Table of Contents
After Gunther, Starsky and Hutch adjust to a major change.
Part One
The blond detective suddenly felt the room closing in on him. I can’t believe this. What the hell am I going to do? He watched as the door closed and he was left alone. Never did like lawyers. I’ve got to get out of here. I need to think. Grabbing the large envelope the lawyer had left with him, Hutch practically bolted from the interrogation room. Never in his wildest dreams would he have guessed what the young and nervous attorney needed to discuss with him when he had shown him into the interrogation room.
Returning to his desk, Hutch grabbed his jacket from the back of his chair. His mind was racing in so many directions he couldn’t think straight. Seeing Minnie across the room, he yelled, “Minnie, tell Starsky I had to leave for a while.” Not sure where his partner had gone, Hutch couldn’t wait around to find him. What would I tell him, anyway? Before Minnie had a chance to reply, Hutch was gone.
The troubled detective drove aimlessly, not really caring where he ended up. He thought about stopping by Huggy’s for a beer, but he knew one beer wouldn’t be enough. All the beer in the world can’t fix the mess I’m facing. I need some time to think. How the hell am I going to explain this to Starsky? Why now, when things are going so well for both of us? After all we’ve been through… Okay, I know there’s more to consider here than what I want or even what Starsky wants, but damn it, why now? I’m not sure I’m ready for this. Not sure I’ll ever be. This just wasn’t part of the plan for our future.
* * *
Starsky looked around the room, wondering where his partner had disappeared to. The leather jacket that had been draped over the back of Hutch’s chair was gone. “Hey, Minnie, did Hutch say where he was going?”
“No, he just said to tell you that he had to leave for a while. He was gone before I had a chance to ask him anything.”
“That’s strange.” Starsky sat down at his desk, puzzled about Hutch’s sudden disappearance. It’s not like Hutch to just take off without saying anything to me.
“Yeah, you know, he was acting sort of strange, too. Well, maybe not strange, but he sure looked upset. Maybe he received some bad news from that guy that came in to talk to him.”
“What guy? What did he want?” Starsky didn’t like the uneasy feeling that was taking hold.
“I don’t know who he was or what he wanted. He walked in, asked for Detective Hutchinson; I pointed to him, and that’s about all I know. Except a few seconds later they went into one of the interrogation rooms. I didn’t notice when the man left but when Hutch came out, he grabbed his jacket and said to tell you he had to leave for a while.” Minnie shook her head. “Sorry, Starsky, I don’t know anything else. He’ll probably be back soon.”
“That’s okay, thanks, Minnie.” Starsky glanced at the clock on the wall. It was almost quitting time. I’ll wait around a few minutes for Hutch and then go on home. It couldn’t be anything serious or he would’ve told me. No reason to worry. Or is there?
Starsky waited another forty-five minutes, but still no Hutch. Still trying not to worry, he straightened up his desk and headed for home. Making his way through the parking garage, even now, eighteen months after being gunned down by Gunther’s men-he still felt a chill run through his body. Pausing before unlocking the door of the Torino, he took a careful look around. He hadn’t felt safe since that day over a year ago. Neither of them had. Which reminded him he didn’t know where his partner had gone. Where are you, Hutch? Are you safe?
Twenty minutes later, Starsky pulled into the driveway of the home he now shared with Hutch. Kind of funny, but I always feel safe here. This is our home. Dismayed that Hutch’s car wasn’t there, the feeling of apprehension he’d been trying to push aside flared again. He tried to tell himself there was nothing to worry about. Hutch was probably doing the grocery shopping, which had been the reason they had each taken their own cars this morning. But who was the man who’d come to see Hutch?
Starsky attempted to keep his mind off Hutch by doing a load of laundry and starting dinner. When these tasks were finished, he sank down onto the couch. This is so unlike Hutch. Ever since Gunther’s attack, we’ve always known where the other was going and how to get hold of each other. Damn it, I wish I knew who that man at the station was.
* * *
Hutch had been driving about an hour, his mind racing almost as fast as the car’s engine. His eyes barely registered the miles of orange groves he was passing as he drove toward the foothills. No matter how far or how fast I drive, I can’t change a damn thing. It’s my problem, my responsibility, and I can’t ignore it. I just hope this doesn’t change things between Starsky and me. I couldn’t stand to lose him. I almost lost him once.
Pulling into a scenic overlook, Hutch turned off the engine and leaned back against the seat. Any other time, he would have lost himself in the view, happy just to be out of the smog-filled city. Now, all he could think about was how today’s revelation would affect his relationship with Starsky. My relationship with Starsky is the most precious thing in the world to me. Neither of us would’ve thought the day would come when we’d both give up women and commit to each other. Hutch smiled just thinking about how far they had come. They had realized their true feelings for each other just weeks before Gunther’s men had tried to end their lives. And, dear God, they very nearly did end Starsky’s. They wouldn’t have had to come back and make another attempt on my life. It would’ve been over anyway, if Starsky hadn’t by some miracle pulled through. I now believe that it’s entirely possible to die from a broken heart. A person can’t live without their heart, and Starsk has become my heart.
Thinking of Starsky, Hutch realized his partner would be worried to death by now. How could I have been so reckless as to rush out of there without letting Starsky know? The thought of Starsky pacing around, working himself into a frenzy prompted Hutch into action. Starting the car, he pulled back out onto the road. This time heading toward home. Somehow, I’ll find the words to explain all of this.
Wanting to ease Starsky’s mind as quickly as possible, Hutch turned in to a coffee shop. Ordering a coffee to go, he dug in his pocket for some change for the payphone. The phone was picked up on the first ring. He’s been waiting for the phone to ring. He’s been sitting there worrying about me.
“Hutch?” Starsky’s voice sounded worried, he was almost afraid to hear what the voice on the other end would say.
“Yeah, it’s me. I’m sorry, Starsk.”
“What are you sorry for?”
“Sorry, for worrying you. I should have told you I was leaving the station.”
“It doesn’t matter. Just tell me you’re okay.” As relieved as he was at hearing Hutch’s voice, Starsky knew something was wrong.
“Starsk, I’ll be home in an hour or so and we’ll talk then, okay? I just want to get home now. I’m okay…I need your help.”
Starsky listened as the phone on the other end was hung up. “I’m here for you-whatever you need, buddy.”
The next hour and a half seemed to drag on for both men. Starsky paced from the kitchen to the living room and back so many times he was sure he had worn a trail in the floor. He’d tried watching television, but nothing held his attention. His only interest was Hutch and the events that had led to his leaving the station without a word.
Hutch was regretting the impulsive act of rushing out of town. I should’ve just waited until after our shift and then gone home and talked it all out with Starsky. That’s the way our relationship is supposed to work. But it just came out of nowhere. I was in shock; hell, I’m still in shock.
Hutch resisted the temptation to throw the mars light on the top of the car. Just relax, I talked to Starsky, now he can quit worrying. Now I just need to calm down.
* * *
Hearing Hutch’s car in the driveway, Starsky halted his pacing. As if rooted to the spot and afraid to move, he waited for Hutch to come through the door.
Hutch opened the door, feeling an overwhelming sense of relief. I’m home. The sight of Starsky standing there reminded him that Starsky just might be a little pissed off at him for taking off. But then Starsky smiled, and Hutch knew everything was going to be okay.
“Welcome home, partner. Hope you’re hungry, I’ve kept dinner warm.” Starsky’s voice held no anger, just relief and happiness at having Hutch home.
“You’re not mad at me?”
“No, I’m not mad. But I do wish you would’ve just come to me with whatever it was that sent you running. You ready to tell me about it?”
“Yeah, there’s no point putting it off any longer.” Hutch wandered over to the couch and collapsed onto it, dropping the envelope he held in his hand on the cushion next to him.
“Marianne Owens is dead. She was killed in a car accident in Chicago a few days ago.”
Starsky could tell from the tremble in Hutch’s voice that the news of Marianne’s death had affected him deeply. “Man, I’m really sorry, Hutch. I know you cared about her.”
“I cared, but not enough and not in the right way. I really messed up there, Starsk.” Hutch leaned his head back against the couch and closed his eyes.
“You tried. You did your best.” Starsky hated to see those old wounds being opened up again.
“No, Starsky, I fucked up big time with Marianne. More than I even knew.”
“You want to explain that to me?” Starsky joined his friend on the couch.
“Marianne’s attorney came to see me today. I have to go to Chicago. It seems Marianne left me something.”
A puzzled Starsky stared at the blond sitting next to him. He was as confused as Hutch sounded. He knew Marianne didn’t have much. “She left you something? What?”
Hutch let out a long, audible breath. “She left me a daughter.” No longer able to sit still, Hutch got to his feet. Looking down at his partner, he shook his head slowly. “Can you believe it? I’m a father. What the hell am I going to do?” Hutch’s tone had gotten a little louder, and he was clearly feeling a sense of panic.
“Hutch, it’s not the end of the world. Lots’a guys are fathers.”
” I know that, but I don’t know the first thing about being father. Starsk, we’re talking about a little girl. A very little girl. What the hell am I supposed to do with her?”
“I don’t know. Whatever fathers do with little girls.” If it weren’t for the fact that Hutch was so upset, Starsky would have found the situation slightly amusing. But he knew this was serious. “Just love her and take care of her. I think the two of us should be able to handle one very little girl-your little girl.”
“The two of us?” Hearing those words, Hutch felt some of his burden lift.
“Well, you don’t think I’d leave a poor, helpless little girl in the care of a man who doesn’t know the first thing about being a father, do ya?”
“Starsky, this is serious. Neither one of us is prepared to take on a child, let alone a small child. What do we do with her when we’re working? There are just so many things…” Hutch’s voice trailed off. “I just don’t know, Starsk.”
“Can I ask you something?”
“Sure, as long as you don’t ask me how this happened.”
“Don’t worry. I’ve known for some time now where babies come from.” Starsky couldn’t help laugh at the look of annoyance on Hutch’s face. “Lighten up a little, buddy. What’s done is done. What I really wanted to ask you was if you had any doubts that you’re the father?”
“No, I don’t think Marianne would pull anything like that. But just to be sure, I’ll do the blood test thing.”
“Hey, what’s her name? How old is she?”
“Huh?”
“The baby, what’s her name? When was she born?”
“Oh. I was so stunned I only heard half of what the lawyer was telling me. Everything’s in that envelope there. I could use a beer.”
Hutch would have liked nothing better than to sit down and drink himself into oblivion. But unfortunately, I know only too well that sooner or later I have to face this thing head on.
Starsky watched as Hutch crossed the room and headed for the kitchen. “How about something to eat?
“In a while.”
Starsky opened the envelope and found the birth certificate. “Hey! Her name’s Katherine Marie Owens. That’s nice, huh?”
“What did you say, Starsk?” Hutch had decided that the smell of the chicken Starsky had roasted earlier was more than he could resist.
“I said her name is Katherine Marie. Nice, huh?” Starsky joined Hutch in the kitchen and stood watching as Hutch started slicing some of the chicken that had been kept warm in the oven.
“Yeah, it is nice.” Hutch smiled for the first time since the lawyer had presented him with the news that would forever change his life.
“You’re not gonna believe this.”
“What?” Hutch watched as Starsky’s face paled slightly and then a soft smile crossed his face.
“She was born on May 15, 1979.” Starsky’s voice was almost a whisper. “Hutch, she was born right about the time I was shot. Can you believe that?”
“My God.” Hutch sank down onto a kitchen chair. Both men were silent for a few moments, lost in their memories of that horrific day. Memories that, despite the passage of almost eighteen months, were still etched so clearly in their minds.
Barely able to manage a hoarse whisper, Starsky said, “You know, I think that’s kinda nice. It’s like someone didn’t want you to be alone.” Starsky rubbed Hutch’s taut shoulders. “Now we have a new and much nicer event to associate with that day.” Starsky continued his gentle massaging of Hutch’s shoulders. “Relax, babe. This isn’t some devastating tragedy, you know. It’s something nice.”
“I don’t think the word relax is going to be part of my vocabulary for many years to come.” Hutch leaned back, enjoying the feel of Starsky’s hands. “I love you, Starsk.”
“I love you, too. We can do this, Hutch. Me and thee and baby makes three.”
“Starsky, damn it, are you taking this seriously? This isn’t some kind of game. This is serious, very serious.”
“I know it’s serious. You’re almost acting like you don’t want your own daughter.”
Hutch turned and stared into the eyes of his partner. “Did I ever say I didn’t want her? Do you really think I would just walk away and leave my child to be shuffled around the foster care system? Most fathers get nine months to prepare for this, Starsky. I just found out a few hours ago that I’m going to be taking care of an eighteen-month-old girl.”
Hutch shoved back the chair he was sitting in, nearly knocking down Starsky who was standing behind it. “I’ll admit I’m scared. I can’t afford to fuck this up. I can’t let Marianne down again. I can’t let my daughter down…” Hutch finished his beer and grabbed another from the refrigerator.
“Hutch, you won’t let your daughter down. I know you won’t. Marianne knew that, too, or she wouldn’t have wanted you to raise her.” Starsky hated to see Hutch hurting like this. He took Hutch’s face in his hands. “You can do it. And you’ll do it right. You’re a good man, Hutch, and you’ll do the right thing by this child. Your child. You know I’ll help you all I can. You won’t be alone. We’ll be in this together.”
Hutch closed his eyes tightly, attempting to grab hold of the rush of emotions that threatened at any moment to send tears rolling down his cheeks. “Thanks.” Hutch managed to choke out. Then his arms reached out, and Starsky knew what his partner needed.
They held each other tightly, Starsky’s lips gently brushing against Hutch’s. “Everything’s going to be okay. Trust me?”
“You know I do. And believe me it helps a lot to know you’re with me. I wish I had as much faith in me as you do, but I just can’t help being terrified.”
“Once we get organized, things won’t look so bleak. When do you have to go to Chicago?”
“Soon. By tomorrow night, if possible.”
“We have lots of planning to do. Let’s sit down and eat while we work on those plans.”
Starsky finished slicing the chicken Hutch had started. “Grab the salad out of the refrigerator.” Within minutes, the two men were eating.
“You know what we need is someone who knows the ropes. An experienced parent.” Starsky wiped his hands on a napkin.
“I guess I don’t know too many experienced parents.”
Starsky chuckled softly. “You’re not using your head, Dad. We know two really good parents-Edith and Harold Dobey.”
Flushing slightly at the “Dad” remark, Hutch nodded. “The Dobey’s are great parents. Guess, I’ll have to spring this on them and plead for all the help and advice I can get. I have to talk to Dobey in the morning about some time off to pick up Katherine, and, if Edith has time, I’ll go by and see her, too.”
“Good, and while you’re at it, you might want to ask for a few extra days off. Might be a good idea to spend some time getting to know your daughter.”
“I don’t know about that, Starsk. I don’t want to leave you without a partner.” What you really mean is you’re scared to trust his safety to anyone else.
“Hey, I promise I’ll be careful and I won’t overdo. Really, Hutch, take a week or two with Katherine. I’ll be okay.”
Sighing deeply, Hutch gave in. “Okay. I’ll talk to Dobey in the morning and then ask about seeing Edith during my lunch. I’m going to hold you to your promise to be careful. First night you drag in here looking like you’ve been hit by a semi, it’s all over, buddy.” Hutch shook a warning finger in Starsky’s direction.
“Yep, you’re gonna make a great dad.” Starsky grinned, thankful that Hutch was relaxing even slightly. “I can spend the weekend setting up the spare room for Katherine.” We’ll need to make a list of what we’re gonna need.”
“Good idea. I guess I should call and arrange for a flight to Chicago. Thanks, Starsk.”
“Thanks for what?”
“For just being you and always being there for me.”
“No place I’d rather be. It’s getting late. Why don’t you grab a shower, while I clean up out here?”
“No way, Starsk. You cooked; I’ll clean up. I’ll take a shower after you.”
“Okay, I’m not gonna argue with you. The kitchen’s all yours.”
“Glad to hear it; it wouldn’t have done you any good to argue with me anyway. Just save me some hot water.”
“Okay, partner.” Starsky paused at the doorway. “Hutch, don’t be out here brooding and worrying now. Really, you’re gonna do fine.”
“I guess I’ll just have to take your word for that, Starsk.” He motioned toward the door. “Go on, get out of here.”
* * *
Tidying up the bathroom after his shower, Hutch stood and stared into the mirror. I don’t think I look much like a father. Maybe I should cut my hair and get rid of the mustache? Just the thought of shaving off his mustache brought a smile to Hutch’s worried face. Can’t shave it, Starsky thinks it’s sexy. Maybe I’ll think about a haircut.
“Hey, Hutch, what’s taking you so long?”
“Oh, I was just thinking of shaving off the mustache and getting a haircut.” Entering the bedroom, Hutch found Starsky sitting on the edge of the bed with pen and paper in hand.
“Shave off your mustache? No way! I happen to love your mustache. Makes you look sexy. Feels pretty sexy, too.” Starsky shook his head. “Nope, the mustache stays.”
“Okay, you win for now. What’s with the paper and pen?” Hutch sat down on the bed next to Starsky.
“I’m making a list of some of the things I’ll need to do this weekend. I think I’m gonna paint Katherine’s room pink. A little girl should have a pretty room.”
“Starsky, you’re going to make a great mom. Now can we turn off the lights and get some sleep? We do still have to work tomorrow.”
Laughing, and grabbing a pillow, Starsky smacked Hutch twice alongside the head. “Watch it, buddy.”
“And you’ll make a great playmate for Katherine.” Hutch grabbed the pillow, whacking Starsky once with it and placing it back on the bed. “Now can we please get some sleep?” The trace of laughter in Hutch’s voice gave away the fact that he wasn’t really irritated.
Once they were both settled in bed, Starsky reached up and switched off the lamp that sat on the night table. “Happy now?”
“Not yet.” Throwing his arm across Starsky’s chest, Hutch pulled him closer and then snuggled up tight against him. “Okay, now I’m happy.”
Smiling, Starsky stroked the still damp head that now rested on his chest. “I’m happy, too. You feelin’ any better about things?”
“Yeah, I think I am, thanks to you.” Hutch delivered a few well-placed sensuous nips to Starsky’s chest, making sure his mustache brushed against the bare skin. I’m feeling much better.”
“I think I can make you feel even better.” Starsky’s voice was low and purposefully seductive as his hands caressed the length of Hutch’s back, pausing only briefly before moving, and firmly kneading Hutch’s ass cheeks through the cotton briefs.
Hutch groaned softly as he pulled away slightly. “I’m sure you can, partner, but I’m just not sure I’m up to it tonight. It’s been one hell of a day.”
“And that’s exactly why you need me to make you feel better.” Starsky eased Hutch onto his back and began licking one rigid little nipple, while gently tugging on the other with his fingers. Feeling the nipples harden to his touch, Starsky grinned, thinking how he knew all the little tricks to make Hutch lose his usual reserved calm. And judging from the sounds coming from Hutch, he was doing just that.
Starsky moved his hand slowly down Hutch’s smooth chest until he found his rapidly growing erection. Shoving the briefs down and out of the way, Starsky could feel the pulsing organ grow larger in his hand as he began the familiar pumping motion. Within seconds, Hutch’s hips and Starsky’s hand had found a rhythm that was sending the blond quickly to the edge. Watching Hutch as he arched and writhed in sweet torment had Starsky groaning out loud right along with him. Both men were breathing heavily and a faint sheen of perspiration coated Hutch’s face.
Crying out Starsky’s name, Hutch stiffened as his climax ripped through him. Starsky felt the warm, sticky fluid as it cascaded through his fingers. Seeing a faint smile on Hutch’s now relaxed face, Starsky asked, “Now don’t you feel a lot better?”
“Oh, yeah, I’m feeling real good. Am I still alive?” Hutch cracked open an eye to look at his lover. Seeing the look of love on Starsky’s face made Hutch realize just how lucky he was. And nothing or no one could change that.
“Now it’s your turn to feel good. You name it, I’ll do it.” Hutch hoped that Starsky could see love reflected in his face, too.
“Really? Anything I want?” Starsky gave Hutch a wicked grin.
“Yep, anything.” Hutch grinned back.
“Well, there’s two things I want. The first one is a kiss.”
Hutch eagerly pulled Starsky to him, his tongue sending shivers through the other’s body as he licked and nibbled at Starsky’s lips. Then his mouth covered Starsky’s completely with a demanding kiss that left both men breathless.
“And the second thing?” Hutch was anxious to do whatever Starsky wanted of him.
“The second thing is for you lay your head down here…” Starsky patted his upper chest, “…and then I want you to close your eyes and go to sleep.”
“What?” Hutch couldn’t believe what he was hearing.
