The Space Between Us

Quick Up-Date: Carly and Jason are living together. Jason is running the organization while Sonny is off trying to find Brenda. Michael was never born. It's just Jason and Carly and their craziness of a relationship. Jason really does love Carly but has never said the words or really shown her that she matters to him. Carly loves Jason with everything in her but we all know what happens when Carly gets bored, and ignored. So the adventure begins.

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

Carly comes downstairs to find Jason working at his desk AGAIN going over paperwork. (she rolls her eyes knowing this will probably be another "ignore Carly" day). She walks up behind Jason wrapping her arms around his neck and snuggling into him.

C: Morning baby.

J: Morning.

She begins to kiss his neck trying to distract him.

J: Carly I've got to concentrate on these shipment papers. I have a meeting with Benny later.

C: Jaassee can't you just take a break for a little while and maybe we could go get some breakfast?

J: Maybe tomorrow not today. (getting annoyed)

C: Well okay how about we do lunch then later. Maybe a picnic in the park?

Jason reaches up and unwraps her arms from his neck so he can get back to work.

J: Carly, I said I have a meeting with Benny later. I am going to be tied up all day. Why don't you go shopping or visit your mom?

You cannot quit me so quickly

Is no hope in you for me

No corner you could squeeze me

But I got all the time for you, love

The Space Between

She stiffens and walks away from him. He had dismissed her once again. Work, work, work. They shared a house, a bed but not a life anymore. She was right there by his side for all the business meetings and outings he needed her to attend with him. She was his showpiece. She gave him everything she had. Her heart, body and soul willingly; yet she got nothing in return. It used to be enough that Jason asked her to be with him, live with him and sleep with him, but not anymore. She wanted more. She deserved more. She was tired of being ignored and so tired of being bored.

The tears we cry

Is the laughter keeps us coming back for more

The Space Between

The wicked lies we tell

And hope to keep us safe from the pain

She quickly went upstairs grabbed a bag from her closet and packed a few things to tide her over for a few days. It was her time to take a stance. She refused to keep living in limbo. Although the thought of being away from Jason even for a day made her heart break she also knew she couldn't continue to go on like this. She finished packaging, grabbed her purse to look for her keys. She held the shiny gold key chain with her name engraved on it. Jason had given it to her when he asked her to move in with him. It meant the world to her. As the tears started to fill up her eyes, she swallowed hard, pushing them back. Tracing her name once more she placed the key chain with her key to the penthouse on Jason's pillow. She grabbed her bag and stopped before leaving the room. She turned back and looked around the room. This was their bedroom. She closed her eyes trying to compose herself. She needed to do this. She had to take a stand. If Jason wanted her in his life then things needed to change.

She walked downstairs. He was still at his desk working. She headed for the door never taking her eyes off of him. She wanted him to just turn around and see she was leaving and stop her, hell to do anything but ignore her. As she opened the door, and started to leave, (without looking up at her) he called out. "Have fun shopping and take Francis with you."

C: Yeah later Jason.

Then she walked out the door. He stopped briefly thinking it strange she didn't kiss him goodbye, but figured she must have been in a hurry to hit the stores, so he continued on with his paperwork.

But will I hold you again?

These fickle, fuddled words confuse me

Like 'Will it rain today?'

Waste the hours with talking, talking

These twisted game we play

We're strange allies

With warring hearts

What wild-eyed beast you be

The Space Between

The wicked lies we tell

And hope to keep us safe from the pain

Will I hold you again?

Will I hold...

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

C: Morning Johnny.

Johnny immediately saw the bag slung over her shoulder and her tear stained face.

Johnny: Carly is everything all right?

She tried to give him a smile and laugh off the pain she was feeling.

C: Oh Johnny you know me. I am fine. Can you have Francis bring the car around for me, he's on "Carly duty" today I guess.

J: What's the bag for? Does Mr. Morgan know where you're going?

C: Doesn't he always? Yes Johnny he does. I am only bringing some clothes over to my mothers. She needed to borrow a few things. She reached up and straightened his tie. "You worry to much."

J: Well have fun then Carly.

She turned to enter the elevator. He grabbed her arm lightly. "Carly, you know if you ever need to talk or need something I will always be here for you as a friend." Smiling a sad smile that just about tore his heart out, she whispered. "Thanks Johnny you really are the best you know?" " I will see you later on."

She turned and disappeared into the elevator. Johnny thought about making sure Jason knew where Carly was going but thought better of it. The last time he brought something to his attention where Carly was concerned he ended up on Emily duty at the Quartermaines. He wasn't going to make that mistake again. So he returned to his post outside the door.

