Something from their past causes a painful confrontation between the two men as tempers become dangerously heated thus forcing each of the detectives to re-examine their relationship.
Standing there at the cemetery, it began to rain, soaking her to the bone. Staring at the headstone, unblinking and in emotional pain, she was now alone in the world; while everyone else had given their condolences and left, she stayed.
Her only true friend, Paul remained by her side. He had been trying to get the young woman to leave, but she refused. Her voice was but a whisper, however he clearly understood, promising anything so as long as she came out of this mess, the man was in for a surprise.
“Find him, give me all you have, I want to know about this man … understood?”
“Do you really think this is a good idea? I could see if you really needed something from him, but I must advice you against this, you’ll just end up getting hurt, that’s why Claire kept certain things quiet, it was her wish before she died. Please I’m begging…”
“My mother is dead, don’t you think it’s time I found him? Get the whole truth and then maybe, just maybe I can go on? I’m not asking anything from this man, I just want to know that’s all. My life’s been one lie after another. Nobody wants to talk to me about this … I want to know, I have that right.”
She had already made up her mind despite what advice was given, when she had asked for that stupid favor, his mind instantly screamed no, but then she always had that way about her, he just couldn’t go against her wishes.
“Look, your twenty now, there is absolutely no reason you should set yourself up for more pain, why don’t you listen to me on this, he no doubt won’t believe you, why even try?”
“I’ve got to. Look, taking care of her, watching her slowly die each day, leaving me with a lot of unanswered questions, and now I have a chance to find him, if it turns out he doesn’t want to talk to me, then fine, but at least I tried. Now the question for you is … are you going to help me my friend?”
Moving his umbrella slightly, he watched the rain as it came down … ever since Claire’s death over four days ago, it had begun to rain and hadn’t let up, was this heaven’s way of grieving for the woman? Claire Mitchell had been a strong independent woman, working to support her and her young daughter who had reminded her everyday of the man who had stolen her heart.
Three months later…
She had made it, coming into Bay City around midnight; tired, she just wanted a place to lay her weary head. Paul had suggested she fly, that way she could take it easy and sleep if need be, but as usual she was stubborn and refused to listen.
The long drive had given her time to reflect on everything that had lead up to this very day. All her life, she was lied to about who her father was, first it was that someone else was her daddy, then when her mother divorced Michael Thomas, the story changed. Now it was that her real dad died when she was a baby, then it became something like he had left Claire to deal with the child, that he didn’t want her.
Even her mother didn’t want to discuss it. It was painful enough to look at her and see him all the time, but to be forced to live it all over again, to tell the story was just too much. Then came the sickness, that ugly devastating thing, the monster, the big C.
Claire had gotten diagnosed with it when her daughter had turned eighteen, from that time on, it only got worse. Soon it was she who cared for her mother, up until the day she died. The family’s friend had taken everything care of District Attorney Paul Wilcox.
Finally she’d found a vacancy in a remote little motel just on the better side of town. It was quiet just as the man promised, paying for the night, she then went and found her room, unlocking the door, she fell across the bed and within minutes was asleep.
That Morning
“How’s everything going? You what? Oh, well tell her I said hi … yeah it’s alright, I’ll just go up there … yes by my self! You don’t think I can what? … I know it’ll be three weeks, look Blintz, I’m not a baby, just let me know how it goes … I will … bye.”
Glancing at the clock, he quickly got dressed and cleaned up, today started his vacation, and for once he was going to enjoy himself no matter what. Before packing to go up north, there were a few items that needed to be brought. Hutch had even left him a list.
It had been their intentions to both go up north for three wonderful weeks of camping and enjoying the clean air, while co-habitating with nature, well that was his partners own words. As long as Starsky didn’t see another skunk it would be just fine.
A couple of years ago the two had been camping when he had spied the little fur ball slowly making its way along the path, he had thought it was a wild kitty of some kind, calling out to it, he walked towards the furry beast, only to be sprayed. Hutch damn near died of laughter, while his partner was made to sleep outside because of the horrible stench. It took forever to get rid of that smell, and ever since then, anything remotely resembling a black and white creature like that skunk made him nervous.
Now his stomach was telling him it was hungry, nothing in the fridge, his best bet was to go down to Pete’s Coney and grab a bite to eat. Locking the door he got into the Ford and drove off toward town.
~*~
The sun was shining and it was a beautiful day, people walked about, talking and shopping, doing whatever, just enjoying themselves. She stopped along the park, and sat down on one of the park benches; the young woman then turned her attention towards a friendly game of basketball between some youths.
When was the last time she thoroughly enjoyed herself? Her best days had been horseback riding with some friends from school. Skipping classes, she’d come home early to find her mother standing there glaring at her, very angry to say the least.
That was a memory she’d rather forget, it was also the first time that her mother had hit her like she had. Claire’s hand had connected with her face, turning the cheek a scarlet red. Angry and embarrassed, she had run off, not to return for several days.
Coming back to reality, she brought forth a bag from Mc Donald’s. Its contents were simple, one biscuit egg, and ham and cheese sandwich, along with some greasy hashbrowns and a small orange juice. The breakfast of champions! Finishing it off she watched the rest of the game, the bag thrown into the trash.
Takings out a piece of paper from her purse, she then laid it aside and checked on an address given to her by Paul. She then looked briefly around at the various signs; it was so hard to tell just which direction to head in.
During all of this, a man had quietly walked up behind her, taking his time he inched forward, carefully, watching for any signs of movement, finally close enough, he reached out and grabbed it, snatching the purse up off the bench, the thief then takes off. Horrified that something like this would happen in broad daylight, she screamed at him.
“Hey what the hell are you doing! That’s my purse, come back! Thief — Help — Police!”
Looking around frantically, she saw know one, that meant there was only one thing left to do; she had to chase him, quickly she took off, following the man, speeding up, gaining on him.
“God Dammit!”
~*~
“Thanks Pete, that was great, oh yeah the salsa did the trick, Hutch just doesn’t know nothing about great cooking, just that fancy stuff. See ya later!”
“Your right, enjoy yourself up north, talk to ya later Starsky!”
As he paid the bill, Starsky exited the restaurant. Outside he started to walk towards the Torino, unaware of who’s coming at him, hearing screams, he stopped in mid stride and watched – running right at him is Eddie Marshall a local thief, with of course, a purse. Starsky stepped back against the building concealed himself until the right moment when the man went flying by. As he reached out to catch him, the detective is blind-sided by someone smashing roughly into him.
Knocked back against the wall, he landed smartly on his butt, as he tried to clear his head, Starsky looked around he saw a person off to his left on the ground. To his right was Eddie, moaning on the sidewalk as he grabbed angrily at his ankle. Standing up, Starsky walked over to the sprawled form and offered his hand, all he can see at this point is a baseball hat, a brown leather jacket and a pair blue jeans.
The head is slightly bowed, sunglasses discarded off to the left, a slender hand reaches for them, slipped the pair on, then reached out and took his hand. Gently, but firmly he pulled the body up,
Letting go, the figure effectively dusts off the dirt from the blue jeans straightens up and looks directly at him, stunned he sees before him a beautiful young woman. Taking off her hat, she runs her fingers through her hair, right away he notices the soft honey blonde color – it’s cut short, showing off her pretty heart shaped face.
“Are you alright?”
“Yes, I’m fine. And you?”
“Oh, I’m O.K. Eddie did you take this ladies purse?”
“Eddie?”
“Yeah, that’s his name – right?”
Taking his shoe, Starsky lightly kicks at the man’s foot causing him to howl in pain, grabbing it Eddie glares at the detective. Shaking his head Starsky then looks over to where the purse lay just a few feet from the injured thief. Stepping over the man, he retrieves it, handing the item back to the lady.
“Thanks, What is your name? I didn’t catch it.”
“David and yours?”
“Hello David, my name is Jaz.”
Reaching out her hand, she shakes his, its warm and firm, the perfect handshake – Trustworthy.
“Jaz, that’s a rather different name – what does it stand for?”
She smiles, and for an instant he feels as though they’ve met before, but that’s impossible, he’d have remembered coming across such a beauty, drunk or not. This is a woman you don’t easily forget. Her smile is so friendly and honest; it’s the type of smile that makes a guy feel special – which is just for him.
“It’s a shorter version of my real name, which is Jasmine.”
“Very pretty, like the woman, I like it.”
“Are you flirting with me David?”
“Am I being that obvious?”
Blushing, she laughs and he joins in, finding himself liking her. For a moment, both have forgotten the injured man lying near their feet, until two uniformed office shows up, stopping their short lived fun.
“We got a call about a purse snatcher, is this the guy?”
Looking over, Starsky feels slightly embarrassed, never has he been so wrapped up with a woman that he’s forgotten his duties. Getting serious, he nods to Blanzy and Hamilton, cuffing the assailant, they help him to the waiting patrol car. Starsky follows and a few minutes later, he returns.
“So you chased this guy down, pretty good.”
“I was on the track team in high school and collage.”
“Ah, no wonder you can run like that, so you do long distance or are you a short shot?”
Another bought of laughter, this time he just watches, grinning, shaking his head, she laughs like a small child, it’s cute.
“A what?”
She notices that he uses his hands when he speaks. She likes it a lot. Standing back Jaz gives him plenty of room, watching this man in action.
“Like me, I tend to get a short burst of energy, making me run incredibly fast, but I can’t do long runs like my partner, now he runs every morning at least fifteen to twenty minutes. So when were chasing down criminals, he does the longer, around the block type things, I do more of the straight shot, the surprise gotcha’s”
“Did anyone ever tell you that you have a lot of energy to let out?”
“Yeah, all the time.”
“I see that. So you used the word “partner” let me guess, are you a police officer. Am I correct?”
“Very good, and I like the way you say officer. But we’re detectives, not uniformed.”
“Ah, so where’s your partner at?”
“Family emergency, won’t be back for a while. Which reminds me, I am on vacation for three whole weeks, what are you doing during that time?”
“Well, I just got here last night, I’m from out of state, on business.”
“Really? Where are you from?”
“Texas, Houston to be more precise. I’m not actually sure how long, it depends on what happens here, but I’m in no hurry. What are you going to be doing with your three weeks?”
“Before my partner’s “family emergency”, we were supposed to go up north, camping spending time with nature, fishing and doing a little horse back riding, stuff like that.”
“Wait a minute, you on a horse? Fishing and camping? I can’t see it. You seem more like a city boy than anything else. Are you sure about this, or is this more your partner’s sort of thing?”
“I do all those things and more. I love getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city for something more quiet and peaceful. Doesn’t everyone? How about you?”
Pulling down her sunglasses, she eyes him suspiciously, he wasn’t fooling nobody with that nonsense. He had too much energy, and it just didn’t fit him, but it would be a lot of fun watching to see what would happen to him in the wilds.
He saw her light blue eyes and wanted to get lost in them. But the one thing that really got him was that shy smile of hers; he wanted in the worse way to take those damn things off her face, to let him see the whole picture. Glancing at her small frame, he noticed she was tall for a woman, slender, and not too much so, her body was that of a runner. Not too soft, she was toned and had that peaches and cream complexion. Hmmm…perfect.
“Look, I’ve just met you, do you honestly expect me to go with you up north because you tell me you’re a cop? David, do I look that naïve to you?”
Holding up his left hand Starsky pretends to make a vow, closing his baby blue’s, brows arched, standing straight, he promises her.
“I David, do solemnly swear that nothing dishonest will happen to Jaz, I will be a respectable host, and treat Jaz however she wished to be treated. I will act as a gentleman at all times. I do this on my honor as a Bay City Detective.”
She stood there listening, trying her best not to smile, but it was very difficult. She knew at this instant for some unknown reason, that she could trust him. Besides how much would it hurt, if anything she’d be making a friend.
“Alright, but at anytime, you so much as break any part of that vow, your butt is history – deal?”
“Deal!”
As they walked back to where she had left her jeep, Starsky finds himself in the best mood since he didn’t know when. Ever since Terry’s death, he’d become a bit harder around the edges, closing off his heart against being hurt like that again, and it was only Hutch who had kept him from going over the edge completely.
Now this woman had him feeling pretty good, sure she was younger, but then just how young could she be? Once they reached her jeep, he was surprised to find a brand spanking new red one sitting there. She certainly didn’t seem the rich type, wearing nothing fancy or acting snobbish – what a turn of events.
“Nice jeep, like the color – is it new?”
“Actually it’s a couple of months old, but I like it, gets me where I’m going, let me guess detective work really pays off?”
“Something like that, here, let me get that for you.”
As he reached for the door, Jaz slapped his hand aside, shocked he looked at her, smiling, she then opens the door, getting inside, motioning for him to join her on the other side. Gladly he accepts.
“It’s not that I don’t mind, actually I love when a man hold’s the door, but I’m not helpless, I can do it. So where’s your car? I’ll take you to it.”
“Well we were just standing in front of it a few minutes ago.”
“We were?”
“Yeah, over there, come on get this thing in gear and I’ll show you.”
Within minutes the jeeps springs to life and she whips it around, making an illegal U turn, speeding up stopping just short of his car, pulling the jeep into a parallel parking space behind it, barely stopping in time before crunching his baby.
“Here she is, my girl.”
Getting out, Jaz looks at the huge car. Definitely older and brightly done, it’s something that can’t be missed … anywhere. Looking on the inside, she is surprised to find it clean.
“Nice huh?”
“Very.”
She runs a hand against it’s smooth glossy finished, recently waxed, hand waxed at that. The guy really loves his car that is for sure. She won’t hurt his feelings, but it looks like a striped tomato with wheels.
“Custom done?”
“Yep, by the best.”
“Thought so, you like red, interesting.”
“Is there a meaning to this liking red business?”
“Well it says a lot about a person, who he or she is. You believe in that?”
“Never heard it before, so what does it say about me?”
“Red means your very passionate in everything you do, white stands for purity, which usually means honesty.”
“Hmmm, and what is your favorite color?”
“Red and Gold.”
“Have to remember that … what does gold mean?”
“Integrity. So, when are we supposed to go up north?”
“Well I was thinking we could leave early Saturday morning, if this is O.K. with you?”
“So that gives me two days to get ready, alright that sounds fine to me, but we take my Jeep, it’ll get better gas mileage and we can easily store more. You can drive, since my driving seems to make you nervous. Do you feel better about this arrangement?”
“Actually, your driving isn’t all that bad, now you want to talk about bad, trying riding with my partner. That is bad driving all in it’s self. His car goes so slow, that a snail would beat him in a race.”
“Ouch, now that’s bad!”
Laughing, Jaz takes out a piece of paper, scribbles something on it and hands it over to Starsky. Checking it out, he finds her telephone number with her address. Carefully he puts it in his wallet before exiting the car. Waving, he gets into his own, then takes off.
~*~
Within two day’s they’re on the road, and the conversation is light and comical, weather is perfect and the time goes quickly. They stop briefly at a restaurant just off the road for some breakfast and coffee. Taking her sunglasses off, Starsky for the first time sees her beautiful face. She reminds him of a pixie, one of those little creatures you hear about in children’s fairy tales.
He can’t take his eyes off her, no mater how hard he tries, and now ever than before, that feeling of knowing her is there, tugging at him from the back of his mind. Then he thinks about his partner, wondering just how things are going for him back home.
“David, hello in there – is anybody home?”
“Sorry about that, was thinking about Hutch.”
“Ah, we have a name, so this is your partner?”
“Yeah it is, we’re close, you know, like brothers, been partners for so many years, came out of the academy together, it’s been a long time.”
“Yes, I see. Wish I had friends like that. But it never happened.”
“I find that hard to believe, you’re a great person, why no friends?”
“There is a fine line between friends and acquaintances, don’t you agree?”
He smiles at her – knowing all too well what she means. For himself he didn’t have too many people he called friend, not many at all. But Jaz? She was so outgoing and funny, not to mention the fact, she was beautiful on the inside as well as the outside. So why the loneliness in her life, she was indeed an unhappy person despite what she showed him.
‘You ready to go?”
“Aren’t you in a hurry, is there a curfew I don’t know about?”
“No, but I can’t wait for you to see this place, it’s wonderful!”
“I’m done, take me away!”
After paying the bill they leave, within hours the pair finally arrived at the place in question.
It’s a nice, small cabin; off to the left there’s a large lake with what looks like some trails going in different directions. Just down the ridge are the riding stables, and along the way, Jaz spots several raspberry bushes growing wild, trees are ever abundant, with various kinds of wild flowers in bloom. This seems more like a romantic get a way then anything else.
Unloading the car, Starsky then shows her the cabin; it has one room, a small kitchen and a medium sized living room. At least the structure has pluming and electrical, except for the shower, which was out back, just behind the cabin. Then is even a fire pit, not too large; it would easily make a nice place to cook various things. Immediately she likes it.
“So how are we going to do this? There is one room – considering your age – maybe I should take the couch…”
“My what?”
“Well, you are older, at least what? In your forty’s? Maybe early fifty’s?”
He stands there with his mouth slightly open, looking at her as though she had just hit him. Hands on his hips, his foot taps angrily against the floor. That comical expression on his face just floors her. Not able to contain herself, Liz snickers and then begins to laugh – her eyes water with tears as she leans against the wall, holding her stomach.
“No, I’m not that old!”
“I-I’m so sorry David. D-Didn’t mean to upset you…”
Again she laugh’s, not trying to but it’s the expression on Starsky’s face that says it all. She turns away and looks out the window – trying to gain control of her emotions and it works.
“Ok I’ve got it, since I am smaller, I’ll take the couch. Besides I really don’t like large beds. Never felt comfortable in them.”
“I love larger beds, more room, more fun – I uh, mean for tossing and turning. I do a lot of that, someone my age tends to need a lot of room. Now for a kid like you, well you’re just out of the crib, so it’s understandable.”
“Oh your good, real good. Alright I loose this round. So you want we catch our dinner or I can just whip us up something until tomorrow? Which do you prefer?”
“For tonight how about we catch our dinner, but right now let me show you around the area, there’s a lot of really nice places to go not far from here.”
~*~
Lying in the hospital room, Hutch hated it, he had never gotten used to dealing with the medical aspect of his job. No matter how many times he and Starsky visited the place, he’d ever find it a comfort to be at one. The doctors always felt they had to subject you to all kinds of testing and always prescribed too many pills. And as always he associated pain with them because it’s usually where he ended up because of it.
And now he found himself in one, but this was different, because his father had become ill, and the problem was diagnosed as Aplastic Anemia. This was an ugly disease, and if a bone marrow donor couldn’t be found, then Richard Hutchinson was a dead man, when asked what it was Dr. Vallance had told Hutch it’s meaning.
“What Aplastic Anemia is … let’s see how can I put this, alright, it’s result of complete bone marrow failure. New blood marrow must be located in order to help restore what is lost, without it the patient dies.”
“So just how do you go about obtaining the marrow from the bone?”
“Well, it’s obtained by aspiration after piercing the sternum or iliac crest. A transplantation is where healthy bone marrow is surgically grafted into another site, helping it to fix any problems that occurred from the unhealthy or infected marrow.”
“You mean the breast bone?”
“Yes precisely.”
“I see.”
At first, the senior Hutchinson had been put on a list, but his condition had quickly gotten worse, now he was confined to bed and didn’t even have enough strength to sit up on his own.
Not even his stormy relationship with Hutch mattered right how; it had become apparent that the man was dying. After exhausting every possible means his mother had called him, flying out Hutch was then found to be the perfect match, everything was set up and now he was the one to come to the rescue his father.
Try as he might Hutch couldn’t get the Doctor’s words out of his mind. He knew that what he was doing was very important, but the painful aspect of it all is what worried him the most, pain was not something he liked.
” … Obtained by aspiration after piercing the sternum or iliac crest…”
His mind wondered to Starsky, maybe he should have had him come, Hutch sure could have used some of his friends support right now. Earlier this morning he had tried to call him, but there had been no answer so he called Huggy’s. The bear told him that Starsky had gone up north for the weekend – surprised by this Hutch couldn’t believe his ears until Huggy finished the statement with the fact that he’d taken a girl up with him.
Figures. Couldn’t stand to be alone.
Now he laid there waiting for them to come and get him, even the shot that had been given by that pretty red head hadn’t helped relax him much. It was plain to everyone that the man was nervous, but then it was a painful procedure. Hutch couldn’t help but think that his dad had better appreciate this.
Right now he wished he were anywhere but in this infernal place. Like up north to fish and hike to just get away from it all, and having someone to snuggle with…like maybe his partner, his lover…
“Mr. Hutchinson? They’re ready for you now.”
“Great, lets go – oh and do me a favor?”
“Sure anything.”
“If I don’t make it, call this number and tell him to come get me?”
“Oh Mr. Hutchinson you’re so funny.”
“Yeah a million laughs.”
~*~
Their first night up in the cabin had been great. Starsky had promised her a nice time, and they had a blast. She made some kind of stew and it was cooked over a fire, and outside later they had a few beers and told scary stories. After awhile of laughing and singing the pair slept outside under the stars in sleeping bags. All had gone well.
That morning Starsky woke up alone, looking around she was nowhere to be found. Until he walked down towards the lake, there she was out on the water fishing. She wore nothing but a pair of shorts and a tank top along with those damn sunglasses. Her hair shone like sunlight against the backdrop of the sky – making him wishes he were those fish.
Spotting him, she waved – smiling he then motioned for her to come back – Jaz then laughed again then waves but this time it’s over towards the boat. Was she nuts? He wasn’t getting into that water, who knew what lurked in there – hadn’t she ever heard of the Loch Ness monster?
Making his way down to the edge of the water, Starsky pointed at the ground in front of him. She couldn’t believe him – shaking her head Jaz stood up – took off her top and shorts- leaving her clad in nothing but her bra and underwear and dove in. The cool water caresses her skin; the fish along with the other creatures in the water take off as she moves under the water silently making her way towards him.
He skims the water for her and sees or hears nothing – nervously he then calls out her name. Still there’s no sign of her – finally he starts to worry – taking off his shoes he wonders in, hands spread over the water. Walking over to the boat when he feels something swim passed – glancing around it’s now gone. Again he begins to move – this time it nips at his leg – increasing his speed Starsky clumsily falls back into the water.
He breaks the waters surface – coming up for air – his eyes dart back and fourth it’s then he sees a shadow of some kind in the water just off to the side from his vision. Reaching out he snags it and pulls the creature to the surface. Smiling Jaz pulls away from her startled friend.
“You – come here – wait until I get my hands around your neck!”
“You’re a short shot remember and I am a long distance – you’ll never catch me!”
“Maybe, but you’ve got to come back eventually and when you do – better to give up now and take your punishment like a lady.”
“Who said anything about me being a lady?”
Getting out of the water, Jaz then heads for the cabin leaving a very wet Starsky behind. Inside she dresses quickly and by the time he enters she is already dressed and rearing to go – one look tells him that today it’s hiking. Walking passed he just glances at her before disappearing into the bedroom – closing the door behind him.
For quite some time, they walk in silence – in front she busily checks out the scenery while from the back, he is dreamily watches the soft curves of her hips as she walks lazily along. It’s been almost two hours; the sun is high up against the sky – heat beating is down upon them. She stops abruptly and sits down with her back against a fallen tree, taking out her canister she raises it to her lips for a long drink.
Starsky walks over and sits next to her, scrubbing his hand over his face wiping the sweat away from his heated skin. Suddenly her head turns slightly putting a finger to her lips; she grabs his chin with her hand and points it over the fallen tree.
In the clearing there are several deer, three fawns are within the small circle. It’s a beautiful sight indeed. Looking around Jaz finds the buck and quietly shows him to Starsky. He is a large one; the points on his massive rack are too many to count. Standing against the silhouette of the sky, he is a majestic sight. Jaz also counts three doe’s as well. They watch the heard for sometime before the deer finally venture off.
During this whole time, he watches the young woman; she is so transfixed with these gentle creatures. It’s then that he realizes his feelings have increased for her though he has kept the vow he made, there is a small part of him hoping it will change. That intense feeling of knowing her is ever present. How he’s not sure, but it’s there again.
She leans in face only inches from his own – lips close her eyes still on the disappearing herd. Jaz has no clue what this is doing to her new friend. She looks just like an angel – so beautiful and perfect – Like Hutch – Does she even have the slightest clue how she affects him – how she makes him feel?
“Aren’t they the most beautiful creature’s you’ve ever seen?”
As she turns to face him, their eyes lock and she blushes a soft pink. Jaz can feel the warmth of his breath against her face – smell the fresh scent of spring water in his dark hair. And those blue sapphire eyes searching hers – looking into them …
She’s caught between him and the log, there’s no place to go, her knees are weak and her throat dry – Jaz wants to – she really wants to – but its her fear that keeps her grounded.
He knows automatically that she is nervous. It’s the sudden blush of her cheeks and the way she hides those soft tranquil blue eyes of hers from him. And that young, strong body, the way it’s trying to concealing itself.
Carefully he backs up, his eyes never leaving hers. Standing, he offers his hand – she unfolds herself and takes his hand rising up – resting against the log and takes in a deep breath, then slowly exhales – finally Jaz starts to relax.
Before long they start back on their small hiking trip. Along the way the pair saw many more animals; a couple of skunks – a muskrat and a large snapping turtle is sunning itself on a log. Just as the sun begins to go down, the pair make their way back; tonight they have trout over rice with mixed greens and some white wine.
After dinner Starsky drug out some board games and they play until well after midnight. Much later ice cream bowls are stacked against each other as the two watch old black and white movies of the little rascals. Glancing at his watch he notices the time, it’s three fifteen in the morning and she’s asleep. Feet on his lap, her head is snuggled up against the softness of two pillows she’s content. Gently he gets up and goes into the bedroom – takes a light blanket and covers her up then heads off to bed.
~*~
It’s been a couple of days now; everything looks fine according to the different tests that have been taken. But it’ll take some time before anymore can be said. Weak still, his father is doing better as the days go by, this is very good news considering what he was like not too long ago.
Hutch on the other hand is still pretty sore. This is not something he hopes will ever happen again, at least in the near future. As he sits in the hospital bed his mind wonders to Starsky and what he’s doing right now.
Probably having one hell of a good time – but with this woman?
He had tried several time to get in touch with his friend but to no use. And from what Huggy had told him, Starsky would probably be up there the entire three weeks. Great, so just was he going to meet this new woman? He knew there was nothing to worry about. Or did he?
What are you doing Hutch? Jealous already? Come on, it’s just you and Starsky, no one else…
But no matter how he tried, the blond just couldn’t shake this funny feeling.
~*~
“Hey come on, time to rise and shine – today we go horse back riding – hello, is anybody under there? David?”
Getting close, Jaz reached out and peeked underneath the covers looking for her tired friend. She knew he’s been in there somewhere, but Starsky is very unwilling to come out. Cocking her eyebrow she leaves the room for a minute, returning with some cool water from the lake – pulls back the covers and slowly drips one drop at a time on the man’s forehead – in the same spot.
After a moment or two his eyebrows knit together – he tries turning away from the infernal torture that she’s making him endure. Why can’t she just leave him be? Can’t Jaz take a hint – or two? Opening his eyes he finds her smiling radiantly at him. A cup over his head – she’s already dressed and rearing to go. God and he thought this was going to be easy.
“Lemme sleep mom, just one more hour, please…”
He puts his hands together as in prayer – beseeching her but instead she tips the cup further producing another drop ready to hit it’s mark. The woman is indeed driven.
“Alright, alright – just give me a couple of minutes – is this satisfactory with you?”
“Yep!”
Turning on her heel she then departs from the room. Within a few minutes he comes out from the room and sits at the table. Hungrily Starsky wolf’s down breakfast and grins up at her and notices right away she’s wearing long jeans and a snug fitting T-shirt, boots, but no backpack. Instead, Jaz has the keys to the jeep in her hands.
“Uh, were are we going, if I might ask?”
“I already told you – horse back riding remember?”
“No, I was half asleep – so not really.”
“Of course I did – don’t you just love horses? Let me guess, you don’t ride do you?”
“Some.”
“Some?”
Slowly she walks around him, trying to figure out just what he means by the word “some“, but in taking a guess Jaz would think that either he’s been and doesn’t care for it – or it’s never happened – at least not yet.
Well let’s go, I know I’m excited about doing this. I just love the feeling of something powerful between my legs and I’m talking about the horse.”
“I didn’t say a word.”
She cocks that that damn infernal eyebrow of hers. He tries not to smile, and at the same time he’s reminded of Hutch. Just how is he doing?
By noon, they’re riding through the dense undergrowth of the landscape. She of course is thoroughly enjoying herself, while Starsky is surprised that he is actually having fun with this. The smooth action of the horse walking along is something that he finds soothing to say the least – and the view isn’t so bad either.
They ride together in silence enjoying the bright sunny day lost in their own thoughts. She glances over her shoulder and calls out to him, wondering if he is still with her…
“So you enjoying yourself yet?”
“Course I am.”
“I just love horses – we have a ranch that’s where I was brought up, guess I was lucky huh?”
“Guess so – how long have you been riding?”
“Since before I could walk. When I was sixteen I broke in my first horse and ended up with a sore back after being thrown up against the fence a couple of times. But it was well worth it.”
“Thrown up against the fence?”
“Yeah, when you get on a horse that is wild – they’ll buck and run, trying to get you off their backs. So in order to tame them you have to work to gain their trust. Once this happens, then slowly you start adding the bit and saddle.”
“Just how long does it take to do this.”
“With me? It usually takes a couple of months, I take my time and don’t rush anything when it comes to my babies.”
“Babies?”
“Well yes, I consider them to be my babies. I love horses; they’re such a majestic and strong willed animal. Full of grace and spirit. Doesn’t it feel great to have such a powerful animal beneath you? The Indian’s believed that the rider and horse became as one when they rode together – whether it is in a hunt or otherwise – if each was suited for the other they became as a team – Like you and Hutch – it’s the same principle.”
“Yeah amazing alright.”
Now he was beginning to get a bit nervous – this was a big animal what if it went crazy like Jaz suggested they could? Then what? Irritated he pushed the thought away …
Oh quit worrying, what could happen anyway?
As they continued on, he got more confidant about this horse thing. The animal would snort and flick it’s long dark tail, and maybe shake its massive head but other than that it seemed very content. Matter of fact before too long he was smiling and thinking about how Hutch would be shocked to see him on one in the first place.
Without the animal reared up and let out a horrible sound, it began to kick using it’s back legs, the horse then started bucking and twisting – holding on for dear life Starsky tried to calm the animal as the woman had instructed using the reins as earlier. He tried his best to remember and do what she said but it was to no avail.
He felt as though his insides were being pureed – tossed about in the saddle he couldn’t keep a proper hold and found himself air born – crashing to the ground with a loud thud – his back connecting with a large tree just off to the left.
Starsky lay there in the tall grass unmoving on his back; the air knocked out of him and from all appearances he was out cold. Quickly Jaz got down and rushed to his side remaining calm – she began to check him for any signs of injury.
“David, can you hear me?”
Nothing.
