The first few days following the photo shoot were very hectic for Brenda. As usual following a photo shoot where Lucy was in charge, there were several pickup shoots at Tom's studio. Lucy was amazed at how calm Brenda was at every one of the shoots. "I can't stand this any longer!" Lucy declared as she charged into Brenda's dressing room after the last shoot.

"You can't stand what anymore?" Brenda asked with a chuckle as she finished fixing her hair.

"You! What's happened to you? You're so calm! And the pictures - you've never been better! We have so many perfect shots that I have no idea which ones to use!" Lucy said as she paced around Brenda's dressing room.

Brenda smiled as she walked over to Lucy and put her hand on her arm. "Jax happened to me Lucy," she said confidently. "He loves me above anything and I love him. That's what was missing." She walked over to pick up her purse from the table. "For the first time in my life I know I have someone I can depend on - no matter what." She slowly put her purse strap on her shoulder. "I guess that's all I ever needed," she said with a smile. "Speaking of Jax, I've got to get going. He's waiting for me."

Lucy looked at her watch quickly before looking back at Brenda. "Are you kidding? It's the middle of the afternoon. Isn't he hard at work taking over some company somewhere?"

"Probably," Brenda said with a slight smile. "But he'll be there. He's always there when I get home from a shoot." A feeling of contentment filled her for a moment before she took a deep breath and slowly let it out. "Well, I'm off," she said as she leaned forward to give Lucy a quick hug. "Call me when the proofs are ready will you? I'm anxious to see what they look like," she said as she reached for the doorknob.

"You are? You hate looking at proofs!" Lucy declared as she walked over to Brenda.

"Not anymore I don't," she said. "I want Jax to see the pickup shots we did."

Lucy smiled at her. "Oh, now I understand," Lucy said. As Brenda opened the door Lucy put her hand on Brenda's arm. "Jax is a very lucky man," she said softly as she squeezed Brenda's arm.

"I'm the lucky one Lucy," Brenda said as she patted Lucy's hand on her arm. "I'll talk to you soon." "Ready to go guys?" she asked Eric and Clay when she walked out the door.

As soon as she stepped into the hall, Clay fell in step next to her as Eric walked a few steps behind, watching the hallway behind them as they walked. When they reached the outside door Brenda and Clay stopped so that Eric could check outside. When he was sure it was clear he opened the door for them. Brenda and Clay walked directly to the waiting limo and got in.

When they got to the hotel, Edward pulled to a stop at the front door. Clay and Brenda waited in the car until Eric opened the door for them. The three of them walked across the lobby to the elevator. When the elevator doors opened again Brenda ran across the hall and opened the door to the penthouse.

Expecting to see Jax waiting for her, she was disappointed to see an empty living room. "Honey, I'm home," she called out as she set her purse on the desk and looked around the room, finally resting her eyes on the stairs. A smile slowly spread across her face, as Jax finally appeared at the head of the stairs reading some kind of reports. "There you are," she said as she ran across the room and up the stairs. She wrapped her arms tightly around his neck as he wrapped his arms around her and lifted her off the ground.

"I didn't hear you come in," he said when he set her down. "I was returning some calls while I was waiting for you." He leaned down to give her a passionate kiss. "How did the shoot go?" he asked after ending their kiss.

"It went really well. In fact, Lucy said they probably have so many good shots she doesn't know how she's going to pick the ones to use in the Fall campaign," Brenda said as she smiled up at him, slowly playing with the buttons on his shirt as she talked.

"Does that mean that you're finished?" Jax asked as he tightened his arms around her, linking his fingers together behind her waist.

"Yep, we did the last shots today. Lucy said she'd send the proof sheets over when they were ready." Brenda looked into his eyes. "Why? Do you have something planned?"

Unable to resist the urge, Jax smiled at her. "I always have something planned," he said with a wink. "Seriously though, the reason I asked is because Ned and Lois are back. They're meeting us here in a little while to go out to dinner."

"Great! I can't wait to hear about the tour!" Brenda said excitedly. Suddenly the smile disappeared from her face. "Are you going to tell Ned about your 'arrangement' with Tracy?" she asked with a serious tone in her voice.

Jax released his arms from around her and walked over to stare out the windows. "I don't see why. My deal with her is over and I promised you that I wouldn't go after the company on my own without telling you first. Why should I risk my friendship with Ned as well as what little is left of his relationship with his mother?" he asked without looking back at Brenda.

Brenda walked over and wrapped her arms around him. "Don't you think he should know what Tracy is up to? For all we know, she may still be trying to take control of the company," she said as she rested one hand on his chest.

Jax stared out the window as he thought about what she had said. Finally he wrapped his arms tightly around her again. "You're right, I'll tell him when they get here." He looked down at her with a smile. "Thanks," he said when she looked up.

"You're welcome," she said as she returned his smile. They stood wrapped around each other silently looking out the windows until there was a knock at the door. "They're here!" Brenda said excitedly as she ran down the stairs and across the living room. When she got to the door she stopped and turned back to look at Jax leisurely walking across the living room. "Will you PLEASE hurry up!"

"I'm coming," he said with a chuckle as he continued across the room to her. As soon as he got next to her he couldn't help laughing out loud when Brenda threw open the door and immediately wrapped her arms around Lois.

When she finally released Lois, she wrapped her arms around Ned for a quick hug. "Get in here! I want to hear about everything that happened!" she said as she let go of Ned and wrapped her arm around Lois' waist, leading her into the living room.

Ned and Jax shook hands as the two women walked away. "Welcome back mate," Jax said as he closed the door.

"Thanks, it's good to be back," Ned said as he walked further into the room.

"You may not think so when you hear what I have to tell you," Jax said seriously.

"Let me guess, Tracy's been up to something while I've been away," Ned said as he slowly shook his head in disgust.

"That's part of it," Jax said mysteriously. "Come on, let's go into the den. There's no reason to ruin their good time." Jax nodded toward Lois and Brenda. When he looked at Brenda they locked eyes and she immediately smiled at him and nodded slightly.

"Why do I get the feeling I'm not going to like this?" Ned asked as he and Jax started up the stairs.

Once they were in the den, Jax closed the door behind them. "You better sit down for this," he said as he held his hand out toward the couch. As Ned sat down, Jax walked over to the bar and poured them each a drink. "I'd like to ask one favor before I start. Let me finish what I have to tell you before you say anything." He looked directly at Ned as he sat down opposite him in the desk chair. When Ned nodded his agreement, Jax took a deep breath and let it out slowly before telling him everything he had told Brenda. When he finished he leaned back in his chair and crossed his legs. "That's everything," he said as he looked at Ned for a response.

Ned sat silently for a moment before getting up to slowly walk around the room. When he reached the bar, he set his glass down before turning to look at Jax. "Does Brenda know about this?" Ned asked.

"Yes, I told her everything. She was the one who convinced me to tell you. She wanted you to be prepared in case Tracy tried again." Jax walked over to stand next to Ned. "Ned, I want you to know that this was just business. It started long before I ever came to Port Charles and it ended for me when I saw Tracy in action." He looked Ned square in the face. "I hope this won't affect our friendship. You and Lois mean a great deal to both Brenda and me."

After looking into Jax's eyes and seeing what he needed to see, Ned extended his hand to him. "It won't," Ned said as he shook Jax's hand.

