Title: Faith

Author: Jaimie

Feedback: JaimieLH@aol.com

Rating: PG to NC17

Category: WIP

Type: Romance

Summary: This story begins where Courtney was

kidnapped. The beginning of the story is the actual

dialogue from the show up until Jason kisses Courtney.

The rest of the story is all mine.

Faith

Chapter One

c 2003

"So we're stuck?"

"Looks that way."

"For how long, do you think?"

"I don't know."

"You know, not too long ago, this was all we needed, or wanted -- just the two of us in our own little world where no one else could touch us. Why can't it be that way again?" Courtney paused for a moment when he didn't respond, "Being together used to be all we needed. The whole world would disappear."

"Yeah, we -- we didn't arrange this. Someone kidnapped you and they brought you up here, and they called me to tell me where you were. They took your coat. They

took your shoes. After I got here, they slashed my tires. Someone obviously wanted us stuck up here for a reason."

"Yeah, but, Jason, no one has shown up. We're all alone."

"It's a setup. It's got to be -- get me out of town to distract Sonny -- something. Something --"

"Did you realize that this could be a trap?"

"Yeah."

"But you came anyway."

"I wasn't going to let anyone hurt you."

"Yeah, I know. I always feel safe with you. When we were in the car during that blizzard, you told me that you loved me. Did you say it because you thought you

were dying? Did you really mean it?"

"Why are you bringing this up?"

"Because I need to know. When you told me you love me, was it because you were close to dying and we were in the freezing cold and there was no one there to rescue us? What, you figured that saying it would somehow help me survive?" she asked, her eyes desperately pleading with him to tell her it wasn't all a lie.

"That wasn't why I said it."

"So you meant it?"

"It doesn't matter."

"Loving each other is all that matters."

Jason`s voice began to rise with the mounting tension he felt, "This kidnapping is proof of what's going to happen to you if you're around me."

"But I'm not hurt."

His voice softened, "No, you're not, not this time."

"Jason, you're a target. Ok, you accept the risks. Why shouldn't I be able to --"

Jason quickly cut her off, "Because I'm not going to let you risk yourself because of me."

"Jason, when people love each other, they find a way to be together. They find a way to make it work."

"That's what I'm trying to tell you -- we can't work. My work is nothing that you can be a part of."

"And I accept that!"

"And the only way to keep you out of it is for me to stay away from you."

"So -- so you're just going to write us off, not even give us a chance?"

He stared back at her, the coldness that was once in his eyes beginning to fade, "There is no chance."

"There is if we try. I mean, we can get creative. We can find ways to be together where you think I'm safe. We have something wonderful. You don't think that that's worth fighting for?"

"Just let it -- just let it go, Courtney." he pleaded.

She refused to give in, "Unless I'm wrong. Unless you just don't feel the same way about me.."

"What -- what is it that you want me to say? What is it?" his voice rising again.

Much to Jason's shock, Courtney's voice began to rise as well, "I just want you to tell me the truth!"

"Why can't you get this? I need you to stay away from me because I love you!" His harsh tone softened as he continued, "I haven't stopped caring about you. I've just been trying to do what's right for everyone else."

"What about you?" she whispered.

"It's killing me. All I think about is being with you." Jason reached out for her, and she fell into his embrace willingly. Their lips touched for the first time in weeks. Tears sprang to Courtney's eyes as she let herself get lost in the arms of the man she loved. Nothing else mattered as long as she was with him; not Sonny, not AJ, not the kidnappers, no one. Jason broke away suddenly, still holding her face in his hands. "We have to stop."

"Jason please_.I just want you to love me."

"I do love you but_"

Courtney place her slim finger to his lips to silence him, "Just let us have this moment. Just once more to help get us through whatever comes next." His head was telling him to stop it before they went too far, but his heart needed her too much. His thumbs gently caressed her cheeks as he spoke.

"It wouldn't change anything. We still can't be together."

"Shhhh, please just make love to me Jason." She whispered pulling his lips to hers once more. This time he didn't pull away. He pulled her tighter against his body, relishing the feel of having her in his arms again. Courtney's hands ran under his shirt, tracing every muscle on his back and chest before pulling it off him. She broke their kiss only to trail more kisses down his neck, all over his beautiful chest and back up again. Jason's hands left their spot on her ass, inching their way under her shirt till his fingers were brushing against the sensitive flesh of her breasts. She moaned softly as Jason kissed her neck as his hands continued to caress and tease her breasts. Within seconds, Jason added Courtney's shirt and bra to the pile of clothes on the floor. She shivered slightly from the chill, but the chill was long forgotten when Jason's mouth covered her nipple gently sucking, licking, and nibbling driving her insane with desire. Courtney's hands soon found their way inside his jeans, her small hand rubbing his member tenderly before pushing his jeans and boxer briefs to the floor. She ran her hands back up his strong legs, grabbed his ass and pulled his hardness against her center.

"Courtney.." he moaned as she ground her hips against him. He quickly lifted her into his arms as he carried her towards the bedroom. Once he released her, she began to unbutton her jeans but Jason stopped her.

"What?" she asked, her voice trembling with desire.

"Let me." he said as he slowly slid her jeans down her legs. His lips gently kissed her stomach before his fingers began to play with the top of her white lace

panties. He could tell she was already wet which only turned him on more. Jason rose back up her body, kissing her lips with fierce passion. He finally slid his hand inside her panties causing her to moan against his mouth the moment his fingers slid inside her. Courtney groaned in frustration when Jason pulled his magical fingers away to remove her panties. There was no other barriers left between them. Courtney pushed Jason back onto the bed, quickly straddling his waist, grinding her center against his straining manhood. She leaned over and gently kissed his lips.

"I love you Jason." she whispered before she guided him inside her. They both closed their eyes, releasing a long moan as they joined once more. She remained

still for a moment allowing herself to adjust to his size before she slowly began to move her hips. Up and down, back and forth she moved, speeding up her pace, driving them both insane. Jason quickly flipped her over, giving him the control. He slowed down their pace wanting this moment with her to last as long as possible. Courtney protested slightly, writhing beneath him, willing him to quicken his pace. His hands gently cupped her face, brushing away the few stray blonde locks that cling to her moist cheeks. Jason place slow, soft kisses on her forehead, her eyes, her nose, her cheeks, her neck, until he finally kissed her lips. His gentle touches seemed to calm her as she melted against him. He kept his slow pace until

the need for release got unbearable. He quickened his pace, as Courtney wrapped her legs around his waist to get further penetration. Jason could feel her orgasm

approaching. As soon as she tightened around him, he came spilling deep inside her, "Courtney.." They lay together, lost in the glorious afterglow of their lovemaking. Courtney loved feeling his weight on top of her small form. Their bodies fit so perfectly together. After a while, Jason slowly rolled off her, but her still wrapped his arms around her body holding her close.

"Thank you." she whispered her fingers drawing lazy circles over his chest.

"For what?"

"For loving me and for giving me this moment."

"I didn't..I didn't want to stop because I knew this would be the last time I'd get to hold you in my arms again."

"It doesn't have to be this way. We love each other, doesn't that matter to you?"

Jason sighed heavily, sitting up beside her, "We've been over this Courtney. It's too dangerous for you to be with me. I will NOT let you die for loving me."

"Jason_"

"Please stop. I told you before this happened that things wouldn't change." he grabbed his clothes from the floor and began putting them back on as he spoke.

"I shouldn't have let this happen."

"Stop it!" she said, her tone harsh but her eyes showed unshed tears. "You can push me away all you want but I will NEVER stop loving you and I will NEVER give up hope. You can't make me stop loving you Jason no matter how hard you try. Don't you see_.everything that's happened to us in our lives has all led us to

where we are now. I thank God every day that Sonny sent you to watch over me. As much as I hate Sonny right now for what he's doing to us I do owe him for bringing you into my life. You are the best thing that's ever happened to me and I will not apologize to anyone for loving you. Jason, when are you going to realize that you deserve to be happy, we deserve to be happy together." She paused, but he remained silent. She looked down for a moment, running her fingers through her hair before looking back up to him. "You say you don't want me to die for loving you. What do you think you're doing to me? Every minute we are apart I'm dying inside. It hurts so much sometimes, that I think death would be merciful." Jason looked as if he were going to speak, but Courtney cut him off with the simple gesture of her hand for him to stop. "Unless you're going to tell me you want to be with me despite Sonny's demands I don't want to hear it Jason. I'm so tired. I'm tired of fighting you, I'm tired of fighting Sonny, I'm tired of fighting AJ, I'm so sick of it all. I'm through Jason. You know how much I love you and that I would do anything for you_for us. I just don't know what to say or do to try to change your mind anymore. You and Sonny want me to go away to college, to move on and start another life away from Port Charles and everyone I love. I'm not going

anywhere Jason. I still have the hope inside me that you will come back to me someday. It may not be today, tomorrow, next week, or even next month, but someday. There will never be another man for me. I've had a taste of what true love really is. After that, there's no going back and I won't settle for anything less." By the time she was finished, tears were streaming down her cheeks. She too began reaching for her clothes to redress, not bothering to try to wipe away

the tears that were still falling down her face. Jason's heart was aching more than ever as he watched her gather her things before walking back into the living room. Part of him, the part that was ALWAYS loyal to Sonny was telling him that no matter what this was for the best for both of them. The pain would eventually go away, and she will move on from him. The other part of him, the part he kept buried so deep inside he thought no one would be able to reach it again was crying out for her. All he wanted was to reach out and hold onto her and their love forever. He made his way back into the living room and found her sitting on the couch pulling her socks back on. Once she was finished she hugged her knees to her chest, trying to keep herself warm, but she never looked up at him. He bent down to retrieve his leather jacket and held it out to her.

