A Starsky and Hutch Reunion

As we open up my story, I want to thank you in advance for taking the time to read it. I suppose I should put up some kind of disclaimer as well, so here goes: This story is not meant to be an infringement on whatever “franchise” or “business” that still might be “Starsky and Hutch”. The story is for my amusement and hopefully yours as well. I have added a couple of characters that finish out Huggy’s family: his lovely wife Candita and their son, Theodore. (He prefers to go by “Lunk,” though–“Teddy Bear ” Brown isn’t really his idea of a great name!) I have also added a charming girl by the name of Katrina Marie Bella-Starsky. (The hyphenated name may fool you; she’s NOT David’s wife.) David does have a wife, though: Leslie, and they have twin boys: James and Marcus–14 years old. At the start of my story we find Hutch married to his third wife, Maggie. This is my story. I’m not Stephen King, but I hope you enjoy anyhow! TEE

Special thanks to M H E Priest for helping to transfer this story.

The sequel to this story is The Naked Souls.

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Chapter 1: SOMETHING’S AMISS WITH HUTCH

“Starsk–

“Hey Babe–it’s your old pal Ken Hutchinson taking time out of his busy life to send you yet another one of his infinitely cheery letters. I know I never pick up the phone when you call, but I just can’t bear to hear the disappointment that’s bound to be there. I know you’re thinking “what the hell happened to the Hutch I used to know?” Well, buddy, let me tell you–I wish I knew myself. There has to be something really wrong for me to be like this, and I can’t figure it out myself. I mean, I know the obvious shit: The third woman I chose to marry can’t hardly stand the sight of me, but now that she’s dying I stick around to hold her hand, (I AM still a gentleman, after all!)–I found out the hard way that those ‘don’t mix with alcohol’ warnings are on anti-depressants for a reason (or I wouldn’t have wrapped my car around a tree and got my ass put on ‘sick leave’–Nice Chief of Police, huh? Good thing the snow got blamed.) and last, but most certainly not least–I miss you Gordo, and my life I had when I was there.

“Can you tell me why the hell I left Cali, and what the hell I’m doing here? I remember coming to Colorado to fish and be alone to clear my head awhile. Then, my Hutchinson hormones had to kick in and find a woman–I always have been a weak bastard about that. NOW, I got sucked into this Devil’s Triangle in the mountains and I need to be rescued so desperately, man. It has to be bad Karma stemming from my jealousy of you and Leslie. Yeah, that’s right, pal. Jealousy over how goddamned happy you and Leslie were–and I was so damn lonely, Starsk! I know it wasn’t your fault, but I felt so “fifth-wheel” that I just left. It was “me and thee”…then there were three. I’m happy for you, Starsk, but that’s what I’m blaming my joyful life with Maggie on–jealousy over your happy life. Serves me right, huh?

“Actually, I think I’ll blame you for my marriage to Angie, too–after all, you set us up for our first date, pal.

“‘She loves sports,’ you said.

“‘One of the guys,’ you said.

“‘Guess what, Hutch? I’m gay,’ she says.

“One of the guys was right, Starsky. I really can’t blame you though–I guess I’m just so needy that I grab the first women who come along. Then, ludicrously, I marry them. It’s a crying shame I married Van before I met you–can’t pin that crime on you! I’m not really blaming you, you know. It’s just so much easier to try and blame someone else for this ridiculous life I’ve been leading lately. And, you’ve always let me shit on you–then you’re so good to always forgive me. That’s very admirable, but maybe it’s time you gave up on me. Lord knows I don’t want you to, but I don’t want to be an embarrassment to you anymore, either. If you choose not to answer this letter I will understand that your loyalty and patience have finally run out–and I would never hold it against you, pal. I swear.

“I’m sure you’re getting bored with my ramblings, so I’ll come to the main point of this letter: I’m writing to thank you for all these years of unconditional friendship. Even when I get lost and have to search in the darkness–I reach out to my memories of us together. I’ve tried so hard to figure out what’s lacking in my life, (and I’m pretty damn sure it’s not another wife) and I believe it’s the way we were together–as friends–as partners. We were a completed set. Anyhow, thanks again for trying to find something in me that’s still worthy of your love and friendship.

–“Hutch”

~~~

David Starsky had already read Hutch’s letter twice trying to find some little glimmer of hope in there. He’d sorely failed to find anything even close.

When Leslie had gone into the study to check on her husband, he’d wordlessly handed the letter to her. Now that she’d read it, she wished she hadn’t. David suffered so much after one of Hutch’s letters. Even now, he was lost in some sad thoughts that were causing a scowl on his handsome face. A gentle touch on his leg momentarily drew him back from his bleak deliberations.

“He’s getting worse, isn’t he?” It was a statement, even if Leslie had posed it as a question.

Starsky shook his head miserably and let it drop into his hands. “I don’t know how to help him, Les. He’s hurtin’ so damn bad and I’m just sittin’ here….”

Moving to comfort her husband, Leslie wrapped her arms tightly around his slumped shoulders. Gently she told her husband, “Maybe the problem is Hutch needs more than just your love…but you’re always here for him. He counts on that, David.”

Hoping she’d “helped” somehow, Leslie moved to the study door and smiled at her husband. “I have to finish packing for my flight to Florida.”

Starsky grunted, “Yeah, don’t suffer too much in the sun.”

Ah, a little bit of her husband’s “normal” personality was creeping in again. Leslie took full advantage of the moment. “It’s your fault I have to go!”

Starsky smiled brightly, making her feel a little better about leaving for 5 days. She had so much she wanted to say, but settled on one last thing before turning to go. “David, it won’t do anybody any good if you’re both depressed.”

He grunted and hoped Leslie took it as agreement, but it wasn’t. It was way too late for him not to be depressed. Suddenly, he jumped up and followed his wife into their bedroom. “What do you think about Trini takin’ the letters to that head-shrinker she knows? Maybe he could help, huh?”

Leslie laughed a little at the hope in Starsky’s voice. “Maybe,” she replied.

“Think she’d do it for me?” he asked, and Leslie thought it had to be one of the dumbest questions she’d ever heard.

“Our niece loves you more than life. Ask her, and I know she will help.”

The old Starsky blood started pumping as he paced a little from pent-up energy and too many thoughts in his head. “Yeah. I suppose you’re right,” he absently answered. “Thanks, Les. I love you.”

Starsky wandered aimlessly out of their bedroom as Leslie smiled at his departing back. Even when her husband had a million thoughts going, he always remembered to tell her he loved her. She had married a wonderful man eighteen years before, and never regretted one day.

Starsky’s restless wandering led him to his sons’ room to watch them peacefully sleeping. He went in and kissed each curly head before journeying to the kitchen. Taking a beer from the fridge he drew a long drink off of it. “God Hutch–I wish you were here to share this with me or somethin’.” Starsky took another drink before holding the beer up in the air, and willing Hutch to hear him across the miles he said, “Hang in there, Buddy. The Calvary is tryin’.”

~~~

Trini realized that every part of her hurt as she drove home. Her feet and shoulders hurt from playing waitress in high heels to a bunch of sleezoids at a nudie bar. Her head hurt from the lights and shitty music, and her ass hurt from being pinched and groped all night. She’d decided undercover work sucked a long time ago, but this case took the cake. Yawning noisily–as well as hugely–made her laugh at how unladylike it must’ve been. Oh well, what the hell–no old man to impress anyhow. As tired as she was, it wouldn’t even have mattered.

The drive home and the elevator ride up to Trini’s apartment seemed to take days. Daylight was beginning to creep across the sky when she finally opened her apartment door. Trini shut the door, then tiredly leaned against it to take off her dreaded high heels when she sensed someone in her apartment. Quietly removing her service revolver from its holster, she braced herself and flipped the lights on. Seeing the slider open out to her patio, and the curly-headed figure sitting there made her relax. She was glad her uncle had a key, but sometimes he scared the shit out of her.

Re-holstering her gun, she made her way out to the patio to join Starsky. Trini fell tiredly into the chair next to Starsky and conversationally said, “Hey good lookin’.” She could tell he was in a terrible mood by looking at the pile of beer cans at his feet.

Looking wordlessly at Trini, he placed Hutch’s latest letter in her lap.

Oh shit, it must be bad. Silently Trini read the letter then let it fall back to her lap.

“He needs to be here,” she whispered.

A snort of disgust came from Trini’s beloved uncle.

“After the wife dies–as he so tactfully put it.”

Trini sighed heavily.

“Wow. How did the man we all knew…?” She trailed off because she knew David Starsky already felt far too much guilt for “letting” Hutch leave. “Hey,” she offered, “I’ll take the letters to Maxwell and ask his opinion, O.K.?”

Starsky nodded, “I was hopin’ you’d offer.”

She promised, “We’ll do what we can, David.”

Starsky patted her hand in appreciation to her offer of help, but it saddened Trini. The movement made him seem old and tired in her eyes. She knew she had to help Ken to help her uncle–and she would do anything for her uncle.

Trini decided to take a chance and voice her thoughts out loud. “You know, I have to help Hutchinson so you’ll stop hurting, too.”

No comment from Starsky.

She decided to press on, “And, you know I don’t call you David to be disrespectful.” She held up a hand when he started to say something. “I need to tell you this all at once. You know how I am about mushy stuff.”

Starsky smiled and let her continue.

“I only call you David because I can’t call you ‘dad’.” Trini touched her chest lightly. “You’re so much more than an uncle in here. And you’ve been more father to me then Nicky ever even tried to be.” Trini had to swallow hard before she could go on. “And I remember these two heroes who saved me once upon a time.”

He smiled at that–“heroes” she’d called them.

“I remember my Momma takin’ me to Nicky’s house, and I didn’t even know him. They yelled for a long time before Momma came in and told me I had to stay there ‘cuz she was tired of havin’ a kid to try and take care of. We were barely surviving as it was–I guess drugs were more important to her than a kid and food, huh? You know, I still don’t know where she’s buried or when she died.” A single tear escaped before Trini could finish.

Starsky was looking close to tears himself, but he didn’t want to stop Trini. She had something very important to say and he wanted to hear it all.

Composed, she continued, “Well, all Nicky said was ‘cryin’ ain’t gonna help’ and, was I hungry or not.”

Starsky nodded–Nicky all the way.

“I laid in that room and cried all day, then I must’ve fallen asleep. I woke up when you and Ken came up to my room. I remember the door opening and seeing your smile–I didn’t know you, but I wasn’t scared. You came and held me, and let me cry. When I was done, I looked up and there was Ken with food. He was smiling and talking to me like I was a skittish colt, but I wasn’t afraid of him either.” Trini grabbed Starsky’s larger hand in hers and kissed it before she finished her story. “You two thought I was asleep when you were talking about my future–Nicky didn’t even bother to discuss his newly-found daughter’s care with you guys. Kids know when they’re not wanted, David. Anyhow, you two made a plan to send me to that great private school–get me out of the city–remember?”

This time he answered, “Like it was yesterday.”

“Well, all I know is when you were worried about how to pay the tuition, Ken never hesitated–not even for a second! He was on that phone cashing in savings bonds and stocks his rich parents had left him to help me. And you, of course, but he didn’t even know me. ” Rising to go to bed, Trini made one last comment. “You guys saved my life and gave me a line of credit I’d like to try and repay.” Kissing her uncle, she then rose and staggered off to bed.

~~~

The next night found Trini at the Starsky house for dinner. She had grown tired of television with Leslie and the boys, so she wandered off to find her uncle. He was in his study rubbing his head madly in frustration, a pile of crumpled letters he’d started, then discarded, beside him.

Starsky had already been in there for an hour trying to write a letter back to Hutch. He just wished the asshole would pick up a phone and call–he hated letters.

Trini placed a tentative hand on her uncle’s arm and offered, “Can I do anything?”

Frustrated, Starsky pushed the letter he was working on at Trini, “Yeah. Fix this mess,” he said tiredly. “Make it ‘cheery’ like the doc said–make it convince him to come here–make it…” he broke off from his rush off words and turned away from Trini. Starsky was fighting down pain and it was killing her. “…Make it make Hutch all better,” he finished.

Gently taking the pen from her uncle, Trini tried to sound hopeful. “We will.” She placed a loving hand on Starsky to get his attention. When he looked at Trini she continued, “Together, and with Kens’ help, we will.” With a silent prayer to the powers that be, she hoped she was right–for everyone’s sake.

~~~

“To my good friend, Hutch–

“Leslie and the boys send their love and say ‘hi’. We are all very excited to be seeing you again, and I hope it’s soon. I know you’ve had a rough time and all, but I also know you’re a strong guy Hutch. You’ve beat tougher things than this shit you’re going through now, pal. Besides, I have a case I’ll need your help on when you get here.

“I need your backup, and your brains to help sort this one out. Oh yeah, your Spanish will come in handy, too. It’s that case Trini’s been working on for the past 8 months–remember the one I wrote you about? The Mexican kids coming up missing, only to reappear in the child pornography district–anyhow, I need you on this one.

“Trini says ‘Hello, Ken.’ She also said she wants you on the case, too. It seems you and I are the only two she trusts when this case blows open. Pretty impressive, huh?

“We are great together, Hutch. I can’t blame her for wanting two of the greatest cops who ever lived as backup.

“Trini hit me, so I guess I better quit braggin’. Come as soon as you can, I’m tired of talkin’ by mail.

“Starsk”

Starsky studied the letter and commented, “O.K., we told him (1–everyone loves him and can’t wait to see him, (2–we admitted life’s been bad, but it’ll get better (3–I practically begged him for his help…” hesitation…”did we forget anything?”

“Mail it, Dave.” Trini handed her uncle an envelope. “Get the big lug here so we can really work on him.”

Handing back the envelope he told Trini, “You do the honors. You’re the one’s been helpin’ me with all these letters. Let’s just hope this one is the ‘cope de grace’ and gets his dumb ass here.”

“That’s ‘coup’, you idiot,” she teased.

Starsky laughed heartily. “Always correctin’ me…just like Hutch.”

Rolling her eyes she took the letter and headed to the mailbox. She had to get these two together again so she was out of the middle. They were weird. Loveable, but definitely weird.

~~~

“Hey Starsk!

“Damn, I was glad you decided to write back! I was sweatin’ it thinking you’d had enough Hutchinson bullshit to last you a lifetime–but, no. You came back for more as usual. Damn, I love ‘ya, Starsk…thanks again, man.

“The 4th of July was so depressing here, and all I could think of was the fun we used to have at the beach. Remember how we’d go there & watch the fireworks display? Me and thee–a cooler of beer–and our girls of the hour. Those were great times, man.

“This year found me sitting in a dark hospital room watching the display out Maggie’s window. She seemed to enjoy the fireworks, but it’s so hard to tell her feelings or emotions lately. Chemo and Morphine (Jesus, I hate that goddamned drug!) have a tendency to make people odd and distant. I’m sure you understand what I mean–about the Morphine anyhow.

“I do have a little interesting news, though! Maggie actually thanked me for being here with her. I said, “Well, till death do we part,” and she actually laughed! It was a pleasant laugh, too, not the nasty one she’d throw in my face as she left on ‘dates’.

“She also decided to add me to her will–with the step-monster’s approval! So I suppose I will be financially (albeit, morbidly) set for awhile when I leave here.

“I know you’re probably already thinking ‘be still my heart’, but there’s more! Maggie apologized, yes apologized, for the affairs–all of them–then she said she was sorry for ‘disgracing my manliness’. Yes, she said those exact words. What fancy words for a woman who felt the entire state needed to know the old ‘Hutchinson rod’ wasn’t quite up to par. I don’t hold any ill will, but I also don’t want to be here anymore. Is that horrible of me, Starsk? I just want to come home and see you guys again.

“Jesus, it seems like we’ve been cops forever, but I’m not so sure I’m very good at it anymore. Still, if you want my help with Trini’s case, I’ll gladly be there for you guys.

“I’m gonna have a lot of leave and vacation time to kill until I find a purpose–don’t get tired of havin’ me around O.K.? Guess maybe there’s a little life in me yet, huh, pal? Take care of that great family of yours. Maybe I’ll call soon.

“Hutch”

“Why always a fucking letter?” Starsky growled, but immediately looked apologetic for his language.

Trini either didn’t notice or didn’t care about his colorful use of the English language. “Safer,” she answered her uncle. “He has time in between letters–no direct questions and answers–that kind of bullshit.” Trini was trying to read Hutch’s letter and talk to Starsky at the same time–it wasn’t really working.

Starsky sighed, “Well, he’s sounding a little better, but not quite the brilliant and arrogant wise-ass I knew. But, I have to take any glimmer of hope, huh?” he added quietly when he noticed Trini was still trying to read.

She read quickly to the end, then looked up puzzled. “The Hutchinson rod?”

Starsky was hesitant to reply. “Yeah, his uh….” He didn’t finish and instead blushed as manly as a guy could.

Trini quickly added, “I know what he’s talking about.” Relief crossed Starsky’s face.”…But why? The anti-depressants?”

Starsky shrugged–still obviously uneasy discussing anything close to sex with his niece. “The doc wasn’t sure–the meds–too much alcohol lately–not enough love in his life–maybe a combination.”

Trini wrinkled her brow. “How sad. He’s not that old.”

The mention of age made Starsky sit up straighter in his chair, and he appeared a little ruffled. “He’s my age,” he fairly whined.

Trini had to bite her lip to keep from smiling. Men and their vanity! “Exactly–not that old.”

“Oh,” was all she got in reply.

Trini grabbed some paper and asked,” You ready to fire off the latest Starsky happy-time letter? Let’s help our boy get his life back together.” She reached across Starsky’s desk for a pen and quietly added, “And then we’ll work on the rod problem.” For the second time that day, Trini got another rare blush.

~~~

Trini had rented movies to occupy another dateless night, but they were less than she’d hoped for, and she’d gone to bed. The ringing of the telephone at 4 a.m. could only be one person since she wasn’t on call. “Hey,” she answered the phone–knowing it was Starsky.

“Maggie died an hour ago.”

She sat up in bed–now fully alert. “He O.K.?”

Starsky seemed more at ease discussing Hutch then he had for a long time. “Actually, yeah. He was back to Hutch for a couple of minutes there, but then he got all melon…” he’d forgotten that damn word Hutch used to use.

“Melancholy,” Trini supplied absently.

“Yeah, thanks. Said he felt sad but just ‘cuz she’d suffered so long, and ‘cuz another life was cut short. He seemed relieved it was all over, but I guess he felt guilty about feeling relieved.” He chuckled. “Just like Hutch to feel guilty for not feelin’ guilty. Anyhow, he’ll be here soon. Gotta ‘take care of business’ he said–funeral and stuff I….”

Trini interrupted. “He’s staying here,” she blurted out.

Starsky was caught off guard. “Huh?”

Trini teased him. “Eloquent, David.”

He snorted in her ear as a reply.

“He’s not staying in a hotel, and you guys don’t have room for him,” she reasoned.

“Yeah…yeah, you’re right.”

“Of course I am.”

“He can sleep there–I take him to work with me–he’s with somebody all the time! Great plan, Jewel. Thanks.”

She smiled at his use of the nickname he’d given her as a child. He’d told her “Treasure” was just too long.

“Welcome,” she yawned.

“Oh yeah, sorry to wake you. Night Trini.”

“Goodnight David.” With that he had hung up, and was probably already asleep again by now. The man was irritating in that sense–he could fall asleep in a nanosecond. Trini couldn’t. She sat up for awhile wondering if she’d made a mistake demanding Ken stayed with her. Trini was sure David would feel guilty about ‘making’ Hutchinson sleep alone somewhere, so she’d tried to take some of his burden away. But she hadn’t seen Ken Hutchinson in years-what if they couldn’t stand each other now? Maybe he’d gone off the deep end like “Hawkeye” on “M.A.S.H.” and he was too far out there to help–or maybe, he’d just sit on her couch all day in a t-shirt and boxer shorts being flatulent. Her bizarre thoughts seemed weird–even to her–and she laughed out loud.

She reasoned with herself: For God’s sake Trini, you two always got along fine–Hawkeye was never as “in control” as Ken could be–and lastly, the thought of Ken and his uptight little ass even considering farting…well, that one made her laugh out loud. That was too comic to even contemplate. On that note, Trini rolled over to try and fall back asleep.

 

 

Chapter 2 – HOME

It’s a beautiful, clear Colorado afternoon, but Hutch had hardly noticed. He was so busy packing in anticipation of finally leaving, that his entire focus had been on that single task. Now, he was done, a rueful smile on his face as he looked around the room one last time. Shaking his head he grabbed two suitcases in one hand, then picked up his suit bags and duffel in the other.

He had almost made it to the front door (and freedom) when he was addressed by Maggie’s butler.

“Master Hutchinson,” he called out–slightly out of breath.

Hutch smiled a little at that–the poor man must’ve been running around the empty house frantically in search of Hutch . It was amusing to him that this man’s sense of duty wouldn’t let his former employer sneak out quietly.

“Yes James, what can I do for you?” he said, acknowledging the man following him.

“Master Hutchinson,” he repeated, causing Hutch to cut him off. He hated that stuffy-ass title of ‘master’.

“Hutch, James. Call me Hutch.”

“As you wish M…Hutch. The Senior Dr. Parker came by with this package for you. He bids you Godspeed and good luck, Sir ”

James handed the large manila envelope to Hutch. Hutch shifted the luggage and put it into his duffle bag–he’d read it later.

“Um, would you tell him I said goodbye and ‘thanks’?”

James nodded in the affirmative. “We shall miss you as well, Hutch. You are a good man, Sir.”

“You too, James.” Hutch smiled at the man, then decided to break all protocol by hugging the man with his free arm. James returned the hug gratefully, and Hutch genuinely smiled for the first time in far too long. He could just imagine his Mother and Maggie both spinning in their graves–he had made physical contact with the hired help! Hutch could almost hear them both chastising him, “Ken, never get personal with the help. It’s not proper.” He was tired of trying to be proper–it hadn’t done him much good so far.

James hastily rushed to open the door for Hutch and they smiled farewell. Another time–another place–they probably could’ve been friends. Hutch sighed and left the house he had never called ‘home,’ and began to whistle a little.

Tension was already leaving his body .

~~~

Hutch was getting wired and restless. The plane had been delayed for repairs in Arizona and now they were hopelessly off schedule. He hoped Starsky got the message he’d left with the Metro operator and wasn’t waiting at the airport for him.

Hutch was tired and his nerves were stretched to breaking waiting to get back.

He wanted to be home now–with Starsky and his friends–and the plane was barely landing.

Wishing the plane would stop its seemingly endless taxi down the runway, he rubbed his sweating hands on his pants.

Jesus, he was a nervous. Hutch laughed a tight little laugh. With his constantly roaming eyes, and nervous actions he’d probably scared the lady next to him.

She probably thinks I’m a bomber, or a child molester. He smiled in thought. “Former local cop turned psycho.” Hutch almost laughed out loud.

Thankfully, the plane finally stopped and Hutch began to breathe easier.

The lady beside him gently patted his hand and smiled at him. “See, the bad part’s over now.”

Hutch smiled back realizing she was talking about the flight–she hadn’t thought he was nuts after all!

“I certainly hope so,” he replied–not talking about the flight, but life in general.

The herd of people finally cleared a path for Hutch to get off the plane, and he gratefully did.

He had a friend to see.

~~~

Starsky was nowhere around and Hutch felt a little silly at his disappointment.

“Oh well,” he sighed and sat down to wait. Maybe Starsky hadn’t gotten his message about the delay. Hutch had to wait for his luggage to be unloaded anyhow, so he decided to read the Docs note. He’d been too nervous to even think about it on the plane, but now he could. Tearing open the envelope, he found his medical file and a note in Doc Parker’s handwriting.

“Ken,” it started, “I will miss you, my boy. I am set to retire, and since you were unsure of your destination, I am giving your file to you. It might have been presumptuous of me, but I also refilled your medication. It is your decision to take it or not, Ken. I hope you won’t be in need of it anymore, but I wanted to take care of you one last time.

You are free to start again, my boy. Take full advantage of your newly found freedom.

God Bless you, son. Take good care of your body as well as your soul, Ken. They work best together.”

The kindly old man had signed it, “Wesley”–choosing to use his first name.

Hutch felt a hard lump in his throat–the old Doc had been good to him.

Slowly he pulled out the prescription bottle and stared at it.

Not today, he thought, I won’t need any today. Starsky always makes me feel good.

Shoving the prescription and package back into his duffle, he rose to make his way to the luggage carousel.

~~~

Hutch got onto the escalator to go down and retrieve his luggage. All the while he tried to seem casual as he scanned the crowd for Starsky.

Maybe Stark won’t even recognize me. I’m not exactly the Blond Blintz anymore.

Hutch knew his hair wasn’t near as blond from wearing a hat in the Colorado cold and rain–playing on the beach in California kept it a lot lighter. He was also well aware he had more lines around his eyes–not all from laughter either, and he’d grown his mustache back.

Looking around the crowd one last time, he fought down his doubts. Starsky would know him. The skin he and Starsky wore might have changed, but the souls never did.

Starsky would know him.

After standing with his luggage for a while, Hutch decided Starsky hadn’t received his message about the delays. Grabbing up his bags, he decided to find a cab to Metro.

It was when he’d almost exited the building that he saw Starsky. Hutch wasn’t sure what he’d been expecting when he finally saw his old friend again, but this was not it! Hutch thought maybe he’d see Starsky leaning against a wall with that cocky grin–enjoying Hutch waiting and looking for him. But this was too much!

And immediately, Hutch knew that was why Starsky had done it.

Yeah, Starsky was wearing that old smart-ass grin Hutch knew so well–and yeah, he was leaning against the wall enjoying Hutch’s embarrassment–but, there was no way he could be missed! There, (blocking the exit, dammit!) was Captain David Starsky and six uniformed officers saluting Hutch. As if that wasn’t enough, that asshole Starsky was holding up a sign that read “Blond Blintz.”

Hutch couldn’t help but smile, even as a stinging started in his eyes–one that he hoped he could blame on returning to the pollution.

Jesus, he loved this guy.

Hutch remained silent as Starsky dismissed his officers, then helped grab Hutch’s bags and started outside to get a cab. Once they were both inside the cab and Starsky had given directions to the cabbie, Hutch punched him hard in the arm.

“You know, you’ll have to pay for that degradation I just suffered in there, Gordo.”

“Aw, come on Hutch,” he countered. “How many women have ever greeted you with such love and devotion?”

You’re right, of course. Nobody else has ever loved me so unconditionally.

Hutch decided not to vocalize his feelings, though. It would let his friend off way too easy. Instead he grunted and looked out the window–which seemed to please the already delighted Starsky even more.

Placing an affectionate smack on Hutch’s leg, Starsky started to laugh.

Turning to smile at his friend, Hutch smacked Starsky’s hand off his leg. “You’re a bastard.”

They were gruff words that didn’t match the merriment in Hutch’s eyes.

This time Starsky went full bore into uncontrollable laughter. After a moment of hesitation, Hutch joined in.

Wiping his eyes and finally catching his breath, Starsky told his friend, “Jesus, babe. You shoulda’ seen your face!”

Hutch just smilingly shook his head. The old feelings hadn’t waned one little bit.

Their cabbie was remaining silent, but Hutch could see him grinning in the mirror.

I know, fella. It’s hard not to feel good when my buddy is around.

The cab finally pulled to a stop in front of an apartment building that Hutch didn’t recognize at first. Getting out of the cab and looking around, he remembered these buildings used to be offices. Shit, I’m getting old. This city’s changed so much, and I missed it all.

“This where you and Leslie live now?”

“Not exactly,” was Starsky’s cryptic reply.

Hutch shrugged and helped grab suitcases. He turned to pull money out to pay the cabbie, but Starsky had beaten him to it. Hutch was amazed–Starsky was getting some class! Hutch had to admit Starsky was looking good as well. He actually looked kind of…well, dapper in his tan double-breasted blazer and matching pants, coupled with what seemed to be a black silk shirt. Silk, Starsky? My, my, my.

“Thanks,” Hutch said, nodding towards the cab.

“You’re here for a visit, babe. Guests don’t pay.”

Even though he knew Starsky meant well, it made Hutch a little uncomfortable. He was a ‘guest’–not ‘partner’ anymore. Wow. This change sure sucked.

~~~

The elevator ride was a little tense, but all on Hutch’s part. He was feeling a little out of place after being called a guest, but Starsky’s attitude hadn’t changed. Starsky hadn’t meant anything negative and Hutch knew it–Starsky was still Starsky. The only changes Hutch had noticed were external: hair trimmed shorter, and somehow “tamed” a little, and nicer clothes that became a police chief. He seemed to be the same old Starsky on the inside, though: loyal to a fault, kind and honest, trusting and loving as always.

Hard to believe he was a police captain now, but nobody better could’ve filled Dobey’s shoes in Hutch’s eyes. Hutch was thinking how proud he was of Starsky when the elevator doors opened, ruining Hutch’s thoughts. Hutch started out of the elevator after grabbing half his luggage, and headed towards the hallway.

He didn’t notice his friend’s slyly placed foot sneaking out to catch his.

Struggling to regain his balance, and dropping his suitcase was of the greatest enjoyment to Starsky.

Hutch shook his head and watched his friend walk away whistling–at least he’d helped carry some of Hutch’s luggage. Hutch gathered himself together and followed his friend, all the while plotting his revenge. God it’s good to be home, he thought for the thousandth time that day.

“You’re gonna die, Gordo,” Hutch threatened as they shut the apartment door behind them.

“Yeah, Blintz. I heard it all before. You hungry?”

“If you’re not cookin’,” Hutch replied as he looked around the expansive apartment.

The area he was standing in must’ve been a conference room or something of the sort–it was approximately 50′ wide and 100′ deep with a fireplace added on the North wall.

This place must cost a fortune.

At the end of the wall by the fireplace was a door that must lead to the master suite. Turning to his right, Hutch looked out onto the patio and saw something wonderful! A greenhouse took up one whole corner of the spacious patio. Now he knew this had to be the home of a friend of Starsky’s. No way the man who’d called Hutch’s plants ‘green pests’ could have all these live–and thriving–plants. There was also quite a collection of plants inside the apartment: trees and huge ferns separating a breakfast nook from the rest of the apartment–and pots scattered throughout with everything from ivy to mums.

Hutch was impressed with whoever lived here.

Suddenly, Starsky was next to Hutch. “Beer?”

“Thanks, Starsk.”

Starsky went right back to cooking while Hutch continued his inspection of the apartment. Turning to watch Starsky, Hutch saw there was a 2nd table–larger than the ‘nook’ table for fancier dinning. Behind that table was a long island that had cabinets, and plenty of cutting/serving area. This was a nice place.

Whoever lives here is quite an enigma. Seems they like to cook and entertain–likes live plants and religious trinkets. Hmmmm. Cross on the fireplace mantle–the ten Indian commandments–Dahli Lama books–‘shalom’ on a plaque… maybe a religion major?

“Quit snoopin’ and come eat, Blintz.”

Hutch returned the smile Starsky threw his way, and started towards the table when a picture caught his eye. There–in a beautiful 8 x 10 glossy photo–was Starsky and a very pretty girl in a police uniform. That in itself was probably nothing, but the way she had her head resting on his shoulder, and the loving smiles they had for the camera…well, that was something.

