Jax woke with a start. It took a moment for him to realize that it was the ringing of the phone that had awakened him. He reached over a still sleeping Brenda to grab the phone before it could ring again and wake her. “Hello?” he asked softly as he looked down to make sure that he did not wake Brenda who was spooned tightly in front of him.

“Good morning dear,” Jane said brightly. When he didn’t respond immediately Jane realized that she might have just woke him up. “I didn’t wake you did I dear? It is after 8:30 already.”

“Actually you did wake me mum,” Jax said softly as he continued to look down at Brenda. “Brenda and I had kind of a late night last night celebrating her homecoming.” Jax smiled lovingly at Brenda as she rolled over and opened her eyes to look up at him.

“Oh dear!” Jane said, slightly embarrassed. “I completely forgot it was her first night home. I’m so sorry we disturbed you. You go back to sleep.”

“It’s okay mum. What did you call about?” Jax asked but was quickly distracted by Brenda gently running her tongue across his chest. He finally pushed her back on the bed and gave her a stern look to stop so that he could pay attention to his mother.

“I was calling to see if you children were ready for breakfast,” Jane said calmly, trying to act like she had not figured out what was going on at the other end of the phone.

Jax lay back for a moment, allowing Brenda the opportunity to wrap herself tightly around him. He put his hand over the mouthpiece of the phone and tilted his head to look at her. “They want to know if we’re ready for breakfast,” he said quietly.

Brenda rolled off of him and covered her face with both hands for several moments before leaning up on her elbows to look at the clock. “Tell them to be here in a half hour,” she said as she suddenly threw off the covers and ran toward the bathroom without bothering to put on her robe.

Although he was startled by Brenda’s sudden dash for the bathroom, Jax couldn’t help smiling at the site of her running naked across the room. It wasn’t until he heard the shower start that he remembered that his mother was waiting for him to answer her. He cleared his throat and put the phone back to his ear. “Why don’t you and dad meet us here in about a half hour?”

This time it was Jane who paused for a moment before answering. “Are you sure dear?” she asked nervously.

Jax couldn’t resist chuckling. “I’m sure mum. Brenda’s in the shower as we speak, which means that I better get going myself or she’ll be ready before I am. See you soon,” he said before reaching over to hang up the phone. He lay on his back for a moment before getting out of bed. He pulled on his boxers from last night and headed toward the bathroom, figuring he could finish shaving by the time Brenda finished her shower. He was surprised when he opened the door to see Brenda wrapping herself in his white terrycloth robe.

“Aw gee, you’re finished. I was hoping that you would wash my back for me,” he said mischievously as he reached to wrap his arms around her waist.

Brenda rested her hands on his forearms and looked up at him. “Sorry honey, if I do that we’ll never be ready by the time your parents get here,” she said seductively. “How about I wash your back and anything else you want in a nice leisurely bubble bath tonight?” she asked invitingly.

Jax arched his eyebrow as he looked down at her with a smile. “You’ve got a date Mrs. Jacks,” he said softly as he leaned forward to give her forehead a quick kiss. He leaned back from her as he rested his hands on her hips. “You better go dry your hair so I can shower and shave,” he said as he let go of her hips. “I think one of us should be ready when mum and dad get here!” he said as he turned her toward the door and gave her bottom a quick swat.

“Jax!” Brenda yelped as she rubbed her hand across where he had just swatted. She looked at him sideways as she turned for the door. “Oh you’re going to pay for that later mister,” she said as she started toward the door, still rubbing her bottom.

“I’m going to hold you to that,” Jax said with a big smile.

Surprisingly both Brenda and Jax were ready before Jane and John arrived. They had both dressed casually since Jax had arranged his schedule so that he did not have to go into the office and Lucy had promised Brenda not to schedule any meetings her first few days home.

They were just coming down the stairs to the living room when there was a knock at the door. Jax stepped off the edge of the steps and walked ahead to open the door as Brenda came down the stairs and started across the room. As soon as he opened the door his parents walked quickly into the room. His mother gave him a quick hug before walking over to Brenda. “I’m so sorry I woke you this morning dear.”

Brenda blushed as she smiled at her mother in law. “Don’t apologize mom, I’m glad you did. After all, we did promise to have breakfast with you guys today.” Brenda hugged Jane again as both women laughed.

When John saw how happy and relaxed Brenda was he leaned closer to Jax. “I’m glad you decided to take my advice and didn’t tell Brenda about the past. Why ruin such a beautiful smile by telling her ancient history?” he said softly so that Brenda wouldn’t hear.

Jax chuckled as he wrapped his arm around his father’s shoulders and nodded toward Brenda. “You couldn’t be more wrong dad,” he said proudly as he looked back at his father. “I did tell her about everything. And you know what? Not only did she forgive me for keeping the secret but she understood why I kept it.” When he saw the surprised look on his father’s face his smile broadened. “She told me that she loves me even more now that she knows because she realizes how hard it must have been for me when she was in the hospital - because of all the memories it must have stirred up.”

Jax looked lovingly at his wife. “She promised me that she would always be there for me dad. Does that sound like someone who couldn’t handle my past?”

John was stunned. He had always prided himself on the fact that he had married the most amazing woman there was. Suddenly he wasn’t so sure he could claim that distinction any longer. He had to admit that his son had found a woman even more amazing than his Lady Jane - and he couldn’t be happier. John smiled at Jax and wrapped his arm around him. “I’m proud of you son. You’ve found yourself a woman even more amazing than you mother.”

“Thanks dad,” Jax said as he continued to smile at Brenda. “I agree with you. She is an amazing woman.” He nodded his head slightly several times as he watched his mother and his wife standing together across the room. “Hey, I thought we were having breakfast?” he asked as he put his hands on his hips and looked over at Brenda with what he hoped was a look of frustration.

“We are!” Brenda said with a chuckle as she walked over and wrapped her arm around Jax’s waist. Let’s go, I’m starving,” she said as she looked up at him with a provocative smile. “For some reason I seem to have worked up quite an appetite this morning,” she said innocently as Jax looked down at her with an arched eyebrow.

Jax gave her a knowing look. “Well we can’t have you starving on us now can we? Come on, let’s go,” he said to his parents as he led Brenda toward the door.

As Jax and Brenda headed out the door, John put his hand on Jane’s arm to stop her. “The boy’s found himself quite a woman.”

“Why do you say that?” Jane asked.

“You saw how happy they are right?” he asked. When Jane nodded he continued. “Well he told her about Miranda last night.”

“He did? Why on earth did he do that?” Jane demanded. “Wait a minute, are you sure? They’re acting happier and more at peace than ever. How is that possible if he told her about Miranda?”

“That’s what I wondered. In fact, when we got here yesterday I tried to talk him out of it.” John glanced out the open door to watch Jax and Brenda playing around in the hall for a moment before continuing. “He told me that he couldn’t keep any secrets from her after she has been so open with him about her own past. He told her everything about his relationship with Miranda as well as what happened at the mine.”

“What did she say?” Jane whispered as she glanced into the hall as well.

John shook his head and smiled. “That’s the amazing part Lady. Not only did she forgive him for keeping the secret, but she told him that she understood why he felt it necessary to keep it. Then she told him that she loved him more than ever because he trusted her enough to tell her. She also promised that she would always be there for him if he ever needed her.”

As Jane was about to respond, Jax called out to them. “What’s keeping you guys? The elevator’s here.” Jane and John looked at each other for a moment before starting toward the door to join them.

“We just have to pray that HE never finds out the truth,” John whispered to Jane as they headed toward the door. “I don’t think even a love as strong as theirs would help him understand that.” Jane shuddered as she realized that John was right. They would loose Jax AND Brenda if they ever found out what the rest of the family had done.

“Thanks Reggie,” Brenda said with a big smile as she took Jax’s hand in both of hers to lead him into the living room. “Reggie,” she said as she stopped and turned toward him. When Reginald turned back to her she walked over to him. “Thank you for everything you’ve done for our wedding. It means so much to me that Lila is planning this wedding and that it’s going to be held here in this house. I know she wouldn’t have been able to do it if you and the rest of the staff hadn’t been willing to help.” She walked across the foyer to give him a quick hug. When she released him she stepped back one or two steps and looked at him. “Would you please thank everyone else for me - for both of us?”

“Mr. Jacks has already thanked them several times, but I’ll be glad to pass on your thanks as well,” he said slightly embarrassed. He turned to leave but stopped and looked back. “You know, we should be the ones thanking you Miss Brenda. Planning this wedding for you has brought more fun and more excitement into this house than I have seen in all the years I’ve worked here. Just seeing the frustration on old Edward’s face at not knowing what’s going on is well worth any extra work. Lila has been so excited about everything that she seems twenty years younger. She’s been having an especially great time keeping Edward guessing about what we’re doing.”