His face was pale and his breathing labored. Yet he remained silent – this was not good by any means. She looked around trying to figure away to get him back to the riding stables, but nothing came to her. Jaz had to get him up and moving – somehow. Going over to her horse she got some water and a rag then came back over – got it wet and wiped his face – the cool water caused him to move his head – then he moaned in pain.
“That’s it, now slowly open your eyes for me – come on David stay with me.”
He said something, but she didn’t quite catch it – leaning in to him she tried again, but this time Jaz got one hell of a surprise has he then reached up and pulled her down onto him.
He brought his mouth against hers in a warm kiss. As she opened her mouth to protest, his tongue darted in and found hers. At first she got lost in the kiss, forgetting everything around her. Butterflies fluttered about, causing a tickling sensation in her stomach.
Then as she came back to reality Jaz broke free and pushed back against him – stood – and angrily kicked at him. Her face flushed with anger – her eyes were a dark blue she was clearly infuriated with the stunt.
“What in the hell are you trying to pull? You think that’s funny? Well it’s not, what if you had been seriously hurt in some way? God dammit David, I can’t believe you – of all the childish – oh forget it!”
With that she turned on her heel and walked over to his horse and checked the animal out only to find that a bee had stung it. After calming the beautiful creature she then took its saddle off and walked over to her horse, lifted the reins and got on. Riding over she got the other horse and took off. Leaving Starsky sitting there feeling like a complete idiot.
The long walk gave him plenty of time to think about, she reminded him of Hutch, when pulling a stupid prank, he would react in the same manner, and of course it would result in him being mad at Starsky for days. There goes that weird feeling again. Just what in the hell was going on anyway? Why was it that this woman reminded him so much of his partner?
Then he thought about it. Mentally he went over their similarities – both were blonde, tall and had almost the same personality. Both were nature nuts – and he was sexually attracted to them both as well. Great that’s all he had needed; well he had to nip this in the bud and quick.
He and Hutch had been lovers on and off for quite some time, they had always like both, or so it seemed. The talk of moving in together showed that things were getting pretty serious. He hadn’t even thought about another, let alone wanted another – until now.
By the time he got back it was almost night and he was not only sweaty but also hungry and tired. Seeing the lights of the cabin was a wonderful sight, then he thought about her and sighed – might as well go and get it over with.
Jaz on the other hand had been stewing about what he had pulled ever since she’d gotten back to the small rustic cabin. She had lost her temper and felt stupid for doing so. Leaving him was not smart anyway she looked at it. He could be out there lost but for some reason she highly doubted it. What had possessed him to do such a thing was beyond her.
Then there was the matter of the kiss. She could still feel the lingering effects on her. It had been one of the most excitable kisses she had ever felt. And Jaz had experienced her fair share of kisses, but this was something else. Now she couldn’t forget about it for anything. Not only had she tremendously enjoyed it, but the other feeling as well. The sexual tension was so thick it could have been cut with a knife, and she wanted more of it in the worst way.
She was just setting the table when he entered the cabin; the smell of food made his stomach growl. Starsky watched her for a minute before speaking. Trying to figure out the best possible way to apologize for his behavior earlier.
“Hey I’m back and ready to eat. It smells good. Look Jaz, I, uh I’m sorry about earlier –
I was way out of line and I just wanted to apologize for being…”
She turned around and he was surprised to see her smiling at him. He cocked his head a little, trying to figure out why she was being so nice. Then she came forward and gave him an ice-cold beer and told him to relax while she finished setting the table. Right away he didn’t trust her, but he did as she requested and waited patiently.
“It’s ok, I was the one who was harsh with you. I hope you can forgive me for leaving you like that, it wasn’t right and I am very sorry. Are you hungry? I hope so, because I’ve made some homemade beef stew and biscuits.”
His eyes lit up at the mention of food, then the smell hit him again and he grinned at her -the fight already forgotten. Later they ate heartily, and then both had a bowl of ice cream as they shared some comical stories about one another.
“I’m going to take a shower, be back in ten – I’m pretty dirty and need to get this gunk off of me.”
“You start with your shower and I’ll get you some towels and bring them to you.”
She waited a few minutes then went to get them. By the time Jaz made it out to the back of the cabin, she could already see him showering. All that could be seen was his shoulders and arms as he washed his hair, then the rest was blocked off until you got to his legs.
As she inched closer Jaz could tell he was all lathered up and unable to see because the soap had gotten into his eyes.
“Shit! Dammit I can’t see – Hello Jaz? I need that towel – please?”
Try as she might the young woman couldn’t help but to snicker at him being so helpless, that’s what he got for playing that little prank on her earlier. But as she watched him Jaz felt an urge hit her. The first time she met the older detective she found him attractive and very sexually exciting, yet she was shy for some reason. Now that she had the chance Jaz was going to take it – besides she owed him one from earlier.
Carefully she opened the shower’s door and crept in – closing it behind her Jaz then came up behind him and placed the towel in front of him – where upon feeling it, he grabbed hold and wiped his face. Turning around to say thank you, Starsky was shocked to find her standing there in the shower with him looking directly into his face – the water soaking her to the bone.
She smiled tentatively at him as he approached her. Serious now, he cupped her face with his hands he brought her face close, his mouth found hers in a very light and warm kiss. Then he moved his hands away and placed them on her hips drawing her near. He felt the light touch of her hands as they slid up his back and around his neck pulling him against her.
Slowly the kiss intensified and they’re bodies became hot, engulfed by a burning desire to explore one another, he took his time and stripped her, first her shirt and bra, then kneeling down before her, he unsnapped her shorts and slid them off, within minutes her panties followed suit. Standing back from her he looked appreciatively at this angel before him.
She was beautiful – like he knew she’d be. The closest thing he had ever seen to an angel before. The soft curves of her small body enticed him drawing Starsky near, wanting to taste her, to feel her against him in the worst way. Yet he wanted to carefully love her with all the gentleness that he could muster.
This was indeed a change for him, considering he and Hutch’s sex games, which included trying to aggressively wrestling each other to the ground, it was usually very intense, and their strengths were almost equally matched. And it took Starsky every bit of strength he had to pin his taller lover.
Jaz was very pleased with what was in front of her. She found her new friend to be very sexually attractive indeed. From his broad shoulders and furred chest to down to his taunt stomach and muscular legs, he was truly something to behold. As she gazed at him her mind screamed that she was being foolish just having met him, she had no business doing this. Quickly she dismissed the thought as he pulled her close.
It felt like electricity once their bodies touched – she started to nuzzle his neck, planting tiny kisses along his neck and shoulders, bringing her hands down across his shoulders in small caressing circles. While he lightly caressed her sides, causing her to stop what she was doing and let out a soft laugh, backing up a bit against the wall of the shower.
With hungry eyes and a slight grin he advanced on her, hands outstretched, fingers wiggling at her. Jaz’s laughter became like squeals as she tried to get away. Now he knew her secret, she was extremely ticklish and him knowing this was more ammunition for his use against her.
“Don’t!” (Extreme laughter)
His eyebrows raised his grin became even more pronounced as he continued on, circling her. He playfully pretended to grab at her several times, causing the young woman to shake her head in attempts to stop him, not able to say anything because she was laughing too hard.
“Why?”
He lunged at her, stepping on a bar of soap she fell back and slid down the shower stall, right onto her butt. He broke out laughing and before long joined her as Jaz pulled on his ankle causing him to fall down in front of her. The moment suddenly changed as he reached out and pulled her onto him. He wanted her, and there was no reason to be coy, yet he gently began kissing her, letting his hands wonder, playing, touching and caressing her in a very delightful fashion.
Quickly her body responded to his loving ways. She found herself whimpering as he used his tongue licking and kissing lightly the inside of her ear, moaning with delight as he felt her against him, feeling her hands touching him everywhere and it felt as though he were on fire.
Then he kissed her deeply for a moment and began to go down, nuzzling here and there, kissing her along her breasts, down to the smooth surface of her flat stomach around the soft insides of her thighs. Jaz was in sheer heaven as she closed her eyes and felt the electricity flow through her; she shook with each kiss that he landed on her already sensitive skin.
She moved about, arching her back as his mouth found her sensitive area just above the hairline. Then carefully and ever so slowly, his tongue traced just outside her vagina.
Darting in and out, driving her moans to increase in volume. Taking his time, he began to sucked on her clitoris, this made her jump unexpectedly and he laughed softly more to himself then out loud.
Glancing up, he watched her for a second then continued on, trying to calm down his already excited cock, as it pulsated strongly against the floor of the shower in protest, at being ignored. I can’t stand this much longer – he thought as she started to whimper and softly called out his name, getting more excited by the minute, moving her hips up towards him even more – begging – pleading, he knew she was starting to peak.
He brought his arms up under her hips and held her in place. Heart in his throat he tried to make it as sweet as possible before entering her but found it extremely difficult – he was already to go. Finally he made his way up towards her face, kissing her passionately entering her at the same time.
She latched onto him in a very heated embrace and moaned against his ear, pulling him even closer. He placed his hands on her hips and drove himself deeper and began to pace himself, at first he was slow, then as he became heated, his thrusts quickened. God she felt so fucking good!
Feeling as though his heart was going to explode, he nuzzled her neck, she arched her back and placed her legs over his hips, driving him deeper into her. Both came immediately.
The water by this time had turned icy cold and both were freezing as they left the shower’s stall. Quickly making it back up to the cabin, Starsky only hoped no one saw them considering their predicament.
Getting into the cabin, each went in search of some dry clothes. Later in bed, she fell asleep in his arms; he however didn’t get a wink of sleep – thinking about his partner all night deprived him of such a luxury.
Damn if he wasn’t screwed.
~*~
The next two weeks went by quickly and they enjoyed each other’s company. Jaz had grown quite attached to her new lover, but knew it was over. She had things to do and unfortunately he wasn’t part of it. He had been a wonderful comfort to her, helping her to feel special and she’d never forget that.
Now as they headed back to the city, she found herself thinking about the task that lay ahead of her, and she was scared. Starsky had been watching her for awhile now. Quiet, Jaz seemed to be in another world. He felt sorry for her, wishing he could help in some way, but she wouldn’t discuss it at all.
They reached Bay City around one o’clock, after helping him unload the jeep, she kissed him affectionately on the cheek and gave him a long hug before getting back into her vehicle and drove off. Once she glanced at the rear view mirror as his figure disappeared against the backdrop of the houses.
By the time she reached the motel, there was a package waiting for her. Sitting on the edge of the bed, she picked up the heavy envelope and tore it open. Inside Jaz found a note attached:
Jasmine,
I hope this will help. These black and white photos are of your father and mother. I think they were taken in either junior high or high school but I’m not sure. Also there are some letters that your father wrote to her.
Hope this helps a little – also I finally found out where he was originally from, it’s called Duluth, Minnesota.
Good Luck and remember if you need me I am here.
Love,
Paul
Dumping out its contents, she quickly reached for the photos and looked through them. There were eight total. On the back of the first one, in her mothers handwriting it said “me and Ken – 1958” In looking at the picture she definitely looked like her father, from the blonde hair, clear down to his smile. She even had his height and slender build. Her mother had been short, dark haired and petite. It was a little spooky to say the least.
The rest of the photos were of younger years, and each picture was like looking into a mirror, just in color. She felt some pretty different emotions coming through right now. Yet in looking at these pictures, he looked like such a nice man. How many times had Claire told her about looks being very deceiving? Too many, but was he all that bad, or had something else transpired?
If he had cared about her mother, then why didn’t he do anything about it? Like taking her away and marrying her or at the very least help her out, take some responsibility for what he had done.
Quickly she found the old and tattered letters; these should shed some light on a few things. What she wasn’t too sure, but if anything they might give her a clue into who he was and how he felt about her mother anyway.
The first letter she picked up was labeled first, then second and so on – from the looks of things it might take awhile, what else did she have planned for now? That was simple in it’s self – nothing, nothing at all.
July 6, 1958
Claire,
I don’t know how, but my father found out about what happen on the fourth with us. We got into a huge fight and now he watches me constantly. He even told Peter to keep tabs on me, I know he doesn’t let dad know anything.
Dad also threatened to send me to a private school to keep us apart, I hope he doesn’t. I can’t see not ever being close to you again.
I got your last letter mother snuck it to me. I’m sorry about your grandmother. I hope your doing ok. I’ll write soon, don’t worry.
I love you.
Kenny
September 15, 1958
Dear Claire,
It’s been awhile since I’ve heard from you. Your last letter was over a month ago. I hate this stupid school; it’s nothing like ours. The people here are very cold and artificial. Acting like their better then anyone, I hate them all.
I Hope things there are getting better for you, I think about us all the time and I am trying to save up some money. Soon, hopefully I will be able to come home and see you.
Until then remember,
I love you.
Kenny
November 2, 1958
Claire,
It’s been rough around here; my father found the money. We got into a fight and now he won’t give it back, I just know he took it in the first place. Mother promised she’d mail this for me, I don’t know when I’ll be able to come and see you.
Try to believe that I will come for you, soon we’ll be of age then there will be nothing that they can do to separate us.
You’re on my mind constantly,
I love you.
Ken
The last five letters that were forwarded to her home in Texas; the original dates had been December of 1958; January, February and March of 1959. The very last letter arrived April 12, 1959.
Jaz was born April 11.
In his last letters, she noticed that he had indeed tried to keep in touch, begging her to respond in someway to let him know if she wanted to continue on or had she found someone else.
But from what was in his letters, she never answered back. It had been her mother who broke it off – hurt and angry that Claire had lied to her all these years, Jaz became very despondent and trashed the room out of pure hurt and feeling betrayed by the one person she thought loved her.
Only to find it was all a lie.
Finally having no more strength left she fell asleep on the floor, holding her father’s letters in her hands…
~*~
The phone rang for the fifth time waking the sleepy man, causing him to fall out of bed. Finally answering it, by his tone it showed he wasn’t all that happy about being woken so abruptly. Gruffly he answered it.
“Lo…”
“Starsk?”
His eyes opened immediately upon hearing Hutch’s voice, God he sounded good. His voice changed quickly from grumpy to happy.
“Hey Blintz, so how ya feeling? God but I miss ya. So when you coming home? Soon I hope, it’s been lonely around here with you.”
“Not from what I heard. So what’s her name?”
Shit!
He had talked to Huggy; only the bear knew about his plans. Dammit, oh well he’d have to tell what he could. This was going to be interesting to say the least.
“Uh Jaz. She’s a sweet kid, new to Bay City. So I thought I’d take her up with me to the cabin. You know I don’t like to be alone in those places.”
“You just picked up some stranger and took them to keep you company? Now that’s a first considering your record, I figured it to be something else. So did you enjoy yourself? How was it up there – just the two of you?”
He didn’t like the sound of Hutch’s voice, it was searching for something and Starsky wasn’t going to just up and volunteer. At least not over the phone now that would be rude period. He missed his angelic lover and couldn’t wait to have him back – to love him.
Yet a part of him also missed Jaz and her shy ways and affectionate nature. He had wanted to call her but was hesitant because of how they parted ways. Try as he might the vision of her wouldn’t leave his head, nor would the sexy night they both shared.
“Oh it was nice, not like it would have been if you were there. I got thrown by a horse and hit my back against a tree. But I was alright, despite how hard I hit it.”
“You actually got on a horse? What did she do threaten you in some way or tie you up?”
“It was nothing like that, I just decided to try it, that’s all. Wasn’t too bad up until I got tossed into the air like a football. Then we also seen a herd of deer and some other critters – went hiking – ”
“Did a lot didn’t you? Some of those things you would never do with me – So was she a decent cook?”
“Decent hell Jaz was great! It was always something different ya know – like one night we had trout with wild rice and white wine, a salad and roll – then another night she made beef stew from scratch with biscuits. Then another night – oh man hutch there’s so much to tell – all I can say is this woman cook!”
“Yeah, yeah I get it Starsk, look I’ll be coming home tomorrow. The flight is American Airlines, number 125. Out of gate 10, at 3:45 p.m. think you can be there on time?”
Dammit, he fell for that one in the worse way. Well, Hutch had asked him a question, so he gave him an honest answer. He already knew what was going to happen when Blintz came home – hell was going to break loose.
“Of course, when have I ever been late picking you up? Never, so now get some rest and I’ll see you tomorrow.”
With that he hung up the phone. Getting his keys Starsky left and went to the store, he’d have to stock up for Hutch’s return home. Couldn’t leave his fridge bare, especially since it hadn’t been that way when the blonde left. Eating there had been easier then at his house until it need to be re-stocked, that was a different matter.
~*~
As soon as the plane touched down, Hutch automatically felt better. Now he was truly home and couldn’t wait until he got to his own place so he could relax the way he wanted to. However that was not to be – his partner immediately noticed how pale and tired he looked as soon as he saw him – immediately Starsky took him back to his place where he babied the hell out of him – after feeding Hutch, Starsky then made him go to bed.
By Sunday morning Hutch felt much better and evidently so did Starsky – Hutch was awaken by a slight nibbling on the inside of his thigh. Opening one eye carefully he found a nude Starsky laying on his stomach, down between his own legs – one thigh over his dark haired lover’s broad shoulders, where Starsky was now licking and kissing the back of his knee.
Hutch rolled his eyes upward, mouthing a thanks to whoever might be listening at this moment. Then he put his left hand into Starsky’s curls and gently brought him up, while with the other, he grabbed a hold of his erect cock and placed it in front of his partners mouth.
“Let me fuck your mouth – Oh God that’s it Starsk, take me to heaven babe – Ohhh God – slow down – don’t want me to cum before I’m ready – Been thinking about you fucking me in the ass – Hard and fast – Ohhh that’s it. Keep it coming babe!”
Hutch’s moans enthralled his partner to the point of no return. Sweat formed at Starsky’s hairline and slid down his back as he felt his angelic lover’s cock get harder by the minute and jerked inside his mouth. The blonde’s hips moved back and forth – his leg muscles tightening around Starsky as he was getting ready to cum.
“Stop, oh god I need a second – lay on your stomach, that’s it now relax and let me take care of you my way.”
Starsky lay on the plush bedspread waiting for Hutch, the he felt something-sticky and cold push gently between the cheeks of his tight ass, stopping just short of the entrance.
“Whoa there buddy, that’s cold!”
“Is it? Hmmm, here let me help you think of something else.”
Leaning forward his lips grazed Starsky’s ear – his warm breath caressing it as he moaned into it. Hutch licked around the outside of the lobe – kissing softly down his jawbone – towards his neck. There Hutch began to suck and nibble at the base, going down into a straight line. His aching cock pushing against the small of Starsky’s back, leaving its mark as it went over his lovers skin.
Looking back, Starsky caught the glint in his lover’s eyes that only meant one thing; Hutch was out to drive his friend crazy in the most sensual way possible. Evidently he had thought up a new idea and his curly headed friend was the experimental rat.
“How does it feel? You like that cold sticky feeling against your sweet ass?”
“Hutch – its cold man. Come on and hurry up get that off will ya?”
“Oh I plan on getting off, don’t worry about that one bit!”
If Hutch didn’t hurry up, Starsky felt as though his “sweet ass” were about to become a frozen popsicle – wait – no he wouldn’t – would he?
Slowly he felt the slight motion of “it” being moved backward then forward – up and down. He could feel the sticky substance liquefying and seeping down the crack of his ass into the softness of his pubic hair making his balls sticky. Then as quickly as it appeared it was gone.
Something warm and wet caressed his butt cheeks – it was Hutch’s tongue going up and down – pushing against the entrance – sucking away at the juice that hid it’s self just inside.
Damn but it felt good.
Hutch smiled devilishly as his mustache tickled his partner, causing Starsky’s muscles in his ass to contract – and jump. It was funny and he had his friend right where he wanted him.
As he licked him clean, his own cock became hard and Hutch stroked the head until it became sticky and wet. As he continued on, he then used his lubricant to slick up the shaft and enter his already hot lover.
It felt strange; the popsicle had made his ass numb, yet once Hutch’s cock was inside, he could feel it. The width of his cock made Starsky all the more excited as he moaned and moved up against Hutch, trying to get him to go deeper.
“Oh is that what you want – huh? For me to go deeper? How bad you want it hmm? Tell me Starsk, how bad do you want me to fuck you?”
Nodding quickly using his muscular arms, he pushed back even further, Starsky could literally feel his lovers shaft penetrate further in, rubbing back and fourth over his hot spot causing him to moan loudly.
“Fuck me Hutch! God dammit fuck me so hard that I can’t feel any more. I can’t take this teasing shit – just go already!”
“Oh no – not yet, I’m going to make you beg and plead for it. Then I might consider and give you relief – not a moment sooner.”
“You fucker!”
Starsky growled out the words before he could stop himself and heard Hutch snicker. Then he figured it out. Why hadn’t he thought about it before? Hutch was getting back at him for what had transpired up north. Now he understood. But while he wasn’t paying attention, Hutch had gently pulled out and retrieved the handcuffs and was just clicking them onto his ankles – fastening them to the bed.
“What are you doing –”
“Having some fun, now give me your arms – come on Starsk – what? You don’t trust your own partner? Your Friend and lover?”
Starsky felt stupid – how many times had Hutch trusted him?
Thrusting out his arms, Hutch then grabbed them and tied them together with some rope, then he stretched it taunt and pulled it to the headboard tying it in a secure knot. Coming around to face him, he knelt down and kissed Starsky deeply, his tongue darting into Starsky’s mouth and bringing him near the boiling point. Drawing back he grinned sheepishly and watched as his partner’s dark head slumped forward out of pure frustration.
“When I get out of this mess you are so dead.”
“When I’m done you’ll be too tired to walk – Partner.”
Within the next half hour Hutch licked and kissed his way all over the back of Starsky’s body, leaving a trail of Goosebumps in his wake. Starsky’s limbs ached and he was ready to explode, but the blonde would not stop nor would he give him satisfaction.
Finally unable to contain himself any longer, Hutch uncuffed his lover’s ankles and with one strong pull – flipped him over onto his back – now the fun was going to begin. Soon it would be over.
Hutch leaned over his tied up lover and began kissing his chest, at the same time running his hand down, he lightly caressed the head of his partners cock, fingering it he then lifted himself up placing his own cock against it. The feeling of them rubbing their hard pulsating shafts against each other damn near drove them both over the edge.
Then Hutch went up and kissed him long and deep, Starsky moaned with pleasure, flicking his tongue against Hutch’s while his angelic lover caressed his pulsating cock. The Blonde could feel its wanting hardness to be released.
So finally he took mercy upon his partner and broke free of the kiss moved down and took the large, stiff penis into his mouth. Slowly and very carefully he pushed it down his throat. Hutch took his time, it was so long and thick, making him all the more persistent in finishing his task at hand.
During this highly sexual time of aggression Hutch watched as Starsky pulled reverently at the ropes that bound him, trying to free himself. But it was that damn knot that held him so securely, it bit into his flesh, but he was so crazed with sexual desire that it didn’t matter. All he wanted was relief from what Hutch was doing to him.
Then his eyes widened, and his mouth opened slightly as he exploded against Hutch’s, still swollen appendage, thrusting as much as the cuffs would allow, he moaned and groaned until he was damp from thrashing about so much. He collapsed into the bed, his breathing rough – he was exhausted.
Hutch on the other hand was still hot and unsatisfied – he kept going – masturbating his eyes locked on Starsky’s while continually rubbing his throbbing cock with his own hand in front of Starsky’s lust filling eyes.
Finally he jerked and cam, calling out his lover’s name with passion filled emotion and fell next to him sweating and his breathing labored. His blond hair plastered to his head he turned and smiled up at his partner whose face was now calm and quiet.
“Starsky?”
“Well I’ll be damn-”
He laughed slightly – his lover had fallen asleep, so worn out by all the energy that he had expelled in trying to free himself – it was quite a site to say the least. Hutch couldn’t wait until morning to rib him about it. Slowly he uncuffed Starsky’s ankles and undid his wrists – then he caught sight of the bruising and felt guilty. Damn if he shouldn’t have allowed it to get that far.
Without warning Starsky sprang to life and grabbed his shocked partner, pinning him instantly against the bed – using his weight, the blonde was subdued quiet easily. His dark blue eyes shining, Hutch realized then that he was indeed fucked.
“Thought you were cute huh? Oh you haven’t begun to see what I can do –”
~*~
With in the next three days, the men were very busy, the crime rate seemed to jump over night and they had just found out that three of the men that they’d put behind bars had gotten paroled just recently. One of them was being the man who had killed Terry. So needless to say, Starsky was not in a good mood at all. Hutch tried everything to get him to come out of it but nothing worked.
During this time Jaz had started her own little investigating about her father. She had gone to where he lived and met Mikki his cleaning woman. Just finding out he had returned and was back to work. When asked where, the happy old woman told her and explained what he did.
“Oh Ken is a detective for Bay City – but then you didn’t know that did you, oh that’s alright. Yep, he and his partner have worked these streets forever. How do you know him?”
“Well I uh, I’m doing a article about cops and their work around the more crime infested area’s.”
“Never seen you around here before, where did you say you’re from?”
“Sorry, I didn’t … my name is Michelle and I am from a newspaper in Houston, Texas called the Globe. We heard about these two and wanted to do a story on them. So here I am.”
“Oh well that’s wonderful. Uh my name is Mikki and I’m his cleaning lady. He should be home around six this afternoon if you want to come back, or I suppose you could call the police department and ask for Detective Hutchinson. That would probably be your best bet.”
“I see, well thank you Mikki and have a nice day – Uh, what?”
“Well don’t I get some sort of tip for my information?”
“Uh tip? Oh yes, a tip – here ya go – Now what?”
“I have two cats – just can’t make it on what I get. Prices are so high now days – ”
“Yes I bet they are – here. Better?”
“Oh honey, thank you and God bless.”
“I sure hope he does.”
She kept close to his neighborhood, asking questions and such – finally her snooping led Jaz to a couple of people who then told her about Huggy. Going to the address they gave her, she ended up at the Pitts. Inside she spoke to the barmaid about him as she ordered a tea. Within minutes the small black woman came back with the tea, and a tall slender black man at her side.
“I heard you were looking for me, Miss – ”
“Oh you must be Huggy? Hi, my name is Michelle and I’m with the Globe in Houston, Texas. We’re doing a story about cops and their work around the more crime infested areas.”
“Well I’m afraid that’s already been done. Matter of fact it was about a couple of years ago.”
Huggy definitely didn’t believe her. She looked far too young to be some reporter, but there was something very distinctive about her – he just couldn’t put his finger on it. Either way she didn’t seem dangerous just plain nosey. Oh well it wasn’t his problem, he’d leave it up to the guys.
“If you want I could contact them for you, just leave me a number where you could be reached. They usually come in here from time to time after work to wind down.”
“Really?”
“But it’s hard to say when.”
“So you’ll let him know that I’m looking for them?”
“Of course.”
“Thanks, Mr. Huggy.”
“Uh, its just Huggy.”
“Right.”
After she left, Jaz went and got a phone book, and then she called the Metro Bay City police department and asked for Detective Hutchinson. Hoping and praying that he’d answer the phone but when he did then what?
~*~
They had just left Dobey’s office when the phone began to ring; Johnson picked it up and waved Hutch over. Covering the mouthpiece he handed it over grinning up at the blonde.
“For you, Hutch.”
He glared back, then glanced over to his partner, who was at the moment stuffing his face with a submarine sandwich and a cold pop.
“Detective Hutchinson can I help you? Really? I see. Uh, anytime – yes I don’t have anything going tonight. That would be fine – what is your name again? Alright see you then. Bye now.”
Hanging up the phone he looked to Starsky, who was watching his partner as he finished off the rest of his sub. Drinking the remainder of the pop, he then swallowed the contents and dusted his hands off.
“What was that all about, if I might ask?”
“A reporter wants to interview me for a article that she was sent here to do – has something involving cops and the more heavily crime infested areas that they work in. Her office has picked us because of our backgrounds, but she wants to do the interviews separately. With me going first. So tonight I’ll be meeting her at that little coffee shop near my place. Pretty interesting huh?”
“You sure about this? Remember who’s been released. It could be a trap for all we know.”
“So then follow me and wait. If anything goes wrong, then you’ll be there to back me up.”
Nodding in agreement, they both finish their day and got ready for the meeting after work excited at the prospect of meeting the young lady who sounded so serious on the phone. Hutch couldn’t wait; not that there could be anything between them, he had Starsky, but just to flirt a little with the beautiful sounding woman surely wouldn’t hurt. Besides it might teach his overly impetuous friend a thing or two.
Following Hutch from three cars behind, Starsky’s mind wondered to Jaz. The shy young woman had been on his mind ever since they had parted ways. He had even tried calling her a couple of different times but she never picked up.
Didn’t she say something about being here on business?
It was almost six by the time Hutch parked the old Ford outside the coffee shop, peering though the window as he entered; he caught a glimpse of her in the back. The first thing he noticed about the woman was her soft features of her beautiful face, then it was the unique coloring of her blonde hair – much lighter then his own, yet not so much so that it made her looked washed out.
Legs were crossed; she sat straight up reading some documents that were in front of her. Her attire was rather casual, wearing tan slacks and a soft pink sweater. Her short hair was tussled; the whole thing suited her to a tee.
Upon entering the coffee shop, Jaz noticed him immediately. His gait, the way his shoulders were pushed back – chest out – head held high and his eyes were straight forward; giving the impression that he was a very confident man.
As Hutch walked straight to the back of the small shop, a friendly smile played across his handsome features, making him all the more attractive. His eyes were warm and friendly as he approached her.
“Hello, you must be Michelle, I’m Detective Hutchinson.”
“Hello Detective, please, sit down.”
He sat down and the waitress arrived – he ordered an ice tea – offering her the chance to do the same, instead she smiles politely and refuses.
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, but thanks anyway, I’ve already had two of them.”
“Oh – you’ve been waiting awhile then? I’m sorry I thought I told you –”
“Oh no, it’s alright, yes you did mention to me what time you got off work, but I got here early to reserve us a seat and to get everything set up.”
“Ah, alright then, that’ll be all, thanks.”
As the waitress left, Hutch turned his attention back to the young woman who looked a bit nervous. Jaz finds herself caught up in those warm eyes of his – so kind, they hold so much emotion. She finds herself thinking that maybe this was a mistake – he doesn’t deserve this – leave – just make an excuse and go. He’ll never know the difference.
“So, about this interview, where would you like to start?”
As he smiles, she suddenly feels like a fool, she should have listened to Paul. Glancing up at him, the young woman knows what she must do.
“Look, I’m sorry to have put you through this, but the truth is I’m no reporter – matter of fact there isn’t even a story. I’ve got to go once again, I’m sorry to have wasted your time.”
Now very confused Hutch looks directly at her trying to figure out just what’s going on. But she has turned away from him, grabbing the envelope next to her. As Jaz stands she pulls the wrong end of the envelope up towards her – it’s contents spilling out all over the floor.
Immediately she kneels down and begins to try and gather all the paper up, Hutch at once bends down to help her when he spots some black and white pictures. Picking them up he’s shocked to find there of him and Claire.
He immediately eyes the young woman and his eyes narrow; his jaw starts to tighten as his heart rate jumps up. Who in the hell is she and how did she obtain these pictures? His voice is much deeper and more menacing as he begins to question her about what is going on.
