The Best Laid Plans, Chapter 43
 

I have cast Sasha's right-hand gal, Mai. She is going to be played by Ming-Na Wen (Joy Luck Club, One Night Stand, The Single Guy, ATWT)

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Bobbie finds Nikolas in the Pediatric Playroom.

" Hi, Nikolas."

" Bobbie. IS there change?"

" No. Nikolas......I can imagine how scared you are."

" Can you?"

" Yes. Luke and I have always been close. And I can't imagine what I would do if anything happened to him."

" Sasha's not my sister."

" She might as well be. Because, I have seen you two together. And you are closer than some siblings I know. I know that you don't have many people that you hold dear. And I know that she's one of them. It's OK, Nikolas. You can be scared. It's allowed."

(tears beginning to form) " Bobbie, I don't know what to do. I look at Sasha, and remember how vibrant and alive she is, and ..."

" Your heart is breaking in two. Nikolas, you have to be strong. And be there, for her. What she needs now, most of all, is for you and Stefan to be there, for her."

" I think that Uncle is going to drop, Bobbie."

" I know. But, he has no other choice. He's a parent, Nikolas. And, believe me, he can't be any other place right now. Maybe he will drop, but he literally can't leave her. I understand that. But, you and Alexis, you can support him."

" Bobbie. You're going to be her nurse, right?"

" Sure, Nikolas. I'm not going anywhere." Bobbie moves to give Nikolas a hug, but stops short. Nikolas stretches out his hand to Bobbie.

" Bobbie, I've missed you."

" Me too. We're going to get through this, Nikolas. All of us will. Together. I won't let you be alone. So, why don't you come with me, and we'll try and convince Stefan to take a break, OK?"

" Sure."

Stefan is in Sasha's room with  Katherine when Bobbie and Nikolas come in.

" Stefan, Nikolas and I have come to relieve you."

" Barbara..."

" Stefan. You need a break. A relief."

" Bobbie, may I see you outside for a minute?"

" Sure."

Bobbie and Katherine go outside of the room.

" Bobbie, I know you mean well, but, Stefan is doing fine."

" Oh, is he?"

" As well as can be expected. But, he doesn't need your help. There are other nurses that can be assigned to the case."

" I'm not going anywhere, Katherine. I am suggesting this break for Nikolas' sake, as much as Stefan's."

" For Nikolas?"

" Yes, Katherine. In case you didn't know, Sasha and Nikolas are quite close. Did it once occur to you that maybe, just maybe, Nikolas wanted some time alone with her. Some in private to collect and express his thoughts to her? I think that the break will be good for BOTH of them. So, once again, I am going to tell you to leave me alone. I consider Sasha a friend of mine. That's why I'M here. What's your excuse?"

Bobbie turns and goes back into the room. " Stefan?"

" You are right, Barbara. I will go for a walk. If there are any changes.."

" I will call you on your cellphone."

Katherine and Stefan leave.

" Nikolas, I will be right outside if you need anything."

" Thanks, Bobbie."

Nikolas sits down next to Sasha and picks up her hand.

" I can't believe that you are here. In the hospital. Sasha, I am so scared for you. The doctors don't have much hope. But, I have to. I must. You and Uncle have been the only consistent sources of love that I've had my entire life. I don't have a childhood memory without you. You taught me everything I ever needed to know. Swimming, riding, reading. It was your reading that was the best. I was the Prince, and I had to be taught and trained in more than one languages. So, instead of hiring a Nanny with all those qualifications, you took the job upon yourself. I remember you doing Pushkin in Russian,Aesop's Fables in Greek, The Three Musketeers in DeFoe's original French. And then, what does your ironic and mischievous mind do for English? You read me Dr. Seuss. My tutors believed me to completely strange in my English instructions, until Uncle figured out your sabotage.

I remember us, when there would be torrential storms on the island. We would go up, to the top of the villa, and standing there, getting soaking wet, you would perform for me. 'Medea, Shakespeare, even Tennessee Williams, after you got back from Harvard. ' The island was your stage, the moonlight your spotlight, and I had the fortune of being your select audience. I loved those times best.

