CHRISTMAS CAROLINE

Sonny and Carly have taken Michael to the P.C. mall to see Santa Claus and the Santa's Village that has been set up.

It is now time for Michael to sit on Santa's lap.

What do you want for Christmas, young man? Santa asks.

With a deadly serious look on his face Michael replies.... I want my Mom and Dad to get a divorce so they stop fighting all the time.

Santa looks over at a stunned Sonny and Carly, rage seeping from his eyes.

Michael! Carly snorts. Santa means what kind of toy do you want for Christmas. You know Mommy and Daddy are very happy together! Carly states firmly.

Looking away from her and back at Santa Michael says... No they aren't Santa; she is lying! If they were, they wouldn't yell at each other. They would laugh
and smile like they used to when they weren't together, before Mommy went over that cliff in her car. I want a divorce! Nothing else Santa just that!
Grandma has had lots of divorces and she is happy!

By this time everyone in the crowd is listening as the son of the local mobster airs his dirty linens in public to Santa Claus, no less. At this last comment they
burst into laughter until Santa looks up and glares at them.

Alright, Michael I will see what I can do about your wish. Why don't you spend the night with your Grandma? I know it's Christmas Eve, but Lucas, Maxie and
Georgie will all be there; even little Lulu.

Standing up, Santa walks over to the end of the row, and waves at Johnny; who was standing off to the side.

Johnny is going to take you home to get some clothes; then he will take you to your Grandma's house. Santa says. He hands Michael off to Johnny then he
grabs Carly by one arm and Sonny by the other and drags them behind the sleigh for a private moment alone.

Yanking his beard down, Carly and Sonny are surprised to see Tony's face, behind the beard.

Tony are you so, desperate for work now that you have to take a side job as Santa? Carly taunts.

No Carly, one of my patients is always Santa. He had a heart attack yesterday. I told him I would play Santa for him, until the replacement Santa arrives
tomorrow.

What the hell have you two done to that little boy, that he asks for a divorce for his parents for Christmas? I don't know what the hell is wrong with the two
of you, but you have been worse since Carly rose up out of the swamp. Matter of fact, a lot of people have been worse off since you pulled your little temper
tantrum! I don't know how Bobbie can look at either one of you!

You can't talk to us like that! Carly shrieks.

Snapping his beard back into place Tony replies...Well if Santa Claus can't straighten you up, Carly maybe a visit from the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present,
and Future can! BAH HUMBUG! With that Tony steps back around to the front of the sleigh...HO!HO!HO! MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Can you believe him? Carly says to Sonny.

Yeah, matter of fact I can. Listen, I got some business to take care of. I will see you back at the penthouse in a couple of hours. Sonny says then he turns, and
disappears into the crowd.

Well! Carly thinks to herself. I wonder if I wrap myself up in satin ribbons, if he would pay some attention to me then!

As Sonny exits the mall, he hears a familiar laugh; A sound he hasn't heard in a long time.

He turns around and sees Alexis crouched down by a stroller pointing at what is normally a small flower garden near the mall entrance. Now it is covered in
snow. He hears her say...

Look at all those neat snowpeople they built Kristina. There is a Momma, Daddy, sister, brother and look at that little one; it looks like a puppy!

Sonny hears Kristina squeal with delight. He isn't so sure that it is the snowmen, only Alexis would call them snowpeople, or the fact that her mother is totally
enraptured of every moment she is spending with her; which Kristina finds so delightful. Sonny sighs sadly and quickly walks away; he doesn't want to upset
either of them.

Carly arrived home from the mall two hours later. Her arms are full of packages; more things she knew she didn't need but, that she had to buy any way.
Things were so quite now in Sonny's world that a guard no longer stood watch at the door of the penthouse. Months ago, Sonny had insisted that they go no
further than ground level. Should Carly happen to buy more than she could carry at one time she had to make more than one trip.

They are bodyguards Carly; not your personal maids. Make two trips if you buy more than you can carry. Sonny had told her one day. No matter what she
threatened them with, none of the men would help her. They were no longer afraid of her and that bothered her a great deal. This all happened in April.
When Mike had found out the guards were no longer on the door; he had gone and bought them one of those huge, and as far as Carly was concerned,
grotesque doorknockers. It looked like a roaring lion. Mike told Sonny it was his birthday present for him a day early.

Two days after Mike had put the doorknocker up, Carly told Sonny, she was having someone come and take it down. She would think of some excuse to tell Mike
why it was gone; not that Mike came around that often anyway. Carly was so stunned at the way Sonny had told her in no uncertain terms; she was to keep her
hands off of the doorknocker.

Carly had stormed out of the room, and up to their bedroom. Sonny just stood there, looking around thinking to himself; why the hell did I say that. That thing
is pretty ugly. I haven't taken a present from Mike in years and now all of a sudden I want to keep an ugly old doorknocker. For the life of him, Sonny simply
could not give it up.

He was afraid something terrible would happen, if he did. Some days he thought to himself something terrible wont happen if I give that up.

So Carly got off of the elevator; arms loaded, and dug her key out of her purse. Then Carly looked up and gasped! it looked like the lion's face was moving.
Then it changed into the face of Kristina Cassadine. BOO! The face went. Carly gave a shriek and dropped her bags.

