadian Timber. He heard a knock at the door and without looking up from his files, Jerry asked the person to enter. He looked up and saw Addie standing in front of him with a look of concern on her face.

"Addie, what is it?"

"There seems to be a problem. I just heard from the Port Charles Airport control tower. They lost radio and radar contact with Mr. Jacks' plane almost ninety minutes ago."

Jerry dropped the file he was holding. "Where was he?"

"Last contact was just before the Blue Mountain Lake area of the Adirondack Mountains."

"How bad is the weather?"

"Visibility is less than two miles now and expected to decrease. The winds are exceeding 40 mph at times. Storms are expected to remain over the area for the next several hours."

"I need the contact name and number for the control tower."

Addie passed him the message slip. "Here it is. They are expecting your call."

"Addie, nothing about this to anyone, especially Mrs. Jacks. I need to get the whole story before she is told anything."

"Yes, sir. Please let me know if there is anything I can do." Addie shut the door behind her as she left the room.

Jerry called the control tower and Stan Patterson repeated the information Addie had provided. There had still been no radar contact nor any radio transmission from Jax. He was expected to have landed in Port Charles fifteen minutes ago. The control tower had heard nothing concerning a change in flight plans.

The weather was becoming even more treacherous. Flights were being grounded throughout the whole region. A search and rescue team was being organized and was expected to begin its operation within the next thirty minutes. There would be very little daylight remaining at this point so the search efforts would be severely hindered.

Jerry hung up the phone and ran his fingers through his hair as he muttered aloud. "This can't be happening."

Julia walked into the conference room ready to go another round with Jerry about the press release. She took one look at him and stopped in her tracks. "What has happened?"

"Nothing. I don't have time for another fray right now."

Julia saw that his hands were shaking and walked over to him. "Jerry, you are scaring me. What is wrong?"

Jerry took a deep breath. "Close the door and sit down."

Julia closed the door and sat down. "Oh God, is it Brenda and the baby?"

"No. The airport has lost all contact with Jax's plane."

"Oh my God." Tears began running down Julia's face. "Brenda. Does she know? I have got to get to the house."

Jerry grabbed Julia's arm. "No. She does not know and it is going to stay that way for now."

"Jerry, he is her husband."

"I know that and I also know that she loves him more than life itself. I won't put her through this until I know there is a reason to do so. Jax would want it this way."

"What about your parents?"

"I am not calling them now either. A rescue team has been dispatched. I refuse to panic right now. He may have had to make an emergency landing because of the weather or a mechanical problem and simply lost the use of his radio. My brother is an excellent pilot and has flown in weather far worse than this."

"Where was he when he last made contact with the airport?"

"In the area of Blue Mountain Lake."

Julia closed her eyes. "In the middle of the mountain range. I heard on the radio at lunch that the area is being bombarded by the storms."

"Julia, please don't panic."

Julia looked at Jerry and she knew how concerned he was. Whatever she wanted to say about him, she could not deny that he loved Jax. "You are right. It has not been that long. The search team is looking for him and the Blue Mountain Lake area is not completely isolated due to the number of recreational areas in the vicinity."

"Exactly, so there is no need to think the worst."

"If Brenda is expecting him this afternoon, what is going to happen when he does not arrive?

"Addie will have to do her best to squelch any anxiety Brenda may have. With the storms, hopefully she will just think he has been delayed."

"How long can that be kept up without arousing suspicion?"

"Not long but hopefully we will know something prior to that time. The control tower is going to call me here in an hour and apprise me of the situation. In the meantime, no word to Brenda."

"All right. Let me know as soon as you hear from the tower."

Jerry sat down in a chair by the window. "I will."

Julia went to leave the room and saw Jerry blankly staring out the window. "Do you mind if I sit with you?"

"No, pull up a chair."

Julia sat next to him and put her hand over his. "Jerry, he is going to be fine."

"He has to be."

