The Naked Souls

188

This story picks up a few months after “A Starsky and Hutch Reunion” ends. Again, it’s rated “R” for adult language and hetero sex scenes. Tee.

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PART ONE

CHAPTER 1

Trini knew her husband (as much as she adored the man) was going to be fairly useless when their baby cried at night– her “predicament” at the moment proof positive of the fact. The man could sleep through most anything– and his wife going into labor was obviously one of them.

Trying to concentrate on those damn breathing exercises, hold herself upright against the bedroom doorjamb, and attempting to wake her snoring husband was almost more than Trini’s temperament could take at the moment. Still, smiling despite herself, Trini knew it was partially her fault Hutch was so exhausted. Their doctor had prescribed a sporting round of sex to help the now overdue Trini along, and they had both happily complied with the “order.” It was when Trini had later roused herself to use the bathroom (only to realize she didn’t need to go) that her water broke. Everywhere.

Trini bore down and gritted her teeth as another contraction started. Jesus, aren’t they supposed to start out a little easy, then get worse? Their doctor had warned Trini that “back labor” was a very real possibility for her since her pelvis tilted back a little. (Her not so charming husband had grinned and made the wiseass comment, “I never noticed.”) The baby’s head would probably push on the tailbone causing some very real pain, and make delivery a little more difficult since the baby had to go “up and out”… so to speak. Also, Trini was reminded, again, that she wasn’t exactly 18 anymore and labor could be… well, less fun, but they’d all get through it fine. Trini could have slapped her doctor for the reference to age… not so much for her, but for Hutch. They were both very aware of their respective ages, and didn’t need to have it thrown in their faces.

Trini rested her head against the doorjamb and tried those stupid breathing patterns again. She would have laughed at herself if the pain wasn’t so bad. What the hell’s wrong with me? I’ve been smacked around by pimps and pushers, shot, had broken bones… nothing has hurt like this! Probably ‘cuz I got drugs after all that… no drugs to ease it off this time! As the contraction eased off, she again looked to her sleeping spouse. This time she didn’t even try and contain herself.

“KEN!”

Hutch bolted out of bed looking his usual disheveled self upon waking, but at least he was alert. Good thing for him too, or Trini might have killed him just to see if she could actually get away with blaming it on surging hormones.

Trini smiled as much as the pain would allow and began to calmly direct her husband. He was going to freak out and she was doing her best to avoid too much weirdness right now.

“Ken,” she started out, trying to keep the controlled voice she was using going strong, “I need you to get my bags, Honey. Then, I need you to put something on, and drive me to the hospital.”

It was amazing to Trini that a man who was so intelligent and “with it” could look so dumb. Taking in the wet floor and Trini’s pained face, the realization suddenly clicked on Hutch’s face. Comically, he quickly looked down at his previously forgotten nakedness and hurried to the dresser. Trini smiled as he fell into the wall trying to put on his jeans and socks at the same time… the man wasn’t always graceful at the best of times, and right now he was totally off-balance.

Finally, Hutch was dressed enough to be considered decent and had Trini’s suitcases in hand. Suddenly, he stopped in front of Trini with that perplexed look on his face again. Trini helped Hutch out since his reasoning skills were still very obviously sleep-muddled.

“Ken, I’m fine. Take the bags out to the car, then you can help me out.”

Hutch smiled sheepishly at himself, nodded and quickly ran to the front door. Trini shook her head and smiled at his departing back. It’s a miracle he wasn’t killed… maybe my uncle did all the thinking. Even as she mentally tormented her husband, Trini knew it wasn’t true. Hutch had been one of the best cops this city had ever seen… he only “lost it” when it concerned the well being of Trini or a member of the Starsky family. When Hutch’s heart was involved, his head had a hard time thinking clearly.

Trini’s musings were interrupted by another spasm of pain as she held fast to the doorjam again, wondering if her fingers were leaving marks where they gripped the wood. Hutch returned at that moment to see his wife doubled over in pain. Tentatively he reached out to softly stroke her hair. Little comfort, he knew, but he had to do something!

Hutch waited until Trini’s white-knuckle grip loosened before he tried to talk to his wife. The man wasn’t a fool.

“How far apart?”

Trini smiled up at her husband… realizing he was “back” and in control again.

“Damn, you recovered quick.”

Hutch’s laughing answer made her smile even more, “I’m a dork when I wake up. You gotta give me a little coffee before you throw things like this at me.”

“You’re not a dork, just– disoriented and clumsy at first.”

“Hell, I’m that wide awake.”

Their smiles quickly faded as Trini was gripped by yet another contraction. Hutch’s handsome face crinkled up into a scowl.

“That close, huh?”

Trini could only nod.

Hutch tenderly rubbed her back then kissed Trini’s forehead. He didn’t like this at all. Was this the way labor was supposed to go? It sure seemed to be hitting his wife awfully fast, and the pain on her face concerned him… Trini wasn’t a wimp. No, he didn’t like this at all.

“I called ‘Battle Ax’ when I was at the car, so she’s waiting. Should I call an ambulance or are you goi…”

Trini cut him off. “I am not delivering my child in an ambulance, and so help me Ken Hutchinson, if you call her ‘Ba…”

Hutch smiled and Trini stopped her tirade. He was purposely trying to get her dander up by calling Dr. Axtholmes his usual nickname for the woman. If Trini hadn’t taken the bait Hutch would’ve known she was too far along to make it in their car. As it was, Trini took the hand Hutch offered and they plodded together out of their home and down the driveway. Silently, Trini took a moment to thank the powers that be that Hutch had allowed Trini to pick their new car… she’d heard too many horror stories about “the pieces of crap” Hutch had owned before. Long and loud from her uncle. Thankfully, Trini knew this car would get her to the hospital without “conking” out.

Hutch helped Trini into the car, then reached across her swollen abdomen to buckle the seatbelt… always the cautious and considerate husband. Trini shook her head and kissed him gently on the check when he was done. He knew her words weren’t angry even if she pretended to be, “You didn’t play fair back there. You know me too well.”

He kissed her gently on the lips before replying, “I know, but it’s fair. You know me too well, too.”

Trini nodded then gripped the dashboard and started her breathing again as Hutch rushed to his side of the car.

~~~

For some reason Trini wasn’t dilated quite to her doctor’s liking when they’d arrived at the hospital, and even though Trini wanted to push, she’d been repeatedly told not to. Trini was having a classic case of strong back labor with the baby “butting” against the tailbone, and Dr. Axtholmes suggested that maybe her body was too busy fighting pain to dilate. Hutch was growing worried and was feeling useless watching his wife struggle. The doctor had ordered Trini hooked to an epidural to ease the pain and give her body some time to dilate better. The epidural had now been removed and Trini was starting to move constantly on the delivery room bed… no position eased the back pain.

Yet another nurse came in to check the dilation progress… much to Trini’s general discontent. Trini grabbed Hutch by the shirt collar and pulled him to her as the nurse continued the exam.

Trini didn’t look happy as she informed him, “You tell them if they put one more thing IN me when something’s supposed to be coming out, somebody’s gonna be sorry!”

Hutch was taken aback by his wife and her outburst, then he remembered their Lamaze classes and how the wives “crossed over” to the not so sweet side. Surely she had to be close and he told her so.

“Honey, it can’t be long now.” Desperately, Hutch looked to the nurse for answers and was relieved when she smiled up at him.

“I’ll go get the doctor now Mr. Hutchinson.”

Hutch sighed and realized he hadn’t felt this relieved since the last time he was in a hostage situation. He remembered he’d helped get all those people out alive, and hoped he could do the same thing for himself with this woman who looked like his wife…

Trying to calm his agitated wife, he told her, “The nurse is gettin…” Trini shot him daggers, and he sheepishly smiled. “Oh yeah. You probably heard all that.”

Hutch looked around and wondered, Where the hell’s Starsky? He should be here when I really need him to help save my life. Even as he listened to his own musings, Hutch knew why they were in the delivery room alone. Trini liked her privacy. Still, Hutch would have felt “safer” with backup.

Thankfully for Hutch, Dr. Axtholmes quickly appeared wearing her “scrubs” and goggles. Hutch wrinkled his nose a little at the goggles, and wondered, Just how messy does this get? And, where are mine if they’re so damned necessary?

Trini reached out to tightly hold Hutch’s hand when the doctor finally gave the okay to push. Trini’s body was grateful for the release, and she only had to push a few times before Hutch was being directed to cut the umbilical cord. With shaking hands and teary eyes, Hutch cut the cord then moved back to Trini’s side and kissed her.

His tired but glowing wife returned the kiss before she asked, “Rachel or Michael?”

Hutch smiled in memory of the night they’d decided on names… it hadn’t been all that hard either. The Starsky family was really all the family Hutch had ever had, so he was more than happy to name their child after “Trini’s” side of the family. Trini had loved her uncle’s mother (Trini still had a hard time comprehending her father and her uncle came from the same womb!) so much that “Rachel” had just seemed right for a girl. On Hutch’s insistence, a boy would be named “Michael Andrew” for the best friend he loved as much as his wife, and the Grandfather who’d always loved Hutch unconditionally.

Hutch winked at Trini instead of answering, and she knew she’d been right the whole time. They had a boy. Her uncle had lost the “pool” at work since he was the only person who bet against Trini. She’d known all along she was carrying a son to carry on the Hutchinson name for her husband.

Dr. Axtholmes finished cleaning and examining the baby, then placed him in Trini’s waiting arms. Slowly, Trini moved the baby blanket back a little to stare at the miracle she and Hutch had brought into the world. Thankfully, she counted ten tiny little fingers and toes. Trini’d worried her age might “harm” the baby somehow, but as she gazed at their son all her worries faded away. He was absolute perfection.

Carefully placing a gentle kiss on Michael’s forehead she whispered, “Hello, Michael. I’ve been waiting my whole life for you.” Trini smiled up at Hutch as she tenderly placed the baby into his nervously waiting arms. Trini quietly added, “And this wonderful man is your Daddy, Michael.”

Hutch didn’t know if it was lack of sleep, the strain of just having seen his wife in such pain for so long, the worry that something had been wrong with Trini and/or the baby, or simply the fact that Trini had so lovingly called him “Daddy” but,… something made him cry.

~~~

Hutch’s tear stained eyes brought Starsky out of his waiting room chair in one hell of a hurry. Starsky was almost scared until Hutch smiled and held his arms out to his best friend. Starsky readily hugged his friend– relief and happiness coursing through every part of his being. Then, Starsky smiled wickedly and threw out a line he’d used on Hutch so many years before, “Well? A boy, a girl, or something in between?” Hutch laughed and turned to address the rest of their waiting “family” instead of dignifying Starsky’s joke with any sort of answer.

Puffing up proudly, Hutch informed them, “Two at a time may journey to room 203 to meet my son.”

Starsky quickly looked back to make sure nobody else was daring to move before he took off in the direction of Trini’s room. Leslie smiled and looked at Huggy who was also practically frothing at the bit. Nodding in Starsky’s general direction, Leslie urged their friend, “Go on Hug. We girls can join Hutch and his son later.”

That was all the encouragement it took for Huggy and Hutch to hastily follow Starsky. Leslie and Candita smiled at each other, then rose to call James and Marcus to inform them of the latest male addition to their family.

~~~

Trini was so happy and riding high on excitement she wasn’t sure how she was ever going to fall asleep. But, the nurse who was taking Trini’s blood pressure and temperature was hell bent on making sure Hutch was leaving– and soon– so Trini and the baby could rest.

Wistfully, Hutch looked at his contentedly sleeping son. Michael had taken to nursing like a champ, and he seemed sated, warm, and happy. Hutch on the other hand was anything but as he bid his wife a quiet goodbye.

“I’ll miss you both. Will you call me first thing so I’ll know when to pick you guys up?”

“Ken, I can’t leave until Dr. Axtholmes has done Michael’s circumcision and given me the go-ahead to leave.”

Hutch shivered when Trini mentioned the circumcision and wrinkled his nose, “Does he have…?”

Trini stopped him, “Hutch, you know we covered all this before… I already talked to David, and he agrees that it’s best to circumcise a boy now. We know the health risks if we don’t. Plus, I know the twins are… from changing their diapers when they were little. I want him to be healthy, and to look like the other men in this family.”

Hutch blushed and looked up to see if the nurse was listening to their private whispers but she was packing up to leave. Hutch was glad they’d have a moment of privacy now.

Sighing, Hutch gave in. “I know you’re right. It’s just…it’s his…. well, it’s a guy thing.”

Trini smiled and reached for her husband’s hand. “I don’t like to think of him in pain, either. You know it has to be done, so stay away until it’s over. Deal?”

Hutch nodded then bent down to kiss his son on the cheek. “Sorry little man– I tried. Goodnight, Michael.”

Trini shook her head. “I can already tell your gonna make me look like the bad-guy with him. Not fair Hutchinson.” Tilting her head up, she readily kissed her husband goodbye. “I’ll call you early… I’m already ready to leave. And don’t lie to me, you’re not going to miss me at all. You and my uncle will be with Huggy celebrating.”

Hutch smiled guiltily, “I’ll still miss you, though.”

“I know. That’s one of the reasons I love you so much.”

Hutch turned to go then stopped at the door. Suddenly he was very serious. “Trini, I may ask you to the bad-guy a lot, so don’t get mad at me, O.K.? I may only get one shot at this dad thing and you could…” He abruptly stopped, looking impatient with himself and the whole conversation. “Just don’t hate me, O.K.?”

“Hutch, I could never hate you, and we can have more…”

“Trini, I’m happy with Michael. You and Michael are all I ever needed. Thanks for making it all possible.”

Trini nodded before sleepily whispering back, “Ditto.”

~~~

Relieving himself of yet another beer, Hutch smiled and thought about his wife. Of course Trini’d been right… he, Starsky, and Huggy were completely shitfaced and, trying to play Monopoly. For shots instead of property.

Hutch laughed a little at the absurdity of it all then headed back downstairs to join his friends. Hutch’d used the upstairs bathroom so Huggy could have the closer downstairs bathroom. Hutch couldn’t believe the weak bladder that man possessed.

Starting his descent down the stairs, Hutch caught sight of Huggy gleefully slapping his hands together as Starsky winced. Obviously, Starsky was losing (as usual) since Huggy was handing him another shot. Hutch felt a little stupid standing there watching them, and he wondered if it was nerves from earlier or just the alcohol making his mind wander. But, wander it did.

Hutch remembered waking up a few months back and taking in a scene closely resembling the one he was now gazing down on. The scene was of Starsky and Trini, and no drinks had been involved, but the laughter most certainly fit the picture Hutch was replaying in his mind.

The sounds of Trini’s laughter had awakened Hutch that day. He’d slept in until afternoon since he’d been on a case by himself all night. Starsky had been ill (so ill that Hutch had driven him to the doctor two days before) and he couldn’t join the stakeout. As luck would have it, Hutch had to do the stakeout on his own since he’d flatly refused his pregnant wife’s company, telling her she needed to sleep for their baby. He’d staggered groggily to the top of the stairs the next day, then looked downstairs at his wife and best friend with a feeling close to dread… or something else that he couldn’t name.

Trini had laughed heartily at something her uncle had said, then started to move her gamepiece around the board. Starsky then had reached across the table to gently caress Trini’s face with the back of his hand. Trini’s smile never waned as she’d turned her head and kissed the hand her uncle still held against her cheek.

“I love you, too.” She’d whispered, and for a moment Hutch seemed to think he could determine what that feeling was tugging at his soul. Jealousy, guilt, fear, and insecurity all wrapped up one nasty little green-eyed package.

For the first time ever, Hutch genuinely hated himself. He hated the fact that he could be so weak and selfish, and he despised himself for not reveling in the mutual love they all three so obviously shared for each other. Hutch couldn’t believe he was jealous of the affection Trini held for Starsky and vice-versa. Hutch supposed it was because he’d loved Starsky for so long, and Starsky had always loved him back, but… the love Trini and Starsky had was different. And maybe it made Hutch feel a little left out.

Shaking his head at his own stupidity, Hutch had continued to watch them silently. Starsky got a decent roll and was gloating as Trini’d teased, “Yeah. Better be proud of that one. You ain’t getting any more now.”

Hutch smiled before he even realized he was. They sounded like, well like him and Starsky.

It’s all alright, you dumb ass! Starsky loves you… Starsky loves Trini. Trini loves Starsky and you equally. You love her and, well… you tolerate him.

Laughing a little, Hutch had started down the stairs to join in on the game, and the love everyone could share without feeling guilty or left out. He’d felt stupid afterwards. Especially when he’d gotten drunk one night and told Starsky.

Starsky’s silence across the darkened patio had made Hutch wonder if the effects of the alcohol had finally done Starsky in. Then, slowly, Starsky started to laugh. It started as a soft snicker that eventually turned into full blown hysteria. And it pissed Hutch off.

“You know what, asshole? That’s the last time I tell you anything.”

Starsky’s laughter was barely under control now as he moved to sit closer by Hutch. Hutch’s reaction was to try and move his chair, but Starsky grabbed his arm and held fast. It was dark, but Hutch’s glare would’ve been visible to a blind man.

“Come on, Hutch. Sit still.” Starsky soothed. “I was only laughin’ ‘cuz we’re too much the same, buddy.”

Hutch had to be looking at him with that confused scowl, but it was dark, and Starsky couldn’t focus clearly on anything anyhow.

“I guess I’d been giving you ‘the stinky eye’ according to my wife. She accused me of being jealous that Trini loved you so damn much. My dear wife! Can ‘ya believe it?” Starsky’s smile came across in his voice, “I guess I just always loved you so much, then I loved her so much, then you two started loving each other so much…”

Gently placing a comforting hand on Starsky’s knee, Hutch whispered, “Me, too. It was dumb, wasn’t it?”

Placing his hand over Hutch’s, Starsky gave it a quick squeeze, “Aw, we can still love Trini just as much. It don’t matter… neither of us loves her more. Just differently. Sums us up, too.”

Hutch understood what Starsky was trying to say even if it all wasn’t connected properly or phrased how others could grasp it. The two of them understood, and that’s all that mattered.

 

CHAPTER 2

Trini was already completely packed and dressed by the time Hutch arrived to take her and Michael home. Michael had already been circumcised and delivered to his mother for comfort, and that’s what she was doing now. Michael had only cried a moment before hungrily accepting the breast his mother offered, and he’d greedily began nursing. When Hutch got to Trini’s room and took in the peaceful scene his wife and son were creating in front of him, he could only stop and stare. In a sentimental moment, Hutch wished the tableau could be frozen in time– the peaceful babe in his beautiful mother’s arms– the way Trini was gazing so adoringly at their newborn son– the total completion Hutch felt as he watched his family.

Trini noticed her husband quietly waiting outside, watching her and Michael, and she smiled at him, “Hello, Mr. Hutchinson.”

Hutch returned his wife’s smile before joining her on the bed to sit beside her. He leaned in to kiss her cheek, “Hello, Mrs. Hutchinson.” Smiling at her wickedly, Hutch nodded in the general direction of his son who was still happily feeding, “He’s all Hutchinson, huh?”

Knowing immediately what her husband was implying, Trini smiled back and winked, “Yep. A breast man.”

Hutch laughed heartily and Michael startled a little, losing his grip on his mother. Trini took the opportunity to switch sides. Michael was almost ready to protest his lack of food when Trini quickly placed herself in front of his already rutting face. Shaking his head, Hutch smiled and reached a tentative hand out to stroke the baby’s cheek. Looking to Trini as if for permission, she nodded and Hutch gently ran a finger down Michael’s cheek. Awe and happiness coursed through Hutch when he whispered, “He’s absolutely perfect, isn’t he?” Leaning over to rest her head on Hutch’s shoulder, Trini could only nod.

~~~

Thankfully for Trini, Hutch had stayed at home with Trini and Michael for the first few days. Trini had laughed at herself, saying she couldn’t believe how little she’d get done with Michael around! Taking a shower was a feat in itself– usually Hutch came in looking sheepishly around the curtain holding their “starving” son. Long, uninterrupted showers were a thing of the past.

It’d been almost 3 weeks and as much as Trini loved having Daddy and baby all to herself, it was now time she braved it on her own. She knew she’d be fine, but Hutch couldn’t seem to get enough of his son and held him entirely too much. Still, Trini knew a man like Hutch needed to be active and busy– he was ready to go back to work. Hutch just wanted it to be Trini’s idea, and she planned to tell him over dinner tonight. Now all she had to do was feed their son, lay him down for a nap, then get ready before her husband returned with their dinner.

Returning from the grocery store, Hutch opened the kitchen door to the most pleasing site of his wife– fresh from the shower– hair still dripping water down her back– dancing to music in her underwear as she loaded the dishwasher. Quietly, Hutch closed the kitchen door behind him then went to stand behind Trini to admire the view. It was like he had a new wife, and he never had gotten “bored” with the “old” one.

Trini’d had a friend of hers come to the house and cut her shoulder length curls into a shapely shorter style {easier to take care of with the baby} and her already pleasing breasts were even fuller now that she was nursing. Even the 7 pounds Trini was still so desperate to lose after carrying Michael was nice to look at. Not to Trini though, and Hutch suspected her new cut was really just an attempt to control her looks. Trini hated being out of control when it came to her looks– especially where the weight was concerned. Hutch hadn’t minded the new cut {or the new curves}– he loved the new “sporty” look it gave his already adorable wife. The new haircut didn’t cover the back of her lovely neck anymore, making it easy for Hutch to place a long, sweet kiss there.

Trini immediately turned to him and returned the kiss.

“Hey.”

“Hey yourself. Where’s our son if he’s not attached to you?”

Smiling and rubbing her hand inside Hutch’s shirt, Trini nodded towards the staircase leading to the upstairs bedrooms.

“Asleep.”

Trini wasted no time showing Hutch exactly what she planned to do with him while their son slept, and she pulled him close kissing him deeply. Hutch pulled back a little hesitantly.

“Did ‘Battle Ax’ approve this?”

Laughing, Trini gently grabbed her husband’s hand and steered him upstairs to their room. “I got a ‘release’ from the doctor. Clean bill of health and all that. Do you want to read it, or do we take advantage of the moment?”

Hutch was more than ready, but…

Trini sighed and smiled at him. Jesus, he was so considerate. “Ken, I’ll tell you if it hurts, O.K?”

Relief and embarrassment crossed his face at the same time, but he was willing to try now. Nodding, he reached around his wife to open their bedroom door, then playfully pushed her inside.

~~~

The calm and loving moment Hutch and Trini were sharing was abruptly ended by the forceful cry of their son. Rolling out of bed, Trini took time to wink back at Hutch, “Thanks, I needed that.”

Hutch’s deep, rumbling laugh followed her out of their room. He took a moment to stretch before rising to put his robe on and help Trini with dinner.

When Hutch got downstairs, Trini had fed Michael and laid him on the floor with the blanket Starsky had ordered specially made for the new baby. Hutch loved the blanket, but would never…never… tell his best friend that. Hutch remember tormenting Starsky after they’d opened it, Who the hell has a baby blanket made with a “striped tomato” on it?

Hutch still couldn’t believe it to this day.

Even as Hutch looked at the blanket with his usual mock-contempt, he couldn’t help but love his friend for the gift. Weird or not, it was given with love and a sense of friendship {and a little Starsky humor} that couldn’t be replaced with anything else.

Sitting down cross-legged by their son, Trini pulled on the robe Hutch had thoughtfully brought into the kitchen with him. Trini played with Michael for a moment as she tried to put into words what she needed to say to her husband. Hutch knew she was thinking way too hard about something, and was trying to find out what.

“Hey Miss Bella-Starsky, got somethin’ on your mind?”

Shaking her head and smiling up at her husband, Trini tried to sound put out, “I thought I was Mrs. Ken Hutchinson. What’d I do to be single again?”

Bending to kiss his wife, Hutch laughed at her. “You were just looking an awful lot like your uncle when he had something important to discuss but was trying to avoid.” Rising, Hutch moved into the kitchen to start dinner.

Nodding her head very seriously, Trini knew it was now or never. Looking at the floor, Trini spilled out what she wanted to say… quickly and without any kind of eloquence.

“I just thought… well, maybe Michael and I could join you for lunch at the office tomorrow.”

Slowly, Hutch put down the knife he was holding, and ignored the vegetables in front of him. Trini panicked and her words came out even quicker than before.

“Ken, please don’t be mad… I just thought you’d be ready to get back to ‘duty’…”

Hutch purposely moved towards his wife, making her very nervous.

…”I appreciate your help,” Trini finished up, “but I’ll be ready to come back soon, and I think we need to get a routine…” she stopped because Hutch was now standing in front of her, silent, with his hands on his hips.

Trini couldn’t look. Was he mad? If she didn’t look, maybe he wouldn’t be.

Quietly, Hutch levelly directed his wife, “Trini look at me.”

She was apprehensive, but willing to try. Trini looked up, but squinted one eye shut as if that would make an difference. Hutch laughed out loud.

“Sweetheart, I thought you’d be tired of me before now. Come here.” Holding out a hand to Trini, Hutch helped her up and into a warm embrace.

“I love you Ken Hutchinson. How do you know me so well?” The relief was so evident on Trini’s face that it made Hutch shake his head at her.

“Were you really worried?”

“I thought you might feel that I didn’t need you around, and that’s not it at all! I just…”

Hutch pressed his lips to his wife’s. It was still the only way he knew to silence her. Blushing, Trini got the hint and moved to help Hutch with dinner.

~~~

Seeing Hutch’s long legged stride entering the office was the best thing Starsky had seen in… well, three weeks. He’d missed Hutch and their quiet moments of friendship sorely. Actually, Starsky had missed Trini and Hutch equally, but there was just something truly special about having a best friend around.

Hutch was just attempting to put his desk into some semblance of order when his door was gently swung open. Lounging casually against the doorjam, Starsky beamed at Hutch.

“I’m hungry.”

Shaking his head, Hutch rolled his eyes and rose around the desk. Without any real anger in his voice, Hutch attempted to admonish his friend, “Jesus, Starsk. It’s only 10:35.”

“I know. You’re late. She gonna miss ‘ya that much that she had to make the most of the morning?”

Moving inside, Starsky shut the office door behind him as Hutch continued to close the space between them. Hutch stopped directly in front of Starsky and glared at him.

“You’re a dirty, old man. You know that, Starsky?”

“Yeah, I missed you, too.”

The two men shared a quick hug and a laugh before Hutch’s phone rang ruining the moment. Shaking his head, laughter still shining in his eyes, Hutch picked up the phone, “Yello?” This brought even more laughter from Starsky as he flopped onto Hutch’s couch.

“Hello, Handsome Hutch. How you been, honey?” Even if he hadn’t recognized the voice, “Sweet Alice” was the only one who called him “Handsome Hutch” the way she did.

“Sweet Alice… I’m fine, but I suspect this isn’t just a social call is it?”

Starsky sat forward on the couch with rapt attention. Hutch nodded towards the speaker phone. Starsky quickly rose and pushed the button.

“No darlin’, you’re right. I need some help. Is your sweet little curly-top there, too?”

Starsky answered her himself, “Right here, Alice. We put you on the speaker. What’s goin’ on?”

“Hi, Starsky. Ya’ all are probably gonna think this is odd an’ all, but I wanna hire you. You were always good to me, and I know ya all won’t mind helpin’ me an some of my ‘associates’ out. I’m sorry to bother you, but I don’t know who else to turn to.”

Starsky nodded towards the phone, then raised his eyebrows and shrugged. Hutch shrugged back in his “why not” gesture.

They both knew “Sweet Alice” to be exactly that: Sweet. And, she’d been a great “snitch” with an undying sense of loyalty to the men when they’d been on the force. Of course, they knew it probably had a lot to do with Alice’s fondness for “Handsome Hutch.” Either way, they’d help her in any way they could.

The sweetness in Hutch’s voice was the tone he always used when he needed something from Sweet Alice, but he couldn’t help it. Old habits die hard.

“You tell me what we can do for you, Sweet Alice. We’ll do our best.”

The sigh of relief from Alice was audible, “Handsome Hutch, you’re a love. You too, curly. I’ll pay ya’ both… this isn’t nothin’ for somethin’ alright?”

Hutch laughed a little at her mixed up phrasing. She was “Sweet,” but never a scholar.

“Alright Alice. You can pay us if we help you. What’s going on?”

“Hutch honey, I moved myself uptown, the ‘Regent’ now.”

Starsky let out a low whistle… no low rent flop-houses for “Sweet Alice” ever again.

“It’s nice, but I got a little problem. The girls an’ me… I do a time-share thing on the suites… are gettin… well, hurt lately. I don’t like bein’ hurt fellas, and some of these girls and their johns are gettin’ hurt pretty bad.”

Starsky knew the obvious, but he still had to ask, “You go to the police, Alice?”

Her light laughter tinkled over the phone, “Starsky, honey. You know they won’t give a hoot ‘n a holler ’bout no old trick or her tricks. I need some real help, boys. Can ya’ help me?”

The two men nodded to each other before Hutch answered her, “My partner here is hungry, Alice. Care to let us buy you lunch, and tell us about your problem?”

Starsky smirked at the delighted tone in Alice’s voice, “Oh, Hutch honey! That’d be right divine!”

 

CHAPTER 3

Sweet Alice did not try to cover up any of her excitement when she first spotted the two men. Moving quickly to join them at their table, Starsky had to lean out of the way so Alice could hug Hutch as he tried to rise in greeting. Hutch glared at Starsky over Sweet Alice’s shoulder while trying to extract himself from her “death grip.”

Gently.. but firmly.. pulling away, Hutch motioned to Alice’s chair and held it out for her. Reluctantly, Alice loosened herself and sat down. The way she was looking at Hutch with those big, doe-eyes was too much for Starsky, and he coughed to cover his laughter. Even unspoken, Starsky heard Hutch tell him “screw you, buddy.”

Knowing he’d have to be the one to try and “distract” Alice’s attention, Starsky dove right in, “What’s goin’ on Alice? Who’s hurting you?”

Suddenly remembering her purpose, Alice turned very serious. “I don’t really know, Starsky. That what I needed you two for.”

Hutch started to ask something, but their waiter returned so they all ordered. Starsky even ordered the “vino de casa” and Hutch raised his eyebrows in surprise. Starsky truly was getting some class. Finally.

The wine and salads arrived, yet Sweet Alice remained strangely silent.

Gently taking her hand in his, Hutch questioned her, “What’s wrong Sweet Alice. I’ve never seen your lovely eyes look sad before.” The compliment was just what she needed to feel at ease with the men again, and she smiled.

“I just thought you might hate me after your girlfriend an’ all. I knew her Hutch honey, so I figured you musta known what business she wuz in. I figured you kinda hated me for not lettin’ ya all in, but I swear, I thought you knew. You fellas sorta stopped comin’ round after she got… anyhow, I just wondered if you fellas quit liken’ me is all.”

Hutch gently squeezed her hand in a gesture of forgiveness and apology.

Sweet Alice turned to Starsky, “I went up to see you after you was shot, but you still couldn’t have no company and the guard wouldn’t let me through anyhow. I tried though.”

Hutch patted Alice’s shoulder, and hoped his smile looked genuine. “It’s okay, Alice. I don’t blame you for someone else’s deceptions, and I know Starsky appreciates that you tried.”

Deep in Hutch’s mind, he heard a red balloon pop, but the pain from Gillian had been shelved a long time ago. He thought it had anyhow.

Noting Hutch’s carefully concealed discomfort, Starsky tried to redirect the conversation to himself. “Thanks for tryin’ to see me Alice. I was in that damned hospital too long, then we had months of therapy and counseling before I could go back to work. Then, we were stuck behind desks after the review board let me back in. We decided if we wuz gonna be pencil pushers we might as well get paid better and went for our promotions. Nobody forgot ‘ya, Alice. We just weren’t on the streets any more.”

Alice noted that Starsky said “we” a lot, and it made her heart glad the two had stuck by each other. Then, as well as now. Lifelong friendship was something she’d never had.

Nodding, Alice felt reassured that they all still cared for each other… as much as they could with the “roles” they all played. She remembered Hutch had always been too much of a gentleman, even after he’d divorced his second wife, to accept Alice’s offers of comfort. Starsky and she talked easily when they passed on the streets, and he’d even introduced her to his wife and boys as an old friend from his days on the force. Yes, she’d been right to come to these two men. They’d help her without prejudice.

Batting her eyes at both men in a gesture that came naturally to Alice, she started right in, “We’re gettin’ beat up and raped fellas. I know some people wouldn’t see the difference between what we do and rape, but I know you two will.”

Both men did, and nodded for Alice to continue.

“We pick most of our ‘dates’ out of the lobby at the ‘Regent.’ Everything goes as it should until after the gentleman has paid and is ready to leave. It’s happened twice when they open the door to leave, once in the elevator, and once in the parking garage. That I know of.”

Hutch leaned in and stared at Alice with that intense corn-flower blue gaze of his that always made her heart beat faster. Even now, and with the extra years, Hutch still twitterpated her.

“What happens, Alice? We need exact details if we’re going to help you.”

Swallowing hard, Alice looked down at her napkin and toyed with the fringe before answering him. “They bust into the room and beat up the gentleman, rape us, take all the money and run. Sometimes they wait until the men are in the elevator or downstairs at their cars, but they always make sure to rough us up, too. Always.”

Hutch spoke with extreme care, “We’ll help you, Alice. Don’t worry.” A single tear of gratitude rolled down Alice’s face before she took turns kissing both men on the cheek.

“Thanks you fellas. Ya’ all made me feel happy an’ alive again.”

Starsky winked at Hutch in his “we did somethin’ good” manner. Hutch smiled back as they ate their lunch, and caught up on old times.

~~~

When Hutch pulled into the parking lot of their office, Starsky could swear his friend turned white at the sight of Trini’s car.

A confused Starsky looked across the car at his still unmoving partner. “What’s up? You look like you seen a ghost?”

Nodding, Hutch slowly moved out of the car, “Yeah, me. You’re lookin’ at a dead man, Starsk. I forgot Trini and Michael were coming for lunch.”

