''Sorry.'' Chris says, bending down to pick up the pieces of shattered glasses that he sent crashing to the floor. 

''It's okay honey, I'll get it -- what's with you, you're never this clumsy.'' Jessie comments. 

''They just slipped by accident.'' Chris says nervously. 

''Well, I'm sorry about this Kim, he can usually make a better impression than this.'' Jessie says. 

''It's okay -- Chris and I have met already.'' Kim says, as Chris glares at her. ''At work -- we've already worked together.'' 

''Oh -- well, I figured you might have. I hope he's been nice to you -- you have, haven't you, Chris?'' Jessie asks. 

''Oh, he's been very kind to me -- we even had lunch together.'' Kim comments. 

''In the cafeteria -- at work.'' Chris adds. 

''Well, that's good -- usually he's such a loner. It's about time you started making more friends, Chris.'' Jessie says.

''Oh, Chris and I have already gotten to know each other quite well.'' Kim says. 

''Jess -- when's dinner gonna be ready?'' Chris asks. 

''It's almost done -- I'll be right back.'' Jessie says, and leaves the room. Chris glares at Kim. 

''So that's your girlfriend, huh?'' Kim asks. 

''Like you didn't know.'' Chris says. 

''Hey, I had no idea until we showed up here. So that's why you didn't want me -- I was just a way for you to kill time while Jessie was out of town, wasn't I?'' 

''It wasn't like that.'' Chris says. ''Look -- Jessie doesn't know anything, and I want to keep it that way. She'd never understand --- please, don't tell her.'' 

''Oh, I won't say a word. I like Jessie. And besides -- I'm sure she'll figure out on her own what her boyfriend is REALLY like.'' Jessie enters the room with dinner. 

''Well, I hope you guys are getting better acquainted.'' Jessie says, as she sets a bottle of wine and three glasses on the dinner table. 

''Oh, definitely.'' Kim says, and she takes the wine bottle and glasses Jessie has brought out and pours wine for everyone. ''How about a toast -- to new friendships.'' Kim says. Chris reluctantly clinks glasses with her, and then downs the entire glass of wine in one gulp and slinks back in his chair. 

''I just don't know why you needed me to come with you.'' Eve says, as she and Patrick enter the restaurant. 

''How about just for support? I thought you were excited about this research.'' Patrick says. 

''I am for you, but -- come on, you know research isn't my field. I'm more of a hands-on doctor.'' 

''Oh, come on, once you started going over those notes of mine I could barely tear you away from them.'' 

''Yeah, but this is the business end of things, Patrick -- you're much better at that than I am.'' Eve tells him. 

''Look -- I know this stuff bores you to tears -- but I'll make it up to you later, I promise.'' Patrick says, taking her hand and kissing it as they're seated at the table. Shortly afterward, Mr. Howe arrives and joins them. 

''Dr. Reardon -- good to see you again.'' the main says, shaking Patrick's hand. ''I see you brought your colleague with you.'' 

''I hope you don't mind.'' Patrick says. 

''Of course not -- I always enjoy being in the company of a beautiful woman.'' Mr. Howe says. Eve just glares at him. ''So -- Dr. Reardon -- I've spent the afternoon looking over your proposal.'' 

''What do you think?'' Patrick asks. 

''Well -- for one thing, I'm concerned that this isn't your primary field. You don't have that much experience in this type of drug -- who's to say any research you do will prove useful?'' Mr. Howe asks. 

''I take my research very seriously, Mr. Howe. Of course, there are no guarantees, but -- I know if given the chance I wouldn't disappoint you.'' Patrick tells him. 

''Well -- then there's the concern of test patients. Who on earth would you get to agree to be part of this type of drug test? You'd obviously have to find a patient with a long history of mental instability, and I seriously doubt you'd find any family member who'd allow someone to undergo such a radical treatment.'' Mr. Howe comments. 

''Just leave that up to me, Mr. Howe -- I'll find the volunteers somehow.'' Patrick says, just as his pager goes off. ''I need to answer this -- I'll be right back.'' Patrick leaves the table. 

''So -- what do you think about Dr. Reardon's research, Eve?'' Mr. Howe asks. 

''I think Patrick is a wonderful doctor, and I really think this research could help a lot of people if he's given the chance to pursue it.'' Eve tells him. 

''You know what -- so do I. So I'll make you a deal. My company will give Patrick all the funding he wants -- on one condition.'' 

''What?'' Eve asks. 

