Chapter 13
Gia smiled happy her shift had finally ended. But what caused an even bigger smile was the fact that other than the first day she and Dr. Oliver did not cross paths again. And other than treating Nikolas Cassadine on the first day her shift had gone fairly easy. Concerned that she still had not seen Sonny since before the accident Gia decided to stop by the warehouse to check up on him and to see if he was back. Having found both Sonny and Jason’s offices empty Gia slowly checked around the warehouse in hopes of seeing someone who could tell her something. Stopping Gia smiled as she looked in on Lucky diligently at work o his computer. One of the few bright spots since coming to Port Charles besides getting to know both Sonny and Mike was her friendship with Lucky. Having met him when Sonny first rejected her Lucky stayed by her side giving her encouragement when she needed it most. Sometimes though when Gia looked hard and long enough she could see something more than friendship in the way that he looked at her. And though Lucky knew that he had let his guard down neither pushed what could possibly be between them. Both content in the friendship that they shared.
Gia- [softly] Hard at work huh?
Lucky- [smiling as he turned to her] Something like that.
Gia- [smiling] I’m sure my brother would be happy to know that.
Lucky- [smiling] Well... in case he doesn’t already know be sure to put in a good word for me then. I could always use a raise.
Gia- [laughing] I’ll be sure to do that.
Lucky- [turning serious] I heard you were in a crash.
Gia- Yeah... but I’m ok... [smiling] just in case you were wondering.
Lucky- [standing quickly going to hug her] Good... because I was... wondering you know.
Gia- Good... [smiling] so what are you doing here so late?
Lucky- [turning looking back at his computer] Just checking a few emails...
Gia- [smiling] That reminds me...
Lucky- [noticing her smile] What?
Gia- It seems I have an admirer.
Lucky- Really?
Gia- Yeah... I’ve been getting these emails and...
Lucky- [softly] Oh...
Gia- Yeah and they are so sweet.
Lucky- You like... you like them?
Gia- [smiling] Yes...
Lucky- What’s so special about them?
Gia- Well... how often do you get someone sending you email filled with poetry and pretty words?
Lucky- Umm... [smiling] I don’t…
Gia- [smiling] Exactly...
Lucky- Ok... so someone is sending you a poem or two... big deal.
Gia- It’s just not a poem... it’s what the poems are saying.
Lucky- [raising his eyebrow] Huh?
Gia- [smiling] Come on... I’ll show you.
Sitting down Gia quickly logged into her email account ready to show Lucky all that her secret admirer had sent her. And as she opened an email Lucky stood behind Gia drinking in the sight and smell of her. Working for Sonny gave Lucky many things but he had to say his friendship with Gia had to be the best. When he first noticed her he would see her visiting Sonny and find himself wondering who she was. She never quite fit into the bimbo role most of Sonny’s ladies seemed to be so he quickly ruled that scenario out. And after he ran every possible reason for her coming to see Sonny Gia finally approached him. Even now Lucky still could not believe she approached him... he could not believe that she wanted to speak with him.
Flashback
Swamped with work Lucky found himself working late into the night. And seeing that he and Elizabeth was slowly going apart Lucky did not seem to mind. Breathing a sigh of relief Lucky realized that the time he spent away from Elizabeth was the only time he relaxed and was calm. Eventually though Lucky knew something would have to be done before they completely lost each other.
Gia- [smiling] You know... my brother really shouldn’t make you stay here this late.
Lucky- [looking up at Gia as her voice pulled him out of his thoughts] Excuse me?
Gia- [softly smiling] I was saying you really shouldn’t have to be here this late.
Lucky- Who are you?
Gia- [extending her hand] Gia... Gia Campbell.
Slowly taking her hand Lucky marveled at its’ softness. Having fantasized about this moment for so long Lucky stood silent not knowing what to say. Looking down Lucky continued to stroke her hand not wanting to break their connection.
Gia- [softly laughing] Ok... either give me my hand back or tell me your name.
Lucky- Huh?
Gia- [smiling] What’s your name?
Lucky- Oh...[releasing her hand] I’m sorry…I’m Lucky...
Gia- [smiling] I’d bet...
Lucky- Huh?
Gia- [laughing] Never mind… Lucky huh?
Lucky- Yeah... Lucky... Lucky Spencer.
Gia- Well it’s nice to finally meet you Lucky Spencer.
Lucky- You wanted to meet me?
Gia- Yeah... you’re always here hard at work and I wondered...
Lucky- What are you doing here? I mean who are you here to see?
Gia- Sonny...
Lucky- [his face falling] Oh...
Gia- [smiling noticing his changed expression] He’s my brother.
Lucky- Brother... Sonny’s your brother?
Gia- Yeah... even if he doesn’t want to be. He’s my brother.
Lucky- I didn’t know... I mean...