“How did you get these pictures? Who are you and what in the hell is going on – start talking – now!”
Quickly she feels her eyes begin to water and Jaz starts to shake, discovering that this wasn’t as simple as she thought it was going to be. Now all she wants to do is run, go back to Texas and never leave again. Paul had been right after all; this wasn’t worth it in the least bit.
The past should stay in the past – some things are forbidden, and should remain that way – for the most part.
Just then a crowd of young people come towards them, laughing and carrying on. Before Hutch can get a firm hold of the young lady, she gets her chance and takes off. Dodging the waitress whose hands are full, she glides around her and out the door. Hutch sprints out after her within seconds of Jaz’s departure, watching as she runs across the street, weaving in and out of traffic.
Waiting for a chance, he then takes it and veers off in the opposite direction, knowing where it will take him. If he figures this right, he’ll catch up with her before she can get too far. Starsky in the mean time sees the whole thing and can’t believe his eyes. Gunning the Torino to life, he squeals the tires as he takes off going around the park, stopping just in front of the alleyway, blocking the entrance. Turning off the engine he then sits and waits.
She stops just in front of an adult bookstore, Jaz goes inside and walks to the back. There are three men and an old woman in there browsing around. She finds the “theater” and slides through the curtain into the darkroom and sits down – trying to blend in. Desperately she tries to catch her breath, she’s now thoroughly scared and only wants to get back to the hotel so she can pack and leave.
“Hey is this seat taken?”
Her head snaps up as she recognizes that voice – looking up, she sees it’s Starsky. His eyes meet hers and immediately he can see that she’s scared. Settling down next to her, he smiles and right away she relaxes.
“Want to tell me what’s going on? Why is Hutch chasing you?”
“He’s your partner – that’s Hutch?”
“Yeah, that’s Hutch, well it’s a nickname, his real name is Hutchinson, but I’ve called him Hutch since the academy. What’s wrong with you anyway? You look like you’ve seen a ghost?”
“Where is he?”
“Looking for you, now would you mind telling me what is going on? I mean you just out ran my partner and believe me if I know Hutch and I do – He’s mad as hell right now. So it’s best we let him cool off a bit first. Now Jaz tell me what’s going on.”
“How much time do you have?”
“All the time in the world – let’s get out of here unless you want to see how this ends.”
Looking up, Jaz suddenly blushes and Starsky starts laughing, shaking his curly head, he stands and offers his hand. Once he checks and sees that everything is clear he and Jaz leave. Once inside the Torino Starsky takes her out to dinner, then to a local bar where they can talk.
~*~
At the bar, Starsky finds a booth near the back. Watching Jaz, it’s very apparent that she is still nervous. So when the barmaid comes over, he orders for them both.
“Hey Sally, this is my friend Jaz, could you get her a Long Island Ice Tea and me a beer?”
“Sure, anything else for right now?”
“Naw, were alright but thanks.”
“Ok, be I’ll be right back.”
She disappears into the growing crowd of people making her way towards the bar, then comes back a few minutes later with the drinks. Setting them down she smiles at Starsky then leaves. Jaz can’t help but to give a small laugh once she’s gone.
“What’s so funny?”
“You, that’s what. Its obvious that you two had something, or were busy with each other at one time, I find it cute really.”
“My but aren’t you observant.”
“I guess I could have been a detective huh?”
“Now that’s funny.”
“Oh really?”
“Well I didn’t mean it like that exactly.”
“So how did you mean it – exactly?”
“Uh, why don’t you have a little sip of your drink first, it’ll help you calm down and relax.”
Upon trying the drink, Jaz finds it pretty much like a regular Ice tea. Then she takes another sip and starts to drink it rather quickly. It’s good. Starsky watches her with amusement as she drinks the powerful alcoholic beverage.
“Hey slow down, that stuff is pretty strong and it’ll make you sick if you’re not careful. I learned that the hard way.”
“It doesn’t taste so powerful I think you must be mistaken. From the look of that beer, you can’t really drink all that well anyway.”
Now she’s done it. Saying he can’t hold his liquor is not smart; Starsky’s been drinking longer than she’s been alive. He’ll show her who can do what. Leaving the table for a minute he comes back with the same drink as Jaz. Settling down he grins at her then holds the glass up and salutes hers and takes a long drink.
“Let’s see who can do what missy. I’ll give you a little room considering your age and all but I must warn you, I’m pretty damn good at this.”
“David –”
“What? Now you want to back out? I knew you couldn’t do this –”
“No – you’ve got yourself a contest Mr. Smart ass. Let’s go!”
Within the next hour they drink the potent beverage and dance. He finds that she’s quite the challenge, holding her liquor pretty well. Jaz watches as her drinking partner continues on without fail, as both take their time trying to undermine the other.
Before too long, both are drunk and quite happy. Having danced to numerous songs, they are tuckered out and collapse against one another in the booth, laughing, Starsky asks for another round.
“I have to give it to ya, not bad at all. You’re keeping up, doing good there Jaz.”
“Why thank you.”
Doing pretty well at hiding it, the truth was that Jaz is trashed. She was just good at pretending that’s all. Starsky on the other hand is doing great but then again as he had stated; he was used to all of this. He just knew how to bait her and visa versa.
Reaching over for a napkin, she brushed up against his arm, spilling some of his drink out of the glass onto his shirt. Apologizing profusely Jaz begins to wipe at the stain then glances up towards his face and finds him watching her with this look – of hunger in his eyes. For a moment she freezes then slowly brings her lips up to his, kissing him full on the mouth.
Setting the drink down rather clumsily, Starsky reaches for her and wraps his arms around her, pulling Jaz tightly against the warmth of his body. The kiss turns very aggressive, as both are lost in their heated little world. Within minutes, he finds himself rock hard, and she, very receptive – its time to leave – to go somewhere more private – like his place.
Paying the bill, the lovers leave the bar and head for the parking lot, arms around each others waists, they laugh and carry on, stopping briefly to snuggle against each other and steal a kiss. God but she feels so soft and smells like heaven – he wants to take her here and now but that’s not his style.
~*~
In the moonlight it’s hard to see the intruders, but they’re there. Slowly they make their way towards the couple, weapons in hand, knowing he’ll put up a fight – this one usually does but without his partner it should be easy, so they think.
At first Starsky doesn’t see them his mind solely on her. They kiss and it’s so sweet, he runs his and in her hair smiling into that sweet angelic face of hers. It’s been hard for him to love Hutch and care so much for Jaz, but it’s happened.
“Having fun detective?”
Hearing that all too familiar voice, Starsky turns his face towards the three men standing there, weapons drawn, two have bats, while the third is slapping a tire iron into the palm of his over sized hand. Instinctively he pushes Jaz behind him, facing the three men on his own. He feels her begins to shake, frighten by what she is seeing.
“What do you want, don’t you have something better to occupy your time, like playing in traffic?”
“We want the girl, now hand her over and it be so hard on you – well not really.”
Laughter springs up, like the guy just made up some wonderful joke. Instead, Starsky glares at them and gets ready for the worst.
Hutch, where in the hell are ya when I need you –
Leaning his head back slightly, he whispers to the scared young woman.
“When I give the signal you run as fast as you can and don’t look back, no matter what happens – got me?”
“But what about –”
“I said run and I mean it!”
He didn’t intend to growl at her, but she didn’t have a clue, and he couldn’t bare the thought of her getting hurt. He didn’t have time to explain it. Slowly he began backing up with her behind him, looking for a way out, somewhere she could run while he dealt with the three stooges.
“Where ya going there cutie?”
Looking behind them, was another one, this guy was tall and lanky, nothing to worry about, but he was still blocking the alleyway, the one exit out. Finally Starsky did what he could and pushed her back hard, she fell back against the unforgiving pavement as Starsky took off like a shot – yelling for her to run as he slamming into the three men like a human bowling ball.
It was the only word he got out before decking the one to his left as he swung at the detective with the bat. Dunking, Starsky came back up, striking out with his right leg, catching the other one in the groin area. Then he’s knocked down as the man on the right sucker punched him, falling backward; all three get up and began swinging their weapons at his body. Terrified she stands for a moment, too scared to move until Jaz hears the crunching of someone approaching her…
~*~
The man stood between her and freedom, his hair slicked back, he grinned at her with hungry eyes, this alone is enough for Jaz to run, but she’s got to get passed him first – getting up, she stands just feet from her attacker and looks helplessly around
“Oh what’s the matter honey, can’t move? Am I scaring you, huh?”
“Get back or else!”
He takes a step towards her, laughing as he does, delighted in the fact that he’s frightening her. As he does this, she takes aim and whips a rock at him, it connects painfully with his forehead and he cries out. Angrily he wipes the blood away and reaches out at her as she runs passed. Instantly he takes off, and it’s not long before he’s right behind her.
All the way down the alleyway he runs after her making threats as he closes in, stopping at the edge of the street, Jaz turns and sees the man coming at her. He slows down watching her closely, inching forward, taunting her.
Just as he gets close enough, she steps off into on coming traffic, the guys eyes widen as he watches her run across now it’s his turn. However as he begins to follow a semi comes barreling down, striking the man dead.
Shocked by what has just happened, Jaz stands there unable to move at first, then slowly her mind goes back to Starsky…
~*~
Coming back to the scene, she finds them kicking and stomping his still body, glancing over at his car, she sneaks over to it and gets in, quickly she hotwires the large car – pops the clutch and swings it around bringing it to a stop in front of the men.
The car’s engine growls in protest as its occupant floors the gas pedal, making the car move forward. As the lights are flicked on, the men find themselves blinded by the high beams, grabbing the thirty-eight out of the glove compartment she then carefully opens the door and steps out, leaning into the door for balance. The voice, which is unmistakably female, shouts at them.
“Back off or I’ll shoot!”
The balled man laughs and steps forward his eyes aggressively looking at her – a smile on his scarred face.
“What are you gonna do shoot me? You little fucking bitch!”
Looking directly at him, the young woman takes aim and pulls the trigger, sending off a round into the man’s leg. Glaring at her, the other two grab their wounded friend and pull him back – retreating as they go, cussing up a storm.
Once she knows their gone, Jaz then goes over to check on Starsky, unable to wake him, she gets back into the car and tries to radio for help.
~*~
Hutch had been searching for the young woman for hours and had no luck locating her. He’d even tried Starsky and even he had seemed to vanish – Just what in the hell was going on around here as of late? Was everyone crazy or was it just him?
After becoming hungry and too tired to think anymore, he finally decides to head home, quickly he glanced at the envelope and the pictures on the front seat on the passenger’s side then frowns. As he pulls into the driveway, the police radio come s to life as a small, but hysterical voice starts pleading for help…
“Hello is anyone out there? Can you hear me? please I need some help, it’s urgent, uh man down – hurt badly – needs medical attention – I don’t know what to do – attention, please help me, attacked – again he is hurt – someone – anyone!”
“Zebra three, Zebra three – this is dispatch – what is your location?”
Long pause…
“I’m not sure – Oh God he’s hurt bad – needs help, he’s bleeding and unconscious – please hurry!”
“Try to calm down Miss, who is hurt?”
“David – I mean Detective – Starsky, he’s not responding,-“
Upon hearing his partner’s name, Hutch feels his chest tighten as the fear begins to take hold. Grabbing the mike from its place on the radio, he then speaks to the frightened young woman.
“This is Detective Hutchinson – what is your name?”
She thinks about this for a split second, not really wanting to tell him, yet it’s not about her, this is about Starsky – he could die.
“My – my name is Jasmine.”
“Ok Jasmine, now calm down and breathe deep, take a look around and tell me what you see – are there any street signs that you can make out? Or any land marks?”
“We’re in a parking lot, just in back of the bar.”
Her voice was erratic and scared – though her crying he couldn’t understand what Jasmine was trying to say. Hutch had to calm the young woman – he had to get to Starsky – there was no telling how badly he was hurt.
“Slow down – your going too fast – you’ve got to remain calm, understand? It’s the only way your going to help him, panicking will only make matter worse.”
“God dammit I’m trying!”
Closing his eyes, Hutch said a silent prayer and slowly opened them once again. This time he spoke in a very soft tone. As the warmth of his voice comes over the radio, it begins to slowly calm her, shaking – she holds the mike and Jaz tries and makes herself calm down –
Close your eyes and listen to his voice – just listen. Don’t panic.
“Jasmine you still there?”
“Yes.”
“Great, you’re doing good, now you talked about a bar – can you remember the name of it?”
“I think its – Oh God I can’t remember – No wait; give me a minute – the name is something to do with a tower – that’s it! It’s called the East Tower!”
“Alright Jasmine, I’m on my way, I’ll be there, give me five minutes. Cover him up and stay with him, an ambulance is on its way. Oh, and you did a great job.”
Replacing the mike, she took off her jacket and laid it across him trying not to cause anymore pain. She had pushed him on to his back, looking for more cuts or other signs of either broken or swollen limbs.
There was movement under his lids, she saw it, but he never opened them. She sat with his head in her lap and spoke softly to him, trying to reassure him that help was coming. At this point, Jaz didn’t know if it were more for her or him that she was doing it, but it helped her feel better.
“I called. Hold on, they’re coming, What a mess huh? You tried so hard to protect me and this is what you got, but don’t worry things are going to be fine. Soon your partner will be here and he’ll take care of you. I can hear them, I’m sorry David, but I’ve got to go.”
Leaning over, she kissed him gently on the forehead, trying not to hurt him, to cause anymore discomfort. Carefully she moved his head and rose, glancing at him one last time, Jaz then exits just as the police and ambulance arrive.
By the time the ambulance pulls up there were other police cars that arrived on the scene. Hutch pulled up next then made his way through the officers, flashing his badge as he went. Spotting Starsky quickly Hutch knelt down and looked into his battered and bruised face. The paramedics had just finished applying the bandages to his forehead and taped down the I.V. when Hutch began asking questions, none of which could be directly answered.
Nobody had seen Jasmine at all; she had just vanished into thin air. All that remained was a tan bomber jacket that had been used to cover his partner. Nothing else. The Torino’s door had been left open and the thirty-eight was back in the glove compartment that was it.
Starsky remained unconscious as they lifted him into the ambulance. Shutting the door on his worried partner’s face. The blonde stood outside staring back at the closed doors, wondering what had taken place and where in the hell was this Jasmine woman?
And what was Starsky doing with her?
~*~
The big man walked back and fourth, angered by what had happened. They were supposed to have gotten her by now. Then the phone call was to be made and that cop Hutchinson would come, but instead everything fell apart. Since getting out of prison over two years ago, he had planned and schemed to get his revenge.
And he’d have it, one way or another.
As morning made it’s way into the large rustic style house, the man called together some of his employees that would be handling the job. Once they were all there, the talk began. Making it quiet clear, there was no fuck-ups permitted at all.
She was not to be hurt in anyway at least until he said so, she would be brought out to the old farmhouse and held until the exchange could be made; it would now be easier with the man’s partner out of the way. This time revenge would be complete. For him and his loss, he would be greatly compensated. Finally all involved would pay the price and he would regain what was rightfully his.
Everything had gone well, and then that stupid whore had gotten that detective involved. She wanted to go straight, to live a normal life with that cop. But it wasn’t all that simple, the woman had been his once good source of income for quite sometime and he wasn’t going to give that up so easily, at least not without a fight.
After her death, that cop had come after him with such a vengeance that it had cost him and those he held dear to loose everything they had so painstakingly built. Gone in an instant. Grossman toys were no more, but neither was she. Still it hadn’t been enough, Hutchinson had to suffer, as he had in order to understand the way of things – and he would.
With his own flesh and blood – he would.
~*~
When Starsky finally woke up, the clock was hard to see. His vision seemed blurred and he hurt all over. Then he remembered. Looking around the room, he noticed Hutch’s lean frame in the chair, next to the bed, resting peacefully, his head against the softness of his leather jacket. No one else was in the room – where was she?
Shifting slightly the pain hit without warning, causing him to gasp for air as he fell back against the pillows. Grabbing at his sides and moaning, this at once woke up his sleeping partner that came to his side.
“Hey there relax and try not to move around too much, how you feeling?”
The grin didn’t fool Hutch; it was there merely as a deterrent, nothing else and he knew this from dealing with is stubborn friend before. The bruises really showed themselves now, even through the darkness of his skin they were very transparent.
“Had better days – Where is she? Is she alright?
“Who Jasmine? She was gone when we got there – who is she Starsk and what happened?”
He tried once again to get comfortable. But it was difficult, the pain was everywhere, no matter how he tried to get comfortable – it hurt. Getting irritated he cursed and threw back the covers, reveling his tattered body, it was one big bruise.
“Damage report.”
The words came out in a low growl, the pain showed itself in his attempt so speak, Starsky was careful – taking small frequent breaths – trying to make it go away, but was very unsuccessful.
“You took one hell of a beating, they really worked you over partner. But surprisingly nothing is broken, Doctor says your lucky. So, do you know who it was, or why they attacked you in the first place?”
“No, we just came out of the bar and were going back to the car when they appeared out of nowhere. Bats and crowbars in hand demanding I give them Jaz, like I really would just say Oh, here ya go, see ya later schweetheart.”
“Starsk, who exactly is this Jaz – wait Jasmine? She’s the one that I was chasing am I right?”
“Yeah that’s her, look Hutch try not to be so hard on the poor woman, she’s just a kid really. This is all new to her; you just scared the living hell out of her that’s all. Running and chasing her, what’s she supposed to do? We both know you can be intimidating as hell when you want to be.”
“Me? Is that why you found her and took her without saying anything? Look something strange is going on. Things that I don’t understand, but I’m about ready too and soon. She left behind a folder when she took off, I’m going back to read it and get to the bottom of this whole mess.”
“Just don’t do anything rash, that’s all I’m asking – alright buddy?”
Hutch stared at his partner for a minute trying to figure out just what was going on inside that thick head of his – but it was hard to tell. One thing the blond knew for sure was that Starsky really liked her.
“Your pretty attached to her aren’t you?”
“Yeah well – you could say that, she’s special, I can’t explain it but there it is.”
“I see – alright now isn’t the time for this, the more important question is what do you remember about the fight?”
“Not much, bits and pieces really, but what I do remember is her saving my butt from those thugs, and calling for backup – staying with me until everyone arrived – shit Hutch she protected me. We have to find her before they do, whoever they are.”
“What do you know about her?”
“Well she’s from Houston. Texas and her name is Jasmine, but I call her Jaz. She’s here on business, for what I don’t know. Oh and her family own horses – a ranch. And she comes from money.”
“Well whoever she is, I can tell you one thing, I have a funny feeling that I’m the reason why she’s here.”
“What do you mean?”
“Remember when I went to meet her? Well she dropped an envelope with some documents in it, some papers. There were these old black and white photos of me and this girl that I knew back in my school days, her name was Claire Mitchell.”
Starsky’s face showed what his partner was thinking; how did she get them and why was she looking for him in the first place. Now he understood Hutch’s tense mood, not to mention his anger at the situation, rehashing what he had done, Starsky felt guilty for having kept her from his very anxious partner.
“Sorry Hutch, I shoulda never done that to you.”
Leaning over to his friend, Hutch laid a hand upon his partner’s shoulder and tried to comfort him. There is something special about this woman, even the blond felt it and that was only from a few minutes with her. Still he had to know where the photos had come from; he couldn’t rest until it was taken care of.
“It’s ok buddy, but I think for now we need to find her, something definitely is going on, and from the sounds of it, she’s in danger.”
~*~
Jaz had made up her mind; tossing and turning last night, the painful realization of not wanting him to know her finally hit hard. He had no idea she existed, so why bring this kind of unnecessary pain into his already hectic life? It really wasn’t worth it. Not only that but just because she was young, didn’t mean that Jaz was stupid. There was something special between the two men.
Without being seen, Jaz had watched as her father had sat with his dark haired counterpart, close to the bed, leaning in against him – no Jaz was not dumb, it was all to clear – they were lovers. Was she hurt? Strangely enough no, unintentionally Starsky had helped her over some painful hurdles. But she wasn’t going to push this father thing any further. Now all she needed to do was finishing packing and gas up the jeep, then leaves as quietly as she had come.
By the time that Jaz had gotten everything packed for the trip back to Texas it was getting dark, she of course would leave in the early morning which meant getting to bed as soon as possible. Dog-tired, she finally reached her destination and unlocked the door, as she entered it cold hands grabbed her from behind. A rag was placed over her mouth and nose, her body reacting with fear as she begins to fight back, but her attackers held strong and she began to feel woozy, then darkness invaded her mind and her body went limp.
“Jesus, for a little thing she sure put up a fight!”
“Yeah, yeah, now lets get outta here before we’re seen, I’ll check to make sure it’s clear, then you carry her out.”
~*~
Once he’d left the hospital Hutch went back home and ate some dinner then grabbed a beer, sat down and began to go shift through the contents of the envelope. After he read through all of the papers, Hutch then decided to call the phone number listed for Paul Wilcox.
The phone rang for quite sometime; just as he were about to hang up, a very deep, groggy voice answered. Hutch could tell by the manner, in which the man spoke that he had been sleeping.
“Hello.”
“Mr. Wilcox?”
“Who wants to know?”
“This is Detective Hutchinson, from Bay City in –”
“I know who you are, how can I help you?”
“It’s about a young woman by the name of Jasmine, she’s your client and I’m calling to ask you some questions about her.”
“Detective, what my client does is her own business and further more, I will not have you calling my residence this late at night without a good reason, now good night.”
“Look, I do have a damn good reason for calling you -Your client has photographs and I want to know how in the hell she got them; I know you have the answers! Now we can do this the easy way, or the hard way, it doesn’t matter, but I’ll find out the truth. Test me and you’ll see just how serious I am.”
There was a long pause, and then slowly the man began to talk. At first Hutch couldn’t believe his ears, but as Mr. Wilcox continued on, the detective knew he was telling the truth and it was painful to hear. Knowing that Claire had intentionally kept the pregnancy from him hurt in the worst way. Her betrayal was not only to him, but had been to Jasmine as well.
“I am so sorry that this happened like it did. She wanted so badly to find you and to have a link to her past. I was scared that you might push her away, not knowing you personally and from what Claire had told me, I wasn’t too sure. Please, I was just trying to protect Jasmine from being hurt any further.”
How could Hutch be angry with the man? From what he had gathered, Paul had tried since Jasmine was a very young child to protect her from what pain she endured about her father. Standing in when school functions had asked for fathers, he had tried his best to be not so much like a one, but more of a friend.
However, the young girl wanted to know about her daddy, and as she grew older, Jasmine became more possessed with finding out who he was, no matter what the cost. Until finally it drove the two women apart. After her sixteenth birthday, right up until the day she died; Claire never spoke to Jasmine again, even though the young woman took care of her mother until her last moments on this earth.
By the time Mr. Wilcox had finished telling him the whole story, Hutch hurt for Jasmine’s pain and suffering and for his own as well. Now the only thing he knew was to find her and talk this thing out. Thanking the man he hung up and took a shower then finished up another beer and finally went to bed.
~*~
The next morning before going to her place, he stopped at the hospital and told Starsky everything that was said last night. Surprised, the dark haired detective just sat there trying to take in what his friend had just conveyed to him. Hutch paced back and forth still trying to pick everything apart to understand it better, making Starsky crazy.
“Whoa, stop right their, look just go and talk to her, explain everything and see what happens. You – well we’ve wanted this forever now you’ve got your chance. Hutch, you are a real dad. Don’t let her go without talking to her, Jasmine is your daughter. Look at her for Christ sake, she’s your twin, no wonder I was so attracted to her!”
Hutch lets out a laugh and smiled at his ambitious lover, Starsky has always been the one to see the rainbow at the end of the tunnel, and it was one of the many reasons he loved him so. Shaking his head he grabbed his jacket smiled affectionately at his friend.
“Thanks Starsk, I owe you.”
“Yeah, well pay me later Blondie when I get out of this insane asylum. Now go and talk to your daughter.”
With that, Hutch disappeared out of the room and headed down the hall towards the elevators, deciding to take the stairs instead; he ran down them and out to the old Ford. His heart skipping a beat as he drives out the parking lot.
All the way there, he was in a good mood. Starsky was right, she was his daughter, late or not, and within time maybe he could make things right with her. The more he thought about it, the happier he became.
Arriving at the hotel where she was staying, Hutch found it to be a nice place. Going up the stairs into the main lobby, he asked for her. The clerk checked and tried to call, not answering he looked out the window.
“That’s strange, her vehicle is here, but there’s no answer. Look, just go down the hall and turn left, it’s the fourth door down on the right. Room number is 279.”
“Thanks.”
Whistling as he went down the softly lit hallway, he finally making he stopped just outside her door, trying to think of what he’s going to say, until Hutch sees that the door is slightly ajar. Drawing his gun, he knocks lightly. No answer. Now he calls out to her, still nothing.
Pushing against it, he entered – immediately he found her purse on the floor, tipped over, it’s contents scattered about, upon further inspection of the place, he found little things out of sync. A chair knocked over – all her things are packed and ready to go. Car keys lay on the table undisturbed. Something is very wrong.
Going out back to the desk, Hutch finds the man whom he talked to earlier. His head -bent over a magazine of some sort, is not paying attention to anything around him. Easing around the desk, the blond leans in and angrily whispers in his ear.
“If anything has happened to her, your mine. Now which one is her car?”
The sudden jolt of someone next to him scares the youth, jumping back his finger goes to the buzzer just under the desk.
His eyes cold as ice, Hutch produced his badge and held it out for the teenager to inspect before continuing on with his street voice – the one used only for interrogation. He leaned in closely – making sure he had the kids full attention – checking out his nametag before he continued on.
“That’s right Joey, hit the buzzer, then we’ll really find out what is going on – I’m a detective with Bay City, so go ahead, like they say in the movies – Make my day!”
Bringing his hand back from the buzzer he looks away for a minute then glances back at the cop, God he hates them! Always snooping around and getting pushy with the normal people.
“She drives a candy apple red jeep, it’s a new one. Parked over there – under that tree.”
He continues to eye the kid, then walks back around and leaves out the doors towards the jeep. Unlocking it, he checks out the vehicle and it’s contents. A full tank of gas and everything else makes him think that Jaz was going leave in the morning, but instead never made it.
Question is where’d she go, or better yet, who’s got her?
~*~
Jaz woke up confused and her head throbbing. As she went to move, but the room began to spin and she fell out of the small bed. In trying to stand – found it nearly impossible and sank to her knees, after awhile she tried again and this time made it.
Slowly she took a couple of steps and once she found her footing, Jaz walked around the tiny room. There was nothing in it except for a wooden chair and the bed. Not even a rug or wall decoration was to be found anywhere. The only other thing that caught her eye was a small window just off to the left of the room; the door of course is locked.
How long had she been here? And where was here? Going back into her mind, the only thing she remembered was entering the hotel room, hands holding her, then that cloth, the smell –
Her stomach lurched forward and she immediately sat where she had stood. Looking around for a bucket, there was none to be found in the tiny room. Closing her eyes against the ever-present feeling of wanting to throw up, Jaz placed her head between her legs and takes deep breaths until it passed.
Throughout the day she waits, yet no one comes, not even a sound is made. She’s past getting hungry and her throat’s dry. Just then she hears the click of what sounds like a lock being undone, then the handle does a slight turn. The door opens and in walks a rather large bald man with a limp, his face is horribly scarred, behind him is another man, and this one is older with thinning gray hair and dark cold eyes.
As they approach she stands immediately, waiting for the worst. Instead the older of the two looks her up and down evidentially appreciating what he sees. Sitting down he then brings the cane next to him and grins, he reminds her of a shark with his toothy smile, ready to strike and kill without warning.
“So glad to meet your acquaintance Ms. Mitchell. I think you and I have a lot in common, more than you know. Your father and I go back, he’s the reason you’re here today.”
Jaz says nothing but watches him closely, not sure what to make of all this, what she does know is how she got here. The man makes her nervous, and the more she looks at the other, it becomes painfully clear that he’s the one that caught the bullet that night in back of the bar.
“I can no doubt understand why you’re so quiet, and I don’t blame you. But I want revenge and I’m going to get it. Your father took a lot from me, my blood sweat and tears, even my family paid a price. Now it’s his turn and since you’re his daughter – Well I’m sorry to say that you’ve been cheated.”
In Al Grossman eyes, her arrogance is more than he can take, the resemblance to Hutchinson is amazing to say the least which will make it all the more easier to kill her as well. Even her defying stance is too much, the way she cocks her eyebrows at him, the slight tilt of her head, giving Jaz that I’m better than you attitude is what really sets him off.
All at once he is up and in her face, spittle sprays her delicate features as he yells at her menacingly. Getting within inches of her he growls, his anger peeking, she can see the veins in his large neck begin to swell, his face turning red. She stands her ground, not breaking eye contact, keeping silent. But this proves too much as he backhands her across the face, sending Jaz up against the large chest of the bald man.
“Bruce – hold her and make sure she doesn’t move! You see my friend here is very strong, and well, he’s also a bit angry with you for shooting him like you did. My guess is he wants to give you a little something in return.”
Wrapping his arms around the young woman, the man traps her against him. She moves in protest, yet can’t find a way to get free. Slowly he begins to tighten his grip with his massive arms, she finds that it becomes increasingly hard to breathe, he’s crushing her and there’s nothing that she can do. Slowly she begins to pass out from lack of oxygen; the last thing she remembers is the men’s laughter –
Blackness
“Wake up you fucking bitch – come on!”
The shock of having ice cold water thrown into her face, Jaz sucks in a sharp breath, her eyes flying open. At once she feels that her wrists and feet are secured to the chair, but now she’s in a different place. And her ribs hurt, not to mention her back.
“Now were going to make a phone call and I want you to do as your told, if not, then your pretty face won’t stay that way for long. Bruce will be right here, so don’t get any funny ideas. If she even so much as says something to tip him off, you know what do.”
“Oh yes Mr. Grossman, I won’t let you down, besides me and Blondie here have a few things to work out, don’t we honey?”
Not answering quick enough, he smacks Jaz upside the head, causing her to yelp at the sudden attack. Glaring at the ape of a man she speaks before thinking, causing more problems.
“Fuck you, motherfucker!”
“A real sassy little bitch I see, well that can be fixed you fucking cunt!”
He hits her again and this time splits her lip, causing the blood to flow freely down her chin, Jaz closes her eyes against the sting of being hit so hard. Clamping her jaw tight fearing what she might say, the young woman instead bows her head.
“See Mr. Grossman doesn’t take much, you just gotta know what to do.”
“Yes, so I see. Now let’s do this hmm.”
Reaching over, Grossman dials the residence of the detective and waits –
~*~
Sitting there, it was driving him crazy. He had been all over the area, talking to Huggy along with a dozen other people, and still nothing. Hutch had come to the end of his patience, but there was nothing he could do. Finally he had gone back to see Starsky and that’s when he told his partner what had happened. To say the least, his friend didn’t take it well either.
“What are you saying there Blintz, I mean how long have you been –”
“All afternoon, and still nothing; I’m worried about her, but I don’t have one single clue.”