"Put this on."

"I'm fine." she replied coldly. He felt a piece of his heart shatter. She was beginning to shut down all of her emotions, becoming this empty shell of the warm

caring woman he had fallen in love with.

"You're freezing. Please just put this on." he spoke softly, seeing a flicker of warmth return to her eyes. She didn't say anything, she just took the jacket from him and wrapped it around her body. They sat in silence as Jason pulled his shoes back on, but that was when they heard something outside. Courtney's heart stopped for a moment, Jason quickly reached for his gun. He held his finger to his lips urging Courtney to remain quiet. Suddenly Jason flung open the door, his gun pointed ready to fire. He stood there in shock when he found himself staring into the eyes of his best friend, his mentor_Sonny

Faith

Chapter Two

c 2003

"Sonny_" Jason began as he tucked his gun back inside his jeans. "How did you find us?"

"I was with Carly and I got a call telling me you were up her with Courtney." he replied as he walked past Jason and into the cabin. He saw Courtney sitting curled up on the couch with tear-stained cheeks. "What's going on Jason?"

"Courtney was kidnapped today. The kidnappers called me and told me where she was. When I got here they slashed my tires so we couldn't leave."

"Your cell phone?"

"We're too far up the mountain to get a signal. Look Sonny, Courtney and I didn't plan this. It's obviously someone else's attempt to make it look like I was betraying you and going behind your back."

"Are you?"

Jason stared back at him with cold eyes, "I have done EVERYTHING you've ever asked me to do. I protect you, I protect Carly, I protect Michael, I protect your business, and I even protected your sister when YOU asked me too. I gave up the woman I love because you told me to. When is it ever going to be enough?"

"That's enough!" Sonny yelled. "I will not discuss this in front of my sister."

"Both of you stop!" Courtney screamed. "Sonny don't you know when you've won. Look at me, is my heart not shattered in enough pieces for you to see that Jason has done EXACTLY what you asked him to do. Do I look happy? Don't you think if Jason and I were up here to be together I wouldn't be sitting here with tears running down my face and my heart torn out."

"Don't you see Courtney? This is why you can't be together. Being with Jason puts you in danger and I will NOT let you die because of him."

"You know what Sonny? This is my life and I choose to live it the way I want to. You can't make me choose who to love and when to love. You're not God. You may

have control over Jason because he feels obligated to do everything you tell him to, but you don't have that control over me. You know after I realized you were right about AJ, I thought maybe I was wrong about you. All you were trying to do was protect me all along. Now I know better. It was never about protecting me,

you wanted to control me and everything I did and who I did it with. That's not going to happen Sonny. I love Jason and I will never give up on us. One day he

will come back to me and there's nothing you can say or do that will tear us apart again."

Sonny stared at her silently for a moment, "Courtney go wait in the car."

"This is one time I will listen to you. I'm tired of listening to your holier than thou voice anyway." She pulled Jason's coat over he shoulders and stormed out

of the cabin.

Jason continued his cold stare as Sonny turned to him, "Do you have any idea who kidnapped her?"

"It could have been any of your enemies, but my guess is Faith."

"She's going after the ones I love the most." he said mainly to himself. He sighed heavily, bringing himself out of his own thoughts and looked up at Jason again, "I want 24 hour protection on Courtney."

"She's not going to let us keep a guard on her and you know that Sonny."

"I don't care what she wants. Courtney is stubborn, and she's angry right now. She's not thinking straight. Keep him in the shadows, do whatever you have to do but I want her protected."

"Fine." he said, knowing he wasn't going to give on this.

Sonny looked up at Jason again, his face blank. "I'm sorry for doubting you. I know that you would never betray me. You've done everything I've asked of you not matter what the cost. I just worry about her safety."

"Sonny you know I would never do anything to hurt her."

"Not intentionally. I never wanted to hurt Lily either, but look what happened. All she ever did was love me and all that did was get her killed."

"How is Carly any different?"

"My point is Carly and Michael are always going to be in danger because they are my family. I don't want Courtney to have to live that way. She deserves more

than that."

"She's still your family Sonny. Nothing will ever change the fact that she is your sister."

"She'll be in more danger with you than she will away from you."

"I've pushed her away and broken her heart. What more can I do Sonny?"

"I can see the way you look at her Jason. You must maintain your distance from her otherwise you will crack and give into your feelings."

Jason turned away from him, afraid that if he looked into his eyes right then he would know that he already had. He vowed to himself that he wouldn't let his feelings for her overrule his head again. She wasn't safe with him, and that was something she would just have to learn to accept. "I know." was all Jason said.

"Let's get out of here."

They left the cabin in silence. No one spoke a word the entire ride back to Port Charles.

Faith

Chapter Three

c 2003

~*~*~*~*~Two Weeks Later~*~*~*~*~*

Jason watched Courtney through the window as she smiled and laughed with the customers at Kelly's. It had been two weeks since the incident at the cabin and he had barely spoken to her since. He saw her walk back towards the kitchen the smile that was once on her face disappearing and the sadness that seemed to always occupy her lately returning. It killed him to see her in so much pain and to know that it was his fault she was hurting so much. Since the kidnapping incident everything quieted down for a while. Jason kept a guard on Courtney at all times just as Sonny ordered, but from time to time he would come by and give the guard a break just so he could be near her for a while. He never let her see him, but he watched every move she made. Jason could tell the last couple weeks had been hard on her. She looked tired all the time and her normally fair complexion seemed even paler somehow. He wanted to make sure she was alright, but he knew he couldn't do it himself. He quickly pulled out his cell phone and dialed an all too familiar number.

"Hello?"

"Carly, it's Jason."

"Hey, is everything okay?" she asked, her voice full of concern.

"I need you to do me a favor." Jason sighed, "I need you to come to Kelly's and make sure Courtney is alright. She looks like she might be coming down with something. I just want to make sure she's okay."

"Why can't you talk to her Jason? I'm sure she'd love to hear your concern for her." she gently pushed.

"Because I can't Carly and you know it. Will you please just do this for me?" he asked, beginning to get agitated with her.

"Yes I will. Don't get so upset okay. I just think it wouldn't kill you to show Courtney you still care about her."

"Carly please_"

"Okay okay I'll stop now. I'll stop by Kelly's a little later to check on her okay."

"Thank you." was all he said before he hung up. Most of the reason he got so irritated at Carly was because he knew she was right, but somehow he still couldn't bring himself to face her. After everything she said he felt as though it would only hurt her more to be around him. He continued to watched her for a while longer until the guard returned. Jason took one last look at her before turning and walking away, something he was getting better and better at every day he was without her.

A few hours later, Carly walked into Kelly's smiling at Courtney as she took a seat at the counter. Courtney quickly finished pouring coffee for the customer she had been waiting on, then joined Carly at the counter.

"Hey Carly." she tried to smile.

"Hey yourself. Honey are you feeling okay? You don't look so hot." Carly took off her coat and gloves, laying them on the seat next to her.

"I'm just tired. I've been working a lot lately, you know to try to keep my mind off_'things'."

"Have you seen him lately?"

"No, not really. I do know that they have someone watching over me 27-7. I pretend that I don't know he's there but I do." Courtney laughed.

"Are you upset?"

"Not really. I mean the guy stays in the shadows and never approaches me. I try not to think about it too much."

"Sonny just wants to make sure you're okay."

"Sonny wants to know my every move. Hell he's probably got this guy on me to make sure Jason doesn't come around." she laughed bitterly as she poured Carly a

hot cup of coffee. "I'm beginning to wonder if Jason will ever come back to me." Carly looked deep into her blue eyes and saw something she had never seen before in their depths. She saw defeat. Tears welled in her big brown eyes as she took ahold of Courtney's hand.

"Don't you EVER give up hope Courtney. What you and Jason have is real and it's worth all the heartache and pain you are going through right now. I know you

think you should just give up and that you're just fighting a losing battle. I've been there remember. I fought long and hard to hold onto Sonny and our family and now we're finally happy. You just have to keep the faith alive and in the end you'll know the journey it took you to get where you are was well worth the pain."

A single tear streaked down Courtney's cheeks as she looked into her sister-in-law's eyes. "I'm so lonely Carly. I lay awake at night all alone in the loft that Jason and I once shared. It's so cold and empty without him. I don't know what to do. I feel like I'm going insane without him. I can't eat, I can't sleep, so I work. I work all day from opening to closing, wearing myself out so maybe I can sleep, but the sleep never comes."

"You know what I think you should do?"

Courtney sniffled, "What?"

