DARKENING OF THE LIGHT

  
 
Chapter
 1-2
Chapter
 3-4
Chapter 
5-6
Chapter
7-8
Chapter 
9-10
Chapter
11-12
Chapter
13-14 
Chapter
15-16
Chapter
17-18
Chapter
19-20
Chapter
 21-22
Chapter
23-24
Chapter
25-26 
Chapter
 27-28
Chapter
 29-30
Chapter
  31-32
Chapter
 33-35
 Chapter
 36
 
Home

 Chapter 5

Lucy paces in the waiting room at Concord.  Gail comes out into the room, where Lucy and Victor are waiting.  "How is he?" Lucy asks.

"We've given him a sedative -- he'll be asleep for awhile." Gail says.

"Thank you so very very much for coming out here -- I mean, I know the doctors here are good, but -- well, Kevin's always trusted you, and -- he was just so upset, I -- I don't know what to think anymore, Gail.  But that painting --"

"Lucy -- this hospital has one of the finest teams around, and I'm sure they'll be able to help Kevin.  At least you know he's in a place where he's safe.  Please call me if you need anything else." Gail says, and leaves.  Victor is still sitting on the couch -- Lucy sits down next to him.

"What if this is all my fault, Lucy?" Victor says.

"Of course this isn't your fault!  Why would you even think that?"  Lucy 
asks.

"If I had been a better father -- maybe this wouldn't be --"

"Now, you just stop that, Victor Collins!  This isn't anybody's fault. I'm -- I'm gonna go see my Doc.  Are you sure Mary doesn't mind watching the twins?"

"Oh, of course not, she loves those babies.  Maybe I should -- go back home though.  She hasn't even gotten to see her boys yet, and -- tell Kevin I'll be back later."
 

"Of course -- I'll be home as soon as I can.  Thank you, Victor." Lucy says.  She give him a hug, and goes into Kevin's room.  She sits down next to his bed and takes his hand.  "Doc -- I wish I knew how to fix all of this for you.  But I don't.  But I promise you -- I will never, ever leave you, Doc.  I'm just going to be strong, and we're going to get through all of this icky, 
icky mess together -- I fought too hard to get you back, there is no way I'm letting you go now."


"Well -- that was a fun evening.  Your family sure knows how to throw a party, Jess." Chris remarks as he and Jessie enter his apartment.

"I don't know what happened, but -- I know Kevin didn't paint that picture.  He couldn't have." Jessie insists.

"Jessie, the guy held a woman at knifepoint at one time -- I wouldn't put anything past him.  I know he's your cousin and all, but -- trust me, sometimes our family isn't who we want them to be.  I could give you a list a mile long about mine that you wouldn't believe." 

"There's gotta be a reasonable explanation for this." Jessie says.

"Well, when you come up with one, let me know." Chris says.  "Look -- I don't want to spend the rest of the day fighting about your family.  Actually, I hate to bring the holiday festivities to such an abrupt end, but -- I've got some of my review notes to go over, and I get the feeling that you'd rather be with Lucy than here, so maybe we should just call it a night."

"Okay." Jessie says, kissing him on the cheek.  "I'm sorry our first holiday together was such a bust."

"Don't worry -- next holiday, we'll visit my family.  See how long it takes for one of them to lift money from our wallets." Chris says jokingly.  Jessie starts to walk out the door.  "Hey -- for whatever it's worth -- Merry Christmas, Jess." 

"Merry Christmas." Jessie says, closing the door behind her.  


January 3, 2001  -- Kevin enters Gail's office.  "Well -- it's good to see you here, Kevin." Gail says.

"Are you sure I'm ready for this, Gail?" Kevin asks.  

"Well -- the staff at Concord say you are -- as long as you continue your sessions with me on a daily basis.  Kevin, there's no reason you shouldn't be living at home, staying in a normal, daily routine?"

"And what exactly is normal about it, Gail?  I don't have a job -- I quit that, rather than risk losing my privileges again.  I'm seeing a shrink every day, I can't be trusted to be alone with my own children, for god's sake.  You call that a normal life?"

"Kevin -- nobody said it would be easy."

"You know what's not easy?  Having all of these things happen to me, things that are completely unexplainable, and then having a team of experts in the psychiatric field tell me that the can't figure out what the hell the problem is."

"I know it must be frustrating." Gail says.

"You have no idea, Gail." Kevin says.  "I just wish I could have some clue -- just one little thing that I can hold onto, to help me get to the bottom of all of this.  But there's nothing there.  It's like -- it's like someone else is living a part of my life, and that's why I can't remember the things I've been doing.  And it scares the hell out of me."


That same afternoon, Chris comes out of his meeting with the review board.  It was over.  He was actually given all of his hospital privileges back.  He couldn't wait to find Jessie and tell her.  If it hadn't been for her help, he doesn't know what might have happened.  They'd certainly have something to celebrate tonight.  He spots Jessie in the hallway, embroiled in what looks 
like a rather heated discussion, and stands in the corner, unnoticed, listening in.

"Jessie, all I'm saying is that you need to be careful where Ramsey is concerned."  Matt tells her.  "You know, haven't you even considered the fact that Chris just might be using his friendship with you to his advantage as far as his career is concerned?"

"Absolutely not!"  Jessie responds.  "Chris wouldn't do that.  You don't know him like I do."