"Good," Jax said with a relieved smile. "I think of you and Lois as my friends and I don't have too many friends in my life. Besides, if it wasn't for you and Lois I wouldn't have Brenda in my life." Jax put his hand on Ned's arm. "If you find out that Tracy hasn't given up I hope you'll let me help you nail her for it."

"Why don't we find out right now," Ned said as he pointed toward Jax's computer. They spent the next twenty minutes checking on the acquisitions Ned had left pending when he left for his tour. It didn't take long for them to see that Tracy was still making her run at ELQ. The only question was where she was getting the funding. She had long ago exhausted all of her personal funds as well as her own lines of credit.

Ned looked over at Jax. "She's not in this alone. She doesn't have the liquid assets or the credit line to do this - not after what she's already spent." He leaned back in his chair. "Any idea who it is?"

Jax sat back on the couch and rested his ankle on his knee. He stroked his chin a couple of times before resting his hand on his ankle. "I have an idea but you're not going to like it."

"I don't like any part of this," Ned said as he slowly shook his head. "Tell me who you think it is."

"Okay, I think she's hooked up with Corrinthos," Jax said as he slowly let out his breath.

Ned looked over at him. "Corrinthos? What makes you single him out? Why wouldn't she go to an outsider for backing?"

"I have a couple of reasons for thinking it's him," Jax said as he got up and came over to the desk. "There are only three outsiders who have shown any recent interest in ELQ. One was me, and we both know that I've pulled out. The other two are both in New York City." Jax did a quick Internet search before continuing. "There are no ties from either of them to any of the companies that have recently been bought out from under ELQ."

"Okay," Ned said as he looked first at the computer screen and then at Jax. "That eliminates them, but I still don't see how this ties Corrinthos to Tracy."

"Each of the deals that has gone wrong can be traced directly to Tracy - right?" Jax asked as he sat on the edge of the desk and faced Ned. "Can you think of any legitimate businessman who could completely hide all trace of their cash movements - especially to this extent?"

Ned thought for a moment before turning back to the computer. "There's one way to find out for sure," he said as he keyed in the access code to Tracy's accounts. He checked not only her bank accounts but also her brokerage accounts. When he finished he looked up at Jax. "Okay, there have been some large untraceable deposits to her accounts just prior to each of her stock purchases." He leaned back in his chair, tenting his fingers in front of his face as his elbows rested on the chair arms. He looked up at Jax without moving his head. "Say you're right about him being her backer. I want to nail her! Any ideas?" he asked as he put his hands down and swung his chair from side to side.

"Actually yes," Jax said. "We give them a series of deals, traceable only by us, that they can't pass up. Then when we've got enough evidence, we blow them out of the water in front of the entire ELQ board!" he said with a satisfied smile, which caused Ned to smile as he slowly nodded his agreement.

Before they could start work on their plans, they were startled by a loud knock on the door. Without waiting for an answer, Brenda opened the door and came rushing into the room. "Okay you two, enough guy time! We're hungry!" Brenda said as she walked up to Jax and stood in front of him, crossing her arms and planting her feet.

Jax couldn't help chuckling as he reached for her and pulled her closer so that she was standing between his legs. "We can't have that now can we Ned?" he asked as he leaned his forehead against hers.

Brenda leaned back and looked over at Ned before looking back at Jax. "Is everything okay with you guys?" she asked nervously.

Ned smiled at her. "Everything is fine."

"What have you two been talking about anyway?" Brenda asked suspiciously. "You've been in here a long time." She gently rested her hands on Jax's arms.

"I told Ned about Tracy," Jax said as he looked into Brenda's eyes. When she smiled her approval he tightened his arms around her. "Then I offered my help to nail her and anyone who might help her." He couldn't keep from smiling when he saw the pride in Brenda's eyes.

"Hey you guys - what gives?" Lois asked as she came charging through the door. "I thought we were going to dinner!"

Brenda, Jax and Ned exchanged glances, silently agreeing of not telling Lois about Tracy just yet. "We're coming luv," Jax said as he gave Brenda a quick wink before turning her toward the door and swatting her gently on the bottom. She turned to look back at him in surprise. "Let's not keep Lois waiting," Jax said with a smile as he wrapped his arm around Brenda's shoulders and started walking toward the door.

August 15, 1996
9:45 A.M.

Jax and Brenda were waiting in the living room for Ben and an agent from the FBI. They were going to get a progress report on the investigation into the shooting the night of the Nurse's Ball. Since both Jax and Brenda were becoming uncomfortable with the restrictions imposed on them by the tight security, they intended to ask Ben to loosen their protection.

After telling Ned about his aborted partnership with Tracy, Jax had told his father of his intention to open an office of J&J Jacks in Port Charles. Doing business from his home was becoming more difficult as time went on. He and Brenda had found space in the newest office building in Port Charles. After signing a lease for the entire top floor of the building, he immediately brought his assistant, Addie Crawford, to town to supervise the renovation and decoration of the offices.

It had only taken her a couple of weeks to get the offices ready. His staff would be making the move to the Port Charles office in a few days and his office was expected to be ready by the end of next week. Having the offices in Port Charles meant he would be spending a lot more time apart from Brenda. He wanted to make sure that she would not be at risk because of it.

When Addie had called to let him know that the offices would be up and running sooner than expected, Jax sat Brenda down to talk about the changes in their lives because of it. It was during this conversation that she had been the one to bring up the security issue. It didn't take long for them to agree that they wanted an end to it. Jax had called Ben immediately to set up today's meeting.

Brenda and Jax were just finishing their coffee when there was a knock at the door. They looked at each other for a moment before Jax got up to answer the door. He glanced back at Brenda once before opening the door. "Good morning Ben," he said as he extended his arm into the room. "Please, come in."

"Good morning Jax, Brenda," Ben said as he walked in, followed by a man that Jax did not recognize. "I'd like you to meet Agent Jeff Brady of the FBI. He's the agent in charge of the shooting investigation."

"It's a pleasure to meet you Agent Brady," Brenda said as she extended her hand to him. "Won't you please be seated?" Brenda waited until Jax came back next to her to sit down on the couch.

"I asked Jeff to join us so that he could fill you in on what the Bureau has found out," Ben said as he nodded toward Agent Brady. "Jeff, the floor is your."

"Thanks Ben," Agent Brady said politely. "I'm afraid that there isn't too much to tell you. Our Organized Crime Bureau has not been able to get a line on the location of the two shooters - which leads us to conclude that they're permanently out of the picture." He paused for a moment as he reached into his pocket for his notebook. "We have also been unable to trace the hit to any of the major families."

"Cut to the chase Brady! What does all of this mean for Brenda and me?" Jax asked impatiently.

"It means, Mr. Jacks, that the shooting was not a contract job. We can rule out assassination as the motive," Agent Brady said calmly. "Whomever was responsible for this hit used their own talent. That's why we can't trace it."

"So does this mean that we were the targets and not Lily?" Jax asked.

When she heard the trace of anger in his voice, Brenda put her hand on Jax's knee and squeezed slightly. She smiled at him to reassure him that she was okay when he looked at her.

After returning her smile, Jax looked back at Ben and Agent Brady. "Sorry," he said with a sigh. "This is just really getting on my nerves."

"Nothing to apologize for Jax," Ben said as he looked over at Jax. "I know all of this must be very frustrating for you. If you'll hear Jeff out I think things will start to make some sense." When Jax nodded slightly Ben looked over at Agent Brady. "Go ahead Jeff, tell them the rest."