“Wait a minute,” Brenda said as she tried to digest what he had just said. “Are you telling me that Edward STILL doesn’t know that our wedding is going to be in this house in less than two weeks?”

Reginald couldn’t resist chuckling. “Lila is having too much fun keeping him guessing. She’s even enlisted the rest of the family in keeping the secret, which is driving him absolutely nuts. If he should come home while you’re here don’t let on why. Okay?”

Brenda and Jax looked at each other and smiled before turning back to Reginald. “It’ll be our pleasure,” Jax said as he wrapped his arm around Brenda’s shoulders. When Reginald smiled and turned to leave, Jax and Brenda headed into the living room.

It was about five minutes later when Reginald wheeled Lila into the room. As soon as she came to a stop, both Jax and Brenda walked over and stooped down on each side of her. They each placed a hand on top of hers before Brenda leaned up to kiss her cheek. “Welcome home my dear,” Lila said with a smile as she rubbed her thumb across the top of Brenda’s hand. “I’ve missed you.” She tilted her head toward Jax and winked. “Not as much as someone else though,” she said with a smile. “Does the fact that you’re home mean that I don’t get to spend time with your magnificent husband anymore?”

Jax leaned over to kiss Lila’s cheek. “I certainly hope not sweet lady. You are going to get sick of the sight of me if I have anything to say about it.” He smiled as he gently squeezed her hand. “Brenda thinks of you as her grandmother, which means you are her family. Since she and I are married that makes you my family as well so you’ll be seeing a great deal of me.”

“I’m glad,” Lila said as she ran her thumb across his hand and smiled at him. She took a deep breath before turning her attention back to Brenda. “I’ll bet you want to go over the final plans for the wedding.”

Brenda nodded eagerly as she sat down on the floor next to Lila’s chair. “Jax, would you be a dear and get that white box over there?” Lila said as she pointed to a large box on the desk. “I asked Reggie to bring everything down from my sitting room after Edward left so that you could look over everything one more time.”

“I can’t wait to see everything Lila,” Brenda said eagerly. “It was one thing to look at a bunch of samples to make choices but it’s something else to see it all put together.” She looked up at Jax who was now sitting on the couch behind her. “Do you know what I mean?”

“If I didn’t before I definitely do now. All I have to do is look at the excitement in your eyes and I understand what all of this means to you.” Jax cupped the side of her face and smiled at her. “Aren’t you glad I convinced you to have this wedding?”

Brenda put her hand on top of his. “Yes, I am, thank you.”

“You’re welcome,” he said as he looked into her eyes and saw the love he felt for her reflected back at him. After staring at each other for several moments, Jax cleared his throat and looked over at Lila. “Sorry about that,” he said slightly embarrassed. “I can’t seem to take my eyes off of my beautiful wife. I guess that’s because she’s been gone so long.”

“No apology necessary dear,” Lila said with a very maternal smile. “Shall we get started?”

It took about two hours for them to review all the details for the wedding. When they finished, Lila rang for Reginald, who took the box of wedding plans back to her sitting room. Jax and Brenda visited with Lila for about a half hour before saying goodbye. Brenda promised to stop by the next day to have lunch and to tell Lila about her trip.

Jax and Brenda wrapped their arms around each other as they followed Reginald to the front door. “Goodbye Reggie, I’ll see you tomorrow,” Brenda said as they walked past him out the door.

“Goodbye Miss Brenda,” Reginald said with a smile.

As soon as they were in the car Brenda wrapped herself around Jax. “What do you want to do now?” Jax asked as he wrapped his arms around her and rested his cheek on top of her head.

“How about lunch?” Brenda asked as she moved so that her ear was resting above his heart. Without even realizing it, she let out a soft sigh.

“Sounds good to me. Anyplace special?” Jax asked.

Brenda lifted her head and looked at him. “How about the Outback?”

“Sure if that’s where you want to go,” Jax said with a trace of uncertainty in his voice.

“Why wouldn’t I?” Brenda asked, surprised at the uncertainty in Jax’s voice. “The food’s great and they shouldn’t be too crowded at this time of day.” Suddenly remembering that Jax and Mac were far from friends she put her hand on his chest. “I’m sorry honey,” she said quickly. “Are you concerned about seeing Mac? If you are we can go somewhere else.”

Jax smiled as he cupped the side of her face with his right hand. “Mac who?” he said with a chuckle. When Brenda tilted her head, he ran his thumb across her cheek. “Okay, okay, no I’m not worried about seeing Mac. He doesn’t bother me unless he’s throwing his weight around as Police Commissioner or he says something stupid or insulting to you concerning Sonny. What I’m concerned about is you. Doesn’t Robin usually work the lunch shift at the Outback?”

“Usually, why?” Brenda asked, not sure what he was driving at.

“Well you haven’t mentioned her since that day I asked if you were going to ask her to be a bridesmaid. You said you would call her that day and sound her out. When you never said anything about me needing another usher I figured that things didn’t go well.” Jax turned slightly in the seat to face her. “Am I wrong?”

Brenda took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “No, you’re not wrong, things didn’t go very well that day and I did decide not to ask her to be in our wedding. Actually, I decided I didn’t want her to even attend it.” She looked up at Jax. “But that is no reason why we can’t eat at the Outback. If you can stand to be around Mac I can be around Robin. Besides, I haven’t completely given up on our friendship - YET!”

“What do you mean yet?” Jax asked as he reached forward to push a lock of hair behind her ear. “Do you think you two can work things out?”

“Not as long as she keeps trying to get me to go back to Sonny,” Brenda said with a sigh. “That’s another reason why I want to go to the Outback. I’m hoping she’ll realize that I’m where I should be, with the man I love, and back off about Sonny. If she can’t, then I might need you there for support so I can end things.”

“I’ll always be there for you luv,” Jax said softly as he cupped the side of her face again before reaching for the button to lower the privacy window. “Mrs. Jacks is hungry Edward. Would you take us to the Outback please?”

“Of course sir.” Edward looked around at the traffic for a moment. “There’s a bit of traffic so it’ll take about ten minutes sir.”

“That’s fine. We’re not in any hurry.” Jax pressed the button to raise the glass again before holding out his arms to Brenda. She immediately snuggled close to him and wrapped her arms tightly around his ribs. “I’ve missed being able to do this,” Jax said with a sigh as he wrapped his arms around Brenda.

“So have I,” Brenda said as she brought her hand up and rested it on his chest. “I don’t want to be away from you like this ever again,” she said softly without looking up at him. “I’m going to tell Lucy that I won’t do any more promotional tours.”

“Why don’t you wait until we get back from our honeymoon to make a decision like that? If you still feel the same way when we get back I’ll stand behind you all the way.” Jax lifted her face from his chest to look into her eyes. “Okay?”

Brenda smiled at him as she took his hand from her face and held it in both of hers. “Okay,” she said softly with a loving smile before leaning forward to give him a quick kiss. They spent the rest of the ride snuggled together with their hands linked and resting in his lap.

Jax opened the door so that Brenda could walk into the Outback in front of him. As soon as they stepped inside, Jax reached to help her take off her jacket. He handed both her jacket and his own to the attendant before they were seated at a table near the bar.

They were still looking at their menus when they heard a familiar voice. “Hi Brenda, how are you? How was your trip?” Robin asked as she stood next to Brenda’s chair.

“Hey you. I’m fine, thanks. As for the trip, it was way too long for me,” she said with a sigh as she looked over at Jax and rested her hand on top of his. “I’m just REALLY glad to be home.”

Robin could see how happy Brenda was with Jax. Maybe, she thought, she really did belong with him and not Sonny. Robin had to admit that she had never seen Brenda this happy or at peace when she was with Sonny. She was about to say something when she glanced up and saw Jason sitting at the bar watching them. She immediately put aside her doubts and turned her attention back to Brenda. “Have you decided yet?” she asked with a definite chill in her voice.

Brenda and Jax looked at each other for a moment. Jax shrugged in confusion at Robin’s sudden change in attitude. As soon as he glanced up and saw Jason sitting at the bar he understood. He nodded toward the bar to signal Brenda. When she looked back at him, Jax saw that some of the happiness that was in her eyes had faded away, which made him furious.

“Well? Have you decided?” Robin asked again.

When Jax started to say something about Robin’s rudeness, Brenda squeezed his hand and shook her head slightly. “Yes, we’ll both have the luncheon special with coffee,” she said almost as crisply as Robin had spoken to them, surprising Robin with her coldness and making Jax smile with pride.

“Uh, okay,” Robin said, still flustered by Brenda’s sudden coldness toward her. She was so flustered in fact that she just stood staring at her order pad.

“Well?” Brenda asked as she held the closed menus up to Robin.

“What? Oh, sorry,” Robin said as she took the menus. She finished writing their order and turned to leave. She had only taken a few steps when she stopped and came back to the table. “Can I talk to you alone for a second Brenda?” she asked as she gently put her hand on Brenda’s shoulder.