"Jessie, I know him much better than you do!  He almost got me killed.  He almost got half the hospital killed because of his greed!  And those are just the highlights.  Look, Chris Ramsey only cares about one person, and that's himself."

"Jessie, I hate to say this, but Matt is right." she hears someone say.  It's Kevin.  "Sorry to interrupt here, but I have to agree.  Look, I know you don't want to hear this, but from what I've seen, Chris is nothing but a schemer and a troublemaker."

"And just when did this become your business?  You barely know Chris!"  Jessie replies.

"Jessie, I know what I've seen -- you just need to think about what everyone is telling you.  If it were just one or two people, that'd be one thing, but -- well, half of the staff has told you this.  Don't you think that should be a red flag?"  Kevin asks.  "Jessie -- getting involved with someone like Chris could not only hurt you emotionally in the end, but it might have long-lasting ramifications on your career as well.  Just think about it."    Chris stands in the corner, quite upset at what he's just heard, then walks away.  

"Look, why don't you two and everyone else in this damn place just go and find someone else to preach to?  Because I'm not interested."  Jessie storms off  -- Kevin follows her.

"Jessie, wait." Kevin says.  Jessie turns around.  "Hey -- I know I'm not in any position to dispense advice here."

"Good -- then don't." Jessie says.  

"Hey -- isn't it enough for one member of the Collins family to have their world come crashing around them?  You don't need to go through that much grief as well."

"Thanks for the vote of confidence in my judgment ability." Jessie says.  She walks off in anger and goes into the on-call room. 

Chris enters the on-call room.  Jessie looks up. "Hey!" she runs over to him and puts her arms around him.  "How'd it go?"

"Great!"  Chris says.  "You are now looking at a fully reinstated doctor at GH!"

"Oh Chris, that's wonderful!"  Jessie says, and kisses him.  Chris pushes her away.

"Jessie -- we need to talk."  They both sit down.  "I don't think we should be seeing each other as much anymore.  Not as anything more than friends, anyway."

"What are you talking about?"  Jessie asks.  "You don't mean that -- look, if Kevin or anyone else has said anything to you I want you to know that I really don't care what --"

"Nobody's told me anything, Jessie.  You were a big help to me -- I got my job back because of you.  But I don't want you to get the wrong idea or anything."

"Wrong idea?"  Jessie asks.

"Jessie, did you really think I was going out with you cause I wanted to?  Come on -- I've told you I don't know how many times that it just wouldn't work between us."

"You're lying."  Jessie says.  "I know you, Chris -- you feel the same way about me that I feel about you, and you just aren't ready to admit it yet.  But that's okay -- I can wait.  And sooner or later I'm sure you'll --"

Chris stops her.  "No I won't Jessie."  He pauses.  "I only went out with you because I knew you liked me, and -- well I knew that seeing you would be to my advantage in the eyes of the rest of the staff.  And, as always -- I was right!  But it's not fair of me to keep seeing you, when I know that there's no chance at it ever working out."

"No.  What I felt between us -- that was real.  Don't try to tell me it wasn't."  Jessie pleads.

"Look, I know it was an awful thing to, but -- well, that's who I am, Jessie.  Sorry."

Jessie fights back the tears. "Okay -- you want it to be this way?  Fine."  Jessie leaves.

"I'm sorry Jess."  Chris says to himself.  "But it's better this way."  


Feb. 5, 2001 . . . . . . Chris is at the Nurses' station with Jessie -- Dr. Aidan Power, a handsome new surgeon at GH approaches the desk.

"Hey Jessie -- doing anything after work this evening?"  Dr. Power asks.

"Nothing in particular."  Jessie replies, smiling.  "Did you have something in mind?'

"I just wanted to know if you'd like to go over to the Recovery Room with me for drinks after work -- interested?"

"Sure!"  Jessie replies.  "What time do you get off?"

"Three o'clock.  How about you?"

"I think I can manage that.  How about I just meet you there?"  Jessie asks him.

"Sounds good to me!"  Dr. Power replies, and leaves.  Jessie grins, while Chris gives her a very disapproving look.  

"You CAN'T be serious!"  Chris says.  Jessie leaves the station -- Chris follows her.

"Why not?  Aidan seems like a nice enough guy -- and it's not like anyone else is showing any great deal of interest in me!"

"Nice guy???  The guy's a pompous JERK!"  Chris angrily replies.

"Takes one to know one I guess," Jessie says, trying to ignore him.

"Look, I just think you should get to know him a little better, that's all.  He's only been here a couple of weeks -- not enough time if you ask me."  Chris states.

Jessie stops in the hall and glares at him.  "Ramsey, we're just going out for drinks!  What's the big deal?  It's not like I'm gonna run off and marry the guy!  Do me a favor -- get a life!  And stay OUT of mine!"  Jessie storms off.  

Later that afternoon, Chris stands outside the Recovery room and watches Jessie and Dr. Power talking and laughing.  He goes to a nearby pay phone and dials Jessie's pager.  He then watches and waits for her to leave, then enters the Recovery Room.  He sees Dr. Power at a table and approaches him.  
"Dr. Power -- was that Jessica Collins I just saw you with?"  he asks.

"Dr. Ramsey -- have a seat.  Yes -- she just got an emergency page at the hospital.  She'll be back shortly."

"So -- are you thinking about going out with her?"  Chris asks.