It was now going on 6:00pm and the search efforts had produced nothing yet. Brenda had called the office and Addie was able to temporarily suppress her anxieties. Jerry was pacing the conference room trying to decide the best way to handle the situation.

"Jerry, I think we better go home. It is time to tell Brenda."

"I know."

"I think I should call Lois and Ned and tell them. We should be home in a half hour. I can arrange for them to come to the house in an hour. Brenda is going to need as many people around her as possible."

"Call Lois and then we will go. I am going to wait to call my parents until after I tell Brenda. As soon as this weather clears, I am going to head to Blue Mountain Lake. Chuck Yeager is on standby to meet me at the airport."

Julia left the conference room to call Lois and Jerry told Addie what the plans were. He promised to call Addie as soon as he heard anything. Jerry went back to his office and he grabbed his coat. He saw the photo out of the corner of his eye. He picked up the frame and caught his breath as he focused on the picture. It had been taken in Alaska a few years ago on one of their fishing trips. Jax was trying to pull Jerry's hat down over his eyes as they were standing for the photo. "Little brother, where are you?"

The Jacks Residence -- 6:30pm

Brenda was walking Jillian downstairs around the den. The snow was still coming down and she was still waiting to hear from Jax. The baby had been fussy since mid-afternoon and Brenda was hoping she was not going to get sick from her shots this morning. The baby finally fell asleep and Brenda put her in the swing. Brenda heard the front door open and walked into the hallway. "Jax."

Jerry and Julia had come through the front door and immediately taken off their coats. They walked down the hall toward Brenda. She saw the looks on their faces and immediately felt sick to her stomach.

Jerry took her hand and led her into the den. "Honey, I want you to sit down."

Brenda took a deep breath. "I don't want to sit down."

Julia took her other hand. "Please Brenda."

Brenda felt herself losing control. "Just tell me." Her hands started shaking. "Now!"

Jerry tightened his grip on her hand. "Honey, we have a problem. The plane has not made it back to Port Charles and we are not sure what has happened. Everything is being done that can be at this time and we are awaiting word from the control tower."

Brenda looked out the window at the falling snow. "Where? When?"

Jerry took a deep breath. "Near Blue Mountain Lake. Almost five hours ago."

Brenda had to catch her breath. "He's in the mountains in this storm?"

Brenda felt that her legs were collapsing under her. Jerry grabbed her and sat her on the couch. Julia sat next to her and stroked her hand. "Brenda, there is a search party looking for him. When they get some information, they will call us."

The phone rang and Brenda almost jumped out of her skin. Jerry grabbed it. "Yes, this is Jerry Jacks. What is the latest?" Jerry sighed and Brenda wrapped her arms around herself. "What is the forecast for the morning weather?" Jerry felt his heart breaking at the sight of Brenda. "How low is the temperature expected to dip tonight?" Jerry closed his eyes momentarily. "I will head out before daybreak tomorrow once the storm passes here. Keep us posted if anything changes in the meantime."

Jerry sat down next to Brenda. "They haven't found anything yet. Because of the weather and nightfall, they have had to call off the search until dawn."

Brenda stood up. Her voice was shaking as she spoke. "But he's out there. They can't stop looking for him. Don't they know how cold it will be tonight?"

Jerry walked over to her. "Honey, it is impossible right now to search. Tomorrow morning I will be there and I will see to it that we get our answers. I promise."

The word "promise" immediately struck a chord in Brenda's heart. Jax made a promise that he would come home to her and he would. He always kept his promises. She did not care what her head or what anybody else said, he was coming back to her. Brenda was going to listen to her heart and in her heart she knew Jax was okay. She was fully composed now. "No. I am going with you."

"Brenda, you need to stay here with Jillian. I will keep you apprised of everything that is happening."

"No! This is not up for debate. I am going with you and so is Jillian."

"Brenda, you know Jax would not have wanted you to do this."