"I think you need to go out and show Jason that you aren't going to sit around moping about him. Right now he KNOWS you're not going anywhere and you aren't

seeing anyone else. He has no competition. If you go out dancing just to get out and have a good time, it just might be the trick you need to get Jason's attention."

"I don't know Carly_"

"You know he is the one who called me to come check on you to make sure you're okay."

The light that was once in Courtney's eyes flickered slightly, "Really? Why didn't he come see me himself?"

"You know I asked him that very question. He just said that he couldn't. You know how both he and Sonny are never very good a explanations." Carly laughed. "What

do you say both you and I have ourselves a good time tonight at the Cellar?"

"Don't you have to be there anyway?"

"Well I can still have a girls night out with you. I'll only be bothered if they need me for some reason."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive. Does this mean we have a date?"

Courtney smiled, "Sure. It beats being alone in the loft anyway."

"We're going to have fun tonight." Carly smiled as she pulled her coat back on. "I'll meet you at the Cellar say around eight?"

"I'll be there."

"Good. Remember, dress sexy. I'll have to make sure Sonny knows that it's just going to be a girls night out for you and me at the Cellar. I'll even give Jason a call to let him know how you're doing and to tell him I'm taking you out for a night on the town." Carly grinned. "He won't be able to resist stopping by to see what we're doing. If you happen to be dancing with some handsome guy all the better."

"Are you sure this won't push him away even more Carly?"

"If I know my best friend he's going to see some other guy holding you on the dance floor and he's going to see red. I don't think he'll let you dance very long before pulling you away from him."

"I hope you're right Carly."

"I know I am. See you at eight." she turned and made her way down stairs to check on things at the club before heading back home to change. Courtney knew she would have to ask Elizabeth to work closing by herself, and just the thought of actually having to talk to her filled her with dread. She took a deep breath and approached her.

"Elizabeth, do you think you can handle closing by yourself tonight?" she asked in her nicest voice possible when she talked to Elizabeth.

"Of course I can handle it, but the question is will I." she smirked. "Have yourself a hot date with Jason? Oh wait, he dumped you."

Courtney fought to control her anger, "Not that it's any of your business, but no my plans have nothing to do with Jason. I'm tired and I'd like to try to get some sleep."

"I know you're plans don't include Jason. Like I just said, he dumped YOU." she paused for a moment, a sly smile spread across her bony face. "Maybe I should go

see how he's doing."

"Jason wouldn't touch you if his life depended on it. You just need to get over the fact that Jason will NEVER be yours."

"In case you don't remember I too know what it feels like to be in love with Jason."

"Oh yeah, the difference between you and me is that Jason actually loved me back!" she taunted, looking down at the little leach she had once thought of as her friend. "I know what it feels like to make love to Jason, to have him hold me in his arms as he takes me completely, connecting mind, body, and soul. That's something you'll never experience in this lifetime, especially with Jason. You did nothing but nag him and cheat on him the entire time you were together. You never supported him despite the fact he told you from the very beginning he could never discuss his business and you were never to ask about it. You couldn't handle that, but I can. Jason will realize that we are more important than Sonny's orders one day and we will be together again. What will you have? Probably nothing but your Kelly's apron still tied around your skinny waist and the coffee pot in your bony hand."

"How dare you_"

"You know what just forget this. I'm leaving now. Have a good night Elizabeth." Courtney yelled over her shoulder as she walked out of Kelly's wearing a huge

smile on her face. She was feeling so good she decided to go out and buy a new dress just for tonight. As she stood in the dressing room looking at her reflection,

yet another smile spread across her face and she felt butterflies in her stomach. She just hoped Carly was right and this would help bring Jason back to her, but

somewhere deep inside was the fear that it just might push him even further way. All Courtney could do was pray that Carly was right.

Faith

Chapter Four

c 2003

Courtney stared at her reflection in her mirror, making sure there was nothing out of place. The dress she bought was a soft pink beaded silk with an uneven hemline that fell mid-calf. The neckline dropped dangerously low, revealing just enough cleavage to be alluring, but not enough to be considered trashy. Thin spaghettis straps criss-crossed in the back, leaving her back completely exposed scooping so low that the material just did cover her butt but it left the butterfly tattoo on the small of her back in plain view for everyone to see. Courtney knew how sexy Jason thought that tattoo was, so she was hoping this dress would really win him over. She wore her long blonde hair down with little bit pulled up on the sides, her make-up was flawless. A smile spread across her face as she looked at herself, `Please God let this work.' she prayed before she grabbed her coat and gloves and

headed to the Cellar to meet Carly.

********************

Carly walked down the stairs of the penthouse, adjusting the diamond earrings she just put in. Sonny looked up from his position on the sofa and gasped when he saw his beautiful wife. She wore a strapless crimson dress that fell just past her knees and hugged every curve of her body. Her golden blonde hair up in a French twist, allowing a few tendrils fall down to frame her face. She was a vision.

"Wow. What's the occasion?" Sonny asked, a grin on his handsome face.

"Courtney and I are having a girls night out tonight."

The smile began to fade, "What?"

"You heard me Sonny. I'm taking Courtney out for a night on the town. She deserves to have a little bit of fun since her big bad brother took away the man she

loves."

"Oh, there you go again. Carly I told you Courtney and Jason cannot be together and that's final."

"I've heard you say that over and over again, but I still don't believe you're right. They have a right to be happy together."

"I have a right to protect my family."

"You DON'T have the right to make their decisions for them."

"Jason decided to break up with Courtney himself."

"Because you asked him to. God Sonny, Jason is so loyal to you that he is willing to break his own heart and the heart of the woman he loves. Don't you see how wrong that is. It shouldn't have to be one or the other. You have me and Michael and what does Jason get? No one? How fair is that? Doesn't he deserve the right to be happy after everything he's done for you."

"I'm NOT having this conversation with you again Carly. Jason made his decision and I will not change mine." Sonny's voice rose higher and higher as he

spoke. Carly glared at him, her anger visible in her eyes.

"You know what Sonny, go ahead and push your sister further and further away. Is that what you want? One day your relationship with Courtney will be damaged beyond repair and there won't be anything you can do about it. Michael is just getting to know his Aunt Courtney and I've found a dear friend in her. Just because I'm your wife don't expect me to stand by this decision of yours. You're wrong this time Sonny. I can feel it in every ounce of my being and I just hope one day you will wake up and see just how you are destroying the people you claim to love so much." She turned to grab her coat and gloves.

"When are you going to be home?"

"When I feel like it." she stated as she walked out of the penthouse, not even bothering to give her husband a second glance much less a kiss goodbye. As she

waited for the elevator her cell phone rang. "Hello?"

"Carly, it's Jason. Did you go see Courtney today?"

Carly smiled to herself, "As a matter of fact I did. She's doing okay Jason, she's just tired. She says she's been working a lot lately to keep her mind off

certain things." she paused for a moment. "Actually I'm on my way to the Cellar right now to meet her. We're having a girls night out tonight."

"What?"

"Jeez, what is it with yours and Sonny's hearing tonight. You heard me Jason."

"I don't think that's such a good idea Carly. It's too dangerous right now."

"Oh please. You just don't want her to go out that's all. She would much rather be with you, but since you're being a pigheaded jerk and are listening to my husband instead of your heart she's going to go out with her favorite sister-in-law and have a good time. Do a little drinking, a little dancing, yeah I think that's just what the doctor ordered." she continued to taunt, knowing exactly what was going through Jason's mind at that moment.

"Are you bringing guards?"

"Marco will be there."

"Just be careful Carly and don't do anything stupid."

"Who me?" she asked innocently before disconnecting her call. She laughed softly as she climbed into the car that was waiting to take her to the club. Carly could almost guarantee Jason would show within the hour.

***************

The Cellar was busy that night. When Courtney arrived, she spotted Carly by the bar talking to one of the Bartenders. A huge grin spread across Carly's face the

moment she saw Courtney.

"Oh my God. That dress is perfect." she laughed as she kissed Courtney's cheek. "Jason is going to die when he sees you."

Courtney blushed slightly, "I hope so. That's what I was going for."

"You'll have to beat the guys away with a stick."

"There's only one I'm interested in."

"I know that sweetie, but when Jason shows up it won't hurt to smile and act interested in someone else."

"If you say so. I'm putting a lot of faith in you Carly."

"Trust me. I know Jason. Let's get some drinks, maybe that will relax you a little. What would you like?"

"White wine is fine. Thanks." she smiled as Carly stood and headed to the bar. Not two minutes later she returned with two glasses and a bottle of white wine.

"All right. Let's start having some fun." After a couple glasses of wine, Courtney was finally starting to relax. Several guys had approached both women, asking them to dance, but they both declined stating they might be willing later. Just as Carly had predicted, Jason appeared by the doorway. Jason knew he shouldn't be there and that Marco could take care of things, but something else was drawing him there. Was it his undying need see her, even from a distance or was it something else? Jealousy? Of course not. He'd never been jealous of anything in his life, besides Courtney was just sitting at the table having a drink with Carly. It wasn't like she was dancing and having a good time with some other man. Carly acted as if she didn't notice Jason and smiled at Courtney. "What did I tell you? Jason just walked in."