At that, Starsky threw back the covers and got up, yanking the I.V pole along with him; he went into the closet and withdrew his clothes. Stunned Hutch watched as he started to get dressed. Finally when he couldn’t get any further because of his shirt, he stopped and glanced over at the blonde who just sat on the edge of the bed watching in disbelief.
“Just going to sit there and admire me from a far, or are you going to help me?”
“You can’t leave.”
“The hell I can’t, watch me!”
“Starsk – ”
“Hit that call thingy right there – yep that one.”
A few minutes later a voice comes over the intercom, its Connie the station’s head nursing supervisor.
“David, can I help you?”
“Yeah, could you be a real sweetheart and have someone come in here and get this thing out of me? I’m going home.”
There is a slight mumbling in the background followed by an angry voice. Clearly they don’t want him to leave, but that’s just too bad, because like it or not this man’s on a mission.
Within minutes Connie arrives with the hospital Doctor, trying to talk him out of leaving proves worthless and soon she is taking out the I.V. The young intern tries to tell him that they’re not responsible for any damage might occur if he leaves of his own accord.
“Ok, ok I’ve got it, now for the last time, thank you Connie, it’s been a pleasure, but duty calls and I’ve got to run. Bye.”
Within minutes the pair are in the old brown Ford and headed back to his place, it’s been a long day to say the least, now tired and wanting something to eat, they go back to Hutch’s. Getting supper ready, his mind is clearly on Jasmine, not even remotely aware of his lover’s presence at his back.
As he is stirring the spaghetti sauce, Hutch feels his friends arm goes around his slender waist, drawing him in. Then without saying a word, Starsky nuzzles his forehead against the back of his worried lover’s shoulders, as he his hand begins to make tiny circles on Hutch’s stomach. The effect starts to calm his painfully worried partner.
Hutch closes his eyes and leans his head back, allowing Starsky to sooth him and it’s working, as he mechanically turns off the stove and relaxes against his partner’s touch. Bringing his head back and with his other hand, Starsky places it upon the small of the blonde’s back and firmly holds it there.
Then the phone rings.
Turning around, one glance says it all as Starsky quickly moves out of the man’s way, clearing a path for Hutch’s lean frame to make it through, damn near bending in two, the detective reaches the receiver on the third ring and picks up.
“Hello?”
“Detective Hutchinson, Glad I caught you at home – I’ve got something that belongs to you.”
“Grossman?”
At hearing that man’s name, Starsky’s face darkened – his own body went stiff just knowing how Hutch’s feelings ran for this man and all the pain he had caused. It had taken so long for the blond to push the tragedy to the back of his mind, now that piece of shit had Jaz.
“You remember me, how nice – then I’m sure you remember everything else about our last encounter. Your daughter is just like you in so many ways. Why were becoming fast friends, aren’t we sweetheart? You know just between the two of us, she could make one hell of a living – like Gillian, if you get my meaning.”
Closing his eyes against the anger that was building, Hutch’s face and body language was showing his emotions clearly to his very concerned partner. Rocking his frame back and forth, head slightly bowed, Hutch managed to control his voice.
“Let me talk to her – now.”
“Certainly.”
At first he heard some mumbling, then she came onto the phone, her voice quavered and he could tell she was terrified, making things worse in his already tortured mind. For an instant he was back with Gillian and it was happening all over again, but this time his own daughter was involved
“Jasmine, are you alright, they haven’t hurt you have they?”
There was the briefest of silences, then he heard a crack and quickly glanced over at Starsky – Hutch’s own face showed anger and pain, his eyes were watery and he had to close them quickly as a single tear fell from his eye sliding down his left cheek.
“Talk to me – come on honey please talk to me.”
Thought she tried to control it, he heard her sob, they were hurting his baby and it was tearing him apart inside to hear it and not be able to do a damn thing.
“I’m here – ”
The phone was then snatched away before she could finish her sentence. Grossman came back on the line and there was a happiness to his voice, like he’d gotten away with stealing a kids candy – the problem being it was Hutch’s kid and it wasn’t candy.
“Now I want you, by yourself, no backup to come out to pier nine early tomorrow morning six a.m. If I see or sniff any cops, your partner included, she’ll die and it won’t be quick like Gillian. I’ll have my strong friend here rip her apart, and then she’ll be used as fish bait. We have a understanding Hutchinson?”
“Yeah – loud and clear – tomorrow pier nine at six a.m.”
“Good – until then, we’ll take very good care of her.”
“Don’t you hurt her you son of a bitch!”
“I really don’t think you have much say in this detective – ”
The phone went dead; replacing the receiver he looked over at Starsky who came to stand by his side. He waiting patiently for Hutch to explain it all, how they would get in and rescue Jaz, get the bad guys and save the day, but it wasn’t going to happen like that. Hutch’s eyes were different, some how Grossman had gotten to him.
“Alright spill it.”
“I have to do this on my own – ”
“Look – you can’t do this, we both know – ”
“This just isn’t some old rescue, it’s about my daughter and where she’s at because of me. Grossman will kill her! No, its mine this time.”
“Hutch, you don’t think that’s what he’ll do once he’s got you? Let me – ”
“I said NO, God dammit listen to me for once! Some things you’ve got to do on your own – for me this is one of them.”
The words came out so quickly, his anger and pain was there right in front of his friend in rare form, breaking the blonde down, scaring the hell out of him. The thought of another innocent dying because of him was too much.
“Come here – its going to be ok, we’ll find a way to get her back without her or you getting hurt – ”
Gently and very carefully Starsky pulled his anguished friend against him and stroked his soft blonde hair, trying to comfort him, this was going to be one hell of a night. It wasn’t just Hutch that was worried about his daughter, but Starsky was worried for the young woman’s safety along with Hutch’s. Both meant the world to him, and no matter what he’d be there to protect them, because he love them.
~*~
As he hung up, Grossman smiled over at Bruce, the large man grinned back and lightly stroked the back of the woman’s head. Jaz moved slightly away from his touched feeling ill. Grossman watched and his smile widened, he had an idea, motioning for his Hench man to come over to him.
“Take her back to the room at the house and have a little fun with her, I don’t care how just do it.”
“Really? Anything?”
“As long as you don’t kill her, I know your tastes and that’s alright too. Besides don’t you have a score to settle with her?”
“Your damn right I do, this is going to be sweet, it’s been awhile, thanks boss.”
“Enjoy, just remember it’s like a bonus. So have fun.”
“Oh I will, I guarantee that.”
She noticed them talking and found herself shaking, they were up to something, now the question was what. Jaz had a funny feeling she was about to find the answer to this question very shortly.
As Bruce walked back over to her, the glint in his eyes were speaking their own language, he was already getting excited at the thought of what he was going to do with this young woman. Though his taste didn’t go that way, Bruce would find something to preoccupy his time with her.
Producing a very large hunting knife, he quickly sliced through the harsh and dense material that held her in place. Looking her straight in the eyes he smiled and gave a very gruff laugh, she flinched a bit at this but other than that didn’t move nor averts her eyes from his.
“You and I are going to become very close within the next several hours my little blonde bird. And I am definitely going to enjoy every minute of it.”
He watched her eyes widened and his laughter grew as he grabbed her roughly and pulled her up – spun the woman around and shoved her harshly towards the doors. The unspoken horror began to grow in her terrified mind – combined with her imagination and fear; she’s forced to make a quick decision. Seeing the car within maybe fifty feet of the door, she waits until they’re well outside and takes off.
Bruce waited a minute or two before going after her; this was going to be fun. He wanted to give her the feeling that she is free, then he’ll shatter all her hopes and dreams with one swift blow before taken care of business –
~*~
They sat down together, trying to figure out a plan. Starsky had finally talked his partner into listening to him just long enough to give a good argument, once this was established, Hutch was no longer able to argue, then they put their heads together to come up with some sort of plan. By the time both men had gotten things settled, Hutch had fallen asleep in the chair and Starsky had stayed up watching his partner doze fitfully before he finally gave in and fell asleep on the couch.
Around four that morning both men woke about the same time, neither really having slept all that good, especially Hutch would had been fighting nightmares all along. Getting up and walking around was rough for Starsky who’s body begged for rest and to lay back down, fighting the urge to do so, he instead fixed his cloths and followed Hutch outside.
Watching his injured friend, Hutch is worried about his condition, knowing full well that Starsky should have never left the hospital, it was just too early. His body couldn’t take the strain of being pushed so much within so short a time.
“Starsk – ”
“Don’t say it Blintz, now let’s go.”
His icy tone told Hutch that he wasn’t going to listen despite what the obvious problem was. Starsky had made up his mind and wasn’t going to change it for no one, not even his partner.
~*~
She ran as fast as her long legs would carry her. Jaz understood that she had to find a way out or she and Hutch were going to die, it was that simple. Now where to hide? Then Jaz spotted the barn, not more then fifty feet ahead there she could find all sorts of places to disappear into where he would be unable to find her.
Opening the doors, she made her way through the stalls, checking out possible exits. There was at least two Pitch forks in opposite ends of the barn. Looking up, she saw the loft, this would be a great place to hide from the impending danger. Just as she put one leg up Jaz heard Bruce calling from just outside the barn. Quickly she shimmed up the ladder, into the soft hay and waited.
“Where are you my little yellow haired Canary? When I get done with you, your gonna sing a song just for me!”
Angrily he had limped after her, that Goddamn girl could run – and fast. Her amazing speed and agility shocked the man, he had underestimated her and it cost him dearly. The first was being her shooting him now this. He had to rectify this and quick before Grossman did it for him.
Inside the barn he scanned the area slowly taking his time. He knew she was in here somewhere, he could smell her fear – then he looked up into the loft – All that hay – smiling he went over grabbed the pitchfork then went to the ladder and began to climb up.
The pain in his leg was bad, however, compared to the pleasure that he would feel knowing that little brat was going to be a pincushion, made it well worth it in every aspect. Once he reached the top, Bruce picked up the pitchfork and began jamming it into the hay, on the third try; it grazed just passed Jaz’s cheek.
The hot pain released itself, causing Jaz to gasp in pain; her hand flew up to her mouth just in time. All at once it got quiet in the barn and she waited patiently for sometime. Then heard his footsteps receding back down the ladder after a long line of cussing.
Once she felt safe, the young woman came out, as she scanned the area, Jaz saw no trace of the big man and decided it was ok. Quickly making her way down the ladder, only to be snatched and whipped around –
Stepping back, Jaz just missed Bruce’s fist as he took a swing at her face, if it hadn’t been for her quick reflexes he’d have nailed her. Eyes ablaze he went after her, trying to reach out and capture the young woman was difficult considering her small size and speed. But he saw an opportunity and took it.
“Think your going to get away that easily do you? Well think again. I may be hurt, but I’m not out of the game yet sweetheart. More experienced then you have tired to out smart Bruce, but I’m here to tell you it ain’t gonna work.”
As he spoke, the man was smiling as he backed her up into the far end of the barn, once he had her in there, it would be all easy from that point forward. Having no where to go the woman would give up and that’s when he would have his fun. Too easy indeed.
She found herself being corralled towards the back, but instead of going the route he intended she changed directions on him and went for the stall. Thinking she was really frightened, his smile and arrogance grew as he continued on. Once both were inside the small dirty enclosure he closed the gate and stopped briefly.
“Gotcha now, no place you can run – your mine bitch and there’s no one to hear your screams – just you and me – ”
The claustrophobic feeling arose as he came at her, no where to run but back and that’s what she did, falling into the hay as she went down however, her hand landed on what she had spied earlier – the pitchfork.
Leaning in to grab her, Bruce never saw it coming. His anger blinded him, knowing his target was well within reach it never occurred to him that she had snatched up the sharp object to defend herself against his attack.
His hands enfolded themselves into the soft blue denim of her collar, yanking her up towards his face, anger in full swing, eyes narrowed he looked as though he were about to have dinner and she was the main course. With one swift movement, Jaz grabbed the long instrument and brought it up into Bruce’s mid section as he lowered himself into her.
Screaming in agony, he let go of her immediately and fell back, blood poured out of the massive wound just above his groin area. She scrambled back against the stall wall and watched as he withered about trying to extract the pitchfork where it had so masterfully been placed. But the rusted object would budge, it was in there and nothing was going to free it.
He tried to roll onto his side, but was unable. Jaz caught a quick glance and saw that the prongs had went through to the other side, this ugly sight turned her young stomach. Then she forced herself back to reality and scampered from around him, unlatching the door of the enclosure and ran quickly as she could from the stall where the wounded man lay, bleeding to death.
She’d almost made it, her frame just outside the door when she felt something hard crack her in the back of the head, the white light blinded her and Jaz found herself going down, everything went black, unconscious she lay there at Grossman’s feet.
The large man’s smile was very vindictive; he’d gotten the little brat, surprising her while a grown ape of a man like Bruce had failed. Now it was time for Grossman to take matters into his own hands and fix all that had been broken. Going inside he found the man in immense pain. The sight was horrifying to say the least – his employee was suffering.
“Bruce, does it hurt much – ah, but of course it does. Didn’t I tell you to get her? But you didn’t listen, thought you knew it all, like I was stupid or something. Now look at you.”
As he spoke Al Grossman leaned his cane against the side of the stall and withdrew a pistol from his waistband and took aim, the injured man gave him a look of surprise and sudden anger. No matter, he’d fucked up and knew what the penalty was. Death.
“Go ahead, but I’ll tell you what – your going to loose.”
“No, you’re the one who’s lost.”
The shot killed the injured man instantly. For the briefest of moments, Grossman had thought about letting him slowly bleed to death. It would have served him right for risking everything to play hunter. Just another stupid person doing his bidding, after this he could afford to gainfully employ more of these Neanderthals. But for now, a little blood on his hands wouldn’t hurt.
For a moment he thought about his dear mother. Wouldn’t she be so proud of his accomplishments? Especially now, with evening the score with that God Damn detective and his daughter? Momma Grossman had died while in the woman’s security prison. Unable to deal with the severity of the conditions they had found her dead cold body in its cell. A heart attack – or so they said.
That’s when he had vowed to get Hutchinson back, as far as the over weight crippled man was concerned, it was the detective that had been responsible for his mother death, along with his loosing everything he had made. That included the prostitute Gillian and they’re other lucrative businesses the pair had so painstakingly built.
Replacing the gun, he grabbed his cane and went back out of the barn. Tony and Lance had bound the woman and waited patiently for their boss to come out. Once he was with them, instructions were given and things again were in play.
Grinning, he couldn’t wait. But again it was only a few hours off. Nothing would spoil his moment to shine –
~*~
The back of her head felt as though it had been trampled by a herd of horses. The pain was intense, so bad that Jaz had to fight in order to keep from getting sick. Where ever she was at, the area was dark and cramped, musty smelling and making for little movement, this causing her panic because of the stifling heat combined with the covering that laid over her, sweat poured off her in buckets as she along with her clothes were drenched.
There was also a slight metallic smell, something she couldn’t quite figure out. It came from behind her, trying to feel around was hard considering her hands were numb with being taped tightly together for so long. But upon feeling around, she came into contact with something wrapped in a dense plastic, it was behind her, whatever it was, it took up most of the room, making her cramped body all the more uncomfortable.
A harsh jolt sent her already injured head smacking against the hardness of the top, causing her to whimper in pain. Her mouth had been taped as well as her feet. Keeping her silent and immobile. They certainly didn’t trust her, not after Jaz’s escape attempts. So Grossman had resulted to binding her so that moving was impossible, for a split second she had regretted being so pigheaded, but then if Bruce could have had his way –
Quickly she dismissed the thought, either she’d fight back or die. And Jaz was too young to consider dying just as of yet. No she was a survivor; never one to give up on anything that is the one important aspect of life that her mother had instilled in the young woman.
From what she could tell, it was the trunk of a car that held her captive; its movements also told her that they were probably within the city limits. She tried to pace the stops, but found it nearly impossible to do so. Finally the vehicle found its way onto smooth surface and it traveled that way for some time before finally coming to a halt.
Voices, she could hear the faint sound of talking, as they came closer towards the back of the car, the mumbling became more pronounced and she caught some of what was being said.
“Now once the cop arrives, its imperative that we get him to lay aside his cannon, when this is done, he’ll be helpless and I want you to shoot him, then we’ll take care of our little friend here in the trunk along with Bruce’s body.”
“How do you want us to do this? I mean the bodies; we just can’t leave them anywhere, especially that detective. The whole police department will be looking for him. So we need some sort of plan, you got that figured out?”
“Of course I do you idiot! Dump the bodies into the water, with the weight of the chains we have in the trunk, they’ll sink like rocks. Good enough for you?”
“Yeah, we like it. So who goes first?”
“The girl, then after wards Hutchinson – think you can do this without fucking it up?”
“Piece of cake – nothing I like better than wasting a cop. Hate them ya know – sneaky little bastards, especially these two. Hey what about his partner – Starsky?”
“As far as I know, he’s still in the hospital, no problem there, after the beating he wouldn’t be much use anyways. Now pop the lid.”
Jaz heard the soft click of the lock as the lid came up, releasing itself, instantly she stilled herself for what was about to transpire -.
~*~
They had made it well before time to meet with Grossman. To the average passerby, Hutch had it together, but his partner knew better, the truth was his partner instead was quite shaken. His sunglasses didn’t do much to hide anything, as he stared straight ahead, waiting patiently for them to arrive, wanting to see her and make sure they hadn’t caused Jaz any harm.
Hutch’s mind briefly wondered to Gillian, he had been so in love with the blonde beauty. Life had been great – it was until he found her dead with Starsky in her small apartment that everything came crashing down upon him. It would also be their first real fight, he and his partner’s, one of the most painful to date –
So long ago it seemed that it had happened. Now things were cloudy at best, only when he allowed it, did the memory’s come back, like now. For the most part it was he who had pushed back the too painful memory into his mind, to be filed away with all the other hurtful things from the past.
Starsky lay hidden from view in the back; by anyone who would have been looking he didn’t exist in the car. His thoughts were of Jaz and he was worried sick about her. So young and out of place here in the city, now Grossman had her and who knew what was going on. Ever since sharing that first night together, he had felt such an over powering attachment to the blonde beauty it literally hurt.
Now all the pieces had come together, completing the puzzle and he understood why such the strong feelings that he held for her. Both father and daughter were so much alike; it was if they were twins.
Why he hadn’t seen it before was beyond him, but it was true and his emotions were jumbled as a result. How to tell his partner that they shared more than a cabin was all in itself an entirely different situation, something if not needed; wouldn’t be brought up – ever.
Then the car broke both men’s concentration at the instant it arrived, slowly making its way along the stretch of the pier. Stopping just near the water, the engine stilled and three men got out. Watching them as they made they’re way around to the back –
“Are you ready?”
“As I’ll ever be. And you?”
“Let’s do this, just remember the plan.”
“I know Hutch, but it won’t come to that – ”
“Starsk, don’t argue with me, not this time, now be ready in case. Ok, here I go – remember it’s all about getting her to safety. I can take care of myself.”
Starsky didn’t reply but shook his head. Hutch didn’t have to worry; at all costs the brunette had his back. Nothing would happen if his curly headed counterpart could help it. Once Grossman gave the signal, Hutch opened the door and got out, walking the fifty feet it took to get to the meeting place where hopefully he’d see Jasmine healthy and unscathed.
~*~
Roughly she was brought out of the trunk into the harsh morning light. The extreme brightness hurt her eyes. Stopping briefly one of the men knelt down and cut loose her tied feet, but the gag remained in place, as did the tape that kept her hands bound.
Grossman leaned into the young woman’s face, making himself appear bigger than life, his face was scrunched up like a bulldogs as his voice bellowed at her, causing Jaz to pull her head back away from the sting of his words.
“Try one little stunt and I’ll be your last! I will personally pull the trigger and blow your fucking head off. Just give me the opportunity to do so with your father watching. I dare you – ”
Instead she remained quiet. Knowing of their true plan, the intelligent young woman had made up one of her own. And it was one hell of a doozy.
“I want her close to you both at all times. She’s a sneaky one, don’t give her an inch. Place her between you both and walk her out around the front.”
Both men nodded in agreement. They’d seen what this little firecracker had done to Bruce, and it hadn’t been pleasant. No one else had ever gotten close enough to do so much damage to the once healthy man as she had. Now he lay dead in the trunk, wrapped in black plastic. His body would go down into the cold water along with the detective and his daughter.
Coming around in front of the car, Hutch watched them closely in their handling of Jasmine. Other than looking tired and rumbled, she seemed in good health despite what had taken place. He noticed right away that she was bound. Hands in front, mouth ducked taped, her blonde hair tasseled, clothes torn here and there, Jasmine’s face features were pinched and weary. But at least she was alive.
Grossman broke the silence in the air by speaking first, during at which time Starsky quietly made his way from the old ford and snuck along the side of the building until he was within ear shot, his gun leveled at the man’s chest.
“Well I see you’ve made it. Now carefully toss your gun aside and step back where I can keep an eye one you. Now!”
Lifting a hand out ward palm up, in total submission, Hutch reached into his left side and withdrew the large gun that he had holstered there. Bringing it out carefully, he then deposited it on the ground and backed up. Racing forward, one of the young men picked it up and returned to his boss, handing the weapon over to him.
“This is between you and I. Let her go, she has nothing to do with this!’
“Oh but she does, you see Ms. Mitchell here is your daughter, which means that the blood line could continue if allowed to do so. Not only that, but she’s seen too much already. You know what that means, this pretty young thing has to die. And you’ll watch as I kill her myself, using your gun.”
At Grossman’s last words, Hutch’s face blanched – his jaw clenched tightly and his large hands went into fists. The wind roared about them so that even through it all Grossman could hear quite clearly the detective’s anger. And this pleased him immensely.
“No! You want revenge for your mother’s death and whatever else? Then you come to me for that, it’s my fault if you want to blame someone, but not her – she is innocent!”
“Don’t you know there is no such thing as anyone being innocent? We’re all guilty of some crime. And she’ll pay for yours as a result.”
“No!”
Hutch took a step forward and Grossman walked over to Jasmine, and stood to her left allowing Hutch a perfect view as he pushed the nose of the gun against her temple and prepared to pull the trigger. Thus ending the life of Hutchinson’s only daughter instantly and there was nothing the detective could do to prevent him from doing so.
her ready to put an end to her life as Hutch watching helplessly, with that Starsky yelled as loud as he could, his voice carrying across the strong, dense slapping of the wind.
“Police, freeze asshole – now!”
Taking a chance, Jaz charged into the man on her right – using her shoulder, she knocked him onto the ground. In surprise and shock he reached for her, but missed by mere inches. The other man during all of this pulled his gun free, taking careful aim he then shot at the runaway.
Hutch watched as she took off, then as the shot was fired, Jaz stumbled back and fell off the pier into the dark cold water below. Dodging a barrage of bullets, the detective ran across to the pier and dove in after his daughter.
Upon hitting the cold water her body quickly begins to go into shock – tied and gagged doesn’t allow her to breathe. Sinking quickly she starts to panic – wounded and bleeding, Jaz is quickly becoming weak, the blood floats up passed her towards the surface. There is a over powering silence as she starts to feel very relaxed – without oxygen, her body will shut down as she slowly drowns – then dies.
At first he sees no sign of her, then just to his right Hutch detects the slight color of her hair and the red of blood. Quickly using his strong leg muscles he swims down to her sinking body, grabs hold of her then begins to re –surface.
During this time, Starsky has taken out the smaller of the two, the bullet from his gun hitting just above the knee the man goes down hollering like a stuffed pig. The second one fires at the detective, trying to hit him, instead he is met with a bullet in the chest, dropping like an injured dog whimpering on the hardness of the pier.
Grossman on the other hand is firing back with his partner’s gun – just great. Now trying not to get hit by the large cannon like weapon Starsky is running from point to point, hoping to get close enough to fire off a shot.
Hitting the cool air, Hutch coughs and sputters, trying hard to keep quiet. He then pulls her along and swims over underneath the pier. Checking the wound, he finds the bullet enlarged in her shoulder and winces at the damage, then speaks above a whisper.
“Jasmine, look at me – you’ve got to wake up and hold on – ”
Taping her slightly on the face, watching for a sign, he pulls the tape off, this action wakes the young woman who moans in the pain and turns her head, coughing and trying weakly to fight back, unaware who is holding her.
“Its Hutch – look at me – ”
Cupping her chin with his hand, he turns her face and tilts it so she’s looking directly at his face. Blinking her eyes she weakly smiles and leans against him. Its then he remembers that she is still bound.
“Dammit, we have to get this off of you – ”
Tearing at the tape, he finally about to remove it, then hears the unmistakable blast of his magnum as it breaks the air, his mind races to his partner, he’s got to get up there and fast, yet he’s torn between leaving her and going up the dock after Grosseman.
“Get me up, I’ll be ok, just help David – he needs you.”
Hutch doesn’t have to be told twice, pulling her towards the leg of the dock, near the ladder; he helps her up, following close behind. Weakly she grabs on fighting dizziness. It takes a minute or two, but they finally make it. Getting her somewhere safe, Hutch kisses her on the forehead and leaves to go help his partner.
~*~
Soaking wet, he had made it along the abandoned warehouse. Hearing the shots again from his gun, he slipped in. Assessing the situation, he finds that Starsky has crept over towards the massive truck where Grossman is inside, working to get it started. Hutch then goes around the back, trailing his partner, ducking and sneaking around, hoping that the older, distracted man won’t see him.
Starsky catches sight of the blond and begins yelling at the enraged man in the truck, praying this will deter him long enough for Hutch to get at him and then they can wrap this up. It works and within minutes the detective climbs onto the large vehicle – going towards the front.
Carefully, but silently Hutch leans down and opens the door, stunned Grossman looks at him. His reaction time off, the detective grabs the large man by the jacket yanking him roughly against the door frame, slamming his head against the steel, causing the criminal to drop the gun. Dazed by all of this, he then feels himself being pulled out of the truck by both men then cuffed.
Then in the distance, relief floods both men’s faces as the faint but recognizable noise of police sirens fills the air. Here comes the Calvary just in time –
~*~
A little uncomfortable at using her right hand, Jaz sat in the hospital room eating breakfast and intently glancing from time to time at the guy on the television who spoke in brief about Grossman and what had transpired early yesterday morning.
Hutch watched his daughter quietly from the doorway, she was unaware of his presence as of yet and he was trying to figure out how to ask her to say longer than was discussed. Jasmine was his child and he wanted to know her more, they had so much catching up to do, yet could he really blame her for wanting to leave?
Smiling broadly he took a deep breath then walked in with flowers in hand; this morning he was alone, asking Starsky to give him some time with her before coming up to visit as well. Reluctantly his partner had agreed which made Hutch feel all the more at ease.
“Hey Jasmine how are you feeling?”
She looked up upon taking a bite of her pancakes and smiled, her eyes lit up at the sight of him with flowers in hand crossing the doorway. Jaz had missed him in the worst way, barely remembering much of yesterday, she was just happy to see that he was safe and sound. Swallowing the bite, she then took a sip of her orange juice.
“Better than yesterday, hey are those for me?”
“Almost forgot, here you go – ”
“They’re beautiful thanks.”
“Your more than welcome, uh listen I was thinking that maybe you could stay with me for a bit. Give us a chance to get to know about each other more, I would really like that, if you’re game – that is?”
She smiled at him, her eyes showing what her heart felt. This was the day that Jasmine had dreamed of since she was a little girl. To know her father, was a dream come true – And now he was giving her that opportunity to do so.
“I would really like that, I’d have to get in touch with Paul to let him know what is going on, I’m sure he’s worried considering what’s happened within the last couple of days.”
“I’ve already called, figured it was best someone did it, and you weren’t exactly in the best condition to do so.”
“Great, then I guess you have a guest for a while huh?”
“Guess I do, so I’ll move your things over to my place and get everything set up, so when you get out, you’ll have a place to relax at. Which from what the doctor says will be another day or so.”
“Just what I wanted, more time in this place. Well can’t argue too much with that. So what about this Grossman anyway? Want to tell me about him?”
Jaz could tell by his expression that she’d taken Hutch by surprise and it wasn’t good. Quickly she thought of something to kill the subject, but it wasn’t fast enough.
“He’s from our past, out to get some revenge on me for what I supposedly did, which isn’t the case. That’s the one bad side to our job, the constant threats we receive from the people we put away; sometimes they actually follow through – like this time.”
“Well something’s are better left in the past, as mom used to say the “forbidden past”. You need say no more, I shouldn’t have been so nosey in the first place.”
“It’s ok, you have a right considering. Your coloring looks much better today, how’s the shoulder?”
“Still tender, but I can move it some. So how’s David feeling? Much better I hope, I’m sure his body is grateful for the rest it’s receiving.”
“Who needs rest when you’ve got presents to deliver!”
Suddenly he was in the doorway, smiling broadly with a huge stuffed horse in his arms, the thing was so large in size that it took some wiggling and tugging to get it through the smaller entrance of her room.
“Oh David, where did you get it, he’s adorable!”
Hutch rolled his eyes upward, slowly shaking his head. Stepping aside as his partner placed the stuffed animal on the bed, into her waiting arms, it alone took up most of the bed, hiding her from view.
“Well your from Texas and own a ranch, so naturally I figured a present like this would be something you’d like.”
He looked over at his partner and gave that lopsided grin of his, looking more like a kid during Christmas than anything else. Though Hutch couldn’t help but to notice the happiness it brought Jaz. He’d never admit to it, but he was glad that Starsky had brought her the animal in the first place.
“She’s not a kid Starsk, in case you haven’t noticed.”
“Oh I noticed that long time ago partner.”
His eyebrows arched a bit at that statement and it was then that Starsky knew he had screwed up big time. Shifting uncomfortable, his curly headed partner moved to the other side of the bed and the two began to excitedly talk about what to name her new “friend.”
~*~
Eight Months Later
She had been living with her father for quite awhile now, the two had developed a very strong bond, everyone that met the young woman liked her immediately and was surprised at how much father and daughter looked and even acted alike.
Things had gone quite well to say the least, but Jaz noticed a slight difference between the two men. She wasn’t quite sure at first what it was; the change had been so subtle it had been hard to pin point, until now.
Starsky hadn’t been over too much since she had moved in, everything had changed, with Hutch spending more time with her. That was it. Their feelings for each other had taken a back seat along with her being here. They didn’t have a clue that she knew about their true relationship with each other. Matter of fact, no one knew.
Ok, time to play cupid.
Her birthday rolled around and the guys had planned to take her out to the Pitts to celebrate, she was twenty-one, of legal age to drink. So in the spirit as always, Starsky had been the one to mention to his less than thrilled partner about “treating” her to a fun filled night of dancing and drinking.
“I don’t know about that, I mean what has she done as far as drinking and stuff?”
“Oh come one Hutch, what you think she’s some sort of naïve kid or somethin’ I mean at what age did you try your first drink?”
Hutch just looked at his partner as though he’d been backed into a corner, and Starsky knew he had him, or he thought so –
“That was an entirely different situation, and besides it was under strict adult supervision.”
“Really?”