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Luke's Club

Carly walks in bag slung over her shoulder looking utterly lost.

L: Hey little one. What's with the face?

C: You still need a manager?

L: Why you want the job now?

C: Yeah. I also want that empty apartment upstairs.

L: What you sick of living in the lap of luxury?

C: Luke please, I can't (before she could finish her sentence she broke down crying) Luke came out from behind the bar and wrapped her in his arms, letting her cry.

L: What did he do? Does he know you’re here?

She pulls back trying to find her voice between sobs. "He, (sob) he didn't even notice I left with my bags packed." "That shows you how important I am to him."

L: Well your Uncle Luke is here and you will always have a job and a place to stay Caroline. He doesn't deserve a Spencer.

C: But I love him (she started crying again burying her face into Luke's shoulder).

L: Well then you need to let him come to you. Let the fucker beg a little. If he wants you with him then let him work for it.

She chuckled a bit. He lifted her chin. "That's it Caroline. You are a SPENCER. We deserve respect. Jason Morgan needs to show you some respect, that’s what you want right?"

C: Yes. I want to know I matter, that I am not just some afterthought. I mean he comes home and I'm always there for him waiting. He doesn't even realize it most of time, he just takes it for granted.

L: Okay well let's have a drink and lets plan this out my dear. Come on have a seat. He sits her down on a barstool then goes behind the bar looking for his favorite bottle of bourbon. He finds it and grabs two shot glasses. He pours them each a glass. They clink glasses and shoot back the dark colored liquor.

L: AHHH. Alright then let's see here girl. You can start work tonight. I'll help you get settled in upstairs and then you just wait.

C: Okay, well that could be awhile.

L: Then it's awhile. He needs to know you mean business. I want to see that boy work for you darlin. I think a public display of begging is in order. A Spencer will not settle for anything else.

C: You really think that Jason Morgan is going to do anything publicly?

L: If he wants you he will. Just trust your Uncle Luke. I will take care of everything. All you need to do is stand tough and do not give in.

C: Okay, I hope this works.

L: Trust me darlin. Now lets go get you settled in upstairs.

Carly sighs thinking to herself. "This can't be good."

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

Later that night:

Jason entered the penthouse wondering why it was so dark. Carly always left a light on for him. The place was eerily quiet. He took his jacket off throwing it on the chair and headed upstairs to find Carly. He had a hard day and just wanted nothing more than to crawl into bed with her and get lost in her touch. He notices their bedroom was uncharacteristically dark and the familiar scent of lavender was missing. Maybe she was tired and went to bed early he thought. He quietly entered turning on the bathroom light. He glanced at the bed. It was empty. He quickly flipped the light switch on. No Carly! Where the hell was she? He looked around the room, no shopping bags. She had always left her bags from shopping scattered around the room after one of her adventures, but this time nothing.

J: Where the hell are you Carly?

He started back out the door but something shiny caught his eye on his pillow. He stopped abruptly as his heart leapt into his throat. He walked over picking up her key chain. He had given this to her, she never went anywhere without it. Why did she leave this? An unfamiliar sense of panic filled him; Carly was always here waiting for him. He dashed into the bathroom and opened her cupboard. Seeing all her favorite bath products missing it hit him. She left. She had actually left him.

J: What the fuck?

He ran downstairs screaming "JOHNNY!!"

Johnny came rushing in gun drawn. "BOSS WHAT'S WRONG?"

J: Put the fucking gun away. Damit Johnny where is Carly?

Johnny: I don't know sir, she said Francis was with her today.

J: Get Francis on the phone NOW!

Johnny pulled out his phone and talked to Francis while Jason paced the room trying to think what the hell had happened.

Johnny: Ah boss? Francis said he dropped her off at Luke's early this morning. Then she told him you were going to meet her there and she dismissed him for the day.

J: And he left her alone? WHAT THE FUCK DO I PAY YOU GUYS FOR? So where is she? Johnny: Ah, Francis assumes she is still at Luke's. He really isn't sure.

J: Great, just fucking great. You tell Francis to get his ass down to Luke's and pray she is there. I WANT HIM ON HER LIKE GLUE!!

Francis heard Jason yelling in the background and knew his ass was grass if Carly wasn't still at Luke's and safe. He hung up immediately and headed out to find Carly.

J: Okay Johnny I want details about this morning. I know you and Carly spoke, she always talks to you. So spill.

Johnny: Well sir she did look like she had been crying and she had a bag with her.

J: She was fucking crying and you didn't think that something was wrong?

