Lucky’s Return Chapters 15-18

 

Chapter 15

 

Lucky was fully awake now, the words Sly had spoken to him in his dream echoing in his head over and over again. Of course that was it! He was in the catacombs. Why hadn't he been able to figure that out three years ago? Well, it didn't matter now; all that mattered was that he knew he could find his way out of them if he could only get out of this room. Staying in this room indefinitely was no longer an option. He had to get to Elizabeth and he had to get her out of that hospital room and away from the watchful eye of Cesar Faison. If Faison could see into her hospital room, he could get to her and Lucky could not let that happen.

Lucky had tried unsuccessfully the last time he was imprisoned in this room to remove the cover from the air vent, so he did not even consider trying it this time. That meant the only way out was to go through the door, and that meant disarming and debilitating Faison, and if he was successful, it meant getting past whatever guards he had posted outside. It would not be easy. He lay back down on the bed, his mind racing in a thousand directions.

As he lay there his plan began to take shape. He decided he would wait until Faison was not around, but he knew he had to be careful about how he got that information. Elizabeth was, as always, the most important thing on his mind during his waking moments. And most of the time when he dreamed it was of her, the same dream over and over, watching her fall to the ground as the bullet invaded her body. The image never left him and it was that image that kept him going, kept him ever working on his plan to escape and get back to her.

It was some time later when he heard the door sliding open and was relieved that it was not Faison who entered the room. Instead it was George, the one guard who had treated him with respect during his long captivity of three years before. This was the first he had seen George this time around. He was actually glad to see him.

"Hey, George, how's it going? I was hoping you'd wised up and gotten a respectable job by now."

George laughed. "Hi, Lucky. Can't really say I'm glad to see you. Brought you some breakfast; put a lot of extra stuff on there for you."

"Thanks, I appreciate that. Appreciate you leaving the lights on for me, too. That must mean Faison's not around today. Faison would have your hide if he knew you were slipping me extra food, let alone leaving the lights on. So I have to think he must not be around today."

"Nope, he's gone for a few blissful days."

Lucky's heart raced, and he felt the adrenaline pumping through his veins. He knew he had to remain calm, so he waited a few moments before speaking in the most normal voice he could muster. "Leave you in charge did he?"

"Yep, just me. I'm your warden for a few days."

Lucky laughed, "Well, a guy could do a lot worse, you know. You'd make a hell of a warden, George."

George laughed easily with him, then turned serious. "So, how are you doing, Lucky?"

"Oh, just having a barrel of laughs in here. So much to do you know."

"Yea. Pretty fucked up of him to put you in an empty room like this." Lucky nodded. "But so like him. Hey, how about a game of chess? You got the table handy somewhere?'

"Sure, it's right outside."

"You up for it? Up for letting me beat you, that is?"

"Hell yea, there's nothing else to do around here, and I can watch you just as easily from in here as out there. Give me a minute and I'll go get the table."

"Thanks, I'm going crazy in here, no one to talk to, all that darkness."

George left the room and Lucky paced frantically, thinking, God, this is going to be easier than I thought. George is a soft touch. I think I can break him down. All I need is the chance to get out of this room and the rest is easy.

George returned and they sat down to play, Lucky taking the seat facing the door, thinking this would be to his advantage when he made his move. It would take some time, though, so he mentally calmed himself and prepared for the game with George.

After awhile, Lucky's concentration vanished and he lost interest in the game. He could only think of Elizabeth and how much his heart ached to see her. He leaned back in his chair, stretching out his legs as he nonchalantly asked, "So, tell me George, you seem like a decent enough guy, how come you work for the devil himself?"

George thought for a moment, looking down at his hands. "Well, you know, I ask myself that every day, Lucky, and the answer can always be summed up in one very simple word."

"What's that?"

He looked up at Lucky and held up his hand rubbing his thumb against his fingertips. "Money."

"Ah yes, the root of all evil. Actually the proper phrase is 'the love of money is the root of all evil.' My dad taught me that a long time ago."

"That's the kicker, Lucky. It doesn't have anything to do with the 'love of money'. It has to do with the love of my son. He's only five years old and he's very ill. He requires a lot of care and the money pays for his medical bills."

Lucky looked down, finally understanding why George worked for Faison. He knew that Faison would pay a lot of money to someone if he thought he could trust him. But Lucky was beginning to doubt George's loyalty to Faison. It was obvious that his loyalty was with his son and providing him the best medical care possible. He looked at him and felt tears welling in his eyes. "I'm so sorry, George."

"I know you mean that, Lucky, and I appreciate your sincerity. It means a lot to me. I think about leaving everyday, you know, just getting away from that sick fuck and getting a respectable job, like you said. But the money always wins out. I gotta do all I can for my boy."

Lucky only nodded as he sat up in his chair, then whispered. "I'm so sorry to have to do this, George." In one swift movement, Lucky put his hands under the table and stood up, shoving the table into George as he did so. The table knocked him off his chair, sending him sprawling onto the floor. In the few seconds that George was dazed and disoriented, Lucky was able to grab the gun from the waist of George's pants and point it at him. He felt his blood pumping in his head and his stomach churned at the realization that he possessed the power to do this man great harm, even kill him. But hurting George was not his intent. He only wanted out.

George was sprawled against the wall, his hands up in the air, a look of resignation on his face. Lucky swore that he saw just the start of a small smile in the corners of his mouth. "Don't worry, George, I'm not going to shoot you. I just want to get out of here. I am going to do something for you though. First, I'm going to lock you in here, but not for long. Of course I'll be calling the police, but before I do, I'm going to send a friend of mine here to let you out. His name is Jason. He's going to give you a lot of money. More money than you can imagine. And you're going to take that money and get the hell away from Faison and this place and start a new life. Get the best medical care you can for your son. Will you do that for me, George?"

He saw tears running down George's face as he nodded and said softly, "You have a friend who would do that for you?"

"Yea, I do. Now, I would really love to stay here and chat, but I have to get to Elizabeth before he does."

"There's a door right outside." He dug in his pocket and tossed a key ring to Lucky. "I just hope you can find your way out once you get outside that door. There are lots of twists and turns."