Gia- Long story.
Lucky- [softly] Maybe... maybe you can tell me it one day.
Gia- [smiling as she turned and slowly walked away] Yeah maybe...
End of Flashback
Gia- [smiling as she looked up at him] See what’d I tell you? Even you are left speechless. They’re beautiful aren’t they?
Lucky- [snapping out of his thoughts] Huh?
Gia- [smiling] The poems… they’re beautiful.
Lucky- [smiling] If you say so
Gia- [smiling] Anyone who can write these words... he has to be an amazing person.
Lucky- He could be some psycho…
Gia- [laughing] Whatever…
Lucky- [sighing] I’m glad I ran into you...
Gia- [frowning] Why?
Lucky- [laughing] Ok… maybe I’m not...
Gia- You know I’m only kidding. What’s up?
Lucky- You wanna go out with me?
Gia- Out?
Lucky- On the town... you know the whole shebang...
Gia- What about Elizabeth?
Lucky- She’ll be there too.
Gia- Ok... [suddenly standing] I’ve done a lot of things... but you, Liz, and me... it ain’t gon’ work.
Lucky- [laughing] It’s not like that... although now that you mention it…
Gia- [playfully hitting at Lucky] Lucky...
Lucky- [laughing] I’m only kidding. My brother’s...
Gia- Your brother? I didn’t know you had a brother.
Lucky- Long story...
Gia- [smiling] Yeah that you’re gonna tell me one day.
Lucky- [smiling] Yeah one day... Anyway he’s back in town and we are taking him out to celebrate.
Gia- You and Elizabeth huh... [smiling] now I see why you were looking for me.
Lucky- What is that supposed to mean?
Gia- No offense... but you and Elizabeth don’t exactly shout excitement.
Lucky- [laughing] Shut up...
Gia- Hey... [laughing] just speaking the truth and you know it.
Lucky- [shaking his head] Whatever... so are you gonna come or not?
Gia- Lucky I don’t know...
Lucky- Emily is coming too.
Gia- [crossing her arms] You’re trying to kill me aren’t you?
Lucky- Please... [smiling as he softly touched her arm] come out with us...
Gia- [softly] Lucky...
Lucky- Ok... I love Elizabeth and Emily is cool too but...
Gia- But?
Lucky- I like being with you. I mean I like hanging with you because you make me smile...
Gia- [smiling] Ok... since you put it that way.
Lucky- I know you, Emily and Elizabeth don’t really get along...
Gia- That’s an understatement...
Lucky- But it would really mean a lot to me if you came out with us tonight.
Gia- Lucky...
Lucky- [smiling] You’ll like my brother...
Gia- Fine...
Lucky- [smiling] So you’re coming with us?
Gia- [mumbling] Yes...
Lucky- [quickly hugging her] Good... we’re doing a little dancing and a little partying at Luke’s and then we’re having a late dinner at the Grille. And we might try and hit another dance club after that.
Gia- Ok...
Lucky- [smiling] Thank you...
Gia- [crossing her arms] Don’t thank me too soon...
Lucky- [smiling] Thank you...
Gia- Is it ok if I bring someone with me?
Lucky- I guess... who?
Gia- Kamar...
Lucky- [softly as he tried to hide the disappointment in his voice] Kamar... yeah I guess if that’s who you want to bring.
Gia- I need a buffer or something. And Kamar is the only person I can think of that could take some of the flack away from me.
Lucky- How?
Gia- Him and Emily are still friends and knowing Emily she still wants to look good in his eyes so she won’t be spewing her normal crap in my direction.
Lucky- [softly] I guess...
Gia- [quickly kissing his cheek] I gotta go... but thanks for asking me to go tonight.
Lucky- [her kiss pulling him out of his momentary disappointment] Why... why are you leaving so soon?
Gia- Just got off of shift and I need some beauty sleep before tonight.
Lucky- [smiling] No you don’t... you look amazing now.
Liz- [smiling] Thank you. I came... I came here to check on Sonny but he’s not here so...
Lucky- I’m sure he’ll call you... I think he had to leave town.
Gia- Sorta figured... [quickly hugging him] I’ll see you tonight ok.
Lucky- [returning her hug] Ok...
Gia- What time?
Lucky- 8:30...
Gia- Luke’s right?
Lucky- Yeah...
Gia- [as she left] I’ll see you there then...
Despite himself Lucky could not help but become jealous when Gia mentioned bringing Kamar with her tonight. He was with someone else and he knew it was wrong to hope that Gia stayed single until he could end things with Elizabeth. But still he found himself hoping.
Helena moved around her stateroom waiting his arrival. She knew of his departure from Greece as well as his arrival in Port Charles and finally... finally she would have her chance to speak with him. They had many things to discuss and nothing he would tell her would come as a surprise.
