Dichotomy

Chapter 5a

A special note: As the story progresses, I will from time time add the next section below to 'catch-up viewers' on what's been happening on my Alt AMC. This is done to cover things that may be of relevance that don't impact directly on our two fave characters, as well as to bridge gaps from time constraints and too give the chapters an increased feeling of being an actual part of the actual soap. Let me know if you think it works since it is done for all of you <s>

Last time on Alt All My Children: Since the holidays: Laura is still in town. Roger Smyth has exited Pine Valley thought the reasons behind it remain as yet unknown though it seems that Proteus has something to do with it. Greenlee has been flipping b/t Jake and Leo and is currently with Leo. Things have been quiet and happy for Bainca and Frankie. Erica and Chris have been spending more time at Enchantment, unknowingly thwarting Seth's and Proteus's attempts at laundering money through her company.

special dedication: To all the wonderful people on the list who have been immensely supportive of the story. Please know each email and kind word has meant the world to me. This one's for each of you.

setting: Outside Jackson's office

The door opens and Jackson walks out with Frankie.

"Thanks allot Mr. Montgomery. I really appreciate what you did." She holds the paper in her hands.

"Please Frankie, call me Jackson or Jack. That 'Mr. Montgomery’ makes me feel old."

She glances from the paper to him. "Yeah, okay, Jack."

"You know," he ventures, "a birth certificate and social security number could have been achieved by contacting your parents."

"Ah, let's not go there 'Jack'." She tries to brush him off.

He says, not unkindly, "I was wondering why you didn't. Does it have to do with why you left home at fifteen?"

She puts the paper away in her coat. "No big Jack, just don't want anything to do with them anymore than they want anything to do with me. I didn't have a clue how to get this. It'll help for when I apply to college and jobs and stuff."

"You must have worked since you left home."

"Yeah well, let's say it was under the table stuff." She suddenly realizes something and looks at him worried. "You're not going to bust me for that are you?"

He laughs gently. "No, no, just get yourself a legitimate job now aright?"

"Well working at the Glam is kind of a kick y'know? But I need to raise serious cash for school and all."

<neither sees Erica come out of a far door. When she hears who's talking she stops to listen, unobserved.>

"An admirable goal young lady. If there's anything I can help you with, anything, you don't hesitate to call me okay?"

Frankie looks up at him with a speculative and confused look on her face. She states in a voice very different than her usual cockiness, "You actually mean that don't you."

Concerned, Jackson says with utter sincerity, "Of course I do Frankie. Have I done anything to make you think I'm lying?"

"No! That's not what I meant..only..Bianca's lucky to have an uncle like you to look after her."

"You know Frankie, if you ever want to talk about what happened with your family, or anything else for that matter please feel free to consider me at your disposal. I'd be glad to listen.

Frankie's spooked. "That's not a story I want to talk about. Ever. Okay? But I appreciate the offer, really but.."

"But what Frankie?"

"It's just, I mean why are you being so nice to me?"

Jackson gently takes her by the shoulders. " As a lawyer I've met all kinds of people Frankie. And I've learned over the years how to look at a person and tell the good from the bad."

"And?" She asks, afraid of the answer.

"I think I'm beginning to see what my niece Bianca sees in you. Despite whatever you've had to go through or have done in your past Frankie, I know you're a good person. And so does Bianca."

Frankie can't meet his gaze. She strives for her usual attitude. "Thanks. I owe you."

He carefully, affectionately shakes the young woman. "You don't owe me a single thing." He leans down further to look her straight in the eye. "My niece, who I look upon and love like she's my own daughter, has been happier these past few weeks that I have seen since her father died. I think a lot of that has to do with you Frankie. I'm the one in your debt. You got that?"

Frankie can't handle it, she shrugs out of his hands. "I get it thanks but I think you're all kind of crazy here. " She said facetiously.

"Well if anyone can change your mind on that account, it would certainly be my headstrong niece. Who in the stubborn department may even outmatch you Frankie Stone. " He smiled charmingly. "Do you need me to call you a cab or anyone?"

"Naw, I can use my legs. They haven't failed me yet!" She gives him a mock salute and exits.

Erica approaches Jackson once the coast is clear.

"Why Jack, hello." they embrace and kiss on the cheek." Was that Frankie I saw leaving just now?"

"Why indeed it was." He gives her 'the look' " I certainly hope someone isn't prying into her daughter's life again."

"Of course not Jackson. " She dismisses the improbable notion with a wave of her hand. "What did she want with you though?"

"Now Erica..."

"I have a confession to make Jack...I overheard some of what you both were saying. You got her papers?"

He gives her a knowing, unsurprised regard at the revelation of her eavesdropping, and prying. "Only a birth certificate and sin number so she can get a job. She didn't want to go through her family so I made some calls to the right department heads. All very legitimate I assure you."

Erica searches his _expression. "Did she say why she wouldn't contact her family? I mean, they must be worried sick about her."

"I don't know how her family feels about her Erica. One thing I do know is that she does not want to discuss it."

"Do you think it's bad Jack?"

He pauses and then reluctantly nods. "My impression is that, that young girl has been hurt badly, and has continued hurting for a very long time."

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

Outside the building, Frankie is accosted by a tall, dark and very warm hug.

"Bianca!" Frankie laughs. "Hey you." She returns the hug full force.

"Hey yourself." Bianca gives her a dazzling smile.

"What brings you to this neck of the woods?"

"I've been with Leo. He doesn't know which way to go about him and Greenlee. It's such a mess. He's having a hard time dealing with his jealousy over what Jake and Greenlee had. I hope they work it out."

Frankie arches a brow. "For Leo or for Jake?"

"I just want people to be happy. I want what's best for them. If Greenlee really loves Leo than I'm happy for him even though she and I have a longstanding agreement to dislike each other. But if she loves Jake, than, well, I think you should be with who you love." Sheepish suddenly she adds, "Kind of dumb romantic goo right?"

"Yeah but I like ya that way." Frankie grins.

Bianca playfully hits Frankie's arm. "Yeah right. Anyway, after talking with Leo I though I'd stop over before meeting my mom for lunch. How'd everything go with uncle Jack?"

Frankie holds up her papers like a trophy. "Got it all right here. You're uncle Jack is super cool Bianca."

"Well I like him." She smiles. "Hey, do you want to join me and mom for lunch?"

"No actually, I thought I might get a head start on the whole job hunting thing. Apply to a coupe of places."

"Okay, well maybe next time."

"Sure. Hey meet later tonight? Movie, popcorn...I'll share my ice cram float with you? Huh?" Strawberry ice cream float Bianca-la I know you can't resist them."

They both break out laughing.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world Frankie. What movie are we watching?"

Frankie gives her a droll _expression. "You say it like it matters." She grins and says, "Actually it's in my bag here, I can't remember the title.." She notices she has no bag. "Shoot! I left my bag back in the building. I gotta go get it. See you later...Bianca-la." She gives the brunette a fetching smile and than jogs off into the building.

Bianca smiles, staring after Frankie.

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

Still inside, Erica asks Jackson, "Do you think this secret past Frankie has could mean trouble for Bainca? I mean Jackson she could be dangerous, or someone she knows!"

"Erica, Erica, no I don't think Frankie is dangerous. She's just trying to adapt to her new life here. She obviously has issues about her family but I'm sure she'll talk about them, and anything else that's troubling her when the time comes."

Erica relents. "Is oppose you're right Jack. You should have seen her over the holidays. She seems so lost sometimes. I can't help but wonder what it is she's not telling."

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

As Frankie enters a stairwell to go up the stairs a gloved hand covers her mouth and drags her inside. She's released and turns to face her attacker.

"Seth!"

He leans toward her in the small confines of the stairwell. "You haven't been returning my phone calls Mary-Francis."

"It's Frankie. " She crosses her arms. "My phone must be busted or the batteries out or something..Geez, what are you getting on my case for!"

"I think it's the 'or something' Frankie. I've been watching you with your new playmate."

Frankie shoots off, "Learning to be a peeping tom now? God, don't be such a perv Seth. I would've thought that kind of thing was 'beneath' you."

She makes to leave and he grabs her by the arm throwing her against the wall. She doesn't make a sound but looks up at him, frightened but trying to seem angry.

"For crying out loud Seth! What is your childhood trauma?"

He shoves her again on the wall, gets up very, very close and hisses into her face, "What my 'trauma' is Frankie is that I have a worker who isn't doing her job. I see her falling for her own con. Or was it never a con to begin with Frankie? Do you really go for girls? Because how it looks to me little girl is that you are blowing me off for your girlfriend. Am I right?"

"Seth, “ she says desperate, "It not like that at all. You got it wrong."

"Really? In that case you won't mind doing me a little favour. For old times sake." He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a disk. Showing to her in front of her face. "I want you to slip this into Erica's computer when she's not looking. Do you think you can do that Frankie?"

"I don't know jack about computers Seth." She replies warily. "What does it do?"

He grabs her by the collar menacingly. "You don't need to know that. You just need to do it."

flashback

Frankie: 'I don't get what I want."

Bainca: "You do now."

They kiss.

Frankie gets a new flare in her eyes. "Get someone else to do your dirty work. I'm done."

Seth's incredulous. "What?!"

" I mean it Seth. I'm sick of being your lackey. I'm out."

Seth's surprise turns to anger. "Oh yeah? I what if I tell your 'sweetheart' about why you came to Pine Valley?"

"You rat me out than I rat you out. I believe the term is 'quid pro quo' " She adds belligerently, "I can read you know."

Seth composes himself. "You think you can walk away. Just like that?"

"I am aren't I?" She cautiously steps around him and leaves. He let's her go.

A sinister _expression overcomes Seth. "We'll see who walks away from what." He takes out a cell phone and dials...

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

Back outside the office, Erica asks jack, "Do you think I'm doing the right thing with Bianca?"

"If you mean by leaving her alone to live her life the way she sees fit, than yes Erica, I think you're doing the right thing."

"I just worry so."

"Naturally you do. You love her Erica. Fiercely, without holding anything back. It's one of the things I admire most about you.'

They stare for a beat, into each other's eyes.

"Thank you Jack."

"My pleasure Erica, now if that would be all I do actually have a job I need to get back to." He smiles engagingly.

"Oh Jack, I didn't mean to keep you from your work so long. Oh! But do you mind if I use your phone for a moment? I need to phone the office. I'm supposed to meet Bianca and if she's already there I want her to know I'm on my way."

"Of course. After you." He holds the door to his office open and they both go in. The door closing shut behind them.

At that moment Frankie comes in and sees her bag near the office door and goes to grab it, leaving immediately.

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

Outside, in her car Bianca keeps trying to start it. "Darn thing. work please?"

A knock on her window startles her. She rolls it down. Hi. Can I help you?" She offers to the handsome man who looks vaguely familiar.

"Please if you could tell me where I can find 146 Callingwood Drive?" Seth asks her innocently.

"Actually you're really close you just need to go straight, than left on Fallingbrook, than a right on-"

He shakes his head apologetically at her. "I'm so sorry. I'm the worst with directions. Could you please step out and show me which way to go?" He adds his most disarming smile. "I promise I'm no car jacker. I don't think they dress this well."

She laughs lightly at the joke. "Sure. Here." She steps out and they walk away form the car to the road, where she begins to point out directions to him.

Unknowing to her, her hood is popped open, and a gloved hand snips a tube which begins to leak brake fluid generously.

By the time, only moments, that her and Seth turn back, the car hood is down and no one is seen near it.

"Thanks very much. I'm in a hurry so I have to jet. I'm only sorry I can't take you out to lunch to thank you properly."

"It's okay," she says getting into her car, "I already have an appointment." She drops the keys she was putting into the ignition. "Hey, what did you say your name way?" When she sits up after retrieving her keys, the man is no longer there. She shrugs, "Weird." And starts her car. It begins smoothly this time. "Yes! Must be my lucky day." She pulls out of the parking lot.

Frankie exits the building. Looking down the street she notices Bianca's car going towards an intersection. "I wonder if I can catch up to her? Nah, I better move my butt and apply for some jobs." She turns the other way and begins walking.

A horrible screeching and crunching noise assails her ears. In slow motion, we see her turn back towards where she had seen Bianca's car driving. A look of horror crosses her face before she heads over in a dead run. "BIANCA!"




Chapter 5b


Last time on Alt All My Children: Bianca's been in a car accident, Frankie was nearby and saw the it.