"He did?" Courtney perked up, beginning to turn to see.

"No don't look. You need to act like he's not even here."

"How am I supposed to do that Carly?"

"Just don't look in his direction and the next guy that comes over and asks you to dance say yes. When you're dancing with him try to act like you're interested in what the man is saying and smile a lot. I promise this will work."

"Okay. I just hope I'm as good an actress as it's going to take to pull this off." As if on cue, one of the guys who had previously asked her to dance approached her again.

"Hi," he smiled shyly. "I know you said you didn't want to dance, but_"

"I'd love to." Courtney smiled, taking his hand.

The young guy grinned, "Really?" Courtney just continued to smile and let him lead her to the dance floor. She stepped into this strange man's arms and took a deep breath, `Here I go.' she said to herself. The guy she was dancing with babbled on and on, but Courtney did as Carly instructed. She smiled her biggest smile, laughing as the man told his ridiculous jokes, pretending to enjoy his company as she fought to look at Jason.

The moment the guy had approached Courtney, there had been no doubt in Jason's mind that she would simply smile graciously and turn down the invitation. His heart practically stopped when he saw her take his hand and let him lead her to the dance floor. It wasn't until that moment that he actually saw the dress she was wearing. That dress, that damn dress sent a jolt straight to his groin as he shifted uncomfortably. His jaw clinched tightly as he watched the other man take her into his arms and hold her close, fighting every impulse he had to go over and rip his arms from his body. Jason was too busy watching Courtney to notice that Carly was now dancing with someone too, but Sonny saw. He stared his blank stare, but inside he was furious. How dare some other guy come up to his WIFE and ask her to dance, and how dare Carly actually accept. Neither Jason or Sonny noticed the other one was there as they watched their women dancing closely with two strangers. The young guy Courtney was dancing with was obviously looking to impress her as he spun her out and back again before dipping her, causing her to giggle. That was all Jason could take. He stormed over to the two of them, his

blue eyes like ice.

"Get your hands off her." he spoke in a low voice.

Courtney jumped at the sound of his voice. She turned to him, "Jason_" was all she said as their eyes locked.

"I'm sorry, do you know him honey?" the man asked Courtney.

"Yeah I do."

"Is he your boyfriend or something?"

Her eyes never left his as she spoke, "No he's not." She turned her attention back to the guy she was dancing with. "I don't think we finished our dance."

"I said get your hands off her."

"Look mister, I don't know who you are, but the lady says she's not with you. Be a gentleman and just back off."

"I'm going to tell you one more time."

Sonny barely noticed Jason approach Courtney. His mind was on his wife. He walked up to Carly and the man she was with.

"Take your hands off my wife."

"Sonny? What are you doing here?"

"Do I have to repeat myself? Take your hands off my wife."

"Listen man, I didn't know she was married."

"Now you do. Leave." Sonny ordered. The man quickly let go of Carly and made his way to the exit.

"How dare you!" Carly seethed as she walked back over to the bar leaving Sonny alone on the dance floor.

Courtney had to hand it to the guy, he was a brave little thing. He stepped towards Jason and put a hand on his shoulder.

"Come on man, the lady wants to dance with me_" Jason grabbed the man's hand, twisting it to the point where he could snap it in two. The guy quickly fell to this knees in front of Jason, his face a mixture of pain and fear.

"Jason stop it! You're hurting him."

"You shouldn't have touched me and what's mine." He continued to glare down that the man who had tears running down his cheeks.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry_" he mumbled.

"What's yours? You left me remember?" Courtney quickly

left the dance floor and headed back to her table.

Jason finally released the man's hand, not paying any

attention as he quickly got to his feet and ran out

the building. He watched Courtney sit back down at the

table and finish off the glass of wine she had left.

He sighed heavily before walking towards her.

"Don't you walk away from me Carly. You are my wife.

How could you disrespect me like this?" his voice

angry but he kept his volume low.

"Disrespect you? I was dancing and having a good time.

It's not like I was going to go to bed with him Sonny.

Is there a law that says I can't dance with anyone

other than you?"

"You are my wife Carly. I don't want anyone else

touching you."

"Well you know what I don't want you touching me right

now." she said through clenched teeth, turning her

back to him.

Jason took the seat across from her, noticing the way

she deliberately avoided making eye contact with him.

"Are you okay?"

"I'm fine. I can't say the same for the poor guy

though."

"I overreacted. I'm sorry."

"Understatement of the year. Jason you wanted me to

move on with my life and try to find some happiness

and the first time I attempt to go out and have a good

time instead of staying at home moping about you here

you come barging in and injuring the first guy I dance

with."

"I_I know."

"You can't keep doing this Jason. This pushing and

pulling has to stop. Either you want to be with me or

you don't. I'm not a yo-yo. I love you and you know

that. I would do anything to have you back again, but

my feelings apparently don't matter to you. What Sonny

wants is what matters. So why don't you go be with him

if you care about him so much and leave me alone!"

Courtney stood and headed to the bar where Carly

stood. She could tell there was tension there as well.

"Carly? I'm going to head home. I don't feel much like

being here anymore."

"You know what Court? Neither do I. Let's go." They

both turned and walked away from both Sonny and Jason

and headed back to Courtney's loft.

Faith

Chapter Five

c 2003

Both women dropped onto the couch with a sigh as soon

as they walked into the loft. Without warning they

both burst into a fit of giggles.

"Did you see the look on Jason's face?" Carly wiped

tears from her eyes from laughing so hard. "It was

priceless."

"That poor guy didn't know what hit him. I hope he's

okay."

"Oh he's fine. I told you Jason wouldn't be able to

take it for long."

"Yeah you did." she giggled.

"Then Sonny had to come and ruin the moment." Carly

rolled her eyes. "My husband is so damn protective."

"He loves you Carly."

"Just like Jason loves you. See Courtney, you can't

give up on him yet."

"You're right I know. I'm not ready to give up yet,

but he doesn't have to know that."

"That's the spirit. Just stick with me and I just know

that Jason will be begging for you to take him back

very soon."

"That would be wonderful." Courtney sighed. "Do you

want to stick around for a while?"

"Actually I'd like to stay the night, make Sonny sweat

a little."

"Then by all means let me go find something for you to

sleep in." Ten minutes later they were both dressed

for bed, sitting on the couch eating ice cream,

talking about the two men they loved most in their

lives.

********************

Sonny approached Jason not long after Courtney and

Carly left the Cellar. He sat across from him, rubbing

his face with his hand.

"What are you doing here Jason?"

"I saw Courtney earlier today and I was worried about

her. She didn't look like she was feeling well. I

asked Carly to check on her for me. I called her to

see if she did and she told me that she was taking

Courtney out tonight. I just_.I couldn't help myself.

I wanted to see her." he finished, telling Sonny the

entire truth.

"I told you to stay away from her."

"I know." Jason raised his voice. "Tonight was the

first time I've talked to her since the cabin. I try

to stay away, to at least watch her from the shadows

but_.Sonny I just don't know how much longer I can do

this. I love her. It's killing me inside to be away

from her."

"You're strong Jason. I know you can do this. Just

remember how much you love her and how much you want

to keep her safe. This is the only way."

"Is it?" Jason asked, and for the first time he can

remember since his accident tears burned his eyes. He

blinked quickly, trying to get rid of them. Sonny

looked at him as if he was looking at him for the

first time. He could see just how deep Jason's pain

was and in his heart he knew he was the cause if it.

If he hadn't asked Jason to leave Courtney he would

have never left her. He was breaking his own heart for

Sonny. Sonny felt his heart ache for him. He couldn't

stand to look in his eyes anymore.

"Our world is too dangerous for Courtney."

"Isn't it her life Sonny?" Jason asked. "I'm going to

go." Jason stood to leave and Sonny didn't stop him.

For the first time since he found out about Jason and

Courtney, he was questioning whether or not he was

doing the right thing.

Jason got on his motorcycle and drove. He didn't know

where he was going, he just let his heart lead the

way. Before he knew it he was at the loft. He sat on

his bike staring up at the light in the window,

wondering what she was doing, what she was wearing, if

she was with anyone else. His thoughts wandered back

to the guy at the Cellar holding her in his arms.

Jealousy raged inside him again at the thought. He

knew he had no right to do what he did, but he just

couldn't stop himself. The thought of anyone else

touching her, holding her, loving her, making love to

her drove him crazy. Yes he told her to start a new

life and to move on, but in his heart he knew he only

wanted her life to be with him. Jason sighed heavily

as he saw the light go out. "Sweet dreams Courtney."

he whispered before driving away, heading back to his

penthouse_alone.

************************************

The next morning, Carly woke early and decided to head

back to the penthouse. She jotted a quick not to

Courtney, and quietly shut the door behind her. When

she walked into the penthouse, she saw Sonny sitting

up on the couch sleeping. She smiled down at him,

knowing he had waited up for her all night. She took

off her coat then sat beside him, leaning forward to

kiss his cheek. Sonny jerked away, wincing at the pain

in his neck from the position he had been sleeping in.

"Morning sunshine." she smiled.

