Mrs Wilson 9 (Babysitter of Plants)

Hutch goes to give Mrs Wilson his key before he goes on vacation. Part of the Mrs Wilson series.

Hutch arrived home at the end of a very long week. But instead of feeling exhausted and worn down, he felt a tingle of anticipation. He and Starsky were heading out tomorrow for a well-earned two week vacation.

As he unlocked his front door, Hutch yawned widely and then chuckled. Okay – so he was exhausted and worn down as well as excited to be getting away. He took off his jacket and holster and hung them up then went to get a beer and a pen and paper. He took all of these through to the greenhouse and sat down.

As he sipped on his beer, he regarded his plants and then carefully made a note of each of their needs. He knew they would be in safe hands while he was away.

Twenty minutes later, he gathered his spare key and the notes and headed over to Mrs Wilson’s home. He knocked on the door and waited. It was soon opened and Mrs Wilson smiled at him.

“I’ve brought my spare key over for you.”

“Wonderful. Come in for a moment, Ken.”

Hutch followed Mrs Wilson to her living room and sat down with her. He handed over the key and the list.

She quickly read through the notes and nodded.

“That all seems easy enough.”

Hutch smiled. It was so nice to be leaving his precious plants with someone who understood their needs.

“So where are you two headed?”

“Las Vegas for four days then back to do some camping in the San Gabriel mountains.”

Mrs Wilson smiled as she said, “I suspect Vegas is Dave’s choice and camping is yours.”

Hutch nodded. “Yep. Starsky wanted to spend a week in Vegas but I told him he probably wouldn’t have any money left by day three and then he’ll be bored.”

“Oh dear. I hope he doesn’t lose his shirt!”

“He will…and mine too,” Hutch said with a small grin.

“Well, I’m sure you’ll have a great time together and I hope you both get lots of rest…You’ve both been looking a little peaky of late if you don’t mind my saying so.”

“No, you’re right. We’re both more than ready for this vacation. Well, I’d better go pack. Starsky’s picking me up early.”

“You’re taking his car then.”

“Yeah, he said he wouldn’t be caught dead in mine in Vegas!”

Mrs Wilson laughed. “Well, his car will certainly fit right in…Have a wonderful time. Hope you see owls, deer and woodpeckers but no skunks!”

“Me too! Starsky had a run in with a skunk once before. He was not happy!”

“I bet! Take care, my dear. Don’t worry about your plants. I’ll take good care of them.”

“I know you will,” Hutch said, “and thank you.”

He kissed the elderly lady on the cheek and then waved as he headed back to his place to pack. As he folded clothes and gathered his camping gear together, he whistled. He could feel his exhaustion already starting to abate as he anticipated time away in the company of his best friend. He sincerely hoped Starsky would enjoy the camping trip as much as he was going to and that they would see lots of fascinating wildlife…except for skunks!