"Hopefully -- she's a great lady, from what I've seen!"  Dr. Power replies.

"Oh -- well, I guess so.  I mean, there are some things that *I* couldn't overlook when planning my social calendar, but -- well, I guess there are folks that aren't bothered by that sort of thing."

"What are you talking about?"  Dr. Power asks.

"You mean you haven't heard?  Gee, I thought it was common knowledge around GH by now."  Chris replies.

"Sorry, I have no idea what you're talking about."  Dr. Power states.

"Well, I guess I shouldn't say anything -- I mean, Jessie did agree to being committed of her own free will and all after what happened.  And from what I understand, she did really well in her therapy sessions.  Besides -- the guy she did it to had it coming from what I understand."

"Did what?"  Dr. Power asks, looking somewhat nervous.

"Well, again, it's not my place to say -- and it's not exactly the most pleasant thing a guy wants to discuss, if you know what I mean."  Chris says, wincing somewhat.  "But I'm sure Jessie is over that now -- I mean, she DID manage to get a job as an OR nurse.  I just wouldn't let her handle any sharp objects or anything when you're alone with her.  You never know what 
might set her off -- she could relapse at any time.  She is a Collins, after all.  I'm sure you know all about them -- that whole family has a history of  . . . . well, I've probably said too much.  Besides, you probably don't have anything to worry about -- let's just hope she remembers to take her medication every day."  Chris gets up to leave.  "Nice chatting with you." he says, and leaves with a big grin on his face.  "Well -- that takes care of that!"  Chris says to himself as he stands outside the Recovery Room and watches Dr. Power become increasingly nervous.

Later that evening . . . . . Chris is alone in his apartment, when his doorbell rings.  Before Chris even has a chance to get to the door, the person on the other side starts pounding on it.  "Ramsey, I *know* you're in there, I saw your car outside!  Now open the damn door or I'll break it down!"  

Chris opens the door to see Jessie, fuming as she enters the apartment.  "What the hell did you think you were doing?"  she asks. 

"Excuse me?"  Chris says.  

"Don't you play dumb with me -- you sent me on a wild goose chase to GH for some non-existent emergency, and then you went and told Aidan some ridiculous story -- the guy is scared to death of me now!  Who the hell do you think you are?"

"I'm sorry -- you must have me confused with someone else."  Chris replies.  He starts to sit down on the couch -- Jessie grabs his arm tightly.

"Don't you even try to lie to me, mister!  I can see right through your act.  You're jealous!"  Jessie states accusingly.

"Jealous?  Of what?  Hey, it's none of my business if you want to waste your time with a jerk like Power -- it's your life, not mine."  Chris pulls away from her and sits down on the couch, picks up a magazine and begins to flip through it.  Jessie pulls the magazine away and tosses it aside.  "Hey!"  Chris yells.

"I've had it with you, Ramsey.  One minute you want me, the next you tell me to go to hell!  Well which is it -- because I'm not about to stop my life just because you can't admit your true feelings.  You had your chance with me, pal -- and you blew it.  Get over it!"

"Oh, don't flatter yourself.  You think I'd actually waste my time trying to meddle into your social life?"

"Well, why not!  You certainly don't have one of your own -- what else do you have to with your time?  Just because you haven't gotten any yet this century doesn't mean you have the right to stop me from having a love life.  Why don't you just find yourself a new hobby and stay the hell out of my business!"

"I couldn't care less what you do in your free time -- or what losers you decide to go out with!"  Chris tells her.

"Yeah, well from where I'm standing the only loser I ever wasted my time on since I moved to this town has been YOU!  You know, I can't believe I was stupid enough to be attracted to you -- and even more stupid to think that you might actually feel the same way!  I really fell hard for you Ramsey -- what a waste of my time that was!"  Jessie says angrily.

"Yeah, well it was no picnic for me either -- do you know what it was like for me to realize that I was in love with a nut like you!"  Chris starts to walk onto the balcony -- Jessie comes up behind him, grabs him and turns him around.

"Did you just say you were in love with me?"  Jessie asks, still using a somewhat angry tone.

Chris pauses.  "Yes."  he says, slightly under his breath and in a disgusted tone of voice.

"I'm sorry, I didn't quite hear you."  Jessie says, calming down somewhat.

"YES, I'M IN LOVE WITH YOU, OKAY!"  Chris shouts.  "There!  Are you happy now!"  Chris turns away from her.   Jessie approaches and puts her arms around.

"Chris.  All you had to is tell me -- is that so difficult?"  she asks.

Chris becomes quiet.  "I'm not good at relationships, Jessie."  he whispers.  "And if you haven't noticed -- well, I'm not exactly the perfect match for you -- or anyone, for that matter.  I figure you'd be better off steering clear of the train wreck that is my life."  he states.

"The only reason your life is a train wreck is because you made it be that way.  And anyway, shouldn't that be for me to decide?"  Jessie asks.

"Jessie -- you think I haven't heard what people have been telling you about me around the hospital?  The stares, the disapproving looks, the gossip -- I know how much it hurts you.  And they're right -- you shouldn't be wasting your time with someone like me.  You deserve better."  Chris says.

Jessie sees the look of sincerity in his eyes and gently strokes his face.  "Chris -- don't you know by know that I really don't care what other people think?  I only care about what you think."  She kisses him softly strokes his hair.  "Chris -- I love you.  It really doesn't matter what other people say about you -- all that matters is what we feel for each other.  Can't 
you just trust that?"

