Friday, August 1, 1997
The Jacks' Residence -- 9:00am

Jax had left the house first thing this morning before anyone else had awakened. He had to get his head together to determine his course of action with Miranda and he was not yet ready to face his family. Jax had spoken to Ned at the gala the night before about using the gate house later this evening to speak to Brenda in private. Ned had agreed and Jax planned to have Virgil bring Brenda to the gate house after taking Julia to the airport this afternoon. At that time, he would divulge his recent troubles with Miranda to Brenda.

Jane and John had joined Brenda and Julia for breakfast. Brenda had kept Julia upstairs long enough for Jerry to leave for the office. Jerry and Julia had traded insults in the hall already once this morning and Brenda was not up for another altercation before breakfast. Brenda and Julia were spending the day together before Julia returned to London this evening. John and Jane were traveling to a farm near Beecher's Corners to look at some thoroughbreds later this morning.

"Brenda, is Jax okay? He seems preoccupied."

"Jane, I have felt that something has been troubling him but he tells me not to worry."

"Well, he has had quite a bit on his plate lately."

John added his thoughts into the conversation. "Mother, don't borrow trouble. The boy has just relocated a major business to Port Charles and is expecting his first child. He is bound to be a little overwhelmed."

"I guess you're right, Pa."

"Jax always seem so in control to me. I remember that was the first thing that struck me about him when I first met him in London. That and the fact that he was always the perfect gentleman, unlike that other son of yours." Julia caught the look which crossed Brenda's face. "I'm sorry John and Jane. I should not have said that."

"Dear, trust me I know all my son's faults. He could never be accused of being a perfect gentleman."

All four of them could not help laughing at Jane's statements.

When Julia left to go upstairs, Jane could not help recalling how she had noticed yesterday that Jerry's eyes seemed to light up whenever Julia was around him. At the same time, Brenda was thinking about how Julia let Jerry get to her, it was almost as if she enjoyed it.

J & J Jacks -- Noon

Jerry had been on the phone all morning in negotiations with the Munich suppliers. Jax had been out of the office most of the morning so Jerry had not had a chance to speak with him. Jerry had seen Jax briefly when he passed by the conference room and Jerry could not help but notice a familiar look in Jax's eyes. It was the same look Jerry had seen the day before when Jax was around Miranda at the dedication ceremony and at the gala. Jerry had been around Jax long enough to recognize this particular look. He knew Jax's wheels were turning and Jerry wanted to figure out why. He knew Miranda was involved. Jerry finally had a free moment and went to find Jax. He went to Jax's office and spoke to Addie.

"Addie, is my brother around?"

"I'm sorry but Mr. Jacks just left for lunch?"

"Did he have a business meeting?"

"No, he and Miranda went to lunch together."

"Oh, I see. Thanks Addie."

Jerry was perplexed and worried. He had no idea what Jax was up to but he knew that Miranda was up to no good. Jerry walked into Scott's office. "Scott, do you have a minute?"

"Sure Jerry. What can I do for you?"

"I just wanted to be sure that you have all the staff and assistance you need."

"Yes, J & J Jacks has been very generous."

"So you and Miranda have a good working relationship?"

"Yes, she has been a great help. I was worried originally because of her past relationship with Jax, but it has worked out. She and Jax seem to have successfully moved beyond their past. In fact, they have been spending a lot of time together lately."

"A lot of time together?"

"Yes. Miranda keeps pretty much to herself but I know Jax has been worried about her since she started having some health problems."

"I was not aware that she was ill."

"She tells me it is just some residual effects from an accident she had a few years ago."

"Well, I'm glad things are working out for you Scott. I have to check on the Munich situation so I will see you later."

Jerry walked out of Scott's office gritting his teeth. He had a gut feeling that something was amiss. He sensed that Miranda was up to something. He just had to find out what.

The Port Charles Grille -- 12:30pm

Jax had spent most of the morning at the beach before going to the office. He needed to be in complete control when he faced Miranda. He decided he would have to continue to play along with her charade to figure out her plans. Once he knew her agenda, he was then going to give her enough rope to hang herself. Once he arrived at the office, Jax made plans with Miranda to meet for lunch. They had just been seated at a table at the Grille.

"Miranda, what did Dr. Hartley say about a joint session?"

"Jax, he said it is not usually part of his treatment program."

"Well, I feel it is necessary here."

"I know you want to help Jax but I think Dr. Hartley knows best."

"Miranda, I have read several books on this illness and several of them have discussed the benefits of such a course of treatment."

Miranda gave Jax a stunned expression. "You have been reading about my illness?"

Jax wanted to be sure that Miranda did not get suspicious of his motivations so he took a deep breath and managed to force the words out. "Of course, I have. You know how much you mean to me. How could I not find out all I can in my effort to help you? I will never forgive myself for my part in your problems."

Miranda could not hide her happiness. She took Jax's hand in hers and said, "Jax, I knew you wouldn't let me down. Now, please tell me that you haven't spoken to your family of Brenda about this. I can't have them involved in this."

"I have not said anything to them."

Miranda smirked thinking that Jax was spending time thinking about her and keeping his worries and their meetings from Brenda. The little bimbo was not even going to know what hit her when Jax left her to return to his proper place.

Jax had to force himself not to yank his hand from Miranda's grip. His other hand was balling up the napkin in his lap. He could not believe how transparent Miranda was and he could not believe he had never noticed it. Brenda had warned him and he had never wanted to believe her but now he knew exactly what Miranda was.

"Miranda, I want to take part in your next session with Dr. Hartley."

"I told him you were pretty stubborn so he relented and scheduled a joint appointment for next week."

"Good. Is there anything that needs to be done in the meantime?"

"I think we should spend some time together before the session so we can go over some things before we see the doctor."

"I'm sure we can work something out next week."

"Jax, the other thing that Dr. Hartley and I discussed was the benefit of me returning to the accident site in order for me to finally be able to tackle all my problems. This is not an option for me, however. I could never go to the mine alone. I would never be able to face that."

"Miranda, if that is what the doctor recommends then I do not see how you can avoid it."

"Jax, I can't. I have nightmares about the mine. How could I ever face it again? No, I could never do it alone."

"Miranda, you must."

She started to cry for effect. "Jax, no. I can't live through that again. I just wanted to surprise you, that's all. We were supposed to be together forever and look at what happened on account of that one moment."

For the first time Jax did not allow his guilt to overtake him. "We have to figure a way for you to muster the courage to go back to the mine."

"The only way I could ever go back there is if you would come with me. That is the only way I could ever face it. I know that is an impossibility now, however. I know you can't leave your wife now."

Jax decided to play along with her for the moment. "Let's not rule anything out right now. We will speak to the doctor about it next week. Arrangements could be made if necessary."

Miranda wanted to jump into his lap. She could not believe he would actually leave Brenda now to travel to Australia. Maybe he was beginning to see through Brenda already and was just staying with her until the baby came. Miranda's mind raced with images of she and Jax raising his child together. Jax would sue for custody as soon as the baby was born. Brenda would not stand a chance against the Jacks family money and clout. This was all working out perfectly.

Jax sat across from Miranda and studied her closely. She obviously thought he had fallen for her ploy, hook, line and sinker. Good! He knew how disastrous overconfidence would be for her plan. He knew he could outmaneuver her as long as she was under the misguided impression that he cared. Now he just had to have the stomach to tolerate her presence until this was all over. Jax knew he had to stop her now in order to protect Brenda and the baby.

Jax had dropped Miranda off at the office after lunch and headed over to Luke's to pick up Sonny's information on Miranda. Sonny told Jax that Brenda had asked him to locate a copy of Miranda's death certificate and a copy of the marriage certificate. Sonny had a copy of the marriage certificate but no death certificate was found in Australia. Jax knew that his father had never filed one which meant that Jax's marriage to Miranda had never been dissolved. This fact had necessitated the need for Jax and Miranda's divorce and Jax and Brenda's remarriage ceremony.

Sonny also told Jax that the marriage certificate had listed Miranda's place of birth as Ontario, Canada but a search of the records in Ontario did not produce a birth certificate for her. Sonny's associates had never been able to locate a birth certificate for Miranda Jameson. Jax left Luke's with even more questions than before about Miranda. He called Thomas Magnum and provided him with the new information about Miranda. Magnum promised to provide Jax with a full report of his findings on Monday. Jax called Addie and told her that he would be unreachable the rest of the day. Jax called Virgil and confirmed the plans for Brenda's trip to the gate house later this evening. Jax planned to spend the next few hours reviewing the information Sonny had given him and preparing for his discussion with Brenda this evening.

J & J Jacks -- 3:00pm

Jerry had finally finished his negotiations with the Munich suppliers and he went to find Jax. When Addie told him that Jax would be gone the rest of the day, Jerry became disturbed. He had sensed that something had been bothering Jax and his mother had made mention to Jerry that Jax seemed distant. The whole thing left Jerry with a very uncomfortable feeling. He knew Miranda was at the root of this and it was time to put a stop to it all.

Scott was tied up behind closed doors on a conference call with the Alaskan offices. Jerry watched as Miranda left her office to go to the ladies room. Jerry snuck into her office and started rifling through the drawers of the desk. He found her date book and saw notations for appointments with Dr. Hartley as well as lunch dates and after hours meetings with Jax. Jerry also found a reference for an appointment with Jax and Dr. Hartley for next week. Jerry heard footsteps approaching and snuck out of the office.

Once Jerry returned to his office, he called General Hospital to determine if Dr. Hartley was on staff. When he was told the there was no Dr. Hartley on staff there, Jerry looked in the phone book and found the number to Mercy Hospital. He called hospital information and found that a Robert Hartley was on staff. Jerry also found out that Dr. Hartley was a staff psychiatrist. Jerry then went around the corner toward Miranda's office. He heard her voice and realized she was on the phone. He crept closer to the open door to hear Miranda's end of the conversation.

"No, you are not interrupting anything Katherine. How was your physical therapy today? "My day could not have been better. I think Jax has finally come around."

Jerry started to clench his teeth as Miranda continued. "Do you know that Jax actually said he may be willing to accompany me to Australia to visit the mine. We are meeting with Dr. Hartley next week and will talk about it then."

Jerry's face registered a look of total shock and confusion.

"I know, Katherine. Brenda is due in less than 2 months and he is willing to travel with me. I think he realizes the mistake he made and is only staying with her until the baby comes. He will be mine very soon and little miss model will be out in the cold."

Jerry wanted to go in and wrap the phone cord around Miranda's neck but he decided against it. He had no idea what was going on but he knew he had to act. He knew how Jax felt about Brenda so he couldn't believe that Jax would be getting involved with Miranda again. If he was correct about that fact then the only logical explanation would be that Jax was purposely misleading Miranda. If that is the case then Jerry knew Jax was on mission and therefore was digging up information. Jerry decided it was time to come clean about everything. He would have to speak with his parents about this as soon as possible. Jerry went back to his office silently cursing Miranda for whatever she is plotting. Whatever it was, she had to be stopped. He would not allow Jax to be hurt anymore regardless of the costs or detrimental effects.

The Gate House -- 5:30pm

Brenda had ridden to the airport with Julia for her return trip to London. The sisters had gotten closer in their short time together this trip. Brenda was particularly intrigued when Julia had asked her several questions about Jerry but she did not voice her interest to Julia. Julia promised to try to get back to Port Charles before the baby came. Brenda promised to keep in touch in the meantime.

As the limo approached the Quartermaine estate, Virgil called Jax and alerted him that their arrival was imminent. As Virgil made his way toward the gate house, Brenda looked out the window and realized their detour. She had picked up the phone to call Virgil about their destination just as they pulled up to the gate house. Jax was standing in the driveway waiting for them. He opened the door for Brenda and as he helped her out of the car he told Virgil to return to the house. Jax then led Brenda into the gate house.

"Jax, what are we doing here? Lois left this morning for Bensonhurst and I know Ned is in Buffalo this evening."

Jax sat Brenda down on the couch and then sat on the coffee table in front of her. "I asked Ned if I could use the house for some privacy. I have something serious to speak to you about and I don't want my family around when I tell you."

Brenda felt a huge knot in her stomach. She knew something had been troubling Jax deeply and she was now panicked. Immediately tears began to form in the corners of her eyes. "Something serious? It's not about us, is it?"

Jax saw the fear and tears in her eyes and immediately pulled her into his arms. He could feel her heart pounding as he stroked her hair. "Of course not, darling. I'm sorry I scared you. This has nothing to do with you and me."