“Yes really. Now I don’t know about your situation and don’t want to, but Jasmine…”
“Jaz.”
“As I said, Jasmine isn’t me, things are different now.”
“Hutch – listen to me – she’s twenty-one, not five. Besides wasn’t it you who said that she’s pretty responsible for her age. Did or did you not say that?”
“Well yes I did, but – ”
“Good it’s settled, so we’ll go to the Pitts and watch her, besides what could happen? She’ll be around friends and her daddy will be there to supervise things in full Hutchinson tradition.”
“Your mocking me aren’t you? I hate when you do that, it grates on my nerves.”
“Blintz, everything grates on your nerves.”
During the next several days of Starsky’s plan, the men got everything together and took her on the town. It was a huge success with her enjoying herself and all the attention; Jaz didn’t know how to act. Hutch was surprised when she drank without incident and danced happily with everyone she could.
Hutch even had a couple of dances with her, along with his partner whom, on several occasions danced especially some slow ones with her as well. Monique, an airline stewardess of whom Hutch had just met kept his attentions elsewhere, reminding him periodically that she was his date. Jaz didn’t like this at all, her main goal was for something else and that female was ruining everything.
Time to get serious.
It was during a slow song that Jaz had intentionally pulled Starsky close to her, nuzzling his neck affectionately, she wrapped her arms around his waist and brought her mouth onto his, kissing him deeply. He of course responded with the vigor of a twenty-year-old. She glanced unnoticed over at Hutch, and found him watching them with a not so pleased look playing across his handsome face.
Getting upset at the fact of being put off, Monique said something and Hutch responded by lifting his hand to her in a very dismissive manner. Angrily the woman stalked away from him saying something quiet un-lady like. He continued to watch and Jaz knew she had him, so she kept on.
Starsky in the mean time was thoroughly enjoying himself. He had been very attracted to her all night long and had been quiet surprised when Jaz had come on to him, this sparked some very intense feelings that he didn’t realized had existed until now.
Hutch on the other hand was extremely pissed off, how dare his partner do this, and right in front of him, this was his daughter for Christ sake. Then as he watched the two of them, other feelings came to the surface, ones that he usually kept private. – Jealously being one of the emotions at seeing his partner with another.
~*~
The problem being it just wasn’t another, but Jasmine. Maybe if it had been another female yes, but then this was his daughter and she just wasn’t just another female.
Not only that, but Starsky had feelings for her and she him, this made things all the more difficult. Reality was that he couldn’t blame his daughter, but his partner, now that was another matter all together. Besides, who else knew, except for the pair? No one, not even their closest friends.
So how could he expect Jasmine to know? And even if it were the case, how would she feel about him then? He just couldn’t risk it.
All his life, Hutch had been attracted to women, then after he’d met Starsky; things began to slowly change. Working together in all kinds of situations, not to mention becoming good, fast friends. So much had happened in their lives, each relying on the other and vice versa. They were inseparable, learning about their mutual love for one another; it was a one of the greatest things that had ever happened to the pair – until now.
His anger boiling over, he quietly walked away, disappearing into the crowd. Within a few minutes he’d found Monique and began to talk with her. Right now he needed a deterrent and she was the one who could do it for him. Tonight he would take her back to his place and use her to put away his pain.
Breaking away from the warmth of the kiss, Starsky brought his head back slightly and watched her with hungry eyes. His hands caressed her back affectionately as he leaned against her, immediately she felt his hard body pressing into her softer one and couldn’t help but to notice the spontaneous energy that they shared.
He found her so delightful and wise for such a young woman, her natural wit and charm had done him in from the instant he’d met her. Yet looking back once all the pieces were in place he understood at once why he kept thinking about Hutch. God it was strange how much they were alike, but the one difference being she was the female version of his trusted partner and lover.
The truly painful realization was that he loved and wanted them both. It was selfish and he knew this, yet at the same time his heart didn’t care. Usually he was reserved, but tonight with all the drinking and partying, he’d become very susceptible to his emotions, then with Jaz coming on to him, well this made for a bad combination.
Now all he could do was think how they were going to spend the night at his place, and how he was going to cook breakfast for her. Starsky had so much he wanted to share with her, sadly there was one thing that he couldn’t and that was his true feelings for the tall blonde, his partner, who had also stolen his heart over time.
Jasmine had noticed that Hutch had left rather suddenly, disappearing into the crowd, she knew that she had to find him and fix this right away.
“David, I need to go to the ladies room, could you please get me another drink, make it a double this time?”
In using her womanly charms, Starsky found himself giving in without so much as a struggle, smiling sheepishly he agreed. Before letting go, he grabbed her and pulled her against him, kissing her passionately, his tongue slipping into her sweet mouth, tasting her; as he let her go, she almost fell into the guy dancing behind them. Starsky caught her just in time and she smiled and excused herself, plainly embarrassed by the incident.
Leaning against the wall, the dark haired detective watched her stagger towards the bathroom, a soft chuckle followed as he realized he wasn’t the only one feeling the effects of the nights drinking.
Once out of his sight, she looked over the room, yet found no trace of her father anywhere, he was simply gone, nowhere to be found. Finally she spotted the pair’s friend Huggy and Jasmine asked him if he’d seen Hutch. Smiling broadly trying to hear the young lady’s question he merely nodded and walked off, not even hearing one word of what she had just asked.
Wearily she shook her head, feeling the slow and powerful effect of all the drinking she’d done, now beginning to hit her.
Great going Jaz, now look what you’ve done…
~*~
Upon coming back to their table, Jaz slid in and reached for her drink, instead of taking her time with it, she simply inhaled the strong beverage. As it made along her throat she could feel the heat of liquor warming her, killing off her anger instantly. Within minutes she began to smile and wanted to dance, Starsky of course obliged.
After that, she remembered very little, everything hit her all at once. For such a little thing she had put away a large amount of drinks and they weren’t by any means weak. Even dancing as much as she had, couldn’t stop the powerful Long Island Ice Teas from working their magic, as she became very intoxicated.
Soon he had taken her back to his place and they were in bed, the room grew hot and very intense. Starsky showed his true colors to her, very aggressive in nature, he had been gentle and slow with her before, but with being all wound up and her prodding him, he was given her much more.
Starsky found himself surprised when she kept up with what he was doing, even Hutch had problems with his sudden bursts of energy in the bedroom from time to time, but not Jaz, she dealt with it accordingly, even giving back some of her own. This made for one hell of a ride between the two, making for a very interesting evening.
Finally both were exhausted and he opened the window to get some air. She lay there watching him, as he turned for some unknown reason it startled him.
“You alright?”
“Sure aren’t you?”
“Well yeah, it’s just the way you’re looking – ”
“How’s that?”
He started to laugh how did she look, other than dessert, ready to be eaten. Once again he felt the strong desire to take her, but this time at a much slower pace. It wasn’t that he was tired, no he wasn’t even close, but there was something in her eyes –
Sliding in next to her, Jaz immediately snuggled against him, her cheek pressed up on his furred chest, running her fingers threw its silky texture. Slowly the fire began to once again come to life as she sat up using her elbow, leaning in she kissed him on the mouth, it was intense and hot, he growled and reached out to her, pulling Jaz on top, he began to stroke her lean frame.
His cock grew hard and she sat up, bring herself down just over his groin, moving her hips back and fourth against it, he became more aroused; reaching out he cupped both breasts kneading them gently, he then pulled her down and another kiss was given.
In her heated state, Jaz became wet and extremely excited, attaching butterfly kisses to his chest, nuzzling the hollowness of his throat. Lifting herself up, she started going down the entire length of his dark frame. Touching him in a very slow and deliberate manner, he watched her with great anticipation, waiting to see just what she was going to do next.
Once she reached his erect cock, she began to caress it, bringing her mouth down over the head, using her long tongue she licked around it, then she treated it like a Popsicle and started to lick the entire shaft, nibbling here and there. Giving more light soft kisses, during this time, Jaz used her hands and gently touched his balls, fondling them with such loving care as she continued her pursuit of his cock.
She was driving him slowly mad with all the enticing things that Jaz was doing to him. The sexual torture was making him nuts, screw being macho; he wanted her so bad that it literally hurt. All it took was for her to look up at him with those mysterious blue eyes of hers while licking the head of his cock for him to loose it completely.
“Oh Jesus Jaz .”
His moans intensified and his eyes became darker, more intense than she’d ever seen them before. Sitting up quickly he grabbed her and before Jaz knew it, she was on her stomach and Starsky was on top, his cock pushing against her, he wanted this now more than ever, his mind formulating what to do next.
If it hadn’t been for the fact that he was so drunk, maybe it would have never entered his mind, but unfortunately the idea had already been growing, and became more realistic as Jaz worked his body into the sexual frenzy that it was at now.
He leaned in; one arm tightly around her waist holding her close, feeling her lower body against his, the smell of her perfume further enticed him. His emotions ran so high he just was no longer in control, the idea having took hold, and he wanted her to experience how it made he and Hutch feel when they went to heaven together.
And Starsky wanted to share that with Jaz; something he’d never done with any other woman – ever.
He released her and placed both palms on the bed, rubbing the head of his cock against the soft entrance of her ass, all at once her head came up as she became aware of what his true intentions were. Even in her own drunken state, it scared Jaz to think of just how this was going to transpire and she didn’t like it one bit.
“David, don’t do this, please – I-I mean I’m not ready for this, your drunk and so am I, it’s just not something that I –”
“Shhh – it’s ok – I would never hurt you, I just want to take you to heaven, it’s wonderful – let me show you.”
Her body stiffened and automatically he felt it, concerned, as he had been the first time, when he had loved Hutch. Starsky came up off of her and began to lightly kiss the small of her back, his hands caressing the softness of her hips. His fingers traveling down her thighs, then going up along her sides, she stifled a small laugh as his hands worked their way to her breasts, caressing them slightly, his touch slowly igniting her passion.
Gently he pushed her back onto the bed, her stomach resting comfortably against the coolness of the sheets. Jaz snuggled against the pillows and felt the sudden dip of the bed, then the mattress sprang back up as he got up off and left the room for a minute. Her head fell limply into the pillows, in part from being so drunk and also frightened at what had almost happened.
She had heard stories on how painful this was and wanted no part of it. Thank God he had decided to abandon the thought in the first place. Now she could go to sleep and the whole incident would be forgotten by tomorrow. Already her head had begun to hurt and her body craved sleep in the worse way. They had been going at it for hours now and it was time to stop.
Coming back a few minutes later he found her asleep – with the pillows surrounding her upper body, one over her head, the other was tucked securely within the safe constraint of her arms. Slightly on her right side, one of the pillows was under the left leg up against her groin area; the fourth was placed just near her stomach. Smiling at the sight, he got into bed and carefully removed the pillows from her leg and groin area, instantly she moved onto her stomach again and turned her head.
He began to kiss and caress her, starting at her shoulders and working his way down. Everything was done in a very gentle and loving manner. At first Jaz didn’t wake or stir at all. Then he went between her legs, kissing and licking her ass, going down as far as he could, messaging her.
Instantly she became wet and he heard a very soft moan, her body reacted as she moved her ass slightly, pushing it against him in a very provocative manner. Using his hand, he brought it up over her hip and down into the softness of her wet pubic hair, inserting two fingers, he began going in and out, pacing himself, and watching her body come to life.
Her moans became even more pronounced, she still never opened her eyes, but lifted her hips up, spreading her legs, giving him a gracious view, waiting for him to enter her and work his magic as before. Her shoulders dipped along with her back, it was just her lower body that came up, wanting to be satisfied. She reminded him of a cat in heat, the subtle way her body arched itself against him, wanting more, craving every bit of his cock to feed her, calm the growing need inside her.
As he continued to finger fuck her, he reached over next to him with his other hand dipped it into the jar that sat just off to the side. Then he slowly spread it between the cheeks of her ass. At first it was cold, but then it heated up and she found it to be rather stimulating. The cream dripped down towards her wet lips and she could feel it’s slight numbing go to work.
Still he used his tongue and licked her juices as he continued to use his fingers, getting her ready to cum, setting her body up for his entrance into her very tight ass. Jaz’s moans increased in volume as she no longer fought against him, but rather embraced it. As a result her body began to sweat and shake as her mind raced, feeling herself ready to explode –
Then as she started to climaxed he pulled his fingers free and pushed through her cheeks to the entrance of her anus, he used his other hand and once again, began to move his fingers into her soaking wet pussy, this time using three instead of two. As this was going on she became very hot with desire; he used his other hand and began to push carefully inside her ass.
“David – Please fuck me – I can’t take it – Oh baby you’ve got to set me free – ”
Once inside, her body stiffened at first, then he continued to quicken his pace with his fingers, fucking her – slowly again she loosened up, using his fingers from his other hand, he caressed her anus, slipping down occasionally towards her wetness, this in it’s self drove her crazy. As her body became more engulfed in it’s own heated desires so did he and in doing so, his hips slowly moved back and fourth causing his already rock hard cock to move in and out.
Very sensitive at this point her body begged for more, she couldn’t get enough. Starsky found that she was so tight, he was having trouble keeping under control and found himself going faster with each thrust, going deeper and loosing all train of thought.
“Oh god dammit Jaz, your so tight – Fuck!”
She couldn’t speak, or anything for that matter. Instead she just moved against him, her head buried in the pillow, sweat pouring off her body, she was so slick that he had a hard time holding on to her. Trying to be gentle wasn’t working, her body was ready, and quickly both were going to heaven just as he had promised.
Within minutes he cried out her name and gripped her tightly against him, then exploded inside her, she cam at the exact moment he did. Drained Jaz fell into the pillows and lay there, her breathing was fast and she found her body was shaking uncontrollably. Jaz tried to pull herself together, but couldn’t, instead she reached for the sheets and covered herself in an attempted to get warm again.
Within minutes he had come back after cleaning up, finding her shivering. Pulling off the sheets, he cleaned her up, at first she was shaking so badly that he thought maybe in his sexually crazed state that he had possibly hurt her, but then she put that out of his mind immediately.
“No, I-I’m ok, just need to get warm – to sleep.”
“You sure? Let me get you a warm cloth to put it there, I’d feel better.”
Her eyes locked onto his and she smiled, at once he understood and left, a few minutes later he came back and as she positioned herself in the bed next to him, the cloth was placed on her behind. Its warmth was a welcome feeling indeed.
“Thanks, I feel better already, but it doesn’t hurt – honest.”
“Jaz, you wouldn’t lie to me would you?”
She shook her head, but he wondered. The first time they’d slept together at the cabin he’d found out just how much his size had caused her difficulty walking the next day. Now he wondered about tonight, especially where it had happened at.
He’d wanted to take her to heaven and did so, it was the one thing that he wanted to share with her and now they both had experienced it. Not only that, but from what her body had done, she loved it.
Finally he settled down next to her, finding the covers, he pulled them up over her, she snuggled against him and he held her for the rest of the night in his arms. After she’d fallen asleep, Starsky stayed awake for quiet sometime. Watching her face as she slept was a beautiful sight. Right now his emotions running on high. He had fallen in love not only with his partner long ago, but now with his daughter as well.
Wasn’t life ever simple?
~*~
Dark and warm…
Slowly she lifted her heard, looking around the darkness of the room, the clock just off to the side showed eleven a.m. The pillows were stacked around her, some underneath the small frame of her body; others lay just within reach. One was between her legs, while the other lay underneath her head the fifth one she held close to her chest.
Letting go she sat up, her head was pounding and she felt weak, in general her body ached and somehow Jaz didn’t feel quite right. Slowly she got up and grabbed his robe, wondering out into the hallway; she went looking for Starsky. But instead she found a note next to the coffee machine.
From what it said, he’d be back in a little while, and not to leave before he returned. Ok, so now what? Getting a cup of Java, she went to sit down at the kitchen table, but upon her butt touching the seat, Jaz found it a bit painful, then parts of what happened came back, the very parts she didn’t want to remember.
“Ouch – What? Oh shit Jaz – now you’ve done it.”
The words were so slight, but held tremendous meaning, damn it had happened, yet he had been right. Once her body had relaxed enough, the feeling was so overpowering it was too much for words. Thinking back on it, she did enjoy it – a lot.
Then she spied the phone. Looking up at the clock on the wall again, it had only been minutes since she’d come out here. Getting up she walked out into the living room and begin to look at all the pictures along the fireplace, the tables and such. Many of them were of he and Hutch – this got her to thinking.
Going over to the phone she dialed the number and waited patiently. Five rings and still nothing, then he picked up and spoke. His voice warmed her immediately and she found herself tearing up. This whole mess was her fault alone and it had to be fixed. The truth had never failed her before, but the head games well, they weren’t worth the trouble.
“Hello?”
“Hey, Good morning.”
“Jasmine?”
“Uh, yeah it’s me. Are you going to be home for about another half hour or so?”
“I have no plans – why?”
“I need to see you, and well – we need to have a talk, just you and I. There are some things that need to come out into the open. Give me about thirty minutes and I’ll met you at the house. Ok?”
“Sure, are you alright?”
“Fine, I’ll see you then.”
Hanging up the phone she went and took a much needed shower, changed into some of his clothes, she looked funny, but it’d have to do, she pulled off the sheets and placed them into the washer, wrote him a note, then called a cab and left.
By the time she reached Hutch’s house it was later than what she said, but he was inside. She found him in the back, cleaning as usual. Coming up behind him, she wrapped her arms around his waist and hugged him. Surprised at the sudden turn of events, he was also concerned.
He tried to turn around, but for such a small thing, she held on tightly, this not only stopped him, but it gave her some time to think quickly just how she was going to do this. Finally Jasmine let go and walked into the living room, sitting down on the overstuffed sofa. He sat opposite her in the leather recliner, his eyes on her troubled face, waiting.
“First I want to say that I know about you and David.”
“Me and Starsky?”
“Yes, you and David, your partner?”
“I know who he is, what are you talking about?”
She could tell that right away, this wasn’t going to be easy by any means. But it was too late; it had to be done. Their secret would always be safe with her, but first in order for the air between them to be cleared, it meant everything had to come out into the open.
Running her hands through her short blonde hair, Jaz tried again, this time to be more direct in her approach. As her mother used to say, there’s no sense beating around the bush.
“I know that your lovers.”
He watched her for a minute then stood and began to pace about the room. Glancing at her from time to time, he tried to figure out a way to deny it all. How did she know? They never gave her any reason – did they? Careful, the pair had always been very discreet in their feelings for one another. Sure people mocked or even tried to fuck with them about their always being so close with each other, but the detectives had always ignored it.
She was his daughter, his child. And now she knew it all. Or maybe it was just a good guess, but then by the look of determination that was on her face – no, sadly enough Jasmine had indeed figured it out. Now what did she think of him?
“Look Jasmine, I don’t know where you got this idea from but – ”
“Why do you always treat me like a kid? I am twenty-one years old and can handle this. Don’t shut me out, I’m alone in this world, I have no one but you – we need or should I say that I need you – I love you for who you are – nothing else.”
At this moment his head was spinning, never had he run into this problem before. It was the one thing that he and Starsky had shared, no proof was ever found to really link them together sexually, nothing – until now.
Standing up, she went to him and knelt in front of him, looking up into his face, her eyes searching his, begging – trust me – let me in – I won’t hurt you-
He just couldn’t do it, one slip up and it would be over, everything lost in a second. No, he wouldn’t allow himself to be attacked or if it got out, Starsky hurt. Someone from their past might come back, finding out the truth and hurt one if not both of them – then what?
Looking her directly in the eyes, he leaned forward and answered her, his face set in an angry profile as he spoke. It was a quick and painful the way he worded it, but nevertheless it was effective.
“Daughter or otherwise, it’s none of your business, plain and simple! But if you want an answer, then you’ve got one – No! Now back off Jasmine and leave me the hell alone. I can’t believe you’re so shallow.”
Her eyes began to tear up and she quickly turned her head, and backed away from him. Hutch’s sudden anger had caught her off guard and now she felt stupid for asking in the first place, hurt by the harsh words, Jaz stood and walked away, leaving him sitting there in the chair feeling like a fool for the way he’d just treated her –
In the bedroom she had begun packing, ripping her clothes out of the closet, she crammed them into the cramped enclosures in a very angry gesture; closing the lids on the suitcases, she zipped them shut. Tears freely ran down her cheeks as she was racked with uncontrollable sobbing, he’d hurt her in the worst way and now there was nothing left but to leave and go back home.
Jaz knew she was right, and it had been very stupid for her to approach him in such a manner as she had done. Hutch had told her that they held no secrets from each other, that she could count on him for anything – well he was wrong.
His intense anger made her realize that this was something he wasn’t ready to discuss with anyone and that the majority of it was indeed her fault. Never should she have crossed that fine line as she had done. Blood or no, he owed her nothing, and after today he wouldn’t have to worry about it again.
In the meantime Hutch stood by the door, listening to her cry, his head leaning against the coolness of the door, his heart literally breaking at having hurt her. He wanted so desperately to reach out and hold her, tell his baby that he was sorry. Yet he remained frozen, unable to move.
His fear had done this, afraid of the unknown. Of what she might think of him, not to mention all the other fears that plagued his mind, if this got out. Even his parents knew nothing about their son’s sexual attachment and love for his partner.
Once her packing was finished, Jaz pulled the heavy suitcases from the bed and shoved them into the closet and shut the door. She stayed in her room the rest of the day, never leaving. Tomorrow she’d leave Bay City and go back to Texas, to Paul and her family there.
Claire had been right after all; Jasmine had no right in trying to find her father. Ever since coming to this God forsaken town, she had almost gotten killed, became involved with her father’s partner and managed to start a huge fight by stating that he and his partner were in fact lovers, which probably killed what was left of their relationship as father and daughter.
He waited what seemed like a life time, then, the slight squeak of the bed, followed by silence and an occasional hiccup, the result of her crying spell. Slowly he withdrew from the door and waited, but she never stepped foot out of her room.
After that, Hutch found an old bottle of Scotch and began drinking himself into a stupor; it didn’t take long considering the age of the strong alcoholic beverage and how fast he was slamming it down. Along with the fact that he hadn’t eaten all day, it was a horrific combination indeed.
~*~
Whistling as he made his way up the steps to the house, Starsky had been away roughly about an hour before he’d realized just how long he’d been gone. Now as he unlocked the door, something automatically told him she was missing. Going towards the bedroom, he found the bed stripped and a note attached to the mirror.
David,
Went to see dad, will call you later,
The sheets are in the dryer along with your clothes.
Much love,
Jaz
He smiled at the note and stuck it down in his pants pockets. So the little vixen had used him as a sex toy and left? He laughed a bit at his own joke and put the groceries away then went about cleaning up and making the bed. He figured she’d probably call later on and they would talk, besides there were something’s that he wanted to speak with her about.
But the later it got, the more he wondered if everything was ok. He quickly dismissed the thought as he remembered she was with Hutch. Of course everything was alright, they were probably out somewhere having a father and daughter moment, like at a restaurant or maybe out at the beach talking – God it was so nice to have her here.
His mind wondered to last night. Their lovemaking had been so wild and totally free, their sharing of intense feelings was overwhelming to say the least. And he had gotten to shown her something he’d never had done if it hadn’t been for the fact that he was stone cold drunk.
Sharing this with her was important to him, now he could love them both and having pleasured them in the same way, taking them to heaven, as he liked to call it. Then it suddenly hit him, like a lightening bolt from the sky…
“Them”
Father and daughter – he loved them both equally the same – it was if his heart was torn in two pieces. Separate halves that made a whole.
“Shit!”
That was it, during this whole time he never thought – and why? Because to him they were two halves of the same whole, loving two different people who were the same!
In shock he just stood there unbelieving how everything just fell into place and now it all of a sudden made perfect sense, except for the fact that he and Hutch were lovers – what about Jaz, knowing about this? But then understanding her the way he did, it wouldn’t matter. She loved her dad regardless, no matter what she knew about him.
This made Starsky feel even better. He had them and they had his love and protection, he’d never let anyone harm them. They were family.
Tomorrow, after work, he and Hutch would swing by and pick up Jaz at the house and then he’d treat them to a nice dinner at Tony’s Italian eatery. They would all drink and have a great time, just the three of them. It would be a nice night.
~*~
That morning while Hutch had gotten ready and left for work, she had lain in bed wide-awake, tossing and turning all the previous night. Now since having received no sleep, Jaz had decided to wait until the next morning to try again to leave.
Once she heard the door shut and saw the car’s headlights slowly disappear, Jaz came out of her room and forced herself to eat some breakfast. Afterwards she cleaned up and left to go for a long morning run. She was gone a total of an hour before coming back to shower and finish tidying up a few loose ends. Like her father, when upset she had a tendency to clean.
So by a little after two o’clock in the afternoon the whole house was cleaned along with that weeks laundry already washed and put away. The fight still on her mind, so she got on the phone and called Paul, telling him to expect her to leave Bay City around Wednesday at the latest.
When he asked her why the sudden plans to come back, she had just implied that she missed home. He knew her far better then that but decided to wait and find out more once she was back.
Going outside to water the plants, she found it to be a very sunny and warm day, so finished up, she grabbed her car keys and headed off to the park to enjoy the nice warm pre summer day. When she had gotten there, people were in abundance, walking their dogs, picnics were all over, Couples talking, walking hand in hand, the older people feeding the birds.
Jaz walked a good long time, airing out all the troubles in her mind she never did pay attention to where she was going. Taking a detour here and there, riding the local buses, stopping along the way to chat with some kids, get involved in a game or two with the local teens, it was a very lazy day and she was enjoying it immensely.
~*~
They had been following the young man for quiet sometime, for well over the last couple of hours now. Keeping close tabs on him as he walked from place to place. Window-shopping, earlier he’d stopped at a local coffee stand and brought some expensive Java, this got them to thinking that maybe and just maybe he had money.
He certainly didn’t dress the part, but they knew better. Usually his kind never showed off their wealth. But you could tell it wasn’t by how much they purchased, but rather what they brought. Dressed very common, no one would have picked up on it, except they knew what to look for.
The man’s outfit was simple; a pair of faded blue jeans along with a plain green T-shirt and pair of running shoes, a baseball cap, nothing more. Upon closer inspection it was the shoes that gave him away. They were very expensive, around one hundred to two hundred dollars, give or take, depending on where they were brought.
Oh yeah, this one was the target, now it was only a matter of time before his money became theirs. And then, only then could the real fun begin-
Soon it was apparent that he was lost, looking around he didn’t have a clue as to where he was. Glancing around at the different signs, nothing was familiar in the least. Just then a noise was heard something coming from behind, great now what? Picking up the pace, it suddenly became quiet once again, turning slightly, looking back and noticed nothing out of the way.
Paranoid, just was being simply paranoid and that was all it was. Without another thought, he continued on, determined to find a way out of this area, glancing at his watch it was already close to four o’clock, he had been gone two hours. The stomach growled in protest at being forgotten in its cry for food some time back.
As the young man turned, they dispersed, hiding among the buildings until it was clear, now wasn’t the time to let their victim see them, first they had to corner him, then only then would the game begin. But for now they had at least another block to go before it could take place.
He crossed at the light and continued down towards the old bus stop, once he reached it they would chase the unexpected man down and rob him, taking all his credit cards, cash and all his jewelry, then kill him. Perfect.
Almost there, the sound of someone running broke the blonde’s concentration, a slight glanced was all that was needed before fear took hold and it became apparent they were coming in his direction, and the chase was on.
The four were completely surprised when the man took off like a shot out of a gun, speed so fast and the agility of this person was indeed a test of their wills. Each of the men separated, going in different directions, they knew the drill. It might take a while longer in tracking him down, but they’d get him.
Running through the streets, dodging in and out of traffic, it was getting tiring to say the least. Out of breath and sweating up a storm, the victim found a place of refuge and stopped for a brief second, trying to get some rest. The lungs were begging for air, choking against the need to quickly get some oxygen into them, the world began to spin slightly.
They found him, breathing hard and weak from running, he wasn’t going to put up too much of a fight. But damn if it hadn’t been exciting to say the least. Now the four slowly closed in on their helpless prey-
The wind changed directions, and looking up, there were two of them. Large in size, dark stringy hair, with beards, they had one thing in common – they all looked vicious, ready to kill – it was in their eyes.
The shiny metal of the fence glowed like a beacon showing the way out, now it was just getting to that point and over it, and then freedom would be on the other side. There would be no way that none of these men could scale that wall, but on the other hand it would be a piece of cake for one so small.
Backing up slowly the victim made its way to the fence, eyes on the men in front and with one lunge, turned and jumped up, quickly scampering up the metal, feeling the hard grasp of a hand on the ankle, it was then roughly pulled free. Loosing balance, the prey fell with a loud thud to the ground.
Pain shot up through the wounded ankle, causing a limp as the young man stood up. Puzzled at first on why the two men behind the fence didn’t react, it became all to clear as a thick accented voice filled the air, turning around the wounded victims face fell as two more men stood blocking the way out.
“So you thought it would be easy, Huh?”
The stance the blonde took was of defense, lowering of the head, hiding any expression from them. There was no way they could read him at all, except to know that he was going to fight.
“Give up and it’ll be much easier, fight and it will be quiet painful I can guarantee it.”
Within the time it took to speak, the other two men had emerged next to their friends. Now it was four to one, definitely not good odds. Painfully it was very obvious that this was it. There was no way out except to fight.
“Fuck off!”
The words came out in a very cold, threatening tone, keeping the four in range, slowly they moved in towards him, ready to get this done and over with. They had places to go and other matters to attend to, this wouldn’t take long at all.
All at once the two bigger ones rushed at the youth, but were surprised as he swung out, catching one along the jaw, the man took a step back, while the other grasp his intended victim by the arm and pushed him over towards his partner. Within seconds he was held by both of the bigger men.
Stepping up to his face, the man that was hit along the jaw, grabbed a fist full of hair and yanked the blonde’s head back. Angrily he hit the youth in the face. There was the sickening sound of something breaking and then the sudden gush of blood as both the lip and nose began to bleed.
Racked with intense pain and blinding light, after he’d let go the young man tried to clear away the tears that had formed due to the blow that was given. Watching with a smile on his broad face, one of the men grew excited as the blood dripped slowly onto the ground, forming a small puddle. The one who had hit him leaned forward a bit looking over his handy work, when the angry blonde spit directly into his face, enraged, the man ordered them to hold the little bastard as he began to repeatedly hit him in the stomach area. The first blow, knocking the wind out of him so badly that after that, his knees gave out and he slumped forward, unmoving.
“Oh what the matter? You done playing so soon? Little fuck, I’ll teach you! Hey Damian, find me something hard, like a pipe. And let him go he ain’t going no where. Are you – little faggot!”
Dropping the rumbled body, both men went to search for what their boss had asked for, this was indeed going to be very interesting if not fun. The other guy flipped him over, going through his pockets and pulling off jewelry. He wasn’t quiet finished searching the man when they came back, with a large rusty pipe in hand.
“Alright get him up, that’s it. Now hold him with his back facing away from me.”
Standing back, George took and hit the young man across the back, a loud cry came from the wounded youth as he was repeatedly hit again and again. The last hit, they let go and he fell into the dirt. Taking the pipe into his right hand, he hit him again and again all over his body.