"Jessie, I've never been good at trusting anything -- not other people, and not myself."

"You can trust me, Chris -- I love you.  Even if you are a butthead."  Jessie says, smiling.  Chris laughs. Jessie kisses him.  "Dr. Ramsey, this is your last chance -- what'll it be?  Are you going to spend the rest of your life not trusting anyone, and worrying about what everyone else around you says and does, or are you going to take a chance that something good might have come into your life for once?  It's up to you Chris -- do you want to be with me or not?  Because if I walk out that door, I'm not coming back again.  Ever."  Jessie states, clearly meaning exactly what she says.

Chris hesitates and doesn't say a word, turning away from her.  After waiting a few minutes, Jessie heads for the door.  "Well, I see you've made your choice.  Goodbye Chris -- have a nice life."  She get to the door and starts to open it.

"Jessie, wait!"  Chris says, and runs to stop her.  He pulls her back in and closes the door.  He then pushes her against the door and kisses her.  "Don't go." he whispers.  Jessie throws her arms around him and he lifts her up into his strong arms and carries her into his bedroom, kissing her the whole time. He sets her down on the bed and they begin to undress one another slowly.   Jessie runs her hands up and down his well-toned body, and Chris showers her with kisses.   And they make love . . . . . 

My immaculate dream made breath and skin
I've been waiting for you
Signed with a home tattoo, 
Happy Birthday to you was created for you
Can't ever keep from falling apart at the seams
Can I believe you're taking my heart to pieces?
Oh, it'll take a little time
Might take a little crime to come undone now
We'll try to stay blind to the hope and fear outside
Hey child, stay wilder than the wind
And blow me in to cry . . . . 

Who do you need, who do you love
When you come undone?

Words playing me deja vu like a radio tune
I swear I've heard before
Chill, is it something real
Or the magic I'm feeding off your fingers
Can't ever keep from falling apart at the seams
Can I believe you're taking my heart to pieces?
Lost in a snow-filled sky
We'll make it all right to come undone now
We'll try to stay blind to the hope and fear outside
Hey child, stay wilder than the wind
And blow me in to cry . . . . 

Who do you need, who do you love
When you come undone?

Chris and Jessie lie in one another's arms.  Chris softly kisses her and strokes her hair.  "You need to promise me one thing."  Chris says to her in a very serious tone.

"What's that?"  Jessie asks.

"That you'll never make me go to the Rocky Horror Picture Show with you again!"   he replies.

"Aw, you're not fun!   And you'd make such an adorable Eddie too!"  Jessie says, teasing. 

"I think I'll just take your word for that ."  Chris says.  He begins to kiss her again with intensity.

"Gee Ramsey, aren't you worn out yet?"  Jessie asks.

"Hey -- it's been three years, I've got a lot of time to make up for here!"  Chris says.

"You mean it really has been three years????   Hey, I was just joking about that!"  Jessie says.

"Yeah, well the joke's on you!  Think you can handle it?"  Chris asks, grinning.

"Oh, I'm sure I'll manage just fine."  Jessie tells him . . . . . . .  


February 6, 2001 -- early morning.  Kevin is downstairs, holding Dominique and feeding her.  Lucy comes racing down the stairs.  "Doc, are you here?  Where is --" she stops when she sees Kevin with the little girl.  

"She wanted her bottle.  I guess she's a morning person, just like her daddy.  We've both been up for an hour now." Kevin says.  

"Well here -- let me take her." Lucy says, reaching out for the baby.

"I can feed her, Lucy -- you go back to bed, there's no reason for both of us to be up."

"I know Doc, but I just don't --" Lucy begins, then stops.

"You don't what?" Kevin asks.

"Nothing."

"No -- I want to know." Kevin says.  Lucy is quiet.  "You don't trust me, do you?"

"Of course I trust you." Lucy says.

"As long as you're here to watch me.  Lucy -- do you think I haven't noticed?  You won't even leave me alone with the kids for more than thirty seconds.  I'm getting better Lucy, I swear."

"I know you are.  I'm sorry, I -- I'll go back to bed."

"Thank you." Kevin says, as Lucy nervously heads back upstairs.  


Chris wakes up the next morning, his arms wrapped tightly around Jessie as she sleeps.  He smiles as he presses his body next to hers, and reaches over and kisses her softly on the cheek.  Jessie rolls over sleepily and cuddles with him, resting her head on his bare chest.  "Good morning." Chris whispers.

"I'll second that." Jessie says, and they kiss each other softly on the lips.  "I didn't expect you to be the type who would cuddle so much, but -- I don't think you let go of me once all night."

"There's a lot you don't know about me." Chris says.  "And as for letting go of you -- I'm never gonna let go of you again.  Not after last night."

"Well, people are gonna look at us kind of funny then when we show up at work this way." Jessie says, and Chris laughs.

"Gosh -- people will hate me even more than before for luring you over to the ˜dark side' -- that should be tons of fun." Chris remarks.

"So -- let's not tell them." Jessie says, sitting up.

"Jess, I think when they see us kissing and holding hands they're gonna figure something's up." 

"Not if we don't do that in public.  Seriously, Chris -- last time we were together, I had about twenty-five people a day tell me what a jerk you are.  I don't really want to have to listen to that all over again.  It'll just make me mad, and I'll want to start an argument, and -- please, can't 
this just be our secret for awhile?  Besides -- it makes it more fun for us.  Kind of like we're sneaking around on someone, even though we're not."