Brenda took a deep breath and sat back against the couch. She took Jax's hands in hers and said, "What is bothering you, honey? Please tell me. I want to help you."

Jax released one of his hands from her hold and gently caressed her cheek. "I know you want to help me and I promised you I would tell you what was going on once the gala was over."

"Just say it. Whatever it is we can get through it, we can get through anything as long as we are together."

Her words were so soothing and the love shining from her eyes was so evident that Jax immediately felt as if the weight of the world had been lifted from his shoulders. In his heart, he knew her words were true. They could get through anything together. "Okay, now I need you to listen as I explain what I know. I know what you hear is going to be upsetting but you have to promise me that you will try not to let this get to you. It won't be good for either you or the baby."

"I promise, Jax."

Jax then slowly provided Brenda with all the details he knew. He explained how Scott had first mentioned Miranda's frequent doctor's appointments beginning in June. Then Mac had come to the office at the Foundation to discuss Miranda's "problems" and had mentioned her questions concerning the explosion. Jax told Brenda that his original attempts to speak to Miranda about her health were fruitless. She had finally opened up about her "problems" in what Jax now knew was a carefully rehearsed, emotional scene. Jax had offered his help as Miranda had anticipated. She had kept him at arms length knowing that his guilt and worry were eating him alive. Jax also explained how Miranda had been adamant that no one else know about her problem and had used Brenda's pregnancy as ammunition to convince him to keep quiet in order to keep the baby safe.

Brenda managed to hold her tongue as Jax continued. He next informed her of his surprise that Miranda was seeing Dr. Hartley, a psychiatrist at Mercy Hospital, rather than a psychiatrist at General Hospital. He had tried to convince Miranda to let him bring in a top expert in the field but she had declined. Jax then brought up the day that Miranda had told him she had been with Dr. Hartley all morning but Julia had contradicted that when she said Miranda was at the Grille that same morning. He had then gone to Kevin to learn more about the illness. The textbook and research Kevin had given him made him suspicious of Miranda and her behavior. Jax then discussed Miranda's actions and moods around him versus those she displayed around other people. Then there was the request that they spend time together to discuss the accident but when they were alone, Miranda never wanted to discuss the accident.

Running rampant through all of this was Miranda's uneasiness whenever Jerry's name or his parents' names were brought up. Then this week, everything began to come together. First, finding the textbook and research and then overhearing Gina and Miranda's conversation in the lab. Now he knew everything she had done was for pure manipulation. He did not know what if anything was the truth any longer. Jax told Brenda that his top private detective was undertaking a full investigation as they spoke. Until they knew exactly what was going on, Jax said he would continue to play along. Lastly, he explained about the joint appointment with Dr. Hartley next week and Miranda's latest request about having Jax accompany her to the mine.

"Well, this is what the situation is as of this moment. I will let you know as soon as I know something more."

Jax watched Brenda trying to read her reaction. He was beginning to worry because she seemed too calm. "Brenda, please say something."

Brenda leaned forward and locked her arms around him in a death grip. "I'm sorry. I am so sorry."

Jax allowed himself to be lost in Brenda's embrace. As each second passed, he felt her love overtaking him. A portion of his heart had turned to stone over the past several weeks but Brenda's love was destroying the stone. Jax did not think it was possible to need someone as much as he needed her right now. He held onto her for dear life. When he finally pulled away from her, Brenda could see the pain in his eyes. She wanted to scream and then go and wring Miranda's neck but she knew Jax needed her support more than anything right now. The last thing he needed was to see her upset so she somehow managed to keep her emotions in check.

"What can I do, Jax?"

"All I need is your love and forgiveness."

"Forgiveness? Why?"

"You told me that Miranda was not what she seemed and that she was manipulating me. You told me that she was using my guilt to her advantage but I did not listen. Brenda, do you know that the night that Harry abducted you that I was with Miranda allegedly to discuss investment options with her? You were in danger and I did not even know it."

"Jax, you did not know I was in danger because you thought I was in Bensonhurst."

"That was because I never got the message you left for me. At this point, I can't overlook the possibility that Miranda saw to it that I never got the message. I could have lost you and our baby that night all because of that. I don't think I will ever be able to forgive myself for that whole episode."

Brenda took Jax's face in her hands. "Stop it this instant. You are not to blame for any of this. You loved her for heaven's sake. She was your wife. Why would you expect her to capable of something like this?"

Brenda could hear her own heart breaking as she saw the pain on Jax's face. Miranda was going to pay for all of this. After a few moments, Brenda spoke up again. "Jax, what does your family have to with all of this?"

Jax got up and started pacing. "I don't know but I believe they know more about Miranda then they have let on. Her fear of their knowledge of the situation has convinced me of that. I can't believe they are still keeping something from me."

"What are you going to do?"

"I am going to wait to see what Magnum finds before I approach them. I can't believe I have to worry about trusting my own family but something bigger is going on. I know it and Sonny does as well."

"Sonny? What does Sonny have to do with this? Are you saying that Sonny has something to do with Miranda's plans?"

"No, I am not saying that. I went to Sonny earlier this week and asked him what he knew about Miranda. He did not tell me any more details than I already knew but he did say that she was still convinced that she and I belonged together. He also told me that she and Gina Cates had become close. Then last night at the gala, Sonny told me that I could have access to the information his associates had compiled on Miranda. Today I picked up his files and he gave me some interesting news."

"What news?"

"He told me that after he got a copy of the marriage certificate, his associate tried to get a copy of Miranda's birth certificate and none has been found."

"What does that mean?"

"I don't know but I am going to find out."

Jax watched as Brenda shook her head. "I am a little surprised that you went to Sonny."

"It certainly was not my most pleasant moment but I will do anything to keep you happy. Obviously Sonny will as well which is why he was willing to share his information with me."

"We are happy Jax and we are going to stay that way. There is nothing Miranda or anyone else can do to change that."

"Mrs. Jacks, I love you."

"You'd better. Otherwise, I don't know how you are going to be able to put up with me for the rest of your life."

"I guess I'll just have to spend the next fifty or sixty years figuring out how to put up with you."

"What happens now Jax?"

"Nothing. We wait until I meet with Magnum. Until then we play along."

"Your mother already knows that something is bothering you, Jax."

"We just have to get through this weekend then my parents will be gone and I can deal with Jerry if the need arises. In the meantime, I left a message with Corrine that we would be out for the evening. I am having food delivered from the Grille and we will spend the evening alone together here."

"We are all going to get through this Jax. I promise."

Saturday, August 2, 1997
The Jacks' Residence -- 11:00am

Jax and Brenda had managed to avoid everyone last night when they had returned from the gate house. John and Jane had turned in for the evening and Jerry was out on the town. Jax and Brenda had finished breakfast when John and Jane appeared this morning. Jose served the elder Jacks breakfast as Brenda and Jax went upstairs to get dressed. They were taking a tour of the new birthing rooms at General Hospital this morning. Jax and Brenda had left for the hospital minutes before Jerry appeared in the kitchen.

"Where are the mom and dad-to-be?"

"They went to General Hospital for a tour of the obstetrical facilities and then they are going to lunch."

"How was Jax this morning?"

"I still sense that he is distressed about something."

"I know, Mum. I am glad that he and Brenda are out for awhile. We need to talk."

John looked nervous. "About what son?"

"Miranda."

"In heaven's name, why?"

"Dad, she is up to something."

"What do you mean?"

"I don't know but she is trying to use Jax."

"Tell us what you know."

Jerry briefed his parents on Miranda's date book, his call to Mercy Hospital and the telephone conversation he had overheard yesterday between Miranda and Katherine. Jerry also informed his parents of all the time that Jax has been spending with Miranda."

"Jerry, we all know how much Jax loves Brenda. There is nothing in this world that will convince me that he is seeing Miranda behind Brenda's back."

"Mum, I did not mean to imply that. I think the opposite is true in fact. I think Jax is aware that Miranda is up to something and he is going along for the ride. I have seen the way he looks at her and his face only shows contempt."

"If he knows she is up to something then he could start digging."

"Dad, you know Jax. I'm sure he has already started digging. I am afraid this all explains his distance and preoccupation the past few days."

"We have to tell him everything. It should have been done in the first place especially once we knew Miranda was remaining in Port Charles."

"Jane, we did not want to hurt him anymore than he already was. Once we knew that he and Brenda were secure, we did not think Miranda would be a factor in his life."

"Mum, I know you thought he should be told and Dad and I convinced you otherwise. Now we know we were wrong but it is too late to change anything. We have to come clean now and face the consequences."

"Jerry, what are you suggesting?"

"Dad, we have to tell him the whole story. Miranda can't be trusted so it is the only way to protect him. We need to do this today. It can't be put off any longer."

Jane had her hand on her forehead in despair. "I don't know if he will ever be able to forgive us now. Just when things were better between all of us. I don't think he will ever be able to trust us again."

"Jane, we were trying to protect the boy, that's all. He will understand that even if it takes him some time."

"Time, John? Do you know how precious time is? We have a grandchild due in a matter of weeks now. We don't even know if Jax will want us to be part of its life."

Jane left the room in tears and John followed her up the stairs. Jerry was kicking himself for letting things get so out of hand. Miranda obviously thought he would never jeopardize his own neck to protect Jax from her clutches. Now everything was going to come out and they would all have to face the consequences. Jerry knew he should let his parents know of his role in this whole mess but he could not bear the thought of repeating it twice so they would learn of his deeds when Jax did. He was worried about Jax and Brenda but was more afraid what Miranda could do if she weren't stopped. They would stop her this time, there was no doubt in mind about that.

Port Charles Park -- 1:00pm

Jax and Brenda had been shown all the latest obstetrical facilities at General Hospital. Brenda's nervousness had been eased slightly. At least no labor screams were heard through the halls as they took the tour. She still did not know if she was going to be able to do this. She had been present at Brooke's birth but Lois was so much braver than she was. Brenda just hoped she could be as calm as Lois had been.

It was a beautiful summer day, much cooler than usual for August, so Jose had packed Jax and Brenda a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. Jax could not stop himself from laughing as he watched Brenda maneuver her way onto the blanket.

"Stop laughing. You see how graceful you are when you are 7-1/2 months pregnant."

"Now that would be a picture. What a cover story for the tabloids."

"Very funny, Jax."

"I mean it. Imagine the headlines -- Corporate Shark Spawns or Raider Reproduces."

Brenda suppressed her mirth. "Stop it."

"Billionaire Births Baby."

Brenda started laughing and hit him on the arm. "I mean it, stop."

"Heartthrob Hatches."

Brenda attempted to put her hand over Jax's mouth but Jax grabbed it. "Heartthrob? What an ego."

Brenda was squealing as Jax grabbed her shoulders and forced her back onto the blanket. "You are going to take that back, Mrs. Jacks."

"No way."

Jax started tickling her. "Take it back."

"Never." Brenda was laughing so hard she was crying.

"You are so stubborn."

"No, I don't give up on things that matter to me, there is a difference."

Jax stopped and looked at her. She was right, she didn't give up on the important things in her life. My God, she was so different than Miranda. Brenda would have never given him up after the explosion. She never would have let him think she were dead. She would have held on with her last breath. Brenda could the see that Jax was lost in thought. There was such a look of disgust in his eyes.

"Jax, are you all right?"

The sound of Brenda's voice brought Jax out of his thoughts.

"What?"

"Honey, are you okay?"

Jax took her in his arms. "I could not be better. Thank you, Brenda."

"For what?"

"For being the most obstinate, stubborn, tenacious, persistent and willful woman I have ever known."

Brenda just held onto him. Whatever he needed, she would give him. She was going to get him through this. He had pulled her from her life of despair and this time she was going to be there for him.

The Jacks' Residence -- 8:00pm

Everyone had gotten through the afternoon but Jerry was more convinced than ever that Jax was on to something. Jerry had spoken to his parents and they had decided that after dinner they would tell Jax everything. Everyone had finished dinner and was now sitting in the den. There was an uneasy silence that was finally broken when John stood up and began to speak.

"Jax, we need to speak with you. I'm afraid what we have to say is going to cause you pain and suffering but it time for the truth to come out."

"What truth is that, Dad?"

"The truth about the accident and Miranda."

Brenda looked over at Jax. She wondered if he was ready to hear what was about to be said. She knew he had not prepared himself to be confronted with the truth from his family but she hoped in the end it would be easier than hearing it from a private investigator.