Hutch didn’t think he wanted to know.

~~~

Sitting down to eat, Hutch was quite happy with what Starsky had fixed: a salad and some grilled salmon he must’ve warmed from an earlier meal.

“Damn, Starsk. I’m impressed.”

As Hutch took the first bite of his meal, a female form coming out of the master suite earned his undivided attention. She was toweling her hair dry, and thankfully for Hutch, the towel covering her body was almost to her knees.

Suddenly, she became aware of the two men seated at her table. She didn’t seem frightened, surprised, or even embarrassed. Actually, she seemed to be expecting them to ‘sneak’ into her home like this.

Slowly, that lop-sided grin Hutch was so used to seeing on Starsky crept across the girl’s face. Still silent, she moved to Starsky, and drank from his iced tea.

Suddenly, Hutch felt very awkward.

Was this girl why Leslie wasn’t here? He’d never have thought Starsky would cheat on Leslie, but these two people seemed to love each other.

He noticed Starsky and the girl were smiling at him expectantly.

Hutch looked down and played with his fork. He needed time to think this through. Are they waiting for my approval? I’m not a saint, but I don’t want in the middle of this…

Hutch’s thoughts were interrupted by a yelp from Starsky.

Hutch looked up and noticed his friend vigorously rubbing the underside of his arm–a pained look on his face. “Shit, Trini. You didn’t have to pinch me,” he whined.

Hutch realized how stupid he must seem, but he couldn’t help it. “Trini? Nick’s daughter?”

For good measure, Trini punched Starsky’s sore arm as she walked towards Hutch. “Sorry I’m not more decent–my uncle neglected to tell me you’d be here so soon.” Trini leaned to kiss Hutch on the cheek. “Welcome home, Ken.”

His earlier confusion gone, Hutch remembered his manners. “Trini, it’s so good to see….”

“Less of me?” she interrupted.

Hutch seemed a little embarrassed again until she laughed.

“One-hundred, forty-seven pounds less, to be exact. It’s amazing the weight you gain from depression eating.” Knowing depression was a touchy subject she hadn’t meant to talk about, she changed subjects. “David, you’re a shit. I suppose you haven’t even told him he’s staying here.”

Hutch looked nervously to Starsky who just shrugged.

“We’re in a condo until our house is built–Trini has three bedrooms,” he offered in way of explanation.

Hutch seemed ready to object.

“I offered, Ken. Let me do this one thing for you, O.K.?” Trini almost seemed to be pleading, and against Hutch’s better judgment he nodded.

“This is awfully kind of you, Trini.”

“No, it’s the kind of thing we do for friends who are family.” She’d fairly whispered her heartfelt words. Leaning towards Hutch, she kissed his cheek again, then turned to leave.

“I need to get ready for work, and you two need to eat your lunch. I don’t want to be late for work.”

Hutch laughed out loud–Starsky was still always late? Unbelievable!

When Trini’s bedroom door shut, Hutch threw his fork at Starsky and growled, “Thanks for letting me look like an ass.”

“You are an ass, Hutchinson, ” Starsky teased, then laughed at the angry look Hutch shot him. “Welcome home, pal. I missed ‘ya.”

 

Chapter 3 – THE HUTCHMAN RETURNETH

The two men had finished eating and clearing the table when Trini re-emerged from her bedroom, ready for work in a standard-issue police uniform. Trini was now walking toward the front door with Starsky closely in tow.

“What’s with the monkey suit?” he questioned her.

She smiled a little. “Detectives can still wear blues if they want to–besides I’ll be meeting with some of the Immigration and Border Patrol assholes. They seem to respond better to a woman in uniform. Chauvinist pigs.”

Starsky nodded and reached to open the door for her–his mouth twitching with a barely concealed smirk.

“And?” he prompted.

“And, I think I look pretty damn cute in this getup,” she stated matter-of-factly.

Starsky laughed and swatted her on the rump as she passed by him.

Hutch shook his head and followed the two vanity-filled Starsky’s out the door. Oh man, two Starsky egos. Well, at least Trini’s right… she looks almost as good in clothes as she did in a towel.

Starsky on the other hand…he’s not so cute.

Once in the parking garage, Starsky headed towards a silver SUV. “Thanks for pickin’ her up today, Trini.”

“Anytime. Besides, my car is getting new tires. I had to drive yours home today.”

Starsky went around to the driver’s side leaving Trini and Hutch on the passenger’s side. Hutch looked at Trini a little uncertainly and motioned towards the front seat.

“No thanks,” Trini told him. “You sit up front, I hate the way he drives.”

“Me, too,” Hutch mumbled.

“I heard that. Get in or I’m leavin’ both of you where you stand.” To emphasize his point, Starsky turned the vehicle on and revved the engine.

Trini and Hutch reached for her door at the same time, bumping their hands as they did. Hutch quickly pulled his hand back–realized that he must’ve seemed rude, and again reached (this time successfully) to open her door.

“I’ll be damned–a gentleman,” Trini marveled.

“We gentlemen do try. Your chariot awaits milady,” Hutch responded, still holding the door for her.

Starsky made a rude gagging noise. “You two are gonna make me lose this lunch I just ate.”

At that, both passengers rushed to get in–anything to silence a gripping Starsky.

“So, pal,” Starsky asked, “whaddaya think? Lotsa changes, huh?”

Silent and contemplative–Hutch nodded toward the police station he had once called his. “Yeah, lots of changes,” he replied absently, then got out of the car to follow Starsky and Trini inside.

Barely inside the door they heard a woman’s voice exclaim: “Why as I live and breathe, could that be Ken Hutchinson?”

Starsky smiled sweetly at the woman, then turned to Hutch. “Isn’t it sweet of Officer O’Riley to remember you, Hutch?”

“How could I forget ?” O’Riley cracked. “He told me if I gave him another parking ticket he’d have me in something besides Traffic. Glad I didn’t wait for his threats to turn into promotions,” she taunted.

“O’Riley, yeah, yeah I remember you!” Hutch was now pointing an accusatory finger at her. “You were tormenting me with your ridiculous tickets–harassing me, then saying I was harassing you.”

“Oh, come on Hutchinson,” she laughed, “You’re just still pissed ‘cuz I wouldn’t put up with your crap, and I went out with the Captain instead of you. See you around, sweetie.”

O’Riley turned to go and Hutch glared at her departing back.

Starsky threw his arm around Hutch’s shoulders and teased, “You still think she’s cute?”

Spinning his head angrily towards Starsky, and pointing a finger in the other man’s face, Hutch sputtered, “I never thought that woman was cute…or nice…or, or, even civil! You’re the one who went out with her, pal, not me.”

Looking questioningly at her uncle, Trini dryly commented, “Thanks, Hutchinson. I might be able to use that little tidbit of information come Christmas.”

Smiling wickedly at Starsky, Hutch pulled away from his friend’s side and moved to Trini. Throwing his arm companionably around Trini’s shoulder, he bent his head to hers. “I can have you set for life. I could tell you…”

Hutch was interrupted by the DA and the Commissioner calling out to Starsky. The two men had heard Starsky’s voice outside the door, and were obviously waiting for him. “Captain Starsky, can we see you when you’re through?”

Brightly, Starsky answered the men, “Sure thing, Commissioner. I was just getting Officer Bella to show Police Chief Hutchinson around.”

Hutch looked at Trini. Bella? he wondered.

Starsky continued, “Could we…?”

He was interrupted by the DA’s sudden realization, “Hutchinson, how the hell are you, old man?”

Hutch reached out to shake the hand offered–trying not to wince at the “old man” terminology.

“Tommy McNee–you’ve done well, huh?” Hutch greeted the former Public Defender.

“You know, promotion here and there,” McNee laughed a little, then noticed the impatiently waiting Commissioner. Putting on his “game face,” McNee turned all business. “Maybe we can get together–talk about old times?”

“Yeah, sure Tommy. You guys go on. I’m sure Officer Bella will take good care of me.”

Starsky turned to go, but stopped to look Hutch in the eye. “I’ll catch up later, O.K.?”

“I’ll be fine, Captain.” Hutch waved him on, but he could tell Starsky was feeling guilty “dumping” him on Trini. “Go,” he grinned.

Starsky nodded and returned the smile before shutting the office door behind him.

Gently grabbing him by the elbow and leading him toward her office, Trini turned to Hutch. “Come on, Hutchinson. I’ve got something to show you.”

He followed along silently until Trini had shut the door behind them. They were alone so Hutch ventured, “Bella?”

“That was Momma’s mother’s last name. Helps me around here–you know what I mean?”

“Ahhhh, you don’t want to be known as ‘teacher’s pet’,” Hutch laughed.

Trini smiled. “Something like that.”

“Well, it feels weird not to call you ‘Starsky’.”

“Yeah, to me, too, but a necessary evil.”

While they’d been talking, Trini had been moving about the office–turning on the computer–opening file cabinets and pulling out files. Trini shook her head as she set the files in front of Hutch.

“Damn, I know David wanted to be here to go over this. They just can’t leave him alone. Anyhow, you have to settle for me.”

Hutch wondered, If this is “settling,” what’s first prize?

Pulling a chair close to Hutch, Trini placed a hand on the files but didn’t open them. Instead, she turned to face him. “Ken, I really want to thank you for agreeing to help us. This case is very important to David and me.”

Hutch felt a little uneasy by her grateful and eager attitude. “I’m glad you want me to be part of this.” Motioning to the files, he asked, “Where do we start?”

It seemed physically impossible, but Trini scooted even closer to Hutch and opened the first file.

Taking off his jacket, Hutch wondered, Is it getting warmer in here, or is it just me? Maybe I should open one of her windows.

Trini’s voice drew his attention back. “Here’s what we know so far. The families are paying to come to the U.S. from Mexico–nothing new there, but there’s a catch. When they get to their transportation to ‘the promised land,’ the children are put into separate vehicles. The kids make it to American soil–the parents don’t.”

Hutch nodded. “What happens to the kids when they get here?”

Trini reached for another file and flipped it open. Hutch was momentarily stunned–even a “hardened” cop like him could still be shocked. There, on the table in front of him were dozens of pictures of nude or partially dressed children–most of them crying–all of them doing things children shouldn’t have to do.

Rubbing his hand across his face did nothing to clear the images. Sitting back roughly in his chair, Hutch sighed heavily. “Christ–what’s wrong with people?”

Trini didn’t have any answers for him, only more bleak news. “Most of the parents are killed or left behind in Mexico. We’re running into problem after problem. Even when we get lucky and close down one of these hellholes, we have no family to return the kids to. I got a job I go to part-time that we think is part of all this–they seem to have a lot of clients looking for young company.”

Hutch was saddened. “I see why this case is yours.”

Trini tried to laugh, but it didn’t quite work. “The girl who had no Mommy and no Daddy tryin’ to save the world.”

Hutch was sympathetic. “I know how rough it is–I mean, I had parents, but they disapproved of everything in my life. They hated my career choices and my friends, and they never accepted me for me. I understand the loneliness–just on a different level.”

Placing her hand on his, Trini nodded to the files, “At least we had it better than they do.”

Hutch nodded in agreement.

Hutch was deeply engrossed in the information on Trini’s computer when Starsky came in, pulling a chair by him.

“So, partner. Ya’ sick yet?”

“Hmmm? Oh, hey, Starsk.” Hutch sat up straight, rubbing his eyes and stretching. “The atrocities man can do.”

Turning to Starsky, Hutch’s stomach cramped up a little at the sight of his best friend. Starsky was lounging in the chair beside him–feet on one corner of the desk with his “let’s solve this” look Hutch remembered so well.

It was so much like “the good ole’ days” that Hutch wondered, again, why he’d left. It sure as hell didn’t make any sense at this very moment. Everything Hutch needed–everything he relied on–was here. Maybe that’s why he’d gone away.

Like a baby bird spreading its wings, Hutch?

Somehow his “flight of fancy” had crashed and burned tragically.

Trini opened her office door and addressed her uncle, putting an end to Hutch’s musings. “Hey Captain, I see you decided to grace us with your presence.”

Trini had returned with the two cups of coffee she’d needed when she’d left, but now that Starsky was there…she set Hutch’s cup in front of him, then offered hers to Starsky. “Want mine?”

“Nah, we’re fine,” he answered as he took the cup out of Hutch’s hand for a drink. Returning the cup to Hutch’s waiting hand, Starsky questioned, “So?”

“So what, Starsk?”

“You feel up to a little undercover work?”

Hutch was a little surprised at himself– he was definitely ready for this. “Yeah. Yeah, I am.”

Rising to leave, Starsky smacked his friend on the back. “Good. That’s settled, but now I got a Mayor to see.” Grabbing the coffee and drinking quickly, he apologized to Hutch. “Sorry, Hutch.”

“You should be, you drank it all.”

“No, about this bein’ your first day back and I’ve hardly seen ya’.”

“Oh, that .Well, I’m sure Trini can…”

“Trini can use Ken as an intimidation factor,” she interrupted.

A confused frown crossed over Hutch’s handsome face–he was missing something, but obviously Starsky wasn’t. Smiling enthusiastically, and smacking Hutch on the back again, Starsky exclaimed, “See, she’s got the Starsky brains–good idea, Trini.”

Hutch countered, “So far she’s seemed too smart to be a Starsky, but she must be since I have no idea what you’re saying.”

Starsky was half-way out the door when he said, “You know, pal, for someone with all your schoolin’, you should be smarter.” He turned to Trini. “Make sure he’s on time for dinner.” With that, he was gone.

“You know I hate him, don’t you?” Hutch growled.

“Yeah, Ken. It shows.” Trini started picking up files, then noticed Hutch was staring at her–eyebrows raised in question.

“Well?” he questioned.

“Well, what? You’re gonna be bored if I leave you here, or take you back to the apartment, and I could use some help. Remember I’ve gotta go see the border guards, and talk to the parents who’ve actually stayed alive to look for their children. I figured you could talk to the families, and I get a Viking warrior those assholes won’t mess with. Do you mind?”

Hutch laughingly rose to leave. “Let’s go before you con me into anything else.”

As Hutch climbed into the squad car next to Trini, he marveled at how good she smelled. Not the overpowering smell that came from Maggie and her stuck-up friends–not the smell of the most expensive French perfumes that Vanessa had worn–not the musky scent of cologne that Angie smelled of (she “borrowed” his)–just a fresh and unspoiled smell. Like ladies’ soap and conditioners, and maybe a drop or two of perfume.

Trini was somehow different from other women–she seemed comfortable in her own skin and Hutch liked her confidence.

Trini’s voice interrupted his thoughts. “I need to make a stop at the grocers and drop it off at David’s. You need anything?”

“Yeah, there a mall on the way?”

“Sure. What’re you lookin’ for?”

Hutch looked sheepishly out his window. “I forgot gifts.”

He’s still so unsure of himself, but it’s kinda sweet, Trini thought.

“Alright, Hutchinson. It won’t do me any good to say that nobody’s expecting gifts, so I’ll drop you off and go to the store.”

“Thanks.”

“You’re welcome, Ken.”

Hutch sat silently for a few minutes, then had to ask the question that’d been bothering him all day. “Trini, why don’t you ever call me ‘Hutch’?”

Stopping the car in front of the shopping center, Trini turned to look Hutch straight in the eye. “You never asked me to. I figured it was for close friends and female conquests only.”

Hutch laughed at that. “Sorry. I just figured…I don’t know exactly what I thought, but I wish you’d call me Hutch once in awhile.”

Climbing out, she answered, “Sure, Ken.”

Hutch just laughed.

“Alright, what are you after and I’ll tell you what stores to hit.”

Hutch stood there, looking up and down the main hallway. “Does Leslie still collect music boxes?”

Damn, a man who remembers! Trini marveled. “Yeah, that store there–they’ll wrap it, too. What else?”

“James and Marcus haven’t seen me in four years, and I want them to feel comfortable around me. Well, as comfortable as someone their age can feel around an old man.”

Trini pulled out her notebook and wrote something down. “You’re not old.” She shoved the note at him. “Here’s the name of 3 of the latest games they want. They’ll think you’re a God.” She turned and started to go. “I’ll be back–forty minutes–tops.”

Hutch watched her leave, then started on his quest.

~~~

Hutch was waiting for the twins’ presents to be wrapped when Trini came up beside him.

“Hey, miss me?”

He had, but he couldn’t exactly tell her that. “I never found anything for Starsk,” he complained.

“You know what,” she told him, “I think having his best friend home is enough.”

Looking down, embarrassed, Hutch paid for the games and they left.

~~~

Trini had shut off the squad car, but was making no effort to get out. Instead, she sat gripping the wheel and staring at the Immigration office.

“You O.K.?” Hutch asked.

Exhaling a breath she was unaware she’d been holding, Trini stated, “This case just sucks so goddamned bad.” Turning to Hutch she apologized, “Sorry, not my most lady-like moment.”

He understood all too well the cases that tore at your heart. “No problem. There are times when eloquent words just don’t fit.”

Trini laughed. “You say ‘eloquent’? David hates that word.”

Hutch smiled. “That’s why I use it.” Turning serious, he put a hand on her arm and asked again, “You O.K.?”

She nodded and let go of the wheel. “Yeah, thanks. Let’s go see if we can help these people.” Trini had barely stepped out of the car when she was approached by a plain-clothes officer.

“Hey pretty lady–whatcha’ doin’ here?” The man tried to encircle Trini in a groping hug, but she expertly avoided it.

“Same thing as you,” she blandly replied.

The man was staring so hostilely at Hutch that Trini almost laughed. Moving to stand by Hutch, she held out a hand in introduction. “Police Chief Ken Hutchinson–Detective Jimmy Munroe.”

Hutch offered his hand, but Munroe chose to snub it. “Oh, so you’re the other half of the hero team,” Munroe sneered, “Kinda figured you’d be on a white horse.” Munroe turned to Trini. “Call me when you’re ready for the big time, baby.”

Hutch looked at Trini and noted she was wearing something close to a snarl. “Not in this lifetime, jackass,” she hissed. Grabbing hold of Hutch’s elbow, Trini led them away from a laughing Munroe. “Sorry. He’s always an ass.”

“It’s O.K.–you’re not responsible for his actions and attitudes.” Hutch hoped the man was a better cop than the terrible human being he seemed to be.

“No, I’m not responsible, but I could’ve kicked him in the balls,” Trini growled.

Hutch smiled–she truly seemed to be offended that Munroe had been rude to him!

Trini was stomping up the stairs to the Border Patrol office when Hutch asked, “Bad history?”

Trini abruptly stopped and turned to face Hutch–standing a step above him made them almost eye level. “Bad, period. No history. I don’t date boys.”

“He’s an ass, Trini, but he’s hardly a boy. He has to be forty.”

“Ken, people can’t be pigeon-holed by age. The man is a child, and I will only date men.” She finished climbing the stairs and turned to Hutch again. “Besides, David set us up.”

Hutch threw his head back in genuine laughter. “Yeah, I got one divorce from a blind date of Starsky’s.”

Throwing up her hands, Trini stated, “See? You understand.”

She went to open the door, but Hutch was quicker. As he held the door for her, Trini pressed her hand softly to his face. “You’re always such a gentleman, Ken. Thanks.”

Hutch’s face burned where Trini’s hand had touched it. Good thing you can’t read my mind, Trini. I think it’d shock you. With that, he followed her inside. He had a job–a purpose–and he was needed again. Damn, this was feeling better by the minute.

Trini knew immediately she’d been right to bring Hutch. Those Border Patrol creeps were more than a little intimidated by Hutch’s size and his take charge attitude. When Hutch went in and started talking Spanish to the parents, it was a sight to see. The mothers came and clung to him, crying on his strong shoulders. Warily at first, the fathers approached Hutch, then sat down to discuss their missing children–communicating easily in their native tongue. Trini watched for awhile until she felt close to tears herself, then she left to question the Border Patrol again.

Every so often, Trini found her eyes wandering to the blond head mixed among all the dark ones. Hutch was impressive to watch–kind and sympathetic when he needed to be–headstrong and determined when a situation called for it.

Suddenly Trini saw Hutch’s face turn an unnatural shade of purple. Jumping up and walking across the room, he pushed open the supervisor’s door without knocking. Trini immediately heard yelling and was glad that anger hadn’t been directed at her. A brief moment later, the supervisor’s door flew open, hitting the wall outside.

“Get a sketch artist here now!” Hutch bellowed.

Three officers rushed to do Hutch’s bidding at the same time.

Trini stood and went to him. “What happened?”

“These officers,” he spit the word out, “chose to ignore the fact that these people have names and descriptions of the people who drove, and the people they paid.”

Man, is he ever pissed! Trini thought. I hope he never looks at me like that!

Hutch was coming down a little, but Trini could tell these men weren’t about to push him. “It would seem it’s more important to just kick these poor people’s asses out of the country.” He shook his head angrily. “These people have been trying to give descriptions for two days, but these jackasses just accused them of trying to stay longer. You see that woman over there?” Hutch was pointing to a woman about Trini’s age. “She was told she couldn’t be missing a seventee-year old daughter because she looked too young. These guys are morons.”

Trini slowly looked around the room–not one man would dare look up at Hutch. Damn, this gu’ys got balls as well as brains! She placed her hand on his shoulder to draw his attention, and when he looked at her she smiled.

He took a deep breath and returned the smile. “Sorry. The Hutchinson fury isn’t a pretty sight.”

“Maybe not,” she agreed, “but it’s damned effective.”

They both laughed at that.

She patted his hand. “You done good, Ken. Thanks for coming.”

Hutch was glad he had, even two hours later when he’d called Starsky to say they’d be late.

Starsky laughed, “She’s already pushin’ you around, Hutch–you’d better be careful!” Starsky was still laughing as he hung up.

Hutch looked at Trini–You don’t know how hard I’m trying to be careful, pal.

As if she knew what he was thinking, Trini looked up and winked at him.

Whoa old man, she’s Starsky’s niece–let that be your mantra!

~~~

As soon as Hutch and Trini knocked on the Starsky’s front door, it flew open.

Leslie threw her arms around Hutch and kissed him. When she pulled back, there were tears in her eyes. “Get your ass in here, Ken Hutchinson.”

He obliged her command and pulled her gift from the sack he carried.

“What’s this?” She laughed. “You return home and give us presents?”

Hutch noticed James and Marcus still watching him with hesitant eyes. He knew they were too big to hug and extended his hand instead. “Gentlemen, good to see you again.”

James was the first to reply. “Trini made a roast today.”

“Oh?” Hutch could tell there was something wrong with that, but he wasn’t sure what.

Marcus answered that for him. “Yeah, she put all kinds of weird vegetables in it. She says you like vegetables.”

Marcus wrinkled his nose. “Do you?”

Hutch laughed a little. “Yeah, sorry. But, I do eat a little roast, too.” He had to smile–maybe now the boys wouldn’t think he was so weird. Hutch pulled the two newly purchased games out of the sack, and whispered conspiratorially to the boys, “Don’t let your mom know. They weren’t meant for her delicate eyes.”

The boys smiled wickedly, and James said, “Cool. Must have lots of gore!”

Hutch put his finger up to his lips and smiled. “Shhh.” Then he winked at the boys.

They couldn’t remember the man their dad called their Uncle Hutch, but they already liked him.

Their fun was interrupted by Trini calling to them from the kitchen, “Dinner boys.”

Hutch took three long steps across the room and was beside Trini. “When’d you make this?” he whispered in her ear.

His warm breath on her ear was extremely sensuous, and Trini was a little surprised her body responded to something so seemingly minute. She turned to face him. “When you were spending money. Why? Are you mad?”

“No, I’m in awe. You managed to remember I don’t eat that much meat. That makes you considerate, talented, and pretty.”

Trini’s breath caught as Hutch walked past her to sit down. She looked around, but nobody had noticed their “talk.” Starsky had been too busy grumbling he hadn’t gotten a present, and Leslie and the boys were gushing over their gifts–nobody had noticed except her. Feeling a little silly, Trini shook her head.

What did I ‘notice’ anyhow? A compliment was all it was. Damn, I’d better start dating again.

~~~

Hutch awoke the next morning before Trini did. Silently making his way to the kitchen for his morning coffee felt a little odd. He was quietly looking in cabinets when the coffee pot started on its own–startling him. I’ll never get used to the things being “alive.” As he stood there watching the coffee brew, the phone rang, startling him again.

Hutch heard Trini’s shower turn on, so he decided to answer it. “Hello?”

“Morning, Blintz! Where’s my pretty little niece?”

“Um, I hear her shower, so I suppose she’s in there.”

“O.K., babe. Will you tell her I’ll get her car, and drop it off there this afternoon?”

“Yeah, sure, I’ll tell her. Does this mean you’ll be in meetings again, or do I actually get to look at your ugly mug?”

“Miss me?”

“Shut up, Gordo. I was just hoping you’d take me to a game, and foot the bill or somethin’.”

Starsky laughed. “I’ll buy ya lunch–1:00–Trini knows where. See ya’.”

“See ya’ Starsk.”

Hutch was just hanging up the phone when Trini’s bedroom door opened. She was wearing a pair of grey sweats, a t-shirt, and her tennis shoes. She had pinned her curly hair up in a ponytail, and it was trying hard to escape the clip it was in. Obviously, she was heading to exercise somewhere.

Hutch motioned toward the phone. “Sorry–the phone was ringing and you couldn’t hear.”

“Stop apologizing, Ken. You’re living here, too. I think it’s sweet you answered the phone for me. ”

Sweet? I haven’t been called that in a hundred years.

“Who was it?”

“Hmm?”

She smiled. “On the phone silly, who was it?”

“Oh, Starsk. Says he’s gonna bring your car by here this afternoon.”

“Did he say we were still on for lunch?”

“Yeah, he said 1:00–you’d know where.”

“Good enough. So, you wanna go downstairs to the gym with me–go sightseeing–what?”

“You’ve got a gym in the building?”

“We’ve got a gym. As my houseguest you can use it for free.” Trini wrinkled her nose at him. “I don’t run though. Not unless it’s in the line of duty, sorry.”

Hutch laughed. “I don’t run so much anymore myself.”

“Good. You wanna come with me then?”

“I’d love to.”

The morning went very smooth–both Trini and Hutch loved the free weights and took turns spotting each other. After the weights, Trini challenged Hutch, “You worn out or do you wanna let me beat you at squash?”

“You’re on, sister. Wanna place a little bet on this game?”

“Sure, whatcha got to lose?”

He straightened up to his full height so he could look down on her. “I get to cook.”

She laughed. “It would seem I win either way. You’re on.”

Later, Hutch had won, but Trini declared herself the victor. “Anytime I can get a handsome man to cook for me, I consider that winning.”

Handsome, huh? Just wait–you ain’t seen nothin’ yet, girl.

Back in the apartment Trini headed for the fridge and took out two bottled waters. She handed one to Hutch then opened her multi-vitamins and handed him one of those, too.

“Thanks.”

She smiled brightly at him. “Welcome.”

It’d been too long since Hutch had cared that much about his health–being back home was already doing wonders for him. I haven’t even taken any medication since I’ve been here. Maybe this will turn out O.K. It took a moment for Hutch to realize Trini had been talking–and he hadn’t been listening. “Uh, sorry. I was lost in thought. What’d you say?”

Still smiling at him, she repeated herself. “O.K., one more time, buster. Eggs, pancakes, omelet….” she’d trailed off as she’d turned to examine the deeper contents of her refrigerator.

Trini turned to call out more options, but Hutch had moved closer to examine the selection himself. When she turned, he was right there–and just for a moment, they simply looked intently at each other.

Trini swallowed hard and Hutch moved–breaking the connection. Somehow, he felt a little guilty about doing it. “Trini, you don’t have to cater to me. It’s very sweet, but very unnecessary.”

Trini moved to one side, and did her best “Vanna White” in front of the fridge.

Hutch laughed, then grabbed yogurt and fruit off the bottom shelf.

“Me, too,” Trini said.

He grabbed out enough for two, set it on the table, then went to refill his coffee cup.

Hutch noticed Trini was getting silverware and dishes, and her hands were full.

“Where’s your cup?” he questioned.

“Counter, thanks.”

He returned to the table with two cups of coffee, and sat down opposite Trini.

She started laughing as she cut the cantaloupe and put a slice on Hutch’s plate.

“What’d I do that was so funny?”

“No, not ‘funny’. It’s just that I’m used to David–three squares and two snacks a day. You’ll be cheap to feed compared to him.”

Hutch laughed. “He still eats that way? Incredible. He should weigh a ton, but somehow he stays the same.”

“Yeah, he is the one thing that stays constant, huh?” Trini marveled.

Hutch silently thanked the powers that be for that one.

~~~

Lunch with Trini and Starsky had been extremely pleasant. Hutch never thought it’d be possible to feel at ease with anyone the same way he did with Starsk, but Trini was way too easy to have around. Hutch had enjoyed “comparing” the two, always looking for the similarities and the differences. Both Starsky’s were quick to laugh, and both had that incredible smile. Both had curly hair, but where Starsky’s was brown–Trini’s was definitely more auburn. Trini watched what she ate–determined never to gain back the lost weight . Starsky ate everything in sight. Starsky was more tanned than Trini, too. Hutch guessed Trini burned easily, by the amount of freckles she had on her. (He’d gotten a great view of her pretty shoulders and upper back in that towel.) Trini’s mom had been Italian and she “inherited” a beauty mark on her left cheek from that side of the family. Her “gypsy mark” she’d joked.

For all that Starsky and Trini were different–Hutch thought anybody at Metro who was dumb enough not to see the connection should be fired. Obviously, their reasoning and observation skills were lacking if they couldn’t see the way these two loved each other–even when she was mad at her uncle.

Trini had snapped at Starsky for making them take a cab to the restaurant–he still hadn’t delivered her car as promised, but she was only slightly mad.

“Trini, I swear I’ll have it there tonight,” he promised.

She muttered under her breath. “I’m gonna buy a car you won’t touch one of these days.”

Hutch couldn’t wait to see what was so special about Trini’s car that Starsky wouldn’t let it go.

Trini and Hutch left Starsky at 2:40.

“You wanna walk for awhile–work off our lunch?” Hutch asked her.

Looping her arm through his, she smiled up at him. “Why Officer, you read my mind.”

They walked in easy silence for awhile like that–Trini’s arm through his–looking at shops and enjoying the view.

Suddenly Trini stopped. “Will you wait out here for a minute?”

He wasn’t in any hurry. “Sure.”

Her face lit up and she hurried into the store, coming back out a couple minutes later, a small sack in hand.

She smiled and looped her arm back through his. “Don’t ask. It’s a surprise.”

What on Earth she could’ve purchased was beyond Hutch. It didn’t matter to him, though. It seemed to make Trini happy, and strangely, that was good enough for him.

The rest of the day went by smoothly.

Starsky had been in meetings all day, so Trini and Hutch had spent her day off together. They had watered plants, played card games and talked the day away. Hutch couldn’t remember a day this relaxed in forever.

At 10:20 Trini stretched and yawned. “I guess we’d better get some sleep. We’ve gotta go to work in a few hours.”

Hutch hadn’t noticed the time and apologized. “Sorry I kept you up so late.”

“Don’t be silly, I enjoyed our time together today. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.” She rose and headed to her room, but stopped at her door. Trini turned back around. “Ken?”

“Yeah, Trini?”

“Goodnight.”

“Goodnight, Trini.”

When the bedroom door shut behind her, Hutch felt a little odd. So close, and yet so far away, he mused. You’re an old fool, Hutchinson. Get some sleep. He stared at her door a moment more then wandered off to his own room.

Hutch knew it was going to be a long time before he could fall asleep.

 

 Chapter 4 – THE AWAKENING

Trini and Hutch were finishing breakfast when the phone rang. Hutch was already rising so he grabbed it. “Hello?” He frowned a little, confused. “Kat? no…”

Quickly, Trini motioned for the phone.

“Uh, I guess she is here, hold on.”

He handed her the phone, and she covered the mouthpiece tightly. “I’ll explain.” Then a quick, “This is Kat. Yeah. Well, is it more money? Uh-huh. O.K. Yeah, yeah, I’ll be right there.” Trini hung up, and smiled at Hutch.

Hutch had already figured it out. “Sorry, I didn’t think about your cover…”

“Stop always apologizing, Ken. You’re only human, and there was no harm done.” She turned and grabbed her purse to go. “I got offered an extra job at the club–singing one song, but it’s something.”

“You sing? You are a constant amazement,” Hutch laughed.

“Yeah, well, you haven’t heard me yet. Don’t get amazed too quickly. Anyhow, I’ll call Metro on my cell phone, and meet you two back here as soon as I can.” Stopping at the door she turned to get her keys off the hook, then froze. “Shit! I have to take a cab, again. I’ve got a black and white downstairs, and my uncle still has mine.” She turned back to look at Hutch. “If he shows up without my car again, kill him.”

The sound of Hutch’s laughter followed her out the door.

Starsky showed up about twenties minutes later. Letting himself into Trini’s apartment, he saw Hutch at the kitchen sink washing dishes. Quietly, Starsky snuck up behind Hutch. Starsky leaned over to get close to Hutch’s ear. “Hey, pal.”

Hutch dropped the silverware he’d been rinsing, and smacked Starsky in the face with his washcloth. “Hey, asshole,” Hutch answered.

Laughing and wiping his face with a dishtowel, Starsky made a clucking sound at Hutch. “Little henpecked, buddy?”

Hutch just shrugged. “I’m staying here for free, she’s feeding me for free…. I can do the dishes.”

“Hey Hutch–she practically fought me to have you here. She wanted you to be here. You’re not a problem for her.”

“Still, I’m freeloading, pal, and I don’t like it.”

Starsky smiled to himself. That’s my friend–can’t stand anyone to just give him somethin’. “Hey, Leslie has a meeting tonight, and the boys are staying with friends, so I plan on staying here tonight.”

“That’s great, Starsk. Now she’ll have two mouths to feed instead of one.”

“If you’d let me finish, dear Hutchinson, I figure we’ll need a beer run. And just to make you feel better, I suppose we could buy some food, too.”

Already, Hutch felt better. “You think we’ve got time to go before Trini gets back?”

“Sure. I’ve still got her car, and the cab’ll take at least an hour.”

Throwing down his washcloth and rinsing his hands quickly, Hutch felt he should inform his friend of something. “I’m warning you now, Gordo, I’m payin’.”

Starsky held up his hands in mock defeat. “O.K., Blintz. It’s your pocketbook that’s gonna suffer.”

“Shit. I forgot the way you eat, Starsky. Is it too late to change my mind?”

“You shoulda changed it a long time ago–this one don’t work so well.” Starsky laughed at his friend.

“Shut up, Einstein.” Hutch tossed a notepad and pen at his friend. “You gonna write Trini a note or what?”

Starsky wrote the note quickly. “Let’s go. We still gotta show our faces at Metro sometime today.”

Starsky was extremely talkative and animated on the elevator ride down to the parking garage.

Hutch silently watched him with interested eyes. He’s up to something. I can always tell. What’s the surprise, Gordo?

As soon as the elevator doors opened, Starsky fairly jumped out into the parking garage. He reached up and threw his arm across Hutch’s shoulders, pulling the taller man into a hunched position so he could talk directly into Hutch’s ear.

“You know how you’re supposed to pass on somethin’ generation to generation?” Starsky didn’t wait for acknowledgement. “Well, Dad’s watch got broke, so I had nothin’ ‘Starsky’ to give Trini when she graduated the Academy. Nicky didn’t even bother to call, so I did the ‘dad’ thing he didn’t do.”

Poor Starsky, Hutch thought, still always “cleaning” up after Nick.

Suddenly, Starsky stopped walking, “Wait, wait wait. You gotta cover your eyes.”

“Christ Starsky, we’re middle aged….”

“If you don’t play along, I ain’t gonna show ya’,” Starsky insisted.

Hutch smiled and sighed. Shaking his head he covered his eyes with one hand. Jesus, I hope nobody sees this.

Starsky wiggled his fingers in front of Hutch’s face. “You can’t see?”

“I can’t see. Let’s get this over with, idiot.”

Leading his friend by his free hand, Starsky stopped after about 30 feet. “O.K. Blintz. You can open ’em.”

Hutch opened his eyes and stared at the vehicle before him. He was so amazed and surprised he couldn’t speak, and it gave Starsky the wrong impression.

“You think it’s stupid, don’t you? I worked really hard to fix her up.” Starsky seemed hurt and more than a little disappointed until Hutch could finally speak.

Three little words made all of Starsky’s fears and worries disappear. In a quiet and awe filled voice, Hutch sincerely stated, “Starsk–it’s beautiful.”

Starsky’s chest puffed up proudly. “Yeah, she fixed up real nice, huh?”

Hutch nodded, trance-like and moved to rub his hands across the familiar car. “Starsky, I thought you were gonna sell the Torino?”

“I was, but…I don’t know…too many good memories in the ‘Zebra Three.’ I just couldn’t do it, man.”

Hutch nodded his head in agreement. “Good memories are hard to come by.” Still amazed, Hutch walked all around the car, looking at it from every angle. He could tell the interior had been redone, and a new paint job to boot, but it was still the car.

“I did add a couple extras for Trini, though,” Starsky stated, pointing to the vanity plates that read “Zebra3.”

Hutch laughed. “And…?”

“Well, I put a CD player in it for her,” Starsky finished.

“What, you tired of AM radio?” Hutch teased. Almost reverently, he patted Starsky on the back. “I’m sure Trini’s proud to have it–you did a good thing here, Starsk.”

Starsky beamed, then reached to open the passenger door. “Your chariot, my lord.” He bowed deeply and Hutch smacked the back of his head as he got in. Shutting the door quickly, Starsky almost ran to “his” side of the car.

Once both men were seated inside, neither one said a word for at least a full minute. Finally, Hutch placed a hand on Starsky’s shoulder. Summing up the emotion, and the nostalgia that had overtaken them both, he stated, “This just feels right.”