''We always had a lot of fun together, Eve. I was so disappointed when I found out you left the business. I never even got to say goodbye. So I was thinking -- how about one last night -- for old time's sake?'' Eve looks stunned. 

''You're a pig!'' she says. 

''Hey -- I see nothing wrong here. I get something I want, and your boyfriend gets to do his research. That's fair, isn't it? Think about it.'' Patrick comes back to the table. 

''Sorry about that.'' Patrick says. ''So -- where were we?'' 

''Actually, I have to be going, I got an important call while you were away.'' Mr. Howe says. 

''Have you made a decision yet?'' Patrick asks. 

''I'm sorry, Dr. Reardon, but I just can't make a commitment to fund your research right now. I have to discuss it with some other people -- I should have an answer for you in a few days. I'll be in touch. Oh, and -- nice seeing you again, Dr. Lambert.'' Mr. Howe says, and walks away. 

''Patrick, I --'' Eve begins. 

''Hey -- don't worry. He just said he hasn't made his decision yet. That wasn't a definite ‘no'.'' 

''Patrick -- have tried any other companies? I mean, someone else might make you a better offer -- shouldn't you look at all of your options?'' Eve asks. 

''Eve, this is the most respected company out there -- if they turn my research down, nobody else will even consider it. I just have to convince Mr. Howe that this is a good investment. Now let's order dinner, okay?'' 

''Actually, I'll just have a small salad -- I'm really not that hungry all of a sudden.'' Eve says, trying to hide her true emotions. 

Kevin enters the Lighthouse, and heads straight for his office den. A few minutes later, Lucy enters the room. ''Doc -- I didn't hear you come in.'' Lucy says, walking up behind Kevin, who is sitting in front of the computer. 

''Sorry.'' Kevin says, focused on what is on the computer screen. 

''You got home late last night, too -- Kevin, I want to spend some time with you. Our lives have been turned upside-down by that maniac Ryan, and I just got you back and I -- Doc, are you listening to me?!'' Lucy shouts. 

''I'm sorry, Lucy -- what did you say?'' Kevin asks, turning around. 

''Doc -- please don't do this. When Ryan was -- Doc, he spent all of his time in here, and I knew I was growing further and further away from you, but -- well it wasn't you, it was him, and -- I just want us to spend some time making up for everything, and --'' 

''I know.'' Kevin says, interrupting. He gets up and puts his arms around Lucy. ''I've been trying to catch up with my patients when I should be with my family. I'm sorry.'' Kevin says. 

''Well -- okay then.'' Lucy says. 

''Tell you what -- I won't plan on doing anything tomorrow except spending the day with you and the twins. Just us as a family. How does that sound?'' 

''That sounds wonderful.'' Lucy says, wrapping her arms around him and kissing him passionately. ''But you know, Doc -- I'd really like to just get away for awhile. Just pack our bags and go off on a vacation -- maybe for a week or two. I think we deserve it after all we've been through.'' 

''Lucy -- I can't go away for that long. I'm sorry.'' 

''But why not?'' Lucy asks. 

''I have patients to take care of, Lucy. I want to get back into my practice.'' 

''But can't that wait, Doc?'' 

''I'm afraid this can't. I'm sorry Lucy.'' Kevin tells her. 

''Doc -- please don't tell me you're doing one of those twin study thingies again -- because the last time we dealt with Ryan, you went into that dark, dark place and --'' 

''Lucy -- I'm not doing a twin study. I just have this patient that I'm a bit concerned about. We've had sessions the last two days, I'm just starting to gain his trust, and I don't think I can abandon him right now.'' 

''Well, you always have been very dedicated to your work. But I want some time with you too, Doc -- we lost so much time already.'' 

''I know -- and once things are a little bit more stable with this patient, we can do whatever you like, go wherever you want to go -- I promise.'' Kevin says. 

''Well, okay -- I guess. But this patient person of yours can't have you tonight, so you just turn off that computer and get yourself upstairs right now, mister!'' Lucy says. 

''I've got a better idea.'' Kevin says, sitting back down at his desk. 

''Doc! You promised you wouldn't --'' 

''You haven't heard my idea yet, Lucy. Now -- why go upstairs -- down here there's a lot less of a chance that we'll wake the kids up.'' Kevin teases, and he reaches for Lucy and pulls her onto his lap. ''How's this for a fun evening?'' 

''Absolutely perfect.'' Lucy says, as Kevin lifts her up onto the desk, kissing her up and down her body . . . . . . . . 