"Morning? You're just getting home?"

"Yes."

"Where were you Carly?"

"At Courtney's."

He sighed heavily, running his fingers through his

hair. "Is she okay?"

"About as good as can be expected."

Sonny looked deep into her brown eyes with his dimpled

smile, "Are you still mad at me?"

"Yes." she said, trying desperately to not to give

into his charm just yet.

"You know you can't stay mad at me for long."

Carly looked at him surprised, "Oh really? Would you

like to see how long I can stay mad at you?"

"No, I'd like to have my beautiful loving wife back."

"What are you planning on doing to get her back?"

He grinned, "I think I can think of something."

"Oh yeah?" she asked, as Sonny lowered his lips to

hers. Carly wrapped her arms around his neck pulling

him closer to her. "Wait, wait, wait_where's Michael?"

"Leticia took him to your mother's last night." he

mumbled against her lips. That was all she needed to

hear. She deepened their kiss, darting her tongue

between his lips, urging him to come play with hers.

Sonny's hands found the zipper of her dress, pulling

it away from her body. His hands gently caressed her

breasts, causing her to moan against his lips. Her

hands grabbed the front of his shirt, yanking it open,

buttons flying everywhere. Carly wasted no time

ridding him of his pants as well, her small eager

hands gently stroking him, driving him insane. Sonny

practically growled as he tore her black lace thongs

from her slender frame, causing her to giggle. He

quickly entered her, his pace fast and hard, both of

the needing their release too much to take their time.

Carly dug her nails into his back screaming his name.

"Sonny_" He could feel her release approaching. The

moment her's hit, he came hard spilling inside her. He

collapsed on top of her, both panting from their

rigorous love making.

"Well?" he asked.

"Well what?" she smiled lazily.

"Do I get my loving wife back?"

"You don't like the angry wife?"

"She can certainly be fun, but no one is better than

the loving Carly."

"Awe, how sweet." she gently kissed his lips. "I'm

going to go take a shower and get dressed before Mom

brings Michael home. I suggest you clean up this mess

you made an you owe me a new pair of panties mister."

"Well you owe me a new shirt."

"Okay okay so we're even." she laughed, heading up the

stairs. Sonny watched her as she ascended the stairs

his heart swelling with love and pride, but part of

him couldn't help but feel a stab of pain knowing what

Jason was giving up for him.

Faith

Chapter Six

c 2003

~*~*~*~*~Three Weeks Later~*~*~*~*~*~

Courtney and Carly were becoming closer and closer as

the weeks passed. They met for lunch, went shopping

together, took Michael to the park and let him play

with Rosie, and from time to time Carly would even

stay over at Courtney's loft for a little sleepover.

Their friendship was what kept Courtney going over the

last few weeks. Every time she would begin to doubt

herself and Jason's love, Carly would be there to pull

her back and tell her how much Jason truly loved her.

They continued their strategy with Jason as well.

Courtney would go around pretending she didn't have a

care in the world, a constant smile on her face, but

much to Courtney's dismay Jason didn't come around as

often as he used to. There were times when she was at

Kelly's that she could actually feel his eyes on her.

It was at those times she felt warmth flood her body,

replacing the cold emptiness that was once there, but

the moment he left the coldness returned.

Carly met Courtney for lunch at the park. They sat

across from each other, both women silently eating

their hot dogs. The wind was bitterly cold, but the

scenery was just too beautiful to pass up. Carly

looked over at Courtney, concern filling her brown

eyes.

"Are you feeling okay sweetie?"

"I think I'm coming down with the flu or something.

I'm just so tired all the time and this morning I

threw up as soon as I got out of bed. I don't know

what's wrong with me." she said as she tossed the rest

of her half eaten hot dog into the trash unable to

finish it.

"Have you gone to the doctor?"

"No, I've been so busy at work I just figured it was

from that."

"I'm telling you this because I'm your friend. You

look terrible honey. You need to go to the doctor so

you can get some medicine. It's better to stop it

before it now before it gets worse."

"I know I should." She looked down at her watch with a

weak smile. "I should head back to Kelly's." They

walked silently for a while before Courtney spoke

again. "Have you seen Jason lately?"

Carly smiled knowing that question was coming sooner

or later, "He came over for dinner a few nights ago.

He looks almost as bad as you do."

"I miss him so much Carly."

Carly wrapped her arm around her shoulder giving her a

warm squeeze, "I know you do. It won't be much longer.

I think we're wearing both of them down." Tears began

to fall down Courtney's cheeks, "Courtney, why are you

crying?"

"I just_..I just don't know what else to do." she

sobbed against Carly's shoulder.

"Shhh, it's going to be okay sweetie. It's going to be

okay." she soothed as she stroked Courtney's hair

trying to calm her down. After a few moments, Courtney

pulled away.

"I'm sorry Carly. I don't know what happened."

"Don't apologize okay. Everyone needs a good cry

sometimes." she smiled reassuringly. They were just

about to enter Kelly's when Courtney stopped suddenly.

She was looking down at the ground with a confused

expression on her face, "Courtney are you okay."

"I feel_dizzy all of a sudden."

"Let's sit down for a minute," Carly led her towards

the bench. Everything went black as Courtney collapsed

to the ground, hitting her head against the bench on

the way down. "Oh my God Courtney!" Carly screamed

immediately reaching for her cell phone to dial 911.

Tears began streaming down her cheeks as she waited

beside Courtney holding her hand, "Please be okay,

please be okay." she prayed over and over again.

Minutes later she heard the sirens coming. Everyone

inside Kelly's began to look outside to see what was

going on. Elizabeth came running out.

"What's going on?"

"Just go away Elizabeth." Carly screamed through

clenched teeth.

"What happened Carly?"

"What do you care! I bet you're hoping she'll die so

you can get your claws in Jason again but that will

never happen. Go crawl back into your hole." she

seethed as she climbed into the ambulance beside

Courtney's still unconscious form, leaving Elizabeth

alone in the cold.

On the ride to the hospital, Carly sat back and

watched as the paramedics worked to stabilize

Courtney. When they got to the hospital Carly followed

the paramedics closely not wanting to leave her side.

As soon as the emergency room doors opened, Bobbie saw

Carly coming in. Her heart dropped when she saw her

and she immediately went to her.

"Carly are you okay?"

Tears still flowed down her cheeks as she looked down

at her mother, "It's_it's Courtney. We had lunch and

we were walking back to Kelly's. She said she was

feeling dizzy so we were heading over to the bench to

sit down for a minute and all of a sudden she

collapsed. She hit her head on the bench when she

fell. Oh Mom it was horrible. Tell me she's going to

be okay."

Bobbie hugged her tight, "The doctors are going to do

everything they can for her. Try to calm down and wait

for me in the waiting room. I'll let you know how

she's doing as soon as we know anything. I need to

tell the doctors what happened." Carly simply nodded

and did as her mother told her. She wiped the tears

from her face and pulled out her cell phone once more.

She knew who she had to call.

"Hello?"

"Jason?" she asked, her voice trembling.

"Carly? Carly what's wrong?"

"Jason_.um_I need you to come to General Hospital.

Come right away."

"Carly, Carly wait_." he tried to stop her but she had

already hung up. He didn't hesitate. Jason grabbed his

leather coat and headed to the hospital. After calling

Jason, she took a deep breath and dialed her home

number.

"Hello?"

"Sonny, I need you to come to the hospital." she got

out before sobs began to wrack her body again.

"Carly, what's wrong? Are you hurt? Is Michael hurt?"

"Just hurry Sonny." she again disconnected the call

unable to talk anymore. Within ten minutes Jason

arrived at the hospital and immediately went to Carly.

He bent down in front of her, holding her hands.

"Carly, tell me what's wrong. Is it Sonny or Michael?"

"No they're fine. It's_it's Courtney." The color

drained from Jason's face as he tried to understand

what Carly was telling him. "She fainted right outside

Kelly's and she hit her head on the bench when she

fell." She sniffled, "I called 911and when we got her

I called you then Sonny. I'm so sorry Jason." He still

remained silent, his face blank. "Jason_.say

something." she begged as she wiped her eyes.

"This can't be happening_" he whispered. "She was

supposed to be safe_"

"It was an accident Jason."

"I should have been there." he said angrily, standing

up and pacing the floor in front of her. He was still

pacing when Sonny rushed in.

"Carly! What's wrong?" he asked as she sat beside her

on the couch.

"I was having lunch with Courtney today and when we

got to Kelly's she had a dizzy spell. We went to sit

down on the bench and she fainted. She hit her head on

the bench during the fall."

"Where are the doctors? How is she?" he asked, his

face full of concern.

"They haven't come out yet. My mom said she would keep

us posted."

"This is all your fault Sonny." Jason said softly,

still pacing the floor.

"My fault? I made her dizzy and caused her to fall."

"This wouldn't have happened if I had been with her,

but you had to have your way and make me stay away

from her. Don't you see, she could still get hurt if

she's not with me."

"I'm not going to discuss this now. This is not the

time or the place."

"She's been under so much stress the last few months

and for what? Because you were hell bent on keeping us

apart. You thought I wasn't good enough to love your

sister. Isn't that what it comes down to Sonny?"

