"Hey, where you been?"
"Just exchanging insults with Stefan, you know how much I enjoy that. How's my kid?"
"I just left him. Nikolas is with him and Alexis is outside the room. I think she wants to talk to Nikolas."
Luke frowned. "I don't think I'll ever understand why Lucky wants a Cassadine, of all people, with him. He told me not to bother coming back! I think the fever is starting to affect his brain. Doesn't he realize they are responsible for all this?"
"Come on, Luke we need to talk." Sonny turned and walked to one of the many sitting areas in the hospital and sat down. Luke sat in the chair opposite him.
"What have you got on your mind, Sonny?"
"You and I both know that the Cassadines have a funny way of doing things."
"That's one way of putting it."
"Look, you've been spending all of your time wracking your brain trying to figure out how Stefan did this. Don't you think you need to be spending time with Lucky? He's scared and Nikolas has been around. You're setting him up to turn to Cassadine."
Luke jumped to his feet. "I am doing no such thing! Lucky knows how this is done. I have to find out what Stefan did to him, or we can't fix it! With Laura gone, I'm the only one that can do it. Lucky understands why I can't be with him. He knows what is important."
"Then why is he mad at you?"
"He doesn't know what he's saying. He's sick and that boy is confusing him, filling his head with all his Cassadine lies. And I can't do anything about it! If I keep Nikolas away, Lucky will flip out, and he can't handle that right now. The best thing for me to do it figure out what Stefan did, fix it, and then I can remind Lucky who he is dealing with. It won't matter if I convince him and he dies. I have to find a cure for him."
Sonny rubbed his eyes. "So until then, he's on his own."
"It's the only way, Sonny. Do you think I like it? I can't do it any other way." "Lucky needs someone. He's scared, even I can tell that. And being scared makes you vulnerable. Kids shouldn't have to be scared of their family. Lucky is scared of you and Laura abandoning him, and scared to trust Nikolas."
"He's right to be scared of Nikolas! And you are way off base, Sonny. I'm telling you, Lucky understands. Or he will...as soon as this is over."
"Why don't you at least let me bring back Laura? I can protect her."
"No! I can't have my focus divided any more than it is! Look, I appreciate what you are trying to do, but I know how to handle this. I've been dealing with it for longer than I've known you. I can handle it. Just keep the guards with Lucky and keep Stefan away! I might have to accept Nikolas, but Stefan is not to be in that room!"
Sonny held up his hands. "Allright. I'll do it your way."
Luke sat back down. "It's the only way to do it."
They sat there a minute, each lost in their own thoughts until Luke stood. "I'm gonna go home and eat lunch. Maybe I'll come back later and see if Lucky will talk. Then I have to figure out what is next."
"Let me know if you need anything." Luke nodded.
Sonny watched as he walked away. Some things never change.
**********************************************************************************
Lucky's hospital room
Alexis knocked on the door and stuck her head in. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but I need to speak to Nikolas, and this is as far as they'll let me in." Alexis gestured to the guards with her head.
"Is that okay with you?"
Lucky looked up from the laptop. "Sure, I'm fine. I'll just keep surfing."
"Don't do it too long. You need to rest too. Don't make yourself worse."
Lucky laughed. "Yes, mother."
Nikolas smiled and turned away, muttering. "Someone has to do it." Nikolas followed Alexis out the door and walked to the nearest lounge. "If you are going to tell me to stop seeing him, you can go right back to my uncle and tell him I said no. I'm not going to change my mind."
Alexis smiled and held up her hands. "Truce! I'm not here to tell you anything. I just wanted to talk."
Nikolas flushed. "Sorry, I've had to say that so much lately that's it's become routine. What do you want to talk about?"
Alexis sat down and indicated Nikolas to do the same. "Don't jump down my throat, but I do want to talk about Lucky."
Nikolas started to get up and Alexis grabbed his hand. "Nikolas, please. I'm not on a fact finding mission for your uncle, I'm not going to tell you what to do. I'm just concerned...for you and for your brother." Maybe it was the fact that she'd always listened to him. Maybe it was the fact that he'd always trusted her. Maybe it was just that she'd called Lucky his brother, but Nikolas sat back down.
"Thank you. I understand how difficult it is for you to know who you can trust now. But I love you. I hope you know that. I've always been on your side."
"Then you'll..."
"That doesn't mean I'm against Stefan, Nikolas. I can be on both of your sides and I am."
Nikolas slumped against the couch. "I don't see how you can do that."
"It's not easy. But I love both of you, and I can see both of your sides. It's the curse of a lawyer."
"But a lawyer has to take a side!"