Frankie runs to the car yelling while coughing through the smoke and stench of oil, "Bianca ! Bianca!!"

She reaches the overturned car, a clothed arm covering her mouth to prevent the smoke inhalation. It tears her eyes up. She can make Bianca out in the car. She flings herself to her knees and knocks on the closed window. "BIANCA!!" The lack of response scares her even more. She tries to open the door and hisses in pain at the heat. "Jammed." she says and quickly runs to the other side only to find the same problem with the other door. She quickly decides what to do.

"Bianca, if you ca hear me, close your eyes!" With two savage kicks to the passenger window it breaks. She winces in pain but drops to her knees and heedless of her hands and arms, scrapes away the shattered glass. She crawls into the smoke filled, crunched up metal and begins to unbuckle Bianca. Frankie continues to speak to her, half to reassure herself that Bianca and everything will be fine, heal in hopes that Bianca can hear her. "Can't leave you alone for a minute can I? I turn around for one second" her voice breaks and she coughs "and look at the mess you get into. No worries though, we're gonna be fine Bianca." Bianca's freed and Frankie begins to drag her from the car.

Outside, she notices the flames have grown. Realizing the impending danger she struggles to drag Bianca away from the wreck as fast as she can. They don't get far when a male voice yells out "It's going to explode! Everyone get down!!"

Unable to carry her, Frankie hurls them a few steps more and then covers Bianca's prone form with her own body.

The car explodes and everything's lost in a flash of fire and smoke and noise.



Chapter 5c

Last time on Alt All My Children: Bianca's been in a car accident. Frankie pulled her out just before the car exploded!

setting: Greenlee is pressed up against the building where she and Jake had been arguing. A car had just exploded nearby. Jake is covering her body with is. The pose is both protective but as they slowly pull apart and she looks up at him...seems intimate.

"Jake" she breathes, "You saved me."

"Well luckily the blast didn't travel too far. I have to go see to those two girls. Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yeah I'm fine..thanks to you Jake. You'd better hurry and make sure they're alright. I'll call 911 in case anyone hasn't yet." She pulls out her cell phone and dials, watching Jake the entire time.

Jake runs over to the two prone forms. The one girl is over the other and all he can really make out is her back and legs. He coughs through the smoke seething from the nearby wreck.

Kneeling down he tries to gently pull the one girl off the other. Her shoulder is bleeding from where a burning piece of flying metal must have grazed her. He's having trouble b/c even unconscious the young woman won't let go of the other person beneath her. Jake tries to talk to them, see if they're in any way conscious but to no avail. He does manage to loosen her hold enough to turn her over a slight bit. From the angle he can see both their faces, each with bleeding cuts on their heads and other visible areas he can see. He immediately recognizes them.

"Oh my god."

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

setting: Jackson's office

Erica is flustered as she approaches Jackson. "Oh my god Jack. What was that noise? It sounded like an explosion."

"That it did. You wait over there while I look out the window and make sure everything's okay." Jackson peers through the window. "There's been a car accident. The car exploded."

Sirens can be heard, their wailing drawing nearer.

"Well I hope whoever it is will be alright. " Erica says. " The ambulance and fire department have shown up quickly."

"We're not that far from the hospital." Jackson reminds her. " And I can see someone with them on the ground. Ah, there are the paramedics. Good. Everything seems to be under control."

Erica's cell phone rings. She fishes it out. "It must be Bianca calling to find out what's keeping me." She answers the phone. A look of consternation crosses her lovely features. " Hello? Yes? Greenlee! Why are you bothering me? What?" She reaches a hand out blindly for Jackson who takes it, concerned over her sudden paled complexion. "Bianca? A car accident? You must be mistaken she-" The voice at the other end cuts her off, she listens and feels faint." Yes, yes. I'll be there right away, " her voice rises in distress, "Do you know how she is? I'll be there immediately! Thank you for calling me."

"Oh Jack, that car...it was Bianca's! I have to go to the hospital right away! My poor baby!" She goes to rush out.

Jackson meets her at his door. "You're not leaving without me. come on."

They exit.

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

At the hospital the staff had acted quickly. The emergency area was a buzz of activity. In strides Erica Kane with Jackson right behind her.

She's ranting on the way to the emergency, "That stupid traffic came out of nowhere! I can't believe we got stuck in it while my baby could be.."

She hurries to the emergency doors but is blocked by attendants.

"Let me in! My daughter's in there!!" She cries.

She tires to get around them to no avail. Jackson gently but firmly intercedes, taking her by the arms and speaking to her earnestly. "Erica, we have to wait. You can't just go barging into the room. They need to be able to help Bianca. We'll have to wait for one of the doctor's to come out."

"But Jack, they have my daughter in there!!"

"I know honey but we have to be patient." Jackson said, strained by worry while trying to radiate calm for Erica's sake.

Just then, Dr. Joe Martin comes out of emergency. He looks up after Erica cries his name. "Erica? You got here quickly. Don't worry though, everything's under control."

"Under control!" She exclaims. "Joe, tell me how my daughter is and tell me right this instant!"

In his professional, soothing tones he tell her. " Bianca was in an accident. Luckily aside from some bumps and bruises and possibly the odd strain, she seems to be okay. Some minor cuts but nothing serious. She did sustain a concussion though and has yet to wake up. We're just waiting for her to regain consciousness before giving her a clean bill of health. We'll want to keep her overnight for observation just to be sure. After that she can go home as long as there are no complications. She may be sore for a few days but otherwise she should be fine."

"You have Frankie to thank for that." Adds Doctor Jake Martin, having overheard the last bit that his father said when Jake came through the doors from emergency.

Erica looks at him sharply. "What do you mean?"

"I was there Erica. I saw the car overturn and catch fire. Frankie ran over to the car and broke the glass to get to your daughter. She dragged your daughter out of the car and then shield her from the explosion with her won body. Frankie's has worse injuries than Bianca's."

"My God, "Jack responded, "is Frankie going to be alright?"

"Well, she has some second degree burns on her hands, we had to give her some stitches on her head and her back shoulder. All the other cuts and burns are minor."

"Burns?" Erica asks still overwhelmed.

"The car was on fire. She must have burned them trying to get into the car to get to Bianca. A piece of the car must have impaled her shoulder during the explosion. Luckily it's not too deep." He puts a hand on Erica's arm to comfort and reassure her. "Frankie's shoulder was shielding your daughter's head. If that had hit Bianca in the head it would be a different story in there." He nods his head toward the room behind him. "You're daughter's very lucky to have someone who cares about her so much."

"I guess so." Erica responds quietly. “Is it alright for me to see my daughter now? I simply must see my baby."

"Of course" Joe says opening the door to the ER. They are immediately assaulted with the yelling of one pained and weary Frankie Stone.

"Get that needle away from me!" She's yelling at a nurse while using the bed she got off of as a barrier between them. "I want to see Bianca and I want to see her now!! Is she okay or what? What are you creeps keeping from me?!"

Erica takes in the sight of the surgical tape over Frankie's brow, the heavily taped shoulder in a sling, as well as many lesser cuts and bruises beginning to show. And most notably, her hands, swabbed in gauze. Even more apparent to Erica, was the stark fear in those eyes. A fear she knew all too well when someone you love is hurt.

For, maybe the first time, even if only briefly, Erica Kane sees Frankie, all of her, as she truly is, as her daughter sees her.

She goes to Frankie's side , speaking soothingly. "The doctors say she's alright Frankie. Everything's going to be alright."

Frankie's frightened gaze darts to her then back to the nurse. "Really?" Her voice is painfully hoarse.

"Yes, I was just going to see her myself." She breathes and extends her hand to her daughter's girlfriend. "Would you like to come with me?"

An intern interjects. "Absolutely out of the question! She needs to keep that oxygen mask on after all the smoke inhalation she's taken in! She also needs to rest and take the anti-inflammatory and anti biotic Doctor Martin prescribed."

"No way! I see Bianca first!" Frankie tries to cross her arms but the hands hurt so she leaves them at her sides.

Erica's heart goes out to the vulnerable girl trying to be tough. "Joe, surely a few moments..?"

"Well, I suppose. Just be sure it's brief. This girl needs her rest."

"Okay. I'll do whatever you say. Just let me see Bianca," she looks at them beseechingly. "Please."

Joe nods and leads them over to the next room.

There Bianca is lying, sleeping peacefully. A large bandage is covering her head wound that caused the concussion. She has an air mask on to clear her lungs for the smoke inhalation.

"Oh my baby." Erica rushes to her side and holds her hand while gently smoothing back her daughter's hair. "You don't have to worry. Everything's going to be alright now. You're going to be okay. Mommy's here for you darling."

Frankie can't help her reaction at the sight of Bianca lying there. She's too exhausted to hide it and the control she normally has, has all but worn away. Hot tears streak down her face, falling unheeded. Her voice breaks, "How come she hasn't woken up yet if she's okay?"

Erica had momentarily forgotten the Frankie's presence. She turns her head and sees the quietly weeping figure. In her gentlest voice she says, as tears of her own begin to drop from her eyes, "They don't know. She's had a concussion and they're waiting ..for her to wake up. But I'm sure she's okay." Erica smiles through her tears looking down at the sleeping face of her beloved daughter. "She's a fighter. She's strong. She'll pull through this won't you sweetheart."

Frankie doesn't know what to do. To run but to Bianca? Or away form the raw emotions that are ravaging her.

Erica looks at her." The say a person can hear you when they're unconscious. It might help her to hear the voices of the people she loves..the people..who love her." She looks from her daughter to Frankie and does one of the bravest things she may have ever had to do. "I think she would want to hear your voice Frankie. I'll give you a moment alone with her before you have to go back and let those doctors take care of you."

"Okay." Frankie's reply is nearly a whisper. But then another shock, as she finds herself in the arms of Erica Kane.

"Thank you Frankie,” Erica weeps, "Thank you so much for saving my daughter's life." And then like an apparition, Erica leaves the two young woman alone.

Frankie sits tentatively by the bed. Looking down at Bianca the tears come even more, her smoke hoarse voice breaks further along with the sight tearing at her heart. "Bianca."

She carefully tries to take Bianca's hand b/t her bandaged ones, ignoring the evident pain as seen on her face. She refuses to let go of the girl. She wracks her turmoiled mind but ends up for what's in her gut. "Bianca you goof you better wake up or I'm gonna kick your ass, you hear me?" She angrily tries to wipe away a tear in self-disgust but only gives up with the bandages on her hands getting in her way. "They're a lot of people here who care about you Bianca, don't you dare let us down." She takes a couple of deep breaths, "So you wake up soon cuz I already miss razing ya." She lowers her mouth to Bianca's ear. " Wake up soon because I love you Bianca-la. You remember asking me what I want? Well all I want is you." She leans up and over and gently kisses Bianca on the cheek. When she walks away to the waiting staff, it is with anguished reluctance.

She never even noticed Erica close by, who had heard and seen the entire exchange.



Chapter 5d

setting: The hospital. The morning.

Jackson strides into the hospital, he looks around and spies Erica walking in from a hall, holding a cup of coffee in a styrofoam cup. 
Erica," he says, walking over to her."How is Bianca doing?" 
 
"Oh Jack." She leans gratefully into his open arms. "Thank goodness you're here. There's been no change in Bianca. I spent the night in her room hoping but she never opened her yes." 
 
Deeply concerned, Jackson asks, "Did the doctors say anything?" 
 
"That's who I've been looking for but they tell me Joe's busy in the OR and he'll be with me as soon as he's done whatever it is he's doing. I went to get a cup of coffee to help me stay awake, Jack, what if...?" 
 
"Now, now Erica. We can't afford to think like that. Bianca's depending on us to be strong for her. Her condition hasn't worsened has it?" 
 
"No," Erica shakes her head, tears in her eyes. "It hasn't changed but why isn't she waking up Jack?" 
 
"Maybe she just needs her rest." He offers reassuringly while giving her a once over. "And so I think, do you. Honey, you need to sleep." 
 
"I can't sleep now Jack. My daughter needs me.If only she'd wake up." 
 
"The best thing to do I think is wait for Joe to update us when he can. Until then we have to hang in there. Alright?:" He lowers himself to look her in the eye. Erica nods and he hugs her again. "That's my girl." 
 
"Has there been any word on Frankie?" 
 
Erica's eyes widen in dismay. "Oh, Jack I didn't even think to check on her, I've been so preoccupied with Bianca. I'm sure she's fine though."