Do you remember the letters that I wrote you from Port Charles? I remember writing to you about Leslie Lu's Birthday, and you wrote to me that you were jealous of Leslie Lu and her love from me. I was always struck by that. Because, I didn't think that you could be jealous of anyone else when it came to me. I thought you knew how I felt about you. And I wrote you back and told you that if I could love Leslie Lu so unconditionally, it was because you taught me. And I mean that, Sasha. I love you, Sasha. I need you. What would happen to Uncle and I, if you left us? I know that sounds the height of selfishness, and maybe it is, but, you're the only one who knows the both of us, and lives to tell the tale when we are at our worst. Please wake up, Saha..."

Nikolas begins to cry. He has lowered his head onto her hand, with his eyes closed, when he feels a touch. He opens his eyes to see Emily standing there. He wipes away the tears.

" Emily."

" Hi, Nikolas. I just dropped by to see if you needed anything. I'm sorry, Nikolas."

" For what?"

" For sounding like an absolute idiot. I want to help. And yet, I know better than anyone, how I'm not helping at all. I'm just sprouting off platitudes that I found annoying when Jason was in the hospital."

" Oh, Em.."

" I'll do what you want me to do, Nikolas. Leave, stay, whatever."

" I want you to stay, Emily."

" OK. I will." Emily takes a seat. " You look tired."

" I am tired. But, I am fine. I'm better than Sasha. Em, I don't feel like talking much."

" Then we won't." Emily reaches her hand across the bed and takes Nikolas' hand in hers. And they sit, in the silence.

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Mai is in England on the phone.

" How is Miss Anastasia?"

" It does not look good for her."

" Do you not think that it is time for the Cassadines to know the truth?"

" I honestly do not know. I believe that they should know. But, I think that I should take a wait and see attitude with regards to the Cassadines. Once they've been told, then certain things will forever change. I will give Anastasia some more time. No need to be hasty. Are you sure that you will be able to handle things on your end?"

" Absolutely. As far as I'm concerned, everything is as it always is. There is no need for change."

" Then proceed with the normal routine. I believe Anastasia would want it that way. Goodbye."

Mai hung up the telephone and looked at a picture of her and Anastasia that is among those honored to be on the desk of Sasha's favorite pictures on the table opposite her desk. She sat, looking out at the view of nighttime London, when the phone rang.

" This is the Pegasus Group. Office of Anastasia Cassadine."

" I know that, Ms, Ling."

Mai recognized the voice immediately.

" Mr. Jacks. What may I do for you?"

" Funny. That is exactly what I was going to ask you."

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Justus was in his office, when he heard a knock on the door. The door opened and it was Alan.

" Hello, Alan. What can I do for you?"

" I just thought you might want to know about Sasha Cassadine's condition."

" I've been to the hospital. I know it. And it still doesn't look good."

" I know. I've been inquiring myself."

" Don't."

" Pardon?"

" Don't. It will look suspicious. You and Stefan aren't close. And you barely knew Sasha. There need not be any questions as to why you are interested in the case. Bobbie knows that we were somewhat dating. She's close to the case, and is sympathetic to me. I learn all I need to know, from her. Alan, it is very important that you keep yourself under control. Do you comprehend?"

" Exactly. Well, I guess I'll be going."

" Fine."

Alan leaves. Justus says to himself, " You're wondering what this is going to cost you, Alan. And quite frankly, I haven't decided what I want."

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The gentlemen is sitting outdoor, in his hacienda. The sun is setting on the mountains. His cattle ranch is as far as the eye can see. From just inside the house, he can hear the Television. He gets up to see the report.

" Sources at the hospital say that Ms. Cassadine, CEO of the Pegasus Group, and daughter, of Billionaire Stefan Cassaine, is in critical condition, since the car crash that injured her several days ago. Ms. Cassadine, one of the world's most influential businesswomen...."