"Jason please stop it. None of this is going to help

Courtney right now." Jason backed down knowing Carly

was right. They sat in silence as they waited for the

doctors to give them news of Courtney's condition. An

hour later, Courtney was finally starting to come to.

The doctors had bandaged her head already and had run

some tests while she was unconscious. She slowly

opened her eyes, a little disoriented.

"Where am I?" she asked, trying to sit up.

"Ms Matthews, please you need to lay down and relax.

You've been through a lot today." Dr. Tony Jones

smiled as he gently lay her back down.

"Why am I here?"

"What's the last thing you remember?"

"I was talking to Carly just outside Kelly's. I got

dizzy for a minute and we were going to sit down.

That's all I remember."

"Apparently you fainted and you hit your head on the

bench. You have a mild concussion, but I think you'll

both be fine."

"Both? Was someone else hurt?"

"I was referring to you and your baby."

Her heart stopped for a moment, "What?"

"Your baby. You're pregnant Ms. Matthews."

Faith

Chapter Seven

c 2003

"I'm pregnant?" Courtney choked.

Dr Jones sighed, "I'm sorry Ms Matthews. I thought you

knew. You're about five weeks along."

She closed her eyes a smile tugging at her lips, "The

cabin."

"Pardon me?"

"Nothing." she smiled. "Have you told anyone yet?"

"No one has been informed yet of your condition."

"Don't tell them about the baby. I want to tell them."

Dr Jones smiled, "Of course you do. Are you up to any

visitors?"

"You mean I have to stay here?"

"Just overnight for observation."

Courtney frowned, "I'm fine Dr Jones. Can't I just go

home and rest?"

"Sure you can, tomorrow. You're not going to get your

way so you better just lay back and relax for a

while."

"Is Carly still here?"

"As a matter of fact she is. Would you like to see

her?"

"Could you send her in for me?"

"Sure. You rest now. I'll check on you a little

later."

"Thanks Dr Jones." Courtney smiled as he left, placing

her hands on her still flat stomach. "Our baby is

growing inside of me Jason. A child created with our

love. I never thought I could love someone so much and

I haven't even seen you yet. I promise you right here

and now that I will do everything in my power to hold

onto your daddy so we can be a happy family. We will

be a family I promise you that." She began to hum

softly to the small baby growing inside her as she

waited for Carly.

They all stood when they saw Dr Jones approach them.

"Tony how is she?" Carly asked.

He smiled, "She's doing just fine. She has a mild

concussion and I want to keep her here overnight for

observation."

"Did you find out why she fainted?" Sonny asked.

"All of the tests came back okay. Has she been under a

lot of stress lately?"

"The last couple months have been hard on her." Jason

said softly.

"Stress very easily could have caused her dizzy spell.

I just think she needs to take it easy and take care

of herself. The less stress she is under the better."

Sonny rubbed his face tiredly, "Can we see her?"

"Sure you can one at a time. Carly, she actually was

asking for you. I'll be back in a little later to

check on her."

"Thanks Dr. Jones." Jason said as he walked away. He

couldn't help but be a little disappointed when

Courtney asked for Carly instead of him, and Carly

could tell by the look on his face. She smiled

sympathetically at him, rubbing his arm.

"She probably doesn't know you're here Jason."

"I can't blame her if she doesn't want to see me after

everything I've put her through."

"I'm going to go see her. Don't leave Jason. I'm sure

she'll want to see you."

"I'm not going anywhere." She smiled once more before

heading towards Courtney's room. She knocked on the

door softly before entering. She stuck her head in to

see if she was awake. Carly smiled warmly when she saw

Courtney sitting up in bed, a smile on her face.

"Hey sweetie." she gave her a quick hug. "You had us

scared for a minute there."

"I'm okay. Is someone else here?"

"Sonny and Jason are in the waiting room." Carly

didn't miss the way Courtney's eyes lit up at the mere

mention of Jason's name.

"Jason's here?"

"Yeah, he even started yelling at Sonny telling him it

was his fault you were in here."

"Really?"

"He said that this wouldn't have happened if he'd have

been with you. You wouldn't have been under so much

stress and you wouldn't have had the dizzy spell."

Courtney looked away, "I still might have_." her voice

trailed off.

"What? Is there something you're not telling me

Court?"

"It's just_it's just the doctors did find something

when they ran the tests on me."

Carly's eyes grew wide with fear, "What?"

"Don't worry Carly, it's nothing that won't go away in

eight months or so." Courtney looked down at her hands

that still rested on her stomach. Carly looked down

then back up to meet her eyes again. The fear that was

once on her face was replaced with a big smile.

"Oh my God! You're pregnant?!?"

"Yes." Carly pulled her in for a tight hug.

"I'm so happy for you. When did this happen?"

"The day I was kidnapped and Jason found me at the

cabin."

"That's so romantic."

"I just don't know how to tell Jason. How do you think

he's going to react?"

"I remember the way he was with Michael. He's going to

be an excellent father Courtney. He loves you and the

fact that you are carrying his baby will probably fill

him with so much happiness and pride that he'll be

beside himself with joy."

Courtney couldn't help the smile that graced her face,

"I hope so. I want this baby so much and I want Jason

and I to raise our baby together. I know we can be

happy if Sonny would only let us."

"I don't think you have to worry much about Sonny. I

have a feeling Jason is changing his mind more and

more everyday despite Sonny's wishes."

"I guess there's only two people left for me to tell.

Will you send Jason in for me?"

"Sure. Do you want me to tell Sonny or do you want

to?"

"I think I should tell him."

"Okay, I'll just give you and Jason a little time

before I bring Sonny in."

"Carly," she called out as she headed to the door.

"Thank you for everything."

She smiled, "I'll always be here for you. I'll go get

Jason." She turned to go once more, leaving Courtney

alone with her thoughts wondering how she was going to

tell Jason she was carrying his child. Carly could

feel the tension in the air as she approached Sonny

and Jason again in the waiting room. She smiled at

Jason. "I was right. She didn't know you and Sonny

were here too. Courtney wants to see you." Jason

simply nodded and headed towards her room, leaving

Carly and Sonny alone.

"How is she?"

"She's doing okay. She just needs to rest and be

stress free for a while."

Sonny sighed heavily as he sat back down on the couch,

"I don't know what to do anymore. Everything I was

sure of before isn't quite as clear as I thought it

was." Carly sat down beside her husband and placed a

comforting hand on his leg.

Jason stood in front of Courtney's hospital room a

frown on his face. Once again he was facing a feeling

he hadn't felt in a very long time. He was actually

nervous. What was he going to do or say to her, but

more importantly what was SHE going to say? He took a

deep breath and knocked on the door.

"Come in." he heard her call. He slowly opened the

door and walked inside. The soft smile on her face let

him relax a little as he approached her. "Hey," she

whispered.

He gave her a small smile, "Hey. I'm glad you're okay.

How are you feeling?"

"I'm doing okay." she paused for a moment. "Actually

that's not true. I'm really scared right now."

He sat down in the chair beside the bed, "What are you

scared of?"

"I'm scared of what you're going to think when I tell

you something." he saw tears glisten in her eyes.

Jason's heart sank in fear. She was going to tell him

she doesn't love him anymore.

"We've always been honest with each other. I don't

want that to change."

"Do you remember the day you found me at the cabin?"

"Of course I do. I could never forget that day."

"When we made love it felt so magical, like we created

something so special with each other that neither of

us could have thought possible."

"I felt it too."

"Jason, do you still love me?"

Jason looked down for a moment before meeting her

gaze, "I've never stopped loving you Courtney."

She closed her eyes as if she was letting his words

sink in. She took a deep breath and opened her eyes,

"I'm pregnant." For the first time ever, Courtney

could actually see shock written in his features. He

continued to stare at her, his blue eyes wide, unable

to speak. "Don't you have anything to say?"

"Are you sure?" he squeaked.

"Apparently so. When I came to earlier, the doctors

told me that we would both be okay. That's when I

found out." She looked down at her stomach, "I know we

didn't plan this Jason, but I'm not sorry it's

happened. I love you so much and I feel blessed to

have been given the chance to carry your child."

"Our child_" he repeated as he slowly placed his hands

on her still flat stomach. "We're having a baby." he

stated as if the news finally sank in. Courtney

covered his hand with one of hers as her other hand

caressed his cheek.

"Are you as happy as I am?"

Jason turned his head slightly to place a kiss on her

palm, "After the accident I was told that I had no

feeling, no emotion. I met Robin and I thought what we

had was true, but it wasn't. I had learned to accept

the fact that I was just not capable of real love,

that somehow the accident had severed that emotion in

me and I didn't know how to fix it. Then I met you.

For the first time in a long time I felt genuinely

happy. The happiness I felt with you turned into a

love unlike anything I'd ever experienced before. All

my life I've never gave much thought to making a life

with someone and actually starting a family. I had

Sonny, Carly, and Michael and that was all the family

I needed or wanted. Meeting you has shown me a whole

new wonderful world that I never thought I'd have the

chance to see. I was dead inside, but you came and

brought me back to life. I love you so much and I

can't begin to explain what it feels like to know

you're carrying my child." Tears were streaming down

Courtney's cheeks as she listened to his heartfelt

speech. He gently wiped her tears away, "Please don't

cry."