Lucky smiled. "See, that's the irony in all of this. It took me awhile to figure out that I was in the catacombs, but it was the smell that finally gave it away. In the dark you develop a really keen sense of smell, so even though it was faint, I finally figured it out. When I was younger I explored these very catacombs with my cousin. I can find my way around these tunnels in the dark. Faison isn't as smart as he thinks he is. He would never have brought me here if he had known that about me. So, you see, once I'm out of here, I'll be able to find my way with no problems."

George stood up then. "I'm not going to do anything to try and stop you. But I still don't understand why you would do this for me."

"Let's just say I'm a pretty good judge of character. Learned that from my dad, too. And you were the only person who every treated me like a human being while I was here. I'll never forget that. This is my way of saying thanks."

"I'll never forget you either, Lucky." George reached out his hand for Lucky to shake. "Good luck to you, son. I'll be saying a prayer for you and Elizabeth."

"And I'll say one for your son every day. No offense, but I hope I never see you again."

George shook his head. "Always did have a soft spot for you, kid, since the first day I met you. You know that don't you?"

Lucky only nodded, as George said, "Now get the hell out of here."

Lucky smiled at him before turning to leave the room. Once outside he easily opened the door that led to the dark, cavernous tunnels that he had spent countless hours exploring with Sly. It was too dark to see, which meant that he was not near any of the openings. That would explain the long walk to the room while he was blindfolded when Faison first brought him here just a few days before. Okay, think, Lucky, remember all the nights you spent in these catacombs by yourself. Remember how you felt along the walls to find your way. He placed both hands on the wall and began walking slowly, feeling his way. He walked for some time, using his instincts to know which way to turn, hoping his memory was serving him correctly.

He remembered a secret room someone had built here not so long ago, in the northeast corner of the tunnels, and he was certain that was where Faison had kept him imprisoned. After walking for what seemed an eternity, Lucky finally saw a faint glimmer of light. It got larger the further he walked. The smell was really getting to him now and making him feel ill. His heart was pounding, the fear that he would meet Faison in the tunnel nagging at the back of his mind. He came upon the place he remembered sleeping as a child and stopped to kneel down and run his hand gently over the surface, remembering those days so long ago, and thanking God that he had found his way. When at last he came to the opening by the river, he fell to his knees in exhaustion, his face in his hands as he wept. He wept for the time he had spent in these catacombs away from Elizabeth and his family. He wept for the pain Elizabeth was in now, but mostly he wept from relief and the knowledge that he was finally free for the first time in three years. He had won this round against Faison, although he knew this would not be the last. Finally he stood up, realizing just how weak he was, whether from lack of food, or exhaustion he wasn't sure. But he willed himself to start walking the long walk along the river into town, to the hospital, to Elizabeth.

Chapter 16

Why isn't Lucky here? I need him. I don't think I'll ever feel warm again until he's here with me. Where could he be? Oh God, what if he's dead? What if he was shot, too? I don't think I can go through this again if he's dead. I know he always told me I was the strongest person he knew, but I don't feel so strong right now. I feel weak and tired and unable to go on. I feel my will to live slipping away from me. I want so badly to talk to Luke and Sonny but they don't hear me. I say the words, but no sound comes out. And I can never quite hear what they're talking about. They speak in hushed tones, away from my bed. I guess they aren't sure if I can hear them or not, and they don't want me to hear if it's bad news. I just don't know how much longer I can go on in this state of limbo without Lucky, without being able to communicate with anyone. It's like being in prison, in solitary confinement, just like what Lucky must have gone through all those years being held by that horrible Faison. Sometimes I feel him so close to me, like he really is here, but I know that's just because he's in my heart. I know he really isn't here and may never be again.

It was beginning to get dark and a light rain was falling as Lucky emerged from the catacombs. This was evidence that Faison had purposely confused him about the time of day. It had only been a few hours ago that George brought him breakfast, but now it was early evening. Why Faison would go to the trouble to confuse him like that Lucky had no idea. Perhaps there was no reason; perhaps it was just another control tactic. Well, that was the least of his worries now. He needed to see Elizabeth; nothing else mattered. The fact that it was getting dark made it easier for him to move through town unnoticed. By his calculations he was about ten miles from the hospital. Despite his weakness, he walked quickly, the thought of getting to Elizabeth driving him on. He wished there was a quicker way to get to the hospital, but he didn't want to take the chance of asking someone for a ride, or waste unnecessary time by calling Luke to come and get him. He decided to walk as quickly as he could and to stay out of view of passing cars in case Faison had other men posted along the way. He doubted that he did though. He had no reason to believe that Lucky would ever escape so no doubt felt it unnecessary for outside protection.

He hoped that he would get to the hospital before Faison found out he had escaped. When he finally reached the hospital he slipped quietly into a side entrance. He wasn't ready for anyone to see him just yet. He needed to see Elizabeth before talking to Luke and Sonny, before calling the police. Seeing her and making sure she was all right were the only important things right now. Besides, he knew George had plenty of food to last him until Jason could get there, and that Faison would not be back for several days. He also knew that George had his cell phone with him, and he hoped that if Faison called him he would lie and tell him all was well with his young prisoner.

Luke and Sonny and Jason have been taking turns staying with me since the beginning. They never seem to tire of being here. I know they're doing it to protect me. To be sure nothing else happens to me. They love Lucky so much that they will do whatever it takes to protect me because they know how much he loves me. I wonder if they know how much I love him. How much I need him to be here with me now. I feel Lucky's presence so strongly today. Today. I don't even know what day it is or how long I've been here. The time has been interminable.

As Lucky entered the hospital he realized that he had no idea which room Elizabeth was in, and he did not want to waste time by wandering the halls looking for her. He would have to ask someone. He hoped his appearance would not alarm anyone. He was dressed in jeans, a t-shirt and a flannel shirt, and was wet from the rain. His hair was hanging in his face, and he knew he probably looked tired and maybe even sick from lack of sleep and food. There was no one at the small desk just inside the door. He looked around to make sure no one was lingering before he went to the desk and began frantically looking through papers for a list of patient room numbers. He jumped when he heard the voice behind him. "What do you think you're doing?"

He turned and saw a nurse approaching him. "Um, sorry. I need to find a patient's room number and I'm in kind of a hurry. She could be in a lot of danger."

She eyed him suspiciously and asked impatiently, "What is the patient's name?"

"Her name is Elizabeth Webber. I need to see her right away."