The gentleman clicks off the TV. The last thing he saw was the picture of Sasha. He took out his wallet and brought out a frayed photograph. It was of a much younger Sasha. Maybe not so much younger in years, he thought, but in spirit. God, was she ever THAT young, free, giving, innocent and trusting? He remembered how she had looked when he had last seen her in Moscow. Beautiful, of course, but with edges. Harsh, cold edges. Her smile, which once had lit up a room, was now, full of layers, each one more cold and ruthless than the last. He sighed to himself when he saw her. They, of course, never even spoke. She barely acknowledged his presence. He knew that he had no one but himself to thank for the creation before him. He picked up the phone and dialed.

" Hello?"

" Hi, Mum. How are you?"

" Jerry. Just fine. Why are you calling, or do I need to ask. I heard about Sasha."

" So did I."

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Dr. Newman should have been home hours ago. But, there she was, in her office, with the door locked, and pouring over Bobbie's records. Something was completely amiss with them. Because, the conclusions of the tests that she had run, made absolutely no sense. When they first had returned to her, she doubted them, so she had gotten a second, and then, a third set of tests done, with an increasingly nervous Bobbie. She had to have an explanation for what she was going to tell Bobbie. And she didn't know what to say. But, Bobbie had to be notified and steps had to be taken.

She calls on the phone. " Bobbie? This is Dr. Newman. I need for you to come and see me, as soon as possible. And, you should bring a bag with you. You'll need to stay overnight."

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"Ma. Don't worry about me. I have everything under control. You make sure that Jung fires that busboy. And do say a prayer for Sasha." Mai hung up the phone to her mother in Singapore. Her mother was complaining to her about some new employee. She always had a complaint. But, Mai knew that her mother only complained because she was still estatic that she had something to complain about. She loved runing the restaurant. It, and the bakery, were two of Singapore's most popular. Her twin siblings, Lien and Tham, were enjoying themselves in their private school. At 14, they were Freshmen in the most competitive private school in Singapore. They were off to a great start, both of them excellent students and athletes. Mother was complaining that they were not as enthusiastic about their after-school jobs. Mai had talked to her brother and sister, to remind them once again, not to give their mother a hard time.

Mai rememberd the simple prayer that her mother said each morning.

" Thank you. I have my children, my health, food, and safety."

Mai was always overwhelmed at the complete simplicity. They say that people are different as to what can make them happy. Those four things, were all that Mai's mother needed to keep her more than content. She was truly happy. But, then again, Mai knew why they were so important. Because, she knew what it was like when none of them were happy, and they were close to starvation. Funny, she thought, most times, those bad times seem like another lifetime ago. They were, really. Her life could be divided into two phases: before Sasha Cassadine and after Sasha Cassadine. Their bond, which few understood, but many speculated on, was strong and deep. Yet, only she and Sasha knew why. She would call soon to check on Sasha's condition, but first, she thought about the conversation that she had with Jax.

" Mr. Jacks. Is there something that I can do for you?"

" I thought I may be able to help you."

" Oh. With what?"

" With possible employment."

" You forgot that I am an employee of the Pegasus Group?"

" No. I have not forgotten, Ms. Lin. Or may I call you Mai?"

" Ms. Lin is fine."

" Alright, Ms. Lin. Let me be blunt. Things don't seem to be going well for Sasha Cassadine. And she IS the Pegasus Group. If, she were not to make it, then it would be in disarray. I know that there is no clear line of succession. But, one thing I am certain."

" And what is that?"

" That YOU won't be the sucessor. Oh, I don't doubt that you understand the complexity of the operation better than anyone. That you know where all the bodies are buried, and that you're invaluable to the operation. But, the Cassadines will never allow an 'ousider' to control the company. Which is why you should be considering your options. And one option, would be to come and work for me."

" Thank you, Mr. Jacks. But, no thanks."

" There is a great deal that someone of your talent and skills could do in my organization."