"A cousin doesn't."
"If you say so."
"How is Lucky?"
Nikolas looked away. "He's really sick. He tries to hide it, but sometimes when I look at him when he doesn't know, I can see how much he's hurting."
Alexis took Nikolas' hand and held it tightly. "You're afraid to loose him, aren't you?"
"It's so odd. A week ago I couldn't even stand the sight of him. Now...it's just weird."
Alexis rubbed Nikolas' neck lightly. "He's your brother and he's hurting. You've always been compassionate. There's nothing odd about your feelings."
"You don't think this is too sudden? How can I trust something that just suddenly happened? What happens when he gets better? Do we go back to hating each other? "
"Trust is a complicated thing, Nikolas. Especially for the Cassadines and Spencers. But you don't give your affection easily. And circumstances like this make things change quickly. As far as when Lucky gets better...from what I've seen, he's fiercely loyal about his family and it looked to me like he counts you among them now."
Nikolas smiled sadly. "And what if he doesn't get better?"
Alexis put her arms around him. "We'll deal with that too. But at least you have this much. No matter what the future holds, you know what it means to have a brother and so does Lucky. That is a gift and I'm proud of you."
Nikolas blinked rapidly. "Really? You're not mad that I'm betraying the Cassadines?"
"The only way you could do that would be to betray yourself."
Nikolas leaned his head against Alexis' shoulder and gripped her hand tighter.
**************************************************************************************
The Spencer House
Luke was sitting at the table eating a turkey sandwich when the phone rang. "Yeah, Spencer here."
"Spencer here too."
Luke choked a little on his sandwich. "Laura! Hon, I didn't think I'd hear from you today."
"Well, it's been so long since I've been updated, I wanted to hear from Lucky. Can I talk to him?" "Well..." "He is home, isn't he? After all, he wasn't that sick."
"Oh, yeah, he's home, babe. He's just out right now." Luke grabbed his glass of tea and gulped some down.
"What do you mean he's out? He comes home from being hospitalized and you let him go out?"
"No, no, of course not, you misunderstood me. He's, uh, he's taking a nap. You know that slang Lucky likes so well. Being out is like, you know, sleeping. He's taking a nap."
"A nap? In the middle of the day? Is he better or not?"
"He's fine. He just gets tired, he only just got out of the hospital."
"Okay, you keep an eye on him and call me if there is a problem. I don't like being kept in the dark, Luke. You need to start calling me more often."
"Sure thing, babe. I'm sorry about that. Cowboy and I just got busy."
"Don't forget to call me any more. I want to talk to my son."
"Okay, I'll get him to call soon. I love you, Laura."
"I love you too, Luke. Thank you for taking care of Lucky. Do you think I'll be able to come home soon? I really need to see him myself."
"We'll see. It should be soon."
"Goodbye, Luke."
"Goodbye."
Luke hung up the phone and sat down heavily. He stared off into space, then shook his head. "It's the way it has to be." He went back to his sandwich.
*********************************************************************************************
Lucky's hospital room
Nikolas knocked lightly on the door and frowned when there was no answer. He opened it slowly and peeked in. Lucky had his head back against the pillows, his eyes closed, the computer in his lap.
"Lucky? You asleep?"
Lucky didn't move. Nikolas came the rest of the way in and watched the slow movement of Lucky's chest. Up and down. Up and down. Up and down. Such an important, almost invisible movement. Nikolas sooned mirrored the breathing. In and out. In and out. In and out. Nikolas gently took the laptop and put it on the nearby table. He then pulled the covers over Lucky and watched him sleep a little longer, breathing synchronously through a tight chest. Finally he sat down and looked at what Lucky had been working on. He frowned as he read.
Culliton disorder?
He scanned further down the screen, what had Lucky found?
********************
Lucky's hospital room
Nikolas scrolled down the screen, skimming over the details of the disorder Lucky had found with the web search.
Culliton disorder...high temperature, dehydration, loss of consciousness, delusions, coma and eventual death.
Nikolas looked at Lucky asleep in the bed and shuddered. Surely this was not what Lucky had, he'd been poisoned...hadn't he?
Nikolas continued to read. The doctor that had discovered the illness said that it was frequently misdiagnosed as poisoning. Could it be that they had all been so wrong?
There was no cure for the disorder, but the doctor, Hake Olam, had a serum he said could counteract the effects, but it was experimental. The FDA hadn't approved it yet. Nikolas rubbed his temple. Where did that leave them? If this was what Lucky had, would he die before the FDA could approve this medicine?