Johnny: I did ask her boss, she shrugged it off saying she was fine. I also asked her if you knew where she was going and what the bag was for.

J: AND?

Johnny: She said of course you knew where she was going and that she had clothes in the bag for Bobbie to borrow. And -

J: SHIT! And what?

Johnny: Well she did say that you said Francis was on "Carly Duty". She sounded sad when she said that.

J: FUCK Johnny! You didn't think that I would want to know about this?

Johnny: Permission to speak freely sir?

Jason icily glared at him and nodded okay.

Johnny: If you remember correctly sir the last time I tried to tell you something about Carly you were none to pleased with me for doing so. I think of Carly as a friend. All the men do. We love her like a sister and would do anything for her. She has been really sad lately, haven't you noticed? She just hasn't been her usual bubbly self.

Jason turned away from him and sighed. He really hadn't noticed anything. He had been so busy with business and various meetings that the only time he saw her was in his bed at night.

Johnny: Sir, she loves you so much. We all see it in the way her eyes sparkle when you're around. But does she know how you feel about her? I mean do you love her?

J: Of course I love her.

Johnny: Have you told her that?

Jason turned to face him, looking blankly at him. Did he love her? Yes he did, but it hit him he has never actually said the words to her. He assumed that by asking her to move in with him she realized that.

J: Johnny go down to Luke's and back up Francis.

Johnny: Yes boss.

Jason walked over to the phone and started dialing Luke's.

L: Blues R-Us.

J: LUKE! Is she there?

L: Well Morgan, it took you long enough to call.

J: Don't fuck with me Luke! Where is she?

L: Why? Was the bed too cold for you tonight Morgan?

J: Luke I swear if.

L: She's safe here with me. I WILL take care of Caroline. You seem to have been doing a piss poor job at that lately.

J: Put her on the phone!

L: Sorry no can do she's busy working right now. Well it was nice chatting with you Morgan. Sleep tight - ALONE! (with that Luke hung up chuckling)

J: LUKE!!!

Upon hearing the dial tone he threw the phone across the room.

J: Working? What the fuck is going on Carly?

He grabbed his jacket and headed out the door. He was going to find out what the hell was going on.

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

Luke's

C: So what did he say?

Luke continued to laugh. L: He's pissed! Don't worry darlin he will be down here any minute.

C: Only if he doesn't have something else to do.

L: Hey now just remember to stand your ground. He's the one that is in the wrong here Caroline.

C: Okay, but you will stay here with me right?

L: Your Uncle Luke has your back little one.

Just then a frantic Francis comes rushing in.

F: CARLY?

C: Oh hi Francis.

F: Oh hi Francis? My ass is grass thanks to you. Jason is pissed at me.

C: Francis have a seat, take a deep breath. Let me get you a drink. Beer?

F: Yeah thanks. Carly what is going on?

Johnny came in at that question.

Johnny: That's the million-dollar question.

F: He sent you down here also?

Johnny: Oh yeah to back you up.

C: Now boys calm down. (she hands them their beers) You know I would never let Jason hurt you guys. It is all my fault and I will tell him that so just relax.

Johnny: Carly what’s going on? Why did you lie to me this morning?

C: I'm sorry Johnny. But I knew if I didn’t you would have tried to stop me, and I needed to leave. I needed to leave for me. Uncle Luke is going to help me.

F: Well that doesn't sound good Carly.

L: I heard that Francis. Carly needs that lousy boss of yours to realize that she deserves respect. He wants her in his life? Well then he needs to work for it and stop neglecting her.

J: So that's what has had you so sad lately?

C: Yeah. I'm sick of being an afterthought. Jason is so black and white, almost mechanical in business. He shouldn't be that way with me. If he wants me as his girl then he needs to show me he deserves me. I am sick of not coming first in his life. I need that and that's what I want. There is just too much space between us; we lead totally separate lives.

F: Well good for you then.

J: Yeah we support you Carly.

Carly leaned over and gave Francis and Johnny each a kiss on the cheek. Just then Jason walked in to witness this.

C: Thanks guys you are the best. I'm glad you two are my friends.

J: What the hell is going on here? Johnny, Francis is this what I pay you to do?

Johnny and Francis dropped their beers and jumped off the bar stools and faced him.

J&F: Sorry boss.

Johnny: We were just watching Carly like you told us to do.

J: Step aside NOW.

C: Hold it right there buddy! You leave them alone. They are my friends and we were just hanging out and talking. They were still doing their jobs.

J: Carly ENOUGH! Get your bags were going home.

She crossed her arms in front of her chest and stood there giving him a defiant look.

J: Let's go, NOW!