Jane spoke up before John could continue. "Jax, please try to understand we were trying to protect you from further anguish. I want you to know that before you hear the whole story."

"What whole story? I don't understand how you could not tell me the whole story when Miranda showed up here nine months ago. I told you then you could not protect me so I do not understand why you still tried."

"Son, you have to know that your mother wanted to tell you everything when Miranda first showed up. I convinced her otherwise and we all know now what a mistake that was."

"You really expect me to believe that this grand confession you are going to make to me now is really everything. I thought I heard everything nine months ago."

"Jax, please. We made a mistake and all we can do know is disclose the whole truth and give you our reasons for hiding it in the first place."

Jax could see how upset his mother was and how upset she was making Brenda. It was time to get this over with once and for all. He had to focus on Miranda at this point. "Tell me everything."

"Let me begin with our time in the mine immediately after the explosion. When I told you that Miranda was dead, I honestly believed it to be true. I did not think that it was possible for anyone to have survived the force of the explosion. It was not until two days after the explosion that a member of the rescue crew called me and said that they had found her. We did not know what her condition was so we did not tell you. Jerry and I went to the hospital and found her. She had been burned and had several broken bones but her injuries were not life threatening."

"Not life threatening? You told me that she was on her deathbed and that was why she did not want me to know she had survived the explosion."

"That was the story she persuaded us to tell you should you ever find out about her survival."

The room was spinning for Jax. He had no idea what was happening. Brenda had his hand in hers and was not letting go. "I don't understand any of this."

"Jax, Miranda was not what she seemed. We know she had talked you into leaving the business and sailing around the world together. She had an important motivation behind that dream, she needed to get out of Australia and away from her past. When the accident occurred, she needed help and she asked us to provide it to her in exchange for getting out of your life."

"Getting out of my life? You dangled the promise of medical treatment in front of her in order to keep us apart?"

"No, Jax. She convinced us to keep her survival a secret in order to protect you from her enemies. Anyone who was involved with her would be disposed of with no questions asked. She said that if you were together that you would be in hiding for the rest of your lives. Miranda knew you could never live like that and that you would eventually go after her enemies on your own which would result in your death. You would never see your family or friends again and she did not want that for you. She would keep quiet about her survival and we would pay for her medical treatment. Miranda had a burn on the side of her face which was going to require plastic surgery. She decided to have the surgeon perform extensive plastic surgery to change her total appearance so she would not be recognizable to her enemies. We went along with her requests."

Everything was a blur now for Jax. He remembered searching the mine with the rescue teams and finding nothing. Jax then remembered the day in the hospital that Miranda had asked him if she were recognizable. "Enemies? What enemies could she have had?"

"She never gave us any specific details except that Mac Scorpio was acting as her bodyguard before she met you. Evidently she had left her family when she was a teenager and was trying to keep one step ahead of them. Her luck ran out in Australia and she feared that her identity would be revealed. Then the accident happened and she thought she had a way out of her predicament. We never looked into her past for fear that an investigation would lead her enemies back to you. We agreed to help her and she promised that she would never contact you. We all wanted you to move on with your life."

"None of you had the right to make such a decision for me. She was my wife for God's sake. It was my life."

Jane could not bear the pain in Jax's eyes. It was the same pain that Brenda's eyes now mirrored. "Jax, you have to understand why we did this. First we wanted to protect you from Miranda's enemies and second we wanted to protect you from Miranda herself. She was willing to give you up without a fight. This is not what we wanted for you. She never trusted you enough to tell you who she was and what you were up against. We wanted you to find someone who could love you the way you deserved to be loved and she gave us the opportunity. You have this with Brenda now. I regret that we lied to you but I do not regret protecting you."

Brenda still had Jax's hand held tightly in hers but she doubted he even realized it. She knew how difficult this was for him. She had so many questions for John and Jane but she knew now was not the time. She just needed to be there for Jax. She caught a glimpse of Jerry out of the corner of her eye as he stood up.

"Jax, I wish that were the end of it but it is not. Mum and Dad have no knowledge of this either so your problems are only with me on this."

Jax was spellbound. "My God, Jerry. What else is there?"

Jerry took a deep breath and began. "Everything happened as Dad said. Miranda had numerous operations and extensive rehabilitation on her broken legs, vertebrae and arm. I spent the most time with her and something always bothered me about her ability to give you up so easily. You were so miserable without her, everyone could see your pain but I never saw the same from Miranda. Then you and I were rock climbing in the Grand Tetons and you slipped. I remember yelling for you to grab the rope but you weren't making any effort to save yourself. I knew you were contemplating letting go so that you could fall to your death and join Miranda in the hereafter. I could not bear it any longer. When I returned to Australia, I begged her to allow me to tell you that she was alive but she refused. It was then that I decided I needed to find out what really was going on with Miranda. I had a complete investigation done and everything came out."

"What came out?"

"Miranda was in real fear of her enemies before she met you and she knew she needed to get out of Australia but she did not have the resources to do so. She went to work for McBride and found out about the trouble between the two families over the mine. She had extensive research done on the Jacks family and its businesses and she decided we were her ticket out of Australia. Miranda arranged for you to find her on the beach that day and you fell for her just like she planned. She did not anticipate falling for you but she did. This complicated her plans for a brief period. The impromptu marriage occurred and then you made plans to sail around the world. She knew how upset Mum and Dad were about the marriage and your plans to leave the business and she began to panic. Miranda was worried that you would not be happy being away from the family and business for very long and that you would want to return to Australia, the business and the family one day. She could not risk that so she decided she would have to leave you."

Jerry continued. "She needed money but she had an ace in the hole. From her days with McBride, Miranda knew what J & J Jacks had done in order to secure a number of the mines. Jax, she also knew that you were not privy to these tactics. Therefore she decided to blackmail Dad into giving her the money in exchange for her silence. She would be free from her enemies and away from you. Unfortunately for her, she never had the chance to make her demand of Dad before the accident. The accident allowed her to achieve the same goal since her surgery protected her from her enemies. She had already prepared to give you up so keeping her survival a secret was not a problem for her."

John sat down with an incredulous look on his face. "Jerry, what are you saying? You have known about this for years and you never told your Mother or me? Why in God's name did you protect that woman?"

"I protected her in order to protect myself. Miranda knew some things about me that I never wanted anyone to know. My priority was to protect myself but this is not the case anymore. I will accept whatever comes to me. The priority now has to be to get Miranda out of our lives for good."

Jax was finally able to move. He released his hand from Brenda's grasp and stood up. "What were your protecting yourself from?"

"The fact that I was working undercover for McBride."

Jax turned toward Jerry and grabbed him by the shoulders. He pushed him against the wall and looked him straight in the eyes. "You what?"

Jane pleaded with Jax to release his hold on Jerry. Jax released Jerry and started pacing the floor. Jerry caught his breath and then began to speak again. "I am not proud of what I did. At the time, I wanted it all and you were coming into your own with the business. I knew it would not be long before you would be at the helm and I did not think I could live with that. McBride knew how restless and greedy I was and he offered me a deal to join forces with him. I was an easy target and started working with him. Several weeks later I realized what a mistake I had made so I terminated my arrangement with McBride but Miranda had already learned of my betrayal so I was just another pawn for her blackmail plans."

Brenda was aghast at the scene which had unfolded around her. The web of lies, deceit, betrayal, manipulation, blackmail and pain that Miranda had caused everyone was unbelievable. And Jax, he was the true victim in all of this. He looked as though he had been run over by a freight train. Brenda felt as if her own heart had been ripped out as she saw the confusion and anguish in Jax's eyes. She wanted to take him in her arms and shield him from the chaos around them but she knew that would be impossible.

Jax stared out the window into the night. The darkness hid the devastation of the evening. "You had to have it all didn't you, Jerry? You had to save your own neck and the hell with the costs and damage left behind. Why the confession now? Trying to clear your conscience, oh that's right, you don't have one."

"Jax, I deserve your wrath and contempt. I wish I could change things but I can't. All I can do now is help to ensure that Miranda does not cause you or Brenda anymore pain. You know she is up to something Jax, we all do. I have told you this to help you stop her and get her out of your life for good."

"Jerry, that's just too little, too late." His eyes caught Brenda's gaze at that moment. All she could do was give him a reassuring smile from across the room. Jax knew what he had to do at that moment and she did as well. He was going to explode if he didn't get out of there. "In fact, I could say that about all of you with regard to this whole mess. I have to get out of here."

Jax turned and left the room and a few seconds later, the front door slammed.

Jane stood up. "Go after him John."

Brenda finally spoke up. "No, let him go. He needs time to deal with all of this."

The Jacks' Residence -- 11:30pm

Brenda was lying on the couch in the den. Jax had been gone for almost three hours now and she was worried. She wanted to try to reach him on his cellular phone just to make sure he was all right but she resisted the temptation. She knew he would back when he was ready. The baby was extremely active this evening and Brenda was gently stroking her stomach.

"It's okay, little one. Mommy and Daddy love you so much. I know you are worried about Daddy, but he will be fine. We all will be, I promise."

Brenda heard footsteps in the hall and Jane appeared at the door.

"Can I come in?"

"Certainly, Jane."

"Have you heard from him?"

"No."

"I want you know that we are all moving to the Port Charles Hotel tomorrow morning. At this point, John and I will head back to Alaska on Monday but Jerry plans to stay in Port Charles."

"That is probably best Jane for the time being. Jax is definitely going to need time to sort through this."

Tears from in Jane's eyes. "Thank heavens he has you now. Please take care of him for me. He is still my baby."

"Jane, I will do anything I can for him."

"Good night love. Please try to get some rest."

"Good night Jane."

Another hour had passed and there was still no sign of Jax. Brenda had walked to the front window several times to see if his car was approaching. The baby was still very active so Brenda was now sitting in one of the chairs in the den. She was replaying the scene that had transpired this evening as she heard the front door open. Jax saw the lights in the den and walked into the room.

"I should have known you would still be awake. You should be in bed."

"Jax, you know that there was no way that I was going to get any rest until I knew you were okay."

Jax knelt down next to Brenda and placed his hand on her stomach. "I know and I love you for it. I love you and our baby with all my heart. Remember that over the next few weeks in case I don't say it enough."

"We know Jax, we know. Whenever you are ready to talk about all this, I'll be here. In the meantime, just know that I love you more than anyone or anything on this earth."

"Right now, I need you to get some rest. Let's go upstairs, I need to feel you in my arms."

"Good, I need to be in your arms."

Monday, August 4, 1997
J & J Jacks -- 11:00am

It had been a rough weekend for everyone. John, Jane and Jerry had left the house early yesterday morning to move to the hotel. Jax had exchanged a simple good-bye with his parents but had not spoken with Jerry. John and Jane were leaving for Alaska this morning but Jerry had decided to stay in Port Charles to address some business matters and to see what he could do to help Jax with Miranda. Jerry was staying away from the office for the time being. He feared he would wring Miranda's neck if he saw her at this time. He also was convinced that Jax had a plan in mind for her which Jerry did not want to jeopardize.

Jax had spent most of yesterday trying to get control of his emotions. He knew that Brenda was never far away, but she had given him the space he needed. They had not spoken of Miranda or the situation since the evening of the family confessions. Amidst his confusion and despair about Miranda, Jax thanked the heavens above for Brenda. Last night she had held him in her arms and cradled him as if her life depended on it. Her love had overpowered him and Jax felt at peace as he rested his head against the softness of her breast. He had finally slept for the first time in days.

This morning Jax was behind closed doors in his office. He was preparing himself to face Miranda. He could not believe that she was going to walk away from him six years ago and not look back. He did not understand why she could not trust about her troubled past. After his father and Jerry had told Jax the whole story, Jax had called Magnum and provided him with the newest information. Magnum was trying to confirm Jerry's story as well as compiling information on Miranda's family background. Magnum was meeting Jax later today to review the progress on the case. Jax had asked Magnum to meet him at the house so that Brenda would be posted on the current developments. Jax composed himself and left his office. He walked into Miranda's office after he made his best efforts to show a look of concern on his face.

"Miranda, how are you feeling today?"

"Not too well. I had a rough weekend. I did not sleep very well, the nightmares are terrible sometimes."

"I'm very sorry, Miranda."

"I know you are, Jax. I wanted to call you but I knew your family was in town so I did not want to bother you. Speaking of your family, have they returned to Alaska?"