Nikolas set the computer aside in disgust. Everything kept going from bad to worse. He stood up and stretched, surprised at the kinks in his back and neck. The sound of his stomach rumbling surprised him, then he tried to remember the last time he'd eaten and couldn't.
A glance at Lucky showed him to be sleeping peacefully. It really wouldn't take that long to get a sandwich from the cafeteria. Nikolas jotted a quick note for Lucky, in case he woke up, and left.
***********************************************************************
Stefan's office
Stefan frowned at the terminal in front of him and wondered again why he was bothering to do this. Nikolas obviously did not care how he tried to help him. He had no sense of family loyalty, even after all he'd tried to teach him.
Stefan's eyes wandered again to the picture of Nikolas on his desk. He pushed aside the laptop and picked up the tiny portrait, caressing the image behind the cold glass.
''Is this all I am to have of you?'' Stefan frowned and gently replace the picture where it had been.
''I won't let this happen, Nikolas. You will not leave me.''
He went back to the computer, grimly determined.
************************************************************************
Lucky's hospital room
Lucky set aside the note and grabbed the laptop again, reading. He was sure this was the answer. Poisoning had never made sense to him. This had to be what was wrong with him.
He was amazed at how easily he had found it. It surprised him that Dr.Quartermaine hadn't thought of this. But then again, it did say that the disorder was frequently misdiagnosed.
Lucky looked up as Dr. Quartermaine walked in.
''Hi, Lucky. How are you feeling today? I see on your chart that your fever is down a bit, that's good.'' Alan reached over and held Lucky's wrist, counting his heartbeat and smiling reassuringly.
''Actually, I'm glad you are here, I found something I wanted to talk to you about.'' Lucky indicated the laptop.
Alan sat down and quickly scanned the screen, frowning. Finally he looked up and shook his head.
''I'm familiar with this doctor, although not this Culliton Disorder he says he's found. The man is a fraud. He had his license taken away five years ago. I remember because it made all the medical journals. He'd charge exorbitant fees to give people treatments for illnesses that simply didn't exist.''
Lucky crossed his arms. ''Just because he had some trouble before doesn't mean that he's wrong now. Just look at the symptoms, that has to be what I have.''
Alan put his hand on Lucky's shoulder. ''Lucky, I know that this has to be hard on you, not knowing what is making you sick. But this is not the answer. Those symptoms are fairly generic, and if people are diagnosing themselves on-line, I could see how this could be profitable for him. It's human nature. We have to teach medical students to disassociate from their studies, even after that we still have students convinced they have malaria or whatever new illness they are studying. Trust us to take care of you.''
''It's not that I don't trust you or the other doctors. It's just that I don't think I was poisoned. When did it happen? I eat with my Aunt Ruby or my dad, and there's no way someone could tamper with their food. There hasn't been a chance for it. I'm telling you, man, I've got this Culliton Disorder.''
''I can't answer your questions, Lucky. All I can tell you is that I wouldn't trust my life or yours to Dr. Olam or anyone who associates with him. I've never heard of that disorder and I know he has a history of mistreating patients.''
Lucky looked away. ''Well, thanks anyway.''
''We will find out what is making you sick, Lucky. Let us do our jobs and you just focus on getting better. Your attitude goes a long way toward getting better.''
Lucky nodded and Alan left.
Lucky looked a long time at the empty doorway, then he picked the laptop back up, re-reading the information. He didn't even look up when the door opened again.
''I got your point, okay?''
''What point would that be?''
''Oh, Nikolas, I thought you were Alan again.''
''What point was Alan trying to make?''
Lucky looked away. ''It's not important.''
Nikolas sat down and scowled. ''Obviously it is. What did he say?''
''It's nothing. I had an idea and Alan didn't like it.''
''Does this have anything to do with Culliton Disorder?''
Lucky stared at Nikolas, surprised. ''How did you know about that?''
''I saw it on your laptop.'' At Lucky's confused look, he laughed.
''Did you think it flew off your lap by itself when you fell asleep?''
Lucky grinned crookedly. ''No, I didn't think that. I just didn't know it was you. They do have nurses around here, Einstein.''
Nikolas laughed. ''So, what did Dr. Quartermaine think about your discovery?''
Lucky snorted. ''He was less than impressed. He doesn't think it means anything. He didn't even really look at it, he just dismissed it. It doesn't matter though.''
''What do you mean it doesn't matter, he is your doctor after all.''
Lucky looked him straight in the eye. ''It doesn't matter cause I'm not following orders any more. I'm gonna see this doctor and I don't care who tries to stop me.''
************************************************************************
Lucky's hospital room
Luke peered in the window and sagged a little bit. The dark prince was still there. He straitened his shoulders and pushed open the door.