Just then, Jason came out of his penthouse. Carly, what's wrong? He asks. Coming towards her; seeing the fear written on her face. Carly wouldn't take her
hands away from her face. She said in a stammer…Jassse, look lllook aaat that doorknocker.

Looking at her strangely, Jason turns and looks at the doorknocker. What about it Carly? I don't see anything wrong with it.

Slowly Carly peers through her fingers. It looks as it always has. Dropping, her hands Carly says...I swear Jason, a minute ago that wasn't a lion it was... Carly
stops talking.

It was what, Carly? Jason asks.

Looking up at him, Carly says I guess the light just hit it wrong and it looked funny for a moment. Can you help me get this stuff inside? She asks him.

Alright, but then I have to go. I got Courtney to promise she would sneak away from A.J. for a little while tonight. I plan on really turning up the heat tonight;
it won't be long before she will leave him. He tells her as he scoops up half the bags on the floor.

Where do you want me to dump this stuff? He asks.

Oh, let's just take it up to the bedroom. Carly says, walking towards the stairs.

NO! Jason says, a little to forcefully. I'm putting them here on the couch. I will see you tomorrow. Before Carly can say a word; he is out the door, and she
hears the lock click into place.

Jason gets in the elevator and pressed the down button. Then he leans against the wall and sighs. Thank God I got out of there. I swear if she had gotten me
up those stairs and into that bedroom. I would have had her stripped naked and panting for me in two minutes. Jason thinks to himself. Why the hell did I let
Sonny keep her?

I wonder what the heck is the matter with him? Carly thinks. I wish he wouldn't chase after Courtney, but she is Sonny's sister. Anything is better than that
louse A.J. It's not like Jason still wants me, Carly sighs to herself.

Well I don't have to worry; he won't keep her long if he gets her. Sonny won't stand for it.

Carly then goes and puts away the things she has bought, and wrapped the one bottle of perfume she bought for Bobbie.

Carly goes downstairs, and pours herself an eggnog that Sonny had made earlier. Taking a big swallow she suddenly starts to choke.

Damn, Sonny that is way too much rum! Just then, Carly hears the elevator ding. She goes and opens the penthouse door. The elevator opens, but instead of
seeing Sonny as she had expected; it was empty. Darn kids! Carly thinks they are always pushing the buttons to make it go up and down. Sighing, Carly turns to
go back inside, when she comes face to face with the doorknocker. Humph! Carly goes, acting brave she says.... You can't scare me.

Suddenly it turns into Kristina's face again. I wouldn't be so sure about that Caroline! You will have three visitors tonight. You'd better go have another drink
of that eggnog; you're going to need it. The face says, as it laughs and disappears.

Carly runs into the penthouse, slamming the door behind her. Just as she reaches for the phone to call Sonny; it rings. Cautiously picking it up she says,
Hello.....

Carly it's me. I'm going to be a lot longer than I thought. Just order yourself dinner from the No Name. I will be home in a few hours. Sonny tells her. Before
she can say a word he hangs up.

He didn't give me a chance to tell him. Tell him what Carly? That your seeing ghosts in doorknockers! Picking up the eggnog Carly heads back upstairs.

Maybe I'm just overly tired. I did do a lot of shopping today. Carly takes another sip of the eggnog and decides it isn't as bad as the first sip; then she takes
a shower, and puts on the satin piece of nothing she'd bought to entice Sonny.

She then finishes off the glass of eggnog, and lays down. Five minutes later, Carly is sound asleep.
As the clock chimes midnight, the balcony doors burst open. Cold air floods the room; waking Carly from her sleep.

Damn, she thinks as she gets up to close the doors. Suddenly, the room is filled with a white glow.

Merry Christmas, Carly! Kristina says.

Shivering, Carly slowly turns around. OH MY GOD! I MUST BE AS INSANE AS YOUR LUNATIC SISTER!

A small burst of light flies from Kristina's finger tips hitting Carly on her toes and making her jump.

You watch what you call people, Caroline. You have no room to talk. Now we have a lot to do and not much time. Cripes, have you no taste in lingerie? That
looks like it's right out of Whore's Unlimited! Put a robe on or your gonna freeze off what little butt you have. Kristina informs her.

Hey, let me tell you, Sonny loves this kind of stuff. Carly says. I'm not going anywhere with you until I find out what is going on.

With a flick of her finger a robe flies out of the closet and at Carly. Carly grabs it before it hits her.

Put it on now! Kristina demands. I'm the Ghost of Christmas past Carly. We only have a couple of hours and we have most of your life to look at.

Carly reluctantly dons the robe.

Good, now take my hand Kristina says holding it out to Carly.

Not a chance! Carly snarls.

Glaring at her, Kristina says....Very well then; have it your way. With another wave of her hand, she and Carly fly off the balcony into the night.

Carly screams and grabs for Kristina's hand.

A moment later they seem to stop flying through the air. Carly very slowly opens her eyes and looks around.

Why are we in a hospital? Carly asks.

Pointing towards a door Kristina says...Go look.

Cautiously, Carly walks to the door and peers through the window. A slight push, and Carly goes right through the door into the room.

OHHHH! Carly says. Bobbie, Luke?

Kristina says...They can't hear you Caroline, this is the past. Listen to them.

Barbara Jean, look I know you love her. She is beautiful. I think she looks like you. Luke says, as he lets the baby in Bobbie's arms grab his finger. But you
can't take care of her honey. I'm in no position to help you.