Nodding, Starsky started the car and roared it into life. “It always did feel right, partner.”

~~~

Trini had beaten the two men back to her apartment, and she was now impatiently awaiting their arrival. Suddenly, Starsky pushed the door to her apartment open with his heel, struggling with the sacks in his arms. Trini rushed to help him before he dropped something. “What’s all this?” she asked.

“Oh, Hutch felt like a freeloader and he made me take him to the store.”

“Idiot,” she laughed. “Does he need help?”

“Yeah, he’s got a load, too.”

Trini started for the door again, this time to go help Hutch. As she opened the door, a bouquet of flowers popped out, startling her. Taking the flowers, she grabbed the hand that had held them, and pulled. Hutch’s body appeared from the other side of the door jamb, smiling sheepishly. “I forgot the ‘hostess’ gift, too,” he explained.

“Hutchinson, you are a loveable idiot.” She kissed his cheek and pulled him into the apartment.

Hutch shut the door, then looked at Trini. She was inhaling deeply of the flowers’ perfume, and it made her glow a little. “I love flowers. Thank you so much.”

“You’re very welcome, Trini. But, I gotta warn you: you keep kissing me like that and I’ll never want to leave. ” He’d meant it only half jesting , but he hoped Trini didn’t see through him that easily.

Trini’s reply was so quiet, Hutch barely heard it. “Who said you ever had to leave?”

Hutch looked towards Starsky, but he was still buried in the fridge, putting away the groceries. He hadn’t noticed their exchange. Hutch swallowed hard, then went to help Starsky unload the food.

~~~

The three friends had spent the day pouring over files, and planning their strategy for the upcoming case. Trini was telling them how she thought they should play it: “You two need to look like you have enough money to buy anything you want–and, not uptight like lawyers.”

Starsky laughed and pointed at a glaring Hutch.

“I didn’t become a lawyer, asshole, so knock it off.”

Trini looked at Hutch a little strangely. “You were going to be a lawyer, but you became a cop?” He got ready to defend his choice, once again–like he had for so many years when Trini added, “Damn, you’re smarter than I knew. ”

Now, it was Hutch’s turn to laugh.

Several hours later, Starsky stood and stretched. “Trini, I think Hutch’s brain could use a rest. Memorizin’ shit the way he does is gonna hurt his head one of these days.”

“At least I got a brain,” Hutch grunted at his friend.

Trini stretched, too. “It is getting late, and I’m hungry. Whadda ya’ guys think about heading back to my place, we’ll get cleaned up and go out?”

The thought of going out actually appealed to Hutch. “I’m game.” He stood up and hit Starsky’s arm. “Come on old man, see if you can keep up with me tonight.”

“Is that a challenge, Blintz?”

The two men continued their friendly banter as they walked out of Trini’s office.

“You got the money, I got the time.”

“Well, you’re gonna need money ‘cuz you don’t have looks anymore.”

Trini shook her head and followed the men, wondering what she’d gotten herself into. A whole night of this “male bonding”? I must be nuts.

Once inside Trini’s apartment, the men went one way and Trini the other. Hutch turned to look at Starsky following him. “You’re not wearing anything of mine, so get lost.”

“I’ve got clothes here, too. Just like I used to stash ’em at your place. It works better then wakin’ Les and the boys all the time.”

“For once, you actually make sense, pal,” Hutch tormented.

Starsky playfully pushed him into the wall, walking around Hutch to the dresser. Starsky changed into jeans and a red, button-front shirt. Flopping himself onto the floor, he pulled off his leather loafers and put on a pair of well-worn Nikes.

Hutch took off the sports-coat he’d worn into work, but opted to keep the Polo and Dockers. He was comfortable now: ties and coats were for lawyers. Yet another reason not to be one, he thought to himself.

Trini came out of her bedroom wearing boots, black leggings, and a loose white blouse. For the first time since Hutch had arrived, she had on earrings and a necklace. They were tasteful silver hoops and a plain chain, but very nice.

Starsky whistled, and Trini looked the two men up and down in return.

Hutch smiled at her as she appraised them. Tit for tat, huh, Trini? Good for you, don’t take any shit off him!

Trini feigned disinterest in the two men. “You two aren’t lookin’ so bad yourselves.” She wasn’t concealing her smile very well, though, and the love she had in her eyes was evident.

Hutch knew he must be imagining it, but he could swear she was looking at him the same way she looked at Starsky. You’re reading far too much into this, Kenny old boy. She’s just a nice person being nice. Let it go. Deciding to change his own train of thought, he motioned to his outfit. “Am I dressed alright? I’m not sure where we’re going, but Starsky didn’t exactly dress up.”

“Hey, Blintz, I’ve got a wife. You need all the help you can get.”

“As long as it’s not one of your blind dates, I’ll be fine.”

Trini laughed and looked at her uncle. “That ain’t no lie!” Turning to Hutch, she acknowledged his earlier question. “You look fine. It’s come as you are, my man.”

Hutch looked a little confused at Trini’s terminology, but she just laughed.

Pointing in her direction, Starsky pretended to be apologetic. “She don’t get out much.”

Trini was already heading out the front door, but left her hand inside, nonchalantly giving her uncle “the finger.”

Hutch smiled. He felt so at ease with these two friends. He loved these childlike games that were still fun to play–even at his age. He’d just forgotten that for awhile.

~~~

For at least the third time–Hutch looked at Trini as she drove the Torino. Seeing a different Starsky in the esteemed spot usually reserved for David Starsky would take some getting used to.

Starsky sat in the back seat, silent for once, watching his friend’s confusion with amusement. Trini had been pretending not to notice, but suddenly surprised Hutch when she stopped at the next red light. Turning towards him, she put on her best David Michael Starsky impression. “Well, partner, you ready to see if the good guys can still win one?”

The loud guffaw of laughter Starsky let out was comical enough, but the way Hutch looked away like Trini was Medusa…well, that was priceless. Slowly, Hutch realized how strangely he must’ve been staring at her, and he started laughing, too.

Trini looked sideways at Hutch. “You seemed a little confused there, Hutchinson. Thought I’d try and ease your mind.”

Hutch’s smile faded a little, confusing Trini. There wasn’t any time to think about it though, they had reached their destination.

Starsky pushed on Hutch’s seat back. “Let me out and I’ll see how long the wait is.”

Hutch looked around and noticed the lot was full–he hadn’t noticed before because he’d been lost in thought. “Sure, Starsk.” He leaned forward and held the seat so Starsky could climb out. The door shut and Hutch watched Starsky depart, still in thought.

Trini was leaning up against the drivers-side door, intently watching Hutch as she wondered to herself: Everything was fine, then what…? What had bothered him?

Hutch knew she was watching him, and she wasn’t pushing him to talk, just patiently waiting. “I know I’m always saying it but…sorry.”

“You wanna tell me?” she questioned gently.

Hutch sighed heavily. “Just the part about ‘easing my mind’. You guys have been so good to me–especially you. I haven’t had peace of mind in so long, yet you guys continue to try so hard…. Aw, hell Trini. Don’t mind me, I guess I’m just a moody bastard.”

Leaning over to cup his face in her hands, Trini forced him to make eye contact with her. “Ken, you’re only human. You haven’t been any problem–you’re a friend. And ‘a friend in need’….”

He smiled a little at that.

She leaned even closer. “Besides,” she whispered, “you’re awfully cute when you’re at a loss for words.”

Then, much to Hutch’s amazement and delight she kissed him. Not the quick “butterfly” kisses that merely graze the skin, but an achingly sweet and tender kiss.

Whatever else could’ve happened would have to wait, because Starsky was heading back towards the car.

Hutch quickly pulled away, like a teenager caught kissing his girl. Trini, on the other hand seemed calm. It was dark, and she knew her uncle couldn’t have seen anything.

Hutch’s hands shook a little–That was way too intense to just be “friendly.” Jesus, I gotta talk to her.

Starsky opened the door and announced, “We’ve only got a ten minute wait, and the bar’s got seats open in it.”

Hutch was already climbing out of the car. “Good, I could use a drink.”

Trini was walking ahead of the men, giving them a chance to talk when Starsky nodded in her direction.

“She turned out good, huh, Hutch?”

“Yeah, Starsk. You did a hell of a job.”

Starsky’s chest puffed out. “Yeah, I did, huh?”

Trini got to the door first and was holding it open for the two men. Hutch tried to relieve her of her duty, but she smiled and held fast to the door. “Not this time Prince Charming. ” She pointed inside “The Cavern” and gently pushed him inside. For this to work out perfectly, he had to be first.

It worked.

The entire restaurant sprang to life at the sight of Hutch walking in.

“SURPRISE!”

Balloons were let loose, confetti was thrown, and a crowd of people rushed to greet the long-absent Hutch.

Starsky was smiling so big, Trini thought his face was going to split open.

Leslie came out of the crowd to kiss the still gaping Hutch’s cheek. “Surprised?”

He looked at her sternly. “You’re supposed to be at a meeting.”

Starsky kissed his friend’s other cheek. “She has to go back, but she couldn’t resist sneakin’ out to see you.”

Hutch shook his head in disbelief “You got me, pal.”

Starsky beamed. “I know. Let’s have a beer.” Starsky took Hutch straight to the bar and introduced him to “Lunk.” “Lunk here owns this fine establishment,” Starsky explained. “He took over the family business, and moved it uptown.” He looked over his shoulder at Lunk. “Ain’t that right, Teddy?”

The large black man behind the bar didn’t seem amused by the use of his given name, and Hutch looked questioningly at Starsky.

“He’s not too fond of ‘Teddy Bear’–likes Lunk a whole lot more.”

Hutch became extremely interested when he heard that. ” ‘Bear?” he questioned, “as in Huggy Bear’s boy?”

A familiar voice came from behind Hutch. “One in the same–you know my name.”

Hutch spun around and saw the wonderful sight of his old friend Huggy. Leaning across the bar, both men hugged, and laughed.

Huggy greeted him. “Good to have you back, brother. Better karma and balance, if you know what I mean.”

Hutch was deliriously happy. “Yeah Hug, I know what you mean.” Hutch pulled Huggy to him again, and kissed his cheek.

Huggy laughed, and pulled away. “Whoa, brother. You’ll be givin’ my lady here the wrong idea ’bout her all man-man.” Huggy presented the pretty little Spanish woman behind him. “Goldilocks, this here is the reason Huggy keeps all his lovin’ at home. My gorgeous, sensual wife, Candita. Candita–Hutch.”

A petite, Spanish woman stepped out of Huggy’s shadow to greet Hutch. Candita had the most beautiful eyes Hutch had ever seen–big, liquid pools of brown set in lush lashes. Although she was roughly Huggy’s age, the woman could easily pass for Lunk’s sister. She was stunning.

“Hola, Senor Hutch. I am grateful you are such a good friend to my Huggy. I am also grateful you have come to help us find the children.”

Hutch looked to Huggy for answers.

“Uh, some of Candita’s kinfolk lost their cubs in one of those trucks.”

Starsky added, “She and Trini both got jobs at the strip joint as waitresses,” he directed the next part at Candita, “even though I warned her against civilian involvement.”

She was unaffected by Starsky’s attempt at admonishing he., “You know I will help find the babies, and you love my help. Just like you love me.”

Hutch laughed. “She’s great, Huggy. You keep up the good work, Candita.”

“Thank you, Hutch. I try my best, but these boys….” Candita rolled her eyes playfully.

Leslie came up then to tell Hutch she was leaving. “I have to get back to work, but I wanted to tell you goodbye, Ken.”

Hutch caught her hand in his and kissed it. “Leslie, you’re the best. Thank you.”

Starsky reclaimed his wife’s hand. “Come on, Les. I’ll walk you–my wife–out to your car.” Much to the delight of Hutch and the Bear family, Starsky loudly whined, “Geez, Les. Did you have to pretend you enjoy that hand-kissin’ thing?”

Leslie’s answer only added to their amusement. “I wasn’t pretending, David.” Leslie looked over her shoulder and winked at Hutch–he returned the wink, and raised his glass in toast to her.

Huggy couldn’t resist commenting, “Man, I remember a time he’d kill you over a female of the species. You two must be growin’ up.”

~~~

Hutch had talked with old friends for hours–both on the force and on the streets. The crowd was starting to thin, and he had had plenty of drinks for free. It seemed everyone wanted to buy the wayward son a drink.

Huggy came up behind Hutch, all seriousness. “I have missed you, my brother. Been far too cold out here in the land of sunshine without the Golden One.”

“God, I missed you too, Huggy.”

Huggy nodded thoughtfully. “I guess that will have to do, for an apology that is due.”

“You’re right, Huggy. I was a prick.”

“Damn straight, brother! All you have to do is ask Ma Bell to connect us.”

“I know, Huggy. I truly am sorry.”

Huggy punched Hutch’s shoulder. “Don’t be gone no more. We’re all better around souls that are friendly to each other.”

“I”m stayin’, Hug. I promise.”

Huggy nodded thoughtfully, then pointed Trini out across the bar. “She got somethin’ to do with that?”

Whoa, Hug! Where’d that come from? Hutch cleared his throat and turned back to Huggy. “She’s uh…letting me stay with her. In her spare room. She’s been very nice to me.”

Huggy raised questioning eyebrows at his friend. “Nice? You been with her, day-in day-out, and all you gots to say is ‘she’s nice’? Who are you? Hound-dog Hutch used to sniff at every pretty girl in the park. What’s up, brother?”

Hutch shrugged his shoulders. “She’s just a friend, Huggy.”

The black man continued to eyeball Hutch. “Uh-huh. Well, you let me know when you find a better soul, because I would really like to know.”

Hutch was a little flustered at his friend. “Huggy, I’m not sure what you’re getting at here. She’s one of the best people I know. She’s kind and considerate. Beautiful–inside and out. From what I’ve seen, she’s a damn good cop….”

Huggy was nodding at Hutch with that “see there” attitude that used to drive him crazy.

“Huggy, I’d never even look at her like that–I wouldn’t do that to Starsky.”

“Lots of sadness in that girl’s past–who’s to say our curly friend wouldn’t thank you for the pursuance of said niece.”

“Huggy, what the hell are you talking about?”

“I am just sayin’, my brother, if I had a niece I loved more than the sun and moon–I’d want my best man keepin’ an eye on her.”

Hutch didn’t have time for a reply since Starsky and Trini were heading off the dance floor, and directly at him.

Starsky gently pushed Trini into the chair beside Hutch. “Hutch, I gotta pee. Keep the creeps away from Jewel.”

Huggy had to cough to cover his laughter, while Hutch pointedly ignored the man.

Trini smiled up at Hutch. “I’m 36 and the man still hovers over me. It’s sweet, but…” Trini trailed off, then looked at Hutch and smiled, “You havin’ a good time?”

He really had. “Yeah, thanks. Where you been all night?”

She pointed to Candita washing tables.

“Oh.”

A slow song came on and Trini grabbed Hutch’s hand. “Dance with me?” she asked.

Hutch felt something close to panic at her request, and shot for honesty. “I’m terrible.” And, you’re too young and I’m too old.

“I heard,” she laughed, “The great Ramon says you’re awful.”

“Thanks,” he winced.

“Oh, come on Hutchinson, I was just teasin’. It’s a slow song–just hold on to me and you’ll be just fine.”

Hutch decided not to look into her last comment too deeply, and rose to lead her to the dance floor. He thought a little sadly, From any other woman on the planet, I’d accept what I think you’re offering. But you, little one, are off limits.

But when Trini wrapped her arms around him and put her head on his chest–he was almost lost. She felt good there, and Hutch had to think of crime scenes and ex-wives to keep his libido in check.

For just this one dance, she could be his.

Finally, it was closing time.

Goodbyes were said, and the two men stumbled out to the car–using each other as support. Trini was right there for them, helping Starsky lie down in the backseat before rising to help Hutch.

“Alright, big guy. Let’s get you home.”

Hutch wasn’t in any hurry to get in the car.

“You O.K., Ken?” She rubbed his shoulder. “You sick?”

Hutch shook his head, and clumsily looked in the car to check on Starsky who was already snoring. Hutch finally got up the nerve to ask Trini what he wanted to–even if he was slurring his words a little. “Trini, you know how people do things when they’re drunk?”

“What kind of things, Ken?”

“Things that they think about when they’re sober. Things that they’re only brave enough–or dumb enough–to do when the liquor takes hold.”

Smiling, she told him, “Ken, let’s get you home. You’re drunk, babe.”

Hutch grabbed Trini as gently as he could and pulled her to him. “Please don’t be mad at me later, Trini.”

“Ken, I’m not mad. You just need me to help you home. There’s nothing wrong with that.”

Intently, Hutch asked, “Will you do that? Will you help me home? I’ve been lost for so long, Trini.”

Suddenly, Trini realized Hutch was worried about more than getting back to her apartment. Gently, she rubbed her hand on his cheek. “If you want me, Ken,” she whispered, “I’m here.”

Hutch groaned like a man in great pain as her lips touched his. Tentatively, she pressed her body firmly against his. Hutch was wanting to kiss her this time, and that’s exactly what he did. Placing one hand on the back of her head, he kissed her deeply. Trini moved her arms up to circle his neck, while Hutch’s other hand journeyed down to grip her buttocks. A slight moan from Trini made Hutch’s alcohol dulled brain realize exactly what he was doing.

Embarrassed, he pulled away.

Trini understood too well his hesitation, for she had also wondered how Starsky would take to them “dating.” Hutch wouldn’t look at Trini, so she put her head on his chest and held him. He hesitantly lifted his hand, then began to stroke her hair.

A few minutes passed before Trini took one step back. She held her hand out to him. “Come on, let’s get you two into bed.”

Hutch seemed relieved she was letting him off the hook, and gratefully climbed into the car. Don’t mess with young hearts, Hutchinson. Don’t make promises you can’t keep.

Trini started the car then reached over to grab Hutch’s hand. He looked at her a little sadly. “The choice is yours, Ken,” she whispered. “But, no matter what, we’ll always be friends.”

He kissed her hand and sighed. “Trini, you’re too good for me. Find a nice man and settle down.” Hutch dropped her hand and looked out his window–then down at the hand she’d just placed on his thigh.

“You are a good man,” she whispered.

He sure as hell hoped she was right.

~~~

Helping two drunken men up to her apartment was not Trini’s idea of a good time. Trying to hold up Starsky was bad enough, but now Hutch was fading fast. Grunting under their weight, Trini finally made it to the apartment. She helped Starsky to the couch, then supported Hutch all the way to his room. He fell onto the bed, and Trini removed his shoes for him.

“Thanks,” he mumbled.

Trini covered him up then turned to walk away, but Hutch somehow managed to catch her hand in his. “Trini, I’m so sorry.”

“You only have to be sorry if you aren’t going to remember in the morning.” She was trying hard to joke–the alternative of crying didn’t seem like much fun.

He gently dropped her hand, and rolled over–curling up like a small child. Trini started to go when she heard him speak again. “I’ll remember, Trini, but I don’t think I should.”

Trini stopped at his door to look back at the now innocently sleeping form. Oh my, Katrina Starsky. You’ve got a man with conscience here.

 

Chapter 5 – CHILDREN AND BARS DON’T MIX

Hutch came staggering into the kitchen with one hand shielding his eyes from the morning sun–his hair still damp from the long shower he’d just taken. Trini stood there, waiting, holding out a glass of water and two aspirin.

Hutch readily accepted them, then mumbled, “You know, Trini, ” swallows aspirin, “you’d look more like an angel of mercy if you didn’t gloat like that.”

Trini laughed, and turned away from him to finish the toast she was making.

Remarkably, Starsky was already out of bed–not bathed yet, but out of bed and sitting at the table was a pretty good start for him. Hutch went to join him–hoping he didn’t look as bad as his friend did.

With quietly grumbled greetings to each other, both men painfully tried to wake up.

Handing a cup of strong, black coffee to each man, Trini kissed each sore head in turn. Starsky looked at Hutch through squinted eyes, and toasted him with his coffee. Hutch lifted his mug in salute, then blew on it, realizing it was hot.

“Good thing she loves us, huh, pal?” Starsky said and took a deep sip off his coffee, finding it far too warm, far too late.

He looked comical, but Hutch knew if he laughed, his head would explode for sure.

Trini was watching them closely, noting their pained looks. “You two gonna be able to work today?”

Both men sat up straight–there was a woman doubting them, and they were always up for a challenge.

“Hutch, she thinks us incapable of performing our job. I think a bet is in order.”

Hutch grunted, “Maybe you’re too tired to last all day, but I will.”

Placing her hands on her hips, Trini tried to talk some sense into the men. “I was concerned about you two, that’s all. No challenges on your manhood, no challenges of any kind.” She headed towards her room, then slowly turned back around. “But, if you two drunkards insist on some form of challenge….”

Starsky smiled when she took the bait. “Hey, Hutch, I think we’re gonna win something here.”

Hutch turned interested eyes to Trini. “You challenging both of us, Trini?”

“Yeah. After work, if you two can last the full 8 hours, meet me in the gym.”

“Any ground rules, Jewel?”

“Yeah, Uncle. This will be a test of endurance–not strength. Last woman standing, wins.”

With that resolved, they all got ready for work.

~~~

Trini had kindly shut the blinds in her office for the men, and was now in the process of turning lights on. “So, Captain. You gonna tell him, or should I?”

Starsky fell into the closest chair and shook his head. “You go ahead. The shape I’m in, I’ll screw somethin’ up.”

“Fine.” She loudly dropped the file she’d been holding on the table in front of the two men. Trini smiled a little when they both winced. “Candita and I stumbled onto something. While you two were partying, we were talking about this case. Anyhow, we think we’ve figured out where some of the children are.”

She grabbed a pad of paper, and drew a quick map. “Here’s the main building, directly facing the highway. Back here, bordered by the desert, is a deserted plane hangar and a couple sleeping quarters. Candita’s been pretending not to understand English, and some of the workers talk around her. They’ve been whispering about a little girl who’s sick, and how to get rid of her. Of course they can’t–or won’t–get her help. Too many questions.”

Hutch looked thoughtful. “You think the kids are back here?” He pointed to the hanger “What made you question this area?”

“Well, the windows were just recently all painted over with white paint, and there are guards outside now. And, I know I saw a child being led in there, but Candita and I were almost caught.”

Starsky became instantly alert. “Do you think you’ve compromised your cover? You didn’t tell me you were spotted.” He looked angry and worried–she could be in danger now.

Trini blushed and looked away from the two men before answering. “No. Our covers are still fine. We, uh, distracted the guys who found us.” Looking at the men, she knew they’d gotten the wrong idea. “No, we didn’t do that! I took off my shirt, and Candita, well, she kissed me and that threw them a little. I suppose it looked…well, anyhow, our cover is fine.” The two men were still looking at Trini a little too intently, and they were making her uneasy.

Starsky leaned over to Hutch and loudly whispered, “Why didn’t we get to see anything like that?”

Both men laughed, then remembered it hurt.

Trini smiled. “Serves you right. Assholes.”

~~~

Starsky had left Trini and Hutch to meet with his officers and oversee their assignments. It seemed the parents had given pretty good descriptions to the sketch artists, and Starsky wanted to be in on every part of this case from APB’s to the end. That left Trini and Hutch alone together–again–to study the case.

Trini had decided she was hungry, and left Hutch alone while she got lunch. He looked up from the files and gingerly rubbed his neck when Trini returned with their food.

“You sore?” Trini asked.

“A little. Maybe I am too old for this shit.” Hutch sighed heavily and dropped the file back on the table, then leaned forward and rested his head on his hands.

Trini moved behind him and began to gently massage his shoulders and neck. “Ken, we believe in you 100%, or we wouldn’t have asked for your help. You’re not worried about this are you?”

Hutch shrugged his shoulders. “I was awfully quick to say ‘yes’. Maybe I should’ve thought first. I haven’t exactly been an ‘active’ officer for awhile, you know.”

It seemed to be just what she’d wanted to hear. “Good. I’m glad you’re nervous. I wouldn’t think you were a good cop if you didn’t look at the risks, too.”

He laughed a little at that, and sat up straighter to stretch his back. He didn’t really want Trini’s massage to end, it was feeling way too good. “I just don’t want to let you two down, Trini, that’s all.”

Trini had stopped massaging, but hadn’t moved her hands off his shoulders. Slowly she bent down and whispered in his ear, “Then don’t.” Standing back up she continued her attentions to his aching muscles.

“That was pretty clear cut, Trini. Your idea of a pep talk?” Hutch knew he sounded a little bitter, but he couldn’t help it. She was putting a lot of faith in “backup” she’d never even seen in action. Plus, her gentle touch was starting to do quite a number on him. Hutch was glad he was sitting down. If he stood up now he’d probably get ticketed for indecent exposure.

“I don’t have to give a great cop like you a pep talk, Ken. You just forgot how good you are for a little while.” Trini placed a quick kiss on his cheek and sat down by him. Taking his face in her hands, she smiled sweetly at him. “Ken, we trust you. You’re the only person I trust as much as David, and I only want you two backing me up. Why can’t you trust yourself?”

She reached up and brushed a stray strand of hair off his forehead. “I saw you in action the other day. I don’t have any doubts about you. Why do you doubt the greatness you have inside?”

Hutch swallowed, and tried to answer, but he choked on the words.

Trini jumped up and locked her door, then sat back down by Hutch. Slowly she pulled him into her arms, and rested his head on her shoulder. “Everyone else believes in you, Ken. Believe in yourself. You’re not gonna let anybody down, I promise you.”

Christ, this girl had faith in him–if he let them down…well, he just couldn’t, that’s all. Hutch’s hands went around Trini and he hugged her tightly as the unwanted tears started.

~~~

Trini and Hutch were just finishing up lunch when Starsky knocked on her office door. “Bella? You in there?”

Trini and Hutch burst into laughter, having completely forgotten the door was locked.

Hutch rose and patted Trini’s shoulder as he walked by. “We should hide somewhere else. ‘It’ keeps finding us.” Hutch unlocked the door, but didn’t bother to open it for his friend.

Starsky pushed it open and glared at the other two officers. “I heard that.”

“Don’t pout, Gordo. Trini bought lunch, and food always makes you a happy boy.”

Grabbing the sandwich Hutch was holding up to him, he grunted, “You two are getting awfully cozy.”

“Well, Captain. He is going to be my backup, and you always told me to know my backup, ” Trini teased.

Hutch smiled at his friend, and Trini handed a root beer to her uncle. “Thanks, Jewel.” He ate in silence for a minute. “So when do we do this?”

“Hutchinson and I feel that we should move quick. What if they decided to move the kids again?”

You and Hutch, huh? This is a change, but not necessarily a bad one. “I agree with you two. Friday night, then? Gives us three days.”

Hutch looked at Trini and shrugged. “Sure, I’m ready.”

Trini smiled at her uncle. “Don’t forget the twenty’s.”

Looking to Hutch, Starsky asked, “You been with her all day, Hutch. What’s she talking about?”

“When we go to ‘The Gladiator’ Friday night–we’ll need money to flash and give the strippers. You know that–we went to that one in….”

Starsky cut him off. “My sweet little niece, Hutch. Think of her virginal ears.”

Hutch choked a little on his Coke when Starsky said “virginal,” and wiggled his eyebrows at Trini.

She smacked his leg, and started picking up trash off the table. “You don’t know, shithead, so behave.”

Starsky watched his best friend and his niece, and their playful banter. He was glad to see Hutch was getting back to “normal,” but something had happened here today. It wasn’t just the fact that the door had been locked that made him suspicious, either. Looking at the two people opposite him, he wished he’d been there to help–it was obvious from the two sets of red-rimmed eyes that tears had been shed. It was also obvious that Hutch had come through it O.K.

That’s one I owe you, Jewel. Thanks for takin’ care of my friend–he means the world to me.

Starsky puzzled over something a moment, then mused out loud, “I don’t get it…’Gladiator?’ What’s that supposed to mean?”

Trini pointed at Hutch. “You tell him. Only a man would come up with a name like that.”

Hutch leaned across the table, and motioned for Starsky to come closer. “Glad he…”

“Ewww,” Starsky grimaced.

Hutch agreed. “My thoughts exactly.”

~~~

Leslie and the twins had come to watch the “competition” between the three officers, but had grown bored and hit the swimming pool.

Starsky came in a little while later, joining his family. “I conceded.”

Leslie pulled her handsome husband to her and kissed him deeply. “You don’t have pent up sexual tension on your side: I put out.”

Starsky returned his wife’s kiss, then abruptly pulled back to look at her. “Sexual tension?”

Leslie shrugged and looked a little embarrassed. “Well, I kinda got the hint from his letters that his sex life has been…well, anyhow. And when the hell was the last time Trini even went on a date?” Leslie looked a little irritated with her husband’s lack of perception, “Women need it, too, David.”

Pulling her to him, Starsky teased his wife, “That’s something you don’t have to worry about, my pretty.” He wiggled his eyebrows and kissed her neck–noisy, wet kisses that made Leslie laugh.

“Get in the pool and play with your children before I make you take me home, and make good your promises.”

“Wow, somebody should feel sorry for me: my wife…the dominatrix.”

That earned Starsky the privilege of Leslie pushing him into the pool.

It wasn’t that much later that Trini and Hutch joined them in the pool. Trini had been declared the champion of the weight contest, but Hutch had beat her (again) at squash. The pool “competition” would decide it all.

The Starsky family watched the two do laps until the boys again got bored, and went to Trini’s apartment to play computer games. Twenty minutes later, Leslie went up to check on the boys and start dinner.

Still, they continued their laps.

Trini was keeping up very well, considering Hutch was almost a foot taller than her and his height gave the advantage of a longer stroke.

Starsky watched them awhile more: blond head in one lane, brunette in the other, until he too, grew bored. One of them’s gonna have a heart attack. Shaking his head, he left to join his family upstairs.

When Trini and Hutch finally arrived upstairs dinner was done, but neither one seemed to care. They both just collapsed silently onto Trini’s couch.

The anticipation was killing Starsky. “Well?” he demanded.

Hutch hooked a thumb in Trini’s direction.

Starsky went to sit on the coffee table in front of Hutch. “Aw, Hutch, you let a girl beat you?” he whined.

Hooking Starsky’s feet with his, Hutch knocked him off the table. “At least I stayed, Starsk. Besides she won by default.”

Trini would’ve hit Hutch, but she was too tired. “Default? What the hell are you talking about? You’re the one who got a cramp, not me.”

“Way to go, Blintz, a cramp.”

Leslie jumped in now. “He lasted longer than you, dear. Besides, I believe you two owe Trini a prize.”

Starsky seemed crushed. His wife had stuck up for Hutch and Trini, but he knew she was right, too. “You’re right Les. Alright Trini, what do me and the Blintz owe you?”

Her answer made Starsky groan, and that pleased Hutch–a lot.

Hutch questioned her. “O.K. if we pay up tomorrow, Trini? I’m beat.”

Trini beamed at Hutch. “Absolutely Hutchinson, but bright and early. I have to go to work at 1:00.”

~~~

Trini awoke very excited–the guys had to pay up on their wagers, and she was really looking forward to this. After showering quickly, Trini came out of her room wearing a robe. Smugly grinning at the people waiting in her apartment, she asked, “Where do we begin?”

An almost pretty man took Trini’s hand and guided her to his massage table to start. The leg waxing and pedicure were next–followed by a facial, and manicure. The bet fully paid, the massage therapist turned to go but Trini stopped him, and whispered in his ear. The man smiled and nodded.

Starsky and Hutch had been watching TV, doing their best not to even notice what was going on inside the apartment. They were still ignoring Trini when she went to answer the door, and in came two very pretty women–one pushing another massage table.

Leaning over the back of the couch to look at the two men, Trini indicated the women. “I figured you guys–well Hutch, at least–are sore, too.”

Starsky beamed at his niece. “Damn, you’re a good winner, Trini.”

Hutch had to agree.

~~~

Trini had to go to work, and leaving the two men alone in her apartment was hard for her. She knew David had been wanting to tell Hutch some things privately, but she wished she could be there to support them both. She knew this was going to be rough, and she hoped Ken took it well.

Starsky was thinking the same thing. Shit I hope Hutch takes this O.K.–I hurt too bad to defend myself.

Starsky grabbed two beers out of the fridge, and went out on the patio to join Hutch. He handed one to his friend, then opened his and looked out at the city view.

Hutch knew something was bothering Starsky, and he decided to start one of their famous talks. He could tell it was gonna be a serious one, too. “Hey, pal. You got somethin’ you wanna say to me?” He sure as hell hoped Starsky had been asleep in the backseat that night, or he’d have some serious explaining to do.

“Hutch, you know you’re my best friend and I love you like a brother.”

“Yeah, Starsk. I feel the same way.”

Maybe not in a minute, Babe, Starsky worried.

Sighing heavily, Starsky pressed on. “You were always the one I called on when I needed help, so when I needed help with you…well, Leslie’s out of town so much and….”

“For Christ’s sake, Starsky, just spit it out.”

“O.K. Hutch, here it is: Trini helped me write my letters. She knows everything.”

Turning away, Hutch grabbed his beer and walked to the railing. “What, ‘misery loves company’ or ‘good news travels fast’?”

Starsky moved to stand by his friend. “Aw hell, Hutch, it wasn’t like that and you know it. I wanted you to stop hurtin’, pal, and you know I can’t do that kind of shit on my own.” Starsky so desperately wanted Hutch to say everything was O.K.–that he wasn’t mad–that he still loved his best friend.

Hutch sighed heavily. “I guess I kinda knew, Starsk. She’s been awfully good to me. I guess I got my own little cheerleading team with you two.” Hutch pulled his friend into a fond embrace. “Thanks for loving me enough to save me. You never give up, do you?”

“Not when it’s somethin’ worthwhile.” Starsky gripped his friend more tightly. “Just don’t go nowhere again.”

“I’m not Starsk, I promise.”

Starsky gently pulled out of the embrace. “Uh Hutch, I got one more thing to tell ya’.”

“I’m listening.”

“I feel real bad about this, but it’s not like we knew when you’d get here….”

“Come on, Starsk. I’m a big boy. I can handle it, so just tell me.”

“Well, I feel bad.”

“You already said that.”

“I know, but…well, the boys will be out of school for Thanksgiving vacation in a couple days. Leslie has that publishing contract she’s been workin’ on in Florida. This is all leading up to…well, our family vacation, Hutch. The boys aren’t gonna want to go with us that much longer, and I already got the tickets….”

“Starsky, that’s great! You guys have a good time. I’m sure Trini and I can keep each other company while you’re gone.”

Clasping a hand on Hutch’s shoulder, he fairly beamed. “You’re the best, Hutch. We’ll only be gone two weeks, then I can make you sorry you moved back.”

Hutch laughed and shook his head. “Not even you can make me sorry I came back.”

Rising in unison, the men moved inside to wash up Trini’s dishes. Starsky kept up a light banter, but Hutch was lost in his own thoughts.

The holidays are coming? Damn, that snuck up on me. And what’s with this two weeks thing? That’s like leaving a kid with matches–and I think I’m already playing too close to the fire.

~~~

Trini opened the door to her apartment cautiously. She wasn’t sure if Hutch would even still be there, or if the two men were still deep in discussion. Trini was relieved when the delicious smell in her apartment let her know somebody was there, and cooking. A quick look towards the kitchen let her know it was Hutch.