“You heard me. Tonight was just for you. Now tomorrow night, that’s going to be for me. I expect lots of kinky stuff from you and that glorious, sexy mustache.” Starsky patted his chest. “Now put your head down here and let’s get some sleep.”
“You’re crazy. You know that, don’t you?”
“Crazy in love, partner, crazy in love.”
* * *
The next morning, Hutch was the first one up. After putting on the coffee, he made the necessary arrangements to fly to Chicago, with a return flight the following afternoon. Thinking about how understanding his partner was being about this sudden turn of events, he wanted to do something nice for Starsky. Food was always a good choice.
Fifteen minutes later, Starsky awoke to the aroma of frying bacon and freshly brewed coffee. With a smile on his face, he stretched lazily. How did I get so lucky this morning?
After a quick shower, Starsky bounded into the kitchen, dark curls still dripping water. “Hey, I’m starving. What’s the occasion, anyway?”
“No occasion. Just a little thank you.” Hutch poured coffee into two cups. “You’re not complaining, are you?”
“Complaining? Me?” Starsky was busy heaping his plate with eggs and bacon. “But thanks for what?”
Hutch smiled as he watched Starsky stuff himself. “Thanks for handling things so well. I don’t think I could face any of this without you as back-up, buddy.”
“Hey, that’s what partners are for.” Starsky flashed Hutch a lopsided grin and then reached for some more bacon. “But I do appreciate the breakfast.”
* * *
During the ride to the station, Starsky could tell Hutch was getting more nervous with each passing mile. The blond kept shifting in the seat, trying to get comfortable.
“Are we a little nervous this morning?” Starsky asked, as his partner shifted yet again.
“No, we are not a little nervous. We are a lot nervous. I feel like a teenager who has to tell his dad he got some girl pregnant.”
Starsky laughed at his partner’s remark. “It’s not quite that bad. I mean you’re not a teenager, and Dobey’s not your dad.”
“No, I’m not a teenager. I’m a grown man. That makes it even worse. And come to think of it, I still do have to tell my father.” Hutch now sat slumped in the seat.
“It’s not like he’s gonna ground you or anything. And I don’t think even I could be lucky enough that he’d take away your car.”
“That’s the beauty of my car, Starsk. No one else would want it,” Hutch retorted, doing his best to hold back a grin.
* * *
Once at work, Starsky watched as his partner fidgeted nervously, tapping his pen anxiously on his desk and running his hands through his hair, then getting up to pace briefly and then back to his seat and tapping his pen.
“Hutch, relax, will you?” Starsky could see that his partner was turning into a nervous wreck waiting to speak to Dobey.
“Easy for you to say, you don’t have to go in there and explain to Dobey that you’re suddenly a father. A father by a woman involved in a case we were working on. A woman who is now dead, leaving you a child.”
The door to Dobey’s office opened, and Hutch dropped the pen he had been furiously tapping. “Hutchinson, you wanted to talk to me?”
Getting to his feet was no easy task for the blond. Practically tripping over his own feet, he stumbled, barely managing to keep himself from falling. “Yes, sir, I do need to talk to you.”
Watching with some amusement as his flustered and somewhat red-faced partner finally made it into Dobey’s office, Starsky wondered how long before the stuttering would begin.
Forty-five minutes later, it was Starsky who found himself getting nervous. What’s taking so long? The thought had actually crossed his mind to wander over near Dobey’s door to see if he could hear anything. Somehow he managed to restrain himself.
Hearing the door to Dobey’s office open, Starsky turned to see Dobey and Hutch standing just inside the door, both smiling and nodding. Puzzled, but relieved, Starsky sat patiently waiting for the two men to wind up their conversation. He watched as Dobey patted Hutch on the back and then closed his office door.
Guess things went well with Dobey?” Starsky could see that Hutch looked a lot less nervous and more like his old self.
“Yeah, once he got over the initial shock, he was quite nice about things. He did manage to get in a small lecture on getting involved with Marianne, though. But then he offered to help out any way he could.” Hutch smiled. “He even called Edith, and I’m going to see her later. She also said she’d do anything she could to help. Thanks for reminding me about the Dobeys.” Hutch patted Starsky’s shoulder and took his seat. “I’d better get these reports finished up. Starting this afternoon I’m on leave for two weeks.”
“Hutch, that’s great. I’m glad you’re going to take some time to get to know your daughter. I mean, the poor baby just lost her mother, so it’ll be important that she has her father now.” Starsky shook his head sadly. “It’s just not fair, is it?”
“No, it’s not fair. I just hope I’ll be enough for her.”
Seeing that Hutch was about to start wallowing in his fears concerning his daughter, Starsky quickly changed the subject. “Hey, you better get moving on those reports so you can get out of here. You have lots to do.”
“Yeah, I do.” Hutch went back to the reports spread out in front of him. After making a couple of notations on one of the reports, he paused. “I’ve got to call Gail, that friend of Marianne’s who’s taking care of Katherine. Let her know when I’ll be arriving to pick up Katherine.”
“That would probably be a good idea. What’re you waiting for?”
“Yeah, okay.” Hutch pulled the paper that had the phone number written on it out of his pocket.
* * *
Later, after grabbing a quick lunch together, Starsky dropped off Hutch at home and then went back to the station. Dobey had discussed teaming him up with a temporary partner while Hutch was off. While normally Starsky would have objected strongly to such an idea, this time he was going along with it. Not just for Hutch’s sake, which was the main reason, but Starsky had no desire to be stuck doing paperwork for the next few weeks. I’ll take this temporary partner and keep Hutch from worrying, and it’ll keep me from going crazy sitting here at my desk.
After spending several hours with Edith Dobey, discussing all the different aspects of child rearing that Edith felt important for Hutch to know, Hutch’s head was swimming. But he did feel a lot better knowing he could count on Edith. She had promised to help him out the first few days with Katherine and had also promised to see what she could do about finding someone to watch her when he had to go back to work. Despite being a bit overwhelmed by all that Edith had gone over with him, he had to admit he was feeling slightly better about things. Not that he wasn’t still somewhat daunted at the prospect of raising a daughter, but with the support of his friends he had begun to believe it could be done and done right.
* * *
That evening over dinner, the two men shared the events of their day. Hutch was relieved to hear that Starsky was going along with the idea of a temporary partner. “Knowing that you’re going to have a partner makes me feel a lot better about taking time off.”
Starsky laughed. “Yeah, I figured it would keep us both from going crazy. So how did things go with Edith today?”
“Good. She’s going to do some shopping for Katherine so we’ll have what we need when we arrive back here Saturday night. She’s already looking for someone to watch Katherine while we’re both at work.” Hutch gave a nervous laugh, as he got to his feet and began to clear the dishes from the table. “Who would’ve figured I’d need the services of a babysitter?”
“Hey, let me take care of the dishes while you get ready for your trip.”
* * *
Not many words were spoken on the drive to the airport that evening. Starsky had attempted some light conversation, but Hutch had only mumbled a few one-word answers and Starsky had given up. Pulling into a parking space, Starsky took a quick glance around. Seeing no one in the immediate vicinity, he leaned over and softly kissed Hutch’s lips. “I love you, Hutch, and everything is gonna be okay. Relax, you’re not going to your execution.”
“Yeah, I know. And I’m really sorry that I’m being such a jerk about all this. I just need a little time to adjust to the whole idea, I guess.” Hutch pushed a stray curl off Starsky’s forehead. “Starsk, I have to know if you’re really okay with all of this.”
“Why wouldn’t I be? What do you mean?”
“I mean, how do you really feel about suddenly finding out I’ve got a child? How do you feel about her coming to live with us?” Hutch watched Starsky’s face intently for any signs that he might be troubled by anything. “It doesn’t bother you that this child is the result of not much more than a one-night stand?” Hutch leaned his head back against the seat. “I don’t want this to change things between us. I don’t want this to change the way you feel about me.”
“You don’t seriously think that Katherine is going to change my feelings for you, do you? If you think I’m jealous or something, forget it. The thing with Marianne is in the past-before you and I made any kind of commitment. Not that I don’t think you fucked things up badly by getting involved with her the way you did, but that’s in the past, too.” Starsky pulled Hutch close, settling the blond’s head on his shoulder and idly fingering the fine strands of hair. “I love you. Nothing’s gonna change that. Certainly not some little girl that most likely in some way is going to remind me of you.” Starsky laughed. “I haven’t even met this kid, but I know I love her already.”
Hutch smiled, feeling a sudden rush of relief. He hadn’t fully realized how terrified he was that somehow Starsky wasn’t being entirely honest with him. That maybe Starsky had been hiding his true feelings. I should have known better, that’s not Starsky’s style. I really believe he’s looking forward to this.
“I can’t believe you had any doubts that I was being straight with you.”
“Yeah, pretty silly, huh? But I’ve come to my senses now.”
Starsky grinned. “Good, because you have a plane to catch and a baby to bring home.”
“You’re right, let’s go.” Hutch opened his car door, reaching into the backseat to grab his bag.
They had only been in the airport a few minutes when Hutch’s flight was announced. “I guess this is it, huh?” Hutch swallowed nervously.
“Looks that way, partner.”
As the passengers began to file onto the plane, the thought briefly crossed Hutch’s mind to flee from the airport. But before he could make an actual decision, he found himself wrapped tightly in a hug. Starsky released him, grinning broadly, and then shoved him toward the area where the passengers were boarding. “Get out of here. Be sure to keep in mind that I love you, and everything is going to work out.” Nodding, Hutch managed a weak smile, as he turned and entered the plane.
Part Two
The next day was a flurry of activity at the home shared by the two detectives. The Dobey family had arrived bright and early in the morning. Edith was determined that things would be in shipshape when Hutch arrived home that afternoon with his daughter. What had once been a spare room was quickly being transformed into a bedroom for a small girl. Where once had hung blue plaid drapes, now hung pink frilly curtains. The old furniture had been replaced with a crib, dresser, changing table, and rocking chair. The Dobeys had also brought over a twin bed. Edith had explained that Katherine would soon be outgrowing the crib. The bed was stored in the garage for when that day arrived. Once satisfied that the bedroom was coming along, Edith sent her husband and children home.
“Okay, David, all we need to do now is get the shopping done. I’ve made a list and it shouldn’t take us too long. We’ll have everything ready for that baby by the time you pick up Ken at the airport.”
“You are one amazing woman, Edith Dobey.”
“You’re not just now figuring that out, are you, David?” Edith laughed as she reached for her purse that was sitting on the coffee table. “Now, are you ready to do some shopping?”
“Lead the way.” Starsky opened the front door and followed behind Edith.
* * *
As the cab pulled up in front of the house, Hutch wiped his sweating palms on his pant legs. I’ve never been so nervous in my life. Getting out of the cab, he fumbled for his wallet, and pulling out some bills he paid the driver. As the cab pulled away, Hutch turned to look at the small house. Never had a house seemed so intimidating to him. As he made his way up the short walkway, he was reminded of Starsky’s words-“Relax, you’re not going to your execution.” Well, buddy, let me tell you, it sure seems like it right now.
Taking a deep breath, Hutch knocked lightly on the front door. The door was opened almost immediately by an attractive young woman with a warm smile. “Hi, you must be Ken. I’m Gail. Come on in.”
As much as Hutch wanted to return the friendly greeting, he couldn’t seem to concentrate on anything but the sight of the small blonde child that the woman was straddling on her hip. The big pair of innocent blue eyes seemed to be studying him intently. And then the smile-a smile that lit up the sweetest, most angelic face Hutch thought he had ever laid eyes on. But the smile is what really got to him. That smile went right to his heart. And then the words, “Hi there,” in a cheerful little voice, and Hutch knew his heart now belonged to his daughter.
“She’s beautiful, isn’t she?”
Hutch forced his attention back to the woman and managed to choke out the words, “Yes, she is. She’s perfect.”
“Come on in and let’s get you introduced to your daughter.”
Closing the door, Gail motioned Hutch into the living room. “I’ve been telling Katie that her daddy would be coming for her.”
“Katie?” Hutch sat down on the sofa as Gail placed the child on the floor.
“Yeah, Marianne shortened Katherine to Katie. She thought Katie was better suited for a child.”
“I think it fits her.” Hutch watched as his daughter moved around the room on her sturdy little legs. He found himself captivated by the sight of the constantly moving child. “She’s amazing.”
“That she is.” Gail laughed as Katie lost her balance and landed on her bottom with a shocked look on her face. The little face showed signs of impending tears, but then with a loud giggle she crawled over to the sofa where Hutch sat and, using his legs for support, pulled herself back to her feet.
Hutch smiled down at the child, and then, almost fearfully, he picked her up and placed her on his lap. He relaxed a bit when she seemed okay with being on his lap. She seemed content to just sit quietly. Then after a few seconds, she reached for his mustache, pulling herself closer to get a better look at his face. She rubbed her face against his mustache, giggling softly.
“Katie, this is Daddy. Can you say Daddy?” Gail was pointing at Hutch.
“Da.” Katie smiled up at Hutch. “Da…Dada.” Katie laid her head on Hutch’s shoulder and let out a soft, contented sigh.
“Looks like you two will get along just fine.” Gail smiled at the sight of the blond man carefully holding the even blonder child.
“I hope so.” Hutch stroked the soft blonde ringlets of hair that covered the small head so peacefully nestled on his shoulder. “Tell me about Marianne. Was she happy? Did she hate me? Why didn’t she tell me about Katie?” The many questions that had been tormenting him seemed to tumble out all at once. “I’m sorry to be asking so many questions.”
“It’s okay. It’s understandable with this coming out of the blue like it did. How about I make some coffee, and then I’ll do my best to answer your questions?”
“That would be great.” Hutch smiled, feeling more at ease than he had in a long time.
“Would you like me to take Katie? She looks like she’ll be asleep any minute now.”
“If it’s okay, I’d kind of like to hold her for a while.”
Gail laughed. “Of course, it’s okay; she’s your daughter.”
“Oh, yeah.” Hutch laughed, too. “This is going to take some getting used to. I have to admit I don’t have any real experience with kids. Especially this size.”
“I think you’re going to do just fine. And please feel free to call me any time.”
* * *
Hutch had finally allowed Katie to be taken from his arms and settled into her bed for a short nap.
After two cups of coffee, Hutch had learned the answers to most of his questions.
Marianne had been singing in one of the best jazz places in Chicago. She was happy, but her greatest happiness had been her daughter. Gail had assured him that, despite being hurt by Hutch, Marianne didn’t hate him. As a matter of fact, she had been talking about letting him know about his daughter shortly before her death. Gail assured him that Marianne actually thought quite highly of him, that she knew he was a good man who would take care of his daughter.
“If she hated you, she never would have made arrangements for you to have custody of Katie in the event of her death.”
“Thanks, I appreciate your being so open with me. I just hope I’ll be able to answer any questions Katie may have when she gets older.”
“Something tells me you’ll do just fine.”
“Well, I suppose I should be calling a cab. Katie and I have a plane to catch in a couple of hours.” Hutch, glancing at the clock, hadn’t realized how late it was.
“A cab won’t be necessary. I planned on driving the two of you to the airport myself.” Gail got to her feet. “I have her bags packed. I just need to pack some diapers and some juice for the flight.”
“That’s really nice of you.” Hutch had to admit a certain relief at postponing being alone with Katie, even if it was only for a little while. He still wasn’t sure he’d be able to handle any situation that might arise during the flight.
As if reading his mind, Gail handed him a piece of paper. “Here’s a list of some of things you might need to know. Things she likes to eat, things she likes to do-that sort of thing. I’ll get her up now and we’ll feed her some lunch. She really should be no problem for you on the plane.” Hutch tucked the paper into his pocket. He knew he’d need all the help he could get.
* * *
Gail was right; so far, Katie had been no problem on the flight. Once settled in the seat, Hutch had entertained her for a while with a few of the toys Gail had included in the carry-on bag. She had chatted away to herself or anyone who would listen. Hutch had been surprised to hear a few actual words. He hadn’t given much thought to whether Katie talked or walked. I’ve missed so much. Her first step, her first tooth…and I still have my first diaper to change. Guess there’re a few things I wouldn’t mind missing out on. Wonder how Starsky is at changing diapers?
Halfway into the flight, Katie, with her head once again settled comfortably on Hutch’s shoulder, fell asleep. It was difficult for Hutch to comprehend what he was feeling. I never would’ve believed how good it feels to hold this child. My child. The fears that had been plaguing him since learning he was a father seemed to be fading into the background. The only thing that mattered now was the soft, trusting little body he held in his arms. It’s like I’ve been given a chance to make up for some of my past screw-ups. I’m going to be the best damn father I can possibly be. This little girl is always going to know how loved she is.
Katie stirred in his arms briefly, as she snuggled tighter against him. Hutch found himself enthralled by the sight of the sleeping child. I never could’ve imagined something being this beautiful or precious.
Just as the fasten seatbelt announcement was heard, Katie opened her eyes and smiled up at Hutch. “Hi there.”
“Hi there. Is that your favorite thing to say?” Hutch laughed as Katie squirmed in his arms. “The first time you say that to Starsky you’re going to have him wrapped right around your little finger.”
* * *
Skidding to a halt in the first parking place he could find, Starsky bolted from the car. In his haste, he nearly collided with an elderly woman coming toward him. With a quick but sincere apology, Starsky continued on at a furious pace. Hutch won’t be happy that I’m late. I can just see him tired and cranky trying to deal with a small child. Nope, he’s not gonna be too happy with me.
Starsky’s anxiety concerning a highly irritated Hutch quickly turned to shock and amazement. Hutch-his Hutch-had a smile on his face. And he was slowly walking along, holding the small hand of one very blonde and very beautiful little girl. Starsky watched as Hutch leaned down toward the child and said something to her quietly. The little face looked up at him and smiled. Starsky was captivated by the sight. He’s doing just fine. He certainly looks more relaxed now than he did when he left. I knew he could do it.
“Starsk!” Hutch had spotted his partner. “Hey, where you been? Katie and I have been waiting for you. Katie, this is Uncle Starsky.”
Starsky tried to swallow the lump in his throat. He seemed to have lost the ability to speak.
“Katie, can you say hi to Uncle Starsky?” Hutch picked up the child and pointed at Starsky who at least managed a smile.
Katie looked at Hutch then back at Starsky. A soft giggle was followed by, “Hi there… Stars.” Looking back at Hutch, she threw her arms around his neck and buried her face in his shoulder. But within seconds, she was squirming around to get another look at Starsky.
“Hi, yourself.” Starsky had finally found his voice once again. “Man, Hutch. She’s…she’s…”
Hutch laughed to see Starsky fumbling for words. “I know exactly what you’re trying to say, Starsk. You want to grab our bags there so we can get going?”
“Oh, yeah, sure.” Starsky picked up the two bags. “Let’s get out of here.”
Once at the car, Starsky proudly pointed to the back seat. “Katie has her own seat.”
Hutch looked in mock horror first at the Torino and then at Starsky. “Starsky, a child’s seat in your Torino? Never thought I’d see the day.”
“Funny, Hutch. Just get her fastened in while I put the bags in the trunk.”
Getting Katie in her car seat appeared to be easier said than done. “No,” Katie said loudly, as she struggled to remove herself from the seat.
“Hey, Starsk, I don’t think she likes this car seat idea.”
Starsky poked his head in the back seat, grinning at the commotion going on. Katie was now wailing at the top of her lungs. “Just handle it, Dad.”
Okay, just think for a minute. You’re the parent and she’s the child. So all you have to do is act like a parent. Reason with her.
“Katie, sweetheart, you have to sit in your seat when you ride in the car. You like to ride in the car, don’t you?” Hutch reached into the front seat where he had tossed the bag Gail had packed for their trip. Finding the plastic bag that contained some animal crackers, Hutch gave Katie two-one for each hand. Of course, a little bribery can’t hurt either. The cookies did the trick. Hutch dried the tears from the small face and took his place in the front seat. Something tells me bribing a child is the not best way to parent. I think I need to read up on parenting skills.
“Good job, Dad.” Starsky smiled over at his partner, who was sitting almost sideways in the seat so he could keep an eye on the child behind him.
“Yeah, I think I may develop a real talent for bribery.” Hutch laughed softly, as he watched Katie take bites from eaach cookie. “Something tells me I better not use that talent very often, or I could live to regret it.”
“You’ll learn as you go, partner.” Starsky glanced behind him at the now happy and contented child. “Man, she is really something.”
“Tell me about it. One look at her, and I could feel myself melting. I can’t even explain how I felt, Starsk.” Hutch’s face grew wistful. “I got to admit, the rush of emotions I felt when seeing her for the first time included a few regrets. I mean about Marianne. But I’m not going to dwell on that. Okay, at least I’m going to try.” Hutch grinned weakly, knowing full well he tended to dwell on anything he felt the least bit guilty about.