In trying to defend from the constant blows, an arm was brought up in a very weak attempt to stop it all, that’s when the weapon connected with the arm and the loud crack was heard. Limply it fell to the ground; it was broke.
Breathing hard, he stood back and fought to get his wind back, they weren’t done yet, not by a long shot.
“Raymond, finish checking him over. While I relax here for minute. Then you and Tony along with Mick can finish him off. Just leave the body here, let the police deal with it.”
“Hey George, look at this.”
A card was handed over to him; the burly man looked at it. At first glance it was a Texas driver license. But then upon closer inspection it was the name that got the man. Demanding the rest of the credit cards, he looked each one over and smiled.
“Well, well, well. Gentlemen, we have a bit of a surprise here – seems like this man is in fact a woman. Aren’t you sweetheart? Oh now this is going to be real treat – get her up and follow me, honey we’re going to have some fun, then you’re going to sleep – for good!”
Picking her up, they disappeared down the alleyway into the darkness. A while later several screams followed by bouts of laughter and cheering as it made its’ way along the dark of night. Then there was a loud crack, followed by silence; it was over.
~*~
He had went to bed early after eating dinner, so exhausted due to the long hours he’d been working, it had been short lived to think he’d actually get any sleep, let alone maybe a few hours reprieve from work. The second time the phone rang his wife had gotten it, worrying it might wake her husband.
“Hello? – Well he’s sleeping right now – I see – let me get him, hold on a second sergeant.”
Sitting up groggily, he glanced at the clock, his vision was blurred from spending too much time with his nose buried in paperwork, now they were overworked, like he was. He ran a large hand through his hair and blinked several times as she entered their bedroom.
“Its Sergeant Sikes, he says it’s important, and that they’ve found another one.”
“Jesus.”
He looked up at her though the darkness of the room and shook his head; this had been the third one in three weeks. Now the papers had started having a field day calling it the Dumpster murders. Until now they had no leads, all the victims were dead, their bodies left in the trash dumpsters, hence the name.
Picking up the receiver, he spoke briefly with Sikes, his voice was low and there was much nodding before he finally hung up.
“You’ve got to go right?”
“Fraid so, look there’s no sense waiting up, I don’t know how long it’s going take, try and get some rest for the both of us, hmm? I’ll be home when I can.”
“Sooner or later you’re going to have to take a vacation.”
“Yeah, when hell freezes over. Lock the door and I’ll call later.”
“Harold?”
He looked back over at her and Edith came over and kissed him, before he knew what had happened, he had reached out and took her into his arms and passionately returned the favor.
“Harold Dobey!”
She blushed and smiled at him in total surprise, he grinned mischievously back at her…
“That should last you until I get home.”
Smiling, he turned and closed the door behind him. She locked it and watched him leave through the window. Then going over to the chair, Edith sat and watched the television. There was no way she was going to get any sleep tonight.
~*~
The ambulance had just passed his car, lights flashing it’s siren silent until it hit traffic. There were several police cars parked nearby as officers talked with each other, comparing notes. Getting out of the car, he immediately saw Sikes coming at him.
“Sorry about disturbing you Captain, but something new has come up.”
“Just start from the top.”
“Right, well the woman over there found her and – ”
“Her?”
“Uh, yes – it’s a female that was in the Dumpster. Anyway the woman, uh Maggie, was scrounging for food and found the victim, then called police. She’s alive.”
“Alive?”
“Yes, its rather strange considering how the others were found.”
“I suppose like the others, she has no identification on her whatsoever, am I right.”
The young Detective pushed his glasses up on the bridge of his nose, eyeing the older man and suddenly looked guilty.
“Yes sir.”
“Thought so – well take me to the scene. And do me a favor.”
“Anything sir.”
“STOP calling me sir, your driving me nuts – got it?”
“Yes – ”
He glared at the young detective –
“Captain Dobey.”
“Better.”
Walking over, automatically he noticed the splotches of blood along with bits of clothing on the ground, and what looked like traces of hair – blonde to be exact. Another detective gave him a plastic bag, inside it was a long rusted pipe, the one end was red. Damn it was going to be a long night indeed –
~*~
Starsky and Hutch had found the note after coming home from work. It had said not to worry, or wait up for her, she’d be home late. Something wasn’t right and now he wanted to know what. All that day his partner had been restless and silent his mood dark and very defensive. Now this?
“Alright Hutch, spill it, what’s going on between you and Jaz?”
“What makes you think something’s wrong?”
“Oh so now you want to play games? Alright, let’s see – well you’ve been a real stick in the mud all day, refusing to speak to me. That and quick to anger and no matter what I say, your constantly throwing dirty looks at me, biting my head off – you want me to continue?”
“Fine, I get the picture, now back off already! Look, Jasmine and I got into a fight – and, well I was pretty mean to her. She hit a nerve and I didn’t know how to respond. So I uh, Oh for Christ sake Starsk, I lied to her!”
“You – the one who can’t lie, you actually lied to Jaz?”
“Yes I lied to her!”
“Hutch, what could she have said or did to make you to lie to her like that? I mean you’re not the type.”
He stood and in two steps closed in the space between him and Starsky, making direct eye contact, his face inches from his partners…
“She called and wanted to talk – Just her and I. She also said that there were some things that needed to come out into the open – I didn’t get it until she said that – ”
He stopped in mid sentence and looked away – Starsky was trying his best to be patient, but it wasn’t working, not well anyway –
“Dammit Hutch, what did Jaz say?”
“She told me that she knew we were lovers.”
His eyebrows raised slightly and it was clear to Hutch that that last part of the sentence had surprised his partner as well. Backing up out of his face, he gave his friend room to digest what had just been said. Going to the fridge he grabbed two beers, in a minute he’d need one and he knew Starsky did too.
“How long has she known about us?”
“I don’t know, I honestly don’t have a clue when she found out – or how.”
“Wait, so – what was your response to all of this?”
Hutch took a long swig of the cold alcoholic beverage before answering his friend’s question, thinking the best way to carefully answer; knowing full well what Starsky’s reaction would be.
“Well?”
“I-I told her it was none of her business – then I told her – no.”
He turned his back on Starsky, afraid of what his reaction might be to the last part of the sentence. There was a brief pause, followed by a slight rise in his friend’s voice. It was the low growl of a man who was extremely pissed off.
“No? As in we’re NOT lovers? So let me get this straight – we’ve been not fucking? This has been all some crazy dream?”
“What would you have me say?”
“How about this – Yes Jaz, Yes were lovers! – How fucking hard is that to say Hutch – buddy – partner, oh friend of mine! Not hard at all, at least for me it isn’t!”
“Hey now wait just a minute, I was scared ok? How was I to know how she’d – ”
“Stop right there! Jaz loves you for who you are – that’s it, nothing more! Are you really that blind, to where you can’t see the simple truth when its staring you in the face? You sit up here bitching and moaning how your father has always treated you like shit never accepted you for who you truly are. Yet you do the same exact thing to your own daughter!”
Being compared to his father was the last thing he’d expect Starsky to do. Angrily he pointed his finger in his partner’s face. Now he’d pissed him off and it was about to get very ugly.
“You want to start something? Fine, let’s talk about the fact that you’re sleeping with my daughter – not just some bimbo that you picked up, but my fucking flesh and blood! So now you tell me partner, explain to me the fact that you’ve been doing us both, Hmm? How’s that one for starters. No? You don’t have anything to say? I mean what is this, some kind of keeping it in the family thing?”
At that exact moment, Starsky felt as though he was going to punch Hutch right in the face, but instead he forced himself to stand with his arms locked to his sides. Though he didn’t want to admit it, Hutch did have a solid argument, as did he. Damn if he wasn’t as guilty as his blond counterpart.
“No it isn’t, I care about her – and you both. I didn’t even know who she was when we first met. At first my attraction for her was purely physical, but then as I got to know her, it was far more than that, something that I couldn’t quite put a finger on, until I discovered she was your daughter.”
Hutch’s frosty glare made him uncomfortable but he refused to look away. Jaz, wasn’t some conquest that he’d picked up, no he loved them both; giving every inch of his heart to the two, something that hadn’t come easy since the death of Terry so long ago. But now he was caught in the middle, and couldn’t help it. Starsky had it bad, and his partner wasn’t all too happy about it either.
“So why didn’t you stop it, Starsk? Just come out and tell her you and I were lovers? Not so easy is it, my accusing friend!”
“If she’d asked me, I most certainly would have told her the truth! Not hide behind some wall. No I would have been more than happy to tell her, unlike you, who was afraid of what she might think!”
“It does matter to me what she thinks, God dammit Starsky maybe you don’t care, but I sure as hell do!”
“You know better! It just irks the hell out of me that you don’t trust your own flesh and blood as you so quaintly put it, but yet you’d do almost anything to get your fathers approval! Why don’t you try seeing the world through Jaz’s eyes instead of your father’s for once?”
Now that was the second time Starsky compared him to his father, and Hutch was getting sick of it real fast. If anyone had a real beef it was he. Running after Jasmine as though Starsky were twenty something years old, was in it self embarrassing to say the least.
Hutch could feel the anger building inside of him, the rage threatening to come spilling out. He had to carefully get his temper in check before something bad happened, something that couldn’t be taken back or repaired. Turning slightly away from his partner, his body rigid, shoulders back, his voice was very calm – too calm to be exact; it dripped anger, his teeth ground out the words, trying hard to constraint them. Being careful not to look directly at Starsky, knowing full well what it would cause him to do.
“I think it’s time you leave before I say something that can’t be taken back. Right now I can’t trust myself and I won’t be held responsible for anything else that might happen between us. So get out!”
Without another word said he walked into the kitchen and went out onto the deck. Leaving Starsky inside to escort himself out of the house…
~*~
Going over the rest of the crime scene, it just wouldn’t leave him alone, it was that gut feeling that one acquired after having been working at this job long enough. Telling him something he didn’t want to know in his mind, the color of the blonde hair stuck out like a sore thumb. Driving him crazy, finally unable to take it any longer he got into his car and headed toward the hospital.
He had to know if he was right. From what he could gather it fit, yet he had fought with his “gut instinct” all night, and now it felt as thought it were affecting his ulcer. Dammit but he was hoping that this one time he was wrong, but lately too much he’d been right. If this were the case, just how in the hell was he going to explain it to her father?
By the time he’d reached the hospital, it was really too late to have gotten anymore information, but that’s not what he was looking for. Going into the only entrance that was available during this time of night, he found Lee, one of the orderlies taking his break outside talking with some females. Upon seeing the larger man, Lee removed himself and came over to speak with him.
“Captain Dobey, how can I help you?”
“I see your busy as usual, I need a favor and you my friend can do it for me.”
“Maybe, what is it?
“Earlier tonight they brought in a young white female who’d been attacked pretty bad. I need to get in and see her. Its very important, can you arrange it, or have me talk with one of the attending physicians?”
“Oh yeah I remember – its when my shift had just started, felt sorry for her. Give me a few minutes and I’ll be back, wait right here.”
Just as he promised, he returned with Dr. Standwell, who was in charge of the Emergency room, nice and friendly, she was willing to talk to Dobey. After introducing the two, Lee then left to leave them alone.
“So you want to know about our Jane Doe?”
“I have a feeling that I might know the young woman, I can’t really get into it, but if it’s alright I’d like to see her. Of course I understand if you feel otherwise. But I think it would help us all tremendously if we could at least establish her identity, don’t you agree Doctor?”
“Well of course, this way we could contact the family and – ”
“About that, if my feelings are correct, and she is this person, then that would be my job.”
“I see – alright, come with me.”
It seemed to take forever, but at last they made it from the elevators onto the ICU, going towards the desk, they stopped just in front of it and the Doctor paused, her face showing concern upon entering.
“She ‘s been through quite a bit, right now she seems to be resting comfortably so please use extreme caution and be quiet her injuries are serve and we don’t want her going through anymore than she has too.”
“I understand.”
As they walked in, the room was dark, except for the soft light, which flickered overhead, giving the woman a peaceful appearance. It was hard in the denseness of the light to see, so the Doctor switched on another light, this one showing the young woman’s face in a much better light.
Dobey’s instinct had been painfully right; lying in the bed in front of him was Hutch’s daughter, Jasmine Mitchell. Her pretty face was one solid bruise; head wrapped in bandages, her left arm was in a cast. She looked more like a small five-year-old then a grown woman. He lowered his massive head and turned away, walking towards the hallway – God but he hated this – in the worst of ways. No he wouldn’t call; instead Dobey would go over and tell the detective himself.
As he thought – it was going to be one long hell of a night.
~*~
Glancing at the clock, it still wasn’t any later than the last time he’d checked it. How in the hell had his life gotten so out of hand so quickly? One minute he was just starting to once again enjoy life, then the next, he had a grown daughter and a partner who was very involved with her, not to mention they were lovers too.
Christ, it sounded like some sordid fictional novel then his life. Right then he could have strangled Starsky for what he had said. Damn him and his bullshit, but then again his partner had been right. Hutch should have never lied to Jasmine in the first place, but it was his insecurity that had done him in. Why couldn’t he just have been straightforward?
And where was Jasmine at during all of this, the clock now read twelve thirty, and still she hadn’t come home or called. Getting up he went into the living room and began to pace.
As he went to get something to drink, the doorbell started ringing, jumping over the sofa, he went to the door, peeking out and saw Dobey. His face paled as he opened the door, stepping back all Hutch could hear at that exact moment was his heart loudly beating against the wall of his chest. Something was wrong, deadly wrong and it had to do with his baby.
“Where?”
That’s all he could say, the rest ran through his mind, images flooded themselves making him sick to his stomach just thinking about what was wrong with her, because of him she was hurt – or worse.
The Captain’s eyes showed the intense pain that Hutch was afraid of seeing, now he had to hear it, and this time the news was coming from his Captain, his boss, it had to be serious. Dobey wanted to reach out and somehow comfort the man yet was having trouble himself; the thought of Cal or Rosy being in her spot just about made him crazy.
“She’s at Bay City Memorial, come on I’ll take you, and fill you in on the way there.”
Grabbing his jacket, both men left the house. On the way he gave the detective as much information as he had. It wasn’t easy considering the circumstances of the situation, but Hutch listened to what was being conveyed. The one thing that hadn’t mentioned was how she looked when Dobey seen her. This was something that Hutch would have to see for himself.
As they reached the Emergency Room. Both men showed their badges, and it was then that they were taken to the floor, before entering Dr. Standwell pulled Hutch aside and gave him the same warning she’d given Captain Dobey.
“Do you want us to go in with you?”
The Captain’s voice was firm but gentle and his face showed true compassion, he was very worried for Hutchinson well fare, yet knew he had to make the decision. If need be, Dobey would be there for his detective. Until then he’d wait and contact Starsky, knowing full well that the man would want to be here.
“No, give me a few minutes.”
Walking into the dimly lit room, he felt his mouth goes dry and his hands became shaky. He was scared of the unknown, to see what had happened to her; it was just too much to think about. Within minutes he stood in front of her and one look at her confirmed his fears. Unabridged anger suddenly hit him as he fought hard to control it. Tears released themselves as he moved forward to the bed. Jasmine was a total mess, her face was so bruised and swollen, arm in a cast, but it was her bandaged head that worried him, small bits of blonde peeked out from beneath the white of the cloth bandages. It looked strange, and he just knew it was serious.
Out in the hall, Dobey along with the Doctor watched as Hutch sat on the bed and took his daughters hand in his, stroking it gently speaking unheard words, while reaching out and touching her face. As if taken over by emotions, Hutch laid his head in the young sleeping woman’s lap and from his shaking shoulders, it was very apparent he was crying. It was a painful thing to watch; finally Dobey had enough and left to call Starsky. Hutch needed someone there to help ease his suffering and that would be his partner.
~*~
Why couldn’t he have just told her the truth?
His mind went over this question again and again, still trying to understand why it was that Hutch had lied to Jaz in the first place. Fear? Was this really the reason, or was it something deeper than that?
He could easily understand his partner’s anger towards him for continuing the affair with her even after discovering who she was –
What bothered Starsky the most wasn’t the fact that Hutch was angry with him, he could handle that – it was that he had lied to Jaz about their relationship. It was as though he were ashamed of the whole thing, was he just imaging it, being paranoid?
Now he was tired, and tomorrow would start another day – a very long, silent day at that. When angered, Hutch could give the best silent treatment around, and god was it pure hell. He knew just what buttons to push in order to drive his partner crazy. Wincing at the thought of being cooped up in the same vehicle with Hutch for days on end for who knows how long was making Starsky re-think the whole scenario of their fight.
“Good going, now look what you’ve gone and done – had to pick a fight didn’t cha? Wasn’t bad enough you called him a liar, no you had to go one step further and compare him his father. Stupid, real stupid!”
God he hated when common sense won out. Yeah once again he’d screwed up now as punishment he’d have to spend the next week or trying to figure out a way to make it up to Hutch, that is if he let him. Ok so he went a little too far in the name-calling department…
“But you compared him to his father…”
“Oh yeah … so I did… shit!”
~*~
Just then mercy found a way to end the self-argument for now, as the phone began to ring. What the hell –
Looking over at the clock he noticed it was one thirty – now who in their right mind would call this time of the morning? Then he felt it, the hair on the back of his neck stiffened as he forced the ugly feeling back that threatened to show itself, something was wrong, he just knew it.
Eyeing the phone as though it were going to strike at any moment, he finally reached out and picked up the receiver, carefully placing it to his ear…
“Hello?”
“Starsky, this is Dobey, you need to come down here to Bay City Memorial. Hutch is going to need you, it’s about Jasmine.”
He could have sworn his heart had stopped at that very moment. Jaz was in the hospital? At once all sorts of questions started to form, then the thought of his partner being alone, feeling tremendously guilty as he always did came to mind, and that thought alone, made him sick with fear at what it might cause his friend to do. Instantly the fight and anger all disappeared, instead fear replaced it.
“I’m on my way, be there in five.”
“I’ll meet you down in front of the Emergency entrance, I’ll explain more when you get here.”
“Gotcha!”
Dropping the receiver immediately he didn’t even bother with a jacket, but instead he ran out the door, getting into the Torino and sped off. It took him less then five minutes as he hit the siren and used his light to make traffic move aside, breaking the speed limit twice over.
By the time he got there, Dobey had just walked outside and watched the car screeched to a halt, Starsky threw it in park and quickly exited the vehicle. On their way up in the elevators the Captain explained all that he knew to the overly anxious detective, by the time they reached her room, Starsky was in total distress over not only his partners condition, but hers as well.
Stopping just outside the room, he carefully looked in through the glass that separated them, by this time Hutch’s body blocked hers, so Starsky couldn’t see Jaz at all, the room he noticed was small, a private one at that. Quietly he entered, not too sure how his partner would react, he’d have to take it slow and hope for the best.
Hutch watched her sleep; she looked so helpless and small, yet her face still looked peaceful despite all the bruising and bandages and the fact that her arm was in a cast. Not one time had she stirred, even when he’d covered his hand over hers, or stroked her cheek. His thoughts were on her, and who did it.
Too many times both he and Starsky had gone by the book, where was the system when it was needed? So now was he supposed to let this one go too? Just let the courts handle it, like it had with countless others, and there were hundreds, thousands of “others” or as they were called “innocents” that got caught in the crossfire and died as a result.
Now his baby was one of those “innocents” caught in the middle of something she had no control over. And he was the white knight, sworn to protect and serve. Let the courts decide the evil son of a bitch’s fates. The jails were already over-crowded, as it was criminals were released almost daily and not just any criminals either. These were hardened bastards, rapist and child molesters, murders and other scum alike.
The fucking justice system was a slap in the face, a joke, and a huge mockery. Look at the other countries where they had their own ways of dealing with these things. Harsh yes, but it worked –
He closed his eyes against the bitterness that was growing, like a cancer it was eating him alive, taking every ounce life and twisting it into some sort of hideous monster, slowly choking the human half to death, strangling it with its deceptive claws.
Then he felt a soft, yet firm grip on his right shoulder, it reached out and pulled him back from his angry thoughts, the smell accompanied the familiar touch and instinctively he knew who it was.
His beloved friend and partner, trusted companion and lover, the one person whom he could turn, no matter what happen between them, nothing could ever compare to their love. Their relationship went well beyond all else. And through time the pair had come to understand this. Even after the ugly fight that caused such painful feelings, was but a distant memory, like dust in the wind, forgotten.
“How is she?”
“Still sleeping.”
Starsky couldn’t believe his eyes, too shocked to say anything, his anger was evident to say the least, as it was Hutch who felt his partners rage in the way he clutched onto the blondes shoulder, making it painful to bear, damn if the man wasn’t strong.
Gently he tried to pull away; his partner felt this and let go immediately. Weakly he gave a slight smile and apologized. Walking around to the other side of the bed, he grabbed a chair and quietly placed it next to the bed, where upon he got comfortable, joining in with Hutch and watched her sleep. Jasmine never once woke throughout the night, and by dawn, both men had finally fallen asleep near her side. Hutch on the left side, towards the middle of the bed, his hand rested on her forearm, his head laid back slightly, resting on the chair and Starsky’s white-socked foot next to her leg, down at the foot of the bed. Each trying to give her comfort, but them trying to find it as well.
~*~
Morning found his partner gone, at the moment it was just himself and Jaz in the stillness of the room. At once his memory went back to the previous night before all of this happened, it had been a very playful, happy time for the pair. Sadly that was the last good thing that had taken place before all hell broke loose.
Starsky got up and went to the head of the hospital bed. Carefully he settled down next to her, suddenly for some unknown reason he started talking to Jaz as he had done the previous night after their lovemaking, he’d held her whispering sweet words and soothing her into a deep restful sleep.
Now it wasn’t so different, gently he put his head next to hers and got real close, his words came, soft and warm, their soothing effect making way to her subconscious. At first there was no sign of having heard him, but then slowly, ever so slightly Jaz began to stir.
“You hear me don’t cha sweetheart? That’s it, come on wake up. Everything is going to be alright, your dad and I are here.”
~*~
Feeling her begin to move around, Starsky stopped for a minute and watched her face for more signs. Underneath her eyelids, there was movement; her eyebrow knitted together briefly, then a small, very light whimper made its way up through her slightly parted lips. Her right arm moved over of the sheets, making its way up towards her face, stopping just short of Starsky’s head where it briefly touched his cheek before settling back down onto her lap.
As he watched with amazement at what had just transpired he had no clue that he wasn’t the only one to have witnessed it. Hutch had come back just in time to see the whole thing unfold before his very eyes. Staring in disbelief and sheer joy at knowing she was at least responsive to voice stimuli.
“Starsk, do it again.”
His head snapped in the direction of his partners voice and he grinned sheepishly at him, Hutch found it touching to see his partners face reddening at being caught in the act and couldn’t help but to return the smile with one of his own.
Hutch sat down in the chair and watched his partner’s interaction with her; it was so apparent that Starsky was in love with the young woman that a blind man could have been able to tell. Going back in his own mind, he also realized that his daughter’s reaction had been pretty much the same.
Cupid had hit them both with the same arrow, and now he had to painfully deal with it.
~*~
How long had she been here, it was hard to tell, there were no signs anywhere to let her know what direction she was going in, all Jasmine knew for sure was that she was lost and running for her life.
It had started out simple enough, but then somehow she ended up here – where here was she had no clue, all she did know was that it was so dark out, that not even the stars could be seen anywhere, or the moon for that matter.
Even as she put her hand up to her eyes, they couldn’t detect the slight pale coloring of her skin tone, or even the green of her T-shirt. It was strange to say the least. Nothing was, as it seemed.
From what she could tell, Jasmine was outside. The wind blew softly against her face, pushing her onward, tired, but not ready to give up, she continued on, painfully aware of the cuts that her lower legs along with her upper arms had received after running through the dense undergrowth of bushes and whatever else.
Until now she hadn’t seen anyone or anything for that matter, it was the knowing that someone or something was out they’re playing a sick game of cat and mouse, only she was the mouse. Jasmine had figured out that there was more than one of these monsters after her, it was just a sense she had, again, not really knowing how to explain it.
Glancing around quickly she saw them, four sets of yellow eyes watching her, all in different directions. Their long white fangs glowed against the black of night, as their razor sharp points dripped bright red blood. The stench was so overpowering that she began to gag; trying to breathe became hard as she fought back the urge to scream against the slow rise of fear.
The wind whipped about her, its harsh treatment of her was blinding as she quickly took off, hearing the snapping of their jaws as they came after her. Not paying attention to where she was going, fear drove her onward, making her wish desperately she were anywhere but here. Her mind wondered aimlessly, trying to figure out just where did her father and David go?
Suddenly she felt herself fall and tried to grab onto anything to prevent hurting herself any further, instead she kept falling and falling until finally Jasmine stopped, smacking hard into something. The horrible smell immediately made her bring her hand up over her mouth and nose, and then she began to sink into the thick, sticky liquid. The harder she fought, the quicker her body sank.
Before long it had pulled her down beneath its surface, she began to panic, closing her eyes to the foul smelling aroma. It slowly invaded her nose cavity, going down into her ears each part of her was flooded with it. Slowly she started so suffocate, her lungs fought to find clean fresh air, but it was too late. The brain being deprived of oxygen already started to die, and her heart burned in her chest … all was going dark….
It was the smallest of whispers coming from all directions, in her brains dying state she still heard it …
“You hear me don’t cha you sweetheart? That’s it, come on wake up. Everything is going to be alright, your dad and I are here…
Then she heard him as well, through the dark, thickness of the poison; his soft sweet voice came through.
“Jasmine, wake up, it’s a dream … Jasmine … can you hear me?”
~*~
“Hutch you talk to her, she needs to hear us both, just say anything it doesn’t matter.”
He glanced over at her still quiet form in the bed and tried to think of something to say, the power of speech was overwhelming and had been known to produce very effective results if used properly. So if she reacted to Starsky’s voice, then it could work with anyone.
“Jasmine, wake up it’s a dream … Jasmine, honey can you hear me?”
Her movement became more pronounced as her body slowly reacted, every part of her stirred, then without warning Jasmine’s flew eyes opened, jerking her head from side to side, it was suddenly apparent she was scared from her movements.
At first the men smiled, but then as she continued to look around the room frantically, it became very obvious that something was very out of place. Her eyes darted back and fourth, seemly scanning the area, face pale and her body shaking. Her hand clutched the sheet drawing it closer to her, while she pulled her legs up near her chin.
Hutch reached out and touched her lightly on the arm, causing her to jerk back as though she was burned. At once she began to cry. Totally confused, he tried to speak to her, but it only succeeded in making things worse.
“Jasmine, look at me – its – Hutch.”
“Don’t!”
At once he took a quick glance over at Starsky who returned the look, just what the hell was going on with her? He tried again to calm her, but her voice continued to climb higher the pitch almost child like as well as her actions.
“What’s wrong? Talk to me, look its ok, you had a bad dream that’s all were here now.”
“I don’t know you! Stop it, you’re hurting me! Go away!”
She swung at him, missing her target by a long shot. Shrinking back into the pillows she cringed from his touch. Both men looked at each other trying to figure out why she was reacting in such a manner.
Reluctantly he moved away, by this time a couple of nurses came into the room followed by a doctor, literally both men were escorted from the room and the door shut behind them. A few minutes later the screams became louder and more intense followed by what sounded like things being thrown in the room.
Within minutes of the outburst, there was the loud resounding crack followed by one of the nurses running out of the room to the front desk.
“Call Dr. Zadin and tell him to get up here stat!”
The woman ran around the desk and into the back room, a few minutes later the page of the Doctor could be heard from over head. Starsky watched Hutch’s tall frame as all of this transpired and saw the pain and confusion in his eyes. What had happened? Neither wanted to leave her, but it seemed as though it was going to be awhile, now he needed to get them both out of there and let the Doctors do their work first and foremost. But getting the blonde to do this would take a lot of convincing on his part.
Hutch kept his eyes locked onto the window of her room, hoping for something or someone to come out, to tell him it was alright to go in and see her – but it didn’t happen. Within minutes of his page, a very young looking Doctor emerged from the door just down the hall, running past them he then went into Jasmine’s room where upon the door was once again shut.
Starsky noticed an older woman walking towards them, her smile was warm and sincere, and as she approached them he sensed she was maybe a supervisor of some kind. Her professional manner was that of someone in charge, yet not overbearing in anyway.
“Hi, my name is Carol Cowsell and if you gentlemen would like, I could take you into the lounge just off to the back and when Dr. Zadin is through he’ll come in a have a word with you?”
Without turning around, or taking his eyes off the glass window Hutch answered the woman. He was very concerned about what was going on, yet understood what had to happen first. Didn’t mean he had to like it, but he respected their work and knew he had no choice in the matter.
“Fine, I guess we don’t have a choice we?”
“I’m really sorry, but I can say that Dr. Zadin is very good at what he does and will take good care of her. Please if you want I could get you some coffee, or if you’d feel better I could take you to the cafeteria.”
“No I guess we can wait in the lounge, coffee would be fine, thanks.”
A few minutes later they sat in the lounge waiting for the Doctor. Hutch paced nervously while Starsky’s eyes followed the blondes nervous gait, waiting to see how long it would take before the carpet had begun to wear thin.
“Hutch, you’re making me dizzy, sit down for a minute will ya?”
“What happen in there Starsk? I mean one second she was fine, then the next – dammit why her? Just tell me why Jasmine? There are so many questions, but no answers to them. I feel useless, God I hate this shit!”
Angrily he kicked the chair and hit the wall, it pained Starsky to see him like this, not only was he hurting for his partner, but the young woman as well. No it wasn’t fair, but then life wasn’t supposed to be easy as some would say. Jaz was just a kid, what had she ever done to deserve this? Before it was over, both he and Hutch would find out whom and why, then take care of it.
Personally…
~*~
What seemed like hours, was in fact only maybe a half-hour, the young Doctor entering followed the soft knock. He extended his hand and shook the men’s then got right down to business. Both immediately noticed the bloodied nose and the slight red shade of a handprint on his cheek.
“Hello, I’m Dr. Zadin and you must be Jasmine’s father. Hutchinson correct?”
“Yes, that’s right, and this is my partner David Starsky.”
He nodded in acknowledgement to Starsky and walked over to the desk, where he sat down, taking off his glasses he scrubbed his hand across his face, wincing as it passed over his injured nose and cheek.
“First and foremost, explain to me how she woke up?”
“I just started talking to her.”
“Detective Starsky right? Ok, so what made you do this in the first place?”
“Well, it just came to me, I don’t know why, but it worked – isn’t that all that matters doc?”
“Don’t get me wrong, its wonderful that she responded to your voice, well what I mean to say is there was no sign of trauma during this period when you first spoke to her?”
He thought about it for a minute or two, everything had happened so fast. Then it came to him. She hadn’t reacted in a terrified manner, actually Jaz seemed fine to him, and it’s when Hutch had tried to continue speaking to her that all of it came apart.
“Well there was some movement facial expressions along with no words but slight whimpering sounds and then she touched me briefly on the face, before settling back down and becoming quiet again.”