"Sure," Agent Brady said to Ben before looking back at Brenda and Jax. "Since we can find no evidence to indicate that this was a contract hit, the Bureau feels that you and Mrs. Jacks were NOT the intended targets. We feel that the discovery of your photos in the getaway car had no connection to the hit. In our judgement, because of the extent that someone went to cover the identity of the shooters, Lily Corrinthos was the intended target all along." He slowly closed his notebook and put it back in his pocket. "We'll keep an eye out for any contradictory evidence, but we feel quite confident in our findings." Agent Brady said confidently as he smiled very slightly at them. He stood up suddenly and looked down at Jax and Brenda. "If you don't have any more questions I need to get back to New York City," he said quickly.

Jax, Brenda and Ben stood up. "We appreciate you making the trip up here to fill us in on the investigation," Jax said as he extended his hand to Agent Brady. "I'd appreciate it if you would keep Ben advised of any new information you come across."

"Of course Mr. Jacks," Agent Brady said as he shook Jax's hand. He looked at Brenda for a moment. "It was a pleasure to meet you Mrs. Jacks," he said with a slight nod of his head. He turned to leave but turned back to look at Brenda again after taking only a step or two. "I hope you don't mind my saying this, but you are much more beautiful in person than you were in those perfume ads you did."

Brenda blushed slightly and looked down at her hands for a moment. "Thank you Agent Brady," she said uncomfortably. "That's very kind of you." Brenda finally looked up at him and smiled, her cheeks still slightly pink.

Agent Brady smiled back at her and gave her a slight nod. He then looked over at Jax and gave him a nod as well before turning to leave. He couldn't help thinking how strange it was for two so public people to be so 'normal'.

Ben walked to the door with Agent Brady. After showing him out, Ben came back to sit across from Jax and Brenda. "Okay, now that we no longer believe you two were the targets what do we do?" he asked.

"It's simple, Jax and I go back to living a normal life and your guys move on to their next assignments," Brenda said with a big smile. The smile quickly faded though when she saw the expressions on both Jax and Ben's faces. "What?" she asked as she looked from Ben to Jax and back to Ben again.

"I'm afraid that really isn't a very good idea Brenda," Ben said as he looked at her.

"Why?" Brenda demanded. "Agent Brady just told us that the FBI couldn't find any evidence that Jax and I were the intended targets of that shooting! If they can't find any proof that's good enough for me!" She looked directly at Jax. "I'm tired of living like this Jax. I want our lives back!"

Jax put his hand on her knee for a moment. "I know luv, so do I." He looked over at Ben. "How about a compromise?" he asked as he looked back at Brenda.

"Like what?" Brenda asked.

"How about if we get rid of the guards on the door but keep the key lock on the elevator?" Jax asked as he looked back and forth between Brenda and Ben.

"I can live with that," Ben said as he nodded his head.

"Me too," Brenda said. "What about when we go out? Do we have to take an army with us?"

Ben thought for a moment. "How's this, when you go out, you use Edward and the limo. One ''escort' will go along - just to keep an eye on things." He couldn't help smiling as he continued. "After all, once you start making appearances for Jacks Cosmetics I have a feeling you're going to want Eric and Clay around."

"How do you know about that?" Brenda asked as she stared at Ben with a shocked expression. "I haven't even had a chance to talk to Jax about that!"

"Lucy called me yesterday to go over the security arrangements for your first few appearances in New York City," he said with a chuckle.

Brenda gave him an exasperated look for a moment before getting serious again. "What about Jax?" she asked quietly.

Ben looked over at Jax. "Pretty much the same. If you're staying in, he uses Edward and the limo. If you're working, he uses his own car but he takes Jared or Marcus with him."

"I can live with that," Jax said as he looked at Brenda. "Okay?"

Brenda looked down at her hands for a minute. "Okay - for now!" She looked into Jax's eyes. "I told you when this all started that it was not going to be a permanent thing. I don't want to feel like a prisoner!"

Jax wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "I know luv. I promise you that this won't last forever." He lifted her chin with the side of his finger. "But I think you're going to have to accept the fact that some type of security will always be a part of our lives - even if this had not happened." When Brenda started to say something in protest he put his finger on her lips. "Just hear me out - okay?" He waited until she nodded to continue. "Like it or not we're public figures - you because of your modeling and me, unfortunately, because of my family's money." When he saw the understanding and disappointment on her face he smiled slightly. "I'm not saying that we have to spend the rest of our lives with bodyguards and tight security. I just want you to understand that we have to be careful."

A sad smile slowly crossed Brenda's face as she looked into his eyes. "I understand," she said as she took his hand from her chin and linked her fingers with his. "I just want a normal life Jax. I want us to be able to do what we want, when we want."

"So do I luv," Jax said as he smiled at her. "I promise you that as soon as this is cleared up we'll live our lives the way we want - without answering to anyone!" Jax looked intently at Ben when he saw him start to say something, which caused Ben to keep silent and just shake his head in frustration.

"Okay, in that case I'll put up with it a little longer," Brenda said with a smile as she leaned her head on Jax's shoulder. She suddenly lifted her head and looked over at Ben. "I haven't had a chance to call the hospital recently. How's Lily doing? It's been over six weeks since she was hurt. Shouldn't she be home by now?"

Ben fidgeted in his seat a little. "Ah, actually she was released from General Hospital a few days ago."

"She was? That's great! I'll bet she's glad to be out of that hospital and back in her own home!" Brenda said as she looked at Jax. "I remember how I couldn't wait to get out!" She smiled as she thought about her trip to Malibu with Jax after her accident. She finally looked back at Ben. "She's back at the penthouse, right? I think I should send her some flowers."

Ben fidgeted again. "Actually no, she's not. Her father came to pick her up when she was released. They went back to his home in Puerto Rico immediately."

Brenda and Jax looked at each other before looking back at Ben. "Are you sure about that Ben?" Jax said. "I'm sure I saw Corrinthos at the Outback when I was there for a business lunch yesterday."

"I'm sure. The FBI's OCB is keeping an eye on Rivera so they had agents shadowing him while he was here. According to their report, he went straight from the airport to General Hospital. After visiting with his daughter for a few minutes, he went to the business office, paid her bill in full and then went back to her room to check her out. They went directly to the airport and took off immediately, without seeing Corrinthos or stopping at his penthouse to get her clothes."

"Are you saying she left him?" Brenda asked nervously as she reached over for Jax's hand.

"That I don't know. There's nothing in the report about Corrinthos. All it says is that he was not there when her father came for her. It could have been a mutual decision for her to go to her father's to recover from the shooting. It could be that HE just decided to come take her home with him or it could be she decided that she needed some time away from her husband - we just don't know." Ben could see that Brenda was very uncomfortable with the news that Lily was gone. "May I ask why you're so worried?"

Brenda squeezed Jax's hand and shuddered slightly. "I'm just afraid that since Lily's gone - for whatever reason - Sonny is going to come after me harder than ever!" She stopped and looked over at Jax.

When he saw the fear in her eyes, Jax wrapped his arm around her shoulders and pulled her close to him. "He's not getting anywhere near you luv," Jax said as he leaned down and kissed the top of her head. He looked at Ben. "I don't care what you have to do Ben, you WILL keep Corrinthos away from Brenda!" Brenda lifted her head from his shoulder and looked sadly into his eyes. When he saw her expression he smiled reassuringly at her and gave her a wink. "Just make sure you do it without making her feel like a prisoner!" Brenda smiled at him before resting her head back on his shoulder.

