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Thanks for the replies. I've kind of been in a music mode lately, so here comes another song. Hope you like the chapter. It may be a few days before I can post another one, because I contemplating writing in the fire---just as a sort of sidebar to the story, but it would sort of fit in with everything else.
Anyhow, enjoy!

Chapter 98

Skye fussed with her dress, as Ned walked up behind her. You look incredible.
Funny, she said, as she looked at herself in the mirror. I look nothing like incredible.
Of course you do. He wrapped his arms around her waist.
His hands rest across her stomach. Dont, she said, as she pulled them off.
Whats wrong?
Oh, I dont know. Our daughters going to have surgery, but everythings perfectly all right, she said sarcastically, as she started to leave.
Ned pulled her back. No. Thats not what Im talking about. The other night we came close to making love. Now any time I go to touch you, you back away. Tell me whats wrong, he demanded to know.
You wouldnt understand, she told him.
Try me, Skye.
Im damaged goods!
Ned shook his head in confusion. What are you talking about?
Im talking about me, Ned. Me! No matter how many times you tell me Im strong or beautiful, I dont feel that way. I wake up in the morning, take a shower, and I see the incision from the C-section. Its pretty much healed, but I just dont...I dont feel comfortable.
Sweetheart, is that what your hesitation and distance have been about? Skye looked away. Skye, I was there when the doctor made the incision. Ive been with you through every step. I always will be. You dont have to hide from me.
She wiped her eyes, and spoke through tears, Were going to be late. She walked out of the room.
Ned sighed, as he followed her out.

Later...
Skye, Ned, and Brooke arrived at Lukes. The party was in full swing. V and Lucky were dancing. Ned went to put his arm around Skye as they walked into the crowded club, but she stopped him. Bobbie came to greet them. Hello. Im so glad you came.
Its nice of you to throw this party, Skye commented.
Um, Bobbie, I dont think youve met my oldest daughter. This is Brooke Lynn. Brooke, this is Bobbie Spencer. Luckys aunt.
Hello Brooke. You know, this is great because my niece Lesley Lu is here and she didnt think thered be anyone her age, I think youre about the same age. Let me introduce
you. Bobbie took Brooke with her to meet Lulu.
Well, maybe Brooke will make a new friend, Ned said. Can I get you a club soda?
Thatd be fine. Skye went off and sat down at a table.
Ok. Well, I guess Ill get our drinks, Ned said to himself. He walked to the bar.
Skye was content sitting by herself, when Jax came over. They look happy. He watched V and Lucky dancing.
Yeah. They do, she said, being short with him.
He turned to her. What about you and Ashton? You doing ok?
Ned came over. He sat a club soda in front of Skye. Jax, he said dryly, as he sat.
Jax looked at them. He could tell something was off, he didnt want to get in the middle of it. Hey. You know what? I saw your grandfather, and I have got to go give him a hard time. Jax quickly headed to the table where the Quartermaines were.
Well, that was subtle, Ned said, as he took a drink of his club soda.
Oh my gosh. Skyes jaw dropped, as she saw a couple enter the club.
What? Ned turned to see Rae on Mike Corbins arm. Well, they make a lovely couple, he said with a smile as he turned back to Skye. Skye got up before Ned could say anything
more. She went to talk to her mother. Ned went to his grandfather at the bar. He was watching Jax with Lila. The whole time grinding his teeth. I see Jax is making the rounds.
That smarmy Aussie snake oil salesman, Edward grunted.
Well, um, how is ELQ doing, Ned asked.
Fine, fine, Edward said rather quickly.
Look, if you ever need any help...
Everythings just fine with ELQ. You neednt worry yourself, Edward said, then stalked back to his table.
V and Lucky finally stopped dancing. Is all of Port Charles here or something?
Well, lets see. V looked around the room. Looks like your family, my family, most of the PCPD, and all our friends---including the entire Quartermaine family.
Too bad they couldnt just all disappear. All I really want to do is be alone with you, Lucky said with a grin.
You know, we have all the time in the world to be alone. She smiled, as she held him close. But theres something I want to tell you. Itd been a long time since I let anyone in
my heart. Because I was afraid of losing them. Somehow you found your way in and never gave up. And now, I look into your gorgeous blue eyes and see the love of my life.
Lucky teared up. You, my dear wife, have made me live up to my name.
V let out a laugh with a tear coming down her face. I think we both have lived up to your name. Bullets be damned, were both here.
Yes, we are. He took a hold of her hand and squeezed it tight, as they kissed.
She looked over Luckys shoulder to see Skye and Rae in the midst of what looked to be a heated discussion. Excuse me for a sec, honey. V went over to them. You ok?
Actually, Rae started to speak.
Skye stopped Rae, Were fine. Just a minor disagreement. Its really...well, its really just pointless. Im happy for you. Skye gave V a hug.
You should tell her, Rae silently mouthed to Skye.
Skye simply shook her head, then broke from her sisterly embrace. She looked in Luckys direction. He looks anxious to get you back.
V looked over at Lucky. Yeah. She smiled, then turned back to her sister and studied her. Youre sure everythings ok?
Yeah, Skye said with a fake smile.
Ok. Thanks for coming both of you. She gave them both hugs and went back to Lucky.
Why didnt you tell her about Brianna, Rae asked Skye.
Because... Skye looked over at her sister. because shes happy. Skye turned back to Rae. And its...its not that serious. Itll be ok. Skye walked back towards her table.
Rae shook her head. Mike walked over. Everything ok? Rae just hugged him.
Ned got on the microphone on stage. Hi. I...I just wanted to give the happy couple my congratulations. I think I speak for everyone when I say how happy I am for V and Lucky. Ned held up a glass as if to toast the couple. May the love you share carry you through good times and bad. Ned looked around. Now, if Luke were here hed probably have a fit, but I have a little something for you. Ned sat the glass down and grabbed a guitar from the corner. He sat on stage, looking at Skye. Their eyes locked. It speaks volumes about love and everything we do for the person we love the most.