Lucky was growing more agitated and desperate as she slowly consulted the print out at the side of the desk. He ran his hands through his hair and asked, frantically, "Can't you hurry? Please?"

She seemed not to hear him, and after several moments, she finally looked up at him. "I'm sorry, Miss Webber is not allowed visitors other than those listed here."

"Right. Luke Spencer, Sonny Corinthos, Jason Morgan and Audrey Hardy."

"That's right. And if you were one of them you wouldn't be asking for her room number. You would already know."

Lucky sighed, "I'm Lucky Spencer. I'm Luke Spencer's son."

"I'm sorry, I can't give you the room number. We've been instructed to be very strict about this and to call security if anyone asks to see her. I'm afraid that's what I'm going to have to do now."

She reached for the phone and began dialing. Lucky went behind the desk and placed his hand over hers to stop her from dialing. He saw the fear in her eyes as she looked into his. He backed away, holding up his hands. "I'm sorry. I don't mean you any harm. I have an idea. Do you know Bobbie Spencer?"

The nurse nodded. "Yes I know her."

"She's my aunt. Could you call her to come down here, please?"

"I don't know…"

He was even more desperate now. "Look, what can it hurt? Please! You don't know how important this is."

She thought for a moment. "All right. I'll call Bobbie. Wait over there in that waiting area."

A few moments later he heard the elevator door open and jumped up to see Bobbie racing toward him. "Lucky!" She pulled him into an embrace. "My God, how did you get here?"

"I don't have time to explain right now, Bobbie. Just tell me Elizabeth is okay and take me to her."

"She's doing as well as can be expected, but, Lucky, she's been in a coma since she was shot. We just don't know at this point if she'll ever come out of it."

Lucky took in a deep breath, tears welling in his eyes. "I need to see her."

Bobbie nodded and led him to the elevator. He was silent as she said, "Your father and Sonny are with her now."

They emerged from the elevator as Sonny came out of her room. His face registered shock at seeing Lucky with Bobbie. "Jesus, kid, you always look like shit when you come back from the dead." Lucky only nodded as Sonny placed his hand on his arm. "I'll take you to her."

"Sonny, I need to talk to you, after….after I have some time with Elizabeth."

"Sure, I'll be right here."

Sonny led him to the room and opened the door, calling out softly to Luke who was sitting in a chair by the door, his head against the wall, his eyes closed.. He looked up, startled and stood up to approach Lucky. "Thank God," he whispered as he embraced Lucky briefly.

Lucky pulled away and looked into Luke's eyes. "Mom and Lulu…are they…?"

"They're safe. You don't need to worry." Luke then stepped aside to allow him to approach Elizabeth's bed.

Lucky stood by her bed, looking down at her for a long moment, his tears blinding him. She seemed only to be sleeping, and she still looked so beautiful. He stroked her arm gently, afraid to touch her for fear of hurting her.

Lucky? Oh God, is it really you, or is this just another dream that you've come back to me? God, please let it be real. Please let it really be you.

Finally he leaned over to kiss her forehead, then her cheek as he whispered, "Elizabeth, I'm here. I love you. I'm not going to leave you ever again." He kissed her lips softly as he began to weep, just as he had when he emerged from the catacombs, but this time he was weeping only for Elizabeth. Lucky sat back on the chair beside the bed and took her hand in his, pressing it to his cheek. He had never felt so exhausted or so desolate. How could he go on if she never came back to him? She was his life. She was his future. It would be such a cruel twist of fate to have her taken from him now, now that he was free again, now that he knew he would never let Faison capture him again.

It is him! His lips feel so warm against mine. And his tears against my hand are so warm. I feel so much stronger with him here. He is really here, isn't he? What other explanation could there be? I can feel him this time, and hear him. This isn't like the other dreams where I reach out to touch him and he disappears.

Lucky felt Luke put his hand on his shoulder as he said softly, "We'll leave you alone for awhile." He heard Luke and Sonny leave the room and sat staring at Elizabeth for a long time.

"Baby, you have to wake up and come back to me. I need you. I need you with me. You have to fight to get better, sweetie. Please."

I can hear you Lucky. I want to come back. I really do, but I can't hear myself when I talk to you. So I know you can't hear me yet. But I know you're here. I can feel your hands around mine and they give me strength. Be patient with me Lucky. I'm trying. I'm really trying to come back to you.

He had been in her room for awhile when Bobbie came in. "Lucky, I need to take her vital signs and do a few other things. Can you wait outside for just a minute?"

"Can't I stay?"

"It will only take a few minutes, Lucky. I promise."

He nodded as he stood up and leaned over to kiss her forehead again. "I'm just going to go talk to my dad and Sonny for a few minutes. I'll be right back."

Luke and Sonny were sitting outside when he emerged from the room. They both stood up and approached Lucky. "You okay, son?"

He nodded.

"You don't look okay to me."

"How I feel doesn't matter, Dad. Do you think Elizabeth is going to be all right?"

"Well, if anything can make her better, it's you being here. Give it some time, Lucky."

"We don't have a lot of time. As soon as Faison finds out I'm gone, he'll come after her or Mom or Lulu. I know him. That's how he gets to me. He won't come after me. If he ever had any intention of killing me, he would have done it a long time ago." He looked at Luke. "It's you he wants. Or rather it's something you have that he wants. Any idea what it is? I've wracked my brain, dad, and I can't think of anything you have that could be this valuable."

Luke's expression turned dark. He couldn't tell Lucky that he knew what it was Faison wanted, he couldn't tell Lucky that he had the Ice Princess, the coveted diamond from years ago, the one thing Faison would kill for.

"Tell me Dad, I need to know what this has all been about."

"Lucky, I can't tell you just yet. I've only just begun to put it all together myself. Just trust me that now is not the time to discuss this. I need time to figure out what we're going to do. Can you do that, give me some time?" Lucky nodded. "Good. Now I want to know how you managed to escape, beside using that cunning Spencer intuition of yours."

Lucky smiled. "It was a lot easier than I thought it would be. I finally figured out where I was. He had me here in Port Charles the whole time you know, when he first took me three years ago."

"You suspected that didn't you? That the plane trip and long drive was just a ruse to make you think you'd been far away?"