Hearing “Michael” was all Starsky needed to hear. He adored his namesake and charged forward to see him. Belatedly, he remembered Hutch’s predicament and threw over his shoulder, “Just tell her it was a case. She’ll understand ‘Handsome Hutch’.”

Hutch’s middle finger shot up at Starsky’s departing back. Slowly, Hutch headed inside, fully aware of the storm named “Katrina” that was awaiting him.

It was 3:20 when Hutch slinked back into his office. The men had enjoyed a leisurely lunch with Sweet Alice, then had stopped to buy the office supplies Candita and Leslie needed. Hutch was hours late and he knew he better be praying for forgiveness from somebody. Trini wasn’t going to give him any.

Opening his office door sheepishly, Hutch saw his wife standing stiffly across the room staring out his window. He knew she’d heard him come in, but Trini was choosing to ignore him and hadn’t yet turned to face him. Sighing, Hutch sat at the desk behind Trini and turned in his chair to face her. Hutch dry washed his face with his hands, then threw himself to Trini’s merciful {he hoped} heart.

“Sweetheart, I’m so sorry. We were with a client.”

Trini slowly turned away from the window, and purposely took on step to her right. That was when Hutch noticed the bouquet of roses in the windowsill.

Trini held the card up and began to read it with a sickeningly sweet voice, “Handsome Hutch, thank you so much the lovely lunch and the visit. You are as dear a man as ever. Yours Always, Sweet Alice.”

Trini shot daggers at her husband before putting a finger to her mouth and making a rude gagging noise. She let the card drop and started to leave, but Hutch quickly rose to stop her. He probably should have been paying more attention to his long limbs that had a habit of betraying him, but his whole attention had been on Trini. Rising too fast and trying to grab Trini was obviously more than his coordination could handle at the moment. Hutch grabbed Trini’s arm, then promptly lost his balance and fell on her. Trini grunted as their combined weight crashed to the floor.

She lay below him wordlessly for a moment before warning, “Get off me now, Kenneth Richard Hutchinson, or you’ll be walking funny the next time your ‘Sweet Alice’ sees you.”

Hutch quickly moved both his larger legs to pin Trini’s as he grabbed her hands and held them above her head. Starsky chose this exact moment to check on the “love birds” as he liked to call them. Taking in the scene before him, Starsky quickly and silently shut Hutch’s office door before walking away.

Leslie nodded towards Hutch’s office, “Well?”

Starsky shook his head in mock sadness and kissed Michael’s sleeping head, “Someday, I’ll have to tell you about ‘The Blintz,’ little man ‘cuz he ain’t gonna live to tell ‘ya.”

Leslie laughed softly and leaned across the sleeping baby to kiss her husband.

Trini was pissed to begin with, but now this very large Viking had her pinned so carefully she couldn’t move… making her momentarily curse his size and the fact that he also knew police maneuvers to “subdue” someone. Arching her back, Trini tried vainly to loosen his grip so she could get away before she started to cry. Hutch could tell she was close to just that, and he wasn’t letting her leave mad… or as upset as she was. He also knew his body had picked a really bad time to react to his wife squirming below him.

Trini suddenly stopped her useless attempts at freedom, and stated with as much venom as she could muster, “Whatsa matter big boy? ‘Sweet Alice’ not puttin’ out today?”

Rolling his eyes skyward Hutch begged for strength. This girl was surely going to be the death of him.

Bending his head as close to Trini’s as he dared {she still might head-butt him, after all!} Hutch whispered, “Trini, it was business. I’m sorry I forgot lunch. I swear to God I missed you two the minute I walked out the door. I’m old, Trini. Maybe I’m getting senile.”

Hutch cautiously bent and kissed his wife sweetly on the lips before continuing, “I love you Mrs. Hutchinson, and only you.” Hearing no malevolent comment and feeling Trini’s body loosen, Hutch also started placing gentle kisses on her neck, ears, and the now tear-stained eyelids. “Baby, please don’t cry. I’m sorry. This was shitty of me and I’m so sorry.”

Nodding, Trini pulled gently against the grip Hutch still had on her wrists. Feeling relatively safe, Hutch released her and Trini’s arms immediately went to wrap lovingly around his neck. Wiggling against his male hardness, Trini allowed herself a small smile.

“O.K. Hutchinson. You’re off the hook for now, but please don’t scare me like that again.”

Hutch was grateful that Trini loved him so much, but after more than a year together she still worried. He often heard her say “please” even when the word wasn’t said out loud.

Please don’t leave me, Hutch. I love you so much and age doesn’t matter… please don’t let it matter. I love you Hutch, please don’t let this end. Please love me as much as I love you… Some of the plaintive pleas had been verbalized by his wife, some had shown in her eyes in moments of fear and worry. Hutch wished she wouldn’t worry so… he wasn’t leaving. He’d gone into this relationship with his eyes wide open… for once.

Arching her back again {for different reasons now!} and rubbing her hips against Hutch, Trini reached up and unbuttoned her shirt. Hutch’s breath caught when Trini reached between them next. He loved the way this girl was choosing to make up.

Jesus, he was one lucky man.

~~~

Laying on Hutch’s office floor, spent and intertwined, “The lovebirds” had made up.

Reluctantly, Hutch rolled off his wife to let her dress. Trini stretched and held a hand out to her semi-naked husband to help her up. Smirking, Trini straightened her skirt and buttoned her blouse back up.

Looking down at the pants wrapped around his ankles {he hadn’t even had time to get them off}, Hutch laughingly shook his head, “I guess I still turn you on, huh?”

Trini ignored his boasting comment and instead playfully tweaked his nose, then kissed him deeply. Smiling, she turned to go, “You’d better be home on time, or you’ll regret it, love.”

Hutch quickly rose to finish dressing since his wife had paid him back by leaving the door wide open.

Hutch was barely decent before Starsky reappeared at the door, looking at his disheveled friend with great mirth in his dark blue eyes. Hutch pointed a single index finger at him with a silent warning, and a famous “Hutchinson Glare.”

Starsky burst out laughing before pointing at Hutch and informing him, “Shirt’s buttoned wrong.”

Again, Starsky got a finger in his direction.

“Shut the hell up, Gordo. And don’t be late for the game tonight.”

They were all heading over to the Hutchinson household to watch the “Pay-per-view” boxing match later. Huggy and Candita were bringing the beer, Lunk and his girlfriend were supplying the chips and dips, Angie and Michelle were bringing a 5′ sub sandwich, and the Starsky’s were bringing fruit and vegetable trays for the ever cautious Trini to snack on. Hutch and Trini were providing the match, wine coolers, and the “pad.” Hutch loved that Trini would watch sports, or an opera, with equal relish. Truly, she complemented Hutch and they were a great couple.

Starsky nodded solemnly, then looked at his watch, “7:00, right?” Hutch nodded and Starsky turned to go, but couldn’t resist one last jab, “Kinda thought the fight had started early. Glad you two decided to forfeit.”

Hutch laughed and rose to call “Sweet Alice” back. They still had a few details to work out and Hutch hoped Trini was out of earshot or she’d go ballistic.

~~~

Everyone had left, Trini and Hutch had cleaned up their home, and Hutch had retired to bed when he heard soft splashing coming from the pool. He knew the sounds meant Trini couldn’t sleep and she was in the lap pool… probably naked, since she seemed to detest clothing when it wasn’t absolutely necessary. Even on an autumn night like tonight.

Hutch rose and looked down from their bedroom window overlooking the pool. Having guessed correctly about his wife’s state of undress, he leaned against the window to admire Trini’s ivory limbs working in the water. God, she was a vision.

Trini was always comfortable in the water… like a short-haired mermaid. That was one of the main reasons Hutch had picked this house… the lap pool, a regular pool, a hot-tub, high shrubs and beautiful wrought iron fences to hide behind, the gorgeous “Victorian” style of the 3 level home… it all added up to a very nice little “nest” for the “lovebirds.”

Pushing away from the windowsill, Hutch decided to join his wife.

Hutch grabbed the baby monitor Trini had brought outside and placed it beside the hot-tub where he hoped his wife would join him after her swim. Trini popped up out of the lap pool just in time to see her husband drop his robe and slide into the warmth of the hot-tub.

Hutch smiled with great pleasure when he felt Trini’s gentle hands rubbing his neck.

“Aren’t you cold? Get in here with me.” Hutch scooted over and held a hand out to his wife.

Trini grinned at him as she slid her naked body to rest on top of his, “Ready for round two of ‘The Blintz’ versus ‘Jewel’ or do you concede?”

Hutch’s answer was to pull Trini closer and kiss areas of her body he’d missed earlier. Hutch decided that silenced her just as effectively as kissing her lips.

~~~

Hutch had asked Sweet Alice to back out of the “Regent” until he and Starsky had everything in place. When they had it all worked out, the ladies and Alice would be fully protected. Meanwhile, they had other cases to finish before tackling Alice’s problem. She’s been very understanding– because it was Hutch asking– and had gone elsewhere to look for work for at least the next 2 months. Everything was going smoothly until Hutch returned from a stake out to find his wife reading up on Alice’s case at his desk.

Sparing a fleeting glance at her husband, Trini nodded at the file, “I want this one, Babe. I can get back in the loop doing some undercover hookin’ for my pimp. What do you think, Sweet Thing?”

Hutch laughed at her slang then took the file gently from her. Laying the file down, Hutch then tried to distract Trini with a kiss and some teasing.

“Why are you snooping around in here when you should be getting your office ready? When are you coming back to be my business partner?”

“First, I wasn’t snooping… I was reading. Second, the office is as ready as I am. I’ve got Michael at home with a baby sitter now… just so he starts getting used to someone else once in a while.”

Looking slightly aghast that his wife had picked a sitter without his consent, Hutch began questioning Trini, “When did you pick a sitter? When did you stop nursing? How…”

Trini knew tit-for-tat worked in their relationship… she shut him up with a kiss.

“If you’d let me get a word in edgewise, dear husband, I could answer a couple questions. If you don’t like the sitter, we’ll hire another. She’ll still be there when you drag yourself home. And, I never said I’d stopped nursing, but Michael will get his first bottle when you get home. That’s your mission for the evening… bottle feeding. I will discuss my part in this case with you tonight, O.K?”

Hutch looked hesitant, and Trini misunderstood the look. “You don’t want me to come back to work, do you?”

Knowing Trini loved their son, but was suffering from boredom was an understatement. Hutch knew Trini needed to work as much as he did. “Trini, that’s not it and you know it. I’m not that mean a bastard that I think you need to stay home bare-foot and pregnant. I want you here with me when you can be, I just don’t think this particular case….”

Trini poked the file cover, “This is ‘Sweet Alice, ‘ isn’t it?”

Hutch could only nod.

Drawing in a deep breath, Trini sat up a little straighter and looked her husband in the eye.

“What? You don’t want me around her because you wanna be alone with her, or because you think I’m a child who can’t act professionally with your old sweetie?”

Pissed off would not begin to describe how Hutch felt at the moment, and Trini was gonna know it. With greatly controlled rage, Hutch went over and slammed the door so loud Trini thought he broke the door jam. She wasn’t feeling quite as “lippy” when her husband turned around and glared at her, but Trini had never been one to back down. Hutch had cursed the fact, daily, that she’d picked that up from Starsky. Those two had the tenacity of pit bulls.

Slowly making his way back to Trini, Hutch sat down on the edge of his desk and glared at his wife. Trini hated when he got this pissed, but sometimes he had it coming. Well, maybe she agitated him a little too much too, but she’d never admit that.

Defiantly tilting her chin up at Hutch, Trini glared back. “You find me a case then Hutch, ‘cuz I’m coming back to work. You wanna fool around…”

“Goddammit Trini! Why do you have to be like this!? I’m not ‘fooling around’ with Sweet Alice for chrissakes! If you think I am, then maybe you don’t trust me enough for us to be…”

Hutch quit his tirade when he saw that sad, little please cross his wife’s face. He wouldn’t be mean enough to say they shouldn’t stay married if she didn’t trust him, but Trini was afraid of just that. Her scared, wide eyes told him that.

Hutch could almost hear her pleading him, Please, Hutch…I didn’t mean it….I’ll be good… don’t leave me!!!

He hated seeing the scared, abandoned child he’d met all those years ago pop back up at moments like this.

“Trini, don’t look at me like that.”

Hutch had stopped yelling, but Trini could still feel his anger burning hotly.

“I wasn’t suggesting we split up… that’ll be up to you when you get tired of me, O.K.? I was going to say that I might look for work…”

“How dare you try and leave me to finish all your work, here? You asshole! You’d do this to David? You can stay if you feel it’s not working like this, but I… oh, screw it.”

Trini sighed and dropped her head heavily into her hands, “What were we fighting about anyhow? Christ, I hate it when we argue.”

Moving to stand behind his wife, Hutch started to gently rub Trini’s slumped shoulders.

“It’s O.K. Trini. Any good relationship worth it’s salt is going to have disagreements. Just stop finding things for us to piss and moan about, alright?”

He felt her gentle laughter, and turned her to him. Trini was only half-smiling, and Hutch wanted a full smile.

“Sweetheart, what? What else can I say? What else do you need to hear?”

“Were you two lovers? You and this woman… I just want to be prepared in case she gloats and I have to kick her ass.”

Kissing her nose, Hutch solemnly held three fingers up and promised, “Scouts honor… No.”

Trini nodded and leaned into his waiting embrace before she whispered, “Sorry. Hormones or something.”

“It’s O.K. We’re O.K., Trini. I know your worried about… my past, but Alice wasn’t part of it. Not in that way. And, if you’ve heard stories about something… well, lets clear it up right now. No rumors or bullshit can get in the way of what I feel for you.”

Trini nodded and prayed for strength. She and Hutch had carefully avoided each other’s past, but he knew she couldn’t let this one drop, and he prepared himself mentally.

Abby hadn’t really bothered Trini… Trini had called her a weakling with no spine, a dumb bitch for leaving a man who’d loved her as much as Hutch had, and an array of other names Hutch couldn’t recall at the moment. Van and all the others had gotten about the same harsh treatment and language.

Gillian, on the other hand, bothered Trini. She had died. She and Hutch hadn’t broken up. Gillian and her memories worried Trini now that they were helping a prostitute. Why, she didn’t know.

Hutch knew they’d have to talk about it, and it’d be painful, but Trini was so much more than Gillian ever was… honest, loyal, and pure at heart. Yes, he’d loved Gillian, but not like this. Trini, he loved and adored above all others.

Suddenly, Hutch heard another red balloon die. This one just hissed quietly to it’s demise, and was replaced with one the color of Trini’s eyes when she was angry. The beautiful green balloon swelled in Hutch’s heart as the realization hit him: I really love Trini more than I ever loved anyone else… I thought this was the one I’d been searching for, and for once, I’m right!

Hutch knew he should tell Trini his thoughts too, and decided to start the “talk” she didn’t seem to be able to. Pulling her to her feet, and gently guiding her to the couch, Hutch sat beside her and whispered, “Let’s talk. About Gillian.”

~~~

Starsky held the drinking glass firmly to the wall connecting Hutch’s office to Trini’s, but try as he might, he couldn’t make out what was being said.

Starsky sighed to himself, Terrific. Why was this always easier when I did it on Dobey’s door? Then the memories came flooding back and he smiled. Because Dobey was always yelling. These two are whispering. Damn.

Starsky started when Leslie crept behind him and tapped on his shoulder. He almost dropped the glass, but quickly recovered before lamely explaining, “Just makin’ sure Jewel is O.K.”

Leslie raised her eyebrows at her husband, “Dear, don’t lie. You’re just being nosy. They’re fine. Come out with me and wait.” Leslie saw a myriad of emotions play across her husband’s face, and she knew Starsky couldn’t help but worry.

He had been there when Hutch first saw Gillian’s lifeless body in her apartment. He was the one Hutch had railed at in denial to the obvious facts before them. He was the one who’d spent the next week of nights at his partner’s apartment listening to the nightmares… offering physical and emotional comfort as best he could… crying in sympathy when his friend cried in pain. He was the one who convinced Hutch to attend the funeral and sat beside him tightly holding hands where no one could see.

Starsky knew Hutch had loved Gillian, but he also knew Hutch loved Trini more. Starsky saw it not only with his eyes, but with his heart. He just hoped Trini and Hutch were smart enough to see it. They were so good for each other.

Reluctantly, Starsky twined his fingers with Leslie’s and allowed his wife to guide him out of Trini’s office.

“Thanks Les. I needed that.”

Leslie smiled at her husband in sympathy, “I know, honey. I understand a little, too. They’re like two kids sometimes, aren’t they?”

Starsky nodded, but remained strangely silent.

“Dave. Honey, are you worried about them staying together?” Leslie was a little frightened by the thought of those two not being together… it’d destroy everyone involved.

Shrugging, Starsky didn’t exactly offer any words of hope to quell Leslie’s worries, “They’re crazy about each other, but sometimes they… they don’t… I don’t know Les. Hutch can be so ‘anal’ and closed off, an’ Trini got her mule-headed ways from me…” Leslie and Starsky both laughed at that.

“They both play so tough, but they’re not, and I worry Les. About their insecurities… and mine, I suppose. That’s all.”

Nodding in understanding, Leslie led Starsky to her office and pretended to work. In reality, both sets of eyes were firmly glued to Hutch’s closed door.

Jumping like a cat waiting to pouncing on the mouse that was stupid enough to venture from his hiding spot, Starsky quickly rose when Hutch’s door opened a tiny crack. Trini carefully avoided her uncle’s eyes as she squeezed herself through the crack and hurriedly escaped out the front doors.

Leslie patted her husband’s hand, “Breathe, honey.”

Not realizing he’d been holding his breath, Starsky drew in an over-dramatized mouthful of air, stood and pretended to “hitch” up his pants, did his best cowboy walk like it was high noon and he was heading to the shootout, then started for Hutch’s still partially open door.

Leslie quickly called Candita at the front desk, but Candita had seen it all, too. On the first ring, Candita answered and made Leslie laugh. “I got it, Leslie… hold the ‘children’s’ calls.”

Leslie hung up the phone and shook her head, “My, it’d be dull around here if they all didn’t keep up our daily ‘soap opera’.”

Leslie cast one long look at Hutch’s door, and the way her husband was gaining courage before pushing inside, then she shut her door. It’d be easier not to watch.

Drawing in another breath, Starsky forced himself to break through the barriers that might be standing between him and Hutch. Real or imagined.

Starsky pushed the door open far enough to see that Hutch was still seated on his couch, head back and an arm thrown across his eyes. Taking his life into his hands, Starsky softly ventured, “Hey. You alright?”

Hutch nodded stiffly before sighing and dropping his arm. Hutch looked to his friend and patted the couch cushion next to him, “Come on. I won’t bite.”

Starsky grinned and moved to the couch after closing the door behind him, “Don’t know ’bout that, Buddy. Got a few bite marks in my ass that I believe came from you.”

Hutch smiled and Starsky was glad to see the happiness went all the way up to his friend’s eyes. Starsky cleared his throat, then leaned over and patted Hutch’s leg, “You guys get it all covered? She O.K.?”

The loving tone of concern Starsky reserved for his niece was all to evident to Hutch’s ears. Hutch hated that Starsky was worried because of something that had happened between his wife and him. Truly, Starsky was a great man to tolerate his best friend and all his imperfections.

Throwing his arm companionably over Starsky’s shoulder, Hutch sighed, “It’s all covered. She’ll be fine, and I’ll live, too. It was a necessary evil that Trini wanted it all spilled before her.”

Nodding, Starsky looked his friend in the eye, “You sure you’re ‘fine’, too?”

A slight smile crossed Hutch’s face, “Yeah, thanks.” He leaned over and playfully kissed Starsky’s ear, making Starsky quickly rub the imaginary “germs” away.

Laughing, Hutch told him, “Thanks. I love you, too.”

 

CHAPTER 4

Hutch arrived home and saw Angie’s car waiting in the driveway. He smiled and shook his head a little.

Damn, I see the woman more now that we’re divorced. Sad that we had to wait so long to become great friends.

Hutch shut the car off, then carefully grabbed the bouquet of flowers he’d bought for Trini. She was so easy to please… Trini didn’t care if Hutch brought home anything at all, let alone flowers. Her favorite seemed to be the wildflower bouquets he’d buy filled with everything from mums to daisies. Trini said she liked that they lasted so much longer than the roses did, and Hutch’d teased her telling her it was because they were “weeds,” and weeds lived longer. Trini’d giggled and said she hoped Hutch was a weed then.

Smiling happily, Hutch entered the front door and saw his son sleeping peacefully in Angie’s arms while Michelle and Trini laughed at something Trini’d directed at Angie. Hutch decided to let them know he was home.

“Dears… I’m home!”

All three women turned in unison towards Hutch’s voice. Trini set down the vegetables she’d been cleaning and hurriedly went to kiss her spouse.

“Dears, huh? You’d better have more flowers then.”

Hutch looked down at the forgotten flowers, and smiled sheepishly before placing them in Trini’s waiting hands.

Looking to Michelle and Angie, Hutch pretended to apologize, “Sorry you two. She won.” They all laughed.

Trini smiled and guided her husband into the kitchen by the hand, “You’re just in time to feed Michael. Our sitters are ready to go home, so it’s your turn to take over.”

Hutch looked first at Michelle, then to his ex-wife before turning to face his wife.

“You hired Ang and Michelle? To babysit? A boy baby?”

Michelle playfully joined in on Hutch’s joking mood, “It’s alright, Hutchinson. We won’t throw him in any dresses… Yet.”

Trini loved the way Hutch gave Michelle one of his famous Hutchinson glares before they all burst out laughing. This time they were too loud and it woke the ever-starving Michael.

Trini started to take the baby from Angie, but Angie’s hold remained firm, “Uh-uh, Trini. Daddy’s turn, remember?” It had become a habit to “attach” Michael, that Trini had just naturally reached for her son.

Looking a little nervous, Hutch turned to Trini, “What do I do first?”

Trini moved to fill one of the newly washed bottles with formula, “You sit down on the couch dear, change his diaper, and I’ll be right there.”

Angie handed the baby to Hutch and patted him on the shoulder before rising to leave, “You’ll be fine, Ken. Just take it slow, Blondie.”

Hutch didn’t even have a rebuttal to being called “Blondie” by his ex-wife. He merely nodded and started, still nervous looking, to the couch.

Trini shook her head and hastily finished the bottle before calling out over her shoulder, “Thanks guys… same time tomorrow?”

Michelle nodded and said, “Thanks for hiring us Trini. We loved it. Plus, we need something besides the bar to do.”

“Thank you two. Hutch’d kill me if he didn’t trust who I left his son with.”

Angie shut the door behind them, but not before Trini heard her jokingly mumble something about Hutch and his possessiveness.

Seeing that Hutch had already changed Michael’s diaper, Trini helped him settle into a comfortable position before handing him the warmed bottle. Hutch’s big, strong hands swallowed the tiny bottle and Trini had to laugh. Michael turned to the smell of food and Hutch gently touched the bottle to Michael’s mouth. Michael seemed to be ready to object the foreign nipple, but then changed his mind and began to suck greedily.

“Watch him, Sweetheart, he chokes and bottles flow faster.”

Hutch nodded but never broke eye contact with his son. He was still sitting stiffly forward and Trini smiled before moving behind the couch to gently pull her husband’s back to rest more comfortably against the cushions.

“Better?”

“Thanks. What do I do when he’s done?”

“Hutch, breathe and don’t panic. You’re doing just fine. We’re all learning this together.”

Hutch nodded and gave his wife a tight little smile. Michael picked that exact moment to choke which caused extreme panic to cross Hutch’s face. Gently guiding Hutch’s hands, Trini helped him prop Michael up and pat him until the moment passed.

Looking strangely at his wife, Hutch worried, “Does this happen every time?”

“Sometimes. You handled it fine, though. Here.” Trini laid Michael back into the crook of Hutch’s arm, “Try again.”

Hutch only hesitated for a moment before giving Michael his bottle again. There was no choking this time, and Hutch relaxed. When their son was done, Hutch patted Michael’s back so gently it made tears come to Trini’s eyes. Michael belched loudly, and Hutch smiled. He was so proud of himself… he’d fed their son properly!

Settling back comfortably on the couch, Hutch laid his son against his chest and kissed his forehead before they both nodded off. Trini hurried to get the camera… this moment she had to put in a frame.

~~~

Trini hadn’t given up completely on Michael’s feedings despite Hutch’s successful feeding session. She knew she had to have time to dry up, and it’d still be useful when their son demanded a “midnight snack.” Proving herself right, Trini had just fed their son and returned to bed.

Pulling his wife back to him, Hutch wrapped her tightly in his arms, “God, you smell wonderful. What is that?”

Trini wrapped herself around her husband before answering him, “New shampoo. You’re sweet to notice.”

“You’re sweet enough to eat.”

Trini winked at her husband, “Ditto. Hungry?”

Softly laughing against the kiss Trini placed on his waiting lips, Hutch only had time to nod and sigh contentedly.

The girl is still insatiable… and it’s still me she’s hungry for… thank God.

~~~

Impatiently waiting, Hutch drummed his fingers restlessly on the steering wheel.

“Come on, Starsky! After all these years, how can it be you still can’t get out of the house on time?”

As if Starsky heard his friend’s anger inside the house, he came bounding out and quickly slid into Hutch’s car. Starsky’s butt had barely touched the seat before Hutch tore away from the sidewalk.

“Mornin’ Blintz. You oversleep after a big date with your wife? Oh, wait… that was me.”

Hutch let go of the earlier anger and laughed at the way his friend was letting him on his personal life… without getting too personal. Thank God.

Smiling eyes looked across the car at Starsky, “You two still got it, huh?”

Starsky merely grinned and reached for the clipboard Hutch still kept with him to look over their itinerary for the morning. “So, we’re off to see Alice first, huh?”

Hutch just nodded.

Grinning a little, Starsky added, “Trini still intent on this one?”

Again, a nod from Hutch.

Starsky tried to initiate more than a nod from his partner, “You gonna let your wife join us? Or, better yet, ‘Handsome Hutch’, maybe you and Alice should do this number.”

Hutch spun his head toward his partner and glared at him.

“You tryin’ to get me killed, asshole? I work with Trini, you and Huggy work with Alice. All my male parts still work, and I plan to keep it that way.”

Starsky was still laughing when Hutch stopped the car a block and a half away from Alice’s apartment. They both got out and walked through another apartment complex before heading to Alice’s building.

Cautiously looking about, the men felt confident that they hadn’t been followed and the coast was clear when they entered Alice’s apartment building.

Alice’s door flew open as soon as Hutch tapped the predetermined three times and whispered her name.

Hutch tried to chastise her as the two men quickly entered her apartment, “Alice, you really need to look through the peephole first. Don’t trust the knock, O.K.?”

Sweet Alice batted her false eyelashes delicately at Hutch before answering him.

“Oh, Hutch honey, I could tell it was your delightful voice I heard comin’ through my door. Come on in and sit down, you two.”

Starsky followed Hutch over to Sweet Alice’s couch and quickly planted himself next to Hutch, forcing Alice to sit on the lounge chair across from them.

A silent “thank you” shone on Hutch’s face. Starsky winked back his “you’re welcome.” Thankfully, Alice didn’t notice since she was pouring both men cups of tea she’d never asked if they wanted. The realization hit Alice all of a sudden.

“You two wanted some, didn’t you?” Alice’s hand hesitated a little as Hutch hurried to reassure her, “Thank you , Alice. We’d love some tea.” Alice turned back to her task, and Starsky pointed to his head and made the “loco” sign. Hutch just smiled. Alice was just simple, little Alice.

Tea in hand, both men took a sip before Starsky offered Alice their plan. Alice sat patiently and listened to him as he outlined how somebody would be in the room next to Alice and her “associates” at all times. Huggy, Lunk, and Starsky would also be taking turns patrolling the parking garage. Hutch and Trini were to be the bait and leave themselves wide open… while Alice and the other girls remained safely protected.

Alice listened quietly, then looked to Hutch.

“What if they’ve been watching us and they know your wife isn’t one of us? Don’t you think it’d all go better if you and I were the bait?”

Starsky smiled, and Hutch had to refrain from rolling his eyes. The two men had discussed this exact scenario just the night before. They both knew Alice would try anything to be alone with Hutch in a dark hotel room. And, they both knew Trini’d kill him if that happened.

Patiently, Hutch held Alice’s pale hand in his, “Sweet Alice, I couldn’t live with myself were you to get hurt. My wife was a cop, too. A good cop, Alice, and she worked ‘Vice’ for three years… she’ll pull this off just fine. We thought about them not wanting to follow my wife, but we’ve got it all covered. My wife is pretending to work the hotel already. She’s making herself seen as we speak.”

Alice couldn’t argue with all that, and they finished making plans over another cup of tea before the men left.

A small smile played across Starsky’s face the whole way back to Hutch’s car, and Hutch was just waiting for the wise-ass comment that had to be coming. He didn’t have long to wait.

As soon as they were both in the car, Starsky turned to face Hutch and mimicked, “My wife… my wife. Geez Hutch, could you have been a little less subtle there? You musta said it twenty times!”

Hutch slowly put his sunglasses on, buckled his seatbelt, turned the car on, then punched Starsky in the leg before growling, “Shut the hell up, Gordo.”

~~~

Angie and Michelle arrived early to watch Michael since Trini’d told them Hutch was weirding her out over the whole “Regent” trip. He was pacing around Trini as she tried to dress, going over all the details again and again. Trini sighed heavily and laid down the eye pencil she had been using, and turned to face her husband.

“Ken. Chill out.” Trini rose and kissed her overly wound up spouse, then left their room to let Angie and Michelle in on her plan for the night.

Going down the stairs, Trini looked back over her shoulder to make sure Hutch wasn’t following with even more details. He wasn’t, so Trini bee-lined it for Michelle who was standing by the sink making Michael a bottle. Trini quickly grabbed the bag she’d hidden earlier and handed it off to Michelle. Michelle nodded conspiratorially and took the bag out to Trini’s car after handing the bottle off to Angie.

Feeding Michael seemed to be the greatest pleasure Angie had ever known. Trini loved the way she held Michael to her so tenderly. They had all discussed Angie’s lack of interest in having a baby when she was younger {for all the obvious reasons!} yet, to see her now…

Kissing Michael’s head, Trini stopped to whisper to Angie, “He’s making me a little crazy here.”

Smiling, Angie reminded her, “It’s because he’s crazy about you. He never was this way with me. Take it as a good sign.”

Sighing, Trini nodded, “I know. I’m crazy about him, too, but he worries too much.” Trini smiled and leaned over to whisper in Angie’s ear, “He’s acting like the dad I never had!”

Angie couldn’t help but laugh. Hutch most certainly was overprotective, but not out of spite. He loved his wife with all he had, and the thought of her being hurt and leaving him and Michael alone… well, it was just too scary for Hutch. Angie knew this for a fact. Hutch had needed to confide in someone, and he was worried Starsky would think him a paranoid fool.

Angie tried to smooth it all out for Trini.

“Trini, he worries so much because he loves so much. You and I both know how much he adores you, and relies on you. Hutch was a closed book nobody could read… until you came along. You’re the only one he let crease that pristine, leather spine to open his story and read it. Cut him a little slack.”

Trini smiled and looked at her friend, “A book? You think he’s like a book? The hard, leathery part I get, but I think it’s more like a boulder some days.”

The two women were still laughing when Michelle came back inside and joined them, “Done, Trini. You’re all set.”

Trini patted Michelle’s shoulder, “Thanks. You’re a love.” She winked at her friends, “Isn’t he gonna just die?”

Angie laughed at Trini’s departing back, “Be careful. You might get more than you bargained for!”

Stopping her step midway on the stairs, Trini turned back and loudly whispered, “That’s what I’m hoping for.”

Hutch was still sitting on their bed going over the notes he’d written down when Trini came back into their room. He looked up for a moment, took in Trini’s blue jeans and T-shirt, and wrinkled his brows together.

“You gonna pick me up lookin’ like that? You look like a kid waiting for their Mom, not a hooker.”

Moving to kiss her frowning husband, Trini informed him, “I’m going to meet David right now. I thought you’d be proud of me… I’m checking all the details before I move. I’ll change there, O.K.?”

Hutch pulled his wife onto the bed with him and began kissing her neck.

“Appetizer?” Trini murmured against his neck.

“Apology,” Hutch answered. “I’m treating you like you don’t know what the hell your doing, and I’m sorry. I only do it because I’m a fool for you.”

Trini kissed him and tried to sit up, but he held her fast to him.

“Hey,” he questioned, “you do know I love you, right? You mean the world to me Katrina.”

Hutch hardly ever used Trini’s full name, and it startled her a little that he was getting so serious. She pulled him closer and kissed him deeply before stating, “I know. You’re the one thing that made my life worth living. I swear, I’ll be careful.”

Hutch stared long and hard at Trini as if trying to memorize her face, then he let her go, “Alright. Remember, you promised.”

Nodding, Trini rose and grabbed her coat. Stopping at the door, she turned back to face Hutch, “Hey.”

He looked up, worry still on his face, “Hey, what?”

“I love you, too. I’d need more than this one lifetime to show you how much.”

Trini saw a hint of a smile return to Hutch’s eyes as she turned to go.

~~~

Starsky sat staring at the TV monitor hooked to the elevator security camera with a frown creasing his forehead.

“Hey Hug. Come here a ‘sec.”

Huggy looked around the hallway door of the suite he and Starsky had been in all day getting ready for tonight, “Yeah, Curly. What ails you now, my brother?”

Starsky pointed at the screen, “Here. We can’t see the entrance to the back of the parking garage, and here,” he pointed to the elevator screen, “we’ve got a blind spot on the left side.”

Leaning closer, Huggy pointed to the already existing camera the hotel used as security, “There. She’ll be fine, Starsky. I already got Lunk and his boys along the back. We’s covered, brother.”

Starsky smiled up at his friend, “Thanks Hug.”

Huggy patted Starsky’s shoulder before turning away, “Don’t worry so. The ‘Blonde Blintz’ will be joining her soon. Your charming niece will be fine, just fine. I’s promises.”