She made her way around the bar and got right in his face. She kept her cool and lowered her voice so as not to make a scene.

Look at us spinning out in

The madness of a roller coaster

You know you went off like a devil

In a church in the middle of a crowded room

All we can do, my love

Is hope we don't take this ship down

The Space Between

Where you're smiling high

Is where you'll find me if I get tickled

The Space Between

The bullets in our firefight

Is where I'll be hiding, waiting for you

The rain that falls

Splash in your heart

Ran like sadness down the window into...

The Space Between

Our wicked lies

Is where we hope to keep safe from pain

C: I know you did not just give me an order. I am not an employee of yours Jason, so stop playing mob boss with me. You will be going home alone tonight, and every other night until you start treating me right.

J: This is ridiculous Carly. Just come home and we will talk about this later.

C: When would later be exactly Jason? Would it be after I gave you your nightly fuck? Or after you finish your paper work? Or wait, maybe after another one of your meetings? Sorry buddy I am sick of being second in your life. You have put too much space between us. I don't know if we can ever get it back.

She turns and runs into the back. Jason goes to follow her but Luke blocks his path.

L: She has had enough tonight Morgan. Go home.

J: Not without her. Get out of my way Luke.

L: Sorry no can do. Don't you realize what you got? That little girl loves you. YOU! As you are! She takes the good with the bad and still stands right by your side. You need to step up to the plate man. She needs to know you love her.

J: She knows that already.

L: Oh really? How would she know that? From what I've heard you haven't even said the words man. God Morgan you need to get a clue, if you want to keep that girl.

J: Go get her Luke. I need her to come home with me.

L: What about what she needs?

J: What?

L: Have you thought about what Carly needs? We both know Caroline is not your average woman. She's special Jason. She needs to hear the words and not be ignored in her own home. I think you need to go home and think about if you really want Carly in your life. If you do then you need to make some changes and start making her happy.

J: You know what fine, whatever. She wants to stay with you great let her stay as long as she wants.

L: Think hard my friend before you loose her for good.

Jason turned and angrily walked away.

J: Francis since you lost Carly earlier your ass can stay here and watch her. Don't fuck up again.

He turns to Johnny. "You come with me."

Johnny gave Francis a sympathetic look then followed Jason out.

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

Luke knocked quickly before entering his office.

L: You okay little one?

C: Yeah I'm fine. Can you believe how he bossed me around? What did he say to you?

L: Well.

C: He just left didn't he? I guess I finally know how he feels about me don't I?

L: I told him to go home and to think long and hard. He will be back Caroline. I believe that he really loves you. He just needs to get the words out. This will be a good learning experience for him. You just sit tight for now.

C: What else can I do? I am certainly not going running back to him now.

L: Why don't you call it a night? Go upstairs and try to relax a bit. I will close up here tonight.

C: Thanks Uncle Luke. (she gets up and gives him a kiss on the cheek before heading upstairs to her room).

Francis is outside her door waiting for her.

C: Francis?

F: Hey Carly. I'm watching you tonight.

C: What? Francis your exhausted you have been up 24 hours now.

F: Its okay Carly.

C: NO it's NOT OKAY. Come on, your coming in with me.

F: Carly I can't.

She grabs his arm and pulls him into her room with her.

C: Francis I'm sure you know better than to argue with me by now. You can sleep on the couch. For god's sake look at the locks Luke has on this door. I am safe as can be. Plus you are going to be right here with me.

F: If Jason finds out about this he will kill me Carly.

C: You leave Jason to me. Sit and relax will ya. I will go get you a blanket and a pillow.

F: Thanks Carly.

He sits down on the couch. How could Jason not see what an incredible woman Carly is. Any man would kill to have her by his side. He just hoped his boss smartened up fast before he broke Carly's heart.

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

Jason and Johnny arrived back at the penthouse. Jason excuses Johnny for the night, telling him that he needs to rest up so he can guard Carly tomorrow. He turns on the lights and enters the penthouse. The silence was the first thing that hit him; he immediately felt Carly's absence. Trying to drown out the silence he turned on the radio.

She was my once in a lifetime

and the ending come true

Oh...I guess I should have told her

I thought she knew

As he listened to the words he shook his head and chuckled at the irony of the song. "No shit I thought she knew."

She said I took her for granted

that's the last thing I would do

Whoa...I'll never understand it

'cause I thought she knew

I thought she knew

my world revolved around her

my love light burned for her alone

But she couldn't say the same

only myself to blame

I should've known

I should've known

Walking into the kitchen like usual expecting to find his dinner waiting, instead he found nothing. Opening the refrigerator revealed the same thing. He laughed. "Well this fucking figures." He normally never had to worry about dinner. Although Carly didn't cook she always had a great take out meal waiting for him almost every night. Hungry and frustrated he gave up going back out into the living room.