Starsky let Hutch’s remarks about his regrets slide by without comment. He was more interested in the details of Hutch’s first meeting with his daughter. “So, Hutch, tell me about meeting Katie. I want all the details.”
“Details, huh? Well, when Gail answered the door, she was holding Katie. And I don’t think my eyes ever left Katie. Gail put her down on the floor, and I think I followed her every move and every step. I just found her so incredibly fascinating. But, Starsky, the best thing is holding her. She snuggles up to you so trustingly.” Hutch shook his head almost in awe of the feelings his daughter brought out in him. “I just never realized what it could be like.”
For a brief second, Starsky felt a slight surge of jealousy. But he quickly brushed it away. He knew full well he didn’t have a thing to be jealous of. The animated look on Hutch’s face as he talked about Katie held so much love. But Starsky knew he’d been on the receiving end of that same look many times. He knew he’d never tire of it, and it didn’t matter one bit if Katie was the cause of it. Hutch, the new dad, was a beautiful sight in Starsky’s eyes.
Hating to take his eyes off his radiant partner, Starsky forced himself to start the car. “Guess we should get going, huh?”
“Yeah, I can’t wait to get home.” Hutch settled back against the seat.
Katie chattered on in the back seat, as they pulled out into traffic and headed for home.
“Did you hear that?” Starsky turned toward Hutch with a look of amazement on his face. “She’s saying real words.”
“Yeah, Starsk, she’s saying real words. Something tells me that life is going to get real interesting real soon.”
“Yeah, this is gonna be fun.”
“I didn’t say fun; I said interesting.” Hutch laughed, enjoying Starsky’s enthusiasm.
* * *
Before they knew it, they had arrived home and the front door burst open. In the doorway, Hutch could see the whole Dobey family, Huggy, and next to him stood Minnie with a huge smile on her face.
“Looks like we’ve got quite a welcoming committee, Katie.”
Once inside the house, Katie quickly became the center of attention, and she seemed to enjoy every second of it. She turned on the charm, smiling and giggling, and even Huggy found himself wrapped tightly around her little finger.
“She’s just beautiful, Hutch.” Minnie sat watching as Katie and Rosie Dobey went about getting themselves acquainted.
Edith busied herself in the kitchen, making coffee. A large cake with pink icing and the words “Welcome Home Katherine” sat in the middle of the kitchen table.
Harold Dobey had suddenly changed from the stern captain in charge to an almost doting grandfather figure. Even Cal seemed enthralled by the small blonde child.
“Hey, you okay?”
Hutch turned to find Starsky watching him. “Yeah, I’m okay. But I’m not sure about everyone else.”
“She’s definitely having an effect on everyone.” Starsky was enjoying the change in his friends, especially Dobey and Huggy. “Hey, come on, I’ll show you Katie’s room. I think she’ll like it.”
Hutch was led down the hall to what used to be the spare room. “She’ll love it.” Hutch stared around the room that had been transformed from a bare, cold-looking room to one of frilly warmth. It’s beautiful, Starsky.”
“Edith did most of it, but I helped a little. It was fun.”
“Something tells me you handled the filling of that toy box.” Hutch pointed to the toy box that sat in the far corner of the room.
“Yeah, I sure did. Had fun doing it, too. I’m thinking we’ll need a sandbox and a swing set in the back yard, too.”
“I’m sure you’re right, Starsk.” Hutch knew Starsky would throw himself wholeheartedly into anything concerning Katie. Hutch envied Starsky’s childlike wonder sometimes. “Hey, what do you say we get back to our guests and have some of that cake and coffee?”
“Sounds good to me. You know I’m always in the mood for cake.”
* * *
Everyone enjoyed the cake, especially Katie who seemed to enjoy it everywhere. More of the cake had ended up in her hair than in her mouth. She had it smeared everywhere on her face, her ears, and even her nose.
“Hutch, I think your daughter needs a bath. She’s sort of disgusting.” Starsky did his best to look disgusted, but in truth he found it funny and kind of cute.
“Now might be a good time to tackle that first bath, Ken.” Edith had finished stacking the dirty plates and cups in the sink. “Shall I give you a hand?”
“Any help would be greatly appreciated, Edith.” Hutch moved toward the highchair, and Katie eagerly held out her cake-smeared hands. “Hold on, Katie. Let’s at least get the first layer of cake removed before we get you out of your chair.” Hutch gingerly wiped at the cakey mess that covered his daughter’s face and hands. She squirmed-loudly protesting what she considered unfair treatment. Hutch stopped washing the child’s face and looked uncertainly at Edith.
“It’s okay, Ken. Finish wiping her off and we’ll get her into the bathtub.” Edith smiled, “You’re not hurting her, she’s just trying to control this situation. Show her who the boss is.”
“Hutch, just treat her like a little felon.” Starsky had been enjoying the small showdown between father and daughter.
“Starsky, you’re not helping any, here.” Hutch glared over his shoulder at a grinning Starsky.
With Edith’s assistance, Hutch soon had Katie clean once again. Holding the now quiet child in his arms brought a rush of love so strong it nearly took his breath away. After getting Katie into her pajamas, Hutch had sat in the rocking chair with her and began rocking slowly. Katie nestled against him, content to just look into his face. She smiled and her little eyes fluttered several times and then closed. Hutch, content to sit and watch her sleep, never noticed Edith stick her head in the door.
The sight of Hutch lovingly rocking his sleeping daughter brought a smile to her face and a tear to her eye. You’re going to do just fine, Ken. She quietly moved away from the bedroom door and returned to the living room. “I think it’s time we all got out of the way here and let Hutch get his daughter into bed.”
Getting to his feet, Dobey said, “I’ll just go say goodbye to Hutch and Katie, and we’ll be on our way.”
“No, David can say our goodbyes for us. We should leave and let Hutch have this time with his daughter.” Edith motioned everyone toward the door. “David, you tell Ken to call if he needs anything at all, and I’ll be by Monday morning to do whatever is needed.”
Starsky watched as their friends drove off. Closing the door behind him, he decided to peek in on Hutch and Katie. One look and he knew why Edith had insisted Hutch not be disturbed. The man who had been so terrified of fatherhood was now totally captivated by the small body he held cradled close to him. I think Edith was right–no reason to disturb him. They need the time together.
“Hey, where you going?” Starsky came to a halt as he heard Hutch’s voice.
“I didn’t want to disturb you. You two make quite a picture.”
“You think so?”
“No doubt about it. And I have to say, your daughter looks just like you. Blonde and beautiful.”
“I don’t know about her looking just like me, but I agree she is beautiful. Hang on, I’m going to get her settled.” Hutch carefully stood, watching for any signs that he was disturbing the sleeping child. But Katie slept on, and he placed her in her crib, pulling a blanket up around her. “Sleep well, sweetheart.”
“Come on, partner, you look as tired as your daughter.” Starsky took Hutch by the arm and directed him out of Katie’s room and into theirs. “Nice guy that I am, I’ll even let you have the shower first.”
“Nice guy that I am, I’ll take you up on that offer.” Hutch unbuttoned his shirt and slid it off his shoulders. “I missed you.”
Starsky opened his arms and pulled Hutch into a warm embrace. “I missed you, too. As nice as it was to have our friends here tonight to meet Katie, I thought they’d never leave. I hope you didn’t mind me telling Minnie and Huggy about Katie?”
“No, I don’t mind. You wouldn’t like to call and tell my parents, would you?”
“No thanks, I’ll leave that one to you. Now shut up and kiss me.”
“Gladly.”
Bending his head down slightly, Hutch’s mouth captured Starsky’s soft, warm lips in a gentle lingering kiss. “Damn, I’ve missed you.” The words were uttered without taking his lips from Starsky’s.
“I missed you, too, partner.” Starsky reluctantly pulled away from the inviting lips. “Go take your shower. You look like you’re dead on your feet.”
* * *
Half an hour later, after checking in on Katie, Hutch crawled into bed. Starsky had turned off the shower, so he knew it was only a matter of minutes before his partner would be joining him.
“She looks like a little angel when she’s sleeping.” Starsky sat down on the edge of the bed. “You’re a lucky man, Hutchinson.”
“In more ways than one, babe. In more ways than one.” Hutch pulled Starsky down next do him. “It’s good to be home.”
As they snuggled close together, Hutch let out a sigh. “It’s been a long day.”
“And?” Starsky knew there was more going on in his partner’s mind.
“I’m kind of tired.”
“And? That sigh meant more than it’s been a long day and you’re tired. What’s going on in that mind of yours now?”
“I was just thinking.” Hutch paused and then sighed again.
“Hutch? You can really be annoying sometimes.”
“Okay, okay.” Hutch sat up and looked down at Starsky. “I guess I just wonder how hard it will be, getting used to being responsible for a child. No more freedom to go where I want, when I want. Even simple things like my morning run, or stopping by Huggy’s after work for a quick dinner will have to change.”
“Morning runs and dinners after work can be worked out.” Starsky slid up so he was sitting next to Hutch. “You get up a little earlier for your run, and I’ll be here with Katie. As for dinners and things like that, we just need to find a good and dependable babysitter. Edith is already looking for someone to watch Katie while we’re at work. She knows we’ll need someone who can work flexible hours. And don’t forget we have a few neighbors with teenage daughters who would probably be able to fill in sometimes. It’ll all work out, Hutch.”
“I know you’re right. Just tell me again that you’re okay with all of this.”
“Okay? Me? Hutch, this is gonna be great. You can take Katie and me to the park, out for ice cream, the toy store. I mean, just think of all the things we can do with Katie. Cartoons on Saturday mornings, the movies on Saturday afternoons.”
“Starsky, you’re making me tired just listening to all the things we can do. But you’re right, it does sound like fun. But don’t forget camping, the museum, and oh, yeah, the ballet.”
A pained look crossed Starsky’s face, “Oh, yeah, we can’t forget those things.”
Hutch chuckled softly. “It really won’t be all that bad, Starsk. I want her to have a chance to experience as much as possible.”
“I know. Maybe the ballet could be strictly a father/daughter thing.” Starsky yawned. “I don’t know about you, but I’m exhausted. Edith can be a real slave driver when she wants to be. But I have to admit, we sure got a lot accomplished today.”
“I think I’ll send Edith some flowers tomorrow. And after we get settled here, we should have all our friends over for a big thank-you dinner. What do you think?”
“Sounds good. You sure you’re not upset about me telling Huggy and Minnie about Katie?”
“Upset? It’s not like I can, and even want to for that matter, keep Katie a secret.”
“True. So I’m wondering when you’re going to get around to informing your parents about their granddaughter?”
“I’m wondering the same thing, Starsk. I’ll get around to it soon, I promise.” After brushing some stray curls off Starsky’s forehead, Hutch planted a soft kiss on his partner’s face. “Maybe we should get some sleep; I have a feeling Katie’s an early riser.”
Part Three
Katie was indeed an early riser. The loud and unhappy sounds coming from Katie’s room jolted Hutch from his sleep. Groaning, he made an attempt to focus his eyes on the alarm clock sitting on the nightstand.
Before Hutch could focus his eyes, Starsky rolled over and opened one eye. “What time is it?”
Taking another look at the clock, Hutch was able to make out that it was just a few minutes past six o’clock. “It’s six.” Groaning once more, Hutch sat up.
“It’s Sunday morning,” Starsky mumbled, as he snuggled deeper into the blankets.
“Well, I guess we forgot to explain that to Katie. Go back to sleep.” Stretching, Hutch stood up. Stopping in the bathroom to relieve himself, he listened as the wailing grew louder.
“Good morning. What seems to be the problem in here?”
Katie stopped her crying at the sound of Hutch’s voice and immediately held out her arms in a pleading manner. The little tear-stained face went right to Hutch’s heart.
“Okay, okay.” Reaching into the crib, he lifted the little girl. To his dismay, she was soaked. It was clear that more than a clean diaper was required for this job. A complete change was needed. “And the fun begins,” Hutch whispered to himself.
Edith had added a changing table to the room, and it was completely stocked with all the needed items. Hutch was relieved to find he had gotten lucky this time, and it was only a wet diaper. Changing the diaper was the easy part. Getting the squirming child into dry clothes was more of a challenge than he liked. But finally the task was completed, and Hutch let out a satisfied sigh. Even Katie was happy. While Katie was glad to be dry and out of the crib, she wanted it known that she was hungry. “Eat?”
“Okay, let’s get some breakfast.” Hutch let Katie lead the way to the kitchen. While he cooked oatmeal for Katie, she wandered around the kitchen. He found himself watching with interest as she explored her new surroundings. Poor thing has to be confused. First her mom is gone, and now she’s been taken away from everything she’s known. Somehow, I’ve got to see that she gets through all of this.
By the time Starsky wandered into the kitchen, Hutch had managed to get most of the oatmeal in Katie’s mouth, with only a few spots of it on her face and hair.
“Hi. I eat,” Katie announced cheerfully. “You eat?”
“Hi.” Starsky looked distastefully at the leftover oatmeal.
“Starsky, don’t worry, I’ll fix you something else. How about eggs and bacon?”
“Now you’re talking.” Smiling at Katie, Starsky said, “Yep, I’m going to eat, too.”
While Hutch started preparing Starsky’s eggs, Katie began pounding on her highchair, saying, “I get down.”
“Hutch, is it okay if I take her out of that chair you’re holding her captive in?”
“Sure, as long as you keep on an eye on her while I finish cooking our breakfast.”
“Okay, Katie, let’s get you out of there.” Katie eagerly stretched out her arms as Starsky stood fumbling to get her out of the chair. Scooping the child into his arms once she was released from the chair, Starsky found himself gripped in a somewhat sticky hug by two small arms. “Hey, Hutch, I think she likes me.”
“Could be she just wants to wipe some of her breakfast off.” Hutch smiled at the sight of the small blonde head pressed up against Starsky’s face. “But you’re right, I think she does like you.”
“You know, this is nice, Hutch.” Starsky was positively beaming as he looked over Katie’s head at Hutch. “I think while you finish making breakfast, Katie and I’ll go check out the toy box in her room.”
As Hutch finished setting the table and pouring the coffee, he could hear sounds of laughter coming from Katie’s room. The sound alone made him smile. But his curiosity got the better of him, and he had to see what was so funny.
Standing quietly in the doorway, Hutch watched as first Katie piled up blocks, and Starsky knocked them down. Then it was Starsky’s turn to carefully pile them up so Katie could gleefully push them over.
“I’m glad to see you two playing nice and taking turns. Now if you’re not too busy, maybe you can take time out to eat your breakfast, Starsk?”
“Eat?” Starsky jumped to his feet. “Hey, Katie, it’s Starsky’s turn to eat now.”
Katie was immediately on her feet following right behind Starsky. “Stars eat now?”
“Yes, Katie, Stars is going to eat now. You want to eat some more?” Hutch motioned toward her chair.
“No.” Katie shook her head vigorously and climbed up onto a chair at the table. “Big girl.”
“Wonderful, just yesterday I brought home an eighteen-month-old baby girl, and now, less than twenty four hours later, she’s suddenly turned into a big girl. This is not going to be easy.” Hutch put a small plate of scrambled eggs in front of Katie, along with the silverware Edith had supplied, and then watched in amazement as she proceeded shoving them into her mouth like she was starving.
“Great, she has an appetite like yours, Starsky.” Hutch took his seat and began to eat his breakfast. “Looks like the grocery bill is going to take a jump. “While Starsky did the dishes, Hutch unpacked Katie’s bags. Carefully wrapped in some clothes was a framed picture of Marianne. Tears sprang to his eyes when Katie pointed at the picture. “Mommy. My mommy.”
“Yeah, sweetheart, that’s your mommy.” Hutch reached down and picked up his daughter and sat down in the rocking chair with her. They rocked quietly, Katie content to sit holding her mother’s photo, while Hutch softly hummed some long forgotten lullaby. Here I’ve been worrying about how all of this is going to affect my life. How I may be inconvenienced. Inconvenienced by my daughter. What about Katie and how her life has been affected?
I’m all she has now. I have to fill her life with love. I have to be there for her every step of the way.
“I promise you, Katie, I’m going to give you the best life possible.” Katie’s only response was a trusting smile, as she reached out and stroked the blond mustache above Hutch’s lip. The smile tugged at Hutch’s heart, and he couldn’t hold back the words, “I love you.”
* * *
The rest of the day passed quickly. They spent time with Katie outside in the back yard, Starsky going on and on about needing a sandbox and a swing set. After lunch, Katie willingly agreed to a nap.
Starsky grabbed a couple of beers from the refrigerator and, tossing one to Hutch, sank onto the couch. “Boy, she’s really something, isn’t she?”
“I have to agree with you, Starsk. But the idea that I’m totally responsible for her is kind of scary. What do I know about kids? Especially little kids.”
“Well, Edith brought some books for you.” Starsky got up and headed toward the bookcase that covered one wall of the living room. Finding the books, he handed them to Hutch. “These must be sort of like owner’s manuals.”
“Owner’s manuals?” Hutch raised an eyebrow.
“Sure, you know, like the one for my car.”
“Starsky, a kid and a car are not really anything alike.”
“Well, I know, but at least the books will tell ya a lot of what you’ll need to know about kids. Sort’a like the owner’s manuals for cars.”
“Okay, okay, I’ll read my owner’s manuals.”
* * *
That night after Katie had been settled in bed, Starsky found Hutch staring absently out the bedroom window. “Something wrong?”
“No, just thinking,” Hutch answered without turning around.
“Anything in particular? Need to talk?” Starsky sat down on the bed and waited for Hutch to turn around and let him in on what was on his mind.
“Nothing to talk about.” Hutch turned, revealing a soft smile on his face. “I was just thinking about all the really good and exciting things I have to look forward to. Right now, I’m feeling like one of the luckiest men around, Starsk. Not only do I have you in my life, but now I have a daughter.”
Sitting down on the bed next to Starsky, Hutch draped his arm around his friend. “Of course, I’ve always known that life with you was challenging, but something tells me the combination of you and Katie will probably be deadly. I’ll be old before my time.”
“Deadly combination? Old before your time?” Starsky stared at Hutch and then burst out laughing. “I think you might have some valid points.” Just thinking of the possibilities, Starsky’s eyes took on a mischievous look.
Hutch had to laugh at the devilish look on Starsky’s face. “I know. That’s what worries me.”
“We’ll try not to be too hard on you, buddy.” Starsky leaned closer to Hutch and whispered seductively, “Have I mentioned lately how much I love you?”
“Well, it has been mentioned occasionally, but I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of hearing it.” Hutch lightly brushed his lips against Starsky’s cheek. “You’d better think about getting to bed; you have to be at the station bright and early tomorrow. It feels kind of strange knowing I’m not going with you.”
“I’ll be off working hard, while you’ll be here at home living the life of leisure.”
“Life of leisure? Something tells me that chasing criminals may be a lot easier than what I’ll be doing.”
“Maybe so. I don’t think I’ve ever had to change a criminal’s diapers. Might have had a few cry, though.” Starsky laughed and hugged Hutch. “And by the way, I think I’m pretty darn lucky, too.”
“If you don’t take all night to get to bed, we both might just get lucky,” Hutch said with a significant lifting of his brows and a suggestive smile on his face.
* * *
When the alarm sounded the next morning, Starsky groaned and snuggled closely against Hutch, running his hands suggestively over the warm body.
“Starsk, you got lucky last night, behave yourself this morning,” Hutch mumbled into the pillow.
“So, maybe I’d like a repeat performance. You complaining?”
“Not complaining, just being practical. You have to get to work.” Hutch rolled over, wiping the sleep out of his eyes, and looked at his partner. “There’s always tonight.”
“Yeah, I know, but that’s hours and hours away.” Starsky slid his hands seductively across Hutch’s chest, watching as the beginning of a smile tipped the corners of the blond’s mouth. Feeling encouraged, Starsky slowly slid his hands lower and was rewarded with a soft groan of appreciation. “I don’t know about you, partner, but I’m feeling kinda lucky.” Starsky smiled down at Hutch, pleased to see he had definitely warmed up to the idea.
Before Hutch could answer, Katie announced loudly from the other room that she was awake and ready to get her day started.
“Timing is everything, partner,” Hutch groaned in frustration.
“Tell me about it.” Despite his own frustration, Starsky’s mouth twitched with amusement.
Hutch stared at his partner for a second and then burst out laughing. Hutch’s laughter was catching and Starsky couldn’t help join in. “As you said, there’s always tonight.”
Getting impatient, Katie had added jumping up and down in her crib to her verbal outrage. “Da…da…da.” The louder she yelled, the harder she bounced in the crib.