When the rain is blowing in your face
And the whole world is on your case
I could offer you a warm embrace
To make you feel my love

Hey, how about a spin on the dance floor, Mike asked Rae, as they watched Lucky and V dance.
I think the songs for them, though.
Um, the way they look right now, I dont think theyre going to notice anybody else on the dance floor.

When evening shadows and the stars appear
And there is no one to dry your tears
I could hold you for a million years
To make you fell my love

You want to tell me how your brother can have such a good singing voice and you...
Dillon stopped her with a kiss. I have other talents Ned doesnt possess.
Oh really? Dillon pulled her up on her feet and began to slow dance with her, as they gazed in each others eyes.

I know you haven't made your mind up yet
And I would never do you wrong
I've known it from the moment that we met
There's not doubt in my mind where you belong

Who knew Ashton was such a romantic, Ric said to Elizabeth, as they danced.
Love brings out the romantic in everyone, she said.
Yes. Yes, it does. Ric looked down into her eyes, as he smiled at her.

I'd go hungry, I'd go black and blue
I'd go crawling down the avenue
There ain't nothing that I wouldn't do
To make you feel my love

Carly walked into the club. She smiled and waved at her mother, as Bobbie danced with Jax. Excuse me. Jax looked to see Carly, and let her go. Hi sweetheart. Im glad you
came.
Well, Lucky is my cousin. And I kind of owe someone an apology, Carly said as she watched Lucky and V dance.

The storms are raging on a rolling sea
And on the highway of regret
The winds of change are blowing wild and free
You ain't seen nothin' like me yet

Skye leaned against the table, as she listened to Ned sing. Her heart warmed, as she believed Ned would do anything for her.