"Yea. Well, this time when he took me back to that God awful room, I kept smelling something familiar. It was a vague scent, one I couldn't quite define, and unpleasant one. Then last night I dreamt about Sly. We were in the catacombs and he was yelling at me that I knew how to get out because that was where I was."

"The catacombs? Of course!! Faison is nothing if not a genius. I should have figured that out a long time ago, though."

"You would have had no way of knowing where he had me, Dad. You didn't know he even knew about the catacombs. But the best part is that he didn't know I knew anything about them. Once I figured that out, or rather, Sly figured that out…."

Luke shook his head, "Sly? Man, I knew that boy would be good for something one day. Remind me to thank him personally."

"Anyway, once I knew where I was, the rest was easy. This morning, or rather this afternoon, whenever it was….I don't know, because Faison messed with my mind making me think it was morning when it was really night, and it was hard for me to really know since there was no window and he kept the lights off most of the time."

"He kept you in the dark?"

Lucky laughed. "Yea, literally and figuratively speaking. Anyway, a few hours ago one of his guards, George, brought me my breakfast. I had a feeling that Faison was gone because the lights were on for a long time. George had a soft spot for me from way back and would always bring me extra food if Faison wasn't around, would stay and talk to me like I was a real person, not just some pathetic prisoner. Anyway, I got him to play a game of chess with me, tell me about his life. When he started feeling comfortable and relaxing a little all I had to do was shove the table into him so he fell on the floor, and I was able to grab his gun. Funny thing is, he didn't offer any resistance at all. I think he was even smiling as I left. I think he was glad I was escaping."

"Where's George now?"

"I locked him in the room, but I told him Jason would be there before I called the police. I told him he would have a lot of money for him and that he could leave town and start a new life. He's got a kid that's really sick and he only worked for Faison for the money. Deep down he's a decent guy. Can you do this for me Sonny?"

"No questions asked, Lucky. If you trust this guy, I trust him. I'll get right on it. Get him an airline tickets outta here, too."

"Thanks. Dad, can you go with Jason since you know your way in the catacombs? The room is in the northeast corner…"

"I know right where it will be, Son. We'll get him out of there and get him to the airport, too."

"Thanks." He turned to Sonny. "I owe you."

Sonny waved his hand and said, "You owe me nothing. You stay with Elizabeth and we'll go take care of George."

Lucky nodded and turned to go back to Elizabeth. Luke and Sonny were gone for several hours and Lucky never left her. He talked to her just as if she could hear him. He told her Faison had grabbed him that day just as she was shot. He told her about George and how he had asked Sonny to help him start a new life away from Faison. He told her everything he thought about, everything he did while he was gone, which by his calculations must have been a little over a week. He told her everything except the part about Faison wanting him to kill Luke. He could not even entertain the thought of that, let alone talk about it. The whole idea was just too painful.

Finally, exhausted, as he sat in the chair by her bed, he had laid his head down on the bed and fallen asleep. He must have been dreaming, because he could hear her talking to him.

Lucky, I know you're here. And I know how tired you are, how scared you are for me. I can feel you beside me and I promise you I'm getting stronger every minute. I know you can't really hear me, but I'm trying. You just have to be patient with me.

Her voice sounded so clear, but when he awoke his heart sank when he looked up at her only to find that she was still sleeping. Still, even awake, he thought he heard her voice, but it was so faint he couldn't make out the words.

I love you Lucky. Don't give up on me, please. I'm coming back to you just as soon as I can. I'm trying to lift my hand to touch you to prove that I know you're here, that I know what's going on, but it feels like I'm lifting it through mud. Please don't leave me. It won't be long. I promise.

He sighed deeply as he heard Bobbie enter the room and whisper, "Everything okay, Lucky?"

"Yea, she's still asleep."

"I'm going home now, but I'll be back tomorrow morning. You call me if you need anything."

"Okay. Thanks, Bobbie."

She leaned over and kissed the top of his head. "Try and get some sleep, Lucky. I love you."

"Love you, too, Bobbie."

She quietly left the room and Lucky looked around, running his hands through his hair, then rubbing his eyes with his fingertips. He was so tired. He needed to lie down, but there were only chairs in the room. He wanted to lie down with Elizabeth, wanted to hold her close and keep her warm, keep himself warm. He saw that there was room on the bed and made the decision that it couldn't hurt to lie down beside her. He climbed onto the bed and gently pulled her close as he laid his head against her shoulder and finally fell asleep.

At Port Charles Airport George was preparing to board a plane to an undisclosed location of Sonny's choosing where he found the best doctors to help George's son. He was in a disguise and had a new name, a new identity. Sonny and Jason had worked quickly to prepare for his departure. He would meet his family at the secret location and would begin his new life independent of Cesar Faison. He turned to Sonny, Luke and Jason before boarding the plane. "I still don't understand why you're doing this for me. Why Lucky did this for me."

Luke spoke up. "Well, let me tell you something. My son says you're okay and in my book, that means you're okay. It's that simple. You see, he's the best judge of character I've ever known. Don't know who he got that trait from, certainly not me. Just go, be happy, live your life, get your son well."

"Thank you isn't adequate. One day I will repay all of this money."

Luke waved his hand in the air, towards the plane. "Go."

"Wait, one more thing. Get Faison and make him pay. Lucky never deserved what he got from him."

"Amen to that."

"I just wish I could have been more helpful in telling you where to find him, but he was very secretive about everything."

"You let my son go free. That's good enough for me. Don't worry, we'll find Faison, and trust me, he will pay dearly for what he's done to him."

George nodded and shook their hands, and they watched as he boarded his plane.

Lucky was dreaming again. He was dreaming about the night he and Elizabeth had spent alone in Sonny's penthouse. He was dreaming that they were dancing again, holding each other tightly, so happy and so much in love. Suddenly it became the other dream, the dream where she was shot and he could not get to her. He fought to wake up, not wanting to relive it again. He stirred, as he felt the hand touching his face so softly it was barely perceptible. He was awake, though not fully, when he heard Elizabeth's voice floating above him. Then he felt it again, the unmistakable hand caressing his face. He lifted his head slightly to look up and saw the most beautiful sight he could imagine. He was staring into Elizabeth's eyes as she looked at him and tangled her hand in his hair and whispered, "Lucky…"

Chapter 17

Lucky sat at the head of Elizabeth's bed, looking down on her as she slept peacefully. He was exhausted, but he knew he could not afford to sleep as long as he was alone with Elizabeth. And even though two of Sonny's men stood guard outside the door, he knew he wouldn't feel completely safe until his father returned. He also knew that Faison would return as soon as he learned that he and George were no longer in the catacombs. And he knew that he would exact a precise revenge on Lucky and that Elizabeth would be his most likely target.