Brenda glanced at Robin’s hand and then looked up at her coolly. “Anything you have to say to me you can say in front of Jax.” She looked lovingly at Jax. “We don’t have any secrets from each other.” When Robin didn’t answer right away, Brenda looked up at her coolly. “Well? What did you want to talk about?”

Robin looked at Brenda for several moments before looking at Jax, a look of uncertainty on her face. “Never mind,” she said as she took a quick breath. “Uh, I’ll go place your order.” She turned and walked quickly toward the kitchen.

Jax and Brenda were able to enjoy their lunch completely undisturbed since Robin had handed their table off to one of the waiters. She did not come back to their table, even to say goodbye when they were leaving.

Edward pulled the limo up to the walkway in front of the Outback as soon as he saw Jax and Brenda come out the door. Before he could get out to open the door for them Jax opened it and he and Brenda got in. As they pulled into the street Edward glanced up at the mirror and saw a car pull out right behind them. He glanced up again as they were about a block away and saw that there were now two cars following them. He reached for the intercom to let Jax know what he saw. “Mr. Jacks, we’ve got a couple of shadows. I suggest that you and Mrs. Jacks might want to head home until we can find out what’s up.”

Jax looked at Brenda, who was snuggled close to him. “I think that’s a very good idea Edward,” he said as he hung up the handset. He then began to run his fingers up and down Brenda’s arm, which made her move her head enough to look up at him. “Edward thinks we’re being followed so we’re going to head back to the hotel. Do you mind?” When Brenda looked up at him he could see a trace of fear in her eyes. He was relieved when he saw that fear fade away as she silently looked at him for several moments.

“That’s fine with me. I think I’ve shared you with the world enough for today. I want you all to myself for the rest of the day,” she said as she smiled and arched her eyebrow seductively at him.

“Oh I like the sound of that,” Jax said with a smile as he leaned down to give her a passionate kiss. When the kiss ended he leaned his forehead against hers. “I’m so glad you’re home,” he said with a smile.

Brenda leaned back from him only long enough to wrap herself tightly around him. “So am I,” she said with a sigh.

“I told dad that I told you everything about Miranda,” Jax said as he tightened his arms around her.

“Was he mad?” Brenda asked without looking up.

“I think surprised is a better word,” Jax said. “I told him last night that I was going to tell you and he tried to talk me out of it. He said it was something that should be left in the past and that telling you would be hurting you for no reason.”

“Is that what you two were arguing about when Jane and I came downstairs?” Brenda asked as she began to run her fingers across his chest.

“Yes, he made up that story about too much celebrating so I couldn’t say anything to you about what we were really talking about,” Jax said with a touch of sadness in his voice.

Brenda leaned back from him and smiled. “I figured it was something like that,” she said as she rested her hand on his chest. “I also think I know how much your father loves you. He probably thought he was protecting you by not letting on about what you were really talking about.”

Jax smiled as he reached to cup the side of her face. “How did you get so wise?” he asked as he stroked his thumb across her cheek.

Brenda put her hand on his and tilted her head more tightly into his hand. “It’s not wisdom, honey. I just know my family and how much they love and protect each other,” she said with a very proud smile and a tear in her eye.

“I think he was trying to protect you, not me luv,” Jax said as he ran his thumb across her cheek again.

The tears started to spill out of her eyes as she slowly nodded. “I know,” she said softly as she snuggled close to him again. They rode the rest of the way back to the hotel silently holding each other.

As the limo pulled into the hotel’s underground parking garage, the car following them parked in the street near the entrance. The two men in the car got comfortable to wait until Jax and Brenda came out again.

Unbeknownst to the men they had also been followed. That car drove past, turned around and parked on the opposite side of the street to watch and wait. The man in the passenger seat took out his cellphone and pressed a speed dial number. “Corinthos is up to something,” he said without saying hello when he got an answer. “Morgan is keeping a very low profile and Corinthos is no where to be found. On top of that, Morgan’s got a couple of goons shadowing the Jacks couple again.” He listened for a moment. “No, nobody has approached them except the Scorpio girl. She tried to get Mrs. Jacks to go off for a private talk but the Jacks woman shut her down real quick.” He paused again. “Yeah, we’re outside the hotel keeping an eye on Morgan’s men. I’ll let you know if anything happens but it looks to me like the Jacks couple is in for the night.”

As soon as they got back to the penthouse, Jax called Ben and told him what had happened at the Outback. He was not surprised to hear that Ben already knew about it. After talking for about thirty minutes, Jax hung up the phone and went to tell Brenda what he had learned.

As Jax walked out of the den he saw Brenda staring out the wall of windows. He walked up behind her and rested his hands on her shoulders. “Are you okay with all of this?” he asked as he leaned down to rest his chin on her shoulder.

“Yeah, I’m fine,” she said as she leaned back against him. “What did Ben have to say when you told him we were followed?”

“Actually, he already knew about it. Apparently he’s still keeping an eye on us,” Jax said as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. “Edward was right, we were followed from the Outback. I’m sure you’ve figured out by now that they were Sonny’s men, but what you probably don’t know is that somebody was following them!”

Brenda pulled out of his arms and turned to look up at Jax. “Are you telling me that somebody else is after us besides Sonny?” she asked.

“Actually, Ben seems to think that the second car was watching Sonny’s men,” Jax said with a trace of disbelief in his voice. “So it looks like we’ve got someone watching out for us besides Ben.”

“But who?” Brenda asked. “And why follow the guys watching us? Sonny must have men all over town,” Brenda asked. She didn’t even try to hide the growing sense of fear she felt. “Why are these guys watching us?”

“Ben doesn’t know yet but he’s working on it. In the meantime, he wants us to go about our regular routine.” When he saw the concern in Brenda’s eyes he reached up and ran the backs of his fingers across her cheek. “Don’t worry luv, we won’t be alone. We just won’t be able to see them and hopefully, neither will Sonny’s men.”

Brenda wrapped her arms around Jax’s waist and sighed as she rested her ear against his chest just above his heart. “I’m so sorry for having brought all of this into your life.” She leaned back and looked up at him with tears in her eyes. “Maybe we should just call off this wedding,” she said softly as she looked away from him and the tears started to spill down her cheeks.

Jax turned her face back to him and wiped her tears away with his thumbs. “If we do that Sonny wins,” he said calmly. “And you have nothing to apologize for Brenda. You put Sonny behind you before we ever met. I know that. Anything that is happening now is because of Sonny - not you.” When Brenda wrapped her arms around him again, Jax held her tightly and rested his cheek on top of her head.

They stood silently holding each other for several minutes before Jax finally released her and held her away from him. “I think we’ve spent far too much time talking about Sonny Corinthos. Don’t you?” he asked with a slight smile. When Brenda smiled back at him as she nodded her agreement he pulled her close again. “Good, now what do you say we forget about all of this and enjoy the rest of our day?”

“Sounds good to me,” she said without looking up at him.

Jax and Brenda spent the rest of the afternoon snuggled together on the couch, talking about everything and nothing. They finally decided to change clothes and go down to The Grill for dinner. Brenda suggested they invite Jane and John to join them but Jax asked that it be just the two of them since he was going to have to go back to work tomorrow. He wanted to spend this evening alone with his wife. He didn’t have to ask her a second time to get her to agree.

John and Jane had kept very busy since arriving in Port Charles. John spent several days with Jax at his office, helping whenever possible, to clear Jax’s desk of any pending deals. Normally, John would not interfere with either of his son’s business dealings but Jax wanted to take Brenda on an extended honeymoon so he had asked his father for help.

Brenda and Jane used the time their husbands were at the office to cruise the shops of Port Charles. Jane had insisted on buying Brenda an entire honeymoon wardrobe, everything from intimate lingerie to hats and sunglasses. Even though Jax was keeping their actual honeymoon destination a secret, he did admit that they were going someplace warm; so they bought several sundresses, short sets and swimsuits. They spent one entire afternoon selecting several nightgowns and peignoir sets, taking special care to select the right gown for the wedding night. Each night when Jax got home from work he would marvel at the growing pile of boxes in the corner of the bedroom. No matter how hard he tried, he could not convince Brenda to give him a fashion show of what she had bought. She kept telling him that he’d have to wait for the honeymoon.

November 3, 1996

John and Jane were awakened by the ringing of the bedside phone. John reached over to pick up the phone without even lifting his head from the pillow. “Jacks,” he said sleepily.

“Dad? We’ve got trouble,” Jerry said quickly.

“Jerry? Did you forget about the time difference boy? It’s 4:30 in the morning here,” John said as he struggled to wake up. When he realized what his older son had said he sat up and turned on the light. “What kind of trouble?”