Andreas- Madame Master Nikolas has arrived.
Helena- Show him into the room.
Andreas- Very well...
Helena waited with baited breath until Nikolas entered to room. Unable to read his expression she was unsure of how to greet him.
Nikolas- Grandmother...
Helena- My darling Nikolas... it is so good to see you.
Nikolas- [slowly smiling as he engulfed her in a hug] You as well.
Helena- [hugging him in return] I was unsure if you would agree to this.
Nikolas- I have not agreed to anything. I merely stated that I was happy to see you.
Helena- Have you given any thought to what I proposed to you?
Nikolas- [softly] Yes...
Helena- And your thoughts on such a plan?
Nikolas- Is it necessary in making Stefan a victim in our plan?
Helena- Nikolas my darling... Stefan has never been concerned of your best interests.
Nikolas- Grandmother..
Helena- How else could you explain him exiling you to Greece as if you were of no importance. You are the Cassadine prince... the Cassadine heir and yet he treats you as nothing.
Nikolas- [shaking his head] But is there any other way to complete our plans aside from hurting Stefan.
Helena- No... we must set our plan in action soon or else...
Nikolas- [walking over to pour himself a drink] We may have to delay...
Helena- Nikolas... all of our hard work...
Nikolas- [downing his drink in one gulp] Will remain until we are ready but I...
Helena- What is it?
Nikolas- I have... there is something I want to do first before I turn my full attention on Stefan and Luke.
Helena- Can’t this be postponed? Nothing should be of more importance than ridding Stefan and Luke Spencer from our lives.
Nikolas- There is someone else... there is someone else I have set my sights on first.
Helena- Who?
Nikolas- [a slow smile crossing his face] My darling brother Lucky Spencer.
Helena- Why waste your time with such a small nobody when we have...
Nikolas- [turning towards Helena his eyes blazing] Did you not hear what I said?
Helena- But my darling Nikolas I was only trying to reiterate the need to strike now when Stefan and Luke least suspects anything. The longer we wait...
Nikolas- [downing another drink] Nothing will happen and we will wait until I am ready to set the plan into action.
Helena- Nikolas...
Nikolas- [as he strode past her to leave] You heed my words... try something before I instruct you to do so and it might very well be you who must look over one’s shoulder.
Something had changed since Helena had last spoke to Nikolas. His attitude about destroying Stefan was slowly changing and until she did something quickly she along with Stefan as well as the rest of the Cassadines will be left in the cold once Nikolas took his place as prince. Pouring herself a sherry Helena pondered what she would have to do to convince Nikolas to set in motion the plan that would facilitate Stefan’s downfall and forever remove him from his life.
Chapter 14
Gia smiled as she admired herself in the mirror. Wearing black low-slung body hugging leather pants and a semi sheer black shirt buttoning enough buttons to close her shirt yet leaving enough undone for her lacy black bra and flat stomach to peak through. Gia smiled knowing she looked good. Leaving her hair loose and little to no make-up Gia was ready to party. Sitting down as she pulled in her matching black leather spiked boots Gia was happy she had agreed to go out with Lucky and the bopsy twins. It had been a long time since Gia was able to go out and have a good time and she was minus worries and stress. Waiting for Kamar to arrive Gia vowed that she would have a good time tonight and not to let Emily and Elizabeth’s attitude spoil her evening. Thoughts of Sonny still on her mind Gia wondered what Lucky’s brother was like. Surely he would have some of the same characteristics and demeanor as Lucky. Sighing Gia hoped that possibly beside Kamar and Lucky she would at least find another friend tonight. With some time to chill before Kamar arrived Gia quickly called Sonny leaving a message on his voice mail in hopes that he would receive it and call her back soon.
Sonny’s voice- This is Corinthos... leave a message.
Gia- [softly] Hey Sonny... this is Gia. Just calling to check up on you. Haven’t heard from you in a while and was a little concerned. I’m headed out tonight and I won’t be back to the cottage until late but I’ll have my cell with me. But if you want to see me I’ll be at the PC Grille later tonight. Hope everything is ok... I love... I love you.
As she ended her call Gia heard a knock on the door signaling Kamar’s arrival. Wearing a tan linen suit and matching headwrap Kamar was shocked as Gia opened her door.
Gia- [leaning against her doorframe as she opened the door to Kamar] So what do you think?
Kamar- Oh my God! Turn around so I can get the full view.
Gia- [smiling as she slowly turned] So...
Kamar- I don’t know if I want to share you with anybody else tonight.
Gia- [smiling] So I look ok then huh?
Kamar- Ok should never be a word used to describe how you look. [smiling] Are you sure you wanna go hang out with the “duds” tonight?
Gia- Well one of those “duds” used to be your girlfriend.
Kamar- [laughing] Don’t remind me...