"They're not sad tears Jason," she laughed. "Please

tell me you aren't going to leave me again."

"I come close to losing you today and it scared the

hell out of me. I don't want to waste anymore time

being away from you." Courtney couldn't stop the sob

that escaped her lips. Jason quickly stood and pulled

her into his arms holding her tight. He gently rocked

her as she cried, stroking her hair, kissing her

softly, patiently waiting for her tears to subside.

"What are we going to tell Sonny?" she sniffled as she

pulled back just enough to look into Jason's eyes.

He sighed heavily, "The truth. I've never lied to him

before and I'm not going to start now. I don't think

it's going to be much of a shock to him. He knows I've

reached my limit."

"What do you think he'll do?"

"Probably yell at me and tell me that I'm only putting

your life and the life of our child in danger, the

usual."

"Jason, not that I'm complaining at all, but what made

you change your mind? Was it because of the baby?"

"I guess it's a combination of things. When I saw you

dancing with another man at the Cellar the other night

I was actually jealous. I've never felt that before

and it drove me crazy to think of another man holding

you instead of me. Up until that point I had pushed

that thought out of my mind. The more I was apart from

you, the more painful it got for me to be away from

you. When I got here and Carly told me what happened I

got scared. The thought of losing you was just too

much for me. I guess it was then that I decided I

wasn't going to let anyone stand in the way of us

anymore. Sonny is my best friend, my brother, but

you're the woman I love and you're carrying my child.

I can't walk away from that, I'm not strong enough to

live without you anymore." Jason leaned forward and

placed a soft kiss on her lips. They melted into each

other as they deepened the kiss, both relishing the

feel of being together again. Jason pulled away with a

smile on his handsome face. "I guess there's only one

thing left for us to do."

"Tell Sonny." Courtney smiled sadly.

"Tell Sonny what?" Sonny asked as he slowly entered

the room.

Faith

Chapter Eight

c 2003

"Sonny, hey." Courtney tried to smile.

"What do you need to tell me?" he asked again, his

voice calm. Carly entered the room, shutting the door

behind her. Jason slowly stood from his seat beside

Courtney on the bed and faced Sonny. He continued to

hold her hand, a gesture that didn't go unnoticed by

Sonny.

"Sonny, you're my best friend, my brother. I've always

done everything you've ever asked me to do, no matter

what the cost." He looked down at Courtney who smiled

reassuringly at him then looked at Sonny once more.

"I've decided I love Courtney too much to be without

her."

Although the news didn't come as a shock to him Sonny

still felt the sting from Jason's decision. For the

first time he was defying a direct order. Any other

employee Sonny would have fired on the spot, but Jason

was different. He was his right arm, his enforcer, but

more importantly he was his best friend, "So you don't

care what I think?"

"I choose to love Courtney. That doesn't mean I don't

care what you think. I can do my job and still protect

the people I love." Jason squeezed Courtney's hand,

"I'll just have an extra person to care for soon."

Sonny frowned in confusion for a moment before the

realization of what Jason was staying hit him. He

sighed heavily, rubbing his face tiredly "Courtney's

pregnant?"

"Yes I am." she beamed happily.

"When did this happen? You've been apart haven't you?"

"The cabin," Jason said, his eyes never leaving

Sonny's.

"I told you_" Sonny began to raise his voice, but he

stopped when Carly placed her hand on his arm.

"Don't start Sonny. Courtney's been through enough

today. She doesn't need more stress and neither does

the baby."

Sonny looked at his baby sister. She looked so happy

laying there holding the hand of the man she loved.

She was going to be a mother too. Sonny rubbed his

temples in frustration. Could he really bring himself

to tear away the man she loves and the father of her

child again? He used to pride himself on always

knowing what was best for both him and his family. For

the first time he honestly didn't know what to do.

"Okay. I won't get into this now. I'll just let

Courtney get some rest."

"That's a good idea. Are you getting discharged

tomorrow?" Carly asked.

"I'm supposed to."

"Do you need me to come by?"

"I'll come pick her up tomorrow." Jason said.

"I appreciate the offer though Carly. I'll call you

okay?"

Carly smiled, "Okay. Get some rest.'

"I will. Bye guys." Courtney waved. As soon as they

were alone again, Courtney let out a long sigh. "That

went better than I thought it would."

Jason sat back down beside her, "Yeah but I don't

think it's settled though."

"You still think he'll try to convince you to stay

away from me even though we're having a baby?"

"Sonny's a very stubborn man. He doesn't like it when

he doesn't get his way."

"Well he's just going to have to deal with it. I'm not

letting you leave me again. We're going to be a family

and we're finally going to be happy." Jason couldn't

help but smile. He loved her so much and when he

thought back on all those weeks they were apart he

just couldn't understand who he had managed to stay

away for so long.

"I think we need to decide on what we're going to do."

"What do you mean?"

"You live in the loft and I live in the penthouse. I

don't know about you but I don't want to live separate

anymore."

"But I thought that's how it was going to be. I'd live

in the loft and you'd stay in the penthouse. I'd let

you have visitation with the baby." she fought to keep

a straight face. The look on Jason's face was

priceless. He could see a smile tugging at her lips,

letting him know she was joking.

"You think you're really funny don't you?"

She giggled, "You should have seen your face. I can't

believe you thought I was serious."

"Well, its just that_after everything that's happened

I didn't know if you changed your mind."

"I'll never change my mind. I love you Jason."

He felt his heart swell with her words, "I love you

too." He leaned in to place a kiss on her lips, just

as Bobbie decided to walk in.

"All right you two, break it up." she smiled. "How are

you feeling Courtney?"

"I'm really tired, but very happy." she squeezed

Jason's hand affectionately.

"You really should get some rest if you want Dr Jones

to release you tomorrow."

"I should go." Jason stood to leave.

"Wait, Bobbie could he stay just until I fall asleep?"

Bobbie looked at her and smiled softly, "Okay, but

once she's asleep Jason_"

"I know it's time to leave."

Courtney smiled, "Thanks Bobbie."

"You're welcome. Goodnight." she shut the door softly

behind her. Courtney looked up at Jason with a shy

smile.

"Will you lay with me?"

"Of course," he smiled climbing into the small

hospital bed, wrapping his arms around her small

frame. He laughed softly.

"What are you laughing at?"

"I was just wondering how long it would be before I

wouldn't be able to fit my arms all the way around you

like this." Courtney gasped in shock, hitting him

playfully.

"You better be nice. It's your fault I'm going to get

big you know."

"I seem to remember you participating whole-heartedly

Ms. Matthews."

"Well_.I can still blame you. It's the mother's

prerogative."

"Doesn't the father have any rights?"

"He has the right to remain silent. Everything he does

or says can and probably will be held against him in

the delivery room."

Jason laughed, "Thanks for the warning."

"Well, I figured you deserved a heads up." she

snuggled closer into his embrace, her eyes getting

heavy. "I love you Jason."

"I love you too." he whispered, placing a soft kiss on

the top of her head. Within minutes she was fast

asleep. He laid there for a while simply holding her,

not wanting to let her go just yet. About an hour

later, he reluctantly pulled away from her and headed

to the door. Jason turned for one more look at her a

content smile on his handsome face. "We're going to be

happy Courtney. I promise you that." he said to

himself as he closed the door behind him.

Faith

Chapter Nine

c 2003

It was late by the time Jason got back home to his

apartment. As soon as he walked inside his eyes

scanned the sparsely furnished room with a sigh.

Before now his apartment fit him perfectly. It was

cold and empty, the way he had always felt. Now, he

knew he just couldn't bring Courtney and his baby home

to a place like this. He needed help, and he knew

exactly who to call.

"Hello?" she answered.

"Carly it's Jason."

"Hey Jase. Is something wrong?"

"No, everything is fine. I just need your help with

something."

"You know I'll help you with anything."

"Could you come over to my apartment?"

"Sure. I'll be right there." she quickly hung up the

phone and headed across the hall. She knocked once

before opening the door. "So, what do you need my help

with?"

"Something you do best. I need to make this place a

home before I bring Courtney and our baby here."

Carly smiled, "That's so sweet Jason. Courtney is

going to be so surprised. What did you have in mind?"

Jason laughed, "That's why I called you. I don't know

the first thing about decorating. I just want Courtney

to feel like she's really home when she walks through

that door."

"Well you know you don't give me much time to do all

this. You're supposed to pick her up at the hospital

tomorrow."

"I know. I'll just have to keep her away from here as

long as I can. Maybe take a walk in the park. You'll

just have to be quick about it and you know money is

not a problem."

"I know that Jason. So you want me to turn this place

around in a few hours?"

"Do you think you can handle it?"

"You know I never back down on a challenge," she

smiled. "Do you want me to just do the living room?"

He nodded slowly, "And my bedroom." He sighed when

Carly began to giggle. "What?"

"You're actually letting me come in here and change

things. You really love her don't you?"