Nikolas looked up and automatically put his finger to his lips to let the nurse know Lucky was asleep. He froze when he made eye contact with Luke. What now?
Luke nodded at Nikolas and drank in the sight of his son. Nikolas watched him, amazed at the transformation.
Luke's face softened, a sad smile played around his lips. Nikolas was embarrassed to witness this, he suspected Luke had already forgotten he was even in the room.
Luke frowned as Nikolas cleared his throat and turned to him with a blank expression. ''How is he?''
Nikolas' mouth dropped open, shocked at Luke's whispered question. He could only imagine what it cost him to have to ask a Cassadine about his son's welfare.
''His fever is down again. He fell asleep about fifteen minutes ago.''
Luke nodded and turned back to look at Lucky. Almost against his will, his hand moved to hover next to Lucky's head. He moved to caress his hair several times, before he resolutely shoved his hands into his pockets.
''He'd really like to see you, I think, when he's awake. If you could make the time that is.'' Nikolas stood as Luke whirled to face him, his face shaking with rage. Nikolas was dimly amazed that he was taking this up with Luke, but he was sick of the yo-yo game he was playing with Lucky. It reminded Nikolas too much of how he was treated.
''How dare you? I've had about as much as I can take from you, Cassadine. There is only so much I can stomach, even for Lucky.'' Luke's words sounded even more harsh, as they rasped forth in a whispered shout.
''I dare because he is my brother, I don't need any other excuse. Someone has to say this, and he won't because of his pride. He needs you here. Why aren't you? What possible excuse could you have? And if you don't want me here, then maybe you should make an attempt to be here yourself. The only reason I'm here is so he won't be alone. After all, a half-brother, even a Cassadine one, is better than nothing, which is what he's getting from you.''
Luke narrowed his eyes and hissed his answer. ''I don't have to give you any excuse! He is my son and I decide what he needs, not you!''
Nikolas crossed his arms. In for a penny, in for a pound. ''Maybe if you can't make it, Laura can. Maybe I should be asking these questions to her. I don't know why I expected you to think of Lucky over your own needs.''
Luke charged at Nikolas, standing close enough that Nikolas involuntarily leaned back. ''You leave Laura alone! As a matter of fact, leave this family alone. We've done fine without your help.''
Nikolas rolled his eyes. ''I think maybe I should hear that from Laura. I'm getting the idea that she might have another opinion of how well things are going.''
''Don't bother, Nikolas.''
Both men turned to look at Lucky.
''If she wanted to be here, she would be. She knows where I am.''
*******************************************************************
Lucky's hospital room
Lucky checked the screen again. His email had been responded to so quickly. There was a clinic in Mesa, Arizona that Dr. Olam ran. He wanted Lucky to come to him as soon as he could.
Lucky shut the computer off and slipped it into the bag his dad had brought up with extra clothes. He was leaving tonight.
It had been difficult to get Luke and Nikolas to leave. Well, Nikolas anyway. Luke had seemed eager to leave. He almost looked uncomfortable being near his son.
Nikolas had been another story. He hadn't wanted to leave Lucky alone. It had taken some serious pressure to get him to leave, but he finally had.
Lucky made his way over to the door and looked out. The guards Sonny had left were down the hall a little talking to a couple of nurses. Their backs were turned. Lucky laughed. Sonny really needed to fire these clowns. In their defense, they were only supposed to make sure unwanted people didn't get in, not make sure he didn't get out. With one last glance at the guards Lucky slipped out and quietly left the hospital.
************************************************************************
Stefan's office
Nikolas peered into Stefan's office and frowned. Once again his uncle was hard at work...on his laptop. That computer causes more trouble. Nikolas wished Stefan would do more paper pushing and less button pushing.
''Uncle, I'd like to talk to you.''
Stefan looked up and smiled, grateful to see Nikolas seeking him out for a change.
''What can I do for you, Nikolas?''
Nikolas came in and sat down, taking a deep breath he plunged forward.
''I want you to help Lucky.''
Stefan frowned. This was certainly unexpected. Not that Nikolas wanted to help Lucky, that had been painfully obvious from the start. What surprised Stefan was that Nikolas would come to him for help. That was perplexing indeed.
Stefan took off his glasses and regarded Nikolas closely. ''What can I do to help him? He already has the best doctors on his case. I fail to see what more I can do.''
Nikolas stood up and started walking, outlining his proposal.
''Lucky has found something on the internet that he thinks could explain what is wrong with him. He spoke to Dr. Quartermaine about it, but he wouldn't even consider talking to the doctor. I want you to bring this doctor here.''