Gia- [laughter] Whatever you say Kamar… are you ready to go?
Kamar- Yeah... but we have a problem.
Gia- What?
Kamar- I have to cover for Lewis so I won’t be able to hang all night. At the most I can do Luke’s but the Grille is out.
Gia- That’s ok... I’ll just come home then.
Kamar- No... I’m gonna follow you to Luke’s in my car. That way you can stay and have some fun. You haven’t been out in a long time...
Gia- How do you know?
Kamar- Looking at these clothes... believe me I would know if you had went out.
Gia- How?
Kamar- Because Marcus, Sonny, Mike and the rest of the males in Port Charles would have been brought in the ER complaining of chest pains.
Gia- [laughing] Shut up!
Kamar- But really have fun tonight... do the whole thing...
dinner...dancing... the whole nine.
Gia- I’ll think about it...
Kamar- Gia...
Gia- Well if the “duds” [laughing] I gotta tell you I love that name you gave them…
Kamar- [smiling] So do I...
Gia- [smiling] If the “duds” don’t irritate me then maybe I’ll stay.
Kamar- [smiling] Tonight is going be fun...
Gia- [smiling] If you say so...
Kamar- I do... let’s go.
~ Luke’s ~
Liz- [angrily] You did what?
Lucky- I asked Gia to come out with us tonight.
Liz- Why?
Lucky- She’s my friend and...
Liz- So!
Lucky- Look Elizabeth other than myself and Kamar she doesn’t have any friends in Port Charles...
Liz- And there’s a reason behind that.
Lucky- It doesn’t matter now. They...
Liz- [crossing her arms] They?
Lucky- Gia and Kamar should be on their way now.
Liz- [shaking her head] I can’t believe you invited her...
Emily- Invited who?
Liz- Gia...
Emily- Lucky... why?
Lucky- Look Gia is my friend... [sighing] I wish you guys could see her how I see her...
Emily- [crossing her arms] Well I don’t...
Lucky- Then that’s your problem. Gia and Kamar should be here any second.
Liz- Lucky...
Lucky- [softly touching Elizabeth’s arm] Please... for me... can you at least be civil to her tonight.
Emily- We are always civil... it’s her who constantly snips at everybody.
Lucky- Then for one night can you ignore them.
Emily- I don’t know...
Lucky- Em... this is for my brother. I want him to have a good time tonight. The last thing he needs to see is you, Liz, and Gia going at it.
Liz- Well did you tell her that?
Lucky- I didn’t have to. She already knows what this means to me and...
Liz- Fine then Lucky. If she can keep her mouth shut then so can we.
Emily- I don’t see why we have to even tolerate her tonight. This is for family...
Lucky- Yes my family and I want her here.
Emily- Whatever... I’m not sitting by her.
Lucky- [shaking his head] You don’t have to.
Emily- [mumbling as she sat down] Good...
Lucky- I need go talk to my dad but if she comes before I’m back...
Emily- [smiling] We’ll be as nice as we always are to her.
Lucky- Emily...
Emily- I’m only kidding...
Liz- Everything will be fine... go and talk to Luke.
Lucky- Maybe I should wait until...
Emily/Liz- Go...
As Lucky quickly left the table Emily and Elizabeth sat complaining about how Gia would be spoiling their fun tonight. In the midst of their complaints Nikolas entered Luke’s abruptly ending their conversation. Dressed in a fitted black shirt and slacks Nikolas slowly made his way to Emily and Elizabeth dreading this night even before it started. After thinking of every conceivable excuse for tonight yet finding none that would work Nikolas resigned himself to a long night of Emily flirting with him and Lucky and Elizabeth filling the rest with useless chatter. The Kelly's crew as he found himself thinking of them were the last thing he wanted to a part of. Emily and Elizabeth were cute in their own sort of plain way but neither did anything for him. And as for Lucky Nikolas could really care less if he was there or not. As he neared the table seeing the obvious awe/lust in both Elizabeth and Emily eyes it took all his willpower not to turn around and walk back out of Luke’s.
Emily/Liz- [softly in unison as Nikolas approached them] Damn...
Nikolas- [faking a smile as he extended his hand] Hello ladies...
Liz- [slowly looking him up and down] Hey Nikolas...
Nikolas- [gently kissing her hand] Elizabeth...
Emily- [inadvertently licking her lips] Nikolas... you look amazing!
Nikolas- [gently kissing her hand in turn] As do you.
Emily- [smiling] Thank you.
Nikolas- You are quite welcome... Elizabeth you are breathtaking as well.
Liz- Thank you Nikolas...
Nikolas- [smiling] It is my pleasure... [looking around] where is my brother?
Liz- He went to speak with Luke but he should be back any second.
Nikolas- Fine... do you all mind if I sit with you until he returns?