There aint nothin' that I wouldn't do
Go to the ends of the earth for you
Make you happy make your dreams come true
To make you feel my love

Ned winked at Skye. She smiled at him. He got off stage to observe Carly talking to V, as Skye joined him. Whats going on there, he asked.
Letting bygones be bygones, she with a shrug, then hugged him. I liked the song.
Im glad, he said with a flash of his dimples, As much as I wanted to do something for the newlyweds. That was more about us.

Luke walked in his office from the back. He headed to the safe, but noticed something under his desk. Unless theres an earthquake, theres reason for anybody to be underneath my desk. Luke was surprised to see Lucas come out from under his desk with a girl that happened to be Brooke. Lucas, well, at least youre not playing kissin cousins anymore, he joked.
Brooke looked at Lucas confused. Long story, Lucas told her.
Mind telling me whats going on, Luke asked.
I will.
Luke turned to see Lulu walk in. Princess. He hugged her.
Aunt Bobbies throwing a party for Lucky, Lesley Lu said.
Whats up with your brother? Luke sat on the corner of his desk.
Hes a cop, Lulu answered. Luke laughed. And hes married.
And pod people have invaded his body, Luke joked.
Im serious.
Married and a cop, Luke slowly said, realizing she was serious.
Youve missed out on a lot, she told her father.

Later...
V and Lucky were in the midst of accepting congratulations from guests who were leaving, when he saw his father. Cowboy. Luke came over and hugged his son. Lulu
just filled me in on everything thats been going on since I left town. And I have to say, I think shes been spending too much time with Amy, he joked.
Hey! Amy took offense to the comment making her sound like a gossip or something.
Only kidding, Luke chuckled. You know I love you, he said. Oh, and my new daughter-in-law, Venus. Luke smiled and hugged her. Welcome.
Thank you, Mr. Spencer, she replied.
Luke, please, Luke. You make me sound like Im as old as Eddie Q.

Brooke and Lu were sitting on Lukes desk. My dad caught you making out under his desk? Brooke nodded. Lucas is almost seventeen, and youre only thirteen!
He doesnt know that! Besides, hes sixteen and Im almost fourteen.
Semantics, the wise beyond her years Lesley Lu said.
Huh?
Never mind, Lulu said with a wave her hand.
Well, just dont tell anyone about it, Brooke said.

Leave it to Luke Spencer to use his sons wedding reception to make money, Ned said, referring to a poker game Luke had for the remaining party guests. Ned came in the house
with Skye and Brooke.
Skye playfully hit him on the shoulder. Oh, youre just sore because you lost a bundle. She laughed. At least I won.
Lucky you, he said.
Im just going to go up to bed. Brooke rushed past them and upstairs.
She sure was in hurry, Skye commented.
Yeah. Well, maybe shes tired.
Skye yawned. Im a little tired myself.
Oh really? She nodded. Mind if I carry you upstairs?
Not at all, she giggled. As long as we stop at the nursery.
You got it. He swept her off her feet and started upstairs.