"My parents are leaving this morning but Jerry is sticking around Port Charles for a few days." Jax could not help but notice the look of trepidation on Miranda's face at the mention of Jerry.

"You haven't said anything to them about my problems, right?"

"I have not said anything to them."

"I spoke to Dr. Hartley this morning and told him that you were interested in accompanying me to Australia."

"We'll talk about at the session on Friday. Is there anything I can do for you in the meantime?"

"It would be very helpful if we could have lunch together today. I know it will help me sleep tonight."

Jax's stomach churned at the thought but he knew he had to keep up the charade until he figured out exactly what Miranda wanted and exactly who she was. "Sure, I'll clear my schedule. How about 1:00pm?"

"Perfect. I look forward to it Jax."

"As do I. I'll see you at 1:00."

As Jax left her office, Miranda grinned like a cheshire cat. The plan was working perfectly. She had reviewed Gina's case studies all weekend to prepare for the session with Dr. Hartley this week. She had been apprehensive at the thought of such a session originally but her fears had been calmed. Jax was so willing to help her and she knew once she had him at their beach in Australia, Brenda would be a thing of the past. Miranda was not worried about Dr. Hartley any longer either. He seemed completely convinced of her illness. Even if he became suspicious, Miranda knew that he would be bound by his ethics to keep her condition, or lack thereof, confidential.

The Port Charles Hotel -- 3:00pm

Jerry answered the knock at the door of the Presidential Suite and showed Brenda into the living room. She sat on the sofa as Jerry stood at the fireplace.

"Can I get you anything?"

"No, but you can tell me why you wanted to see me."

"I need to talk to you about Jax."

"Jerry..."

"Hear me out Brenda. I know how upset Jax is with me right now and naturally you are upset as well, but Miranda is the biggest problem right now. I know Jax has something up his sleeve and I want to help."

"Jerry, I think you have helped enough already."

"It was the biggest mistake of my life Brenda. I admit it. I wish I could take it back but I can't. The bottom line is that Miranda has to be stopped. You know that Brenda, you pegged her from the start. You were not fooled for one moment by her facade. You recognized that manipulative streak right off the bat. I knew then that you were the perfect woman for Jax."

"How could she have done this to him Jerry?

"Brenda, she is a snake. She did not deserve an ounce of his love. I know my motives were based mostly on greed and self-protection but you have to believe that part of my motives were to protect Jax. I love my brother very much and I will do anything I can to make this up to him. I will spend the rest of my life trying to erase the pain I have caused him."

"Jerry, I need to ask you something. Were you trying to make this up to him when you gave Jax all your support during my kidnapping?"

"I could not let him lose someone else that he loved. Especially someone who have her heart and soul to him. Mum was right Brenda, in the end he found his true love. You are everything Jax ever wanted and ever deserved."

"What can you and I do Jerry? We can't go near Miranda or we will blow Jax's plan for her. I know I could kill her with my bare hands if I saw her right now."

"You'd have to stand in line, Brenda. Miranda has forced our hands and she has to pay."

"I repeat, what can we do?"

"I know Jax so I know he has his top investigator on the case. I sent for my top detective's records from his investigation on Miranda and they arrived this morning. Jim Rockford does great work so I want you to share this with Jax. Hopefully it can help speed up the process. Miranda has to be neutralized immediately."

"I'll take the files. The more ammunition we have, the better. I have to get back to the house. Jax's detective is coming over this evening to update us on the investigation."

"Thank God he has you. He is one hell of a lucky man."

"Luck has nothing to do with it. You get what you have the sense to hang onto for dear life."

"Well, Jax chose the right woman to hang onto this time."

"I will see you later, Jerry."

"Brenda, tell Jax I'll do whatever I can to help him."

"I know Jerry."

The Jacks' Residence -- 7:00pm

Jax pulled into the driveway and got out of the car. He had survived the day with Miranda. Lunch had been torturous. Miranda had spent the whole time talking about the past and cooing about a trip to Australia. Jax entered into the house and saw Brenda through the french doors and walked out onto the terrace.

Brenda looked up and smiled as he approached her. "Hey. How are you?"

Jax kissed her gently on the forehead and patted her stomach. "I'm okay. Did my two angels have a good day?"

"Yes, but we worried about you. Are you really okay?"

Jax took Brenda's hand and brought it to his lips. "How could I not be okay when I have you here worrying about me?"

"I'm not the only one worrying about you. I saw Jerry today."

"Why? Don't tell me, he wanted you to give him absolution for his role in this mess?"

"Jax, he was wrong but he loves you."

"He doesn't even know the meaning of the word."

"Jax, I can't imagine how painful this is for you but please do not let it destroy everything you have ever shared with your family."

Jax walked over to the corner of the terrace. "They lied to me again. I don't know how I can live with that."

"All you can do is try. You told me yourself how instrumental Jerry was to you when I was missing. Do you honestly believe he would ever do anything to purposely hurt you? He made a terrible mistake. Please do not let it erase all that you and Jerry have meant to one another."

"I wish it were that easy."

"Jax, I never said it was going to be easy but I think your family is worth fighting for."

"My family is lucky to have you as its head cheerleader."

"I am only your head cheerleader, my darling. I just want you to be happy and I think you need your family in your life to be truly happy."

"What did Jerry want?"

"He wanted you and the detective to have access to all his information. Jerry had his investigative files sent to Port Charles and he gave them to me." Brenda then pointed to the table next to the chaise lounge where the files were sitting. "He also knows that you have a plan for Miranda so he will keep his distance until the time is right."

"How generous of him."

Brenda rose from the chair and walked over to Jax. She put her arms around him and rested her head against the hollow of his back. "We are going to get through this."

Jax turned around and took her in his arms. "There is no doubt about that."

At that moment, the terrace doors opened and Corrine announced that Thomas Magnum had arrived. She showed him onto the terrace and Jax introduced him to Brenda. Corrine headed back into the house and Jax, Brenda and Magnum took a seat. Magnum provided both Jax and Brenda a copy of his preliminary report. No birth certificate had been found for a Miranda Jameson in Ontario or any of the Canadian provinces.

A global search was currently underway. A search was also being made for legal name change applications. Magnum informed Jax and Brenda that Miranda's activities of the past few days had been limited to traveling to the offices of J & J Jacks, Mercy Hospital, the Outback, and one trip to General Hospital.

"What was her specific destination at General Hospital?"

"She visited the psychiatry lab earlier this evening."

Jax figured she had visited Gina in anticipation of the session with Dr. Hartley on Friday. "What else, Magnum?"

"We checked into her relationship with McBride and it seems she worked with him for about three months before the date of your marriage."

"Any evidence of contact since then?"

"None thus far. She left Cooper's Ridge after the accident and we have no evidence that she has been back since."

"Check further into her relationship with McBride. Find out if there were any other unholy alliances formed between Miranda and any of McBride's cohorts."

"We will get on it right away. Have you found out any more about her family to assist us on our investigation?"

Jax looked at Brenda and took a deep breath. "My wife tells me that my brother gave her his files on the previous investigation. I want you to look at them and see what you can find." Jax walked over to the table and picked up the files and handed them to Magnum.

Magnum reviewed the first few pages of the report. "Jim Rockford is a good investigator. I'm sure these will prove to be very useful."

"Anything else yet?"

"Possibly. Arrangements to establish a Swiss bank account in the name of Isabella Jameson were made a few days before the accident. It was set up through a major broker house so obviously a large sum of money was anticipated. Also, flight arrangements were made for a one way trip to Brazil under the name of Isabella Jameson. The departure date was for two days after the accident. My thoughts are that Miranda was using a different first name for anonymity."

Jax put his head in his hands. The nightmare was continuing. He had planned to sail around the world on the Isabella with Miranda while she was using the name to escape him. What was going to be next?

Brenda could barely contain her emotions. How could Miranda have done this to him? How could anyone do such a thing to someone they loved? She took Jax's hand and interlocked her fingers through his. Even in this time of despair, she saw a hint of a smile on Jax's face as she took his hand.

"Magnum, keep digging. I need to find out what she was running away from, if anything."

"I will get back to you later in the week. Good night Jax and Mrs. Jacks. I will see myself out." Magnum then entered the house leaving Jax and Brenda sitting alone on the terrace.

Brenda stood up and walked over to Jax. "Jax, is there anything I can do for you?"

Jax pulled her into his lap. "Just love me, that's all I need."

"That's a given. I am not leaving ever."

Tears began streaming from Jax's eyes. "Miranda lied to me. She was going to leave me just like that. She never shared her problems with me. How could that be love? I was giving up everything for her."

"I'm so sorry, honey."

"How could she just let go that? Look at all you and I have been through and we are still together. You weren't even in love with me when we got married and you never let go."

"I wish I could take away your pain right now."

Jax wrapped his arms tightly around Brenda. "You do by just being here. As horrible as all this is, the only thing that could be worse is if we weren't together. Miranda's ploys allowed me to find you and you are the best thing that ever happened to me."

"The feeling is mutual."

They spent the rest of the evening in each other's arms forgetting that the rest of the world existed.

Friday, August 8, 1997
Dr. Hartley's Office -- 10:00am

Jax and Miranda had been with doctor for more than thirty minutes and Miranda had spent the last fifteen minutes recounting the details of her nightmare in the mine. Jax's guilt had began to seep into his mind as she began. He quickly snapped out of that mind set as he realized all the feelings she was sharing were straight from the words of the patient in Gina's case study. Miranda had vividly restated each detail of the case study concerning the woman caught in the burning building. Miranda sobbed as her tears freely fell. Jax had to grit his teeth at times to be able to remain a part of the scene.

Dr. Hartley had given Miranda a moment to compose herself and had stepped out of the office. She took Jax's hand in hers and gently massaged it. "Jax, I feel so much better now. I am so glad you are here. I could not do this without you."

Dr. Hartley re-entered the office. "Are you feeling better Miranda?"

"Yes, thank you."

"As I have told you, Miranda, you need to reconstruct and feel the trauma before you can master it."

"I understand that and I think I am making progress. I know I need to get back to the mine site to fully reconstruct the trauma but I don't think I can do it alone."

"Miranda you do not need to rush into anything. Time is the best healer."

Miranda knew that time was not on her side. Brenda was due at the end of next month so Miranda realized she had to do something quickly. Now was the perfect time. She needed to get Jax to Australia soon to seize the moment. She envisioned them making love on the beach and then returning to Port Charles just long enough to get the baby. Then she and Jax and the baby would leave Port Charles and start their new life together and Brenda would be left behind.

"I know I have to be patient, Dr. Hartley. I think I could have the strength to visit the scene if Jax were with me."

Dr. Hartley looked to Jax. "Mr. Jacks, would you we willing and able to go to the scene of the explosion with Miranda?"

Jax knew he had to continue to go along with Miranda's wishes but he also needed to stall the promised trip until he had all the information on Miranda. "I am very willing to accompany Miranda to Australia. I want to be sure that we have enough time in Australia to adequately deal with her memories so I need to clear my schedule. It will take me some time to do that but I fully intend to make the trip a priority."

Jax looked over at Miranda who was trying not to salivate but having a difficult time succeeding. Miranda was trying to control herself from jumping out of the seat. She was rejoicing that Jax actually planned to spend a considerable amount of time with her under the guise of helping her. Miranda knew Jax was using the trip as an excuse to be with her. She smiled to herself as she counted the days until they were together.

"Dr. Hartley, I think this session has been very helpful. I would like to schedule another one."

"I will be on vacation next week but we can schedule one the week after next if that meets with Mr. Jacks' schedule."

"That can be arranged."

Miranda and Jax left the office together and walked to the parking lot. They had driven in separate cars. "Jax, thank you so much for this."

"There is no need, Miranda. I told you I would help in any way I can. I have a meeting to attend so I will see you later this afternoon at the office."

"I'll be counting the minutes. See you later."

Miranda got into her car and drove off. Jax paced the parking lot for a few minutes. He did not know how he had survived the past hour and he did not know how much longer he could take this. Thomas Magnum was meeting him later today. Jax's mind was racing as he picked up the phone.

"Hello. Jerry here."

"It's Jax. I need you to meet me at 7:30pm at the house."

"I know I should not ask but why?"

"I need to put a stop to Miranda now."

"I'll be there."

Luke's Club -- 1:00pm

Brenda walked into the Club as Jason and Robin were sitting at the bar talking to Mike. Robin quickly pushed the sheet of paper with the baby shower plans under her notebook.

"Well, look at you. The term glowing does not do you justice."

