The Bed You Make
Chapter 6
All in all, the outing was less stressful than anticipated. No doubt due, Dara admitted, to the fact that her most vocal critics had not been encountered at the Outback Restaurant. She had seen Commissioner Mac Scorpio from a distance, but he had apparently been too preoccupied to even glance her way. Now she knew why.
The cheerful bustle of fans surrounding the makeshift stage and Eddie Maine provided the perfect opportunity for Dara, Stefan and Nikolas to make a graceful exit.
“If you don't mind,” Nikolas said, “I am going to stay a while longer and see that Emily gets home safely.” Dara and Stefan nodded and then headed for the exit.
Dara allowed Stefan to guide her into the parking lot and their waiting limousine. He assisted her inside with a hand lightly cupping her elbow.
“Was tonight as you anticipated?” Stefan asked once the driver got underway.
“Not really. I mean, someone actually offered me best wishes on my marriage. Whoa… that word came a little too freely to my lips.”
“Why should it not?” Stefan's mouth held the hint of a smile. He'd clearly heard his wife's whispered remark. “We are married, after all.”
Dara swiftly objected. “With a purpose.”
“All marriages are entered into with some purpose in mind,” Stefan countered. He seemed to be enjoying their easy banter. “This union between us is no different.”
“Not according to Edward Quartermaine. I get the feeling that he isn't too impressed with you.” Dara smothered a smile at the way Stefan's mouth tightened at the mention of the older man. “Which could be awkward, based upon the way Nikolas and Emily were smiling at one another.”
Stefan raised a brow. “Miss Quartermaine is a lovely young woman. I am certain, however, that-”
Their conversation was interrupted by the sharp wail of a police siren. The limousine driver quickly pulled the big car over onto the side of the road. “I committed no offense,” the driver assured Stefan through the lowered partition. “I will speak with the officers.”
Moments later the back door of the limousine opened and the driver peered inside. “Mister Cassadine, the officer does not wish to deal with me. He says that he will speak with you alone.”
Dara immediately switched into ‘attorney' mode. “Why?” She attempted to exit the car. Stefan's arm barred her way.
"No. I will handle this."