"You're probably right but I'd like to check on her just to be sure."

"Of course Jack, I believe her room is over this way?" They both walk down a hall and out of sight.

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

In Bianca's hospital room, she lays there with the oxygen mask off, machines monitoring her heart and respiration blip in the background.

Frankie slips in. Her hands still have their bandages as well as her head and shoulder but her sling is askew as she's freed up her arm.

She approaches the bed quietly, gazing with anguish and longing at the figure in the bed. She sits tenderly, due to her own bruised and sore body, in the chair next to Bianca.

Taking a breath, she gingerly takes one of Bianca's hands in her own.

"Hey sleepyhead, I hear you haven't woken up yet huh? Should've figured you for a sleeping beauty kind of gal." Frankie jokes feebly, her lower lip trembling.. "I didn't get much shut eye what with being in a hospital, which by the way, totally creeps me out. I've never liked them. Blue gowns with backdrafts just aren't my style y'know?" She waits, hoping for an answer, something, from the still figure before her.

Nothing happens.

Frankie's tone becomes more serious. "That was a lie. Well, actually I don't do hospitals well so that part was true but...the reason I couldn't sleep was because I was thinking about you. I wish you would wake up Bianca. I waited until your mom left so I could see you. I sneaked out of my room...I would give anything to hear you tell me how I need to get back into bed and get my rest. Heck, I'd even be happy if you woke up and you and your mom and me had another cat fight. Just wake up Bianca," a lone tear makes it's way down her cheek, "please."

She leans down and lays a gentle kiss upon Bianca's still lips. Frankie rests her head on Bianca's shoulder in despair. In mere moments, her eyes close and the exhausted woman has fallen asleep.

Bianca's eyelids begin to flutter. Slowly she wakes up. Her brow furrowed in confusion as she comes to her senses and where she is. Let alone what has happened. She comes to notice the head resting on her shoulder and the bandaged hands covering hers.

"Frankie?" She whispers, not wanting to wake the woman just yet, savouring the closeness. Her free hand comes to touch her lips, puzzled. Than she smiles, realizing the tingling was from a recent kiss from the woman laying half in her arms.

Still smiling, she ever so gently shakes Frankie. "Hey sleeping beauty, time to wake up."

Frankie groans but wakes groggy from exhaustion. 'Huh?" Than she sees Bainca smiling at her. Awake.

"Bainca?" Her voice shakes as a bandaged hand touches the face close to hers.

"Yeah, I remember getting hit by a car but I must have hit my head or something. what happened to you?" Bianca motions to Frankie's hands and the bandage on her head as well as the unkempt sling on her shoulder.

"Nothing." Frankie answers trying to be glib but she's still shaken. " How are you feeling?"

Bianca winces slightly, "I've got a headache and I'm a little sore..plus my throat hurts." She takes stock of herself. "But other than that I feel fine. I guess I got lucky. What happened?" She notices the tears in Frankie's eyes, the _expression on her face. "Frankie , what is it? What's wrong?"

"Nothing." Frankie repeats. She then looses her composure and takes Bianca in a fierce, though careful hug.

"Hey, hey," Bainca soothes, rubbing Frankie's back. "It's okay. I'm allright. Shh."

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

<down the hall>

Erica and Jackson are confounded as to the people briskly walking around.

Jackson snags a nearby staff. "What's going on here?"

"The girl in the room is missing." The young man explains. "We can't find her anywhere."

Erica steps up, "Is this Frankie Stone's room? Is she the girl who's missing?"

The man nods. "Yes that's her. Are you family?"

"Not exactly but we are concerned about the young lady." Answers Jackson. "Since when has she been missing?"

"Not overly long. Several minutes, about 20, maybe thirty? Honestly, we're not exactly sure. We've paged her doctor to notify him but other than that all we can do is look."

"Well it's a big hospital but how far can one injured girl get?" Erica says.

"Quite honestly" a voice from behind answers. They all turn to see Doctor Joe Martin. " That young girl has been rather rambunctious."

"Oh, Joe, thank goodness you're here! I wanted to ask about Bianca.." Erica says.

"I was just on my way to her room but I hear Frankie is missing?"

"Yes sir, " the young staff member replies. "We're still looking for her."

"Well, I'm sure she's just wondered off to stretch her legs or get a snack. Though she should be resting. While my staff is tracking down the young woman why don't we head over to Bianca and see how she's doing."

Erica and Jackson follow him toward Bianca's room. They enter the room and are surprised to see not only Frankie there, but in the arms of a very awake Bianca.

Erica rushes over. "Bianca! My darling! You're alright!" Since Bianca wasn't letting go of Frankie, who still hadn't pulled herself together yet and certainly didn't want anyone to see her like this, Erica had to settle for hugging them both in order to embrace her daughter. In doing so, she felt Frankie's shaking from but wisely did not comment. She pulls away. "How are you feeling honey?" Tears of relief in her own eyes

"Fine really except that I feel like I'm in the twighlight zone." Bianca answered puzzled. "What's going on?"

"Why dear, you were in a car accident. You have a concussion and some bruises... Joe?"

"That about sums it up. You're a very fortunate young lady. However I would like to examine you, check your vitals, just to make sure you're in the clear."

Erica understanding immediately that he was asking to have privacy to examine his patient, got up, her hand lingering on her daughter's arm. "Of course Joe. We'll be right outside okay honey?"

"Yeah mom, I feel fine honest."

"I'm so relieved." She leans down to give her daughter a kiss on the he cheek before leaving. She notices Frankie tearing herself from Bianca, her back turned to everyone as she tries to covertly wipe her eyes. Erica walks over to her and hands over a klleenex.

Frankie stops, looks at the kleenex for a moment before taking it. "Thanks. "she mumbles. "That smoke must still be bothering my eyes."

Unbeknownst to Frankie, Erica gives her a knowing look filled with compassion and understanding. "Yes, I'm sure." Would you like to wait with Jack and I outside for Dr. Martin to examine Bianca?"

"Uh..sure." Frankie straggles out.

Joe Martin's voice gives her pause as he calls out to her. "Don't you go far young lady you're next on my list. And put that arm back in that hat sling before you tear those stitches in your shoulder."

Frankie gets out a 'sure whatever' before closing the door. Erica motions for her to sit with them. She does.

"How are you holding up Frankie?" Jackson asks.

Frankie shrugs with her good shoulder. "Fine."

"You seem exhausted." Erica offers.

Frankie's looking at the door to Bianca's room. "I'm fine. I just don't sleep well in hospitals."

"I see." Jackson says enigmatically. understanding her better than she would want to know. "Frankie, I was wondering if you were up to it, I would like to ask you some questions about the accident. Are you feeling up to that?"

"Sure I guess. I didn't see anything though. Only Bianca's car turning over after it was hit." She turns to face him. "You going to nail the guy who hit her? That it?"

"I certainly hope to Frankie. But first I need some answers to what happened."

Frankie's confused. "It was a car accident. Why would the DA be involved.

"Well you see, it looks like it wasn't an accident at all. And I intend to get to the bottom of it." He stares at her meaningfully. Both Erica's and Frankie's faces are shocked.



 

Chapter 5e

Last time on Alt All My Children: Bianca woke up. Erica and Frankie have just heard from Jackson that the car accident may not have been an accident at all.

Setting: The hospital. The morning.

Erica and Frankie stand there, shocked.

Erica regains the use of her voice first. "What are you saying Jackson? That someone deliberately tried to hurt, no kill, my daughter?!" 
 
"Now Erica, it's important that we all try to stay calm.." 
 
"Calm? Jack I will not be anywhere close to calm until you tell me exactly what is going on and tell me right this instant!" 
 
"Unfortunately, we don't have any decisive results as yet," Jackson's own frustration showing "I was at the police station Erica, that's why I had to leave you for which I apologize.  
They were investigating the accident and possible evidence turned up that could mean that this wasn't coincidental." 
 
Frankie holds up a hand, visibly upset and shaken. "What do you mean 'possible', 'could mean' and all? What did you find out?" 
 
"The fire and the explosion destroyed almost any possible evidence, but we did retrieve a part of the brake line and from the part that wasn't melted looks like it was cut. Not a tear but a clean, purposeful cut." 
 
"my god. " Erica breathes, a hand to her chest. "What about the car that hit her?" 
 
"Regrettably Jake and Greenlee didn't see much. From the force of the impact the car was going much faster than it should be in that lane. the fact that it was also a hit and run also raises my, and the polices' suspicions that it wasn't accidental." He turns to Frankie, "Are you sure you didn't see anything Frankie? Even a blur of colour from the other car?" 
 
Frankie pauses but ends up shaking her head, "Nothing. If only I had turned around faster or went down the other side of the street towards her..." she rubs her hand across her forehead. "this doesn't make any sense. I mean, who would want to hurt Bianca? She's never hurt anyone." 
 
Jackson puts a reassuring hand on each of their arms. "we'll find out who it is. I swear to you both. Now, Frankie, in the meantime I want you to actually follow the good doctor's orders and get yourself into bed and rest." 
 
Frankie looks reluctant. 

"Jack's right dear, " Erica rubs the young girls arm reassuringly. " You need to rest. Bianca's safe now and she's awake. You don't have to worry. I'll go look in on her. but you need to get you rest and recover," she pauses but when she says the next words they are sincere, "because my daughter will want to see you. She needs you well." 
 
Frankie proves wiser than her years and doesn't argue with Erica Kane on this point. The exhausted girl leaves for her room, seen off by the two of them. She gets in and as soon as the door closes behind her she hears the complimentary phone by her bed ring. Frowning, she picks it up.  
 
"This is the hospital. Can I help you?" 
 
"Actually, you're the one who needs help Mary-Francis." 
 
"Seth?" She sits on her bed. "How did you get this number? Never mind, why are you calling me? We have nothing more to say to each other." 
 
"I disagree Mary-Francis. After that terrible accident we have a lot to say, or I should say you have some things you definitely need to hear." 
 
"I'm so not in the mood for your games Seth., I made my decision." 
 
"Yes, you did. To go strike out on your own. but look where it's led you; in the hospital...and your *girlfriend* hurt. Amazing, isn't it, how quickly things can get out of control when one no longer has a firm hand to guide them?" 
 
"Look, I need to crash so what on earth is your point already?" 
 
"You know I've never cared for you sarcasm Mary-Francis." 
 
"Yeah? Well tough, I've never cared for you." 
 
"I told you to be careful. You cast me, the organization I work for, aside. Next thing you know your precious Bianca is in the hospital. It's a very good thing you were there to play hero or who knows what would have happened. though I must say, having her daughter dead would certainly have achieved the need of the organization to 'distract' Ms. Kane..." 
 
Frankie sits up very straight, very carefully. "You did this?" 
 
"We do whatever's necessary Mary-Francis. You know that. With you out of the plan my employer decided more...sure..methods were required. I myself find such extremism distasteful. But without you than we really had no choice now did we?" 
 
"You bastard. When I tell the DA, her uncle, about you you'll be in the slammer faster than you can flick lint from your silk suits." 
 
"That would be a very stupid move by a girl that isn't that stupid, are you Mary-Francis?  
After all, that would only mean even more, distasteful, measures would have be taken and then who knows who will be hurt, the next targets may not be as lucky as your Bianca was." 
 
Taken completely aback at the implications she gasps, "How could you?" 
 
"Me?" Seth laughs. "I haven't done a thing. This was all your doing Frankie. If you had only done what we asked than your girlfriend wouldn't be in the hospital now. Who knows what my employer will have done next. Will have to *do* next. You gave us no other choice. Nor are you giving as any alternatives now unless..." 
"Unless what Seth? Unless I slip that disk into Enchantments computer for you?" 
 
"Why that would lower the potential fatalities now wouldn't it? See Frankie, I knew you were a smart girl. You do what we want and no one needs to get hurt, much. You can save everyone Frankie, be the big hero you so desperately want to be. All you have to do is that one small task. Of course, no one can know that you saved them from Proteus but you would know deep down that you did the right thing." 
 
"If I agree to do this no one gets hurt. I mean no one." Her eyes are wide and lost. 
 
"That's right, no one. You know I'm only looking out for you just like I always have. I'll even give you a day to think it over while you watch over your Bianca in the hospital. One day, and then we'll need your answer. Make it the right one Frankie." 
 
He hangs up. Frankie sits there with the phone having fallen unnoticed in her now limp hand to her lap.  
 