"Thanks Mike. How have you been?"

"I'm staying out of trouble."

Jason laughed. "I am not sure Sonny would agree with that."

Robin shook her head. "Stop it you two."

"It's nice to see things haven't changed around here. Mike, is Sonny around?"

"He is in the office. You know the way."

Brenda walked back to the office and knocked on the door. Sonny did not lift his head from the ledgers as he said, "Come in."

Brenda walked over to the desk. "Hi Sonny!"

"Brenda. It is nice to see you. How are you?"

"I'm great if you overlook the waddle."

"I guess you don't have too much longer."

"Seven weeks and counting. This baby is going to be a soccer player so it won't come too soon."

"I hope the weeks fly by quickly for you."

"Thanks. Sonny, I came over here to thank you for the information you gave Jax about Miranda."

"There's no need to thank me."

"Yes, there is. I know he is not your favorite person but you still were willing to help and I am grateful."

"I did it for you, Brenda. I want you to be happy and Jax seems to do that for you."

"Sonny, he makes me very happy."

"That is all that matters then. I trust the information was helpful."

"Yes. A thorough investigation is underway now."

"I hope he gets the information he needs. If I hear anything I will let you know."

"Thank you. Well, I should get back to the house."

"I'll walk you out."

Sonny walked Brenda to the front of the Club where she said good-bye to Mike, Robin and Jason. Sonny walked her to the limousine as Scott and Miranda pulled into the parking lot for a lunch meeting with Justus. Sonny kissed Brenda on the cheek as she entered the limo. Miranda took full interest in this scene. She knew that Brenda would never give Sonny up. This should make it even easier for Jax to leave her once the baby came. Everything was going to be perfect.

The Jacks' Residence -- 7:00pm

Jax returned home from the office and Corrine told him that Brenda was upstairs lying down. Jax walked up the steps and entered the bedroom to find a sleeping Brenda. He hoped she was sleeping as peacefully as she looked. Jax knew how rough this had all been on her and he knew he had to put an end to it quickly. He remembered the evening before when they had attended childbirth classes. Brenda had looked so adorable doing her breathing exercises. His mind focused back on the present as he quietly changed clothes. Brenda began to stir and Jax walked over to the bed and sat down next to her.

"Hey sleepy head. Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, just a little tired. How are you? What happened at the session?"

"She gave an Oscar worthy performance. She is not ill, she is reciting from Gina Cates' case study."

"Has she convinced the doctor?"

"Of course. She is a master. The whole thing is unbelievable. I do not know how I got through it."

"Does she suspect anything?"

Jax helped Brenda get out of bed. "No. She is convinced that I am doing all this to be close to her."

"This has got to be over soon."

"Exactly. Magnum will be here soon as will Jerry."

"Jerry?"

"He knows more about this than anyone and right now my priority is to get Miranda out of here. Because of the past, my brother is going to be an integral part of this."

"We need all the resources we can get. I went to see to Sonny today to thank him for giving you the information from his contact. He said he would call if he heard anything more."

"I heard about your trip to Luke's. Miranda and Scott met Justus there for lunch and evidently saw you. Of course Miranda had to "accidentally" inform me that the two of you were together."

"That woman. If I get my hands on her ..."

"She is not worth it, Brenda. You need to stay away from her."

"I know but before this is all over, Ms. Jameson is going to know the extent of my wrath."

Jax laughed. "Look out Miranda."

The doorbell rang and Jax and Brenda descended the stairs as Magnum and Jerry entered the foyer. They all went into the den and Magnum brought everyone up to date on the progress of the investigation.

"The global search has failed to produce either a birth certificate or a legal name change for Miranda Jameson. We can find no record of anything on file concerning Miranda Jameson prior to her arrival in Melbourne about six months before the explosion. We are now checking into the possibility that she was using this name as an alias. As you can guess, this could be a very long process without an idea of what her former name was. Is there any clue you can give us as to a name possibility?"

Jax shook his head. "I do not have a clue."

"Did she ever mention her family?"

"She told me her parents were dead and that she was an only child."

"Jerry, what about during the time you spent with her? Any thing that could help us?"

"She never volunteered anything about her family. During her recovery period she did mumble quite a bit. I could never make out the specific words but I always thought they sounded Greek."

"We'll check it out and see if it turns up anything."

"What about the plan to leave Australia. She would have had to have some assistance in handling everything. Have you found any partners or associates in her plot to blackmail the family?"

"We are checking on that right now but are having a hard time finding the right people in the Melbourne area."

Jerry looked at Jax. "Do you think it would help if I accompanied Magnum's investigators. I now the ins and outs of the area and I know the people in Cooper's Ridge. You obviously can't leave now with the baby coming and with Miranda here but I am free to go."

"Jax, I think it would be a great asset to have Jerry with my men."

"You are both probably right. We have to have this matter resolved as soon as possible."

"Okay, I'll alert my men. Can you leave tomorrow?"

"Yes, and we won't come back until we have information to nail her to the wall."

"I have all the medical records. I also found out that she kept in contact with one person from Cooper's Ridge even after she moved to the Philippines a year ago."

"Who is that?"

"A man by the name of Geoffrey Rush."

Jerry looked bewildered. "Geoffrey Rush?"

"Who is it?"

"That is the rescue worker who rescued her from the explosion. I remember because he was paid a reward for pulling her to safety."

"Magnum, find him. I want you in Melbourne personally. You and Jerry can take one of the Jacks' jets tomorrow morning."

"Jax, we will start on it immediately. I will speak with you in the morning before we head out."

"Magnum, I will call you this evening to confirm the arrangements."

"Good evening Jax and Mrs. Jacks. Jerry, I will see you in the morning. Good night all."

Brenda decided that Jerry and Jax needed some time alone. "Magnum, I will walk you out."

There was an awkward silence once Brenda and Magnum had left the room. Finally Jerry spoke. "Jax, I wish there was something I could say or do to change what happened but I can't."

"No, you can't."

"I'm going to make this all up to you one day, even if it takes me the rest of my life. I know you probably don't believe it but I love you."

"Jerry, how can I ever trust you again?"

"It was a long time ago. We are both different people now. I am going to get you to trust me again and I am going to start by helping you rid yourself of Miranda forever. I won't let her destroy you or Brenda or that niece or nephew of mine. I swear that on my life."

Jax looked at him and as angry and hurt as he was, he believed his brother. In his heart, he knew that Jerry would protect him to the end even if Jax did not want to be protected. "All I care about is Brenda and our child. I will not let Miranda hurt either of them."

"Nor will I. That wife of yours is unbelievable."

Jax could not help but laugh at his brother's words. "That's one way to put it."

"It can't be all that bad if you are still laughing at my remarks."

"Don't push it. Right now between you and Miranda, you are the lesser of two evils."

"Understood. I am going to get back to the hotel and call Mum. Have you spoken to her?"

"Briefly yesterday."

"Do you know how upset she is? She is afraid that you are going to keep her grandchild away from her. She is devastated, Jax."

"Jerry, I need some time."

"I know just don't cut her off, please. Dad and I can take it but she can't."

"You know I would never do that to Mum, Dad, Brenda or the baby."

"I'm sorry. Of course, you wouldn't. I will leave you now. I will call when we get to Cooper's Ridge. Good night."

"Good night."

Jerry passed Brenda in the foyer. He kissed her and waved as he left the house. Brenda walked down the hall to the den and entered the room to find Jax staring out the window. "Honey, are you all right?"

"I don't know anymore."

"What happened with Jerry?"

"He pledged his eternal love."

"Very funny."

"He reiterated that he was sorry and wanted to make it up to me. He actually was more worried about Mum."

"What about Jane?"

"She is afraid that we will keep her grandchild away from her because of this mess. I told him that would never happen."

"Jax, it will take time but we will all recover from this. The Jacks family will be together again one day, closer than ever."

"Jerry is right, you are unbelievable."

"I try. Let's go eat before your son kicks any more goals into my ribs."

"You mean my daughter. It's the women in this family that are the troublemakers."

"A real comedian tonight, aren't we?"

"I try. Let's go eat."

The rest of the evening was spent with thoughts of the future, not thoughts of the past.

Thursday, August 14, 1997
Dr. Meadow's Office -- 10:00am

Dr. Meadows had finished her examination and Brenda and Jax were sitting with her in the office.

"Everything looks great. You are in the homestretch now."

"I hope the weather gives us a break over the next six weeks. August and the eighth month of pregnancy don't go well together."

"How are the childbirth classes coming?"

Jax could not suppress his laughter. "You haven't heard. Brenda started pandemonium last night and we almost got thrown out."

"Stop exaggerating, besides it was all your fault."

"Would either of you like to clue me in as to what you are talking about?"

"It is really nothing. I just got a little carried away and started hyperventilating and I sort of caused a chain reaction in class."

Dr. Meadows looked down at Brenda with a look of confusion as her glasses sat on the bridge of her nose.

"Jax started trying to imitate the sound of my breathing and all he managed to do was breathe in my ear. It tickled so I started laughing while I was trying to breathe. This resulted in Jax intensifying his efforts to imitate me which made me laugh even harder. I started hyperventilating and the whole class started laughing as I was hitting Jax while at the same time trying to catch my breath. Then two other women started to hyperventilate and bedlam resulted.

Dr. Meadows tried to keep her composure but the image of the scene Brenda had just detailed prevented the doctor from controlling herself. She burst into laughter and Jax joined her.

Brenda glared at him as she mouthed the words, "You are going to regret this," to him.

J & J Jacks -- Noon

Jax had just gotten off the phone with Jerry. There had been no sign of Geoffrey Rush yet. The investigation had found a relationship between Rush and McBride so the search had intensified. Magnum was tracking him to the Sydney area as they spoke. More evidence had also come to light which linked Miranda to Isabella Jameson. This also showed that Miranda was not opposed to using aliases.

As Jax was thinking, Scott entered the office with the contracts for J & J Jacks' acquisition of a major east coast shipping and distribution company, Atlantic Shipping. The acquisition was going to need a great deal of attention and neither Jax nor Jerry had the time for such an undertaking. Outside assistance would be necessary.

"Here are the contracts. I have red-lined your changes. Have you thought anymore about the best way to handle the transition for this acquisition?"

"As we discussed, it is going to require outside assistance. We also have the Canadian deal coming up in a few months which will need a great deal of attention."

"Are you looking at the two as a potential package deal?"

"Either that or possibly hiring someone to take over the acquisition division of the company."

"Do you have someone in mind?"

"I have an idea but I have not had the opportunity to speak to the person yet. I am expecting a call this afternoon to address the issue."

"Keep me posted and let me know if you have any further revisions."

"Thanks Scott."

After Scott left the room, Addie buzzed Jax. "Mr. Jacks, that's the call you have been expecting."

"Thanks Addie."

"Hello Julia, how is London this fine evening?"

"Warm and gray. How is Brenda?"

"Counting the weeks. We were at the doctor's office this morning and everything is fine."

"That's great. Robin called me last week about the surprise baby shower at the end of the month. I am trying to clear my schedule to get back to Port Charles."

"Brenda will be thrilled to see you again."

"As I said I am trying. Now, what can I do for you?"

"I have a business proposition for you if you are interested."

"I am always interested. What do you have in mind?"

"I know that you are looking for some outside consulting work and J & J Jacks is in need of someone with your experience right now."

"Go on."

"We are in the process of acquiring Atlantic Shipping and Distribution and need someone to handle the transition. We also are in the process of working out the details for the acquisition of Canadian Timber. This acquisition will also require a great deal of attention once it has been completed. It will also need outside services. Would you be at all interested?"

"What are we talking about specifically?"

"Atlantic is going to need someone within the next few weeks. There are offices in Boston, New York and Richmond in addition to the headquarters here in Port Charles. I would need someone stationed in one of those offices to oversee the transition for a minimum of six months. The Canadian deal would be in place by then and we could move the person over to transition the Canadian acquisition. There is another alternative as well."

"What is that?"

"If interested, we would be willing to consider offering you the position as head of the acquisition division of J & J Jacks. In the short term, the Atlantic deal would be handled by the division head but the Canadian deal and the subsequent acquisitions would be handled by the division staff."

"The possibilities are definitely worth me considering."

"I have not said anything to Brenda nor will I unless there is something concrete to tell her."

"I think that is best for now. We can speak about it over the next few days and then address it in person presuming I can get to town for the shower."

"I do have to warn you about the biggest problem with this job."

"What is that?"

