"What do you want Corrinthos? I'm busy!" Jax said as he tried to control his growing anger.

"I can see how 'busy' you are Jasper," Sonny said with a leer as he picked up Brenda's bra that had been dropped on the statue behind the couch when she had first come in. "It didn't take you long did it? You're wife's out of town a few days so you bring your 'work' home with you," he said as he held the bra up with one finger under the strap.

Jax quickly walked over and grabbed the bra. "I repeat! What do you want Corrinthos?"

Sonny held up his hand to the bodyguards who had started to move when Jax approached him. "Fine, if that's how you want to play this. I want you to sell me all of your ELQ stock, divorce Brenda and leave Port Charles," he said calmly as he glared at Jax.

"Now why would I do any of those things?" Jax asked with a sarcastic chuckle as he walked away from Sonny, picking up Brenda's discarded clothes as he did. "ELQ is a very profitable investment for me," Jax said with a smile that quickly turned into a glare. "As for the rest - there's no way in hell that I'd even consider doing either of those things and you know it! So why don't you just give it up and get out of here?"

"Wise up 'Pretty Boy'," Sonny said with a glare. "We both know that your wife isn't playing with a full deck. She's got the self-esteem of a gnat. How do you think she'll react when she finds out about your little 'business meeting' this afternoon?"

"You son of a…" Jax hissed as he charged at Sonny.

As if waiting for Jax to move, one of the men with Sonny grabbed him and held him from behind as the other punched him, first in the ribs and then in the face. As he was drawing back to hit Jax again he stopped at the sound of a woman's scream from the head of the stairs.

The man holding Jax looked at Sonny. When he saw Sonny's slight nod, he released his hold on Jax, letting him crumple to the floor. He looked at Sonny again and saw him nod toward the open door. He tapped the other man on the arm and the two of them left the room.

Brenda ran across the living room and knelt next to Jax. She lifted his chin with the side of her finger so that she could see his face. She winced when she the beginning of a large bruise on his cheek. "Are you okay? Should I call a doctor?" she asked as she gently touched her fingertips to the bruise.

Jax winced as he tried to smile. He reached up and took her hand in his, holding it to his lips for a quick kiss. "I'm fine," he said as he reached up to cup the side of her face. "What are you doing out here? Why didn't you do what I told you to do?" he asked with a very concerned expression on his face.

"I couldn't leave you alone out here, especially when I heard 'HIS' voice!" she said as she put her hand on top of his and looked into his eyes for a moment before looking at Sonny. Her expression quickly turned from the gentle, supportive smile she had given Jax to a glare of hatred.

When she felt Jax start to get up and heard him groan softly she immediately turned back to him. "Are you okay?" she asked as she looked back at him, her concern obvious on her face and in her voice. When Jax tried to stand again she wrapped her arm around his ribs and tried to help him.

When she tightened her arm around his ribs to help him stand he groaned again. "It's okay luv," he said through gritted teeth. "I can do it." He slowly got up and leaned against the couch table. "See, I'm fine," he said as he smiled reassuringly at her, unable to hide the pain in his eyes.

"No you're not," Brenda said softly as she ran her hand down his chest without looking away from his eyes. When she saw him wince she finally looked away from his face to where her hand rested. She drew in a quick breath when she saw the large bruise forming on his left side. "Jax! You're hurt!"

"I'm fine luv," he said softly with a reassuring smile as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. He looked down at her fingers tracing across the bruise. He reached up to lift her chin with the side of his finger. "It looks worse than it feels," he said softly.

"Nice try," she said as she rested her hand on his chest. "You don't wince at nothing," she said as she looked up into his eyes. After wrapping her arm gently around his waist she turned and glared at Sonny. "What the hell do you think you're doing?" she demanded. "Having your goons kick in the door of my home and beat up my husband!"

"I do apologize for that," he said with a chuckle. "Although, if you two were more 'social' it wouldn't have been necessary."

Brenda and Jax looked at each other before looking back at Sonny. "What do you want Sonny?" Brenda asked with a disgusted tone in her voice.

The cocky smile disappeared from Sonny's face. He looked directly at Jax. "I came to tell Pretty Boy to sell me his ELQ stock and leave Port Charles."

"You forgot something Corrinthos," Jax hissed. "What about your orders concerning Brenda?"

"What about me?" Brenda demanded, unable to believe what she was hearing.

The smile returned to Sonny's face, slowly becoming a leer. "What about you? That's easy. He divorces you and leaves Port Charles and you come back to being my whore." When he saw the shocked expression on Brenda's face he slowly shook his head. "Come on Brenda - you can't possibly believe he really cares for you! He's just using you to get control of ELQ! As soon as he gets control of the company he'll toss you to the curb the same way he did Tracy!"

When Jax started toward Sonny, Brenda put her hand on his chest. “Jax don’t!” she said when he looked down at her. After staring into his eyes for several moments she was relieved when he held up his hands and backed down. She immediately turned to Sonny. “Thank you so much for that!” she said bitterly. “You’re telling me that my husband only married me to get to the Quartermaines and ELQ, right?”

“Exactly!” Sonny said with a smirk. “Why else would he have tried so hard to impress you with the flying lessons and all that ‘concern’ after you got hit by that car? Think about it Brenda, do you really think he came to some little town in upstate New York that he’d never heard of just to help two total strangers buy back a nothing company from an international conglomerate?” He walked closer to Brenda. “He’s a corporate raider for God’s sake. What did he get out of that deal but a great roll in the hay with you?”

Brenda put her hand back on Jax’s chest when she felt him tense up at Sonny’s crude remark. Without turning to look at Jax, she calmly directed her full attention to Sonny. “Oh I don’t know Sonny, how about a quick multi million dollar profit on a very short term investment?” Brenda hissed. She couldn’t help smiling when she saw the shocked expression on Sonny’s face.

“What are you talking about? What profit?” he demanded.

Jax walked up close and stood looking down into Sonny’s face. “What’s wrong Sonny? Didn’t ‘Tracy’ bother to tell you about that part of the deal?” Jax asked with his teeth clenched and a fake smile on his face.

Brenda walked over and put her hand on Jax’s arm. When he turned to look at her, she squeezed his arm slightly, causing him to give her a quick smile before turning to look back at Sonny. “I don’t know how you got up here but I’m warning you - DON’T ever do it again!” He started to turn away but suddenly looked back at Sonny. “If you ever see my wife on the street or in a crowd walk the other way. I don’t want you anywhere near her!”

"What's the matter Pretty Boy? Afraid she'll realize the mistake she made with you and beg me to take her back?" Sonny said with a leer at Brenda. When he reached to touch her cheek Jax batted his hand away. "I'm not the one you have to worry about Jasper. It's only a matter of time before she finds out about you and walks on her own!"

"Oh really?" Brenda asked. "There is nothing about Jax that I don't know," she said confidently which made Jax's stomach knot up. "And even if there is something about him that I don't know it wouldn't matter. Whatever he did before we met has nothing to do with me!" She took a deep breath and glared at Sonny. "Personally, I find it amazing that he hasn't walked away from me with the way you keep dragging my past mistakes into our lives!"

Before anyone could say anything else, they were all startled by the sound of a scuffle coming from the hallway. As Jax turned toward the door he was surprised to see Ben walking into the apartment with a gun in his hand. "Are you two okay?" he asked as he quickly looked around the room before focusing on Sonny.