"You are devious.  I like that." Chris says, kissing her once more.  "So we tell nobody?"

"Well, I guess Eve will have to know -- I mean, she does live here."

"Yeah, I think she'll figure it out the first time you walk out into the living room wearing nothing but my pajama tops and a smile."   Chris gets out of bed.  "I'm gonna go make us some breakfast -- I'll see if I have anything for you around here that didn't used to be alive."

"Okay --- I'll grab a quick shower.  I can't wait to see what kind of gourmet creation you come up with." Jessie says, heading into the other room.

"Doesn't take much skill to shove a couple of slices of bread into a toaster -- that's about all I have for you at the moment." Chris says, walking out of his room.  Eve is sitting at the table, sulking.  Chris walks up behind her, grabs her, and plants a big kiss on her cheek.  "Good morning, roomie!" he says, 

"Bite me." Eve says.

"Even you and your ˜poor me' attitude can't ruin my morning, Eve --but, since I'm in a generous mood -- what's wrong?"

"I hate men." Eve says.

"Don't we all.  What'd your little boyfriend Larry the Loser do this time?"

"More like Larry the two-timing rat."  Eve stops for a moment.  "I caught him in his office with one of the student nurses -- let's just say she wasn't in there for professional reasons." 

"Oh." Chris says.  "Hey, I'm sorry -- how about I make you breakfast?"

"No thanks, I'm not hungry."

"So you're just gonna sit here and feel sorry for yourself?" Chris asks.

"That was the plan.  Care to join me?  I mean, since both of us aren't exactly having good luck at relationships these days."

"Eve, I think you need to know something.  Last night --" Chris begins, just as Jessie enters the room.

"Honey, I borrowed a pair of your sweats and a t-shirt, I hope don't mi-- hey Eve." Jessie says, stopping mid-sentence.  Eve's jaw drops when Jessie comes out of Chris' bedroom.

"Jessie and I -- got back together." Chris says, finishing the sentence he started.

"I can -- see that." Eve says, feeling a bit uncomfortable.

"So -- what's for breakfast?" Jessie asks, sitting down at the table.

"I'll go -- I don't want to spoil your good mood." Eve says.

"Hey Eve -- we're kind of keeping this to ourselves for the time being.  I've already heard enough ˜Chris Ramsey is scum' speeches, I want a short reprieve from arguing with half the staff before we make our relationship public." Jessie says.

"Whatever." Eve says, going into her room.  Jessie looks up at Chris.

"What up with her?" she asks.  Chris brings over some breakfast and sits down.

"She caught Dr. Loser in his office last night with a student nurse." Chris says.

"Yikes.  What a jerk -- I've never liked that guy."

"Me either.  Too bad he's got seniority over me, I'd love to give him a piece of my mind." Chris says.  

"Well, see if you can find out who the student nurse is -- she has to an OR rotation sooner or later -- I'll make sure I take care of her personally." Jessie suggests.  Chris grins.

"Have I told you lately -- how much I love you?"  Chris says.

"Only about a hundred times last night -- but who's counting?" Jessie says, reaching across the table and kissing Chris on the lips.


That evening, Eve walks along the docks, crying.  She suddenly realizes that she's wearing a pair of earrings that Larry had bought for her just two weeks prior -- he was late for a date, and wanted to ˜make up' for it.  Eve take off the earrings and looks at them.  "Yeah right -- you bought these out of GUILT, didn't you you lousy bastard!" Eve says to herself, and throws them into the harbor.  She starts to walk off, then notices a man standing alone at the edge of one of the piers.  She moves a bit closer to the man.  "Kevin?" she says.  He turns around.  "What are you doing out here?"

"Oh -- nothing." Kevin says, still looking off into the distance.

"Can I ask you something?" Eve asks.

"What?" Kevin says.

"Why did you leave Lucy for me?  Was it something I did?" Eve asks.  Kevin is silent.  "Never mind, I shouldn't have --"

"No -- wait.  I -- I honestly don't know." Kevin says.  "I mean -- things aren't exactly perfect with Lucy and I these days.  She thinks I'm going crazy."

"Well, you've -- I understand some strange things have been happening to you, Kevin." Eve says.

"I know -- but you'd think that my own wife would have faith in me." Kevin says.  

"Kevin -- for the record, I -- I don't know how to explain everything that's been going on, but -- I don't think you're crazy."  Kevin smiles at her.

"Thanks.  You know -- nobody's said that to me in a long time." 

"Hey -- if you ever need someone to talk to --" Eve begins.

"I'll think about it.  Thanks, Eve." Kevin says, and Eve walks away.  Kevin grins to himself.  "You know -- you might be exactly what I need, Dr. Lambert." he says to himself.
 

Chapter 6

March 15, 2001 -- Eve is standing by the docks, and someone comes up 
behind her.  "Guess who?" the voice behind her says.  Eve turns around and smiles.

"You're late." she says, and kisses him.

"Sorry -- got caught in traffic." Kevin says.  "You know -- we really 
need to find another place to this." 

"Yeah, I know -- somewhere more private -- where nobody can see us.  
Hey, by the way -- you know, I understand that we have to keep this secret and all -- but yesterday, when I saw you at the hospital -- you barely even acknowledged that I was there."