Hutch fumbled for the pajama bottoms that had been hastily discarded last night. Pulling them on, he headed toward the doorway. “She sounds impatient and a bit on the cranky side this morning.”
“Sounds like a Hutchinson to me.” Starsky chuckled, as he watched his partner practically trip over his own feet getting out the door.
“I sure hope she has a little more grace than her dear old dad does,” Starsky yelled out. “Would be awful if that sweet little thing spent her life stumbling around like you.”
The sound of a loud thud sent Hutch running and caused Starsky to leap out of bed. By the time Starsky reached Katie’s room, Hutch was cradling the loudly wailing child and attempting to soothe away the tears.
“What happened?”
“She fell out of the crib.” Hutch was brushing back the fine wisps of blonde hair searching for any sign of injury.
Katie’s sobs had slowed to soft whimpers while occasionally gulping for air. Hutch, who had been kneeling on the floor, now collapsed to a sitting position. “Scared the hell out of me.” Hutch’s voice held a trace of the fear he had felt at the sound of the small body hitting the floor.
“Is she okay?” Starsky knelt next to Hutch and smiled down at the whimpering child.
“I think so. Looks like only a small bump here on her forehead.” Hutch gently ran his hand over the red and slightly raised bruise forming on Katie’s forehead just above her eye.
“I’ll get some ice.”
“Come on, sweetheart, let’s get you out of these wet clothes.” Much to his dismay, Hutch found that his daughter’s diaper was soaked through pajamas and all. “No wonder you were so impatient this morning.”
When Starsky returned with the ice, he found Hutch in the bathroom running water for a bath, one hand securely holding onto to a naked Katie, who was leaning over the tub, hands busily splashing in the water as it ran into the tub.
“I think we’ll have to hold off on that ice for a while, Starsk. A bath seems to be the first order of business.”
“Okay, I’ll put this in the freezer and put the coffee on.”
“We won’t be long, Starsk, and then the bathroom will be all yours.”
“No hurry.”
“Dobey might disagree with you there, partner.”
“Oh, yeah, guess you have a point.”
Fifteen minutes later, Katie was clean and dressed. The fall from her crib seemed forgotten by the child, as she happily pounded on the tray of her highchair while Hutch fixed her breakfast.
“So, you gonna be able to handle things here today without me?” Starsky asked as he slid his holster on.
“I don’t know, Starsk. Think you can handle all the crime in the city without me today?”
“Sure, but then I’m going to have a partner. You, you’re gonna be here all alone without back-up.”
“You’re forgetting, Starsk, I have Edith for back-up.”
“Okay, you got me there.” Pulling on his jacket, Starsky turned to Katie. “And you, you little monkey face, you take it easy on your dad today. Remember he’s new at this.” Starsky patted the soft blonde head and waved goodbye.
Katie giggled and waved. “Bye, Stars. Bye-bye.”
Hutch followed Starsky out the door and walked with him to the car. “You be careful.”
“I’m always careful. Don’t you spend your day worrying about me.” Starsky unlocked his car door, but before opening it, he turned back to his partner with concern. “Are you okay?”
“Why wouldn’t I be?”
“I know how upset you were when Katie fell out of her crib this morning. Don’t dwell on it. Don’t make it out to be more than it was. Kids do stuff like that all the time. You’re gonna have to get used to bumps and bruises and maybe even a broken bone. It’s all part of growing up, Hutch.”
“I know. It’s just going to take some getting used to. I may need a reminder from you once in a while.”
“Count on it. You know I’ll always be here. Anything you need, you just say the word. I know sometimes I can be kinda dense and not catch on to what you’re feeling.”
“Since when? You’re usually way ahead of me. I mean, I thought I had downplayed my fear this morning, but you could see right through me. Thanks.”
Their eyes met, and Starsky could see the love and gratitude that filled Hutch’s eyes.
“You’re welcome. Now you better go feed your impatient daughter before she throws a little fit, and I better get to the station before Dobey throws a big one.”
“Okay, partner, have a good day and don’t forget to be careful.”
* * *
Once breakfast was over and Katie had once again been cleaned up, Hutch headed to the garage to retrieve the bed that had been stored there. The time had come to start using it. Hutch knew he didn’t want to hear the sound of his daughter hitting the floor again anytime soon. Katie followed him around to the garage and back, constantly chattering away. She now stood watching and still chattering, as Hutch assembled the bed. Finished, he stood back to view his handiwork. “Katie’s bed.” Hutch pointed to the new bed.
“No.” Katie moved to her crib. “Katie’s bed.”
Pointing to the twin bed, Hutch said, “Katie’s new bed. Katie’s big girl bed.” Hutch sat down on the new bed. “Katie’s nice big girl bed.”
Katie studied it. She seemed torn between the old familiar crib and the new big girl bed. Taking slow, uncertain steps, she advanced toward the bed, reaching out and patting it. Hutch held out his arms and she allowed herself to be lifted up and placed on the bed. She smiled uncertainly at first, but when Hutch began to bounce up and down on the bed, Katie soon relaxed and began giggling. They ended up bouncing and wrestling around on the bed until both of them were exhausted. Calling a halt to their fun, Hutch announced they had to go shopping to buy sheets and blankets for the big girl bed.
“Okay, let’s go, Katie.” Diaper bag over his shoulder and Katie’s hand in his, they headed out to the car. Hutch laughed at the sight of the car seat already securely fastened in the back seat. “Look’s like Uncle Starsky’s a step ahead of us, huh?”
The trip to the mall proved to be a learning experience for Hutch. He soon discovered that attempting to shop and keep a small child under control was not an easy task. If he let go of her hand for a second, he would find himself running after her. But holding onto her hand and trying to pick up anything to look at it was nearly impossible. Finally, after finding two sets of sheets he thought looked suitable for a little girl, Hutch looked around the bedding department of J.C. Penney for blankets and bedspreads. It felt really strange to be looking for pink and frilly bedding. Guess I’d better get used to pink and frilly things. Just as he spotted the blankets, Katie pulled her hand out of his, and, taking advantage of her newfound freedom, she quickly sped off in the opposite direction. The ensuing foot chase quickly became a game to the little girl. She’d stop for a second, look at Hutch innocently, and then just as he closed in on her, off she would go with a giggle. A slightly embarrassed Hutch finally cornered her down one of the aisles, scooping her up in his arms, much to Katie’s delight. Hutch’s embarrassment and any irritation didn’t last long once he had Katie in his arms. Once he captured the smile and innocent look on the little girl’s face as she flung her arms around his neck, all was quickly forgiven.
Forty-five minutes later, maintaining a tight hold on Katie, and with the help of an extremely patient sales clerk, Hutch finally had sheets, a blanket, and a bedspread for Katie’s new bed.
He couldn’t hold back a sigh of relief as he fastened Katie into her car seat and then slid into the driver’s seat. “Well, that was fun, huh? How about we go home and have some lunch, and then you can take a nap in your new bed?” A nap even sounds good to me after this shopping trip. Wonder how Starsk’s doing?
* * *
After lunch, Hutch resisted the temptation to call and check on Starsky. He’s a grown man. I don’t think he’d appreciate me checking up on him.
After Katie fell asleep for her nap, Hutch did some cleaning up around the house and some laundry. Suddenly, they seemed to have a lot more laundry to do. While he was folding the last load of clothes, Edith called and they discussed plans for the next day. Edith had set up an appointment for Katie with a pediatrician and had also found a possible babysitter.
After her nap, Katie played contentedly in her room for about all of five minutes. Then, like a little tornado, she tore through the house. Hutch, busy in the kitchen starting dinner, was caught unaware of the trail of destruction being left in the wake of a certain little blonde person. By the time he caught on to the tornado loose in the house, two of Starsky’s prize model cars that he had carefully and painstakingly built were in pieces, and books were scattered about the floor of Starsky’s room. But there was no sign of Katie.
Calling her name, Hutch began looking in every room. The quietness of the house had him worried. A peek in the bathroom revealed that she had been there. Toilet tissue covered the floor. The room he shared with Starsky appeared to be undisturbed. Next stop-the living room-found the culprit sitting quietly in the middle of the room, flipping innocently through the pages of a magazine. A look around the room proved that she had been busy. Newspapers were scattered over the living room floor, and several plants had been overturned.
Taking a deep breath, Hutch knelt down next to his daughter. “You’ve been busy.” Hutch laughed softly. “I feel like I should read you your rights. Come on, you can help me clean up this mess you made. And I strongly suggest that when Uncle Starsky gets home you lay on the charm real thick.”
Following Hutch’s lead, Katie helped gather up the newspapers as he made a somewhat feeble attempt to scold her. Today had been both an eye opener and a learning experience.
After clearing up all of Katie’s messes, Hutch secured her in her highchair with some crackers. “You’re staying put where I can keep my eye on you.”
* * *
Starsky arrived home just as Hutch was taking dinner out of the oven. “Smells good. And how’s Uncle Starsky’s little angel tonight?”
“Angel? This child may look like an angel, but don’t let her fool you.” Hutch took the salad out of the refrigerator and tossed it before placing it on the table. “Get washed up, dinner’s ready.”
“So, I take it you had a rough day?” Starsky pulled out his chair and sat down, smiling at Katie who chattered away, not minding that no one was really listening to her.
“Rough day? Nah, something tells me it was just a normal day in the life of a parent.” Hutch smiled across the table.
“You look tired.”
“I feel tired, partner. I think I should’ve taken a nap myself when Katie had hers. Enough about me, tell me how your day went.”
“Nope, you first. Sounds like your day was much more interesting than mine.”
“Well, I guess you could call it interesting. First, Katie and I put her new bed together. Then the real fun part-we went shopping for bedding. Which basically means I chased her around the bedding department of J.C. Penney for about a half hour.”
“You didn’t use the stroller?”
“We have one of those?”
“Of course we do. Edith thought of everything. The stroller is right there by the door.” Starsky pointed in the direction of the back door.
Hutch shook his head. “That would’ve solved my shopping problems nicely. Just one more thing I’ve learned today.”
“So what else did you learn today?” Starsky wanted all the details of Hutch’s rough day.
“I learned not to let this so-called ‘little angel’ out of my sight. And if she is out of sight, you don’t want silence. Quiet is not good, Starsky.”
“So what kind of trouble did our little Katie get into today?”
“She sort of toured the house on her own, starting with your room.”
“My room?” Starsky looked puzzled for a second, and then realized Hutch was referring to the room made to look like his. They had decided when they moved into the house that they wouldn’t make the change in their relationship any more obvious than necessary.
“Yeah, it seems she likes cars.”
“Hey, that’s great.”
“Not so great, Starsk. She likes to take them apart.”
Starsky looked first at Katie and then back at Hutch. “What do you mean, exactly?”
“What I mean is that you now have several model cars that are in pieces in a box on the top shelf of the closet.”
“Pieces? Exactly how many pieces are we talking?” Starsky had a sick look on his face.
“Sorry, Starsky, I didn’t count the pieces. There’s another thing I learned today. Anything of value to us, or anything unsafe for Katie, has to be moved out of her reach.”
“Good point. And I’d much rather the models be in pieces than Katie. After dinner, I guess we should start childproofing the place, huh?”
“That would probably be a good idea.”
* * *
After dinner, Starsky did kitchen detail while Hutch gave Katie her bath. Then following Katie around the house, they began the task of childproofing the house.
“It’s amazing how much is right there at eye level for her,” Starsky said, as he moved just about everything off the lower bookshelves in the living room.
“And what’s not right there, I’m sure she’ll find a way to reach.” Hutch nodded toward a small stool as he picked up his guitar and placed it in a closet. “We’re going to have to start being more careful about keeping things out of her reach.”
“Guess we’ve got a lot to learn, huh?” Starsky watched as Hutch struggled to hold back a yawn. “Tired?”
“Exhausted.” Hutch managed a grin as he picked up Katie. “I’m tired, so Katie has to go to bed. Funny how that works.”
Hearing the word “bed,” Katie let out a loud objection as Hutch headed for her bedroom. “No…no bed.”
“Good night, Katie. Sleep tight.” Starsky laughed at the sight of the tiny little blonde struggling to free herself from the firm grip of the not-so-tiny, tall blond.
Katie continued her unhappy howling all way to the bedroom.
A few minutes later, Starsky peeked in to find father and daughter snuggled together in Katie’s new bed, Hutch quietly reading and pointing to the pictures in the book. Both appeared to be struggling to keep their eyes open. Starsky tiptoed silently away with a smile on his face.
* * *
When Hutch emerged from the bedroom, Starsky was waiting for him. “Come on, partner.”
“Where’re we going?”
“To the bathroom,” Starsky announced, with a firm hold on Hutch’s arm.
“Starsk, I’m capable of going to the bathroom on my own.”
“I know you are. I just thought I’d be a little extra nice to you tonight.”
“By walking me to the bathroom?”
“No, by running you a nice warm bath.” Starsky ushered Hutch into the bathroom. “So what do you think?”
Hutch stared at the tub filled with bubbles and the lit candles scattered around. “What? Why?”
“Oh, I just thought you might enjoy a little pampering.” With the turn of a switch, the soft sounds of James Taylor filtered from the tape player.
“Starsk, I don’t know what to say.” Hutch looked exhausted.
“You don’t have to say a thing. Just get out of your clothes and into the tub and relax.” Starsky reached out to unbutton Hutch’s shirt, but Hutch’s hands stopped him.
“I can do it, Starsk.”
“Okay, okay. I was just trying to help. Since you don’t need my help, I’ll be right back.”
* * *
By the time, Starsky returned, Hutch was enjoying the warmth of the water and the feeling of relaxation that was taking hold of him. “This feels great, Starsk.”
“Here, this will make you feel even better.” Starsky held out a glass of wine.
“What’s with the royal treatment I’m receiving?”
“Not complaining, are you?”
“No, I’m not complaining. Just wondering why.”
“Why? How about just because? Or maybe because I think you deserve it. You had a rough day and…”
“And what?”
“And I’m proud of you. I’m proud of the way you’re stepping right into being a dad. You’re going to be a great dad, too. You care and it shows.”
“You mean that, Starsk? I’m trying, really I am. But sometimes I just feel like I’m not up to it. That I just can’t handle it.” Hutch was silent for a few seconds and then let out a long, audible breath. “I know nothing about little kids, especially little girls. I’m not sure I have the patience. Kids take an enormous amount of patience. Time and patience. Starsky, I’m a cop, I can’t spend all my time with her.”
“You’re a cop?” Starsky gave his partner an amused look and splashed some water at him. “Have you been listening to me? I said you’re doing a great job. You and Katie are going to be just fine. Hey, you got me for back-up, and Edith is gonna come up with the perfect babysitter for when we can’t be here with Katie. Did your parents spend every waking minute with you when you were a kid?”
Hutch shook his head. “No.”
“See, and you didn’t turn out too bad.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“It means quit worrying. Shut up, drink your wine, and relax.”
* * *
A totally relaxed and very mellow Hutch settled into bed and listened as Starsky locked up and shut off the lights.
“You still awake?” Starsky slid into bed next to the blond.
“Yeah, I’m awake. I want to hear about your day.” Hutch moved closer to Starsky. “So tell me about it.”
“My day was okay. Dobey has me partnered up with a new guy, Jerry Walters. He’s young, but he’s smart. I think I can deal with him for two weeks.”
“Yeah, but can he deal with you for two weeks?” Hutch teased.
“Of course he can. He thinks I’m some kinda hero. He heard I was the brains of our partnership, and he’s anxious to learn from the best.” Starsky couldn’t resist teasing back.
“Sorry I even asked,” Hutch groaned. “But I’m glad to hear that you’re partnered with someone who at least likes you.”
“Yeah, well, just don’t get to used to the idea of me being partnered with someone else. Only one day, and I’m already missing your constant…oh, hell, I just plain missed you.”
“Good. I missed you, too. Now can we go to sleep? You succeeded in getting me so relaxed, I can’t keep my eyes open.”
“Good, mission accomplished. Now shut up and go to sleep.”
With his arm slung across Starsky’s waist, Hutch was asleep in seconds.
Part Four
By the end of the week, Hutch and Katie seemed to be getting into a routine. In the morning, Katie played under the watchful eye of her father, while he did his best to keep the housework under control. Then after lunch, Katie napped while Hutch usually did a load of laundry and started their dinner. After Katie’s nap, they spent some time outside, either in the backyard or at the park. One of Katie’s favorite things was to ride in the little red wagon Starsky had bought her. Much to Hutch’s horror, Starsky had painted a white stripe on it. It had become a ritual that every night before Katie’s bath, Starsky would get the wagon out of the garage, and Katie, who insisted on getting in all by herself, would sit proudly as they made the journey around the block. Their little nightly walk gave Hutch some much needed time for himself. After the walk, Hutch would take over and give his daughter her bath, and then father and daughter would sit closely together on the bed, and Hutch would read until Katie’s eyes would finally lose their battle to remain open. Life was beginning to settle into a new, but mostly comfortable, routine.
* * *
“So anything exciting happen today?” Starsky asked as he handed Hutch a beer. It was Friday night and Katie had just fallen asleep. The two detectives had made themselves comfortable in the living room. Grabbing the TV Guide, Starsky settled onto the couch.
“I don’t know about exciting, but I did call my mother today.”
“And?”
“And after getting over her shock, she immediately wanted to catch a plane to come and pick up her granddaughter.”
“She what?”
“Seems she doesn’t think I’m qualified to raise a child. Especially a daughter.”
“Well, I hope you set her straight on that.”
Hutch gave a nervous and somewhat bitter little laugh. “I’m not sure I convinced her I was capable of raising my own child, but I think she did get the idea that I wasn’t going to allow anyone else to take over the job.” Hutch got to his feet. “How about another beer?”
Handing Hutch his empty, he nodded. “Yeah, why not? It’s Friday night and I have the whole weekend off.”
Returning with the beers, Hutch flopped down on the couch next to Starsky. “My mother wanted to know about the holidays. If there was any chance I’d be able to come home with Katie.”
“What did you tell her?”
“Told her we’d probably be working, and even if we somehow had Thanksgiving or Christmas off, we still wouldn’t have the time to come out there.”
“How’d she take that?”
“About the way I expected. I got the old ‘you never come home anymore’ speech.” Hutch shook his head. “The sad thing is, even if I had a week off, I still wouldn’t go home for Christmas. I’m really not up to listening to her go on and on about how I should let her raise Katie. About how a cop just doesn’t have the time for a child, and that I know nothing about children, and on and on.”
“Sounds like she was pretty rough on you.” Starsky hated to see doubts that he couldn’t handle his own child being planted in Hutch’s mind. She has a hell of a lot of nerve thinking he’d just hand Katie over to her.
“I just hope I can prove her wrong.”
Starsky noticed the doubt in Hutch’s voice again. “Hutch, the first time your mom sees you and Katie together, she’ll know how wrong she was. I guarantee it.”
“You really believe that?”
“I guaranteed it, didn’t I?” Starsky gave Hutch a playful hit alongside his head. “Don’t let your mother put any doubts in your mind. You’re doin’ great. Katie seems like a happy little girl, so you must be doing something right. Although, you know, it might just be the wagon rides that make her so happy.”
Hutch laughed. “Yeah, I know riding around in a red vehicle with a white stripe has certainly made my life happier.”
“Exactly.” Starsky grinned at Hutch. “Hey, so what are we gonna do about the holidays?”
“Like I told my mother, Starsk, we’re probably going to be working.”
“So. We still have to do something for the holidays. I mean, it’ll be Katie’s first Thanksgiving and Christmas with us.”
Hutch could almost see the excitement starting to build in Starsky, just thinking of the holidays. He’s going to really enjoy the holidays this year. There’ll be no holding him back. “I guess we’ll just have to do the best we can. Working holidays could be a real problem. I can’t expect someone to take care of Katie when they have their own plans.”
“We’ll work it out, Hutch. It’s gonna be great; we’ll have lots of food, decorations and, of course, lots and lots of gifts.”
“I’m sure we will, Starsk.” Hutch had to admit Starsky had a knack for always making him feel better about just about anything.
“So besides planning our holidays, what d’ya want to do this weekend?” Starsky was in high spirits, looking forward to his weekend off.
“I guess I hadn’t given it any thought. Our choices are a bit limited now, though. You know, you don’t have to hang out with Katie and me all the time. I’m sure there are other things you’d like to do beside give Katie rides in the wagon.”
“Hey, I love pulling Katie around the block in the wagon.” Starsky’s tone sounded almost hurt. “And I’d rather be doing things with you and Katie than with anyone else. We’re family, aren’t we?”
“Sorry, Starsk, of course we’re family. And Katie and I would rather have you doing things with us, but I just don’t want you to feel like you’re trapped.”
“Trapped? If this is trapped then I like it. I like us all being a family.”