She looks up at nothing, tears in her eyes. "God what have I done? Bianca, what do I do?" 
 

 
Chapter 5f

Dedication: To all those who have true hearts and who have the strength to both give and receive tenderness for you are rare indeed.

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Frankie has to make a difficult decision.

setting: Hospital, later that same day.

Frankie is sleeping and she's having nightmares. In the nightmare realm. She's disoriented, everything's dark and smoky.

Looking around she yells out "Hello? Anyone there? What's the big idea?"

"Frankie" she hears Bianca " Help me."

"Bianca?" she turns around and there's Bianca being held by Seth.

Seth is holding a knife to Bianca's throat. "You see what you're making me do Frankie? It's all your fault." He begins to move his arm. Frankie cries out and rushes towards them...

No one's there, just more mist. They've disappeared.

She hears Bianca again, this time Bianca's crying. Frankie looks for her and sees her on the ground kneeling. She's holding a figure with a blood soaked blouse. To her horror, Bianca realizes it's Erica.

"Oh no." Frankie breathes.

Bianca looks up, grief stricken. "She's dead."

"Bianca..I'm so sorry, I didn't mean..."

Bianca stands up, each word from her growing in anger. "What Frankie? sorry for coming into my life? For lying to me? To everyone I loved? Are you sorry she's dead? You killed my mother Frankie! How could I ever think I could give my heart to someone as despicable as you!?"

In agony, Frankie gets out "Bianca no..it's not my fault I didn't mean this to happen! Bianca please!"

Fade out....

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

Bianca is wheeled out of her room by her mother. "Thanks mom but I think I can walk."

"Nonsense darling. I won't of it after everything you've gone through you need your rest. Besides, it's hospital policy."

"Okay, okay." Bianca relents with a smile. " I just feel weird being in this when I can walk." She looks around. "Where's Frankie?"

"Don't worry darling I'll go get her you stay right here."

Bianca stops Erica. "Wait mom, I want to see her too. I think it might come better if she heard it from me anyways. She can be a little stubborn."

"Well if anyone can out-stubborn her I'm sure it will be my daughter." She smiles down at her daughter as Bianca jokingly says a 'hey' in protest to the stubborn remark, " But you stay in that chair! I'll take you to her room. She's probably still sleeping. "

"Alright."

They wheel down the hall.

going into the room they see Frankie in the grips of a nightmare, tossing and muttering in her sleep. They make out the worked Bianca, as well as 'no don't' and the name 'Seth'. bianca wheels herself over to the bed quickly putting a hand to Frankie's good shoulder to wake her.

"Frankie wake up! It's okay now. Everything's fine. come on, open those pretty eyes okay?"

Frankie wakes with a start as Erica watches them both from the doorway. When she realizes that Bianca's in front of her and okay she latches on to her and won't let go. Burying her head in Bianca's neck and shoulder, heedless of her own shoulder and hands. She just tightens her grip.

"Thank god you're okay." Her voice breaks.

"Of course I'm okay," Bianca soothes ,embracing her, rubbing her back." You saved me remember?"

Still confused from a remaining need for rest, being half-asleep and the nightmares, Frankie pulls back a little. "Saved you?"

"Yeah, saved me. Jake told me all about it. My hero." Bianca smiles charmingly. "though we've gotta stop meeting in the ER. Not exactly stylin'"

"Stylin'"?" Frankie echoes, laughing despite herself. She wipes at her eyes clumsily. "Yeah I guess we did meet here first didn't we?"

"Along with the cops and my mom throwing a fit." Bianca adds mischievously.

"Bianca!" Erica scolds but smiles despite herself at the absurdity of the past situation.

Recovering her wits Frankie asks. "How you feeling Bianca?"

"All ship shape and ready to blow this Popsicle stand. We've come to spring you."

Not following at all Frankie says. "Huh?"

"You're coming home with us.' Bianca answers.

"Yes." Erica adds. "Bianca and I have discussed it and we feel that it's best that you stay with us until you're feeling better."

"But I'm fine." Frankie protests puzzled. "It's just some stitches and bruises and pulled muscles and all. No big deal."

"No big deal she says. " Opal comes in from outside, she's carrying a bag. "You go and haul off your girl from a car wreck and survive an explosion and make like it was a walk in the park. I swear, what does it take to impress you young folks today? You are not invincible young lady! And I hear plenty from the doorway, you will too go stay where two people can look after you!" She leans in and kisses both Frankie on the cheek before Frankie can react. Opal than turns and hugs and kisses both Bianca and Erica. "Sorry it took me so long. After your call Erica, I picked up everything you mentioned and I thought Frankie would need for her stay with you all. I hope you don't mind my choices Frankie. I just grabbed all those clothes you have lying around your room.."

Frankie looks stunned. "Ah.."

"I'll take that a yes." She hands gives the bag to Bianca who puts it on her lap. "Now I have the car running outside do you need a lift?"

"No that's alright, thank you Opal." Erica hugs her friend. "I have my driver waiting for us. You'll be by later?"

"Wild bears couldn't keep me away! You take care of yourselves now y'hear? I'll see you soon."

They say their goodbyes.

Bianca and Erica turn to Frankie. "You ready to leave hero?" Bianca grins at Frankie.

"Ah, yeah. Sure I guess. You shouldn't call me that though. I'm not a hero."

It's Erica who interjects first. "Frankie, you saved my daughter's life. Now I know you and I haven't started off on the best footing but believe me when I tell you that saving my daughter's life means everything to me. Everything." Tears in her eyes, she a little awkwardly hugs Frankie. "All of us, Jackson, Opal, myself, all of us who love Bianca owe you Frankie. I won't tolerate a word to the contrary. Is that clear?"

"Okay?"

Bianca soothing strokes Frankie's arm. "Think you can wheel me out of here?"

She pushes the chair, following them out of the hospital.

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

Late, late night at the Kane residence in Bianca's room.

Bianca is fast asleep.

Her door slowly, silently opens. Light from the hallway reveals Frankie sneaking in. She walks to the bed, staying in the shadows. She stares down at Bianca's sleeping peaceful form. Her _expression is tormented. She looks down at the bandages. She lightly traces the one on Bianca's forehead. Lingering.

With a look of determined resignation she takes out her cell phone and speed dials. She says only one sentence. "I'll do it." Than hangs up.

She leans over and kisses Bianca ever so gently on her head. "I'll do whatever it take to protect you and the people you love Bianca."

She silently walks out.

What she doesn't see is Bianca's eyes open. She's been awake since Frankie walked in.
 


Chapter 5g

Dedication: To all of you. You are what makes this story worth writing and your emails often bring a smile to my face and you touch my heart with your kindness.

Note: This will feature a song. I have no right to it, no profit made, no harm intended, etc. You know how they have scenes overladen with emotion where they play popular music in the background? Here's a scene with one of those moments coming up. The song is "Do what You Have to do" by Sarah McLachlan.

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Frankie made a difficult decision in the hopes of keeping Bianca and her mother safe.

setting: a couple of weeks have passed. Opal's house Frankie's room. Dark.

Frankie enters with her bag, Bianca follows close behind, turning the light on behind her.

Frankie tosses her bag on the bed. All she has are some light gauze bandages on her hands. The cut on her head is nearly gone. She flops backwards, arms and legs akimbo onto her bed.

"I think I gained twenty pounds staying at your place! Phew! I'll have to become one of those aerobic instructors or something to work it off. Oh, wait, I hate spandex." She snaps her fingers. " Another dream up in smoke."

"Very funny." A smiling Bianca comes over and lays down resting her head lightly in the crook of Frankie's good shoulder. "Although I think I've eaten twice my weight with that 'death by ice cream' number you got for me at the ice cream place."

A big grin comes over Frankie, her eyes nearly glaze. "Yeah, that was great wasn't it?" She licks her lips reminiscing.

Bianca glances sideways at her and elbows her. "You are so busted. You're an ice cream hound Mary-Francis Stone! I thought you bought me that for my birthday? I know your weakness now so you better watch it ice cream girl."

Frankie snorts. "It was for your b-day, girl. Didn't you like it? Besides, you shouldn't let all the sugar induced power rush go to your head goof ball."

"I loved it. thank you for the hundredth time I've said it." Bianca looks at her sweetly." 'Besides', I'm your goof ball."

"For real?"

"Yeah, we're each other's sidekicks." Bianca says mischievously.

"Hey!" Frankie mock protests. "I refuse to be relegated to Shaggy status. I'm either in top billing or not at all. I am a cover girl after all."

"Oh!" Bianca pounces on her," Of the Exposer, no thank you! You are in so much trouble for that last one Francis."

Frankie stills her hands with her own, looking up at Bianca seriously. "Don't call me that okay Bianca? It's Frankie. Just Frankie."

"Sure." Bianca regards her for a moment. "Will you tell me why?"

Frankie thinks back to those who called her that. She feels trapped suddenly beneath Bianca's weight. "Off." She pushes at the younger woman." Get off me."

Bianca scrambles off confused. Frankie sits up and over. Her back to Bianca. She runs a hand through her hair anxiously. "I just don't like it is all."

"Okay." Though Bianca's still worried about her.

"That's it? You're not going to second degree me?"

"Frankie," Bianca comes around to where Frankie is sitting. She goes to put her arm around her than stops, and just touches Frankie's hand with her own. In her softest voice she says, "You'll tell me when you're ready. Just like how you told me who your aunt was and about other things. I'm not going anywhere."

Frankie can't stand this kindness that she yearns for but doesn't feel she deserves. She stands up and moves away, fiddling with her bag.

Bianca offers, "Would you like help?"

"I got it."

Bianca says, "You could've stayed longer you know? It wasn't so terrible was it?"

"It was nice. But I need my own space. Besides, didn't want to wear out my welcome with your mom. She's been so nice the past tow weeks I'm starting to wonder who possessed her." Frankie says the last with her more standard though faint, cocky grin.

"She's been alright." Bianca says, happy about how her mother has been over the past few weeks.

"Yeah, you're lucky to have her. Even if you get on each other's nerves you're there for each other you know? It's cool." Frankie still isn't making eye contact and keeping a certain physical distance between them.

"Well, she's on your side now too. So I guess that means we're both lucky."

"Yeah, until the minute I slip up and then I'm outta her good graces."

Bianca stands up. "You can behave when you want to." She teases. Leaning over she picks up a stray sock. Without thought she automatically goes to put it away for Frankie in a drawer.

Frankie turns around and sees her just in time. "Bianca NO!"

Bianca jumps from the he shout and looks wide eyed at Frankie, holding the sock. Frankie strides over, grabs the sock, putting herself b/t Bianca and the drawer. "I don't like people going through my stuff okay." It wasn't really question.

Bianca backs away. "I didn't mean to intrude on your privacy Frankie." She's visibly wanting to say more but is holding herself back.

Frankie switches gears. "Yeah I know. Sorry about that Bianca. I guess I'm more tired than I thought. Makes me grumpy." She meets Bianca's eyes at last, with more emotion showing in her eyes than the words would suggest. "I really am sorry."

Bianca, still not knowing what to make of the almost violent reaction, nevertheless relents, and hugs Frankie. "It's okay. I'll leave you alone to get some sleep okay?"

Frankie looks down, nodding. She mumbles 'thanks'.

Bianca gently raises Frankie's face with her hand. "Hey, I'm here for you. No matter what. Got that?"

Frankie's eyes are wide trying to hold back tears. "Got it."

"Good. Don't forget it. " Bianca leans in and kisses Frankie softly on the lips. Frankie melts into the touch. When Bianca pulls away, Frankie is still leaning forward, eyes closed. She blinks them open, glances at Bianca.

"You're something else you know that? You're too good to be true Bianca."

"I'm real Frankie. And if it takes the rest of my life," she smiles shyly suddenly, "both our lives, I'll prove it to you. Sweet dreams." Bianca leaves.

No sooner is Bianca out the door than the cell phone rings. Frankie picks it up. "Yeah?" Trying to sound tough while her heart is breaking.

"The disk will be at the park. Taped under the third bench. You're to go pick it up now."

The phone call is ended on the other end.

Frankie looks at the phone for a beat before hurling it at the wall. She rips her jacket off the chair and almost runs out of the room.

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

setting: Erica's office in Enchantment. she's on the phone in the middle of a conversation.