"Oh, come on Eve -- we can't be flaunting this all over town.  Besides 
-- I was in a hurry, I was late for my session."

"How are those going?" Eve asks.

"Boring, as usual.  Sometimes I wonder if my patients get as irritated 
with me as I do when I'm droning on about myself in there."

"You could never be boring." Eve says, kissing him on the lips.  "I 
hate this, Kevin -- all this sneaking around.  It's not fair."

"I know -- and we haven't even -- well, you know."

"No, we haven't.  Kevin -- isn't there somewhere we can go?"

"I'll think of something -- you know Eve, you've really helped me this 
past month.  I don't know what I'd do without you -- Lucy just doesn't 
understand me the way you do."

"I wish you would have thought of that before you married her." Eve 
says.

"Yeah, me too -- but don't worry.  Everything will work out the way 
it's supposed to in the end -- I guarantee it." Kevin says, and they kiss once more.
 


March 25, 2001 . . . . . Chris walks up to the Nurses Station.  "Dr. 
Ramsey, I was just about to page you -- you're needed in Room 415, stat." the 
nurse 
says.

"I don't have a patient in there." Chris replies.

"Well, maybe someone was moved there.  I'm just telling you what I 
know." the nurse says.  Puzzled, Chris gets on the elevator and heads to the fourth floor.  He walks down the hall to room 415.  He notices that none of the rooms nearby are occupied.  Chris approaches the door and starts to open it, and when he does he finds the lights dimmed, and sees Jessie lying in the bed under the covers.

"What the ---"

"Doctor, thank goodness you're here!  I'll just die if I don't get some 
medical attention." Jessie says, in an overly dramatic tone.  Chris 
turns on the light.

"Are you insane!" Chris says, making sure the door is securely closed.  
"What are you doing?"

"It's been a long day -- I thought we could both use a break." Jessie 
says.

"Jessie, this is a hospital!  I just got back into the good graces of 
the higher-ups here, I have no desire to make them regret their decision.  Now come on, get out of there!" Chris says, pulling back the covers from Jessie -- and seeing that she doesn't have any clothes on.

"Oh, come on honey -- just ten minutes." Jessie says, pulling him close 
and kissing him.

"When have we ever only taken ten minutes?" Chris says.  Jessie kisses 
him again.

"Have I persuaded you yet?" Jessie asks.

"You know, I think people are really misinformed on just who the troublemaker is in this relationship."  Chris teases, and he climbs into the bed with her.

Later, Ellen is walking down the hallway and hears giggling coming from 
one of the patient rooms.  She stops for a moment, then continues walking.  She then turns around, and looks at the door again. ˜This room isn't occupied.' she thinks to herself.  Curious, she opens the door and sees Jessie trying to quickly duck under the covers so as not to be seen as she turns on the light. 

 "Jessie!" she says, quite surprised.  "What on earth are you doing in 
here?" she demands.

"I'm on my break."  Jessie says, smiling.  "Is there a problem?"  

"There is when you use the hospital rooms as your own -- who's that 
with you, anyway?"

"Oh, you don't know him.  He's very shy -- we'll leave, I promise."

"Well, he can't be that shy if he's taking a risk like this.  You can't 
be using the empty rooms as your own personal secret rendezvous spots.  
You and whoever is under there with you."

Jessie sighs.  "We might as well tell her -- I don't people to be speculating about me with the wrong guy."  Chris pokes his head out from under the sheets.

"Chris!?  Jessie, I thought that the two of you decided --"

"We decided to reverse that decision."  Chris says.  "Don't tell 
anyone, okay?  I don't want Jessie getting into trouble."

"It looks like she's already gotten into trouble  -- Jessie, what were 
you thinking?"

"Ellen, we promise, we'll get out of here as soon as you leave.  We 
just wanted to spend some time together this afternoon.  What's so bad about that?"  Jessie asks.

"Well next time I suggest that you save this for the privacy of your 
own home."  Ellen says.

"You're just lucky I didn't have a camera on me." she quips, smiling.


April 4, 2001 . . . . . . Lucy, Ellen and Jessie are having lunch.  
"So, how about the three of us get together tomorrow night and have a ladies' night out?"  Lucy asks.  

"Sounds good to me."  Ellen replies.  "How about you Jessie -- or do 
already have ˜plans' with a certain someone?" she asks, smiling.

Lucy looks at Jessie.  "A certain someone?  Does Ellen know something I 
don't?  Now I know that you two are friends and all, but --- well I'm 
your cousin through marriage so I should know anything like this first.  So, is there some ˜mystery man' in your life that I should know about 
Jessie?"   Jessie is quiet but smiles.  Lucy looks at Ellen.

"Hey, don't look at me -- it's none of my business.  If Jessie hasn't 
told you anything, then who am I to say a word?" Ellen says.

"Jessie!  You told Ellen about this mystery man before me?"  Lucy asks.

"Hey, I didn't tell her, she -- never mind."  Jessie replies, somewhat 
embarrassed.

"She what?  Jessie, you better tell me cause I'm just not going to stop 
asking until you do."  Lucy says.

"Well -- Chris and I have been seeing each other for a couple of months 
now, that's all.  It's no big deal." 

"Seeing him?  You've been doing A LOT more than that from what I saw 
last week."  Ellen replies.

"And just what did you see Ellen?" Lucy asks.