Hutch turned to greet Trini when he heard the door lock. Holding up a pan, he told her, “I hope you’re hungry. I’m paying off my first ‘debt’.”

“Sure, thanks.”

She moved to the kitchen to help him, but Hutch ran her off. “Go sit down. I’ll bring it to you–you’re the one who worked today.”

Gratefully, Trini followed Hutch’s orders. Damn, keep this up boy, and you won’t be able to fight me off with a stick.

“Starsky told me you like seafood,” Hutch called out. “I made salad and scampi.”

“Sounds great, Ken. Thank you.”

Balancing plates and glasses, Hutch proceeded to set the table. “No, thank you, Katrina Starsky.”

Trini was baffled by his comment. “O.K., Hutchinson–I’ll bite. For what?”

Hutch was already making his way back to the table with the salad, and a glass of wine for Trini. He handed her the wine, then sat on the edge of the table directly in front of her.

“Your uncle told me some things about you I didn’t know until today. It would seem you know a lot more about me than I thought.”

“Hutchinson, let me explain…”

Aloof and cool, Hutch moved back to the kitchen. “I don’t need your apologies, Trini.”

Dropping her head, Trini knew he was right. That was pretty personal stuff, and maybe…

“I don’t need your apologies, but I think you need one from me.” Hutch’s voice had softened, and his eyes were gentle now–he’d been teasing her!

“What are you goin’ on about, Ken? Geez, you had me scared for a minute.”

“I’m sorry. I just wanted to tell you how wrong I was to write those letters. They made Starsky crazy–therefore, he made you crazy.”

Trini jumped in. “You know, nobody held a gun to my head. I wanted to see a happy ending for you myself.”

“Ahhh, like the princess who saves the toad/Prince.”

“Shut up, idiot. I was being serious.”

“Sorry, I just don’t want to bring you down again.” Hutch looked away.

Sadly, Trini asked him, “Why are you like that–so afraid to let someone inside that fortress you keep you heart in? When are you going to surrender to someone, Ken? The whole world can be on your side, or against you. The choice is yours.”

Frustrated, Trini started to get up, but Hutch moved to block her way. “Hey, this isn’t going the way I’d wanted it to. I wanted to apologize–thank you–and tell you how crazy you must be. How could you know all the dirt you know on me, and still….”

Trini reached up to stroke his face in a now familiar manner. “I just looked inside your soul, Ken. Lots of good stuff still lives there.”

Sitting back down, Trini pointed at Hutch’s chair. “Sit. I’m starved and this meal looks wonderful.”

Hutch bent to kiss her cheek before sitting down, making Trini’s heart leap. My, my. The man kinda likes me! Maybe there’s hope, after all.

~~~

Spending the remainder of the night in front of the fire talking with Hutch was a lot of fun for Trini. She and Hutch were alone, and she liked hearing what he had to say. Well-educated and well-mannered, he was great company.

Hutch was just thankful she wasn’t even hinting at what had happened at the bar! He didn’t regret kissing her, but…there was still some little voice telling him “not yet, pal.” That voice was getting harder and harder to listen to, especially when she was so easy to like.

Hutch was lounged across the couch–Trini had opted for a pillow and the floor, while they shared the last of the wine from dinner. Sitting up to refill her glass, Trini looked thoughtfully at Hutch.

“What’s troubling you, Bella?” Hutch teased.

Laying back down on her stomach, her chin resting on the pillow, she answered him, “We all know why the marriage to Angie went wrong, but what was up with the other two? I mean, arranged marriages or what?”

It was strange, but it didn’t even bother him to talk about this stuff with her. “Nah, ” he laughed. “I screwed those up all by myself. My poor choices.”

Sitting up again, Trini told him, “Jesus, Hutchinson. Maybe that’s the problem…next time, let the girl pick you.”

He knew he shouldn’t even keep this conversation going, but he couldn’t stop himself. “Alright, missy,” he teased back. “Tit for tat. Why’s a girl like you still single? You, too, could have experienced the joy of divorce by now.”

Shrugging a little, Trini answered, “I guess my standards are too high. I mean, I know there’s no such thing as ‘fairy tale romances,’ but I want a sweet romance. You know: a man who’s really a man, and can help me raise a couple of well-adjusted kids. A guy who doesn’t drink all day or do drugs. A guy who loves me for the person I am inside, and doesn’t hit.” Trini knew she was getting way too serious. Laughing, she added, “I’d like a guy who likes pets.”

Hutch had to laugh a little at that. Starsky wasn’t all that fond of dogs, and Trini had spent a lot of time at private schools–no pets for this little girl.

“I always wanted a little dog. A dachshund–they’re so cute. Maybe a cat for the dog to chase–fish for the cat to chase…”

“That sounds nice, Trini.”

“Yeah. It does, huh?” She laid down again, quietly sipping her wine while Hutch watched her.

Damn, she’s cute. Laying there all sprawled out on the floor–she looks so young. He smiled at her., All 5’4″ of her–top to curvy bottom.

Hutch loved the way the good Lord had put Trini together: the curly hair that looked so familiar, her toned arms and legs, and that little mole on her cheek. God, that was like a cherry on the top of a delicious sundae. He also loved the curves this girl had: more like Jennifer Lopez than that shapeless Kate Moss. He never had liked scrawny women.

Trini finished her wine, and went to put the glass in the dishwasher. Hutch followed suit, also grabbing the now empty wine bottle.

“I had a really great time tonight. Thanks for a lovely dinner, Ken.”

Trini stiffled a yawn, and Hutch put on his best little-boy pout for her. “You had such a good time, you can barely stay awake. Some ‘date,’ huh?”

“Oh knock it off, Hutchinson. That look may fool other people, but you’re wasting it on me. I really did enjoy tonight.”

Hutch smiled and puffed his chest out a little. “Must’ve been the good company.”

Trini shook her head and started for her bedroom. “You are too much. I’ll see ya’ in the morning.”

Hutch hurried over to Trini, and put his hand on the wall by her head, blocking her way into the bedroom. Trini looked up him so hopeful it tugged at Hutch’s heart, almost making him weaken. But he wasn’t going to rush into anything–if he did at all–with this girl.

“You need something, Ken?”

Oh little girl, don’t ask me loaded questions like that! He cleared his throat, and reached out to push her hair behind her ear. “I uh…well, I’ve kinda gotten used to you kissing me at least once a day, and….”

Gently pulling his head down to hers, Trini whispered, “Oh, sorry. We do have a quota to keep.”

Hutch decided he really liked kissing this girl–especially sober. He pulled away, regrettably, and looked down at Trini. “I suppose,” he whispered back, “this is the end of the date, and I should go home.”

“If you want to,” she whispered.

“Trini, I think I have to.”

Sighing, Trini opened her door and went inside, gently closing it behind her.

Hutch rested his head on her door and closed his eyes–he needed to be able to breathe before he could walk.

Sensing Hutch’s presence, Trini called out softly, “Good night, Hutch.”

Sure, now she calls me Hutch. When there’s a door safely wedged between us. Smart girl. So close and yet so far, Hutchinson.

Running his hand down her door, he smiled at himself before answering her. “Night, Trini.” Hutch looked down at his hand still gently running up and down her closed door.

Like a dog scratchin’ to get in–take your dumb ass to bed. Hutch decided to heed his own advice and turned to go.

 

Chapter 6 – CASE CLOSED

“You are not wearing that outfit!” Starsky bellowed.

Trini looked at her uncle, and put her nose in the air. “I will have you know I’ve been wearing this ‘outfit’ the whole time. It’s what everybody wears–well, all the waitresses anyhow.”

Starsky was still more than a little irritated. He was smart enough to know people had to wear things when they were undercover, but this…this was too much–or, too little from his standpoint.

Elbowing Hutch in the ribs, he growled, “Close your mouth, you’ll catch flies.”

Trini smiled and looked at Hutch–he did seem to like the way she looked, and it made her happy. Maybe he wasn’t the man of steel, after all.

Still, Starsky was in his full throttle ‘dad’ mode, and he was making Trini nuts. “Geez, Trini. Can’t ya’ put a coat on or somethin’?”

Shrugging, Trini turned to grab her coat, but didn’t button it after she’d slipped it casually over her shoulders.

Hutch thought, if possible, that made her look even sexier. That ‘uniform’ looked more like lingerie to him.

The standard issue outfit of the waitresses bordered on obscene. The shirt (if you could call it that) was sleeveless and made up of see-through golden lace, with a single strip of lace wrapped around Trini’s neck. Right below the lace neckband, the shirt was cut open into a large key-hole, ending just above her navel. The only decent thing Trini wore were the nearly transparent daisy-shaped pasties over her nipples. She’d explained that the customers weren’t paying to see the waitresses, so the manager ‘made’ them wear the pasties.

Starsky had raised his eyes to the heavens, and thanked somebody for that, at least.

Her short skirt was almost as transparent as the shirt, but at least it was black. Still, the outline of her (required, she hated them) G-string was clearly visible.

“Listen, David. I’ve gotta meet up with Candita and catch a cab. Are you done scowling at me? Can I go to work?”

Sighing heavily, Starsky rose to hold his niece to him., “Trini, I’m so sorry. If you ever had to do this for a living…I just worry ’bout you, is all.”

Trini softened and returned the hug. “Hopefully, this is the last time I ever wear this. Don’t worry so much about my outfit–worry about covering my ass in that bar.”

Kissing the top of her head, he replied, “I wish I could cover your ass before you walk into that bar.”

Hutch covered his mouth with his hand, but Starsky knew he was grinning hugely.

~~~

Candita and Trini arrived together, holding hands, much to the delight of one Luis Lancheros–owner and manager of “The Gladiator”.

Leering at the two women, he laughed. “She talk to you and you don’t care if you understand. She good for more than talking, eh?”

Flipping him the finger, Trini continued guiding Candita to the time clock.

Lancheros waited until Candita went into the kitchen before he approached Trini. “My pale one, do you still want make more money?”

“I’m singin’ for my supper tonight, ain’t I? I can always use more money.”

“You are good business thinker. I have two special ‘guests’ coming tonight. One say he see you here last night, and he offer money to see you privately.”

Hutchinson. That’s my cue.

Looking at him through slightly squinted eyes, Trini pretended interest. “How much money?”

Roaring with laughter, Lancheros leaned closer to Trini and touched her breast. It took everything Trini had not to slap the fat man’s hand away when he kneaded her flesh.

“Your girlfriend–she don’t mind?”

“She knows I swing both ways–she does, too.”

Thankfully, he dropped his hand. “Maybe I see about package deal? You two and guest?”

Trini shrugged. “If it’s more for two of us, I say go for it.”

Turning on her heel to get away, Trini had to fight the urge not to run to the safety backstage. That ‘man’ made her flesh crawl. Taking deep breaths to calm herself, Trini prayed, Please help us find these kids and destroy this guy. And, please keep us all safe. Thanks.

~~~

Starsky flashed a twenty at the guy at the door. “Tell Luis his guests are here.”

The man jerked the bill away from Starsky, and read the message written on it. Lancheros always told his guests who required ‘special services’ to write a message of his choosing on the money–the bouncers were then told the daily message for ‘safety’. Tonight’s message was, “We are the champions.”

Starsky had thought it was a good sign, and had told Hutch so. “See, pal. It’s a sign of divine intervention. We’re gonna win this one. Piece of cake.”

Hutch seriously hoped he was right.

The guard pointed to the door, and grumbled, “Give this to the girl inside,” as he shoved the twenty back at Starsky.

Once inside, Hutch commented, “Friendly chap.”

Starsky was already scanning the room for Trini and Candita. “Yeah, well, we ain’t here to make friends.” Seeing Candita behind the serving counter, Starsky breathed a little easier. Still, he hadn’t seen Trini yet.

Hutch tapped his friend on the arm, and motioned to the approaching visitor. “We’ve got company.”

A tall girl approached them, wearing an even more revealing outfit than Trini’s–this one didn’t even include pasties or a G-string. The girl fairly purred when she greeted them. “Welcome, gentlemen. Could I see the message, please?”

Starsky handed her the bill.

Satisfied, the girl returned the money. “Right this way, gentlemen.” She sat them at a table directly in front of the stage, and told them, “The owner will be right with you. Mr. Lancheros is personally overseeing your pleasure. Enjoy yourselves, gentlemen.”

With that, she turned and signaled a waitress over. Both men ordered vodka martini’s–drinks they never normally ordered, but that made them (they hoped) seem moneyed men.

As soon as the waitress walked off, Starsky leaned over to Hutch. “You seen Trini?”

“Calm down, Starsk. She’s around her somewhere.” Still, Hutch kept looking, too.

The men couldn’t talk anymore. Their waitress was returning, and an MC had come up to the stage floor.

“Good evening,” he started. “We are proud to present our latest acquisition: The lovely ‘Sunshine’.”

The lights dimmed and the MC quickly got off the stage.

Hutch recognized the music that had started, and he smiled–“Hair.” Oh, I get it. Let the sunshine in…tacky, tacky, tacky.

The girl who called herself “Sunshine” came up to the front of the stage and started her act. She was far too big-busted for Hutch’s taste, but he played along–helping Starsky stuff twenties where he didn’t even want to touch. When Sunshine was finally done, she departed the stage–jiggling all the way.

Hutch casually looked around and wondered again where Trini was.

Suddenly, the MC was back, “Tonight, we have a special treat for all you music lovers. We have one of our lovely ladies up here for your listening pleasure. Take it away, my dear.”

The lights dimmed again, and a band started to play.

For a dirtball, this guy tries to play classy, Hutch thought.

A strong, clear voice came out of the darkness, and Hutch tried hard to remember where he’d heard the song before. Then it came to him: an action movie a couple years back. One Maggie was pissed about seeing, but her precious foreign film had been sold out. What was the name of that movie? Oh yeah: “Con-Air.” This song had played at the end, and Hutch had thought it was beautiful then.

Whoever’s singing this ain’t half bad. Too bad she’s stuck in a shithole like this.

The spotlight was beginning to come on–slowly, teasingly–starting on the girl’s high-heeled covered feet. It continued to climb up the stool she sat on, revealing a little more every inch. Finally, the light lit up the whole stage–revealing the girl completely.

For the second time that night, Hutch’s mouth dropped open.

There, on the stage in that outfit–made even more transparent by a spotlight–was Trini.

Once he got over his own shock, Starsky nodded at Trini. “She ain’t bad, huh?”

Hutch nodded then continued to listen in earnest, watching Trini closely.

Starsky added, “Kindered spirits, pal?”

Hutch just grunted, and continued to pay close attention to Trini. He could tell she was uncomfortable–she had her eyes closed, blocking out the crowd. Hutch knew that feeling too well. He loved to play his guitar and sing at home, but people staring at you while you did it–that was another thing entirely.

The end of the song was closing in, and Trini rose to finish. Opening her eyes, she found Hutch in the crowd.

He was a little overwhelmed when she directed the words at him: “…if you ever leave. Baby you would take away everything–need you with me…”

Hutch took a long drink off the previously forgotten martini.

The stage went black and Hutch was abruptly brought back to reality by the wolf-whistles and lewd comments of the other ‘patrons’.

Starsky pointed at the stage. “You’re supposed to be enjoying yourself. Stop scowling.” Hutch hadn’t even realized he had been, but Starsky made a mental note of it. Was he being overprotective of Trini, or merely disgusted by fellow members of the species? Starsky didn’t have any more time to evaluate Hutch, though–Lancheros was moving towards them, arms open in welcome.

“Gentlemen, you like?”

Starsky looked down his nose at the man, and shrugged. Hooking a thumb at Hutch he stated, “More his speed. I was looking for something ‘special’.”

The fat man nodded eagerly. “Oh yes, sir. I have arranged a private viewing for later. For now–eat–drink. We do business soon.”

~~~

When Lancheros returned later, he’d asked Hutch if he was interested in Candita joining the “party.” Hutch had readily agreed–that would work out even better. Everyone would be together–safer that way.

Good thinkin’ Trini. That’s my girl.

Starsky and that pig named Luis had then gone off to talk business at the bar, and Starsky was flashing money at the gross, round man. Finally, a price was agreed on and Starsky returned to the table. Pretending to drop his wallet, he bent close to Hutch and whispered, “Showtime.”

The adrenaline was pumping full force now, and Hutch was ready. Starsky looked like he was carelessly lounging, but Hutch knew better. He was watching the bouncers on the north side–Hutch kept track of the south side. Neither man wanted any of them close to the hangar when they made their move. There was gonna be enough to deal with already, without more pistol-packin’ bouncers in the way.

Trini made her way to Hutch’s side and snuggled up to him, seductively rubbing her hand inside his shirt. She winked at him, then continued, “Hey, Tiger. I hear we’re gonna have us a little quality time.”

Hutch nodded and pulled Trini onto his lap.

“Oh, a man who takes charge. I like that.”

She wiggled a little on his lap, and Hutch pressed his lips to her ear, pretending to kiss it. “Stop that!” he hissed.

Blinking innocently, Trini asked him, “Did I do something wrong, sugar?”

Hutch gently, but firmly moved Trini off his lap. He’d put her there for appearances, but the closeness had turned out to be…well, uncomfortable. Especially when the girl had to wiggle.

“Go find Candita. Now.”

Lancheros came up and looked at Starsky. “You are ready, sir?”

Starsky rose and motioned for Hutch to follow.

Lancheros silently led the men to a back exit, then stopped to wait for Trini and Candita. The two women came up holding hands, as usual, but this time it wasn’t just for show–it was for support.

Shaking his head, Lancheros poked a fat finger at Hutch. “You sure gonna enjoy these two–they put on a show for you.” Lancheros laughed, then motioned for a man to join them.

Hutch pulled Trini to him and gave her a little squeeze of reassurance. To a pervert like Lancheros, it looked like Hutch couldn’t wait to touch Trini, suiting their plan just fine.

Lancheros leered at the men. “Come. We take you someplace private.”

Starsky walked ahead of the others with Lancheros, while the man followed closely behind them all.

Candita let go of Trini’s hand and moved to Hutch’s available side, whispering to him in Spanish. “I saw the kids here today. There’s one door off the back.”

Hutch’s nod was so slight the man behind them didn’t even notice.

Having crossed the back lot to the plane hangar, Lancheros stopped in front of a large metal door and knocked twice. A metal scraping metal noise indicated some sort of movement inside, so Trini began to rub her arms as if cold.

That’ s your signal, Huggy. Hope you’re watchin’.

Trini turned back in time to follow Candita inside. The man with them looked at Trini, then to Lancheros. “You want me to stay in here and watch them?”

Shooing the man away with his hands, Lancheros yelled at him, “Go! We are fine.”

The man stepped outside, but continued to watch Trini carefully.

“You bust him or somethin’?” Hutch whispered.

“Yeah. Busted his balls once,” Trini whispered back, “I believe he’s much more interested in me, than I am him.”

Hutch nodded. “I see.”

Lancheros had now led them to the far end of the hangar, and was stopping again. He did his customary two knocks, and the door was barely opened–just enough that everyone had to turn sideways to get through.

Trini started to follow the others, but grabbed Lancheros by the arm instead. Pulled him off to one side she demanded, “Where the hell am I supposed to work? All I see in there are a bunch of sniveling brats! I need somewhere to take care of Blondie.”

Lancheros pulled his arm away from Trini and smiled nastily. “Greedy bitch. I get you private spot.”

Lancheros pushed the door open wider to accommodate his girth, and pulled Trini in behind him. Pushing her at Hutch, he pointed to a small door leading into what must be the sleeping quarters.

“She can’t wait. Take her in there, then we deal more later.”

Trini was so proud that their plan was working, she almost skipped to the door. She hastily moved into the room, then pulled Hutch in behind her, eliciting several rude comments from the men outside.

As soon as the door shut, Trini raced to their only door to the outside world, and started working on the lock. It only took a few seconds, then Trini opened the door a little and whispered, “We’re clear here. I need the flashlight.”

Hutch left his post at the opposite door to take her the light.

Quickly she shot three short beams into the darkness. “Shit, I hope they see this.” She put the flashlight in the waistband of her skirt, then held her hand out to Hutch for her revolver. “Thanks. Now we gotta kill a couple minutes.”

Reaching over, she began to undo Hutch’s belt. He quickly placed his hand on hers.

“Come on, Ken,” she teased, ” I ain’t gonna rape ya’. We just gotta make it look real.”

Pointing a finger at her, Hutch directed, “I’ll do mine–you do yours.”

Trini winked at him, “Party pooper.”

When Trini came out of the room, she looked properly tosseled and now had on Hutch’s jacket–seemingly to keep her warm.

Smiling at Lancheros, she held out her hand.

He slapped it away. “Later!” he hissed.

Trini held up her hands in defeat. “Fine, fine.”

Then, turning to the row of kids lined up against the wall, she asked, “He find what he’s lookin’ for?”

To anyone who didn’t know him well, it looked like Starsky was slowly moving from child to child inspecting them. Trini knew better, though.

Hutch had taught Starsky to say some words of comfort to the children, and that’s what he was now doing. Starsky would get down on his knees in front of each scared child, and talk quietly to them while running a comforting hand over their heads. After he’d made his way down the line of children, he came back to where Trini and Lancheros were standing.

Looking towards Trini, he told her, “Your girlfriend speaks Spanish. Tell her to go ask who wants to live with me.”

Trini shrugged her shoulders, then walked to Candita and whispered, “We need to move now. Get the kids ready.”

Guiding Lancheros by the arm to talk ‘business’, Starsky led him away from the children so Candita could speak more freely.

Trini made her move to the lone guard at the door, and began to rub her hand on his crotch in small circles. Leaning close to the man, she whispered, “He can’t get it up. Care to help a girl out?”

Checking to see if Lancheros was watching–seeing he wasn’t–the man nodded. Trini let him lead her into a dark room that must’ve been used as an office once. She turned and quietly locked the door.

“We gotta make this quick, so get your pants off.”

The man sat down on the bed to undress as Trini pulled her revolver out of Hutch’s pocket. Pressing the barrel to his head, she whispered, “Make one sound and you’re dead. Lay down and roll over.”

~~~

Trini quietly unlocked the door and went back to join the others, motioning for Candita to start moving the children to Hutch.

Lancheros glared at Trini as she walked by the chair Starsky had tied him to.

“You’re a very bad man,” she told him. “What? No witty retort? Oh, sorry. That gag must suck.”

Candita and Hutch were trying to talk quickly to the children, while Starsky and Trini stood guard.

Hutch came back in to talk to Starsky after all the children were at the exit. “It looks clear. We gotta go.”

Starsky nodded and followed Hutch. “Trini, let’s go,” he whispered and ran to hold the door for Hutch.

The plan was going well, except for one thing: the sick girl could barely stand, and running was out of the question.

Trini looked at the two men. “We’ll stick to the plan as close as we can: Candita goes with the first group–we cover. Hutch goes with the next group–David and I cover. David, you’ll have to carry her and I’ll stay and cover.”

Seeing both men ready to argue. She shook her head. “No time. Go.”

Candita took off with the first set of children while the three officers covered her and waited for signs of conflict. None came, and a moment later, Hutch took his group across the darkened desert.

Quietly, Trini slipped off her heels, and got ready to move. Starsky gently picked up the sick girl, then turned to Trini and whispered, “Be careful. I love you.”

She nodded and smiled. “Ditto. Now go.”

Starsky took off running low to the ground, and headed for the cover of the cactus. He was almost there when the first shot rang out. Trini spun and shot in the direction the bullets came from, then ran to the generator house for better cover–and to draw fire off Starsky and the girl. Trini knew by the barrage of gunfire that was starting she couldn’t get away. Closing her eyes for a moment, she sent out a message to her uncle.

I told you I’d be safe and it’d be O.K.–I didn’t mean to lie to you.

Taking a deep breath she picked up the flashlight and again signaled three times. This one means I can’t make it. You guys know what to do. Trini began to cry a little. She never even got to say goodbye.

~~~

Hutch was helping load the last child in the van when he saw the flashes. “No,” he whispered.

Starsky hadn’t seen the flashes, but he’d heard Hutch. Both men immediately took off running back across the desert.

When they got back to the hangar, Hutch saw Trini was trapped, and people were moving in on her. He started to move, but Starsky pulled him down and pointed up. “We got reinforcements, buddy.”

Hutch looked skyward at the approaching helicopters. Hutch was relieved to see Starsky had a backup plan. Some things had changed for the better!

Starsky had started to move closer so Trini could see him, and began to cover her with gunfire. Trini started to run towards him, but quickly yelped and stumbled in pain.

Hutch pointed at her shooter and fired–it gave him great pleasure to see the man buckle over.

Starsky had bravely (foolishly) run to help Trini, and Hutch was doing his best to cover two targets now.

A noise behind Hutch made him turn.

Huggy had driven Starsky’s new SUV through the cactus and gulleys to help get Trini. The helicopters now seemed to have the situation under control, and the getting was good–thanks to Huggy. The three officers barely had time to crawl in before Huggy was driving away.

Starsky patted Huggy’s arm. “Thanks, Hug. You’re the best.”

Huggy didn’t acknowledge Starsky, so he tried again. “Huggy. I’m tryin’ to thank you, here.”

Huggy looked at Starsky, then quickly back to the road. “Am I still black, or did this little adventure turn me white?”

Hutch was too busy tending to Trini to laugh.

“I’m O.K., Ken. Just a scratch.”

He pushed her hand away from the wound and snapped at her, “Yeah. All scratches bleed like this.”

Starsky nonchalantly asked, “Hey, Huggy. You think we could stop by a hospital along the way? Trini’s messin’ up my upholstery.”

“Sure Starsky. And while we’re there, I’m gonna find me a doctor, too. I need to know if I got any brains left after bein’ with you cats.”

 

Chapter 7 – BEGINNINGS

Starsky had called Leslie from the hospital to tell her about Trini, and was now desperately trying to convince her all was well. “She’ll be fine, Les. Les, I promise, It’s just a little flesh wound. Here, talk to Hutch. I gotta talk to the officer that just got here.” Handing the phone to Hutch, he told him, “Tell Les Trini’s O.K.–she wants to cancel our vacation.”

Hutch took the phone, and spoke into it. “Leslie–kind and sweet lady–you don’t need to worry. Go back to your packing, and get ready to enjoy Florida.”

“Hutch, you sure? I feel bad enough leavin’ you, and now this.”

“What is it with you two? I’m gonna be just fine. I’m not as weird as I was before.” Hutch smiled a little. He really did feel good again.

“I’m so glad, Hutch. We were sure worried about you for awhile there.”

“Thanks, Les. Me, too. Go pack. I love you.”

“I love you, too, Hutch. See you in two weeks.”

“Yeah–sorry we can’t take you to the airport, but we could pick you up.”

“That’s O.K. You just stay there with Trini. That’ll put David’s mind at ease so he can come home.”

“You got it, Les. I’m sendin’ him on his way.”

Trini was sitting on the emergency room bed laughing and shaking her head at Starsky. “Don’t you have a plane to catch? I’ll do the paperwork later–GO!”

Starsky nodded at Trini’s comments, kissed her forehead, then charged out the door. He bumped into a patiently waiting Hutch on the other side. Starsky grabbed his friend’s hand and vigorously shook it. “We did it, buddy! We did it!”

Hutch pulled Starsky into a happy embrace and started to laugh. “We sure as hell did, partner.”

Starsky breathed a sigh of relief and smiled up at his friend. “Damn, I’m glad ‘Hutch’ is finally all here. I sure missed ya’.”

After placing a loud kiss on Hutch’s cheek, Starsky turned and began to run down the hallway. He called out as he ran, “Take care of my Jewel.”

“Get out of here, you idiot!” Hutch was still smiling and shaking his head as he watched his friend disappear. “He’s nuts.”

Trini came up and grabbed his arm, surprising him. “So are you. Can we go home now?”

Hutch looked around and nodded. “Let’s get out of here before some nurse shoves you in a wheelchair.”

Grabbing her good arm, they fairly ran out of the hospital together.

~~~

Once they were in a cab and safely on their way, Hutch looked down and noticed Trini’s bare feet.

“Jesus, Trini! Why didn’t you grab some socks or somethin’ in there?”

She laughed a little. “That would be stealing, Officer Hutchinson.”

Shaking his head, he bent down and took off his shoes to remove his own socks. “Sorry, but they’ll have to do.”

Hutch held his hand out and Trini plopped a foot into it. Wiggling her nearly black toes at him, she asked, “You sure you want all this dirt in there?”

“Be a good girl and give me your other foot.”

Trini did as she was told to, marveling at Hutch the whole time. Those big, strong hands were gently pulling socks on her feet as if she were made of porcelain.

When he had finished, and put his own shoes back on, Trini scooted closer to him on the cab seat. Laying her head against his shoulder she whispered, “You’re a good man, Ken Hutchinson. Thanks for the socks.”

She was already falling asleep, so he gently wrapped his arm around her to keep her comfortable and stable in sleep. Double checking she really was asleep, Hutch pulled her closer and gently kissed her temple.

God help me, Katrina Starsky, but I don’t think I want to fight this feeling inside. I think I’ m falling for you. Do people still say that, or am I ‘dating’ myself?

Hutch pulled Trini closer, and sighed to himself. You’re too good for me…but I’m crazy about you.

Trini hadn’t noticed the cab stopping–or Hutch paying–or Hutch lifting her out of the cab. She did notice now, though, and it was nice there in his strong arms. Curling up closer to him she whispered, “I really like this, but I can walk.”

Hutch grunted, “Not in my new socks, sister.”

Trini laughed, and Hutch smiled down at her.

Once inside the elevator, Hutch gently set Trini down, but she didn’t make any attempt to move away from him. Quite the opposite, actually–she laid her head comfortably back against his chest, and reached back to hold his hand.

Inside the apartment, Trini turned to Hutch and asked, “Showers first, then breakfast?”

Hutch nodded. “How did you guess?” Hutch removed his holster and hung it with Trini’s behind the door.

She handed him his jacket, and asked, “Would you put mine back, too?” Nodding, he dug in the pockets and removed the flashlight and revolver.

Trini pointed to the ruined jacket. “Sorry.”

Hutch seemed unconcerned as he moved to the kitchen, and dropped the jacket unceremoniously into the trash. “Remnant from my second marriage. Screw it. Go get your bath.”

Relieved, Trini smiled and started moving to her room. “On my way, Sir.”

Hutch smiled at her departing back, and went to follow his own advice.

~~~

After a quick shower, Hutch had returned to the kitchen and was contemplating what to make when he heard Trini call out to him.

“Hey Hutchinson, you out there? Officer in need of assistance, here.”

She probably can’t get that stupid-ass sling they made her wear unhooked.

Hutch knocked on Trini’s open bedroom door, and she called out from the bathroom, “I’m in here, Ken.” He’d realized she had to be in the bathroom when he couldn’t find her, but he hadn’t expected to see her in the shower. Well, he couldn’t really see her–just part of a leg and her pretty head peeking around the shower curtain.

Trini noticed his hesitancy, and it made her laugh. “You can’t see anything, quit being an idiot.”

Hutch went inside, but looked away at her mirror.

“I need a towel, Ken. They’re all in the dryer.”

He nodded and quickly left for the laundry room off the guest bath. Returning, he called to her from outside the door, “Trini, here’s your towel.”

She opened the door a little wider than necessary–at least to Hutch’s thinking–and grabbed the towel. “Thanks, you’re a lifesaver.”

Hutch nodded and quickly went back into the kitchen. Opening up the refrigerator with shaking hands, Hutch poured two glasses of iced tea.

It would seem they both could use some cooling down.

Hutch was just starting to think a little clearer when Trini’s door opened, and she came out wearing a tightly wrapped robe.

Thank God it isn’t a towel again. He held her tea up. “Thirsty?”

“Thanks.” She reached for her glass, and took a sip before setting it on the counter. “Did you decide on breakfast?”

He was thinking, It’s not food I’m hungry for, but settled on: “Your choice. You name it–I’ll make it.”

Trini went to the fridge and opened the door. Turning towards Hutch, she bent over and looked inside. Her robe popped open a little, and the view he was getting of Trini’s uncovered skin was delightful. Guiltily, he realized he wasn’t exactly looking away.

Wrinkling her nose, she stood up and closed the door, “I know it’s late…or is it early? Anyhow, what about pizza?”

Hutch was just glad she’d stood back up–two day old bread would’ve sounded good. “Pizza sounds great! Where’s your phone book?”

At the same time Hutch stepped back a little to look, Trini was reaching for the drawer behind him.

Suddenly they both stopped.

Trini was now between Hutch and the island, their bodies almost touching, and the electricity would’ve scared ol’ Ben Franklin.

Trini’s hand was still on the drawer, her eyes on the floor like she was afraid to look at him. Slowly, Hutch reached out a tentative hand to play with Trini’s damp ringlets. Trini shivered, but not from the cold, and closed her eyes.

Hutch whispered, “Trini, I…”

Holding her hand up, she cut him off. “It’s O.K., Ken. Let’s not dwell on this.” Slowly, she opened her eyes, but continued to look at something in the distance. She sighed heavily, sadly. “Christ, I feel like a crazed fan, or a stalker or something.”

Hutch was still toying with her hair, intently wrapping the curls around his finger, “I don’t understand.”

“I know. It’s hard to explain.”

“Try me, Trini. I’m not going anywhere.”

A quick, sad smile played across her face. “Really, Ken? You really stayin’, or you just sayin’ that to make a little girl happy?” She didn’t wait for a reply, but pushed his hand away. “Is that the problem, Ken? You still think I’m that little girl you helped save?” She was angry, and getting angrier by the minute, but Hutch knew she needed to do this. “Well, you know what, Hutch? I’m not a little girl anymore. Open your eyes!” Trini’s hands flew up to rub her head in frustration.

“Oh wait, I think I’m getting it now–it seems I’ve loved you since I first saw you, and I guess I thought you could feel the same, but you don’t. Or better yet, you could use the age thing against me. Wait, wait…how about the ‘I won’t do this to Starsky’ explanation.” Trini’s anger was slowly turning into quiet pain, all the pent up sadness finally surfacing.

“How about thinking of happiness, Ken–you’ve had enough crap in your life! But, that’s unfair, too, I suppose. All these months, I’ve been following your life, and you haven’t known shit about mine. Maybe….”

She sighed again, and a lonely tear ran down her cheek. “Maybe I thought once you got to know me the way I’d come to know you, well, maybe you’d like me back. I guess I’ve just always been a fool for you.” Closing her eyes again, she whispered, “I’ve been stupid. I was just hoping we could try…and if you got uneasy, you could just let me know. But you’re not even willing to try, Ken.”

Swallowing down the sadness in her voice, she continued, “Did you give up on happiness, too, Ken? Cuz’ if you did, that’s so sad.”