Chapter 99

Alan, Skye, and Ned stood in a hall at the hospital. Thanks for explaining this. I appreciate it, Ned said to Alan.
No problem. Ill be in there during the procedure. Ill let you know when its done. Alan left.
You think this will work, Skye asked Ned.
Whatever happens, well handle it, he told her, as he squeezed her tight.
You know how I found out about this, Edward shouted, as he came towards them.
Now was absolutely the worst time for Edward to show up in Neds mind. Skye turned to see him, and shook her head. Grandfather, Ned softly said, hoping he would quit yelling.
I had to find out my great-granddaughters having surgery from Alans secretary!
We..., Ned said loudly, then quieted, we didnt want to worry anyone. Alan says its a fairly common procedure and its safe.
You still shouldve told somebody, Edward insisted.
Grandfather, Ned started to explain things to him. He turned to look back at Skye, who still seemed nervous. He pulled Edward away, so they could talk in private. Just stop it.
Skyes been stressing about every little thing that happens lately. I want her to be able to relax. Now, what are you doing here, he asked.
Your mothers been arrested, the old man informed him. Ned laughed, at first believing he was joking. Oh, yes, its very funny---ha-ha, Edwards lack of humor came out. As
if your mother hasnt done enough to drag our good name through the mud.
Our good name? Well, YOUR NAME at least. So, what happened, he asked with interest. After all, Tracy was his mother.
She was laundering mob money through Sage Alcazars trust fund.
Like she hasnt been involved with the mob enough? First, she marries a mobster who kicks the bucket and leaves her in charge. Then, she becomes the trustee for a Mafia princesss trust fund. And now, shes laundering money through said princesss trust fund. Its finally caught up with her, Ned said with almost a laugh. But grandfather, if you think Im going to bail her out of this trouble, think again.
No. Not a chance, Edward said in a loud whisper, as he hoped no one was listening to their conversation. His family had an image to protect, and he didnt need word of Tracys
arrest spreading through Port Charles. Not after what she did to ELQ.
Grandfather, what did she do, Ned asked with great concern.
Edward now wished he hadnt said anything about ELQ. N...nothing, he stammered.
He started to walk off, but Ned stopped him. Ive had a look at recent ELQ financial statements---ones stockholders havent been given, yet. I also know Adam Chandlers on
the prowl and looking to devour ELQ.
I can handle this. I can, he insisted.
Ned nodded. But if you need help, let me know.
And you let me know how my little great-granddaughters doing as soon as she gets out of surgery, Edward told him. He patted his grandson on the shoulder and left.

V came up the walk at Ned and Skyes to see Brooke throwing a basketball to Dillon. It hit him in the nose. Ouch, he yelled, as he rubbed his nose. That hurt!
You were supposed to catch the ball, Brooke said rather disgusted.
Well, Im not an athlete, he argued.
You could have at least tried!
I did!
Um, hey, is Skye here, V asked them, trying to break up their argument.
No. Shes at the hospital, Brooke said.
Visiting Brianna?
Actually, Brianna had to have some kind of eye surgery, Dillon said.
What, V asked in confusion.
I dont know much about it, Dillon said with a shrug. Ned said it wasnt a big deal. Um, Rae probably knows more. Shes inside with Aidan.
You better get ice for your nose, V said. He nodded, and joined her as she went into the house. Dillon walked to the kitchen, V stood behind Rae as she played peek-a-boo with
her grandson. Hi. Rae looked up. V leaned over and tugged on Aidans feet. Hey big guy. Having fun? The little boy giggled. Um, Rae, whats going on?
Rae put Aidan down. Did Dillon tell you? V nodded. Brianna has an eye condition called retinopathy of prematurity. Its common in preemies that start out as small as she was. Other than that, I really dont know much about it. Shes undergoing laser eye surgery to correct the problem.
But shes going to be ok, V anxiously asked.
Shell be fine, Rae reassured her, as she sat on the couch next to her.
Why didnt Skye tell me?
She didnt want to tell anyone. I kind of pried it out of her at your party. Thats what we were arguing about. She was upset about the situation, and of course she started blaming
herself again. She didnt want to put a damper on your evening, so she didnt tell you. V shook her head, somewhat upset that Skye hadnt told her about the situation. Hows
newlywed life treating you, Rae asked, as V was silently deep in thought. V?
Um, you know if Skyes talked to Adam recently, she asked.
I...I have no idea. My guess would be no. Rae shook her head. Why?
Well, I realize things are strained, but he is...he was her father. V stood and paced. He loves her. V turned to Rae. Shouldnt he know whats going on? Rae shrugged her
shoulders, wondering what she had in mind.