Jason felt his heart beat faster when he thought of

her, "She's everything to me Carly. I just want us to

make a home and for us to be happy together."

She gently touched his cheek, "I'm so happy for you

Jason. After everything you've done for Sonny and for

us you deserve this kind of happiness."

"I feel like something is going to happen to take

everything away, like this is all a dream."

"You have to stop thinking that way Jason. You and

Courtney love each other so much and anyone could see

how happy you two are when you're together. I know

you've never thought yourself capable of feeling like

this. I'm telling you from experience, nothing is as

fulfilling as loving someone and knowing that person

loves you just as much in return. Now you're going to

be a daddy Jason. You're going to have this tiny

little person to take care of that was created by the

love that you and Courtney share. Nothing is as

precious as that."

Jason smiled, "Thank you Carly. I don't know what we

would have done if we didn't have your support through

all this. I can't tell you how much I thank you for

helping Courtney keep faith in our love and not to

give up on me. I don't know what I would have done if

she'd have given up on us."

"I love you both. I only want you two to be happy."

Carly pulled him in for a tight hug. "Don't worry

about a thing. When you bring Courtney home tomorrow

she's going to have the surprise of her life."

"Thanks Carly. I will send someone over to the loft to

pack up her things and bring them over. Could you put

them away for me?"

"Of course. Everything will be perfect." she smiled

reassuringly before heading back to her place. When

Jason finally climbed into bed that night he actually

felt giddy. Tomorrow as going to be the start of his

new life with Courtney and he couldn't wait.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The next morning, Jason was awoken by a bunch of

noise coming from downstairs. He climbed out of bed

and pulled on his jeans and a tank top before

descending the stairs. He looked around the room

confused by all the strange men in his apartment until

he saw Carly by the door giving orders.

"_.yeah, just get rid of that couch and that lamp over

there_" she paused when she saw Jason and smiled.

"Morning. I thought I'd better start early so you

wouldn't have to keep Courtney out very long. She

needs to rest."

"Okay, but promise me one thing."

"What's that?"

"Don't get rid of my pool table."

Carly groaned, "Come on Jason."

"You can put it in the back room or something, but I

don't want you to get rid of it." Jason smiled, "Come

on Carly. You know I'm giving you control of

everything all I ask is that you leave one thing."

"Okay okay the pool table will stay, but not in the

living room." she conceded.

"Thank you. I'm going to go take a shower before I

head over to the hospital." he turned and headed back

up the stairs, leaving Carly in charge of all the

redecorating.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

When Jason arrived at the hospital, Courtney was still

sound asleep. He smiled to himself as he walked over

to the bed, sitting in the chair trying not to wake

her. He was probably there a good hour before she

finally began to stir. She was surprised to see Jason

already there, watching her. A smile spread across her

face.

"Morning. How long have you been here?"

"About an hour or so."

"Why didn't you wake me?"

"You were sleeping too good to wake you up. Do you

know how beautiful you are when you sleep?"

Courtney felt a blush creep into her cheeks, "You're

being sweet, but I know what I look like when I wake

up so I know I can't look good when I sleep."

"You're beautiful. I've always thought you were

beautiful."

"Even when I was on that stage taking my clothes off

for Coleman?"

"I wouldn't have admitted it, but even then I knew how

beautiful you were. I just tried to focus on my job

instead. That's the only way I knew how to handle it.

Then we started spending more time together during the

whole stalking fiasco, and then there was the kiss in

the rain." he broke into a smile at the memory of

their first kiss. "I wanted you so badly that night,

but you were still married to AJ and you said you

still loved him. I knew what I was feeling for you was

dangerous so I tried to stay away. In the end I always

found my way back to you. I guess what we have just

could never be denied."

"What I had with AJ was nothing but lies. I thought I

loved him, but I never knew what true love was until

you."

"I hate to keep him in our conversation, but what are

we going to do about AJ. When he finds out you're

carrying my baby he's not going to make your divorce

any easier."

Courtney rolled her eyes, "I wish I knew of a way to

trick him into signing the divorce papers. Then all of

our problems would be solved."

"I could always go see him and apply just the

slightest bit of pressure_.." Jason began but Courtney

cut him off.

She laughed, "Honey I don't think excessive force is

the way to go here."

He smiled, "It was just a thought. Granted it was a

NICE thought but just a thought really I swear."

"I don't know what we're going to do but we'll find a

way to get him out of our lives. We're going to be

happy and there's not a damn thing either he or

Elizabeth can do about it."

"Have I ever told you that your spirit and your fight

is one of the things I love most about you."

"No, but I wouldn't mind hearing it." she smiled as

Jason climbed into the bed beside her.

"I remember the first time I saw you. You were just so

feisty and you had all this attitude. I just remember

how much you turned me on."

"Is that all it took?"

"Well, that's what I remember most about you in the

beginning. Then the closer we got the more I realized

that you were this sweet, kind, and caring person. You

always try to see the good in people even though

sometimes they don't deserve it."

"Yeah tell me about it. I married AJ didn't I? I think

I must have been out of my mind." she sighed heavily

as she thought about the time and energy she wasted

trying to make her farce of a marriage work. She

looked up at him and smiled, "But I do owe AJ you

know."

Jason frowned, "For what?"

"If he hadn't hired Coleman to stalk me then we might

not be where we are today. I am thankful to him for

that."

"You shouldn't be thankful to him for anything. What

we have was meant to be Courtney. Even if you had

never married AJ I truly believe we'd have found our

way to each other anyway."

Courtney smiled as she gently caressed his face, "I

don't think people realize just how amazing you are."

"Don't let it get out okay? I have a reputation to

keep you know." he grinned as he leaned over to place

a soft kiss on her lips.

"You're reputation is safe with me don't worry." They

were interrupted when Dr Jones walked in a smile on

his face.

"Good morning Ms Matthews. How are you feeling today?"

"I'm feeling great. I'd be much better if you'd

release me."

"I just want to examine you real quick and if

everything is okay you'll be out of here within the

hour."

"Great. Examine away you'll see I'm perfectly fine."

Dr Jones glanced at Jason, "Do you want him to stay?"

"Of course. I don't have anything to hide from him."

"Alright. Let's get started_" Dr Jones smiled as he

began to reexamine Courtney. Half an hour later he was

finished poking and prodding her. "Well, everything

looks good. I'll get Bobbie to start working on your

release papers. Here is a prescription for some

prenatal vitamins and I think you should make an

appointment to see Dr Meadows as soon as possible."

"Thank you Dr Jones." Courtney smiled.

"You're very welcome. Good luck Ms Matthews."

"Thank you Dr Jones." Jason stood and held out his

hand for him to shake it. He took it without

reservation with a smile.

"You're welcome. Take good care of her Jason."

"I will." Dr Jones nodded as he left them alone once

more. Jason turned to back to Courtney, "We'll be out

of here soon."

"I can't wait. I hate feeling like an invalid."

"You better get used to being pampered. You know with

me, Carly, and Sonny there you're probably going to go

crazy."

"A little bit of pampering is one thing, but promise

me you won't hover over me every minute of every day.

I mean I don't want you coming to Kelly's taking

plates of food out of my hands because you don't want

me to carry them."

"Kelly's? You mean you're seriously thinking of

continuing to work there?"

"Why not?"

"Courtney you're pregnant now. You need to take care

of yourself and our baby. I don't want you working at

Kelly's. It's too much stress for you and the baby."

"How so?"

"Well, Elizabeth for one. I know you two don't get

along and now that you and I are back together she's

going to be even worse. Especially when she finds out

you're pregnant"

As much as she hated to admit it, she knew Jason was

right. "Maybe you're right. I'll talk to Bobbie about

cutting back my hours and working Elizabeth and I on

different shifts."

"Courtney_" Jason continued to argue, but she cut him

off.

"At least for another couple of months. I promise I'll

quit then okay?"

Jason sighed heavily, "You swear you won't argue with

me when I ask you to quit in a few months?"

"I cross my heart." she smiled.

"Okay fine. Then I'll drop it for now."

"Good."

"I'm going to go find Bobbie and see where she is on

your release papers okay?"

"Okay, don't be gone long."

"I won't." As soon as Jason was outside her room, he

pulled his cell phone out and dialed Carly's number.

"Hello?"

"Hey. How's it coming?"

"It's going great. I think Courtney is really going to

love it."

"I hope so. How much longer do you think you'll be?"

"Two, three hours maybe. How long before she's

released?"

"They are working on her paperwork now. I'm going to

go talk to Bobbie and see if she can delay her release

for another hour or so. That will help."

"If I know my mom she will definitely help, especially

if you tell her why you need her to."

"Alright, call me when you're finished. I don't want

to bring her home until you're done."

"Will do. I'll do my best to hurry."

"Thanks Carly." Jason hung up his phone and went in

search of Bobbie. After explaining his situation to

her, she was more than willing to help keep Courtney

away from the penthouse as long as she possibly could.

When Jason returned to Courtney's room, she was asleep

again. Jason figured it was for the best. At least he

didn't have to lie to her about why they couldn't

leave yet. He just hoped Carly could finish his

apartment quickly. He was anxious to bring Courtney

home to stay for good.