July 2, 2001 -- Eve is in the on call room, pouring herself a cup of coffee. She accidentally spills some onto the floor. ''Dammit!'' she shouts, just as Chris enters the room. 

''Still as clumsy as ever, I see.'' Chris comments. 

''Oh, shut up Ramsey, will you!'' Eve shouts. 

''Hey -- I was only joking. What's your problem?'' Chris asks. 

''None of your damned business.'' Eve says. 

''Oh, I see -- you can pry into MY personal life all you want, but yours is off limits.'' 

''What personal life.'' Eve says. 

''What do you mean? Last I heard, you were all ga-ga over Dr. Wonderful. Has that changed?'' Chris asks. Eve starts to cry, and sits down. ''Hey -- did he do something to you? Cause you just say the word and I'll handle him personally.'' he says, sitting down next to her. 

''Patrick hasn't done anything -- it's me.'' Eve says. 

''You? Eve, what's going on?'' Chris asks. 

''Chris, I don't know what to do. Patrick has this research project he's working on, and it needs funding. And the rep he's working with is a former -- well, let's just say I knew him before.'' 

''Okay -- have you told Patrick this?'' 

''I can't tell Patrick about my past, Chris -- he'd never understand.'' 

''Hey, I haven't held it against you -- you got out of that life a long time ago. It doesn't affect who you are now.'' 

''But Patrick is -- Chris, he's nothing like any of the other guys I've ever gone out with. And he told me that his wife was the only --'' Eve stops herself. 

''Oh, come on Eve. Are you serious? He's really that much of a goody-goody?'' Chris asks, a look of surprise on his face. 

''How can I tell him, Chris? How can I tell him that I used to be nothing more than a common whore?'' 

''Who said you have to? Has this rep said anything?'' 

''No, not to Patrick.'' Eve says. ''But Chris, he -- he told me that he wants one more night of -- reminiscing. And if I don't -- his company won't fund Patrick's research.'' 

''Well, I guess you're gonna have to sleep with him then.'' Chris says. Eve looks shocked. 

''What!'' Eve shouts. 

''Look, I'm assuming you don't want Patrick to lose out on this funding, so you've got two choices --- you either tell Patrick about your past and what this low-life is blackmailing you with, or you sleep with the guy and feel guilty about it for the rest of your life. And if Reardon is half the decent guy he claims to be, he won't hold your past against you any more than I did. And if he does, you don't deserve him anyway.'' Chris' pager goes off. ''Think about it.'' he says, and leaves the room. 

July 5, 2001 -- Jessie and Kim are in the cafeteria having lunch. ''So -- how was your holiday?'' Kim asks. 

''Not that exciting -- both Chris and I worked a 12-hour shift yesterday.'' Jessie tells her. ''You?'' 

''Oh, I just went shopping for new furniture -- I'm still trying to get settled into my new apartment.'' Kim says. ''I love your place, by the way -- how long have you and Chris been living there?'' 

''Oh, I bought the house late last year -- Chris just moved in with me about a month ago.'' 

''Really? So you two haven't been together that long then.'' 

''Well, we've been together officially since February, but -- off and on before that. We've got a kind of complex relationship.'' 

''Sounds like it.'' Kim says. ''I take it you met him here at work.'' 

''Yeah -- so, are you seeing anyone?'' Jessie asks. 

''Well -- kind of.'' Kim admits. ''I met this guy a couple of weeks ago, and -- we really hit it off right away. But he's still trying to get over his girlfriend.''

''Oh, one of those. I've been in those situations before, I'd give it up if I were you.'' 

''I don't know -- I really think this could work out between us. I just think he needs some more time to think things over.'' 

''Well, good luck -- I'm sure glad those days are over for me. Chris and I are committed to each other for the long haul.'' Jessie says, and her pager goes off. ''Well, so much for my lunch break -- I'll see you later.'' Jessie gets up and leaves. 

''Committed, huh? We'll see about that.'' Kim says to herself. 

Kevin is in his office on the phone. ''Look -- tell him I'll be there tomorrow. I can't get out there every night, as much as he wants me to. Tell him I'm doing research for his case. I know he'll be upset -- look, you said you could handle the situation. If you can't I can always find another facility that can.'' Kevin says, hanging up the phone. Frustrated, he starts to go through a stack of memos on his desk. He comes across one that catches his interest. He quickly picks up the phone. ''Gail -- I've got a memo here about a Dr. Reardon. Who is he?'' 

''He's a new hire -- he works primarily in the lab.'' Gail tells him on the other end of the phone. 