"Stop talking as if he were dead. He is not and when he is found, he will want to see his wife and his daughter and we are going to be there."

Jerry was shaking his head. "You need to calm down."

"I am calm, Jerry, and I am going with you." Brenda then turned to Julia. "I would like you to come with us so you can look after Jillian."

Julia looked over at Jerry and then back to Brenda. "Whatever you want."

"Good." Brenda turned to Jerry. "Jerry, have you spoken to your parents yet?"

"No, I was waiting to hear back from the controllers."

"I suggest you call them now since we aren't going to hear anything more this evening. I want to talk to them when you are finished. I also want the name and phone number of the controller in charge. I want to know first hand everything that they are doing. I am going upstairs to pack. From now on if the phone rings, I will answer it."

Brenda walked out of the room and Jerry sat on the couch and put his head in his hands. "She is having a nervous breakdown."

The doorbell then rang and Julia went into the hall to see Corrine opening the door for Lois and Ned. Lois came running down they hallway toward the den. "Where is she?"

"Upstairs packing to go to Blue Mountain Lake."

"You left her alone?"

Jerry rolled his eyes. "It's more like she left us alone."

Ned was shaking his head. "What?"

Julia sighed. "Brenda seems to be more in control than we are. We are very concerned about her."

Lois walked to the door. "I'm going up to see for myself."

Lois walked into the master suite to see Brenda throwing clothes into a suitcase. "Brenda."

"Lois." Brenda ran over to her and hugged her. "Did Julia call you?"

"Yes. What can I do for you?"

"Lois, he is fine. I know it in my heart."

"I'm sure he is."

Brenda continued to throw clothes into the suitcase. "We are going to find him and then we will all be home. He wouldn't leave us, Lois. I don't think Jerry and Julia really believe that but I do. I would know if something had happened to him."

"Brenda, I remember when I was trying to work things out with Ned that you told me to follow my heart. I am going to give you the same advice. If your heart is telling you that, then there is no one who can question it."

Brenda smiled. "Thank you. We are all going to be together again."

The Jacks Residence -- 11:30pm

The storm had finally passed and Chuck Yeager was meeting everyone at the airport at 6:00am. Brenda had spoken to John and Jane and reiterated her position that Jax was fine and would be found safe and sound. Brenda had packed clothes for the three of them and was set to leave first thing in the morning.

Jillian had fallen asleep fifteen minutes ago but Brenda was still rocking her. Tonight she needed to feel close to Jax and holding their daughter was the best way to do that. Brenda was wearing Jax's robe so that his scent surrounded her. She was constantly thinking about him or talking to him out loud in the hopes that somehow he could hear her or feel her presence.

Brenda knew that Jerry feared for her sanity but this was the only way she knew how to get through this. Jax had never given up on her nine months ago when Harry had abducted her and she was not giving up on him. He had found her at the cabin on Steel Mountain and she was going to see to it that he was found now.

Brenda continued to rock the baby as she looked at the picture of the three of them taken in front of the Christmas tree. She needed Jax to understand that they would all be together again. She whispered to the moonlight streaming through the window.

"Darling, we will be there. I promise. I am not giving up on you for one moment. You have my heart remember and you promised to protect it. Jillian and I need you and love you more than anything in this world and we are not about to let go."

Jerry had come upstairs and was passing by the nursery as Brenda began to speak. Julia came out of her room and watched him as he stood outside the door to the nursery listening to Brenda. He saw Julia and walked toward her.

"I think she honestly believes he can hear her."

"Did you ever think that maybe he can? True love is very powerful."

"I wouldn't know."

"Neither would I but if Brenda believes it, who am I to say otherwise?"

"You're right. Get some sleep, Julia, we leave very early in the morning."

"Jerry, you know how resourceful your brother is. He is going to be okay. He has too much going for him not to be."

"Thank you Julia. Thank you for everything."

"You're welcome. Try to get some sleep yourself. Good night."