She was my once in a lifetime

and the ending come true

Oh...I guess I should have told her

I thought she knew

As he looked out the window he continued to listen to the song as his mind wandered. He knew he loved Carly with all his heart. He just had a hard time expressing himself. Luke's words rang in his ears "Have you thought about what Carly needs? We both know Caroline is not your average woman. She's special Jason. She needs to hear the words and not be ignored in her own home."

She said I took her for granted

that's the last thing I would do

Whoa...I'll never understand it

'cause I thought she knew

I thought she knew

my world revolved around her

my love light burned for her alone

But she couldn't say the same

only myself to blame

I should've known

I should've known

Looking back over the last few months he realized that he had taken her for granted. Carly was special. She aggravated the hell out of him, but he also could not imagine his life without her. He wanted her to be with him always he wanted her to be his wife and to have children with her. The realization stunned him. "My wife. I want her to be my wife." "Holy shit."

She was my once in a lifetime

and the ending come true

Whoa

I guess I should of told her

but i thought she knew

I thought she knew

I thought she knew

I though that...she...knew...

As the song ended he turned off the radio and started heading upstairs to go to bed.

J: "I guess what they say is true. You don't know what you've got till it's gone." "Well I will get you back Carly. I just have to figure out how."

As he entered their room in complete darkness he shed his clothes and slipped in between the cold sheets. He shivered as the satin sheets made contact with his skin. Turning over he automatically reached out for Carly, feeling the empty spot next to him aggravated him further. He angrily grabbed her pillow pulling it tightly to him. As he closed his eyes and inhaled her vanilla perfume filled his lungs. She was everywhere. Her scent and her absence was haunting him. Trying to get comfortable he tossed and turned in the now suddenly huge bed. Finally giving up he got out of bed, grabbing his pillow he headed downstairs to the couch. He flopped down on the couch resigned to the fact that this would be a sleepless night. Carly occupied his every thought and he really missed her. He was realizing more and more that she had brought so much into his life. She had made this penthouse into a home from them and loved him to no end. Now all he needed to do was try to get her to see how much he loved her.

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

The Next Morning:

Carly awoke after a night filled with tossing and turning. She missed Jason terribly. She had gotten so used to waking up in his arms every morning. Slowly climbing out of bed she grabbed for her robe and put it on. As she made her way out into the living room. Noticing Francis was already gone she made her way into the kitchen. She smiled seeing a box of chocolate glazed donuts and a pot of coffee waiting for her. A note next to the box read - Thank You Carly - Francis.

"What a guy." She grabbed a donut and a cup of coffee and headed to see who was her guard for the day. As she opened the door with the donut in her mouth she immediately saw Johnny. She grabbed him pulling him into the apartment with her.

J: Carly!

C: Oh get in here and keep me company.

J: I am sure Jason will be coming over here. I need to be outside at my post.

C: Oh please. I am much safer with you in here with me. Stay and at least have breakfast with me pleaassseee Johnny? Francis brought me chocolate donuts (she purred teasingly).

J: Chocolate?

C: YUP and there is hot coffee too.

J: Okay just for a few minutes Carly.

C: Cool! Go help yourself Johnny.

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

Jason was up early and dressed for the day. He found himself looking through the phone book trying to find a florist. His first agenda was to send Carly some flowers. Just a few to let her know how sorry he was. Then he needed to go do some shopping.

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

Later in the day at Luke's:

Luke was getting frustrated as the florist kept bringing in one bouquet of roses after another.

L: How the hell many more of these things have you got?

Delivery guy: Look I just deliver them. The order was placed for 20 dozen of red roses. You got a problem with it call the shop.

Luke pressed the intercom button calling upstairs to Carly. "CAROLINE!!! GET DOWN HERE!!"

A few minutes later she came down and stopped in her tracks as she looked around. Red roses were everywhere!

C: OH MY GOD!

L: Yeah no shit! Look at this place. It looks like a god-damn funeral parlor.

C: They are so beautiful. (she began going and smelling them)

L: Well you need to clear-em out of here.

C: Where the hell do you want me to put them?

L: Well you can start by taking some of them upstairs.

C: Oh Uncle Luke calm down they look nice down here. I can't get over Jason actually sent me flowers.

L: He did more than send you flowers Caroline. God does that boy know what the hell he is even doing? One dozen would have been sufficient but no he had to be a big shot and send over a whole store.