Turning his full attention back to the camera screens, Starsky had to smile. His friend knew exactly what was wrong, and had fixed it before he’d even questioned it. Huggy also understood Starsky’s nervousness. Those were two of Huggy’s dear friends as well, and he sure as hell didn’t want anything bad to happen to Trini or that big blonde she’d married.

~~~

Starsky was settled into the back men’s room waiting impatiently for Hutch. He had a couple last minute things to cover with the Blintz, and Hutch was late. For once.

Starsky sat up when he heard someone enter the stall next to him. He pressed his ear to the wall connecting the stalls and listened for signs that it might be Hutch in there with him. When someone tapped him from over the stall wall, Starsky jumped and grabbed for his heart.

It took everything Hutch had in him not to laugh at his best friend, “What are you doing, dummy? Quit listening at the walls like a pervert.” Hutch stepped down off the toilet and both men opened their doors at the same time. Starsky glared at his friend, then quickly looked around the bathroom.

Hutch pointed to the door, “It’s clear. I know to lock a door.”

Starsky nodded, but didn’t spare Hutch the time for a witty comeback. He knew they had to hurry, “Left side of the elevators, avoid them. I can’t get a clear shot in either one.”

Hutch nodded, “Anything else, dad?”

“Yeah. What the hell did you do with that sorry excuse of a mustache you had?” Starsky reached up and tugged at Hutch’s hair,”…and is this what we call ‘dirty blonde’?”

Slapping Starsky’s hand away, Hutch defended his temporary change. “I’m trying not to look so much like me. I needed a change anyhow… Trini’s been bugging me to shave. The hair crap washes out.”

Starsky nodded, “Not bad Blintz, not bad.”

Hutch turned to go, but stopped with his hand on the lock, “Hey.”

Starsky nodded and let his friend know he heard what he hadn’t said out loud, “Yeah, yeah, yeah. I’m still gonna say it, O.K.? Be careful.”

Giving Starsky’s shoulder a small squeeze, Hutch quickly departed the restroom and started to the hotel lobby.

Starsky waited a moment before hurriedly racing up to keep an eye on the monitors he and Huggy were “manning” for the night.

~~~

Hutch shifted shoulders the duffel bag he’d carried with him was on, and stepped up to the front desk, “Richards, I have a reservation.”

The desk clerk nodded, and looked in his book, “Yes, sir. You’re booked in Suite 405. Can…”

The desk clerk trailed off as his attention was directed to the lady snuggling herself comfortably up to Hutch’s arm. She leaned close, but never touched him when she purred, “Well, won’t that be nice? I’m staying in 404. We’ll be neighbors. Maybe now I won’t be so lonely.”

Trini had dressed for the shock value it’d have on Hutch, and it’d worked. The man truly seemed surprised, but he quickly recovered and resumed his “part.”

Smiling back at Trini, Hutch dryly commented, “Well, aren’t you a pretty little filly? I suppose we could talk or something, huh? No sense in both of us being lonely in a strange town.”

Hutch winked at the desk clerk who was doing his best not to notice what the people in front of him were doing. Taking the offered key, Hutch spared a moment to study his wife. She had on an ankle length zebra print skirt that could have been almost decent if it wasn’t slit past Trini’s hip… and Hutch was pretty damn sure he couldn’t see any underwear anywhere on his wife’s person. Her black top had a nice plunging neckline that showed off her full breasts to their best. Hutch hated the short, jet black wig his wife was wearing that covered her lovely hair. It’s no wonder he hadn’t noticed her when he’d first glanced around the lobby.

Trini did well playing a woman showing her wares. She liked the lusty way Hutch was looking at her, and she decided to tease him a little. Pressing herself up to his chest, Trini stroked Hutch’s newly shaved upper lip, “I love a man without facial hair. You do that just for me, honey?”

Hutch was trying to remember where the “roles” ended and he and Trini began. It was getting to be funny to him and he laughed a little, “Yeah, I did little girl. I shaved it just for you.”

Trini laughed in return then looped her arm through his as she led him to the elevator. Hutch remembered what Starsky had said about the left side of the elevator and steered Trini toward the right side.

 See, Starsk… I’m not so senile that I can’t remember things!

An elderly couple followed Trini and Hutch into the elevator and looked Trini over with great disapproval. A mischievous smile played at the corners of Hutch’s mouth as a lewd thought crossed his mind. He turned Trini around then started into his full throttle “john” act.

“So, do we have to wait for a bed, or you fine with it now?”

Trini had to swallow not to laugh at her severely misbehaving husband. Trini scooted closer and rubbed her hand on Hutch’s chest, “I don’t mind, love. Wherever, however.”

Hutch winked at his wife then inched his hands downward… he was determined to see if his wife had bothered with underwear under that skirt. She hadn’t, and Trini’s eyes widened a little in surprise when Hutch’s fingers found what they were after.

Tilting his head and shooting his eyebrows up, Hutch pulled Trini to him, and kissed her deeply. Trini couldn’t help it… she softly moaned and pressed closer to her husband.

Neither one of them noticed the elderly couple’s hasty departure.

Huggy covered the screen he and Starsky were viewing with one hand, “Man! I didn’t know tonight was gonna have a triple X rating! I don’t think those two need much encouragement to act like that!”

Starsky laughed and looked back at the screen, “Yeah. Aren’t they terrific?”

Huggy nodded and smiled back, “Yeah… they’re a good set, huh?”

The elevator doors opened and Starsky turned his attention to the hallway camera he and Hug had set up. When Hutch got close to the hidden camera, he subtly “flashed” it a shot of his butt.

Starsky smiled, “Yeah, I love you too, buddy.”

Trini opened her suite door and “allowed” Hutch in first. In reality, he’d insisted on it so he could check out the room for intruders. Trini followed closely behind as she cautiously withdrew the pistol she’d hidden in her handbag. Hutch come back out of the bedroom to look around the other bath and the kitchen area.

Satisfied, he slowly turned back to his wife and purposely walked to her. Trini waited, breath held, eyes locked with her husband’s. God, he was so incredibly sexy, and he made her weak when he looked at her like this.

Huggy had his ear pressed to the wall that joined Trini and Hutch’s suite to theirs. Wrinkling his nose, he pulled back and stared at the wall with mock-disgust.

Starsky looked over and laughed, “They makin’ it look and sound real, huh?”

~~~

Trini smiled down at Hutch from her perch spread out on top of him, “Well Sailor… time’s up. Pay the lady and let’s get this show on the road.”

Hutch swatted Trini’s rump, then gave it a gentle squeeze before stretching up to kiss her.

“You sure? Time sure flies when you’re having sex.. er.. fun.”

Laughing, Trini rolled off her husband and started handing him clothes. They both dressed quickly in silence, then stopped and looked at each other. Trini reached out to Hutch and he pulled her to him.

“Be careful, Mrs. Hutchinson. You’re my heart and soul.”

Hugging Hutch tightly, Trini kissed his neck before pulling away, “Ditto. Please watch your back. I have Hug and Dave watching mine.”

Solemnly, Hutch made his way to the door and cautiously stepped into the hallway… all the while pretending like he didn’t want to be seen, but that was exactly what he wanted. Quickly moving a door down, Hutch tensely opened his suite door and waited. No confrontation there, so he decided to “forget” something and head back downstairs. That gave his would-be attackers an opening.

Silently praying Hutch would be safe, Trini waited the designated time then opened the suite door. She had barely started to head out of the suite when she noticed some slight movement to her left. Not changing her pace, Trini continued to walk towards the elevators as she nonchalantly gripped her pistol at her side.

Suddenly, the suite door closest to the elevators swung open and Trini was pushed from behind. Pretending to fall, Trini rolled and leveled her pistol at her attackers.

“Wrong kinda girl, fellas.”

The two men, one a Hispanic about 30, the other a Caucasian about 20, seemed to be deciding if they should flee or not. Trini cocked her pistol and smiled up at the men to stifle any thoughts of flight. Huggy came running in at that moment and the men knew they were done for.

Trini took the hand Huggy offered her and stood up.

“Where’s Ken?”

Huggy nodded to the back elevator, “Garage. The ‘duo’ are together. He’s fine.”

Trini nodded and reached for Huggy’s cell phone to call the police.

~~~

Hutch slowly walked into the parking garage, then began to wander so as to look lost. He didn’t need to keep up the act long. Off to his right, he noticed a glint of pale, blonde hair behind a nearby pillar. Another man walked off to the left, trying to stay hidden in the shadows.

Hutch continued over to a car, pretended it was his, and dug for his keys. Hutch dropped the car keys and bent to pick them up as he pulled his gun from out of it’s hiding place just in time. He was slammed from behind, and spun at his attacker, gun held against the assailant’s head. Starsky firing off one shot and running towards them stopped the other man from his departure. Hutch smiled and shook his head a little when he heard Starsky coming. He could still always count on the man to cover his back.

Starsky shoved the other man against the car and slapped cuffs on him. He couldn’t help but notice the black man seemed to have the soft, uncalloused hands of one who’d never worked a day in his life.

Spinning the man around, Starsky looked to his partner, “You O.K.?”

“Yeah, thanks. Where’s Trini?”

“Safe with ‘Uncle Huggy’, Lover boy.”

Hutch was done cuffing the blond and could now focus his full attention on Starsky and his comments, “Shut up Starsk, and make the call would you?”

~~~

The police came and arrested the 4 men for attacking an innocent man and his wife out on a “date.” Trini and Hutch put on a great act saying they were there to add some excitement to their love life, and had dined with their friends beforehand. The police officer taking Trini’s statement looked skeptical, but he had 4 witnesses that corroborated the same story. What else could he do?

~~~

“Thank you so much, Handsome Hutch. Honey, if you and Starsky hadn’t helped us out the way you did… well, we’d be out of business. Thank you, again.” Sweet Alice leaned over Hutch’s desk to hug him goodbye just as Trini knocked on Hutch’s open door. Hutch blushed and motioned for his wife to come in.

Trini politely held a hand out to Alice to introduce herself, “Katrina Hutchinson. You must be Alice.”

Alice’s hand flew to her breast and she smiled warmly at Trini, “My, you are even prettier than those pictures Hutch showed me. You do the Starsky family name real justice. Oh, and the Hutchinson one, too.”

Trini blushed a little from the woman’s complement and the news that Hutch had showed this woman her picture. He was a wonderful husband, and Trini felt doubly stupid she’d worried before.

“Thank you. And may I say ‘Sweet Alice’ does you justice as well?”

Sweet Alice’s lilting laugh filled Hutch’s office, “You may, honey. Thank you. I have to be goin’ now. Bye y’all.”

Hutch waved with one arm and pulled his wife to him with the other, “Bye Alice… and thanks for the bonus. It really wasn’t necessary.”

Sweet Alice just winked back at them, then shut the door.

Trini sighed, “I’m so sorry. I see why you guys adore her. She’s a doll.”

Kissing her forehead, Hutch whispered against her hair, “No apologies. It makes me feel good when you worry about your old, old man.”

Trini punched him lightly in the side, “You are not old.”

Hutch turned Trini to him and cupped her face in his hands, “I am. But you keep my spirit young.”

 

CHAPTER 5

The papers had a field day with Trini and Hutch’s story. The headlines screamed out their “tale” on every local cover the next day. Hutch read them all off to Trini as she fed Michael in his highchair.

“Listen to this one, ‘Lovers Got More Excitement Than They Wanted’.” He turned the paper so Trini could see, “Hey, where’d they get a wedding picture from? Bastards. Nothing’s sacred.”

Trini laughed, “What do the others say?”

“Oh, how about ‘Dinner, Dancing, and Near Death. One couple’s horrifying story.’ Who the hell said we went dancing? Jesus. Wait, how about this one, ‘Former Cops Still Nabbing Bad Guys’. At least I like that one.”

Michael was doing a fair job of covering himself with the cereal Trini was vainly trying to get into their son’s mouth. Hutch smiled and moved closer.

“Can I help?”

Trini kissed him, and gladly gave him the spoon. “All yours, Daddy. I’m getting dressed.”

Trini had just started for the stairs when the doorbell rang so she turned back around to answer it.

“Morning Jewel,” Starsky greeted her, “Where’s the Blintz?”

Trini kissed her uncle, then pointed to the table. “Feeding Michael. Go help him.”

Setting himself on the opposite side of Michael, Starsky grabbed the spoon from Hutch, “My great-nephew… my turn.”

Hutch raised his eyebrows, but gave up custody of the spoon without a fight.

“You know, you could at least say ‘good morning’ before you steal my son from me.”

Starsky was too busy making faces at Michael to comment. When he was finished screwing his face into it’s umteenth shape, Starsky grabbed Hutch’s coffee and drank from it. Hutch rolled his eyes.

“You hungry as usual Gordo?”

“What do you think?”

Trini came back downstairs to bid goodbye to her three men. Hutch was kissed first, then Michael, and finally completing her circle around the table was Starsky.

“You boys all play nice today while Mommy goes to work.”

Hutch smiled and walked his wife to the door. He was up for a little more affection, and was curious as to why Starsky was camped out at his kitchen table when it was Hutch’s day off. He meant to find out from his wife.

As Trini opened the front door, Hutch gently caught her arm, “Hey. A better kiss, huh?”

Trini gladly obliged.

“And now, you wanna tell me what your uncle is doing here?”

Smiling wickedly, Trini winked and told her husband, “I decided you two needed to bond. I called him in as sick. Be nice to each other.”

Hutch stared at the closing door in shocked amazement. Starsky came up behind him holding Michael, “It’s amazing how she looks out for us, huh?”

Hutch could only nod as the three most important men in Trini’s life made their way back into the kitchen to plan the day.

~~~

Michael had been bathed, fed, and was now sleeping through what might well be one of the greatest battles of the century… taking place in his own living room.

Starsky threw the dice as Hutch clucked at him, “You know Starsk, you still stink at Monopoly. When are you ever gonna learn?”

Shrugging, Starsky moved his top hat game piece, “Dunno Blintz, I suppose when we don’t enjoy it anymore.”

Hutch couldn’t argue with wisdom like that and rose to grab two more beers.

~~~

Trini called from the office saying she’d be there soon, and asked Hutch to have Michael ready to go visiting. Hutch did as he’d been asked, then went to wait for Trini’s return with Starsky out on the patio. Hutch had barely set Michael in his playpen and grabbed his coffee when Starsky started in.

“So Blintz, be honest now, you still lovin’ married life?”

Choking on his coffee, Hutch had to take a deep breath before he could answer, “What the hell kinda question is that, Starsky. You are one weird guy, you know that?”

Laughing, Starsky asked again, “Well? Do ‘ya?”

“You serious, Starsky? You really wanna hear about the ‘State Of Affairs’ in the Hutchinson household?”

A tight nod was all Hutch got in return. Leaning in to talk to Starsky, Hutch tried to read his best friends thoughts. Had Trini mentioned something to her uncle? Was Starsky worried about them? What brought this on?

“Starsk, is there something you’re not telling me?”

“Jesus Hutch! I hate when you answer a question with a question. Just give me an honest answer for chrissakes!”

Still studying his best friend intently, Hutch sat back in his chair before answering.

“Is it ridiculous to say that marriage to Trini and the life we have with Michael is an almost constant state of euphoria? I am amazed at the way she completes who I am. Bringing out the best… sometimes the worst… in me. She’s all I’ve been searching for Starsk. I surrendered my heart and soul to her, and I know she’ll never let me down. She’s my best friend…” Hutch looked over and chanced a small smile at Starsky, “well, of the opposite sex… I’ll always love you. Is this what you needed to hear? Is there a problem I don’t know about?”

Starsky merely smiled at his friend and shook his head. “No Babe. There’s no problem. Not to hear the way Trini still ‘oohhs’ and ‘aahhs’ over you. Not to hear it from your mouth either. I just hope you two always listen to that little voice inside your hearts. It’d kill me if you two weren’t happy… separate or together, Hutch.”

Hutch held Starsky’s hand tightly with his, “Thanks Buddy.”

There was no time for Starsky to answer. Trini was home and they were all going somewhere according to her.

~~~

Hutch was filling the diaper bag when he heard Trini firing up the Torino outside.

The gleeful look that crossed over Starsky’s face when he heard that familiar sound made Hutch feel obliged to quip, “What’s she draggin’ that piece of crap out for?”

That started it.

“Yeah? Well, I’ll have you know that none of those rust-buckets you used to drive are even allowed on the road anymore. Laws against liter on the highway.”

“Shut-up, Gordo. And grab the car seat on your way out.”

~~~

Trini had been asked… no, begged… by Metro to bring everyone down for a visit. It had been far too long since any of their friends on the force had seen them, and Trini knew the guys had been sorely lacking in the bonding area. With each other, and other men as well.

As the familiar Torino pulled into the parking lot, some of the officers going inside stopped and looked. The ones who knew who had to be inside the car quickly came over to greet the long absent former officers.

Trini barely had time to slide out of the car before two of her old friends were wrapping their arms around her while trying to get a peek at the child safely wrapped in Hutch’s arms. One of Trini’s friends, Molli, {an African American officer} hadn’t met Hutch. Eyeing him over first, Molli whispered to Trini, “Damn, Girlfriend! For white bread, he ain’t bad!” The three women laughed as Trini grabbed them by the hand to show off her son.

“Ken… Molli Jones. Molli, my husband Ken Hutchinson. Honey, you remember Tara, right?”

Hutch nodded and smiled as he extended a hand to the women, “Nice to see you again Tara. Mollie, always a pleasure to meet a friend of Trini’s.”

Mollie smiled and kissed Trini’s cheek, “Girl! He got manners, too!”

Hutch laughed and handed off his son before quickly joining Starsky at the “male” side of the car.

There were handshakes, laughter, and a bit of “where the hell you two been?” before the men all went inside. Several of the male officers started teasing Starsky and Hutch that they’d probably gotten old and soft and couldn’t hit anything on the shooting range anymore.

Hutch turned and pointed to Starsky, “He’s senile and blind, but I’d be happy to join you. And, show you up.”

Starsky pushed his friend out of the way, “He’s the one who’s senile. Let’s hurry and we’ll lose his pokey ass in a hallway somewhere for hours.”

The officers who knew these two men well were glad to see nothing had changed. The new friends they were making were laughing because these guys were just damn funny.

Trini was still in the Vice Department when her husband and her uncle joined her. They had played basketball, done a superb job at the firing range, {much to the dismay of some officers who made a few jokingly malevolent comments} and visited with everyone including the new Police Chief for hours.

It was when they were sitting in the new Police Chief’s office that Hutch had looked across at Starsky, and saw that he was quickly winding down. As much as both men liked to try and forget it, a whole lot of bullet damage was done that fateful day in the parking garage. They both remembered all to well how their ambitions of life on the street faded with Starsky’s pains, cramps, stiffness, and a slight lack of energy and stamina on both men’s part. Finally, they had realized it all equaled desk jobs and/or promotions. After all this time, Starsky still wouldn’t admit when he was beat, but Hutch always noticed and he knew it was time to take his family home. All three of them.

Outside at the Torino, Hutch quickly slid in the backseat so Starsky wouldn’t have to contort his already tired and aching body. Starsky knew Hutch’s excuse of wanting to sit by Michael was just that… an excuse.

Starsky smiled to himself as he realized he’d felt stupid and inadequate describing Hutch to the officers who hadn’t know him as his best friend and former partner. The man was so much more, and Starsky hoped Hutch knew.

Michael and Starsky were fast asleep when Trini pulled the Torino into the garage. Realizing the car had stopped, Starsky stretched and started patting his pockets for his keys. Trini held them up, then quickly pulled them back when her uncle reached for them.

“Uh-uh. That’s why I grabbed them earlier. You’re playin’ slumber party with my honey tonight. You guys got some more bonding to do tomorrow. I called Hutch in sick now.”

Both men laughed and moved to get out of the car.

Hutch unbuckled Michael then followed Trini and Starsky into the house with the sleeping child. He lovingly kissed Michael as he tucked the child into bed before setting off in search of blankets and pillows. Sleeping equipment in hand, Hutch stopped by the bedroom to kiss his wife goodnight.

Trini turned to kiss her husband then winked at him, “Don’t stay up too late, boys. I saw my uncle setting up the Monopoly board again.”

Laughing, Hutch kissed her forehead and turned to go, but stopped at the door, “Hey.”

“Hey what?”

Sweetly, Hutch smiled, “Thanks. Today was great. And I’m loathe to admit it, but I like this time alone with him.”

Trini laughed, “I know. You two are kinda unfinished without the other. Go play. I’ll see ‘ya in the morning, Sweetheart.”

Hutch headed back downstairs with a smile on his face. He knew it was gonna be a long night, but this was the kind that made everything somehow feel right. He tossed the pillows and blankets at Starsky who immediately started complaining that wasn’t how to treat a house guest.

“You’re not a houseguest, Starsky. You’re part of the furniture. Make our beds while I make the coffee.”

No doubt he and Starsky would fall asleep on the two matching couches Trini had bought for the living room… planning on exactly this. Her two favorite men would be found the next morning in disheveled, crumpled heaps on their respective couches after talking all night.

Hutch smiled. Yes, this made everything right.

~~~

“So, we gonna have a birthday party for my great-nephew this weekend or what, Hutch?”

Sighing, Hutch put down the paper he was trying to read. Michael kept grabbing the edge of it, and Starsky’s constant bitching about Michael’s birthday party made reading next to impossible. Hutch decided to read later.

“Starsky, I already ordered a cake for next weekend. What’s the rush?”

“Hutch, we gotta round up witnesses and get our case ready for your little hotel buddies. I got a call yesterday from ‘Sweet Alice’ that a couple of her more loyal ‘companions’ decided to come forward and say they were robbed during ‘conventions’. We got a lot of stuff to get done before we hit the court room in two weeks.”

“Two weeks! Starsk, I didn’t know… when did it get moved up?”

“Huggy called when you were giving Michael his bath. Seems the DA is frothin’ at the bit on this one. Wants to make himself look good with an arrest and conviction…”

“What’s the catch, Starsk? Why’s he wanting this one so bad?”

“One of the kids is Louie DePalo’s boy. The one who was upstairs with Huggy and Trini. Seems ‘Junior’ wasn’t into takin’ over Daddy’s business and wanted to make a name on his own. Guess runnin’ drugs isn’t near as respectable to him as beatin’ up hookers and johns. It’s gonna be high profile, and the DA’s eatin’ it up. Says he might even be able to connect Daddy since they seized the stolen stuff outta the kids’ room at DePalo’s residence.”

Hutch sighed heavily and drywashed his face, “Jesus Starsk. What did we get ourselves into? This was supposed to be just a simple little case for an old friend. We make a bust and some money, give a testimony, and walk away. Now it’s gonna get turned into some goddamned media circus all for the benefit of the DA.”

Starsky nodded, “I know, buddy. I know.”

~~~

Trini had spent her day talking with “Sweet Alice’s” contacts, dealing with an overzealous DA, and saying “no comment” to all the newspaper reporters who called. She was more than ready to go home when Leslie buzzed her extension.

“Trini, hey. I just got a call from David and he wanted to know if you and Hutch care if James and Marcus watch Michael tonight. We want to take you guys out to dinner then stop at ‘Angie’s’ for a couple beers. You O.K. with that?”

“I suppose we should give the boys a reason to always use birth control. Yeah, let’s do it.”

Leslie laughed, “Your son is not that bad! They might want to reproduce after spending the evening with that charming child.”

Trini could only laugh, “O.K. Whatever you think, but I know I could use some time out with my man.”

Quickly setting her papers off to one side, Trini hurried to head home. The whole drive there she could only think about how nice it was to have a family like the one she and Hutch had. Their son would be safe and secure with her nephews, and she and Hutch would be out having a delightful evening with her aunt and uncle. How wonderful life was for all of them.

~~~

Hutch fell into his chair laughing as he pulled Trini into his lap and kissed her neck. Angie looked across the table and smiled before leaning over to Starsky, “They are good together, aren’t they?”

Starsky smiled and watched the happy couple as they kissed again, “Yeah. They almost make you wanna puke, huh?”

Hutch sensed his ex and his best friend were laughing at his expense, and frowned at them, “Shut up, Gordo.”

Starsky pointed to Angie as if to ask “what about her?” which only made Hutch and Trini laugh again.

Hutch pointed at the dance floor, and held his hand out to Starsky, “Forgive me. A conciliatory dance?”

The whole table erupted in laughter as Starsky pirouetted to the dance floor with Hutch in tow. Huggy slapped his leg and laughed so hard Candita worried, “You O.K., Hug? They not that funny.”

Leslie and Trini had to disagree as they rose to save their idiot husbands from themselves, and more embarrassment, “Yes. They are.”

~~~

The balloon Starsky was blowing up unexpectedly chose that moment to explode. Michael yelped and scampered to safety behind his laughing father.

“Moron. Only you would do that, Starsk. Are you truly that ignorant that you can’t see when the balloon it too full?”

Shrugging, Starsky quickly retrieved the tiny balloon pieces before his nephew could grab them, and started on another one… he still had a lot more to blow up before he’d be happy with the way Hutch and Trini’s house was decorated. Leslie, James, Marcus, and Trini came in the front door with the birthday cake, presents and dinner while Starsky still continued to inflated the colorful decorations.

Trini picked up her son as he walked to her, and smiled at her husband. “Hey. You ready to eat, or are you gonna help my uncle so this doesn’t take all night?”

Sighing dramatically, Hutch flopped down on the floor beside his best friend and grabbed the bag of balloons out of his hands.

“Gimme those, Gordo. We’re all gonna starve to death, and Michael will be two before you get this done.”

~~~

Huggy, Candita, Lunk, and his girlfriend showed up promptly at seven to help celebrate Michael’s first birthday… all bearing plenty of gifts for the birthday boy. Angie and Michelle showed up a few moments after with empty hands and big, mischievous grins.

Hutch was worried. Those two were up to no good.

Trini knew what the two women had planned, and she quickly tried to divert her husband’s attention by announcing he should help her with the cake and ice cream.

Michael’s pristine birthday outfit was quickly covered with cake and ice cream as the adults laughed and Starsky took pictures. Trini cleaned up her sloppy child, then sat him down on the front room floor to rip open his gifts. James quickly dropped himself down to help his smallest relative. Marcus, always shy around crowds, quickly offered to grab a trash bag for Trini to toss the destroyed giftwrap into.

Trini smiled, this was always the way she’d dreamed life should be. A small family to love and be loved by her, great friends who shared love and laughter, and the happiness all this brought her.

Michael tore into Candita and Huggy’s gift first. It was the ugliest idea of a teddy bear Hutch had ever seen.

Hutch looked to his friend and laughed, “You can’t be serious, Huggy! You make that ugly-ass thing with your old clothes?”

Starsky had to stop snapping pictures since he was laughing so hard he couldn’t keep the camera from bouncing.

“Jesus Hug… that’s ugly!”

Huggy looked offended and overplayed his pained look much to Starsky’s great pleasure, “Starsky, you ain’t never had no class, and you ain’t never gonna have none. This is one fine, grade A, quality bear from my cousin Lee Otis. I gave him some ‘nostalgia’ wear out of the attic. That bear is a vintage part of our clothing history. He can make damn near anything when you put a needle in his hand.”

Hutch laughed, “Yeah, and that’s almost something, Hug. We just don’t know what.”

Starsky moved closer and poked the bear Michael was prodding and turning over in his hands. To Starsky, it had to be the ugliest damn teddy bear he’d ever seen. It was even wearing that ratty old multi-colored leather hat Huggy used to don so proudly. That only added to the overall ugliness of the gift.

The bear was made out of so many nasty forms and colors of 70’s era clothing, Hutch had to add, “Do they even make any of those colors anymore?”

Trini laughed and handed her child another present… this one was from Marcus and James. Starsky looked to his boys, “You two didn’t visit Lee Otis, too, did ‘ya?”

Everyone laughed and Candita pointed at the bear, {she had hated that thing from the start} “I tol’ you it ugly, honey.”

More laughter erupted as Hutch moved to pat Huggy’s shoulder, “Huggy, we lived in the 70’s once… let’s let it go, O.K.?”

Huggy finally had to laugh, then pointed to Starsky who was still laughing, “Somebody get the ‘hyena’ calmed down.”

Starsky calmed himself and readied the camera as Michael finally reached the contents of the gift he’d been opening. He squealed happily and dumped the box out. Starsky started laughing again as Hutch groaned loudly.

Looking to her cousins, Trini winked to take away the anger in her words, “You two hate us, huh?”

The twins just laughed, and James smiled back, “We love ‘ya guys, just Michael more.”

Hutch grunted, “Obviously,” as his son pounded on the toy drum then grabbed the cymbals.

Now it was Huggy’s turn to laugh.

Lunk’s gift was next. Trini laughed to herself at the adorable packaging the tough guy had wrapped the gift in. She hadn’t even wrapped her son’s gift so sweetly. The paper of pale blue puppies sleeping on fluffy clouds topped with yards and yards of ribbon was absolutely adorable. Lunk was probably blushing, but there was no way anyone would ever be able to see it on his ebony skin.

Michael couldn’t get through all the ribbons, and was looking up to his parents in frustration as Lunk’s girlfriend, Maria, quickly stepped forward to help the child.

“Sorry little man, I put too many ribbons, huh?” She quickly whipped a small pocketknife out of her thigh-high stocking and neatly sliced through the offending ribbons.

Starsky raised his eyebrows so high they could be seen over the camera, and Hutch leaned around the couch to get a better look until he met Trini’s glare and quickly straightened in his seat. Looking to his son, Huggy was sure the man was red from head to toe by now.

Trini pulled the box top off and Michael squealed as he pulled out a set of mock barbells which he promptly hit Starsky in the knee with. Nobody could help but laugh again.

Finally, Hutch scooted forward the gift he and Trini had stressed over, debated about, and finally just bought. Michael wasn’t quite sure what to do with a box larger than him, but soon began ripping paper heartily. When he got to the center, Michael squealed again and began pounding on the top chanting, “Op, op, op,” which everyone believed to be “open.” Hutch stepped forward to lift the ride-on fire truck out of the box. Instead of Michael climbing in for a ride, he chose instead to hit the firebell several times.

Trini wrinkled her nose and looked to Hutch, “This is already bad.”

Turning to the two women sitting quietly off to the side, Trini smiled, “You two ready?” Both women nodded and Trini rose to help them. Hutch looked to Starsky and silently asked him what was up. Starsky truly had no idea, and merely shrugged.

The three women struggled through the front door carrying two large, but light boxes into the front room for Michael. Having seen a large package already, Michael readily tore into the gifts.

Huggy laughed and slapped his leg as soon as the product picture could be seen… Candita’s hand flew to her smiling mouth to cover her laughter… Maria laughed loudly, and even Lunk smiled. Hutch tried to look outraged, yet he was close to laughter himself as he watched his son open the toy kitchen set. Complete with dishes and an apron.

“You two have got to be kidding!” Hutch bent to pick up the toy fry pan his son was sitting by, “Everything’s pink!”

Michelle was smiling hugely, and Angie was laughing so hard she had to wipe the tears of laughter from her eyes before she threw out, “Hutch. It’s O.K. This doesn’t mean he’s gay.” The shocked look Hutch threw his ex-wife was well worth the comment she’d jokingly said.

Starsky couldn’t contain himself any longer, “Hutch, it’s not good to act so hostile towards your company. Outbursts like that are usually a signs of immaturity… plus, you can’t stereotype toys to one sexual orientation.”

Hutch sat with his mouth gaping for a moment before he recovered. He looked to the crowd of friends around him and quipped, “I can’t believe something that intelligent and thought provoking came outta your mouth, Starsky.”

Smiling smugly, Starsky rose and grabbed the gift he and Leslie had set behind the couch. Starsky had purposely wanted this to be the last gift. Leslie accepted the camera from her husband, knowing full well she would be the one to take pictures while her husband did what he told her he’d wanted to.

Moving to Michael, Starsky quickly kissed the child’s head as small hands grabbed the present from his great-uncle’s larger hands.

“Damn, he’s quick, Hutch,” Starsky tormented, “you sure he’s yours?”

Hutch laughed along with everyone else, but eyed his friend suspiciously as Starsky came to sit on the armchair beside him.

“What? You buy him some ugly ass red bike with a white stripe or something? You’re acting weirder than usual, Starsk.”

Hutch knew it wasn’t a bike. The box was too small, but he hated to cut his friend any slack.

Starsky was looking pretty serious, but his words as he winked at Hutch were playful, “Just think… pretty soon you an’ Trini have a one year ‘birthday’ comin’ up, too.”

Hutch didn’t comment back, but looked to Trini. She was blushing furiously.

Starsky was silent and smiled as they watched Michael tear into his gift and pull out a bright red sheriff’s hat, a vest with a gold star on it, two toy pistols in their holster, and a pair of genuine leather cowboy boots. Hutch didn’t quite get it, then realization swept across his face and he turned to smile at the man lounging so close to him.

“The boots,” Hutch simply stated.

Nodding, Starsky smiled back. He always knew his buddy was a bright sort… he’d figured it out without any prompting.

“Yeah. I remember a guy stickin’ by me even when the doctors and everyone else gave up and said they weren’t gonna get an antidote in time. That poison musta gone to my head, ‘cuz I offered to give you boots I didn’t even have for bein’ my best ‘deputy.’ I figured I’d pass a pair on to Michael as a thank you.”

Hutch placed his hand over Starsky’s and squeezed, “You did the same thing for me many a time, Starsk. You’re welcome.”

Lesli snapped a picture as the two men sat so closely together, hands clasped together in friendship that had lasted the test of time. Leslie couldn’t wait to develop the film to see that picture.

 

PART TWO

CHAPTER 6

Trini dressed carefully. She didn’t want to present anything close to wanton, or overly matronly, for their court appearance today. Hutch also dressed with just as much care paying close attention to what he wore. He’d decided against a suit not wanting to look stuffy or older than he already was. Finally, he chose a black turtleneck to wear so a tie wasn’t necessary and dress pants that complemented his dark brown leather overcoat nicely. Smiling at his reflection, Hutch nodded as Trini came up behind him and patted his rump appreciatively.

“Damn,” Trini let out a low whistle, “I am one lucky girl. Look at you… gorgeously casual and tidy looking. Oh, and that nice ass is a wonderful accessory.”

Turning to envelope his wife in a loving embrace Hutch just laughed, “Nice ass, huh?”

Trini nodded against his chest before pulling back a little. She gave her husband an expectant look, and he just shrugged.

“You look alright, too.”

Punching him in the chest, Trini stepped back a little before slowly walking to their bedroom door. Hutch smiled and cocked his head as he watched Trini make that “Starsky Strut” look good. Damn good.

After a moment of teasing, Trini turned back and smiled sweetly at her husband, “Just alright, huh?”

Hutch started to run after her and Trini squealed as she headed to the stairs. He having the advantage of longer legs, and the fact that Trini wasn’t really trying to get away, ended the “chase” right there. Both of them were breathing hard, but not from the mock chase when Hutch gently cupped Trini’s face in his hands and slowly kissed her. Trini was ever so grateful for the railing she was leaning against or she would have collapsed. Jesus, the man still touched somewhere deep inside her heart and soul every time he kissed her.

Hutch was so engrossed in tasting the sweetness his wife had to offer, it took a moment before he heard the sound again. What was that sound disturbing them anyway? Not Michael. He was with Angie so they could go to court. Again the sound… and this time it registered with Hutch at the same moment as Trini. Starsky had let himself in and was noisily clearing his throat downstairs.

Pulling back, Trini straightened her hair and Hutch patted his down where her hands had been lovingly intertwined just a moment before.

Hutch winked at her and Trini smiled back before she called out, “Coming, Uncle.”

Starsky shook his head. “That’s what I was afraid of… and we don’t have time for that.”

Trini’s eyes grew wide causing Hutch to laugh and point a finger towards her, “Starsk! You made her blush!”

“You two made me blush standing all the way down here! Serves you right. Let’s go while you two are still presentable enough to walk to the witness stand.”