Meanwhile Brenda put Jillian in her cradle and kissed her good night. "Daddy loves you Jillian and he is going to come back to us. I promise."

Brenda went to the bedroom and climbed into bed still wearing Jax's robe. She laid down on Jax's side of the bed and hugged his pillows. For the first time since she had heard the news, tears crept from the corners of her eyes. "Nobody leaves, Jasper Jacks. Don't you forget that."

Saturday, January 31, 1998
Blue Mountain Lake Inn -- 6:30am

Brenda pulled Jax's gray sweater over her head and looked in the mirror. The circles under her eyes were darker. She had not slept a wink the night before and had only slept about an hour or so the night before at home. They had been in the Blue Mountain Lake Inn for almost twenty-four hours now and still there was no word about Jax. Yesterday, six helicopters had spent the entire day searching and had found no sign of the plane. The deep snow and drifting snow was hampering efforts as only aerial searches were possible. The search was covering a ten mile area from the point where radio and radar contact was lost.

Jerry was in the lobby of the inn when Julia came down the steps. He looked like he had been through the wringer. He had spent all day yesterday in one of the helicopters. It had been more than thirty-six hours now since Jax's plane had disappeared and Jerry knew they were running out of time. If that were not bad enough, another storm system was approaching and expected to hit after nightfall. A storm would prevent any search efforts tomorrow and Jerry did not even want to think about what that would mean.

Julia walked over to him with a cup of coffee. "You didn't get any sleep again, did you?"

"No. I spent half the night on the phone with my father. He wants to come up here but that is the last thing he needs."

"How is your mother?"

"Lady Jane is trying to put up a brave front but she is crumbling."

"I am afraid we are going to be up against the same thing with Brenda. I heard something about another storm."

"Don't say anything about the storm to Brenda. I can't believe she hasn't cracked already."

"She is trying so hard to be strong for Jax."

"I know. Julia, we are running out of time."

Brenda and Jillian came down the steps and Julia and Jerry stopped their conversation.

"Jerry, I want to go out with you today."

"Brenda, that is impossible. There is no room in any of the helicopters. Besides, you need to stay here and make yourself beautiful for Jax when we bring him back."

Brenda handed Jillian to Julia. "You really don't think I am buying that do you?"

Jerry laughed for the first time in three days. She was such a pistol sometimes. "Not really but the answer is still the same. The winds are bad today and the ride is going to be very rough. I don't want to hear my brother if you have a scratch or a bump on your head from the ride. Forget it."

"I want you to check in with me."

"Fine. You stay here and I will call you. The sun is coming up so I need to get out of here."

"Jerry, remember my message to Jax."

Jerry rolled his eyes. "How could I, you have only told me twenty times." Brenda punched him on the shoulder. "I know, I know. Tell him you love him. Like he doesn't already know that."

"Good-bye Jerry. Please find him."

Jerry kissed Brenda on the cheek. "We will."

Blue Mountain Lake Inn -- Noon

Jerry had called Brenda an hour ago and there still had been no sign of Jax from any of the helicopters. Brenda had been pacing the lobby for the past hour while Julia was in her room with Jillian. Brenda had overheard the desk clerk talking about tonight's impending storm and she was beginning to panic. She did not remember ever feeling so helpless.

She sat on the sofa in the lobby in front of the fire and looked over the map that the rescue team was using. Her stomach was in a knot as she saw some of the rugged terrain that bordered the area. If only she knew something about the area maybe she could help.

As Brenda was sitting in the lobby, a handsome couple entered the lobby with suitcases in hand. Brenda overheard the desk clerk address them as they entered the lobby. She then heard the gentleman mention something about arriving at the inn via a helicopter.

Brenda stood up and walked over to the front desk. "Excuse me for the interruption but did I hear you say that you arrived by helicopter?"

"Yes, we did."

Brenda took a deep breath. "I am in desperate need of a helicopter. Is you pilot still in the area?"