C: I think it was nice. Hell he has never given me flowers before. So you think he misses me?

L: If these flowers are any indication, then hell yeah he misses you! I guess I can drop this for now if your happy, but if anymore flowers arrive I sending them back.

C: Thanks Uncle Luke.

L: Yeah well that boy still has a lot of begging left to do, don't forgive him just yet.

She chuckles "Oh don't worry."

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

Across Town:

J: No I want something special. Something different.

Store Clerk: Well let me see here. Ah yes I think I may have just the right thing. A few moments later she comes back holding a brilliant 4 -karat star design diamond ring with a platinum etched band. "This ring was just designed by our diamond expert. It is an original design. There is no other like it."

Jason picks up the ring smiling. It had Carly's name all over it. He knew it was perfect for her. "I'll take it."

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

Later that night at Luke's:

The club was packed. The Spencer Clan was celebrating Lucky's return home. Carly ran over jumping into Lucky's arms as he entered the club.

C: I missed you cous.

Lucky laughed as he hugged her back. L: Geez I was only gone for a few weeks. By the way what's up with all these flowers?

C: Jason's attempt at an apology?

L: What did he do?

C: Good lord it’s a long story. I will fill you in later.

L: Are you okay?

C: Physically yeah.

L: Well I'm back now. If you need me to take care of him for you just let me know.

C: Thanks Lucky, I will. I'm just glad your back. I missed my partner in crime. So how was the photo shoot?

L: It was good we got the new campaign for Deception done. Gia was fantastic.

C: So where is that beautiful girlfriend of yours?

L: Gia was exhausted she's taking a nap and will be here later.

C: Okay so then I get you all to myself then?

L: Uh oh why do I have a feeling that this means trouble?

C: Non-sense! Can't a girl just be happy to see her favorite cousin?

Luke: Cowboy! Get over here and give your old man a hug.

Lucky winked at Carly and headed over to chat with his father. Carly returned to tending bar. The night was going smoothly she kept busy and Luke and Lucky certainly were keeping her entertained.

L: Come on cous, let's dance.

C: You got it.

They made their way out to the dance floor and began dancing to an up beat song. Soon Bobbie and Luke had joined them. They were all having a great time laughing and having fun.

Jason made his way into the club. He spotted Johnny standing in a nearby corner.

J: Hey how is everything?

Johnny: Fine boss.

J: Where is she?

Johnny: She is out on the dance floor with Lucky. He just got home tonight.

J: She looks like she's having fun.

Johnny: Well you know how those two get when they are together.

J: Yeah I do. (he laughed) I see the flowers came.

Johnny: She really liked them boss. You did good.

J: Well the night is still young. I hope she likes what I have planned next for her.

Johnny: What are you going to do?

J: Ask her to marry me.

Johnny smiled. "Well it's about time."

J: Your right Johnny it is.

Jason made his way over to the jukebox and selected a song. He took a deep breath and headed out onto the dance floor.

As I look into your eyes

I see all the reasons why

My life’s worth a thousand skies

You’re the simplest love I've known

And the purest one I'll own

Know you’ll never be alone

He slowly approached Lucky and Carly. She had her head resting on his shoulder with her eyes closed. He cleared his throat causing her to open her eyes. "Can I cut in?"

L: Carly?

J: Carly please I know I have been a total asshole. I just need you to hear me out. Please baby.

C: Okay. Before letting her go Lucky whispered in her ear "I will be right here if you need me." She smiled "thanks Lucky".

Jason held his hand out which she took and he pulled her into his arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck as he tightened his arms around her waist drawing her into him tightly. He felt the awkwardness between them as her body was stiff and tense against his.

My baby you

are the reason I can fly

and ‘cause of you

I don’t have to wonder why

Baby You

There’s no more just getting by

You’re the reason I feel so alive

J: Last night was one of the worst nights of my life. I missed you so much Carly. I couldn't sleep in our bed without you.

C: Do you think I slept any better?

J: I know that I have been a real jerk lately.

C: Yes you have.

J: You gonna let me apologize here?

C: Are you trying to?

J: Yes. I know that I have totally taken you for granted lately. I never meant to do that. Sometimes I just get so wrapped up in business that I don't take the time to think. If I had I would have realized what I was doing.

C: Well your telling me stuff I already know Jason.

J: Carly I Love You with all my heart. Baby you are my heart.

Her eyes met his. She searched his gorgeous ice blue eyes seeing for the first time that he really did love her.

C: You love me?

He pulled back and at the top of his voice he announced " I LOVE YOU CAROLINE SPENCER."