“And what about you Mr. Hutchinson? About the same thing, or was it different?”
“Mine experience with her was a lot more different then my partners, Jasmine became violent, she didn’t make sense in anything that she said.”
“Like what for example?”
“She kept looking around the room, as if there were something going to hurt her. I mean it was just Starsky and myself, no one else was present. Now you tell me why is she acting like this.”
Dr. Zadin sat there listening to Starsky’s description of Jasmines first reaction. Going over it in his head, then he listened to Hutch’s side. For several minutes he wrote things down, returning eye contact to each individual when done.
“Alright, now when I entered the room, Jasmine was very distraught. Terrified to be more exact, she was very combative as you can tell by my face just how scared she was. Her actions at first made no sense to me. But then once I stepped back and watched her, in part it became very apparent why she was fighting so – ”
His voice trailed off as he looked from one man to the other; damn this was the one thing of his job that he hated. Bad news was never easy to give, no matter how much you tried to sugar coat it, or by pass it; there was no getting around it. He took a deep breath then just said it as quickly as possible.
“Mr. Hutchinson Jasmine is blind.”
“Blind?”
“Yes sir, she is totally blind.”
Hutch turned away, still trying to come to grips with what was just said. A numbing sensation made its way long his mind, unconsciously he sat down, his elbows on his knees, face in his hands. Blind, the word repeated itself over and over in his mind as if it were some foreign language.
“That’s only one of the problems – ”
This time it was Starsky whose voice was directed at the physician.
“What is the other problem?”
“It seems from her child like manner that she’s not a twenty one year old, but rather younger.”
“Younger?”
Hutch stood up and faced the young Doctor, first it was that she was blind, now in her mind Jasmine was a child as well? No, this wasn’t possible, it couldn’t be!”
“Your lying, how can you sit there and feed me this garbage? You only spent what thirty minutes with her, if that?”
“Detective, think about it? How come she doesn’t know either one of you? Remember her actions earlier and how she talked to you … now I am calling in a couple of specialists, their names are Dr. Richard Martocci and his partner Dr. Casey Godbey.”
“Both are the top specialists in their field. These two will be able to tell us things that no one else can. I am very sorry to have to give you such bad news, but it’s the truth. Where the pipe struck her, Jasmine shouldn’t have survived. Whoever did this knew exactly what they were doing.”
Starsky stared at the Doctor; his eyes searched the man’s hoping for anything other than the bad news that had been given. And Hutch was beside himself, he had to call Paul and tell him what had happened, it was going to be hard, but he had no choice in the matter.
“The other two bodies had the same blows to the head that your daughter sustained, but through some act of Gods will, she survived. Now we have to find a way to treat her in the condition she’s in right now.”
“I-Is it permanent, her blindness and her state of mind? Can you tell me that much?”
Dr. Zadin kept direct eye contact and shook his head, Hutch dropped his and became extremely quiet, while Starsky placed a firm hand on his friends shoulder for comfort.
“No I can’t honestly say, and I won’t give you false hope either, I don’t work like that, but if anyone can help her, it’s these two. In the mean time, please try and get some rest. Oh and Mr. Hutchinson, who is her appointed legal guardian?”
“Legal guardian Why?”
“Well if this becomes a permanent thing in both aspects, then her guardian will have to look out after Jasmine, and with your job, at least at this time, there is no way you could responsibly do this.”
“I could figure out something, my partner and myself we could – ”
“Sir, I can only try to understand your position, but you have to think about the safety of your daughter. After all she’s not in her right mind and anything could happen. When was the last time you took care of a small child? This is what you’re dealing with. Not only that, but she doesn’t seem to recognize either one of you.”
“I’m sorry but their paging me and I have to get back to work, in the meantime I suggest that you contact her legal guardian and inform them to what has happened. We’re going to need to speak with them as well. Once I hear more, I’ll call you. Again I am very sorry.”
Before leaving, both men stopped and saw Jasmine one more time. She was sleeping on her side with s small toy tucked into her arms, curled up into a ball. The site bothered Hutch so that he abruptly left the room.
“We’ll be back to see ya later sweetheart.”
With that Starsky left the room to go and find his hurting partner. Throughout the rest of the day the pair went everywhere they could think of to find any kind of information, maybe someone knew what had transpired last night, but no one, not one single person had anything to say. Not even Huggy Bear had any news whatsoever about the incident.
Going into work, Hutch had informed Dobey about her situation and what was needed, the big man sat back listening to all that he had to say. It was a very hard thing not to be able to help a loved one, and right now his detective was hurting in the worse way.
“You both understand that I can’t allow you to become involved in the Dumpster murder thing?”
“Look Capt, all were asking for is a chance to look around the scene and maybe poke our noses here and there, and look at the paper work that was filed, is that too much to ask?”
“Starsky, you know the answer to that, so why are you even attempting to ask it in the first place?”
“But this just isn’t about Hutch’s daughter, I mean if we can find who’s responsible then we can stop it all together, it shouldn’t take much. Matter of fact we could do a sting and catch these bastards in their own trap. We just need someone who can run the distance.”
He knew how his detective’s minds worked, but it was too risky. This was personal and when emotions got involved, things got messy. An argument was going to transpire, but he had no choice, and it just wasn’t him this time. No Dobey’s boss had told the man under no circumstances were Starsky and Hutchinson allowed to work this case. Finite.
“Simply put, no I can’t allow it. Even my superiors told me no. And I shouldn’t have to explain why, you’ve been here long enough to know the answer.”
“So we’re just supposed to let them continue to do this? Killing more innocents while we sit back and just do nothing? Isn’t one of our motto’s to Protect and Serve?”
“Hutch stop right there, don’t pull that shit with me, I know all about what we stand for and I’m still telling you both NO. Now go home and let us handle this, and keep me informed about Jasmine’s condition. Besides aren’t you supposed to call that man, what’s his name?”
“Wilcox. Paul Wilcox he’s the district attorney for Texas, Jasmine’s legal guardian.”
“Well I suggest you call him and start on getting her taken care of. It’s going to be a long process and you’ll have to be strong for her sake, right now she’s scared and doesn’t have a clue what’s going on. Poor kid.”
~*~
By the time Hutch had reached Paul it was late. The man listened intently and had let him finish before speaking; assuring the detective that he would indeed contact the hospital in the morning to arrange for delivery of the special documents confirming his guardianship of Jasmine Mitchell.
“In a few days once we know more, I’ll make arrangements and fly out to Bay City to see her. But for now I guess there is no other option except to wait. You will keep me informed if there is any change?”
“Of course Paul and thanks for everything. I owe you a lot. Raising Jasmine and taking such good care of her. She is lucky to have someone like you in her life, and I mean that.”
“Well you know Detective, or may I call you Ken?”
“Ken is fine.”
“She’s told me so much about you, and sent pictures as well. I feel as though I’ve known you personally all my life. Jasmine really loves you so much, that part of her that was missing has been filled and it’s your doing. Good work!”
“Pictures? She’s sent you pictures all this time?”
“Oh yes, all kinds of them – I bet you didn’t know it, but our Jasmine is quite a camera buff. I can’t begin to tell you of the entire photo albums that she has filled due to her hobby of pictures taking. And from the looks of things quite a few of them were taken when you and your partner least expected it.”
In his pain filled state, Hutch couldn’t help but to smile. She did have a knack of always sticking a camera in his or Starsky’s face. Not to mention a few times with Huggy and Dobey as well as countless others she’d met. The thought alone help ease some of his emotional distress, causing a soft laugh to escape his throat.
“I can tell by your slight laugh that I made you feel better in some aspect?”
“Yes, and thanks.”
“No problem, now I will expect some kind of phone call from you within the next few days correct?”
“As soon as I find out anything, I will contact you and share what I’ve found out.”
“Good, until then, goodnight and thank you for calling me.”
“Goodnight Paul.”
Setting down the receiver he glanced at Starsky who smiled a bit, rubbing his hand over his grumbling stomach which was protesting loudly at being ignored. This made him realize that neither one of them had in fact eaten almost all day. Time for something quick and filling. Pizza was the immediate answer.
“Hungry?”
“Now that’s a stupid question, of course I’m hungry!”
“I’ll buy and you fly. Sound like a solid plan?”
“Sounds good to me, call Gino’s, they have the best meat eaters pizza around and it’s not all that expensive.”
“What about a nice bit of green to add into that protein filled night mare? You know it wouldn’t kill you Starsk to have some roughage put into your stomach once in awhile, your bowels would thank you.”
“Look Bugs Bunny, my bowels are fine thank you, and I get just enough roughage.”
“Really? Since when?”
“I eat salads periodically, especially with my submarine sandwiches and such, so don’t lecture me about the in’s and out’s of maintaining my body. I work out and you adore this naturally muscular profile of mine.”
“Sure, right now your fine, but what about in another couple of years, huh? You mark my words, one day you’ll wake up and it’ll be too late.”
“Yeah, yeah, yeah I hear ya, but until then, shut up and order that pizza, I’m dying here of starvation and all you can do is preach at me, come on Hutch do this later already!”
An hour after eating it and drinking their fill, both men sat back and relaxed trying to give their stomachs time to digest all that they had eaten. Starsky watched Hutch closely and noticed his lost expression, now it was time for him to help his worried friend relax and he had just the means to do it –
Getting up he walked slowly into the kitchen his swagger caught the blonde’s attention immediately as he hoped it would. Opening the fridge, he bent over and reached all the way into the back, retrieving two beers. During this time, Hutch turned psychically around and watched.
As he pulled his upper body out of the refrigerator, Starsky turned around just in time to see the blonde of his partners hair settle against the sofa. Smiling to himself he waltzed over and sat the alcoholic beverage down next to his friend on the coffee table.
“You seem a little tense, here let Gordo help you with that. I can work miracles with these two hands of mine. Just sit back and give yourself over to me, I guarantee that when I am done, you will no longer know your name, I am that good.”
Hutch laughed a bit at that one, he could certainly use a good message in the shoulder and neck area he was so tense. All day he had been trying to get the kinks out of his stiff shoulders and neck, but it was to no avail – until now.
“Alright Gordo, but it better be worth it.”
“Oh but thank you kind sir, you will not regret it at all I can promise you this, now just leave everything to me, do not question me whatsoever or I will stop, do you understand?”
“Si, I understand.”
“Perfecto, close your eyes and stand up, good, good – now hold on to my hand. Ah, that’s right. Now I will guide you along, go straight ahead until I stop you.”
Hutch walked straight ahead for a short distance before being stopped, and then Starsky turned him right and continued on into the bedroom. Carefully Hutch was turned around upon where he was then told to take off his shirt and climb into bed on his belly.
Without a word he did as was ordered, feeling the mattress give way a couple of minutes later as his dark counterpart climbed in after him. Starsky then got on top of his partner, placing his legs on either side of the blonde’s ribs settling down on his nice firm ass.
Ever so slowly he began to rub something warm and oily onto Hutch’s shoulders, starting in the middle, Starsky worked his way outward using small, light circles. Then as Hutch grew accustomed to the movement, his partner began to use pressure and his palms to work out the stiffness along the troubled areas including his neck.
After while of doing this, Starsky’s brought his hands together, side by side and applied even more pressure, going straight down the spinal column, cracking Hutch’s back ever so gently. To make sure he was doing it right; Starsky picked up one of the blonde’s arms, letting go he watched delightfully as it fell back limp and unresponsive.
Good boy, that’s it partner rest easy and relax… I’m here … Its going to be ok.
Once he finished with Hutch’s back, he then slid off and went to the foot of the bed, where upon he then took off the blonde’s shoes and socks. Climbing out of his own clothes, Starsky then retreated back into the bed, covering them both with the blanket.
He lay on his side and snuggled up next to the warm, lean body of his partner. Throwing a protective arm over him, within minutes his eyes became sleepy as he watched Hutch’s back slowly rise up and down, telling Starsky that his friend was deep asleep.
~*~
Sometime during the night, Hutch woke up finding himself turned onto his side, facing the doorway. As he began to move he felt warmth behind him, the soft nuzzles of hair against his back, along with the slight tickling of warm breath on his neck. At once he smiled knowing full well who it was. Carefully testing what exactly lay underneath he found that Starsky had brought his knees up against his own, so that both lay snuggled together in a ball.
His jeans were extremely tight, pinching slightly the inside of his legs; gently he slipped from the bed and stripped quickly out of his remaining clothes. As the cold air hit his body, Hutch quickly scrambled back into the warmth of the bed and his dozing partner. Closing in against Starsky’s warm body, he felt his cock begin to grow as it touched his partner’s. Damn if he weren’t excited and fighting it wasn’t helping the situation at all.
Turning around so that his back was once again to his partner’s wasn’t the best idea as his buttocks rested perfectly against Starsky’s ever hardening thick shaft. Hutch moved about trying to find a comfortable way to get back to sleep but it was no use, now more than ever he was reminded of how much of an effect his partner had on him.
During all of this, Starsky slowly woke from his peaceful slumber to find the blonde’s nude body pressed against his own in a most explicit manner. Yet surprisingly his mind wasn’t on sex, it was more on Hutch’s state of mind, and he wasn’t going to let his hunger for his partner get in the way.
Lifting his hand he lightly placed it on Hutch’s thigh, lazily he began to run his fingers along its length, moving upward onto the hip and then going up along the ribs stopped ever so briefly before continuing over to Hutch’s chest.
A small laugh was produced through Starsky’s touching of the already sensitive ribs area, making Hutch squirm like a small child against the gentle attack. Yet at the same time, it was this warm, soft movement that immediately relaxed the already tense blonde as well.
Once the hand reached his chest, it stopped and rested there. Holding him like a scared little kid, protecting him, letting Hutch know that he was safe from the outside world and that Starsky would allow no one to hurt him. Closing his eyes, he felt the sting of emotional pain start to fade, his body relaxing, his mind clearing against all the fears that had crept into it during his slumber.
Then the hand drew itself back from its position on his chest and he then felt Starsky’s own furred chest pull back, but before he could utter a single word, something quite different happened.
There was a small movement on the bed, followed by light, soft kisses being given. At first they started at the nape of his neck, then it was as though millions of butterflies were being set free, his whole back became some sort of play ground to Starsky’s soft sensuous-like kisses. Playing ever so lightly along the whole width of his shoulders as well, going up and down his neck, yet he never once felt his curly haired friend’s hands on any part of his anatomy.
Not one time did either man speak, but instead both enjoyed the others reaction to what was going on. Coming up against the softness of Hutch’s hair, Starsky’s breath caught in the blonde’s ear, causing his body to shudder and Goosebumps rise. Hutch’s cock reached it full capacity and jerked in response to the gentle touching of pleasure that was being lovingly bestowed upon it.
“Turn onto your back.”
The words were spoken with the greatest of care, soft and deep his voice bear no sense of what he was feeling, as did his face. Hutch did as he was once again ordered, trying to see into his partner’s eyes, but they remained hidden from view, Starsky’s long, dark lashes prevented him from seeing into their depths.
Maneuvering himself around in the bed, he then brought himself into a sitting position just above Hutch’s head and placed it in his lap Starsky then began to slowly run his fingers along the blonde’s hairline, down along his cheeks bones and downward until he reached the chin.
Then using the very tips of his fingers he touched his partner’s whole face, messaging tiny circles all over, down into the softness of Hutch’s neck. Gliding lightly over the shoulders once again before firmly fingering his upper arms and sliding down until he reached his hands, then he touched each individual hand, tickling it with all the light caressing and kisses that he gave, all of this with love.
By the time Starsky had completely finished with his task, he had done all of his partner’s body. Every square inch of it was caressed and kissed, loved and pampered. Nothing was left out; not one time did he ever sexually give in, instead he had loved Hutch in a totally different way, a way in which brought them closer than any sex act ever committed.
When he finished, Starsky bent his head down over the blonde’s and kissed him softly on the mouth, his tongue darted in, playing against Hutch’s, the kiss deepening as he brought his hand up into through Starsky’s hair pulling him closer.
His other hand rested lazily on his partner’s leg, gently caressing it, slowly inching its way up to the groin area. The kiss intensifying, a very deep moan floated across the air between them as it became quiet apparent the room was growing hotter by the minute.
Trying to get more comfortable, Starsky found himself being pushed onto his back, Hutch followed by crawling on top, never breaking from the kiss. Once he was over his dark haired lover, Hutch then laid his body on top, pushing his left leg between Starsky’s while his right one remained on the outside next to his partners thigh.
Intently focused on pleasing Starsky, the blonde’s kisses became softer more gentler in their quest, breaking from the intensity of the kiss, Hutch licked his way down the entire length of his furred lover’s body.
As he reached Starsky’s hardened cock, Hutch delightfully took the shaft in his mouth and using his tongue, he licked it as though it were a tasty treat. Pacing himself he worked slowly, moving his hand firmly up and down while with the other messaging Starsky’s balls. The total combination started him moaning while he moved his hips, carefully and slowly fucking Hutch’s mouth, trying not to choke him in the process.
His hand slid into the softness of the blonde’s hair holding him steady, watching, as he became clearly more excited. Briefly their eyes met as Hutch continued on, his mouth full, those lips slightly moist with his juices, what a sight, it made Starsky go sexually crazy as he tried to focus, but was unable due to what he was seeing.
“Ooh God Dammit Hutch – ”
Slowly he pulled away from his partner’s slackened cock and smiled, sitting up Starsky surprised him by the quickness as which he rose. Roughly he pushed Hutch back and took over; their bodies became intertwined and sweaty. Within minutes Starsky reached his goal and slid effortlessly between his angelic lover’s legs and began a feast of his own.
Expertly using his own methods, he took Hutch to heaven. Flicking his long tongue around the rose colored head of his lover’s cock, Starsky then licked over the slit, making it produce a single drop of Hutch’s sweet juice. He accepted it without a second thought and licked it off bringing the precious drop back into his mouth where he slowly took his time and cherished ever-sweet taste as he rolled it over his tongue. Wanting more of the same, he then repeated the motion, but this time he used it as lubricant and with his hand moistened the area, moving up and down feeling it palate beneath his touch.
Hutch’s body was going ballistic as he felt every little thing that his dark lover was doing. His body reacted by shuddering and becoming so attuned with all that was going on it was unreal to say the least. The sexual torture was so much that he felt as though at any given moment he were going to explode.
Starsky knew by this time it was getting to be too much for his lover to bear, the signs were all there, the contracting muscles in Hutch’s legs and the moans escaping into the night air, accompanied by the overly hardened cock that he held firmly in his hands. Looking up, he also noticed that Hutch’s eyes were glazed over in a very sexual nature, watching him yet not seeing – it was time.
“Hutch, are you ready?”
“Ready? – I can’t take much more of this, God Starsk, give me relief!”
His voice was thick and strained; barely able to speak at this point he was so aroused, the answer had come out in a very soft whisper. He was definitely ready to be set free.
Releasing Hutch’s shaft, Starsky laid on top of him, placing his forearms under the blonde’s broad shoulders their cocks on top of one another. His mouth found the soft lips of his angelic lover as he slowly and very gently he moved against Hutch, causing an electric current to run through them simultaneously. As the sexual tension built, peaking quickly, he slowed back down. This happened for several minutes, driving Hutch crazy.
Starsky wanted to take his time. It was very imperative to him that he love Hutch, not just take him as he had done so many times before. It wasn’t about him anyway; it was about showing his love and true affection for his friend, lover and partner in more than just animal lust.
His deep blue eyes met those of Hutch’s clearer one’s conveying so much, yet too him it just wasn’t enough. Right now it was emotional more than physical loving that was needed, normally aggressive in his tendency on and off the field, it was very hard for Starsky to keep in control, but he managed very well despite his growing sexual hunger.
Their tongues played lazily against one another at first, then as things heated up, so did the kiss and their passion. Both felt the sudden rush as the orgasm hit hard, immediately Starsky removed his arms from underneath Hutch. Intertwining his fingers with that of his lovers, the pair cam and cried out each other’s name, then as things began to slowly cooled down, Starsky fell weakly against Hutch before rolling to his side.
For quite sometime, neither man spoke, it was understood as Hutch’s mind cleared and his body slowly returned to normal what had just transpired. Starsky had emotionally loved him; it was the very first time this had happened in such a strong capacity.
“Starsk, thanks.”
Turning onto his side, Hutch leaned in and kissed his lover on the mouth, his hand pushing back a dark curl as he did so. Their eyes locked and this time that lopsided grin came into play, causing the blonde to smile broadly.
“For what?”
“You know full well – I really needed that, and without fail you gave it to me. Just as you always do.”
“Well, your welcome, look I may make some pretty stupid mistakes at times, but I know what you need and I try to give it, regardless as to what it is.”
Joining Hutch, Starsky turned onto his side and ran his hand through the blonde’s soft golden locks, watching as the glow from the morning’s light caught it, making his hair shine like the sun.
“I don’t say it often, but – well I love ya Blintz, you’re my world. Never forget that – promise?”
Taken back by his friend’s sudden emotional upheaval of words, Hutch found himself almost teary-eyed. Clearing his throat, he responded in the slightest of words, yet so powerful.
“Promise.”
~*~
Within the next couple of days the pair were busy with working, trying to get an inside line onto what was happening with the Dumpster murders, but no one was still talking. What made matters even worse was Captain Dobey’s constant presence and his speeches to them about the precincts “policies” involving family on the same cases. But of course this didn’t deter the detectives, just made them more cautious. Upon coming back from lunch, the phone was ringing at Hutch’s desk racing to the around to it, he quickly retrieved it.
“Detective Hutchinson here. Yes, Dr. Martocci I’ve been expecting your call – How is she? I see – Right now? Yes I can do that – in about fifteen minutes – where? Thanks, alright.”
Starsky watched him during the whole conversation, trying to figure out what was going on, but Hutch’s face remained professional, giving him no clues whatsoever as to the nature of the talk. Once off the phone, it took no time finding out what was said.
“Well, don’t keep me guessing. What did the doc say? How’s Jaz?”
“He needs to see me, said it couldn’t be discussed over the phone.”
Covering his face with both hands, Hutch didn’t move for a couple of minutes, as all sorts of new fears showed themselves in the dark recesses of his mind. Fearing the worst he wanted to take a moment before leaving. Whatever would happen, he knew there was no turning back. He would be there for her no matter what or how sever the problems might be.
Starsky didn’t have to ask his worried friend what the problem was, he already knew from dealing with his partner for over so long, how the man’s mind worked. Guilt was Hutch’s worse enemy, and he carried a very heavy load of it right now.
“Come on Blintz, let’s go see the doc. Just remember I’m here with ya, ain’t going no where. We’ll get through this together, you and I.”
Standing up, he placed a large hand on Starsky’s shoulder and smiled, it was enough, the words were lovingly spoke without one sound being uttered.
Reached the hospital both men went upstairs and waited in the lounge where Dr. Martocci was waiting along with Dr. Zadin who introduced everyone then excused himself upon hearing his name over head.
“Let’s talk about your daughter Mr. Hutchinson. Jasmine is a very bright and intelligent young woman, I find her to be a very loving and warm human being. Now my colleague and I have run some tests and I want to let you know about the results.”
“First, two things. I don’t beat around the bush; I’m straight to the point. Second I am as some have called me a mean bastard, but this is because I do what is best. You want me to continue as your daughter’s physician then you must listen and do what I tell you. If not, then I will withdrawal and as a result you’ll have to find another specialist.”
“Do we understand each other?”
Hutch looked at Starsky then back to the doctor, it seemed like the man knew what he was talking about – so far – but it was his slight arrogance that immediately put Hutch on alert and his partner as well.
“So far – Doctor.”
“Now as you already know I’m neurologist, which means my work is extensively brain related, I know its functions very well. So there are many tests to be given to let us know of where the damage is and how sever, also if it can be treated or not.”
“Jasmine received a very harsh blow back here – now Dr. Zadin told me that he informed you that this alone should have killed her, am I correct?”
“Yes, he did.”
“Alright, now then this is a very fragile area, and in most cases this would be true, but somehow with Jasmine’s case, she managed to cheat death, but instead she lost her eye sight. Now for how long I cannot say. It could be as little as a month to as long as the rest of her life. The damage however was quite sever, and with all the blows received, this very well could account for her strange child-like behavior.”
“Here let me show you something.”
Getting out two X-ray’s, Martocci clipped them in place on the machine, turning on the light he then proceeded on to explain to the detectives about her injuries of which she sustained…through comparison.
“Now this is the image of a healthy skull. See how its shape is? Note the other things in this one – now – look at the second one, see the difference? This one has three fractures in it, along with some discoloration’s; that is Jasmine’s skull.”
Hutch stood and walked over to where the X-ray’s hung, glancing from one to the other, taking his time, studying each one. Then finally his eyes came to rest on his daughters, slowly it was starting to come together, and painfully he was accepting it. Jasmine would probably never see again, or be as a normal young woman. Without another word he turned and walked out of the room.
Starsky looked at the two X-ray’s for quite sometime, his anger growing, it showed as his hands slowly clenching into fists. Clearly it was a painful thing for his friend to have to come to grips with what might happen to his only offspring. Who would care for her and what would the future hold for this gentlewoman who only wanted to find her father and happiness as well?
“Question Doc.”
“Go ahead, what is it?”
“Is this the reason she is so – her mind is now different? Or could it be something else entirely different causing this reaction? And explain it to me in normal terms, I’m not exactly the doctor type, in case you haven’t noticed.”
“Well, sometimes when the brain is exposed to violence for example, it will attempt to block it out. This could bring about the type of behavior that Jasmine is exhibiting now, or it could very well have to do with the blows she sustained to the head.”
“Why didn’t she recognize us?”
“Did she know you as a child?”
“No. But she responded to my voice.”
“She did – how?”
Starsky went over it again as he had before, even telling the doctor about her reaction with Hutch. Martocci listened carefully to the detective’s descriptive recollection.
“This sounds particularly interesting, hmm – let’s go looking for Mr. Hutchinson and then we’ll take a walk over to Jasmine’s room. Right now that’s where my colleague Casey Godbey is at, she is speaking with Jasmine at this very moment.”
By the time they found Hutch, he was standing at his daughter’s room watching the interaction between her and the woman doctor. Jasmine sat on the bed, cross-legged, her arms around a stuff toy cat, leaned back against a mountain of pillows that were stacked behind her.
The doctor sat on the edge of the bed, her face not far from Jasmine’s, slowly the injured young woman put the toy cat down in front of her and then reached out with one hand and touched Dr. Godbey’s face. Her hand slowly and carefully slid though the long dark hair, down the soft sweater-like material of the doctor’s shirt.
Looking up, Casey saw Richard along with some other men standing just outside the doorway, a quick assessment told her that the taller of the two was Jasmine’s father, it was easy considering the identical resemblance’s to one another.
“Jasmine, I’ll be right back, my friend here want’s to see me for a minute, you ok?”
“You’re coming back right Casey?”
“Yes, just give me a second and I’ll be back.”
“K…”
Reluctantly the younger woman let go dropping her hands she then reached down and upon retrieving her toy, fell back against the pillows. Closing her eyes, Jaz turned her head away, slowly pulling herself up in a tight ball, snuggling the cat close to her cheek.
“Casey, this is Mr. Hutchinson, Jasmine’s father and Mr. Starsky.”
“Please call me Hutch.”
“Like wise, just its just Starsky.”
“Alright, we’ve been talking and she’s doing quite well, much better than a few days ago. However there is still times when she’s skittish and unsure of her surroundings, but that’s to be expected considering her blindness. If you’re careful in approaching her, Jasmine responds very well.”
“Can I see her or would it be too much right now?”
“Well Hutch, I don’t see how it would be harmful, in fact it might even help. One thing I might suggest is to go in slowly and talk in a very soft voice and don’t crowd her. Allow Jasmine to take the initiative”.
He glanced over at Starsky and the others, knocking lightly before going in. Calmly he waited for her to allow him to enter, keeping his fingers crossed this would work.
At once she sat up and looked in the direction of the noise; her head cocked like a puppy’s at hearing a strange sound. Carefully he repeated it and once again waited.
“Hello?”
“Hi, can I come in?”
Sitting up a bit, she leaned forward, almost straining as she clutched the toy to her chest, Jasmine simply froze for an instant, not sure how to react. Hutch glanced backward at the doctor who nodded at him to continue. Walking closer to her, he spoke, his words were soft and full of warmth
“Jasmine, do you remember my voice? Listen carefully to me. ”
“Who are you?”
He stopped in mid stride, faltering just slightly, then he continued on until he reached the bed.
“I’m a – well I’m a close…”
Finding that he was getting very uncomfortable with the sudden but simple question, Casey gently answered for the painfully surprised detective. It was a simple answer to the question, one that made Hutch give a huge sigh of relief.
“Jasmine, this is Hutch.”
“Hutch…”
She repeated the word several times concentrating hard as she said it. Turning around in the bed, she finally faced him. He watched her intently as she struggled to remember him; it was hard as she began to shift around in the bed clearly very uncomfortable.
“Does my mom know you?”
Hutch stared at the young woman, not really knowing how to respond, but he tried his best to give her what she wanted, the plain simple truth, nothing wrapped in pretty fancy ribbon, just the truth.
“Yes, she knew me, but we haven’t seen each other for some time.”
“Oh, how do you know her?”
“Uh, well we went to school together, grew up in the same town.”
Her bruised face lit up considerable and she smiled, it was the sweetest thing he’d seen her do since the incident. So badly he wanted to reach out and touch her, but decided against it. Knowing full well it could start another round of her screaming or worse.
“Were you boy friend and girl friend?”
Jasmine leaned forward as though they were sharing a secret and Hutch smiled, it was a sad smile, but nevertheless a smile. Carefully he leaned in, only inches from her and lowered his tone. As their conversation continued on Starsky watched and felt his heart about to explode, it was a very touching moment between the two.
Then suddenly, yet slowly, Jasmine reached out and began to touch his face, tracing along his jawbone and mouth, her fingers lightly grazing over his eyes and nose. Finally she stopped and said something, he laughed and repeated the same step, then not able to help it any longer, and he simply hugged her to him.
At first everyone outside the room watched, Starsky had almost quit breathing, hoping she wouldn’t react tragically in his affection towards her, but luck was with them both and she did nothing but accept it graciously.
He also caught sight of the slight shaking of Hutch’s broad shoulders and knew immediately that his gentler counterpart was letting go of his pain as he held his daughter in his arms, only Starsky seemed to detect it at the moment and the blond didn’t seem to care.
Before too long, Starsky moved passed the two doctors and went into the room, taking his time watching the scene before him as he advanced nearer towards the pair. At that moment he could hear Jaz talking to her father reassuring him that it was ok.
“I’ll be ok, I’m feeling much better and when my momma comes, she’ll be so glad to see you, right now she’s with Paul and they’ve went to pick up some horses that were purchased a few days ago.”
That’s when he lost it altogether and gently pulled back, wiping the tears away from his face as he stood and glanced up in his partners direction before introducing the two as though they were meeting for the first time.
“Uh – Jasmine, this is my friend Starsky, I don’t think you remember him, but you two are extremely good friends. He came by to say hi, so I’m going to leave you both to talk and I’ll be right back. Can I kiss you before I leave?”