Lucky leaned his head back against the wall for just a moment, closing his eyes, the prospect of sleep seducing him. He felt himself starting to drift off even as he fought to stay awake. A thousand images danced before him, images of his first time with Faison, the beatings and the mind games, the endless hours on the computer trying to learn how to outwit Faison at chess so that he could have one question answered. The question was always the same, and on the rare occasions when Faison would allow him to win, he always asked the same one. "Why?" A simple question that should have elicited a simple answer, but Faison continually evaded the issue and danced around it, never giving him anything concrete other than the fact that there was something he wanted and he would do whatever it took to get it. But he never told Lucky how he figured in the equation. He could still hear his hideous, maniacal laughter as he left his steel room, leaving Lucky all the more confused and frustrated. Of course now he knew that the something Faison spoke about belonged to Luke. If only Luke would tell him what it was, maybe it would all make sense to him.

Lucky went from those images to the ones of Elizabeth being shot, and all of the emotions and feelings of that day came flooding back to him. The images floated before him just on the edge of his consciousness, but he was startled back to reality by the sound of he door opening and his heart began to pound. "Shit." He sat up and rubbed his eyes, looking up. "Dad, thank God it's you. It's the middle of the night. I didn't think you'd be back until morning."

"You know I don't ever sleep at night. Besides I figured you could use a break. You doing okay?"

He nodded and stood up, leaning over to gently smooth Elizabeth's hair back from her face before approaching his father. He covered his face with his hands and pressed his fingertips into his eyes, shaking his head. When he looked at Luke, his eyes were rimmed with tears. "I'm so tired, Dad. I just want this to be over, for Elizabeth, for Mom and Lulu, for all of us."

Luke placed his hand on Lucky's shoulder. "I know, son. I know. We all want it to be over. But Faison will make his next move soon and we'll be ready for him."

"He's going to come after Elizabeth. I know this about him. That's why we need to move her somewhere safe as soon as we can."

Luke moved to the foot of the bed and looked at her. "She looks so peaceful, Lucky. Maybe it's good that she doesn't know what's going on. How is she? Has there been any change?"

Lucky nodded. "Good news. She woke up a while ago. Dr. Quartermaine came in and examined her. She told me she's out of the coma now but she'll be in and out for a while. Mostly she just needs a lot of rest now. She won't really know any more until she wakes up and is able to talk and answer some questions."

"She woke up? That's good, son. That's really good."

"She was only awake for a minute, but she looked in my eyes and said my name. She knew I was here."

Sonny, who had been standing in the background came forward to rest by the side of Elizabeth's bed. He looked up at Lucky. "No offense, but you look like shit, kid. Have you thought about getting yourself checked out by Dr. Quartermaine?"

Lucky shook his head. "I can't worry about myself until I know Elizabeth is okay." He turned to Luke. " We need to get her out of here, Dad, just as soon as we can."

Luke nodded. "We've moved your mother and Lulu to Jason's penthouse. They'll be safe there, and that's where we want to move Elizabeth. I'm not sure how we'll do it yet since we have no idea who Faison has watching the hospital. We'll get her out of here, Lucky, I promise, just as soon as she wakes up and is well enough to be moved."

Lucky paced the floor for a moment before stopping and reaching into his pocket. "Oh, I almost forgot. I found this." He handed Luke the small camera he had removed from the ceiling by the window.

"How did you find that? We swept this room a thousand times."

"I knew where it was from the angle of the camera on the tapes I saw."

"He showed you tapes of Elizabeth in the hospital?"

Lucky nodded. "He's a sick bastard, Dad. Those tapes were his own special brand of torture, but at least I knew she was still alive, though he kept taunting me that she wouldn't be for long, that he wasn't done with her yet." He slumped down in the chair and ran his hand through his hair, finally looking up at Luke. "So, you found George okay?"

"We found George. Put him on a plane to a location only Sonny knows with a new identity and lots of cash."

Lucky looked at Sonny. "I promise I'll pay back all the money."

Sonny waved his hand in front of him. "What money?"

Lucky smiled, letting Sonny believe it was okay, but knowing that one day he would pay him back every dime of the money he had given to George.

"Nice guy, George. He was a bit bewildered by our generosity, by your generosity so I explained to him that I trust your judgment above all others and if you said he was okay, that makes him okay in my book. He was very grateful."

Lucky turned to Sonny. "You sent him someplace where he can get the best medical help for his son?"

"He's going to be fine, Lucky, and I promise Faison will never find him."

"Good. Although I doubt that he'd go after him. I'm sure he was expendable, I just didn't want to take any chances you know?" He turned back to Luke then. "You're the one he wants, Dad, or rather something you have, and he'll do whatever it takes to get to you."

Luke nodded, his heart breaking for his son. He looked so tired, so beaten. And he knew that soon he would have to tell Lucky what Faison wanted from him, that he had the coveted Ice Princess that was worth an unfathomable sum of money. "Listen, will you try and get some rest? Sonny and I will stay here and stand guard while you get some sleep. You really don't look so good and I want you to think about getting checked out by Monica."

"I will, but not now. I need to be here for Elizabeth when she wakes up."

"Okay, I'm going to get some coffee for Sonny and me. You need to eat. What can I get you?"

"I'm not hungry, Dad, really." Luke looked at him for a long minute, wishing he could fix everything for him, wishing he could be the one to take care of Faison, but he knew Lucky. He knew he would have to be the one to face him, to take him down. After all, he was the one who had been held prisoner by him for three years of his life, three long years away from Elizabeth and all the people he loved. He was nothing if not his father's son, and Luke knew this, knew that he would not rest until Faison was either dead or in prison. He put his hand on Lucky's shoulder again. "Son, that room...I saw it...and I can only imagine what it must have been like for you..."

"It's okay, Dad. I'm out now and I don't ever have to go back. I swear to you, Faison will never get me again. I'll kill him first."