"We're fine," Jax said. "Just get this trash out of my living room!" he spat as he looked directly at Sonny.

Ben walked over to Sonny and wagged his gun toward the open door. "You heard the man Corrinthos, let's go!"

Sonny started toward the door but stopped when he got close to Jax. "This isn't over Jasper - not by a longshot. There's something out there that will destroy you and I swear to you I'm going to find it!"

"Let's go tough guy," Ben said as he pushed Sonny toward the door.

As they walked past Jax he stopped and looked at him. "I'll be back as soon as I get rid of him." When he saw the anger in Jax's eyes he looked from Jax to Brenda. "Take care of him until I get back," he said with a reassuring smile.

"I'll try Ben," Brenda said as she put her hand on Jax's arm without looking at him. She continued to look directly at Sonny. "Just get HIM out of here and make sure he doesn't come back!"

"I will," Ben said as he pushed Sonny toward the door.

As they walked out, Brenda quickly walked over to close the door. She could see that Sonny's men had broken the lock when they had forced the door. It took a couple of tries before she finally got the door to stay closed.

"The lock's broken," she said absently as she walked back to where Jax was still standing. When she got back to him she gently put her fingers on his bruised cheek. "Does it hurt?" she asked softly. When he smiled at her she returned the smile and wrapped her arms around him. She quickly pulled her arms back when she felt him tense up at her touch. "I'm sorry honey," she said as she gently ran her fingertips across the large darkening bruise on his ribs. "Come on, I want to put some ice on those bruises," she said as she took his hand and led him to the couch.

"I'm okay luv, really I am," Jax said reassuringly. "Don't worry about me,” He cupped the side of her face. "What about you? Are you okay?"

"Me? I'm fine. You're the one that got beaten up!" she said, her concern for him obvious in her voice. "Isn't there anything I can do for you?" she asked as she rested her hands flat on his chest and looked up into his eyes.

"Actually, you could do something," He said with a slight smile. "Would you get me a shirt? I seem to have 'lost' mine somewhere," he said with a wink as he flipped the edge of collar of his shirt that she was still wearing against her cheek. "Unless you'd be willing to give this one back…"

"Okay, okay, I'll get you a shirt," Brenda said with a chuckle as she pulled his hand away from the collar. "I'll be right back," she said as she tapped the tip of his nose and walked quickly toward the stairs.

Just as Brenda disappeared down the hall there was a light knock at the door. When Jax opened it he saw Ben and two guards standing there. "One of my techs will be up in a few minutes to fix the door," Ben said as he walked into the room. The two guards stayed in the hall as Jax closed the door.

"How the hell did he get up here Ben?" Jax demanded as he turned to face Ben. "What if I hadn't been here when he showed up? What if Brenda had been alone?"

"Calm down Jax," Ben said calmly. "They got off the elevator on the floor below and took the fire stairs up here. Then one of Corrinthos' goons 'jimmied' the lock." He pointed over his shoulder at the broken door. "We both know how they got in here."

"Did you turn him over to the police?" Brenda asked from the top of the stairs. By the time Ben and Jax turned to look at her, she was already down the stairs and walking toward them. She held out the shirt she had brought. "Here you go," she said as he took the shirt. When she saw him wince as he started to put the shirt on she stepped closer and lifted the side of the shirt. "Here, let me help you with that," she said as she held the shirt up for him to slide his arm into.

Brenda was not the only one who had seen Jax wince. Ben reached forward to move the shirt away from Jax's side. When he saw the large purple bruise, he looked back up at Jax's face. Seeing the bruise on his cheek he slowly shook his head. "They really did a job on you didn't they?" He turned Jax's head slightly to get a better look at the bruise. "It might be a good idea for you to get checked out at General Hospital."

"Forget it! I'm fine!" Jax said firmly. "Can we just drop this discussion?" he asked as he looked from Ben to Brenda.

Seeing the resolve in his face, Brenda smiled slightly at him. "Okay, you win - for now. But if you don't feel any better later you ARE going to at least let Alan come over and check you out!" Jax couldn't keep from smiling at the tone in Brenda's voice as he nodded slightly. When she saw his nod, Brenda turned her full attention to Ben. "You never answered my question. Did you turn Sonny and his goons over to the police?" she asked as the smile quickly faded from her face.

"Actually, no I didn't. I had him escorted from the hotel," Ben said calmly. When he saw the anger flash into Brenda's eyes he held up his hand. "Hear me out before you chew me out."

Brenda sighed loudly and ran her fingers through her hair. "Okay, fine, explain it to." She looked up at Jax when he put his hand on her shoulder. When she looked into his eyes she tried to smile slightly before looking back at Ben. "I'm sorry about that Ben. I guess having Sonny and his thugs force their way in here upset me more than I thought. Please go ahead and explain why you didn't turn Sonny over to the police."

"I know you would like to see Corrinthos behind bars - especially after seeing what his goons did to Jax," Ben said as he pointed to Jax. "You could charge him with breaking and entering and assault…"

"Sounds good to me," Brenda said as she crossed her arms in front of herself.

"I'm sure it does," Ben said as he looked at her with a very paternal smile. "But it's not going to give you the result you want."

"Why not?" Brenda asked.

"Think about it," Ben said as he walked over to the table behind the couch. "The three of you have a very 'public' history. There were no witnesses to the assault so it'll come down to your word against Corrinthos'. And considering Mac Scorpio hates Jax as much or more than he hates Corrinthos he'll refuse to press any charges. All you'll end up doing is making a psychotic madder at you than he already is."

"So what do you suggest we do - NOTHING?" Brenda demanded, her anger returning.

"Not at all," Ben said calmly. "I've already contacted a local attorney named Alexis Davis to draw up a request for an order of protection against Corrinthos and his employees."

"What good will that do? Sonny doesn't care about a court order," Jax asked.

"That's what we're counting on," Ben said with a smile, which confused both Brenda and Jax. "Once the order is signed, official notice will be served on Corrinthos by the PCPD. Once that happens the order is a matter of public record. That way, if he comes anywhere near either one of you or this penthouse he does automatic jail time - no question about who's telling the truth!"

Brenda and Jax looked at each other. "What do you think?" Brenda asked as she reached for his hand.

Jax paused for a moment and took a deep breath, wincing slightly. "I think we should try it Ben's way for now." He brushed his fingers up and down Brenda's arm. "I also think he's right about pressing charges against Sonny. You've seen Mac's attitude toward me and to some extent you too. I don't know if we can expect him to do anything for us - even against Sonny!"

"When you put it that way, how can I disagree?" Brenda asked. "Okay, we'll do it your way Ben - this time!"

There was a light tap at the door that caused them all to turn and look, Ben reaching inside his jacket, resting his hand on the butt of his gun. The door opened slowly and one of the hallway guards stepped into the room. "Excuse me Ben, the tech is here to replace the lock."

"Thanks Elliott," Ben said. "Okay if he gets started?" he asked as he looked at Jax and Brenda.

"Sure, I think we're finished - for now," Jax said. "Keep me posted on the protection order."

"I will," Ben said with a nod as he smiled at them. "Why don't you two relax and enjoy the rest of your evening? I'll lock up when we're done with the door." The smile faded from his face. "I'm going to keep a guard on the door just for tonight. You can pick up your new keys from him whenever you want them."