I'm keeping her Luke! Bobbie says, her voice rising.

Barbara Jean, let's be blunt. You work and live in Aunt Ruby’s whore house. You think it's fair to bring a baby into that world. You need to think about that
baby in your arms. Give her the thing you and I didn't get; give her a real home. Luke insists.

But, I love her so much, Luke..... Bobbie says, as tears stream down her face.

Then love her enough to do the right thing. Let her go. Give her a home. Luke says again.

Okay, give me a moment with her. Go get that lady from the adoption agency. Bobbie says through her tears.

Luke walks right past Carly and Kristina.

Sometimes, your Uncle Luke speaks true words of wisdom Caroline. It's very difficult to love someone enough to let them go when it's the right thing to do.
Kristina whispers to Carly. Especially when it breaks their heart to do so.

Pulling the baby to her chest Bobbie whispers into her ear. I love you so much. Your Uncle Luke is right though, you have a right to a life that isn't filled with
whores and drunks. You go have that life; I couldn't have. I'm going to ask the adoption lady, to tell your new family that I named you Caroline. Maybe they will
let you keep it.

Oh Bobbie! Carly gasps, as she moves towards the bed. I didn't understand.

Kristina grabs Carly's arm...It's time to go; we have much more to see.

No just a minute! Carly states.

Before she can say more, she finds herself flying through the air again.

This time when they stop, Carly looks at Kristina and says.... This is the house I grew up in.

Go look in the window Caroline. Kristina instructs.

When Carly looks through the window she sees her adopted mother Virginia sitting in a rocking chair with her in her arms. Her father is crouched beside
her, holding her little hand.

You don't mind that I want to let her keep the name Caroline do you dear? Virginia asks.

No, I think it's a wonderful name, actually. A great reminder of the wonderful gift that girl gave us. He says leaning forward to kiss Virginia on the forehead.

Suddenly, the scenes in the room change swiftly, showing Carly the years she grew up in the house.

She sees how hard Virginia had to work to keep the house after her father had died. How she gave up things for herself, so Carly could have almost anything
she wanted. It wasn't easy for a woman to do that all those years ago.

Turning to Kristina, tears are now coming down Carly's face. She gave up so much for me. I didn't have the brains to appreciate it did I? Carly asks her. Now
with her gone, I can't ever make it right.

Yes you can, Caroline. Wrongs can always be righted. That's why we have hope. There is always the hope that next time you can do better. Virginia is always
with you Caroline. If you would just truly open your heart up; you would feel her. It's time to go. Kristina tells her.

Before Carly can say anything, they are once more in the penthouse bedroom.

Kristina leads Carly back to the bed. Lay down, Caroline. You need to sleep before the Ghost of Christmas Present arrives.

Carly doesn't fight; her she is worn out, as she feels Kristina pull the covers over her, she hears her last words............

Follow your mother's example of unselfishness, Caroline. Honor her by example.

Sleep over takes Carly.

The balcony doors fling open letting cold air fill the penthouse bedroom once again.

A white light fills the room.

Suddenly a slap on her butt wakes Carly from her deep sleep.

Rise and shine, Hotstuff! The voice says to her.

No! I'm tired! Carly moans and tries to bury herself further into the bed.

Not a chance sweetstuff! The blankets go flying off Carly's body and land on the floor.

Carly sits up shivering. She looks around and finally spots the ghost.

Oh No! She cries. It figures I would get you for a ghost! Wait does this mean your finally dead?

No Carly; I'm not dead. Now here, put your robe on and lets go. You have a lot of destruction to see before the Ghost of Christmas Future arrives.

Reluctantly; Carly gets up and puts the robe on.

I'm not taking your hand A.J.! Carly snarls as they walk towards the balcony.

Nice to see you're still stubborn Caroline. Have it your way. As soon as they fly off the balcony, Carly screams and reaches for A.J.'s hand.

In a moment they are in a waiting room at General Hospital. Carly sees a woman about her age with what must be a friend. A doctor is talking to the women.

Let's get closer Caroline. You need to hear what's being said. A.J. tells her.

I'm so sorry, Mrs. Andrews. We did all we could for your husband. Unfortunately we didn't have a doctor skilled enough in that kind of brain injury to save
your husband. The doctor tells her.

How can that be? Mrs. Andrews asks as tears course down her cheeks. This is a huge hospital and one I thought was up to date with all medical technology.

I'm sorry technology isn't enough with out the hands of a skilled surgeon. The hospital is going to replace him. It's just that they haven't had a chance.
Once again, I'm very sorry about your husband. The doctor turns and leaves the room.
The two women leave the room. A.J. and Carly are alone.

Listen A.J. that has nothing to do with me. I don't know any of those people! Carly snipes at him.

I know you don't know them. You are the one that caused that woman's husband to die and left her alone with their two children. A.J. says angrily.

I did no such thing! I have never killed anyone! She screeches.

You killed her husband. You are responsible because, you lied about who the father of Michael was. You caused Tony to do something he would normally never
do. Kidnap a baby and Robin. Because of your lie, Jason felt he had the right to ruin a man's career. Jason gave no thought to the consequences of such an
action.

As this concept starts to sink into Carly's head; A.J. continues.....