"Understood," Ben said as he got up. "We'll follow the procedures we just talked about. The guards come off the door - as long as you two promise to keep the door locked at all times that is," he said as he looked expectantly at both Jax and Brenda, waiting for an answer. When they both nodded their agreement, he continued. "When either of you go out you'll take one escort. When you go out together the escorts will keep a discreet distance but keep close watch."

Jax looked at Brenda, who had leaned back from his shoulder when Ben stood up. When she nodded slightly he looked back at Ben. "We can live with that - for now!" Jax said with a wink to Brenda. He and Brenda got up as Ben started toward the door. Jax gave Brenda a quick squeeze before walking over to open the door for Ben.

Ben stepped out into the hall when Jax opened the door. He turned back to look at Jax, glancing over his shoulder to make sure Brenda could not hear what he was about to say. "I'll have a deadbolt installed on this door right away," he said as he nodded toward the door.

"Okay," Jax said with a slight nod. After a quick glance of his own back at Brenda, who was sitting on the couch looking through the mail, he looked back at Ben. "About what you told Brenda before, about pulling back the security. Do you really think that's a good idea now that Corrinthos is on his own?" Jax whispered as he leaned toward Ben.

"Of course not," Ben whispered back. "I only said that because Brenda is so frustrated with the tight security. I was afraid that she would try to sneak off on her own."

Jax couldn't help smiling when he realized how well Ben already knew Brenda. He had worried about her doing the same thing which was why he went along with her desire to end their security protection. "What are you going to do?"

"As far as Brenda will know she'll only have Clay or Eric with her," Ben said with a slight smile.

"But…" Jax asked.

"There'll be a full security team whenever she leaves the apartment. She won't even know they're there - unless she needs them," Ben said quietly.

Jax thought for a minute. "She's smart Ben. She's also no stranger to bodyguards, which is why she hates them so much. Just make sure your men are careful. I don't want her frightened if she realizes she's still got a full protection detail."

"Trust me, I'll make sure they understand Jax," Ben said. "I'll rotate teams, mix men and women team members and keep them far enough away that she won't notice them." Ben could see the concern in Jax's eyes. "Don't worry Jax. We'll keep her safe," he said as he rested his hand on Jax's arm. "You have my word."

"I'm going to hold you to that Ben. If anything happens to her…"

"Nothing is going to happen to her Jax," Ben said as he smiled slightly. "Now you go back to that beautiful wife of yours and I'll get the team up here to install the new lock," Ben said with a nod toward Brenda.

"Okay, okay," Jax said with a chuckle. "I get the hint." Jax reached out to shake Ben's hand. "Just keep her safe," Jax said seriously.

"I will Jax," Ben said as he shook Jax's hand. He waited until Jax went back into the penthouse and closed the door. "I'm going to keep you safe as well my friend," he said softly as he walked toward the elevator. When the doors opened he stepped in. "I swear on my life, Corrinthos is not getting anywhere near either one of you," Ben said softly to the closed penthouse door as the elevator doors slowly closed in front of him.

September 2, 1996

Jax and Brenda were both surprised when there was a knock at the door while they were finishing breakfast. "Are you expecting anyone?" Jax asked as he looked over at Brenda.

"Nope, my meeting with Lucy to finalize the plans for my first promotional appearance in New York City isn't until 11:00," she said as she leaned back in her chair. "It must be someone we know though, because they didn't call from the front desk to announce them," Brenda said, as there was another knock at the door.

"Guess I should see who it is then," Jax said as he got up and walked over to the door. "Ned, what are you doing here so early? Is Lois okay? Nothing's wrong with the baby?" Jax said when he saw Ned standing in front of him.

"Lois and the baby are fine Jax. I needed to talk to you before you left for the office," Ned said as he stepped into the living room when Jax opened the door. "Hi Brenda," he said as he leaned forward to give her a quick kiss on the cheek.

"Hello Ned," Brenda said with a smile. "Would you like a cup of coffee?"

"I'd love one. Ever since Lois got pregnant all we have in the house is decaf!" Ned said disgustedly as he sat down on the couch. Jax sat across from him on the other couch, leaving enough room for Brenda to sit next to him. After taking the cup she held out to him, Ned waited until Brenda sat down to explain why he was there. "Grandfather is going to call you this morning to schedule an ELQ board meeting Thursday night." Ned paused for a second to sip his coffee. "I want you to agree to the meeting," Ned said calmly.

"Do you know why he wants the meeting right now?" Jax asked.

"He thinks he has proof that you're making a run on the company and he wants to confront you about it in front of the entire board," Ned said calmly.

"Really?" Jax asked with a smile, which suddenly faded. "Have you got the proof we need?" he asked as he leaned forward and rested his elbows on his knees.

Ned smiled confidently. "More than enough," he said with a nod. "They actually have been very busy. They've taken every single bait we dangled in front of them and then tried to set up an electronic trail leading directly to you!"

"What!" Brenda demanded. "How is that possible? Jax has not gone near ELQ!"

"I know that Brenda. We expected they would try this. That's why Jax and I both took steps to trace the real origin of all of the transactions." Ned looked at Jax with a smug expression. "My mother may know how to make a deal but she DEFINITELY doesn't know how to hide her trail - neither does her partner! We've got a direct trail to both of them for each transaction."

"Wait a minute! You keep referring to 'them' and 'her partner'. Is Tracy working with someone? Do you know who it is?" Brenda asked as she leaned forward in almost the same position as Jax.

Ned looked at Jax. When he saw Jax nod slightly he cleared his throat and looked directly at Brenda. "Yes, Tracy is working with someone. She has been ever since Jax ended their arrangement."

Brenda reached over and put her hand on top of Jax, proud that he had not only told Ned about his arrangement with Tracy but that he was now working with him to stop her. "Have you got proof who her partner is?" she asked. When she felt Jax tense up next to her she couldn't keep from shuddering. She suddenly had a sick feeling that she already knew the answer to her question.

Jax reached over and put his hand on hers as he nodded. "Yes, we do luv. We've set traps and traces on every transaction."

"It's Sonny, isn't it?" Brenda said softly as she looked sadly at Jax.

"Why do you say that?" Ned asked as he leaned back on the couch and crossed his legs.

"Because Sonny hates Jax and he'd do anything he could to get me away from him. He's been looking for a way to destroy Jax ever since we started seeing each other." Brenda took a quick breath as she looked at Jax for a moment. When she saw him smile reassuringly she gave him a slight smile before looking back at Ned. "Besides, he's the only one with the kind of money and connections it would take to try to frame Jax."

Ned smiled as he slowly shook his head. "You really are quite a business woman Mrs. Jacks," he said. "You're right though, it is Sonny."

Brenda looked directly at Jax. "This is all my fault."

Jax pulled his hand from under hers and wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close. "What do you mean it's your fault luv?" he asked. "This is just business. It's just that this time we knew the opponent in advance. That gave us an advantage that we don't usually have," Jax said as he rested his cheek on top of her head for a moment.

"But your reputation! He's trying to smear you in the business community!" Brenda said as she lifted her head from his shoulder and sat back from him. "We both know he only partnered up with Tracy because he wanted to destroy you," she said as she leaned further away. "He's trying to make you look like you don't know how to do your job - like you're sloppy! Isn't that going to hurt your reputation?"