"Yes Jack, she went back to Opal's today." She listens for a moment. "No Jack I will not calm down. There is something wrong with that girl. She's woken up nearly every night screaming." More talking on he other end. "Well I suppose some of it might be from the trauma of the accident." "How can you tell me they have no leads on who tried to kill my daughter! Jackson someone tried to murder her I will not sit by while-" She forcibly tires to compose herself. "Something isn't right with all this Jack." She listens most unhappily to Jackson's last words. "If that's what you think is best jack, you are the DA after all." she hangs up seriously put off.

After a moments contemplation she picks her phone up and dials. "Yes? In house detectives please." A pause. "Yes, I want you to look into my daughter's accident. No, drop everything else you might be doing. This is you sole priority is that understood? That's correct. I also want you to do something else, I want you to look into Mary-Francis Stone more closely. Yes, I know you've done background check already on her but I want a more detailed one. Specifically look for someone in her past by the name of Seth." Erica looks up to see Greenlee tapping on her door. She motions her inside with a wave of her hand. "No that's all I have to go on. And this time. I expect better results from your department, am I making myself clear? Good." She hangs up.

"What can I do for you Greenlee?"

Greenlee walks over and places items on her desk. "Here are the Spring adds you wanted to preview." Greenlee looks at the phone and then back at Erica. "Did I hear you correctly? You're having detectives look into Frankie and that Seth fellow she was talking too at the Ball? You don't have to worry Erica, that was definitely not an intimate conversation if you know what I mean. I've seen enough of those to know the difference. You don't have to be concerned that she's switching teams and leaving your daughter in the lurch. I can't see it happening."

Erica holds up a hand. "Wait one minute! My only concern is that my daughter not be hurt. But you know who this Seth is? You've seen them talking together? I want details Greenlee and I want them now!"

Greenlee gives her a surprised look but gives. "I don't know who he was. Slick, nice clothes but bought off the rack if you know what I'm saying. I can always spot the poseurs. They were at the Crystal Ball. I don't know exactly what was said but I can tell you that they definitely do not like each other, and they definitely know each other. I know history when I see it and those two have some kind of history. Whatever it is, it's not pretty."

"I see." Erica Kane says in that tone that says nothing but means everything. "That will be all Greenlee, thank you. And I trust if any other such information comes to you that you will bring it to my immediate attention with the greatest amount of discretion." It was an order, and Greenlee knew it.

"Of course."

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

setting: in the the park. <cue song>

Frankie walks tot he bench, she looks around, no one else is here. She looks under the bench and pulls out the disk taped underneath it. She sits heavily on the bench, in the cold, just staring at the disc she holds in her hands. A hand strays up to the locket. She's visibly torn, tormented.

What ravages of spirit 
conjured this temptuous rage 
created you a monster 
broken by the rules of love

She breaks down crying, her head in her hands.

and fate has lead you through it 
you do what you have to do 
and fate has led you through it 
you do what you have to do ...

setting: Bianca slips into Frankie's dark room. She goes over to the drawer she didn't open before.

and I have the sense to recognize that 
I don't know how to let you go 
every moment marked 
with apparitions of your soul 
I'm ever swiftly moving 
trying to escape this desire

the yearning to be near you 
I do what I have to do 
the yearning to be near you 
I do what I have to do

She opens it whispering "I'm sorry Frankie." She looks in the drawer and freezes when her hand touches cold metal.

but I have the sense to recognize 
that I don't know how 
to let you go 
I don't know how 
to let you go

Bianca slowly pulls out the gun, staring at it in shock and fear.

setting: park

Frankie slowly stands up on shaky legs, tears still rolling down her face. Her eyes are desolate as she walks toward Enchantment with he disc in hand. She stops suddenly, grabbing at her locket.

a glowing ember 
burning hot 
burning slow 
deep within I'm shaken by the violence 
of existing for only you

She stares desolate. Torn inside by the choices she has to make.

I know I can't be with you 
I do what I have to do 
I know I can't be with you 
I do what I have to do 
and I have sense to recognize but 
I don't know how to let you go 
I don't know how to let you go 
I don't know how to let you go

Frankie looks towards the building, holding onto her locket, she finds herself turning the other way. Back to her room. But she holds the disc in a death grip.





Chapter 6a


Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Frankie hesitates in her follow through with the disc. Bianca found Frankie's gun.

setting: Frankie's room an hour or two later.

Frankie steps into her room. She doesn't even turn on the light.

'Frankie."

Frankie jumps and nearly knocks the light off as she lunges to turn it on. Seeing Bianca sitting delicately on her bed, she calms down.

"Geez Bianca! You nearly caused me a heart-attack! What's up?"

In a quiet voice Bianca replies, "I want to know why you have that."

Frankie's brow wrinkles in puzzlement. She glances where Bianca's looking and there, on the bedside table is her gun.

She stands, stunned to speechlessness.

Bianca still hasn't looked at her.

Frankie storms over, putting herself b/t Bianca and the gun. "Why the Hell were you going through my stuff? Still don't trust me? Still think I'm the no good trash everyone says I am? So I have some protection , so what. I did come from the streets or do you like to forget that fact!"

Bianca shakes her head from side to side, tears forming in her eyes. "Don't do this Frankie, this isn't you."

"No? Funny cuz I think this is me Bianca. You can't pretend I'm not."

Bianca stands up, looking dead at her. "I'm not the one who's pretending."

"Why do you have a gun? You're not on the streets anymore."

Frankie runs a hand over her head, "Look old habits and all that alright? Just drop it Bianca."

"I can't"

"Please!"

Bianca's voice is more intense as it becomes even quieter, "I can't.'

"Why not?!" Frankie throws her hands up in the air, walking away from Bianca.

Bianca takes Frankie's arm and swings her around to look at her. "I can't b/c I care about you Frankie. I don't want you to get hurt! And guns hurt people. Accidents happen. You don't need it!"

"Says you." Mutters Frankie under her breath.

"Why do you need a gun Frankie? Or should I just call the police now so that they can take it?"

Frankie's heartbeat just trebled. "What?! You'd call the cops on me?!"

"Frankie," Bianca's voice quavers with the fear and anxiety and love she is feeling,"I would do anything to keep you safe. I know there's something going on. I wish you would tell me. Maybe I could help. Whatever it is Frankie...I love you."

Looking into her eyes, into Bianca's heartrending face, Frankie's posture of anger recedes, but not her desperation. "I have to ask you something Bianca. Something I really don't want to."

"Tell me."

"Forget you saw the gun."

"I can't."

Frankie exhales loudly and paces around the room. "Is that why you were going through my stuff, to find out what I wasn't telling you?"

"I wanted to know what you were hiding. I wanted to know what kept making you scream every time you slept."

"Bad dreams caused by the trauma of the accident...you know that shrink mumbo jumbo more than I do."

"What I know is that there's something eating at you inside and I want to help."

"You want to help me but you won't forget about the gun." Not really a question.

"No, you have to get rid of it Frankie."

"Bianca! It's not that easy."

"you can't call the cops." She stops her pacing but her body's shaking. "You *can't* call them."

"B/c it will get you into trouble?"

Frankie regards her for a moment then replies, "Yeah, trouble. The kind you don't get out of. And it won't just be me who gets hurt."

Bianca's eyes narrow in thought, peering at the love of her life. "Who else would get hurt? "

Frankie takes her by the arms, almost shaking Bianca. "Listen to me okay? You have to listen to me very carefully." She waits for Bianca to nod, than she continues, "You can't forget you found a gun in my room. Okay. But you can't tell anyone. Not about anything. And no, I can't tell you anything else. Bianca...you're already in deeper than you know and you don't even know what we're all in! I have something I have to do. It doesn't involve me using a gun. I'll get rid of the gun I promise! But I have to take care of this one thing first. More than anything, anything and everything, I need to know you're safe. And that won't happen if you keep poking your head into things that you shouldn't. Bianca, I promise I'll get rid of the gun..but you have to promise me that you'll stay away from me for a few days. Stay away from this."

"No way! Frankie! I will not sit by like nothings happening! I can't pretend you're not in trouble. Tell me what it is? Please! Let me help you Frankie."

Desperation and fear more than anger make Frankie raise her voice, "You can't! Don’t you understand Bianca? We're not the same. You grew up sheltered and yeah you had some pretty hard bumps along the ride but we come from totally different worlds. I want to leave mine behind. I really do! But to do that I just have this one last thing to take care of. Than maybe, if you don't hate me after, I can be with you. B/c you're all I want Bianca." Her voice breaks as tears slide down her cheeks suddenly. "And this is the only way to make it happen."

Bianca is lost and bewildered. "I don't understand Frankie..."

"Good! I don't want you to understand, not this. That person you love? The Frankie you see. That's who I want to be Bianca. Not just for you, for myself. I'd do anything to be that person. .......Do you believe me?"

Bianca slowly nods. "Yes I do Frankie. I know you're not lying but I don't like this. How can I?"

"Yeah it sucks, but will you do what I ask?"

Reluctantly, Bianca nods. "If you get rid of that thing. And if you tell me the whole story when you can."

"I will." Frankie vows. "Please trust me Bianca. I wouldn't intentionally hurt you. Not ever if I could help it."

"I know Frankie. We do what we have to for the people we love right?"

Now emotionally as well as physically exhausted, Frankie sits heavily down on the bed, nodding. She misses the determined _expression on Bianca's face.

"You need to rest." Bianca says.

In a small voice Frankie asks, "Am I going to lose you?"

Bianca immediately falls to her knees before Frankie, taking her in her arms fiercely before drawing back to kiss her. An embrace that Frankie returns with equal fervour.

After they pull apart Bianca answers her. "It takes a lot more than that to keep me away from you."

"You gotta go." Frankie says.

Bianca kisses her one last time. She gets up and leaves, turning off the light and shutting the door behind her.

Curling up on her side, Frankie takes the disc out of her back pocket and stares at the gun. "I meant it Bianca, I'll do whatever it takes, even have you hate me when this is all over, if it means you're safe..."



Spoilers: Frankie tries to cut a new deal. Anna gets involved.




Chapter 6b

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy:

setting: The next day. Frankie's pacing in the park, biting her thumb nail. Thinking ferociously. She emits a sound of frustration. She goes to leave the park at nearly a run. Not looking, she runs smack into no other than Vanessa Cortland.

"Oh dear, my goodness," Vanessa stables herself laying her hands on Frankie's shoulders." My, my dear where are you going in such a rush?"

Frankie bristles at the false pleasantry. "I doubt it would concern you seeing as how you weren't 'concerned' about any of my family, let alone me, in all this time."

She moves to shoulder past Vanessa but the older woman grabs her arm. "Don't be too hasty oh niece of mine. Even though I was unable to be a part of..that side of the family, I always kept a close eye, a very close eye, on all of you."

"Right." Frankie sneers. "Unable my -"

Vanessa covers Frankie's mouth with a gloved hand her ire beginning to show, her voice lowers as her hand tightens menacingly before suddenly releasing Frankie. "Now you don't want to finish that sentence." Frankie stumbles back a step, a confused and uncertain, apprehension overcoming her. Vanessa continues. "You know family is very important my dear. Why some people kill for them, sometimes people get all sorts of noble ideas and end up doing something foolish. Something rash. You're so very young Mary-Francis, it would be easy for a young person like you to rush off and do something stupid thinking it was heroic. When in actuality it dooms not only you, but everyone one you care about."

Frankie looks at her. "What are you talking about?"

Vanessa spreads her hands. "Why nothing!" She laughs, "I saw you here in the park looking like you were planning the to storm the beaches of Normandy yourself. I just thought I would come over and see what's troubling you."

She goes to touch Frankie's hair. Frankie flinches away. "I don't need your help and I don't want your help. You got me?"

"There's no need to be so ungrateful niece, I just would hate to see you hurt for doing something rash. Is everything going well be/t you and that horrible Kane woman's daughter. Bianca is very lovely dear, and they are quite rich."

"Don't talk to me about Bianca. She's none of your business either."

"Well Mary-Francis really! There's no need for such animosity now is there? Please don't forget to phone to make dinner arrangements sometime. We're family and family should stick together after all." Vanessa waltz's off and away.

Frankie stares after her frowning. "What a crazy bat..."she trails off still staring after Vanessa, going over the strange conversation in her mind.

Her cell phone rings.

"Hey." she answers.

"I don't care if you don't like my tone. You shut up this time and do the listening. I've got what you want. Now if I do what you say, then what's to guarantee that you won't come after me or Bianca and her family after?"