“About a week ago there were a couple of Americans asking questions about Jax and the company all over Melbourne. They even showed up out at the mine, trying to get someone to talk,” Jerry said as he paced back and forth across the corporate lounge at the Melbourne airport.

“Damn!” John said as he pounded his fist against the mattress, causing Jane to sit up and look at him. “Are they still there?”

“No, seems like they’ve just disappeared as suddenly as they appeared.” Jerry stopped pacing when he saw his pilot come through the gate. “I’m on my way to Port Charles right now dad. I should be there either late tonight or early tomorrow. I know it’s asking a lot but is there any way you can get Jax out of town tomorrow? I think the three of us need to talk about this before he knows I’m there.”

John looked over at Jane, who had figured out that trouble was brewing. “I think we can find a way. Call my cell phone when you get to the airport. Your mum and I will meet you.” He looked over at Jane and saw her nod slowly. “In the meantime, call your brother and tell him you’re wrapping something up so you won’t be here until the day of the wedding. But Jerry, wait a few hours to call. If you wake them up at this hour he’ll know something’s up.”

“Gotcha dad. I’ll call him from the plane. Do you know if he’s going in to the office today?” Jerry asked as he started toward the gate.

John smiled for a moment. “No, he’s not planning to go back to the office until after the honeymoon so call him at home later - MUCH LATER!”

“Understood dad, I’ll see you tomorrow,” Jerry said with a chuckle as he closed his cell phone.

When John hung up the phone he rubbed his hand across his forehead and closed his eyes. He opened them when he felt Jane’s hand on his arm. “Someone’s poking around Melbourne trying to find something on Jax.” When he saw the concern on Jane’s face he put his hand on her arm. “It gets worse. They went out to the mine too.”

“Who could be doing this?” Jane asked with a slight tremble in her voice. “Did Jerry know anything about who was asking the questions?”

“Not really, all he knows is that two Americans were asking questions about the family, J&J Jacks and Jax in particular,” John said as he ran his hand across his face again.

“Why now? Who would know about that? That’s ancient history!” Jane said with a trace of anger in her voice.

“I agree,” John said as he shook his head. “Jerry’s on his way here right now. He should be here either very late tonight or early tomorrow.”

Jane could tell that there was something else. “What else did he say?”

John chuckled slightly before answering. “Uh, he doesn’t want Jax to know he’s in town so he wants us to figure out a way to get him out of town for the day tomorrow.”

“John! How does the boy expect us to get Jax out of town the day before his wedding?” Jane demanded. Suddenly she clapped her hands together. “Wait! I’ve got the perfect thing!”

John couldn’t resist smiling at his wife’s enthusiasm. “I knew you would think of something Lady.” He looked at the clock as he reached over to turn off the light. “Good Lord! It’s only 5:00 a.m.! Let’s try to get back to sleep - at least for a few hours.”

8:45 A.M.

Jax and Brenda had hoped to sleep in the remaining days before the wedding. Unfortunately, that was not possible. Adelle had called to let Brenda know that she had some concerns about the final fit of Brenda’s gown so she would be coming to Port Charles herself with the gown to have Brenda try it on one more time, just to make sure. Since she didn’t want to take the chance of Jax seeing her dress, Brenda arranged with Lila for Adelle to meet her at the Quartermaine house, that way she could also go over any last minute problems before the wedding.

Not long after Brenda left for the Quartermaines’ the tailor arrived at the penthouse for a final fitting of Jax’s tuxedo. Just as they finished John arrived for his fitting.

“Good morning son,” John said as he came into the den. “Where’s my beautiful daughter in law?”

“Hi dad,” Jax said as he finished buttoning his shirt. “Brenda’s over at the Quartermaines’ again. She’s having a last fitting for her gown and then going over the final plans for the wedding,” he said with a sigh.

John smiled at his son. “Getting a little overwhelmed are we?” he asked with a chuckle.

“A little,” Jax admitted with a slight nod as he walked over to look out the window as his father changed into his tux. When the tailor was satisfied that no adjustments were needed, John changed back into his regular clothes. “Do you know when Jerry’s getting in? He still needs to be fitted for his tux.”

Before John could answer, the phone on the desk rang. “Jax here.”

“Hello there little brother,” Jerry said. “Getting cold feet yet?”

“Hardly,” Jax said with a laugh. “I certainly hope you’re calling to tell me that you’re about to land in Port Charles.”

“Ah, not exactly,” Jerry said as reluctantly as he could. “I’m actually headed the other way at the moment.” When he heard Jax start to say something he started talking again. “Now don’t get your knickers in a twist little brother. I’m not about to miss your wedding - even if it is the instant replay. This is just a little glitch I have to straighten out first. I’ll probably be there late tomorrow night.”

“You better be Jerry,” Jax said with a trace of anger in his voice. When John heard Jerry’s name he signaled Jax that he wanted to talk to him. “Hang on Jer, dad wants to talk to you.” Jax held out the phone to his father. “He’s off on some last minute business trip.”

“I’ll make sure he’s here son,” John said with a reassuring smile as he took the phone. He waited until Jax left the room to put it to his ear. “What did you tell him?” John asked.

“I told him I was taking care of a last minute business problem so I wouldn’t be in Port Charles until late tomorrow night. Have you figured out a way to get him out of town tomorrow? We really need to talk about this without him.”

“Apparently your mother has something in mind.” John couldn’t resist smiling for a moment. “When do you expect to get here?” he asked, suddenly serious again.

“Seems like we’ve caught a good tailwind so I should be there some time tonight. I’ll take a cab from the airport. No sense you and mum coming out that late. Besides, we don’t want to attract anyone’s attention to my arrival.” Jerry stared out the plane window for a moment. “I’ve got a bad feeling about this dad,” he said sadly.

“I’ve had the same feeling ever since you called son,” John said with a sigh. “We’ve got to stop this Jerry. I’ve never seen your brother this happy or this at peace. We cannot let anyone destroy that!”

“We won’t dad,” Jerry said confidently. “See you tonight.”

John was not surprised to see Jax talking to Jane when he walked into the living room. They were sitting opposite each other on the couches. When he looked at Jane as he came down the stairs he could see in her eyes that she wanted to be alone with Jax. “Sorry that took so long. I’m afraid something Jerry said has me worried about a deal I thought was wrapped up. I’m going to go back to the suite and make some calls just to be sure.”

“Anything I can do to help?” Jax asked as he got up and walked toward his father.

“Not on your life boy!” John said as he shook his head. “You are officially on vacation for the next six weeks! You stay here and talk to your mother until Brenda gets back. I’m sure Jerry will straighten this out in plenty of time. I’m just going to make some calls to check on a few things for him.”

Jax looked at his father suspiciously. “Are you sure dad?”

“Of course I’m sure,” John said as he slapped Jax on the back. “You stay here with your mum until Brenda gets back. Then I want the two of you to relax and enjoy yourselves until the wedding.” He patted Jax on the shoulder before leaving.

Jax closed the door behind his father and turned back to his mother. He exhaled loudly as he ran his fingers through his hair before covering his face with his hands. Jane came up to him and gently ran her hand up and down his arm. “Getting overwhelmed with wedding plans son?” she asked.

When he brought his hands down Jax saw an understanding smile on his mother’s face. “Not really,” he said with a slight smile as he put his hand on top of hers. “But I think it’s really starting to get to Brenda. She tossed and turned most of the night last night. I wish there was something I could do for her.”

Jane couldn’t help smiling. Not just because Jax had just given her the opening she needed to get him out of town for the day but because she knew he meant what he had just said. “You know, I think I might have an idea for you,” she said mysteriously.

“What’s that?” Jax asked.

“Well, the day before our wedding, such as it was, everything was just getting to be too much for us. Your father and I were fighting about everything and nothing.” Jane paused for a moment and smiled.

“So what did you guys do?” Jax asked as he looked intently at his mother.

“We grabbed a sleeping bag and a jug of rotgut wine and headed to the beach. We just walked away from all the confusion and bickering,” she said with a chuckle. “We lit a fire, your father caught a fish - I’m still not sure he didn’t buy it ahead of time and have it on ice at the cove - and just forgot about everything but each other.”

“Come on,” Jax said as he looked at her doubtfully. When he suddenly realized what she was telling him his jaw dropped. “Wait a minute. You don’t mean… You aren’t saying that you guys…”

Jane couldn’t keep from laughing out loud at the shocked expression on Jax’s face. “Don’t look so shocked dear,” she said with a laugh. “It was really amazing, just being alone together. Getting into each other’s drawers was the least of it. We, well I’ll skip the part that bothers you, sat holding each other, watching the sun come up and all of a sudden the idea of the wedding became the perfect way to kill a few hours before going to sleep.”

A huge smile suddenly spread across Jax’s face. “You might just have something there mum,” he said as he rubbed the side of his chin.

“Why? What are you thinking?” Jane asked, trying to sound nervous.