Carly walked to Skye, after Bobbie told her about everything that was going on with Brianna. Skye was waiting for Ned to bring her some coffee, as they waited for word on their daughter. Hey, Carly said, giving a hopeful smile. My mother told me whats going on. Howre you doing? Carly gave her an unexpected hug.
Thanks. Im ok. What are you doing here, she asked.
I have some good..., Carly gave her choice of words a second thought, um...interesting news, Carly informed her.
Ned had come back with coffee, but stopped when he saw Carly and Skye having what appeared to be a friendly conversation. He listened in from a safe distance. He heard Carly tell Skye about his mothers arrest. Then, after a few laughs and another hug, Carly left. Ned walked to his wife, giving her the coffee. So, you and Carly friends now, he asked.
How long have you been here, Skye asked.
Long enough to know that you know about my mothers arrest and seem to enjoy it.
Of course I do, Skye said with a satisfied look on her face. Tracys horrible. Shes tried to blackmail me. She stole from me. And, well...I just dont like her. She studied Ned and
began to worry. Dont tell me youre feeling sorry for her?
Skye, shes my mother. Skye shook her head. She could almost understand that argument. But after everything Tracy had done, she couldnt understand feeling sorry for her. She started to turn away, but he grabbed her by the shoulders. She may be my
mother, but Im not...I repeat...Im not going to bail her out of this mess. Its her mess, she can clean it up herself. But...shes still my mother and despite everything, I love her.
Think you can accept that, he asked.
I guess. Can you accept that I hate her, she asked.
Of course. Ned grinned. I think every single one of my wives has despised her.
Great. She feigned a smile.
He took a drink of his coffee. But you know what?
What?
This coffee is terrible, he said, tossing the styrofoam cup into a nearby trash can.
Youre right, she responded by throwing hers away, too. She sighed. Now, I just wish Alan would come out here and tell us how our little girl is doing.

Chapter 100

Two weeks later...
Whats this!? Mac stormed into Scott Baldwins office holding up a legal document.
Well... Scott looked up. Looks to be an arrest warrant, he said with a smirk.
For Venus Ardanowski, Mac shouted in disgust.
Venus Ardanowski-SPENCER! Her last names Spencer now, Scott reminded him.
Is that what this is about?
No. Scott pointed at the warrant. Thats about obstruction of justice and being an accessory to murder-after the fact.
You didnt even prosecute Alexis or Faith for Sonnys murder, so how could you charge V with accessory after the fact?
Doesnt matter. She was still an accessory by not coming forward with the info she had and withheld evidence from the cops. Mac, from you, he said, as Ric walked in. Besides,
she knows the law. For Godsakes, she was a cop, her father was a cop, and her new hubbys a cop. She knows the law, and she broke it. Now, I want her brought in. If you dont do it, Ill get someone to do it. Mac shook his head in disgust and left.
I dont think filing these charges is a wise move, Baldwin, Ric advised.
I dont give a flying flip what you or Scorpio think. We need a conviction, and this one will be a slam dunk, Scott said with confidence.

Detective Capelli walked into Kellys to the counter where V was picking up an order. Venus Spencer, he said. She turned. Mike and Rae were among the people who watched a shocked V get handcuffed, read her rights, and taken off to the police station.
Did I see what I thought I just saw, Rae asked after everything was said and done.

Shes really ready to go home, Skye asked with disbelief, as Ned held Brianna.
Yes, Alan said with a grin across his face as he watched the little girls interaction with her parents. Of course youll have to bring her in for regular check-ups, as well as check-ups with the optometrist.
And her eye sight, Ned asked.
It doesnt seem to be a problem now, Alan answered. Its likely her peripheral vision will be damaged, but shell adapt to that very quickly. We cant be sure how good her overall vision will be for awhile.
At least youre finally going home. Ned held her up and smiled at her.