Jax and Brenda looked at each other and smiled as they linked their hands. "Okay, thanks," Jax said. He leaned down to kiss Brenda's forehead before leading her toward the stairs. When they got to the top they stopped. Jax squeezed Brenda's hand slightly and when she looked up at him he held up his finger to signal her that he needed another moment.

"One more question Ben," Jax asked. When Ben turned to look up at them he continued. "How did you know we were in trouble? Brenda never hit the panic button."

"That's the weird part of all of this," Ben said with a chuckle. "Corrinthos tipped us off." When he saw the combination of shock and confusion on their faces he explained. "When they got off the elevator on the floor below us they locked the doors open so no one could come up after them."

"We didn't hear the alarm," Brenda said, feeling even more confused.

"Of course you didn't. They disconnected the alarm before they locked the doors. If they hadn't done that we would never have known anything was wrong."

"What do you mean?" Jax asked.

"When they locked off the elevator, that meant the guests couldn't get up to their rooms so they started complaining at the front desk. When maintenance checked they found that the elevator was stopped on the floor below this one so they sent a crew up in the service elevator. The crew radioed me when they saw that the elevator had been tampered with.

"As soon as we got there one of my men saw that the door to the fire stairs was open. On a hunch I decided to check up here. We got to the door, found it closed but unlocked so we checked and saw the goons in the hallway and your door open."

"So how did you overpower Sonny's men?" Brenda asked.

“They weren’t expecting anyone so when they both turned their backs my men overpowered them and I came in,” Ben said simply. He turned his attention to Brenda. “If anything like this ever happens again you HAVE to use the panic button. We were lucky this time. We may not be so lucky the next time. The buttons are here for a reason - use them!” he said as he looked directly at Brenda.

“I will Ben,” Brenda said as she looked up at Jax. “I don’t want to go through anything like this again.” She reached up to touch the bruise on Jax’s cheek.

Seeing her concern for Jax, Ben couldn’t help smiling. “You guys go relax. I’ll make sure the door is repaired.” He shifted his eyes to Jax. “I don’t think Corrinthos is stupid enough to try anything else but I’m going to leave a couple of guards in the hall for the night.”

Brenda and Jax looked at each other for a moment before looking back at Ben. “Thanks for everything you did tonight Ben,” Brenda said with a smile. She reached for Jax’s hand and led him down the hall to the den.

As soon as they got through the door, Brenda let go of his hand and walked over to the desk. She picked up the phone to call the front desk. “Hello Joseph, this is Mrs. Jacks. Would you please tell the switchboard to hold the calls on all our lines as well as the fax?” She paused for a moment. “Thank you.” She hung up the phone and turned back to Jax with a mischievous smile. “Now, where were we?” she asked as she walked toward him.

A broad smile spread across Jax’s face, causing him to wince slightly. “I think you were about to make my bruises feel better,” he said with his best little boy expression.

The smile disappeared from Brenda’s face as she gently ran her fingertips across the dark purple area that covered much of his left cheekbone. “I’ll get some ice for this.” She pointed toward the couch. “You lay down and I’ll get the ice pack.”

“Yes ma’am,” Jax said. He leaned down to give her a quick but passionate kiss. Afterward, he leaned back up and looked down at her. “I told you I’m fine. I don’t need an icepack,” Jax said softly as he cupped the side of her face. “I just need you.”

Brenda put her hand on top of his. “You’ve got me,” she said with a loving smile as she led him to the couch. She moved a pillow against the armrest. “Lay down,” she said as she gently pushed him down. When he lay down she knelt next to the couch and began to gently run her fingers across his cheek. “I’m so sorry about what happened Jax,” she said sadly as she continued to stroke his face.

Jax turned to look at her as he reached for her hand. “You had nothing to do with what happened today Brenda - except for your ‘surprise’ that is,” he said with a smile.

Brenda smiled back at him. "You liked that, huh?"

"You better believe I liked it," Jax said as he reached behind her head to pull her face close to his so he could kiss her passionately. When he finally ended the kiss he leaned back to look into her face. As he looked at her he gently tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. "You never answered my question earlier. How did you know I was working at home today? Only Addie and I…" He stopped and leaned up on his forearm. "Brenda Jacks, have you 'corrupted' my assistant?" Jax asked suspiciously.

A guilty smile came across Brenda's face. "Okay, okay, you've got me. When you told me you wouldn't be able to meet me in Atlanta you sounded so miserable that I called Addie to ask her to help me." When she saw the expression on Jax's face she quickly continued. "Don't be angry with her Jax, she really cares about you. If it makes any difference she didn't agree to help right away. It wasn't until after she talked to you about the raid on Butler that she called me back and said she would help."

"I see," Jax said as he lay back down. He closed his eyes for a moment before looking back at her. "I'm going to have to give that lady a raise," he said with a big smile, which caused Brenda to screw up her face as she lunged at him.

"You…" she said as she tried to tickle him. She stopped immediately when she saw him wince when she rested her hand on his bruised ribs. "Oh Jax! I'm sorry! Are you okay?" she asked quietly as she gently ran her fingers across the darkening bruise.

Jax lifted her hand from his ribs and brought it up to his lips for a kiss. Without letting go of her hand he lifted her chin to look into her face. "Please listen to me," he said seriously. "I'm fine, a little sore, but fine. Please stop worrying about me." He smiled at her reassuringly.

Brenda leaned forward and gave him a passionate kiss. When she leaned back she smiled. "You win," she said softly as she stroked the backs of her fingers across his cheek. When Jax smiled at her again, she leaned forward to kiss him again. They spent the rest of the afternoon talking and cuddling on the sofa.

After taking a shower together, which as usual resulted in passionate lovemaking, they dressed and enjoyed a leisurely dinner. After room service cleared the dishes, Brenda insisted that Jax get back to his work for a while. It was only after she told him that she wanted to pack a few additional outfits to take on the next leg of her trip that he agreed.

When she had everything packed she closed the bag and put it on the floor near the door. Before going back out to Jax she walked over to her jewelry chest on the dresser. She opened the drawer where she kept the engagement ring Jax had given her when they got home from Alaska. The ring was too big for her and had slipped off of her finger several times so she had decided to leave it at home while she was on her trip so she wouldn't risk loosing it. Now that she was home, she wanted to wear it until she had to leave again. She was stunned when she saw that the drawer was empty. She frantically pulled out every drawer in the chest looking for the ring. When she didn't find it there she got down on her hands and knees to look under the dresser - nothing!

Brenda searched everywhere she could think of. She went through the pockets of her clothes, every drawer in the dresser and under the pillows of the chair and the chaise - still no ring. When she finally admitted to herself that the ring was not in the bedroom she began to panic. Her only hope, she thought, was that the ring may have slipped off and fallen between the pillows of one of the living room couches. As she walked out of the bedroom her mind raced as she tried to think of an excuse to give Jax for searching the furniture.

As she walked through the media area, Brenda stopped to check between the pillows of the chairs and the chaise. As in the bedroom, she found nothing. She completely forgot about trying to keep Jax from noticing her actions. She walked quickly down the stairs and over to the couch. She lifted all of the throw pillows and squeezed her hand between the seat cushions.