''This research he's trying to get funded -- is this for real?'' Kevin asks. 

''He thinks it is. I don't know what to think right now, Kevin -- but this Dr. Reardon supposedly knows what he's doing, he's very well respected in the research field. Did you have a patient you might want to consider for his study?'' 

''No, I just -- I was just curious, that's all. Thanks Gail.'' Kevin says, and he hangs up the phone. 

''Dr. Reardon -- you just might have the answers I've been looking for.'' Kevin says to himself. 

''You've been really quiet tonight.'' Patrick says, as they enter his apartment. ''Is something wrong?'' 

''No, nothing.'' Eve says. 

''Come here.'' Patrick says, leading Eve to the couch. They both sit down, and Patrick wraps his arms around Eve. ''You know you can tell me, whatever it is.'' 

''It's -- it's not important.'' Eve tells him. 

''Somehow I don't believe that.'' Patrick says. ''But if you don't want me to know -- I can't make you tell me.'' Eve remains quiet. ''I guess I should check my messages.'' Patrick says a few minutes later, and starts to get up. ''Mr. Howe was supposed to call me and let me know his decision.'' He starts to move toward the answering machine. 

''Patrick, wait.'' Eve says. ''I do need to tell you something.'' Patrick sits back down. 

''What is it?'' he asks. 

''You're not getting that funding, Patrick -- I'm sorry.'' Eve tells him. 

''You don't know that.'' 

''Yes I do.'' Eve says. ''Mr. Howe used to -- I knew him before. A long time ago.'' Eve says reluctantly. 

''From where?'' Patrick asks. 

''Patrick -- there are some things you don't know about me. Some things I -- I didn't want you to know.'' 

''Eve -- I know that you're beautiful, you're smart, and I haven't been this happy in a long time. So whatever you tell me, it can't be that bad.'' 

''Yes it can.'' Eve says. ''Patrick, I -- I know Mr. Howe because he used to be a client of mine.'' 

''You mean he was a patient?'' Patrick asks. 

''No -- he was a customer. A regular customer. A long time ago, I -- I was a hooker, Patrick.'' Eve says, tears streaming down her face. 
 
 

Patrick stares at Eve for a moment, stunned. ''Eve -- why are you saying this?'' he finally asks. 

''Because I had to. I had to tell you. I didn't want to, but I had to.'' Eve replies, crying. 

''Look, if you don't want to see me anymore, just tell me, okay? But don't make up lies.'' Patrick says, looking a bit angry. 

''It's not a lie, Patrick. I was a hooker. And Mr. Howe was a client of mine. A regular. For about a year.'' Patrick doesn't say a word, and gets up and walks over to the window, looking outside. After a few minutes, Eve walks up behind him and put her hand on his shoulder. ''Patrick --'' she begins. 

''Don't touch me.'' Patrick says in a monotone voice. 

''I'm sorry. I never wanted you to find out.'' Patrick turns around. 

''You never planned on telling me this?'' he asks. 

''Chris told me I should, but --'' 

''Chris knows about this? Who else knows, huh? Does the whole damn town know your little secret? Everybody but me, huh?'' Patrick asks, shouting angrily. 

''It's not like that, Patrick.'' Eve says, still in tears. 

''Do I look like a FOOL to you? I can't believe you would keep this from me -- that you would keep something so important from me, knowing that I'm starting to --'' Patrick stops. 

''Starting to what?'' Eve asks. 

''It doesn't matter.'' Patrick says. 

''Patrick, if you'll just let me explain.'' Eve begs. 

''I don't need an explanation.'' 

''Yes, you do. Patrick -- I was really young. My sister -- she was hurt in a really bad accident, and she was disfigured. She was so beautiful, and this happened, and -- I needed the money to help her. I didn't know what else to do.'' Eve tells him. 

''You never heard of government assistance?'' Patrick asks. 

''Don't you DARE judge me! I didn't have any other choice!'' 

''We all have choices, Eve.'' Patrick remarks. 

''You mean like the choice you made when you walked out on Chris and his family when you found them? When you were just a little bit older than I was when my sister had her accident? Was that the right choice too, Patrick?'' Eve asks. Patrick doesn't say a word. ''Maybe Chris was right about you after all.'' Eve grabs her purse and starts to walk out the door. 

''Eve.'' Patrick says, walking toward her. Eve turns around. ''I'm sorry.'' he whispers. Eve comes back into the apartment and closes the door, setting her purse down. Patrick walks up to her and hugs her. ''I'm sorry.'' he says again, and they walk over to the couch, their arms around each other, and sit down. 