Frankie stalks over to a tree, off the path, speaking urgently. Angrily. Her fearful apprehension showing only on her face but barely in her voice. "No, I'm not as stupid as you and everyone else in this town like to think. I do your job and I've signed my death warrant let alone what might happen to Bianca. So this is the new deal. I'm not putting anything in Enchantment's computer. The way I figure it is whatever you have on that disk, can either be traced or whatever the FBI or Interpol or who knows who wants you, will be able to find you with it. It's incriminating evidence against you and your boss. So I'm the one with the winning hand and you gave it to me. In fact, the disk is in a nice safe place. Anything happens to me, to Bianca, or to any of her friends and family and that disc gets sent straight to the cops. "

She holds the handset away while a voice speaks loudly at her. She speaks into it. "You can yell all the threats you want you son of a bitch. But I have my safety net now so just leave me and the Kane's alone. Simple. No more jobs Seth. No ore jobs ever. And I don't want to see your snide face again. If I do, I'll think you're up to something nasty. I might have to have that piece of evidence go to the cops just to ensure everyone's safety. I mean it."

She hangs up the phone. She goes to actually toss it but it rings.

She says succinctly, "I said no. So quit callin'" She goes to flip it off but a strange garbled voice stops her.

"You don't want to do that Mary-Francis."

"It's Frankie. I assume this is Proteus, the big poo-bah? I've got nothing to say to you."

"I run my business like my family Mary-Francis. If you choose to be disloyal, your punishment will be severe."

"Look, I'm not the one making my life hell, you guys are. All I want for you all is to back off and leave me, and mine, alone. I'm just keeping a little 'souvenir' to make sure no one gets hurt. Are we clear?"

"Very, know this, your rash behaviour will be rewarded accordingly little girl. You'd better change your mind before it's too late."

Frankie stares at the phone. "Too late." She hangs it up. Than she pauses, thinking back not only on Proteus's words but Vanessa's. She shakes her head, "I don't believe it." She walks out of the park intent on something.

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

At the café, Bianca and Anna are speaking over coffee.

Ana says, "From what you've told me Bianca, I don't see what you would need an ex-spy for really. It sounds more like a PI job or maybe something your uncle could help with."

Earnestly Bianca leans forward. "No, she's into something dangerous Anna, I know it. I found...I found a gun in her room."

Anna's eyebrows rise. "A gun? Did you speak to her about it?"

"Yes, she flipped out. Some of what she said didn't make much sense to me but I understood that she feels we're both in danger. And she's trying to protect me."

"Sounds like she's in over her head." Anna remarks wryly.

"That's why I need your help. I thought with your connections you would be able to find stuff out faster, and would know best what to do about it."

"I don't know Bianca. Are you sure you want me to go around behind your girlfriend's back like this? If she finds out, it might destroy your relationship anyway. And if you find out what it is she's into, it might destroy you. The truth is very often a double edged sword."

"I know that. But I lost my dad. I lost Sarah. Rain. Even Laura. I can't lose Frankie, not her."

Anna gives her a long appraising look. Finally she nods, "Very well, I'll look into it and see what I can come up with. I'll let you know what I find out."

Relieved beyond words, Bianca hugs her across the table. Anna, awkwardly pats her until she is released.

"Oh thank you! Thank you so much Anna I really-" Her cell phone ringing cuts her of." Hold on."

She answers. The voice on the phone is familiar but she can't place where she heard the man's smooth tones before.

"Pardon?" She asks. "Frankie's waiting for me at Enchantment? Why is she there?" a pause listening intently. "Alright, " she replies in a slightly puzzled tone. "I'll be there within twenty minutes." She hangs up.

"Problem?" Ann asks.

"No, at least I don't think so. It's just weird. Why would one of mom's worker's call me to tell me Frankie's there waiting for me. And why would Frankie be at Enchantment? Strange. "She shakes it off."I'm sure it's nothing. Maybe she was in the he neighbourhood and mom roped her inside, who knows. Anyway, thanks very much for agreeing to help me Anna. I owe you, I owe you big. Goodbye."

"Bye." Anna offers. She frowns at the conversation that just took place than shrugs and returns to her coffee.



Chapter 6c

Dedication: My mom, for always being there.

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Frankie made a decision on how to protect Bianca, Erica and herself. Bianca met with Anna to ask for help to dig in Frankie's past. Bianca received a mysterious call that Frankie was waiting for her at Enchantment.

setting: Enchantment. Erica's office. Erica's at her desk going through some papers. Greenlee walks in with some files.

Greenlee walks in handing them over to Erica. "Here's the files on the new budget for the advertising campaign on that latest client."

"Thank you Greenlee."

Greenlee hesitates before leaving. "Erica, would you like me to order you some supper to be sent to you?"

Erica looks up from her work. She glances at her watch. "My goodness I didn't realize it had become so late. I must have gotten carried away going through this new proposal. Please don't feel free to stay Greenlee. There's nothing here I can't take care of myself. You can tell everyone else they can leave as well."

Greenlee stares at her quizzically. "Actually, we're the only two people here. It's well after office hours. Everyone already has gone home Erica." Her tone lightens and she steps towards the desk again. "But you know, if you would like any help I'd be more than happy to stay."

"Why that's very ...enthusiastic of you Greenlee. And I appreciate it but it won't be necessary. I'll just wrap up what I have and then leave. I'll be leaving by the parking garage though so do be sure to lock up when you leave."

"If you're sure you don't need my help?"

"I'm sure. Thank you Greenlee. And goodnight."

"Goodnight."

Greenlee exits the office crossing the hallway and going into her own. She dons her coat and picks up her purse, snatching the office keys off of her desk and leaving.

Outside of the building, Greenlee is looking down and because of that accidentally rams the person on the other side. Though not that hard.

The man stumbles with a slight 'oof'

Greenlee immediately goes to the bent over man. "I'm so sorry! Are you okay?"

Seth Fury steadies himself and offers Greenlee a reassuring smile. "I think so. You pack quite a wallop for such a slight beauty."

Greenlee allows the compliment with a pleased smile and a slight nod of her head. "What a sweet thing to say." She looks at him and the door behind them. "You weren't planning to go in there I hope? We're closed now."

He puts on an overly crestfallen face. "Are you really? I had a meeting with Erica Kane. She's been waiting for me. I was stuck in traffic...."

Greenlee, who knows full well Erica's schedule asks "And you would be?" She holds out her hand, her eyes, narrowed. Waiting.

"Seth Fury." He smiles ingratiatingly.

"That's what I thought." She says to herself sotto voce.

"Pardon me?"

"I said 'I haven't heard a name like Seth a lot.'"

"Oh." He looks behind them at the door and back at her meaningfully. "You wouldn't mind letting me in would you?"

Greenlee offers a fake smile of her own. "So sorry Mr. Fury. Ms. Kane already left for the day." She goes and locks the door. "I'm afraid you'll have to come back tomorrow." She pats his arm. "Sorry you had to come all this way for nothing. Nice suit by the way. You have yourself a good weekend. Bye." She struts off and away.

Seth watches after her, his face shifting to a sinister _expression. He pulls a key from his own coat pocket.

"Good thing Proteus thinks of everything."

He unlocks the door and slips inside, making sure to leave the door unlocked for company...



Chapter 6d

Dedication: Those who love me for who I am. They save my life..

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Frankie made a decision on how to protect Bianca, Erica and herself. Bianca met with Anna to ask for help to dig in Frankie's past. Bianca received a mysterious call that Frankie was waiting for her at Enchantment. Erica is alone in Enchantment with Seth...

setting: Café.

Frankie walks in looking around. She spies Anna and after a moment of hesitation approaches her table. Anna looks up.

Frankie. "Hi, I don't know if you remember me but we met at that crazy wedding for Leo?"

"Yes, you're David's and Leo's cousin aren't? Frankie isn't it?"

"Yeah, that's me. Uhm, have you seen Bianca around? Bianca Montgomery, she's-"

"Erica Kane's daughter." Anna finishes for her. "Yes, I know who she is. Is something the matter?"

"No, no. She just mentioned yesterday that she would be hanging out here today. I was hoping to catch her."

"That's odd." Anna says. " She was here not that long ago and received a call saying she was to meet you at Enchantment."

Frankie's puzzled. "I never called her."

"No, it was someone from Enchantment who called on your behalf. That's where I assume Bianca went after the call."

The entrance opens and Anna looks over to see Greenlee walk in. "Greenlee. Do you have a moment?"

Greenlee saunters over appraising Frankie and Anna dubiously. "What do you want?"

"You work over at Enchantment right?" Anna asks.

"Of course! Erica can't manage without me." She preens.

"Did you see Bianca there?" Frankie asks with barely subdued anxiety.

Greenlee gives her a look. "Already trouble in lesbo paradise? No I didn't see your girlfriend. Enchantment’s closed anyway. I should warn you though, Bianca doesn't seem like the type who goes for being kept on a tight leash."

Anna rise from the table, "You said Enchantment's closed?"

"Yeah, what of it?"

"And no one's in there." Anna pursues.

"Just La Kane herself. Oh," she turns to Frankie, "and your ex-boyfriend or whatever he is was lurking around the door. I didn't let him in. Besides, his tie was an Armani knock-off."

"My what?!" Frankie demands.

"You know, that guy at the ball, what was his name? Sid? "

"Seth?" Frankie chokes out.

"That's it, Seth."

Frankie grabs her by the arm. "You're sure it was him."

Greenlee takes a step back pulling her arm out of Frankie's grasp. "What is your damage? Yes, Seth alright already? As lovely as the girl talks been, which it hasn't, gotta go." She turns on her heel and leaves the two women still standing at the table.

Though Frankie doesn't stand still for long. She rushes for the door but Anna stops her.

"Whoa there, where's the fire.'

Frankie barely even looks at Anna. "Look, thanks for the info. I have to go."

Anna doesn't release her. "If you're in trouble Frankie maybe I could help."

Frankie shakes her head. "It's something I need to do on my own."

"Do you have a cell phone?" Anna persists.

"huh? Yeah sure. could you please let go of my arm?"

"Wait a moment. Please." She puts her free hand out. "Give me your phone for a moment."

Frankie pulls out her phone and gives it to her. Anything to let her get out the door as soon as possible.

Anna flips it open and on and efficiently punches a number in. The cell in her jacket rings. She flips the phone closed and hands it back to a confused Frankie.

"There." Anna says. "That's my cell number. You now have it listed on your phone. If you need help, call me? Promise me that."

Frankie looks at the phone, than back up at her. "Why would you help me?"

"Bianca's a friend of the family. And I'm rather fond of your cousin David. And maybe I can tell when someone is in a desperate situation."

Frankie stares at her for a second. Anna returns the gaze. "Thanks I guess. I gotta skate."

She rushes out the door. Anna looking worriedly after her.



Chapter 6e

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Frankie discovered Bianca is on her way to Enchantment and Seth was there.

setting: Enchantment. Erica's office.

Erica is working at her desk. She's muddling through some paper work.

"Shoot," she says to herself,"I must have left that contract on Greenlee's desk." She leaves her office to get it.

shortly after she leaves, Seth slips in the door. He looks around just to be cautious even though he was told the building's empty. He goes over to the computer and logs in.

He peruses the screen. "At least the shipments are put in under our umbrella companies. Now all I need is that disk."

Erica walks back into her office to see Seth sitting behind her desk fussing with her computer. "Excuse me." She demands striding forth. "What on Earth do you think you're doing here let alone in my office?"

Seth was startled but rises to the occasion as he stands, smoothing his jacket. "Why Ms. Kane, so lovely to see you again. Please forgive me. I came to surprise you and hopefully entice you to supper with me but when I found the office empty I thought I'd amuse myself on the computer while waiting for you."

Erica isn't fooled for a moment. "Mr. Fury isn't it? I don't consider it appropriate for people to waltz into my office. " She pauses and her face grows more guarded. "How exactly did you get into the building to begin with Mr. Fury?"

"Please, call me Seth. A lovely young woman let me in after I told her we had an appointment."

"But we don't have an appointment Mr. Fury. And I'm very busy so if you'll excuse me-"

"Hello?" Bianca's voice calls from the hallway.

"Bianca?" A surprised Erica turns around to see Bianca stepping through the door. As she turns, Seth reaches into his jacket, smoothly pulls out a gun and in one quick movement, moves around the desk and grabs Erica, holding the gun to her head.