Jax had turned from his work to watch her when he had noticed her come down the stairs. He couldn’t help smiling as he watched her frantic search since he knew exactly what she was looking for. Finally, Jax cleared his throat. When Brenda turned to look at him he tried to look concerned. “Did you loose something?” he asked as he set his pen down on the desk and turned to face her.

“Um, no not really. I mean I wouldn’t say I lost something,” she said nervously. “It’s more like I misplaced something. I know it’s here - I just don’t know where it is right now!” She turned back to start searching the couch again.

Unable to watch her growing panic any longer, Jax came over and knelt down next to her. He put his hand on her arm. “Maybe if you tell me what you’re looking for I can help you find it,” he said with a slight smile.

Brenda turned to face him as she knelt on the floor. “It’s my engagement ring! I’m positive I left it in my jewelry chest before I left for this trip but now I can’t find it!”

“Oh I see,” Jax said quietly as he tried to look concerned.

“I know, it’s your mother’s ring,” Brenda said sadly as she wrung her hands. “Jax, I swear to you, I’m always so careful with it because it’s so big!” When she looked into Jax’s face she thought she saw a look of disappointment and began to panic again. “I think I know where I left it,” she said quickly as she started to get up.

“Wait,” Jax said softly as he grabbed her arm. He looked up at her reassuringly as she slowly sat down on the couch in front of him. He moved a little closer to her, reaching in his pocket as he did. “I think this might help,” he said as he held out the small black velvet box he had pulled out of his pocket.

“What’s this?” Brenda asked as she took the box and slowly opened it with shaking hands. She drew in a quick breath when she saw her engagement ring. She looked at Jax with a confused expression.

Jax smiled as he reached to take the ring out of the box. “I thought you deserved a ring that fit so you don’t have to leave it home all the time.” He reached for Brenda’s left hand. “Brenda, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?” he asked as he held the ring at the tip of her finger and looked into her eyes.

Brenda looked at him and scrunched up her face. “We already did that silly,” she said with a slight chuckle. When she saw that he was still waiting, she reached her free hand up to stroke the side of his face. “Of course I’ll marry you Jax.”

Jax slowly slid the engagement ring onto her finger above her wedding band and leaned forward to kiss her passionately. One kiss led to another and another as he slowly pulled Brenda between his open legs as he leaned back against the couch.

When their kisses finally ended, Brenda leaned back from him slightly to look into his face. She gently stroked the backs of her fingers across his cheek. “I love you,” she said softly before leaning forward to give him another quick kiss. As soon as she ended the kiss, she turned around and snuggled back against him, her back against his chest. When he raised his legs on either side of her, she rested her arms on his knees as he wrapped his arms around her waist.

They sat silently like that for several minutes as Brenda kept looking at the engagement ring Jax had just put back on her hand. She loved watching it sparkle in the light. Jax finally leaned down to kiss the side of her neck before breaking the silence. “So when do you want to do this?” he asked as he rested his chin on her shoulder.

Brenda turned around within Jax’s arms to look at him. “Do what?” she asked softly in a confused voice.

“Get married silly! Don’t tell me you’ve changed your mind already?” Jax asked with an arched eyebrow.

“Of course not!” Brenda said quickly. “I’d marry you again and again, you know that. I’m just wondering what made you think of it now.”

“Well, when we were on our honeymoon I did promise you we would have a big splashy wedding when we got back,” he said with a smile. “And I always try to keep my promises - especially to you,” he said as he tapped the tip of her nose.

“I know, back then I was scared. I felt like I needed the big ceremony to feel married. But now…” She paused for a moment to organize her thoughts. “Now I don’t need that big ceremony. I feel married to you - every day when I wake up in the morning and when I go to sleep at night.”

Jax smiled at her. “I’m glad you feel that way, but I think I need it,” he said seriously.

“Why?” Brenda asked.

“Well first of all because I promised you,” he said with a smile. When she started to interrupt him he put his finger on her lips to stop her. “I think the first time, on the yacht, it was about getting you to marry me as soon as possible. Now I want our families and friends there to see us married. I want everyone to witness our vows to each other and know how much we love each other.”

With tears in her eyes Brenda smiled at him. “Well, when you put it that way, it might be fun to wear a big fancy dress and get lots of presents.”

“Is that a yes?” Jax asked.

“It’s a yes!” Brenda declared as she turned completely around and wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Good!” Jax said with a big smile as he leaned forward to kiss her. When he leaned back he smiled at her and tucked her hair behind her ear.

“So when is this all going to happen?” Brenda asked as she returned his smile.

“That’s up to you. When do you want it to happen?” Jax asked. “Wait a second,” he said as he got up and walked over to the desk. He got his calendar out of his briefcase and walked back to where Brenda was sitting. He handed her the calendar. “Here you go, you pick a date.”

Brenda opened the calendar and began flipping through the pages. “Well, this leg of the promotion is over on the 22nd,” she said as she finally got to October. She smiled as she looked at the page. “Oh look - you’ve got the 22nd circled in red,” she said with a smile as she looked over at him.

Jax blushed slightly as he looked away for a moment. When he looked back he had a grin on his face, “Yes well, that’s because I have something special planned for that night.” When Brenda started to ask what he had planned Jax tapped his finger on the calendar. “No more stalling, pick a date.”

After turning the page to November a look of peace came across Brenda’s face as she looked up at him. “What do you think about November 5th?” she asked nervously.

Jax could tell by the excitement in her eyes that there was something special about that date. “It’s fine with me,” he said with a nod. “What made you pick that date?”

A trace of sadness came into Brenda’s eyes. “It was my mother’s birthday,” she said softly as she rubbed her finger across the date in the calendar. She took a deep breath and looked up at Jax. “I just think it would be the perfect day for us to pledge our love in front of our family and friends. What do you say?” she asked nervously.

“I say November 5th is a perfect day to get married er remarried.” Jax smiled as he slowly shook his head. “You know, I don’t think you’ve ever told me anything about your mother. I know a great deal about your father,” he said with a frown as Brenda made a face that looked like she was going to be physically ill. “And I met your sister socially in London several times, but I don’t know anything about your mother. What was her name?”

“Veronica,” Brenda said with a sigh. “Veronica Elizabeth Barrett,” she said as she looked proudly at Jax. “She was beautiful.”

“Just like her daughter,” Jax said with a loving smile. “Do you have any pictures?”

Brenda slowly shook her head. “My father destroyed them all when she left.” Her face brightened slightly as she continued. “Julia did save her passport for me though. She used to let me ‘look at it’ if I was very careful and didn’t take it out of her room.”

“Why didn’t she just give it to you?” Jax asked. “After all, she was your mother not Julia’s?”

Brenda eyes filled with anger. “It was her was of controlling me - even then. She always had to be the one in charge.” She clenched her hands into fists. “You should have seen her reaction when I told her I wanted to be a model! She forbid me to do it. She ‘told’ me I was finishing high school and then I was going to Princeton’s Business School so that I could work for her at Barrett Industries. When I told her I wouldn’t go she cut off my trust fund and hasn’t spoken to me since - except to send me catalogs from Princeton every year and e-mails offering to reinstate my trust fund if I agreed to either go to Princeton or move to London and go to school there

Jax reached over and took both of her hands in his. “Well she must have at least been happy for you when you told her about our marriage,” he said expectantly. He was surprised at the coldness he saw in Brenda’s eyes. He had only seen that look once before - when they had an extremely nasty run in with Sonny.”