“The wedding night before the wedding - sounds like the perfect way to get Brenda away from all the stress.” He leaned over to give Jane a quick kiss on the cheek. “Thanks mum,” he said as he gave her another kiss.

Jane put her hands on Jax’s upper arms. “Now you listen to me son, I never would have told you any of this if you two weren’t already married,” Jane said as seriously as possible. “So, what are you planning?”

“Don’t worry mum, I won’t tell anyone about your ‘naughty’ past,” Jax said with a laugh. “Now, I need to make some plans before Brenda gets back.” Jax gave his mother a quick hug before wrapping his arm around her shoulders and walking her to the door. As soon as he closed the door, Jax quickly walked over to the desk and started to make their travel arrangements.

Brenda knew something was up the moment she walked through the door. When she tried to get Jax to tell her what was going on all he did was smile. She spent the entire evening trying to get him to tell her what he was planning but without success. After they made love that night she tried one last time as he was falling asleep to get him to tell her but to no avail.

Brenda woke up immediately when she rolled over and realized that she was alone in the bed. “Jax?” she called as she sat up and looked around. She was surprised to see Jax come out of the walk-in closet completely dressed. “What are you doing?”

Jax walked over and sat on the side of the bed next to her. He cupped the side of her face with his hand as he leaned forward to give her a kiss. “I was just finishing my packing,” he said with an innocent smile as he leaned back from her after the kiss.

“Packing? Why are you packing?” she asked nervously. “NO! You can’t go! We’re getting married tomorrow night!”

“Sshh,” Jax said comfortingly as he leaned forward to give her another kiss. “I’m not going anyplace.” When he saw her confused expression he smiled as he stroked her cheek with his fingertips. “We’re going someplace.”

“We are? Where are we going the day before our wedding?” Brenda asked as she sat back against the headboard.

“We’re going on a little pre-honeymoon,” Jax said innocently. “It’s something my mum told me about.” Without giving Brenda a chance to say anything, he stood up and held out his hand to her. “Come on, we need to get going and you haven’t even packed yet.”

Brenda just looked at him for a second, trying to decide if he was kidding. As soon as she realized he was serious a big smile spread across her face as she threw back the covers and jumped out of bed, wrapping her arms tightly around Jax’s waist instead of taking his hand. After holding him tightly for a minute she leaned back and looked up at him. She smiled, stood up on her toes and gave him a quick kiss before running toward the bathroom to get ready.

It only took about twenty minutes for Brenda to shower and dress. As soon as she was done she went into the closet to get a change of clothes to take with her on the trip. As she was packing her things into the overnight bag, Jax was on the phone finalizing their flight plan. “I like the idea of a pre-honeymoon. Is this something they do in Australia?” she asked as she put the last thing in her bag and pulled the zipper closed.

“Only my parents I think,” Jax said with a soft chuckle as he held his hand over the mouthpiece of the phone. “What? Okay, great, we’re on our way.” He glanced at Brenda as he hung up the phone. “The plane is ready and waiting.”

“Good! The only thing this bride wants is to be alone with her groom,” Brenda said softly as she sat next to Jax on the side of the bed and wrapped her arms around his neck, holding him close.

“That’s the idea,” Jax said as he buried his face in the side of her neck for a moment. Leaning back from her and cupping the side of her face with his hand Jax smiled. “Ready?”

“You bet,” Brenda said excitedly.

Jax leaned forward to give her one quick kiss before getting up and extending his hand to her. Brenda smiled as she reached to take his hand, standing up as she did. Jax returned her smile and gave her hand a quick squeeze before letting it go and reaching across the bed to grab their bags.

“By the way, where exactly are we spending this pre-honeymoon?” Brenda asked as they walked out the door of the penthouse. “You never did tell me.”

“I know,” was all Jax said as he set their bags down by the elevator to help Brenda with her jacket before putting on his own. Just as Brenda was about to say something the elevator doors opened. Jax picked up their bags and held his arm toward the open doors to indicate Brenda should get in.

As the elevator started down, Jax looked over at Brenda. “We aren’t going to take the limo to the airport. Okay?”

“Sure,” Brenda said. When she turned toward him and looked up into his eyes she could see he was concerned about something. “What haven’t you said?”

Jax smiled as he slowly shook his head a couple of times. “You know me so well don’t you?”

Brenda lay her hands flat on his chest as she gave him a loving smile. “I plan to know you even better over the next fifty or sixty years,” she said. “Now tell me the reason we aren’t taking the limo.”

“Okay,” Jax said. “Remember the day we had lunch at the Outback and Edward noticed that we were being followed?” he asked. When Brenda nodded he continued. “Well it seems like we’ve suddenly got a permanent tail. Ben has identified the men as Sonny’s goons. As long as they’re just watching Ben’s not going to do anything - for now. We just don’t want them to know we’ve left town. As far as they’ll know, we’re spending the time until the wedding in the penthouse.”

“Why would Sonny be having us followed?” Brenda asked.

“I don’t know. That’s what Ben’s trying to find out. He’s hoping the guys watching us will give him a lead since it appears Sonny is out of the country at the moment.”

Brenda shuddered at the thought of being watched by Sonny’s men. She looked up at Jax and immediately felt her fears subside. She knew in her heart that Jax would keep her safe. She took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “So how are we going to get to the airport without anyone noticing?” she asked calmly.

Jax couldn’t help smiling proudly at her. He could tell that the idea of Sonny’s men watching them bothered her, but he could also tell that she trusted him to keep her safe. “It’s actually very simple. We’re going to take the hotel shuttle. We’ll get in it in the garage before it pulls up in front to pick up the regular hotel guests going to the airport. Since the van has darkly tinted windows no one outside the van will know we’re on it. The driver will drop off the guests at the regular terminal before taking a roundabout route to the corporate terminal to drop us off.”

“Sounds like you and Ben have all the bases covered,” Brenda said as she wrapped her arms loosely around his waist. “Now if you would just tell me where we’re going...”

Jax just smiled at her without saying anything. When the elevator doors opened in the garage Brenda was surprised to see Ben waiting for them. Jax handed their bags to the van driver and wrapped his arm tightly around Brenda’s shoulders. “Everything set?” he asked Ben.

“All clear,” Ben said with a nod as he started toward the van. “Corinthos’ men are parked in front of the hotel waiting to follow you guys if you leave. I’ve got a team standing by in case they get suspicious of the van. Just to be sure I’ll have a couple of my people on the van with you, disguised as guests going to the airport. Any questions?”

“What about when we get to wherever it is we’re going?” Brenda asked as she looked up at Jax and tightened her arm around his waist.

Ben couldn’t help smiling. “Well, since the pilot filed a false flight plan, if anyone should check there’s no way of knowing where you two are going. But on the off chance that you are spotted, I have a team already in place to keep an eye on you - from a discreet distance!” he added when he saw the expression change on Jax’s face. “Now if there aren’t any more questions you had better get in the van. The driver has a schedule to keep and we don’t want to attract attention by making him late.”

Jax and Brenda looked at each other for a moment before looking back at Ben. Jax gave him a quick nod to let him know they were ready to leave and the three of them walked the rest of the way over to the waiting shuttle van. Jax surprised Brenda when he scooped her up into his arms and set her in the very back seat before climbing in next to her. As they were buckling their seatbelts Ben stuck his head in the door and gave them a quick nod before the driver slid the door closed. It only took a minute for them to pull out of the garage and up to the front door of the hotel. When the driver got out and opened the doors, five people quickly boarded the van. There was a middle-aged couple, two businessmen and a very casually dressed young man. As soon as all of the luggage was stowed, the van pulled out into traffic. No one on the van seemed to pay any attention to the young couple already seated in the back when they had boarded.

Several times on the ride to the airport Jax glanced out the back window to see if they were being followed. He did not see anyone. When they got to the airport the driver pulled up to the main terminal. He helped the other passengers get their luggage before closing up the van and pulling away. Jax again glanced out the back window to watch the people who had gotten off. When he didn’t notice anything unusual about their actions nor did he see anyone following them, he turned back around and wrapped his arm around Brenda’s shoulders. He could feel himself start to relax for the first time since leaving the hotel.

Jax and Brenda were surprised when the driver did not stop at the corporate terminal. As Jax was about to say something the van pulled up to the freight hanger and stopped. Brenda looked nervously at Jax, who tightened his arm protectively around her shoulders. When the driver honked the horn the doors of the hanger slowly slid open. Jax and Brenda both relaxed when they saw Clay and Jared standing just inside the door. When Jax glanced up he smiled and nodded for Brenda to look out the windshield. Parked directly in front of them was Jax’s small jet. His pilot was standing next to the steps talking to another of Ben’s security people.

As soon as the van was completely inside the hanger Clay pushed the button to close the door. When the van came to a stop near the plane Jared walked over to open the sliding door for them while the man who had been talking to the pilot opened the back to get their luggage.