Everyone stopped what they were doing and a silence fell over the bar. All eyes were focused on Jason and Carly.

Luke broke the silence by yelling out "Well its about time Morgan!"

Carly buried her head into Jason's chest and giggled. He started laughing as well.

C: Well a girl couldn't ask for a better proclamation of love.

Slowly people started to go back to what they were doing as Jason and Carly continued their dance.

J: I have made arrangements for Johnny to be my right hand. He can start taking over a lot of my paperwork and meetings so that I will have more time to spend with you like I want to. I promise you that things will be different Carly. I know how much you do for me everyday and it means so much to me. You have given me a life and there is nothing more that I want to do than to live it with you by my side forever.

The tears filled her eyes "I love you Jase." He leaned down and kissed her gently on the lips. She rested her head on his shoulder and he finally felt her body relax into his.

Though these words sing true

They still fail to capture you

As mere words can only do

How do I explain that smile

And how it turns my world around

Keeping my feet on the ground

My baby you

are the reason I can fly

and ‘cause of you

I don’t have to wonder why

Baby You

There’s no more just getting by

You’re the reason I feel so alive

J: God I missed you so much baby. I don't ever want to spend another night like that apart.

I will soothe you if you fail

I’ll be right there if you call

You’re my greatest love of all

C: I missed you to Jase.

My baby you

are the reason I can fly

and ‘cause of you

I don’t have to wonder why

Baby You

There’s no more just getting by

You’re the reason I feel so alive

As the song ended Jason pulled back a little bit wiping away the tears from Carly's face. He took her hand in his pulling her with him.

C: Where are you taking me?

J: I have something for you trust me.

C: I do.

He led her over to the bar. Where he proceeded to try to get everyone's attention. Finally he whistled loudly.

J: Can I have everyone's attention! I see a lot of friends and family here tonight and I would like to share a very special moment with all of you.

He turned to Carly and took her hand in his.

C: Jase what are you doing?

J: Trust me.

Slowly he went down onto one knee in front of her. Carly gasped not believing what he was doing. Family members all gathered around them looking on.

J: Caroline Spencer I have fallen so deeply in love with you. You are everything to me. Since the day you came crashing into my life I knew I was meant to love only you.

He reached into his pocket pulling out a black velvet box. He opened it presenting the gorgeous star shaped diamond to her. "Carly, you light up my life like a star in the night. I want to spend the rest of my life loving you. Will you marry me?"

The crowd grew silent as he carefully slid the ring onto her finger.

C: YES!!!!

The crowded cheered as he jumped up and took her into his arms spinning her around in the air. He stopped and attacked her lips with his. The crowd started clapping. Luke made his way thru the crowd.

Luke: Okay, break it up you to. Caroline let me see this ring.

He grabbed her hand and took out his jeweler's lenses that he always kept handy and began inspecting the ring. After a few minutes he looked up at Jason. "Well I guess that will do, not bad Morgan."

J: I'm glad you approve (he laughed).

L: You treat her right or you will have the SPENCERS to answer to.

J: You don't have to worry. I don't ever want to loose her again.

L: Glad to hear it.

Lucky approached them, extending his hand to Jason. "Welcome to the family man." "You make her happy, cause I will be watching."

C: Luke already warned him.

Lucky: Well I just want to make sure he understands us.

J: I do Lucky.

After an hour of congratulatory well wishes, Jason and Carly were able to sneak away while Luke was arguing with Lucky over who was going to give Carly away at the wedding.

C: Jase where we going?

J: I need some alone time with you. Come on I have an idea.

They snuck out of Luke's, Jason leading her out to his bike.

C: Were going for a ride?

J: Yeah I thought we could visit our special place and celebrate privately.

C: I'd like that. It's been forever since I rode with you.

J: I know, and I'm sorry about that baby. We will make sure we just get away at least twice a week. Sound good?

C: Yeah it sounds great. (she leans up and kisses him).

They ride off to their special cliff that overlooks the city. Once there, Carly gets off the bike and makes her way to the edge of the cliff. Jason watches her take a deep breath, filling her lungs with the fresh night air. He smiles and walks up behind her wrapping his arms tightly around waist. The security of his arms comforts her and she sinks back into his chest. "Jase it's so beautiful up here. Can you imagine having a house up here with this view?"

J: That would be amazing. We could do that you know?

C: What?

J: We can build a house here for us. I am sure I could persuade the owner into selling us a few lots.

C: Seriously?

J: Sure why not. Anything you want baby.

C: Oh my god Jase that would be incredible.

He kisses her neck and nuzzles her ear. "I have another surprise for you."