"Brenda, I do this kind of thing all the time. Sometimes I succeed and sometimes I don't. Getting caught making a raid is just part of the job. Even if I was the one going after ELQ, it wouldn't hurt my reputation to get caught." Jax smiled at her. "I love you for worrying about me luv, but I'll be just fine."

Brenda smiled back at him. "I just love you too much to see you hurt because of me." She gently squeezed his knee before turning to look at Ned. "Okay, what can I do to help?"

Ned and Jax looked at each other and smiled. "I don't think there is anything left to do Brenda. We just have to wait for grandfather to call to set up the board meeting."

"I have an idea about that," Brenda said excitedly. "When Edward calls to ask for a meeting we agree to it - but on our terms." When Jax and Ned looked at her slightly confused she continued. "If he says he wants the meeting on Thursday night we insist on Wednesday afternoon. If he says at the house, we say in the board room!" She looked from Jax to Ned. "What do you think?"

"I think you're wasting your talents being a model Brenda. That's a brilliant idea!" Ned said with a chuckle. He glanced at his watch. "I better get going. I don't want grandfather to wonder why I'm not at the office on time." Ned got up and took a quick breath. "Give me a call after you talk to grandfather to let me know what's happening," Ned said as he started toward the door.

Jax, who had followed Ned to the door, reached to open it for him. He leaned closer to whisper to Ned. "I'd suggest that Lois stay away from this board meeting. The last thing she needs is Tracy's verbal abuse - not to mention what Sonny will try."

Ned thought for a moment. "You're probably right. I'll talk to her when I get home tonight. If she gives me a hard time I'll let her know that you agree with me that she should stay away." He started to leave but stopped and turned back. "Maybe Brenda should stay with Lois at the gatehouse during the meeting."

"No way!" Brenda said loudly as she walked up next to Jax. She linked her arm with his. "Besides, I have to be at the meeting or Edward and Sonny will get suspicious."

Ned's confusion about Brenda's statement was obvious on his face. "Why would they get suspicious if you weren't there?" he asked as he looked from Brenda to Jax.

Jax slowly smiled as he realized what Brenda meant. "She's right Ned, she has to be at the meeting." When he saw that Ned still didn't understand he explained. "Think back to the last meeting," Jax said seriously. "I told Edward that Brenda had final say on how I voted. Don't you think he'd get a little suspicious if she doesn't show up at this meeting?"

Ned thought for a minute. "You're right, she does have to be there." He looked at Brenda. "It's probably going to be ugly, especially with Sonny and Tracy working together. I really wish there was a way to do this without involving you."

Brenda smiled slightly. "I know you do Ned and I appreciate it, but I'll be fine." She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "I need a promise from both of you though," she said as she looked from Ned to Jax. "I want you both to promise me that you will let me handle anything that is said about me in my own way."

Jax and Ned looked at each other for a moment before looking back at Brenda. "Only if you promise to let me handle Edward and what he'll probably say about me," Jax said as he looked directly at Brenda.

"I'll try," Brenda said with a slight chuckle as she wrapped her arm around his waist.

"Then we'll try too," Jax said with a chuckle.

Ned and Jax both smiled at her before Ned leaned forward to kiss her cheek. "I'll talk to you later," he said as he looked over at Jax for a moment before turning and walking to the elevator.

About an hour after he got to the office, the private line on Jax's desk rang. "Jax here," he said.

"Hello Jax, Edward Quartermaine here. I hope I'm not disturbing you."

"What do you want Edward?" Jax asked. He couldn't help smiling as he tried to sound irritated.

"Yes, well, ah I was hoping you might have had a change of heart about rescheduling an ELQ board meeting," Edward said nervously.

"That all depends Edward," Jax said. "When did you have in mind?"

There was silence on the line for a moment before Edward answered. "I have scheduled the meeting at the house this Thursday evening. Of course, Lila would like everyone to stay for dinner afterward."

This time it was Jax's end of the line that was silent. He was struggling to keep from laughing out loud as he thought about how accurately Brenda had predicted Edward's actions. "I don't think so Edward. The last time we were in your home my wife was treated with extreme disrespect. No, I think if this meeting is to take place at all it should be in a business environment."

"Where do you suggest then?" Edward asked nervously.

Again there was silence on Jax's end of the line. "I suggest we meet tomorrow afternoon, say 2:00, in the ELQ board room," Jax said calmly.

Thinking he had Jax exactly where he wanted him, Edward smiled broadly. "I'll make the arrangements," he said, trying to keep the excitement he was feeling out of his voice. "I'm just sorry that Brenda won't be able to attend on such short notice. I know she must be extremely busy with her new modeling job."

Jax could hear the hope in Edward's voice that Brenda would not be attending the meeting. Obviously he did not want to accuse Jax in front of her. "You needn't worry about that Edward. Brenda will definitely be at the meeting. After all, she is the one who decides how my shares are voted." Jax smiled broadly when he heard a slight moan from Edward followed by silence. "We'll see you tomorrow afternoon then Edward. Oh, by the way, you will send me a copy of the agenda before the meeting won't you?"

"Of course," Edward said slowly. "I'll have a messenger deliver it to your office this afternoon." Edward took another deep breath. "Goodbye Jax," he said dejectedly. As he hung up the phone he slowly shook his head. He did not want to do this in front of Brenda. He knew that she cared deeply for this scoundrel. He was not looking forward to being the one to tell her about her husband's alliance with Tracy. As he leaned back in his chair he had to admit that he had never seen Brenda happier than she was with Jax. For all his faults, this Jasper Jacks seemed to truly care for her. Edward tossed his pen across his desk. Why had the boy come after ELQ? Now, Lila was going to be furious with him for confronting Jax and hurting Brenda!

Wednesday, September 3, 1996
ELQ Corporate Board Room
2:00 PM

Jax and Brenda were the last to arrive for the borad meeting, even though they had actually been Ned's office for nearly an hour, reviewing the latest evidence that he had received and planning how to use it. Ned had left them in the office to go to the boardroom, leaving strict instructions with his staff that no one, not even Edward, was to know that Mr. and Mrs. Jacks were there.

At exactly 2:00 they walked into the boardroom. Everyone turned to look at them, each for their own reasons. Ned came up to greet them as if he had not seen them in a long time; as did Alan and Monica. When they walked over to say hello to Lila she greeted them both warmly. It was only Tracy, Sonny and Jason who did not speak to them. They simply glared at them across the room.

"Now that everyone is here I suggest that we get this meeting started," Edward said as he walked over to the head of the conference table. "If you will all take a seat we'll get started." He held out his arms to both sides of the table, indicating that they should all take a seat.

"Just a minute father," Tracy said snidely. "I'm afraid that we cannot begin this meeting just yet."

"What now Tracy?" Monica asked disgustedly. "Do you have to slide back under your rock for something first?"

"It's actually quite simple Monica. We cannot begin this meeting until SHE leaves!" Tracy declared as she pointed at Brenda, who was seated between Monica and Jax on the opposite side of the table. "The corporate by-laws state that only voting board members may be present at meetings. So until she leaves there cannot BE a meeting!" Tracy declared, positive she had won round one. She was surprised when she glanced at Sonny and Jason to see that they not only were not smiling at her triumph but were not even looking at her. They were both looking down at their hands and slowly shaking their heads.