“Sorry about all the cloak and dagger stuff Mr. J,” Clay said as he came up to the van. “Ben didn’t want to take a chance on you guys being spotted at the corporate terminal.”

“Not a problem Clay,” Jax said as he and Brenda got out of the van and shook hands with Clay and Jared. “I just wish he had told us about it before we left the hotel.” He glanced over toward the plane and saw that the pilot had finished stowing their bags. When he saw him nod that he was ready to take off, Jax wrapped his arm around Brenda’s shoulders and leaned down to whisper in her ear. “Ready luv?”

Brenda wrapped her arms around Jax’s waist. “Absolutely,” she said as she smiled up at him. She gave Clay and Jared a slight wave as she and Jax started for the plane. “Hi Matt,” she said when the pilot tipped his hat as she started up the steps.

“Good morning Mrs. Jacks, welcome aboard.” He then nodded to Jax as he followed Brenda up the steps. The pilot gave the plane a last check before heading up the steps himself, pulling them up and securing the door behind him. “Better buckle up, we’ll be leaving immediately,” he said as he glanced at Jax and Brenda. By the time he started the engines the field side doors of the hanger were open and he taxied right out. Because there was a lull in takeoffs, they got immediate clearance and were quickly airborne.

Jax refused to tell Brenda their destination for the entire flight. He gave her several vague clues but nothing that gave her any real idea where they were going. All she was able to find out from him was that they were not leaving the US and that they were heading south. When the pilot instructed them to buckle their seatbelts because they were starting their decent, Brenda looked at her watch. They had been in the air about 2 ½ hours. Considering the amount of time she had spent in planes over the past couple of months, she began to suspect that they were heading to one of two cities. She crossed her fingers as the plane touched down, hoping they were where she thought they were.

When the plane came to a complete stop Jax rested his hand on top of hers. “Ready to find out where we are?” he asked when she turned to face him.

“DEFINITELY!” Brenda said as she quickly unbuckled her seatbelt and stood up.

By the time they reached the door someone from the ground crew had opened the door and pulled down the steps. Brenda stopped at the top and looked out. When she saw the welcome sign on the side of the terminal she turned to Jax with a big grin. “NEW ORLEANS! You have no idea how much I was hoping we were coming here!” She reached up and pulled his face to hers for a very passionate kiss. “What made you think of coming to New Orleans for our pre-honeymoon?” she asked when she finally ended their kiss.

Jax smiled at her as he wrapped his arms loosely around her. “A couple of things actually,” he said with an arch of his eyebrow. “I remembered how disappointed you were when you didn’t see New Orleans on your tour itinerary.”

Brenda looked up at him. “What’s the other reason?” she asked with a chuckle as she saw a familiar look in his eyes.

“Well it IS the city of lovers you know,” he said with a wink. “Where better to spend the night before our wedding? Don’t you agree Mrs. Jacks?”

“Most definitely Mr. Jacks,” Brenda agreed eagerly.

With that Jax reached for her hand and started down the steps. When they got to the bottom they immediately wrapped their arms around each other as they walked into the private terminal. As they came through the door one of the terminal attendants came up to them and took their bags from the pilot.

“Welcome to New Orleans Mr. and Mrs. Jackson. Your car and driver are waiting for you out front,” the clerk said as he nodded toward a door to the left of where they were standing.

“Thank you,” Jax said with a slight nod to the man. “We’ll see you here at 10:00 tomorrow. Right Matt?” Jax asked as he turned his attention to their pilot.

“Yes sir. We’re scheduled for a 10:15 takeoff so I’d suggest that you and Mrs. J try to get here a little early if you can,” Matt said with a knowing grin.

Jax and Brenda both gave him a sarcastic smile before following the terminal agent through the door to their waiting car. They spent the next couple of hours just enjoying New Orleans as their driver showed them the sights before stopping at a small cafe’ for lunch. After lunch Jax asked the driver to take them to the French Quarter, where they spent the rest of the afternoon visiting all kinds of little shops. It was already dark by the time they pulled up in front of their hotel.

Brenda was surprised at what she saw when she got out of the car. She had been expecting to see a large luxury hotel but instead she found herself standing in front of what looked like a restored plantation house. When Jax got out of the car she looked at him, her unspoken questions obvious on her face.

After giving the driver instructions about when to pick them up tomorrow and getting their bags out of the trunk, Jax turned his full attention to Brenda. “Well? What do you think?” he asked slightly nervously. “I thought this would be more private than a big luxury hotel. If you don’t like it I’m sure we can get a room elsewhere.”

“It’s perfect Jax,” Brenda whispered as she looked lovingly into his eyes. “Just like everything you do.”

Jax leaned forward to give her a quick kiss. “Come on, let’s get checked in so we can get some dinner.” He picked up both of their bags with one hand and wrapped his free arm around Brenda’s shoulders. As they crossed the short distance to the front door, the doorman came up and took the bags from Jax before opening the door for them.

As soon as he saw the look on Brenda’s face as she looked around the lobby, Jax knew this was the right place for them. It only took them a few minutes to register. Once the desk clerk assured Jax that he would hold onto their keys and would personally see to it that their luggage got to their room and that everything would be as Jax had requested, they headed out to explore the area and get some dinner.

They were crossing a plaza near the hotel when Brenda stopped to make a wish at the fountain. After getting a penny from Jax she turned her back to the fountain, closed her eyes and tossed the penny over her shoulder. She kept her eyes closed for a moment longer before opening them and looking at Jax. She gave him a satisfied smile as she wrapped her arm around his ribs and rested her cheek against his chest.

“Nothing is more perfect than young lovers walking in the moonlight,” said a woman who approached them with a thick French accent. When she got closer to them she looked into both of their faces. “Ah, but you are not just lovers on a getaway are you? You are already married and have come to celebrate your union.”

“How do you know that?” Brenda asked in amazement.

The woman just smiled and held up a deck of tarot cards. “The cards tell many things,” she said mysteriously. “Care to find out more?”

“Can we honey?” Brenda asked excitedly.

“Are you serious?” Do you really believe in this foolishness?” Jax asked as he let out a slightly frustrated sigh.

“No, not really,” Brenda said. "But, how do you explain her knowing that we’re already married?”

Jax slowly shook his head as he reached for her left hand and held it up next to his, showing both of their wedding rings.

Brenda exhaled loudly. “Please Jax?” she asked with a pleading tone in her voice as she looked up at him.

Jax could not help chuckling at her expression. “You know I can never say no to you,” he said as he held up his hands in surrender.

With a squeal of delight Brenda jumped up and wrapped her arms tightly around his neck. As Jax held her tightly against him Brenda gave him several quick kisses before sliding slowly down his body until her feet touched the ground. She stood silently staring into his eyes for several moments before suddenly releasing her hold on him and turning to look at the fortuneteller. “I’ve never done this before. What do I have to do?”

The fortuneteller smiled at her and held her hand out toward a wrought iron table near them. She walked over and sat down, indicating that Brenda should take the seat opposite her. As soon as Brenda sat down, Jax stepped behind her and put his hands on her shoulders. After cutting the cards as she was told, Brenda reached up to put one hand on top of Jax’s, without looking away from the fortuneteller.

After telling Brenda that her name was Demera, the fortuneteller finished shuffling the tarot cards and began telling Brenda’s fortune. “I see that you have both seen much pain in your young lives.” She looked up from the cards to smile at both Jax and Brenda. “But that is also what led you to each other.”

Brenda squeezed Jax’s hand and looked up at him for a moment. She quickly turned back when she heard Demera draw a quick breath. “What’s wrong?” she asked nervously.

“I see danger. Someone with two faces will try to come between you. If they cannot separate you there could be harm - for both of you,” Demera said seriously as she turned over several more cards. “There will be much pain for you both because of the actions of others seeking to protect you.” Brenda squeezed Jax’s hand harder when she felt him tense up as Demera turned over the next card. A smile spread slowly across Demera’s face as she set down the pile of cards and took Brenda’s hand in both of hers. “You needn’t worry my sweet, your love will protect you - both of you.” She almost laughed when she was the disgusted expression on Jax’s face. She slowly collect her cards and stood up. “Take care of each other my children. You have been given a very precious gift, don’t let anyone take it away.”

Brenda stood up and wrapped her arm around Jax’s waist, resting her other hand on his chest. “We will. I’m realizing more and more each day what a precious gift our love is. There is no way we’ll ever let it slip away. Right honey?” she asked as she looked up at Jax.

Jax wrapped his arm around her shoulders and bent down to kiss the tip of Brenda’s nose. “Right,” he said with a smile at her. His smiled turned into a look of anger when he looked over at Demera for a moment. “What do you say we go get some dinner?” he asked as he looked down at Brenda, his smile having returned again.