"My brother. He is handling the Canadian Timber deal personally."

"You are right, the job is getting less attractive already. I will think about it."

"I look forward to hearing from you. Have a nice evening, Julia."

"Thanks Jax. You take care of my sister. Good-bye."

"Always. Good-bye."

The Jacks' Residence -- 10:00pm

Brenda was lying in Jax's arms in bed as Jax finished reading the contracts on the Atlantic shipping deal. He closed the folder and put it on the nightstand.

"All finished?"

"Yes. I'm sorry but I need to get Scott the comments in the morning."

"Don't apologize for doing your job."

"Do you feel okay? Do you want me to turn the light off so you can get some rest?"

"I feel fine. I'm not tired so we have time to talk."

"What do you want to talk about?"

"Jax, we have to decide on a name for this baby. We can't go around calling it "hey you" for the rest of its life."

"No, she would not like that."

"You mean he would not like it."

"Fine, you come up with possible names and I'll give you my impression of the names."

"Okay, I'll start with the girls. How about Kira?"

"Fearless leader."

"Alanea?"

"Devoted record keeper."

"Carolyn?"

"Expert promoter."

"Karen?"

"Faithful assistant."

"Freida?"

"Lover of fantasy and rugged detectives."

"Denise?"

"Mentor extraordinare."

"Doré?"

"Celebrations."

"Melissa?"

"Melodies and love ballads."

"Jax, I must admit you have an interesting grasp of word association."

"What can I say, angels watch over me and influence my thoughts."

"Angels?"

"Yes, they are quite devoted and for some reason find me quite irresistible. I think you should be on your toes, Mrs. Jacks, because you never know when one will come along and try to take me away from you. There may be some in this room now for all we know. I should check under the bed. They seem to have an obsession with my boxer shorts and ice buckets but I don't see the connection."

Brenda cleared her throat. "Trust me there is a connection but we don't need to get into that now. It's time for the boy's names. I think we should stick with your mother's tradition and use a "J" name. How about Jasper, Jr.?"

"Forget it."

"Juniper?"

"Funny."

"Jupiter?"

"You are a lunatic."

"Jumbalaya? Jordache? Jaguar? Jolly?"

"I think it's past your bedtime."

"I know. We could name him in honor of the state where his Grandfather Jacks struck oil, Juneau Jacks."

Jax rolled his eyes at her and then Brenda shot up in bed. "I have it, Jumping Jacks."

"That's it, Mrs. Jacks. I am going to be an end to this incessant talking. Jax grabbed Brenda and pinned her against the mattress. His mouth overtook her lips and the talking stopped. There were no more words. The room was silent except for the sound of their racing hearts.

Thursday, August 21, 1997
Dr. Hartley's Office -- 10:00am

Jax was gritting his teeth as he forced himself to sit through another session with Miranda. He was listening intently to try to come up with a clue to Miranda's past. Magnum and Jerry had found nothing to identify her family thus far and time was slipping away. Jax was adamant about having the situation resolved before the baby came. The only other hope was Geoffrey Rush. Jerry had found ties to Rush and McBride and evidence that Miranda and Geoffrey knew each other before the accident. Magnum had finally traced Geoffrey to New Zealand and Magnum told Jax he was closing in on Geoffrey's exact whereabouts when they had spoken late last night.

Miranda was rehashing the same material she had used at the previous session. Dr. Hartley was trying to get her to delve more into the trauma. He wanted her to speak more specifically about the actual explosion. "Miranda, describe what you saw in the mine right before the explosion occurred."

"I can't. It is too painful."

"Miranda, you are safe now. Close your eyes and try to remember."

"No, I can't remember."

Jax was confused at Miranda's lack of response. He could not understand why she did not describe the horrors to him knowing it would serve to further his guilt. Jax also noticed that Miranda looked very apprehensive about the line of questioning.

"Let's start before the explosion then. You went to the mine to surprise your husband."

"Yes."

"Tell me what you saw when you reached the mine site."

"I arrived and entered the mine through the main entrance. I don't remember anything until the sound of the explosion."

"Okay, we don't need to push anymore today."

"I'm sure I will be able to remember more once I see the site again."

"Have you made plans yet to travel to Cooper's Ridge?"

"That's up to Jax's schedule."

"Unfortunately, the company is in the middle of a major acquisition so I can't clear my schedule for another two or three weeks."

"As I told you in the last session, there is no great rush. Miranda you are making good progress. I will see you next week. Do you want another joint session with Jax?"

Miranda decided that it would be too risky to have Jax sit through another session. He was convinced of her illness and needed the time to finalize the Atlantic deal so they could get to Australia. "No, I think Jax and I can continue to make progress or our own. His time is very valuable so I will come alone next week."

"Okay, make an appointment with Carol and I will see you next week."

As he and Miranda walked out of the office, Jax could not shake the feeling that something was even more amiss than they had realized. There was something about Miranda and her behavior in the session that was gnawing at him but he could not put his finger on it. He headed back toward the office hoping that Magnum and Jerry were having a more productive day than he was.

J & J Jacks -- 12:30pm

Jax had just finished a conference call with Julia and the heads of the regional offices of Atlantic Shipping. Jax called Julia back to discuss her latest thoughts of his proposal.

"Jax, it is going to take a great deal of work to pull of a smooth transition. There are numerous unions, suppliers, contracts and tariff laws which will come into play."

"I know it is a tremendous undertaking which is why I need to choose the perfect person to handle the task. You are that person. It will be quite a challenge but it seems to me that the Barrett women like the idea of a challenge. Are you up to the test?"

"You know the answer to that. I am always ready."

"Do I take this to mean you are accepting my proposition?"

"Not yet. I want to visit the regional offices and meet the managers personally. I have cleared my schedule next week so I can visit the offices and then be in Port Charles for Brenda's shower on Friday."

"I will have Addie set up everything for your visits. This is going to be great for all of us Julia."

"I actually believe you are right about that but we'll see next week. I'll talk to you soon."

"Good-bye Julia."

As Jax continued reviewing the transition plan for Atlantic Shipping, his thoughts drifted back to the session this morning. There was something there, he just knew it. He tried to resume his paperwork but he was plagued with memories of the evening of the explosion. His heart skipped a beat as he remembered racing to the mine after he had found Miranda's note. He reached Mac just as the mine exploded. A sudden tremble overtook him as his mind replayed the scene. As he remembered Miranda's words, it then hit him. At that same moment, Jax's private line rang.

"Jax here."

"It's Jerry. We have Geoffrey Rush."

"I have to see him. Get him on a plane now."

"To Port Charles?"

"No, I can't chance Miranda finding out. "Meet me at the beach house in Malibu. It will save us some time as well."

"What is going on, Jax?"

"It is too much to get into now. I'll see you tonight."

Jax hung up the phone and called his pilot to arrange for the trip this evening. He finally felt they were making progress. Miranda was not going to get away with any of this.

Malibu Beach House -- 10:00pm

Jax had given Charles and the rest of the staff the evening off to allow for total privacy when Geoffrey Rush arrived. Magnum had faxed him the information on Geoffrey before departing for Malibu. The report showed that Geoffrey was a mole who McBride had hired to infiltrate J & J Jacks. The arson attempt on J & J Jacks was the result of the information Rush reported to McBride. The arson attempt had occurred while Jax and Miranda were honeymooning. Miranda had provided Rush with the travel plans and Jax's schedule.

There was evidence that Miranda had kept in contact with Geoffrey while she hospitalized in Australia and while she was recovering in the Philippines. Jax threw the report on the table. He was motivated only by his anger now. It was keeping him going. He worried about Brenda. She wanted to accompany him to Malibu but he would not hear of it. She had been so agitated before he left that Jax was afraid she was going to have the baby this evening. Jax made her promise to calm down and he begged the baby to not even think about making an appearance. Jax had wanted to ask Robin to stay with Brenda this evening but did not want Brenda to have to lie to Robin about what was troubling her. Robin could not be told because Jax could not ask her to keep this from Mac and Jax was adamant that Mac be kept in the dark. Miranda was too important to Mac to include him in their plans until they had all the evidence. Brenda had promised Jax that she would be fine with Corrine and Jax promised to call her as soon as he finished meeting with Geoffrey Rush.

Jax took a sip of his drink as he heard the front door open. Jerry, Magnum and Geoffrey Rush walked in and Jerry immediately saw the fire behind Jax's eyes.

"Mr. Rush you know why you are here and you are not leaving until I have answers to all my questions so I suggest you start talking now."

"This is kidnapping, you know."

"If you don't start talking this instant, you will be shark meat before anyone even misses you."

"What more do you want to know?"

"Start at the beginning and don't finish until I stop you. Be forewarned that omissions of information will not be tolerated."

"I was working for McBride when I took the job with J & J Jacks. I passed on information concerning the plans for expansion into the McBride properties. I was aware of your honeymoon plans so it gave McBride the opportunity for the arson attempt."

"Where and how did you get this information?"

"Your wife. We worked together with McBride for a few months before she met you. She continued to provide me information."

"Why? Was she still working with McBride?"

"No, she and McBride had a falling out."

"Then why was she providing you with information?"

"She was doing a favor for a friend."

"I will pretend I did not hear that answer. Now why was she providing you with this information?"

"I was working on some travel plans for her. It was a part of our arrangement."

"What travel plans?"

"She said she needed to get out of Australia but no one could know. She told me that she was afraid of you and your family and had to get away from you. I helped her."

"How did you help her?"

"She said she needed to get away without anyone ever being able to trace her route so she needed to travel under an assumed name. I made the arrangements for her with an associate of mine."

"What was her assumed name?"

"Isabella Jameson."

"What other information did you provide her?"

"She needed money to travel and my associate and I needed money for our services. She decided that she could get the money from your family. I gave her the information about the retaliation plans against the McBride mine and she knew about similar uses of force employed by J & J Jacks so she had her blackmail ammunition."

"So she had her travel plans and her blackmail ammunition and knew of the plans to set off the bomb at the mine. Now tell me your role in her alleged rescue. How did she pull that one off?"

Jerry's eyes bugged out of his head. "What are you saying, Jax?"

"I want Mr. Rush to tell us how he rescued a victim who was not in the mine when it exploded."

There was only silence in the room. "Mr. Rush, I am waiting and I am not a patient man."

"She was not in the mine."

Jerry started pacing in circles. "What? She was injured. I saw her."

"Explain Mr. Rush. We are most interested."

"I was part of the rescue team. John Jacks had established a reward for anyone who found any trace of Miranda. It was the day after the explosion and the rescue efforts were finally halted for the evening. I remained behind looking for any piece of evidence I could find. I was out the money that Miranda had promised me so I wanted the reward. As I finally gave up for the evening, I drove away from the site and immediately had a flat tire. I pulled over to change the tire on the jeep and looked over the side of the hill and saw something. I went to investigate and found Miranda unconscious. Her car was at the bottom of the hill. She had been thrown from it when it left the road."

Jax was shaking his head. "What the hell happened?"

"It is my understanding that she left the mine site before the explosion but lost control of her car when she saw your car approaching the mine. She was trying to remain unseen and swerved off the roadway."

Jax did not know what he was going to hear when he had asked Geoffrey to give him the details of the alleged rescue but he was still shocked. "My God. This will never end." Jax regained his composure and spoke again. "What happened after the rescue?"

"I got Miranda to the hospital and she regained consciousness. She begged me not to provide your family with the details and this enabled me to collect the reward form your father. Miranda also promised to get me the funds we had agreed upon concerning for my role in her plan to leave Australia. I received the funds eventually and continue to receive money from her periodically."

"You mean extortion, don't you?"

"Some may say that."

"Mr. Rush, what are we going to do with you now that you have confessed to a multitude of crimes?"

"I'm sure there is something I can do for you. Name it."

"How generous of you especially since I am holding all the cards plus a tape recording of your soliloquy."

"There has to be something. She is not worth this."

"You and I finally agree on something. You tell me about Miranda's past before she met me and I will see what I can do for you."

"I don't know what I can tell you that will be of any use."

"Tell me everything. I will decide if it is useful."

"I met her a few months before you did. She was very tight lipped about her past but I did find out that she had lived in Europe at one time."

"Do you know where?"

"Not exactly but when I visited her during the initial days of her recovery, she would have nightmares and talk in her sleep. She did not always speak in English so I did not always know what she was saying. One of the nurses told me that she was speaking Greek. There was also mention of islands."

"Do you know why she chose Brazil for her destination plans when she decided to leave Australia?"