“Yeah, it’s ok, since were friends.”
Then he lightly kissed her on the forehead and said goodbye, leaving the room to join the doctors as they watched the interaction with the other man. Patting Hutch on the shoulder, Casey smiled and nodded her head, how he had handled the situation was very good considering what he had to deal with, now it was Starsky’s turn and this was what Richard Martocci found to be most curious about.
“So, can I sit down?”
“Sure, I won’t bite. Tell me how do I know you?”
“Well we met about eight months ago when you ran into me.”
“I did?”
“Yep, it was like one of those cartoons, you know where the two character’s run smack into each another so hard that all they can see are stars dancing around their heads.”
The way in which he spoke, connected with her child-like mind and immediately Jaz broke into hysterical laughter at his descriptive manner, prompting Starsky to follow suite. Within minutes, both sat on the bed giggling back and fourth, heads together cracking jokes, some a little more childish than others, still it was good to she her so happy.
The trio watched completely immersed in the pair, it was very obvious that the two had a very strong bond, even with the young woman’s different self, Starsky was still able to blend it with her as before, it was as though they’d never been apart. Somewhere deep inside Jaz’s mind, she still had a connection to her former lover, somewhere.
“Seems like your friend has a unique way with her, its his compassionate reaction in which he interacts with her, giving that blend of boyish charm and younger mentality that for Jasmine, is so easy to identify with.”
Getting his attention, Starsky said something to her once again she exploded into laughter and smiled brightly in his direction, wrapping her arms about him, hugging Starsky close. He felt her warmth and choked back the urge to squeeze her tight, instead he gave her a gently half hug and waited for her to let go. It took a few minutes, but finally Jaz let go and laid back with her toy once again in her arms.
“Will you come back to see me later?”
“Sure, anytime kid – and I’ll bring a little something for you next time.”
“Really? Like what?”
“I don’t know – what do you like?”
“Unicorns.”
“Uni what?”
Soft child-like laughing
“Unicorn. You mean to tell me that you don’t know what a Unicorn is? What are you an adult?”
“Uh, well – why would you say that?”
“Because only adults don’t believe, and you have to believe in something. I believe in a lot of things, but my mom says that not all things are meant to be. Something’s should remain where they’re at.”
“Like what?”
“Well – like seeing God, unless you’re dead – or tryin’ to fly – or – well – nothin’.”
Suddenly she looked very sad, almost ready to cry, now Starsky was curious and wanted to know just what was so overwhelming that it damn near brought her to tears, and not Hutch or the others were going to stop him.
Gently he reached out and lifted her chin with his thumb and index finger, looking at her, scooting closer, knowing full well she couldn’t see him, never less it did make a difference.
“Jaz, listen – ”
“You know my nickname!”
“Of course I do, when I asked what your name was you told me to call you Jaz. Now are you upset? Finish what you were going to tell me, were friends aren’t we? And don’t friends talk to each other about everything, especially hurts?”
“Yes.”
“So, then what’s wrong with my best friend? Can’t you tell me why you’re so sad?”
“It doesn’t matter.”
“You’re important to me, so whatever is bothering you is important as well. Now want to tell me about it?”
His hand grazed her face lightly and Jaz immediately grabbed onto it aggressively, not letting go, but instead she surprised everyone by moving closer and eventually snuggling right up next to him until Starsky was literally holding the young woman in his arms.
“Feel better?”
“Um hmm…”
Her injured arm she held firmly between her and Starsky, while with the other hand held onto his forearm, her head rested comfortably against his chest, eyes closed, as her breathing slowed.
“Good, now talk to me – tell me what’s wrong?”
“I don’t have – no, I mean I want to find my daddy. But mommy says that it’s better left alone. I-I don’t think that – ”
“You don’t think what?”
“I-I don’t think he ever wanted me – ”
Starsky looked over at Hutch whose expression was that of pain and anger. Not towards her but at Claire for being such a conniving little bitch to have deceived their daughter for all this time. How could a mother be so hateful, to put her child through such a horrible thing as to even say that she wasn’t wanted?
Slowly he turned back to Jaz and watch as one lone tear made its way down her bruised cheek, downward to her trembling chin. Gently and carefully he pulled his arm free and took his thumb, wiping it away, then placing his arm protectively back around her, Starsky held her tightly against him. She cried openly as only a child could, tearing him apart inside, feeling helpless Starsky was grateful that Jaz hadn’t been able to see the look in his eyes right now.
He sat there and rocking her gently in his arms, speaking into her ear in hushed soft tones, trying to calm her down. As Hutch watched the scene unfold before him, he was reminded how child like Jasmine’s mind really was and how this affected her looks as well. Right now his daughter was in fact a young ten-year-old who wanted her mommy and still to find her lost daddy of whom she painfully thought didn’t want her.
“Oh baby if only you knew just how much I want to turn back time … if I could’ve been there, I would have… “
Martocci watched a few minutes longer then made the suggestion that they all go back to the lounge to talk in private, it would in the doctor’s words be better if things could be taken care of without her overhearing. Hutch agreed. Once in the lounge, Martocci directly looked the detective in the eyes and spoke; it was the only way to do this.
“Hutch, I think we need to contact her legal guardian.”
“Why?”
“Because to be frank, there is no way in hell that Jasmine Mitchell can stay with you, she is going to need around the clock supervision, something you cannot give her. Not in what you do, your never home.”
“Now wait a minute, I can take care of her – ”
“No, you can’t! Not by yourself think about this for your daughter’s sake – ”
“Fuck you and your logic! I can and will take care of her!”
The two men glared at one another and it was quite obvious that neither was going to give, what made matters worse with the situation was that both felt they were right. Casey however knew Martocci’s was out of Medical reasoning, while Hutch’s came from the heart.
“Alright you tell me just how you are going to do this? Give me all the details of one day at your household. Tell me from the very beginning to the end of the day how you’re going to give complete care to her. And I don’t want to hear about babysitters or stop by nannies neither.”
“Look, I don’t have all the answers right at this second, but I can do it – if you’ll help me. What she said back there about me not being in her life was true, but I didn’t know she even existed. I want to be there now, to make up for it in some small way. Don’t you understand? Christ, I can change my job around, work different shifts if I have to, my partner and I we could do it!”
Both physicians looked at each other then back at Hutch who seemed so tired at this moment. They knew the painful truth and it was a task of which would take a lot of time and energy something that her father couldn’t give, not to a young blind ten year old, it was unconceivable to say the least. Finally Casey tried to talk to the detective; maybe her approach would work better then her colleagues.
“Hutch no one is implying that you don’t love her, or don’t even want to help. But the painful truth is simply that with Jasmine being blind; that is hard to deal with, especially from her perspective. Just try and think about it for a moment. She is a very active and energetic young woman, now double that by the fact she thinks she’s ten years old.”
“And how can you honestly include your partner in this or to say that keeping up with her would be easy? Now here is something else to think about. Her mental status is not where it should be; right now we don’t know what we’re dealing with. One minute she appears to be fine, the next we find her aggressive and angry, throwing tantrums and smashing things, not to mention biting people. Oh yes, its been a very rough last two days to say the least.”
“So now that’s why Dr. Martocci and I think it’s necessary we talk to her legal guardian about her care. Maybe setting her up in a medical facility for right – ”
“No.”
“I’m sorry what did you say?”
“I said No. You will not put her away like some freak in a side show. Simple.”
“There is no other way at this time – ”
“Fuck you both. I will contact her guardian and we’ll figure out something suitable for her and it won’t be any Goddamn facility. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got other matters to attend to, Oh and by the way – I want you off her case files now!”
“Look Mr. Hutchinson you weren’t the one – ”
“I’m NOT going to repeat myself, this is done and you will be off her medical charts or I’ll take care of it myself!”
Instead of taking the elevators, the angry detective walked down the back way using the stairs. His mind still racing on the argument he’d just had with the two doctors about Jasmine’s care. How could they even start to understand anything about his world and what went on in it?
Damn them all to hell, he had finally achieved one of his dreams in life, and now it was going to be taken away from him? No, he wouldn’t allow it. First Claire’s deceptive manner towards him, then her lying to their daughter all along. Why? That had been his silent question to the dead woman ever since he’d met Jasmine over eight months ago. Now not only did he carry this incident with him, feeling as though it was his entire fault she had gotten hurt. But now these doctors wanted to take her away from him.
“Over my dead body – No one will separate us again baby – I promise you!”
~*~
Finally she was asleep and he was grateful. Looking at down at her, it was impossible for him to understand anyone wanting to hurt her in the first place. Just because she was blind didn’t matter, but what hurt him the worst was she didn’t know either of them and now her wonderful adult mind was simply gone. Now Jasmine Mitchell was a ten-year-old in her own mind, exactly where at was hard to determine, but from what Starsky had gathered, it was while her mother was alive.
Gently as possible he laid her back and slid off the bed, tucking her in with the blanket and placing the toy cat in her arms, kissing her softly on the lips, he turned and left the room in search of his missing partner.
Thirty minutes later after talking with Dr. Godbey and finding out what had transpired, Starsky found his friend outside pacing back and fourth like a crazed animal, his eyes were dark and dangerous, and his stiff gait told him that he was indeed still quite angry.
“Hutch, I heard, come on let’s go to the Pitts for a couple of quick ones then head home, you need some time to think and I need something to eat, I’m starvin’.”
“Do you believe that bullshit Starsk? I mean they literally want to take her away from me, her natural father!”
“Hutch listen you’re in no shape to discuss this right now, look you’re pissed off and want to take it out on the nearest guy. And I know you don’t want to hear this, but it’s time that Paul knew what was going on.”
Hutch’s side-glance told his partner immediately that he’d fucked up in the worst way possible. Shit and they were doing so well –
“What did you say?”
Now was not the time to back down, and he wasn’t about too either. Starsky loved Jaz with all of his heart, but he also understood that clearly she needed more professional attending to and neither he nor Hutch had the background to do it. Problem was that Hutch’s heart was speaking for him right now, not his brain.
“You heard me right the first time, look all I’m saying is stop using listening to your heart. And like you’ve told me so many times before, look at the facts. No one is saying that you can’t be involved with her. Or is anyone trying to take her from you, I for one certainly wouldn’t allow that, hell I care about her to!”
“I don’t believe you Starsk, I thought I could count on you for help in this, but I guess I was sadly mistaken. What’s the problem? Now that she’s no longer a sex toy to you, then she’s not worth your time and energy?”
Shocked, he stared hard at Hutch, unable to acknowledge what his partner actually said, then as it sank in Starsky’s anger started to grow at an alarming rate. His sapphire blue eyes became dark as night, almost black and his hands clenched into tight fists, jaw tightened as he quickly stepped up to the blond, staring directly into his eyes.
“I won’t tolerate that bullshit from you or anyone else, so watch yourself Hutch or you just might end up in intensive care, and I’ll be the one to put your sorry ass there – Now back off cause I’m not someone you can push around!”
They stood there facing each other, their anger was imminent, yet somewhere deep inside Hutch knew his friend was right, but for the moment he wasn’t about to accept it not just yet. Finally he glanced away and shook his head, more frustrated than anything else; he simply started to walk away.
Starsky wanted to stop him, but there was something that told him otherwise. Right now Hutch needed time to think how much time was another matter. It seemed that the Hutchinson name was plagued with all kinds of emotional pain in one aspect or another. Now he had to come to grips with accepting the harsh cold facts about his daughter, and it wasn’t easy.
Deep inside, Starsky knew Hutch hadn’t meant those cold and hurtful words, still they burned and never less and he was angry by who had said them. If it had been anyone else, maybe, just maybe he could have over looked it, but not his partner. Now more then ever the blonde needed him and regardless to how he felt Starsky would be there and this whole issue would be dismissed for the time being.
On his way home, Hutch remained deep in thought, his mind going over carefully the whole scene with her, leading up to now. Dammit he didn’t want to call Paul, instead he wanted to handle it himself, to show everyone that he could in fact take care of his daughter, but then again that was his pride speaking…
At home, he started to drink, and it was to kill the pain, something that he alone hadn’t been able to do. His eyes kept close watch on the phone for hours until finally he made the call, it was about two o’clock in the morning when he did it.
Paul was patient to say the least, considering Hutch’s drunken state. He listened to what the man had to say then told him that he’d make arrangements to fly out in a couple of days. There was no anger in the big man’s voice, but rather a calming soothing tone in which Hutch responded with quietness. He opened up his heart and pain to the man, telling him of his anger towards Claire and his fears with loosing Jasmine all together.
“Ken, I can promise you that will never happened. You calling me has proved that you love her and want what is best. I will keep you informed of her progress and you and your partner can come out anytime you like to see her.”
“Really?”
“Of course, you’re her real father and the both of you love her. What kind of man would I be if I tried to keep you away from your own daughter? And she will not go into any facility; that is another promise I will keep. Now get some sleep and I’ll call you in the morning. Do we have an agreement?”
“Yes. We have an agreement, it still doesn’t help how I feel, but I do want what’s best for Jasmine, and your right, I just can’t do this alone.”
“It doesn’t mean that you don’t care or love her any less – it just means your being realistic and knowing your limits is the first step to making things better for all concerned. Now I have a early morning, so get some sleep it sounds like your going to need it.”
“Thanks Paul and goodnight.”
“Night Ken.”
Clumsily he hung up the phone and laid on the soft coolness of the carpet. His face soaked with tears, he finally fell into a deep restless sleep around five a.m.
During the next day, Paul called to confirm his flight with Hutch and spoke briefly about Jasmine. Reluctantly the detective gave over the doctor’s information so Paul could call and speak with them himself about her condition. Keeping busy was hard considering his mind remained with her, but he gave it a valiant effort to say the least.
Starsky kept an ever-watchful eye on his partner the whole time, not saying too much, but rather letting him do what was needed. He after all had kept his promise to Jaz and now his mind was on her, stopping by the toy store on the way to the hospital, he came back out with a very large stuffed unicorn. Hutch smiled at the overly conspectus creature and carefully placed it in the back of the Torino.
“Is that thing going to fit into her bed?”
“I dunno, but it’ll be fun watching her try. I didn’t know that a uni whatever was a horse with a horn stuck in its forehead.”
“Well its nice that you did this for her, she’s going to love it. Uh, listen I’m real sorry for yesterday, I was way out of line and a total ass – sorry pal.”
“Your allowed one a day. Just don’t push it too much there Blintz.”
“Thanks.”
“So, are you ok with all of this? I mean Paul’s flying out to take charge and all?”
“What else can I do?”
“Just wonderin’ that’s all. Don’t want to try and break up a fight between you and the doc’s not to mention hospital security too, if you get my meaning.”
“I’m fine, Paul promised me a few things last night and I trust him. What other choice is there? I really have this gut feeling that he’s going to take good care of her, doesn’t mean I like it, but if I have to choose and I do, then my money’s on him.”
“Ok, then lets go see Jaz, I can’t wait to give this unicorn horsey thing to her, she’s gonna love it!”
~*~
“Leave me alone! Stop poking me!”
“Jasmine, listen all were trying to do is draw a little blood that’s it.”
“NO!”
“Jasmine – ”
“Get out of my room!”
Hastily the people left the room and shut the door. Falling back across the bed in tears, Jasmine cried like a little child. Not fully understanding what was going on and why couldn’t she see was making matters hard for her, but not able to talk to her mother was slowly tearing her apart.
In her mind, she still was back in Texas in the hospital after being thrown by Lighting, her step fathers horse. But instead of just having a bruised back and a broken arm, she was blind. Scared and feeling abandoned and she was reacting as anyone would under the circumstances.
Where were her friends like Paul and Starsky, not to mention the one she most was curious about, Hutch. There was just something about him that kept her mind thinking, but she couldn’t get a hold on it for anything. Dreams they came and went, but in them the images were just as sharp and vivid.
One was of a blond man, fair complexion with sky blue eyes. Somehow they looked alike. Tall and gentle he was a protector of sorts and she trusted him. Then the other was dark and slightly shorter, a lot of energy with a funny smile. He was close to her, but in another way – but Jaz didn’t quite understand it, all she knew is that he brought her such tremendous joy, they had a very strong connection and she felt very safe in his arms. He reminded her of an old pair of jeans, worn yes, but very comfortable and durable just the same.
Paul, now she knew him, but where was he during all of this. Usually she could pin point his deep voice anywhere. Always being near, she couldn’t understand why all of a sudden he wasn’t there. And momma, where did she run off to? Jasmine wasn’t all that surprised by the woman’s lack of being around, but still when she was hurt, Claire never left her daughter’s side.
Starsky promised her along with Hutch that they’d be back. So when she woke up and found them not there, that’s when all hell broke loose and Jaz started to have huge anxiety attacks. Being blind, she couldn’t tell who was coming or going, the noises around her were frightening to say the least and so she reacted like a scared animal, lashing out at anything that got too close.
She also started having scary images come after her, there were a total of four. Mean and vicious these images hurt her, doing things that were very bad in nature. Try as she might, Jasmine couldn’t get away and they laughed and poked fun at her while they hurt her, there was no escape from these horrifying nightmares that began to slowly push her to the edge of her sanity.
Just as she was getting comfortable, there was a slight knock at the door. Waiting she reached outward towards the table and grabbed onto something hollow. No matter it would work, feeling its slight heaviness she knew it would carry over to the far end of the room and do what it was intended for – damage.
“Hello?”
“It’s Casey, can I come in?”
“C-Casey? Is that really you?”
“Yes, now can I come in?”
At first Jasmine wasn’t so sure, but then her fear won out and she carefully got out of bed and fumbled about, slowly making her way towards the door. Using her good arm, she stretched it out in front of her feeling along the wall until she came to the opening to her room and found the knob. Turning it the soft sound of the clicking noise told her it was open. Pulling back she smiled triumphantly and voiced her happiness at doing it all by herself.
“Tada! There now see I did it!”
“Yes you most certainly did, very good. Are you alright? Someone told me there was some trouble in here. Of course I didn’t believe it. Or am I wrong?”
“They started poking me again and it hurt. I don’t like needles.”
She began to pout and Casey couldn’t help but to laugh at the spectacle before her, Jasmine was trying awfully hard to convince her just how innocent she was. Unfortunately the hurricane of a mess in the young woman’s room spoke for itself.
“This room looks as though a huge storm just smashed through it. Jasmine, did you do this? And did you bite Sara again and throw a picture of water at Anthony? Hmmm?”
She dropped her head forward and nodded, cuddling her arm; Casey slowly turned her around and helped her over to the bed. Getting her up and into it, she then covered her up and sat on its edge.
“Listen, you can’t continue to do this. Now I have a surprise for you. And if your good I will personally give it to you, continue this bad behavior and I won’t. Now we have an agreement?”
“Will I like it?”
Soft laugh…
“Very much.”
“Ok, when do I get this surprise?”
“Tomorrow.”
“Oh but that’s not fair, I’ll be real good today, does that matter?”
Another laugh…
“Yes, it scores big points with me, now you continue with the good behavior and you’ll get it first thing in the morning – now I’m going to get you a robe and we’ll go for a little walk around the hallway just you and I.”
“I get a chance to leave this room? Great! Let’s go!”
“Now, now hold on a second while I find you a robe, don’t want anyone seeing your naked butt do we?”
At that moment she smiled, then slowly it faded away as quick as it had come. Casey noticed it immediately and as she went to touch her, Jasmine began to scream and shrink away from her friend’s touch. Backing away she hit the table and fell backwards against the sharp edge of the bed. Trying to help her up caused more problems as Jasmine’s eyes grew wide and she started to kick and swat at Casey’s attempts to help her.
“No don’t hurt me, help me somebody they’re trying to hurt me! Momma, don’t let them take me away! No stop touching me! Stop it! – No!”
Her screams became more pronounced and louder, bringing a whole group of doctors into the room, already frightened, she began to react poorly to the already over crowded room.
“Get away – someone help me!”
~*~
From down the hallway both men were stopped in their tracks by a large commotion coming from the direction of Jasmine’s room. Taking off like a shot, it was Starsky, who rounded the corner first, damn near colliding with a nurse. Hutch ran into his partner as he tried to stop upon suddenly finding himself to Starsky’s backside.
“Get away from me! Help! No, stop it leave me alone! David, Hutch don’t leave me!”
Upon hearing his name being screamed and without another thought the overly energetic detective reacted, growling at and roughly shoving aside all that stood in his way, with Hutch following suite.
“Back off and get out of the way!”
“Come on move it!”
Quickly checking out the situation it was four men who held her down as another two tried to put her in restraints. The look in her eyes was that of terror and it was too much for either man to completely deal with. Angrily Hutch reacted and shoved the two off of Jasmine stepping over them, daring either one to move.
Starsky on the other hand ran up and grabbed hold of the one attendant and pushed him against his friend, knocking both men to the floor. Drawing closer to Jaz he then glared at all four of them.
“Move or get moved, it’s your choice.”
The man’s stance and his actions proved he wasn’t to be dealt with lightly and so in wanting to keep their health in check, all the men backed off and left the room immediately. Now only Dr. Godbey remained.
“Thanks, I couldn’t get them to leave, they wanted to have her sedated and restrained.”
“Why?”
As she recounted what had happened, Starsky reached out to her, pulling Jaz close against the warmth of his body. Slowly she ceased in her crying and snuggled against him, her wet face, buried in the softness of his chest hair.
“I knew you wouldn’t let them hurt me again.”
“You said my name, do you remember me?”
At that moment, Hutch realized that she had indeed said his partner’s name and now as he thought about it, she had also called out to him as well. Going over to them, Hutch sat on the edge of the bed and gently touched her cheek, she responded by placing her good hand over his and removing her face from Starsky’s chest, smiled up in her father’s direction.
“Of course I know who you both are.”
Squeezing Hutch’s hand harder, she smiled even more, producing his duplicate smile from her slightly bruised face. It was all that he needed to make him tear up immediately.
“You’re Hutch, my father, and you’re David Starsky, my friend and other half and you’re both my best friends.”
Both men hugged her tightly; it was a breath of fresh air to know that at least her memory had returned, if nothing else for the moment they were very grateful for that.
~*~
After the incident, she calmed down considerably not remembering too much of anything else prior to her regaining her memory back. Paul as promised flew in within a couple of days saw her. The men left them both alone while Hutch began to deal with the very real aspect of her going back to Texas.
“You know she’ll be better off and not only that, but Paul promised that we can come anytime and see her.”
“I know Starsk, it’s just I’m really going to miss her. I never thought that I’d have kids and then she comes along and changes everything. I’m used to her being her, I can’t help it.”
“Listen, I all I can try to do is understand your aspect of it. What I can tell you this much. I love her and it’s going to be damn hard for me not to have her around as well. But you know what, we can see her and call her anytime we want – so it won’t be like she’s gone.”
“Maybe.”
“Hutch, look at me. I’m here for you babe, and that won’t ever change. So if you need someone to help ease your burden then I’m your man. I have some pretty broad shoulder’s of my own incase you haven’t noticed.”
“Oh I have believe me – I have. Uh listen, there’s one other thing I have to take care of before she leaves, so if you don’t mind I’ll be awhile.”
“I understand, and while your gone I need to get us something for tonight so I’ll see you later?”
“Yeah that sounds good – hey Starsk?”
“Hmm”
“Thanks for sticking with me through all of this nightmare.”
“Isn’t that what friends are for?”
A smile was all that needed to be conveyed between the two, there was no more to be said.
On his way to the hospital all Hutch could do is think about how he was going to do this. He had decided to come out and tell Jasmine the truth, after all she was the one who had figured it out, now he needed to apologize for lying to her in the first place.
Going down the hall he saw them walking just ahead, smiling he followed until Paul caught sight, grinning and nodding at the detective he wavered off to the side where upon Hutch took his place.
“So I figured once I got home, maybe I could go and just take my time with this blind dog thing, I mean its not that I’m not grateful, but well I’ve grown up in that house and it’s not so hard getting around in it by myself.”
He listened intently, smiling and looking around, they continued their walk until her room came into view, going passed it Hutch tried to stifle a laugh, but was very unsuccessful.
“What’s so funny?”
“Nothing…”
Her eyes lit up and she giggled at his tricking her, throwing herself directly into his waiting arms, lucky for her Hutch was ready for it.
“Where did you come from!”
“Whoa, your going to kill me yet, have you gain a few pounds?”
Laughter…
“It’s the cast.”
“Ah, I should have figured it out. Listen Jasmine, I thought that you and I could have a little talk, there’s something I need to clear up with you. Can we talk in your room?”
“Sure, how bad is the news?”
“It’s not bad, just want to confirm something with you that’s all.”
Once back in the room, she settled into the bed, while Hutch took the chair next to her. At first he couldn’t get started, but then as the silence grew it was Jasmine that started.
“You wanted to talk to me about something important. Its ok, I won’t bite you.”
“I know honey it’s just where to begin that’s all.”
“How about where you feel most comfortable at? Or I could always take a guess so you won’t have to go through trying to explain it.”
“Alright, go ahead”
“It’s the thing between you and David am I right?”
“Yes. Yes it is and I just wanted to tell you that I’m sorry for lying and getting so defensive about it. I don’t really understand why I did it, but for what it’s worth I’m really sorry about our fight.”
“Dad, look I understand and it’s ok. I should have never just come out like I did and expected you to be so comfortable in telling me. Or should I have tried to make you jealous and force you to do something that wasn’t right period. I understand why you did it, and I love you however you choose to live, actually I’m glad that you and David are together because I know that he loves you and will do everything in his power to protect and care for you.”
“I-I don’t know what exactly to say, except thanks.”
“Works for me, oh and by the way, this whole thing isn’t your fault. I know what you’re thinking and just forget it. I’m the one who went to uncharted areas and didn’t pay attention. I should have known better.”
“Uh about that, they didn’t – well what I mean to say is that – ”
“No they didn’t rape me. Let’s just leave it at that. I still have a long way to go in dealing with what happened that night and knowing you and David as I do, well in time it’ll be handled, but not by you guys. Too much personal garbage, you’d loose your badges and don’t try to tell me other wise – I know better.”
He couldn’t argue she had him on that one, gently he took her into his arms and they sat together like this for quite sometime until her dinner arrived, then he excused himself and left.
Once home, he contacted Starsky and told him everything that had happened. It was surprising, as he didn’t seem too shocked by what Jaz had said. Now it was his partner who was intrigued by how calm Starsky was.
“How come you don’t seem taken back by her answer?”
“Didn’t know I should be. I just know her that’s all. Our relationship was of course different from yours, but I just can’t explain it right now. All I do know is that somewhere I knew she hadn’t been raped, and you know she’s right about them. We can’t be involved with the case, there’d be hell to pay and well let’s face it, were not on the good merits list with the DA Wouldn’t he just love to get a hold of us on this one?”
“Well it doesn’t mean we can’t help out a little now does it?”
“No, you’re right. Not bad Blintz, not bad at all, keep this up and who knows where it might lead. But first we have to get her on a plane and then we’ll go from there.”
~*~
Within the next week, Jaz was released from the hospital with orders to start counseling and therapy once she got back to Texas. In the mean time on the way to the airport, she and Starsky stood by themselves not too far from Hutch and Paul who were busy talking about some final arrangements.
“So you gonna miss me?”
He held her close, not wanting to let go, but he knew there was no real choice in the matter. At least she was safe and hopefully within time her eyesight would come back. The cuts and bruising had gone by this time and she wore a baseball cap to hide her still newly grown in hair; they both as well as a few new friends had signed the cast.
“Now that’s a silly question, yes I’m going to miss you. You’ve given me so much and I will never forget that. I love you, David.”
“You’ve taught this old dog some new tricks, and I love you too, kiddo.”
“Take care of dad for me, try to keep him busy. Maybe this Christmas you both can come out, or I can fly in. Doesn’t matter, but promise to call at least once a week?”
As she stood before him in those damn sunglasses, Starsky couldn’t help it any longer and pulled them off her face. At first she turned her head, but he gently placed his hand upon her chin and pulled her back so she was facing him.
“Don’t ever do that. Now come here – ”
Pulling her close, his mouth found hers and she took to him immediately, wrapping her arms around him, pushing her body close to his. He didn’t care who was watching, he loved Jaz and it hurt to let her go, the one thing he could give her was a kiss before she left him, not knowing when would be the next time they’d hold each other again.
The kiss was warm passionate – their minds solely on each other, she felt nice and soft against his ever hardening body. Finally it was she who broke the kiss, rubbing her nose with his. She tried not to, but Jaz’s emotions won out and she began to cry.
“Hey, hey it’s going to be alright, don’t cry ok?”
“I told myself I wouldn’t do this, I know about you and Dad, but I can’t just stop loving you. I’m sorry David I don’t mean to put you in any kind of awkward position.”
“Awkward hell, I’m enjoying two Hutchinson’s loving me. It’s great to know that I’m cared about so much. Don’t you worry now, your dad and I are grown and he understands my feelings for you too.”
He once again found himself relieved that she couldn’t see his face. The emotional pain of letting her go was tremendous and it showed. Carefully he replaced her sunglasses and wiped away her fallen tears, hugging her close once again this time until Jaz’s plane number was called. Reluctantly he let her go and walked her over to Hutch and then stepped back, walking away from them altogether.
“Hey honey, are you ready?”
Her answer was but a whisper and it was very obvious to both men that she was hurting, but she had to go and there was no other way out of it.
“Yes.”
“Soon, very soon me and Starsky will come and see you. Probably take about two weeks or so. Then we’ll be able to get caught up on all that is going on. I love you Jasmine and I’m going to miss you, but it doesn’t mean I won’t call or otherwise.”
Without warning, she reached out and wrapped her arms around his neck, almost choking him in the process as she pulled him close. Kissing him on the cheek, Jasmine leaned in close to his ear and whispered…
“I’m so luck to have you for my dad, and love you. Please take care of David. Call when you can and be careful out there … I- I don’t want to get any bad news about neither one of you.”
Tightly he held her against him, his arms firmly wrapped around her waist, lifting her up against his tall frame, he spun her around gently feeling his heart break into a million pieces as he finally set her back down. Trying desperately to fight back the urge to run out of there with her, he turned to Paul instead and thrust her small hand into the man’s larger one. Clearing his throat before he spoke.
“Take good care of my girl, any problems call me, day or night it doesn’t matter.”
“I understand Ken.”
As he watched them both depart, it was then that Kenneth Hutchinson leaned his forehead against the glass and silently cried. From a distance the same thing was transpiring with his darker counterpart, except for Starsky the emotions were dealt with in a very concealing manner. Within the small constraints of the plane, Jasmine placed her hand on the window of the plane and said a very silent good-bye.
Epilogue
A month following Jasmine’s attack, all four of the men responsible for these vicious killing’s were captured in a very elaborate sting operation of which Starsky and Hutch were a small but important part of.
Jasmine’s therapy continued and slowly she learned how to use a Seeing Eye dog, it took time and extreme patience on everyone behalf but she once again began to be independent. Both Starsky and Hutch were extremely enthusiastic about this great change in her condition and by Christmas as promised they came out for three weeks of vacation and spent a great deal of time with her as well as Paul.
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