"If that's how you all feel, we'll be leaving now," Jax said calmly as he stood up and pulled out Brenda's chair for her. "We have no desire to stay where we are not wanted." As Jax and Brenda reached the head of the table Jax looked down at Edward. "Since there will be no further meetings of this board I will notify my attorneys to protect our assets from any bankruptcy proceedings that you will be facing."

"What do you mean no future board meetings? You're here, which means the entire board is present. You can't walk out just because the bimbo has to leave! What's the matter Jax? Don't you trust her to sit and wait for you in the lobby?" Tracy said smugly. She leaned back in her chair and looked at the others sitting around the table. "As far as I'm concerned, as soon as the trash is removed we can start this meeting!"

"Shut up Tracy!" everyone around the table, including Sonny and Jason, said at once.

"What?" Tracy asked as she looked innocently around the table at the angry faces.

"If you had bothered to read the minutes of the LAST meeting that you interrupted you would know that Jax and Brenda own their shares jointly. Jax has title to the shares and Brenda controls the voting rights!" Edward said as he glared at Tracy.

"In case you don't understand what that means mother," Ned said coolly. "If you throw Brenda out you throw Jax out as well. No Jax and Brenda mean no meeting - EVER! No meetings means no business can be conducted by the company, which means bankruptcy for all of us!"

Tracy tried to slide as far back in her chair as she could as she glared at Jax and Brenda. "How was I supposed to know that he'd trust the twit with his voting rights? No one ever reads those minutes!" she said nervously. "So are you two going to sit down or are you going to keep us all waiting? We have ELQ business to discuss," she said as she looked directly at Brenda.

"Please my dears," Lila said. "I apologize to both of you for Tracy's rudeness. Won't you reconsider and return to the meeting?"

Jax looked at Brenda for a moment. When she gave him a slight nod he stooped down next to Lila. He put his hand on her arm and smiled lovingly at her. "You have no reason to apologize Lila. You are not responsible for your daughter's big mouth!" He glared at Tracy for a moment before looking back at Lila. "We'll stay for the meeting."

Edward quickly let out the breath he suddenly realized he had been holding. "Good," he said quickly. He looked up at Brenda, who was still standing next to him. "Thank you my dear," he said with a slight smile. He couldn't help wondering if this was not a good time to bring up the attack on ELQ. Tracy had already antagonized everyone in the room. He wasn't sure Lila or Brenda would stand for anything else.

"You're welcome Edward. I know you would never let anyone do anything to hurt me or my husband," Brenda said with a sweet smile. Before turning to go back to her seat Brenda was sure she had seen a twinge of pain in Edward's eyes.

"Yes well, shall we get started?" Edward asked as he cleared his throat. "I move that we waive reading the minutes of the previous meeting. Is there a second?" he asked.

"I second," Alan said.

"All in favor?" Edward asked.

"Aye," was a unanimous response.

"Motion carried. We'll dispense with reading the minutes. Is there any old business to be addressed?" Edward looked around the table as he waited for an answer. When no one spoke up Edward continued. "Since there is no old business to be addressed I would like to address an item of new business that is not on the agenda." Everyone, except for Jax, Brenda and Ned who looked at each other, turned to look at Edward.

"I have recently discovered that an attempt is being made to take control of this company away from this board," he said dramatically, causing all the family members, except for Ned and Tracy, to sit forward in their chairs.

"Are you sure father?" Alan demanded.

"Of course I'm sure! I wouldn't have brought it up if I wasn't sure!" he said as he picked up a black file folder from the table in front of him. "I have all the proof I need right here," he said as he waived the file around.

"Do you know who it is?" AJ asked.

"You bet I do! It's that pirate sitting right over there, JASPER JACKS!" Edward declared triumphantly. He looked over at Brenda. "I'm truly sorry to have to be the one to tell you this about your husband my dear," he said sadly. "I know this must come as a terrible shock to you."

"Not really Edward," Brenda said calmly. "I already knew about it. After all, that IS what he does for a living." She looked around the table at the surprised expressions on all of their faces. "But in this case, I'm afraid you're the one who's in for a shock because I know for a fact that my husband is not responsible for the current attack on ELQ."

"What do you expect her to say," Sonny said snidely. "She's probably in on it with him. After all, we all know she has no idea what the word loyalty means." He leered across the table at Brenda. Expecting to see her flinch, at least slightly at his gaze, he was surprised to see absolutely no reaction at all - as if she had not even heard him.

Before Sonny had a chance to make any more personal remarks to Brenda, Ned slowly pushed his chair back and stood up. "I agree with Brenda," he said as he walked over behind Edward.

"How can you say that Ned? Edward claims to have proof that Jax is making a run on ELQ?" Monica said as she looked up at him.

Ned rested both hands on the back of Edward's chair. He looked slowly around the table and stopped when he got to Tracy and Sonny, who were sitting next to each other. "I'm sure he does Monica. But the truth is, this entire incident was a set up to catch the real person out to destroy ELQ."

"And you succeeded - JASPER JACKS!" Edward said smugly. "I've got copies of every purchase and cash transfer right here! Every deal he stole from ELQ is traced directly to him!"

"Exactly my point grandfather," Ned said as he slammed his hands down on the top of Edward's chair, causing him to jump. "Everyone in this room knows that whatever else he may be, Jax is very good at his job. When he raids a company they never see it coming until it's over!" Everyone, except for Tracy and Sonny, began to nod their agreement.

"What are you saying Ned? Are you saying Jax is not trying to take over ELQ?" Tracy demanded.

"That's exactly what I'm saying Tracy," Ned said coldly. "Oh there is someone in this room making a run on ELQ - but it is NOT Jax!" Ned glared at Tracy. "Isn't that right 'MOTHER'?" he spat.

Everyone turned to stare at Tracy. She began to fidget in her chair. "Okay fine! Yes! I'm in on this - but I'm not alone! Jax and I have been partners since before he came to Port Charles! In fact, everything he's done since he got here, including marrying that whore, was part of our plan! Do any of you really think he would have married a gangsters cast off if it wasn't part of the plan to take ELQ away from the lot of you?"

"Tracy!" all the Quartermaines yelled at once. Even Sonny glared at her. The only ones in the room who weren't yelling at her were Jax and Brenda. They sat silently holding hands as they glared at her.

"What? You don't believe me? Ask him! Ask him if we had an arrangement before he came here!" Tracy demanded.

Everyone shifted their attention to Jax. "Well young man? What do you have to say for yourself?" Edward demanded.

Jax squeezed Brenda's hand before pushing his chair back and resting his ankle on his knee. "What do you want me to say Edward? Yes, I did have a business arrangement with Tracy before I came here, but she is NOT the reason I came. Nothing I have done since I got here, especially marrying Brenda, had anything to do with my arrangement with Tracy."

"Why should we believe you Jax?" Alan asked.

"Because I do," Brenda said calmly. "I knew about Jax's arrangement with Tracy," Brenda said as a murmur spread around the room. "What Tracy neglected to tell you is that he ended that arrangement soon after she charged into the last board meeting." Brenda smiled smugly at Tracy.

"Why would he do that?" Sonny demanded.

"I can answer that one," Ned said to everyone's surprise. "He ended it after warning her several times that he would not tolerate her public attacks on both Brenda and Lois. When she created that scene at the concert rehearsal and then tried to undermine Brenda's confidence before her photo shoot by telling her that he was using her as a way to get to me, he told her they were through."

"And just how do you know all of this, Ned? Did Jax admit it to you?" Edward asked sarcastically.