“Okay, so we’ll do something as a family tomorrow. Maybe spend the afternoon at the park. How does that sound?”
“Sounds good.” Starsky sat back with a satisfied expression on his face. “Real good.”
* * *
The following week, Edith came up with what had to be the perfect babysitting arrangement. Not just one babysitter but two. Margaret, a woman Edith knew from church, and Marcy, her teenage daughter, lived just a couple of blocks away. Between the two of them, someone would be available any time they were needed.
From the moment Hutch had met the mother and daughter, any doubts he’d had about going back to work and leaving Katie vanished. Margaret was an intelligent, warm and loving woman. And it hadn’t taken long for Katie to warm up to both Margaret and Marcy. Hutch felt as if a weight had been lifted from him. As much as he loved being with Katie, he was anxious to get back to his job and working with Starsky. Now he felt he could do so without feeling guilty about it. Well, at least not too guilty.
* * *
It was one week before Thanksgiving, and the day was off to a bad start. Starsky was running late, and it appeared that Katie had gotten up on the wrong side of the bed. Hutch half-wished he could just crawl back into bed and not deal with any of it. But, of course, he didn’t have that luxury. He managed to get a screaming Katie dressed, while Starsky gulped down a cup of coffee.
“Slow down, Starsk. Let me fix you some breakfast.” He had to practically shout to make himself heard over the continual howling coming from Katie.
“No time, Hutch. I’ll grab something when I get to the station.” Starsky grabbed his jacket, stopping to plant a quick kiss on the tear-stained face of the unhappy child. Then, with the hint of a twinkle in his eye, he kissed his partner goodbye. “Now, you have a nice day, Blondie.”
“You’re real funny, Starsk,” Hutch grumbled, as the door closed behind his partner.
* * *
By the time naptime rolled around, Hutch was in need of one himself. Once Katie had fallen asleep, he turned on the TV and settled himself on the couch with a book. The laundry could wait.
After reading several chapters of his book and taking an occasional glance at the game show on TV, Hutch began to drift off to sleep, the book slipping from his hands. As the book hit the floor, Hutch was jolted awake. He leaned over to retrieve the book, and his attention became riveted on the TV screen, as he heard the newscaster reporting a crash during a police chase. “Two police cars were in pursuit of a robbery suspect, when one of the police cars slammed into a telephone pole. Detective David Starsky has been transported to Bay City General Hospital. His condition is unknown at this time.”
Hearing the words “transported to Bay City General Hospital,” Hutch dropped his book. He didn’t hear anything else the newscaster had to say, his mind a mass of jumbled thoughts. What the hell happened? Please let him be okay. Why hasn’t anyone called me yet? I’ve got to get to the hospital.
Not even bothering to turn off the TV, Hutch was on his feet and searching frantically for his keys. I have to get to him. Damn it, where did I leave my keys? By the time he found his keys-right where he had left them on his dresser-he was nearly frantic with worry. He was halfway to his car before he remembered Katie. Katie. Oh, my God, Katie. Some dad you are, almost running off and leaving her alone.
Katie woke with a start when Hutch rushed into her room. “Sorry, sweetheart, we need to go see Uncle Starsky.”
Katie, rubbing the sleep from her eyes, tilted her head questioningly. “See Stars?”
“Yeah, we’re going to go see Stars.” Hutch did a quick diaper change and then grabbed the diaper bag. After getting Katie fastened into her car seat, he remembered the stroller. I’m not chasing you all over the hospital. I couldn’t deal with that right now.
After what seemed like an eternity, they were on their way. Hutch moved in and out of the traffic, only half-hearing the chatter going on in the back seat. His stomach was clenched tightly, and panic had a stronghold on him. He’s okay. We’ve both made plenty of trips to the hospital for minor injuries. Get a hold of yourself. It’s too early to be thinking…
After parking the car and getting Katie into the stroller, Katie began to cry, as a completely frazzled Hutch practically ran into the emergency room. A nurse quickly rushed over. “What’s wrong?” She bent down and began checking Katie over.
“What? Oh, no; she’s fine. My partner was brought in here.” Hutch flipped out his badge. “David Starsky? Car accident.” Bending down, Hutch managed to soothe and quiet Katie with a cracker hastily taken from the diaper bag slung over his shoulder.
“Hutch?”
Hutch felt weak with relief hearing the familiar voice behind him. Turning, he found a slightly pale Starsky, with a bandage on his forehead and a look of concern on his face. “What are you and Katie doing here? Something wrong? Is she sick?”
“Starsky, are you okay? What do you mean what are we doing here?” Hutch suddenly had the urge to sit down.
“I told Jerry and Dobey both not to call you.”
“They didn’t, partner, I heard it on the news. Scared the hell out of me.”
“Damn, I’m sorry, Hutch. That’s exactly what I was trying to avoid. I didn’t want you to worry. It’s no big deal. Nothing more than a few stitches and a headache. I’ll be back to work tomorrow.”
“Boo-boo.” Katie waved her hand toward Starsky’s bandaged head, sending cracker crumbs flying. “Boo-boo, Stars.”
“Yep, a boo-boo. See, like I said, it’s no big deal, Hutch. It’s just a boo-boo.”
“Damn it, Starsky, it could’ve been more than that. You could’ve been seriously injured…or worse. What the hell happened?” The trepidation and worry Hutch had been feeling had now been replaced by anger. Anger fueled by the fear that he might have lost Starsky.
“Hutch, take it easy. I’m okay. How about we get out of here and go home?” Starsky’s head was beginning to pound, and he didn’t want to deal with an irate partner here in the middle of the ER.
“Did the doctor say it was okay, or are you just being bullheaded?”
“The doctor said I’d be fine and should just take it easy the rest of day. I’ve even been cleared to go back to work tomorrow. So relax.”
“Relax?” Hutch’s tone still sounded angry, but he appeared to be calming down. “That’s not as easy as it sounds.” Taking a deep breath, Hutch concentrated on the fact that Starsky didn’t look too much the worse for wear. “Okay, I’ll try to relax. How about we go home so you can rest while I’m relaxing?”
“Now you’re talking. How about you, Katie, you ready to go home, too?” Taking control of the stroller, Starsky said, “I’ll drive this thing,” and headed toward the exit.
Hutch was quiet during the drive home. I totally over reacted. I just can’t seem to help it. Ever since Gunther, I panic every time I even think about something happening to Starsky.
Starsky had been watching Hutch out of the corner of his eye, and he knew exactly what was going through Hutch’s mind. “Hey, you feeling any better?”
“Feeling better? I guess if feeling like a total idiot is feeling better then, yeah, I’m feeling great.” In spite of himself, Hutch couldn’t hold back a chuckle.
“You were just doing what we both do best-worry about each other.” Starsky laughed “But I do think you perfected it today.”
* * *
By the time they arrived home, Hutch was feeling more relaxed. Setting Katie down with some books, he insisted on helping Starsky get settled in bed. Starsky put up little resistance. His head was pounding, and the idea of bed and a soft pillow was a welcome one. Hutch held out two aspirin, which Starsky obediently swallowed.
“Try to get some rest now, and just yell if you need anything, okay?”
“Sure thing, Mom.” Starsky always enjoyed Hutch in his mothering mode.
Peeking quietly into Katie’s room, Hutch was relieved to see she was busy emptying out her toy box. They’d have to work on the concept of putting them back in the toy box when playtime was over.
Taking advantage of the quiet time, Hutch decided to start dinner. But he didn’t forget to keep an eye on Katie. Every few minutes, he’d peek in the doorway of her room. On one of his trips down the hallway, he’d found Katie had abandoned the toys and emptied most of her clothing out of the dresser. I’ll have to look into something to keep her from getting those drawers open.
While the spaghetti sauce was simmering, Hutch made a salad between his trips to the bedroom. Sliding the salad into the refrigerator, he went to bring Katie into the kitchen. Pretty soon I’ll have a trail worn into the carpet.
But this time there was no sign of Katie in her room, only scattered toys and clothing.
“Katie?” Hutch called her name softly, not wanting to disturb Starsky. The bathroom looked unscathed, so it was obvious she hadn’t stopped there. Poking his head into the bedroom he shared with Starsky, he found his missing daughter. She was curled up next to the sleeping Starsky, the little blonde head resting on his shoulder, one tiny little hand clutching his t-shirt. Hutch assumed she was asleep, too, but looking closer, he realized she was awake. Her blue eyes met his. “Stars sleep. Boo-boo.” She moved her hand up to the bandage on Starsky’s forehead, looking at Hutch with a worried frown. “Hurt?”
“Yeah, Starsky got hurt. It’s just a little boo-boo.” Hutch out held his hands. “Come on, Katie, you want to eat? Starsky needs to rest.”
“Starsky is done resting; Starsky wants to eat, too.”
Katie giggled, realizing Starsky was awake. Hutch frowned.
“You’re supposed to be resting.”
“I rested, now I want to eat. I’m hungry.”
“I don’t suppose there’s any point trying to reason with you, is there?”
“Not when I’m hungry.”
“Okay, dinner’s almost ready. How about you head out to the couch and watch some TV while I finish up dinner?”
“On one condition-Katie comes with me.”
“And who’s going to keep an eye on you two?”
“We’ll keep an eye on each other. Right, Katie?”
Shaking his head, Hutch watched as the two headed for the living room, discussing which cartoon to watch.
Listening to the sounds of laughter coming from the living room as he put the finishing touches on dinner, Hutch couldn’t help feel a tinge of foolishness for the way he had overreacted. It was clear Starsky was going to be okay.
They had just finished dinner, when Starsky blurted out, “Hey, good news. I almost forget to tell you. Dobey’s not only given us Thanksgiving Day off, but we’re also off both Christmas Eve and Christmas.”
“You’re not kidding, are you?” The enthusiastic look on Starsky’s face proved beyond a doubt he was telling the truth.”
“I wouldn’t kid about this, Hutch. Dobey says we’ve worked more than our share of holidays, and this year we’re entitled to enjoy ourselves with Katie.”
“That’s great, Starsk.” Hutch had to wonder who would be more excited about Christmas-Katie or Starsky. Something told him it would be Starsky. With a child in the house there‘ll be no controlling Starsky this year. And I’m actually looking forward to it.
* * *
The transition back to work went smoother than Hutch could have ever hoped for, and Katie seemed to have adapted to even more new changes in her life. Hutch was amazed at how his daughter, as young as she was, seemed to take everything in stride. The arrangement with Margaret and Marcy seemed perfect, so far. Katie loved being with both of them, and Hutch knew the influence of a woman was important to Katie.
* * *
The day before Thanksgiving, Hutch woke up with a headache. Starsky watched as Hutch swallowed several aspirin.
“You okay?”
“Yeah, just a bit of a headache. Don’t want it slowing me down today. The aspirin should do the trick.”
But the aspirin didn’t seem to help. By the time they arrived at the station, Hutch was feeling worse. Not wanting Starsky to worry, he did his best to cover up how bad he was feeling.
By lunchtime, as they pulled into one of Starsky’s favorite restaurants, Hutch knew he wasn’t going to be able to keep up the pretense. His throat was feeling scratchy and he’d started coughing. I’m coming down with something. Perfect timing, as always.
“You don’t sound so good.”
“I hate to admit it, but I’m not feeling so good. I guess I’m coming down with some kind of bug.”
“I’m gonna take you home and put you to bed. You need rest, some aspirin, and lots of liquids.”
“Starsky, I can’t go home now, we have a shift to finish. Not to mention we still have some shopping to do for our dinner tomorrow. You do remember that tomorrow’s Thanksgiving, right? I don’t have time to be sick.” The words were barely out of Hutch’s mouth when he began coughing.
“You’re going home. And, yes, I know tomorrow’s Thanksgiving. I’m perfectly capable of finishing up the shopping. Katie’s with Margaret, so you’ll be able to rest. I’ll stop at the grocery store on my way home. It’s settled.”
“Starsk-” Hutch couldn’t say any more, as another fit of coughing hit him.
“No arguing, it’s settled.” Starsky pulled out of the parking lot and headed toward home.
“Starsk, this isn’t going to make Dobey happy.” Hutch’s voice was beginning to sound raspy, as if his throat was irritated.
“Sore throat, huh? And don’t worry, I’ll take care of Dobey. Tomorrow’s Thanksgiving; Dobey’s already thinking about all that food he’s gonna be eating. He’ll barely miss you this afternoon.”
“Yeah, and who’s going to cook our dinner?”
“Hutch, this may surprise you, but I’m smarter than I look.”
“I didn’t say anything about you not being smart.” Hutch wiped his nose with a handkerchief.
“You seem to think I can’t handle making dinner for us tomorrow. What am I supposed to think?”
Groaning, Hutch closed his eyes and leaned his head back against the seat. “I know you can handle Thanksgiving dinner, Starsk, I just wanted us to do it together, is all.”
“Sorry. Hey, maybe if you get some rest today, you’ll feel well enough tomorrow to help with dinner.” Hutch was beginning to get irritable, which confirmed Starsky’s suspicion that he wasn’t feeling well.
“Yeah, maybe.” Hutch’s tone was doubtful.
* * *
Once they arrived home, Starsky ushered Hutch directly to the bedroom. “Okay, let me help you get undressed so you can get into bed.” Ignoring his partner’s grumbling that he could do it himself, Starsky knelt down and removed Hutch’s shoes. “Stand up now.”
Knowing better than to protest, and not sure he had the energy anyway, Hutch dutifully stood up and let Starsky slide his pants down. “Okay, you can sit now.” After removing Hutch’s pants the rest of the way, he quickly had his shirt off. Minutes later, Hutch, dressed in pajamas, was being tucked into bed.
“Here, take these aspirin and drink the juice. I’ve got the shopping list you made out last night right here in my pocket. You just stay in bed and rest. I’ll pick up Katie from Margaret’s on the way home. Everything’s going to be fine. Got it?”
“Got it, Starsk. Make sure you grab a sandwich before you go back to the station.”
“Count it on. You know me; I don’t like to miss a meal. What about you? You want me to fix you something before I go?”
“No, I don’t think I want anything right now. You better get going before Dobey blows a gasket or something. I’m just going to try and sleep.”
Starsky laughed. “I’ll just grab an extra sandwich for Dobey, and all will be forgiven.”
Hutch laughed, which set off another coughing fit.
“You need your rest, I’m outta here. Love ya, babe.”
“Love you, too. Thanks, buddy.” Hutch sneezed loudly, grabbing for some tissue on the nightstand. “See you later.”
* * *
Hutch woke several hours later to the sound of laughter coming from the kitchen. Glancing at the clock on the nightstand, he realized he had slept five hours. Five hours of rest, and I don’t feel any better. Actually, I think I feel worse.
With great effort, Hutch managed to sit up. He felt dizzy and his head was pounding. He wanted nothing more than to crawl back under the covers, but unfortunately he needed to use the bathroom. Getting to his feet, a wave of dizziness hit him. He stood without moving, waiting for the wave to pass, then slowly and carefully made his way to the bathroom. After relieving himself, he washed his face and hands and brushed his teeth, hoping maybe he might feel a little more human. Staring at himself in the mirror, he realized that not only didn’t he feel human, he wasn’t too sure he even looked it.
Making his way back to the bedroom, he was nearly run over by Katie.
“Da.” Katie reached out, wanting Hutch to pick her up.
“Oh, Katie, I’d love to hold you, but Daddy’s sick and I don’t want you to get sick, too.”
“Hutch, I think it’s a little late to worry about that now. You were probably just as contagious yesterday as you are today.”
“I suppose you’re right, Dr. Starsky.”
“Come on, Katie, let’s get your daddy back into bed; he’s not looking so good.”
Katie followed along, as Starsky led Hutch back to the bedroom.
Starsky fluffed up the pillows and settled Hutch back against the headboard. “Katie and I have some soup ready for you. You need to eat something.” Satisfied that Hutch looked comfortable, Starsky nodded at Katie. “Want to help me bring your daddy his dinner?”
Bobbing her head yes, Katie, marching like a little solider, followed Starsky to the kitchen. Despite feeling so miserable, Hutch couldn’t help smile at the sight of his daughter following faithfully behind her Stars.
Starsky returned, carrying a tray that held soup and a glass of juice. Katie followed, proudly carrying some crackers and a napkin. Placing the tray on the nightstand, Starsky insisted on taking Hutch’s temperature before allowing him to eat. He placed his hand on Hutch’s forehead. “Yep, you feel pretty warm.” Katie, watching the proceedings with great interest, scrambled up onto the bed as Starsky left the room. She placed her little hand on Hutch’s forehead with a puzzled look.
Returning with the thermometer, Starsky laughed at the sight. “Cute nurse you have, partner.”
“Yeah, she gets her good looks from her father.”
“I’ve noticed.” Starsky grinned and popped the thermometer into Hutch’s mouth.
“Katie, you gonna help me take care of your daddy? We have to get him feeling better by tomorrow.”
“I help.” Katie smiled, looking first at Starsky then at Hutch.
“Yeah, you’re gonna be a big help, Sport.” Starsky reached out and ruffled the child’s fine blonde hair.
Removing the thermometer from Hutch’s mouth, Starsky shook his head. “Yep, you’ve got a fever. You eat your soup, and I’ll go get some aspirin for you. Oh, and I picked up some cough syrup and some throat lozenges, too.”
“Starsky, I’m really not very hungry.”
“That’s okay, just eat what you can. But you have to eat something.” Starsky settled the tray in front of Hutch. “Come on, just a little.” Starsky held up a spoonful of soup to Hutch’s mouth.
“Starsk, I can do this myself.”
“See, Katie, Daddy gets cranky when he’s sick. That’s why it’s so important that we help him feel better.”
“Daddy’s not cranky; Daddy just thinks he’s big enough to feed himself.” Hutch took the spoon from Starsky’s hand. “Why don’t you two turkeys go busy yourselves with your turkey preparations for tomorrow and leave me to suffer quietly?”
“Okay, if that’s what you want. I’ll bring you some aspirin, and then we’ll leave you alone with your misery.”
Starsky lifted Katie off the bed and watched as she quickly toddled out of the room. “Be right back with the aspirin.”
When Starsky returned, Hutch was half-asleep-his head back against the pillows, the tray holding the soup balanced haphazardly on his lap.
Rescuing the tray, Starsky placed it on the nightstand and gently nudged Hutch. “Come on, Hutch, take this aspirin and then you can sleep.”
A groggy Hutch dutifully swallowed the aspirin he was handed. “I feel really lousy.” r32;r32;r32;”I know you do, and I’m really sorry that you’re sick.” Starsky finished adjusting the pillows and pulled the blanket up around Hutch. “I’ll be right back.”
Starsky returned with a cool, damp washcloth and a bottle of cough syrup. Setting down the cough syrup on the nightstand, he wiped Hutch’s face and neck with the cool cloth. “Does that feel good?”
“Feels wonderful. Thanks for taking such good care of me.” Hutch groaned his appreciation and was then hit by a spasm of coughing.
“Easy, Hutch. Let’s get you sitting up a little, so you can take some of this cough syrup. Then you’ll be able to sleep better.”
“I hate cough syrup.”
“You’re worse than a little kid, but don’t worry…I got cherry flavored.”
“Why doesn’t that surprise me?” Despite his grumbling, Hutch swallowed the red liquid.
“Where’s Katie?” Hutch asked with a raspy voice.
“She’s in good hands. Margaret sent Marcy over with a pumpkin pie for our dinner tomorrow, and Marcy volunteered to get Katie ready for bed.”
“We’re so lucky to have them.”
“You got that right. Now, is there anything else I can do for you?”
“No, I think I’m all set, Starsk. I’m just going to sleep.”
“Okay, yell if you need anything. I’ll be in the kitchen getting a head start on Thanksgiving dinner.”
“I will. Good night, Starsk.”
“‘Night, babe. Sleep tight.”
* * *
Hutch slept straight through the night, only waking up at the sound of a loud crash coming from the kitchen. Curious about what was going on, he made his way to the kitchen. Standing in the doorway, he watched as Katie, with a towel tied around her as an apron, sat on a stool at the kitchen counter, watching Starsky sweep up a pile of broken glass.
“So, everything under control out here?”
“Hutch, what are you doing out of bed?” Starsky quickly got rid of the broom and dustpan. “Come on, back to bed with you. And, yes, Katie and I have everything under control out here.”
“I help,” Katie yelled gleefully, almost toppling off the stool in her excitement.
“Take it easy, partner.” Starsky swung the little girl off the stool, lifting her high in the air.
“I can see you’re a big help, Katie. Did the turkey get into the oven?”
“Turkey.” Katie pointed her little finger in Starsky’s face, giggling.