~~~

There were eight witnesses for the prosecution and only five for the defense. The mom of one of the boys, {of course it had to be the DePalo boys’ mother} had come forward and tried to say her son couldn’t possibly have been involved since he was at home every night of the incidents. Trini was called back to testify again after doing yet another lineup and naming the DePalo boy as one of her attackers. She was still on the stand when Starsky’s stomach got the better of him.

The two men went outside to eat their lunches and discuss the case while they waited for Trini to join them.

Hutch understood the woman’s desperation and he tried to explain his point of view to Starsky, “Come on, Starsk. You gotta see her position… her old man skips and takes his mistress as the D.A. closes in on the stolen goods charge. What’s she got left but this worthless kid of hers?

Starsky shook his head and took a bite of his burger before he answered Hutch, “Yeah, but it’s perjury, Hutch! She’s gonna go down with that kid o’ hers.”

Hutch shrugged, “Maybe it won’t matter by then. Maybe she wants so desperately for him to be free that nothing else matters. Even jail time for herself.”

Starsky looked thoughtful before he looked back at Hutch.

“You know, I can’t say I wouldn’t do the same for Marcus or James. I mean, I’d know they’d done wrong, but in my heart I couldn’t let ’em go down without a fight.”

“See? Maybe she figures she’s lived and the boy hasn’t even really started. He’s off to a lousy start, but she probably can’t see that.”

Nodding, Starsky added, “I see what you mean now.”

Both men finished eating in companionable silence, then Hutch rose to toss the trash and buy Trini some lunch. She should be out of court soon and Hutch wanted to make sure she got a bite to eat, even if she had to do it alone while the two men testified again. Starsky tapped his watch, and Hutch held up a finger to indicate he was aware of the time and almost done. Hot dog and cola in hand, Hutch slid past Starsky as he held the door open for him.

Shaking his head in mock disgust, Starsky informed his friend, “Man, you are whipped.”

Hutch would’ve hit him or at the very least flipped up a finger, but they were already in the court building. And, his hands were full. Hutch had to settle for delivering Starsky the “Hutchinson Glare.”

Laughing, Starsky lovingly patted Hutch’s back, “Jokin’, Schweetheart! I love how you take care of my niece.”

Trini was coming towards them from the crowd now, a warm smile for the two men she loved when Hutch quickly added, “I love the way your niece takes care of me.”

Starsky laughed and kissed the cheek Trini offered him before she turned and kissed Hutch’s waiting lips. As subtly as possible, Starsky moved off. He wanted the lovebirds to have a moment alone before Hutch was called to testify.

~~~

“So what you’re saying, Detective Hutchinson…”

Hutch interrupted the attorney for the State, “Um, I’m not on the force anymore. Just Mr. Hutchinson, now.”

The prosecuting attorney smiled slightly, and Hutch knew that it had all been a ploy to add credibility to Hutch.

 Trying to make me seem even more the perfect citizen, huh? Good job, Collins!

Turning back, Collins seemed to be slightly apologetic, but winked at Hutch in conspiracy, “Terribly sorry. You were just a police officer for so long… and then a Chief of Police weren’t you?… I just forgot. So, back to my original question Mr. Hutchinson… you and your wife had merely checked into the ‘Regent’ on the night in question as a sort of ‘get away’… is that correct, Sir?”

Nodding first, Hutch leaned forward and said as respectfully as his mirth would allow. “Yes sir, we were celebrating a night alone. We were new parents, Sir.”

Starsky waved at Hutch and did his best Charlie Chaplin faces to try and distract Hutch through the rest of the questioning. Hutch couldn’t wait until Starsky was in his spot. Hutch might just chance a flashing charge to get even with his best friend.

~~~

Testimony after testimony was given by Starsky, Trini, Huggy, Hutch, and the two salesmen who’d been held up at the conventions they should have been attending… instead of being attended to by one of “Sweet Alice’s” ladies. Each of the boys accused of the assaults had their own lawyer, and the endless tale telling was starting to wear Starsky’s nerves to the bare nubs.

Shifting uncomfortably in his seat for the hundredth time, Starsky whispered into Hutch’s ear, “Ten days, Hutch. Ten long days I coulda’ spent somewhere else.”

Trying not to snap at his friend, Hutch held a hand up to quiet Starsky, “I’m well aware it’s been ten days, Starsk. I’ve been here the whole time, too. Now just be quiet and listen.”

The DePalo boy sat noticeably alone since the attorneys for the other three boys had all asked to confer again with the judge in private. Slowly, they were all returning to their respective places as they exited one-by-one from the judge’s chamber. An “all rise” call was given as the judge re-entered the room behind the lawyers.

As Trini rose along with her husband, the sight of Mrs. Lucinda DePalo caught her eye from across the courtroom. Trini was a bit amazed at the woman’s outfit. Sure, she’d been dressed everyday of her son’s trial like something off of “Dynasty” or from “Lifestyles Of The Rich And Famous” but today took the cake. Trini had decided a long time ago that DePalo’s “suddenly single” wife must’ve run his credit cards into the dirt with her clothing taste, and today confirmed it all. The white and black checkered jacket and skirt set {with God-awful matching checkered heels!} was ostentatious enough, but to top it all off the woman had the lack of taste to wear a hat that must weigh fifty pounds. Trini’d never seen a brim that wide, or that many black flowers in one place at one time.

She’d been so intensely staring at Mrs. DePalo’s tasteless outfit that Trini hadn’t made it to the woman’s eyes, and when their eyes finally connected Trini startled a little. The hatred and anger radiating from Mrs. DePalo’s dark brown orbs was so… total and complete…it was frightening.

Thankfully for Trini, the judge had started speaking and it drew the woman’s attention from Trini and her group. Still, even as Trini listened to the judge’s ruling, she felt herself shifting uncomfortably the way her uncle had been all day. That woman gave Trini the creeps.

The judge nodded to the three Public Defenders he had just conferred with in his chambers, “I understand what you all had to say, and I understand where your clients are coming from…”

The DePalo boy fidgeted uncomfortably at the statement. He knew as well as everyone else in the courtroom that he was going down the hardest, and the fact that only three of the boys’ lawyers had gone into the judge’s chambers… well, that didn’t bode well for him.

“…I also understand that the evidence presented does not hold anyone out of the fire, here. Crimes were committed. People… innocent people… were hurt. Goods were stolen. There was a lot of planning and premeditation here, Counselors. But,” the judge sighed, ” I have also heard the same thing time and again from three of the accused, and that is they were not the planners or the ringleader.”

An audible gasp went up from the families of all the boys. The other families had distanced themselves from Mrs. DePalo from the beginning, and now they all shared tears and whispers of relief while Mrs. DePalo sat alone with her fear and anger.

The judge pounded his gavel and called for order.

Calm reigned again as the judge continued, “Still, I must stress that what all of these men did posed a threat to society, was illegal, and most of them followed along like sheep to slaughter. Again, I state that all four are guilty, but I want to make it clear before I hand down my verdict that only one of these men has been involved in any form of criminal activity before, only one has ever been arrested before, and only one… I stress this part as well… only one had been hoarding and selling their ill-gotten gains…”

Obviously, Mrs. DePalo could see where this was all heading. She stood up and fairly shrieked at the judge, “NO! How dare you? They all were there! It was only hookers anyway… people that don’t even matter!” She pointed angrily at Huggy and his friends, “They set it all up! They were whores… he’s a pimp for chrissakes!”

Trini looked to Hutch who was observing the woman as though she were nuts. Surely she had to be listening as everyone of the “accomplices” had turned against her boy. They had all pointed to the DePalo boy as the leader. Hadn’t she been listening?

She obviously hadn’t been paying attention when one of the boys had lamely tried to explain their robbing “from hookers and johns” story. The boy had sheepishly looked at Trini and turned red then, “Um, except her. She really is a married woman.” His story had quickly been derailed by the judge, who considered it a ludicrous attempt at salvation.

The judge asked for silence and for the still ranting Mrs. DePalo to be removed. And removed she was… amid a flurry of screams and pleas and that ugly hat flapping about her like mad. Trini breathed a sigh of relief as the courtroom doors shut out the noise.

Shaking his head a little, the judge looked over his glasses at the DePalo boy as he attempted to throw some humor into the situation. And, to hopefully calm the boy who had suddenly turned very pale and looked quite ill.

“Don’t worry, son. I already have the verdict here. You’re safe from that one outside influence.”

The courtroom tittered a little and the judge held up a hand, “Merely trying to diffuse the situation. I am fair and honest, and I believe in justice. These sentences I now pass are passed that way: Honestly… fairly… and, with justice in mind. Would the defendants all please rise…”

Starsky sat forward in his seat listening closely, Hutch leaned back and folded his arms across his chest as he concentrated intensely on the verdicts, Huggy trimmed his nails nonchalantly, and Trini really couldn’t care less to what was being said. She was just glad it was all ending.

The judge handed down eighteen months jail time and three more years probation for DePalo’s partners in crime. DePalo, having already proven since the ripe old age of twelve and all his stays at Juvenile Hall that he was a “bad apple,” got the strongest sentencing with three years and probation for five after. All in all, the families were pleased and none of the verdicts were unexpected… except to Mrs. DePalo, obviously.

Slowly, the courtroom began to clear and Huggy simmered over the one fact that had bothered him since the start of the trial, “That’s all fine and dandy, but those punks got off with how many counts of rape? That’s wrong, man. Wrong.”

Starsky nodded, “I know, but it couldn’t be helped, Huggy. People might not have cared about the girls… you know that. I think it all turned out pretty good, all things considered. What do you think, Hutch? Trini?”

Trini shrugged, “I would’ve liked to have seen some more time, but the judge was fair and only knew what we were all willing to share. I think it went well, though. What do you think, honey?”

Hutch had remained silent since the verdicts were being handed down, and even now he was thinking about something that was causing him to frown as they all rose to depart the courtroom. Trini put a hand on his arm to try and draw his attention, “Hey, Hutch?”

Looking distracted, but at least making eye contact with his wife, Hutch mentally caught up with the conversation in his head before nodding, “Of course I have to agree with my wife for safety’s sake,” Hutch winked at Trini, “and I understand Huggy’s point, too. Still Hug, what else could we do?”

Huggy shrugged and Trini looked back at her husband as he continued looking behind them. Starsky had noticed Hutch’s actions as well, and stated, “She’s gone, Hutch. I looked, too.”

Hutch smiled sheepishly and nodded, “She’s one tight closet, huh?”

Huggy laughed and pushed Hutch away from him, “How do you remember that crap, man? I said that to you, what… twenty some years ago?”

Trini smiled at the three men and shook her head at the joke she obviously didn’t know. Hutch grabbed Trini’s hand and smiled back at her as they all stepped into the bright afternoon sunlight together.

Trini’s thoughts went back to the courtroom antics of Mrs. DePalo and the fact that she’d felt so brilliant in there. She loved that she had thought herself the only one bright enough to notice the DePalo woman and her weirdness. Of course they’d noticed it, too. These two men with her had been great cops, and still hadn’t lost that sixth sense for danger.

Arriving at their car, Trini pulled her cell phone out of her purse and turned to her husband.

“You wanna call ‘Sweet Alice’ or can I talk to your ‘girlfriend’, Sweetie?”

Starsky laughed along with Huggy when Hutch blushed.

Huggy draped his arm over Trini’s shoulder and told Hutch, “She’s got your number, my man. The girl knows how to play it.”

Pushing Huggy’s arm off his wife, Hutch pulled her to him and stared deep into her eyes, “You’re lucky I know you’re kidding or I’d paddle your ass right here. Call her yourself.”

Trini wiggled a little and smiled up at her husband as she moved off to dial Alice, “Can I still get the spankin’ when we get home?”

Huggy smacked his hands together in laughter as Starsky shook his head at Hutch, “Exactly what have you done to my sweet little niece, Hutchinson?”

The next few seconds would later become a blur of motion and sounds that Trini wouldn’t ever be able to forget, or clearly sort out… no matter how hard she’d try to.

Starsky had followed Hutch to his side of the car and would’ve sat in the back seat behind him, but the door was locked, and he and Hutch were still in heavy debate over who had “ruined” Trini. Needless to say, the debate raged on while Hutch wouldn’t unlock the back door for his friend. Indeed, Hutch wouldn’t even move from his spot where he was purposely lounging against the drivers door.

Trini got a hold of ‘Sweet Alice’ and was giving her the details as Starsky started around to the open passenger side to join Huggy. At that exact moment, Hutch heard the sound of tires squealing. Instinctively, he spun around and knocked Trini to safety on the front of the car… Starsky and Huggy were both safely moving to the back of the car and were clear of any danger, but Hutch… Hutch wasn’t safe.

The seconds all became a complete mass from there.

Trini knew Hutch had pushed her roughly onto the hood of their car…

She knew her uncle and Huggy were somewhere behind their car…

and she knew that a Mercedes was barreling toward them at an incredible speed.

Trini reached across the car hood and attempted to pull her much larger husband to safety with her. She didn’t quite succeed, but she knew later… much later… that she had saved her husband’s life.

The Mercedes continued it’s focused aim on them as Trini gripped Hutch’s hand with hers and continued pulling. The next moment, Hutch attempted to swing his legs up and out of danger. Still, Hutch’s right hip took the brunt of the hit, and the force shoved him up on the car with Trini. The car rocked and Hutch rolled off the hood… blood rolling out of one corner of his mouth.

Trini was only vaguely aware of the next jumbled series of events.

Starsky seemed to appear from somewhere, then crouched quickly on the ground over Hutch. Trini knew Hutch was in good hands and turned to take care of the Mercedes driver…

She remembered grabbing her gun out of her purse and running to the drivers side of the Mercedes that had crashed into an oncoming vehicle…

Momentarily seeing Huggy laying dazed, but unscathed, behind the car…

It all seemed to be almost a dream, but Trini knew this was a very real nightmare.

Upon reaching the crashed Mercedes, Trini bent down to throw open the door and throttle the driver but she wasn’t given the chance. Trini had the unfortunate timing of seeing Mrs. DePalo put a small handgun into her mouth and pull the trigger, causing her head to roll a little to the side. Trini wished she could feel something for the woman, but she couldn’t.

Running back to her car, Trini saw Huggy gently lifting Hutch’s head and placing it on his jacket. Starsky was screaming at the crowd to get back, and yelling into his cell phone for emergency services at the same time.

Slowly, Trini dropped to the pavement, and took in the whole sight of her husband. He looked like his head had hit on the car or as he’d rolled off to the ground. Hutch’s blood was streaming steadily out of his mouth, and even though his eyes were open, he wasn’t really “there.” Trini knew it… she’d seen it time and time again when she’d been on the force. Not only was Hutch in shock, he was in great pain. That huge bruise developing on his forehead wasn’t doing anything for his attractive face, either.

Trini leaned closer to talk to Hutch as she gently wiped at his bloodied mouth with shaking fingers, “You were right, Honey. We shoulda’ kept a closer eye on Mrs. DePalo.”

Hutch looked to his left and tried to say something, but it only came out a gurgle. Trini’s tears were flowing so hard that Hutch’s face was quickly becoming a blur. Still, she managed to place a soft finger to his lips, “Shhh. She took care of it for me, the stupid bitch.”

Hutch tried to smile, but it didn’t quite work. Still, Trini knew he was proud of the way she was handling herself, and the fact that she loved him enough to kill the DePalo woman for hurting him. If the stupid bitch hadn’t taken care of it herself.

Somewhere… not close enough for Trini… she heard sirens.

The paramedics arrived a moment later and one of them recognized Trini as he bent to begin working on Hutch.

Jeremy Simmons looked to Trini, “Bella?”

Trini looked up, not really seeing, but trying to through the tears. Simmons had never seen Trini like this. She’d never cried when she was hurt, when others were hurt, or when she felt beat down. At least he’d never seen her cry. Yet, here was this tough ex-cop, bawling like the world was ending, and Simmons wanted so desperately to help her. He’d always liked Trini, and had missed her since she’d quit the force.

Blinking for a moment, Trini made eye contact with the paramedic and calmly stated, “Hello, Simmons.” Then she looked back down and kissed the man’s hand who had lapsed into unconsciousness, “Please, Simmons… please save my husband.”

Simmons now understood. Bella had always seemed to be one tough little loner, but this man she was gazing at with so much love… well, he must’ve broken through her “tough” exterior. Already, Simmons liked this man and vowed to do everything in his power to help him.

Starsky helped the dazed Trini to her feet and noticed through his own misty eyes how lost his niece was, “Trini, I need the car keys, honey. Huggy and I will follow you to ‘Memorial’ in Hutch’s car.”

Trini nodded and pointed to Huggy as he busily tried to gather the contents of her tossed purse. Starsky nodded back before silently helping her into the ambulance.

Huggy’d picked up Trini’s stuff and found Hutch’s keys. Now, he carefully placed a hand on Starsky’s shaking shoulder and watched for the breakdown that had to be coming from Starsky. “Come on. We gotta get to that hospital and watch over my other white brother.”

Starsky slowly turned and wished he could collapse into Huggy’s waiting arms as they both barely held back the tears for a man they dearly loved. Still, Starsky knew he had to keep himself in control… for everyone’s sake.

Quickly recovering, Starsky looked around, “Keys?”

Huggy knew better than to argue, and handed the keys to his friend as he questioned, “You want me to call Les and Cand, or you wanna?”

Starsky got into the car and waited for Huggy to be seated before answering, “I can’t do it, Hug. Would you…”

Starsky trailed off and Huggy placed a comforting hand on his shoulder as Starsky slammed Hutch’s car into gear, and followed the ambulance like a bat racing into hell.

~~~

Starsky and Huggy arrived right behind the ambulance, and were allowed through the crowd by the scores of officers who were already there. Being their former Captain still earned Starsky some rights.

Impatiently, Starsky looked at the crowd and the damned reporters that had somehow already been alerted. Nodding to his former Sergeant, Starsky pulled Officer Manis off to one side.

“Manis, can you please do something about these jackasses?”

The officer nodded, “Anything you say, Cap.”

Starsky gave the man a grateful smile and patted him on the back. He didn’t even bother to comment on the incorrect address of “Captain” as Manis started gathering other officers to help do his former supervisor’s bidding.

Huggy had been told Hutch’s location and general condition by a former “lady” he used to know in his earlier days who worker as an ER nurse now. He quickly ran to inform Starsky of what he’d learned.

“He’s in surgery room 3, Starsky. From what I gather, a couple broken ribs, that right hip is pretty bad, back and head beaten and bruised, and some swelling where he don’t need it none.”

Starsky tried to smile, “Head, huh?”

Huggy nodded, then turned very sober, “We gotta find Trini.”

Starsky nodded back as he hurriedly started the search for his niece.

~~~

Trini sat in the second waiting room by herself. Hugging her arms tightly across her chest while rocking back and forth talking to herself might’ve been part of the reason she was alone. Anyone who looked in the window probably saw the wild, lost look on Trini and kept moving on. Well, anyone but the uncle who loved her so much.

Starsky skidded to a stop and could only stare at the forlorn sight of his niece. She looked to all the world a small child… so lost and alone… her pain so obvious it chilled through Starsky’s soul and went straight to the bone. Swallowing hard, Starsky knew he had to compose himself before he joined Trini. Moving slowly, he pushed the door open then went to sit beside Trini. This close, Starsky could finally make out what Trini was saying.

The poor kid wasn’t talking to herself… she was praying out loud.

Trini’s chanting came to a halt when Starsky dropped down on the floor in front of her and brushed a stray hair from her eyes, “Hey, Jewel.”

A tight smile came to Trini’s mouth, but it never touched her teary eyes as she whispered, “He’s not gonna make it, is he?”

Huggy turned to go and shut the door behind the two sobbing Starsky’s as he impatiently wiped at his own eyes.

“Come on, Huggy,” he counseled himself, “gotta keep it together for your family, man.” Knowing neither Trini nor Starsky would leave to dress or eat, Huggy went to call Candita for clean clothes for both, and their required “supplies” like toothbrushes. Huggy would stay there and make sure they at least drank coffee… all night if need be.

Reaching the pay phones, Huggy dialed his wife. Candita anxiously answered it on the first ring, “Hello? Huggy?”

“Yeah, Cand. Hey, I need some clothes for the Starsky Duo… Trini needs some quick. She musta wiped ‘Blondie’s’ blood on…” Huggy stopped and drew a deep breath, then continued, “anyhow, can you hurry over with some deodorant, etc. etc.?”

“I’m on my way. Any word on our pale friend?”

“I ran into… um, an old friend. She didn’t make it sound none too good, but I’ll let you know when you get here. He might be out of surgery when you arrive.”

After a hasty goodbye to his wife, Huggy ran to fetch the black coffee everyone was already needing.

~~~

Huggy stood outside the waiting room holding three coffees. He took a deep breath and pushed open the door to invade the dark silence inside. Starsky and Trini both sat staring at the floor holding hands. Neither one seemed capable of words, and Huggy wondered if either one would make it if Hutch didn’t.

Putting on a phony smile, Huggy crouched down in front of his two friends and placed a cup of coffee in each of their empty hands. Starsky glanced at Huggy and tried to look appreciative. Trini just kept looking at the floor.

Knowing Starsky would be the one to ask for answers, Huggy looked to his friend and raised his eyebrows. Starsky just shrugged and nodded towards the door so Huggy would follow him outside.

Turning to Trini, Starsky kissed the hand he held and whispered, “Be right back.” Trini nodded but never looked up or acknowledged her uncle leaving with Huggy.

Once the door to the waiting room shut, Starsky rubbed his pain-filled eyes slowly then looked to Huggy and delivered the doctors report. He sounded like a robot, “Right hip and femur fairly shattered. They’re wiring it and fixing it up the best they can. He’ll need physical therapy, and a lot recovery time if…” Starsky drew in a heavy breath, and cleared his throat to keep his voice seemingly calm, “when… when he goes home. Head hit the car and they think that’s all that’s causin’ the swelling. Didn’t see no internal damage… just 2 cracked ribs on the left side. She hit his back with the car pretty hard though. May be a little unforeseen trouble there later.”

Huggy nodded and put a hand on Starsky’s shoulder, “You know, you don’t have to stay strong and tear-free for me, Starsky. I’m here for you, man.”

Try as hard as he might, Starsky couldn’t hold it in anymore, and let loose of his held back emotions on Huggy’s slender shoulder.

The flood of tears lasted only a short moment, but it was exactly what Starsky needed. Pulling back and gratefully patting Huggy’s shoulder, Starsky looked back in the window at his niece.

“She hasn’t cried, Hug. Just sits there and nods or stares off into space. She’s like some blank slate or somethin’.”

Huggy moved to look over his friend’s shoulder at Trini, “She’s hurtin’, Starsk. She’s shocked beyond what she can handle, my man. Give her some time. She’s trying to call on all the strength she gots and all the support we got to give her.” Huggy pointed to the door and looked at Starsky, “You ready?”

Starsky nodded and cleared his throat again, then straightened up to his full height before entering the waiting room again.

 

CHAPTER 7

Michelle, James, and Marcus had gone to Trini and Hutch’s house to lay Michael down so he’d be in familiar surroundings. Michelle had wisely guessed Angie would want to go to the hospital to sit with the Starsky’s and Trini. James had seemed wise beyond his years and kept up a constant chatter while playing with Michael to distract the child until he’d gone down for his nap. As soon as Michael was laid down, James went outside to swim and be alone. Michelle understood he was coping the only way he could, and she was proud of both the boys. They’d held up so well, even comforting Leslie when she’d fallen apart at the news.

Marcus was helping Michelle make dinner when he turned to her and asked, “Is Uncle Hutch gonna make it, Michelle?”

Having no children of her own {nor any desire for them} Michelle wasn’t sure how to answer. She adored Michael and the twins, but advice and “parenting”… well, she wasn’t sure how to do it. Michelle decided honesty was the safest and simplest policy.

“He’s hurt pretty bad, but your Dad seems real hopeful.”

Marcus merely nodded as he stirred the noodles that were now boiling on the stove before commenting, “You know, Dad always said he loved Uncle Hutch ‘cuz he was more a brother than Uncle Nick was to him. He said he and Uncle Hutch were like two halves that complemented each other. I never knew what he meant until I got older and Uncle Hutch came back. Soon’s I saw the way the two of them acted together, I understood.”

Michelle nodded and continued stirring the spaghetti sauce Trini had started that morning. Who would have known the day would take the horrible twists it had, and only three people would be sitting down to a solemn meal that should have been one filled with laughter?

Marcus drained the noodles when they were done, then looked to Michelle again, “I think Trini feels the same way about Uncle Hutch, too. I mean the same as Dad. I heard her tell Mom she felt her soul had found it’s mate when she fell in love with Uncle Hutch.”

Marcus helped the still silent Michelle pour the spaghetti sauce onto the noodles then asked, “Do you think part of Trini will die if Uncle Hutch does? I mean… do you think part of the soul dies if you love someone that much?”

Michelle felt the pain, worry, and fear Marcus felt, but she couldn’t really give any answers that’d soothe. Michelle again shot for honesty.

“Marcus, I don’t know how to answer or what to say. I think when we all fall in love… the real stuff, not the fairy tale crap… our hearts and souls lay naked and vulnerable. We can only hope and pray the people we love care about us enough to put part of theirs with ours… to give it the care it needs to keep it whole and safe. I know it don’t help, but I’m just tellin’ you what I know. I also know if Angie died, part of me’d go, too.”

Sadly, Marcus wiped away the tear that they both pretended not to see as he turned away to call James in for dinner. Stopping at the French doors leading out onto the patio, Marcus stated, “Some of my Dad would die, too.”

~~~

It’d been several long hours, and Candita and Angie kept calling Michelle with progress reports as they’d become available. James and Marcus were helping so much by keeping Michael occupied that Michelle could only sit and wait for the phone to ring. And ring it did… only this time it wasn’t who Michelle expected.

“Hello?”

“Hello, Michelle. Are my boys doin’ alright with Michael? They’re not causing trouble for you, right?”

“David, they’re good kids. Don’t worry, we’ve got this end covered.” She waited a moment, then spoke when Starsky didn’t, “You have to get away for a minute?”

“Yeah. I can’t stand watchin’ Trini. She’s… I dunno. Lost. Yeah, I guess that’s it… lost. Even in a room filled with people who love her.” He sighed, “I wanna thank you for takin’ care of Michael. Trini’s in no shape to see her boy right now.”

Michelle nodded, “I guess I’d be the same way. You hear any more on Ken?”

“Not really. Leg’s gonna kill him and be a bitch to walk on. He’s gonna need a P.T. and lots of help when he first gets home. Huggy already set everything up. Got him his own hospital bed, walker, nurses… you know, everything that’ll piss Hutch off royally.”

Michelle laughed a little, she could already hear that blond with the short fuse ranting about how all the stuff irritated him and was unnecessary. At least, she hoped she’d get to hear him yelling again. They hadn’t started out none too good, but they’d become strong friends soon after.

“David, you need anything…”

Starsky cut her off, “Thanks. Hey, I see the doctor… gotta go.”

Michelle never even had a chance to say a farewell Starsky hung up so fast. Looking at the two guest rooms downstairs that shared a large full-size bath, Michelle had a stroke of genius.

“Hey gang,” all three boys looked at her, “what say we get this place fixed up so Ken can come home soon. Let’s clear out these rooms.” Michelle rightly figured Hutch wouldn’t be able to climb the stairs to the master bedroom when he was released. The downstairs rooms would need to be used.

Eager for distraction, all three boys followed her out to get boxes from the garage that Trini’d saved from moving in.

~~~

Leslie was growing more and more worried about Trini. So far, she’d only seen her niece drink coffee when it was put into her hand, stare blankly at everyone unless it was the doctor {then she looked up with rapt attention} or politely excuse herself to go vomit. There was nothing left in Trini’s stomach, yet the dry heaves didn’t seem to want to leave her alone.

Leslie was grateful Candita had brought the toothbrushes and the clean clothes for Trini and Starsky that were much needed. Angie’d gone into the bathroom after Trini to check on her. Hearing Trini dry heaving again, Angie had turned to go and noticed that Trini hadn’t even picked her outfit with the bloody patches off the floor once she’d taken it off. Angie told Leslie who saved it from being tossed or stolen when she put it into the bag Trini’s clean clothes had come from. Maybe everything would be O.K. and Trini’d want the outfit cleaned for later. If not… well, Leslie just refused to think that way.

Trini came back out of the bathroom again in time to see the doctor enter the waiting room. Her knees buckled a little and she had to use the door as support. The throwing up, not eating, and the stress was quickly taking hold. The doctor knew it and went to where Trini stood to talk to her. Starsky rose as well and moved to his niece’s side to offer both physical and emotional support.

“Mrs. Hutchinson. I’m sorry it’s been so long between reports. I apologize for any undue worry. Your husband is being moved to a ‘step down’ unit beside I.C.U. for observation right now. He’s not bad enough to be ‘critical’ so that’s already a good sign.”

Starsky felt Trini start to shake and sob quietly and pulled her closer to him. For the first time all day, she responded to his touch by laying her head against his.

“We’ll be keeping your husband there for at least 48 hours. The emergency nurses are right there, and there’s more staff. I want him watched for signs of internal bleeding, fever, and to keep an eye on that nasty crack he took to his head. Good luck willing, he’ll be fine and ready to go down to the 3rd floor with a regular nursing staff by then. I think he’s going to be fine, but his tailbone is horribly bruised and swollen, and that leg surgery was like him getting a hip replacement and having broken bones puzzle pieced back into place. Expect him to be groggy, sore, and testy.”

Huggy smiled and thought to himself, Hell, he’s already sore and testy! We can live with the groggy for a while!

Trini nodded and wiped what was left of her mascara away, “When can we see him?”

Looking at the small crowd of people, the doctor shook his head and smiled a little, “You can go in. He doesn’t even have enough room for this many loved ones in there.”

Trini looked a little panicked at going without Starsky, and grabbed her uncle’s hand tightly to her chest. The doctor noticed and silently cursed his own stupidity then winked at Starsky.

“Of course Mr. Hutchinson’s ‘half -brother’ will be allowed in. I’ll set it up with the nurses, then I’ll be back to escort you two up.”

As the doctor turned to go, Starsky reached out to the man and caught his arm gently, “Thanks doc.”

The sincerity in Starsky’s eyes and the way Trini seemed to have come back to life was all the thanks the doctor needed. Still, when someone verbalized their thanks, it was wonderful to hear.

“You’re all very welcome. I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

~~~

Somehow, Trini managed to walk to the elevator with her uncle and the doctor. She didn’t remember how, but Trini knew she’d made it to the room her husband lay sedated in. The thought of her husband who was normally so full of life hooked up with tubes and wires and covered with bandages… it was almost too much for Trini and she slowed to a stop at the door. Starsky looked down at her and stopped, too.

“Trini, it’s O.K…. he’s alive, Jewel.”

Nodding, Trini followed the doctor inside, using her uncle’s arm as her constant support. When Trini caught her first glimpse of Hutch, Starsky felt her stop and take in a small gasp. No amount of “preparing” her would have helped either. Gently pulling away from her uncle, Trini moved to the end of Hutch’s bed to look down on her husband. Starsky stayed where he was knowing Trini needed to be touching Hutch and looking at him to truly believe he was still alive.

They’d both forgotten the doctor until he spoke, “I believe it looks worse than it is. It always does. As long as he heals up O.K. and no other complications arise…”

Trini merely nodded as the doctor turned to go. Stopping at Starsky he whispered, “You stop by the Pharmacy downstairs when you’re done. I already ordered her something for her nerves and some sleeping pills. You don’t know of any allergies, do you? I saw Mr. Hutchinson is allergic to any Morphine or it’s derivatives…”

“No, she doesn’t have any allergies. Thanks for thinking of her.”

The doctor nodded once then slipped silently from the room before seeing Starsky grin to himself.

 “Allergy” to Morphine, my ass.