Erica makes a surprised yelp. Bianca enters the room and freezes.

Erica is the first to react yelling, "Bianca get out of here!"

"No one move." Seth demands.

"Mom what's going on?"

"Bianca I mean it, leave now!"

"Leave and your mother will get hurt." Seth promises. He tightens his grip on Erica. "Now you can both get out of this situation alive. But first you have to do exactly what I say. Exactly. Do you both understand?"

"What is it you want?' Erica asks. "Whatever it is, I'll give it to you. Just let Bianca go."

"Actually *Erica*, your lovely daughter is the one I need. You're the expendable one. However, since I have both of you this should work out even better. You both understand that if one of you doesn't follow my orders, the other one will get hurt, yes?"

"I...understand." Erica complies.

"And you sweet thing? You understand that if you don't do exactly what I tell you I'm going to hurt your mom very badly?"

"Yes, just don't hurt her please!"

"No one will as long as you both follow orders. Now I'm going to let go of you, neither of you move or else..."

"We won't move." Erica assures him, looking into her daughter's frightened eyes.

Seth keeps the gun trained on them and grabs some phone wire, tearing it out of the wall.

"You come here." he motions to Bianca.

She steps to him apprehensively. He tosses her the cable wire." Tie your mom's hands up with that. Then it'll be your turn. And I'll check the knots so don't try anything stupid."

Bianca nods and goes to her mother. She hesitates with the wire. Erica nods to her daughter, "It's alright Bianca, do as he says. We’ll get through this. Just be strong like I know you are. I love you baby."

"I love you to mom." Bianca nearly cries as she ties up her mother's hands.

"Bianca, why are you here? I didn't call you." Erica asks.

"I got a call from someone saying they were calling to let me know Frankie was here."

"Frankie?" Erica says.

"Yeah, I thought it was weird but now that I think about it the voice on the he phone sounded like this guy here. When I came the door was unlocked 7 no one was around so I came up to your office to see if anyone was in."

"It was me on the he phone." Seth pushes Bianca aside and checks her handiwork. "Good job." He shoves Erica into one of the chairs where she falls with a small cry.

"Don't even think of trying something or your daughter will pay the price." He warns Erica before carefully putting his gun out of their reach and then tying Bianca's hands.

"Why are you doing this?" Bianca desperately asks, frightened.

Seth smiles sinisterly as he steps away from her and retrieves his gun. "You're about to find out."

He takes out his cell phone and dials...



Chapter 6f

Dedication: For the fans who have on in there reading my story despite it's half-hazard nature. Thank you,;)

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Bianca and Erica are tied up in Erica's office with Seth holding a gun ont hem. He's just made a call...

setting: Enchantment. Erica's office.

"Who are you calling?" Erica demands from her standing awkwardly from the chair she was earlier flung into, her hands tied.

"You'll find out soon enough. Now walk over to the wall with your daughter and be quiet until I say otherwise."

Erica goes over to Bianca, standing beside her. "Don't worry Bianca we'll get out of this, you'll see."

Speaking low, Bianca says, "I hope so mom, I just have a bad feeling about this." her eyes stay on Seth.

Seth speaking into the phone,"why hello. Remember me, that old reliable friend you thought you could just toss aside and leave behind you like you're oh-so-unpleasant past? Well surprise."

He grins at whatever it is the other person said, "I don't think that's atomically possible but I'll keep it under advisement.." A pause. "Oh I wouldn't hang up if I were you. After all, what would happen to your girlfriend and her mother if you do?"

His grin becomes a full, malicious smile. "I have your attention now. Outstanding. You see the unnecessary turn of events that things had to take all b/c you wouldn't listen to me? You'd better listen now."

He holds the phone up to the women. "Tell Mary-Francis you're here."

"Frankie?" Bianca gasps.

"I knew it had something to do with her. " Erica says in the he same breath.

"Just a few words to let *Frankie* Know I mean business." With the hand not holding the phone but the gun, he presses the gun against Bianca's temple.

"You get that gun off my daughter!!" Erica yells.

"Frankie stay away!" Bianca cries. "He's got a gun don't come down-"

He cuffs Bianca so she doesn't finish her sentence. Erica tries to put herself b/t them but he's already moved away.

"I'll kill you for laying a hand on her!" Erica vows.

Seth ignores them. "Did you catch all that *Frankie*? Are we clear on who's in charge?" A beat. "Good. Now bring the disk to Enchantment. Now. No cops. No one except you. The disk for your girlfriend or else it's body bags. Got it? Have I made myself understood as to how much I will hurt them if you don't come through for me and show up at that door with what I want? Am I clear?"

From the ajar office door Frankie suddenly appears, a gun in hand aimed at him, a cell phone in her other hand against her ear. Bainca and Erica gasp her name at the same time that Seth sees her from where he stands in front of Erica's desk.

Frankie's gaze never leaves his as she levels the gun and speaks into the phone and at him. "Clear? Crystal."



Chapter 6g

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Bianca and Erica are tied up in Erica's office with Seth holding a gun on them. He called Frankie to exchange his hostages for the disc. What he didn't know was that Frankie was already in the building and now they're facing off. Her gun pointed at him, his at Bianca and Erica...

setting: Enchantment. Erica's office. Everyone's starring stunned at Frankie with the gun.

She pulls the cell phone away from her ear, presses a couple of buttons, seemingly turning it off. Then tosses it negligently to the side where it skids on the carpet out of view behind a corner table. Her eyes have never left Seth.

He follows her lead and puts away his phone.

Frankie speaks very clearly, carefully enunciating every word. "You went to a lot of trouble Seth. Sneaking into Enchantment. You've got Bianca and Erica tied up here in Erica's office...now are you going to do the smart thing and put up the gun you're holding on them?"

He sneers. "The smart thing Mary-Francis? If you had done the 'smart thing' we wouldn't be here now, would we?"

Bianca speaks out. "What does he mean what you should have done?"

"Bianca, I-"

"She hasn't confessed to you?" Seth intercedes, his tone pure malice. " To you, her first love? Didn't tell you why the only reason she's here is to con your mom so that Proteus can get into Enchantment's computers and use your mother's company to smuggle in drugs?" At Erica and Bianca's collective gasps he continues. "No? Doesn't seem like she covered that."

"You bastard." Frankie says.

"I can't believe it." Bianca tires to step towards Frankie but a warning look from Seth stops her. "I knew you were keeping something from me. And I knew it was dangerous Frankie but drugs? Using my mom's company to smuggle drugs?"

"Bianca," Frankie's voice holds heartbreak on it's edge, "I didn't know at the time why I had to distract your mom. And you've got to believe me, I never planned this, us."

Bianca is stricken and speechless.

"No," Seth pours his venom, "this certainly wasn't the plan. To think you'd betray me like this. All for what? Some spoiled little rich girl. You disappoint me Mary-Francis."

"For once I'm glad to be a disappointment. So I wouldn't do your dirty work. It didn't have to come to this. It still doesn't have to, just go Seth."

He barks out a laugh. "Right. Like you would let me leave. No, the police won't be coming for me. Now give me the disk. Now."

"What disk?" Erica demands.

"The one this little con artist withheld from the organization, actually trying to blackmail Proteus! You signed your own death warrant little girl."

"I'm no one's little girl. " Frankie's becoming increasingly angry even as her fear for Bianca, and Erica, grows. "You let them go and you'll have your disc."

"I'm not that foolish Mary-Francis. Give it up or one of them dies."

"I will shoot you Seth." Her hand trembles but the gun's steady enough to remain a threat.

"Not before I shoot your girlfriend." He shoves the barrel against Bianca who whimpers. Erica screams out for him to leave her daughter alone. He only has eyes for Frankie."The disc. Playtime's over."

With her free hand she pulls out the computer disc. "This old thing? What happens if I drop it on the ground like this," She lets it fall from her hands in front of her, "and step on it, grinding my heel to make sure it's useless?" She raises her foot just enough to be a hair's breath over the disc in question.

"Don't!!" Seth yells. "I'll shoot her Frankie. I mean it." He changes tact on her suddenly. "Frankie, we don't need to do things this way. Think about it. After tonight, your precious little girlfriend here won't be giving you the time of day. Her mother will have you run out of town. That is, if your precious girlfriend's uncle, the DA, doesn't see you locked away for the rest of your sweet young life."

"You think I don't know all that?" she scoffs. " It was only a matter of time before Bianca found out what I was...and hated me for it. Hell, if I take you out and you happen to take me out in the bargain I don't even care."

"Frankie!' Bianca cries, literally, tears on her face. "No-" Seth shakes her to be quiet.

"The disc Mary-Francis."

"Give me Bianca first."

"Not a chance. The mother first. You get your prize after I get the disc."

Frankie isn't happy with any of this but concedes. "Alright, I kick the disc to you at the same time you let Erica walk to me."

"No!" Erica rages, desperately afraid for her daughter. "I will not leave my daughter like this! You let her go and you let her go right now while I stay behind!"

"Your all too much trouble than it's worth." Seth ignores Bianca's protests to her mother."Fine, *Bianca* you go for your girl who was using you the whole time while I hold on to mommy dearest."

Wary, both Frankie and Seth keeps their guns trained on their targets while she slowly kicks the disc over to him only after Bianca starts moving to her. Seth has the gun tightly against Erica but his eyes never leave Frankie while he crouches to pick up the disc.

As soon as Bianca reaches her, Frankie pulls Bianca behind her. "Get out of here Bianca. Now."

"I'm not leaving my mom." Bianca fights against the arm.

"Dammit Bianca! Do as I say, get the Hell out of here!"

"Listen to hear sweetheart." Erica pleads. "Leave, mommy will be fine I promise. But I need to know your safe."

"Let Erica go Seth."

"I won't be letting her go until I'm safely at a private airport and on my way to somewhere without extradition laws."

"You've got the disc. Let her go."

"Like you won't call the cops? Please Mary-Francis, like you're trustworthy? You'll call the cops as soon as I let you all go. You won't leave Bianca, she won't leave her mother, and you won't leave either of them..plus I have the disc. I have all the cards. Now why don't you drop the gun.

"As usual you pretentious jerk, you've overlooked something."

"And that would be?" He asks in disdainful disbelief.

"I still have the disc."

"What?!" He's incredulous.

She fishes out a disc from her jacket. It looks identical to the one he has. "It's fun being in an abandoned office building. discs lying around everywhere for someone to pick up if they only think to. You know if you bad guys only thought to label your discs with, I don't know, 'nefarious deeds' or something's, than you could avoid these mix ups." She adds facetiously.

"You bi-"

"Ah ah." She can't help but taunt him." Don't want to say something that'll tick me off, than who knows what I might do to your precious disc. Now hand over Erica. Then, I suggest you run Seth. Run far, far away from here and from me before the cops come after you."

"You think I'll let you get the chance to call the cops on me?" He asks enraged.

The sudden sound of nearing sirens fill the air, growing insistently closer.

"Did I forget to mention I already took care of that?" Frankie asks.

"You'll regret this Mary-Francis. You'll wish you were dead before we're done with you."

"How many times I gotta tell ya Seth, the name's Frankie." She states.

They're at a standstill.

"Hurry Seth," Frankie waggles the disc. " Give me Erica and you can take the disc to your boss and run. Or just run. But your time's running out."

An evil desperation grows in Seth Fury. He starts to sweat. The sound of the sirens draws ever closer, like a ticking bomb.

"Fine, you want her. Take her. But say goodbye to your girlfriend!!" He adds after brutally pushing Erica to fall towards them and cover him partially as he takes aim at Bianca.

"NO!!" Frankie screams and throws herself in front of Bianca and fires her gun just when he shoots his. The double explosion of bullets drowns out the cries of Bianca and Erica as Frankie falls back against Bianca who instinctively catches her as she falls. Seth too, is blown back by the force of the shot he took and is thrown so hard against the glass window that breaks. Seth falls through with a horrid crashing sound of shattering glass.

Bianca holds a bleeding Frankie in her arms, tears spilling over her wide eyes.

Frankie? FRANKIE!"


Chapter 6h

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Seth went to shoot Bianca but instead Frankie took the bullet (b/c she rocks) and in the process shot Seth who crashed through the window and fell to the concrete below.

setting: Enchantment. Erica's office. Bianca's cradling a shot, bleeding Frankie. Erica's beside her daughter.

"Frankie? Frankie, please wake up! Please!!" Bianca almost shakes the woman in her arms in her distress.