"Can we say the subject here?  Now, tomorrow night -- sounds good to 
me.  What's the plan?"  Jessie asks.

"Oh no, you're not dropping the subject, young lady.  Now, what's going 
on with Chris?  I thought he broke it off with you."

"Well, that was all just a -- a big misunderstanding.  Chris and I 
decided that we were a bit hasty in our decision to call things off.  But we've been trying to keep things quiet, at least for awhile.  The last time all people did was try and convince me of the evils of Chris Ramsey and -- well, I just don't want to hear it this time.  Because I know another side of him -- Chris may have done some bad things in the past, but he's really changed.  I know he's not perfect, but who is?  Kevin?  Matt?  Please!  Chris and I -- we're meant to be together, it's as simple as that.  I think I knew it from the first day I met him -- I was just drawn to him.  Now I know why."

"Well, I've certainly noticed a big change in Chris around the hospital 
the last couple of months."  Ellen says.  "You must be doing something 
right, because he's actually -- well, for lack of a better term, nice.  
Whatever you've done to him, I say keep it up, girl.  It's obviously done him a world of good. Somebody needed to whip that boy into shape before he self-destructed."

"Jessie -- you're in love with him, aren't you?"  Lucy asks.

Jessie smiles.  "Is it that obvious?" she asks.  "Lucy -- please don't 
tell Kevin yet.  I want to be the one to that, okay?  I know he doesn't like Chris and he's gonna hit the roof.  Just let me be the one to drop that bomb."

"My lips are sealed."  Lucy replies.  "And for the record -- I think 
the two of you make an adorable couple." she says, smiling, 

"So -- not to change the subject, but --- how has Kevin been lately?" 
Jessie asks.  The look on Lucy's face changes to a sad one.

"Kevin's been -- really distant lately.  I try and I try to talk to him 
and make him understand that we can get through this, but -- he wants to go back to work.  And I'm not sure if -- I want to believe in him, I really do.  But after everything that's happened --"

"What does Gail say?" Ellen asks.

"She says it's his choice -- I mean, nothing has happened since 
Christmas, and -- I don't mind working full-time, and I can work out of the house most of the time -- I just don't want Kevin to have to suffer any more than he already has."  Lucy says.

"Lucy -- if Kevin thinks he's ready to go back to work, you can't stop 
him.  You trust him, don't you?" Jessie asks.

"Of course I do."

"Good -- then trust that he's making the decision that's right for him." Jessie says.  

"I guess you're right." Lucy says.  "I think what scares me the most is 
-- all of the things that happened, they just -- happened.  I mean, 
before, there was something that caused Kevin to have a breakdown, but -- not this time.  I wish I could just understand WHY this time.  Because I don't -- and I don't think Kevin does, either."


"Hey." Eve says, as she sees Kevin in the parking garage.  "I thought I 
just saw you going into Dr. Quartermaine's office -- how'd you get out here 
so soon?"

"Oh, I -- Dr. Quartermaine got called out on an emergency.  I -- I 
didn't have anything else to, so I figured I'd head home." Kevin says.

"Well, do you have to go?  I mean -- I'm sure we could think of 
something to." Eve says, kissing him.  

"I'm tempted -- but I really do have to leave.  Hey -- how about a 
raincheck.  Tomorrow night -- I've got a big surprise for you." Kevin says.

"Oh, really?" Eve asks.

"Yeah, really." Kevin says, giving her a long, hard kiss on the lips.  
Just then, Chris walks out into the garage and sees them, watching from a distance.  "Well -- I'm on another floor.  I'll see you tomorrow -- how about we meet in our usual spot?"

"Sounds good.  Eve says.  "I can hardly wait." Kevin leaves.  Eve 
starts to walk toward her car, and Chris approaches her.

"Are you insane?" he says.  Eve turns around.

"What are you doing here?" Eve asks, surprised to see him.

"Trying to stop you from being an idiot.  What the hell is going on 
with you and Collins?" Chris asks.  

"You can't tell anyone."

"Eve, they guy is a married man -- he's got two little kids at home.  
How can you even think about doing something like this!"

"Oh, look who's lecturing me on morality!" Eve says.

"Hey, I may be a lot of things, but I have never slept with someone who 
has a family that depends on them -- even *I* have standards."

"And you're saying I don't?" Eve asks.

"I'm saying you're still made about what that jerk Larry did to you, 
and this is your way of dealing with it.  Eve -- this is a mistake.  And besides -- Kevin -- hasn't exactly been the paragon of sanity these days."

"You don't know the whole story.  Kevin is miserable with Lucy."

"That's what he told you, huh?  Boy, there's a sucker born ever minute 
-- Eve, that's the oldest line in the book.  You of all people should know that."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Eve asks, her tone turning angry.

"Nothing, it's just --"

"Hey -- just butt out, Ramsey.  I didn't ask for your opinion on this.  
So keep it to yourself."  Eve walks off in a huff.
 



 

April 5, 2001 -- Kevin and Lucy are at home, having breakfast.  "So -- 
when do you go back?" Lucy asks.

"Next week." Kevin says.

"Oh." Lucy says, getting quiet.

"Lucy -- I'm ready.  I can't stay home anymore -- not when I know that 
I can 
be working, and helping people."