Emily- By all means... we... we can sit over here.
Nikolas- Fine...
Liz- Before Lucky returns I might as well tell you that we’re having “company” tonight.
Nikolas- How so?
Liz- [frowning] Lucky invited a “friend” of his to join us.
Nikolas- Who is he?
Liz- Not a he... a she...
Nikolas- Well I doubt it is anyone I know...
Emily- Well actually...
Lucky- [returning to the table] Hey bro... I see you made it.
Nikolas- [standing to shake Lucky’s hand] Yes... I’m ready to... how did you say it... “do it up” tonight...
Lucky- [laughing] Cool... then let’s get this party started.
Nikolas- [as he sat down his back to the door] I thought we were waiting for someone.
Lucky- Well we are... [looking up at the sound of the door opening seeing both Kamar and Gia enter... his breath catching as Gia and Kamar approached the table] but... but it looks like they are here now.
Gia- [smiling as they neared the table] Hey Lucky...
Lucky- Hey... [smiling] I’m glad you’re here. I want to introduce you to my brother.
As Nikolas stood to face Gia both stood shocked to see the other standing before them. Lucky quickly walked to Gia wrapping his arm around her waist bringing her closer to him as he attempted to introduce her to Nikolas.
Lucky- Nikolas... I want to introduce you to a really good friend of mine...
Nikolas- Ms Campbell...
Gia- Mr. Cassadine...
Nikolas- [slowly smiling] It’s good to see you again.
Gia- [softly] It’s good to see you too.
Lucky- [looking from Gia to Nikolas] Don’t tell me you guys know each other.
Gia- I... we...
Nikolas- I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Campbell upon my return to Port Charles.
Lucky- Huh?
Gia- He’s the guy who hit my car.
Lucky- Are you serious?
Nikolas- Yes... but she neglected to tell you of our other meeting.
Gia- What other meeting?
Nikolas- [smiling] Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten how your heavenly hands healed me...
Gia- [softly] No...
Nikolas- Good... [smiling as he continued to look at Gia] I would say I would not forget that for sometime...
Liz- Why? What did she do to you?
Gia- Nothing...
Nikolas- [a smile lingering on his face as he extended his hand to Kamar] Kamar... it is good to see you again as well.
Kamar- [quickly shaking his hand] Yeah… you too. [looking past Nikolas] Elizabeth... Emily... you look amazing.
Emily- [looking from Kamar to Gia] So do you Kamar...
Kamar- Thanks...
Lucky- Ok... since it seems everyone knows everyone why don’t we sit down. Dad said a waitress should be over here soon.
As the silence around the table slowly drowned out the music in the club all sat unsure how to begin a conversation. Nikolas could not believe that he was sitting across the table from Gia. Had he known she was Lucky’s friend he would have suggested a night like this the moment he and Lucky were reunited. Smiling he knew the night had definitely improved and if he could somehow build on whatever was occurring between them at the hospital he would suggest a get together like this every night.
Gia could not focus. Nikolas... Lucky’s brother was sitting across from her with a steady smiling on his face looking at her as if he was ready to devour her. Looking quickly at him Gia felt her heart do funny things she was unsure she wanted to examine. Breathing deeply Gia looked up at Nikolas again only to see the same devastating smile she had first experienced the day of their accident. Steeling herself Gia returned his “gaze” and for the first time really seeing him. Though he had lingered in her thoughts since the accident Gia never realized how good-looking he was. He was handsome... with a small shake of her head Gia realized that handsome was not a word she would use to describe Nikolas Cassadine. Beautiful... gorgeous... breathtaking... down right sexy as hell would be much better choices of adjectives to describe him. Knowing the direction of her thoughts a small giggle escaped her and everyone at the table turned in her direction.
Emily- [frowning] Do you see… is there something funny?
Gia- [looking at Emily] Actually yes... but that’s not why I was laughing.
Emily- Then what...
Gia- [fanning her hand as she interrupted Emily] For all us happening people to be at one table this night is turning out to be a “dud”...
Kamar- [choking on his drink as he tried not to laugh] Then why don’t we do something to change that. You wanna dance?
Gia- [looking quickly at Nikolas] That’s what we came here for...
With the sound of Maxwell’s “Dancewitme’” bumping through the club Gia and Kamar quickly made their way to the dance floor. And as they danced and grooved the song away Elizabeth, Emily, Lucky, and Nikolas could not tear their eyes away from Gia. Watching as they laughed and danced Elizabeth and Emily sat fuming both thinking Gia was once again stealing the spotlight from them. Lucky watched in awe as Gia and Kamar moved across the floor silently wishing that it was him out there laughing and dancing with her. Slowly drowning out the sounds that floated around him Nikolas watched as she moved to every beat to the song. And with each sway of her hips Nikolas was drawn in more. Completely blocking out the conversation that was now in full bloom Nikolas continued to watch Gia. Slowly smiling as he knew that her dance on the floor was for his benefit.