Brenda shuddered with anger. “I haven’t talked to her in over two years. I don’t even know if she knows about it. I certainly haven’t told her,” Brenda said bitterly. “Oh wait, on second thought she probably does know. I’m sure she keeps track of your activities. If there was anything even rumored about our marriage I’m sure she’s read it!” Brenda looked away from him. “If she does know I’m surprised she hasn’t contacted you to warn you about me and to encourage you to get an annulment as soon as possible!” she spat as she got up to walk over to the fireplace. She stood silently with her back to him as she gently ran her finger across the hull of the little yacht.

Jax sat and watched her for several moments. When he realized that she was crying he got up and walked up behind her. He gently turned her around to face him. He took her face in his hands, wiping the tears away with his thumbs. “She has no idea what she’s missed,” he said with a loving smile. “You’re an amazing person Brenda Jacks. I don’t want you to ever let anything anyone - especially Julia - says make you doubt that.”

Brenda gently wrapped her arms around Jax’s waist, careful to avoid his bruised ribs. She looked up into his eyes as she sniffled and tried to smile. “Thank you,” she said softly. After looking up into his eyes for several moments she managed a real smile. “What do you say we call it a night?” She reached up to cup the side of his face. “I really need to feel your arms around me - all night.” When she saw a mischievous twinkle come into Jax’s eyes she suddenly got very serious. “You have no idea how scared I was when I saw you curled up on the floor earlier. I was terrified that Sonny had done something to you, that you would no longer be in my life…”

“Sshh,” Jax said soothingly as he stroked her cheek. “It’s over. I’m fine.”

“No you’re not!” Brenda said as tears started to stream down her cheeks. She reached up to gently touch the bruise on his cheek. “I keep imagining what could have happened to you if I hadn’t walked in when I did.”

“Listen to me Brenda. I want you to stop thinking like this. Okay, I’ve got a few bruises. They’ll heal.” Jax said seriously. “I’m more concerned about the effect what happened this afternoon is having on you.” He gently stroked her hair. “Come on, I think you’re right, let’s go to bed.” He smiled at her slightly. “Afterall, we have a wedding to think about - remember?” When she started to protest he put his finger on her lips. “Please? We can worry about Sonny and your sister and all the rest of this some other time. I have to put you on a plane in the morning. I want tonight to be about us.”

Brenda smiled up at him. “I like the sound of that,” she said softly. She linked her fingers with his. “Come on, let’s go to bed. Who knows, maybe you’ll get lucky,” she said with a big smile as she wiggled her eyebrow.

“I already got lucky when you came into my life,” he said as he raised their joined hands to bring hers to his lips. “Come on,” he said with a smile as he led her toward the stairs without letting go of her hand.

It wasn’t until they had made love and were snuggled closely together that either of them said another word. “I’m sorry about how I acted before,” Brenda said without raising her head from Jax’s shoulder. She gently ran her fingers across his bruised ribs.

Jax gently lifted her hand and linked his fingers with hers. “Don’t ever apologize for caring about me. It means the world to me that you do,” he said as he rested his cheek on top of her head.

Brenda sighed softly as she leaned forward to kiss his chest before snuggling closer to him. “I love you Jax,” she said softly as she drifted off to sleep.

Jax kissed the top of her head and wrapped his arms more tightly around her. “I love you too, more than life itself,” he said softly. It wasn’t long before he fell asleep as well.

They were still wrapped around each other when Brenda woke up the next morning. She lifted her head from Jax’s shoulder to look at the bedside clock. When she saw the time she tried to slide out of his arms. As soon as she moved Jax tightened his arms around her. “I’m sorry honey. I was trying not to wake you,” she said as she looked up at him. She stacked her hands on his chest and rested her chin on top of them to look at him.

“How do you expect me to sleep without you in my arms?” Jax asked as he smiled down at her, wincing noticeably.

Brenda gave him a quick smile before drawing in her breath when she saw him wince. She lifted her head to get a better look at his bruised face. When she saw that the bruise had spread the entire length of his cheekbone and had turned a very dark purple she reached up to touch it. “I knew you should have let me put ice on this last night.”

“I thought we agreed not to talk about that,” Jax said with a reassuring smile. “Besides, we have more important things to talk about.”

“Oh really? And what would that be?” Brenda asked as she rested her chin back on her hands.

“A wedding?” he said as he pulled her over on top of him and wrapped his arms around her.

“Oh thaaat…” Brenda said with a big smile as she leaned forward to give him a quick kiss after which she turned to rest her cheek on his chest.

“Yes that,” Jax said as he slowly ran his hands up and down her back. “If we’re getting married on November 5th we better get started planning this thing.”

Brenda lifted her head and looked at him. “Well it can’t be anything too big. We only have about a month to plan it. Add to that the fact that I won’t be back from this tour until the 22nd…”

“Don’t worry about that,” Jax said as he looked up at her. “I thought I’d ask Lila Quartermaine to recommend a wedding planner to take care of all the details. All you have to worry about is your dress and who you want to stand up for you. I’ll take care of everything else.”

“You will? You’re going to take care of everything?” Brenda asked with a chuckle. “How are you going to do that? You’re up to here,” she rested her fingers above her eyes, “trying to figure out who’s raiding your merger. How are you going to find the time to pick linen colors and flower arrangements?”

“That’s what the wedding planner is for. They narrow everything down to two choice, I call you and we decide together,” Jax said smugly.

Brenda leaned up from him and smiled suspiciously. “You’ve got this all figured out don’t you?” she asked.

“Yep,” Jax said with a broad smile as he glanced over at the clock. “Wow! You better get going. It’s almost 9:00. We have to leave for the airport by 10:30.”

“I don’t want to go,” Brenda said with a sigh. “Especially now! I’d rather stay here and plan everything with you.” She rested her forehead on his chest for a moment before looking back at him sadly.

“I know luv,” Jax said as he stroked her hair. “But you have a commitment to Lucy and to yourself - and you know it. We’ll make all the decisions about the wedding together. I’ll have whatever samples need to be decided on delivered to you every day so that you can look them over and then I’ll call you or come to see you and we can decide together.”

“You think of everything,” she said with a smile. After a moment of silently staring into Jax’s eyes, Brenda sighed and slid off of him. She sat next to him, holding the sheet tightly around her. “Okay, you win. We’ll do it your way.” She leaned forward to give him a quick kiss. “Why don’t you order us some breakfast while I take a shower?”

“Okay,” Jax said. He waited until Brenda got up and went into the bathroom to pick up the phone. After calling room service to order their breakfast, Jax placed a second call, this time to the front desk. When he finished his call he got out of bed, grabbed his clothes, and headed across the hall to take a quick shower and get dressed.

By the time Brenda came down the stairs into the living room, Jax was sitting on the couch reading the paper and sipping his coffee. He looked up from the paper to watch her walk toward him. When she sat down on the couch opposite him he put down his paper and poured her coffee. “That didn’t take long,” he said with a smile as he handed her the cup. “There are muffins under the cover,” he said as he nodded toward the large covered dish on the table next to the coffee tray.

“Thanks,” Brenda said as she reached to lift the cover. “What’s this?” she asked after seeing what was under the lid. Instead of muffins there were several bridal magazines and a folded sheet of paper. Brenda picked up the paper and looked at Jax with a confused expression.