"You are looking at her." The man pointed to the woman standing next to him. "This is my wife, Elizabeth Kelly. My name is Jack."

Brenda tried to catch her breath. "I am Brenda Jacks and I need the services of a helicopter. My husband's plane went down in this area two days ago and there are search teams out now in helicopters. I can't just sit here anymore. Mrs. Kelly, would it be possible to secure your services and helicopter. I will pay you anything."

"You are Brenda Barrett Jacks, the model for Jacks Cosmetics and wife of Jasper Jacks. I heard about your husband on the news. Of course I will help you in any way possible and it's Elizabeth and Jack."

Brenda's heart was racing now. "Oh, I can't thank you enough. Here is a map of the rescue operation. There are six helicopters out there but they have had no sighting of the plane or my husband. There is a storm on the way tonight and I am afraid if my husband is not found today, it will be too late."

Both Elizabeth and Jack looked at the map. "Brenda, what do you want to do?"

"Elizabeth, I thought we could search the southeast quadrant because that is where the control tower is guessing the plane went down. Maybe we could expand the search a mile or two in that region since they have had no luck in the original area."

Jack looked at Brenda. "That sounds like a good idea. Do you have the proper clothing?"

"Yes, I do upstairs."

"Why don't we meet here in twenty minutes and the three of us will take off."

Brenda smiled at Jack. "The three of us. John, that is very kind of you to accompany me."

Elizabeth laughed. "Brenda, Jack is a doctor so maybe he could help if your husband needs some assistance."

"You are a medical doctor?"

"Yes, my practice is devoted to pediatric AIDS patients. I am well aware of your support of that cause. I have seen the press releases about the Kanga's Kradle project. It is an honor to meet you."

Tears streamed down Brenda's face. "A physician and a pilot, what else could I have asked for? I will never be able to thank you enough. I will meet you in twenty minutes."

Twenty minutes later Brenda raced down the steps into the lobby. Fortunately, the ski clothing Jax had given her for Christmas had come in handy. She had gone to Julia's room and told her she was going up with the Kellys in their helicopter. Jack and Elizabeth came down the steps and Brenda borrowed two pair of binoculars from the desk clerk and they were off on their way to search for Jax.

The Adirondack Mountains -- 3:00pm

Jax walked around the cabin for the fifteenth time in the past few hours. The winds were changing and he knew another storm was coming. He had enough food to last him another day at the most and he knew another storm would prevent any further searching for him for beyond that time frame. He was too far away from anything and the drifts were too high for him to venture more than a few hundred feet from the cabin. It had been a godsend that he had found it in the first place the day before.

When the storm had intensified to such a level that he could no longer safely fly, he had tried to contact the control tower. However, all of Jax's attempts to contact the controllers were futile. The radio was completely dead. Jax had landed the plane in the blinding snow and had spent the night inside the aircraft. Fortunately, he had carried blankets and food with him. He knew he was in the general area of Blue Mountain Lake but he was unfamiliar with the area. Yesterday morning after the storm had passed, he ventured outside of the aircraft and walked in a southeast direction. About a mile through the trees he found a cabin where he had spent the past thirty hours. The cabin was obviously for summer use but at least it provided shelter and he had the blankets from the plane to keep him warm. He had heard no sounds of aircraft overhead thus far.

Jax was more upset about Brenda than anything else. She had worried about him flying back in the storm to begin with and now she had no idea what had happened to him. He would speak out loud to her hoping that somehow she could hear him. He had slept very little over the past two days but when he had, he had dreamt of her and Jillian. He would figure a way to get back to both of them.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth was maneuvering the helicopter as close as she safely could to the tree lines. They had been up for over two and a half hours and it would only be daylight for about another hour. The winds were picking up and Brenda knew the storms were on their way. They had called back to the hotel once and there still had been no positive report from the rescue operation. Jack and Brenda were looking through the binoculars in the hopes of spotting the aircraft. Brenda was also praying to spot a fully intact plane.