"As a matter of fact he did," Ned said with a big grin as he winked at Brenda. "The night Lois and I got back from my concert tour he told me everything. He showed me the paper trail to each deal. He explained that he had already told Brenda everything and that she convinced him to tell me so that I could protect ELQ in case Tracy tried again."

Ned walked over to the credenza and picked up a stack of blue file folders. He set one file in front of each board member. "Knowing my mother as I do, I knew she wouldn't stop. So with Jax and Brenda's help I set a trap for her. If you'll look in the files I've just given you, you'll see that she hasn't done a very good job of covering her tracks."

The room was silent as everyone, including Tracy and Sonny, read the contents of the files. As each person finished they closed the file and turned to glare at Tracy. Even Sonny could not believe that she had been so sloppy. It was Edward who finally broke the silence. "Fine, this proves Tracy was trying to destroy us, but I don't see anything here to exonerate Jax," Edward said with growing anger at having been used, once again, by his daughter to hurt someone.

"There's nothing there because he's too smart for that. There is no evidence connecting him to the deals," Sonny said as he leered at Jax.

"You're right Sonny, there is no evidence in that file. It's in THIS one!" Ned declared as he picked up a second stack of files from the credenza and passed them out. After everyone had opened their copy of the file, Ned started slowly walking down the length of the table. "As you can all see, there is a direct line between Tracy and her money source for each transaction." He paused for a few moments as everyone looked through the file.

"If you'll all look at the last page you'll see a notarized statement from the forensic accountant I hired to track Tracy's money to its source." He waited again as everyone turned to the last page. As each person read the report they let the file fall closed on the table and turned to stare at Tracy and Sonny.

"This is a crock!" Sonny yelled as he threw the file on the table. "You can't prove any of this! Besides, Pretty Boy has already admitted being Tracy's backer!"

"As usual Corrinthos, you're wrong on both points," Jax said calmly. He squeezed Brenda's hand slightly and smiled at her for a moment when she looked at him. "We CAN prove every item in that report," he said as he pointed at the files spread out on the table. "Secondly, I never admitted being Tracy's backer. I acknowledged being in a business arrangement with her. During the time we were associated I did not invest one dollar in any purchase she made."

"Of course not," Sonny said with a leer as he got up and started walking toward where Jax was sitting. "You don't work that way do you Jasper? No, you let a woman use her own money and then when she's invested everything she has you step in and take over the deal!" He had stopped walking when he was behind Brenda's chair. He put his hands on her shoulders and leaned down next to her ear, causing both Jax and Ned to tense up immediately. "Don't worry though, I'll still take you back. I never wanted you for your brains anyway!" he said as he leaned over and kissed her cheek. When Jax started to get up Brenda squeezed his hand to signal him that she was okay so he sat back down.

"Get away from her Corrinthos," AJ, who was sitting across from Brenda, said as he jumped up and lunged at Sonny. "Brenda is a member of this board and will be treated at all times with the respect she deserves!"

Before Sonny could say anything in response, Edward stood up. "Sit down Corrinthos!" he ordered as he glared at Sonny. "It seems that I owe you an apology Jax," he said as he continued to glare at Sonny and Tracy.

"Apology accepted Edward," Jax said curtly as he also glared at Sonny and Tracy. "But we still have the problem of what to do with these two," he said as he nodded toward them.

"Oh I've already taken care of that," Ned said calmly as he walked down the length of the table to stand behind Jax so he could look directly at Tracy. When he did, Sonny went around the other end of the table to sit back down next to her. Ned rested his hands on the back of Jax's chair as he looked coldly at his mother.

"Effective immediately, you are no longer a member of this board," Ned said as he continued to glare at Tracy.

"You can't do that! I own 5.7% of this company! That entitles me to be a voting member of this board!" Tracy declared as she stood up and rested her hands on the table, leaning forward to look into Ned's eyes.

Ned reached into his inside jacket pocket and pulled out a folded legal document. "You are going to sign your shares of the company over to me."

"Like hell I will! Those shares are your brother's legacy! I'm not giving them to you so you can cut him out!" Tracy screamed as she shook her head.

"I'm not taking the shares away from Dylan. They are going into an untouchable trust with me as the conservator. I will control his voting rights and his dividends will go back into the trust. When he turns 30 he gets the funds in the trust. I will keep his voting rights and his shares until I'm satisfied that he's capable of voting them himself," Ned said calmly as he continued to glare at Tracy.

"What are we supposed to live on? My dividends are my only source of income!" Tracy said as her gaze shifted from Ned to Monica to Lila. "Mother please! You can't let him do this to me!" Tracy said plaintively to her mother.

"Honestly Tracy, I don't care what happens to you at this moment," Lila said calmly as she looked at her daughter sadly.

"What about your grandson? Don't you care about him?" Tracy said as she realized that not only was her mother not going to help her but that she was against her as well.

"Dylan will be well provided for Tracy," Ned said coldly. "All of his living and school expenses will be paid by the trust. He'll be staying with his father until classes resume at St. Andrew's next week. Paul and Jenny have agreed to take him to school at the start of the term. They'll decide later if he'll stay at St. Andrew's or come back here to go to school next year."

"They can't do that! I'm his mother!" Tracy spat out as she once again glared at Ned.

"You may be his mother Tracy, but Paul is his custodial parent. When you brought Dylan back to Port Charles, Paul's custody order went into immediate effect. In fact," Ned said as he glanced at his watch. "Paul has already taken custody of his son!" Ned said triumphantly.

Tracy picked up the files in front of her and threw them at Ned, nearly hitting Jax in the head. "You can't do this to me! I'm your mother!" she said furiously. She suddenly turned to look at Brenda and Jax. "Why aren't you going after Jax? He was the one who approached me about this! He was the one to finance everything!" Tracy said desperately as she glared at Jax.

"I'm not going after Jax because he's not responsible for any of this," Ned said calmly as he rested his hands on the back of Jax's chair. "The phone logs from his New York office show you contacted him. His appointment calendar shows a series of appointments, which you requested. There is also documentation of his withdrawal from your partnership and a certified mail receipt with your signature on it to show that you received the notification."

"Do you have proof of all this?" Edward asked as he fidgeted slightly in his chair.

"Of course I do grandfather. If you'll look in that gray folder in front of my seat you will see photocopies of everything I just mentioned." Ned waited while Edward looked over the material in the file. "Are you satisfied?" he asked when Edward closed the file.

"Yes," Edward said reluctantly as he tented his fingers in front of his mouth for a moment. When he put his hands down he looked over at Tracy. "I want you out of the house by the time we get home."

"Fine! I'll get a suite at the Port Charles Hotel!" Tracy said as she stood up.

"And how do you intend to pay for that suite Tracy?" Ned asked smugly. "Your credit cards have been cancelled and you really don't have any money to speak of."

"I'll simply sell the companies I took away from ELQ to one of your competitors!" she declared smugly.

"I'm afraid not mother dear. You claimed to be representing ELQ when you made those purchases so they belong to ELQ - you have no legal claim to them. They are not yours to sell," Ned said as he crossed his arms.

"Wait a minute! You can't do that!" Sonny yelled as he jumped up so quickly that he knocked his chair over. "ELQ didn't buy those companies! I…"

"Why are you so angry Sonny?" Brenda asked calmly, causing everyone to look at her. "After all, you claim you weren't Tracy's moneyman so as a member of the ELQ board I'd think you'd be delighted to see such a windfall for the company." Realizing that Brenda had made a very good point, everyone around the table looked at Sonny.