“Open it,” Jax said as he pointed at the paper.

Brenda shrugged before opening the paper and looking down to read it. When she finished she looked up at Jax with a shocked expression. “Is this for real?”

“Of course it’s real,” Jax said with a big smile. “Is it okay?”

“Is it okay? It’s more than okay!” Brenda said. “How did you manage this? She’s got to be swamped getting ready for her spring show!”

Jax just smiled. “All I did was call her New York shop. I told her we were getting married soon and that you needed a gown on short notice. She said that she really enjoyed designing for you so she would love to design and make your gown if you’re interested.”

“If I’m interested? Jax, Adelle Bennett is one of the most amazing designers I’ve ever seen. Most of my clothes at the New York penthouse are from her shop!” Brenda said in amazement.

“Is that a yes?” Jax asked innocently.

“Of course it’s a yes!” Brenda said as she jumped up and lunged at him, wrapping her arms tightly around his neck and kissing face. It wasn’t until he winced when she kissed his bruised cheek that she stopped. “I’m sorry!” she said as she sat back on the coffee table holding his hands. The smile faded from her face as she looked at him. “How are we going to do this? I mean there is no way I can keep going to New York for fittings!”

“You don’t have to,” Jax said smugly. “Adelle is going to have her fitting team meet you at your hotel in Cleveland tonight to get your measurements. They’ll also get your ideas of what you want for your gown.” He pointed at the pile of magazines. “Those are for you to look at on the plane to get some ideas of the kind of thinks you want.

“They’ll take your ideas and your measurements back to Adelle to make some preliminary sketches. When the sketches are ready Adelle will meet you herself, probably in Boston, to get your approval. After that, the fitting team will bring the dress to you wherever you are to do the fittings. Then when you’re home from the trip you and I will go to New York for your final fitting and to get whatever else you need for the day.”

Brenda smiled at him with tears in her eyes. “You did all of this for me,” she said softly as she rested her hands on his knees. “No one has ever done anything so amazing for me. Thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” Jax said as he reached up to cup the side of her face. “I love you more than life itself Brenda. That makes it easy to do things for you - especially since you never expect them!” He leaned forward to give her a quick kiss. “Now, we better eat something. I have to get you to the airport soon.”

They had just finished their breakfast when there was a knock at the door. Jax got up to answer it. He was not surprised to see one of Brenda’s bodyguards. “Good morning Eric. Time to go?” he asked.

“Good morning sir. Yes it is. Edward has the car downstairs to take Mrs. Jacks to the airport,” Eric said politely.

“Okay, we’ll be right out,” Jax said as he closed the door. When he turned back to look at Brenda he saw that she was heading up the stairs. “Where are you going?”

“I have to get the bag I packed last night,” she answered as she started up the stairs.

“I’ll get it for you luv,” Jax said as he walked quickly across the living room. “Why don’t you get your things together in here?” he said with a smile as he nodded toward the bridal magazines spread around the coffee table.

Brenda started to take her engagement ring off. “Wait a second honey,” she said as she pulled the ring completely off. “Would you put my ring away for me?”

“Why? Can’t you wear it at your appearances?” Jax asked in surprise.

“Sure, I wear my wedding ring all the time. I just don’t want to loose it,” Brenda said.

Jax walked up to her and slid the ring back onto her finger before folding her fingers down and wrapping his own around them. “I don’t want you taking either one of these rings off until our wedding,” he said as he ran his thumb across the rings. He looked into her eyes as he continued to hold her hand. “That’s why I had it sized for you - so you can have it with you always.”

Brenda looked down at their joined hands as her cheeks turned pink. “I’m sorry honey. I’m just so used to leaving it behind.” She looked up at him with a serious expression. “I swear to you, I’m never taking it off again until the wedding!” She put her hand on top of his. “I promise.”

Jax smiled and leaned down to give her a quick kiss. “I better get your bag. You don’t want to be late.” He gave her hand a quick squeeze before letting it go to head up the stairs to get her bag. When he came back she had opened the door for Eric and was waiting for him by the desk with her coat on. Jax handed her bag to Eric as Brenda held up his coat for him. “Thanks,” he said as he slid into the coat.

“I put all of your reports and faxes in here,” Brenda said as she handed him his briefcase and picked up the stack of bridal magazines. “Ready?”

“After you luv,” Jax said as he extended his arm toward the open door. As Brenda walked past him she gently brushed her hand across his chest. Jax walked out right behind her, his hand resting at the small of her back.

Neither one said much during the ride to the airport, preferring to enjoy the closeness of each other. When the limo came to a stop at the private terminal they looked at each other for a moment before getting out of the car. They walked into the terminal with their arms wrapped around each other, Brenda’s head, resting on Jax’s chest. When they got to the gate Jax handed the steward Brenda’s bag. He went down the ramp to store the bag on the plane and make sure everything was ready for her. Eric waited off to the side to keep watch but still allow Jax and Brenda some privacy to say goodbye.

“I guess it’s time to go,” Brenda said sadly as she turned to face Jax, wrapping her arms around his neck as she did. She pulled him down and kissed him on the lips. When she ended the kiss she looked up into his face. “Is there any chance that you’ll be able to meet me in Boston?”

“I don’t see why not. If you think you’ll have time for me that is,” Jax said with a wink. “Are you sure you can squeeze me in between secret wedding dress meeting?” he asked with a chuckle.

The smile quickly disappeared from Brenda’s face. “Listen to me Jax, nothing is more important to me than spending time with you!” she said softly as she cupped the side of his face. “I’ll cancel this wedding if it means we would miss spending one possible minute together!”

Jax leaned down to give her a quick kiss on the lips. “Sshh,” he said comfortingly as he brushed his thumbs across her cheeks. “I was just teasing about you having time for me. I know how you feel about our time together because I feel the same way,” he said with a reassuring smile.

“Are you sure you can get away? What about Bailey?” Brenda asked as she looked around to make sure that no one could hear her.

“I’m sure,” he said with a smile. “As for Bailey, I found my way in right before you got home yesterday.” When he saw the questioning look in Brenda’s eyes he continued. “All that’s left to do is put the accountants on the trail. There’s really nothing I can do until they find out who it is and get me the proof I need.”

“In that case,” Brenda said with a smile as she stood up on her toes and kissed him passionately. “I guess I’ll have to think of something special to do when you get there,” she said softly without leaning back from him so that she could kiss him again. After several more kisses she finally leaned back down.

Jax glanced over at Eric. When he saw him tap his watch he nodded slightly. “You better get going,” he said softly as he stroked his hands up and down her arms.

Suddenly very concerned about Jax’s safety, Brenda looked up at him. “Promise me that you’ll be careful while I’m gone,” she said as she rested her hands on his chest.

“Brenda, Sonny isn’t going to try anything now, especially once that protection order is served,” Jax said, trying to sooth the fear he saw in her eyes. When he didn’t see any change in her eyes, he let out a sigh. “Would you feel better if I asked Ben to reassign my guards for a while?”

Brenda smiled slightly as the fear slowly disappeared from her eyes. “Yes I would, thank you,” she said softly. “I better go. I love you.” She leaned up again to give him a long passionate kiss.

“I love you too,” Jax said as he leaned down to give her one more quick kiss. “I’ll see you in Boston.”