''Nikolas, I can not call in a doctor to consult on Lucky's case. That can only be done by his doctor or his parents. I have no power in this instance.''
Nikolas leaned on the desk, his hands spread to support him as he faced Stefan. ''We both know that is not true. If you wanted a doctor here, he would be here. You can think of some excuse to get him in the hospital. After that, leave it up to Lucky and me. It could just be another Cassadine Coincidence. No one has to know you called him in for Lucky. You could do it if you wanted to!''
Stefan put his hand over Nikolas'. ''Calm down, Nikolas.''
Nikolas jerked his hand away and kicked the nearby chair over. ''You want me to calm down? My brother is dying and you are doing nothing to help! If you can't do this for Lucky, fine! I need you to do this for me!''
Stefan nodded his head. ''I can see that this is very important to you. You know I would do anything for you. I will see what I can arrange. But I'm not promising you anything. I can only try.''
Nikolas ran around the desk and threw his arms around Stefan's neck. Stefan jerked back, startled at this display of affection, then returned the hug, closing his eyes in the pleasure of such a simple act. The simple complexity of a hug.
''Thank you, Uncle. I won't forget this.'' Nikolas ran out the door.
''Neither will I, Nikolas, neither will I.''
************************************************************************
GH Lounge
Luke sat alone in a quiet corner of the lounge, relieved that no one was around. He needed to do some serious thinking and he didn't want to be disturbed.
Lucky needed his mother.
That was all there was to it. As much as Luke tried to fool himself, to rationalize it away, or to explain it to Lucky, it came down to the same thing. Lucky needed Laura and it was past time for him to get her.
There was only so long he could lie to both of them anyway, without getting caught. Laura would realize soon that she wasn't talking to Lucky when she asked for him. She wouldn't accept the run around twice.
Beyond that, Luke didn't think he could stand to see Lucky the way he had been when he'd said that his mom knew where he was. His voice had been dead. His eyes had been flat. It was like he'd given up on her. Lucky had never given up on anything. Luke couldn't be the reason Lucky lost faith in his mother. Not after he'd only just started trusting her after the Nikolas fiasco.
Maybe they would all be killed by Stefan's evil plot...whatever it was.
Maybe everything would turn out okay...the Spencer's save their own world for once.
Maybe they'd both hate him.
Whatever the case, Luke had made up his mind. It was time to tell Laura the truth.
Laura had to come home.
************************************************************************
Nikolas nodded to the guards and slowly opened the door to Lucky's room. He was loathe to wake him up, but he knew he would be pleased with the news.
He stopped in his tracks when he saw the empty bed. He immediately dropped to his knees and checked the floor. No one there.
He got up and walked to the bed, noting that it had been made. And the laptop was gone. He ran to the closet and saw the extra clothes and other stuff was gone too.
Lucky had taken off.
Nikolas cursed softly in the darkness. He should have known that was why he had wanted everyone to leave him alone. He had a certain history of running off half-cocked to get what he thought he needed.
Maybe there was a chance he could catch him at home before he left for good. Lucky had told him a little about his get away bag. Nikolas knew Lucky wouldn't go anywhere without that.
Nikolas ran out the door, praying under his breath that he would be in time.
The guards watched him leave, baffled at his behavior. Then laughed at another crazy Cassadine and went back to their magazines.
************************************************************************
Luke nodded to the guards, then paused outside Lucky's room and sighed. He gathered his courage to face the music, this was not going to be easy.
He pushed open the door, involuntarily closed his eyes, and forced himself to speak.
''Lucky, your mom doesn't know you are still in the hospital.''
''Lucky?''
Luke opened his eyes. No Lucky in the bed. He checked the bathroom. No luck there either.
Lucky was out of here. Luke didn't need to check with anyone or anything. He knew his son. He should have known earlier that he was going to split. He'd been sitting inactive for too long. Spencers didn't do passive very well.
But Spencers do run well. Lucky knew how to do this. If Luke didn't find him before he got on the road, who knew how long it would take? Lucky could be dead before he got to him.
''Damn it, where is your head?''
Luke didn't know if he was talking to Lucky or himself.
He ran out of the room, already dialing Sonny's number. The guards watched in amazement as yet another person came flying out of Lucky's room.
''Man, he must be in a really bad mood. Everyone keeps running away from him.''
''As long as no one tries to get in. That's all I care about.''
''I hear ya, man.''
They went back to their reading.
************************************************************************
Spencer house
Nikolas slammed through the front door, surprised to find it open. It wouldn't have mattered. He would have broken it down if he needed to.