Tony wasn't there to save this man. As a result this man wasn't there to help his wife raise their children. She had to work to keep them going. That's a rough
life for a woman alone; to raise children with no help. That remind you of anyone Carly? A.J. asks, knowing she is thinking of her mother Virginia.

All actions have consequences. While I admit I was a drunk long before you came into my life. You had held the key to my sobriety.

I held no such thing A.J. Carly yells at him.

Yes, you did Carly. You had my son. I know you don't believe it. If I had, had a real chance at being a family with Michael and you, though, we still would have
ended up in a divorce, because I was never the man you hold in your heart; I would have been a terrific father to my son! You didn't just deny me; Carly you
denied our son his right to know his father. Children have rights Carly.

Let's move on.

Next they arrive at the bridge leading out of town.

That's Jason! Carly states.

Yeah it is! Let's go closer; see if we can hear what he is thinking. A.J. tells her.

They walk up the bridge and stand next to Jason.

Suddenly they can hear everything he is thinking.

My god! Carly; Sonny, how could you do that to me? Sonny, you were my best friend; you know how much I love Carly. All this just to prove some insane point
to me that she can't be trusted. What kind of a friend does that make you? Carly, you knew what I did with my life. I thought you accepted it. I thought you
wanted to be a part of my life. I even gave a small thought that I could fix things with Michael and A.J. I forgave you for so many things. This is too much,
Carly. You truly broke my heart this time. I was so sure that you and Sonny were the two people that understood; I do still feel. No matter what the outside of
me looks like!

Jason's mind is silent for a moment and suddenly Carly can see the images that dance in his mind.

An image of he and Carly surrounded by family. A.J. is holding Michael and pointing. They are in church, the group parts then Carly and Jason turn around.

Carly is holding a baby. A baby dressed in a baptism gown. Jason is smiling and everyone can see it.

Carly can see the identical wedding bands that grace their fingers. She watches as Jason leans down to kiss her. Just before he does; the image disappears
from his mind. A black desolate place appears instead.

We could have had everything Carly. If you would have just trusted in me.

As Carly goes to touch him Jason starts the motorcycle and races out of her grasp.

JASON! JASON COME BACK! I'M SORRY! Carly screams.

It's time to go on Caroline. A.J. says.

No! That was some kind of a trick wasn't it? Carly says wiping tears off her face as she turns back to face A.J.

No. This was the night Jason left Port Charles. He did sit on this bridge. He did have those thoughts and those images. They were wonderful hopes and
dreams. Ones that you and Sonny destroyed, because neither one of you trusts what your hearts want the most.

Now let's go. A.J. says grabbing

her hand, and they fly through
the air.
A moment later they are back
in the penthouse. Watch A.J.
tells her.

As Carly looks into the center

of the living room she sees
herself and Sonny. They are
surrounded by a darkness.

Carly realizes; this is when she

first came to live here with him.

Their life together appears before

her. The loss of their child. Their
forced first marriage, because of
her betrayals. Their second marriage.
Arguments; almost all of what Carly
sees are arguments. Screaming
matches that are so loud and
hurtful; as she relives them her
legs start to give way.

A.J. grabs her around the waist;

pulling her upright again.

Carly hangs her head refusing

to watch anymore of her life
with Sonny.

Oh No! Look! Watch what your

life has become! Watch what
has become of others because
of your choices! A.J. takes his
free; hand forces her chin up
so she must watch.

Suddenly she sees Michael.

As his short life passes before
her, she sees how much of his
time is spent with Leticia. She
loses count of the number of
times, Sonny has sent him away
alone with only his nanny and
a bodyguard. She finally sees
the loneliness of her little boy
who does not believe his mother
loves him enough to be with
him.

Then she sees a change a lightness

starts to come to the scene.

She realizes, this is after their

second divorce. She sees a
confidence come into herself.
Carly sees how with Jax's help
she built Club 101. She sees
herself spending more time
with Michael. Carly watches
her friendship with Zander
blossom. She sees Sonny in
a different light. He seems
happy.

Carly watches Sonny and

Alexis's trip to Puerto Rico.

I don't need to watch this

A.J. she says, looking away
from the images.
Look! A.J. insists. Taking
her chin and forcing her to
face the images.

Look at them Caroline. They

laugh, and smile. Have you
ever seen the two of them
like that before? He asks.

Carly just shakes her head.

Then the darkness comes

back. She watches as Sonny
has A.J. hung up in the meat
locker. Threatening him, taunting,
yelling; finally the worst of it.
Opening the bottle of liquor,
forcing his mouth open and
pouring some in. Moments
later the scene changes and
A.J. signs away his rights to
Michael.

Carly sees a black aurora

surround A.J. She watches
how he deceives Courtney
into marrying him.

She sees the picture of he

and Courtney in bed together
that A.J. sent Sonny.

Carly sees Alexis tell Ned she

wont tell anyone where A.J.
is. Moments later Carly watches,
stunned that Alexis betrays
Ned and tells Sonny.

The next scene has Sonny

about to throw A.J. off the
balcony. So much blackness
surrounds the two. Then
suddenly a faint lightness
comes into view. Carly
watches Courtney begging
Sonny but the light doesn't
come from her. Alexis is
talking to Sonny. Carly can't
hear what is said. She can
see that the aurora around
Sonny changes the blackness
starts to dim. Finally he lets
A.J. go.
*****************************
Now the scene comes back to
the penthouse.