Starsky took a moment to thank the doctor Hutch had felt comfortable enough with in Colorado to explain his “allergy” to. The doctor had been set to retire {and didn’t care who believed it anyhow} so he’d put the fake allergy in Hutch’s files years before. Starsky was very grateful to a man he’d never even met for taking care of his buddy… even though the doctor wasn’t there. Starsky knew he’d been too grief stricken to mention it, so Trini must’ve been as well. Again, Starsky offered up quiet thanks to that doctor in Colorado. Whoever, and wherever, he was.

With shaking hands, Trini moved to Hutch’s right side and lifted up the light blanket covering him. She wasn’t sure what she’d expected to see, but all she saw was a lot of gauze and bandages with traces of Betadine here and there. No casting had been done… just a lot of wiring. Maybe she’d wanted to see for herself the horrible thing that was gonna hurt her husband so bad, but she was denied access to his scars and stitches by the heavy layer of white.

Reaching out a tender hand, Trini brushed the stray hairs off Hutch’s head and looked at the bruise there. He must’ve cut his left eyebrow when he fell since it was taped with “butterfly” tape. Wrinkling up her forehead, Trini tried to remember if she’d seen the cut before, then she realized it really didn’t matter. There was so much more to worry about than that insignificant taped wound.

Gently holding Hutch’s hand in hers, Trini kissed it and held it to her chest before whispering, “Hey. What am I supposed to do, huh? You’re the smart one… not me. Am I supposed to kiss you to wake you up like my very own ‘Sleeping Beauty’ or should I just keep praying?”

Trini wiped at her eyes then reached for the tissue box by Hutch’s bed. She wiped her eyes again, then slowly leaned over to lay her head on Hutch’s chest. Sighing happily at the steady rhythm she heard there, Trini kissed the hospital gown that covered his chest before sitting back up.

“Hutch, can you hear me in there? I hope so, Sweetie, ‘cuz I gotta make sure you know this, O.K.? I love you, Kenneth Richard Hutchinson, and I expect us to spend a whole lot more time with each other. You don’t die on me. I mean it.” Trini kissed her husband’s unresponsive lips before rising, “Ken, I gotta go check on Michael now, but I’ll be right back, Honey. Please get better while I’m gone, O.K.?”

Starsky had been momentarily thinking Trini was seeming better. She was finally responding and talking, and she seemed to understand Hutch’s chances were pretty damn good.

Yet, when his niece gently laid Hutch’s hand down then backed away from the bed… staring at Hutch until she backed into a wall… Starsky knew they were right back where they’d started hours ago. Trini’s back touched the wall and she seemed to crumble into herself as she slid down to the floor. Trini never took her eyes off Hutch until she covered her face in a vain attempt to quiet the newly started sobbing.

Hurriedly dropping to the floor by Trini, Starsky gathered her into his arms and cried with her. The tears he shed weren’t just for his niece.

~~~

Groggily, Trini awoke and stumbled out of bed to shower. Turning on a lukewarm shower and stepping in, Trini turned it colder as her body got used to the temperature. Those damn sleeping pills her uncle had made her take had done their job, but today Trini was feeling like she was hungover and that would never do. She wanted to put on her very best face for her husband… just in case he woke up long enough to notice her there.

Hurriedly dressing, Trini smiled at her first thoughts this morning when she’d rushed in to check on Michael. His bed was empty, but there was a note laying beside it in her aunt’s pretty lettering.

 Trini, I took Michael with me so you could sleep. The boys and I will be back soon. Went shopping for dinner. Your uncle is already at the hospital. Drive carefully. Les.

The “drive carefully” part made Trini smile. Her aunt knew she’d drive like a wild woman to get to her husband trapped in that stupid hospital.

After quickly dressing, Trini stopped downstairs long enough to grab an instant breakfast drink out of the pantry, Trini guzzled it down without even tasting it. A very un-ladylike belch escaped. Trini smiled… that always drove Hutch crazy when she outbelched him. He said it was just one more shred of proof that Starsky didn’t raise her right. Still smiling in memory, Trini ran out the front door to see her husband.

~~~

Elevators always seem to take their sweet time when you’re in a hurry, and the hospital elevator Trini’d picked was moving like molasses in winter. Or maybe it just seemed that way because she was in such a hurry.

Finally reaching the seventh floor, Trini fidgeted at the doors as she impatiently waited for them to open.

Slowly, the doors parted enough for Trini to turn sideways and slide through them. It must have looked comical since Huggy was laughing heartily at her from his viewpoint just outside the doors. Trini smiled sheepishly and hastily gave her friend a warm embrace.

“Well, ‘hello’ to you, too. What did I do to deserve such affection from my two best friends’ best little girl?”

“Thanks for tryin’ to keep me sane last night, Huggy. You guys are the best family I could have ever asked for.”

Returning her embrace, Huggy replied, “Little ex- Miss Starsky, how could I have done anything different? Your mean ‘ole ‘Blondie’ ever got wind I didn’t take good care of you while he was scraped up… whooie. I hate to think of the grousin’ I’d have to hear the rest of my… hopefully… long life.”

Trini smiled up at Huggy and started to turn away, but he caught her arm.

“Uh, Starsky asked me to keep ‘ya out here if you came up. Hutch is kinda… well, messy. Let them get it all straightened out, O.K.?”

What little color had returned to Trini’s face quickly faded at Huggy’s words. Reluctantly, she let herself be led to a chair in a waiting room.

Letting her head drop tiredly into her hands, Trini questioned, “What happened?”

Huggy shook his head, “Somethin’ didn’t ‘settle’ with our Viking friend. Coulda’ been the anesthetic… maybe the shots since they didn’t give him a Morphine drip… who can tell? He’s gonna be fine though, just fine.”

Hoping it was all true, Trini tried to believe their friend while they waited.

After only a few moments, Starsky came to see if Trini had arrived. Seeing she had, he moved to readily accept the embrace Trini was offering him. Starsky was glad to see Trini looking more alive and responsive today. Even if she did look pale.

“Morning, Jewel. Go in and see that mean old man of yours. He’s gonna be meaner than before, so enjoy his sedated state while you can. I know I am.”

Trini blew both men a quick kiss before hurriedly rushing off to her husband’s side.

Stopping outside Hutch’s door, Trini nervously reached up to fluff her hair. Smiling at herself, Trini realized she was “primping” like she was going on a blind date. Dropping her hands, Trini straightened up… took a deep breath… and pasted on a huge smile as she pushed the door open to Hutch’s room.

Once inside, Trini could barely see Hutch as he lay in his bed. For some reason, not a light was on and the blinds were tightly shut against any outside light. Hutch’s room smelled of vomit and something else Trini didn’t want to determine. Trini didn’t like this at all. Moving to the window, she reached to let some fresh air… and possibly some light in… when Hutch’s groggy voice stopped her.

“Don’t. I said I didn’t want any light in here.”

Startled, Trini stopped and turned to face her husband across the darkened room. She didn’t like the way he sounded. Hutch seemed angry, and Trini didn’t like the way he wasn’t uncovering his eyes to even look at her. She decided to change that.

“Oh, I’m sorry Mr. Hutchinson. Your wife thought it’d be alright.”

Hutch’s arm flew off his eyes and he smiled at the sound of Trini’s voice. That was all the encouragement Trini needed to hurry to Hutch’s side.

Groggily, Hutch reached out to hug out Trini with his arm, “Hello. I missed waking up beside you.”

Trini kissed him then laughed, “Did not. I bet you were snorin’ away, happy as a clam.”

“Yeah, ’til this morning when I got a rude awakening.”

Not wanting to embarrass her husband, Trini decided not ask for specifics and instead moved to comfort him in a loving embrace.

“I’m sorry the day started off so poorly, Honey. Just think about how good being home will feel, and we’ll get you there as quick as possible.”

Hutch tried to agree, but was already nodding off from the new set of shots. He slurred his words a little, “Thanks for tryin’… you saved my life, you know…”

Hutch said something else, but Trini couldn’t make out what. It made her happy that Hutch knew she’d at least tried to help. Still, she was worried. Why had he gotten ill? Was he supposed to be this groggy? Was he out of danger yet?

Slowly moving away from her already sleeping husband, Trini went off in search of a doctor.

~~~

“So what your telling me is that my husband is going to be here longer than you originally thought. Is that it? Or, are you telling me he’s never going to come home at all? Does he know any of this, or is he too ‘dopey’ to comprehend?”

Trini knew she was yelling. She knew it for a fact, but she couldn’t control the volume in her voice that was based on the rising sense of fear and panic in her. Flying up out of her chair, Trini paced the office floor of the doctor who’d worked on her husband… a Dr. Malloy according to the nameplate on his desk. She hadn’t really been listening to him any of the times he’d introduced himself.

“Mrs. Hutchinson, I apologize if I gave you any false hope of a speedy recovery last night. If I did, I’m so sorry. I still stick by my statements of yesterday… I believe you husband will eventually break through all this and be back to normal with the therapy. Eventually. And yes, I tried to talk to him, but he is too drugged.”

Starsky knew Trini was seconds away from a full blown explosion, and nodded to the doctor, “I believe I’m gonna buy my niece some lunch, Doc. Thanks for your time.”

Dejected, the doctor tried to get Trini to understand. He’d dreaded giving her the bad news, but felt it would eventually all work out. He tried again to explain to Trini, “Mrs. Hutchinson…”

Trini held a hand up, “I got it. He may or may not get all the sensation back in his legs. The swelling on his spine may or may not be causing the problem… we have to wait and see. He is having a mild reaction to the shots and may or may not continue to be ill. I got it. Now, I’m going.”

Grabbing her purse, Trini was gone before Starsky could rise and join her. Sighing heavily, Starsky stood and shook hands with the doctor before offering an explanation he hoped worked as an apology as well, “She just thinks the world of him. He’s been my best friend for over 30 years… he’s more to all of us than just her husband.”

It was something the doctor seemed to understand, “He’s a lucky man to have so many people love him so much. She can’t help but feel hostile. I don’t take it personally. Feel free to call on me anytime of the day or night, Mr. Starsky.”

Starsky thanked the man, then set off in search of his niece. He correctly guessed she’d be in Hutch’s room standing “guard” at the end of her husband’s bed.

Placing an arm around Trini’s shoulders as she stared down at her sleeping spouse, Starsky pulled her to him and whispered, “He’s gonna live, Jewel. That’s something we can all be thankful for.”

Trini shook her head and a quiet sob accompanied her whispered words, “It won’t be enough for him, and you know it.”

 Terrific, Starsky thought, she’s worried about the same thing I am. How the hell am I supposed to pull her through this? How am I supposed to pull Hutch through this if he can’t walk? Starsky sighed to himself, How do I pull me through?

~~~

Hutch awoke the next morning in pain. He quickly buzzed for a nurse since he knew they’d give him a magic shot to make it all go away, and Starsky had already told him they’d read his files. No morphine. He was safe from that hell on Earth again.

Hutch’s door pushed open and he heard the same voice he’d heard for the last four mornings.

“Morning, Mr. Hutchinson.”

The scratchy voice of nurse Hennings made him wince a little. Dear woman, but she sounded like she smoked a carton of cheap cigars a day… smelled like it, too.

“Dr. Malloy wants to see you before I administer any meds. I already paged him when you buzzed me. You hungry?”

Hutch shook his head, “Not really. I’m more hurt than hungry.”

The nurse nodded sympathetically, “Well, we’ll see if we can’t get you better in a hurry… deal?”

“Thanks. And if my back ever stops hurting I may take you up on the offer of food.”

The door opened then, and Hutch saw it was the doctor he’d spoken to yesterday. Nurse Hennings was already done with Hutch’s vitals and handed them to the doctor as she walked out.

“Mr. Hutchinson,” the doctor started, “I don’t know if you remember me… I’m Dr. Malloy. I treated you in the E.R. and I was here yesterday.”

Hutch nodded, “I remember. How are you?”

Laughing, the doctor pulled a chair over to the end of Hutch’s bed, “I should be asking you that, but I’m fine, thanks. Tell me, how’d you sleep last night, Mr. Hutchinson?”

“Hutch. Everyone calls me Hutch… my father was Mr. Hutchinson.”

The doctor laughed again, “Alright. Hutch… how’d you sleep?”

Hutch shrugged, “Bad, I think. My back hurt, my leg throbbed so bad I thought I could see it pounding through my skin, and I felt awfully sweaty. Even after the nurse turned the heat down.”

Wrinkling his brow, Dr. Malloy re-read Hutch’s vitals, “Sweaty, huh? Well, you are running a low grade fever… to be expected, though. How’s the pain? Tolerable?”

Hutch shrugged, “It feels tolerable with the shots.”

The doctor smiled, “Honesty… I like it. How’s your legs?”

Looking down, Hutch regarded his legs somewhat strangely. He been so “doped” up most of the time that he hadn’t thought about getting out of bed. Plus, he had a catheter in, and had only wanted liquids so far. He hadn’t needed to get out of bed for any reason so far, and until now hadn’t really made note of the numbness and lack of feeling he had in his legs. Frowning, Hutch didn’t answer, but looked back up to make eye contact with the doctor.

Patiently, Dr. Malloy asked, “Hutch, do you feel your legs? So far, you were so sedated that we couldn’t really get a straight answer out of you.”

Rubbing his hand against his left thigh, Hutch answered, “Kinda. It’s like they’re asleep and need to get the circulation back.”

The doctor nodded and lifted the sheet to examine Hutch’s feet. Gently pushing against the ball of Hutch’s right foot, Dr. Malloy asked, “Can you push back? Like you’d push against a gas pedal? Gently, though. You just had a major surgery on that side.”

Using all the strength he had in his weakened leg muscle, Hutch barely made his foot move. Instantly, panic mixed with pain and anger crossed over Hutch’s face as he tried to move his left leg. With almost the same results.

Dr. Malloy set Hutch’s foot back down and recovered it with the sheet before saying, “It’s O.K. Hutch. I believe it’s only a temporary setback due to the hit on the spine. It’s swollen and bruised so we need to wait..”

Cutting him off, Hutch brusquely asked, “What’s this ‘we’ you mentioned? I believe you mean my wife and I are stuck waiting it out… isn’t that what you really meant, doctor?”

Sighing, Dr. Malloy nodded, “Of course I’ll be with you every bit of the way, Hutch. I truly believe once the swelling goes down…”

“When can I get out of here?”

The doctor tried to measure the days in a reasonable way for Hutch, “I can’t give you an exact date. You haven’t shown any signs of head trauma, you’re responsive but you’re still very dependent on medicine to control your pain, and your legs worry me. I guess I can’t give you an exact time frame. I want to see some more improvement before I cut you loose, Hutch. Plus, especially with the lack of mobility in your legs, you’re gonna need to start physical therapy as soon as I can schedule it for you.”

Falling back heavily against his pillow, Hutch sighed, “Does my wife know?”

“I explained that I thought you would eventually regain full mobility…”

“So you told her that… for now… I’m a complete cripple who’ll burden her life. Oh yeah, and hopefully it won’t last. Did you also inform her you hoped she wouldn’t be wanting any more children… from me at least… if all of this doesn’t come out all ‘sunny side up’?”

“None of us know how long this will last, Hutch. Give it some time…”

Blocking out the doctor by throwing an arm over his eyes, Hutch ended the conversation, “Can I have a shot and some juice now? Are you done trying to cheer me up?”

~~~

Starsky watched Trini as they all dined together in the hospital cafeteria. She merely picked at the salad in front of her, then made a big show of having to feed Michael instead.

Starsky snorted a little and thought to himself, Anything to avoid throwing up again, huh?

Trini was already so pale and thin looking, and Hutch still had a long way to go. Starsky knew his niece was already getting run down with spending time at the hospital, taking care of Michael, and dropping in at work. Trini looked like hell and it’d only been 2 weeks.

And, Hutch wasn’t exactly helping any.

The only person Hutch ever seemed happy to see was Michael and he barely seemed to tolerate everyone else. Especially Trini. Hutch had been anything but nice to her, and Starsky was getting fed up with the anger and crankiness Hutch’d been so generously sending Trini’s way. Starsky could take Hutch’s cranky ass ways. Trini suffered.

 Today, Starsky decided, Today, right after his P.T. session, I’m gonna have a long talk with Hutch about the way he takes shit out on the ones he’s supposed to love. I just gotta get him alone for a few minutes.

Seemingly reading his great-uncle’s mind, Michael pushed his bowl off the edge of the table and rubbed his eyes. Trini tiredly bent to pick up the bowl and apologized to everyone else at the table, “He’s getting tired and bored. I guess I’ll take him home and get him a nap.”

Huggy saw the strain Trini was living with in every movement of her weary body and the dark smudges under her eyes. He was worried and “Blondie” was starting to piss him off with his downright nasty attitude. Seeing no reason to go back up and tolerate “The Hutchinson Wrath,” Huggy tapped Candita on the leg and nodded to Trini. Candita understood.

“Trini, can we drive you an’ Michael home? I got a roast in the oven for all of us tonight an’ I need a check on it.”

Gratefully, Trini accepted their offer. “Thanks guys. I think I’m too tired to drive today for some reason.”

Leslie narrowed her eyes at Starsky as she stood up to join her departing friends. Leaning down, Leslie whispered hotly into her husband’s ear, “You’d better have a chat with him today, or I will.”

Leslie didn’t have to clarify on who the “him” was that needed talking to. Starsky knew his wife wasn’t directing the anger at him, but she was fed up with watching Trini’s deterioration as well.

After goodbyes were said, Starsky rushed back upstairs to talk to the man only he seemed to be able to deal with right now.

 

CHAPTER 8

Starsky dropped the paper Hutch had given him to read back on the bed without finishing it, and walked to silently stare out Hutch’s hospital room window. He was still concentrating on what to say to his best friend and controlling his temper when Hutch spoke up.

“You’d rather I have a complete stranger give it to her, Starsk? I can do that, but I was just trying to be fair. I’ve already caused her enough pain.”

Starsky spun back to face his friend and angrily spat out, “Oh, and this will help her? What the hell are you thinking? I won’t do your dirty work for you. You want out of this marriage… you tell her.”

Hutch rubbed his hands over his tired and bloodshot eyes. He’d cried more tears than he cared to remember over this decision, but he knew it’d be best for Trini. Pointing to his waist, Hutch told Starsky, “Nothing works right from here down. Trini’s way too young to be playing celibate nursemaid to her old… I stress old… man. She deserves better than this, Starsk.”

“So your answer to all this is to treat her like shit and dump her? Come on Hutch… she loves you and you’re slowly killing her.”

Sighing sadly, Hutch told his friend, “That’s what I’m trying not to do, Starsk.” Picking the paper back up, Hutch held it in Starsky’s direction, “Come on. Help me out here. I can’t serve her.”

Grabbing the paper roughly out of Hutch’s hand, Starsky stormed to the door then stopped. Without ever turning back to look at Hutch, Starsky angrily asked, “Can’t or won’t?”

Hutch’s tears came swiftly again as he heard Starsky leave.

~~~

Holding Trini while she cried and tore up the divorce papers Hutch had made him deliver made Starsky madder by the minute. Well, maybe it wasn’t just anger he felt, either. Starsky thought these two were perfect together even when they were in the midst of a “Hutchinson blowup.” He just couldn’t believe what was happening between Trini and Hutch… of all the marriages of Hutch’s he thought would work, this one was definitely the one. Starsky hadn’t felt this kind of disillusionment since that day so long ago when he and Hutch had set off in search of “Uncle Elmo’s Toy Shop” only to find it’d become “Uncle Elmo’s Sex Toy Shop.”

“That selfish bastard,” Trini sniffled, “why isn’t he thinking of Michael? What the hell does he think all this has done to his son? Well, I’ve got news for Mr. Ken Hutchinson, he will return to this house tomorrow and I will assist him in his recovery. When he can walk out of here on his own… he can go. Not a moment before. He’ll be here where his son can see him and…”

Starsky pulled her to him as she started crying again, “Trini, I’m so sorry. He loves you… he just thinks he’s doing you some sort of ridiculous favor by leaving you. He made me promise, but… I think you oughta know… well, he’s…”

“He thinks the ‘ole Hutchinson rod’ is out of commission permanently and he thinks I’m only after his gorgeous body. I already got wind of all this… I was a Detective, too.” Trini sniffled again. “He’s an insecure asshole sometimes.”

For the first time in too many days, both people laughed.

With great merriment in his voice, Starsky nodded, “Yeah. That man can be a complete ass sometimes, but I love him. I know you do too, Trini. And, in Hutch’s anal… yet loving way… he thinks he’s doing ‘the right thing’ here. I’m glad you’re not going down without a fight for two reasons: One… Hutch is gonna be pissed his little ‘escape plan’ didn’t work. And, two… I know that curly little head of yours is already working on a plan I’m gonna enjoy. Isn’t it?”

Trini’s eyes glowed with happiness, and Starsky knew he’d been right when Trini asked, “Nobody else knows, right?”

Starsky made his charming little boy pout, “Jewel… have you lost all faith in your beloved uncle? It’s you, me, and the Blintz.”

Trini nodded, “Good. I gotta get moving then.”

Starsky laughed as his niece ran upstairs to her room to do heaven only knew what.

~~~

After tucking in Michael, Trini quickly dressed in her black jeans and a black turtleneck sweater before going downstairs to say goodbye to Starsky.

“Thanks for watching Michael, David. I’ll be back soon. I just gotta meet Simmons at the Emergency Room entrance then he’s gonna sneak me upstairs. He was sweet enough to offer me a way to see my husband after hours, so I took him up on it.”

Looking her over, Starsky asked, “All black? You’re not on a secret mission, you know.”

“Yeah, well, I know my husband, and if I can sneak in under his radar it’ll be that much safer. He’d probably start screaming ‘thief’ just to get out of talking to me. Asshole.”

Leslie returned to the front room at that moment to watch TV with her husband while Trini was gone. Starsky and Trini were both laughing as Trini bent down to kiss him goodbye, “Thanks again,” she whispered.

Starsky winked, “Give him hell.”

“Count on it. Thanks, Les. I’ll be back soon.”

Leslie curled up to her smiling husband and after a moment said, “Obviously we who weren’t lucky enough to be born ‘Starsky’s’ aren’t in on this, but I have to say… whatever’s going on, Hutch better hold on to his ass. That little girl’s gonna rock his world.”

Looking down at his wife, Starsky laughed heartily, “Yeah, if he wasn’t being such a jerk…”

“Asshole.”

“Alright… asshole… I’d almost feel sorry for him.”

Leslie shook her head, “He’s asking for it, though. I woulda killed you by now.”

~~~

Trini met Simmons at their predetermined spot at the back of the E.R. entrance. Trini approached him and quietly whispered, “Thanks, Simmons. I owe you one.”

Smiling, Simmons whispered back, “Well, I may call in my marker sometime, but for now I figured you saved that man’s life ‘cuz you’re kinda fond of him. Maybe I’ll get a couple ‘Brownie points’ with the man upstairs for doing a good deed today. Better Karma… stuff like that.”

Trini started to laugh then quickly stopped and looked around. But, they were still unnoticed… nobody else was outside since it was getting cold and because of the hour. Simmons nodded to a side door and Trini followed in silence until they were safely in the elevator used by employees only.

Simmons turned to Trini and spoke quickly, “You are gonna owe me… I forgot that tonight is Ruby’s night on desk duty. Crazy chick… got a thing for anything in uniform.” Simmons shivered a little, “She’s been around, too. Anyhow, she likes me. I’ll distract her… you get down the hall. I’ll be your cover when you need out, too. Just come out of his room and wait down in laundry… I’ll come find you and we’ll take the other elevator by the bathrooms. That way I can escape with you.”

Trini kissed Simmons lightly on the cheek, “Big time ‘Brownie points’… thanks.”

~~~

Quickly noting that Simmons had the deck nurse’s full attention, Trini hurried to Hutch’s room. She listened at the door for a moment and feeling it was safe, quietly slipped in.

For just a moment, Trini almost lost her nerve.

Wiping away the tears that were threatening to start anew, Trini chastised herself.

 Come on girl! You wanna keep this lummox, you gotta fight for him! He’s the one. Just be strong. Take a deep breath and go get him.

Listening to herself giving a pep talk was easy… making her feet move was another.

Drawing in a shaky breath, Trini started to Hutch’s bed where he lay sleeping. Looking down at Hutch’s sleep tousled hair and his peaceful expression made Trini even more determined to keep him.

 Look at him… how can I not wake up next to that the rest of my life? It’d kill me to lose him. O.K., here goes… deep breath… GO!

Trini’s hand was almost on Hutch’s arm to wake him when he jolted awake on his own, and sleepily looked up at his wife. Hutch almost smiled, then realized he was supposed to want out of this marriage, and frowned instead.

Trini held up a hand to silence him and whispered, “Don’t be a creep and buzz for somebody… I got some rights when I married you and you’re gonna listen to me for a minute.”

Hutch contemplated for a moment, then gave Trini one short nod.

Praying for strength, Trini hotly whispered, “You can have your divorce, Hutchinson, but we gotta lay down a few ground rules here. Maybe you weren’t listening to our wedding vows, but I was. Maybe you’ve said them so much they don’t mean shit to you, but…” Trini swallowed and willed herself not to cry as she quickly pushed ahead, “those vows meant something to me, Buster. I will not… don’t try and interrupt me or I’ll pull out something painfully hard and I won’t care… that’s better. Where was I? Oh, I will not let you walk out of this marriage like this. ‘Richer, poorer, sickness, health’… any of that ring a bell? Well, this is how it goes: I have already got nurses, P.T.’s, a hospital bed, and all the things you need for your recovery lined up. Your son… our son… is waiting for you to be with him, Hutchinson. You will not deny our child your presence and time. You will recover in that place I used to like to call home. You will be where your son can have plenty of access to you. You can give me a year, Ken Hutchinson. You owe me that much time to get our wills changed, split up the business, sell the house, etc. etc. etc. One year, Ken, then you can do as you damned well please while you make a grand new start on your own.”

Trini drew in a shaky breath to calm herself, then moved to sit down next to Hutch on his bed being very careful not to make any physical contact with him. Leaning forward so that their faces were mere inches apart, Trini softly whispered, “When the year is over, if I haven’t been able to change your heart, well… I suppose that’s it.”

Trini leaned down even further to whisper in Hutch’s ear and this time made sure her breasts were resting on him.

“One year for you to recover and get it worked out, O.K.? I want to at least look like I tried and didn’t walk away when you were hurt. Will you give me the year, Hutchinson?”

Hutch could only nod.

Slowly, Trini started to sit back up then stopped and stared at Hutch’s handsome face. She almost smiled, she was so proud of herself. Hutch certainly looked confused and she liked it that way. Deciding to make his decision to leave a little harder, Trini gently cupped Hutch’s face in her hands and bent to kiss him. Trini was relieved when he didn’t push her away, and took it as encouragement. She took full advantage of the moment.

 Must be some spark left there, Trini! Fuel the flame! Make him want you enough to get over his stupidity!

Again heeding her own advice, Trini tentatively pressed her trembling lips to Hutch’s. Try as he might, Hutch couldn’t remain passive when Trini traced his lips with her tongue. Hutch reached up to pull Trini closer as their kiss deepened, but she moved away. Shaking her head sadly, Trini got up and backed away from her husband.

Still backing away, Trini whispered, “You give me the year. I’ll prove to you I’m not some ‘fair weather’ friend who’ll leave you in times of trouble.” Trini turned to go, then quietly called out, “See you in the morning, Hutchinson.”

The door shut behind Trini and Hutch found himself alone in the darkness again. Quizzically staring at the door his wife had disappeared behind, Hutch reached up and touched his lips where Trini’d just kissed him. Lifting the side of his hospital gown where Trini’d made contact with him Hutch could smell the perfume he’d bought her only four short months before. The smell brought back memories of that day, and Hutch had to smile at the thoughts as they came to him.

~~~

“Oh my God, you are gonna pay for that! I don’t love you any more, you shit!”

Trini had just tried on a hat as they’d been walking with Michael through the mall, and Hutch had said it would’ve looked better on Angie. Then, to add to his playing torment, he’d bought the damn thing and had it wrapped saying he’d gotten it for Angie. Trini had grabbed Michael and pretended they were leaving Hutch. In reality, they’d hidden right outside the door so Michael could “scare” his Father when he came out.

With Trini gone for a minute, Hutch quickly turned to the salesclerk and asked for a bottle of Trini’s favorite perfume as well. Hastily paying, Hutch walked slowly outside so his son could do what he wanted to.

Hutch was barely through the door when Michael had jumped out and growled at him. Hutch’s scream of mock fear would have put any horror movie actress to shame. Not only was it shrill for a man, {especially a man with a deep voice like Hutch!} it was loud. Trini and Michael had both laughed so hard…

Hutch’s memories were so clear of his wife’s face that day. He could still see the way people had looked their way when they’d heard the scream, then laughed as they realized it was a Daddy and son thing. Hutch also remembered how his wife had smiled at him when they’d gotten to the car and Hutch had surprised her.

~~~

“Here ‘ex-wife lover’.” Trini’d handed Michael off to Hutch when they’d gotten back to their car. “Strap your son in so I can hurry around and leave you here.”

Trini’d smiled and walked to the drivers side as Hutch buckled their sleepy son into his seat. Once he was done, Hutch patted his jacket pocket and made sure Trini’s gift was there before he shut Michael’s door and moved to the passenger side. Hutch lifted the handle, but Trini had relocked all the doors and just sat smiling at him, shaking her head.

“I’m leaving you here. Remember, dear?”

Hutch pouted playfully and pointed to the window. Trini cracked it about an inch.

Hutch bent down and spoke into the small window space, “What if I come bearing gifts and promise to do something lewd to you when we get home?”

Trini’d quickly flipped the lock button and Hutch laughed as he climbed in, “You are a sucker for a dirty time.”

Reaching into his pocket, Hutch withdrew the perfume. Trini had smiled and leaned over to kiss her husband. Carefully opening the bottle, Hutch had dabbed a drop behind each of Trini’s ears, then leaned in to smell her, “Um, good enough to eat.”

Trini punched him lightly, “So you love me as much as Angie?”

“The hat was for you, dummy. I was teasing. You know I love you more than all my ex-wives and girlfriends… well, all my ex-wives put together.”

Laughing, Trini’d called him a shit again, then teased back, “Well, I’ll just have to try harder then so you don’t ever leave me, huh?”

Trini’d been joking that day, but it made Hutch feel even worse about what he’d set out to do. Hutch drywashed his face to try and clear the memories, but Trini’s smiles and Michael’s giggles just weren’t things his heart could ignore.

Hutch hoped his nurse wasn’t close by as he started talking to himself, “Hutchinson, you better be sure. I think maybe that girl loves you too much for her own good. And it kinda scares me, but she had a point… I need to see my son.”

Sighing heavily, Hutch dropped his head back onto his pillow and debated what to do. Wrinkling his brow in concentration, a thought occurred to Hutch… Trini’d made a point of not calling him “Hutch” even once. Obviously, she wasn’t sure of their ‘standing’ anymore and it made Hutch’s guilt play even harder at his already wounded soul.

~~~

Striding through the door marked “Outpatient Services,” Trini stopped at the desk her uncle had directed her to. Stopping outside the cubicle marked as Louise Marshall’s, Trini looked inside.

Trini questioned the woman inside, “Hi, you busy? My uncle said you might be expecting me. I’m Katrina Hutchinson.”

The pretty red-head smiled as she rose to extend a hand to shake Trini’s, “Oh my, you got his hair, didn’t you? It always looked nice on Dave, but on you it’s stunning. No perms in your life, huh?”

Smiling and shaking her head Trini tugged at a curl, “Sometimes these curls are a blessing, and sometimes…not.”

Louise laughed, “It’s a joy to meet you, Katrina. You have that smile I loved to see on Dave. Did he tell you how we know each other?”

Trini shrugged, “All I got from him was, and I’m quoting here, ‘An old friend who’ll love to torture Hutch’… endquote.”

Louise laughed, “That about sums it up! The man was always such a thorn in my side that it’ll be a pleasure to get to him for a change.”

Louise didn’t seem ready to elaborate on how Hutch tormented her, but Trini was worried this might not have been such a good idea. The thoughts must have played across her face because Louise laughed again and reached across to pat Trini’s hand.

“Honey, I love your husband. Righteous, pompous, arrogant, yet completely loveable Hutch. Don’t worry, I owe your husband and your uncle my little brother’s life. They took time out to find that boy, clean him up, and return him to me unscathed. Then the real ‘trauma’ began when baby bother got home and those two men never let him out of their sight. He never got in trouble again, but I had to put up with those two coming by almost every night and day to keep tabs for awhile there.” Winking, Louise leaned closer to Trini, “I liked the tormenting from those two. Who wouldn’t? Darn cute, those two.”

Trini already liked this woman who joked about what “problem children” Starsky and Hutch could be, even as they tried to save the world at the same time. That about summed them up properly.

“So, I take it you don’t actually hate my husband, but you’ll be willing to help me do what I need to.”

Louise laughed, “I adore your husband. That’s why I’m helping you, and not him. Your uncle explained it all to me and Hutch just isn’t thinking clear, honey. We’ll get him straightened out.”

Blushing, Trini looked down at her hands. She didn’t want word getting out that Hutch wanted a divorce. Louise’s next words told Trini that her uncle hadn’t “betrayed” her by revealing her secrets.

“How could Hutch believe a girl that loves him as much as you obviously do, could possibly want to divorce him? He just isn’t seeing things clearly now, honey. Let’s get to work on this schedule and we’ll have him back to his usual know-it-all self real soon.”

Turning the papers so Trini could read them, Louise pointed to the names on the list, “I arranged it so only Frank or John would be available to give Hutch his massage therapy. I figure about one days worth of a full body massage from a man oughta have him begging for you to take over. He may not even let one of them lay a finger on him, so are you ready?”

Trini nodded, “I think so. I’ve been going to the therapy sessions with my friend, Jeremy Simmons, and I’ve been learning a bunch. I think I can do it to my dear husband’s satisfaction.”

“I bet you can, Miss Katrina. He’ll be out of his mind with pleasure when you’re done with him.”