Despite every signal and every flag that went off in her head there was something about Nikolas Cassadine that Gia found herself liking. And despite everything her head and heart was trying to tell her she found herself liking the feel of is eyes on her and from the moment she hit the floor she found herself watching him and his reactions to her. With her back once again to Kamar Gia looked up meeting Nikolas’s gaze again. And as if everyone around them disappeared Gia continued to dance... continued for Nikolas. As the song finally ended Kamar and Gia slowly exited the floor ready to return to the table.
Gia- That song wore me out... I’m going to go and get another drink. I’ll meet you back at the table.
Kamar- Cool... [smiling] and if you keep dancing like that we’re leaving Luke’s and I just might miss covering Lewis’s shift.
Gia- [smiling] And what would we be doing?
Kamar- [raising an eyebrow] I’m sure we would think of something.
Gia- [laughing] You know if I ever took you up on one of your “offers” you wouldn’t know what to do with yourself.
Kamar- [laughing] I’m sure I would think of something.
Gia- [laughing as she continued toward the bar] We’ll see...
Kamar- [watching as she walked away] Yeah we will...
Seeing Gia headed to the bar Nikolas stood ready to go join her and see if all the things that were crossing his mind were also crossing hers.
Nikolas- [rising in the middle of Emily speaking to him] I’ll be back.
Emily- But Nikolas...
Nikolas- I’m going to get something to drink.
Emily- [softly touching his arm] But a waitress should be coming soon and...
Nikolas- [staring in the direction of the bar making sure Gia was still there] I’m up now...
Emily- [noticing his stare] But Nik...
Nikolas- [quickly walking away] I’ll be back...
Before she could object again Nikolas quickly strode over to Gia.
Nikolas- [brushing a light caress against the small of back] Well that was quite a show.
Gia- [turning to face Nikolas] Excuse me?
Nikolas- Wherever you call yourself out there doing...
Gia- I was dancing...
Nikolas- [raising an eyebrow] If that’s what you consider dancing then...
Gia- [slowly smiling] Are you saying you can do better?
Nikolas- I think we would have to return to my hotel room before I could show you.
Gia- What did you say?
Nikolas- Just commenting on your style of dance.
Gia- Whatever... [taking her drink trying to pass him] excuse me...
Nikolas- [softly touching her arm] Not until I receive my answer.
Gia- Answer to what?
Nikolas- As to whether or not we will be returning to my room later tonight.
Gia- [looking down as his hand rested on her arm] I don’t know where you got it in your head...
Nikolas- Well after the hospital and the show you just gave me...
Gia- Show?
Nikolas- Well what you termed as dancing...
Gia- What makes you think any of that was meant for you?
Nikolas- Was it not?
Gia- No it wasn’t...
Nikolas- What then was it meant for Kamar or...
Gia- That’s none of your business.
Nikolas- I would say it was considering how you looked at me the entire time you were “dancing”...
Gia- [softly laughing] How I was looking at you... I think you had one too many drinks if you think...
Nikolas- [softly smiling] And I think the lady protests are in jest.
Gia- Whatever...
Nikolas- Whatever happens between you and I will stay between you and I. The last thing I wish to do is come between you and...
Gia- First thing... nothing is going to “happen” between you and me and secondly I don’t appreciate you thinking...
Nikolas- Why fight what you are obviously feeling?
Gia- [trying to move around him] Move...
Nikolas- Not until...
Before she could think of what she was doing and stop herself Gia threw her drink in Nikolas’s face.
Gia- [angrily] Like I said... move!
Walking around Nikolas as he retrieved a few napkins to wipe the drink off his face and clothes Gia quickly returned to the table. Having seen the confrontation between the two questions came flying as she arrived at the table.
Emily- What in the hell did you do that for?
Kamar- Gia are you ok?
Lucky- What happened?
Liz- Why would you do that to Nikolas? He didn’t do anything to you...
Gia- Kamar let’s go...
Kamar- Gia...
Gia- Kamar come on please...
Nikolas- [slowly coming up behind Gia] Don’t leave on my account.
Emily- [rushing to standing beside Nikolas] Are you ok? Why did she...
Nikolas- [slowly smiling] I’m fine... a few mistaken words...
Liz- What did she say to you?
Gia- “What did I say...”
Nikolas- [softly] Nothing... it is I who should apologize...
Gia- You don’t have to apologize...
Nikolas- I did not mean to offend you or...
Gia- It’s fine... Kamar you ready?
Kamar- Ok...
Lucky- [standing gently touching Gia’s arm] Come on Gia... don’t go... we just got here and...
Emily- [smirking] Let her leave...