This is ridiculous, Brian said to Mac, as they stood in his office with Lucky.
I realize that, Mac said, which he had said to Lucky several times already. Scott filed the charges, so take it up with him. I already tried to convince him not to. The last thing I
want to do is arrest V. Shes my friend.
Scotts hot for a conviction, Ric said, as he entered the office with Luke behind him.
Maybe we should bust her out, Luke suggested. Lucky shook his head, only his father would suggest to officers of the law that they break someone out of jail.
Skye came marching in. What the hell is going on, she shouted, getting the undivided attention of everyone. My mother called me and told me you arrested my sister. She
shook her head. I dont understand. Theres got to be a mistake or something.
Lucky got in her face. Ill tell you whats going on, Skye. You... He pointed his finger right at her. You got your sister arrested!
Cowboy, Luke scolded, as he pulled his son back.
No. Its true. Your sister wouldnt be in jail, if it wasnt for you. Lucky had tears of anger in his eyes. He looked as though he could throttle her. You...you just had to go
after Alexis. You had to prove she was involved in Sonnys murder. Maybe because you hated Alexis or maybe because you wanted Kristina to come live with you and Ned or something. I dont know. But you did it. You went to your sisters apartment and found the information Alcazar gave her and turned it over to Baldwin. You handed him your sisters conviction on a silver platter!
I didnt... Skye shook her head, as she was near tears. Lucky was angry, Mac was disgusted, Ric was stunned, Luke was interested, and Brian felt sorry for her. I didnt...I
wouldnt have done it, if Id known what Baldwin was going to do this. God, I did this, she softly said.
You...you... Lucky was about to start another tirade.
Spencer, stop it, Brian shouted. Blaming Skye isnt going to do any good. Besides, this couldve been avoided if V had come forward with the evidence.
Lucky realized Brian was right. He looked at Skye, who was clearly upset. Im sorry, I just...Im sorry.
We have to do something about this, she said.
I already offered to bust her out, Luke happily said.
Ric cleared his throat. My suggestion would be to get your sister a good attorney.
I have somebody in mind, Lucky said to Skye. Justus Ward.

Ok, Baldwin, Ned said, as he sat in Scotts office. Whats going on?
Scott made sure his door was locked. I have an offer thatll free your sister-in-law.
You know, these charges are ridiculous. You couldnt find Alexis or Faith, and you didnt charge Carly with shooting V, so youre going after anyone you think you can get a conviction against.
Scott sat at his desk. Wanna hear my deal or you going to berate me a little more? Ned gestured for Scott to go on. Tell me where youre hiding Alexis.
Ned shot up from his chair. Youre insane, Baldwin! I have no idea where she is!

Skye walked to the cell where V was being held. V stood with her hands wrapped around the bars. I see the accommodations havent improved much, Skye joked, as she stood in front of her sister.
Lucky said the same thing. V let out a small laugh.
This is my fault, Skye said.
No. V shook her head.
This is wrong. You dont belong behind bars.
Its funny. Once when I was a little, I snuck into a cell at the sheriffs department. I mustve been three or four. The way dad told it, I managed to slide out between the bars.
V studied the bars. Dont think I could do that now.
Skye grabbed her hand and held it tight. I promised to take care of you. Youre going to get out. Luckys talking to Justus about bail and working on a defense. Were going to get you out.

Ok, play stupid with me, Ashton, Scott said.
No. Ned pointed at him. Youre the stupid one! Why would I help Alexis? Huh? My wife would kill me. And I miss and love Kristina too much to let her live in hiding.
Jax didnt help, neither did Cameron. And Nikolas and the rest of the Cassadines are broke. They couldnt have helped. Whos left? Huh? Youd protect Kristinas mother, wouldnt you? You love that little girl, no matter what. Ned shook his head in disgust and started out. Got twenty-four hours. Then, the deals off. And V will be sent to Sing-Sing, no doubt about it, because Ill get a conviction.

Thanks for the reply. I'm glad you're enjoying the story. I so intended this to be a much shorter story, but certain details and loose ends kept popping up. I think I'm getting close to the end, though.

V became one of my favorite characters because he seemed like there was so much more we could have learned about her past that we never did.