Trini looked a little doubtful, “I hope so. He’s so damn stubborn, though. He doesn’t want me helping him at all so…”

Louise cut her off, “Honey, he’s not gonna want my boys bathing, poking, rubbing, and dressing him. Trust me, he’ll be begging you to do most everything for him as soon as you get him home.”

Trini hoped Louise was right. Hutch was already being a pain in her ass and she hadn’t even checked him out of the hospital yet. When Trini’d gone up to see if Hutch was ready to leave, he’d dismissed he when he’d told her someone would find her after he’d been bathed and fed. Already, he was cranky and embarrassed by everything, and Trini only foretold the future of this “arrangement” as getting worse.

~~~

As the male nurse wheeled Hutch to their car, Trini could already tell he was in a shitty mood. Trini was glad she’d had to bring the car around to get away from her husband and his anger for a minute. Trini understood what was wrong, but she didn’t know how to make it better.

Hutch still couldn’t put much weight on his right leg and he was being sent home with a walker. Trini supposed if Hutch were younger he wouldn’t have cared so much, but he’d already made it quite clear to everyone in earshot exactly how he felt about the “old man’s equipment” he was taking home. Plus, he hated the baggy, elastic waist pants Trini had bought {figuring correctly they’d be easy for him to get on with minimal assistance} and the casual slip-on canvas shoes. The clothing had only brought up more hateful comments about his age and how he looked even older wearing the “sloppy shit.”

Sighing, Trini pulled up to the curb and jumped out to load the walker into the trunk, then she waited as Hutch was lifted from the mandatory wheelchair ride he’d been forced into.

Hutch’s face burned bright red as he was gently placed into the passengers seat. His nurse patted him companionably on the shoulder and said, “There you go, Mr. Hutchinson. No sense putting any stress or weight on the leg if we don’t have to.”

The nurse rose and winked at Trini, “I’m John, by the way. Louise said I might be seeing a lot of you two.”

Trini patted the man on the shoulder and tried to control her laughter before getting in the car next to her brooding husband. “Thanks. It’s nice to meet you. I’ll be calling you.”

The man waved and turned to go. Trini knew he’d made it seem necessary for Hutch to be lifted into the car just to play along. Hutch’d been so mad and ready to die… maybe he’d come running to her for help by dinner tomorrow. After all, Frank was showing up at 1:00 for Hutch’s strength training and a massage the next day.

Humming to herself, Trini decided maybe it’d all work out somehow.

~~~

Stopping at the grocery store, Trini turned to her still silent passenger, “You want anything special for dinner?”

Hutch grunted, “Yeah. Something I don’t have to digest and get rid of later.”

“That may prove difficult. You want fruit or anything?”

Hutch just shook his head and continued to stare out his window. Trini forced down a sigh and went inside.

Hitting the produce department anyhow for the fruits Hutch loved, Trini hoped they settled with his stomach well enough. She knew Hutch was still having a hard time getting to the bathroom on his own with the walker and he flatly refused a bedpan. The man was making it all so much harder than it had to be.

Stopping at the natural food section, Trini picked up plenty of Hutch’s favorites before hitting the chip aisle for her uncle. Moving quickly, Trini stocked up on food for Michael, and milk. Glancing down at the cart, Trini realized she hadn’t picked up anything for herself or for dinner. Not wanting to keep Hutch waiting any longer, Trini decided to order out. As for food for her… not much stayed down lately. Even with that nice little blue pill the doctor had given her to calm her stomach and nerves.

~~~

Trini honked the horn as she and Hutch pulled in the driveway. Starsky quickly came outside to help Trini unload the cranky patient with the wheelchair Huggy had so thoughtfully provided.

Hutch opened his door and gingerly turned his legs out. Wincing a little, he tried to stand up on his own, but found he didn’t have the strength to push himself up and out of the car. Dejected, he remained where he was.

Starsky pushed the wheelchair around as Trini made herself scarce and unloaded the groceries. They had planned it this way so Trini’d look busy and Starsky could offer Hutch all the assistance he needed without fear of embarrassment.

Slapping the wheelchair seat, Starsky smiled at Hutch, “Come on, Blintz. Lean over here so I can get you inside to that kid. He’s been dyin’ to watch a movie with you.”

Wordlessly, Hutch allowed Starsky to help him out of the car. Hutch’s leg was already hurting, but not as bad as his pride.

Cheerfully, Starsky smiled again, “Not so bad, huh? You ready?”

Hutch continued to stare downward, but nodded as Starsky pushed him forward.

At the front door, Hutch finally spoke.

“Starsk… thanks.”

Starsky knew it was all Hutch could do not to weep in frustration, and the simple words were plenty.

“Anytime, partner. Anytime.”

~~~

Hutch had placed himself very carefully {and with Starsky’s help} on the right side of the couch. Quickly putting pillows on his damaged right hip for even more protection, Hutch then called for his son to join him.

Michael squealed at the sound of his Daddy’s voice from the living room, and immediately ran in to curl up beside Hutch on the couch as Leslie put in a movie. Starsky came back in carrying drinks for everyone and the Starsky’s sat down to watch the movie… and help Hutch with Michael… while Trini called Huggy and asked him to pick up dinner.

“Huggy, it’s me. Can you guys pick up something for dinner on the way over? I’ll pay you when…”

“Katrina Starsky-Hutchinson, I don’t want no money from you! I want ‘ole Blondie to be back to his usual cranky self… not his extra-cranky self of late. I’ll be there promptly at 6:00 to serve “His Majesty” his nightly victual.”

Trini laughed and tried to thank Huggy, but he’d already hung up. Turning toward the living room, Trini felt her heart beat a little faster at the sight Michael and Hutch presented on the couch. Hutch actually looked happy, and Michael… well, Trini hadn’t been exaggerating when she’d made it clear to Hutch he needed to be with his son. In truth, Michael needed to be with Hutch.

For the moment, Trini was sure she’d made the right decision in “forcing” her husband to come home.

 

CHAPTER 9

The next morning, Michael took a nap while Hutch was led to the exercise room for his strength training. Frank had been pleased Trini had added everything they’d need for Hutch to exercise and stretch with. The woman had obviously been listening when Frank had given her direction. Frank liked that. Not only did the equipment make Frank’s job easier, it assured Trini that Hutch wouldn’t be leaving for his physical therapy.

Returning to the kitchen an hour later, Frank came in and accepted the glass of iced tea Trini offered him. Expectantly looking around Frank, Trini noticed her husband wasn’t trailing behind. On walker or by wheelchair.

Jerking a thumb over his shoulder, Frank told Trini, “He’s stubborn. Still at it. The man is determined, and that makes my job easier. He’s gonna be sore, though.”

Acknowledging Frank’s comments, Trini added, “He’s always been a fighter. He wants to walk without that walker very soon again, and he will. One way or the other.”

“He put a lot of walking time in with the bars already. Weights, too. You did a great job on all the stuff you put in. Thanks for listening. Not everyone does.”

“I always listen when it concerns Hutch.”

Frank nodded, “He’s a lucky man.”

Trini snorted, “Thanks. I hope he thinks so.”

Picking up an empty glass off the counter, Frank filled it full of tea and handed it to Trini, “Why don’t you go and find out?”

Trini smiled at Frank’s back as he departed into the bathroom. It was nice of the man to give them an opportunity for privacy. Trini hurried to the weight room with the glass of tea for Hutch, but once she got there she almost forgot the glass of tea.

Hutch was struggling to hold onto the walking beams with a pained and determined look, making Trini’s heart ache for him. There was perspiration beading up on Hutch’s forehead as he picked his right leg up, then set it down to move forward. He had to concentrate on every step, yet even Trini’s untrained eyes could see he was doing well. Trini stood back and waited until her husband reached the end of the beam and gratefully fell into his waiting wheel chair before calling out to him.

“Ken, I hear you’ve been playing nice with the other kids and I have a treat for you.”

Hutch smiled a little when his wife came in bearing the glass of tea. He readily accepted it, and drank most of it before he spoke.

“Thanks.”

“You’re welcome. You O.K.?”

Hutch shrugged, “I suppose so. It’d be easier if I was younger. I woulda bounced back better.”

Anger surfaced in Trini, but she knew she had to fight it down as she calmly informed her husband, “Do you really think so? You probably would have whined how the cane didn’t go with your image back then. I can’t see you being any happier with this at forty.”

Hutch just shrugged.

Trini sighed, “Ken, you’re doing so well they let you come home. Frank says you’re determined… like I didn’t know that… and you’re making his job easy. I don’t think this sounds like somebody not ‘bouncing back’ the way they should. If it matters or helps at all… I’m proud of you, and grateful everyday that you’re alive to be with us. Does that count for anything at all with you anymore, Ken?”

Slowly, Hutch reached out and placed a tired hand on Trini’s arm. “I’m sorry. Of course it still counts.” Hutch sighed and turned away from his wife. He couldn’t look into those eyes so filled with love and tell her this.

“Trini, I never meant to hurt you. I just don’t want you stuck with me like this. I’m not even a fully functional man… and I love you too much to keep you with me like this.”

Trini’s long silence finally made Hutch turn back to face her. Smiling, Trini reached out to touch him lightly on the chest, “Remember that story you told me about your model friend and the ‘Angel of Death’ or whatever in the hell he liked to be called… remember what you told her about real beauty? I don’t remember word for word what you said, but it was true. Real beauty comes from inside, Ken, and you’ve got that. No amount of scars, limps, or anything else could quell that beauty I’m in love with. Trust me, I don’t really care what you think is right or proper for me. I know what’s right. When the year is over, you will, too.”

Trini rose to go, and it almost killed her not to take Hutch in her arms and kiss him. She so wanted to comfort and hold him, but she needed him to be dying for it as much as she was for her plan to work. Making sure her “Starsky strut” was firmly in place, Trini walked away.

Hutch smiled at his wife’s departing wiggle as he watched it with great appreciation. Hutch let out a low whistle, then finished draining his glass of tea. It took him a moment to notice, but his body was waking up as he watched his wife and it caused a small stirring in him. Hutch was momentarily hopeful that it would become a full awakening again soon. Not just for him, but for Trini as well.

~~~

Hutch had allowed Frank to push him back to his room, but staunchly turned down his offers for a bath or a rub down. Trini heard her husband, and went to diffuse the situation since Angie had shown up right on cue to keep track of Michael when he woke up.

“Frank,” Trini started out, “I got it now. Thanks.”

Hutch nodded, “Yeah, thanks. See you tomorrow?”

Frank nodded, “Yeah. Hey, you done good in there.”

Hutch smiled a little then looked to Trini, “Well, I’ve got motivation.”

As Frank turned to leave he winked at Trini. Everything was going fairly well, and Trini was so happy she had to use all of her resources not to let out a victory cry as Frank left them alone.

Moving to her husband, Trini sat on her heels and looked at him as he still sat in his wheelchair.

“Now listen to me… I’ve seen you naked before, so I don’t want you feeling more uncomfortable than you already are. What can I do to make this easier for you?”

Hutch’s eyes started to sting as he reached out to rub his hand along the side of Trini’s face. Hutch whispered, “Why are you doing all this? After what I did…”

Smiling, Trini returned the gesture and began to stroke Hutch’s cheek, “Tried to do. I tore the goddamned thing up.”

Hutch laughed. Then he stopped moving his hand on her cheek and moved to trace her lips.

Trini sighed and kissed his fingertips, “I’ve missed you.”

Reaching out to pull his wife closer, Hutch informed her, “I’m right here… if this is an acceptable way for me to be.”

Trini knew what he was trying so hard to get across to her, and it didn’t matter. And, she told him just that.

“Ken Hutchinson, the wonderful way you kiss, I won’t be missing a thing. I’m happy with you as long as it’s you with me.”

The small sob of gratitude from Hutch as their lips touched was all the thanks Trini needed to hear.

~~~

Trini fell tiredly into the guest bed she’d claimed as hers that was connected to Hutch’s by the downstairs bathroom. Trini stopped to listen to the monitor she’d brought downstairs so she could hear Michael if he needed her, but he never did at night. He slept soundly like his father, but Trini was always careful where their boy was concerned.

As tired as Trini’s body was, her mind wouldn’t let her rest. All Trini could think about was how equally embarrassed and grateful her husband had been the last few days. And how he’d actually smiled here and there. She’d missed that smile so very much.

Huggy and Starsky had taken turns making sure Hutch was swimming everyday, and all their “family” had made sure Trini hadn’t needed to cook or care for their son while she rubbed Hutch down and help him. He’d been bathing quite well on his own, though, and loved the shower stool Trini had bought him to sit on. The bath that first day had turned out to be more awkward than either of them could have guessed, but the rub-down time together continued to be heavenly.

As Trini listened to Hutch’s even breathing, she decided to check on him again. Hutch was fine, but sometimes memories of the Mercedes speeding towards them and visions of Hutch rolling to the ground freaked Trini. When that happened, she’d go in and watch Hutch breathe just to reassure herself he really was alright. Tonight was one of those nights.

Moving silently through the adjoining bathroom, Trini peered around the door to look at Hutch. He was sound asleep, lightly snoring, so Trini decided she’d be safe doing what she was dying to.

Carefully, Trini eased herself into the twin-size hospital bed next to Hutch. He didn’t stir or stop his even breathing, so Trini laid down and gently curled up to his left side. Trini fairly melted against her husband as she inhaled the smell of him. Trini had missed this so much… just the simple things like cuddling up next to her husband had been denied to her for far too long. Trini knew Hutch was lying when he said he slept better in the hospital bed. He was still afraid the cuddle up to his wife and only be able to cuddle. Trini didn’t care, and had tried to tell him that the doctors felt a lot of the “lack of sensation” was from the pain medication and muscle relaxers Hutch was weaning himself from. But he was stubborn.

All she could do was wait. Still, Trini thought she’d noticed her husband looking at her lustily lately, and maybe it was just a matter of turning on her considerable charm. Deciding that was exactly what to do, Trini slid from Hutch’s bed and returned to her lonely one.

Hutch opened one eye and watched his wife depart, careful to keep his breathing even so she’d continue to think he was sleeping. In reality, he was wide awake. In more ways than one… and he felt like a chicken shit for being so scared and nervous.

 Hutchinson, he thought, She loves you as much as you love her. Don’t screw this up, Kenny. Let her know there’s hope.

Hutch tried to get comfortable and fall back asleep as his words played through his head, but couldn’t. He was pissed at himself for not being articulate enough to say what he wanted to Trini… even as he noticed his wife’s visit had left an impressive reaction with certain parts of his anatomy. Hutch decided he’d wait and see how things went before offering Trini false hope. Still, her sweet smell and touch had definitely done something to him. Smiling happily to himself, Hutch felt positive he and Trini would need to get rid of the hospital bed. And soon.

~~~

Trini’d placed Michael in bed with his father while she went in to shower giving Hutch a stroke of genius. Once he could hear the water on and the glass shower doors shut behind his wife, Hutch turned to his son.

“Hey Michael… wanna take a shower?”

Michael smiled and quickly slid down from Hutch’s bed to join his mother. The boy loved water as much as his mother, and Hutch knew he wouldn’t be able to resist.

Trini heard the bathroom door open, and poked her head out to see who had come in. Michael was attempting to crawl through the clear glass shower door when Hutch innocently called out, “Sorry. I couldn’t hold onto him.”

In reality, Hutch was enjoying the view through the glass of his wife his son had given him access to.

“It’s alright. We’ll be out in a minute.”

Hutch leaned further out of his bed to catch an eyeful of his wife’s naked body bending out to undress their son before she disappeared behind the door again. He could still see her through the glass, but it wasn’t quite the same.

Gingerly swinging his legs down and stepping out of bed with the help of his cane, Hutch started to move closer to the bathroom for a better view. The sound of Starsky clearing his throat stopped Hutch dead in his tracks. The bathroom wasn’t visible from Starsky’s standpoint, but he knew what Hutch’d been doing. Or trying to do. And it made Starsky smile.

Looking over his shoulder, Hutch whispered hotly, “Starsky, you have an irritating habit of clearing you throat at me lately. What the hell is that about? And, why the hell are you here so damned early?”

Still casually leaning against the bedroom doorjam, Starsky merely smiled.

“Was I actually supposed to comment on any of that, or are you just rambling? And, pissed ‘cuz I interrupted your ‘peep show’?”

Hutch guiltily grinned and looked down at the floor. Starsky just quietly laughed, “Come on. Let’s get some breakfast going, then we’ll go see that doctor of yours. And, you have to get yourself out here… on your own. I’m not going in and chance seeing any part of Trini without clothes.”

~~~

Before Hutch’s doctor visit, Starsky had stopped at the department store Hutch had requested. They were at the fourth store in as many days to find a replacement for the rug Hutch’d accidentally ruined in the guest room. Well, it wasn’t really ruined, but to him it was. Starsky knew this was important to Hutch. He remembered the night Hutch had called him at 3a.m. to talk about what had happened. Hutch had felt so miserable that night.

~~~

 Groggily, Starsky reached for the phone knowing it was either Hutch or Trini. They were the only two people he knew who’d call this late no matter what.

“‘llo?”

“Starsky? Jesus, I’m sorry. Go back to bed.”

Instantly alert now, Starsky climbed out of bed to talk so Leslie could sleep.

“No, Hutch, it’s okay. I’m up. Talk to me.”

Starsky almost thought Hutch’d hung up, he took so long to answer.

“I ruined that light blue carpet Trini had in here.”

Starsky was worried Hutch’d gotten sick from the medication again. He’d only been home from the hospital two days.

“You feelin’ alright, Hutch? You want me to call the doctor? Come over?”

“No. Thanks. I’m fine. I was just clumsy and tired.” Hutch sighed heavily and Starsky waited patiently for Hutch to continue.

“You know that damn piss bottle they sent me home with from the hospital?”

“Um-hum…”

“Well, I decided to use it. Shoulda just stayed in the hospital, but I just had to come home…”

“Hutch, don’t start that bullshit. You’re doin’ great and Trini wanted you home.”

Hutch was angry, but it was at himself, “Yeah? Well maybe not if I keep spillin’ piss everywhere… ruining her throwrugs and giving her more messes to clean up.”

Hutch had been so embarrassed. Starsky could hear the torment loud and clear.

“Hey. Hutch. Come on, pal. This is all part of it, okay? It ain’t all gonna be clean and tidy. Things can get pissy sometimes.”

“Pissy? Starsky, you really are stretching to make this funny.”

Still, they’d both laughed.

Today, Hutch wanted to find the perfect rug to replace the one Trini’d said was ugly anyway. Having found a sky blue one that’d match the wall paint, Hutch gratefully patted Starsky’s shoulder as he loaded it in his trunk. No words had been necessary. They actually might’ve ruined the moment.

~~~

Hutch had asked Starsky to go ahead and go home stating he’d get a cab home from the doctor’s office. Starsky knew it’d be a long visit, but he fully planned to wait for his best friend and told him so.

Grabbing a magazine and propping his feet up on a table in the waiting room, Starsky informed Hutch, “Take your time, Blondie. I got nowhere to be.”

Self-consciously, Hutch nodded and tried to smile. He followed the nurse into the office and Starsky tried to read his magazine. Then he noticed he’d grabbed a copy of “Bridal World.” Jesus, he was just as worried and nervous as Hutch was.

Tossing the magazine down, Starsky’s thoughts turned to other things. He remembered the night he and Hutch had spent alone in Hawaii after they’d helped find that hooker. Trini’d been pissed that the girl had just gone off with some partiers cruising the islands, and had gone up to bed. It gave the two friends time alone down in the bar, and the talk had turned to their wives. Starsky leaned his head back and closed his eyes as he replayed the night in his mind.

~~~

“Cheers, Hutchinson. To you and my sweet niece, and to many years of love and happiness.”

Gladly clinking their glasses, both men drank in silence. After awhile, Starsky started the conversation up again.

“How’d you know Trini was the one, Hutch?”

Hutch smiled, “How’d you know Les was the one?”

Starsky rolled his eyes, and glared at Hutch.

“Sorry. How’d I know Trini was the one? I remember laying in bed one night and she thought I was still asleep. I looked at her through these little slits and she had this beautifully loving look in her eyes. Even when she thought I couldn’t see. That was just one of my great moments of realization… when I knew she wasn’t just acting, or doing it just when I was looking. I’m a hero in her eyes and it’s all the hero I ever need to be.”

Starsky nodded and smiled, “Les had rainbows in her eyes.”

Quizzically, Hutch looked at Starsky, “Rainbows?”

“Yeah, you remember how you got mad at me that day? You were in a terrible mood that day and I was pretending to be overly happy about some recent conquest… can’t even think of her name… anyhow, you said you were fed up with me always looking for the stars through cloudy skies. You said I was a dreamer spending too much time looking for rainbows.”

Hutch nodded, “Sorry. I was in a shitty mood. That was when I heard my Father was dying. I took it all out on you.”

Starsky patted Hutch’s hand, “I knew. Your sister had called me. That’s why I was so irritatingly cheery. I figured if you had something or somebody else to take it all out on…”

“Thanks.” Hutch squeezed Starsky’s hand in return, then turned the conversation back to the beautiful women they’d been lucky enough to marry, “Anyhow, back to the loves of our lives. Rainbows, huh? You sure it didn’t have anything to do with the way Les cooks?”

Smiling to himself, Starsky relished the memories. Hutch and Trini were perfect for each other. Just like him and Les. Starsky knew it, and he was glad Trini’d made Hutch stay there with her. She was the future that Hutch had found in his past. Hutch chased rainbows, too. He just hated to admit it.

Starsky could tell Hutch was grateful for the love everyone had given him, and he knew the better Hutch got, the better everything looked. His attitude had dramatically improved when he’d been allowed to come home for his therapy sessions. As his body healed, so did his spirit. Sometimes, he just needed a little extra motivation. Like the day Starsky had witnessed Trini’s motivation and strength going full tilt. Sometimes you had to be rough on the ones you love.

Starsky’d walked to the weight room one day to see what the Hutchinson’s were doing while their son napped. He’d overheard one of the famous Hutchinson fights. Hutch was in one of his black moods over not being fully recovered as fast as he wanted to be. Starsky’d seen Trini’s reflection in the mirror as both she and Hutch lifted weights. Well, Trini was still lifting… Hutch was grumbling about his arm being sore. Trini was tormenting Hutch, but it’d been exactly what he’d needed.

“Come on Hutchinson! You gonna give up? Roll over and die? Get with it, or I’m gonna beat you again. You like losin’ to a girl?”

Trini was struggling with the weights as Hutch sat up and glared at her, “I’m tired, Katrina, and I’m sore. Get off my ass.”

Trini’d dropped her weights and moved to stand over her husband, “Don’t give me your bullshit, Hutchinson. You can run everyone else off with your ‘oh woe is me, I’m hurt’ act, but not me. Get with it. If you want me to help you, I will. But, you’ve gotta quite acting like a hurt child.”

Trini’d handed him back the weights and returned to her machine. It’d only taken Hutch a moment to join back in.

Yes, Trini was precisely what Ken Hutchinson needed.

~~~

Hutch came out of the doctors office smiling at Starsky. Already it was a good sign.

The nurse had followed Hutch out and continued to talk to him, “I’ll set up that appointment for next month, Mr. Hutchinson, but I think our days of meeting are fast ending. You’re recovering very well.”

“Thanks.”

The nurse winked and half jokingly asked, “You still married?”

Hutch laughed, “Unless I did something really wrong today… yes.”

The nurse sighed and looked Hutch over appreciatively, “Can’t blame a gal for tryin’.”

Hutch blushed a little as Starsky rose to join him. As they walked away, Starsky leaned over to Hutch, “She’s looking at your ass.”

Hutch couldn’t help but laugh.

At the car, Hutch got in and turned to Starsky, “Can we stop at the pharmacy on our way home? I, uh, got a prescription.”

Starsky was taken aback for a moment. A prescription? What the hell for? Hutch had weaned himself off the pain pills… no infection… Then it hit Starsky. It wasn’t that kind of medication.

Starsky realized Hutch was still worried he wasn’t fully functional. Not wanting to rub it in, but feeling he had to say something, Starsky turned back to his furiously blushing friend who was looking out the window.

“Hey, it’s O.K. You’ve got an anniversary coming up. You came to your senses and quit acting like an old fool. Now you wanna make it all perfect. Ain’t nothin’ wrong with that, Hutch.”

Hutch nodded, “I don’t wanna lose her, Starsk.”

“Hey. She loves you. Don’t push it. You ain’t gonna lose her.” Smiling wickedly, Starsky started the car, “Besides, I think she’s always fool enough to give it one more try with you. She didn’t kick you out when she had the chance, did she?”

Hutch smiled a little, “The pharmacy, huh, Gordo? I ain’t gettin’ any younger sittin’ here listening to your insults.”

~~~

Hutch had arranged for Michael to be with the Starsky’s for the entire weekend. He had some serious making up to do with his wife, and he was gonna try his hardest. Trini’d been gone most of the day with her friends from the force, so Hutch had driven to the animal shelter on his own. He couldn’t believe his luck when the man had called him from the shelter the day before stating they had a dog like the one Hutch’d been looking for… the damn dachshund Trini had always wanted.

Hutch left his cane in the car since he really didn’t use it now, and hurried into the shelter as fast as he dared on the still recovering leg. Hopefully, nobody else had seen the puppy yet. Hutch rushed up to the desk, asked for “Mitch”, and waited. After a moment, a side door opened and a young man appeared.

“Mr. Hutchinson? I’m Mitch.”

Hutch rose to shake hands with the man, “Thanks for the call. It’s not like I couldn’t get one from a pet store… I just figure these little guys have it tough.”

Mitch shuffled his feet nervously, “Boy am I glad to hear you talk like that. I was afraid we might have a problem.”

Hutch was confused and wrinkled his forehead, “Problem?”

Nodding to the kennels, Mitch smiled, “Come on. I’ll show you, then you decide for yourself.”

Following past all the yapping kennels, Hutch was led into a quiet back room.

Mitch turned to him before opening the door, “We usually put a cat and dog in a room together, supervised of course, just to see if they can deal with each other. Makes it easier for the potential owners.”

Hutch nodded, “And?”

Mitch laughed, “Well, we put the puppy we thought you’d like in with this kitten. The kitten jumped out of my arms and I thought there was gonna be trouble, but… well, see for yourself.”

Mitch quietly opened the door and held his finger to his lips for silence. Hutch looked around Mitch at the pet bed in the corner. There, all curled up so you had trouble seeing where one ended and the other began, was the puppy and a kitten. Sound asleep.

Hutch smiled, “By default, my wife gets a cat and a dog, huh?”

Mitch smiled in relief, “Glad to hear you say it. You make my job a lot easier. Ready to do the papers?”

~~~

The trip to the pet store had been nothing short of exciting. Hutch had picked up Huggy and made him “guard” the pets while he went in. Having never owned pets, Hutch was fairly lost. Thankfully for him, he got an honest salesclerk.

Hutch read her nametag, then smiled a famous Hutchinson grin.

“Hello, Rita. I have a new puppy and a kitten coming home with me today. I’m lost.”

Rita smiled up at this gorgeous man, so obviously helpless in her line of expertise. Rita’d never really been partial to blonds, but for this one, she might make an exception.

“Yes, sir. Do you have a large puppy or a small breed?”

“Small. Weiner dog. He’s all hairy, though.”

“Longhair… check. Is the cat declawed?”

Hutch smiled another brilliant, but mischievous smile, “Monday.”

Rita laughed, “Come on. Let’s take care of your new ‘babies’.”

Hutch left 40 minutes later with a pet carrier, pet food, toys, and feeding bowls. Rita had not added one thing Hutch didn’t need, but she took plenty of time figuring exactly what Hutch needed, and even sent him out the door with a business card as she told him, “Call me anytime Mr. Hutchinson.”

Hutch knew better than to comment, and merely waved.

Huggy looked like a man in agony when Hutch got back to his vehicle. The puppy had drooled on everything in sight and was gleefully tugging at the horrid neckerchief Huggy still insisted on wearing. The cat was bouncing from seat to seat, batting at something Hutch couldn’t see as he bent to block it from running out so he could load the bags into the car.

Huggy started whining instantly, “You know, my white brother, there are favors too big to ask.”

Hutch got in and had to gently remove the licking puppy from his lap, “Huggy, a little help here.”

“Yeah, I gots him. Cute little thing, but I think he’s hyper.”

Hutch laughed and pulled out of his parking spot. Suddenly, his ankle was playfully batted from below.

“What the hell?” Hutch was glad they weren’t out on the road since they’d both forgotten the cat for a moment.

Huggy nodded, “I know. Help.” He reached behind to catch the playful kitten, “This one’s not hyper. She’s brain damaged.”

Hutch laughed again as the kitten also took up destroying that damn thing around Huggy’s neck.

~~~

Hutch was glad their new pets had finally calmed and were taking a nap together on the couch. He supposed he really should start teaching them not to get on the furniture, but oh well. Hutch was just glad they’d quieted down and wouldn’t spoil Trini’s surprise. And, as if on cue, Hutch heard Trini bidding her friends farewell and coming up the drive. She’d needed a day away after tending to Hutch and Michael day after day.

Trini opened the door to find Hutch standing there holding flowers. He hadn’t been able to get out much and Trini had missed the flowers. And the romance. Gratefully, she accepted the gift, then kissed Hutch lightly on the cheek.

“Hmm, this mean the divorce is off?”

Hutch played with the carpet with the toe of his boot before quietly answering, “Someone wiser than me tore the goddamned thing up.”

Trini turned too many shades of red for Hutch to count before she set the flowers on the entryway table beside her and purposely moved to stand in front of her husband.

“Good. Now I can stop worrying you may change your mind?”

“Trini, I’m sorry. I know I’ve hurt you so many times these past few months with the childish way I was acting… but, I tried to make up for it lately.”

Trini nodded, “You’ve been better behaved, I’ll give you that.”

Hutch cleared his throat nervously. He’d known this wasn’t going to be easy… he and Trini had gotten back to being on very good terms, but nothing like he wanted them to get back to. He didn’t hear her cry at night anymore, but she also didn’t run to him anymore. He wanted her back in every way possible. Not just as a good friend and the mother of his child.

“Trini, I don’t know where to start. You stood by me when others would have turned their back on a bullheaded bastard like me. I can’t begin to thank you for helping me get better, and I can’t apologize enough for…” Hutch looked down. He was frustrated at himself and the words that weren’t coming out right. “… I can’t do right by you, Trini. If I’m still what you want… childish ways, stubborn as the Devil himself… and stupid to think you’d be less than the thing that makes me strong… well, then you know I’ll be proud to be the lucky man you let stick around. And,” he looked back down to towards the floor, “I can’t begin to count the times you’ve crossed my mind. Even when you’re sitting right by me, I think about you. That sounds dumb, huh?”

Scooting closer to Hutch, Trini pressed herself up against him and held his face gently in her hands. Turning his face up to hers, Trini smiled, “Finally got tired of pretending we’d be alright if we weren’t together, huh? I knew you couldn’t give me one good reason why we shouldn’t stay together.”

Hutch grabbed her by the buttocks and pulled her against the male hardness of him, “You’re a cocky little shit, you know that? I’m trying to apologize here.”

Trini rubbed against him and smiled smugly, “Hmmm, I’d say you’re the ‘cocky’ one, here. And you’re forgiven.”

Hutch laughed and nuzzled his wife’s neck playfully. Trini moaned and ran her fingers through his hair, causing Hutch’s nuzzling to quickly turn to groping. Out of breath and flushed, Trini pulled back a little.

“Hutch. I love you, and I want this so much, but…”

“Shhh. Come with me. I’ll see if I still know what I’m doing.”

Fairly skipping behind her husband, Trini followed him up the stairs he could now climb to their bedroom.

Trini sat down on the edge of their bed and looked up at Hutch expectantly. She wasn’t sure what to do next, what was gonna work, what would hurt him. Hutch didn’t know either, but he was damned well ready to try. Gently laying down next to his wife, Hutch reached up to Trini. She spun around and fell into his arms so fast it made Hutch laugh.

Trini poked him gently in the chest with her finger, “Be sweet to me, Hutch. I’ve missed you.”

Growing serious, Hutch kissed her gently on the forehead, “I’m right here. I’m sorry.”

Trini felt a tear escape and tried to turn away so Hutch couldn’t see it. He had and wasn’t about to let the opportunity go by. Slowly, he turned Trini’s face back to his and gently traced the trail the tear had made on his wife’s lovely face with his tongue. Trini knew she was going to die if this man didn’t make love to her soon.

Sitting up, Trini removed her shoes and Hutch’s boots before pulling her shirt over her head. Then, she anxiously reached to unbutton Hutch’s shirt with trembling fingers. She was just as nervous as him. And just as ready, too. Trini’s fumbling fingers went to Hutch’s waistband and hesitated. Hutch knew she was worried about hurting him.

“Here,” he whispered, “you did the shirts. I get the pants.”

Trini happily flopped over on her back, and Hutch laughed again before lowering his head to trace the area where her jeans met flesh with his tongue. Trini sighed and arched her hips as Hutch began removing her pants. Once he had completed the delightful task of removing Trini’s pants, he reached for her underwear. Trini stopped him by covering his hand with hers.

“Uh-uh. I wanna see you, too.”

Rising, Hutch stood up and slowly stepped out of the jeans he’d been glad to get back into. When he removed his underwear Trini reached out to tentatively touch the scars on her husband’s hip. Slowly, Trini moved her hand from the scar to grip her husband. Hutch knew it’d been way too long, and she’d better stop or it’d be the finale before it started. Gently removing Trini’s hand, Hutch moved back onto the bed so he could lay down beside her.

Trini was more than ready for Hutch, but she still wasn’t sure what to do. Thankfully, Hutch took full advantage of the moment. Moving over his wife, Hutch began to toy with her and watch the glow return to her face. God, this was exactly what he’d wanted to see on her face again. Love and lust all rolled into one package that only opened up for him. Literally. He knew Trini was as much a part of him as the air he needed to live, and she only gave her life giving love to him.

She couldn’t stand the love play a moment more, so Trini arched up more and guided Hutch to her. He got the hint. Swiftly entering his eager wife, Hutch knew it was going to be over too soon, but they had their whole lives to make up for it.