"Doc -- I know that you think you're ready, but -- we still don't even 
know the root of what caused everything to happen.  And until we know that --"

"Lucy -- I don't know that we'll ever know all the details.  You just 
have to trust me.  Can you do that?"

"Of -- course I can." Lucy says, somewhat hesitantly.

"I knew you wouldn't understand." Kevin says, getting up from the 
table.

"Where are you going?" Lucy asks.

"Out." Kevin says.

"Where?"

"I don't know." Kevin says, and he leaves.



 

Later that evening, Kevin leads a blindfolded Eve to their surprise 
getaway spot.  "Okay, so where's this big surprise you have for me, is it --" Eve begins as Kevin takes off her blindfold.  She looks around the room.  "Jasmine Island?" she says

"See -- I told you it would be a surprise."  Kevin says.

"Yeah -- Kevin, why would you want to come here?" Eve asks.

"To be honest -- it's the only place where we can get away from 
everyone -- I mean really, who'd think to look for us here.  This place has been abandoned for over a year now."

"I guess." Eve says.  "But -- the things that happened here --"

"I'm willing to overlook them if you are." Kevin says, pulling her into 
a kiss.  He leads her over to the couch and they begin kissing with 
intensity.  Eve suddenly stops.  "What's wrong?" Kevin asks.

"I don't know, I -- something is strange, that's all." Eve says.

"It's just your imagination." Kevin says.  "It's so good to finally be 
with someone who understands me -- Lucy and I got into another fight today.  She's not like you, Eve."

"She better not be." Eve says, pulling Kevin closer.  After a few more 
minutes of making out on the couch, Kevin gets up.  

"Hey -- just where do you think you're going?" Eve asks.

"I need to go get something.  I'll be right back." Kevin says.  He goes 
upstairs, and comes back down a minute later, hiding something behind 
his back.

"What have you got there?" Eve asks playfully.

"Well, I uh -- I was wondering if -- you wouldn't mind wearing this." 
Kevin says, and he pulls out a blonde wig.  Eve just stares at him.

"Oh, come on Kevin, we were a lot of things, but kinky was never one of 
them."

"Well -- I'm a different person now." Kevin says.

"Why do you want me to wear this ugly thing?" Eve asks.

"I just do -- now put it on!" he insists, his tone changing.

"Hey, don't get pushy --- I don't want to wear it." Eve says.  "You know I'm not into that stuff."

"You'll do it -- or else." Kevin says, suddenly grabbing Eve  aggressively.

"Let me go!" Eve shouts, but Kevin continues to hold onto her tightly, 
grabbing her from behind.  Eve remembers some of the technique she 
learned in self-defense class, and flips Kevin, then starts to run.  Kevin grabs her leg, causing her to fall to the ground.  

"You are gonna be sorry you did that!" he shouts, pinning her down.

"Everyone was right -- you ARE crazy!" Eve shouts.

"Don't you ever say that!" Kevin shouts, and Eve tries to push him off 
of her.  In doing so, her hand scratches his face, and she screams in 
horror when a covering of latex peels off of his right cheek, revealing severe scarring from burn damage on his face.

"Oh my god.  You're not Kevin, you're --"

"And who says you're not all that smart." Ryan says, grinning.  "It 
could have been lots of fun with you, Eve -- but we'll never know now, will we?  What a shame." he says, and he reaches for Eve's neck as she screams in terror . . . . . . 
 



 

Later that evening, Kevin arrives home, late.  Lucy is waiting up in 
the living room.  "Where were you?" Lucy asks.  "I was so worried."

"I just had to go clear my head -- Lucy, I'm -- I'm sorry." Kevin says.  
"I didn't mean to snap at you that way.  It's just that --"

"I know, Doc.  I'm sorry too.  We need to figure out how to -- handle 
this.  I know how much you love your job, and --"

"Lucy, I can't just sit around and do nothing for the rest of my life.  
You said you believe in me -- I'm sane Lucy, I'm as sane as you are.  And if you don't believe that, who will?"

"You're right." Lucy says, giving Kevin a hug.  "And if you think 
you're ready to go back -- well, then so do I."

"You mean that?" Kevin asks.

"Of course I do."  Kevin pulls Lucy close, kissing her with fervor.  
They head upstairs, and are about to get into bed when they hear Sigmund 
outside, quacking loudly.  Kevin sighs.

"Well, we're certainly not getting any sleep if we have to listen to 
THAT all night." Kevin says.

"Who said anything about sleep?" Lucy suggests, pulling him onto the 
bed and starting to unbutton his shirt.

"Why, Mrs. Collins, are you trying to seduce me?" Kevin teases.

"Absolutely." Lucy says, and they make love.  Later, as Kevin and Lucy 
lie in each other's arms, they hear Sigmund outside, still making quite a racket.  

"I suppose one of us should go and see what that's all about before he 
wakes up one of the twins." Kevin says.

"I'll go." Lucy says.  "He probably just wants to sleep in the house 
tonight, it's kind of chilly out there and you know how spoiled he is."

"Don't I ever." Kevin says, rolling his eyes.  Lucy gets up, puts on 
her robe and goes out to the duck pond.  Sigmund's quacking becomes louder as she approaches him.  

"Siggy?  What's wrong -- do you want to come inside?" Lucy says.  She 
looks down as she approaches, and lets out a loud scream when she sees Eve 
lying on the ground next to the duck pond, motionless and covered in blood . . . 
. . . 
. . .