Carly watches and this time is

able to hear all that Sonny and
Alexis say to each other.

She hears Alexis call Sonny on

putting a hit out on A.J.

Why the heck is she fighting for

you? Carly turns and asks A.J.?

She isn't fighting for me Caroline;

and before you ask she isn't
fighting for herself either!

Alexis is fighting Sonny for his

soul. Alexis expected him to be
a better man. That night she
fought for it, and won!

That night was supposed to be

the beginning for them. Not the
end! A.J. snarls at her.

When Carly turns back it is

to see Sonny and Alexis start
up the stairs to the bedroom.

I AM NOT WATCHING THIS!

Carly yells at A.J.

Shame; it might give you some

new ideas! A.J. mutters.

A.J. and Carly watch as the

scene changes again. They see
Carly knock and then just walk
in.

Sneaking! You do that well. A.J.

tells her.

I was being quiet because I

thought something was wrong!
Carly snarls at A.J.

Yup the sounds of moans and

groans always makes me think
something is wrong. No signs of
any fights in the living room. The
lights all turned down. The soft
music playing.

Now Carly and A.J. are back

downstairs in the dining room.

A.J. forces Carly to watch the

breakfast Sonny and Alexis
shared. She saw Kristina come
in; she watched Kristina assure
Alexis she wanted only her
happiness.

Suddenly, Zander appears.

The darkness starts to fill
the room again. Sonny's
aurora starts to go black
again.

The images change quickly.

Courtney comes in, with her
birthday gift. She watches
Sonny argue with Courtney
about A.J. and Michael.
Still the lightness stays.

Carly finds herself suddenly

at the cliff. She sees Jax
and Nicholas. The two
are giving orders to divers,
to men with search dogs.

Carly turns her back to the

scene. A.J. grabs her shoulders
and forces her to turn back
around.

Face the consequences of

your actions Caroline!

The water below them begins

to swirl violently.

She sees Sonny and his men

searching for her.

Carly gasps. That's Alexis!

What is she doing in that
hell hole? She asks as she
watches the man grab
Alexis.

Alexis was searching for

you! She thought the police
were ignoring an important
clue that came in about
you. When Taggart
wouldn't follow through
on it; Alexis took the
address and went there
to find you for Sonny.

She knew how desperate

he was to find you. For
Michael, Bobbie and
for himself. Guilt! That's
what drove Sonny and
Alexis both to search
for you.

Thank God; Sonny talked

to Taggart and learned
about his discussion
with her about the clue.

Sonny was still connected

enough to Alexis to know
that she would be driven
to go to this place and
look for you.

A.J. takes Carly's chin and

turns her face back towards
his own.

Hear this and understand;

Caroline. If Sonny had not
found Alexis when he did,
another innocent child
would have been lost.

Carly gasps....But the DNA

tests?

Death changes people

Caroline. Your supposed
death tormented Bobbie,
Sonny, and Alexis.

Kristina's death killed

something inside Ned.
His goal in life became to
punish Sonny, and to punish
Alexis.

I don't understand! Carly

states.

Ned loved Kristina. When

she died the little bit of
heart that he had left was
destroyed. As far as Ned
is concerned all of this
is Sonny's fault. Sonny
has always taken everything
Ned has wanted. That
started with Alexis and
continued on with Kristina's
death. By sheer luck, Ned
found his sword to use
on Sonny. Sonny handed
it to him on a silver platter
with the beating of Zander.

Zander betrayed Sonny!

It is a wonder he wasn't
killed; for what he did!
Carly snipes.

You and Sonny betrayed

Zander first! Zander lashed
out the only way he knew
how! The way Sonny taught
him.

Sonny didn't teach him

betrayal! Carly yells.

Yes he did, with your help.

You led Zander on; you gave
him hope. You and Sonny
both gave him friendship
and then yanked it out
of his grasp; because of
the games you two play.

Sonny taught him you

always seek revenge!
Zander failed to learn
from Alexis that if you
love someone you set
them free. To let go of
someone you love takes
twice the strength; it
does to seek revenge.

You and Sonny are like

two little children.

You say....That's my toy;

I don't want to play with
it any more; but you better
not try to play with my toy!

That's not love Caroline!

Love is giving what ever
it takes to make the other
person happy. It's called
sacrifice! You don't have
the faintest idea of what
that is.

Watch! A.J. demands as

he turns her back to look
into the swirling waters.
A.J. whispers in her ear.

For a time Ned, got to

relish in the knowledge
that he had everything
Sonny ever wanted. It
was Ned that could lay
claim to the word father;
over Sonny Corinthos'
first born child!

For the next few minutes

Carly watches as their
lives pass through the
swirling water; all the
way up to her trip to
the mall and Michael's
sad wish to Santa Claus;
for his parents to divorce.

Suddenly they are back

in the master bedroom of
the penthouse once more.

A.J. leads an exhausted

Carly back to bed. He helps
her lay down and covers
her up.

Sleep Caroline. You need

it. The Ghost of Christmas
Future will be here soon
to take you! As Carly's
eyes drift closed she shudders
at A.J.'s parting words.

You were afraid of me?

I am but a wisp of smoke
compared to what the
Ghost of the Future has
in store for you!