''I'm not proud of what I did. And I'll spend the rest of my life regretting it. Especially because of what -- what my past has done to you.'' Eve says. 

''Hey -- it's okay. I'll deal with this -- I just need some time. I'm not gonna lose you over this.'' Patrick says. 

''Even if it's my fault that you don't get your funding?'' Eve asks. 

''How is it your fault?'' Patrick asks. 

''Mr. Howe, he -- he told me that he wanted me to -- that I'd have to -- reminisce with him for a night. And if I didn't, he -- his company won't fund your research. I'm sorry, Patrick. I never meant for this to happen.'' Patrick gets a look of anger in his eyes that Eve has never seen before, and suddenly gets up and heads for the door. ''Patrick, where are you --'' Eve begins, but Patrick just ignores her, and storms out of the apartment, fuming. ''Patrick!'' Eve shouts at him, but he continues to walk away. Eve goes back into the apartment, and sits down on the floor in front of the door, in tears. 

Patrick pounds on the hotel room door furiously. After a few seconds, the door opens. ''Dr. Reardon -- I assume you got my message.'' Mr. Howe says, as Patrick pushes his way into the hotel room. ''Look, it's not that your research wasn't --'' 

''You lousy, rotten, son of a bitch!'' Patrick shouts angrily, and he grabs Mr. Howe and shoves him against the wall. ''Give me one good reason why I shouldn't strangle you right here and now!'' Patrick shouts, and he punches the man in the jaw, knocking him to the ground. Mr. Howe gets up and punches him back, and reaches for the phone and dials the operator. 

''I need hotel security in here now!'' he shouts frantically into the phone, as Patrick, totally enraged, gets up and grabs him from behind, and tries to choke him. Mr. Howe elbows him in the ribs, breaking free from his grip, and shoves him forcefully against the wall, causing Patrick to fall to the ground, dazed. ''Your career is FINISHED, Reardon!'' Mr. Howe shouts, just as security enters the room. ''I want this man arrested for assault and attempted murder!'' Mr. Howe shouts, and the security men handcuff Patrick and lead him away. 

Chris is sitting in his living room, watching television, when the telephone rings. ''Dammit, don't people know not to call during a game.'' Chris says to himself, and grudgingly answers the phone. ''Hello.'' he says in a disgruntled tone. 

''Is Jessie there?'' the voice on the other end asks. 

''Is that you Reardon?'' Chris asks. 

''Just let me talk to Jessie.'' Patrick says. 

''Jessie got called in for the overnight shift, three nurses called in sick. Call back tomorrow.'' Chris says, clearly annoyed, and starts to hang up. 

''Chris, don't hang up! It's important.'' Patrick says. 

About 30 minutes later, Chris enters the PCPD offices. ''Where is he?'' Chris asks. 

''I take it you mean Dr. Reardon.'' Taggart replies. ''He's in the interrogation room.'' Taggart escorts Chris to the room. ''You've got company.'' Taggart says to Patrick, and lets Chris into the room. 

''Thank you for coming.'' Patrick says to him. 

''I'm missing a good game, you know.'' Chris remarks. ''Why didn't you call Eve?'' 

''She wasn't answering her phone. And I didn't have time to track her down. The only other person I knew would help me was Jessie, but --'' 

''But you got me instead. So -- what's the other guy look like?'' Chris asks, noting Patrick's bruised face and swollen jaw. 

''About the same.'' Patrick says. 

''I take it you want me to bail you out of here.'' Chris says. 

''I don't have any kind of record -- they'll let me out on bail tonight -- I'll pay you back as soon as --'' 

''Yeah, yeah -- give me one good reason why I should do this.'' Chris says. 

''Because Jessie will be mad as hell at you if you don't.'' Patrick says. Chris sighs. 

''Alright, fine. But you owe me BIG for this one.'' 

''Thanks.'' Patrick says. 

''What the hell are you doing getting into brawls, anyway? I didn't think a goody-two-shoes like you would be into violence.'' 

''I'm not -- I was just really mad -- I don't know what came over me, but -- what this guy did to Eve was just --'' 

''Wait a minute -- is the guy you went after that jerk rep that was harassing Eve?'' Chris asks. 

''She told you about that too?'' 

''I take it you know now -- and this was your way of handling things, huh?'' 

''Well excuse me, but I'm not exactly an expert on plotting and scheming revenge on others.'' 

''Well, it's about time you learned -- come on, let's get out of here and deal with this situation.'' 