Lucky- [softly] Gia...
Gia- Fine... I’ll stay but...
Lucky- [softly] Thank you...
Seeing the smug look on both Elizabeth and Emily faces Gia was now determined to get through the rest of the night. Whatever she thought she was feeling or starting to like in Nikolas were quickly dashed or so she thought during their brief encounter at the bar. And as she sat silent the rest of the night laughing and responding only to Kamar and Lucky’s attempts to lighten her mood and the mood around the table. Gia kept replaying the moment over and over in her head trying to figure out what set her off and more importantly why his opinions of her seemed to matter so much. When the time came for Kamar to leave Gia fought the urge to go with him and escape to the security of the cottage. Ensuring him she was fine and would remain that way Gia sat back watching as Emily and Elizabeth fawned and laughed over everything and anything Nikolas said and/or did. Looking at Lucky Gia knew he was more concerned with her and what happened at the bar to enjoy the time he was sharing with his brother. Softly touching his arm Gia smiled at him letting him know that she was fine and all would be explained later. As she turned away from Lucky Gia again spied Nikolas’s gaze upon her and despite everything that had happened so far that night again her heart quickened with the knowledge that he was watching her.
PC Grille
The tension from Luke’s was near it’s breaking point as they entered the PC Grille and if it wasn’t for Lucky Gia would have left a long time ago. Praying she would somehow get through this dinner Gia slowly made her way to the table Lucky had reserved. Once this dinner was over Gia would be able to escape and erase all thoughts of tonight from her head soaking in a hot bath. Seeing a smirking Elizabeth at the table the little patience Gia had seemed to evaporate.
Liz- [smirking] Well if it isn’t the five wheel.
Gia- You know I’ve about had it with you and...
Liz- You can always leave.
Gia- You ain’t said nothing but a word...
Lucky- [as he arrived at the table] Gia please...
Gia- Look Lucky I appreciate you inviting me out and despite everything I really enjoyed myself but...
Lucky- Gia...
Gia- I’m tired of the peanut crew throwing their little barbs at me.
Lucky- I’m sorry...
Liz- [angrily] Don’t apologize to her. If she don’t like hanging with us then let her leave!
Gia- It would be my pleasure.
Lucky- Liz come on... Gia is my friend and I want her here.
Gia- It’s ok Lucky... I’ll talk to you later ok...
Lucky- [softly] Gia please...
Nikolas- [slowly approaching the table with Emily on his arm] Don’t tell me you are leaving.
Gia- Why would you care?
Nikolas- [slowly smiling] I was merely asking...
Gia- Whatever...
Lucky- Come on guys... we came here to have a good time and...
Emily- We’re not the ones bringing the mood down.
Lucky- That doesn’t matter. Just for tonight can’t we please just everything aside. I mean...
Gia- Fine...
Emily/Liz- Ok... whatever...
Nikolas- Why don’t we all sit down. Maybe by the time our dinner arrives all will be fine.
Lucky- [mumbling] I hope so...
Regardless to his pleas the night continued to go downhill as the meal progressed. Noticing the looks Lucky and Nikolas were sending Gia Elizabeth and Emily continuing throwing barbs and barely concealed insults at her. Despite all she was doing with Jason Elizabeth was angered that Lucky could and would even consider someone else other than her. Nikolas had been staring at Gia practically the entire night and Emily did not like it. Gia had enough men falling at her feet begging for just a chance to be with her and if it was the last thing she did Emily vowed that Nikolas would not be the next guy in line begging for his turn with her. Nikolas sat watching Gia fascinated by her quiet dignity which she displayed while facing down each insult and every put down by Emily and Elizabeth. Nothing they said or did seemed to faze her and Nikolas could only wonder why his words compared to the ones levied by Emily and Elizabeth seemed to effect her more. Locking eyes with Gia again an apology posed on his lips Nikolas stopped as he saw a group of men headed in their direction. Before he had a chance to question those at the table Gia was jerked up by the supposed leader and wrapped in an embrace. Nikolas sat back watching this ‘reunion’ of sorts and wondered who exactly this man was hugging Gia and why in every direction he turned there seemed to be another man waiting and wanting his turn with Gia.
Gia- [tightening her hold] I was so worried...
Sonny- You were worried?
Gia- Yeah... before we had the chance to talk you were gone.
Sonny- Well I’m here now and I’m not going anywhere.
Gia- [softly as he hugged her once again] Good...
Sonny- I got your message.
Gia- [softly] I’ve been thinking about you a lot. I mean you left so suddenly and...
Sonny- Do you have a second...
Gia- [looking back at the table] I’m here with Lucky and...
Sonny- It’ll only take a few seconds. The last time I got to talk to you was during the accident and I want to make sure you are ok.
Lucky- [softly] Go ahead... we’ll be here when you get back.