The balcony doors fly open

one last time. The bright light
fills the room one more time.

Carly feels a small cold hand

shaking her shoulder; trying to
rouse her.

Wake up Caroline! The small

voice calls to her. Wake up
Caroline!

Reluctantly, Carly opens her

eyes. She finds herself looking
into intense dark brown ones.
Ones she is sure she has seen
before.

Who are you? Carly asks.

I'm the Ghost of Christmas Future,

Caroline!

But, you're just a little boy. You

can't be a ghost! Carly states.
Ghosts come in all shapes and sizes.
Get up; we have to hurry the sun
will rise soon! The boy says walking
towards the balcony.

Carly puts her robe on, and walks

over to the balcony. The boy holds
his hand out to her.

Before she takes his hand; Carly

shivers.

I think I am most afraid of you.

She says.

To clearly see the past and learn

from it, to make a better future
is always frightening Caroline!
The ghost tells her. He looks
at her intently again, and holds
his hand out to her.

The moment Carly touches his

hand everything changes.

It seems to become even darker.

She is no longer cold, but what
scares her is the silence. There
is not a single thing she can hear.

Suddenly, they are no longer on

the balcony. The only thing Carly
can see is the small boy. Funny, I
thought his hair was a lighter color;
now it seems to be almost pitch black.

Why isn't there any sound or light?

Carly asks.

This is the future. This is a place of

possibilities! There is no sound and
no light because it hasn't happened
yet.

We go this way, Caroline. The ghost

says as a road suddenly appears before
them.

This seems familiar...Carly says as they

start to walk.

That's because this is the future; the road

you have been creating. He says sadly.

Don't look so sad, Little Man. My future

can't be that bad. I'm Sonny's wife; we
have a beautiful home, money, power
and we have a great son in Michael. Sure
we fight, but what married couple doesn't?
Carly says, defending the life she leads.

Money, power a beautiful home.....it sounds

so empty, Caroline. The ghost says sadly.

My life isn't empty! I can go anywhere!

Do anything I want! What could be empty
about that? Carly asks him, anger building
in her voice.

You say nothing about family, friends and

most importantly love. You don't have true,
love Caroline. That is the saddest thing that
can happen to a human being.

Suddenly, a set of wrought iron gates appear

in front of them. The boy waves his hand
and the gates open up for them.

This where your life is headed, Caroline.

Look where we are....he tells her as the
moon suddenly shines above them.

Carly sees they are in a cemetery.

THERE IS NOTHING HERE FOR ME!

Carly shouts at the ghost, letting go of
his hand.

This way; Caroline. It is time to see the

price your loved ones will pay for your
choices. The Ghost of the Future tells her.

NO! Carly shouts once more and turns to

walk away.

YES YOU WILL SEE THIS PATH YOU

ARE CREATING, BECAUSE YOU REFUSE
TO LET GO OF WHAT YOU DON'T LOVE!
The Ghost yells at her.

Carly suddenly finds herself turned around,

lifted off her feet, and flying through the
air towards the Ghost of the future.

Please don't make me do this....Carly pleads

as the ghost takes her hand once more and
leads her further into the cemetery.

Finally, they stop in front of a grave.

Look Caroline, the ghost says as the snow

in front of the headstone starts to blow
away.

An M appears etched into the granite;

through the swirling snow.

NO! I WON'T LOOK! Carly screams

covering her eyes with her hands.

LOOK CAROLINE! The ghost of the

future commands.

Look at who must pay the price because

you refuse to leave a world you do not
belong in!

Finally, Carly realizes there is no

escape for her. She must confront
where her present path is leading her.

NO! Not my son please she begs.

MICHAEL CORINTHOS

1998-2014

BELOVED SON

PLEASE NO! Carly wails as she collapses

to her knees; her hands running over
the dates on the headstone.

Michael Corinthos will die on

March 23, 2014.

Watch Caroline! The Ghost commands

her.

The front of the headstone swirls.

She sees a sixteen year old Michael
on the docks arguing with some
other boys his age.

You know, I get half of whatever

you make! Michael yells at the taller
of the other boys. NOW PAY UP OR
SUFFER THE CONSEQUENCES!

NO! The taller one yells back. We have

had enough of your bullying; Corinthos!
You don't do a damned thing to get
another penny out of us! We have been
suffering with your superior attitude
for too long! I don't give a damn who
your Daddy is! Just because you found
out about our business doesn't give you
a right to half the profits for no work.

I give you PROTECTION! Michael screams

back at the boys.

Aahahahaha! From who? The taller boy

laughs.

My Old Man that's who! He would have

you fed to the fish by now for cutting in
on his territory! Michael yells back
defiantly; trying to act as powerful as
he has seen his father act.

Old Man is right; Corinthos! The taller

boy advances on Michael; forcing him to
back up as the other boy blocks his path
to escape.

I think your Old Man's time has come!

I think he needs to be shown that the
younger generation isn't far from being
able to take what is his! The taller boy
pulls a switchblade out of his jacket
pocket. I think I will start by taking
his precious little boy! He says, waving
the blade in front of Michael's terrified
eyes; before he thrusts it into Michael's
side pulling it up and thrusting in
harder. He pulls the switchblade out,
and throws it as far as he can, out into
the water.

As Michael's dying body slumps to the

dock; the last thing he hears before
death takes him is ..............I guess your
Daddy isn't the great protector after all
is he? The two boys turn and disappear
down the docks.