Hutch couldn’t hold back his laugher, which brought on a bout of coughing. Once he recovered he said, “Yep, that’s a turkey, all right, Katie. Guess she just calls ’em the way she sees ’em, huh, Stars?”
“All right, you’re both very funny. Yes, the turkey is in the oven.” Starsky placed a squirmy Katie down on the floor. “Now let’s get you get back to bed, and we’ll bring you some breakfast and some aspirin.”
“Bed sounds like a good idea. And it’s probably the safest place to be.” Hutch poured himself a glass of orange juice.
“You look like you’re feeling better,” Starsky said, pointing Hutch in the direction of the bedroom.
“Yeah, I think I’ll live.”
Back in the bedroom, Starsky insisted on taking Hutch’s temperature once again. Katie sat at the foot of the bed, intently watching the proceedings.
“Temperature’s almost normal. How’s the head and throat?”
“Better.” Hutch sneezed and gestured toward the box of tissue.
“Bless you.” Starsky handed Hutch a tissue.
“Hey, Sport, you take care of your daddy, while I go get his breakfast.”
“Sport? She’s a girl, Starsk.”
“Yeah, so?”
“So? So, girls are not nicknamed Sport.”
“Yeah, well, this one is. I’ll be right back with your breakfast.”
Before Hutch could respond, he was hit with another bout of sneezing.
Sliding off the bed, Katie ran to the nightstand, pulled a tissue out of the box, and loudly said, “Bless you,” as she thrust a tissue at Hutch.
An amused Hutch did his best not to laugh. “Thanks, sweetheart.” Sweetheart sure beats Sport. But it’s not much of a nickname. I’ll have to think of something better. Of course, anything would be better than Sport.
With a helping hand from Hutch, Katie was once again on the bed. Hutch studied his daughter, as she maneuvered around on the bed trying to get close to him. She’s beautiful.
The smile on her face and the innocent blue eyes nearly melted his heart, as she gazed up into his face and then settled her head on his shoulder. My daughter…she’s beautiful. She’s only been here with us for a few weeks, and I can’t even imagine what life would be like without her. She’s brought so much to our lives. After all we’ve been through, she’s like a ray of sunshine. Sunshine?
“Hey, I’ve got it, Katie. I’m going to call you Sunshine.”
After Hutch had finished his breakfast, with some assistance from Katie, Starsky ordered him back to sleep. Offering little protest, Hutch was soon asleep and oblivious to the goings on in the kitchen.
* * *
Several hours later, Hutch awoke to the aroma of Thanksgiving dinner and the realization that he was starving.
“Hey, sleepyhead, you gonna sleep all day?”
Hutch rolled over to see Starsky standing in the doorway. “No, I’m not going to sleep all day. I’m starving.”
“Good, because I think we’ve got enough food out there for an army. And you’ve got just enough time for a quick shower before dinner is served.”
Tossing the blankets off, Hutch was quickly out of bed and heading for the shower. “You don’t have to tell me twice. I’m getting tired of soup and toast.”
Starsky was waiting for Hutch when he got out of the shower with a large fluffy towel in one hand and a robe in the other. “Don’t stand around soaking wet; let’s get you dried off.”
“Starsk, where’s Katie?”
“Don’t worry, she’s not gonna walk in on me drying her daddy off. She’s in her highchair, eagerly awaiting the feast I’ve prepared.” Starsky took his time drying Hutch, spending a little more time and care in certain rather sensitive areas.
“Maybe I should finish this, huh?”
“Could it be someone is getting interested?”
“Yeah, someone is definitely getting interested.” Hutch jerked the towel out of his partner’s hands. “I’ll handle this myself.”
“No need for that; you know I’m more than willing.”
“Starsky, quit it.”
“Now, Hutch, can I help it if I’m feeling horny? I mean, it’s been a while.”
“Yeah, I know. I’m feeling the same way.” Hutch showered feathery little kisses along Starsky’s neck, and then moved up to capture his lips with a hungry, urgent kiss that left both of them groaning with desire.
“I better go get dressed,” Hutch said, as he reluctantly pulled away. “I think tonight maybe Katie should go to bed a little earlier than usual.”
“That sounds like a good idea, especially if we’re going to bed a little earlier, too.”
“That’s the whole idea, partner.”
“I like the way you think. Now, go get some clothes on while I get dinner on the table.”
Grabbing one more quick kiss, Hutch muttered, “Yes, Dear,” as he tossed the towel at Starsky before leaving the bathroom.
* * *
Hutch stood in the doorway enjoying the sight-Starsky with a towel around his waist and another towel slung over his shoulder, as he hustled around the kitchen putting the food on the table, Katie following behind him every step he took.
The table was beautiful. A nice fall centerpiece graced the middle, with two candles softly glowing.
“Hey, Starsky, the food smells great, and the table is just beautiful.”
“Thanks. I have to confess that Katie and I did get a little help from Margaret. She’s really terrific. I think we’re about ready to eat.” Starsky waved Hutch toward a chair.
Katie stood beside her highchair with her arms in the air, and Starsky quickly lifted her up and fastened her into the chair.
“You know, Starsk, we really have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving.” Before sitting down, Hutch remembered to put a bib on Katie.
“You’re right about that. We’re both alive, we love each other, and now we have Katie in our lives. Life doesn’t get much better than this.”
“I just hope we remember to never to take any of this for granted.” Hutch slid into his chair.
“That’ll never happen, Hutch. We know all too well, how quickly things can change. And we both know how much we have to lose.” Taking his seat, Starsky reached out and took Hutch’s hand and gave it a firm squeeze.
Hutch said a short grace over the meal and then watched in amazement as Starsky quickly dove into his food.
“Hungry, Starsk?”
“Starving. Cooking’s hard work, you know.”
“I can see that.” Hutch laughed as he placed Katie’s dish on the tray of her highchair and she followed Starsky’s lead, diving into her food.
“Did the two of you forget to eat today?”
Starsky stopped, his fork stalled in mid-air. “Oh, my God. I fed Katie a banana when I was fixing your breakfast and then completely forgot to give her the rest of her breakfast.” Starsky’s face went pale. “I was supposed to be taking care of her, and I forgot to feed her. Oh, man, how could I have been so careless?”
“Starsk, relax, she didn’t starve to death or anything.”
“But, Hutch, I was in charge of her.”
“Yeah, and she seems fine. Something tells me she was just as preoccupied as you were with all the dinner preparations, and she didn’t even think about eating.”
“You think so?” Starsky’s tone was hopeful. “I feel just awful.”
“I don’t think Katie’s going to hold it against you, are you, Katie?”
Looking up from her dinner, Katie just waved her spoon in the air and went back to eating.
“Nope, she doesn’t look any the worse for wear.”
“You still trust me with your daughter, Hutch?”
“Absolutely, partner. You trying to get out of watching Katie?”
“You know better than that.”
“Yeah, I do. Now, what do you say we get back to eating this feast you and Katie put together for us?”
“Sounds like a plan to me.” Starsky resumed eating with a grin.
* * *
Thirty minutes later, Hutch, with a long sigh, put down his napkin and pushed his chair back. “That was superb, Starsk. You did a great job. Thanks.”
“Well, I did have Katie’s and Margaret’s help, but you’re welcome.”
“You may’ve had a little help, but I know you did the majority of the work. And not only did you fix our dinner, but you took care of Katie and me. I just want you to know that I appreciate it.”
“Thanks. I sort’a like taking care of the two of you.” Starsky groaned, as he pushed back his chair and stood up. “Man, I know I sure ate too much.”
“As soon as my dinner settles some, I’ll give you a hand with the clean up.” Hutch stood up, turning toward Katie. “Ready to get washed up, Sunshine?”
Katie held out her hands eagerly. “Out.”
“Not until we get some of your dinner cleaned off you.” Hutch pointed at the little face covered in gravy and cranberries.
“Off.” Katie’s hand busily smeared the food on her face, only making a bigger mess.
“How about I get a washcloth and we do the job right, huh, Katie?”
While Hutch washed Katie, Starsky started on the kitchen clean up. Once Katie was off and running, Hutch joined Starsky. “We’ll have this done in no time.”
“Hutch, just a couple hours ago you were running a fever. You just sit down and keep me company while I finish this. Or better yet, you could go back to bed for a while.”
“Starsk, really, I’m feeling fine.”
“Don’t argue.”
“Don’t argue?”
“You heard me, sit down and relax.” Starsky pointed at a chair and turned back to putting away the leftovers.
“You’d really make a great wife and mother, you know that?” Hutch sat down in the chair and started tapping his fingers on the table. “So, I just sit here, huh?”
“That’s right. Because if you don’t, I’ll show you just what kind of a wife I’d make, when I make you sleep on the couch tonight.”
“All right, all right, you win. Is it okay if I go see what’s keeping Katie so quiet, and then maybe I could put on a pot of coffee?”
“Sure, you do that.” Starsky playfully swatted Hutch’s butt with a dishtowel as he walked away.
* * *
After finishing some pumpkin pie, Katie was tucked into bed, and the two men sat down to enjoy one last cup of coffee.
“You know, Hutch, we have a lot to get done in the next few weeks.” Starsky reached for another piece of pie.
“We do?”
“Yeah, it’s only a few weeks until Christmas.”
“And something tells me we’ll be going all out this year.”
“You got that right. A huge tree with lights, and toys-lots of toys-and we’ll have to bake cookies. Oh, and we’ll have to take Katie to see Santa Claus.”
“Starsky, we don’t need to get carried away with all of this, though. I mean, she’s not even two years old yet.”
“That has nothing to do with it. We need to start some holiday traditions for Katie. And you’re not allowed to be a Scrooge at Christmas anymore. Got it?”
“Yeah, I think I got it. Tell ya what? You’re in total charge of Christmas.”
“Hutch, we have to do this together. That’s half the fun.”
“We’ll do it together. You just tell me what to do.”
“I get to tell you what to do? Hey, I like that idea.”
“Within reason, Starsk. I can tell you right now, I’m not dressing up like Santa.”
“Okay, I can live without the sight of you dressed up as Santa.”
“That’s good to hear.”
Sounding a bit hesitant, Starsky said, “There’s something else I was thinking about, though.”
“I’m listening.”
“Well…I was sort of…well…thinking that it might be nice if we invited my mom and your parents to spend Christmas with us.” Starsky waited anxiously, not sure what kind of reaction to expect from Hutch.
Not saying anything, Hutch got up from the table and poured himself another cup of coffee. Leaning back against the counter he appeared deep in thought for a few seconds, and then he nodded his head. “Yeah, we should invite them. Katie needs grandparents.”
“I’ll call my mother tomorrow then. This is gonna be great.”
“It’ll be real nice, Starsk. You about ready for bed?”
“You’re going to call your parents tomorrow, aren’t you?” Starsky understood that dealing with his parents wasn’t always easy for Hutch.
“Yeah, I’ll make the call tomorrow. But now I think bed sounds like a good idea.”
“You go ahead, I’ll be right behind you. I’m just going to rinse out the coffee pot and wipe off the table.”
* * *
Hutch was already dozing off by the time Starsky slid into bed. “Hey, you still interested?” Starsky whispered into Hutch’s ear, as he spooned his naked body around him.
“I might be persuaded,” Hutch mumbled.
“Persuaded, huh? I think I can handle that.” Starsky slid his hands suggestively down Hutch’s back, coming to rest on the warm, firm buttocks. As his mouth trailed seductively from earlobes to neck, his hands began a slow kneading of the rounded cheeks. A soft groan escaped from the blond, and Starsky knew his partner was getting more than interested.
“If I’m not mistaken, someone seems to be getting interested.”
“I think it’s too early to tell.” Hutch’s voice was a hoarse whisper. “Don’t stop with the persuading now.”
“Whatever you say, partner.” Starsky’s hand moved from the warm and inviting buttock, making its way over a well-muscled thigh and down across the firm abdomen, until it found Hutch’s hardening erection. The sound of Hutch gasping at the contact brought a smile to Starsky’s face.
“You can’t fool me, Hutch, you’re definitely interested.”
“Guess that’s what makes you such a good detective.” Hutch rolled over, positioning himself so he was on top of Starsky. “You’re so quick to see the obvious.” His lips slowly descended to meet those of his willing partner. They were caressing at first, then more demanding as his tongue traced warm lips and began a slow exploration of the moist recesses of his lover’s mouth.
Moving his hand slowly down to Starsky’s groin, Hutch chuckled softly. “I see I’m not the only one.”
“Like you need to be a detective to figure that out. You know I’m always interested.” Starsky’s mouth returned to his partner’s with a savage intensity. His hands began an arousing exploration of Hutch’s back and buttocks. “Damn, you feel good. I can never get enough of you.”
“I feel the same way, buddy.” Hutch slid down, stopping when he reached Starsky’s strong, muscular thighs. “Yep, you’re definitely interested.” Hutch planted several gentle wet kisses along the thighs, and then took the engorged penis into his mouth.
A soft cry escaped Starsky’s lips, as his penis became engulfed in the warm moistness of his lover’s mouth.
Hutch sucked and licked the hard, warm shaft, enjoying the sounds his partner made. The effect he was having on Starsky was a huge turn-on to the blond. The more Starsky writhed and moaned, the more aroused Hutch became. He felt Starsky’s hands moving through his hair and then stop, as if wanting to hold Hutch firmly in place. Hutch kept up the sucking, his head now bobbing up and down.
“Damn, Hutch, what are you trying to do to me?” Starsky groaned, feeling as if he might go out of his mind at any moment with the sheer wanton pleasure he was feeling.
Releasing the throbbing organ, Hutch stared up at his partner. “Starsky, that’s got to be the dumbest question you’ve ever asked. If you honestly don’t know what it is I’m trying to do to you, I think I might just be wasting my time down here.”
“Have I ever told you that I think sometimes you talk too much. Like right now for instance. It’s not that I don’t enjoy your conversation, but right now I’d just prefer you get down to business.”
“Talk too much? Get down to business?” Hutch grinned up at his partner. “Sounds like you only want me around for one thing.”
“But you’re the only one I want around for that one thing.”
“Well, since you put it that way…” Hutch gave Starsky’s penis a couple of firm strokes then took it back into his mouth. Within seconds, Starsky was panting and groaning loudly.
“Hutch, don’t stop…I’m so close.” Starsky hips began an almost uncontrollable thrusting motion, and Hutch took him deeper into his mouth.
Hutch heard the familiar groan of satisfaction as Starsky shuddered and convulsed, releasing warm fluid down Hutch’s throat.
“Oh, man, that was good.” Starsky’s arms tightened around his partner. “I love you, Hutch. Only you.”
Sliding back up, Hutch captured Starsky’s lips with a hungry urgency, his own aroused flesh eager for some attention.
Knowing exactly how close to the edge Hutch was, Starsky quickly rolled his partner over on his back and began a slow, slightly teasing stroking of the straining erection.
“Starsk, I don’t want slow right now. As you so romantically put it earlier, I think you need to get down to business here.” Hutch was arching and thrusting against Starsky’s hand.
“Take it easy, buddy, I know what I’m doing.”
“I’m sure you do, but I’d like you do it a little faster.” Hutch was breathing heavily and the words came out in short gasps.
Starsky’s stroking became harder and faster, and just when Hutch thought he couldn’t stand any more, Starsky took the eager erection into his mouth. His tongue licked and swirled his partner’s throbbing penis. Both men groaned with pleasure. And then Starsky felt his mouth flood with the warm, sticky fluid as Hutch stiffened in release.
“Get up here, Starsk.” Hutch pulled at his partner. “That was great. I really needed that.”
Brushing his lips across Hutch’s damp forehead, Starsky pulled him into a warm embrace. “Yeah, me, too.”
“Starsk, I love you.” Hutch gently stroked his hand across Starsky’s face. “I never want to lose what we have.”
“We won’t. No way. No how.”
“How can you be so sure?” Hutch leaned on one elbow, gazing down into Starsky’s face. A face that so clearly showed the love he felt.
“Simple, I’ve never loved anyone the way I love you. And I know you feel the same way.” Starsky pulled Hutch down for a soft kiss.
“It’s that simple, huh?” Hutch brushed at a stray curl on Starsky’s cheek.
“Yep, it’s that simple. We love each other and we work on our relationship. Bottom line-we’re partners in everything.”
“Yeah, we are. I’ve been thinking that maybe after the holidays are all over and done with, we could take a few days and go away somewhere. Just the two of us. What do you think?”
“Sounds good, but what about Katie?”
“I’m sure Margaret or the Dobeys would take her for a few days. We can work something out.”
“It means a lot to you, huh?”
“Yeah, I guess it does. I want us to be able to really take some time with each other. Take things slow.”
“Are you talking about making love slowly?” Starsky lifted his eyebrows suggestively.
“Yeah, I am. I know, I know. I was just telling you not to take so much time. Is it a crime to need to come? Guess, I’m not explaining myself very well.”
A smiling Starsky shook his head. “No, it’s not a crime. I wanted to come pretty bad, too. It’s been a while. But I know what you mean. You want some time alone, away from everything and everyone. Some time to spend just slowly making love to each other. Some time to maybe dwell both on the physical and emotional aspects.”
“Starsk, you amaze me sometimes. You know me so well.”
“And don’t you forget it. Now, I think we better get some sleep. It’s back to work tomorrow.”
“‘Night, Starsk. I love you.”
“Good night, Hutch, love you, too.”
Part Five
Within a few days, Starsky had compiled a list a mile long of things that needed to be done before Christmas. Hutch could only shake his head in disbelief as he glanced over the list. “Starsky, is all of this really necessary?”
“Of course, it’s necessary, or I wouldn’t have it on the list. We have to decorate the house, get a tree, decorate the tree, shop for gifts, wrap the gifts, bake cookies-”
“Starsky, enough! I’m exhausted just thinking about everything on your list.” But Hutch’s tone was teasing. He was as excited about their first Christmas with Katie as Starsky was. “It’s going to be great, Starsk.”
“I feel like a little kid again. It’s gonna be fun seeing Christmas through Katie’s eyes.”
“Yeah, I have to admit I’m looking forward to it, too.” Hutch laughed, glancing over at Katie, who was busily taking the magazines off the coffee table and putting them back again. “I’m sure she’s going to enjoy all the excitement going on here. I can’t wait to see her reaction to the Christmas tree.”
“And let’s not forget Santa.”
“No, we can’t forget Santa.” Hutch smiled, enjoying the animated look on Starsky’s face. The thought of how he had almost lost someone so precious to him was always in the back of his mind. Sometimes, he’d wake in the middle of the night, terrified that he’d only dreamt Starsky’s recovery.
Starsky looked up from adding to his still growing list of things to do. “Hutch? Hey, where’d you go?”
“I’m here. Guess my mind just wandered off for a few seconds.”
“So, exactly where did your mind wander to?”
“Not far, I can assure you. I was just thinking about how lucky we are, and how very grateful I am that you’re still here with me.”
Starsky couldn’t quite read the look on Hutch’s face. Something told him that Hutch’s mind might have wandered a bit farther than he wanted to let on.
“You didn’t by any chance wander into the police garage, did you?” This time, Starsky could read the changing emotions that moved across Hutch’s face. A quick flash of pain appeared, then a trace of embarrassment, followed by a hint of amusement as he realized how well his partner knew him.
“I didn’t quite get to the police garage. But, yeah, I guess you could say I was in the vicinity.”
“You go there often?”
“Not so much anymore.”
“You wanna talk about it?”
“No.” Hutch shook his head and gave his partner a grateful smile.
“Well, if you do…”
“I know. And I promise if I need to talk, I’ll let you know.”
Hutch was saved from further discussion by the ringing of the phone. “I’ll get it.”
Realizing Hutch was in a conversation with his mom, Starsky quietly suggested a wagon ride to Katie. The words were barely out of his mouth, and Katie was waiting impatiently at the door, smiling and waving at Hutch. With a grin at Hutch, Starsky opened the door, and Katie bounced happily outside.
Starsky and Katie announced their return home by bursting through the door screaming for ice cream. Hutch looked up from the paper he’d been writing on. “What’s all the racket about?”
“Katie wants some ice cream.” Starsky looked down at the child. “Right?”
“Cream, Katie wants some cream.”
“See, Katie wants some ice cream.”
“Gee, and I wonder who put the idea into her head?”
“Stars wants cream, too,” Katie nodded seriously.
Doing his best to keep a serious face, Hutch winked at Katie. “Yes, I’m sure Stars does want some ice cream, too.”
“Hey, I only suggested we have some ice cream when we got home.”
“Suggested, huh? Well, you two go wash up, and I’ll get the ice cream and bowls out.”
“Now, you’re talkin’. Come on, Katie, let’s go.”