Luke nodded and then said, "I hope I get to him before you do."

After Luke left, Lucky sat on the edge of Elizabeth's bed, taking her hand in his, and looked up at Sonny. "Sonny, can I ask you something?"

"Sure, kid. You know you can ask me anything."

"Faison said something to me that day when Elizabeth was shot. I could see you kneeling by her, helping her. I tried so hard to get away from him so I could get to her. It was the worst moment of my life, seeing her lying on the ground like that and knowing I couldn't help her. But I was glad you were there to take care of her. I knew you would do whatever it took to make sure she was okay." Sonny nodded and said nothing as he waited for Lucky to go on. "Faison taunted me all the time, you know. He told me that you were the man who really loved her, that you were the one who should be taking care of her. What do you think he meant by that?"

Sonny's heart skipped a beat. How in the hell did Faison know how much he loved Elizabeth? How could he know? No one else knew, not even Jason. He would never reveal that to anyone, would never let on that he loved her as he had loved no other since Brenda. He blinked a few times, feeling the tears welling in his eyes. He could never let Lucky know, and he would keep these feelings to himself until his death. He looked down at Elizabeth and stroked her arm briefly before he finally looked up at Lucky, taking a deep breath and speaking softly. "Of course I love Elizabeth, Lucky. She's family. Just like you are. I'll always love her. Faison was just playing mind games with you."

Lucky nodded. "You're right. He's a master at playing mind games."

"Lucky, you don't ever have to worry about Elizabeth. I'll always protect her, whether you're around or not. I'll always do everything in my power to make sure she's safe. I'm just sorry I couldn't do the same for you, and that I couldn't protect her that day."

"But you were there for her when it happened. That's what counts. I'll always be grateful to you for that."

Sonny nodded and took a deep breath. "Listen, I'm going outside now and let you get some rest." He walked toward the door, then turned around and said, in a whisper. "She'll be okay now that you're back, Lucky. This I know."

"Thanks, Sonny...Thanks for everything."

Later, as the sunlight came through the hospital window in the early morning, Lucky pulled his chair up to the side of Elizabeth's bed and laid his head on her hand, closing his eyes, trying to sleep. He may have slept for a few minutes after Luke and Sonny came back, but he certainly didn't feel rested. He knew he would never really rest until Elizabeth woke up and he was finally able to talk to her, to tell her how much he loved her, to know that she was going to be all right. He thought again about the blissful night they had spent in Sonny's penthouse, and how they had made love and had awakened to sunshine for the first time in days. He truly thought that things were going to turn around for them, that perhaps he was finally free of Faison. He had gained a false sense of security while staying at Sonny's, and he cursed himself now for allowing himself to become careless. He knew Faison was coming for him, for Elizabeth, or for whoever he could hurt the most to get to him, and ultimately to Luke.

After a while he felt Elizabeth stirring and became aware of her other hand in his hair. "Lucky...." He looked up then and saw her eyes, clear and bright, looking into his.

"Hey." He moved closer to the bed and stroked her hair, tears welling in his eyes.

"You're really here?"

"Yes, I'm really here."

She nodded and smiled weakly, tears slipping down her cheeks. "Love you, Lucky..."

He started to stand up, still holding her hand. "Elizabeth, baby, do I need to get the doctor? Are you in any pain?"

She pulled on his hand, "No, Lucky, please don't go. I'm okay. Just stay here and talk to me for a while. I've missed you so much."

He sat down on the bed and stroked her face with his hand. "You're sure? I mean, you don't have any pain?"

"Well, maybe a little, but nothing unbearable. Just let me look at you." She was quiet for a moment, gathering her strength a bit before going on. Her speech was somewhat labored, but she seemed stronger than when she had awakened earlier. "I knew you were coming." "You knew?"

"I wasn't cold anymore. I've been so cold, so empty since you've been gone. I started feeling warmer and I knew that you were coming. I knew, Lucky. I could feel you getting closer and closer to me." He felt the tears spilling down his face as he started to cry and he made no effort to stop them. He felt himself finally giving in to the fatigue and fear and loneliness he had been feeling, and the happiness he felt at finally being able to talk to Elizabeth. She reached up and tried to wipe the tears from his eyes, but they continued to spill down his face. "Don't cry, Lucky, please."

"I can't help it, baby. I'm just so happy to finally be able to talk to you, so happy that you're awake and alive and that I'm here with you."

"I've missed you so much, Lucky. I didn't want to go on without you. I didn't know where you were, or what had happened to you. I was afraid you were dead."

She stopped and looked around the room, as if she were looking for something or someone. "Elizabeth, what is it?"

"George....have to thank George. He's the one who let you go."

"George? Sweetie, how do you know about George?"

"You've been through hell, Lucky. I know. I know how George helped you. You told me everything."

"You could hear me?"

She nodded. I heard everything all along. I knew every time your father or Sonny or Jason came in the room. They talked to me sometimes, but not about you. They always talked in whispers away from my bed so I couldn't hear them. I didn't know what had happened to you until you came here and told me everything. I tried to answer you. I tried to talk but the words just wouldn't come out."

He smiled, kissing her cheek. "I think I heard you, baby. I thought I was dreaming, but now I know it was your voice trying to reach me when I was lying beside you."

"I was fighting to get back to you."

"Just like I've been fighting to get back to you. And Sonny thanked George enough for all of us. He doesn't ever have to worry about Faison again."

"I'm glad. Lucky, you look so tired. Are you okay? Did he hurt you?"

"I'm okay, Elizabeth, especially now that you're awake."

"I love you so much."

"I love you, too, baby." He leaned over to kiss her softly on the lips and she tangled her hand in the hair at the back of his head, holding him against her for a long minute. They were interrupted by the sound of the door opening.

"Lucky...." Bobbie, Luke and Sonny entered the room. "Luke called me because he heard you talking in here. He thought maybe Elizabeth was awake. Monica is on her way." She approached Elizabeth's bed and picked up her hand to take her pulse. "It's wonderful to see you awake, Elizabeth. Your pulse is a little fast, but I guess that could be because Lucky is here."

Elizabeth smiled and took his hand. "I'm just so happy to see him."

"How are you feeling?"

"I feel okay, I guess. Just a little weak."

"Do you have any pain?"