NO! DON'T TAKE MY BABY! Carly screams.

As the images disappear from the front of
the headstone!
The headstone face swirls again and another
image appears.

A drunken Sonny stumbling around on the

docks. Carly and Bobbie are coming towards
him in the opposite direction. When they
are level, with him. Sonny says; I'm sorry
Carly! I didn't know what he was doing!

I don't want to hear it; Sonny! It's been

three years now. Michael isn't coming
back! Thank God we didn't have any more
children; look at you! Well, I guess you
finally got what you deserve! You don't
have anything! Your nothing but a drunken
bum! Carly screams at him. I HATE YOU!

Carly come on, let's go. Leave Sonny alone!

Bobbie pulls Carly away from Sonny.

Carly watches as the headstone swirls again;

she sees Sonny here at Michael's grave.

I'm sorry Michael. I never do anything

right. It should be me in that grave not
you. Well; at least I can fix that! Sonny pulls
a small handgun out of his pocket. He puts
it to his temple. With his free hand he kisses
his palm and lays it against Michael's name.

As the image leaves the front of the headstone

Carly hears a gunshot.

NO SONNY DON'T! Carly screams slamming

her fist against the granite.

Why? Why? Carly asks the small Ghost.

You and Michael don't belong with Sonny.

It's as simple as that. The ghost tells her.

You always choose the path of self destruction,

Caroline. You do it because you are afraid to
be happy. You think "Oh I will be bored without
Sonny, I won't have power, I won't have
money, no one will respect me." Well I have
news for you Caroline; no one respects you
now! They just fear your husband too much
to show it!

You are not the woman, who was born to

be the wife of Sonny Corinthos. There is a
woman, who was born and raised to be able
to survive in his world. He was born; and
raised to be able to survive in her world.

Staying with Sonny doesn't make him a better

man; and it sure doesn't make you a better
woman. Far from it! The two of you have so
much potential! The ghost shakes his small
head sadly.

You will never achieve it if you don't leave

this road you have chosen! You are bad for
each other. You feed off of each other's
insecurities.

For some unknown reason; the two of you

refuse to admit that your marriage has
been over since the day it started!

I DON'T KNOW HOW TO CHANGE!

Carly cries.

It's easy Caroline; just walk the other way

like this. He tells her, taking her hand and
leading her on a new road that has appeared.
One that is in the sunlight.

Look....he says as they suddenly appear

in front of a house. Carly steps up on the
porch and she looks in. She sees a smiling
Sonny; holding a little boy who seems to
be about a year old on his lap. A beautiful
little girl of about five is twirling in front
of them. She is showing off her red and
white dress. When she stops; she climbs
up on to the couch and throws her arms
around Sonny's neck. I love you Daddy!
She whispers in Sonny's ear.

I love you too, Daddy. A new voice says

with a low chuckle. Carly sees Alexis
appear in the scene and sit down on the
other side of Sonny. Sonny leans towards
Alexis and rubs his nose against hers.
Merry Christmas, my love. He tells a
smiling Alexis.

MA! The baby yells feeling left out; he

stretches his arms out to Alexis.

He is such a Momma's boy. Sonny says

with a chuckle, as he passes the boy to
a grinning Alexis.

What about me; Daddy? Kristina asks.

You are definitely Daddy's little Princess.

Sonny says; pulling Kristina onto his
lap and hugging her tightly to his chest.

Then as quickly as they appeared; Sonny,

Alexis, Kristina and the baby; disappear.
In their place, Carly sees Michael, a few
years older than he is now.

Uncle Jason when is Daddy coming with

Aunt Alexis? Michael asks anxiously.

They should be here in a few hours buddy.

Where's your brother? Jason asks him.

In the kitchen with Mom. Michael

answers.

The scene changes to a kitchen.

Carly sees herself. My God: I'm stuffing a

turkey! She says shocked.

Yes, you are. By the looks of it, you and

the little guy over in that high chair
are having a wonderful time. The Ghost
says smiling gently at Carly.

Carly sees the little boy in the high chair.

He is happily shoving what looks like
Cheerios into his mouth, as he watches
her stuff the turkey. Jason and Michael
come into the kitchen. Michael runs
over to the high chair; he holds his
hand out. May I have some? He asks
the baby.

The grinning baby slaps a handful into

Michael's palm.

Jason walks up behind Carly and wraps

his arms around her.

Michael, sure does love his little brother.

It's so nice we are all happy now! Jason
whispers in her ear as he places a kiss on
her neck.

If you don't stop that; I won't ever get

this bird in the oven! Carly says with
a slight moan as Jason kisses her neck
again.

Cover that bird up and I will put it in

the oven for you. Jason says unwrapping
his arms from around her waist.

Suddenly, Carly finds herself back on

the balcony of the penthouse.

The Ghost of Christmas Future leads Carly

back to her bed. He helps her take off
her robe; and pulls the covers back on
the bed for her to lie down.

Now you have seen each of the roads you

can take, Caroline. All you have to do is
choose. Sleep Caroline; Christmas morning
will be here soon. The Ghost of Christmas
Future, steps away from the bed and heads
towards the bright light that is coming
from the balcony, once more.

Wait! Carly calls to him.

He stands just inside the light; his back

to her.