Trini felt like a fool, but at least she’d taken a chance. What was life without risk? Her anger spent, Trini only had one thing left to say before she walked away. “Everyone deserves a second chance, Ken. I just wish we could’ve had one.”

She started to move away, but Hutch pulled her to him in a crushing embrace, fearing he was kissing her perhaps a little too hard. He couldn’t help it, though. He was dying for want of this girl.

Thankfully, Trini didn’t seem to mind, and wrapped her arms tightly about Hutch’s neck to return his kiss. Using him as support, Trini lifted herself up on the island and pulled Hutch closer. Hutch was gently kneading one breast and nibbling on Trini’s arched neck, when she quietly moaned and wrapped her legs around him. Hutch smiled a little to himself when Trini responded to him so strongly.

It would seem I’m not the only “hungry” one. This girl’s gonna be the death of me.

Moving her robe over to expose her breast, Hutch began to nibble and suck, which only caused Trini to shudder more. Hastily, she reached down to untie her robe. It was at that moment that reality came back to Hutch–she was willing to let him take her right now, but that wasn’t the way Hutch wanted it.

Maybe some other time, Trini. This one’s gonna be done right.

Pulling her to him and lifting her off the counter, he whispered, “Not here. Hold on to me.”

Trini obediently wrapped her legs back around Hutch and let him carry her to the bedroom, kissing him the whole way.

Trini put her legs down and stood up when they were in her room. Hastily, she reached for Hutch’s t-shirt and pulled it over his head. She threw it down, and started to kiss his chest–playfully chewing on his nipples as she undid his zipper. Hutch pulled her back up to him before she could remove his pants, and started kissing her again. Christ, he loved kissing this girl. Holding Trini’s face in one hand, Hutch finished discarding and stepping free of his pants with the other. Breaking their kiss, Hutch reached out to remove Trini’s already open robe. She looked away, suddenly embarrassed, but Hutch brought her back to face him with his hand.

“We don’t have to do this if you don’t want to.”

“It’s not that…! I just know…well, what if I can’t compete with the scores of Hutchinson conquests?”

Hutch pulled her back to him, and reached inside her robe to gently squeeze her luscious rump–“I think my reputation is a little padded.”

Unabashedly reaching down to gently hold his manhood, Trini remarked, “I know one thing that’s not padded.”

Hutch laughed and reached for her robe again. “Silly girl, I think every other woman on the planet should worry about how to compete with you.”

Hutch swept the now naked Trini in his arms again, and gently laid her on the bed. Trini laughed at him and pulled him to her. “Save your energy, buster. You’re gonna need it.”

~~~

Hutch looked down at Trini’s sated face, and almost cried. Jesus, this girl was good for him. Sex had been obsolete for so long, he’d almost forgotten how wonderful making love could be.

Almost.

Trini slowly opened her eyes and smiled up at Hutch, “Hey.”

He smiled back. “Hey, yourself.”

Reaching up, she pushed a lock of hair away from his sweat-covered forehead, and laughed.

“What’s so funny?”

He was looking at her questioningly, but she just shook her head.

“Come on,” he prodded, “I’ll make you sorry if you don’t tell me.”

Still smiling at him, she began to wiggle a little under him while she talked. “I was just thinking what we hit on the Richter scale–some poor asshole in Pasadena just got knocked out of his recliner.”

Hutch laughed. “We certainly had a little pent-up sexual energy, didn’t we?”

“Had?”

“O.K.–have, but you’ve gotta let me recover from this first.” Hutch tried to move off Trini, but she held him where he was. Hutch laughed. “Trini, I don’t want to hurt you.”

Reaching up to rub his cheek, she whispered, “Then don’t.”

He couldn’t argue with that, and kissed her again. Hutch knew it was corny, but he had to ask. “Do people really die of happiness?”

A short burst of laughter came from Trini. “I certainly hope not. I want this to last.”

Trini was curled up at Hutch’s side–one leg across his, and a hand idly rubbing his chest. He pulled her closer, and kissed the top of her head.

“Me, too, baby. Me, too.”

Pulling her head up to look at him, she was all seriousness now. “Do you mean that? I mean, there’s no strings here, but we’re trying for the long run, right? This isn’t something I shouldn’t be getting used to, is it?”

Returning Trini’s intense gaze, Hutch decided to reprimand her a little. “I could ask you the same thing. You know, a younger guy…”

She cut him off with a loud groan. “You just had to bring it up didn’t you?”

She moved to lay on top of him, and he swatted her lightly on the behind. “You brought up the long term thing–neither one should be an issue.”

Lifting her head she looked at him–so hopeful and trusting, it twisted a tight band around his heart. “Really?” she whispered.

“Really.”

She laid her head back on his chest and was so content there, she probably would’ve fallen asleep if Hutch hadn’t spoken. “Thanks for waiting for me to realize…I was almost too late wasn’t I?”

He felt her shake her head against his chest, and she sleepily replied, “No. I would’ve waited forever.”

Hutch swallowed hard before he could speak again. “I love you, Katrina Starsky.”

A happy, but tired woman answered him. “And, I love you, too. Hutch.”

~~~

The morning sun coming through Trini’s bedroom window wasn’t what woke Hutch. No, it was something much better than sunlight, making him smile a little in thought. This is the way to start the day.

Slowly, he barely opened one eye to peek at the girl straddling his hips and kissing his chest while moving provocatively on his midsection. Hutch quickly shut his eye.

Trini moved up to kiss his neck, but was disappointed when she still got no response. Sitting up straight, Trini watched Hutch for a moment, trying to decide what to do. She was just about to go shower, when she noticed him smiling at her. Trini punched him playfully. “Faker.”

Hutch just smiled. Careful of her arm, he moved quickly and grabbed her–then flipped her onto the bed, pinning her there.

Trini’s surprise was obvious, and she squealed with laughter.

“My, my, Officer. Would you be frisking me next?”

Hutch wiggled his eyebrows lasciviously at her, then slowly began kissing her neck. He moved down from Trini’s neck to her breasts, and was treated with a moan as she arched against him. A gentle pull on his hair made Hutch look up. Trini was motioning him up with her finger, and a ‘come hither’ look he couldn’t resist. Moving back up, he held Trini’s face in his hands and kissed her. She kept wiggling under him, and it was too much for him. He smiled at her, and with great effort, concealed a laugh. Trini frowned and poked him in the ribs–hard.

Hutch grunted, then grabbed both her hands and held them above her head. “I wasn’t laughing at you, sweetheart.”

His words were enough to soothe her, and her anger forgotten, she went back to what she’d been doing. Pulling her hands away, she wrapped her arms back around Hutch. Arching her back, she began to deliciously lick his neck.

He pulled back, and smiled. “That’s what’s so amusing! You’re either going to be the death of me, or the life of me.”

Wrapping her legs around him, she told him, “Enough talk–not enough action, Detective.”

Rolling his eyes in mock dismay, he pretended to be forced into kissing her. He could pretend all he wanted, but this was a great way to start the day.

~~~

Trini and Hutch showered together afterwards, and it was anything but a grabbing, sexual time. It was a special time for two new lovers to explore and discover, and Trini ate it up. She washed Hutch from head to toe–asking about every scar and scrape on him as she did. Then she had him sit on the tile edge so she could reach his hair. Gently resting his head on her chest, Trini shampooed and rinsed his hair, then put conditioner on it–making Hutch laugh.

“Your hair’s too beautiful not to take care of,” she told him.

“What’s left of it,” he joked. He stood up and reached for the soap–he couldn’t wait to return the favor to Trini.

As he started to soap her back, Trini suddenly turned to face him, “You do realize how incredibly handsome you are, right?”

“Trini, you’re the only woman who cares about me, and how I look.” He smiled. “Or, if my hair is properly conditioned. Besides, I believe you are the beauty to this aging beast.”

Trini turned back around to let Hutch continue his gentle scrubbing, but even his compliment didn’t seem to have eased her mind. Something was nagging at her.

“You wanna tell me about it?”

He was moving up her legs with the sponge, and it was wonderful–Trini just knew she’d died and gone to Heaven. “Not really. I’ll sound the insecure, little whiner I can sometimes be.”

Hutch laughed. “Trini, you’re the best. I’ve never known another woman who admits she’s got human worries.” He moved up and kissed her shoulder, then added seriously, “Just like everyone else.”

She nodded, “Yeah, that’s me–the perfect little woman,” she teased. “Try not to forget it, my love.”

“I never want to. I promise.” Hutch could tell she wasn’t upset anymore, so he continued his “duty.”

His hands soaping her hair made Trini forget about anything else. She sighed contentedly. “This is wonderful.”

Hutch agreed–this was the most fun he’d had with a woman since twenty minutes ago.

Hutch changed the dressing on Trini’s wound after he’d toweled her dry.

When he started to dry himself, Trini gently took the towel from him. “Uh-uh, my turn.”

Stretching, she dried Hutch’s hair then reached behind her for a comb. He waited indulgently while she ran the comb through his hair, then tossed it back on the vanity.

“What about your hair?” Hutch wondered.

A shrugging Trini was already drying Hutch’s legs. “What about my hair?”

Hutch looked down, and reached out to stroke Trini’s hair. She was supposed to be drying him. What was that girl doing now?

“I’ll be fine. Now be quiet, and enjoy the ride.”

Hutch inhaled deeply, and leaned his head back on the wall. Closing his eyes and smiling, he decided Trini was right. He definitely liked this ride.

~~~

Hutch was in the kitchen whistling while he squeezed oranges for juice, and contemplated life.

This was the way to live.

A beautiful girl loved him, he had helped break a case, his life was back on track again–and reality was looking pretty damn good.

Trini came up behind him, wrapping her arms around him and kissed his cheek. He poured her a glass of juice and held it up. She reached for it, but Hutch lifted it out of her reach and turned to her.

“Hey, what’s happened here?”

Using his free hand, he pointed to his lips. Trini happily obliged. She was rewarded for the kiss with a delicious glass of juice. “Thanks. It’s good.”

“Welcome. Here.” Hutch was handing her a vitamin to take. He was getting back into good habits, and Trini couldn’t be happier.

There is hope for this wonderful man, yet. Thank you, God. I don’t think I could take it, if this didn’t work out. Thankyouthankyouthankyou.

Hutch and Trini sat down to enjoy the wonderful breakfast of Eggs Benedict and fruit he’d thrown together. When they were finished eating, Hutch stood and grabbed up the dishes before Trini even had a chance to move.

“Ken, you don’t have to wait on me hand and foot–it’s a flesh wound, remember?”

Hutch just shrugged, and continued loading the dishwasher. “Let me take care of you once in awhile, alright?”

Me, Tarzan- you, Jane, Hutch? O.K., darlin’. Take care of me.

She went to stand by him again. “I’ve got to go into Metro and do my reports. You know the drill. Do you want to come in with me today?”

“I think I should stay here. I need clean socks.”

Smiling, Trini apologized. “Sorry. Were you gonna wear that pair again today?”

Hutch laughed and pulled her into his arms. “You don’t need to know all my secrets.”

Shaking her head, she pulled back a little. “I better get going, or I’ll never leave.”

Reluctantly, she moved out of his embrace and started for her room. Hutch trailed behind her, and casually lounged against the door jamb while she dressed.

“You gonna be O.K. if I wash your clothes too, or is that off limits?”

Trini finished pulling on her boots, then went to kiss him. “Nothing of mine is off limits to you, my love.”

Hutch raised a skeptical eyebrow at her. “Nothing?”

She moved around him and was at the front door before she answered him. “Well, we haven’t really discussed it, but there is one thing.”

He smiled knowingly. “Ahhh. The truth comes out.”

Grinning wickedly, Trini told him, “I’m not into anal sex. Sorry.”

Hutch’s laughter was uncontained. Holding up his hands, he told her, “No problem. Not my cup of tea, either.”

She opened the door and started to go, then stopped and thoughtfully added, “O.K. You can stay then.”

She heard his laughing reply as she shut the door behind her. “Gee, thanks.”

 

Chapter 8 – GETTING TO KNOW YOU

As soon as the front door had shut behind Trini, Hutch sprang into action. He had to hurry to pull off what he had in mind. Rushing to the laundry room, he sorted Trini’s whites, then went to find his. Quickly filling the machine, he poured in soap and bleach and started the clothes. Clearing a space on the floor, he sorted the rest of the clothes to do later. He had to get moving–laundry could wait. Hutch hurried to change out of his sweats into something more suitable for the shopping he had to do. Sitting on his bed in the guest room, he looked around and smiled.

Maybe she’ll be so pleased, I’ll get to share a closet with her.

A quick search of the clothes he’d worn the night before yielded his wallet, and he quickly opened it. Hutch counted the cash and shook his head–he really needed to open a bank account. Carrying this much cash was stupid, but he hadn’t thought about it at the time. Today, while he was out–today, he’d open an account. After all, this is where he lived, and he didn’t plan on leaving again. Happily, he grabbed his jacket, and hurried out the door.

~~~

It was several hours later when Trini called Hutch from the precinct to say she was on her way home.

“I’m awfully lonely, here,” he told her. “Hurry home.” He was only partially teasing–he had missed her, and he did want her to see her surprise.

Smiling into the phone, she lowered her voice. “I can’t concentrate anyhow. All I can think about is your gorgeous body.”

“Funny, that’s all I’ve thought about, too. Your body, I mean.”

She laughed. “I understood, you idiot. Do you want me to stop for pizza or something?”

He just wanted her to come home–now. “We can go out if you want to, but hurry home.”

He sounded so eager, it made Trini’s heart beat faster. “I’m on my way, baby. Don’t go runnin’ off with no skinny blond before I get there.”

“I’ll be right here, waiting for a feisty Italian Jewish girl.”

“I love you,” she whispered.

“I love you more. Get home.”

The phone went dead, and Trini kissed it before hanging it up. “On my way, on my way,” she laughed.

Scooping up the files she had to finish, she hurried for the door–and home.

~~~

Trini opened her front door to almost total darkness. The only light in the entire apartment came from the candles Hutch had set up on the dinning room table.

Smiling happily, Trini stepped into the apartment and the door shut behind her. Hutch had pushed it shut from his “hiding spot” behind the door, and was now taking the files from her. Putting a glass of wine into her other hand, he softly whispered, “Welcome home.”

Kissing him sweetly, she smiled at him. “Thanks for making it a home.”

Hutch smiled back. Funny, I was thinking the same thing about you.

Setting the files on the stand behind him, he turned to lead her to the table, offering her his arm. She took it, and leaned her head comfortably against his shoulder.

When they reached the table, he pulled her chair out for her. Trini started to sit down, but noticed something in her chair. Turning to get a better look, her hand flew to her mouth in genuine surprise.

Hutch put his hands on her shoulders and leaned over to explain her “gifts.” “They’ll have to do until we have a real home to let your animals run in.”

Trini couldn’t reply with the knot in her throat, so she just nodded and bent to inspect the items. “You were paying attention? This is the most romantic thing I’ve ever…well, it’s just great.”

Trini couldn’t believe he’d been listening to her future dreams, but he obviously had been! There, on the chair in front of her sat: an electronic dog, a fishbowl with two blown-glass fish bobbing in it, and a puppet that looked like a big, orange tomcat.

Suddenly, Hutch realized Trini was crying, and he turned her to him. “Oh come on, baby–don’t cry. I was just tryin’ to make you happy.”

Trini sniffled, “You did. I am happy.”

Hutch rolled his eyes and kissed her forehead. “Women,” he muttered. “If you’re done bein’ so happy–you ready to eat?”

Trini still hadn’t moved from Hutch’s embrace. “You cooked?” she teased, then bent to place her gifts on the opposite chair.

Playfully pushing her into her chair, he sat her down. “Of course I cooked. You worked all day.”

Trini smiled as she watched him start serving dinner. He’s the best kind of man possible: he cooks, he cleans, and he keeps his ego in tact while he does it. No complaints, no whining. I better remember how lucky I am.

~~~

Hutch could make wonderful oriental food, and Trini was stuffed. She had insisted on helping clean up after dinner, so Hutch put her in charge of loading the dishes he’d rinse in the dishwasher.

When they were done, Hutch and Trini went in to watch TV–laying down together on the couch. Reaching behind him, Hutch grabbed one of the pillows and put it under Trini’s head. She reached behind her to find his hand, and held it to her chest.

They lay there contentedly for awhile, until Trini commented, “They hated each other. Did you know that?”

He was momentarily confused until he realized she was talking about the main characters in the show.

“Hmmm,” he replied in a noncommittal way. This was going somewhere, but where?

“All the people watching this movie believed they were in love, but they still bitch about how much they hated doing this movie. Odd, huh?” Trini went on, “I suppose it is really easy to get caught up in the magic of a movie–or a moment–only to find it over too soon. Or, maybe it wasn’t what they’d thought at all.”

Ah-ha. I get it now. Does this romance last forever…will we lose the glow and move on…is it real?

Hutch mused over what to say for a moment, then gently stated, “I think it’s easy to get caught up in the fantasy–I’ll agree with that, Trini. But, I also think people just don’t always try. The dance we all call romance doesn’t ever have to end. People just need to find that one perfect partner, and keep learning new moves.”

This girl who was such a survivor, such a strong person, a cop–well, she sure could be insecure when it came to romance.

Kissing Trini’s neck, he whispered, “My dance card’s full. How ’bout yours?”

Wiggling her rear end suggestively against him, she answered, “Oh yeah, and I hope my partner never runs out of moves just for me.”

Hutch sincerely hoped that, too. Trini, I hadn’t even planned on this ‘dance’. I promise, this is my last one.

~~~

Hutch could tell Trini was starting to nod off, and he couldn’t have that. He still had plans for this woman-child of his.

Patting her on the rump, he stated, “Come on. Time for bed.” He helped her into an upright position, then rose himself to shut off lights. Hutch hurried back to Trini before she started to her room–this scenario played best if they went in together.

Holding out a hand to Trini, he asked, “Shall we dance?”

Smiling, she took his hand and rose. “I’d love to.”

Pressing her hand to his lips, he kissed it. Bowing a little, Hutch motioned to the bedroom. Following behind Trini, he stopped a step behind when she opened the door. “You’re not crying, are you?”

She silently shook her head, then turned to face him. Whispering, Trini held her hands out to Hutch. “Come on, Hutchinson.”

Taking hold of her hands, he allowed himself to be guided into the bedroom.

Hutch had been a busy boy. Trini’s room looked like a florist had tastefully gone mad. There were vases of every imaginable flower all over the room–everything from roses of red and white to Birds of Paradise in tropical displays. The bed had not escaped Hutch’ attention, either–rose petals covered the whole bed.

Very deliberately, Trini began to walk backwards, pulling Hutch with her towards the bed.

“You outdid yourself tonight, Detective. Let’s see if I can do the same.”

~~~

The ringing of the phone woke Hutch and Trini the next morning. Reaching across Hutch, Trini answered it.

“Hello?”

Starsky was overly awake and bubbly on the other end. “Mornin’ Sunshine! Oversleep?”

Looking to the clock, Trini saw it was past nine. “Yeah. Somebody left me with a lot of paperwork to finish, and I was up late.”

Hutch grinned at that. They most certainly had been up late, but paperwork had not been on the agenda.

Trini laid back down beside Hutch, and listened patiently to Starsky going on about something. Hutch could tell he was excited by the tone of his voice, but couldn’t make out words.

All at once, Trini sat up and swung her legs over the edge of the bed. Nodding her head and smiling, she finally spoke into the phone. “That’s great, David. I’m really happy for you guys. Yeah. Oh, yeah. I’ll have it all done before you get back, I promise. My arm is fine. Don’t be an idiot. Yes. Yes, he’s taking good care of me.”

Hutch almost laughed out loud at that, so he quietly slipped out of bed and went to relieve himself. Hutch heard Trini still talking to her uncle through the open doorway.

“Yeah, I think he’s around here somewhere. You wanna talk to him?”

Going to the door, she casually leaned against the door jamb, and looked Hutch over from head to toe. Cocking her head to one side, she winked and gave him a ‘thumbs-up’.

Hutch grabbed a towel, and covered himself, suddenly embarrassed by her brazen appraisal of his body.

Trying not to laugh, she pointed to her own nakedness. Hutch just shrugged apologetically.

“Just a sec’, Dave. I heard the shower shut off–I’ll go get him.”

Trini smiled and knocked on her open bathroom door. “Ken?”

“Yeah, be right out.”

Trini smiled at Hutch talking over his shoulder to give the impression of distance.

Covering the phone with one hand, she walked towards Hutch and began to rub his chest with the other. Hutch shook his head and pointed a finger at her, giving her that ‘be good’ look. Trini just shrugged and gave him the phone.

“H…hello? ” he stammered because Trini had nonchalantly grabbed his towel clad region as she passed by.

Again, she got a stern look, and the way he pointed his finger at her reminded her of Sister Mary Theresa.

Trini couldn’t help it–she laughed.

“Oh, she’s watching something on TV.” Trini heard Hutch lamely explain as she turned on the shower.

Trini was enjoying the hot water streaming over her body, when she jumped from the resounding slap Hutch placed on her buttocks. Trini tried to look mad, but she also knew it was well deserved. She turned around to see Hutch giving her his very best scowl.

Trini was unaffected. “Save it for the bad guys, mister.”

Reluctantly, he let the scowl vanish from his face, but looked away from her. “You were bad,” he told her.

She nodded and moved closer to him–she wanted to make peace and he wouldn’t even look at her. Trini sensed it was probably because of their “secret,” and Hutch’s guilt.

“We’ll talk to David as soon as….”

Hutch brusquely cut her off. “I’ll talk to Starsky.”

Trini raised her eyebrows in question–when no answer came, she turned to reach for the soap. Something had pissed him off, and Trini would wait to find out what happened–he’d talk when he was ready.

Hutch sighed to himself–You’re being a prick, Hutchinson. Don’t screw this up! Talk to the girl, asshole.

Reaching around Trini, he grabbed the shampoo and started to lather her hair. Trini leaned back against him, and Hutch whispered, “I’m sorry.”

Trini was satisfied with the apology–she was so much like Starsky in that respect. They always forgave Hutch, and he was thankful for that.

“It’s O.K., we’re not gonna be perfect all the time. This takes work.”

Hutch finished scrubbing, and was now rinsing Trini’s hair. Of course you’ll forgive me. You’re the most forgiving person I know. I suppose you’d have to be to put up with me!

“Ya’ wanna talk about it, or do I just leave you alone?” Trini offered.

Hutch pulled her to him and held her tightly. “Don’t you ever get tired of putting up with my shit?”

“I’ll never get tired of you, Hutch. Moody days or not.”

“We’ll talk later, O.K.? Right now I just need you.”

Trini kissed his chest. “I like that–a lot.”

~~~

Trini was tired of sitting at her computer, and working on the reports she’d brought home. Stretching, she looked across the room at Hutch. He’d fallen asleep on the couch waiting for her to get done.

Hutch looked so sweet, Trini was hesitant to wake him, but she knew she had to. Moving to the couch, she sat on her heels and kissed him.

Snaking out a sleepy arm, he encircled her. “Hey.”

“Hey, yourself. I’m going on a stake-out. You wanna sleep or keep me company?”

Hutch sat up, suddenly alert. Checking, his watch he asked, “Now?”

Trini merely shrugged and smiled apologetically. “Life of a cop–you know how it goes. So, you in or out?” Trini was already moving to get her coat. “I need to be there soon.”

Hutch sat up rubbing his eyes. “Jesus, Trini. Give me a minute to get my shoes on.”

Bingo! He couldn’t resist!

“You sure, babe? You looked pretty comfy.”

Hutch pulled his jacket on and reached for the door. “If I got a little sleep at night, it’d help,” he grunted.

Trini smiled at his cranky tone–she’d have to get her little man to bed early tomorrow night. Tonight, she had plans for him.

~~~

Trini had driven far up into the hills before stopping the car to take out her binoculars. Staring intently through them, Trini tried not to laugh–she couldn’t believe she was going to all this trouble for a man!

“Ken?”

“What?”

Trini motioned towards the back seat of the Torino. “You fit back there?”

Hutch looked over his shoulder, then back to Trini.

“It’s been used to haul my drunken ass home before–why?”

“There’s a blanket back there–would you mind getting in the back seat and covering up? There’s a black and white on its way, and I don’t…”

“I get it–you didn’t tell anybody I was coming.”

Trini looked sheepish. “Yeah.” Again she motioned for the back seat. “Hutch? Do ya’ mind?”

Sighing, he opened the door and climbed in back. Hutch hated this back seat–he didn’t fit all his height in it too well.

Hutch heard a car approaching, and Trini whispered, “Cover up. I’ll be right back.” Trini’s door opened and she got out. From Hutch’s hiding place, he could hear Trini’s laughter and a man talking. Suddenly, they both laughed and Hutch wondered what the hell was so funny.

Trini got back in, but quickly whispered, “Stay covered up. They’re circling back in a few minutes. I told them I was going to lay down for awhile, so make room.”

Trini shuffled some papers on her clipboard for a couple minutes, then called in to Metro to tell them she’d be signing off for a time. Hutch scooted over a little and heard Trini pop his seat forward so she could crawl in back. Laying down beside him, she shivered.

“Hey,” she whispered, “think I could have some, too?”

She was gently pulling on the blanket corner, so Hutch lifted it to let her under. As he lifted the blanket, his hand brushed up against her nude body. His head whipped around so fast, it was comical.

“What the hell, Trini? They’ll be back…”

“Tomorrow.” Lifting the blanket more, she crawled under it. “I lied. This is a friend’s land. We can stay here all night, but I think I want to sleep in my own bed tonight.”

Trini began to unzip Hutch pants, and he just laid there–smiling and content. Reaching to help her, he mumbled, “I think I understand how a bull-rider feels.”

Laying down to kiss him, she promised, “Rodeo’s cancelled tomorrow. The bull needs a rest, too.”

Hutch just grinned and grunted at that–this girl was insatiable–and he hoped to God it was only for him.

Suddenly, he loved this back seat, and the way Trini looked in it.

~~~

As promised, Trini let Hutch sleep in the next day. She had things to do anyhow, and she’d already been up for awhile finishing her “packing.” Deciding she couldn’t put off the inevitable any longer, and not wanting to wake Hutch, she’d showered in the guest room.

Silently, Trini crept back into her own room–cardboard box in hand–and tip-toed to her closet. Slowly, she took out the two uniforms that hung there, and laid them in the box. Making a quick search of her room, she also added her police hat and bulletproof vest to the box.

Trini was a little sad–a very important chapter in her life was about to be closed–but, an even more important one was opening.

Turning to go, she laid the note she’d written on her pillow. God, it was hard not to kiss Hutch goodbye. Pulling the comforter back over his beautifully golden chest, Trini left him sleeping and closed the door.

On her way out of the apartment, she tossed her service revolver on top of her uniforms, and folded the box shut.

 

Chapter 9 – REVELATIONS

This was the first time Hutch had awakened without Trini by his side, and he didn’t like it at all. He rolled over to find the note he knew had to be there: Trini was far too considerate not to leave him one. With a quick rub of his eyes, Hutch reached for the piece of paper on Trini’s pillow.

“Good Morning, Detective,” it started. “Had a couple errands to run. You don’t know how sorry I was to leave you all alone in our bed! I’ll make it up to you tonight–dinner out–my treat! I LOVE YOU!!!!!”

Hutch was feeling way too giddy, and he laughed at himself–he was happy as the proverbial schoolboy.

You got it good, Hutchinson: 1) the girl said she loved you and underlined it, 2) she’s sorry she left your tired ass alone for awhile, and 3) she called it ‘our’ bed. She must like you a little!Not bad–not bad at all!

With a smile, he bounded out of bed, and started whistling as he headed for the shower.

~~~

Trini had said her goodbyes, and loaded up the boxes she’d brought with her. The entire “Zebra Three” was now filled up with everything Trini and Starsky still had at Metro. There was nothing left to do now but finish and leave.

Trini had turned in her uniforms, her final paperwork, and her service revolver. Now, handing over her office keys, she felt a little strange. Wasn’t she supposed to be crying as she finished hauling her personal items downstairs? Maybe it wasn’t so hard to leave the past behind when the future looked so promising.

Two detectives had helped Trini load the boxes into her car Starsky had already packed, and one of them still remained behind. Officer Baker wanted to say a private goodbye to Trini. He kicked his toe absently on the curb, never looking directly at Trini.

“I can’t remember a time when a Starsky hasn’t been on the force–it’s gonna be so sad. I know you went by Bella, but Starsky told me. I think he felt bad for all the times he and Hutch misled an over-eager rookie.”

Baker smiled a little, causing Trini to smile in memory, too. She’d heard stories of how the two men she loved so dearly tormented this man.

“It was bad enough when Hutch left, you know? Now all of you…”

Placing her hand on his shoulder, Trini told him, “We’re still here, Baker. Just in different roles. Come visit anytime. I’m sure Ken would love to see you.”

Baker looked at the Torino and slowly rubbed its top–he was going to miss this eyesore, too.

Trini put a hand on Baker’s shoulder, and smiled. How could he have even cared when David and Ken were leaving? They were his senior officers, and they misled him (and straight out lied to him!) at every turn. Maybe she’d ask Ken to come visit Baker–for some reason he idolized the team known as Starsky and Hutch.

Trini held her hand out to say goodbye, and Baker awkwardly turned it into an embrace. “Tell Hutchinson ‘hi’ for me, O.K., Bella?”

She was going to talk to those two about their nasty games! “I will, Baker. Good luck.”

Baker nodded and wordlessly turned away, leaving Trini alone. She took one long, last look at Metro. Sighing, Trini climbed in her car, and headed home.

I feel like a freakin’ cowboy riding off into the sunset, here! Except, this is the start of the movie–not the end.

~~~

Hutch was just finishing his shower when he heard the doorbell ring. Quickly grabbing his robe, he hurried to answer it. Looking through the peep hole, he saw it was Huggy on the other side.

Trini’s door opened and Huggy saw a very interesting sight. His dear, white friend–wet as a rat, and the water trail on the carpet was straight from Trini’s room. Smiling, Huggy knew he’d been right about the growing chemistry between Trini and Hutch. Me thinks the man doth protest too much!

Huggy pushed past Hutch into the apartment, trying not to laugh.

“By all means, come in, Huggy.”

“I did. Where is the lovely young maiden who resides here?” Huggy asked as he dropped onto the couch and looked around, making Hutch nervous.

“You, uh, want some coffee or somethin’?” Hutch offered–knowing he needed some. Nobody had entered into the realm of the lovers, and he still was a little confused on how to deal with it.

“No thank you. I have my reason for livin’ and dyin’ waiting at home to see me. I was just makin’ sure Starsky’s ‘off-limits’ little niece wasn’t bored on her vacation.”

Hutch turned from the coffee pot to stare at Huggy–he loved the man, but sometimes he didn’t make any sense.

“What vacation?”

Huggy laughed. “Exactly, my brother. Before she got her wing clipped, she was headin’ to those white and sunny beaches with the rest of the Starsky clan. Instead of livin’ life large, she stuck with you, Goldilocks.”

Whoa. She stayed with me even before she knew where we were headed. That’s another one I owe you, pretty lady. Why didn’t you tell me, Trini? Scared I’d get a little weird? Sorry.

Huggy’s voice interrupted Hutch’s musings. “Hutch? You listenin’ to me?”

Hutch smiled. “I guess I’m still in bed asleep.”

Huggy nodded. “Um-hm. Still in bed? I think you was wide awake then, too, my man.”

“What are you trying to say, Huggy? I hate games this early in the morning. And in case you haven’t noticed, Trini’s not here.”

“Growl at me all you want, Golden One. I am not the one you feel like talkin’ to ’bout somethin’ else.”

Laughing at the squinty way Hutch was glaring at him, Huggy rose to leave. Stopping at the door, he called out, “I do believe I was wrong to worry ’bout Miss Starsky bein’ bored. You have a nice day now.”

Huggy barely got the last part out when Hutch threw a couch pillow at him–hitting the floor terribly off its mark.

Hutch glared at the closing door for a minute. “Asshole.”

~~~

Contemplating what to do, a brooding Hutch sat alone on the couch. Should he call Starsky in Florida at the number they’d left for Trini? Should he wait to talk to Starsky face-to-face, and risk him seeing it like Huggy had?

Suddenly, the phone rang, ruining a really good blue funk for Hutch. It was probably better he quit stressing on it for now, anyway. He wasn’t exactly getting any answers on his own.

“Hello?”

“Hey, partner! Where’s my niece?”

“Good, Starsk, and you?”

Starsky laughed. “Sorry, how are you?”

“I just told you, chump. How are you? Having a good time?” Guiltily, Hutch realized he was avoiding the subject of him and Trini way too easy–reasoning to himself it would be more “proper” to discuss it face-to-face.

“Yeah, I just have to tell Trini somethin’–is she there?”

“No, she’s out. I think she’ll be back soon. Want me to have her call you?”

It took Starsky a moment to answer. “I guess not. The boys and Leslie are in the pool, and I was just takin’ a breather.”

Hutch knew he shouldn’t, but he couldn’t hold back. “Why didn’t anybody tell me I screwed up Trini’s vacation by movin’ in on her life? She only got nicked, Starsk–nothin’ a little sun would’ve hurt.”

Starsky laughed at his friend. “You can’t make Trini do anything she don’t want to, Hutch. She would’ve felt guilty if she’d left you there, and she thought you’d feel awkward being asked to join us. That was my plan. I was just gonna bring your grouchy ass with us, but Trini said you’d feel like you forced yourself on us. I wish you guys were here, though.”

Hutch sighed heavily. “Don’t you people ever get tired of feeling like I’m your responsibility?”

“Hey, pal. You’re the best friend I ever had–I love ya. My family loves ya. You love us, right, so quit your mopin’ around.”

Hutch was momentarily silent on the other end. “I do love ya, Starsk.”

“I love you, too, now quit goin’ all soapy on me. You get a bank account open?”

Hutch had to laugh–Starsky and his jumpy train of thought. “Yeah, I got all my money safe and sound, Dad.”

Cautiously, Starsky threw out, “You know, that money Maggie left ya’ ain’t gonna last forever. You figure out what you wanna be when you grow up?”

Hutch knew he was well off for now, but what if some major set-back hit? He would need money sometime–no matter what.

Not wanting to get too serious, Hutch answered, “Nah. I figure I’ll wait for you to grow up first–seeing how you’re older and all.”

Hutch heard the snort loud and clear–even all the way from Florida. “I only got a few months on you, Blintz. Don’t make it worse than it is.” Starsky paused a moment, then blurted out, “I don’t wanna be on the force without you anymore, Hutch. I think I’m done. We can open a liquor store or somethin’. You game?”

Running a hand through his hair, Hutch felt more than a little overwhelmed. “This is all real sweet, Starsky, but don’t do something just for me. I wouldn’t be this nice to you,” he teased.

“The hell you wouldn’t, pal. You’re just bein’ a sore loser ‘cuz you didn’t think of it first.”

Hutch became very serious. “Starsky. We can’t own a liquor store.”

“Why not, Blintz?”

“Starsky, we’d never make any money–you’d drink all the profits.”

Over their laughter, Starsky teased back, “You should talk, asshole. But seriously, you’re pretty much just ‘on loan’ to the department, anyhow. You could quit just as easily as I can. Remember the time we threw our badges in the ocean? We could take a boat out, and make sure they were way gone this time.”

“You’re definitely a few bricks short, Starsk.”

“I know, but will ya’ think about it, Hutch?”

“Yeah, Starsk. For you, I will.”

“Thanks. Tell Trini I called, huh?”

“Sure. Take care.”

Hutch hung the phone up feeling horribly panic stricken–like a drowning man waiting for someone to toss him a line. He was totally blown away by what Starsky had just told him.

Is this all for my benefit, or does David Starsky need a major change, too?

Just as he was starting to feel like he might go down a third time, the phone rang again–and it was just the ‘lifeline’ he needed. “Hello?”

“Hey, sexy? Are you naked?” Trini teased.

Thank God you called, Baby. Your uncle just threw me for a loop, and I need a little sanity. “No. But I can be. Where are you?”

“On my cell phone.”

“That’s not what I meant.”

“Um, third floor, now. I’ll be there in approximately one minute.”

“I’ll be waiting. Hurry your ass up, I’m lonely.”