Frankie can barely open her eyes. "Tha' you Bianca...la?"

Bianca is rocking Frankie, unaware of her actions. "Yes!, Yes, it's me Frankie. You have to stay with me okay? Promise me you'll stay with me. You're going to be alright."

"Yer not mad at me?" A tear streaks down Frankie's face.

"Mad..? No, oh no Frankie. I'm not mad at you. You haven't done anything wrong." Erica looks at her daughter at that.

"Take this Bianca, hold it on her wound keeping pressure on it. I'm going to call 911." She hands her daughter a rolled up shirt that was with some other racked clothes in the room, saying nothing more..

A figure suddenly looms in the doorway, gun drawn.

The two fully conscious women gasp in reaction.

"Everything alright here?" Anna asks putting the gun down upon not seeing any immediate targets, but she doesn't put the gun away. Walking into the room her eyes scanning everything. Seeing Frankie, she kneels down on the side opposite of Bianca. "So how are you doing?"

"Shot." Frankie gets out.

Anna peels the already half-soaked shirt away to check out the wound. She turns her over slightly. "Looks like it went through. That's a good thing. " She tells both Bianca and Frankie. "You just hang in there hero. The ambulance was right behind me. After the doctors patch you up, you and I are going to have a long talk about cowboy tendencies alright?"

Frankie breathes a soft " 'k." before passing out.

"Frankie?” Bianca asks worriedly. She looks over at Anna. "Is she going to be alright?"

Anna, with compassion says, "I honestly don't know Bianca. The bullet might have grazed her heart, or her lung, or even an artery. But the sooner we get her to the hospital the better." Some police officers and an EMT unit come in at that moment. "There they are. Excuse me Bianca. I'm sure she'll be alright."

The EMT take attend to Frankie and Bianca who stays as close as possible, all her attention only for the woman lying on the ground.

Anna holsters her gun approaching the police. "Hey guys, thanks for coming so quickly. There seems to be only the one perpetrator on the ground below. As for-"

"What is going on here?" Erica Kane demands, stalking over to Anna. "How did the police and ambulance get here so quickly and what do *you* have to do with any of this?"

"You're welcome for my bringing you the Calvary Erica. " Anna quips with no small amount of disdain. I'm involved with the police, a liaison of sorts thanks to your boyfriend Christopher Stamp. Not that it's any of your business. " She relents in her antagonism slightly. "I called the ambulance on a separate phone after receiving Frankie's call."

"Frankie called you." Erica states incredulously.

"Yes, she did." As the police begin to document the crime scene Anna spies what she's looking for. "There it is." She retrieves the cell phone on the floor. "Lucky for you Frankie thinks quickly on her feet. She dialled my number and I cold hear most of the exchange between you all. I immediately made my way over and called for back up along with an ambulance in case things went sour."

Erica crosses her arms and huffs. "Fine do whatever cloak and dagger thing it is that you do, my daughter needs me."

She goes over to where Bianca is rising with the Emits and Frankie who's now on a stretcher with IV, a blood unit et al. The EMTs saying various medical terms to each other.

Erica puts her arms around her daughter. It's going to be alright sweetheart. You'll see. We'll get through this."

They leave to go to the hospital leaving Anna and the crime scene behind them.



Next time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy:

How serious is the Frankie's condition?

Erica's reactions to what happened.

More on Seth.

Anna and Jackson have a discussion.



Chapter 6i

Dedication: For all of you hanging in for the long haul. Even though this story arc is in part winding down, there's still plenty yet to come,;)

Last time on Alt AMC's Dichotomy: Seth went to shoot Bianca but instead Frankie took the bullet (b/c she rocks) and in the process shot Seth who crashed through the window and fell to the concrete below. Anna came in with the Calvary and the wounded Frankie is off to the hospital with Bianca in tow.

setting: The hospital.

Paramedics are rushing Frankie in. Bianca is right behind them.

Vanessa is in the emergency. Upon seeing Frankie she throws herself on her.

"Oh my poor dear niece oh what have they done to you?!" Her hands during her histrionics, stealthily and quickly search Frankie's pockets, finding a disc which she slips into her own purse while the staff try to pry her away from the wounded Frankie who keeps going in and out of consciousness.

David strides in. "Mother?"

An intern fills him in. "A girl was shot. This woman threw herself on her. She must be her mother or something." Having misunderstood David's response.

He sees Bianca while approaching the gurney. "Bianca? What are you doing here?" He recognizes who's laying there bleeding. "Frankie? My god." He examines the wound." Bullet hole, gone through but we won't be able to tell if there are any fragments left without doing exploratory surgery and make sure it hasn't damaged any internal organs or her spine. Get her into room 2. Stat! I'll see to her myself." He turns towards his still cavorting mother. "Mother can the melodrama and get out of here! Everyone knows how little you give a damn about any of your so-called precious family." He strides off ignoring her pleas.

"How cruel he can be. Can you believe that?" She says to no one in particular. "My own son." She turns on her heel and departs the premises, a smirk gracing her face as she leaves.

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

<some hours later>

Bianca is sitting in the waiting room. Erica comes by and sits beside her with a cup of coffee for her.

Bianca accepts it gratefully. "Thanks mom."

"I really wish you would go home and get some rest sweetheart."

"I can't leave her." Bianca states.

Erica rubs her daughters back soothingly but her regard, unnoticed by the pre-occupied Bianca, is worried.

David walks out of the ER, exhausted, dressed in scrubs. They both rise to meet him.

"How is she?" Bianca asks.

"Well Bianca, we found some fragments that we had to remove. Some of them were lying against arteries and it was very tricky. A couple were close to her heart. One was right against it. There were some complications."

Bianca can barely breathe to ask, she's so afraid of the possible answer. Erica holds her daughter tightly and asks for her. "What does that mean David? Will she be alright?"

"There was some tearing from the fragment. I had to basically stitch a part of her heart. She came out of surgery fine. But we have to be careful about the stitching and the scar tissue that will form on her heart. The next day or two are critical to avoid any infection or the wound tearing open again."

"And what if it did get infected again or tore?"

"The damage to her heart might become severe. I don't want to give you any illusions about her condition Bianca. The tear was close to her aorta. Do you know what that is?"

"It's one of the heart valves right?"

"Yes, that's right. Now if the scarring grows over even a part of that or pulls on it, it could cause arterial blockage. That could lead to a blood clot which would prove fatal or at the very least paralyse her.. If she gets an infection...that could damage her heart."

Even Erica is aghast. "Are you saying she could die?"

"I'm saying that if those complications occur it could be a possibility. That's why her condition has to be monitored so closely for the next 36 hours. If the wound heals properly and no infection occurs, she should be alright."

"But you're saying she could die." Bianca cries, her mother is all that's holding her up at this point.

David gently takes her by the shoulders and guides her back into her chair. "Listen to me closely Bianca, this is only a possibility. Yes, the next several hours of her recovery are crucial but she's a very strong young woman. And I've taken every precaution possible. Besides, I am the best doctor here Bianca. She's in the best hands possible. Alright?"

"Can -can I see her?"

"I'm afraid not yet. She's in intensive care right now. I know this is hard for you but the best thing you could do for her, which I know she would want, is for you to take care of yourself right now. There's nothing you can do for her at the moment. You've all been through quite a shock and need your rest so that you can be strong for her when she needs you. Okay?"

Bianca nods but doesn't move.

David stands as Erica takes his hands. "Thank you so much David."

He pats her hand, "You're welcome Erica. Bianca." He goes back into the ER.

A hospital staff member approaches them. "Uhm, excuse me, are you the ones here for Miss Mary-Francis Stone?"

"I suppose you can say that." Erica allows.

"She's called Frankie." Bianca states, somewhat numbly.

The staff holds out a clipboard with forms. " I need these forms for her insurance to be filled out by one of you."

"We're not her family." Erica states.

"Alright but someone has to pay for her care."

"I'll take care of that." Jackson Montgomery steps forward having just strode into the hospital looking for his family.

"Jack." Erica goes to him relieved.

"How are my girls doing?" He asks compassionately.

"Oh we're holding up Jack but I think we both need our rest."

"It's been a long night that's for certain. And you Bianca, how are you holding up?"

"I'm fine uncle Jack. Are you here for us to answer some more questions for the police?"

"No, no, we do have some question we'd like to ask you but with the statements you both made earlier, it's nothing that can't wait until you've gotten yourself some shut-eye. Come her you." He holds her dearly to him. "You know how very grateful I am that you're both safe and sound don't you?" He kisses the top of her head. "I don't know what I would do if anything happened to either of you."

He releases her partially and puts an arm around Erica. "So can I get you both a ride by one of the police to take you home?"

Bianca gently pushes away from him. "Maybe in a bit. I'd like to stop at the chapel first."

"Bianca.." whatever Erica was about to say she changes her mind and nods instead. "You go on ahead dear. We'll wait for you here."

Bianca walks off.

"Tell me Erica, how are you both doing really."

"Oh Jack, when that horrible man put that gun on my baby...I thought I was going to lose her forever-" she breaks down crying. Jackson enfolds her in his arms making soothing noises to her.

"You don't have to worry. He's never going near Bianca or you again."

"I know." She sniffs. Pulling away from him slightly. "I’ll make sure she's never hurt like this again."

"What are you talking about Erica?"

"Isn't it obvious Jack? I have to protect her from that criminal!"

"Erica, sweetheart, Mr. Fury can't hurt anyone anymore."

"Not him Jack," she pulls away a sudden fierceness and anger in her tone and stance. "I mean that criminal lying in the ICU who you offered to pay the medical expenses for! I'm talking about that Mary-Francis person who almost killed my daughter!!"

"Now Erica you listen here. You're exhausted and you've been through a terrible ordeal but Frankie saved you and Bianca. She wasn't the one who pulled a gun and kidnapped you both, held you hostage and tried to kill Bianca. She's in that hospital bed right now because she took the bullet meant for Bianca so yes, by God I am going to see that she gets the best care possible. For Bianca’s sake as well as for hers."

"But that's what I'm talking about Jack, Bianca's sake! If it weren't for Frankie involving her, involving my company and trying to get to me through my daughter than Bianca's life would never have been in danger in the first place! And I'm going to see to it that , that , that criminal, " she pits the words out, "gets what she deserves and never goes near my baby again!!"

"Erica," Jack warns her, lowering his voice, "the way you're talking right now isn't going to help you or Bianca let alone that poor girl in there fighting for her very life! Now I'm willing to chalk this up to fatigue and shock but if you pursue this in any way, I guarantee you that you will lose Bianca forever. She loves that girl. And from what I can tell, Frankie loves her back. That is not something you or I or anyone can get between."

"Lose her Jack? If I don't protect my daughter than I might lose her forever, just as I almost lost her tonight!" She tears out of the room to go gather her daughter.

Jackson is left standing there shaking her head.

"Trouble?" A lilting British voice asks from behind him.

He turns around to see Anna Duvane there. "I hope not."

"Hmm" She chooses wisely not to pursue it. "I came by to ask if you got any info on our man Seth Fury?"

" 'our man' ?" he echoes. "We, the police, did a background check and for a man who seems to have been so closely linked to Proteus he came back squeaky clean on paper."

"Yes well," she hands him a folder, "my sources came back with a bit more. Seems he has a few Cayman bank accounts and another one in Switzerland with extremely sizeable funds for a man who is listed as unemployed. Also there's some travel records, he's collected quite a number of stamps on his numerous, very fake passports and alias's to go with them."

Jackson looks over the papers. "Do I even want to know how you got his?"

Anna smirks, "No, probably not."

"Well thank you Anna. This will definitely come in handy. And if we're very lucky. We might even get a few words from the man himself."

"What, are you telling me Seth Fury is still alive?"

"Barely. Several internal injuries including skull fractures and massive head trauma. They don't expect him to live through the night."

"Damn, than we've lost our one good lead to Proteus."

"No," Jackson corrects her, "The other lead we have is lying in ICU. I've already put two guards at her door. I pray she has the answer we need otherwise Erica might be more right than she knows."

"What are you saying Jackson?"

"That Proteus isn't going to let a witness to his activities just walk away. No, I'm afraid our only possible link to breaking this case wide open is fighting for her life, and I'm scared to death that it won't be the last time she'll have to fight should Proteus get a hold of her."

<scene fades over to seeing Frankie lying in ICU, covered in tubes, an oxygen mask, machines beeping gently in the background>

<fade to black>