"I have no idea as to why she chose Brazil. She never clued me into the rationale behind her thinking."

"We have no evidence of a birth certificate for a Miranda Jameson."

"I always had the impression that her decision to travel under an assumed name was not an original idea."

"Why?"

"She seemed to have too much knowledge of the details and requirements to have not had previous experience."

"I need a name."

"I don't have one."

"I need something more."

Geoffrey was wracking his brain to save himself. "The only thing I can tell you is that I saw a locket once with the initials "JM" engraved on it. That's all I can tell you. I swear."

The tension in the room was thick enough to cut with a knife. Jax finally spoke. "You are going to have a little vacation now, Mr. Rush. Mr. Magnum's associates will see to it that you are well taken care of until Miranda is neutralized. In the meantime, you are to spend every waking hour trying to recollect anything that could help me. Once I have dealt with Miranda, I will determine how to deal with you. Do not do anything to cause me any distress. Magnum, you can escort Mr. Rush to the airport now."

"It will be my pleasure, Jax. I will be in contact and we will start investigating a Greek connection immediately."

Magnum and Geoffrey left the house. Jerry watched as Jax poured himself a drink. "How did you know she wasn't in the mine?"

"Her account of the moments before the explosion was factually incorrect. She said she entered the mine via the main entrance to find me. I knew that Mac had purposely blocked off the main entrance to prevent anyone from accidentally entering the mine after the explosives had been set. Only the hidden entrance could be used."

"She almost killed herself trying to further her plans and then she let you be eaten away by guilt all these years for your role in the accident."

"Yes, she is a piece of work."

"Jax, you are scaring me. Don't hold this in. You need to explode so go ahead."

"No, Miranda is the one that is going to experience my wrath. It will be directed at her and her alone."

"You are a better man than me. I do not know how you have dealt with her this long."

"Jerry, my only concern in this is for Brenda and the baby. Miranda will be out of our lives forever once I get the necessary information. Until then, I will wait."

"Do you still want me to stay away from Port Charles?"

"Yes, I can't chance you and Miranda being together. She is spooked at the mere mention of your name. You need to get back to Alaska as we planned. I will call you if I need you. I need to call Brenda before I head back to Port Charles tonight."

"It's the middle of the night on the east coast."

"If I don't call Brenda, she will be on her way to the airport to get out here."

"You are right. This is Brenda we are talking about. What was I thinking?"

"I can't imagine."

Jax called the pilot and headed toward the airport. He called Brenda from the car. She picked up the phone on the first ring.

"Jax?"

"No other man better be calling you at 3:00am, Mrs. Jacks."

"What happened? Did all your suspicions prove true?"

"Yes. She wasn't in the mine. She left the mine site before the explosion but lost control of her car trying to avoid my detection. The car accident caused all her injuries."

Brenda felt the hot tears rolling down her face. Her heart ached like it had never ached before. "Honey, I wish I were there with you. I would never let you out of my arms."

"You are here with me, sweetie. You are always with me in my heart. I am on my way back to you and the baby now."

"We'll be waiting with open arms. We love you."

"Love doesn't even begin to describe what I feel for you. Sweet dreams, my darling."

Saturday, August 30, 1997
The Jacks' Residence -- 10:00am

Since Brenda was in the shower, Jax took advantage of the opportunity and called Robin. Everything was set for the baby shower this afternoon. Robin was meeting Brenda at the house so they could do some last minute shopping before Robin returned to Yale the next day. Lila had offered the use of the Quartermaine estate for the shower. Robin was going to drop off some medical records to Alan to provide an excuse for she and Brenda to stop by the house. Lois and Gloria were on their way into town from Bensonhurst. Julia had arrived in town last night but was staying at the Port Charles Hotel so that Brenda would be surprised. Julia had finished her last visit to the Boston office of Atlantic Shipping yesterday before heading to Port Charles.

Julia had shined in her trips to the regional offices. Jax was sure she was strongly considering the job opportunity with J & J Jacks. Julia had promised him an answer within the next few days. She had to fly back to New York this evening for a wedding but would return to Port Charles tomorrow to discuss the job with Jax. It had been so difficult to keep the job possibility a secret from Brenda but Jax did not want her to be disappointed should Julia decline the offer. Jax wanted Julia and Brenda to be a real family. Jax's biggest worry about Julia's acceptance of the offer was Jerry. Jax did not know if Julia could work with Jerry without killing him. Jax had said nothing to Jerry thus far about the use of Julia's services.

Jax's thoughts moved from Brenda and Julia to his own family. He had spoken to his parents a few times over the past week and some of the tensions had subsided. Jerry had informed John and Jane about the most recent information about Miranda. They were shocked at the depth of her deceit and knew how devastated Jax must be. Jane had spoken to Brenda at length and Brenda had assured her that Jax was trying to come to terms with everything that had unfolded. Because she knew Jax still needed time, Jane decided it would be better if she skipped the shower.

As Jax was lost in thought, Brenda walked out of the bathroom in his white terry cloth robe. "Hey. Are you okay?"

"Yes. I have been meaning to ask you something?"

"What?"

"Do you ever intend on giving me the use of my bathrobe again?"

"I guess I have been appropriating it quite a bit lately."

"You could say that."

"Mine does not fit me anymore and since you are responsible for me being in this condition, it is only fair that you share your robe."

"It seems to me that you were quite a willing participant in achieving your condition."

"Of course, but it does not lessen your responsibility or reduce my privileges for the use of your robe."

Before Jax could say anything else, the phone rang. He answered it to hear Jerry's voice on the other end. The connection was terrible so Jax asked Jerry to repeat himself.

"I said we found out how Miranda really is. Miranda Jameson is an alias and we have the whole story of her background now."

"Jerry, where are you?"

"I'm in Athens getting ready to head to the States. I will be in Port Charles this evening and explain everything."

"What are you doing in Athens? Why aren't you in Alaska working on the Canadian Timber deal?"

"I told you I was going to start to try to make up for all this mess and that is what I am doing. I called in some favors and Magnum and I hit pay dirt today. We've got her, Jax. We'll see you tonight."

The line went dead before Jax could say anything else. He stood there staring at the receiver as Brenda looked on. "Jax, what is it?"

"That was Jerry. He and Magnum found out who Miranda really is and they will be here this evening with the information. Jerry says we have her."

"Jax!" Brenda almost skipped over to him.

Jax pulled her into his arms. "Sweetie, we are almost there."

The Quartermaine Estate -- 1:30pm

The library was decorated with pink and blue balloons and crepe paper. Edward had thrown up his hands when he saw the decorations Robin and Lois had added to the library. There was a huge table of beautifully wrapped gifts awaiting Brenda. Ruby and Gloria were helping Reginald serve the appetizers as they prepared for Brenda's arrival. Julia and Lucy were talking to Lila as Emily and Keesha took turns holding Brooke. Laura, Simone and Felicia were talking about the kids as Bobbie and Monica were discussing the latest hospital news. Lois came running into the room. "Shhh. She's here. Pipe down."

Lila smiled. "Reginald, close the doors to this room and then show Brenda and Robin into the house."

Reginald opened the front door and escorted Brenda and Robin into the house. "Good afternoon Mrs. Jacks and Ms. Scorpio."

"Hello Reginald. I am here to see Alan."

"Yes, Dr. Quartermaine is expecting you. He is in the library. I will show you in."

Robin made sure Brenda stood in front of her as Reginald opened the door to the library."

"SURPRISE!"

A speechless Brenda took a step back in complete shock. Robin steadied her as Lois came running into the hallway. "Happy baby shower from Robin and me, girlfriend."

Robin laughed. "I think Brenda is finally speechless."

Brenda finally was able to catch her breath. "You should call Jax because he will never believe it."

Felicia waved from behind her camcorder. "We don't need to call him. He can see it all here on videotape."

Brenda walked into the library and greeted everyone. She was thrilled to see Julia. Lois escorted her to a beautiful rocking chair which was sent compliments of Jane. The chair had been hand carved from trees on the homestead and Jane thought that Brenda could use the rocking chair on the downstairs level of the house as a companion to the one in the upstairs nursery.

Brenda surveyed the room and shook her head. "I can't believe you all pulled this off."

Robin winked at Lois. "It was not a problem for us but we were worried that Jax was going to blow the surprise."

"He did not breathe a word."

Lois clapped her hands together. "We will give him his gold star for the day then. Time to open presents."

Emily and Keesha started passing the gifts to Brenda. Brenda opened a crocheted white receiving blanket and baby memory book from Laura and then a set of baby monitors from Bobbie. Monica's gift was an infant car seat and Emily gave Brenda a stuffed rabbit and rattle set for the baby. Brenda then opened a baby swing from Felicia and Simone and a layette set from Keesha. There were also gifts from Amy and Audrey who were unable to attend the shower due to a function at the nursing school.

Gloria gave Brenda some bibs, undershirts and stretch suits for the baby while Ruby gave Brenda more receiving blankets, a bath set and more clothing for the baby. Brenda opened Julia's gift to find the entire collection of porcelain figurines of Beatrix Potter. Lucy gave Brenda a beautiful picture frame and a crystal for the baby. Lila gave the baby a sterling silver piggy bank which contained stock for Lily's company, "Pickle Lila." Last but not least, Reginald rolled in a stroller from Robin and Lois.

Brenda was overwhelmed. "You all are unbelievable. I can't thank you enough for everything."

Lunch was then served as everyone enjoyed themselves. After lunch Brenda cut the cake and toasts were made to the impending arrival.

Lois began. "Here's to the newest addition to L and B. Let's hope the child does not have its mother's lung capacity."

Robin was next. "Here's to the anticipated blessed event. If this child is as hard headed as its mother, heaven help us all."

Then came Lucy. "Here's to the baby. If you have half the looks of your mother and father, Jacks' Cosmetics will make you a star."

The toasts continued and the festivities of the afternoon came to an end. The guests began to leave and Brenda individually thanked everyone again as they left. Gloria was assisting Reginald with the clean-up efforts as Lois and Robin were organizing the gifts. Virgil had just picked Julia up to take her to the airport for the wedding in New York this evening. Julia promised Brenda that she would be back tomorrow and spend a few days with her at the house. Brenda sat in the rocking chair and began to feed Brooke her bottle.

Robin looked up from the numerous boxes. "Brenda, very soon that will be you."

"I know. The thought still scares me at times but I guess I have to go through with it now since I have had the shower and received the gifts."

Lois put her hands on her hips. "Girlfriend, we're not sending these gifts back so you have to go through with it."

"It's a deal. What do you think Brooke? What kind of mother am I going to make?"

Jax walked into the library. "She thinks you will make a great mother."

"Jax. Look at all this stuff."

"I see. It looks like I should have brought over a moving van."

"I can't believe you kept this a secret from me."

"I had no choice, Lois and Robin put the fear of God in me."

Lois walked over to Jax and put a gold bow on his lapel. "You deserve to be rewarded for not letting the cat out of the bag. This is the closest thing I have to a gold star. Now we need your strong back to carry these gifts out of here."

"Will I get another gold star, Lois?"

"I will have to think about that."

Everyone laughed as they carried the gifts out to the limo. Brenda said her good-byes and made plans to have lunch with Robin tomorrow before Jason took her to New Haven. Brenda promised to call Lois as soon as she went into labor so that Lois could get to Port Charles before the baby arrived. Jax and Brenda then returned home to await Jerry's arrival.

The Jacks' Residence -- 8:00pm

Jerry and Magnum had just arrived. They joined Jax and Brenda on the terrace and Magnum began speaking.

"We were finally able to ascertain Miranda's true identity. She was born on the Greek island of Naxos and given the name Jantonia Manos. Her birth certificate lists Olympia Manos as her mother and Dimitri Manos as her father. Here is a copy of the birth certificate."

Jax looks at the birth certificate. "Her initials were JM."

"Yes, she simply reversed her initials when she assumed a new identity. Nine months before your marriage, a ship was lost in the Aegean Sea off the island of Kos. Jantonia Manos was thought to be aboard the ship went it went down and was presumed dead. A death certificate was filed in Kos but no body was ever found. We have learned that Jantonia Manos was never aboard the vessel. It was then that she left Greece and began her way to Australia under the name Miranda Jameson. Here is the death certificate."

"Can this information be confirmed?"

"Yes, the photos that you gave me of Miranda before the accident matched the passport photos of Jantonia Manos. The photos were also identified by two residents of Kos where Jantonia Manos was living at the time the ship sunk."