Hope you enjoy this chapter. BTW, this is the chapter that I've written the hotel fire into. The fire in this story is a slight variation on what actually happened on GH to suit the purposes of my story.

Chapter 101

Ned drove to the hotel with Skye. Poor kid, Skye said. I feel so bad. She was separated from her mother for the first two years of her life. Since theyve been reunited things have
been pretty unstable, and now this.
Vs going to get out of this.
How can you be so sure? Especially after the judge denied bail. I dont understand that, either. It doesnt make sense.
Probably had something to do with Luke Spencer offering to bust her out of jail.
Dont even get me started on that man, Skye said with frustration. It seemed like all he knew how to do was antagonize anyone involved with the legal process. Now, want to tell me why Edward summoned us to the hotel?
Something to do with Emily and Nikolas, and an auction.
An auction?
The Cassadines have hit a rough patch and so has my family. I dont know the details...something about ancestors, pirates, and treasure, Ned said with a shrug.
What do you mean the familys hit a rough patch?
Just a little something we have my mother to thank for. Ned turned a corner and traffic was at a standstill. And Im never going to hear the end of it because were late.
I shouldve stayed at home with the kids, Skye said.
Theyll be ok. Raes there with Alice. I think they can handle things. Ned looked around at the unexpected gridlock. What is with this traffic?
Skye looked around. Its kind of strange. Sirens blared. Maybe an accident or something?
Ned strained to look at what was going on up the street. Wait. There are fire trucks. He swallowed hard as he said, Theyre in front of the hotel. He quickly pulled into a
parking lot. Im going down there to find out whats going on. I want you to take the car and go home, he told her.
No.
Skye.
Im going with you, she said. Besides, its probably nothing.

Moments later...
Ned and Skye got close enough to see Alan treating patients at an ambulance. Ric came over, as he seemed to be in charge of the scene. I just got here, Ned said. Howd this
happen?
Were not sure. The fire started in the basement. Mac Scorpio was down there to arrest Zander, supposedly he was hold up in the boiler room. Anyhow, Mac was caught in a back draft, and was badly burned. The firemen found a body they think is Zanders.
Oh my gosh. Skye covered her mouth.
What about my family, Ned pleadingly asked. They were here for the auction.
Theyre still in the Versailles Room, Ric told him. I was one of five people to get down on the express elevator before the firemen shut it down.
Whyd they shut it down, Skye asked.
Wasnt safe. Once the wind calms, the fire departments going to send rescue copters to the roof.
My grandfathers up there, and he has a heart condition, Ned said.
I know, Ric said. Look, theyll get up there as soon as they can. There are a lot of people up there.
Who else is still up there, Skye asked.
Nikolas and Helena Cassadine, Emily, Monica, Justus, Dillon, Jason Morgan, Georgie Jones, Lucky, Ric continued naming people, but it fell on deaf ears, as Ned and Skye were concerned about their family members still in the building.
Ned squeezed Skye tight. I need to stay here and wait for the family, he told her. I want you to go home and be with the kids.
Ok. But you have to promise you wont get any ideas about running into a burning building, she said.
I wont.
Just as Skye turned to leave, a major explosion happened on one of the upper floors. She turned back and looked at the building. Oh god, she muttered.