"What are you going to do about him?" Tracy demanded. "He was as much a part of this as I was!"

"There's nothing they CAN do to me Tracy," Sonny said smugly.

"That's not exactly true Corrinthos," Edward said as he tented his fingers in front of his chin again. "You should have read the corporate by-laws before you got involved in this 'arrangement' with my daughter. There is always a price to pay when you cross the Quartermaines."

"Well you can't take my stock away from me, I'm not one of your crazy family members. So what are you going to do? Give me a slap on the hand and tell me to play nice?" Sonny asked with a chuckle.

"You're right, as much as I'd like to, I cannot confiscate your stock," Ned said as he looked smugly at Sonny. "I can, however, order the transfer of your voting right to another board member for a period not to exceed six months. I can also order the suspension of your dividends for the same period of time in leu of a fine."

"What!" Sonny yelled. "You can't do that!"

"Actually, he can," AJ said with a soft chuckle. "With a majority vote of the other board members he can do exactly that."

"I move this board approve Ned's disciplinary action against Sonny Corrinthos," Edward said before Sonny could respond.

"I second that motion," AJ said.

"All in favor, raise their hand," Edward said. Alan, Monica, Lila, Edward, AJ and Ned immediately held up their hands. "Let the record show that Ned also votes Tracy's shares in favor," Edward said calmly. Everyone then looked at Brenda and Jax. They looked at each other for a moment before Brenda slowly raised her hand and smiled triumphantly at Sonny. "All opposed," Edward said. Only Jason put his hand up.

"The motion carries," Ned said calmly. He looked across the table at Sonny. "Effective immediately and for the next six months, your ELQ voting rights are transferred to Jason Morgan. Any dividends earned by your shares during that period of time will be suspended. You will not be permitted to attend any board meetings during this time, nor will you be permitted to sell or transfer ownership of your stock. You will receive written verification of these penalties by messenger later this afternoon."

"Now if you and Tracy will please leave we will resume this meeting," Edward said disgustedly. As Tracy looked frantically around the table for support, Edward looked at her coldly. "Remember what I said Tracy. I want you out of the house this afternoon."

"But daddy! Where will I go? What will I live on?" Tracy whined.

"I really don't care where you go - as long as it's out of Port Charles," Edward said as he glared at her. "As to what you'll live on, there is enough money in your accounts for you to live on for about six months if you are careful. That will give you enough time to get settled and find a job."

"A job?" Tracy demanded. "Where? What kind of a job?"

"Well a few minutes ago you seemed to think that you were qualified to run ELQ," Monica said smugly.

"Enough!" Edward declared. "Tracy, Corrinthos - get out or I'll call security to remove you!"

Tracy slowly stood up, picked up her purse and started toward the door. Sonny put his hands on the table and leaned forward, glaring at Jax. "You're a dead man Pretty Boy!" Sonny hissed. "I swear to you, however long it takes, no matter what it costs, I'm going to destroy you for this!" Sonny slammed both of his hands on the table, causing everyone to jump. "And you," he said with a leer at Brenda, "Pretty soon you'll be begging me to take you back - on any terms!" Sonny said as he continued to leer at Brenda, making her shudder for the first time.

"GET OUT CORRINTHOS!!" Edward yelled. "NOW!"

Sonny looked around the table at all the angry faces. "You're ALL going to pay for this!" he said with a sneer. He looked over at Jason as he stood back from the table. "You know how to vote," was all he said before turning and walking toward the door.

When he got to the door, Sonny stopped and turned back to look directly at Jax. "Somewhere there is something or someone I can use to destroy you and I'm going to find it." He swept his arm around the others at the table. "And when I do, none of your fancy friends are going to lift a finger to help you," he said smugly as he turned to walk out the door.

"You're wrong about that too Sonny," Brenda said in a strong, clear voice. "Just like everything else you've said this afternoon," she said with a chuckle. "Even if you do manage to find something to use against my husband it won't change anything. He'll still be my husband. We'll still be together. But more importantly, we'll still love each other. So you better believe that I'll help him!" Brenda slowly stood up and walked right up in front of Sonny. "You go after my husband and you go after me," Brenda said with a smug grin. "And as you keep telling me, I know you better than anyone. Just remember that," she said as she looked into his eyes. "Now GET OUT!"

One by one, starting with Lila, each board member - with the exception of Jason - began to applaud Brenda. Sonny glared at each of them before walking quickly out of the room, slamming the door behind him. Brenda leaned her forehead against the closed door and began to shake. Jax immediately got up and walked up behind her. He slowly turned her around to face him, lifting her chin so that he could look into her eyes. When he smiled proudly at her she returned his smile weakly before wrapping her arms tightly around his waist.

Jax and Brenda stood silently, holding each other tightly. Finally, the silence in the room was broken by the sound of Edward clearing his throat. "If you feel up to it dear, I wonder if we could resume the meeting?" When Jax glared at him over the top of Brenda's head, Edward put up his hand to keep him from saying anything. "I know this has been a terrible time for you this afternoon, first with me accusing your husband and then Corrinthos' actions, but there are some very important matters that must be resolved as soon as possible."

As Jax started to say something Brenda leaned back from him and put her hands on his chest. When he looked down at her, she smiled at him. "I'm okay Edward," she said as she continued to look into Jax's eyes. "Let's get back to work."

"Are you sure luv?" Jax asked as he gently ran his hands up and down her arms.

"I'm sure Jax - really! I want to do this. I refuse to let Sonny have any power over me," she said as she tapped her hands on his chest and looked up into his eyes.

Jax looked deeply into Brenda's eyes for a moment, a smile slowly crossing his face as he squeezed her upper arms. "You heard my wife Edward, let's get to work!" With that, he gave Brenda a quick hug before leading her back to her chair.

The rest of the afternoon was spent discussing the status of several deals that ELQ had pending, everyone acting as though what Tracy and Sonny had done had never happened. Everyone, that is, except for Sonny and Tracy. At different windows, at different locations in Port Charles they each stood silently staring out at the Port Charles skyline, seething with their anger and hatred of Jax and Brenda. They each silently vowed to do whatever was necessary to get their revenge against the two people whom they each held responsible for what had just happened.

As the meeting was coming to an end, Brenda suddenly shuddered. Jax leaned over to whisper in her ear as he rested his hand on top of hers. "What's wrong luv?" he asked as he squeezed her hand.

"I'm not sure," Brenda said softly as she shuddered again. "I feel like someone just walked across my grave or something." She smiled at him slightly. "It's gone now," she said in a whisper.

As soon as Edward slammed down the gavel to end the meeting, Brenda leaned over and closed her eyes as she rested her head on Jax's shoulder. "Let's get out of here. I want to go home," she said with a sigh.

"You've got it," Jax said as he rested his cheek on top of her head for a moment. "I think we could both use some time alone together."

Brenda lifted her head from his shoulder and smiled up at him. "I like the sound of that," she said as she picked up her purse and slowly stood up. They each made a point of saying goodbye to all of the Quartermaines, who each apologized to them for what had happened. As soon as they were out the door, they wrapped an arm around each other and walked quickly toward the elevator, where Clay and Jared were waiting for them. As they rode the elevator down to the garage, Brenda was suddenly very grateful that she had agreed to keep the guards. She couldn't shake the feeling that they were going to need them before this was finally over. She shuddered again before forcing her fears from her mind - at least for now.