As they approached a clearing about twelve miles from the area of the inn, Brenda thought she spotted something. "What is that?"

Jack looked up. "Where?"

"At about 2:00."

"Elizabeth, can you take us any lower?"

Elizabeth lowered the helicopter and there it was. Only about a third of the plane was visible as it had been buried in snow drifts, but it was there.

Brenda could not sit still. "That's it and it looks like it was an emergency landing rather than a crash."

Elizabeth landed the helicopter in the clearing near the plane and Jack and Brenda got out. Brenda and Jack trudged their way through the drifting snow and finally made it to the plane. Brenda was relieved that the plane looked like it was in one piece but there was no sign of Jax.

"Well, Brenda he must not have been injured, at least not seriously, if he left the plane. Unfortunately, there are no visible footprints because of the drifts.

"Jack, we have to look for him. He could not have gotten that far in these drifts."

"Brenda, we don't even no which direction he could have gone in."

"With the storm coming, we can't wait. We will never be able to get back here tomorrow with the forecast. We have to search now."

Jack shook his head but he knew she was right. "All right, look at your watch. We only have a little over an hour before darkness falls. Choose a direction and walk for twenty-five minutes and not one minute longer. After twenty-five minutes, you are going to have to turn around and come back. Unfortunately that is all the time we have now."

"Okay, I will go this way. Jack, thank you. If you find Jax, just tell him that I love him and I am going to kill him."

"I will go the opposite direction and I'll tell Elizabeth the plans. Good luck and be careful."

Brenda began walking into the area of trees. It was exhausting. At points, the snow was past her knees. Once she got to the forest, the snow was not as deep because the trees had sheltered some of the wind. She began calling for Jax then she remembered that she had her key chain in her pocket. The key chain had a whistle on the end of it. She began blowing the whistle as she walked.

Jax was getting his coat on and preparing for his hike. He had decided with the storm coming that he had to get back to the plane and leave a note as to where he was in case the plane was found. He headed out the door and began the long, tiresome trip to the plane. They wind was really picking up now. It was blowing straight at him. He was having to take two steps to gain any ground because he was being pushed back with each wind gust.

Brenda looked at her watch, seventeen minutes had passed and there was no sign of anything but snow. The temperature was dropping and the wind was pushing her forward. It felt like the blizzard at Steel Mountain again. Her whistle was getting harder to blow with the snow and freezing temperatures but she kept blowing. "Jax, where are you?"

Jax was walking sideways now. He was considering turning back. It was going to be hell getting all the way to the plane in this wind. He stopped and decided he had to turn back and then he thought he heard something. It sounded like a whistle. He shook his head, maybe the cold was affecting his hearing. Who would be out in the middle of nowhere with a storm approaching blowing a whistle. He heard it again and then again. He started walking as fast as he could toward the sound. As the sound got closer, he started yelling.

Brenda looked at her watch again, twenty-two minutes had passed. Her spirits fell. She could only hope that Jack had found Jax. She blew her whistle again and then decided she had to turn back. As she turned around, she grimaced at the feel of the wind against her face. She had to catch her breath before she could take another step. As she tried to control her breathing, she thought she heard something. She looked down through the trees and saw something a few hundred feet from her.

Brenda blinked and opened her eyes again. The figure was still approaching her. There was a slight clearing through the trees and she saw him. Her heart jumped like it never had before. It was Jax, it was her Jax. The tears were stinging in her eyes from the cold as she called out to him. "Jax!"

He heard her and turned to face her. He could not believe the sight in front of him. Brenda, in the middle of a forest in the Adirondack Mountains. He had to make sure she was not a mirage. He reopened his eyes and she was still there only closer. "Brenda!" When he finally reached her, he thought his heart would beat right out of his chest.

They embraced each other for what seemed like an eternity before Brenda finally let him go. "Let me look at you. Are you all right?"