“I’ll be looking forward to it,” Brenda said with a smile. She gave him another kiss before letting go of him and walking over to Eric, who had already opened the door to the gate for her. She was about half way down the ramp when she suddenly stopped and turned back to Jax. “Promise me you’ll let Alan take a look at those bruises.”

When he saw the determination on her face, Jax held up his hands. “Okay, I promise. I’ll call him as soon as I get to the office to ask if he can see me today.”

“Thanks,” Brenda said with a smile. “See you in Boston,” she said brightly before turning to walk the rest of the way down the ramp and into the plane.

Jax waited and watched out the window until he saw the J&J Jacks plane taxi to the runway and take off. He was surprised when he turned to walk back to the limo to see Ben standing in front of him. “Ben? Is something wrong?”

“Not that I know of Jax,” Ben said calmly. “I just wanted to let you know that the judge signed the protection order this morning. Alexis hand delivered it to the Police Commissioner along with an order from the judge that he personally serve it on Corrinthos.”

“I’m sure Mac loved that,” Jax said with a smile. He could tell that there was something else on Ben’s mind. “What else?” he asked. “You didn’t come all the way out here just to tell me that.”

Ben smiled as he slowly shook his head. “You’re right. I really came out to talk to you about something.”

“What’s that?” Jax asked as he crossed his arms in front of himself.

“I want you to let me reassign a guard to you,” Ben said, ready for an argument.

“Fine,” Jax said matter of factly as he started walking away.

“Wait a minute!” Ben called as he ran to catch up with Jax. “What do you mean fine? Aren’t you going to argue with me?”

“Nope,” Jax said as he continued to walk through the terminal, trying not to laugh at the sound of frustration and confusion in Ben’s voice.

Ben finally caught up to Jax and stepped in front of him, forcing him to stop. “Hold up a minute,” he said as he put his hand on Jax’s chest. “Would you please explain this to me? You HATE bodyguards! Why aren’t you fighting me about this?” Ben suddenly realized the reason for Jax’s cooperation. “It’s Brenda isn’t it? She’s why you’re being so agreeable about this!” Ben said with a smile.

“I promised her I’d ask you to reassign my protection for a while,” Jax said with a smile of his own.

“I knew I liked that woman!” Ben said with a chuckle. He pulled out his cell phone as they walked out the door of the terminal. Edward opened the car door when he saw Jax come through the door. “David will meet you at the office and there will be someone outside the penthouse door when you get home.”

“Agreed,” Jax said as he started to get into the car. He stopped and looked back at Ben. “I want you to increase the protection on Brenda while she’s away. Don’t frighten her, just keep her safe.”

“Already taken care of. She’ll have Eric and Clay with her at all times plus I’ve increased the background teams. Except for Eric and Clay being more obvious, she won’t notice any change.” Ben was surprised to see Jax chuckle. “What?”

“She’ll know,” Jax said with another chuckle. “I’m sure she’s already spotted your background teams.”

“Did she say something about it?” Ben asked, ready to reprimand his personnel.

“She didn’t have to Ben. I know my wife better than anyone. She knew about the background teams within a day or so. As long as they don’t cause her any trouble she’ll cooperate.” The smile faded from Jax’s face. “Make sure your people know that. I don’t want her to feel like a prisoner - just safe!” Without giving Ben a chance to reply, Jax turned and got into the car.

When the limo pulled up in front of the office building Jax was not surprised when David opened the door for him. After escorting Jax up to his floor David took his position near the elevators as Jax walked over to Addie’s desk.

“Good afternoon Addie,” Jax said as he smiled at her.

“Good afternoon Mr. Jacks,” Addie said nervously without looking up at him. “Here are your mes…” She dropped the messages when she looked up and saw the ugly bruise on his cheek. “Oh my!

“It’s not as bad as it looks Addie,” Jax said reassuringly. “Would you come into my office please?”

“Of course sir,” Addie said as she picked up her notebook and the messages she had dropped. She followed Jax into his office and closed the door. She followed him over to his desk and put the messages down.

“Please sit down Addie,” Jax said as he held his arm out toward one of the chairs in front of his desk.

“First and foremost, I want to thank you for everything you did to help Brenda yesterday,” Jax said with a satisfied smile.

“I’m glad everything worked out for you both. Is Mrs. Jacks still in town?” Addie asked.

“No, I put her on the plane before I came in.” He looked at his watch. “She should land in Cleveland in about an hour.” Jax leaned back in his chair, wincing slightly and gently resting his hand on his ribs. Remembering his promise to Brenda, Jax looked over at Addie. “Would you call Alan Quartermaine’s office for me and see if he has time to see me this afternoon?”

“If I may ask, what happened to you yesterday? You look like you’ve been in a fight of some kind,” Addie said, her concern for him obvious in her voice and her eyes.

Jax smiled at her. Unable to keep from wincing again he let out a sigh. “We had some unexpected visitors at the penthouse yesterday and when I asked them to leave they didn’t agree.” He smiled slightly again. “I promised Brenda that I’d have Alan check me out - even though I feel fine.”

“Well you certainly don’t look fine,” Addie said maternally. “I’ll call Dr. Quartermaine immediately,” she said as she stood up. “Is there anything else?”

“Yes, would you get me the latest updates on the material from yesterday? I want to look them over before I call my father.” Jax smiled slightly when he saw the concern on Addie’s face. “I really am okay Addie.”

“I’m sure you are sir. I’ll just feel better after Dr. Quartermaine takes a look at those bruises,” Addie said as she pointed to Jax’s bruised face. “The reports you asked for are in that green folder,” she said as she pointed toward the file. “I’ll let you know when Dr. Quartermaine can see you,” she said as she headed for the door.

Just as Jax finished reading the updates his phone buzzed. “Yes Addie, what is it?”

“Dr. Quartermaine can see you at 3:00. I’ve already notified Edward. He’s waiting for you downstairs.” Addie hung up without giving Jax a chance to respond.

About five minutes later Jax came out of his office. “Addie, if Brenda calls forward the call to my cell phone will you?” he said as he stopped at Addie’s desk.

“Of course Mr. Jacks,” Addie said. Do you want any other calls forwarded?”

“No, just Brenda. I’ll be back as soon as I can,” Jax said with a slight tap on her desk and a smile before heading toward the elevators.

“I want you to take it easy for the next few days,” Alan said as he and Jax walked toward the nurses’ station. “No exercising or jogging. Let those ribs start to heal.”

“Don’t worry Alan,” Jax said with a wince. “This brace you’ve got me wearing will make sure of that.”

“That’s the idea Jax,” Alan said with a smile. “You’re lucky those ribs are only cracked. It could have been a lot worse.” When they got to the nurses’ station he handed Jax’s file to the nurse. “How’s Brenda? Is she home from her tour yet?”

Jax smiled at the mention of Brenda’s name. “She’s great. She was home for the day yesterday but I had to put her on a plane before coming over here for the last leg of the tour.” Jax looked around to make sure no one could hear what he was about to say. “We decided to have another wedding next month so that our family and friends can be there. I was hoping to stop over at your place to ask Lila for some recommendations for a wedding planner. Brenda doesn’t have time to do everything and I don’t have the slightest idea where to start.”

“I know exactly who my mother will suggest and if you know what’s good for you you’ll accept!” Alan said with a broad smile.

“Who?” Jax asked.

“Herself,” Alan said with a chuckle.