~~~

Trini never even had time to unlock the front door when she got to the apartment. Hutch swung it open as soon as he heard her outside. Grabbing Trini around the waist he quickly pulled her inside, kicking the door shut behind them. Burying his face in her neck, Hutch was kissing her so deliciously it was making Trini a little weak in the knees.

The stereo was on, and Hutch was guiding Trini across the floor in his best attempt at dancing. He was no “Great Ramon,” but he was absolutely wonderful in Trini’s love-filled eyes.

“Hello to you, too,” she whispered against his ear, as they continued their dance.

Hutch was definitely in a teasing mood when he whispered back, “My beautiful and liberated girlfriend will be home soon to take me out.” Spins her a little, then pulls Trini back to him. “I’ve got a pretty good thing going with her, so if you’re here for sex,” dips Trini back and kisses her chest below her collarbone. Slowly, Hutch stood her back up, and looked her in the eye, “We’ll have to make love in a rather expedient manner. I don’t want to get caught.” Hutch then pulled her back to him, and continued swaying gently to the music.

“You’re an idiot,” she laughed.

“Only sometimes,” he replied very earnestly before kissing her deeply.

~~~

Laying in bed with Ken Hutchinson wrapping his beautiful body around her was the best thing Trini could imagine, but they had to get up. Tonight, they were going out on a genuine date.

Rubbing her hand against Hutch’s sweat glistened chest, she told him, “We’ve got to get cleaned up. We are going out tonight.”

Groaning loudly in protest, Hutch allowed Trini to move out of his embrace to stand up.

“Shower with me?” she asked–holding a hand out to the still horizontal Hutch.

He reached out, and took her hand. “Only if I get to scrub.”

Trini laughed and helped him up. “As long as you make sure we get to dinner. Nothing but scrubbing, buster.”

Hutch sighed dramatically. “Fine.”

“You’re a nut, Hutchinson, but I love you.”

Pulling her into his arms, he hugged her tightly to him. “Thank God for miracles.”

~~~

Belatedly, Trini remembered all the boxes she’d left in the Torino.

Steering Hutch away from the parking garage, she told him, “Let’s take a cab. We can cuddle while somebody else drives.”

Hutch wasn’t about to argue with that, so they went out and hailed a cab.

Settling in the backseat, Trini started to give the driver directions to “The Cavern.”

“No!” Hutch knew he’d fairly yelled it, but he couldn’t deal with Huggy’s mocking grins just yet.

“I…uh…I forgot. Hug came by today. He and Candita were going to take you out, but I told him I owed you a meal. They won’t be there tonight. They took the night off.”

Hutch crossed his fingers behind his back, and hoped he didn’t burn in hell for that terrible lie. He’d have to learn to say a “Hail Mary” or something.

Trini smiled. “Oh. That was nice of them. Well, I suppose we could go to….”

Hutch really wasn’t listening anymore–just as long as it wasn’t “The Cavern.”

Trini settled back against Hutch after talking to the cabbie. “Mmmm. This is wonderful.”

Hutch tried to frown at Trini. “Oh, yeah? Where’s this cuddling I was promised?”

Trini didn’t need any more prompting. With that, she gave the cabbie something to watch in his rearview mirror.

The cabbie’s voice startled Trini and Hutch from their embrace. “Hey, lovebirds, this is your stop.”

They both had the good grace to look embarrassed since neither one had noticed they’d stopped.

Hutch looked at the meter, and started pulling bills out of his wallet. Handing the man his money and a generous tip, Hutch added a hasty, “Sorry.”

Smiling hugely, the cabbie held his hands up, “Hey, don’t apologize, man. Just make it work. I seen too many sad people in here–nice to see happy ones in love.” The man tipped his baseball cap at them and waved as they got out.

Trini waved goodbye to the cabbie, then turned to Hutch. “So, we look happy, huh?” she asked as she moved to hold Hutch’s hand in hers. He was distracted, though, and didn’t take hold of Trini’s offered hand.

Hutch was staring off somewhere over Trini’s head–contemplating. “That could be a problem if your uncle notices before we can clear the air with him.”

Pulling her hand away from his, Trini started to walk away–fast.

Hutch was surprised a woman almost a foot shorter than him could make him run to catch up.Grabbing her arm to stop her, he spun her to face him. “What the hell? You just walk off? No discussion?”

Trini poked a finger in his face. “You’re the one who’s acting embarrassed all of a sudden! I don’t think it’s a bad thing to look in love!”

Hutch shook his head, and held a hand out to her. “You’re right, of course. I just feel like I need Starsky’s ‘permission’ or a ‘blessing’ or something. Trini, I’m not embarrassed. I’m in love, and I want everyone to know it. I just don’t want your uncle–my best friend left out. That just wouldn’t be right.”

Hutch still had his hand out, and he wanted Trini to take it. He offered his hand again, and she took it this time. Smiling, Hutch pulled Trini into his arms and kissed her forehead.

Behind them, a group of partygoers whistled and clapped. “Whooie! Way to go, man!”

“Yeah! Take her home now!”

Trini and Hutch laughed, then Hutch waved at them, which only caused more laughter.

Hutch took hold of Trini’s hand. “Come on, let’s get out of here.” A very happy Trini followed him back to the restaurant.

~~~

The atmosphere in the restaurant was quiet and the tables were carefully hidden from each other. Trini had picked a perfect place for the “secret” lovers to dine. Hutch loved the fact that Trini even wanted to be seen in public with a man his age–still marveling at the fact that Trini really loved him.

When the wine came, Hutch held his glass up and toasted Trini. “To the best thing that ever happened to Ken Hutchinson. May we always be in love.”

Trini toasted with him. “Well. That was sweet and to the point. I don’t think I can top that–in public, anyhow.”

Grinning at her over his wineglass, Hutch noticed a man in the bar area watching them. Slowly, the man was now making his way across the room towards Trini and Hutch–a quizzical look on his face. Finally, he came around the corner and stepped down to their table.

“Katrina? My God! It is you!”

Trini looked apologetically at Hutch, then rose to hug the man. “Jason, so good to see you. Are you performing tonight? I thought it was your night off.”

Jason had to tear his eyes off Hutch before he could answer Trini. “No, beautiful–it is. I was just getting a paycheck. Who’s your friend?”

Hutch rose and extended his hand. “Ken Hutchinson, Jason. Any friend of my girlfriend’s is a friend of mine.”

Jason’s hand flew to his mouth in a way that only truly “flamboyant” men have mastered, and looked at Trini. “Oh my. How sly you are, Katrina.” Turning back to Hutch, he apologized, “Sorry–I was in too much shock to shake your hand–how rude of me!”

Holding his hand up, Hutch let the man off the hook. “Care to join us, Jason?”

Jason leaned over to kiss Trini. “I’d love to, but I have a date. He’s not near the man that Miss Kat is doing, but I’ll live.”

Hutch blushed and laughed. “Thanks. I think.”

Jason turned back to say one last farewell. “I thought maybe my little Kat was asexual–never a man or woman to be seen, but you! Oh my!” With a huge blown kiss to Trini, and a wink at Hutch, the man was gone.

Hutch shook his head and motioned at the departing man. “Your friend is…interesting.”

When Trini didn’t reply, Hutch looked back at her. Seeing Trini’s eyes brimming with tears, he was a little confused as he reached across the table to her.

“You called me your girlfriend,” she half-whispered.

“Trini, you’re not gonna go in shock, are you? The last time I checked you were my girl, and I don’t think Jason there is gonna talk to Starsky anytime soon.”

Trini laughed. “No, I don’t believe Jason and David like each other too much.” Moving her chair closer to Hutch she smiled and held his hand to her mouth. “It was just a nice surprise–you saying it out loud.” Very deliberately, Trini began to caress the tips of Hutch’s fingers with her tongue, then took them one by one into her mouth.

Hutch motioned to the waiter coming towards them. “Trini…we, uh…dinner.”

Dropping his hand, Trini moved back to her spot on the opposite side of the table, but continued to grin wickedly at Hutch.

While the waiter dished up their food, Hutch surveyed the woman opposite him. She had on a white sweater and a long black, leather skirt–the makeup she wore was spare (but she didn’t need any at all in his eyes)–a set of plain gold earrings, and her watch were her only jewelry tonight. This girl was simplicity and elegance all rolled into one.

As the waiter left, Trini giggled. “Think he saw?”

Hutch tried to look angry, but knew he was probably failing miserably. “The way you’re acting, the whole place probably saw.”

Trini took a drink, and defended herself. “You like it.”

“I know,” he agreed as he continued to look at her, almost examining her.

“What is it, Hutchinson?” Trini asked him, “Somethin’ on your mind?”

He nodded. “Yeah, but I can’t do that in public–laws and stuff. I do have a question, though.”

“Ask away, my handsome man.”

“Thanks.” Hutch was still in disbelief she found him so attractive, and he needed to get back to his question before he forgot it. “You don’t wear much jewelry, why?”

Finishing her bite, she took a moment to answer him. “O.K., the woman in me says to tell you it’s because no man has offered, but that’s not entirely true–just not the right man. Part of me is just too frugal. I like jewelry–I just spent too many hungry days with Momma, I suppose.”

Nodding thoughtfully, Hutch commented, “Just curious.”

Knowing she wasn’t about to get anything else out of him, Trini decided to let it be. “Ask me anything, anytime. The lines of communication are here just for you.” She was trying to stay light, but Hutch was acting awfully intense–and too curious for Trini at the moment.

Hutch grinned at her. “O.K. wiseass– Why haven’t you been back to work, yet? Or, better yet, why aren’t you in Florida? Your arm is fine–I’m fine alone–what gives?”

Trini shrugged and suddenly became very attentive to her meal.

“What gives, Trini? Now we’re not discussing again? You’ve got to let me in, too.”

Looking a little guilty, Trini nodded. “Chalk one up for you, Ken. I wasn’t playing fair. O.K., here goes. I was a little worried about you being here alone, and I didn’t really want to go. To Florida, I mean.”

The skeptical look on Hutch’s face was irritating, and Trini could’ve slapped him.

“I hate always being the tag along to David’s family! Just once, I’d like to have a significant other that makes me feel special–on my own–with or without being with David’s family. We go on vacation and it’s the cozy little five of us–David and Leslie do the couple thing–the boys want to be boys–where do I fit in?”

Trini stopped to have a drink of her wine, and take a deep breath before continuing. “Do you know I hate being in Hawaii with nobody like you to watch sunsets with? I hate Mexico with all its lovers strolling on the beaches. Hutch, I know how much being alone hurts, and I couldn’t do that to someone I was really starting to get the hots for.”

The twitching on Hutch’s face told Trini he was close to laughter, but he was trying so hard not to.

“Alright, now you’re the wiseass. Laugh if you want to but, it’s all true. I hate being alone, and I do have the hots for you.”

Finally allowing himself a smile, Hutch tried to absorb all this. He did understand being alone–it sucked. “Maybe,” he started off, “the best thing that ever happened to me was a good case of depression. I sure as hell got lucky you were pulled in by my sad little life, and wanted to help. Thanks again.”

Lifting her glass, Trini laughed. “You’re welcome. Trust me–you’re very welcome.”

Dinner finished up nicely–light conversation, plenty of laughter, and no more interruptions made it wonderful. The two lovers had decided to share a dessert, and Hutch still had one more “serious” thing to ask.

Reaching for Trini, he apologized. “Please don’t hate me, but I’ve got just one more question–what religion are you? I mean, I don’t care–personally I’ve been married by three different religions–I just…”

She smiled in understanding. “I am a problem, huh? I was raised Catholic by my mother–Jewish by David.” Trini shrugged. “I guess I just believe that no single religion is right, and that there is something good on our side. It keeps my hope up to go to church, and temple.”

Hutch agreed. “I feel the same. Sometimes organized religion is too confusing for me to understand. Starsky mentioned you two went to temple together, and I saw a cross in the jewelry box. I’m just trying to put all the pieces together.” Hutch shrugged. “Still, you didn’t answer all my question.”

Puzzled, Trini looked at him and waited.

“Do you celebrate Christmas? Tree, presents….”

Softly, she cut him off. “You buyin’ me a gift, Hutchinson?”

“I was hoping, but I didn’t want to offend….”

“Trust me, Officer, you won’t be offending me. I like that you thought of me.”

Their dessert arrived, and Hutch took a bite before commenting. “I think of you all the time, lady. Trust me.”

~~~

Stepping out of the restaurant, Trini smiled up at Hutch. “You bored, or do you feel up to another stop?”

“Do I need to get us a cab?”

“Nah, let’s walk. It’ll be romantic, Hutchinson.”

Hutch threw his head back and laughed–this girl was too much. Pulling her to him, he held her under the protection and warmth of his arm for the duration of the walk. They’d walked about ten blocks when Trini stopped in front of a bar. “This is it. You still wanna go in?”

Stepping back to examine the exterior he shrugged. “Why not?”

Trini pointed upward and Hutch noticed the bar’s name: “Angie’s Place.” Cocking his head, he asked, “My ex?”

Trini nodded. “It’s a nice bar. I come here and sing sometimes. Besides, she and David still get together for pool once in awhile. Can we still go in?”

Hutch nodded, then smiled at Trini. “I’ll be damned. My ex and my girlfriend.” He held the door open for Trini. “This should be an interesting night.”

Angie was running the bar when Trini and Hutch walked in. Seeing her ex-husband with Starsky’s niece was such a shock, she almost broke a glass before she recovered herself. Trini waved to her, but Hutch seemed unsure how to greet his ex, so he just nodded in her direction.

Drying her hands off, Angie called her waitress over and whispered in her ear. The girl went to a room that must be the office, and knocked. A woman of considerable girth and size came out and went to Angie. Speaking to the man-like female, Angie motioned to Trini and Hutch’s table. The muscle-bound woman glared at Hutch and nodded once. Angie kissed her cheek then started for Trini and Hutch’s table to say hello.

Trini rose and hugged Angie first. “Hello, Angie. I brought along an old friend.”

Standing back to look Hutch over, Angie laughed. “Not that old, Kat! And, he don’t look none the worse. You know–wear and tear and all that.” Sitting down, she leaned in to hug Hutch. “How you been, Hutch?”

Awkwardly, Hutch returned the hug. “I’m good, Ang. You?”

Instead of answering, Angie leaned back and intently studied Hutch’s face.

Nervously laughing, Hutch looked away. “Forget what I looked like, Ang?”

Slowly she shook her head. “Oh no, Ken. I remember what you look like, and how I screwed up our little marriage. I was just lookin’ in those baby blues to see if you really were O.K.”

Hutch looked back at his ex-wife. “And your opinion is?”

Looking to Trini, Angie gave her answer. “I’d say you’ve come through fine.”

Trini looked away, and feigned great interest in the dancers.

Clearing his throat, Hutch continued his conversation with Angie. “Well, Ang, it looks like you’ve done O.K. here. This is a nice little place.”

Looking around and nodding, Angie smiled. “Michelle and I work hard to keep it up. That’s Michelle behind the bar there.”

Hutch looked to the bar. “The one who wants to kick my ass?”

Angie and Trini both laughed at that. “Probably. She gets awfully possessive, but she shouldn’t be.” Angie noticed Hutch shifted a little nervously in his seat at her mention of Michelle. “Sorry, Hutch. I guess we’ll never be all that comfortable with each other again, huh?”

Trini looked back and forth between the two people–maybe this hadn’t been such a good idea.

Hutch sighed, and smiled a little sadly. “Angie, I don’t think we were ever ‘comfortable’–just lonely.”

Trini breathed a little easier–this was gonna be fine!

Kissing him quickly, Angie rose to leave. “I think you’re right. We can make better friends?”

Hutch genuinely smiled at his ex-wife. “We can try.”

“Good enough! I’ll be back later, Trini. You singing?”

Trini looked to Hutch. “I thought we might. If I can get him up there.”

Looking from her ex-husband to her friend, Angie smiled. “He should. He has a wonderful voice.”

Hutch looked to the band to avoid any further embarrassing comments.

As Angie walked away, Trini snorted, “At least she’s heard you sing. I haven’t been so lucky.”

Leaning over to whisper in Trini’s ear, Hutch nibbled on it then laughed. “I was keeping that for our private time. I really can’t sing a note.”

Trini snorted again, and looked away. “That’s not what I hear.”

After several promises, a few beers, and a couple threats–Hutch finally agreed to sing with Trini.

Angie ran to the back office, quickly producing a guitar for Hutch. “Be good to it, Hutch–it belongs to Michelle.”

Hutch held his hands up in mock fear. “Heavens! Do I dare?”

The glare Michelle sent him across the bar only made Hutch more determined to piss her off. Accepting the guitar from Angie, he tuned it to his liking and strummed a little on it. “Let’s see how a real man makes this sound.”

Trini glared at him, then laughed when she realized nobody else had heard. “So, what do we sing, Hutchinson?”

Hutch looked thoughtful a moment before answering. “How well do you know that ‘Eagles’ CD of yours?”

“Better than you,” she challenged.

Grinning wickedly he started playing, and moved to the microphone. “Really? Just try and keep up, honey.”

The crowd suddenly woke up when Hutch’s deep voice, so strong and soulful, started spilling out the words to “Best Of My Love.”

Trini was amazed by him, and had a hard time not kissing him right there! God, the man could play the guitar with ease, and the way he sang! Trini could hardly wait to get him home to show her appreciation of his vast talent!

They had done four songs before Trini decided to take a beer break. Hutch on the other hand, continued to sing to the small, but appreciative crowd–abandoning the guitar and moving to the piano. Trini didn’t even know he could play the piano, and watched him with awe-filled eyes. Sitting on the barstool next to Angie, Trini took a sip of her beer–never taking her eyes off Hutch.

Angie leaned over to Trini. “How long you been sleepin’ with Hutch?”

Nearly choking to death on her beer, Trini had to cough and catch her breath before answering. “Jesus! Is it that obvious?”

Patting Trini’s leg, Angie told her, “Girl, you got ‘in love’ stamped all over your face. He looks at you the same way.” Directing her attention away from her embarrassed friend, Angie nodded towards Hutch. “It seems you guys fixed what was broke with him–he looks fine to me.”

Trini nodded. “He’s ‘recovered’.” She took another sip of beer then looked at Angie. “I know it’s none of my business, and you can tell me to shut up…”

“You wanna know how I let a man like Hutch go?”

Trini could only nod.

“Hutch and I…we shoulda’ just been friends–I married a man to try and kill these feelings I had inside, and Hutch was just lonely.” Angie motioned for two more beers, and a scowling Michelle brought them over. Trying to make peace, Angie lightly kissed Michelle’s cheek and pointed at Trini. “She’s dating Hutch–isn’t that wonderful?”

Michelle’s scowl quickly turned into a smile. “That’s great, Kat! He seems nice–for a man.” Another beer was ordered somewhere down the bar, and Michelle moved off to help.

Smiling at Trini, Angie apologized. “Sorry I told her, but I didn’t feel like the cold shoulder all night.”

“It’s fine–really. He just doesn’t want David to hear second hand.”

Angie laughed out loud, causing Trini to give her a puzzled look. “Girl, you better learn to control that hungry way you look at him then!”

Trini punched the laughing ex-wife of her gorgeous boyfriend on the leg.

Angie nodded back in Hutch’s direction. “I do understand that look, though. If I was going to enjoy sex with a man, he’s as good as I ever got.” Looking around hastily, she laughed. “Don’t let Michelle or that vain ex of mine know! Promise?”

Trini held up three fingers. “Scouts honor.”

Angie motioned to the stage Hutch had finally abandoned, as both women clapped for him. “He did good, huh?”

Trini nodded as she looked around the bar. The small crowd was certainly making a big noise for Hutch, and he ate it up!

Stepping off the stage, he handed Angie back the borrowed guitar, then sat beside Trini. Natural as could be, Hutch wrapped his arm around Trini and kissed her cheek. Hutch was grinning from ear to ear, and his forehead was sweaty from the hot lights. The only other time Trini had seen him this contented was…well, earlier.

Angie ordered him a beer, then got up to leave. “You can come sing anytime, Hutch. You sure made my little crowd smile.”

Hutch loved the praise, but was a little embarrassed, too. “Shit, Ang–they’re drunk. I wasn’t that great.”

Trini pushed his arm off her, and elbowed him lightly. “Quit! You were wonderful!”

Michelle handed him a beer, and winked at him. “On the house, Hutch. You done good up there.”

It took Hutch a minute before he could talk. “Hey, Ang. I don’t think she hates me anymore.”

The friendly backslap the laughing Michelle gave Hutch nearly knocked him off his seat.

It was closing time, and Trini had to practically drag Hutch home. He’d enjoyed their night out–every part of it: dinner, singing, even pool with Angie and Michelle had been fun. Pulling her happy man out of the bar, Trini hailed a cab.

Hutch helped Trini in before flopping tiredly in himself. Laying her head on Hutch, Trini whispered, “You were wonderful.”

Hugging her to him, he wished they were already home and alone. “So were you. Thanks for a great night, Trini.”

Trini turned and stroked Hutch’s face. “You’re welcome.” Kissing him lightly, she asked, “Was tonight the night I promised to let you sleep?”

Hutch slid one hand inside Trini’s coat, and rubbed against her nipple, causing Trini to shudder in a way that was fast becoming a habit. Leaning down to kiss her neck, he whispered, “No.”

Trini knew he was talking about the sleep he’d been promised, and she smiled. She also knew his attention to her body better slow down, or this cabbie was gonna see more than the last one had!

~~~

Back home, Trini had showed Hutch exactly what she thought of his singing ability, and the man was worn out. Suddenly, Trini jumped out of bed telling him, “I’ll be right back.” She opened her bedroom door, and left a puzzled Hutch staring after her, then quickly reappeared holding Hutch’s guitar case. “Show me how to play,” she pleaded.

Sitting up, Hutch patted the bed in front of him. How could he resist a naked woman with a guitar?

Trini opened the case and gently handed the guitar to Hutch as he sat up against the headboard. Trini sat down on the bed and leaned back against his strong chest, while Hutch helped her hold the guitar. He’d only taught her a few notes before Trini’s interest was directed somewhere else.

Hutch made a wonderful backrest, but his naked body pressing up against Trini…that made concentration on her ‘lesson’ impossible. Trini could feel the hardness of the man she loved, and she knew it was time to make a different kind of music.

 

Chapter 10 – ME AND THEE, TIMES TWO OR THREE

Trini had decided she and Hutch were having a decent Thanksgiving meal even if it was just the two of them. She had shoved him out of the kitchen, so Hutch was in the guest rooms cleaning when the doorbell rang.

Trini was just about to ask Hutch if he’d get the door when she heard him call out, “Got it.”

Smiling, she turned her attention back to the potatoes she was mashing.

Hutch came around the corner wearing only his jeans, and swatted her rump as he walked by. Grinning at her, he threw over his shoulder, “I’m old, but I heard it.”

Trini just shook her head at him.

When the bell rang again, Hutch hollered out, “Hold your horses– I’m coming.” Quickly making his way to open the door, Hutch thought how special today was: A holiday felt special again, Trini cooking him a great Thanksgiving meal, and some valuable quiet time alone before Starsky’s entire family came home.

Opening the door, he realized how wrong he’d been about the later.

There, calling out “Surprise” was one half of the Starsky family. Leslie and Starsky took turns kissing, and being kissed by a very surprised Hutch.

“We’re home early!” Starsky announced unnecessarily.

“So I see.” Hutch realized he was blocking their entrance, and moved back so they could pass. “Sorry, come in.” Looking around, Hutch asked, “Where’s the boys?”

Leslie laughed. “My Mother ‘stole’ them for another day. David and I have some freedom.”

Starsky followed his wife inside and playfully covered Hutch’s bare chest with his hands. “Please, there’s women and children around, and you’re lookin’ like Tarzan, here.”

He was kidding, of course, but now Hutch felt like a fool. He’d become far too relaxed, and they’d almost been ‘caught’ before he could talk to Starsky. “Sorry,” he apologized again, and quickly turned to get dressed.

Leslie could see he’d been embarrassed, and called out, “Hutch, he was kidding.” Turning to her husband, she added, “Besides, I think we should take you to dinner like that. The girls will all die.”

“Hey, ” Starsky protested, “you’re not even supposed to notice he’s male!”

Everyone laughed, and Hutch was grateful the tension had been broken a little. Pointing to Trini in answer to dinner, he told them, “Uh, she was already cooking.”

Starsky couldn’t have been happier. “Great! I’m starved! Got enough for us?”

Trini nodded. “I’ve always made enough for an Army since I met you and your stomach.”

Starsky didn’t even rebut her comment on his eating– instead, he smiled happily. “Good enough! Now we just have to get clothes on Hutch, and he can help me set the table.”

Hutch shook his head at his friend. “Starsky, I think you were a shark in a previous life–always in search of your next meal.”

Starsky was so happy his old friend was back to the usual put-downs, he didn’t even mind the laughter at his expense.

Trini was having a hard time looking delighted to see her family, and she felt bad about it. She just hadn’t been ready to share ‘her’ Hutch, yet.

Moving to hug and kiss her uncle, Trini smiled at him, but Starsky noticed something close to sadness there. He didn’t see it long, because Hutch came back in to help–fully clothed this time–and Trini’s ‘sadness’ disappeared. Starsky would’ve contemplated on that, but his beautiful wife was beckoning him to the kitchen to help her.

Trini sat her chair to Hutch’s right, between him and Starsky. She loved the privilege of sitting between the two men she adored most in the world. Even the ‘interruption’ into the day by Leslie and David was fast becoming welcome. Having family was so very important. Trini was just having trouble with one thing: trying not to kiss, tease, touch, or otherwise love Ken Hutchinson was wearing her nerves a little thin. Otherwise, the meal seemed greatly enjoyed–especially by Starsky.

He was on his third helping of turkey and all the trimmings when he’d gotten full enough to talk. “So, how’d things go while we were gone?”

A jumble of stumbling words came from Trini and Hutch simultaneously.

“Fine.”

“We worked out a lot.”

Both people stopped, and hoped they hadn’t appeared over-eager, yet feared they had.

Starsky nodded. “So you two got along O.K., huh?”

“You could say that,” was Hutch’s bland reply.

Starsky chewed on another roll, and nodded thoughtfully. “That’s great! So, you find an apartment?”

Again the stumbling started.

“I hadn’t really looked.”

“He’s been a great house-guest.”

Starsky nodded again, and Leslie looked at her husband in question. What was he getting at?

“Well, there’s no rush, babe. Just thought you’d be getting tired of Trini by now,” Starsky joked.

Before the objects of Starsky’s intense attention could answer, Leslie jumped in. “Leave them alone David, and stop quizzing them like the cop you are. Of course he hasn’t had time to look for an apartment during the holiday season, and Trini’s probably been lonely since moving out of our house. This has been a good set-up for both of them–for now.” Leslie was trying her best to chew-out her husband, but she just loved him too much to get it across.

Starsky looked at the three people sitting with him. “Alright, I was just makin’ conversation. I know when to shut up.”

He got in unison, “No, you don’t.”

Shrugging apologetically, Starsky added, “Just nosey I guess.”

Hutch vigorously nodded, causing Starsky to swiftly kick him under the table. Before Hutch could reciprocate, Starsky pushed back from the table to undo his belt. Patting his stomach appreciatively, he looked to Trini. “Damn good , Jewel.”

“Yes, Trini. Thanks for a great meal,” Leslie added.

“You’re all very welcome.” Trini smiled, then nonchalantly dropped her napkin by Hutch. He bent to pick it up for her, and Trini gently stroked his hair while he was hidden under the table.

Hutch smiled, then wiped his face clean of the emotion before rising to return the napkin.

“Thanks, Ken.”

“No. Thank you.” Hutch was looking into Trini’s hazel eyes so intensely with his blue ones, Trini had to look away. As a cover, he added, “Dinner was great.” Hutch stood and started gathering up dishes.

“Here, let me help,” Starsky offered while trying to extract his body from its chair.

Rising, Trini held up a hand. “No, you two sit. You’re tired, and I’m gonna make coffee anyhow.”

Leslie was grateful to relax. “In that case, David and I will just sit. Thanks guys.”

As Trini and Hutch went about cleaning up, Starsky studied them with intense eyes. Leslie was watching her husband with amusement as she pulled her chair closer to his. Leaning over to kiss her distracted husband’s ear, she whispered, “They’re good for each other, huh?”

Starsky had the good tact to act surprised, but Leslie’s glare told him she knew he was faking.

“Don’t act like you didn’t notice,” she whispered hotly. “You were practically interrogating them!”

Pointing at himself in mock innocence, Starsky smiled before they turned their attention back to the ‘couple’ doing dishes.

Leslie sighed contentedly as she rested her head on her husband’s shoulder. Closing her eyes, she smiled to herself. Let him watch–she’d seen what she needed to. Starsky on the other hand, was still watching through eyes that were trying to be casual.

Watching Trini and Hutch working together, it seemed like they’d been doing it for years. Hutch whispered something that made them laugh, but Trini sobered quickly–casting a glance at her uncle. It probably wouldn’t have been noticed by anyone else, but Starsky was really looking when Hutch placed his hand gently on Trini’s–giving it a little squeeze before she moved off to make the coffee she’d promised. Having finally seen enough, Starsky laid his head on top of Leslie’s and closed his eyes, before he whispered, “They’re good for each other, huh?”

Leslie shook her head a little–the man was impossible, but she loved him more than life itself. Right now, he was really lucky she loved him that much.

~~~

A gloating Starsky raised his arms above his head, and danced about the room. “Pay up, Blintz! I won!”

Shaking his head in disbelief, Hutch threw the promised twenty at his friend.

Picking the money up, Starsky kissed it loudly, then shoved it into his pocket. Rubbing his hands together greedily, he pointed to the Monopoly board. “Anyone care to challenge?”

Leslie rose, and stretched. “Actually, my dear husband. We really should head…”

Trini jumped in. “You guys can just stay here tonight.”

Hutch was doing his best not to shoot Trini for her offer, then he reconsidered–she was doing her part to make it seem like it didn’t matter if she was alone with Hutch.

Clever, little one. Still, I’d like to get you alone, again. Ahh, young love. Ain’t it a bitch. Hutch smiled at his own musings, and decided to join in on Trini’s ‘plan’. “Yeah, Starsk–we can bunk together in the boys’ room. It’ll be like old times.”

Starsky wrinkled his nose. “I thought I was done with you when Leslie came along.”

Hutch grabbed him and kissed him soundly on the cheek. “You loved me first, pal.”

Pushing his friend away, Starsky agreed. “Alright, Blintz! Just get off me. We’ll stay if Leslie doesn’t mind sharing…”

Everyone looked to Leslie, and she shrugged. “Fine by me, but I’m going down to the car to get my bag. I wanna brush my teeth and wear my own pajamas.” Leslie was already moving to the door, pulling Starsky with her. “I’ll go with you, dear. I have to roll his up.” Stopping at the door, Leslie turned to look at her husband. “Dear?”

Starsky shrugged, and pulled the door shut behind them. Once in the elevator, Starsky turned to Leslie and asked, “You think they’re just kissin’ goodnight in there, or do we gotta sit in the car awhile?”

“David, you’re disgraceful!” Leslie laughed as the elevator opened into the parking garage.

“What?” he was following behind his wife, a look of complete innocence on his face. “Well, do we?”

His wife continued walking ahead of him, not answering.