Later...
Skye opened the front door to the house. Rae rushed to hug her. Oh, thank God. I was so worried when I saw the fire on TV. I didnt...I...
Im ok. By the time we got there, itd already started. Amelia probably saved us by making us late.
Wheres my dad, a terrified Brooke asked.
Skye hugged her. Hes ok. He wanted to stay and wait for the family, she explained.
Theyre trapped?
Uh. Skye didnt want to get into that, because she really wasnt sure if they were trapped or what was going on. The fire departments going to send rescue helicopters to get them. Theyll be ok. Why dont you go get some sleep, she suggested.
No, Brooke defiantly spoke.
Ok, Skye softly said. Im in no mood to argue. Lets just try not to wake Amelia or the twins. The three sat in front of the TV, watching coverage of the fire.
Did anybody get out, Brooke asked.
A lot of people were coming out. Your uncle Alan was already out. But the rest of the family was still in the Versailles Room, and so was Lucky.
What about Ucky? They turned to see Amelia at the bottom of the stairs. She was looking at the TV. She cried, Ucky dere? She pointed at the TV. Hotel...Yax live there, she cried.
Skye rushed to pick her up. Rae quickly turned the TV off. Sweetie, Jax is out of town.
Hes not in the building.
But Ucky...what bout him? You said hes in dere. Skye wasnt sure what to say. I see Ucky! Take me to Ucky, she cried and pleaded.
Shhh... Skye tried to calm her. The babies are sleeping.
Uh, Brooke and I will check on the twins, Rae said. They left, going upstairs.
Sweetie. Skye rocked a crying Amelia in her arms. I know youre scared. But Luckys smart and strong. Hes probably helping everybody get out of the building.
Promise he be ok? Amelias pleading eyes looked up at Skye.
Promise, she said. She kissed her on the forehead. I love you. Lets go up to bed.
Wuv you, too, she said. Unna stay here for Ucky. He call, the girl insisted. Wait here, she screamed.
Ok. How about I tell you a story while we wait? Skyes mind switched from worry about the fire to trying to come up with a story. Once upon a time...

Next morning...
Rae walked downstairs to see Amelia lying in Skyes lap. They were both asleep. She started out the door to get the newspaper, when she felt a tug on her pant leg. She turned
and looked down. Ucky call, Amelia asked.
Before Rae could answer, the girl ran out the door. Amelia, she called out as she chased her.
Skye woke and rushed out to see Amelia in Luckys arms and her sister standing there with him.

Later...
Skye, Rae, Lucky, and V sat in the living room. Im glad you made it out Lucky, but howd you get V out of jail?
The charges were dropped, he said.
What do you mean the charges were dropped? Baldwin was gung-ho about filing the charges. Why would he suddenly decide to drop them?
He didnt. Ric Lansing did, V explained. Skye looked confused. Scott died in the fire.
Oh...was there anyone else that...uh...
All the Quartermaines made it out. But once everyone was out, I had to arrest Edward.
What, Skye said with outrage.
The fire investigators believe the fire started due to electrical wiring that wasnt up to code. Edward had been warned about the situation and failed to upgrade the system, so I had to arrest him for negligence.
So, I guess Neds at the police station, then?
No. Hes at the hospital. When I went to arrest Edward, he had a heart attack.

Later...
Ned stood outside Edwards hospital room. Skye and Brooke walked to him. Hows he doing, Skye asked.
Ned turned and hugged them both. He let out a long sigh. The doctors think hes going to be ok. Im sorry I didnt call, things happened so fast. Once they got grandfather here,
they wheeled him into surgery. And there were other things I had to take care of.
Ned, Skye said to question what other things he had to take care of.
He cleared his throat. Brooke, why dont you go in and see your grandfather, ok?
Brooke nodded and went in the room. I didnt want her to hear this, but the fire was grandfathers fault. He...he...
Lucky told me what happened, Skye said.
Actually, if its anybodys fault, its my mothers. ELQ was nearly dried up because of her, there wasnt enough money to bring the electrical system up to code. Anyhow, before
they took grandfather into surgery he signed a document accepting full blame. He made sure the family wouldnt be held responsible. He thought he was going to die and was willing to risk his legacy to protect the family. Ned took a long pause, as he watched Brooke talk to Edward through the window. Now, Justus is working on a way to protect
grandfather, as well as ELQ from a barrage of lawsuits. Who knows if itll work. But, um, I have to step in at ELQ to protect the family and the company, he told her.
I know. She nodded. And I support you, just like youve supported me through everything Ive been through.