While, Katie and Starsky were in the bathroom, Hutch dished out ice cream for the three of them, making sure to add extra chocolate syrup and nuts to Starsky’s.
With Katie settled in her highchair happily eating her ice cream, the two men sat at the kitchen table enjoying their own dessert.
“So, how’s your mother?” Starsky asked.
“Good. We actually had a pretty nice talk. They can’t make it for Christmas, but she wants to come and spend a few days after the holidays. She really seemed disappointed that they wouldn’t be able to spend Christmas with us. She had a million questions about Katie. I had to promise her we’d send her some pictures.”
It was obvious Hutch’s conversation with his mother had gone well. His mood seemed almost buoyant, more relaxed. Starsky was a bit surprised, but relieved. Usually, Hutch was anything but relaxed after speaking with either of his parents. This was definitely a nice change.
“Sounds like you two had a good talk.”
“Yeah, I have to admit, it was one of our better phone calls. Who knows, she may make a better grandmother than she did a mother.”
“I’m sure she’ll be a good grandmother to Katie.”
“I hope so. I had such a good relationship with my grandparents, I’d like the same for Katie.”
“Cream, more cream.” Katie loudly announced her desire for more ice cream, holding out her empty bowl.
Shaking his head and giving Starsky what he hoped was a stern look, Hutch got up and took Katie’s bowl. “Just a little more, Katie.” Then looking back at Starsky, he said, “And you…you make sure you don’t create a little food monster here.
“Ice cream’s good for her.”
“To an extent, it is. But I was thinking about some of the other god-awful concoctions you put into that cast iron stomach of yours.”
“Me? You just make sure you don’t try to poison her with some of that stuff you throw into the blender.”
“Okay, how about we both try not to force our eating habits on her? Let’s just see if we can balance out the god-awful concoctions with some of the healthy stuff.”
“Deal.” Starsky was now filling his bowl for the second time.
* * *
The next few weeks seemed to fly by. Starsky was so organized he even surprised himself. They started their Christmas shopping by purchasing gifts that had to be mailed. Starsky’s mom had decided she couldn’t be away from her ailing sister, so she wouldn’t be joining them for Christmas, after all. By the end of the first week in December, those gifts were bought, wrapped, and in the mail.
Next on Starsky’s shopping list was Katie. “So, Daddy, what’s Santa gonna bring Katie?”
“I guess the usual things-toys and, hopefully, something educational. What does Uncle Stars have in mind?”
“Toys, of course. You know, this’ll be even more fun in a few years when she knows who Santa is.”
“Santa, huh? What about teaching her the real meaning of Christmas?”
“That’s your job. Mine’s teaching her about Santa.”
Hutch laughed. “You know, that’s probably the wisest plan.”
“Okay, now that that’s settled, tomorrow we start shopping for Katie.” Starsky looked over his list. “Yep, we’re doing pretty darn good.
* * *
The next night after work, an excited Starsky and a slightly apprehensive Hutch headed to the mall. Margaret had readily agreed to keep Katie while they shopped. The first stop was a bookstore, where Hutch had found several of his childhood favorites he looked forward to sharing with Katie. As soon as Hutch had paid for his purchases, Starsky quickly headed in the direction of the closest toy store. Turning Starsky loose in a toy store was a dangerous thing to do. Their cart held a variety of toys. Not just the usual girl toys-dolls, dishes, and a doll stroller-but they also had a selection of toy cars and trains. Starsky insisted it didn’t matter what the gender of the child, all children loved to play with cars and trains.
“I know one big kid who likes to play with cars and train.” Hutch laughed picturing Starsky and Katie on the floor playing.
“Personally, I’ve always liked to see adults who still have a bit of a child in them.”
“I think you’re right, Starsk. I probably never told you this, but that’s one thing I really admire about you. To tell you the truth, I envy you that trait.”
“Really? Hey, then Santa wouldn’t mind getting me a few new pieces for my train set, huh? And I’ll even let you play with it. Give you a chance to work on your own childlike thing.”
“Starsky, you know Santa only brings toys to good boys.”
“I’m always good and you know it.”
“Yeah, well, Santa will decide if you’ve been good or not.”
Looking carefully around to make sure no one could hear him, Starsky leaned over and whispered in Hutch’s ear. “You tell Santa, I’ll do anything he wants. Anything. And I promise I’ll be very good at it.” With a parting nibble on Hutch’s earlobe, Starsky, pushing the cart, walked casually toward the checkout. A slightly flustered Hutch took a quick glance around to see if anyone had witnessed his partner’s little performance. Relieved to see no one looking at him, he then followed his partner to the checkout counter.
* * *
Hutch was allowed a few days to recover from shopping for Katie before Starsky insisted they begin decorating.
“How much decorating do we have to do, Starsky? We’re going to have a big tree like you want.”
“Lights, Hutch, lights. Lots of lights.”
“Sure, if you have a big tree you need lots of lights.”
Starsky shook his head. “No, not on the tree-outside, on the house. Lots of lights on the house. And, of course, lots of lights on the tree.”
“That sounds like a big job. Are you sure you want to do that?”
“I’m sure. It’s something I’ve always wanted since I was a little kid. Naturally, I never stood much chance of that then.” Starsky’s voice sounded wistful, as he remembered the lights on some of his friends’ houses.
“Well, then, we’ll have all the lights you want.”
“Thanks, Hutch. Katie’s gonna love ’em, too. Maybe if we have time tomorrow we can pick up some lights.”
“We’ll need a ladder, too. Maybe we can borrow one from Dobey. How about we plan on getting the lights up on Saturday? I mean, if that fits in okay with your Christmas schedule.”
“That’ll fit in perfectly. You wouldn’t be making fun of me, would you?”
“Certainly not. Just trying to help. I think you’re doing a terrific job.”
“Really? Aw, thanks, Hutch.”
* * *
Much to Hutch’s surprise, the stringing of Christmas lights went off without mishap. There had been a near miss with Starsky and the ladder, but Hutch had managed to grab hold of the ladder before Starsky had tumbled to the ground. Starsky seemed to have a knack for the whole Christmas light thing. But then again, he seemed to have a knack for anything related to Christmas.
Katie had watched the proceedings with fascination at first, but then quickly lost interest and moved on to pulling her wagon around the yard. Once all the lights had been placed just right, Starsky stood back to admire his handiwork.
“You did good.” Hutch had to admit his partner had done one heck of a job with the lights.
“Yeah, it’s great, isn’t it? I can’t wait ’til it gets dark.” It was evident from Starsky’s tone that he was both pleased and excited with what he had accomplished.
“Well, let’s get this stuff picked up.” Hutch gestured toward the discarded empty boxes and the ladder that was still standing on the driveway.
“Sure, just give me a second, I need to use the bathroom.”
“You really should cut down on those soft drinks, Starsk.” Hutch laughed, as he watched Starsky hurrying toward the back door.
Grabbing up some of the discarded boxes, Hutch, began the clean up. Arms loaded with boxes, he headed toward the garage, tossing them into the garbage can just inside the door. As the boxes slid into the trash, Hutch looked out the door just in time to watch in numb horror, as Katie tumbled off the bottom step of the ladder, backwards onto the cement driveway.
“Katie!” Feeling as though he were moving in slow motion, Hutch made his way to his daughter, the sound of her screaming causing his stomach to twist and knot in fear.
Gently lifting the wailing child into his arms, Hutch screamed for Starsky.
“What happened?” Starsky was quickly at his partner’s side.
“She fell off the ladder. I left her for a just a few seconds.” Hutch’s hands were gently going over the small body, checking for any signs of injury. His face paled as his hands felt the warm, sticky blood matting the fine blonde strands of hair. “Oh, God, the back of her head is bleeding.”
“Let me look.” Starsky could see that Hutch was close to the edge. “It doesn’t look too bad. She’ll probably need a stitch or two.”
“Stitches? Oh, God, Starsk.” Hutch’s eyes widened in alarm.
“Hutch, she’ll be fine. I’ll go get my car keys and a damp towel, and we’ll get her to the hospital.”
Hutch nodded. “Okay, that’s good, Starsky, we’ll take her to the hospital.” He couldn’t seem to think. The sight of his daughter sobbing and the blood in her hair was almost too much for him to handle.
Returning with the keys, Starsky helped Hutch get Katie into the car. Her crying had died down to a low whimper. “Hutch, really, she’s gonna be okay. But I’m starting to get a little worried about you.”
Once in the car and headed toward County General Hospital, Starsky cast several worried glances in Hutch’s direction. He wished he could think of something to say that would convince Hutch that everything would be okay.
“I don’t think I’m cut out for this.” Hutch spoke without taking his eyes off Katie. She was quiet now, only whimpering occasionally as she lay cradled in her dad’s arms.
“What do you mean, you’re not cut out for this? I can’t think of anyone more capable of raising a child.” Starsky never liked to see his partner doubt his abilities, but especially now where his daughter was concerned.
“I should’ve kept a better eye on her. I mean, I left her alone on the driveway while I put the boxes in the garage. This could’ve been a lot worse.”
“You turned your back for a second. These things happen, Hutch. You can’t tell me you never got hurt as a child. No skinned knees, no black eyes, no stitches or broken bones?” Starsky watched his partner with raised eyebrows. “Well, did your mother have you in sight at all times? Was she able to protect you from all the usual childhood mishaps?”
“No, she wasn’t always able to protect me. But I still say, I’m not cut out to be a parent.”
“Sometimes you can be downright impossible.”
“So can you. Can’t you go any faster?”
“Of course, I can go faster, but I thought maybe it would be better if we got Katie to the hospital with as few injuries as possible.”
“Good point. Maybe you’re better suited to this than I am.”
Starsky decided to ignore Hutch for the time being. “Hey, Sport, you’re gonna be okay. We’re gonna get your boo-boo all fixed up. Your head will soon be good as new.”
“Katie, boo-boo.” Katie pointed in the direction of the towel Hutch still held on the back of her head.
“It’s just a little boo-boo, Katie.” Starsky smiled over at the child whose eyes still brimmed with tears.
“Little boo-boo. ” Katie nodded solemnly. “Katie, little boo-boo.”
“I think you should tell your daddy that.”
“Da, little boo-boo.” She pointed once again to the spot on her head. “Hurt.”
“Yeah, I know, Sunshine. Daddy’s sorry about that, too.”
* * *
Starsky pulled up outside the ER and let Hutch out. I’ll park and meet you in there.” Starsky watched as his partner hurried through the doors into the ER. He’s gonna beat himself up over this. I’m gonna have to make sure he doesn’t get too carried away, though.
* * *
By the time Starsky made his way into the ER, a nurse had taken control of Katie, and Hutch was tagging along. Starsky took a seat to begin his wait. He knew the emergency room drill all too well.
He didn’t have long to wait; Hutch soon reappeared and took the seat next to him.
“The doctor seemed to think it would be better if I waited out here. It doesn’t seem right, somehow.” Hutch ran his hands nervously through his hair. “I’m her dad, I should be with her.”
“Hutch, they know what they’re doing. Relax, Katie is in good hands.” Starsky gave Hutch’s arm a light squeeze. “We both know the hospital routine well enough. Did they say anything about what they were going to do?”
“Yeah, one or two stitches and an x-ray.” Hutch held his head in his hands. “I can’t believe this happened.”
“Hutch this is just a normal part of having a kid around. My mom was always patching me up. Same with Nicky.”
“I know. I know. Guess I’m just the typical new parent, huh?”
“Yeah, I think so. Something tells me Katie will be good as new long before you get over this. How about a cup of coffee?”
“Coffee sounds good.” Hutch did his best to put a reassuring smile on his face.
“I’ll be right back.” Hutch watched as Starsky walked off, attempting to dig some change out of his jeans.
Hutch was nervously drumming his fingers on the arms of his chair, when Starsky arrived back with the coffee. “Here, take this. It’ll give you something to do with your hands. You’re gonna drive everyone in here nuts if you keep that up.”
Taking the coffee, Hutch looked around the waiting area. “Starsk, we’re the only ones here right now.”
“Sure we are. You probably already chased everyone out.”
Shaking his head, Hutch leaned back in his chair with a long sigh. “I still say I’m not cut out for this.”
“And I say you are. You’re experienced, you’ve been sort of taking care of me for years now.”
“True, but even as childlike as you can be at times, it’s still not quite the same. I mean, if you fall off a ladder, or fall and skin your knee, I figure it’s your own darn fault; you should have been more careful. Katie doesn’t know any better, and it’s my job to make sure she learns these things without getting seriously hurt.”
“And you will. Remember, she’s not seriously hurt. How many stitches did you get as a kid?”
“I don’t know, I never counted them.”
“See, but I’ll bet your mother did. You’re just a normal parent, Hutch. So try and relax and rest up for the really big stuff.”
“I don’t even want to think about the big stuff right now.” Hutch got up and tossed his coffee cup into a nearby trash bin. “What’s taking so long?”
“Everything takes a long time in the hospital, Hutch, you should know that.”
Just then a nurse entered the room and, seeing Hutch, smiled. “Mr. Hutchinson, I’ll take you back to Katie now.”
“Is everything okay?”
“Everything is fine. Katie’s ready to go home.”
Starsky tossed his empty cup into the trash and sat back down to wait, as Hutch followed the nurse out of the room.
* * *
“Da, boo-boo hurt.” Katie pointed to her head where they had just finished stitching. “Hurts, Da.” The little blue eyes were brimming with tears. She held out her arms to Hutch. “Go home, Da?”
“Yes, we’re going home.” Hutch picked her up, kissing her forehead. Taking a tissue from the counter, he gently wiped her tears.
The nurse handed Hutch a sheet of instructions she had already explained in detail to him. “Just keep an eye on her, a little baby aspirin for any headaches, and wake her up every hour tonight as a precaution.”
“Thanks, you can be sure I’ll keep an eye on her.” Hutch felt as if he never wanted to let her out of his sight again.
The nurse followed them out to where Starsky was waiting and, with a wink at Starsky, suggested that he get the frazzled dad a good stiff drink.
“That’s exactly what I plan to do.” Starsky couldn’t resist winking back.
“Hey, Sport, you ready to get out of this place?” Starsky gave Katie a hug and a quick kiss. “How about you, Dad, ready to go?”
“Yeah, I think we’re all ready to go home.”
* * *
It was just starting to get dark when they arrived home, and, much to Starsky’s delight, he had left the Christmas lights on and their house was now ablaze with lights. “Wow, it really looks great.”
Katie, who had been lying quietly in Hutch’s arms, quickly sat up when she spotted the lights. She clapped her hands in excitement. “Pretty. Look, Da…pretty.”
“She likes them.” Starsky had a satisfied smile on his face.
“Yeah, she does. So do I.” Hutch loved the look of awe on his daughter’s face. And Starsky’s smile was a beautiful sight, as well.
* * *
Later that night after Katie had been put to bed, Starsky managed to pry Hutch from her room long enough to sit him down and pour him a drink.
“You feeling better?” Starsky asked, as he sat down on the couch next to Hutch.
“That’s a good question. I’m relieved that it wasn’t worse than a couple of stitches. But as for feeling better, I’m not sure. I think it’s just beginning to sink in just how big a responsibility having a child really is. It’s just kind of scary.”
“Yeah, it’s a huge responsibility, but don’t you think it’s also kinda rewarding and worthwhile?”
A smile found its way through Hutch’s uncertainty. “Yeah, I have to admit, it is. Raising Katie will most likely be the most rewarding thing I do with my life. I guess it’s just going to take getting used to-worrying about two of you.” Hutch took a long swallow of the dark liquid. “I know I have a hard time dealing with even the smallest hurt to either of you. I can’t seem to help it. I panic at the least little thing.”
“I’ve noticed.” Starsky’s eyes filled with concern. “I survived Gunther. It’s over. Nothing bad is going to happen to any of us. Let it go, Hutch.”
“I know. And I’m trying. It’s just not that easy, Starsk.” Hutch set the glass down on the coffee table and got up. “I’m gonna go check on Katie.”
Starsky’s heart ached, as he watched Hutch leave the room. You were just as much a victim of Gunther’s men as I was. I don’t think anyone can even begin to know the depth of hurt they inflicted on you. I don’t think you even realize it.
* * *
Before going to bed, Starsky looked in on his family. They were both sound asleep. Katie slept with her little blonde head resting on Hutch’s chest. Hutch had set the alarm so he could wake Katie every hour, as he had been instructed at the hospital.
Starsky pulled the blankets up around them, placing a gentle kiss on each of them. “Sleep well, you two.”
* * *
The next day, Starsky and Hutch went out to find the perfect tree. It had sounded like a simple task to Hutch-a task that, in his mind, shouldn’t require too much time or effort. But all too soon, he realized finding the perfect tree was not going to be easy. Starsky had very high standards for what he considered the perfect tree.
Forty-five minutes after arriving at the tree lot and inspecting what Hutch was sure had to be at least a hundred trees, they were no closer to finding the ideal tree. “Starsky, we’ve looked at a lot of nice ones. It’s only a tree; just pick one, okay?”
“It’s not just a tree. It’s a Christmas tree, our first Christmas tree with Katie. I want it to be the best one possible.”
“So, what’s wrong with that last one I showed you?” Hutch pointed toward the last tree they had looked at.
“Well, it’s too spindly. Tall is good, but spindly, no. It has to have a nice shape, Hutch. We’re looking for a tall, full tree.”
“What if they don’t have one?” Hutch asked with a worried look on his face.
“Don’t you worry, we’ll find one somewhere.”
“Somewhere? We better find one here.”
“Patience, Hutch, patience.” Starsky continued his search. Standing up each tree and carefully inspecting it from all angles, Starsky would shake his head and move on to the next one.
“Starsky, don’t forget that Marcy is watching Katie. She probably doesn’t realize how long it takes to find the perfect tree, either.” The words went unheard, as Hutch realized that Starsky was now across the lot from him. With a sigh, Hutch headed across the tree-filled lot.
“I found it. Hey, Hutch, I found it!” Starsky stood, proudly showing off his perfect tree, his face lit up with a huge smile. “What do you think?”
“I think it’s about time.” Hutch walked around it, checking out the tree from every side. “Okay, you’re right, it’s the perfect tree. Now can we go home?”
“Don’t start, Hutch.” Starsky reached out and gave Hutch a playful shove. “Well, let’s go pay the man.”
As the perfect Christmas tree was secured to the top of his car, Hutch realized why Starsky had suggested they drive Hutch’s car. “You do have everything planned out, don’t you, partner?”
“Yep, everything. Let’s go. We have a tree to decorate.”
* * *
By the time they arrived home, Katie had eaten her lunch and was down for her nap.
“Thanks, Marcy. Sorry we were gone so long. It takes time to find the perfect tree, you know.” Hutch grinned, nodding in the direction of his partner.
“That’s okay. You two have fun decorating it.”
“I’m sure we will. Starsky’s a real stickler when it comes to fun this time of the year.”
* * *
While, Katie napped the two men arranged the tree in the stand, and the decorating process began. Since Starsky had already proven his expertise with lights, Hutch let him put the lights on the tree, while he made sandwiches for the two of them.
“I hope the decorating doesn’t take as long as picking out the tree did.” Hutch was finishing his sandwich.
“It won’t,” Starsky said, as he made his second trip into the living room, his arms piled high with boxes of ornaments.
“Looks like an awful lot of ornaments.”
“It’s a big tree, Hutch. It’ll take lots of lights and ornaments.”
“Well, you’re the expert.” Hutch began opening the boxes. “When I was a child, I remember my grandmother and I use to string popcorn for the tree. I always thought that was so much fun.”
“When Katie gets a little bigger, we’ll have to do that, too. I’m sure she’d enjoy it, especially since it’s something you did when you were little. This Christmas is gonna be special because it’s our first with Katie. But I think the holiday’ll be lots more fun when she’s a little older and understands what’s going on.”
“Yeah, you’re right. And I think it’s important that we don’t forget the real meaning of Christmas. And it would be really nice if, when she’s older, you shared your beliefs with her, too.”
“She’ll either be one very well-rounded child, or a totally confused one. You’ve got to admit, we do have a lot of differences.” Starsky grinned over at his partner.
“Sure we do. But it’s our ability to blend our differences together so successfully that will make her a well-rounded, well-adjusted child.”
“You think so?” Starsky reached for another box of ornaments.
“I hope so. Of course, maybe the best we can hope for is that we don’t mess her up too bad. I mean, if nothing else, I think we can show her all about love and respect. And that’ll take care of a lot of things in life.”
“Good point. We’re a couple’a pretty decent guys. We know right from wrong and we love her. I don’t think anyone could ask for much more.” Starsky emptied the last of the boxes.
* * *
“The decorating is going pretty good, don’t you think?”