“Are you serious? That’s too much work for her - especially with such a short deadline!” Jax said incredulously.

“I wouldn’t tell her that Jax! Believe me, she’ll insist on doing it. She loves Brenda as one of her own and I think she feels the same way about you.” Alan said as he leaned against the counter and crossed his legs at the ankles.

Jax smiled. “I have to admit, Brenda would love it if Lila planned the wedding. She thinks of Lila as the grandmother she never had.” Jax’s mind raced over the possibilities of what the wedding would be like if Lila did plan it. “Okay, if she offers I’ll accept - gladly.” He looked at Alan seriously. “I want this wedding to be everything Brenda ever dreamed of Alan. I think I have an idea of how much your mother loves Brenda so if she offers - and is willing not to do everything herself - I’ll accept.”

“Good,” Alan said as he stood up straight. “You don’t have to worry about her doing too much. Our staff will be glad to help her. They care for Brenda almost as much as mother does. I promise you Jax, Brenda will have the wedding of her dreams.” He held out his hand to Jax and the smile faded from his face. “I have to tell you something. I had my doubts about you when you first came to Port Charles. But after seeing the way that you have protected and supported Brenda - not to mention how much you obviously love her - I think this wedding is the perfect way to let everyone - especially my father - know it.”

“Thanks Alan, I appreciate you saying that,” Jax said as he grasped Alan’s hand.

“Isn’t this interesting,” Mac said as he walked up behind Jax. “Tell me Jax. Are you looking for a ‘partner’ to swindle so you can raid ELQ?”

Jax took a deep breath and let it out slowly as he looked at Alan for a moment. When he saw Alan about to say something he shrugged slightly to stop him before turning to face Mac. “What are you doing here Commissioner? Have you served that Order of Protected on Corrinthos yet?”

Mac smiled broadly when he saw the large purple bruise on Jax’s face. “So that’s why your lawyer showed up this morning!”

“You haven’t answered my question Scorpio. Have you served the protection order on Sonny yet?” Jax demanded as he felt his anger growing.

“I’m not your messenger boy Jax. I’ll have one of my patrol officers drop it off at his building some time today.” Mac glared at Jax silently for several moments.

Just as Jax was about to say something, a woman’s voice stopped him. “That’s not what the judge ordered Commissioner,” Alexis said calmly as she walked up to the three men. “The judge specifically ordered YOU to personally serve the order on Mr. Corrinthos - IMMEDIATELY! Now, unless you want me to notify his honor that you are refusing to carry out his order, I suggest that you stop harassing my client and do your job!”

Mac glared at Jax for a moment before looking at Alexis. “I’m going counselor.” He pointed to Jax without looking away from Alexis. “If you’re half as smart as you seem to be you’ll get the hell away from him!” Mac looked over at Alan and Jax. “The same for your family Alan. Give my best to Monica,” he said as his gaze shifted to Jax. He glared at him silently for a moment before turning away and walking to the elevator.

The three of them watched Mac walk away. As soon as the elevator doors closed Alexis turned to Jax and extended her hand. “Alexis Davis Mr. Jacks, I’m the attorney your security chief hired,” she said as she shook Jax’s hand before looking over at Alan. “Good afternoon Dr. Quartermaine. I hope all is well with my client?”

Alan looked at Jax for a moment. When he nodded his approval Alan looked back at Alexis. “Well he doesn’t have any broken bones but he does have two cracked ribs and some very severe bruises.”

“Are you sure you don’t want to press assault charges Mr. Jacks?” she asked as she looked directly at him.

“I’m sure Ms. Davis. You saw our illustrious Police Commissioner’s attitude toward me. I’m not sure who he hates more, Corrinthos or me,” Jax said with a chuckle. “Look, the only people in the room were me, Sonny and the guys who did this. There’s no way Scorpio would take my word over Sonny’s or vice versa.”

“I understand now. By getting the order of protection you solve two problems at once. You keep Mr. Corrinthos and his employees away from you and your wife. You also put the Police Commissioner on notice that any future run ins will be Mr. Corrinthos’ fault.” Alexis arched her eyebrow as she looked at Jax. “Am I close?”

Jax chuckled. “Very good Ms. Davis. No wonder Ben went to you for help with this matter.” Jax paused for a minute. “Would you consider working for me on a permanent basis?”

“That would depend on what you have in mind Mr. Jacks,” Alexis said warily. “Would you care to discuss things over coffee?”

Jax glanced at his watch. “I don’t have time right now. I have to see a lady about a wedding. Why don’t you come by my office tomorrow morning?” Jax looked at Alan with a smile before turning toward the elevators.

“Jax wait,” Alan called. When Jax turned back he held out a small bottle. “Don’t forget these.”

“Thanks Alan,” Jax said as he took the bottle. “And thanks for the advice about the wedding.”

“You’re welcome - for both. Give my love to Brenda,” Alan said as he handed Jax the pain medication.

“I will,” Jax said before turning to Alexis. “Ms. Davis,” he said with a slight nod before turning to walk toward the elevators. Just as he reached to press the button the elevator doors opened and he stepped in, turning to face forward as the doors closed.

The elevator doors opened and Mac Scorpio stepped out on the penthouse level of the Harbor Towers Apartments. He stood for a moment, looking around the hallway. Finally he took a deep breath and was about to walk up to the door of PH4 when he was challenged by one of Sonny’s guards. “Tell your boss that Commissioner Scorpio wants to see him,” Mac said gruffly.

“Wait here,” the guard said as he held up his hand to Mac. When he saw Mac shrug and hold up his hands in acceptance, he opened the door and stepped into the penthouse. A minute or so later the door opened again and Sonny came out.

“Robin’s not here Scorpio,” Sonny said smugly. “But I’ll be glad to tell her you were looking for her.”

“Very funny Corrinthos. That won’t be necessary though, I’m here to see you,” Mac said as he slowly reached inside his jacket. He pulled out the court order and handed it to Sonny. “Sonny Corrinthos, you have just been served with a protective order which prohibits you or anyone in your employ from going within 100 feet of Brenda or Jasper Jacks, their home, or place of business without their prior consent.” He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Failure to abide by this order will result in immediate arrest. Do you understand the terms of this order?”

“Yeah, I get it,” Sonny spat. “Is there anything else Commissioner?”

“Just follow the order Sonny,” Mac said as he pointed at the paper in Sonny’s hand. “I don’t want my men dragged into this feud that you’ve got with Jax.” With that, he turned and walked away.

Sonny stood in the hallway until the elevator doors closed behind Mac. He looked down at the court order in his hand and slowly crumpled it. “This was a mistake Jasper - a mistake you’re going to pay for dearly.” He turned and walked back into the apartment, throwing the crumpled court order on the floor as he did. He walked over to the desk and picked up the phone. He pressed a speed dial number and waited for an answer.

“Benny? It’s me. What have you got on the Jacks kid?” he waited as he listened to the answer. “What do you mean nothing?” Sonny screamed. “That bastard has declared war on me so I want him destroyed - NOW! There has to be something in his past we can use. Send some people to Australia to check him out. Tell them to dig into his personal as well as business life. There is something that he doesn’t want anyone to know. FIND IT!” he said as he slammed down the phone. “You’re finished Jax. I’m going to enjoy destroying you,” he said with a sinister chuckle as he stared at the wall in front of him.