Yes, Caroline what is it? He asks her.

Sonny can really be that happy with

Alexis? She asks.

Oh yes. Although....he says and then

stops.

Although what? Carly asks.

Sonny will have to work very hard before

Alexis will give him her heart again. She
is afraid. It will take him many days to
convince her that he truly knows he
belongs with her, and her alone. The
Ghost tells her; and he steps further
into the light.

I knew the other two Ghosts tonight. I

don't know who you are though? She
asks him. Carly holds her breath waiting
for his answer.
The Ghost of Christmas Future turns
to look at Carly a final time. Carly is
shocked to see his hair go from dark
brown, to blonde. The dark brown eyes
she was sure she knew are no longer
dark brown. They are an intense blue.
He is the spitting image now of his
father.

If I'm very lucky, and you choose the

right path. You'll know me as ..............

Jake Alexander Morgan. I will be your

second born son. Good-bye, Mother.

Well, I like Jake Morgan; but Alexander?

What insane reason would I have for
giving you a middle name like that?
Carly asks; never doubting for a moment
the boy will be who he says.

Choose the right road and you will get

your answer, Mother! The Ghost of
Christmas Future disappears into the
light.

The next thing Carly knows, the sun is

shining through the balcony doors; waking
her up.

That was the strangest dream. Carly

thinks to herself. She swings her feet
out of the bed and grabs her robe. Once
her belt is tied she sticks her hands in
her pockets. The fingers of her right
hand come in contact with something.
She grabs it and pulls her hand out.
Opening her hand, Carly is stunned to
see she is holding a palm full of Cheerios!

Carly stuffs them back into her pocket

and runs down the stairs.

She sees Sonny coming out of the kitchen.

Sonny what time is it? What day is it?

Oh no, I haven't missed it have I? She
asks.

It's about 7AM; Carly that's early for you.

The last I knew it was still Christmas
morning! What is it you think you have
missed. Sonny asks totally confused.

Oh that's wonderful we haven't missed it!

Carly gushes.

Carly, what the hell are you talking about?

Sonny asks frustrated.

Why Christmas of course. We have to tell

Michael, he is getting his Christmas wish.
Oh Sonny, what should I wear to see Jason?
You can't wear that Armani suit Sonny. It's
Christmas that wont do at all. Carly tells him
turning to go back up the stairs.

Sonny grabs her by the shoulders stopping

her. Carly, what are you talking about?
What wish; what's wrong with Armani;
what does it matter what you wear to see
Jason in?

Michael's wish to Santa Claus that we get a

divorce. I want a divorce from you and you
want one from me. The Armani is wrong
because it just screams Godfather of the
Mob. Alexis simply won't go for that look
on Christmas morning. I want to look nice
for Jason when I tell him what an idiot I
have been all these years. Carly tells him.

Listen, I will call the doctor you get back

in bed. You're obviously delusional; must
be some kind of a virus. Although you
don't feel like you have a fever. Sonny
says, taking the hand he had placed on
her forehead away from her.

Sonny, answer me one question. For the

first time in our relationship answer me
honestly, please! Carly begs him.

Alright, one honest answer...go ahead;

ask away! Sonny tells her, thinking he can
get her back to bed once he answers her.

Remember; you said you would answer me

honestly! Carly reminds him. If you could
have the wife of your dreams, would that
wife be me, or the woman you really gave
your heart to all those years ago; Alexis?
Speak with your heart Sonny; please don't
tell me what you think I want to hear.

Choose Sonny! Carly demands.

Alexis, I would choose Alexis. Now let's

get you back to bed Carly. Sonny says
sadly.

Sonny...Carly says taking his chin and lifting

his eyes to her own....If the question is
reversed to me; I choose Jason. I love him.
I always have. Now I'm going upstairs to
change. Then I'm going next door and beg
him to listen to me.

Sonny steps back away from Carly. Shock

settling in as he realizes that for the first
time, Carly is telling him the God's honest
truth about how she feels.

You're serious.....He whispers to her.

Yes, I am. I saw the light last night, as they

say. We are so bad for each other; Sonny.
For some insane reason we just refuse to
believe that's the truth. We can have
everything we ever dreamed of Sonny.
We just have to stop being afraid of
being happy! Jason makes me happy. He
makes me laugh and smile. As much
as I hate to admit it; Alexis is the woman
that makes you laugh and smile. She
does, Sonny. I have seen you with her;
she makes you happy. I just want to be
happy Sonny; before it's too late for all
of us.
You and Jason are going to be happy
Carly. I'm sorry I kept you from him.
Sonny says, sadly.

It's my fault the most, Sonny. Enough

of that! We have to change our clothes.
Think of how we are going to beg their
forgiveness. Carly tells him.

Carly, Alexis will never let me back into

her life again. You and Jason just be happy;
okay?

No it's not okay Sonny! Carly exclaims. It

will take you many days; but if you don't
give up eventually you will convince Alexis
you love her. You did it once; you can do
it again. We have to be at the brownstone
by 11AM. We can tell Michael together.

You know what? You should make her

some of that chocolate latte and here; take
this too. You might get lucky. Carly walks
over to the doorway, and jumps up, and
pulls down the mistletoe.

Handing it to him; Carly says.....let's go get

dressed. It's Christmas, Sonny. Miracles
always happen on Christmas day!