A surprised Hutch looked around and realized they had practically finished decorating the tree. Stepping back, he took a look at what had been accomplished while they were talking. “Katie’s going to love it. After we get the tree finished, I have something to add to our Christmas tradition.”
“You do?” Starsky looked at Hutch in surprise. “That’s great. What is it?”
“After we finish the tree, I’ll show you.”
“Any hints?”
“No hints.”
“I was thinking about some Chinese carry-out for dinner. Sound good to you?” Starsky prepared to take the first load of empty boxes out to the garage.
“Sounds good.” Hutch grabbed the last of the boxes and followed Starsky.
After getting the living room cleared of empty boxes, the two men stood admiring their work.
“It really is the perfect tree.” Hutch’s voice held a faint tremor, as though some emotion had touched him. “It’s just beautiful.”
“We did do a good job. Okay, enough of this soapy sentimentality. What is it you’re adding to our Christmas tradition?”
“You’re worse than a kid. Okay, you call and order our food, and I’ll go get my addition to our holiday.”
Starsky came back from placing his call to the Chinese restaurant to find three large Christmas stockings lying on the couch. Each one had a name embroidered on it, one for each of them.
“Stockings? They’re great! I never even thought of them.” Starsky picked up each one and carefully inspected it.
“They’re terrific, Hutch. I can’ believe I didn’t think of Christmas stockings. Where did you get them?”
“Last week, when I picked up Katie from Margaret’s, she was making one for Marcy. It reminded me of the stocking I had as a kid. Anyway, I decided I’d get us some. And then Margaret offered to make them for me, so here they are.”
“They’re just beautiful, Hutch. So now we can add stocking stuffers to my list.”
“Well, I already picked up a few things. See, I can get into the spirit of the holiday, too.”
“I can see that. This is going to be the best holiday ever. This’ll be the first Christmas I was really able to go all out and celebrate.”
“I promise you, it’s going to be a good one for all of us. I haven’t truly celebrated Christmas in a long time either, and I plan on making up for that this year. Nothing like a child to put things into perspective. Make that one small child and one rather large one.”
“Who you calling a large child?” Starsky demanded. “Can I help it if I’m big for my age?”
“Starsky, don’t you have something you need to add to your never-ending list?”
“Nope, I just checked it and everything looks good. Next up is taking Katie to see Santa.”
* * *
The visit to Santa that Starsky had planned didn’t go off quite the way he had imagined it. Katie had taken one look at the jolly old man in the red suit and started screaming and hid her face in Hutch’s shoulder.
“I think you can cross the visit to Santa off your list now, Starsk.” There was a hint of a chuckle in Hutch’s voice. “But we can stick around a while and see if she changes her mind. Maybe watching all the other kids will convince her he’s not so scary.”
“I guess maybe she’s kinda young for the whole Santa thing, huh? Well, there’s always next year and the year after that. We can just consider this our practice run.”
“Katie, you sure you don’t want to sit on Santa’s lap like the other kids?” Hutch gently patted her back.
Katie lifted her head off Hutch’s shoulder long enough to take another quick look at the man in the red suit, and then her tear-stained face was quickly once again nestled against Hutch’s shoulder.
“I think it’s time to go home, Hutch. I wouldn’t want Katie growing up afraid of Santa because we tried to force the issue with her.”
* * *
Holiday baking was next on Starsky’s list. Three days before Christmas, Starsky, carrying in bags from the grocery store, announced it was time to bake cookies. “Okay, you two, right after dinner we get started on the cookies.”
“We do?” Hutch looked up from the newspaper he’d been attempting to read with Katie sitting on his lap.
“We do. Right, Katie?” Starsky said.
“Cookie.” Katie scrambled off Hutch’s lap. “Cookie.”
“No cookies, Katie, until after dinner.” Hutch got up and stirred the spaghetti sauce that was simmering on the stove. “Starsk, I thought you went to the store for garlic bread.”
“Well, I did, but we also needed all the stuff for baking. It’s gonna be fun, Hutch. I got all kinds of stuff to decorate the cookies with. Got cookie cutters, too.”
“Cookie cutters? Starsk, what do we know about making cookies?”
“I got some recipes from Margaret, and she even made a list of what we’d need. It’ll be fun.”
“Well, I’m sure it’ll at least be interesting. And probably quite messy.”
“You’re gonna have fun. So just shut up and enjoy.”
Hutch raised an eyebrow doubtfully. “Well, let’s get dinner over with, so we can get to the fun.”
* * *
As soon as they finished dinner, Starsky quickly started washing the dishes. While he took care of the clean up, Hutch got Katie washed up and then sat down to read over the recipes Margaret had given Starsky. “Okay, Starsk, I’ll mix everything up, and then you guys can cut the cookies out and decorate them.”
As the first batch of cookies was cooling, Hutch started making the frosting. Starsky located the largest bib he could find for Katie, but decided it wasn’t big enough, so he tied a towel around her small body. Katie was settled at the table on a booster chair, her eyes taking in everything.
“Cookie?” Katie pointed at the cookies Hutch was taking from the cookie sheet.
“Yes, cookies. You want to help decorate the cookies?” Starsky moved some of the icing toward Katie. “Uncle Stars will show you how it’s done.”
Hutch cut out the next batch of cookies, and then sat back with raised eyebrows to watch the cookie-decorating lesson. Starsky had always been good with kids, and Katie was no exception. He was known to be impatient at times, but never when it came to children. He decorated one cookie, slowly explaining to Katie what he was doing. Then he guided Katie’s hands through decorating one of her own. Hutch became so engrossed in watching the two of them, he almost forgot about the cookies that were still baking.
“Hey, Hutch, don’t forget about the ones in the oven. Katie and I don’t want to decorate any burnt cookies.”
Hutch shoved back his chair, nearly toppling over in his haste to get to the stove. Forgetting to grab the hot pads, he burned his hand, sliding the cookies out of the oven.
“Damn,” Hutch yelped, as he dropped the cookie sheet on the stove.
“Damn,” Katie echoed.
“Shit, I have to remember to watch my language,” Hutch muttered, as he ran cold water over his burned fingers.
“Shit,” Katie said, with an innocent almost angelic look on her face.
Despite his best efforts, Starsky couldn’t hold back the laughter. He laughed so hard, he had tears running down his face.
“Starsky, i-it’s not f-funny.” Hutch was stuttering now, partly due to embarrassment, and partly from trying not to laugh himself. “This is serious. We need to set an example.”
“Funny.” Katie clapped her icing covered hands, enjoying the antics of the two men.
“See, even Katie thinks it’s funny.” Starsky’s mouth twitched with amusement.
“Okay, it’s kind of funny. But we have to remember to set a good example.” Hutch’s tone was serious, but his eyes were openly amused.
“It’s not like she knew what she was saying. And you have to admit it was kinda cute.”
“I know. Maybe I should teach her not to say what Daddy says.” Hutch shook his head. “I’ve got a lot to learn.”
“You’re doing fine, Daddy.” Starsky gave Hutch a playful shove. “How’s the hand?”
“I’ll live. I think maybe we should finish up the baking.” Hutch pointed toward Katie, who was busily dipping her fingers into the icing and then licking it off.
Starsky laughed. “I think you’ve got a good point, there.”
* * *
Two hours later, Katie was asleep and the two men were just finishing cleaning up the kitchen.
“Hard to believe the cookies have any icing on them with all the icing I washed off Katie, the table, and the floor.” Hutch made one last wipe of the table.
“Yeah, she really got into the decorating. It was fun, though, don’t you think?” Finished with the dishes, Starsky leaned against the counter, watching Hutch finish washing the floor.
“Yeah, it was, and I’m glad you thought of it. It’ll be nice having some traditions for Katie to grow up with.”
Part Six
Christmas Eve, after Katie had been put to bed, Starsky and Hutch began the task of playing Santa Claus.
Looking at the toys that had yet to be assembled, Hutch stared in disbelief. “Starsky, it’s late and I’m tired. Can you tell me how we ended up with so many toys that need to be put together?”
“Guess the best toys are the ones that require some assembly.” Starsky was putting the finishing touches on the doll stroller.
“The best toys, huh? Tell me, Starsk, did we really need so many so-called best toys?” Hutch was now eyeing something called a Party Kitchen.
“We didn’t buy anything we didn’t need.”
“We didn’t? Then what are we doing with this Party Kitchen?” Hutch had pulled it out of the box and now wondered what he was supposed to do with all the pieces.
“Well, what was Katie supposed to do with the play dishes and pots and pans if she didn’t have a kitchen for them?” Starsky, now finished with the doll stroller, was giving it a test drive.
“Oh, I don’t know, maybe she could’ve just played with them using her imagination.” Hutch tossed the directions for the Party Kitchen over to Starsky. “Here, you can put this thing together.”
“Now, now, let’s not get cranky, Santa.”
“Santa? Well, then, I guess that makes you an elf. And, if I’m not mistaken, elves put the toys together.” Hutch got up and headed to the kitchen, returning with a beer.
“Hey, where’s mine?” Starsky asked.
“Starsk, I really doubt Santa allows the elves to drink while on the job.”
“And you think Santa stands around drinking beer while watching the elves work?” Starsky dropped the Party Kitchen directions on the floor and went to get himself a beer.
The two men sat on the living room floor, drinking their beers. Neither man spoke; they just sat quietly, knowing that sometimes no words were needed. When they had drained the last swallow, they resumed assembling the toys.
When the toys were put together and the stockings filled, they straightened the living room and took all the empty boxes to the garage.
“Well, I think our work here is done. What do you think?” Hutch surveyed the tree with all the gifts and toys neatly arranged underneath it.
“I think Santa and his faithful elf did good. But this elf is tired and ready for bed.”
“Yeah, we should get some sleep; we’ve got a big day ahead of us. Gifts to unwrap, dinner to cook, and lots of pictures of Katie to take.”
“I can’t wait. I’m just as excited as a kid.”
“Starsk, you don’t have to tell me that. Remember, I know all about that little kid side of you.”
* * *
“Hutch, Hutch, wake up. It’s Christmas morning.” Starsky shook Hutch gently, then, getting no response, shook him a little harder.
An irritated and sleepy Hutch opened one eye and stared groggily at the alarm clock. “Starsky, it’s only six o’clock. Even Katie has sense enough to still be sleeping. Now, go back to sleep.”
“But, Hutch, it’s Christmas. We can sleep anytime.”
“Quit your whining. And, no, we can’t sleep anytime. Remember that little thing called work? Well, we have to be there bright and early tomorrow morning.”
“Hutch.”
“It’s not too late for Santa to leave you a lump of coal. Now, be quiet and let me sleep for another hour. That’s all I’m asking-just one more hour.” Hutch rolled over, turning his back to his still whining partner. I got up after he fell asleep to play Santa and finish filling his stocking and setting those train cars under the tree, the least he can do is let me sleep a little longer.
“Okay, one more hour. That’s all, though, promise?”
“Yes, I promise.” Hutch rolled over and planted a warm kiss on his partner’s cheek. “I promise we won’t sleep through Christmas.”
“Like there’s any chance I’d let that happen.” Starsky laughed and snuggled up to Hutch. “Sorry to be such a pain.”
“Hey, what are partners for?”
Within minutes, Starsky was snoring softly, while Hutch stared restlessly at the alarm clock.
Realizing there wasn’t much chance he was going to go back to sleep, Hutch quietly moved away from Starsky and slid out of bed. Might as well start breakfast. I’m sure Sleeping Beauty will be hungry when he does wake up.
Passing Katie’s room, Hutch peeked in to find Katie awake but lying quietly, looking around the room.
“Good morning, Sunshine.” Hutch spoke softly, not wanting to startle her.
“Da.” Katie bounded off the bed and was immediately swept up into Hutch’s arms.
“Merry Christmas, sweetheart.” Hutch felt the little arms tighten around his neck, and he knew without a doubt that this was going to be his best Christmas ever. He hadn’t been surrounded by so much love since his childhood. He’d been blessed once with Starsky, and now he had been blessed again with Katie.
“Katie, you’re daddy is one very lucky man.” Planting a kiss on her forehead, Hutch set the child back on the floor. “Let’s get a dry diaper on you and then we’ll make breakfast.”
* * *
The aroma of frying bacon brought Starsky out of his slumber. It’s Christmas and I’ve overslept! Starsky bounded out of bed, nearly falling in his haste to get on with the day.
“Hutch, how could you let me oversleep?” Starsky, still rubbing the sleep from his eyes, demanded to know as he stood in the kitchen doorway.
“How could I let you oversleep?” Hutch turned to stare in disbelief at his indignant partner. “How could you wake me up at the crack of dawn?” Hutch shot back.
A tinge of guilt crossed Starsky’s face, and he gave a sheepish grin. “Sorry.”
“Yeah, me, too. Merry Christmas, Starsk.”
“Merry Christmas, Blondie.”
“Stars…eat…Da…eat.”
“Think she’s trying to tell us something?”
“You mean like maybe she’s hungry?” Hutch looked at his daughter affectionately.
“Yeah, something like that. Let’s hurry up and eat, so we can get to the gifts, huh?”
“Starsk, you’re worse than a kid.”
“Yeah, I know. But I also know you like that about me.”
“Yeah, well, don’t push it.” Hutch gave his partner a gentle shove toward a chair. “Breakfast is ready, so let’s eat while it’s hot.”
Katie happily dove into her scrambled eggs, as Hutch piled a plate with scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausage, bacon, and potatoes for Starsky.
“Wow, Hutch, you really outdid yourself. This is great.” Like Katie, Starsky quickly dove into his breakfast.
“A big breakfast was part of my family Christmas tradition, and I figured you’d appreciate it.”
“You figured right.” Starsky reached for more bacon with a satisfied smile on his face.
Once everyone had eaten their fill, Hutch could sense the excitement and anticipation building in his partner. “Okay, Starsk, what do you say we let Katie see what Santa brought her? And you, too, of course.”
Starsky needed no more encouragement. He had the scrambled eggs cleaned off of Katie in no time. “Okay, Katie, let’s go see what Santa brought us.”
“Wait one second while I get the camera,” Hutch ordered. “We’ve got to get this on film.”
Camera in hand, Hutch led the way into the living room, anxious to get their reactions on film. And he wasn’t disappointed.
Katie stopped in front of the Christmas tree, a stunned look on her face. Not sure what to make of the toys and the gaily wrapped packages under the tree, she looked questioningly at Hutch first, then Starsky. “Mine?” Katie pointed at the assorted toys under the tree.
“Yes, those are for Katie. Looks like Santa knew you were a good girl, huh?” Hutch smiled, watching the awe and surprise that lit up his daughter’s face.
“Mine?” Katie was practically dancing with excitement.
Hutch snapped several pictures of Katie, and then turned the camera on Starsky, who had a huge smile plastered on his face, as he seemed to almost bask in the sight of the enthusiastic, exuberant child.
“Aw, Hutch, this is great, isn’t it?”
“Yeah, it is.”
The two men sat down and watched, as Katie ran from one toy to another, her eyes wide with wonder at the sight of the new play things. The doll stroller became an instant favorite, as she pushed it all over the living room.
With a little persuading, they convinced Katie to sit down and open the many gifts she had received, not only from them, but also from the Dobeys, Hutch’s parents, and Starsky’s mom.
Katie pronounced all her new clothes to be pretty, and the toys were instantly claimed as “mine.”
Starsky tore through the wrapping on his gifts as quickly as Katie did. And like Katie, he was delighted with everything. The three new additions to his train set had really lit up his face, but the last package he opened brought tears to his eyes. Carefully wrapped in tissue, inside a package marked: “To Stars from Hutch and Katie,” Starsky found a beautiful silver-framed eight-by-ten photo of the three of them. He recognized the picture as one the Dobeys had taken a few weeks ago when they had all had dinner together. They were seated on a bench outside, Katie standing on the bench between the two of them, her arms casually draped over their shoulders. Starsky had loved the photo from the minute he had first seen it. But it was the words engraved on the silver frame that brought tears to his eyes. It read: “Our Family.” Looking at Hutch through tear-filled eyes, Starsky managed, despite the lump in his throat, to get out the words, “I love it. Thank you.”
“You’re not just saying that, are you?”
“You know better than that.” Starsky finally swallowed the lump in his throat. “‘Our family,’ that means a lot, Hutch.” Getting up, Starsky pulled a small package from under the tree. “This is for you.”
“For me? But you’ve already given me so much,” Hutch protested, thinking about the books and record albums, along with a new leather jacket that Starsky had already given him.
“But this one is special. So don’t argue about it, just open it.” Starsky forced the package into Hutch’s hands.
“Okay, okay.” Hutch carefully began unwrapping the brightly colored package.
“Hutch, just rip it open, huh?”
“All right, all right.” Hutch gave up trying to be neat about it and quickly ripped the paper from the small box.
Inside the box, Hutch found a smaller box. Taking the cover off that one, Hutch studied the object inside for a few seconds, and then looked up at Starsky with a stunned look on his face. Inside the box was what would have been a simple gold band if it hadn’t been for the three tiny chips representing their birthstones embedded in it. A tiny emerald chip, representing Katie’s birthday, was centered between a bloodstone for Starsky’s and an onyx for Hutch’s August birthday. “Starsk, it’s…it’s…perfect.”
“Do you really like it?”
“I love it. It’s beautiful. Our birthstones in a gold band; I think it’s great.”
“Let’s see if it fits.” Starsky took the ring from the box and slid it onto Hutch’s finger.
“It fits perfectly.” Hutch admired the ring that now graced his finger. “I don’t know what to say, Starsk. Thank you. This will always mean a lot to me.” Now it was Hutch who was struggling with a lump in his throat. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome. And thank you for the family.” Starsky wrapped his partner in a warm hug. “You know, I think we pretty much have it all now.”
“I think you’re right, Starsk. I can’t think of anything else I could ever need in my life.”
The two men sat, enjoying the quiet company of each other, watching as Katie replaced the doll in the stroller with discarded wrapping paper she picked up, as she pushed the stroller from one end of the room to the other.
“I think we did pretty good, huh?” Hutch motioned toward the gifts stacked under the tree. “Our mothers made sure we wouldn’t run short of socks and underwear, that’s for sure.”
“Thank goodness we got each other some of the really important things like record albums, books, train sets, and that sort of thing.” Starsky smiled broadly, clearly enjoying his Christmas.
* * *
Starsky thought it would be a good idea to put Katie’s little kitchen set in the kitchen, so she could cook while they cooked. The only problem Hutch could see with that idea, was that Starsky spent more time cooking with the play set than he did helping with their Christmas dinner.
“Starsk, how about helping out with the real dinner?”
“Sure, I was just helping Katie.” Starsky got up from playing with Katie.
“I’m sure she appreciates it, too, but she’d probably appreciate some real food even more. And I’m sure you’re looking forward to dinner also.”
“You got that right. I’m starving.”
“You’re always starving,” Hutch joked. “But with a little teamwork we’ll have dinner ready in no time.”
Teamwork being the key to everything they did, dinner was soon ready. And it wasn’t long before both men were complaining that they’d eaten way too much. Of course, that didn’t stop Starsky from having a second piece of pie.
“Starsk, you’re appetite never ceases to amaze me.”
“Sometimes it amazes me, too.” Starsky grinned, as he finished up the last bite of his pie.
* * *
Later that night, Hutch stood by his daughter’s bed, watching her as she slept. He didn’t realize Starsky had entered the room until he spoke.
“Beautiful, isn’t she?” Starsky put his arm around his partner. “So innocent and sweet.”
“Yeah, even when she’s swearing.”
“Just like her dad. You’re sort of angelic and innocent-looking, even when you use foul language.”
“I doubt that.” Hutch chuckled. “I don’t know about you, but I’m beat.”
“Yeah, me, too. But it was a great Christmas, wasn’t it?”
“It really was, Starsk. And you know what? I’m looking forward to a lot more of them.”
“Me, too.” Starsky pulled his partner close. “Come on, let’s go to bed.”
Starsky was almost asleep, when Hutch gave him a light nudge. “Hey, you awake?”
“Just barely. Something wrong?”
“No, I was just thinking about the ring. I really love it.”
“I’m glad. Good night, buddy.”
“Huh, Starsk, I think you should have one, too. So I’m going to order one for you, okay?”
“Well, actually, mine should be ready by the end of the week.” Starsky snuggled close to Hutch. “What can I say? After I picked yours up, I knew I’d want one, too.”
Starsky heard a soft chuckle from his partner.
“That’s great. I’ll pick it up. It’ll be a little New Years Eve gift from me to you.”
“Thanks. Now can we go to sleep?”
“Good night, Starsk. Sleep well. And Merry Christmas.”
“Merry Christmas, Hutch.”
Starsky 4 from VPC II by Julie Henderson
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Charming and delightful!