''Deal with it how? Look, I'm already in enough trouble, Chris -- I probably just ruined my entire career tonight, I don't need to --'' 

''Will you just shut up and let me handle things? I'm gonna pay your bail and we're gonna get out of here and take care of this -- my way.'' Chris says. 

About an hour later, Chris and Patrick arrive at the Port Charles Hotel, and are standing outside Mr. Howe's hotel room. ''Chris --- this isn't a good idea.'' Patrick says. 

''Didn't I tell you to shut up? Don't you ever listen? Good Lord, you're a bigger nag than Jessie. Now just keep your big mouth shut and let me do all the talking.'' Chris tells him, and knocks on Mr. Howe's door. Mr. Howe opens it. 

''Can I help you?'' he says. 

''Yeah, you can -- may I come in?'' Chris asks. 

''Who are you?'' Mr. Howe asks him, then sees Patrick standing behind him. ''Wait a minute -- are you a friend of his?'' 

''Actually, no I'm not -- I'm his brother.'' Chris says. 

''Well, then I don't have anything to say to you except I'll see you at your brother's hearing.'' Mr. Howe says, and starts to close the door. 

''Not so fast.'' Chris says, pushing the door open. ''See -- my brother just got a little bit upset. I mean, he was just trying to protect his girl. He let his emotions get the better of him and -- well, he's really sorry about what happened.'' 

''Good for him -- but that doesn't change anything.'' 

''Hey, that's fine with me -- I'd be mad too if I were you. I just hope the press doesn't find out about what you've been up to.'' 

''That's my word against his -- it'll never hold up in court.'' Mr. Howe says. 

''Maybe not, but -- you gotta admit, all those other things will.'' Chris says. 

''What other things?'' Mr. Howe asks, looking a bit nervous. 

''Chris -- look, let's just go -- I'm sure once a judge hears --'' Patrick begins. 

''Now, wait a minute Patrick, I'm not finished here. You see, Mr. Howe -- Patrick's girlfriend is a good friend of mine. And when she told me what you were up to -- well, my girlfriend's uncle happens to be a former government agent, and -- he has access to a lot of -- information. Are you getting my drift?'' Mr. Howe looks nervous. 

''What do you want from me?'' Mr. Howe asks. 

''Drop the charges against my brother.'' Chris says. Mr. Howe pauses for a moment. 

''Alright, fine.'' he finally says. Patrick looks stunned. 

''Oh, and not only that -- you will give him that funding. The maximum amount allowable, right?'' Chris says. 

''This is blackmail!'' Mr. Howe says. 

''Hey, that's fine, if you don't want to -- I'll just make a quick phone call and --'' Chris starts to pull out his cellphone. 

''Alright, alright.'' Mr. Howe says, stopping him. He looks at Patrick. ''I'll have the contract drawn up and sent to you first thing in the morning.'' 

''Good. Glad we got this whole mess straightened out. Oh, and -- I'd leave town tomorrow if I were you. People gossip around here like you wouldn't believe. I wouldn't want them to find out anything you don't want them to know.'' Chris says, and he and Patrick leave the room. They head for the elevator. 

''What did you have on him?'' Patrick asks. 

''Nothing.'' Chris says. 

''Nothing?! You blackmailed a guy with NOTHING?!'' 

''Hey, guys like that always have something to hide -- he doesn't know that I don't have a clue what it is. Boy, it must be pretty good, did you see how fast he caved?'' Chris says, grinning. 

''Thank you.'' Patrick says, as they get on the elevator. 

''Hey -- I did this for EVE, just so we're clear on things.'' 

''Of course.'' Patrick says. 

''Besides -- that research of yours will probably net a pretty penny -- and my share of the profits should make me a pretty rich guy.'' Chris says. 

''YOUR share of the profits?'' Patrick asks. 

''What, did you think I was doing this for free? Fifty-percent sounds like a fair amount to me.'' 

''Fifty PERCENT! If you think I'm gonna give you --'' 

''Alright, alright, forty -- hey, I told you, you owe me, big time.'' Patrick sighs. 

''Fine, forty percent -- why does something tell me I'm gonna regret this?'' Patrick says. 

''Welcome to the Ramsey world -- I'm impressed, I didn't think you had it in you.'' Chris teases.