“Sounds good to me,” she said softly as she smiled lovingly at him. “Let’s go,” she said brightly. As they started to walk away Brenda stopped and turned back to Demera. “Thank you. Can we pay you something?”

“You are very welcome my dear,” Demera said with a smile. Before turning and walking away into the crowd of tourists she looked directly at Jax. “There is no payment necessary. Just take care of each other.” She smiled sincerely at Jax and walked away.

Jax and Brenda had dinner at a small restaurant near their hotel. When they finished eating they slowly walked back to the hotel with their arms wrapped around each other. When they got to the lobby they stopped at the front desk to pick up the keys to their room. The same clerk who had checked them in handed Jax their keys. “Everything is as you requested sir. Please let me know if there is anything else we can do for you or your wife.”

“Thanks,” Jax said with a smile. “Actually, there is one more thing,” Jax said as he glanced at Brenda with a smile. “Please make sure we are not disturbed for the rest of the night.”

“Of course sir. I’ll make sure that the staff is informed. I hope you and your bride will have a pleasant evening,” he said politely as he gave first Brenda and then Jax a slight nod.

“I’m sure we will, thank you,” Jax said before turning his full attention to Brenda. “Ready?”

“More than ready,” Brenda said as she wrapped her arm around Jax’s waist.

When they got to their room Jax unlocked the door and pushed it open. When Brenda started to walk in Jax swept her up in his arms. “What do you think you’re doing?” he asked as he looked into her startled eyes.

“I was walking into our hotel room,” Brenda said innocently as she rubbed the backs of her fingers across his cheek.

“And deny me the pleasure of carrying you across the threshold?” Jax asked as he leaned forward to give her a quick kiss before stepping into the room and gently kicking the door closed behind them. When they finally managed to look away from each other they both started to look around the room.

Brenda was so amazed at what she saw that she squirmed around in Jax’s arms to let him know that she wanted him to put her down. It took Jax a second to realize what she wanted because he was as amazed as she was by the room. He slowly set her down as they both looked around.

“Jax this place is amazing,” Brenda said in a soft voice as she walked further into the room. She ran her fingertips lightly across the furniture as she walked over to the open French doors and looked out. “Oh my God Jax! There’s even a terrace!”

“No wonder they call this the Hotel For Lovers. It’s unbelievable,” he said as he walked up behind Brenda and wrapped his arms around her. “I just can’t believe I let you talk me into seeing that fortuneteller.”

Brenda turned around within the circle of his arms. “I thought she was fantastic,” she said as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Oh come on! Don’t tell me you believed all of that? ‘There is ‘DANGER’!” Jax said sarcastically. When Brenda pulled herself up and wrapped her legs around his waist he moved his hands to support her bottom and looked into her eyes.

“Yes, but she did say that our love will survive,” Brenda said as she ran her fingers through his hair.

“Right, love conquers all,” Jax said with a disgusted chuckle as he walked over and sat on the edge of the bed. As he sat down, Brenda got up on her knees and leaned close to him.

“I think it’s more like love heals everything. At least that’s what it did for us. Our love helped us to heal the pain in our hearts so that we could give ourselves to each other completely.” Brenda leaned her forehead against his as she ran her fingers through his hair again.

Jax slid his hands up her back as he leaned back a little and looked into Brenda’s eyes. “She didn’t say it that way,” he said softly as he reached up to pull her face to his and kissed her passionately. As he kissed her again and again he slid one hand onto her back and slid the other into her hair to hold her close. Without breaking their kiss he tightened his arms around her and suddenly turned them around so that she was lying beneath him.

Brenda squealed as Jax rolled them onto the bed. She ran her fingers into his hair as he began to kiss a trail down the side of her neck. She couldn’t help giggling when Jax began to drag his tongue up the side of her neck.

When he heard Brenda giggle Jax leaned up and looked into her eyes. As soon as he saw her love for him in her eyes and the smile on her lips he knew this trip had been exactly what they had both needed. Without looking away from her face he suddenly started tickling her. Brenda began to laugh out loud as she tried to slap his hands away. Eventually she was able to get out from under him, run across the room and out onto the terrace with Jax right behind her.

As Brenda stood at the railing watching a storm move in off the gulf, Jax stopped in the doorway to look at her. “Do you have any idea how much I love you?” he asked as he slowly walked toward her.

Brenda turned and smiled at him when she heard his voice. “I think so,” she said. She crossed her arms in front of herself as she slowly shook her head. “Everyone always told me that love was not a rational feeling. But being here with you seems like the most rational thing in the world to me.”

“I think love can be rational - sometimes,” Jax said as he smiled at her. “In our case, you just happen to be married to a man who is completely sure what ‘is in his heart when it comes to you and I think you feel the same way.”

“Jax, I…” Brenda said softly as she fought back the tears threatening to spill out of her eyes.

Jax reached up to cup the side of her face. When Brenda tilted her head tighter into his hand he could feel a lump form in his throat. “What I’m trying to say luv is that every time I look into your eyes I feel like I can see into my own soul because you are a part of my soul,” he said in a hushed voice as he looked deep into her eyes. “Everything about you excites me. Everything about you, about us, seems to be exactly as it’s supposed to be - the laughter in your eyes, the touch of your lips on mine, the warmth of your skin when I touch it.” Jax smiled as he gently ran his thumb across her cheek. “The way we fit so perfectly in bed together,” he said with an inviting arch of his eyebrow that made her smile. “You know, being with you right now, right here, feels like everything in my entire life was leading me to this moment - to you.”

There was a loud clap of thunder as the storm Brenda had been watching move in off the gulf made its presence known, but neither she nor Jax paid any attention to it. They continued to stare at each other as Jax took both of Brenda’s hands in his. “Maybe I’m not saying this right…” Just then there was another clap of thunder as the rain suddenly poured down on them.

Jax flinched at the sudden rain but Brenda remained unmoving, oblivious to the increasing downpour. Finally, she reached up to stroke Jax’s cheek. “You said it perfectly Jax. You said everything I’m feeling in my heart,” she said softly as she stepped closer to him.

Jax wrapped his arms loosely around Brenda’s waist as she wrapped her arms around his neck. They began to slowly dance to the music that was drifting up from the street below. As they continued to dance, totally absorbed in each other, neither one of them noticed that the storm around them was getting worse.

As they danced, Brenda slid her hands from around Jax’s neck and rested them on his chest. She reached to brush a lock of wet hair off of her face before reaching for the buttons on his shirt. Because it was so wet she had some trouble getting them open. Once she had opened the first few buttons, she leaned forward to place a kiss above his heart.

When Brenda leaned back to look up at him, Jax leaned down and wrapped his arms around her waist. He lifted her up and kissed her passionately. Without breaking the kiss he carried her inside, setting her down near the bed. He finally leaned back from her slightly without releasing his arms.

Brenda took a deep breath and let it out slowly as she finished unbuttoning his shirt and pushed it off of his shoulders and down his arms. It took several tugs for her to pull the wet shirt out of his pants. When she finally managed to get it off of him, she dropped it on the floor before gently running her hands across his wet chest, never taking her eyes off of his face. She smiled seductively at him as she gently ran her fingertips across his nipples.

Jax lifted her fingers from his chest and brought them to his lips, kissing each finger separately without looking away from her eyes. As he saw them start to cloud over with passion he let go of her hands and started to unbutton her shirt. The wet silk fabric made it difficult to open the buttons so he just grabbed the edges of the shirt and ripped it open, sending the buttons flying around the room. He pulled it off her shoulders and down her arms in one quick motion. He then wrapped his arms around her waist as he bent down to kiss her lips passionately.

When Jax’s lips touched hers, Brenda wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled herself up, wrapping her legs tightly around his waist. She began to intensify their kisses as Jax backed toward the bed. When he stopped at the edge of the bed she tilted her legs up so that he could sit down with her in his lap. She finally ended their kisses as she shifted herself so that she was sitting on his thighs, her knees astride his hips. She leaned forward to gently place a kiss above his heart.

Jax wrapped his arms around Brenda and pulled her close to him. He stroked his hands across her back as he kissed her, stopping to unhook her bra and pull it off of her. Brenda sat back on his thighs as he cupped her breasts in his hands. She moaned softly as he leaned forward to kiss and caress her breasts. She slid closer to him as he caressed her with growing intensity. She raised up on her knees as she slid her fingers into the hair on the back of his head, drawing his mouth further onto her breast. When she heard him moan softly she sighed and pulled him closer. As Jax shifted his mouth to her other breast, Brenda could feel his desire for her pressing against her. She wrapped herself around him as she felt her hold on reality start to slip.

Unable to wait any longer, Jax wrapped his arms around her tightly and flipped them over so that she was now lying beneath him, her legs wrapped around his thighs. He gave her breast one more stroke of his tongue before kissing a path up her neck and across her cheek to her mouth.