Besides, he knew where the spare key was.
''Lucky! I know you are in here! Answer me!''
Actually, he only hoped Lucky was here, but Nikolas knew the only way to get to Lucky was to bluff him. And bluff him good.
''What do you want, Nikolas?''
''What do I want? No, I have a better question. What are you doing out of the hospital? Do you want to die?''
Lucky slumped a little against the wall.
''Which question do you want me to answer first?''
Nikolas hurried over and tried to help Lucky to a chair. Lucky threw his hands off and lurched to the closet. Pulling a back pack out and checking it's contents.
''Lucky, you are sick. You need medical treatment.''
Lucky spoke without looking up.
''Exactly, which is why I left GH.''
Nikolas put his hand to Lucky's forehead.
''No, your fever isn't that high. You aren't delusional, at least not medically. What do you mean that's why you left? You aren't making sense.''
Lucky threw the bag down and spun to face Nikolas.
''Look, I know I have Culliton Disorder, okay? The only way I am going to get better is to get to Dr. Olam and get that serum.''
Nikolas walked up and put his hands on Lucky's shoulders. ''I know. That's why I asked my uncle to get him out here for you. He's going to fly him out.''
Lucky shook off Nikolas' hands. ''No he's not. I'm sorry, Nikolas. I know he's your uncle and you love him and whatever, but I don't trust him. I have to go to the doctor myself.''
Nikolas gaped at Lucky in shock. ''That's crazy! You are ill and you'd rather traipse across country than trust my uncle? You are insane!''
''If I'm not already, I'm getting there. I can't sit in that hospital any more. Look, the truth is, even if my dad were flying this doctor in, I'd have trouble staying. I can't do it anymore. I have to leave or it won't matter if I'm alive cause I'll be crazy.''
''Lucky, you're being melodramatic.''
''I'm not! I'm one hundred percent serious. I'm losing it, man. I can't stay in one place too long. I'm not made that way. I have to leave! Don't try to stop me. You can't. I've got to go.''
''Let's assume I do let you go. What makes you think you can even make it there? Do you have money? Your dad will track you down and bring you back here.''
''First of all, you are talking to a Spencer. I can go anywhere at any time and no one will find me. I've been doing that since I was born. I have money, fake identification, the works. My dad will never find me. I know something he doesn't. I ran off with Emily once to help her and that freaked them out, so they canceled my fake credit cards. What they don't know is that I reactivated them. There's a lesson there. Don't teach your kids something you don't want them to use against you.'' Lucky laughed at his own ingenuity.
''That's all well and good, but I'd be surprised if you even make it out of Port Charles without collapsing. You can't do this.''
''Look, I appreciate your concern. But I need to get out of here before my dad gets back. I'm going and you aren't gonna stop me.''
Lucky patted Nikolas awkwardly on the shoulder and walked out.
Nikolas ran in front of him and forced him to stop.
''Fine, if that's the way it has to be, I'm coming with you.''
Lucky laughed. '' I was kinda hoping you would say that. Man, you are in for a treat.''
Nikolas gawked at Lucky's swiftly retreating back.
''A treat? What do you mean, a treat?'' He had to run to catch up.
************************************************************************
Sonny and Luke ran up the steps to the porch and waited as Luke fumbled with the keys, only to find it unlocked.
Luke turned to look at Sonny. ''He's been here at least. He should still be here. It's not like him to leave the door unlocked when he leaves.''
''Lucky! Lucky I know you are here! Answer me.''
Sonny looked around the living room and kitchen as Luke barreled up the stairs, calling for Lucky.
Five minutes later they regrouped in the living room.
''He's not here anymore.''
''Yeah, I could tell. He was here recently though.''
''I know, but what good does that do now? Where do you think he went?''
Luke ripped the closet open and slammed it shut again when he saw the pack was gone.
''Sonny, I have no idea. He could be anywhere now.''
Luke sagged onto the couch, at a complete loss for the first time in his life.
************************************************************************
Spencer House
Luke sat on the couch, looking to all the world like a defeated man. But those who knew him, like Sonny, could see the wheels turning.
''Let's go over what we know. Lucky is missing. Lucky is sick. Lucky needs help.''
''Anyone ever tell you you have a wonderful gift with the obvious, Luke?''
Luke stared at Sonny without expression. ''What else do we know?''
''That he has been spending a lot of time with Nikolas Cassadine. Maybe he told him something about his plans. We should talk to him.''
Luke jumped up, grateful to have something to do and a direction to take. ''Let's go, what are you waiting for, man?''