"I am fine now. How the hell did you get here? Where is the baby?"

Brenda looked at her watch. She was already five minutes late heading back to the helicopter. "Jillian is with Julia at the inn. There is no time to explain anything else. We have to get back to the helicopter. We will discuss all of this when we are in the helicopter."

They put their arms around each other and headed back to the clearing. Jack was already back to the helicopter and beginning to worry. He could tell how determined Brenda was and he just hoped she did not do anything foolish, especially with a storm coming. After a few minutes, Jack saw Jax and Brenda exit the forest and enter the clearing to approach the helicopter. He jumped out of the helicopter to see if either of them needed any assistance.

"Brenda, I see you struck gold. Mr. Jacks, I am a physician. Are you hurt?"

"It's Jax and I am fine thanks to my wife here."

"I must admit I have only known her for about three hours and she is one determined woman."

Elizabeth waved and Jack said that they had better get inside. Brenda introduced Jax to Elizabeth and they took off for the inn. On the way, Jax told them about the emergency landing and the dead radio and the past forty-eight hours in the Adirondack Mountains.

Jack shook his head. "You are a very lucky man, Jax."

"I know."

"Jack, I want you to look at him when we get back to the inn just to be sure of that. We are all obviously going to be stuck here with the storm approaching."

"My pleasure, Brenda."

"Jack and Elizabeth, I don't know what I can ever do to thank you for all that you have done."

Elizabeth smiled. "There is no need. I feel like we have all been part of a miracle today and I feel privileged to have been included. No further thanks is due."

"I wholeheartedly agree. We are just happy to have helped."

Jack turned around and smiled as he saw Brenda resting her head against Jax's shoulder. Yes, some days things worked out just as planned.

The Blue Mountain Lake Inn -- 5:30pm

Julia and Jillian were in the lobby. Julia was about ready to jump out of her skin. She had not heard from anyone in three hours and now night had fallen. Jane had called twice and sounded more agitated each time and Julia could not tell her anything to calm her fears.

Jerry walked in and Julia knew immediately from his facial expression that there had been no success. "Jerry, I'm sorry."

"Where is Brenda? It is time that she start facing the reality here."

"She went out to look for Jax."

Jerry put his hand to his head. "She what?"

"She found someone who had a helicopter and they left about five hours ago to start their own search."

"They are not back yet?"

"No, and now it is dark."

Julia and Jerry sat on the sofa in the lobby with their backs facing the door. The room was spinning now for Jerry. Now he had Brenda as well as Jax to worry about. "This is just perfect. That woman is going to drive me to an early grave. How my brother ever put up with her I have no idea. She has not listened to one thing I have said since this whole mess started. When she gets back here, I am going to have to lock her in my hotel room."

Jax and Brenda had walked into the inn as soon as Julia and Jerry had sat down on the sofa. They were standing behind the sofa so they had heard Jerry's entire statement.

Brenda cleared her throat. "I don't know if your brother would appreciate you locking his wife into your hotel room."

Jax folded his arms in front of him. "No, Jerry, I don't think I would like that."

Jerry and Julia both turned around in shock. Finally, Jerry got up off the couch and hugged Jax and Brenda. Julia handed Jillian to Brenda and kissed Jax. Jillian laughed as Jax took her and made faces at her.

Jerry sat back down. "Brenda found you? Where? How?"

"We'll talk about it later, Jerry. I want Jax to be looked out by a doctor and we have to call your parents. Why don't we meet later and we will tell you the whole story."

"Okay." Jerry stood up and walked over to Jax again. "Welcome back little brother."

"Thanks Jerry."

John followed Jax, Brenda and the baby upstairs leaving Jerry and Julia in the lobby. Julia smiled at Jerry. "I am so happy for you, Jerry."

"Thank you Julia. You have really been a big help in all this. Thank you. Jerry sat down next to Julia on the sofa again. "I can't believe that Brenda found him. She was right all along about everything."