" And my information about the Pegasus Group would have nothing to do with your offer?"

" You would know that I was a liar and a fool if I said no. So, I won't insult your intelligence."

" Good. Then, I believe that we have concluded this conversation."

" Wait, Mai. I admire your loyalty to Sasha. But, can you honestly say, that if the tables were turned, that she would afford you the same?"

" Quite frankly, yes. And, may I say, that I am neither a liar, or a fool. Goodbye, Mr. Jacks."

Mai had hung up the phone in anger. The nerve of that man. Sasha isn't even dead, and he wants to pounce. He believes that I am just some employee that Sasha picked up somewhere, and that I don't know any better. He has no concept of loyalty. Mai had read extensively on Jax's M.O., of finding the weak links in companies, a resentful executive, or, in family companies, a blacksheep relative. He moves in on the companies with their help. Mai was disgusted by his tactics, but not surprised. After all, he learned them on his brother's knee. Just the thought of Jerry Jacks made Mai's face scowl in disgust. THAT was a piece of Cassadine Family history that she wished she could forget.

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" Dara Jensen.

" Hello, Dara."

" Is it my brother calling?"

" Yes."

" Where are you?"

" At the Port Charles Grille."

" You're here? In Port Charles? Why?"

" I had a meeting with one Ned Ashton. Our firm is handling an acquisition for ELQ, and I was sent to handle the deal. So, how soon can you be here for dinner?"

" I'll be right over."

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Carly is stunned to see Tony sitting on the couch when got home. She saw that he had suitcases at the door.

" Tony. Where are you going?"

" The hell away from you."

" What's wrong?"

" How can you even ask me that? I've thrown my life away on you.  A lying, cheating slut of a whore."

" Tony..Why are you saying this? What's wrong?"

" I've been your idiot for too long."

" Tony-you're not an idiot. Why are you saying these things?"

" I have to give it to you. You really pulled a number on me. I mean, you had me coming and going. I didn't know which way was up. But, I pulled a you, and what do you know? Using your tactics, I got me some truth."

" What truth? What tactics?"

" Your truth, Carly. And the tactics. Money...old but a real winner."

" Money? What did you learn with money? And to whom?"

" Oh, a few thousand to Lorraine, and you'd be surprised at what she told me. About AJ possibly being the father of the baby. Of the fake sonogram. And a whole other sorts of schemes and scams that you've pulled. Lorraine is a fountain of information about you."

" Tony, everything she said to you is a lie. She's jealous of me, Tony. She's jealous of what I have."

" Oh, really. Well, you know what? Lorraine isn't the only one. Keesha, is she jealous of you too?"

" Of course she is. Her relationship with AJ isn't going as well as she'd like it, so she tries to ruin everything for me."

" And Monica?"

" She's just a bitter old woman who doesn't have a life, and has nothing better to do than to
mettle in my life."

" Just STOP IT, CARLY!! You're busted. Give it up. So, do you want to tell AJ about the baby,
or, shall I?"

" There's no need to tell AJ anything. Because, he's not the father."

" Oh, and if he's not the father, then tell me why you went through all the trouble to drug him."

" To get him to forget that he knew the real truth about me."

" That you're a lying little slut who fucked the both of us, the same night?"

" Yeah, I wanted him to forget about our little night. But, not because I was afraid he'd tell you..although, that was part of it. I was more scared that he'd tell the real father of this baby about him and me. You see, my man, he doesn't mind me being with you, because it's been a good cover for him and me. And, he knows that I can't stand you being on top of me. But, he might have gotten upset if he knew that I was with another man. You, are obviously no threat to him, being the fat, boring, middle-aged ass that you are. But, AJ, well, he was a young, virile guy, and I had to protect my man's manhood that way."

" And WHO is this mythical MAN, that you were trying to protect."

" A man hotter than you. Better than you. Who never bored me. And thought that I was all the woman he EVER needed."

" Oh, he likes tramps and sluts."

" Sure does."

" Does your Romeo have a name?"

" Jason."