The Bed You Make, Chapter 6b
The Outback was finally empty of customers, and most of the staff as well. Members of Eddie Maine's band joked and reviewed the night's performance as they disassembled sound equipment and packed up instruments.
“Wow. Tonight was really something, wasn't it?” Emily Bowen-Quartermaine's gaze was directed toward Ned and the band, but all her attention was focused on the young man sitting beside her at the bar.
“That is an understatement.” Nikolas Cassadine smiled to take away the sting of his remark. “The entire day has been very memorable for me.”
Emily smiled shyly. “I'll bet it has been. It's not every day that you get to welcome someone new into your family.”
Nikolas grew serious. “That is certainly true. It has been the three of us for as long as I can remember.” He corrected himself. “My aunt Bobbie was there for a time, but…”
Emily knew of Luke's feelings where Nikolas and the Cassadines were concerned. He did not need to explain any further. “Now,” Emily offered, “your uncle has Dara. Alexis and Ned are growing closer, so…” Her voice trailed off.
“So that leaves only me to find someone to share my life with.”
Emily shyly looked away. She'd had a crush on Nikolas Cassadine almost from the moment the Cassadines had arrived in Port Charles. His gentle teasing made her feel awkward and unsure.
Nikolas felt a rush of protectiveness for Emily. Their difference in ages was never more apparent than in those moments when her shyness and insecurity appeared. “Come on.” Nikolas smiled and extended his hand. “I will escort you to the parking lot. Reginald is probably waiting to drive you home.”
“What about you? Reginald can give you a ride to the docks.”
“My uncle has undoubtedly arranged for my transportation back to Wyndemere.”
Emily tried not to sound too hopeful. “Maybe he didn't have a chance to. It is his wedding day, after all.”
“There is nothing,” Nikolas said without false pride, “more important to my uncle than my well-being.” He thought about the spark of interest he had witnessed between his uncle and Dara. “But I am hoping that may soon ease up a bit.”