Julia looked at him. "Maybe there really is something to that notion of true love."

"At this point, I would be a fool to disagree with that statement. Maybe the heart is more powerful than the mind." Jerry looked at Julia. "Since Jax and Brenda are going to want to spend some time together, would you like to join me for dinner in the lodge?"

Julia smiled at him. "Sure."

"How about 7:30pm?"

"Great. "

"Julia, I am looking forward to it."

"So am I. I will see you then."

The Blue Mountain Lake Inn -- 10:00pm

Jack had given Jax a clean bill of health and Jax had called his parents. Jane had finally broken down on the phone when she heard Jax's voice. Brenda had called Lois, Robin, Addie and Corrine and given them all the good news to pass along.

The snow had started falling about three hours ago. The forecast had been modified since the storm was now expected to pass more quickly through the area than originally predicted. Brenda was hoping it would be possible to get back to Port Charles tomorrow. She wanted to get home and put this whole nightmare behind them as soon as possible.

Jax had just gotten out of the shower as Brenda was putting Jillian into the hotel crib. Everyone was exhausted both mentally as well as physically from the events of the past few days. Jax got into bed and picked up the pillow.

"This is my pillow from the house."

"I know. I needed to feel close to you so I brought it with me."

Jax shook his head. "You will never cease to amaze me. I still can't believe you convinced a stranger to take you up in a helicopter to look for me."

"There wasn't anything I wouldn't have done to find you."

"I know that. I don't think I have ever loved you as much as I do right now."

"I knew you would come back to me. Nobody leaves."

"Right, nobody leaves."

"Besides you promised you would be there for Jillian and I and that is certainly one promise I intend to make you keep."

Jax laughed as he took her in his arms. "You do that, Mrs. Jacks."

Brenda snuggled closer to him and they both fell asleep in each other's arms. Their hands were joined and rested over Brenda's heart. They both slept peacefully as the love in their hearts surrounded them.

Stone looked down from above and smiled for the first time in three days. He had been worried about Jillian and Brenda knowing what a devastating loss they would have suffered had things turned out differently. When Jax's plane had gone down, Stone had not understood why they all had to suffer. He was told it was all part of the plan and he followed the directions he was provided.

Stone watched them now and knew that they were all happy again and had all learned from their crisis. Stone became aware that he was not alone as he watched over the Jacks family.

Stone turned around and addressed his visitors. "Jack and Elizabeth, I understand now. It makes sense why you were sent to the inn. You helped Brenda save Jax and preserved the fact that Jillian would be raised by two loving parents. You also helped strengthen Jax and Brenda's love for one another and then showed others the power and miracles which can be generated by that love.

Jack and Elizabeth nodded. Then they as well as Stone turned to the angel overseeing the entire plan. "Veronica, did we fulfill all your wishes?"

"Yes, my children. You have made me very proud. Jax is where I always imagined he would be at this point in his life. His whole life has been spent leading up to these moments of happiness. The wheels for this were set in motion when Jax was just a few years old and his mother first asked for our assistance when he was so ill. He was my first case and I will continue to watch over him."

Stone smiled. "The fact that he makes Brenda so happy does not go unnoticed by me. I want her to be happy always."

Nancy shook her head in agreement. "As do I. She is very special to me as she was my first case. My first day on the job when she was miserable because Sonny Corinthos had married Lily Rivera, I did not know what I could do for her. Veronica, you had Jax send that emerald ring to Lois Ashton and then arranged for Brenda to return it to him. I know your plans were for him but in reality you saved her as well."

Veronica smiled so that her entire face lit up. "Yes, Brenda was sent Jax just as much as Jax was sent Brenda. It was set up from the beginning to end up like this. It was their destiny. There is nothing more than I want than to see Brenda happy. She has finally learned the greatest lesson of all. She is listening to her heart."