Starsky shivered a little, and thought to himself–This garage is freakin’ cold. They’d better just be kissin’.

~~~

Trini and Hutch stood where they were for a moment after the door closed. It was as if they were waiting for David and Leslie to jump back inside and “catch” them. Hutch could already hear Starsky yelling “Ah-ha,” and pointing an angry finger at them. Realizing nobody was coming back, Hutch slowly held his hand out to Trini.

She fairly flew into his arms, and kissed him deeply. Her body was on fire, but she knew tonight was not the night. Pulling herself away from Hutch’s kiss, she laid her head on his chest.

Kissing her head and smiling sadly, he whispered, “I’ll miss you.”

Trini touched her hand gently to his chest. “I’ll be right here.”

Hutch nodded, and pulled her away from him, pointing her towards her room. Stopping in front of her door, he kissed her hand. “Good thinking. Keeping our cover.”

Trini nodded and grumbled, “Yeah, but I’m not letting it happen again. You better talk to David soon or I’ll die.”

Chuckling, he kissed her chastely on the forehead, and opened her door. Turning her and pointing her to the bed, he swatted her behind. “You’ll live if I will.” Shutting the door behind her, he sighed. I need a beer. Better make it two. One for bravery and one for Starsky. And, I better talk to him tonight–he’s full of good food, he’s in a good mood, and he’s too tired to punch hard. I hope.

Hutch went to ‘his room’ to make it look like he had to clean up for Leslie. Quickly, he fluffed the pillows and ruffled the sheets to make the bed look more ‘used’. Hearing Starsky and Leslie come back in, he hurried into the other guest room. Sitting on the edge of a bed usually reserved for one of the twins, he opened both beers and waited.

Hutch looked up at Starsky when he came in with his bag.

“Trini asleep?”

Hutch shrugged. “I suppose so.”

Starsky nodded and started to undress. Nodding at the two beers, he inquired, “One of those mine?”

Hutch fairly jumped up to give the beer to Starsky. “Yeah.”

Taking a long drink off the beer, Starsky looked sideways at his friend and smiled. Hutch seemed awfully damn nervous. Starsky finished dressing, then looked to Hutch and laughed.

Hutch looked up and realized they were wearing almost identical outfits to bed: a plain t-shirt and pajama bottoms, sans socks.

“Mine’s better,” Starsky joked as he laid down.

Hutch snorted. “Whatever, Gordo.” Hutch knew they were like two kids sometimes, but it sure felt good. Glancing at Starsky looking asleep, one arm thrown across his eyes, Hutch was hesitant to bother his friend. He decided taking another drink of beer was easier than starting this conversation.

Taking a long drink, he choked when Starsky asked, “So. You gonna make a decent woman outta my niece, or you just fixin’ what was wrong with the Hutchinson rod?”

Hutch was still coughing, so a laughing Starsky moved to sit by him on the opposite bed. Gleefully, Starsky smacked Hutch’s back–hard. “Breathe, partner.”

Hutch was finally able to gasp out, “Quit it, jackass–you’re gonna kill me for sure.”

Thankfully for Hutch, Starsky had stopped pounding on him. The once abusive hand now lay on Hutch’s back companionably. Noticing his friend was in no real hurry to ‘confess,’ Starsky waited patiently–he’d wait all night if he needed to.

Sighing dramatically, Hutch took another drink off his beer, and whispered, “You disappointed in me again?”

Hugging Hutch’s shoulders, Starsky told him, “I was never disappointed in you, pal. You’re always your own worst enemy.” Starsky looked at Hutch. “The only thing that would ‘disappoint’ me is if this ain’t real between you two.”

Snapping his head to look into Starsky’s darker blue eyes, Hutch was intense. “I love her, Starsk.”

Starsky stared so long into Hutch’s eyes, Hutch got nervous and looked away. He jumped a little when Starsky started to move– was he pissed or not?

Slapping Hutch happily on the back, Starsky rose to go to his own bed. “Good enough for me, pal.”

Laying back down and throwing his arm back over his eyes, Starsky feigned sleep–but Hutch knew better.

“Uh-uh. Too easy, babe. What’s the catch?”

Starsky’s arm muffled his reply. “Nothin’.”

Hutch was unconvinced, and eyed his friend suspiciously. “It doesn’t bother you or disturb your sense of what’s morally right?”

A silent Starsky shook his head.

Hutch pressed on. “The age thing doesn’t bother you?”

Sighing, Starsky sat up. He wasn’t going to get any sleep with a talkative Hutch around–he knew that from experience. Looking Hutch straight in the eye, he asked him, “Does it bug you, pal?”

Hutch just shook his head no.

“Then why should it bother me?” Hutch was still looking so damn guilty and sad Starsky couldn’t take it anymore, and he decided to help him out a little. “Listen, Hutch. You deserve to be happy–both of you.”

Hutch looked back at his beer again. What could he say to that?

“Just be good to her, Hutch. That’s all I ask.”

Seeing Hutch’s shoulders shudder, Starsky again joined him on his bed. Gently pulling Hutch’s head to his shoulder, Starsky hugged his friend tightly: for strength–for comfort–for all the years of friendship.

Hutch returned the hug. “Thanks, Starsk.”

“Anything for my partner…and my niece.” Letting go of Hutch, he added with great exaggeration,”…whom I love like a daughter, and raised as one of my own.”

Hutch pushed Starsky off the bed. “Asshole,” he grinned down at his friend.

Starsky stood and pretended to dust off his good-looking rear end. “You know, I think I changed my mind,” Starsky started cryptically.

Hutch shot him daggers, causing Starsky to laugh out loud.

“I meant about sleeping with you. Leslie’s a whole lot cuter than you, and for some reason, my niece is probably missing you.”

Hutch was already half out the door before he turned back to Starsky. For just a moment there, he’d considered thanking his friend again–then the wiseass ruined it.

“…But, I guess there’s no accounting for taste,” Starsky finished.

Hutch flipped Starsky the finger, just as they heard Leslie start laughing. Hutch blushed and shook his head to think she’d heard everything. Pointing a threatening finger at Starsky, he told him, “You take care of yours–I’ll take care of mine.”

The combined Starskys’ laughter followed him down the hallway, but it didn’t matter. He had something very important to discuss with Starsky’s pretty little niece.

~~~

Trini stretched and reached for the man in bed beside her. “Morning, Officer.”

Wrapping her in his arms, he pulled her to him. “Morning, Officer.”

He felt Trini stiffen up a little, so he pulled back to look at her. “I say something wrong, honey?”

Smiling despite herself, Trini kissed his beautiful chest. “I guess I just thought you were more observant, that’s all.”

Hutch’s handsome face wrinkled up a little. “What the hell’s that supposed to mean?”

“Don’t make that face at me. You’re too good-looking for that.” Trini scowled back up at him, “See? Ugly.”

Swatting her rump, he smiled. “O.K. I’m getting older, so help me out here.”

Trini shrugged. “I’m not going back to Metro.”

“What? You get transferred?”

Trini shrugged again. “Not exactly.”

Hutch was getting a wee bit exasperated. “Trini, I’m a patient man…”

“Not really.”

“Damn, girl! You want me to throw you over my knee and beat your ass?”

Wiggling her naked body against his, she giggled. “That’s one we haven’t tried.”

Hutch let loose of Trini and rolled away.

Sighing, Trini hugged her body against her pouting lover. “Come on, Ken. We’ve only got fifty or sixty more good years together–let’s not spend them fighting.” Hutch wasn’t won over just yet, so Trini tried again. “Come on! Ask me again, and I’ll be good this time. I promise.”

Hutch gave her a doubting look.

“I promise, Ken.”

Hutch still looked skeptical, but he was willing to try. “How did I start out ruffling your feathers, then it went to me?”

“I was tormenting you. The cop in you likes the direct question and answer scenario. I was being evasive–like you could read my mind or somethin’.”

“And I can be an ass. I’m sorry, baby.” Hutch hugged her to him. “Where are you going, if Metro’s out of the equation?”

“I’ve got vacation time, and sick leave to use up–that’s what I’m doing now.”

Hutch nodded. “Go on.”

“I’m not going back.” Trini waited for him to get pissed, but he didn’t. Cautiously, she looked up at him…and he was smiling.

“So we’re both out of work cops?”

Trini smiled. “Yeah, I guess so.”

“Well, I’m glad. I didn’t want to turn into a worried cop’s spouse anyhow. And, I hate it when your pretty flesh gets nicked up.”

“Hutch, I do have another job lined up. Well, I’m just waiting for the other partner to give me the O.K.”

“Baby, he’d be a fool not to hire you.”

Punching him lightly in the chest, Trini laughed. “You don’t even know what the job is!”

“Doesn’t matter. You’re perfectly capable of doing anything you want to. I’ve seen that first hand.”

Blushing, Trini rolled out of bed and started for the shower. “Fetch me a towel, and join me, Mr. Flattery.”

Hutch nodded, and started to get out of bed to do Trini’s bidding. The shower started as Hutch reached for his robe. A knock on Trini’s door made him look up. Starsky. What do you want?

The door cracked open just enough for Starsky to yell through it. “Hey. You two decent?”

“No. Go away, asshole.”

The door flew open at that, and Starsky came in grinning at Hutch.

Hutch shook his head. “I said go away.”

Starsky flopped himself on the bed. “I heard. If the shower’s on and you answer out here…”

“Wow. You used those detecting skill all by yourself ?” Hutch loved to torment this man.

“Yeah. Proud of me?”

“Not really. And get off my bed.”

Starsky looked at him cockily. “Well, well. A little possessive?” Hutch made a move to shove Starsky off the bed, but Starsky dodged him. “You’re gettin’ slow, Hutchinson.”

Hutch shrugged. “I used all my energy up on your niece.”

Starsky wrinkled his nose, making Hutch laugh. “That’s way more than I needed to know, Hutch.”

“Starsky, why are you bothering me?”

Starsky smiled. “Get cleaned up. We’re gonna have company today.”

Hutch groaned.

“Come on, Hutch. Don’t be such a baby–it’s only Hug and Company coming over.” Starsky rose to leave.

“Probably just wants to gloat,” Hutch grumbled.

Starsky was already outside Trini’s door, and he looked back in. “You say something, pal?”

“I said ‘get out you old goat’.”

“Oh. Sorry. Get in the shower.”

Shaking his head, Hutch rose to join Trini . Stopping thoughtfully in front of Trini’s closet, he opened the doors and looked inside. Noticeably absent were her police uniforms. Hutch shut the doors again, then walked to Trini’s bedroom door. Opening it, he looked out to the front door. His gun was the only one still hanging there. Ignoring the questioning look the Starskys were giving him, he shut the door again.

Grabbing two clean towels from the linen closet, he joined Trini in the shower.

“You go buy new towels?” Trini teased.

“No. I got a clue.”

Trini smiled and started soaping his shoulders. “I don’t get it.”

Hutch sighed. “You know, it’s not all my fault. I’m not exactly paying attention to your wardrobe when we’re in there.”

Trini scrubbed him some more. He did get a clue! Smart boy– finally!

“And, I hadn’t noticed your gun was gone. Sorry. Sex with you is so distracting.”

Trini was done scrubbing his back , and she turned him to her. “Up for a quick distraction?”

“Jesus. I’m ‘up’. You seem to have that effect on me.”

“I know. But it’s fair.”

Hutch grinned. “What’s fair?”

“You do the same thing for me. Now lock the door so my nosey uncle can’t get in.”

~~~

David and Leslie had decided to go to the deli across the street and buy breakfast while Trini made coffee, and prepared the front room for visitors. Hutch helped her move the two tables together, then they went out to the patio to drink their coffee.

Sighing contentedly, Trini reached for Hutch’s hand from the lounger next to his. “Hey. You think we’ll ever get tired of each other, and fall into that old married couple rut?”

Hutch contemplated Trini’s question. “Well, to start off with, you aren’t old. Second, we haven’t even gotten married yet. Third, I can’t ever imagine us getting bored with each other.”

Trini got out of her lounger and laid beside Hutch on his–obviously pleased with his comments.

“Trini, I think you and I are two halves of one whole–kinda like Starsky and me. I know I say some corny stuff sometimes, but it’s almost like it’s kismet or something.”

Rubbing her hand inside Hutch’s shirt, Trini nodded her head. “I think you’re right– it is fate or something.” Sliding a leg over his, she turned and kissed him.

“See?” Hutch marveled. “I’ve been kissing women since before you were born, and none of them moved me like you just did.”

There was definite happiness on Trini’s face as she went to kiss him again. “My, my. You do say the sweetest things, Hutchinson.”

And that’s how the Starskys found them. Safely wrapped in each others arms, sharing a kiss to rival anything Leslie’d ever seen in a movie. Starsky could only stare–he was amazed and a little shocked all at the same time. He’d seen Hutch with women before, but this was different somehow. Sure, Hutch had been in love before, but Starsky’d never seen this contentment and happiness on his friend’s face. One look at his niece assured Starsky the feeling was more than mutual.

Leslie was the first to speak, but only in a whisper. “I think we should let them know we’re here.”

Starsky grabbed Leslie’s hand and they quietly made their way back to the front door. Leslie smiled, and almost laughed when she realized what her husband was going to do. Grinning back at his wife, Starsky opened the door and shut it again–loudly, this time. “Food’s here!”

Trini and Hutch heard them this time, and hastily moved inside.

~~~

Huggy had called to say they’d be a little longer still– Candita’s family had arrived unannounced, and they couldn’t just leave the people at their house. Knowing they had awhile to wait, Hutch and Leslie had decided to hit the grocery store for “Starsky fuel.” Starsky had feigned being tired to stay with his overly wound-up niece.

Starsky lounged in his chair while Trini was nervously bouncing around the apartment–the waiting was killing her, but her uncle just continued to grin irritatingly at her. “David, how long is Huggy going to take?” Starsky grinned at her again and this time Trini couldn’t contain it anymore. “If you don’t get that shit eatin’ grin off your face pretty soon, I’m gonna kill you.”

Starsky put the paper down that he’d been trying to read. “Trini, you gotta calm down. Hutch isn’t even back from the store yet. We got more time than money…well, maybe.” Again that cocky grin.

“David, I love you, but shut-up.”

Starsky knew Trini was just nervous–there was a lot riding on what Hutch had to say today. Starsky wasn’t worried, though. Hutch was a bright sort of fellow– he’d make the right decision. Starsky knew it for fact, but Trini didn’t seem so sure.

Rising to wrap his arm around Trini, Starsky turned her to him and held on tight. She was shaking.

“I’m sorry, David. I’m just so scared.”

Starsky stroked the curly hair that so closely resembled his. “Hey, I ever let you down before, Jewel?”

“No. You’re one of my knights in shining armor.”

“It’s rusty, Trini. And stop worryin’ ’bout Hutch. He’s gonna be fine.”

As if on cue, Leslie and Hutch came in the front door carrying groceries.

Hutch could tell Trini was upset, and he wasn’t quite sure what to do. Did he go to her and ‘take’ her from Starsky? Did he let the loving uncle handle whatever had happened? Trini made his mind up for him when she kissed her uncle’s cheek, and silently walked off to her room.

Starsky noticed Hutch was torn, and took the groceries from him. Jerking a thumb over his shoulder, he pushed his friend. “She needs you. I got these.”

Hutch followed Trini into the bedroom, shutting the door behind him, and sat beside her on the bed.

Trini looked like she was going to be ill–she was pale and holding her stomach tightly.

Tentatively, Hutch reached out and put his arm around her shoulders. Trini leaned into him, and finally let go of her stomach. Slowly, Hutch eased them down onto the bed, and pulled Trini into him. He could tell she didn’t want to talk, so he just held her, softly rubbing her shoulder. Hutch felt her hot tears start falling on his chest, and it tore at his heart. He held Trini’s head against his chest and made little soothing noises, like a mother to a child.

When Trini was done she quietly told him, “You’re so good for me. I hope you never go away.”

“Is that what this moment of sadness was? I’m not goin’ anywhere, Trini. What brought this on?”

Sniffling, Trini sat up and reached for a tissue. “We’ll see what you say in a little while. You may not want what David is gonna offer, and I….”

The tears had started again, confusing Hutch all the more. “Trini, Starsky already talked to me about quitting the force. Did you think I would go back to that lack of a life I had in Colorado? I’m game if Starsky is. We’ve been unemployed ex-cops before–we can do it again.” Rubbing her back, he smiled down at her. Her insecurity about “owning” him was charming and a little insane all at once. Hutch knew a lot of her insecurities about love was caused by her childhood–maybe she was still worried she’d be “pushed aside” when things weren’t “convenient.” “Did nothing I’ve said to you soak in, Trini? I’m yours and you’re mine–forever, if you let it be. I love you, and you’re all that matters to me.”

Looking sheepish, Trini apologized. “I guess I just get a little crazy at the thought of you not wanting me around.”

“Baby girl, how could I not?”

A soft knock on the door drew their attention. “Huggy’s here.”

Trini stood and walked to her door like a man going down death row. “Let’s get this over with,” she sighed.

Hutch followed her shaking his head.

Candita and Lunk were seated on opposite sides of the table, with Huggy to his son’s right. The Starskys sat by Candita, leaving the two seats by Huggy open. Trini flopped into hers, and looked down at the table, while Hutch looked around. Everyone else was smiling idiotically, and Starsky had poured champagne.

Huggy lifted his glass to Starsky. “Showtime!”

Starsky grabbed a champagne glass and stood up.

“My dear friends and family,” he started with great gusto, “we are here today…oh wait, that’s not the one. Yet.”

Trini smiled a little at that, and Hutch reached to hold her hand under the table. Something was still eating at her, but at least she was holding his hand.

Starsky winked at Hutch and continued his “speech.” “I have a couple announcements to make, and some of you know the whole story, but I’m gonna tell it for everyone’s benefit. I have decided to leave the force–following a recent purchase I just made.”

Hutch looked almost frightened. “Jesus, Starsk. Please tell me you didn’t buy a house to ‘fix-up’ again.”

“No, no, no, my good friend. This is so much better.”

Hutch shook his head–Starsky loved this dramatic shit.

Starsky looked to Huggy. “Mr. Bear…if you would be so kind.” Starsky looked at Huggy, then to Hutch.

“I can and will, my brother.” Holding his hand out to Candita, Huggy smiled at Hutch. “We gots a little surprise for you, Goldie.”

Smiling, Candita reached into her purse and pulled out a beautifully wrapped gift then placed it in front of Hutch.

Trini let go of Hutch’s hand, and looked at him. “Go on. It’s from David.”

Hutch ran his hands over the expensive red paper, then untied the bow. Inside the beautiful paper was a book–a book that made Hutch catch his breath.

There, on the cover of the book, was a picture of Hutch and Starsky at their police graduation. They were absolutely beaming into the camera, leaning into each other, an arm wrapped over the others shoulder.

Hutch thought he might actually water up as her ran his hands over the raised gold print of the title. It read “Me and Thee.” Below it in slightly smaller letters– “True life lessons of friendship and partnership.” Opening the book, Hutch looked at the Chapter listings, and it felt like he was looking back on his whole life. Chapter One: I’ve found my best friend. Chapter Two: It ain’t always easy to do the right thing. Hutch skimmed down and saw other chapters that brought back even more memories. Simply titled chapters like: “Terri” and “Gillian”. He noticed it ended with Chapter Thirty-two: Our new life.

Hutch looked up and rubbed at his eyes.

Starsky pointed out, “You missed the dedication.”

Turning back a page, Hutch’s eyes welled up: “To my best friend in the world, Ken Hutchinson. Without your friendship (and all the times you pulled my ass out of the fire!) none of this could be possible. Thank you. I love ya’, babe! Starsk.”

Slowly Hutch closed the book and laid it on the table. Then he noticed that the book had been written by David Starsky and T. Allen Brown.

Hutch looked at Lunk who grumbled, “I hate Teddy.”

Rubbing his head, Hutch sat momentarily stunned. “Starsk, I uh, I don’t know what to say. You wrote a book? About us? Starsky, for once I can’t think of a single thing to say.”

Starsky puffed his chest out and smiled at his friend. “Good! I got enough to say for both of us. How’s this sound: Leslie got us the book deal, Lunk helped write it, Trini designed the cover and found the pictures, and I sold it–with Leslie’s help–for a good deal of money. We are far from poor, Hutch. The book is doing well, and some studio is askin’ ’bout buyin’ the rights for a movie.”

This was all too much for Hutch to absorb. “What do you mean ‘we’? I didn’t help do anything to get any money.”

“You were there for it all, pal. Without you, there was no ‘us’.”

Trini still continued to stare blankly at the table.

For the life of Hutch, he couldn’t figure out why this revealing of everything wasn’t making her more at ease. Starsky knew though, and he looked at his friend, nodding a little in Trini’s direction. From years of silent communication, Hutch knew Starsky was about to let him in on Trini’s sadness.

Slowly reaching across the table, Starsky put a check in Hutch’s hand. “This is your share. I took it off of mine.”

Hutch looked at the check, and cleared his throat. “Starsky, this is, uh, a lot of money. I can’t accept this.”

Refusing to take the check back, Starsky shoved his hands in his pockets. “We all agreed, Hutch. This is your cut of the money–more if it gets made into that movie.”

Rubbing the back of his neck, Hutch looked around the table. Everyone else must’ve agreed to give him the money–they were all still smiling at him.

Well, almost everyone.

Trini was still sulking and staring intently at the table as Starsky sat back down.

Winking at his friend conspiratorially, he asked, “So, Hutch. You still gonna stick around, or you gonna travel like you said in all those ‘cheery’ letters of yours?”

Ah-ha! Thanks, Starsky! You’re the best! Hutch looked at Trini and noticed she was holding her breath waiting for his answer. Silly, girl. Money can’t buy you love! I’m not going anywhere!

The whole table stared at Hutch wondering what the hell he was thinking.

Hutch took his eyes off Trini just long enough to wink at Starsky. “Gee, Starsk. I could go down to Mexico, and fish for quite awhile on this. This is the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me. I really can’t thank you…” Hutch quit his words of torment, and turned to look at Trini.

It took Trini a minute to realize everyone was now staring at her. Looking up at Hutch’s grinning eyes, she punched him in the stomach, and stood up. “You, jackass! Makin’ me sit here and think you had to think about it!” Just for good measure, she kicked him in the shin and started for the patio. She was out the door before she hollered back in, “I don’t even think he deserves to hear the rest!”

Hutch winced a little as she slammed the slider shut. Bending over to rub his shin, he muttered, “Women.”

Huggy smacked him on the back. “I would try flowers, my man. I don’t think the Hutchinson charm can haul your lily-white ass out of the fire this time.”

“Shut up, Huggy. I don’t need your help.” The whole table was doing their best not to laugh as Hutch questioned them. “What rest?”

Starsky nodded to the girl outside who was taking up all Hutch’s attention. “Uh-uh. Trini did that all on her own. I’m not about to steal her thunder.”

Hutch looked back at the check. “I really can’t thank everyone enough. You all stuck by me, even when I didn’t deserve it…and…” Hutch was still too distracted by Trini outside to finish his thought.

A smiling Huggy rose to leave. “Yeah, yeah, Hutchinson. We love you too, but we’re gonna leave before that girl comes back in and kills you. I don’t wanna be no witness or nothin’. I can’t be doin’ what I wanna do from jail.”

Hutch absently waved at the man, but continued to focus his attention on Trini. “Yeah, thanks guys.”

Shaking his head, Huggy and his family left as Leslie rose and announced, “I’m going to pack my stuff up. You coming, David?”

Starsky nodded at his wife. “I’ll be right there.”

Leslie left and Starsky wasted no time tormenting Hutch. “First fight?” he grinned.

Hutch spun his head to Starsky, and growled, “Screw you.”

Starsky laughed at his friend. “Gee, you were after me all along? I thought you were happy havin’ sex with just one Starsky.”

Hutch glared at his best friend a moment more, but then he had to laugh. “You’re an asshole, Gordo.”

Pointing to his niece, Starsky laughed. “According to her–you’re the asshole.”

Hutch nodded his head sadly.  “I pushed my luck, huh?”

“A little, yeah.”

“I gotta go grovel.”

“A lot, yeah.”

Hutch went to the couch and grabbed a blanket off the back. Looking to Starsky, he shrugged. “If she cools off, she might want this.”

Rising to join his wife, Starsky grinned. “Good luck, pal. You’re gonna need it.”

~~~

Trini didn’t even look up when Hutch came outside. She didn’t look at him when he pulled a chair beside her, or when he wrapped the blanket around her, or when he held her hand. She didn’t even look up when she told him, “I love you, Ken Hutchinson, but I’m not too sure I like you anymore.”

Pulling her into his arms, he apologized. “I was just teasin’ you, and it wasn’t nice–I see that now. I’m sorry.”

Angrily, Trini wiped a tear away. “You hurt my feelings–and after I’d been so nervous…”

Hutch started rocking her back and forth. “Shhh, baby. I’m so sorry, really I am. But you were being stupid, too.”

Trini pushed herself out of his embrace. “Screw you!”

Trying to hold Trini again was like catching hold of a wildcat. “Damnit, Trini! Knock this shit off, and come here!”

Trini stopped her struggle, but laid back in her own chair.

Hutch sighed, and got down on his knees beside her chair. Laying his head in her lap, he whispered, “Is it because we’re not married, Trini? Is that why you think I’d leave? Because, I can tell you from experience–personal experience–marriage doesn’t necessarily keep me around.”

Trini couldn’t resist Hutch’s gorgeous hair, and she reached out to stroke it. “No. No, I don’t need a ring. I don’t think. I really don’t know why I’m so scared, Ken. Maybe I love you too much, and this was all a bad plan…”

His head flew up at that. “Please don’t ever start thinking that, Trini. I know relationships can be a pain in the ass, but I don’t want this to ever end. I’ve told you I love you, and I’m not ever gonna leave you. What more do you need to hear?”

Trini started to cry a little. “You just always had plans to travel, and I’m looking at a new job soon. I don’t want you to leave me here while you travel, Ken. Some smart girl will take you away from me.”

“Trini, if you can’t go–I can’t go. It’s as simple as that. I’m not looking to spend the rest of my life alone. I plan on spending it with you.”

Trini nodded and reached for Hutch, still crying.

Stroking her head, he asked, “Did you really think you would be holding me back? I’m holding me back, Trini. This is where I wanna be.” He could feel her crying and he hated it. Hutch tried for humor. “Hey, you get cleaned up and we’ll go Christmas shopping. I got a paycheck today.”

Despite herself, Trini laughed. Sitting back, she smiled at Hutch while he wiped her tears away. “I lied to you, Ken.”

He was still busy wiping her face. “Hmm?”

Leaning over to kiss him, she whispered, “I like you. A lot.”

~~~

The Starsky’s had picked up the boys from the airport, and now they’d all joined Hutch and Trini at the mall.

Trini kissed the boys, and poked at their ribs. “Your grandmother don’t feed you so good. Come on, I’ll buy.”

The twins happily followed Trini to the food court as the other adults watched them go. Starsky smiled lovingly at his departing niece. “She’s so good with them. It’s a shame she lost two.”

Hutch’s brow wrinkled up. “Two what?”

“Babies, dummy. Remember, she almost married that Anthony creep–four years of his attitude. Anyhow, they lost two babies. Trini said the miscarriages were God’s way of telling her he wouldn’t make a good dad. Sad, huh? At least she ditched the asshole.”

Hutch contemplated Starsky’s comments while he waited for Trini’ return.

When the twins and Trini came back they were loaded down with food–plenty of food.

Trini handed Hutch a soda and a pretzel–got rewarded with a kiss for her efforts–then gave the rest of the sack to Starsky. Tearing into it like a kid, Starsky beamed when he pulled out a hot dog and two tacos. Holding up his ‘prizes’ he gloated, “She loves me more than you! Look at all the food I got!”

Hutch poked Starsky in the chest. “No, she’s trying to plug your arteries so we can be rid of you.”

Starsky didn’t care, and started eating with great gusto. The boys were now looking around anxiously. They were done eating, and the mall was packed with girls–teenage paradise.

James pleaded, “Dad, can we have some of our own money? Please? We want to shop by ourselves.”

Starsky hesitated for a second, so Hutch prompted him. “Come on Starsk. They’re young boys. Give them some money and let ’em go.”

Starsky pointed a finger at each boy. “No junk, O.K.? And, you gotta help your mother clean the house when we get home.”

Hutch could just imagine the boys yawning at their “lecture,” but they surprised him by containing themselves.

“David, they’re dying. Let them go, honey.” Leslie was looking at Starsky so sweetly, he probably would’ve agreed to anything.

Pulling his wallet out, he handed each of the boys some bills. Pointing a finger again, he told them, “And I want to see some change.”

The boys rolled their eyes, and echoed each other. “Yes, Dad.”

As the boys turned to go, Hutch pulled them aside and looked in their hands. Looking over their heads at Starsky, he wrinkled his nose and shook his head. Reaching for his own wallet, Hutch pulled out several more bills for each boy. “Merry Christmas, boys.”

The boys were in awe when Hutch put the money in their hands. James immediately started turning the money–he liked all his bills to face the same way.

Marcus simply shoved the wad into his pocket, and smiled up at Hutch. “Gee, thanks, Uncle Hutch.”

“Yes, sir. Thanks Uncle Hutch.”

“You’re welcome boys. Go have fun, but meet us here by eight, O.K.?”

Nodding and smiling as they ran away, Trini thought she’d never seen two happier kids.

Leslie walked over to Hutch, and gently smacked his arm. “You’ll spoil them. Worse than we have,” she laughed.

Hutch just shrugged. “I don’t have any of my own to spoil. It’s O.K. isn’t it?”

Starsky answered his question. “Sure, it’s alright you make my kids love you more than me, Blintz. Thanks a lot!”

“You’re just jealous. Come on, Gordo. I’ll buy you something, too.” Hutch hooked Trini’s hand in his and started into the model store while Starsky and Leslie followed close behind.

Starsky smiled at his wife. “I’m getting a new train from Hutch for Christmas.”