"Not very much, no."

Bobbie felt her forehead and took her temperature. "Well, your fever is down and that's a really good sign. It means the infection is getting better. You know, after Monica examines you I imagine she'll want you to start sitting up and eventually getting out of bed to walk. Do you feel up to that?"

"I think so. I want to get better, Bobbie, and I'll do anything I have to, I promise."

"Good. Let me go see if I can find Monica. She should be on her way. It's wonderful to have you back."

Bobbie left the room as Luke and Sonny came in, both smiling. Luke leaned over and kissed her on the forehead. "Hey, darlin', you sure are a sight for sore eyes."

She laughed. "Thanks. Sonny..." She reached out her hands and took his hand in one, Luke's in the other. "Thank you both for watching over me. I always knew you were here, and Jason, too. I don't know how to thank you."

"Just get better so we can get you out of here, okay?" Luke turned to Lucky. "Can I talk to you outside?"

Elizabeth spoke. "No...Luke, please, I want to know what's going on. You can tell Lucky whatever it is in front of me. I've been in the dark for too long."

Luke looked at Lucky. "It's okay. No secrets, Dad. She has a right to know everything."

"Okay. Mac was just here. They've intercepted a call to the control room in the catacombs. He's on his way back to Port Charles."

Chapter 18

One month later....

It was the same nightmare again, invading his sleep, more vivid and more real than before. He saw the man come out of the shadows, saw his hand move quickly to Elizabeth's side, saw the look of startled confusion, shock and pain on her face as she fell to the ground, saw Sonny frantically looking around for him as he called his name. As he awoke he wondered if the vision would ever leave him, either in his waking or sleeping hours. His heart pounded just as it had done so many times in the past weeks when he awoke from the same dream. So far he had been able to hide the nightmares from Elizabeth, but he knew it was only a matter of time before she heard him, sometimes gasping for air, sometimes crying out in his sleep. Sitting up in bed, his first thoughts, as always, were of Elizabeth. He took several deep breaths as he rubbed his eyes with his fingertips before he glanced down to see her sleeping peacefully beside him. He whispered, "Thank God, thank God," as he gently pushed a piece of hair from her eyes and kissed her gently on the cheek. She stirred briefly, but did not awaken when he got out of bed and pulled on his jeans and a T-shirt.

Luke was sitting at the table reading the paper when Lucky entered the kitchen of Jason's penthouse. "Dad, isn't it kind of early for you to be up?"

Luke looked up. "Couldn't sleep, knowing that fuck is still out there."

Lucky nodded and sighed, tired of worrying about where or when Faison would make his next move, and weary from not getting enough sleep. He poured himself a cup of coffee and slumped into the chair across from Luke. He ran his hand through his hair and rested it behind his head, massaging his neck.

"Can I just say you look like shit?"

"You sound like Sonny. He's always so good at telling me that."

"Well, it's true. You're not sleeping either are you?"

"Sometimes. Not much, I guess."

"So why are you up so early?"

"Pretty much the same reason. I knew Faison wouldn't go back to the catacombs, Dad. He's too smart for that. He knows I'm not there and he knows the place is crawling with cops. He's going to lay low for a while. I know how he operates."

"I think you're right. Faison may be sick, but he's also methodical if nothing else. He's not impulsive. He'll strike when we least expect it. That's why we can't ever let our guard down."

Lucky nodded. "I know, Dad. But I've made an important decision."

Luke leaned back in his chair and folded his arms across his chest. "I'm listening."

Lucky stood up and paced the room for a minute and leaned against the counter before speaking. "You know, I've always said that I won't live in fear of him anymore, that I won't let him control my life ever again. But, by staying here isn't that what I'm doing? I have to get out of here, Dad. I'm going stir crazy being here all day and all night. It's like he's still holding me prisoner, you know. And the doctor says Elizabeth is doing a lot better, that she's ready to resume a normal life."

"What are you saying, son?"

"It's been over a month since I got out of that hell hole he had me in and I'm ready to move on. I need to find a job and I want to move out of the penthouse as soon as we can. Jason can't stay next door with Sonny indefinitely. It's not fair to him to give up his home for us."

Luke smiled, marveling at just how much like him his son was. Never one to give in to threats or danger, Luke had always tried to live his life as if they didn't exist. Just always watch your back, that was the cardinal rule of being a Spencer. And always put everyone else's safety before your own.

Lucky looked at him, questioning. "What are you smiling at?"

"Oh, I was just thinking about how much you remind me of myself when I was your age. Ah, but you are so much wiser and more mature than I was then."

He laughed. "I don't know about all that. I've made some mistakes along the way. But all I know right now is that I need to start making a life for Elizabeth and me and stop living in limbo. I know one day Faison will make his move and we just have to be ready for him when he does."

"Well, you know your mother and I have been thinking about things along the same lines. I think it's time we let Jason have his place back, too I think we should all go back to our house. As for a job, no need for you to start looking right away. I've got plenty you can do at the club until you figure out what you want to do."

Lucky shook his head as he sat back down at the table. "I appreciate the offer to stay with you, but Elizabeth and I really need to be alone. We haven't really had any time alone since I came back. You can understand that, right?"

Luke nodded. "Oh yea, I definitely understand that. Why not stay in Ruby's suite of rooms at Kelly's? No one has stayed there since, well, since she died. I think she would want you to have it. I could call Tammy and tell her it's yours. You might get a good deal from the owner, too."

Lucky laughed softly, then thought for a minute. "Yeah, that could work. I will take you up on the job offer though, but just until I find something else."

"Good, good. And you know Sonny will have men on Elizabeth all the time."

"I know. Do you think I'm doing the right thing?"

"You know I do. Your mother and I are more than ready to go home, too."

"Home, who's going home?" They both looked up as Elizabeth entered the kitchen.

Lucky stood up and went to her, putting his arm around her. "Mom and Dad and Lulu are going home. And you and I...well, let's just say I have a surprise for you today." He looked at Luke. "About that phone call you were going to make? Forget it, I'll take care of it in person."

Luke nodded and got up from the table and put his hand on Lucky's shoulder as he walked past him. "Okay, son. Listen, I'm gonna leave you two alone and go see if Laura is awake yet, start getting our stuff together. You be careful."

"I will. Thanks, dad."