~~~

Trini was a happy woman, but also a greedy one.

“You ready?”

Hutch just laughed and pulled her naked form to him, “No. Twice was it for now.”

Pretending to pout, Trini rolled away, “Then the least you can do is scrub my back.”

Hutch readily joined her in the shower, gently cleansing all the areas he was glad to be intimately involved with again. Trini was just as glad to be touching Hutch again, and she couldn’t seem to get enough of him as her hands scrubbed his body, then kissed where her hands had just been. Hutch knew he was “fully functional” again after Trini had lathered his manhood then gently scrubbed it before taking him in her mouth. A quick intake of breath made Trini pull back and look up.

“You alright?”

Nodding, Hutch reached down to push Trini’s hair back behind her ear. He wanted to get a full, clear view of what that girl was doing to him.

“God, yes.” He sighed.

Giggling, Trini resumed her task at hand.

~~~

Trini pulled on her robe and was brushing her hair when she heard a bark downstairs. Hutch smiled when Trini looked to him, eyes wide with hope, then ran from the room. He followed closely behind her so as to try and catch her if she tripped on the stairs. He didn’t have to worry though, Trini still remembered to hold the handrail in her haste.

The puppy was playfully chasing the kitten across the back of one of the couches as Trini hurried over to them. She was worried one or both would fall off! Bending to the puppy, Trini held her open palm out. He licked it then playfully nipped her fingers. Trini slowly sat down cross-legged in front of the couch to examine the two new arrivals to the Hutchinson household. Carefully picking up the puppy, Trini looked to Hutch.

“When did you decide on this?”

“When I decided to try and keep the only love this fool ever had. I’ve been planning on the dog for awhile… the cat was a bonus. I think.”

Wiggling her fingers at the kitten brought it bounding over. Trini tried to rub it’s head, but the kitten scampered off to chew at the newly freed puppy’s tail. Looking back to Hutch, Trini smiled and held out a hand. Hutch helped her up and pulled her to him.

“So,” Trini whispered, “what do you call those two?”

“Trouble. They’re yours, you name ’em. Cat’s a girl, dog’s a boy.”

Trini looked thoughtful a moment before answering. “How about ‘Percy’ and ‘Smokey’?”

Hutch roared with laughter, “You and your love of Motown! Fine… who’s who?”

“Kitty’s a girl, so she gets ‘Smokey.’ ‘Percy’ just wouldn’t work for her.”

“It doesn’t work for him, either, but whatever makes you happy.”

Hugging Hutch to her, Trini whispered, “You make me happy, Hutch.”

Happily, Hutch realized Trini hadn’t called him “Ken” all afternoon.

~~~

Trini had played with her new “children” for hours that day. Feeding them, petting them, chasing them… even cleaning up after them hadn’t bothered her at all. Hutch had a hard time not choking up as he watched his wife in her full throttle “kid mode” with the animals. She was so free and happy, and Hutch was glad he’d made good on his promise to get her the pets.

Finally, Percy and Smokey curled up together in the pet bed Trini had sent Hutch back for, and fallen asleep. Hutch took advantage of the quiet moment away from all their “children.” Grabbing Trini by the hand, he wordlessly led her upstairs.

Happily, Hutch realized Trini was still insatiable… and, it was still all for him. Knowing more or less what acrobatics Hutch was capable of from their earlier performance, Trini gently pushed him down on the bed. She was in a true state of euphoria that everything was working out just as she’d hoped. Better actually.

Pressing her lips gently to Hutch’s, Trini relished the taste, feel, and smell of her husband. She’d been denied him far too long and Trini planned to not waste a moment more of their lives together. Pulling back to gaze down on her husband, Trini smiled. With his lips all pouty, he pulled her back to him.

“Look at me later. Kiss me now.”

Trini giggled and instead slid off him to run to the stereo system in their room. It only took her a moment to find the disc she wanted. Trini rose and started a slow, sensual dance with the music. Hutch propped up on one elbow to better appreciate the moves she had learned in that damned strip bar. Slowly she teased, and undressed… teased and undressed, showing off her back-to-before-baby form. Hutch was almost ready to jump up and pull his wife back into bed when the song changed and he started laughing as Trini sang along.

“…Well, it was just my imagination… runnin’ away with me…”

That did it. Hutch grabbed his wife as she danced closer to the bed, flopped her onto her back and breathlessly gazed down on her.

“I’ll show you imagination, little girl.”

“Exactly what I was hoping for, my love.”

~~~

Trini was laying beside her husband in the glow of the moonlight as it peeked into their bedroom. They were both finally breathing softly, all exertions and playtime over for now. Trini was so relieved that she and Hutch had worked everything out, but she still remembered how close they come to losing this. Trini felt an unchecked tear hit Hutch’s chest once more before she could stop it. Hutch knew it was there… and why… and it killed him. She loved him so much and he’d almost let that ship of love run aground. He would have been so lost if it had. This girl he held in his arms… she was what made him whole.

Stroking her hair, Hutch whispered, “I can’t say it enough, Trini. Any of it, really. I love you and I’m sorry both sound so damn lame.” He sighed heavily then moved down to make eye contact with his wife. “How about if I swear to you that I’ll make every day count until I die? Is that enough? Is it enough to say that I swear we’re stronger now that we have all this behind us? Is it enough to thank you for leaving the light on so I could find my way home? I complicate things with my asshole ways, but this is the simple life I always dreamed of.”

Trini smiled and kissed Hutch with trembling lips, “Don’t say you love me, Ken… just show me for the rest of our lives together. All I need is the way you show me everyday… the way you smile at me like I’m the only woman you ever loved… the way you take such good care of all of us… the way you hold me. It’s all part of that ‘big plan’ somehow, and it’s what makes me fall deeper and deeper in love with you every minute of everyday. I can’t help it. I know you were trying to do what you thought was right with a divorce, but it would’ve killed me, Hutch.”

Trini couldn’t stop the tears that were flowing readily now. Hutch’s heart was aching as much as one man could bear.

“Trini, I know,” Hutch choked out, “I’ve never been so much in love, and hurt so much at the same time.”

Trini nodded and held Hutch just as fiercely as he held her until the tears ceased and sleep came for both of them.

~~~

Trini awoke at a little after Midnight to find Hutch staring down at her.

“Hey,” he whispered, “Happy Anniversary.”

Trini looked like she was momentarily confused, then wordlessly rolled out of bed and started for the bedroom door.

“Where you going?”

“Be right back.” Trini promised, and she was. Toting two golf club sets in their bags. One had a huge bow. Trini set that one closest to Hutch.

“Happy Anniversary back.”

Hutch smiled, “His and hers?”

“Yup. Now that I got ‘ya back lock, stock, and barrel… we’re gonna do more stuff together. I’m just glad I was right that we’d get our shit together.”

Hutch laughed, then pulled her closer.

“I didn’t wrap yours,” he apologized.

Trini tried to make light of the situation, but they both knew how much truth there was to her next statement, “Jesus, Ken. I don’t care if it’s wrapped or not! I’m just glad we’re together to celebrate. Taking the monogrammed clubs back woulda’ been a bitch.”

A small, sad smile played on Hutch’s lips before he leaned over to kiss Trini. She pulled back, a little out of breath and sighed, “I’ve missed you so much.”

Hutch rubbed her back, “Me too, baby… me too. Aren’t you curious what I got you?”

Trini smiled, “You got me something? Lil’ ole me?”

“Shut up. Go look in your closet. I hid it in your carryon bag.”

Trini hurried over to the closet and quickly found her carryon. Opening it and found Hutch’s credit card taped to a picture of Mickey Mouse and a single rose. Trini looked confused as she climbed back into bed sniffing the rose.

“Explain, Hutchinson.”

“Well, I was out of ideas, sorry. I booked us all a cruise down to Florida. We’ll see Mickey there. Michael will have fun on the ship, and Starsky will have other kids to play with, too.”

They both laughed at that. Starsky was still a big kid at heart.

Pulling Trini closer, Hutch informed her, “Besides, I didn’t know that you were gonna take me back so readily. I feared more wooing might be needed.”

Trini laughed, “Wow. You up to a trip, babe? I mean, I’ve always wanted to see Florida, but… you sure?”

The way Hutch was smiling at Trini, she wished she had a camera with her. It was the smile she always wanted to remember him wearing. Even long after he’d be physically gone, Trini knew he’d be in her heart wearing that special smile, setting her heart on fire.

“I’m sure. We need time away and with our son. Perfect solution, if I do say so myself.”

Curling back up to her husband, Trini tormented him, “Yeah. For a dumb blond, you finally came back to your senses.”

 

CHAPTER 10

Leslie kissed Michael’s forehead as she laid him down for the night. Gently covering the boy, she whispered, “Good night, little man. Your mommy and daddy are, hopefully, all better by now.” Closing the bedroom door behind her, Leslie’s thoughts turned to how she seriously hoped the Hutchinson household would be a happier one in the morning when they returned Michael home.

Starsky lay awake in bed, staring at the dark ceiling while Leslie undressed for bed. Crawling into bed and scooting to Starsky, Leslie wrapped herself around her distracted spouse. Resting her head against Starsky’s shoulder, Leslie stated, “I bet you haven’t been this worried about somebody getting laid since high school. Quit stressing. Hutch can handle this one.”

A mild amount of shock and embarrassment crossed Starsky’s face.

“Les! My usually kind, and well mannered, wife… what the hell was that?”

Giggling, Leslie turned a little red. She really had been crude.

“Well, I can only guess why things have gone haywire with Trini and Hutch. I’m just glad they’ve stopped yelling and started talking like human beings now. God knows nobody tells me any secrets anymore. Anyhow, I do believe that if Hutch broke down and got that prescription…”

“Leslie Ariella Starsky! How in the hell did you hear that?”

Smiling, Leslie informed him, “Didn’t spend all this time married to a cop not to learn how to find things out.”

Starsky chuckled and pulled his wife tighter to him, “Les, you are amazing.”

“You better remember it, dear. Even if things get bad. Okay?”

“You got it. Let’s just hope they never get bad.”

Nodding, Leslie rubbed her hand inside of her husband’s T-shirt then kissed his neck, “So, you only worried about Hutch gettin’ some, or can we get in on a little action of our own?”

Starsky mock growled and rolled over to show his wife the action she was so obviously in the mood for.

~~~

Letting himself into the back door of the Hutchinson household, Starsky stopped and listened to the shouting he’d hoped would have completely stopped by now.

“You shit! You wouldn’t have liked what I’d named him, no matter what! He’s not yours anyhow.”

Taken aback, Starsky strained to listen to the conversation from his spot in the kitchen doorway. What was his niece saying? Hutch didn’t like the name “Michael”? Was she trying to say Michael wasn’t Hutch’s just to hurt him? Everyone knew Trini only had eyes for Hutch. The kid was his. Still…

“Jesus, Trini. He’s ugly. I’m glad you like him.”

That was it! Best friend or not, Hutch was gonna get knocked on his ass. As Starsky started to walk inside to kick Hutch across the house, he heard a yip followed by a lot of barking. Looking down at the furry black puppy barking so protectively in the kitchen, Starsky started to laugh. Hutch had finally given in and gotten Trini a dog! Then he smiled sheepishly at himself for not understanding the conversation he’d listened in on. Of course they hadn’t been talking about Michael!

Trini looked into the kitchen then to see what Percy was after, “Percy! Stop that and come here. That’s your nosey uncle.”

Starsky didn’t even comment on the fact that Trini had called him nosey, he merely wrinkled his nose and whined, “Percy? Aw Trini, come on. Don’t you like the little bastard at all?”

Hutch had heard everything all the way in the front room and started laughing, “Told you, my love.”

Seeing Trini smile in the direction of Hutch’s voice and hearing Hutch call Trini “my love” was music to Starsky’s ears! It would seem the tension was gone from the Hutchinson household.

Starsky smiled sweetly at Trini as he bent to kiss her. Trini blushed a little when he whispered, “Glad you two got it all worked out. And, that everything’s workin’.”

Nodding, Trini picked up the puppy who looked like he was in need of a potty break and started for the patio door.

“Yeah, we get to celebrate our anniversary tonight after all. If anybody wants to join us here for dinner, they are more than welcome.”

Starsky smiled that smile that lit up rooms, “I’ll be here with bells on, Jewel.”

Trini pointed to the living room as she pulled shut the patio doors, “You know where my delighted spouse is. I’m gonna walk my puppy.”

Seeking out his best friend, Starsky went in and joined Hutch on the couch. The two men looked at each other for a moment before the laughter erupted. Starsky was the first to calm down.

“Christ, Hutch! ‘Percy?’ What the hell kinda name is that? You’ve done something to her since you married her.”

Hutch grinned wickedly and turned to Starsky, “I done something to her before I married her, Stark.”

Punching Hutch in the stomach and hearing the “oofff” of air it produced made Starsky smile.

“Prick,” Hutch grunted.

“Child molester,” Starsky countered with a smile.

The two men fell into easy laughter again.

Starsky again was the first to recover, “You are still a child molester, aren’t you? I’m presuming you… you know what I mean.”

“Yeah, Starsk. I know what you mean.” Hutch grinned and got up to head for the kitchen. Not turning back to his friend, he added, “And, it’s none of your business, if you know what I mean.”

Laughing and shaking his head, Starsky followed Hutch into the kitchen and punched him lightly on the arm, “See! It’s all good! Aren’t you glad that my brilliant niece didn’t give up on you?”

Suddenly serious, Hutch looked out the kitchen window and watched Trini play with that damn dog for a moment before answering Starsky.

“Jesus, Starsky,” Hutch sighed, “You’ll never know how glad I am that she didn’t give up on me.” Hutch turned to place an affectionate hand over Starsky’s, “You’ll never know how glad I am that you didn’t give up, either.”

Squeezing Hutch’s hand gently, Starsky nodded, “Nothing you wouldn’t do for me, Pal.”

Trini came back in smiling, and winked at her uncle before kissing Hutch. Starsky winked back and felt his heart swell at the sight of his beautiful niece. She’d stood by Hutch no matter what, and Starsky was proud of her. Katrina Marie Bella- Starsky- Hutchinson had turned out to be one hell of a wonderful person who possessed a caring soul. David Starsky knew he couldn’t have asked for anything more, and that maybe… just maybe… he’d helped her get there from the hellish childhood she’d suffered.

Starsky’s thoughts were interrupted by Trini, “You know David, I’m curious… where’s my only child?”

Hutch nodded, “Yeah, Starsky. I had noticed Michael wasn’t exactly here either.”

Starsky reached for the phone on the wall, “Sorry,” then he dialed his home. “I wanted to see if it was safe before I brought him home. It’s safe, so I’ll call Les.”

Both Hutchinson’s blushed and smiled sheepishly before hugging. They really had been stupidly childish and stubborn. Thank God it’d worked out.

After Starsky had given Leslie the “all clear” to return Michael to his parents, Trini moved from Hutch’s comfortable embrace to make breakfast. Her son and her uncle were always starving.

~~~

Michael rushed into the house and threw himself at his father. Hutch was worried he might be hugging the boy too hard, but he couldn’t help it. Just the very thought of what could have happened had Trini not forced him to come to his senses… Well, Hutch didn’t want to think of that as he kissed his son’s curly head.

Michael pulled back from his father and looked quizzically over Hutch’s shoulder for a moment before he squealed and took of in the direction of the sleeping puppy. Hutch tried to get up quickly, but his leg didn’t allow for haste yet. Starsky caught his great- nephew before he could “attack” the puppy as Trini moved to Hutch and held her hand out to him. Another time, another place, another ego might have gotten in the way, but this time Hutch gratefully accepted the hand his wife offered. Leslie felt her eyes water a little at the sight of Trini so carefully helping her husband up off the floor. The Hutchinsons were back.

~~~

Michael had laid down on the floor and let the puppy lick him from top to bottom all day. The kitten had been followed mercilessly by the child and the puppy before she had grown tired of the attention and hidden in an upstairs closet. Percy hadn’t been lucky enough to “hide” and everyone had spent the day teaching Michael “easy with the puppy….” Poor kid. He was beat by dinner, and fell asleep after bath. The adults would be dinning alone tonight.

With all the excitement of the puppy and Michael, Trini hadn’t gotten around to making dinner for everyone. Hutch couldn’t have cared less… just so long as they were together, food could wait. Trini hadn’t let Hutch stand around much yet and she wouldn’t let him cook dinner, either, even with his repeated offers to do so. Consequently, she had nothing to feed Huggy’s family nor hers, and they were due in 20 minutes. Hutch saw the look of momentary panic cross Trini’s face.

Holding his arms open to Trini, Hutch called to her, “Hey, beautiful. Come here and kiss me before you go up and shower for dinner.”

Joining her husband on the couch, Trini gave Hutch a quick and distracted kiss before commenting, “Shower? I haven’t even started dinner, Ken. What am I gonna…”

Hutch quickly silenced Trini the best way he knew how to. Drawing back from the kiss, Hutch softly informed her, “Do as you’re told, my love. Into the shower with you. I’ve got dinner covered.”

A grateful smile crossed Trini’s face as she bounded up the stairs to do her husband’s bidding. Hutch saw Huggy’s car pulling into the driveway and rushed to let him in, and warn him about not waking the puppy out on the patio. Hutch wanted tonight to be all for Trini, and no puppy yapping to spoil it.

~~~

Huggy had outdone himself. Not only had he shown up with all of Trini’s preferred from her favorite oriental restaurant, he’d picked up several bottles of the wine she liked, a carrot cake {also Trini’s favorite} and he’d a case of cola to go with dinner. Huggy had even brought a pair of pretty candles and holders… just in case Hutch didn’t have any. Hutch laughed as Huggy started setting the table for him. The man was a dear friend indeed.

Huggy glanced up from his task at hand and looked Hutch over with distaste, “You gonna eat my gourmet meal lookin’ like that? Shower and a shave, my man!”

Hutch patted Huggy’s back, “You’re the best, Hug. Thanks. I really need tonight to be special and…”

“Forget it! If I wasn’t the world’s greatest lover to my Candidta, you might have to do this for me,” Huggy teased. “I love Miss Katrina. This ain’t for you!”

Waving back over his shoulder, Hutch escaped into the downstairs bathroom to make himself extra- presentable for Trini.

~~~

Trini was crying, she was laughing so hard. Her husband had been nothing short of hilarious all night, and her poor uncle had been the butt of most of his joking. Starsky didn’t mind. He was glad to see everyone laughing and happy again. Plus, he’d gotten a few over on Hutch, too.

Still wiping her eyes, Trini got up to grab the wine. Returning to the table with 6 glasses, Trini tried vainly to pop the cork off. Finally, she grabbed it with her teeth and pulled up. The sight of Trini’s teeth and mouth on the end of the bottle left her wide open for some more of Hutch’s jokes.

“You know, Starsk,” Hutch started, “I love to watch a woman with her mouth over the end of a wine bottle.”

Huggy laughed into his glass, splattering a little on his shirt. Wiping at the liquid on his shirt, Huggy added, “Personally, I go for when they are into produce. Nothin’ like a sister eatin’ a banana.”

Candita, Trini, and Leslie were close to laughter, but didn’t want their husbands to know. The women couldn’t believe what had been said, and were now waiting for Starsky’s “two cents worth.”

Shifting in his seat, Starsky looked around the table before stating, “Uh-huh. I wanna get laid tonight. You two aren’t gonna get me in trouble with you.”

The laughter that erupted probably woke the neighbors, but nobody cared. This family had something to celebrate again. And Hutch was gonna give everybody even more to be happy about… he hoped.

Rising, Hutch tapped his wine glass with a fork in an overdramatic gesture for silence. Everyone turned their attention to the man.

“I have so much I want to say..”

“As usual,” Starsky mumbled.

Hutch rapped Starsky on the head with his fork. Hard. Starsky rubbed his head and grinned at the man glaring at him.

“As I was saying… I have so much to say. I want to thank you all for helping Trini and I celebrate this special occasion.” Hutch toasted Trini with the wine he’d finally opened himself. For a moment, their eyes met over the glass, but Trini had to look away. Hutch’s gaze was so filled with love and a teary glow… she had to look away or she’d start crying. “To Katrina,” he continued, “the only woman who’d put up with me… and stand by me when I’m an idiot…”

“Hear! Hear!” Huggy chimed in, then moved out of Hutch’s reach. He wasn’t gonna get hit with that damn fork.

Hutch laughed along with the rest of the group, “Yeah, yeah. I know. And, I’m sorry.” Hutch’s smile took on a hint of sadness now. “I really don’t deserve any of you, but thanks anyhow.”

Leslie stood and leaned over to kiss Hutch, “It’s alright, Ken Hutchinson. This is what families do. We forgive, and we love. No matter what.”

Candita joined in with her own toast, “To family.”

“To family.” They all agreed as glasses were gently tapped together.

“I still have more,” Hutch ventured.

Starsky groaned.

“I swear to God, Starsky. You are a pain in my ass. Maybe I’ll throw you overboard. IF I take you with us at all now.”

Trini rose to stand by her husband, “Be nice to him, Dave. He got me an anniversary present that includes all of you.”

Hutch grunted, “Maybe Starsky can come, too.”

Trini continued, “Ken got us all tickets to go on a cruise to Florida. And, we’d be honored if you’d all join us. The trip wouldn’t be complete without the family who helped keep us complete.”

Hutch pulled Trini lovingly to him and softly said, “Hear, hear.” Then he kissed her tenderly as their family clapped and cheered.

Starsky rose, “I have something I’d like to add…”

Hutch groaned.

For a change, Starsky pointed a warning finger in Hutch’s direction. The group found that exceptionally funny.

“Be glad I don’t have a fork, Blintz. Let me say this, huh? I gotta tell you all… this is my family. Well, the boys, too, but you know what I mean. I am thankful everyday for all of you and,” Starsky choked a little, “it woulda tore me up if we weren’t here now to share this. Together.”

Trini didn’t care. She started crying this time. How could she help it? Her husband had moved from her to kiss Huggy’s cheek before moving to hug Starsky.

As Hutch hugged him, he whispered into Starsky’s ear, “Ditto. Thanks for the cute wife, too.”

Nobody else heard, but when Starsky laughed so did everyone else. Even though there was no telling what “The Duo” were up to now, it was always great to hear them laughing.

“So,” Candita questioned, “how long till we leave? I gonna have ta’ pack, you know.”

Hutch laughed, “Oh yeah.”

“Oh yeah,” Starsky mocked.

They were back to their usual ways.

“Two weeks. Pack fast.”

“Whooie! I gotta start now!” Huggy commented, “I better go shoppin.”

He got an in unison, “NO!”

Candita patted her wounded husband’s leg, “See, honey? I tol’ you you need to try new styles.”

~~~

Hutch came home from the office feeling better than he had in months. He had set up few interviews to replace himself, Huggy and Starsky while they were gone, and the day had been a quiet one. Of course Lunk was staying, but Hutch knew he’d need help. The business was growing fast. Maybe they’d just keep on the extra help. Hutch was ready to work less and spend one hell of a lot more time at home.

Hutch was whistling along with some tune on the radio as he pulled into the driveway. For a moment, he looked around and thought he was at the wrong house.

The twins were outside trimming grass that was still asleep. There was a van that read “Merry Maids” on it’s side and a window cleaner high up on a ladder cleaning the third story windows. It looked like a small war being waged against dirt and grass. Why, was beyond Hutch.

Parking as close to his own garage as he could get with all the vehicles in the way, Hutch headed for the twins.

“Hey. You do something wrong that you gotta cut grass already? That’s dead, by the way.”

Marcus looked up and said the two words that explained it all, “Nick’s coming.”

Hutch’s mouth formed into a silent “ohhh” and he turned to go into his home. Nick was coming. Latte-fucking-da. The asshole.

Nick, Trini’s dad and Starsky’s brother by some mistake in genetics. Nick, the man who made more trouble and heartache for his mom and brother than 10 kids combined. Nick, the man who had turned his back on Trini when her mother had been too doped up to take care of her. {And too doped up to care that she couldn’t take care of Trini.} The man who’d snubbed their wedding saying Hutch was an old fart and was gonna die soon anyhow. The man who’d never bothered to call after Trini’d sent pictures of Michael to him.

Nick.

The prick.

Hutch truly hated the man with every fiber of his being. At first, he’d opened his arms to the man hoping he’d find in Nick another best friend as he had in Starsky.

Not even close.

Nicholas Marvin Starsky was as different from David Michael Starsky as night and day. Nick was a user. And a prick.

As Hutch opened the front door, he was nearly blown back outside by all the noise coming from inside. Percy was yapping, ladies were scrubbing and vacuuming from one end of the house to another, and he could hear water running into buckets for soapy water everywhere.

“Whoa.” Hutch stood where he was for a minute. It was all a little overwhelming. Then, not seeing Trini anywhere, he journeyed upstairs.

Heading for the safety of the bedroom with Percy hot on his heels, Hutch quickly went inside and shut the door behind them. Man and beast, together, hiding from the unknown.

He looked down at the puppy, “You scared, too fella? I think your mommy has lost her mind.”

From the bathroom came, “I heard that Ken Hutchinson.”

Percy heard his master’s voice and took off for the bathroom. Hutch followed behind him and lounged against the bathroom door as he watched his wife. His lovely wife, curls escaping from a hair clip, was scrubbing the bathroom like mad. With bleach. Strong bleach. Hutch wrinkled his nose.

“Trini, you really need to open the window, honey. You’re gonna pass out from this smell.”

“Can you do it, Ken. I gotta get this done before… did I tell you Nick’s on his way?”

Hutch shook his head and moved for the window that desperately needed to be opened, “No. You didn’t even say ‘hello.’ The boys told me what was up.”

A little irritated, Trini looked over her shoulder, “Well, excuse me for not being at the front door with your pipe and slippers.”

Hutch wrinkled his handsome face into a scowl, “Hey. Knock it off. That’s not what I meant, and you know it.”

A weary sigh heaved it’s way all the way from Trini’s toes and escaped out of her lips. Slowly standing, she removed the cleaning gloves and dropped the washcloth she’d been using into her cleaning bucket. “I’m sorry. You know how I freak over shit like this.”

Hutch nodded and moved to stand in front of his wife. He leaned in and kissed her lightly on the forehead before he started rubbing her shoulders, “I know. And it’s okay. Just don’t take it out on me.”

Nodding, she leaned her head against his shoulder as Hutch continued to rub her tired shoulders. Sheepishly, she pulled back and smiled up at him, “Sorry and ‘hello’.”

Hutch chuckled into her curls and kissed her forehead again, “Hello. How long the cleaning women here? I assume your uncle has my child, right?”

“Not much longer, and yes.”

Hutch curled up his lip in distaste when he asked, “When does Rachel’s mistake show up?”

Trini knew Hutch couldn’t stand to call Nick her father, or Dave’s brother. Her poor grandmother had to take all the blame for Nick Starsky.

Shrugging, Trini started to undress for a shower, “Who knows? Today, tonight, tomorrow… by Friday at the latest.”

Hutch grunted, “Three days at the most, huh? Wonderful.”

Giggling, Trini pulled her shirt off and deposited it in the hamper, “I know. He truly is a major pain in the ass, isn’t he? Doesn’t want to attend the wedding, doesn’t know Michael exists, now…”

“Yeah. What does he want, right?”

“Yeah. It’s not to see his ‘adoring’ daughter, I can tell ‘ya that.”

She was naked now, and Hutch reached out to brush a stray curl away from her face. Trini shivered a little at his touch and smiled at her husband. He could always make her weak in the knees with just a simple touch that showed how much he loved her.

Turning the water on in the shower first, Trini then turned back to Hutch and started to unbutton his shirt, “Join me?”

Looking around, Hutch asked, “What about the ‘slaves’?”

“I told you, they’re leaving soon. The twins are outside and won’t come up here if they come back in. Our son is gone. I’m horny and apologetic.” She dropped her hand to free Hutch’s rapidly swelling manhood from his pants, then smiled mischievously, “Did I forget anything?”

Reaching out to grab his naked wife to him, Hutch informed her, “Yeah.”

Tilting her head quizzically off to one side, she waited for him to tell her what she’d missed.

“You didn’t tell me you love me yet. I’m feeling used. You just want me for my body, huh?”

Grabbing his manhood gently in her hand, Trini solemnly informed him, “Yes.”

Hutch laughed and pushed his wife to the shower, “I can live with that.”

~~~

Leslie brought Michael home and informed Trini, “Your uncle wants to take Hutch out tonight for a drink. He wants to talk about Nick with him. Alone. You know how he worries about Hutch’s feelings, and David knows Hutch hates Nick.”

Trin nodded, “I knew this would happen. David doesn’t need to worry, though. Hutch won’t start anything with Nick.”

Placing a hand on her niece, Leslie told her, “It’s not that, not at all, Trini. David knows what Nick wants and he won’t tell anybody. I don’t even know. I guess he figures Hutch’ll understand. Or, maybe he just wants to prepare him for something. Anyhow…”

“I’ll tell him to get ready. When?”

Leslie saw the total distress on Trini’s face. The girl loved her life and the family the way it was. Was Nick gonna interfere with that by causing a problem. Probably. Did he want money? Probably. Was he gonna piss Hutch off before he left. Most definitely.

 

PART THREE

 CHAPTER 11

Starsky pulled up in front of the Hutchinson household promptly at 7:00 to pick up Hutch. He didn’t come up to the door as he usually did. This time he just honked. Trini nervously looked at Hutch from across the kitchen table.

Hutch looked at his watch, “Must be serious. He’s right on time.”

Trini nodded in agreement, “Yeah. And he can’t look me in the eye, or what? Weirdo.”

As Hutch laughed at his wife, he rose to grab his jacket before kissing her goodbye.

Nervously, she ran her hands along his jacket sleeves before imploring, “Please tell me if it’s horrible. Or if it affects David. Please, Hutch.”

Tenderly kissing her again, he told her, “As long as Starsky doesn’t make me promise not to tell you, okay?”

Smiling, she nodded. “I understand. Try and have fun, okay.”

Hutch snorted and walked out to join Starsky before he honked again.

Moving to the passenger side, Hutch saw Starsky already had the door standing open for him. Hutch slid in, then shut the door before buckling up.

“Hey,” he greeted Starsky.

Starsky merely nodded.

Hutch shrugged.

“You gonna be like this all night?”

This time Starsky shrugged.

Hutch sighed, “Come on, Starsk. You didn’t drag me out of the house just to look at my pretty face. Are we gonna talk about this or do we just go sit in a bar and stare at each other all night?”

A small smile crossed Starsky’s face before he stopped at the red light and turned to Hutch. Examining him from head to toe, Starsky nodded once and commented, “You’ll be warm enough.”

Hutch looked down at his outfit. He was wearing tan corduroy trousers, an off-white turtle neck, the hiking boots Trini’d made him buy because she said they looked “sexy” on him, and a lined, leather jacket.

“Warm enough for what, Gordo?”

Starsky shrugged again, “I don’t wanna go to a bar to talk. Got some beer in the back…”

“Sure, Starsk. Wherever you wanna go.”

Gratitude crossed Starsky’s face as he continued to drive in silence before finally stopping at Venice Beach. Starsky jumped out and grabbed the six pack of beer from behind the seat. Hutch got out and looked around. The old neighborhood sure had changed.

“Old home week, Starsk?”

“Good memories, week.”

Hutch was a little puzzled as he followed Starsky down to the water. They both sat down and opened a beer. A few minutes passed before Starsky said anything.

“Hutch, you know I love ‘ya. You’re the best friend I ever had. We been through a lot together.”

Hutch nodded and waited for Starsky to continue. He knew Starsky wasn’t looking for him to comment on anything just yet.

“I know you can’t stand Nick.”

Hutch nodded and took another sip of beer, “Am I supposed to say something here, Starsk?”

“I don’t know. You wanna say anything to him when he gets here?”

“I don’t get it.”

Starsky sighed, “I know why he’s coming here, and I know why he didn’t give an exact day. He didn’t have much time to talk on the phone when he called.”

“Someone after him, again?”

Starsky just nodded.

“Am I supposed to guess, Starsk?”

Starsky cast Hutch a sidelong glance, and grinned, “Sorry… no. The mob.”

A low whistle escaped Hutch before he could stop it. Then he asked his friend, “What do you want me to do, Starsk? How can I help you?”

Rubbing first at teary eyes, Starsky then reached over to place a hand on Hutch’s leg. “You’re doin’ it, pal. Just like always… me and thee.”

Hutch reached to pull Starsky to him, “Aw, Starsk… I wish I could make it better, but I can’t.”

Starsky nodded against his friend’s shoulder, “It just helps that you’re still the you I knew. I knew that I’d be able to count on that.”

“What can I do, Starsk?”

“He wants to get out of the country.”

They looked at each other and said an in unison, “Naturally.”

“What about his wife, girlfriend, whatever? Doesn’t he have like 7 kids?”

Starsky grunted, “Said he didn’t care about any of them. Not in those words, of course. He gave me this long, rehearsed speech about how they’d all be safer…”

“Oh.”

Starsky nodded and sat back up, “I’m not gonna help him this time, Hutch. I don’t want him around Trini or Michael, either. I wouldn’t put it past him to try and grab that beautiful kid… or one of mine, for that matter… for money. If they kill him this time, they kill him.”

A little shocked, Hutch looked to Starsky. After a moment, Hutch quietly asked, “You sure? I’ll help if you need more money. Hell, you gave it to me from that book deal, anyhow. You know I’ll help you…”

“I know,” Starsky cut him off. Tenderly and with great affection, he turned to Hutch, “I know you would help me with anything. That’s why I needed you here. I’m washing my hands of Nick, and I’m gonna need your help to do it. I don’t want Trini to know… or to meet him alone. I don’t trust him, Hutch. He’s on the run and he’s desperate.”

Hutch put a hand on Starsky’s shoulder, “I’ll help. Back you up, whatever. Do you wanna tell me what he did?”

“Nick and his pretty boy ways. He was boffing Angelo Ramola’s wife.”

Another low whistle from Hutch. “What the hell was he thinking?”

Starsky shook his head, “You know Nick. He only thinks with his little head. When Ramola caught ’em together, Nick shot him. Arm wound. Nick’s a shitty shot, but Ramola’s wife has gone missing.”

“Already got rid of the wife, huh? Now Nick has to pay for the hole in the arm and the fact that Ramola’s gotta find a new old lady now.”

Starsky nodded. “I didn’t know any of this the first time he called.”

“Now the whole family knows, and you don’t know how to retract it all.”

“Yeah. Can you help me, Hutch? I shoulda known better than to think the prick was coming for a visit…”

Hutch sputtered out a short laugh, then was laughing so hard, he was crying.

“What’s so funny, Hutchinson?”

“Nick-the-Prick. That’s what I call him. Sorry. It’s just funny comin’ from your mouth instead of mine.”

Both men dissolved into laughter for a few minutes. Starsky nodded to Hutch, “You always did hate him, didn’t you?”

“Not ’til he fucked you over and hurt you. That’s when I started hating him, Starsk. Sorry, it can’t be helped.”

“Exactly why I love you, Hutch. You’re the brother Nick will never be.”

Hutch kissed Starsky on the cheek. This time Starsky didn’t wipe it off or make a joke. He turned and patted Hutch’s leg before opening them each another beer.

They drank the rest of the beer in silence before Starsky turned to Hutch and asked, “You got anything, yet?”

Hutch nodded, “Maybe. How can we be absolutely sure he won’t bother any of us, anymore? How can we sure he’s not gonna endanger our families if they come lookin’ for him?”

Starsky shrugged, “If he’s out of the country or…” Starsky turned to Hutch and realization crossed his face as he beamed at his best friend. “Yeah! Yeah, Hutch. Thanks for helping me work through this. I’m too close to it to see how to fix the problem.” He patted Hutch’s leg again, “Thanks.

“Anytime, buddy. Anytime.”