Gia- You sure?
Lucky- Yeah...
Nodding to the table Sonny hurried Gia to the bar making sure she was ok and explaining his sudden disappearance.
Nikolas- [trying to cover his sudden anger] Who was that?
Emily- Sonny Corinthos.
Nikolas- Ok and that means?
Liz- Somebody you don’t want to cross.
Nikolas- What is his business with Gia?
Lucky- He’s her...
Emily- [interrupting Lucky] Does it matter?
Nikolas- Excuse me?
Emily- Why do you care if he has ‘business’ with Gia or not?
Nikolas- Just curious...
Liz- Why?
Nikolas- Well it seems at every turn there is someone new waiting for Gia’s attention and I was simply curious as to what kind of person my brother has involved himself with.
Liz- Lucky’s not involved with Gia...
Seeing the sudden flush across Lucky’s face Nikolas knew as he suspected that there were more than friendship as far as Gia and Lucky was concerned.
Nikolas- If you say so.
Liz- I know so. As much as I hate it they are friends and that’s it. Tell him Lucky...
Lucky- [shaking his head] Gia is only my friend. Nothing more... nothing less...
Spying Gia and Sonny in the bar Nikolas observed as they hugged and kissed before Gia made her way back to the table.
Gia- [smiling as she sat down] Sorry about that.
Lucky- No problem...
Nikolas- [leaning forward as anger suddenly rushed him] Who was that?
Gia- [realizing his anger was directed at her] Excuse me...
Nikolas- I said who was that?
Gia- Sonny?
Nikolas- Yeah Sonny Corinthos... who is he to you?
Gia- Why do you care?
Nikolas- It seems you are a very busy girl. I’m not sure I want my brother involved... [glancing at Elizabeth before he continued] rather I’m not sure if you being his friend is a good thing.
Gia- What?
Nikolas- How exactly does my brother fit in your circle of men?
Lucky- Nikolas...
Gia- Circle of men... what in the hell are you talking about?
Nikolas- Let’s see... first there was the bald guy who just happened to your brother... him I can overlook. But then there’s Kamar...
Gia- Who is a friend...
Nikolas- If you say so. Did I fail to mention the guy old enough to be your father that was fawning all over you at the hospital?
Emily- [smirking] Is that the best you can do Gia? Some old geezer...
Lucky- Emily come on...
Nikolas- Let us not forget Lucky... but then again I was told that he was simply your friend.
Gia- Yes he’s one of my bestfriends...
Nikolas- That is quite touching... but tell me this. What... better yet who exactly is Sonny to you and is he not bothered by all of the other men who seem to frequent you.
Gia- Why do you care?
Lucky- Come on guys... this is not necessary...
Nikolas- I understand you being a beautiful woman and all but...
Gia- [standing up finally fed up with all the drama] First I don’t have to explain a damn to you...
Emily- [snickering] Such language…
Gia- [looking at Emily] Whatever… [turning back to Nikolas] but since you want to be so much in my business let me break it down for you. The first guy… the bald guy is my brother Taggert. You knew that because I told you that. Now Kamar… you don’t have to worry about. If I say he’s a friend he’s a friend. As for the old guy that you claim was fawning all over me you were right about one thing... [shaking her head] he is my father not that that’s really any of your business. Lucky is another friend… but then again if he was something more that’s not your business either.
Liz- It’ll be mine…
Gia- [turning to Elizabeth knowing it was her in Sonny’s office with Jason] I think you better sweep around your own back door before you come to mine.
Liz- What is that supposed to mean?
Gia- [cocking her head to the side] Do you want me to spell it out.
Liz- You don’t know what you are talking about.
Gia- Oh I don’t… [turning back to Nikolas] and as far as what Sonny is to me… he’s my brother as well.
Nikolas- Your brother?
Gia- Yes… we share the same father different mothers. But while I’m standing explaining myself to you I just realized something... I don’t have to. What I do with whomever is my business and until I invite you in you don’t have to worry about it.
Emily- [laughing] I guess she told you…
Nikolas- Told me what?
Gia- [shaking her head] Lucky I’m sorry… I tried. I really did but I'm done.
Lucky- Gia come on…
Gia- [quickly leaning in kissing his cheek] I’m sorry… I’ll talk to you later ok.
Lucky- [softly] Ok…
Without another glance at the other occupants of the table Gia turned and walked out of the PC Grille leaving the table in an uproar.
Liz- How could you let her kiss you?
Lucky- Elizabeth do we have to do this now?
Liz- Yes… I can’t believe you let that… that… how could you let her kiss you?
Emily- I can’t stand her.
Lucky- Emily please…
As the Kelly’s crew went at it Nikolas sat back digested all that Gia and told him and more importantly trying to figure out why it even mattered to him in the first place.