July 6, 2001 -- Eve enters the research lab at GH. She sees Patrick sitting at his desk, working. ''Patrick.'' she says quietly. He doesn't say anything. ''Patrick, I'm sorry -- I know you're mad at me -- I tried to call you this morning, but you didn't answer -- I figured you needed some time alone, and -- I'm sorry you didn't get that funding, it's all my fault. And I understand if you don't --'' Patrick turns around and looks up at Eve, and Eve becomes quiet as she sees his bruised face. ''Oh my God, what happened?'' she asks, immediately approaching him and looking over his injuries. 

''I'm fine.'' Patrick says. Eve notes the swelling on the side of his forehead, and touches it softly as Patrick winces a bit. 

''Did you have this looked at? You could have a concussion.'' Eve says. 

''I'm fine -- Chris had me checked out last night.'' Patrick says. 

''Chris Ramsey Chris?'' Eve asks, surprised. 

''Who else would I be talking about?'' Patrick says. 

''Did he do this to you?'' Eve asks. 

''Of course not!'' Patrick says. ''Why would you ask that?'' 

''I don't know, I -- how did this happen?'' 

''I paid a visit to Mr. Howe last night -- I was pretty angry.'' 

''You did that for me?'' Eve asks. 

''I couldn't just stand by and let him hurt you the way he did -- I guess I could have handled it better, but -- look, don't worry, everything's fine. I got the funding -- even more than I had hoped for.'' 

''How?'' Eve asks. 

''Let's just say that Chris isn't too bad of a person to have on your side at certain times.'' 

''I don't even want to know.'' 

''No, you probably don't.'' Patrick says. ''Eve -- about those things I said last night -- I -- can you forgive me?'' 

''Of course I can -- you had a right to be angry. I should have been honest with you from the beginning.'' Patrick smiles a bit, and takes Eve into his arms and kisses her. 

''No more secrets, okay?'' he whispers. 

''Okay.'' Eve says, kissing him back. ''No more secrets.'' 

Kevin enters Greg's room -- Greg looks surprised to see him. ''I thought you weren't coming until tomorrow.'' Greg says. 

''I wasn't -- but I found something I thought you might be interested in.'' Kevin says. 

''What's that?'' 

''Here.'' Kevin says, handing Greg a piece of paper. Greg looks it over, then looks up at Kevin. 

''What does this have to do with me?'' Greg asks. 

''I think you'd be a good candidate for this drug test.'' Kevin says. 

''You want me to be a guinea pig for some idiot lab geek? Forget it.'' Greg tells him. 

''Dr. Reardon isn't just any research doctor -- he's only one of the top scientists in the country. He's won awards, and he used to run one of the best research labs in New York City. This guy knows his stuff.'' 

''And why would he want to help me?'' Greg asks. 

''He wants patients to help HIM -- I just need to find out more about him personally. I need to know if I can trust him before I bring him into this. If you want me to.'' Greg is quiet. ''It's our best shot, Greg. You say you want to lead a normal life. What if this drug makes that possible for you? What have you got to lose?'' 

''I still don't get why this is so important to you.'' Greg says. Kevin sighs, and looks up at him. ''I got the DNA results back.'' 

''And?'' 

''There's a 99.9% chance that we're related.'' Kevin tells him. 

''You mean -- it's true?'' Greg asks. 

''Yes -- we're brothers.'' Kevin says. 

''Well don't sound so excited.'' Greg says sarcastically. ''So what, are you doing this out of some misguided family duty or something?'' 

''Greg -- don't you see what this means? Every person in my family, except for my cousin, has had some sort of mental breakdown. I have two kids, Greg -- you don't know how many nights I lie awake, wondering what their future will be. If they're gonna end up in a place like this someday. And I'll do anything in my power to stop that from happening. If this drug works, then --'' 

''If they need it someday, they'll have it.'' 

''I love my kids -- I don't want them to have to go through what I did. What any of us did.'' 

''You think I could actually -- improve with this drug?'' Greg asks. 

''Anything is possible.'' 

''And what happens if I do? Then what?'' 

''Then I'll do whatever I can to help you lead a normal life. I promise you that.'' Kevin says. 

''Okay. I want to do it.'' 

''You do?'' 

''You think I enjoy being locked up like this? I'll take the drug.'' Greg says. 

''I'll get in touch with Dr. Reardon -- I'll keep you posted.'' 

''This better not be a lie, bro.'' 

''It's not -- I promise.'' Kevin says, and he leaves. 

Chris enters the hospital cafeteria and sees Jessie and Kim having lunch. They don't notice him, and Chris quietly gets his lunch and slinks off to a table by himself. After a few minutes, Jessie spots him and gets up and walks over to him. ''Hey -- Kim and I are sitting over there, didn't you see us?'' Jessie asks. 