************************************************************************
Somewhere on the road
Nikolas glanced away from the road to look at Lucky, asleep in the passenger seat. He could not stop thinking about his little brother in action today. Against his better judgement, Nikolas was impressed. First a trip to the ATM machine to clear out both their accounts. Then they had slept while a bus took them about two hours away. Nikolas didn't even know the name of the town they went to, but Lucky had quickly taken charge and found them a rental car. All had been done with fake names, fake IDs, even fake credit cards. Nikolas wouldn't have known how to even start this adventure, but Lucky was thriving. He'd seemed healthier and more alive while making arrangements for this trip to begin than he had since he first collapsed on the docks.
How things had changed since that day. From bitter enemies that couldn't stand to be in the same room with each other to brothers in a cramped car. Where once he wouldn't have given Lucky the time of day, he had now given him everything, trying to save his life. It was such an extreme change, but it felt good. Nikolas knew that whatever happened, even if Lucky died, he would be grateful that he did this for him. No matter what anyone said. Stefan would just have to deal with it.
''How long have I been asleep?''
Nikolas looked at his watch before speaking. ''Just over two hours. How do you feel?''
Lucky stretched his arms as far over his head as the compact car would let him and groaned in pleasure. ''Better than I did in the bus.''
Nikolas chuckled. ''Yes, that was rather uncomfortable. Why isn't public transportation more palatable? If they made it plush, more people would be inclined to use it and they could recoup their financial output.''
Lucky stared at Nikolas as he rambled. ''Hmm...I guess they just don't see it that way.''
''All I know is that it is not good business to try to market something that people don't want. If they want people to ride thier buses they should make them nicer.''
''Uh Nikolas?''
Nikolas glanced over at Lucky. ''Yeah?''
''Did you happen to notice how crowded the bus was?''
''Yeah.''
''I don't think they are having a problem marketing their service.''
''Oh. Hey, when am I going to get my car back?''
Lucky looked out the window and pretended not to hear.
''Lucky, it's a small car, I know you can hear me.''
''What?'' Lucky cupped his hand over his ears. ''I think I'm going deaf now too.''
Nikolas rolled his eyes, still watching the road. ''That is not funny, Lucky. I want to know when we are going to pick my car back up.''
''Nikolas, did you happen to notice where we left it?''
''Of course I did. I parked it, remember?''
''Did you notice the neighborhood?''
''Not particularly. Why?''
''Nikolas, your car was probably gone before we left the block.''
''What?'' Nikolas pulled the car abruptly to the side of the road, sending dust and gravel streaming from the wheels. As the car made a complete stop he threw it into park and turned to face Lucky. ''What do you mean, 'gone'?''
Lucky threw up his hands defensively. ''Hey man, I'm sorry, I thought you figured it out. We left your car behind so it would be taken.'' Lucky ignored Nikolas' outraged gasp and continued. ''Look, either someone takes it one a joy ride and our respective parental figures follow it for a while or they drive it around town. Either way, it throws off my dad and your uncle for a while. We need that. Besides, Steffie will buy you another car.''
Nikolas stared at Lucky in disgust. ''He won't after this stunt. I wouldn't be surprised if he won't buy me dinner.''
Lucky laughed. ''Puh-leeze! You know as well as I do that your uncle would never let the heir apparent go without.''
Nikolas grinned. ''Hey, you're right. What are we waiting for?''
Lucky grinned. ''That's the idea. Forward, man!''
Nikolas gunned the engine and they were off again.
********************************************************************
Wyndamere
''Alexis, has Nikolas been down for breakfast yet? I need to get further details on this doctor he wants me to arrange to see Lucky. He really didn't tell me anything I can use at this time. It's not like him to act this way...'' Stefan trailed off as he poured himself coffee, remembering Nikolas' unexpected display of affection.
''I haven't seen him since yesterday afternoon. I suspect he's at the hospital already.''
''You are probably right. I'll check with him when I go to the office.''
''What do you think of Nikolas' devotion to Lucky?''
Stefan sat down and sipped his coffee before speaking. ''I don't think that boy will ever be on Nikolas' level, but for whatever reason, Nikolas seems to like spending time with him. At this point I am grateful for almost anything that makes Nikolas happy.''
Alexis frowned. ''That is quite a change from the last time we talked. What happened to the plan where Nikolas spent time with him and discovered how mismatched they were and got him out of his system. That is the terminology you used, if I'm not mistaken.''
''No, as usual you remember acurately. However, I have come to the conclusion that perhaps Lucky can be useful.''
''Would you care to elaborate on his usefulness?''
''Not at this time.''
''Somehow I suspected that would be your answer.''