As Jax kissed her again and again, Brenda slowly slid her hands across his back and released her hold on his legs. She slowly brought her hands around to stroke his chest. When their kisses finally ended for a moment to allow them to breathe, she looked up into his eyes. As soon as she saw the passion and desire in his eyes she felt her last trace of self-control start to slip away. "I want you so much," she said softly as she slid her hands down his chest to undo the button on his pants. As she started to slide down the zipper Jax raised his hips slightly to let her pull it the rest of the way down. She hooked her thumbs in the waist and pulled both his pants and boxers down.

Jax kissed Brenda one more time before standing up to finish undressing. When he was finished he leaned over her to give her a quick kiss. After ending the kiss he looked down at her for a moment. When he saw the passion in her eyes he leaned down and placed a quick kiss on each of her nipples before standing up and hooking his thumbs into the waist of her leggings, pulling the rest of her clothes off in one stroke. After dropping her things on the floor with his, Jax stood looking down at her until she held her arms up to him. He slowly lay down on her without ever looking away from her eyes.

It only took one passionate kiss for Brenda to loose the last bits of control she was still holding on to. As their kisses continued, she slowly slid her hands down his chest and beyond. Jax moaned when he felt her gentle touch.

Unable to wait any longer, Jax made them one with a single stroke, causing them both to groan in delight. He began to slowly make love to her. He continued to kiss her with increasing passion as he did. It wasn’t long before they both gave themselves over to a climax so intense that it took their breath away. Jax collapsed on top of her, somehow remembering to brace his arms on each side of her to keep from crushing her beneath him.

It took several minutes for either of them to move. When Jax started to roll off of her, Brenda linked her legs around his thighs to keep him close. “No Jax, don’t,” she whispered as she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed his chest. “I want to stay like this as long as possible.”

Jax gently kissed her neck several times before lifting his head to look at her. “I don’t want to hurt you,” he said as he reached to push a lock of hair from her face.

“You could never hurt me,” Brenda said with a loving smile.

“You were amazing,” Jax said softly as he kissed the tip of her nose.

“I was just following your lead,” Brenda said with a very satisfied smile as she brushed a lock of hair from his forehead. She couldn’t help smiling when she saw Jax blush. When Jax leaned his forehead against her shoulder to hide his blush, Brenda kissed the top of his head before resting her cheek on his hair.

After lying silently snuggled together for several minutes, Jax finally moved to kiss her breast and flick the nipple with his tongue. He then shifted his attention to her other breast as Brenda ran her fingers into his hair, pulling him closer and inviting him to take more of her breast into his mouth.

Jax continued to suckle Brenda’s breast, causing her to moan softly as she felt his desire for her increase. She tightened her hold on him as he brushed his fingertips across her nipple. As he began to make love to her very slowly she could feel her passion taking complete control of her again. She began to make love to him with the same intensity that he was showing her. It wasn’t long before she could feel her sense of reality disappearing again.

After feeling Brenda give herself over to her climax, Jax stroked into her one more time before joining her. As he felt his senses return, he rolled off of her and pulled her close to him. When he tilted her face up he could see the confusion in her eyes as she struggled back to reality. He pulled her over so that she was lying partly on top of him before pulling the covers over them. He smiled at the sound of her sigh when she snuggled comfortably around his body. She leaned forward to place a kiss on his chest before wrapping her arm around him and dozing off.

It wasn’t long before they were once again making love. They spent the rest of the night making love and dozing off until finally falling asleep in each other’s arms, totally satisfied and ready to face anything.

Brenda slowly became aware of something brushing against her neck. As she woke a little more she realized what she was feeling was Jax kissing the back of her neck. She moved slightly and pulled his arms more tightly around her as she lay spooned tightly in front of him.

When he realized that Brenda was awake, Jax lifted his head to kiss her cheek. “Good morning,” he said sweetly as he kissed her again.

“It’s still dark Jax,” Brenda groaned as she opened her eyes for a second. She pulled his arm a little more tightly around her as she closed her eyes again.

“But the sun’s already up in Port Charles and I’m sure the weatherman says that it’s perfect weather for a wedding,” Jax said as he kissed the side of her neck.

Unable to keep from smiling, Brenda rolled part way over so that she could look at Jax. “It’s really going to happen isn’t it? We’re really going to get married again - in front of our family?” she asked softly as she reached up to caress his cheek.

“Unless you’ve changed your mind it sure is,” Jax whispered as he snuggled his face against hers.

“Never,” Brenda said firmly. “You’re stuck with me until death do us part,” she said as she rolled back onto her side and pulled his arm back around her. After lying snuggled together for several minutes Brenda started to get up. “So, what are we waiting for?” She was surprised when Jax tightened his arms around her to keep her in the bed.

“This,” Jax said huskily as he kissed the side of her neck and brushed his fingertips across her nipples, which responded immediately since they were still sensitive from their intense lovemaking last night.

Brenda moaned softly as she felt her body responding to his touch. When she felt his desire for her pressing against her back she turned her head to look at him. “Oh God Jax,” she moaned. “You’ve got to be kidding.”

As he continued kissing her he could feel her body respond to his touch. “I’d never kid about something like this - especially not on my wedding day,” he said as he started to kiss down the side of her neck.

Brenda pulled away from him slightly and rolled onto her back. She turned her head and kissed him passionately, pulling him over on top of her as she did. She gently slid her hand down between them to guide him to her. Arching up against him she slowly made them one. She slid her hands down his back, eager to deepen their connection.

Unable to hold back in the face of Brenda’s desire, Jax pressed into her, completing their connection. He remained motionless, reveling in her desire for him. When he felt her tighten her hold on him he began to slowly move within her. It wasn’t long before they were both totally lost in the passion of their lovemaking. When they finally gave themselves over to their climax it was so intense that it was several minutes before either of them could feel their heartbeat returning to anything near normal.

When she was finally able to move again, Brenda stroked the backs of her fingers across Jax’s cheek. When he lifted his head from her breast and looked up at her she cupped the side of his face in her hand. “How on earth did you find the strength to do that? After last night I wasn’t even sure you would have the strength to get out of bed this morning,” she said with a very satisfied smile.

“I always have the strength to make love to you,” Jax said with a wink as he leaned forward to give her passion-swollen lips a quick kiss. He slid his hand up and down her arm as he gave her several more quick kisses. “You better go take your shower,” he said with a trace of sadness in his voice. “We have to be at the airport by 10:00.”

Brenda pushed herself up slightly as she leaned forward to give Jax a quick kiss. “Okay,” she said with a sigh. She silently looked into his eyes for several moments. “I need to tell you something before we go back to the real world,” she said seriously as she cupped the side of his face.

Jax smiled for a second at her remark about the real world but it quickly faded when he heard the tone in her voice. “Sure, what is it?” he asked as he looked up at her.

“I need to thank you,” she said after taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly. “Not just for this trip or even last night,” she said with a slight smile. When she saw him start to say something she put her finger on his lips. “Please, let me finish.” She waited until Jax nodded. “No one has ever loved me the way that you do Jax. You loved me enough to trust me with your deepest, most painful secret. I just want you to know that I will never do anything to betray that trust. I couldn’t - I love you too much,” she said as tears started to form in her eyes.

Jax sat up and wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her close to him. He tilted her face up to his and cupped the side in his hand. “I know that,” he said softly as he smiled at her. “Brenda, I’ve never felt like this before. I didn’t know it was possible to love someone as much as I love you.” He pulled her face to his for one more passionate kiss. When he ended the kiss he lifted her away as he opened his eyes. He smiled at the expression he saw on her face when he did. She truly looked like a woman in love. “Now you really do have to start getting ready. We have to leave for the airport soon or they’re going to be starting the wedding without the bride and groom.”

“Okay,” she said as she gave him a quick kiss before crawling out of bed and walking into the bathroom.

When he heard the water turn on, Jax got out of bed and put on the boxers they had thrown on the floor last night. As he waited for Brenda to finish in the shower he picked up their clothes from yesterday and put them into his overnight bag. Between the rain and their ‘eagerness’ last night, there was no need for careful packing. He made a mental note to have Addie call Adele and have a new blouse made for Brenda. The one she had worn yesterday was no longer wearable. When he finished he stood at the open terrace doors, looking out at the New Orleans skyline as the sun was coming up. He leaned against the doorframe and crossed his arms in front of himself. This was definitely going to be the best day of his life, he thought with a smile. There were no more secrets in either of their lives that could ever hurt them again. He intended to spend the rest of his life making sure that Brenda stayed as happy as he knew she was today.

When he heard the water turn off in the shower he took one last look out at the scenery before walking back into the room to get ready for their flight back to Port Charles. As he did, he suddenly remembered what his mother had said about her own pre-honeymoon and smiled. It did feel like the wedding was going to be the perfect way to spend a few hours before going to bed with the woman he loved more than life itself.