''Oh -- no, sorry, I didn't.'' Chris says. ''Shouldn't you go home and get some sleep, you've been here all night and all morning.'' 

''I'm going to -- Kim and I were just making plans.'' 

''For what?'' Chris asks. 

''We're going shopping tomorrow, we both have the day off.'' 

''Jessie -- I don't know if I like you hanging around her so much.'' 

''Why not? She's really nice, and we have a lot in common.'' Chris tries to hide his nervousness. 

''Look -- there's just something about her I don't trust. Come on, I know shady characters when I see them.'' Jessie laughs. 

''Oh, you're just jealous because it's one more person to steal time with you away. Well don't worry, you'll always come first with me.'' Jessie says, and she kisses him on the cheek. ''I'm going home -- wake me up around dinnertime.'' she says. 

''I will.'' Chris tells her, and Jessie leaves. After a few minutes, Kim approaches Chris. 

''If you're worried about me telling Jessie, I already told you I won't say anything.'' Kim says. 

''How do I know I can trust you?'' Chris asks. 

''If I wanted to spill our little secret, I'd have done it already. I told you, I like Jessie. And she deserves way better than you as far as I'm concerned.'' Kim says, taunting him, then walks away. Patrick walks into the cafeteria in the beginning of their exchange, and notes Chris' uncomfortable demeanor during the conversation. After Kim leaves, Patrick approaches Chris' table. 

''Something up with her?'' he asks. 

''Why would you think that?'' Chris asks him. 

''Because I haven't seen you look that pale since we were in the cabin and you had a 105 degree fever.'' Patrick tells him. 

''Are you always this nosy?'' 

''Hey -- you helped me yesterday. And I just figured if there's any way I could return the favor, then --'' 

''Yesterday was a one-time deal. And when I need your help I'll ask for it. Until then, butt out. Is that clear, Reardon?'' 

''Yeah, sure. Whatever you say.'' Patrick says. 

''Good.'' Chris says, and he gets up and leaves, as Patrick watches him suspiciously. 

July 7, 2001 -- early morning. Kevin enters the lab, and approaches the man sitting at his desk working. ''Excuse me -- I'm looking for Dr. Reardon.'' he says. Patrick turns around. 

''I'm Dr. Reardon -- do I know you?'' 

''We haven't been formally introduced -- I'm Kevin Collins.'' Kevin says, extending his hand. 

''Oh, Jessie's cousin, she's told me about you.'' 

''Is that a good thing or a bad thing?'' Kevin asks. 

''I'm sorry to hear about all you've been through lately -- it must have been pretty rough.'' 

''It was -- but my life is slowly getting back to normal now. I just started back to work recently, and -- I got this memo from Gail Baldwin, about her patient with skin cancer. It was very interesting.'' 

''Thank you -- I'm always glad to hear about colleagues who are interested in my research.'' 

''Oh, I'm very interested. In fact -- I might have a patient who's willing to be a part of your study.'' Kevin tells him. 

''Are you serious?'' Patrick asks. 

''Absolutely.'' Kevin says. ''I'd like to meet with you for dinner one evening and discuss it further --- are you interested?'' Patrick looks thrilled. 

''You just name the time and the place and I'll be there.'' Patrick says. 

''How about tomorrow night at the Port Charles Grille -- around 7 o'clock?'' 

''Sounds good -- I'll get together all of my current data and we'll go from there.'' 

''I'll see you then.'' Kevin says. He shakes hands with Patrick and leaves. 

Later that evening, Kevin enters Greg's room at the psychiatric facility. ''Did you get it?'' Greg asks him. 

''Greg, these things take time. I can't just get a drug like that without going through the proper channels.'' Kevin tells him. 

''I want that medication, dammit! You promised me you'd get it for me!'' 

''I told you I'd look into it -- I don't know this Dr. Reardon very well, I need to make sure we can trust him. You don't want me to involve anyone we can't trust, do you?'' 

''I don't know that I trust YOU, and you're involved.'' Greg comments. 

''Look -- I come out here three times a week, risking my wife's suspicion, and you know how nosy Lucy is, and I haven't told a soul about you. What more do I need to do to prove you can trust me?'' 

''Get me that drug -- then I might think about it.'' 

''I'm trying -- just be patient.'' 

''I'm not too good at being patient, bro -- haven't you figured that out about me yet? I want this Dr. Reardon on my case -- and if you can't get him -- I'll do it myself.'' Greg tells him.