"Why did she leave Greece and take on another identity. Does this have something to do with the Manos family? Who are they?"

"I could find nothing on the Manos family which would point danger or any other reason for Miranda to require protection. It was then that Jerry found the missing link."

Jax looked at Jerry. "What did you find?"

"I went to Athens and called in a few favors. I had done work in the past with Paulitimo Angelos and I found out that his family had lived in Naxos at the time of Miranda's birth. He accompanied me to Naxos and we did some digging. We found that Dimitri Manos had been killed in an accident prior to Miranda's birth thereby leaving Olympia Manos pregnant and alone. Olympia Manos left Naxos for good shortly after giving birth to Miranda. We were told that Olympia left Naxos after a scandal developed concerning her daughter's birth."

"What scandal?"

"Miranda was born ten months after the death of Dimitri Manos."

"So Dimitri Manos was not her father. Who was?"

"Dimitri and Olympia Manos had temporarily left the island of Naxos prior to Olympia's pregnancy. They had traveled to the island of Thira in order for Dimitri to find work. Dimitri and Olympia both found work in Thira but six months later, Dimitri was killed. Olympia returned to Naxos three months after Dimitri's death and her pregnancy was later revealed. The scandal became widespread after the birth of Miranda and Olympia left for Kos."

"So Olympia became pregnant after Dimitri's death while she was still living in Thira. Where was she living and who was she working for at the time?"

"They are one in the same. Olympia was working for and living on the compound belonging to Mikkos and Helena Cassidine."

Jax was incredulous. "Cassidine?"

"Yes. Miranda is the illegitimate daughter of Mikkos Cassidine."

"She was running from the Cassidines?"

"Yes, specifically Helena. Mikkos had been dead for a number of years when Helena found out about Miranda's identity. When Miranda was about ten, Olympia had moved back to Thira looking for work and had applied for a housekeeper position offered by Alexis Davis. It turns out Stefan Cassidine was out of the country so Alexis was conducting the interviews on his behalf. Alexis hired Olympia based on her previous employment experience. Once Olympia reported to the job, she realized who she was working for but she was trapped. She needed the money and knew that turning down a job offer from a member of the Cassidine family would prevent her from being offered any other employment opportunities." Miranda was very unhappy on the compound as she grew tired of living the life of a servant. She could not bear to see Stefan, Alexis and Nikolas living in a life of luxury. Miranda was jealous of the Cassidine family. Her attitude and behavior made Helena suspicious and Olympia's employment was terminated. Helena was out for blood so Olympia fled Greece and moved to Canada with Miranda."

Jerry continued. "Helena never gave up her search for Olympia and the investigation gave Helena evidence that Miranda was Mikkos' daughter. Later, Olympia became ill and was forced to return to her family in Greece to spend her last days. She and Miranda had arrived in Kos when Olympia finally told Miranda of her true parentage. Olympia wanted Miranda to get as far away from the Cassidines as possible but the news of her father's identity had the opposite effect on Miranda. She went to Athens and met with Alexis. In the meeting, Miranda threatened to expose the paternity issue unless she was given her share of the Cassidine estate. Helena was alerted to the meeting and made plans to dispose of Miranda immediately. When the ship on which she was to have been a passenger went down in the Aegean, Miranda knew that an attempt had been made on her life. She knew she had to leave Greece and protect herself from the Cassidine family. She then assumed her new identity and took the only money she had to buy a ticket to Australia. She obviously wanted to get as far away as possible from the Cassidines."

Jax looked over at Brenda who was rubbing her temples. "I am almost afraid to ask but is there anything else?"

"That is it."

Jax took a deep breath and shook his head. "Now that we know her true identity, we can ensure that she will never affect any of our lives again. We have identified her Achilles' heel."

Magnum cleared his throat. "Jax and Brenda, there is one more thing to address."

Brenda sighed. "What now?"

"You realize that Jantonia Manos never legally changed her name to Miranda Jameson. This means that the marriage certificate for Miranda Jameson is invalid which means ..."

Jax interrupted Magnum and completed his statement. "It means that Miranda Jameson and I were never legally married."

Brenda watched Jax as he got up from the chair and started pacing around the terrace. His anger had been brought to the surface again. The whole divorce ordeal, the trip to Buffalo, the interrupted wedding ceremony in November and Brenda's pain were all for nothing. Any regrets that Jax may have had about his plan for Miranda had now dissipated. Jax knew he had one more thing to take care of now that they had all the ammunition they needed. This last piece would be handled tomorrow.

Magnum knew that Jax and Brenda needed time. Since his job was done for the evening, Magnum bid everyone farewell.

Jerry then got up from his seat. "I guess I should head out as well. We can finish this tomorrow. Call me at the hotel when you are ready."

Jax turned around to face Jerry. "Jerry, there is no need to go to the hotel. I want you to stay here."

"Of course I'll stay. Where should I put my room service request?"

Jax could not suppress his grin. "I will tell you where to put it..."

Brenda stood up. "Okay, boys. That's enough."

Jerry puts his hands on his hips. "Geez. She sounds like a mother already. I'm taking my bags upstairs before she revokes my television privileges. Good night all."

Jax followed Jerry to the door. "Those bags are too heavy for such a weakling. I'll have to carry them for you."

"In your dreams, Jasper."

"You must really be nuts if you think I dream about you."

A smile grew across Brenda's face as she watched the Jacks men head upstairs. She knew that whatever happened, the Jacks family would be together and that would be one of the best gifts she and Jax could ever give their baby.

Sunday, August 31, 1997
The Scorpio Residence -- Noon

Brenda had made plans to meet Robin at Mac's for their lunch date. Jason was taking Robin to New Haven later this afternoon so that they would have all day tomorrow to spend together before Robin started school after the Labor Day holiday. Jax and Jerry had accompanied Brenda to Mac's to finally fill Mac in on the Miranda situation. Jax knew that Mac would never believe the allegations against Miranda unless they had indisputable evidence. They had the proof now so Mac had to be brought into the loop.

They had all arrived at Mac's doorstep thirty minutes before. Jax had just finished providing Mac with the results of the investigation. Jax knew that Mac had once had very strong feelings for Miranda and knew this was going to be very difficult for Mac to accept.

"Jax, there has been some kind of a mistake. This can't be true."

"Mac, I wish there had been a mistake but there wasn't. Miranda took advantage of all of us."

"This is ridiculous."

"Mac, think back to your times with Miranda. She hired you to be her bodyguard but she would not ever give you the details of her need for your services. You told me more than once how adept she was at pretending to be someone else."

Mac shook his head in an attempt to push the memories away. "I won't believe this."

"Mac, we have the proof. Here are the reports."

Jax handed Mac the reports and Mac began perusing them. After a few minutes, Mac slammed the binder shut and closed his eyes. "This can't be happening."

"I know how you feel Mac. I loved her for God's sake and I know you did as well. I understand that this is a shock."

"How could she have done this?"

"She is a snake. Maybe it's that Cassidine bloodline. I don't know and I don't care but she will be stopped."

"What do you intend to do?"

"Get her out of my family's life for good."

"How may I ask?"

"Don't worry Mac, I am not going to strangle her even though it will take every ounce of willpower to suppress my desire to do so. No harm will be caused to her by me. It will be her decision to decide whether harm will be caused to her by someone else. I need you to back me up on this. This has to be a united front. She will expose and take advantage of any chink in the armor. That cannot happen."

"What do you want me to do?"

"Nothing illegal. I just need be certain that she won't try to use save herself. You can't be lured back into her web."

"Those days are over."

"Do I have your support?"

Mac hesitated. The room was spinning. Brenda saw his turmoil and walked over to him. "Mac, please. Look what she has done to all of you. I can't let her affect my child."

Mac knew Brenda was right. "You can count on me. Now what is your plan?"

Jax and Jerry explained the plan to Mac as Brenda studied the three men that Miranda had manipulated, hurt and deceived. The men finished their conversation just as Robin strolled through the door.

"Hi everyone. This is a surprise."

"Hello Robin. We were just discussing some things with your Uncle Mac but we are finished now. Jerry and I will get out of your way so you two ladies spend some time together."

"I will drop her off safe and sound after lunch, Jax."

"Thanks Robin. Good luck this semester and we will see you soon."

"I'll be back once the baby arrives."

Jax walked over to Brenda. "Good-bye, sweetie. I love you."

"I love you two. I gave Virgil Julia's flight information. She should be at the house before I get back."

Jerry did a double take. "Julia will be in town?"

Brenda rolled her eyes. "Yes, and I expect you to behave yourself unlike the last time."

"What did I do? She was the troublemaker."

Jax pushed Jerry toward the door. "That is our exit cue. I will speak to him about his manners or lack thereof."

Jerry simply shrugged his shoulders as Jax led him out the door. "See you all later. Have a safe trip, Robin."

The Jacks' Residence -- 4:00pm

On the way back home from Mac's house, Jax had told Jerry of his discussions with Julia regarding the Atlantic Shipping deal. He also told Jerry that he thought Julia could be of help on the Canadian Timber transaction. Jerry muttered something about never being able to work with a woman like Julia but Jax noticed that his words sounded somewhat insincere.

Jerry was at the racquetball club with Scott when Julia had arrived. Jax was relieved to have the chance to speak to Julia alone about the job offer. Brenda had not yet returned home from her afternoon with Robin so Jax and Julia had the living room to themselves.

"Jax, I must admit the offer is very tempting."

"What can I do to make it more tempting?"

"Nothing. I just want to be sure that it is the best thing for me to do right now."

"I understand that. I also know how much effort it is going to take to achieve our goals on this deal."

"I know that there is a mountain of work to do in a very short period of time but there is something very invigorating about the prospect. I do enjoy a challenge and I would be close to you, Brenda and the baby."

"Sounds like it would be the best thing for you to do right now then."

"Brenda was right, you are too smart for your own good at times."

"Does that mean you will take the job?"

Jerry walked into the den just as Jax posed the question to Julia. "Yes Ms. Barrett, do tell."

Julia glared at Jerry. "Why does there have to be a pit in every bowl of cherries?"

"I'm wounded."

"Good, that was the intent."

"Jax, this lovely lady here is not interested in your job offer. She does not want to roll up her sleeves and get down in the mud to pull everything together. Heaven forbid, she could break a nail."

"How dare you! You are a pig! I will show you what these nails can do when I scratch your eyes out."

"Flirting with me will not change my mind. This job is not right for you. Let's leave it for the big boys."

"That's it. I am taking this job and I am going to make your life a living hell, Jerry Jacks. You will not even know what hit you when I have finished with you."

"You are flushed, Julia. I think you need some air. You will have to get used to it though if you insist on taking the job. My charm and good looks tend to take a woman's breath away."

"You are so full of yourself. I am going to have the thrill of my life watching you fall."

Jax was sitting back watching the entertainment but decided it was time for a break. "Time out both of you. Julia, the job is yours if you want it. We would need you as soon as your schedule permits. As I told you before, you can set up an office here or at any of the regional facilities. It is your choice."

"Jax, I accept the job. I will set up an office here in Port Charles for the time being."

"Welcome aboard. Brenda is going to be thrilled beyond words."

Brenda appeared in the doorway of the living room. "Brenda is going to be thrilled beyond words about what?"

Jax's eyes showed a familiar glint. "Julia has some news for you."

"What?"

"I have accepted a job from J & J Jacks to handle the Atlantic Shipping transaction. I will be moving back to Port Charles within the next few weeks."

"Are you kidding me? You are coming back to Port Charles?"

"I am not kidding."

"Julia, I could not be happier." Brenda hugged Julia.

"Neither could I, Brenda."

As Brenda walked over to Jax, Julia and Jerry quietly slipped out of the living room. Brenda hugged him as tears began to roll down her cheeks. As she tightened her grasp around his neck, her tears became sobs.

"Sweetie, what is it?"

"You did this for me."

"I did this for all of us. Julia is a talented business manager and my sister-in-law and our baby's aunt. We are all benefiting here."

"How can you still amaze me? Even with all the hell you have been going through over the past few months, you still took the time and energy to do this."

"Brenda, we have all been through hell. You have stood by me every step of the way. I will never forget that. Your happiness is my chief concern and there is nothing I would not do for you."

Jax and Brenda stood before the window as the afternoon sun glistened through the glass. The day was clear as were the thoughts toward their life together. The deceptions of the past had been unmasked and the outlook for the future was perfect.