***********************************************************************
Part 34
A diner in the middle of nowhere
''If the state of the menu is any indication of the quality of food we are going to be served, I suggest we eat elsewhere.'' Nikolas eyed the menu with obvious disdain. The plastic lamination had yellowed with age and cracked, letting in moisture that had left mildew on the pages tucked inside.
Lucky raised an eyebrow from behind his menu without looking up. ''And miss one of the best features of the road trip?''
''Food poisoning?''
Lucky put down his menu and crossed his arms over the greasy countertop. ''No, genius, not food poisoning. I'm talking the mystique of road side diners. Greasy, homeade food you can't get in a suburb or city anywhere. Specialties reserved for the weary roadside traveler and trucker. You can't get this food fare just anywhere.''
''Pity.''
Lucky laughed. ''Just like a Cassadine to look down his nose at something he has never tried.''
Nikolas bristled. ''Hey, I'm as adventurous as the next guy. I just don't really want to risk my health for a food adventure.''
Lucky stared out the window, squinting against the reflection from the shiny bumper of a car in the parking lot. ''There are a lot worse ways to lose your health than a good meal.''
''I'm sorry, Lucky. I wasn't thinking. I didn't mean to bring up...'' Nikolas fumbled for words as a faint blush trailed up his neck to flush in his cheeks.
Lucky glanced back at Nikolas and waved his hand slightly. ''Don't worry about it Nikolas. I know what you meant.''
''I mean it, Lucky, I wasn't making light of your situation.''
Lucky finally gave Nikolas his full attention. ''Okay, I believe you. It's allright. Really.''
Nikolas nodded, but didn't stop frowning.
A moment of stillness passed as the brothers sat. Nikolas contemplated the menu, his brow furrowed. Lucky returned his gaze to the the window.
''I don't want to die.''
He'd said it so softly that at first Nikolas wasn't sure if Lucky had spoken aloud or if he was just hearing his own thoughts. Lucky still hadn't turned to look at him. Nikolas watched Lucky closly for a minute but Lucky didn't make any motion that he'd spoken. Nikolas was just about to say something when a shadow fell across the table.
''Heya fellas, I'm Lurlene. What can I getch'ya?''
''Pardon?''
Lucky chuckled and turned to face the waitress. ''Don't mind him, he's never been to a restraunt. Waiters confuse him.''
Lurlene rolled her eyes and grabbed the pen out of her purplish-blue beehive.
''Boys, I've been doing this since before your mamma's was born, and that's just today's shift. You wanna speed it up?''
''Sure Lurlene. I'll have the special.''
Nikolas peered intently at the menu. ''What is the special?''
''I have no idea.''
Lurlene rolled her eyes again. ''The special is chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, and fried okra. With gravy on it all.''
Nikolas paled.
''Come on Nikky, be wild.''
''I'll have the special too.''
''Coming right up, boys.''
Lucky walked as Lurlene walked away. ''She reminds me of Ruby. You know, her diner is the closest you can get to a real road side diner. I thought about getting the chili, but I can't be unfaithful to Ruby. Did you know that my mom and dad had a diner at the last place we lived before we came back home? It was blown up by Frank Smith's men, but before that, it was pretty good.''
Nikolas interupted Lucky's rambling. ''You aren't going to die, Lucky. This is going to work.''
Lucky nodded and smiled sadly at Nikolas before staring out the window again. *****************************************************************
Wyndamere
''Cassadine!!''
Stefan looked up from his coffee and rolled his eyes. ''Spencer, can't you wait to be announced? Or barring that, couldn't you tone it down a little. There really is no need to shout.''
''I'll yell if I want to, Cassadine!'' Luke screamed at the top of his lungs, expelling stress along with a little spittle.
''Charming as ever, Spencer.''
''I don't have time to chat, Alexis, where is my son?''
''Lucky? What are you talking about? He's at the hospital.''
''He checked himself out and I think Nikolas might know where he's heading.''
''Why would Nikolas know?''
Sonny took over the conversation, fearing Luke might destroy his vocal cords if he continued to yell.
''Nikolas and Lucky have been spending quite a bit of time together. Lucky has been gone since some time early last night and there is a chance Nikolas might know what Lucky was planning.''
''Early last night? If Nikolas isn't with Lucky at the hospital, then where is he?''
Stefan dropped his coffe cup and ran to the stairs screaming Nikolas' name.
Luke dropped onto the couch, his head in his hands, mumbling. ''No...this was my only lead.''
Alexis frowned. ''At least he stopped yelling.''
Sonny looked at her like she'd lost the last semblance of sanity given to a Cassadine. ''It won't last long.''
*************************************************