After Luke left the room, Elizabeth turned to Lucky. "I don't understand. Where are we going?"

Lucky smiled. "I need to check something out before I can tell you about it. But do you think you can pack a few things and be ready to leave later on today?"

"Lucky, are you sure we should leave?"

"More sure than I've been about anything in a long time. I'm going to go out for a little while, but I'll be back by lunch time."

"You're going out? Lucky, how can you be sure if it's safe?"

"I'll take Jason with me. I'll be fine. We have to stop living in fear and today is as good a time as any to start."

He saw the look of doubt and worry on her face. He bent his knees so that he was looking directly into her eyes as he placed his hands on her arms. "Trust me, baby. Please. I know what I'm doing."

She nodded as he pulled her close and kissed her, gently at first, then with more urgency. Her arms circled his waist as she returned his kiss. Finally he pulled away and smiled. "You're making it difficult for me to leave, you know."

She smiled apologetically. "Sorry."

Lucky put his hands on the sides of her face. "Don't ever be sorry for this. It's the one thing that's gotten me through these long days here."

Lucky and Jason left soon after to check out the room at Kelly's. He had only been outside a few times since coming to stay at Jason's and it felt good.

"God, it's wonderful to breathe fresh air. I'm going nuts being cooped up. Not that I don't appreciate all that you've done for us."

"I know. Lucky, you're sure you want to do this? Cause I don't mind staying with Sonny until we get Faison, no matter how long it takes. You're a lot safer there than out on your own."

"Jason, wouldn't you do the same? Elizabeth and I haven't had any time to be alone together since I came back. I really feel like it's time to start making a life for us. I know both you and Sonny would do the same."

Jason laughed. "You know me too well. And you're too much like me."

"Yea, I think I am. We're never afraid for ourselves, only the people we love."

"Sonny has already said that he'll put as many men on Elizabeth and your mother and Lulu as you want. They'll be as safe as we can possibly make them."

"I know that, Jason, and I appreciate it."

Several hours later, Lucky led Elizabeth into Kelly's where she was warmly greeted by Tammy and several of the regular customers. Tammy asked one of the waitresses to take over for her while she led Lucky and Elizabeth upstairs to the end of the hallway.

"Lucky, what's going on? This is Ruby's old suite."

Tammy handed Lucky a set of keys and kissed both of them on the cheek. "Call me if you need anything?"

Lucky nodded as he unlocked the door and moved aside for Elizabeth to go inside. "Welcome home, baby."

She looked at him, a slow smile forming on her lips. "Home? This is ours?"

"Yep, all ours. I know the owner, remember? Were you ever inside when Ruby was alive?"

"No, only at the door."

"Well, you'll be happy to know that it has a small kitchenette, so you can whip up some of those wonderful meals you're so famous for."

Elizabeth hit him playfully on the arm. "A few things changed while you were away. I'll have you know I've become quite a good cook in the past few years. Your mother and Sonny are excellent teachers."

Lucky put his hand over his heart. "I apologize then, and I look forward to eating your cuisine. Just promise me it will be better than that rice stuff you made all those years ago for me."

Elizabeth laughed, "Oh that was the worst, wasn't it?"

"Yes, it was. The absolute worst. But I loved it because you made it for me." He moved to her and pulled her close as he kicked the door shut with his foot. "So what do you think?"

"I think I like this. I'm just so afraid for you."

"I'll be fine, Elizabeth. I'm not going to let anything happen to either of us again. I promise."

"I hope you're right. But I have to admit, it will be wonderful to be alone, finally. Not that I didn't love being with your parents and Lulu, but...." Her face flushed a bit as she said, "Well, you know, it's been a long time since that night at Sonny's."

"Oh, baby, believe me, I do know, and we're going to make up for lost time very soon. But first, I want to give you the tour."

She kissed him quickly on the lips and turned to survey their new home. There was a small, quaint living room with the kitchenette to the right. On the opposite wall was a door leading to the bedroom and with a small bathroom attached. The rooms were completely furnished with fresh flowers everywhere. "Lucky, where did all these beautiful flowers come from?"

"Tammy must have gone out and gotten them after I told her I wanted the place. Wow, there are so many memories in these rooms."

"Will you tell me about them?"

"Of course I will. I know Ruby is smiling down on us right now, don't you think?" Her eyes filled with tears. "I know she is. She loved you so much, Lucky, and I know she would want to help us. You know, if I know Tammy I'll bet she did a lot more than put fresh flowers all around." She went to the kitchen and opened the cupboards and refrigerator to reveal more food than they could ever eat. She looked at Lucky with tears in her eyes. "Lucky, I can't believe we're really going to be alone. It's going to be so wonderful."

He nodded and took her hand, leading her to the bedroom. "Let's go check out the most important room." They walked in to the bedroom and he sat on the bed, pulling her with him. "Are you tired? You got up early and you've done a lot more today than usual."

"I'm okay, just a little tired."

"Why don't you lie down for a while. I'll go fix us something to eat."

"I'm not hungry yet, but I would like to lie down for a while, but only if you'll lie down with me."

He grinned. "Now there is an offer I can't refuse."

Across the water, in the study at Wyndemere, Faison listened to Stefan Cassadine's protests about his latest scheme, one that he would put into action as soon as he returned from a brief trip to Europe.

"Surely you can't be serious about this latest plan? I must insist that you reconsider."

Faison laughed maniacally. "Insist? You are in no position to insist that I do anything. You work for me, remember? And surely you know that I have not an ounce of sentimentality in my body. I think my current plan is the best one yet. It is one that I have threatened to do repeatedly. The time has come to put that plan in motion."

"If you do, indeed, go ahead with this plan, then I'm afraid I cannot be a willing participant."

"And what makes you think you have a say in this matter? There is always your precious son, or is he your nephew? I never can keep straight which he really is. You wouldn't want anything to happen to him, would you?"

Stefan raised his eyebrow at him. "Are you blackmailing me?"

"I don't blackmail, Mr. Cassadine. I act. And I expect you to give me a full daily report of the Spencer's every movement while I am out of the country. But I must tell you, if you should decide to defect and betray me, I would suggest that you watch your back and that of young Mr. Cassadine, very closely." He stood up and smiled at Stefan chillingly before saying, "Good day," and disappearing into the secret passageway in the walls.