Leslie hit her husband lightly. “No shit, honey? I never woulda guessed.”

~~~

Hutch and Trini were done with their shopping, and were now loading their packages in the back of the Torino when Trini turned to him. “Hey, Ken. Can we make one more fast stop?”

“Sure, babe. Where we goin’?”

Trini headed for the passenger side. “You drive. I’ll give directions.”

Hutch shrugged and got in the driver’s seat. Driving the Torino all the time was something Hutch still had to get used to. He was always waiting for Starsky to yell at him for doing something wrong. But that was yesterday, when this car belonged to David Starsky–now it belonged to Katrina Starsky. And him, he supposed, as he followed Trini’s directions.

After awhile, Trini pointed. “Turn right, then stop in front of that two-story building there.”

Hutch nodded and did as he was told. Trini turned to Hutch and smiled at him. “I don’t know how to start this, so I’m just gonna tell you: I invested money in your name.”

Hutch shut the car off and looked at her in amazement. “You did what, and why?”

Holding his hand to her heart, she smiled. “I repaid the money you gave me. I remember a man who didn’t think twice about giving money to the niece of his best friend. This is my way of thanking you.”

Hutch shook his head in disbelief. “Trini, I never, ever expected either one of you to pay me back. What I did, I did out of love for your uncle. Simple as that. Whatever you did, get your money back.”

Trini shook her head. “I can’t Hutch. I invested a lot of it with an ex-cop I know.”

Hutch was in shock. “Trini! How well do you know this person? He could be taking the money, and…”

“Hutch. Calm down. I know this guy as well as I know you. See, Grandma Bella must’ve known Momma would just shoot up any money she gave her, so I got it when I turned twenty-five. I invested–made a little money, and invested again. I put half of everything I made into funds for you. I figured that’d pay you back. Plus interest.”

Hutch just continued to shake his head. “No. I won’t take any more money from you people. Starsky just handed me money I don’t deserve, and didn’t earn. I won’t take any from the woman I love.” Hutch had a feeling Trini wasn’t really listening to him, though– she was now turned backwards– rummaging for something in the backseat. Smiling at her curvy bottom waving in the air, he asked, “Can I help?”

Hutch heard a muffled, “Son of a bitch,” come from the backseat.

“Trini, my love, what are you doing?”

Exasperated, Trini sat back down in her seat. “I can’t find my freakin’ flashlight. It must be under the bags.”

Hutch reached in front of her, and opened the glove compartment. Handing her the flashlight, Hutch told her, “Why didn’t you just ask?”

Trini smiled sheepishly, then jumped out of the car. She was on Hutch’s side before he even got out.

Hutch couldn’t believe how excited Trini was–she was bouncing up and down, and giggling. “You remember I told you I had a new job lined up?”

Hutch nodded, and motioned to the building. “This it?”

Trini smiled. “You remember how I said you didn’t deserve to know the rest? I lied.” Trini turned on her flashlight, and hugged Hutch to her with her free arm. She then shined the light up on the sign so Hutch could make out what it said.

Slowly, Hutch took the flashlight from Trini and held it himself, going over the words again. “Hutchinson and Starsky–private investigations?” Hutch laughed until Trini thought he was going to wake up the whole neighborhood. Wiping the tears his laughter had caused, he pulled Trini to him. “Am I that predictable?”

Hugging him tightly, she whispered, “Not always. Wanna go inside?”

Looking like a kid with an early Christmas present, he grabbed her hand and ran to the door.

Trini pushed a set of keys at him when they reached the entrance. “Here, you idiot. This is for you. David has one just like it. I bought them that day we walked after lunch.”

Taking the key chain from Trini, Hutch inspected it as she opened the door and turned on lights. It was a ‘Ying and Yang’ key chain–half white teardrop, and half black teardrop combined to make a circle–two different halves that make a completed whole.

“I figured the key chains symbolized you and David perfectly. You know, the dark one and the light one, making one. It just made sense.”

Hutch took her face in his hands, and kissed her tenderly. “Thank you. Thank you for loving me, and for all of this.” He looked around the office space. “So, you wanna show me my office?”

Trini led him down the hallway to four offices. “This one is Huggy’s–our ‘man on the street’. This one is mine, next to yours.”

Hutch smiled. “How convenient.”

“And here is yours. The one on the end is David’s.”

Hutch couldn’t believe what he was seeing–somebody had already put a nameplate on the door for him. Rubbing his hands over the letters, he turned to Trini. “Huggy?”

“Yeah, he and Lunk’ll keep the ‘Cavern’, too, but Lunk’s gonna help with observation and the accounting here, too.” Hugging Hutch tightly, Trini asked, “Isn’t it all wonderful?”

Nodding, Hutch opened his office and stepped in, pulling Trini with him. Not surprisingly, it was already decorated for him. There was the standard desk and chair, and a couch on one wall–but, what surprised Hutch were the more ‘personal’ items that’d been added. Pictures of Hutch and Starsky from their years together–on the force and in their private life–covered the wall opposite his desk. A painting of a peaceful cabin setting, wooden fish, and antique fishing poles decorated another. Just for good measure, there were plenty of plants, too. “You outdid yourself, sweetheart. This place looks great.”

Trini blushed. “I guess I…well, I’m just glad you like it. You’ll be spending a lot of time in here–after you get your certification, I mean.”

Hutch nodded. “And I suppose you and Starsky are already P.I.’s, huh? You two have had this planned for awhile, haven’t you?”

“We just had one more case to solve, and we were done. David and I just hoped you were gonna join up, too.”

Looking at Trini through lusty eyes, Hutch commented, “You had your eye on me all along, didn’t you?”

Trini blushed and looked down at the floor. “More like my heart set on you, really.”

“You did all this before we we’re even together, Trini. You are amazing!” Laughing, they fell into an easy embrace and Hutch continued, “The faith and love you had…have…is incredible, babe. Thank you.”

Trini was leading him to the couch, and Hutch sat down first, pulling Trini onto his lap then gently pressing her head to his shoulder. While he held her, Hutch continued asking questions. “What’s upstairs?”

“I conned David and Huggy into a couple more computers, a conference room, Leslie’s office, an accounting office for Lunk, a room for the boys to watch TV and play video games, and a shower.”

Disbelief and amusement played across Hutch’s face. “A what… a shower? What the hell, Trini?”

“I just figure catchin’ bad guys is dirty work, and we’ll need to use it, that’s all.”

Hutch nibbled on Trini’s neck. “I do believe I like a woman’s touch in my life. The shower’s not such a bad thing.”

“Gee, thanks.”

“But, my beautiful little Starsky, this couch is a better idea.”

Trini looked up. “You really like it? I hoped you’d like the style.”

“I don’t care about the style, really.” Hutch whipped his legs around, and spread his full length out. “I like that I can actually fit on it.”

Trini was now half sitting on Hutch, and half on the couch. Turning around, she spread herself on top of him. “I measured it.”

Hutch had to laugh. “You didn’t.”

“I did. I was awfully hopeful we’d have reason to be all stretched out on here–at least once a week. You know–the Senior partner making the Junior partner sleep her way to the top. That sort of thing.”

“At least once a week, huh?”

Trini nodded, stood up, and slowly began undressing. Hutch reached for her when she was done, pulling her back to him.

“I’ll do my best to keep this once a week thing. For you, I’d even degrade myself for Viagra. Or a couple Popsicle sticks, and some tape.”

“Wow. I guess this must be true love, huh?”

Hutch reached to unbutton his own shirt. “Looks like it to me.”

Trini nodded thoughtfully, and reached down to help him with his pants. Scooting down the long length of his body, she pulled his shoes and socks off–then tossed his pants aside. Crawling back up, she rubbed her body along Hutch. “Looks like I won’t need to eat those Popsicles for a couple years yet.”

Hutch smiled and helped Trini get into a more compromising position. “As long as I keep you happy, Trini. That’s all I care about.”

Leaning forward, Trini moved to kiss him. “Oh you make me happy, Ken.”

Grabbing her buttocks, Hutch closed his eyes and sighed. “Ditto, baby. Ditto.”

 

Chapter 11 – TIME IS ON OUR SIDE

Hutch was pointedly ignoring the man sitting on his desk–trying instead to concentrate on their latest case.

“Come on, Hutch. Just pick a card, already.”

“Starsky. I will not pick a card. You still haven’t gotten your little parlor games right–even after all these years.”

Shoving the cards back at Hutch, Starsky just smiled. “So wadda you got to lose? Pick a card.”

Sighing, Hutch picked a card, and laid it facedown on his desk.

“Geez, Hutch. You didn’t even look at it,” Starsky whined.

Grudgingly, Hutch picked the card up and looked at it. “Now what, moron?”

“Put it back in the deck, Blintz.”

Hutch roughly shoved the card back into Starsky’s deck.

“Thank you.”

“You’re not welcome. And get your ass off my desk.”

Starsky ignored his grumpy friend. “You had the Queen of hearts.”

Hutch quickly looked at his friend, then grabbed the deck of cards from him. “Give me those. They’re probably all the same.”

Starsky was so proud of himself, he could hardly stand it. “You’re a sore loser, Hutch. Face it: I’m like fine wine–I just get better as I get older. Unlike you, my friend, who just gets older.”

Hutch glared at his friend as he stood up and fairly strutted to the chair in front of Hutch’s deck.

Promptly flopping his feet up on Hutch’s desk, Starsky quizzed his friend. “So. You seen Trini today?”

Hutch grunted. “I haven’t seen Trini today, or much at all lately. She’s so wrapped up in the Kendrick case.”

Starsky had to try hard not to laugh out loud at Hutch–Poor Hutch. He sure gets cranky without Jewel around to soothe his savage beast. “She still workin’ real close with the girl’s father?” Starsky asked.

Reaching forward, Hutch roughly shoved Starsky’s feet off his desk, but didn’t answer.

Grinning, Starsky continued, “I’ll take that as a ‘yes’.”

Frustrated, Hutch slammed the folder shut, and got out of his chair to sulkily look out his office window. Shoving his hands deep into his pockets, Hutch quietly told his friend what was wrong–even though he hadn’t meant to. “You know that Kendrick fellow has been askin’ Trini out.”

Starsky nodded. “I heard. She told him ‘no’.”

“Yeah. This time. What happens the next time a good looking guy–who’s more Trini’s age–asks her out? Is she always gonna tell ’em ‘no’, Starsk? Is she always gonna want to?”

Starsky contemplated, then sighed. “Look, Hutch. I don’t know where this came from, or even where it’s headed, but I know one thing: If you’re so worried about it, put a ring on her finger.”

Letting his head rest against the window, Hutch angrily asked, “It’s all real simple to you, huh? Just marry her, and make her stay? Starsky, I love your niece more than I’ve ever loved anyone or anything else in this world.”

Starsky didn’t see any problem then, but Hutch must, so he asked, “But…?”

Hutch spun around to face his friend. “But, if I marry this girl, and use up who knows how many of her good years before I croak–all she’s gonna have is ‘young widow’ written all over her. Open your eyes, Starsk! I…I probably can’t even give her a kid. She doesn’t even bring it up. Probably worried I won’t be able to chase a kid with my walker.”

Starsky couldn’t help but laugh, causing Hutch to scowl at his friend.

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. It’s all real funny to you. You’re gonna live long enough to see your kids go to school and…aw, screw it.” Hutch threw his hands up, and sat down heavily in his chair. Staring up at the ceiling, he mumbled, “I feel like we’re Bogart and Bacall. You know she still loves him? Bogart, I mean. Even after all these years, she still carries a torch for that man.”

Starsky grew very serious. “Is that such an awful thing, Hutch? To have a woman love you, and cherish the love you shared, even after you’re gone?”

Hutch was more troubled by this than Starsky could’ve guessed. “I…I’ve been scared of dying before, Starsk. You know how it feels: that adrenalin rush you feel looking down a gun barrel, and thinking to yourself: ‘Is this the one I don’t walk away from?’ The moments when your life starts flashing in front of you, and you hope when you die people are proud of how you lived. This thing with Trini is so much worse than that, Starsk. It’s fear, and guilt, and…pain. All rolled into one, and I can’t fight it down, partner. I don’t want to die and leave her. And, I sure as hell wouldn’t want to leave my beautiful young widow with a fatherless child. That just seems ever more unfair, doesn’t it?”

Hutch needed answers and advice, and he was practically begging for Starsky to help him. Starsky leaned towards Hutch and tried to give him the help he was so desperate for. “Kids are just an extension of the love a couple feels for each other, Hutch. When I’m gone, I know the boys won’t replace me in Leslie’s life, but they’re not supposed to. I hope they give her comfort, and make her proud of the beautiful people we created together. A kid isn’t something Trini would look at as a burden, Hutch. For some reason, she’s insanely in love with you, buddy.”

Hutch smiled a little at that.

Starsky pressed on. “The child you two would raise together…well, it would be your way of watching your love grow everyday. At least, that’s how we feel. Hutch, don’t stress so much. She loves you. And maybe you guys only got ten or twelve happy years, but that’s more than you got outta three marriages all put together. Quit being negative about it. Don’t waste this gift of love you were given. I think…I think we need to grab that brass ring and hold onto what we’ve been blessed with, Hutch. This merry-go-round ride don’t last forever.”

Hutch still hadn’t spoken, but at least he was looking at Starsky now.

Starsky asked him, “Don’t you think I considered all this when I realized you two were in love?”

Hutch looked down at his hands. “I figured you were smart enough to worry, yeah.”

“Well, I’m also smart enough to see you two’ve been good together. It’s been a long time since we had a fight over a girl, Hutch–don’t let this be it.”

Hutch looked up, puzzled. “You lost me, Starsk.”

“My niece is expecting to marry you, and you’d better not disappoint her, pal. And if all you guys can do is ‘practice’ makin’ a kid–I think she’ll still be happy. Marry the girl, Hutch. Don’t piss me off.”

Hutch rubbed his eyes, and smiled. “You know, it kills me when you’re right.”

Starsky beamed. “I know. And, I think I deserve lunch for all this free advice.”

Hutch rose, and grabbed his jacket. “I believe you’re right. I’ll even buy you a beer.”

The two men were driving back from lunch when Hutch’s cell phone rang. Finding it in his pocket, he answered it. “Hello?”

“Hi, sweetheart. Guess what?”

“What?”

Starsky smiled, and looked out his window–had to be Trini the way Hutch was beaming.

“I’m done with the Kendrick case. Huggy found her holed up in a crack house in San Francisco. We got time for you and me, now.”

“That’s pretty good timing, love. Tomorrow’s Valentine’s Day.”

Trini laughed. “Wow. You remembered, and I forgot. Not your average woman, huh?”

Hutch smiled. “No, baby. You’re way more than average.”

“Be still, my heart. I think the man still loves me. Even when I neglect him.”

Hutch stopped the car in front of their office, and looked at Starsky. His friend just sat there, smiling at him, until Hutch pointed at the door. “A little privacy, huh, Gordo?”

Laughing, Starsky climbed out of the car and leaned against the office door to wait for his friend.

Hutch whispered into the phone, “Hey. You can make up for all the neglect tonight, huh?”

He could hear the love in her voice when she answered, “It’ll be my pleasure, Hutchinson. Anything else you wanna tell me before I hurry home?”

He snapped his fingers and added, “Yeah, sorry, just one more thing.”

“What’s that?”

“God, I love you.”

“Ditto. Go and tell your partner you’ll be spending the rest of the day in bed. I’m already on my way.”

Hutch waved goodbye to Starsky and started to pull away. “Race you,” he laughed.

~~~

Trini lay next to Hutch, slightly out of breath, but oh, so satisfied. Hutch was just as satisfied, but since Trini’d done most of the “work,” well, he wasn’t quite as tired.

He was contemplative though, and Trini had noticed. “A penny for your thoughts, Ken.”

He licked his lips, and swallowed before he replied. “I was just thinkin’ about how good you’d look holding a baby in your arms.”

Trini caught her breath, and wondered what direction to go with this topic. She opted for humor. “I’m losing my touch, if that’s what’s crossing your mind with a naked woman next to you.”

Hutch rolled over, and sat up to look down on Trini. “I’m being serious, here. Do you want kids?”

Rolling into Hutch’s side, Trini curled up next to him. “The truth, Hutch?”

“No, lie to me. I like it.”

“Yeah, Hutch. I want kids. But, only if you’re gonna be the daddy to my mommy. You?”

Hutch sighed and pulled Trini closer. “You O.K. with adopting?”

Trini looked up at him. “Yeah, why?”

“So far, I’ve safely avoided this, but…well, nobody ever had a Hutchinson seed that took hold.”

Trini was silent for a minute. “Did you and Van try?”

Hutch snorted. “Van pregnant? She’d have had to quit wearing furs, and gain weight. No.”

“Well, Angie, then.”

“No. She was never ‘ready’. I think that one’s fairly obvious.”

“Maggie?”

“She already had three grown kids, and a hysterectomy to boot. Trini, what are you getting at?”

“Ken, what makes you think you’ve got a problem? It really doesn’t sound like you’ve tried.”

Stroking her hair, he told her, “Don’t get all worked up, but I lived with a girl once who tried real hard to get pregnant. No rubbers, no pill, no baby. Not after a year. Trini, I believe I shoot blanks, love. I’m so sorry.”

Trini nodded thoughtfully. “But kids are an option for us, right? You’re not gonna throw the age thing in here, are you?”

Hutch laid back down, rubbing a hand on Trini’s hip. “I was worried, and I had planned on throwing out the age thing, but a wise man talked me out of it. I’d love to raise a child with you, Trini. It’ll be a completion–an ‘extension of our love’.”

Trini laughed. “You been talkin’ to my uncle again?”

“Yeah. It frightens me, but he actually made sense.”

Trini smiled, and purposely rolled onto her back. “Well, I’m glad you think a kid wouldn’t be so bad. I’d been worried about bringing it up.”

“Sorry. I was being a paranoid fool.”

Hutch’s hand was still idly rubbing on Trini’s hip so she picked it up, and moved it onto her stomach. Holding his hand there, she turned to look in Hutch’s eyes. “Ken. We need to talk.”

He smiled. “I thought we were.”

She nodded. “About babies.”

Slowly the realization crept over his face, and he gently rubbed her stomach. Blinking several times, he sat up and pulled his hand away.

Oh, shit! Is he pissed? Lamely, she tried to explain, “We never discussed birth control, so I didn’t think it was any big deal.”

“No big deal!”

Oh, yeah. He’s pissed! Trini tried to hold Hutch’s hand, but he pulled back. “Hutch. Come on, sweetie. Can’t we just talk it over?”

“Does Starsky know?”

Frowning angrily at Hutch, Trini sat up, too. “Do you really think I’d tell someone before you?”

Hutch laughed long and loud. “I finally got one over on him!”

Trini shook her head. “I’m so glad our being pregnant gives you reason for enjoyment.”

Hastily, Hutch pulled her to him. “Oh, yes, my sweet. It gives me great reason for enjoyment. I can’t believe it.”

Slowly, he placed a gentle hand on her stomach. Trini reached up to stroke his face–he wasn’t pissed after all!

Hutch was grinning idiotically as he whispered, “Are you positive?”

Nodding, Trini assured him. “Cross my heart. Daddy.”

Trini thought she couldn’t possibly love Hutch more than she already did, but she surprised even herself. The minute Hutch started to cry, she was again reassured he was the perfect man for her. The sight of his tears made Trini’s watery eyes overflow, too. Her heart swelled with love as they held each other–crying happy tears.

~~~

Trini was trying not to listen in as Hutch made dinner reservations, but her curiosity got the better of her. His conversation was of great interest to her–even if she tried to pretend it wasn’t.

“Yes, Marcella. Ken Hutchinson. Yeah, I moved back a few months ago. No, we’re not on the force anymore–private investigations. He’s great–you’ll see him tonight. Yes–a table for six. That’ll be fine, Marcella. I owe you.” Hutch laughed a little. “Sure. One dance. O.K. See you tonight.”

Shaking his head, Hutch hung up the phone, and stood up. Looking at Trini, he decide she was acting way too interested in her book, causing Hutch to smile. Wiping the smile off his face, he went to join her on the couch and announced, “We’re set for 8:00.”

Trini nodded, and continued to “read”.

“An old friend of Starsky’s and mine still works there. Incredible, huh?”

“Mmhm.”

If Trini would only look up , she’d see the merriment in his eyes, but she was trying awfully hard to avoid eye contact. Hutch tried to explain. “About a hundred years ago, we’d all go out dancing. Marcella and me, and Starsk and Lucy. Never amounted to much.”

Trini just nodded–still trying to look uninterested. Folding her book shut, Trini rose and disappeared into the bedroom.

“Whatcha doin’?” he called out to her.

Trini’s head popped out the door. “Picking out clothes.”

Hutch thought that was probably a good plan, and rose to find his tuxedo. Tonight was a celebration. Trini thought she knew what they’d be celebrating, but she was wrong.

So wrong it made Hutch laugh.

~~~

Trini looked absolutely stunning when she finally emerged from the bathroom.

Hutch had never seen her fuss over her hair and appearance the way she had tonight, and the effort was more than enjoyable to his eyes.

She had pinned her hair up in short ringlets all over her head giving it a Grecian goddess effect–complementing her Empire waist gown perfectly. The royal blue shoes and bag matched the dress color to a tee, and she had tossed a pashmina shawl over one shoulder. The diamond earrings, and necklace Hutch’d given her for Christmas glistened beautifully against her ivory skin.

She’d even dabbed a drop of Hutch’s favorite perfume behind each ear!

He’d never seen her do this–usually just a swipe of blush, a little mascara, and this girl was set. Sometimes, a curling iron was used to “tame the ‘do’,” as Trini’d put it. Hutch had found that very amusing–curling curly hair to control it, but it did seem to work.

Smiling at her, Hutch couldn’t believe she was so nervous. As far as she knew, they were “just” announcing the baby. He figured there was something else behind her anxiety, and he was on a mission to find out what it was.

When Trini grabbed the lint brush off her dresser, and “touched up” Hutch’s tux for the third time, he knew she was spazzing out.

Reaching out, he carefully hugged her about the waist so nothing got wrinkled and stayed the way she’d planned. Trini distractedly tried to pull away and walk back to the bathroom to check her makeup–again.

“Ken, we don’t have…”

He cut her off with a tender kiss on the neck. “You look fantastic,” he purred against her skin, causing Trini to go limp against his embrace.

“Sorry,” Trini told him.

Hutch teased her. “For being pretty?”

She sighed. “For being bitchy. I’m freaking over this dinner.”

Hutch thought that was one of the most unnecessary comments he’d ever heard, but he waited for the explanation.

Trini started wringing her hands nervously. “You look so great tonight, Hutch.”

Moving to hold her hands for support, and to stop that irritating motion, he told her, “You’re the one who looks incredible, but thank you. I did it for you. You know, I don’t put on a tux for just anybody, Trini–only the woman I love.”

She turned her face away from him. “For all the women you’ve loved, Hutch? There’s been so many, and I don’t know how to compete with Marcella’s and Lucy’s. I just know how to be me.”

“Trini, is this the hormone thing I heard about? There’s nobody to compete with–we’ve had this talk before. My past…”

She cut him off. “Yeah, yeah. Your past, Ken Hutchinson. What about tonight?”

He was genuinely confused, and it showed on his face, so Trini pressed on.

“You’re the most gorgeous man I know, and there’s bound to be some old flames still hangin’ around–just waiting to get their claws into the single Hutch.”

God, she could be frail, and Hutch moved to hold her to him. “Katrina Starsky–you started this grown up game.”

She nodded.

“And, I don’t ever plan to stop playing it with you.”

He felt her laugh a little, letting him know she was better. “You just don’t understand, Ken. A sexy, single guy like you…on your old turf. I gotta keep close tabs on you.”

Kissing her forehead, he whispered, “No you don’t. I might need to worry about a young, beautiful thing like you…”

“No. You don’t.”

“Then, Katrina, for the last time–this is settled. Nobody’s goin’ after a different field of clover.”

“Scout’s honor?”

Holding up three fingers, he promised, “Scout’s honor, my love.” Then he added, “Besides, you’re the only one who’ll have an old man like me.”

Trini was only half joking when she grumbled, “Oh, I doubt that. There’s still some bimbo laying in wait for Ken Hutchinson–the Blond God–to return to California.”

“Oh, honey,” he chuckled, “you’re my last hope. If this ever failed, I wouldn’t want to try again.”

Looking at him with squinted eyes, she told him, “You’re a smooth one, Hutchinson.” Then, much to his delight, and amazement–Trini firmly grasped both of his buttocks in her hands and squeezed. “Just remember who owns this,” she threatened with mock severity.

Hutch nearly cried, he laughed so hard. “Baby, I couldn’t forget, even if I wanted to.”

Trini was now smiling happily–the glow of love and pregnancy made her the most attractive woman Hutch had ever seen.

He offered her his arm, and they started for the door .

Slipping her coat over her shoulders, Hutch asked, “You keep the handcuffs from Metro, Trini?”

She laughed, and swatted his rump for a change. “You’re a dirty boy, Hutchinson.”

~~~

True to his word, Hutch never gave more than a quick greeting or reply to any woman who talked to him. Some did marvel at the fact that he was back, and single again, but Hutch was quick to introduce Trini at that point. And when he went to the bar, Trini tried counting the women who fawned over him, and the number of times he pointed her out to glaring eyes. Finally, she got tired of counting.

Starsky had a hard time not laughing every time any female nineteen to ninety would approach his best friend. Trini’s fur would practically stand on end until Hutch introduced her or pointed her way.

It turned out Marcella still seemed to be extremely interested in Hutch. At least until Trini walked by her and whispered, “Do you really feel like takin’ on a cop?” The look of surprise on Marcella’s face had been worth it. It didn’t matter to Trini that she’d lied a little.

Sitting back at the table, Trini continued to shoot Marcella a “look but don’t touch” glare that was total possessiveness. One time, Trini noticed Starsky smirking at her, and she nonchalantly rubbed the side of her nose with her middle finger. His already barely contained laughter erupted, causing Huggy, Candita, and Leslie to look their way.

Trini shook her head. “Don’t worry folks. My uncle’s just tormenting me.” Everyone smiled and continued with their conversation–correctly figuring it was some secret between the two.

Finally ceasing his laughter, Starsky leaned over to his niece. “It’s alright, hellcat. I’ve never seen him so happy. You got no worries.”

Trini smiled at that, then waved to the latest woman Hutch was practically pushing away.

Starsky couldn’t resist adding, “So retract the claws, huh?”

Trini had visibly relaxed, yet continued to keep a close eye on Hutch.

Starsky just shook his head–he’d never seen her so crazy about someone, and it did his heart good. For both of them.

Hutch finally made his way back to the table just in time to enjoy the meal being served. Placing his hands on the back of Trini’s chair, Hutch bent to kiss her cheek. When he whispered, “I’m back. You can put your claws away now,” Starsky could only control his mirth by biting his lip–hard.

Leslie patted her husband gently on the leg, and gave him the “she’s had enough, dear” look, so Starsky excused himself to use the restroom.

Trini shot daggers at his back the whole way, and Starsky knew it. When he finally reached his destination, he turned towards Trini and made his hands into claws. The people remaining at Starsky’s table had seen the whole incident, and burst into laughter as he disappeared behind the door.

“Asshole,” Trini laughed–and nobody disagreed.

Dessert was being ordered when Hutch announced he was going to the lobby to get cigars. Starsky and Huggy rose to go with him.

“I do believe I will pick out my own Cuban, Golden One,” Huggy informed his friend. “You probably pick out some nasty ‘white’ cigars. I want a ‘brothers’ cigar.” Huggy pointed to Starsky coming around the table towards them. “See! Even curly don’t trust you none!”

The three women laughed as the men left.

Candita commented, “They’re so full of shit. They just wanna talk ’bout us an’ look at the girls outside.”

Trini started to turn in her chair in the direction of the departing men, but Leslie’s voice stopped her. “Trini, Candita was teasing. Sit still, and quit worrying. If Hutch wants to look at a beautiful, young girl–he’s got you.”

Forcing herself to turn back to her aunt, Trini smiled and prepared to wait for her man to return. A moment later, Trini realized she didn’t have long to wait for Hutch’s “return” since he never really left.

The room lights dimmed a little, and Trini heard a very familiar voice using the stage microphone behind her. In a strong, confident voice Hutch announced, “Ladies and gentlemen–could I have your attention, please?”

Leslie and Candita were smiling back and forth from Trini to Hutch in amazement. Leslie whispered, “Oh my,” as her hand flew to her breast. Candita mumbled something in Spanish Trini didn’t understand, but it made Candita fan herself with a napkin.

Hutch continued, “I’d like to thank you in advance for your patience. You see I’m in love with that beautiful lady right there,” the spotlight heat burned into Trini’s back, yet she still didn’t turn to look at Hutch, “but, I fear I may not have properly wooed this fine lady. You see, ladies and gentlemen, every woman craves romance and courting, and I haven’t done this quite right. I haven’t written poems that tell of her beauty, or sung her love songs–but, tonight I plan to remedy one of those grievous errors.”

Starsky and Huggy suddenly reappeared on either side of Trini’s chair. The two men smiled hugely at each other before slipping their arms around Trini and hauling her, extremely embarrassed, to the stage.

The crowd was eating this little “drama” up, and when Hutch handed Trini a single red rose everyone started clapping. Holding his hand out, Hutch helped Trini up onto the stage, then sat her down in the chair Starsky brought up. Hutch grinned wickedly at Trini, then turned to Huggy, who handed him his guitar.

Trini was doing her very best not to cry when Hutch’s strong, clear voice began to serenade her . He was singing to her in Spanish–a love song he’d sung to her before, about a sailor who goes to sea and finds his lover dead upon his return. The man never found anyone else, and their souls rejoin in Heaven in the end.

Trini cast a quick glance to Candita, and saw she was crying. Swallowing hard, Trini looked back up at the man she adored and smiled.

When Hutch finished , the other patrons stood and whistled. Like Trini, they thought his show of love was over for the night.

They were all wrong.

Huggy fairly ran back onto the stage with an enormous bouquet of flowers, tied to an even bigger bouquet of balloons.

Looking up, Trini noticed all the balloons read “I love you.” Pointing to them, she joked, “You must,” and Hutch just smiled.

Starsky came back onstage with yet another “present,” while the crowd held its breath. What had this man given her this time?

Placing the heavy box in Trini’s lap, Starsky bent to kiss her cheek. Realizing how odd that must look, he sheepishly explained, “My niece.” The crowd laughed again, as Trini opened the box.

Inside was a beautiful heart-shaped cake. In the center it read: “#4–then no more!” followed by “Trini and Ken forever” on the bottom. “Forever” was underlined.

Trini knew the crowd was dying to know what was in the box, but she was crying too hard to care as she handed the box back to Starsky.

Hutch handed her his handkerchief, and Trini noticed he was now on bended knee in front of her–holding up another gift. Cautiously, she inspected the envelope he handed her. Trini opened it and found it full of airline tickets to Hawaii. She looked to Hutch for explanation, but he wasn’t done yet.

Holding her left hand in his, he told her, “Katrina Marie Bella Starsky, this is your last chance to turn and run before I ask you to marry me.”

Trini looked at Hutch so shocked, the restaurant laughed again.

She heard a man call out, “Come on, honey. Put the man out of his misery!” His table laughed, and Trini slowly reached up to dry her new tears–beaming at Hutch.

Her smile was all the prompting he needed to continue. “Since you haven’t run, I’m going to ask you to be my partner in more than business, lovely lady. Katrina, is there any way you can find it in your heart to settle down with a man like me? Will you marry me?”

Trini sat still long enough for Hutch to slip the ring on her finger before she threw herself at him. Kissing his face in childlike abandon, and with Hutch laughing so hard, they lost their balance. Trini fell on top of him, never breaking the kiss she’d finally connected to his mouth.

They were both vaguely aware everyone was watching, and they were receiving standing applause, but neither cared.

Finally, Starsky helped Trini off Hutch, then helped his friend up. When Hutch was on his feet, Starsky pulled him into a tight hug, and started crying. Hutch probably would’ve started too, if Trini hadn’t asked, “What’s with the plane tickets?”

Both men started to laugh, and Starsky let loose of Hutch so he could go to Trini.

“Well, Katrina, my love. I booked us a nice little chapel in Hawaii. Unless you have other plans, we’ll be married there next month. The extra tickets are for all our family and friends.”

Throwing her arms around Hutch again, Trini laughed. “You’ve been a busy boy, Hutchinson.”

He nodded, and rubbed her back. “Love motivates me.”

Trini looked up at him very seriously, and told him, “Then let’s motivate our asses home. I’ve got a fiancé to thank.” Too late, but much to the restaurant’s delight, Trini realized she had been standing by the microphone–and it was still on. Red-faced, Trini looked to Hutch.

“I’ll save you,” he smiled. Sweeping Trini into his arms, he carried her off the stage.

Resting her head on his chest, she whispered, “I guess we saved each other, huh?”

“Yes, love. We sure did.”

~~~

Even though it was Hutch’s fourth wedding–he was nervous. I’ll never do this again! he vowed. For more reasons than one!

Starsky came back to the dressing room to check on Hutch–a little out of breath. Starsky was playing father-of-the-bride, and best man today. Nick had been less than happy Trini was marrying Hutch–even when Hutch had called him himself, and purchased an extra ticket for Nick’s latest girlfriend.

Starsky had apologized to Hutch. “Sorry my kid brother’s such a pain in the ass.”

Hutch had playfully kissed his friend’s forehead. “It’s O.K., Starsk. I guess I’m destined to only have two Starsky’s love me.”

Hutch’s sister had declined his offer as well. Kim had sent Hutch a telegram wishing him well, but stated she had no interest in seeing another of her brother’s weddings. He’d almost been expecting something so impersonal from his sister, but it still hurt.

Hutch wondered how to tell Trini about his own sister, and her father wanting nothing to do with this union. He was worried she might have reason to rethink their marriage, or consider the double snub a bad sign. But Trini’d seemed concerned only about Hutch’s hurt feelings, and was doing well with it all–much to Hutch’s relief.

Still, he’d spent the whole night before their departure worrying, until Trini had noticed he was still awake. “I love you,” she’d whispered, and kissed his chest. “And I can’t wait to be your wife.”

Hutch was so relieved he’d finally been able to sleep. Maybe he’d just needed to hear it one more time.

~~~

Now, Hutch stood inside the little non-denominational chapel, trying really hard to breathe–much to Starsky’s delight.

While the two men waited, Hutch got up to check how he looked in the mirror. After nervously inspecting his ivory-colored tuxedo, Hutch started to chew on his thumbnail as he turned towards Starsky. “Is it hot in here? I’m dyin’.” Hutch began to pace, as if the motion would cool him off.

Stepping directly in front of Hutch to stop his incessant pacing, and pulling the gnawed-on thumb away, Starsky smiled and muttered, “Damn, Hutch. It ain’t like this is your first rodeo.”

Hutch glared at Starsky, but the man was too busy adjusting Hutch’s tie to notice. Smacking Starsky’s hand down, he growled, “This is different, and you know it, Gordo.”

Starsky beamed and patted his friend’s shoulder. “Ah, there we go.”

Returning his friend’s smile, Hutch realized Starsky’d only been trying to break the mood–it’d worked.

Gently pushing Hutch towards the door, Starsky quipped, “Let’s get her married to you before she really starts to show.”

Turning back, surprised, Hutch asked him, “How’d you know?” Trini and Hutch had decided not to tell anyone until she was further along–just to play safe.

Starsky smiled proudly. “Didn’t–till you just told me.”

“Asshole.”

“Careful, Hutch, we’re in a church.”

As Hutch and Huggy waited for Trini and Starsky to join them at the altar, Hutch realized he wasn’t nervous anymore. Standing in this little chapel, a great view of the island outside, their closest friends as witnesses, waiting for the woman he was going to spend the rest of his life with–Hutch suddenly breathed in contentedly, and smiled.

You haven’t done too bad, Kenny. All the people you care about, care about you, too. You’ve come through it all O.K.!

There wasn’t any more time for musings, though–the wedding march was starting.

Watching patiently, Hutch felt his chest swell up with pride when he first saw his bride and her uncle coming towards him. Starsky was beaming at the beautiful girl on his arm, and Trini kissed his cheek as they walked together down the aisle.

Hutch knew he had never seen a lovelier bride. He couldn’t stop smiling at her, and marveling at her beauty.

Trini looked so much like she was part of the island now, Hutch wasn’t sure he’d ever get her back home. Her skin had darkened up nicely, and her strapless ivory gown was so “native” she fit right in. Trini’s bouquet consisted of fresh island flowers the hotel staff had arranged, and the hairdresser had woven even more live flowers into her hair.

Starsky stopped in front of Hutch, and instead of “handing off” Trini, he pulled his friend to him. The men hugged, and Hutch choked out, “Thanks for everything, Starsk.”

Pulling back, Starsky wiped impatiently at his eyes. Hutch looked awfully close to crying himself, so Starsky laughed. “The women are supposed to cry at weddings, not us.” Reaching back to Trini, Starsky took her hand in his and placed it into Hutch’s shaking ones.

Hutch looked down at his hands. Damn! And I was doing so well, too!

Starsky moved to his position as best man, and Trini looked up at Hutch and smiled. As soon as she smiled up at him like that, Hutch knew it was O.K.–this was the one he’d been searching so hard for.

Thanks, Lord. I’m sure you wanted to give up on me, sometimes, and yet–you sent this gift to me. Thanks again.

~~~

The ceremony went off without a hitch, and it was beautiful, but Hutch was glad it was over. Trini could tell her new husband was relieved, and couldn’t help teasing him. “You wanna come back here and re-new our vows in ten years?”

He’d practically whined, “Can’t I just take you out and buy you jewelry or somethin’? Do people have to get remarried in ten…” Hutch stopped when he realized Trini was laughing at him. Pulling his devoted and beautiful (albeit young) bride to him, he whispered, “You weren’t spanked enough as a child. Respect your elders.” Placing his hand on her belly, Hutch kissed his wife (wife. Wow!).

Trini placed a gentle hand over his. “The way you puff up when you touch my stomach is a dead giveaway.”

He shrugged. “What’s it matter? Nobody will care now that I married my insatiable, young girlfriend.”

Shaking her head, she laughed. “I’d punch you, but there’d be too many witnesses.”

“Lucky me,” he laughed.

Just then Starsky came by, drinks in hand. “Come on you two, we gotta make a toast.”

Hutch pushed him away. “You are the best man. You make the toast and leave us alone.”

Starsky smiled. “Oh, yeah.”

Hutch laughed as his friend walked away. Trini looked down and shook her head at some private thought.

Hutch whispered, “A penny for your thoughts. Even if I don’t have to pay now that we’re married.”

“I was just thinking how perfect you and David are together, and how perfect we are together. It just makes perfect sense that I’m carrying a Starsky and Hutchinson creation. What could be more, well…perfect?”

Laughing, Hutch squeezed his wife to him. “I can’t top that one, love. Let’s go listen to your uncle, then I’ll make you glad you married me.”

“I’m already glad. But, if you’re planning on putting those old handcuffs to good use…”

Hutch roared with laughter as he sat down, pulling his lovely bride onto his lap to listen to Starsky. Hutch hated to be rude, but he hoped Starsky didn’t take too long. He had a new bride to attend to.

~~~

Trini and Hutch were trying to make a graceful exit when Huggy walked towards Starsky–a pretty native woman in tow.

Starsky and Huggy were leaning in close to each other, deep in discussion, when Trini placed her hand on Hutch’s arm. He’d been squinting so intently in the direction of the two men, he jumped a little when Trini touched him. She knew he was dying to know what they were discussing.

Trini smiled up at her husband. “Go on. See what’s happened.”

Gratefully, he gave her a hasty kiss, “Be right back.”

As he hurried over to join the huddle, Trini laughed to herself, “Not for long. You’re gonna have a case to attend to, my love.”

Hutch came back to Trini after a few minutes, looking confused and a little angry. “Huggy overheard her talking with the island police. It would seem she’s been ‘working’ the hotel with a friend, and the friend came up missing from a room party two nights ago. Wouldn’t seem the police department is too concerned, but she is.”

Trini knew his anger was directed at an inept police department, and the confusion…well, she knew he wanted to go and he felt guilty.

“Hutch. The three of you can put this to bed a lot faster if you all work together. Go ahead.”

Relief crossed Hutch’s face, and he smiled. “You are the best thing that ever happened to me. Are you sure? I mean, I don’t want to ruin our wedding day.”

“Hutch, we have all the time in the world. I’ll keep the bed warm for you. Go solve this, honey.”

Gently stroking her face, Hutch smiled, “All the time in the world, huh?”

Trini nodded, and kissed him.

Nodding back, Hutch ran to catch up with his already departing partners.

Trini started to turn back to the party when she heard Hutch’s voice calling to her from the balcony above. “Hey!”

She waved and yelled back, “Hey, what?”

Throwing his arms up dramatically, and leaning over the balcony, he yelled, “I love you!”

“I love you, too, you idiot! Go solve this and get your butt back to me!”

Hutch placed a hand over his heart, and blew her a kiss as Starsky pulled him away from the balcony’s edge.

“Come on, lover boy. Let’s get to it, or my niece–your new bride–will hate us both.” Even as he said it, Starsky knew it wasn’t true. It made Trini happy when Hutch was happy. Ah, true love.

Trini smiled at the now empty balcony, as Leslie came and put an arm around her niece. Trini looked at her and laughed. “Officers Starsky and Hutchinson still reporting for duty, ma’am.”

Leslie joined her niece in laughter. “Thank God.”

THE END