C: You do huh?

Pointing up to the sky "See that star up there that is between that group of five".

C: Yeah, the really bright one?

J: Yup, that is our star.

C: What?

J: I bought that star for us. It's officially the Mr. and Mrs. Morgan's star to celebrate our love. I have the certificate at home for us.

C: Oh my god Jase it's so beautiful. I have never heard of such a thing.

She held her hand out in front of them, her ring sparkling in the moonlight.

C: Our star looks just like my ring. You are so incredible Jason!

J: Well we now have our own star that is all ours. And when we have children I will buy them each a star on the day they are born to celebrate their arrival.

C: Our children huh?

J: Yeah lots of children.

C: Well you have things all planned out don't you?

J: Well I know that you will be the best mom.

C: And you will be an incredible father Jase. I bet if we have any girls they will have you wrapped right around their little fingers, they will be daddy's little girls.

J: I only hope that they are just like their mom. That they have the same sparkle in their eyes and love for life that you have.

C: Aren't you forgetting my stubborn streak?

J: How can I forget that? You are so amazingly strong Carly, and that stubborn streak made me open my eyes and realize what a fool I have been. I hope all our children have your strength and even your stubbornness.

C: I can't believe all my dreams are coming true. I have an incredible man that loves me and we are going to be starting a future together.

J: And starting a family.

C: Yes and a family. Thank you Jase. I love you so much.

J: I love you too Carly. I only want to make you happy.

They snuggled in each other's arms looking up at their star. Then after a few moments of silence Jason whispered to her "Dance with me?"

C: Out here? We don't have any music.

J: I can take care of that. He unwrapped his arms from around her waist and walked over to his bike turning the radio on. After flipping thru the stations he found a good song and turned up the volume. Carly smiled as she recognized the familiar song. She and Jason had danced to it before. It was one of her favorites. With his arms held open she made her way over to him and sank into his embrace.

C: Mmmm this is heaven. I love this song.

I love the way you feel right next to me

Your touch is way beyond my wildest dreams

You could be a million miles away

But the love I have for you will always stay

Jason pulled her closer to him making sure she was his. "I need you right here with me always baby."

C: You've got me Jase.

She rested her head on his chest and closed her eyes enjoying the even steady beat of his heart as they danced.

Right here in the center of my soul

All I’ll ever long to hold

I’m holding now

Right here feel the passion in my kiss

All I’ll ever long to give, I give to you

Right now, Right here

My love for you goes way beyond the heart

You and I will never be apart

On this earth and through eternity

I want you to know, you’ll always be

Right here in the center of my soul

All I’ll ever long to hold

I’m holding now

Right here- feel the passion in my kiss

All I’ll ever long to give, I give to you

Right now, Right here

I’ll keep every dream, your hope, your every fear

Every kiss, every smile, and even every tear

Right here

J: I love you Caroline Spencer, but soon to be Mrs. Morgan.

C: I love you to Mr. Morgan.

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

Epilogue:

2 years later Jason Morgan helps his wife Carly out of the limo. It is their first night home with their new baby girl Riley Abigail Morgan.

J: You sure your okay?

C: Jase stop fussing I am fine. WE are both fine. Your daughter can sleep thru anything.

J: Just like her mom.

C: If I didn't have this little one in my arms I would slap you buddy.

J: Lucky for me Riley saved me. (he chuckled)

Jason led them into their house over looking Port Charles. J: Come outside for a minute with me I want to show you both something.

She followed him out onto their back deck that was perched right by their cliff. This had become their favorite place. They would spend many nights out on the deck looking up at the stars and enjoying the incredible view. Carly smiled as she fondly remembered the night Riley was conceived out on this very deck.

He watched her smiling, knowing she was off in thought. The joy he felt right now was indescribable. He had a family of his own, a beautiful wife and a precious new little girl.

J: What are you thinking about?

C: The night we made Riley.

A huge smile spread across his as he remembered. J: It was an incredible night.

C: It sure was.

He wrapped his arms around Carly carefully as she held Riley. J: Riley Abigale Morgan has her own star right up there. (he said pointing out a small star that seemed to be sparkling extra brightly just for them).

C: You have the best daddy Riley. He is going to spoil you rotten.

J: I love you both so much. Thank you baby for giving me such a beautiful little girl. We now have a family all our own.

C: I love you Jase so much. I have never been happier than I am right now.

J: I intend to do everything I can to make sure that never changes.

C: Come on daddy. Let's go put our little girl to bed.

The new family walked back into their home to start they're life together. There would never be any Space between them ever again.

THE END!