~~~

Trini was sitting stiffly on the couch waiting for her uncle and her husband to return. No way could she sleep until she heard what the hell was going on. Rushing to the back door at the sound of her uncle’s car, Trini flipped on the outside lights for the men. She heard only one car door open and shut, so she knew her uncle was heading home.

Hutch waved goodbye to Starsky and went inside to tell his wife that he couldn’t tell her anything. He hoped she’d really understand, not just pretended to. Hutch had promised Starsky, and he’d never break a promise to that man as long as he lived.

Trini opened the door before Hutch could and pulled him inside. She quickly flipped the outside light back off and bolted the door behind her husband before he could comment on her odd behavior. When Trini was done, she turned back to Hutch and he saw she was wearing her revolver in it’s shoulder holster. She was also a little pale.

“Nick called,” she started out. “He sounded scared, wanted to know how to get here, but I wouldn’t tell him ‘cuz he sounded a little nuts.” Her hands flew to her face and she shed the tears that couldn’t be stopped as she sobbed, “Why does it have to be like this, Ken? I’m sure David told you not to tell me, huh?” Silently, Hutch nodded. Trini hiccuped, and started to cry even harder. “I just wanted…a normal family.”

Hutch hastily pulled Trini to him and pushed her head onto his shoulder. Holding her tightly, he soothed, “I love you, baby. And I’m not goin’ anywhere. Neither is our beautiful son. Or that uncle of yours. I’m so sorry it can’t be what people call ‘normal’, but this is what we got, babe. And it’s better than most people even dream of.”

Trini was sobbing so hard, she couldn’t even catch her breath as she tried to talk to Hutch. He could only make out that she loved him. As Hutch continued to gently rub his sobbing wife’s back, the hatred he felt for Nick Starsky grew. Hutch hadn’t thought it possible to hate the man more than he had before, but here it was. The small boiling pot of hatred had grown into a volcano of anger. Hutch was glad Nick wasn’t anywhere he could find him right now.

After several minutes, Trini finally calmed down. Hutch’s heart was breaking for his wife, and it brought back unwanted memories of his own shitty childhood. The mother who loved him, but drank too much and only wanted Ken around to show people how handsome, well mannered, polite, clean, quiet and just all around good he was. The father he was never good enough for, no matter what. And, God forbid if he ever stepped outside of the bullshit parameters his parents had set for him. It meant that he wasn’t perfect enough for them, therefore unworthy of their time and love.

Starsky and Trini had loved Hutch unconditionally and he’d always be grateful for that. Nick Starsky had screwed himself out of ever knowing how wonderful… how strong… how completing that love could be. From either of them.

Lifting Trini’s tear stained face to kiss it, Hutch managed to choke out, “Please don’t cry anymore, Trini. It’s killin’ me.”

Sniffling very unladylike, Trini reached up to brush away the stray tear her husband had just shed in response to her pain. Who couldn’t love a man like Hutch? He was crying for her, for Christ’s sake! Jesus she loved this man.

Sniffling again, she nodded, “I’ll be okay. Thanks. It just…” she almost started cying again, but bit her lip. Hutch had suffered enough with her tonight, “… hurts. You know?”

Hutch nodded and whispered, “Yeah. I wish I didn’t, but I do.”

Trini nodded, “Sorry. Of course you know. I forget sometimes and like to wallow in my own self pity. I want all the sympathy and attention you can lay on me, Buster.”

Hutch laughed, “You better then? We can go to bed?”

“Yeah. Come on, hero.” Reaching out, Trini took her husband’s hand and went upstairs. Stopping in front of Michael’s door, Trini went in and double checked the window lock. She always checked it before laying the boy down, but Hutch understood the need to recheck. Gotta keep the bad things away. Keep the “boogey-man”…. Nick Starsky…. out.

Shutting the bedroom door quietly behind her, Trini grabbed Hutch’s hand as he waited in the hall for her.

“You alright?”

“Yeah. With you and that son of ours, I’m gonna be alright.”

Smiling, Hutch followed his wife to their room where she carefully took off her pistol and put it in the nightstand drawer by their bed. Sadly, Hutch shook his head at her extra precautions. He couldn’t blame her, he was just saddened that a child would be so afraid of what danger might come trailing in the wake of an errant father. He pictured Trini as a small child all curled up in bed, blankets pulled tight over her head, trembling in fear.

Gotta keep the “boogey-man” away.

Hutch finished undressing before Trini and reached to shut off the light.

“Don’t.”

He looked to his wife who was blushing furiously, now. Softly he told her, “It’s okay. I’ll leave it on.”

She nodded and turned away as she slid into bed. Hutch joined her and curled up to her back. Breathing against her ear, he informed her, “I swear nothing bad will happen. I won’t let him bother us or ruin what we’ve got, Trini. I promise you. Do you trust me to keep you safe?”

Trini was crying softly as she clumsily, blindly through her tears, tried to roll over and kiss her spouse. When her trembling lips touched Hutch’s, he melted against her. Salty tears or no, this girl always tasted damn good to him. After a moment, Trini opened her mouth a little wider to accommodate the dance she had started with Hutch’s tongue. Wrapping her leg over Hutch’s hip, she pulled gently against his buttocks, pressing his swelling manhood to her.

Gently pulling back, he whispered, “Trini, you don’t have to…”

Silencing her husband with another kiss, Trini then pulled back to smile at him. “No,” she whispered back in agreement, “I don’t have to make love to you right now. But, I need to.”

Gratefully, gladly, Hutch moved to accept the gift his wife was offering. He just had to be sure she wasn’t feeling some ridiculous sense of “owing” him. If anybody “owed” anybody for their love and protection, it was him. He owed Katrina Hutchinson his heart, his soul, and his very life.

Trini pulled back to untie the bow of the thin, cotton nightgown she was wearing. Slowly, looking Hutch squarely in the eyes, she pulled the top open leaving her breasts uncovered for his viewing pleasure. Then, she reached down and placed his hand on one. Instantly, she closed her eyes and sighed as her nipple became pert under Hutch’s excellent touch.

Bending down, Hutch gently held Trini’s breast between both hands and caresses it on both sides as he gently nibbled and sucked. His hands were so very warm surrounding her breast and his tongue was working it’s usual magic on her nipple. Trini arched and moaned a little.

Hastily, Hutch reached down to rid himself of the pajama bottoms he was wearing. Trini’s nightgown was still laid all-round her, crumpled about her waist since she’d never completely taken it off. Hutch reached down to pull the hem up to gain access to her. Trini was laying there, responding to Hutch, but for once not joining in on undressing or the foreplay. Hutch knew she needed to be made love to tonight. His job for the evening was to make his wife feel adored… wanted… desired… and safe. He could do that.

Arching her back against Hutch’s swollen member, Trini moved her hips gently back and forth. The warm, soft head of Hutch’s penis glided gently over Trini’s lips and was slowly driving them both mad. Suddenly, she reached between them and gripped him firmly. Just as firmly, she guided Hutch inside her and arched upward, filling herself with him.

Smiling a little, Hutch started to move in and out of his wife.

Obviously, foreplay’s over, honey?

Trini slammed her hips up against Hutch as she reached up to pull his head down to her. Hungrily, she kissed him, then began licking and nibbling his eyes, neck, shoulder, ears.. anywhere she could reach. As their gentle dance turned into a frenzied need for release, Trini’s gentle nibbling and sucking grew deeper and more forceful. Reaching down, she grasped one of Hutch’s glorious nipples between her fingertips and toyed with him. Maybe he’d been wrong. He was getting made love to as well.

Grabbing Hutch’s face in both hands, Trini pulled him to her in a kiss just as she exploded with all the pent up love and frustration in her. Breathing heavily into Hutch’s mouth, she wrapped her legs tighter about him and tensed. Quickly, Hutch followed.

Pulling Hutch’s head down onto her shoulder, Trini held him to her just as tightly as she held him inside. She wasn’t ready to let go just yet.

Tenderly, Hutch nuzzled her ear, “Christ. That was wonderful.”

Trini laughed and it caused her stomach and pelvic muscles to tighten. Much to Hutch’s pleasure. Laughing himself, Hutch pulled up and looked down at his wife, “Do that again.”

Trini pushed against his chest, “Off, wiseass. I’m done with you for now.”

Shaking his head in mock sadness, Hutch reluctantly moved from the warmth of his wife, “Wow. You are using me for my body.”

Trini nodded and moved out of bed to the bathroom calling over her shoulder, “Um, you can shut the light off now. If you want to.”

Hutch got out of bed and moved to the opposite wall to shut off the lights. As he did, the sight of something in the full-length bedroom mirrors caught his eye. Moving closer to the mirror, Hutch double checked just to be sure. First he looked at the left side of his neck, then the right. Muttering, he moved to the light-switch, flipped the lights off, then went to show his wife.

Trini was brushing her teeth when Hutch came in. As she bent to spit, he leaned against the basin and folded his arms across his chest. Rising, Trini smiled and reached to put her toothbrush back. Then, she did a double take at her scowling husband and laughed. Loud.

Pointing to his neck, Hutch asked her, “How the hell am I supposed to cover this? I’ve never even had a fucking hickey before! Now, I’ve got.. how many?”

Still laughing, Trini reached around her scowling husband and informed him, “You didn’t mind while it was happening.”

Hutch merely grunted.

Straightening back up, Trini dropped a bottle in Hutch’s hand, “Here. I’ve been told this works.”

Taking off like a bolt, Trini was already bounding under the covers again when Hutch looked down and read the label out loud, “Concealer and base all in one. You gotta be shittin’ me.”

Hearing her husband, Trini just giggled as he sulked back to bed.

As he climbed back into bed, Trini moved to hold him. He pointed a finger at her, “No biting.”

That brought even more uncontrolled laughter form his wife.

 

CHAPTER 12

Trini, by accident and without meaning to, had kept Hutch awake all night. His wife had tossed and turned in such a fitful sleep that Hutch had been awakened several times. He would have gone into another bedroom or slept downstairs, but Hutch knew Trini needed him in bed with her. Asleep or not, his wife needed his protection when she moved to him as the nightmares took hold. Hutch had been right there to pull her close and comfort her until her breathing had returned to normal. He did it all for love, but he felt like hell today. Tired and stiff, Hutch slid quietly from bed to go downstairs and make coffee. Looking in and seeing Michael was also still asleep, Hutch figured he could actually read the paper before working on Starsky’s problem of Nick.

Tiredly, Hutch rubbed his eyes and waited for the automatic pot to do it’s magic. He was yawning hugely when Starsky opened the back door to let himself in. Hutch spared him a glance over his shoulder and a short wave before moving to the fridge for butter as the toast popped up.

Still leaning tiredly against the counter facing away from Starsky, Hutch pointed to the toaster and asked, “You want some?”

Starsky nodded, then realized Hutch couldn’t see that.

“Yeah, thanks. Coffee, too, huh Hutch?”

Yawning again, Hutch reached for another cup.

“You didn’t sleep well, either, huh? I couldn’t sleep at all… thoughts of this an’ that. Too much of this negative thought, not enough of that positive one…” Starsky sighed, “…just an all around bad night for sleep.”

As Starsky finished his comment, Hutch turned to head to the table with the toast and coffee he’d made. Starsky looked up at his friend and started laughing heartily. Wrinkling up his forehead, Hutch asked irritatedly, “What the hell’s so funny, Starsky?”

Pointing to his friend’s chest, Starsky told him, “You oughta cover up with a shirt before Huggy gets here. He might think a vampire’s on the loose again.”

Belatedly, Hutch looked down and saw some of the love bruised areas he’d forgotten about. Blushing furiously, Hutch quickly set the plates and cups down and went into the spare bedroom for a teeshirt. Starsky was still grinning hugely when Hutch came back out.

Starsky couldn’t resist, “I see why you didn’t get too much sleep last night, Hutch. At least you had fun.”

Hutch flipped Starsky off, then opened his paper and tried to read it.

But, Starsky wasn’t done yet.

“I haven’t had one of those in more years than I care to count. How many ‘ya got, anyhow?”

Hutch pointedly ignored the man.

Taking a sip off his coffee, Starsky laughed again, “Hey. It could be worse. You two could still be fighting.”

Looking over his paper, Hutch scowled at his laughing friend, “I didn’t know she bit,” he growled.

Starsky laughed so loud this time, that Michael heard it and opened his door. Hutch hurried over to the stairs to greet his son. As Michael started down the stairs Hutch greeted him.

“Morning son. You hungry?”

Nodding, Michael rushed down to join his great-uncle at the table. Starsky picked the boy up and kissed his curly head as he sat Michael down into his booster seat. Hutch was cracking eggs for Michael when Starsky piped up, “Since you’re already cooking eggs for Michael…”

“I’m workin’ on it, Starsk.”

Smiling, Starsky nodded.

“Wow. I think I finally got you trained, Hutch.”

Hutch didn’t bother to comment. He was doing all he could to stay awake.

~~~

Leaning in close, Huggy whispered to his friends, “So, all I gots to tell ‘ya is that I know ‘Sweet Alice’ will help us get rid of Nick. She figures she owes you guys. Especially ‘Blondie,’ here.”

Hutch shook his head, “I don’t know.”

Starsky looked across the patio at Michael to be sure the child was still where he could see him before returning his attention to Hutch.

“Why? She’s not gonna get hurt at all, Hutch. We’re gonna be right there, every step of the way. We gotta do it, Hutch. We gotta get rid of Nick once and for all.”

Nodding, Hutch reached out to pat Starsky’s leg. Starsky was hurting, but it was nothing new when it concerned Nick. Nick only hurt Starsky. Hutch knew Dave Starsky had loved his brother more than life at one time, but now he couldn’t afford those feelings anymore. Nick had to go.

Tiredly, Hutch drywashed his face and yawned again, “Can we think on this? I know it’s probably the best plan, but I gotta wake up a little to see it from every angle.”

Agreeably, Huggy nodded, “Sure thing, Hutch. I understand. My ole’ lady sucked me dry like that an’ I’d be tired, too.”

Hutch pushed Huggy backwards in his chair and went to move the puppy out of Michael’s reach. Huggy picked himself up and looked up at the sun, squinting a little.

“Maybe he’s so damn crabby-ass ‘cuz he’s a vampire an’ should not oughta be out in this here sunshine.”

Hutch didn’t know what Huggy’d said, but he could tell from the laughter, it involved his “love bites” that were visible over his teeshirts neckline.

He’d have to look for a shirt with a high collar before they went to see “Sweet Alice.”

~~~

Trini woke up to find the bedroom flooded with sunlight. She sat up and stretched before reaching for Hutch’s pillow. Picking the pillow up, Trini pressed it to her face and inhaled. Hutch smelt so wonderful to her. The thought of him not being there, leaving his scent there, was more than Trini ever wanted to think about. Stretching tiredly again, she rose and bathed, then dressed to go down and call some friends. Her head was throbbing, but Trini knew she had to move on her plans. Nick had to go, and Trini knew just how to make sure it happened.

As Trini came down the stairs, she heard Huggy’s voice as he read the Obituaries out loud.

“How about this one… former policeman like you all… Mike Southbee… age 64… heartattack at home. Mm-mm-mm. Bad. Young kids, too. Says here, 16, 12, 9, and 4.”

Trini stopped where she was and drew in a shaky breath. 64 didn’t seem so far away anymore. Hutch was… well, closer to that than she cared to think about.

Jesus, this day was starting out shitty.

Headache, worries of Hutch not being in bed with her to leave his glorious scent, dead at 64… Damn. Bad start.

Looking up, Hutch saw his wife frozen in mid-step on the stairs, head down as if trying to collect herself. Reaching over to Huggy, Hutch punched him and hotly whispered, “Smooth move, Bear. Always gotta read those goddamned things out loud, don’t you?”

Huggy knew Hutch wasn’t really mad at him, and he didn’t take it personally. They all had wives, and they all were aware of the fact that none of them were that young anymore. They were mere mortal men who would have to leave the ones they loved someday. That hurt more than any of them cared to admit or talk about.

Quickly rising, Hutch nodded toward Michael. Starsky got the hint and led the child outside. Huggy also understood. The Hutchinsons needed a moment to stave off a breakdown by Trini. Huggy grabbed the puppy, and hastily followed his friend outside.

Reaching up, Hutch placed a gentle hand on Trini’s where it was still laying on the curving handrail, “Hey. It’s all good. Southbee weighed like 300 pounds when he retired. I’m here and I’m fine, Trini.”

Hutch didn’t even know the man. He was just saying things to calm his overly stressed wife.

Nodding, she gripped his hand in hers and continued down the winding staircase. Hutch looked so adorable, following her around the outside of the stairs until they met at the bottom, that Trini actually laughed when he pulled her into his arms.

Hutch kissed her head and said, “I’ll bite. What made you finally laugh?”

“My Prince Charming guiding me down the stairs, holding my hand so tenderly. Then I look at you now, and I see what I did last night. Kinda adds a sense of the bizarre to the whole thing. Prince Charming didn’t get hickeys. I don’t think.”

Hutch pulled back and scowled at his wife. “Oh yeah. I’ve been waiting to discuss that.”

She giggled and moved to get a cup of coffee. Taking a sip, she sighed, “Sorry. You got stuck with an emotional wife. I just hate hearing…” she sighed again. “Just a bad night. That’s all.”

“Hey. It’s okay. I’d worry if you didn’t care about men leaving too young to journey into the great unknown. It scares the hell out of me, too. But, we can’t let fear rule our lives. I did that, not all that long ago, and it almost ruined everything.”

Smiling, Trini nodded, “I hate it when you’re right.”

Feeling it was safe, Huggy journeyed back inside with Percy in tow. “Hey, Curly wants you’s all to join him for a swim lesson with your son. I gots ta be goin’.”

In apology for the earlier punch and scolding, Hutch placed his hand on Huggy’s shoulder as he moved to the door. Turning, Huggy merely smiled at Hutch, and Hutch knew he was forgiven.

Again.

Still.

Thank God.

~~~

Trini had gotten ahold of Simmons to discuss her plan. Simmons, shaken by what she was offering to pay him to do, whispered into the phone, “Katrina. This is big. You sure? I mean, I can find guys with a mock EMT setup easily. I know where to borrow the other stuff, too. Just… you sure? It sounds kinda… twisted.”

Trini was adamant, “I gotta do this. It’s the only way I know to keep my family safely in one piece. And, it’s a better ‘out’ than that piece of shit deserves.”

Solemnly, Simmons told her, “I don’t need anything for my time. You guys helping me out with my student loan has been payment enough, and I didn’t expect that. It’s my job to help people, it’s what I do.”

Trini smiled into the phone, “Precisely why we wanted you to be the great doctor we know you’ll be. Thanks Jeremy, and I’ll call you tomorrow.”

Trini heard Simmons say goodbye, but her thoughts were already on her husband. She knew her uncle, Hutch, and Huggy had to be working on a plan, but Trini was assured hers was better.

Nick would be dead, and that would solve it all.

~~~

Hutch and Starsky sat looking at “Sweet Alice” as she contemplated her part in Starsky’s plan.

“So, I just act as his ‘date,’ then I lead him to the docks for a leisurely moonlight stroll. He thinks were comin’ back here to hide later. He gets taken care of at the docks when you guys give him the ultimatum.”

A little surprised, Hutch nodded. “Sweet Alice” had understood. Wow.

Starsky leaned over to kiss her cheek, “Thanks, Alice. I swear we’ll pull you outta there safe. Nick won’t be armed, I’ll see to that. He’ll get on that steamer or he’ll stay here and die. Simple as that. Either way, we all just walk away when it’s over.”

With that said, Starsky got up and left Alice and Hutch staring after him. Alice started to cry.

“Nick is a very bad man to hurt our Curly like this.”

Hutch could only nod. Yes, Nick Starsky was a very bad man.

But, soon, it wouldn’t matter.

~~~

Hutch and Starsky rode to the Hutchinson home in silence. Hutch noted it wasn’t one of their normal companionable, easy ones. It was a silence filled with a bad feeling and it left a nasty taste in Hutch’s mouth.

Turning to Starsky as he drove, Hutch quietly informed him, “You know, Starsk, we don’t have to do this. Maybe we can think up some other way to keep him out of our hair.”

“We’ve got no time, Hutch. I gotta do this. If you wanna pussy out…”

As soon as Starsky’d said it, he’d felt bad. Slamming his hand into the steering wheel, Starsky pulled into the closest empty lot and put the car roughly into park.

Hutch waited for a minute. Starsky had way too much on his mind, his emotions were on high, and this had to be killing him. He was just trying to pretend it wasn’t.

Painfully, Hutch watched his best friend fall apart. Hutch tried to lean over to Starsky, hit his head on the mirror, cursed, and finally reached across to pull Starsky to him. With his arms firmly holding Starsky as he sobbed, Hutch felt his own throat tighten up.

“Aw, Starsk. I wish I could make it all go away. I know all this has to be rough. I’ll do whatever to make it better for you.” He smiled into Starsky’s curls, “I’ve never pussied out before. What makes you think I will now?”

Starsky started laughing. “I’m sorry. I know you wouldn’t. I owe you a lot for helping…”

Starsky sat back up and rubbed his tears away. Hutch sat back up as well.

“Nah,” Hutch started. “I owe you just as much. I figure we’ll always be even. One way or another.”

Smiling, Starsky laughed again. “You’re the best, Hutch.”

In Hutch’s head, he thought, “You’re the best of the two of us, but that would only start another debate.”

~~~

Nick arrived the next day at “Hutchinson and Starsky Investigations” without much fanfare. It was Hutch’s day off, and Trini had decided to stay home with him. David Starsky was the only one in the office when Nick arrived. After all, it was lunchtime. And David Starsky had told Nick to come by at this time. He wanted to be alone with Nick for awhile. Nick was going away forever soon, and loathe as Starsky was to admit it, he might actually miss Nick when he was gone for good.

The minute Nick opened his mouth, Starsky knew he’d been wrong. He wasn’t gonna miss this one bit.

“You get me some money?” Nick offered in way of greeting.

“You can’t even say ‘hello,’ asshole? And, no, the money’s not ready yet. I’ve got you a safe house, though.”

Nick immediately knew he’d overstepped his boundaries and tried to backtrack, but his older brother was immune to Nick’s charm now. Sadly for Nick.

“Davey, come on. It’s me. Nicky. You know how I get. I’m just scared is all.”

“Yeah, I know how you are. I set you up with a lady named Alice. She’ll hide you there until we can get you out of here.”

“How’m I gonna get out? I got no money, Davey…”

“Hutch ‘n me took care of it with Huggy’s help. A steamer will leave Dock 12 two nights from now. You’ll be on it. With money.”

~~~

Trini needed to work on the files she’d brought home from work, and had insisted Hutch take Michael with him to the grocery store so she could work. Michael, for some reason, was still wide awake at 8:00 at night and Hutch had agreed that taking the boy with him might wear him out for bed.

As Trini sat in the den working, she looked out into the darkened house and thought to herself how she needed to get up and turn on some lights for when Hutch and Michael returned. Trini started to stretch, then stopped mid-stretch when Percy’s hair stood up and he started growling. She’d only had the puppy a short while, but already knew his personality. The puppy sensed something. Slowly, she grabbed her pistol from the holster she had still been wearing, checked that it was fully loaded, then reached to shut the lamp on the desk off. The house was completely shrouded in darkness now as Trini reached down to Percy.

Trying to soothe the pet and her nerves she whispered, “Good boy. Stay here, baby. I don’t want you gettin’ hurt.”

Trapping the puppy in the den, Trini moved through the darkened hallway to the back door that led to the backyard. She knew all the other doors were locked, yet couldn’t remember if the back one was. It was, but there was definitely somebody on the other side of it.

“Cop Mode” kicked in as Trini crouched behind the table in the pitch black hallway to wait. If somebody came through it she had the advantage of knowing where the hell she was, and what the hell she could hide behind. Plus, if somebody came through, she could claim the dead man was an “intruder” and not one of Ramola’s men that it had to be. Trini could barely hear the whispers over Percy’s barking as the door was jimmied open.

“I don’t know about this,” the first shadow whispered as it entered the Hutchinson home, “nobody said nuthin’ bout a dog. Maybe it’s da wrong house.”

“Shut the hell up, moron. That’s her car in the garage. Let’s just see if there’s any sign of him here.”

Trini’s throat tightened at the mention of them knowing what she drove. And there wasn’t any doubt as to who they were searching for.

Holding her breath and waiting until both men had passed, Trini slowly rose, pointed her gun at the closest man’s head and pulled her trigger into the firing position. Both men froze at the sound. When Trini spoke, she hoped her voice sounded as calm to them as it did to her.

“We got two ways to do this, fellas. I just let you walk away and you tell Mr.Ramola that I don’t want any trouble for me and my family, that I don’t give a shit about Nick Starsky. You could ask him real nice like to let me get ahold of Nick before him to settle a couple scores. If he can’t wait, that’s fine, but you could be sweet and ask. Or… I can kill at least one of you before the other one even gets a shot off. Your call, fellas. Just promise me you’ll go back and tell your boss I got no use for Nick Starsky, and forget you ever knew where we live. I don’t want any trouble. And I don’t think you guys do, either. I know Mr.Ramola’s an understanding man. Talk to him for me. Hell, I’ll meet with him, myself. I just want you out of my life right now. You guys and Nick. I promise you I’m telling the truth.”

Trini continued to stare at both men’s backs since neither one had dared moved yet. Backing into a safe spot, Trini asked them, “We got a deal or not?”

Both men nodded and slowly raised their hands as they turned to go. Trini looked down at their chests to play safe. She didn’t want to be able to identify anyone. Safer.

Hutch pulled up just as Trini was shutting the back door and rebolting it. For good measure, she moved a table next to it before rushing to see her family safely into the house.

Hutch pulled into the driveway as a car tore down the street away from his house. It wouldn’t have bothered Hutch except for the fact that his home was completely black. For some reason, it all made his neck hair stand on end.

As the garage door opened, Hutch could make out his wife’s shadow in his headlights against the wall. As Hutch pulled further in, Trini ran to the end of his car, gun drawn, and looked outside. Seemingly satisfied, Trini put the gun back only after Hutch had closed the door with the opener. Wordlessly, they looked at each other a moment before Trini turned to go back in. Hutch turned back to his car to unload Michael. As he rose with the sleeping child in his arms, Hutch looked inside and saw his wife turning on every light in the house.

Hutch’s anger rose to boiling point. Somebody had been here and Trini wasn’t gonna tell him who. He knew why and it pissed him off. Hutch hated Nick Starsky for even more reasons now.

As their home blazed brightly, Trini spoke quietly into the phone she now held. Hutch could hear her near whispers as he climbed the stairs with Michael in his arms.

“David, I don’t care. I want you to find the boys now. Then all of you get over here. They won’t be back here, tonight anyhow. Oh, and please call Alice. Thanks.”

Hutch overheard enough to know his wife was very afraid right now.

Look out. Boogey Man’s Coming.

 

CHAPTER 13

Upon awakening, Trini had immediately complained of a headache to Hutch.

 “No wonder.’ he thought as he went to get her the Tylenol, “Despite all your words of comfort to everyone else that those goons wouldn’t be back, you didn’t sleep a wink. Pacing, looking out windows, checking all the locks and doors. When you finally did nod off, it was in that damned arm chair downstairs.”

Hutch smiled to himself as he grabbed three Tylenol and a glass of milk for Trini. Out loud, he whispered, “My little warrior.”

Hutch was starting back up the stairs when he heard one of the downstairs toilets flush. Hutch decided to wait a minute to see who emerged. He knew Trini was sorely in need of a back rub, and was going to ask whoever was up to listen for Michael so he could concentrate on Trini. Relieved, Hutch saw Starsky’s dark head emerge from the downstairs bedrooms.

Starsky looked up at Hutch and said, “Mornin’ Blintz. She ever sleep?”

Smiling, Hutch shook his head, “Nah. I’m gonna take her these,” Hutch nodded at the pills he held, “then I’m gonna give her a backrub and try and get her to catch some ‘z’s. Probably won’t work, but can you listen for Michael?”

Puffing out proudly, Starsky solemnly nodded. “I’d love to. Take care of the woman, I get the boy.” He smiled, “MY great-nephew. MY namesake with MY curly hair. MY..”

“Starsky. Shut the hell up and just listen for MY son. Okay?”

Starsky nodded and smiled even bigger, “Sorry. Can’t help but remind you every so often how much more ‘Starsky” he is. Hardly any ‘Hutchinson” in him at all. Thank God.”

Hutch shook his head and flipped Starsky off as he started up the stairs to Trini. “Man. You are a pain in my ass.”

Laughing, Starsky yelled up at Hutch, “Yeah. I love you, too.”

Hutch laughed back before disappearing at the top of the stairs. Laying his head tiredly on the wall, Starsky whispered to himself, “I do love you, Hutch. You’re the brother I always wanted.”

So he didn’t let the unwanted pain take hold, Starsky quickly went to start breakfast to busy his mind. He didn’t even want to think about what was going to have to be done later that night.

~~~

Michael had been hidden at a friend of Michelle and Angie’s, with the two women as “bodyguards” for the boy. Hutch had brought a pistol for Angie to wear, “just in case.” Angie and Hutch had loved to go shooting, and she was a great shot. Hutch knew she’d never let Michael near the gun she wore, and she’d do anything to keep him safe. Michelle would, too. He was gonna owe these two dinner and flowers when this was all over. Or maybe…

As Hutch turned to go, he pulled Angie off to one side.

“Hey. You ever been on a cruise?”

“Yeah, Hutch. Me and Angie got so much money stashed away from the bar we own…”

Playfully, Hutch poked her in the arm, “Don’t be a jackass. You wanna come with all of us next week? I mean, I wasn’t sure if it’d be uncomfortable… anyhow, I’d like for you two to join us. If you’d like to, I mean.”

Genuinely touched, Angie kissed Hutch on the cheek, “You know, you don’t have to pay for our love and loyalty, Hutch. It comes from somewhere deep inside our souls. We love all of you. And, if you guys really want us along, I’d love to go. But, not because you feel obligated, okay?”

Reaching out to tweak Angie’s nose, Hutch smiled, “Not obligated, just grateful to have friends like you an’ Michelle. Say you’ll come with us when this bullshit is all over.”

Angie nodded, “Okay. But just ‘cuz you smiled so damned cute just now.”

Hutch nodded, satisfied with Angie’s answer. Then, he bent to kiss his son one more time. He hoped not for the last time.

As Angie bolted the door behind him, Hutch reached in his pocket and rubbed the rabbit’s foot Starsky had bought him years before. It was a horrid dyed red thing that Hutch had mocked saying, “It wasn’t lucky for the rabbit, now was it?” Starsky had shrugged and said, “Depends how you look at it, Hutch. Could be, all they got of him was this. He’s probably hopping around just fine on three legs somewhere.”

Hutch hoped Starsky was right about this damn thing bringing good luck. They were gonna need it tonight.

~~~

“Jeremy, Trini. Listen, we gotta work fast. The steamer my uncle promised Nick he could get out on gets here in 2 hours. David is getting the money, so he’ll be tied up at the bank for awhile. I gotta get there with you first. We’ve got to make this work, or we’ll never be safe.”

Simmons sighed into the phone, “Man, you been married to ‘Mr. Clipboard’ too long. Quit it. I’ve got it all covered. You want a checklist to show your old man…”

“He doesn’t know,” she interrupted. Furiously blushing, Trini waited for Simmons to say what she knew was coming. Actually, he didn’t say it, he yelled it.

“What the hell did you just say?! I thought they were backing you! I’m out of this right now! There ain’t NO WAY I’m getting a friend of mine killed! Those hired hands….”

“Precisely why we gotta do it my way, Jeremy. They’ll keep looking for him. The steamer is a shitty plan. My uncle doesn’t have the lack of heart to do what I’m going to. He has to go. Where they can all see. It’s the only way they’ll leave us alone. Don’t you see, Jeremy? We’re not safe while he’s alive.”

Simmons sighed again. This time it was heavier and sadder. “But you’re gonna be safe, right? I mean, they’ll be there somewhere, right?”

Trini smiled at her friend’s concern. “Yeah. They’ll be there. Across the docks. I’ll be safe. Thanks, but I really gotta go. Gotta tell my daddy about the change in plans. See you soon, okay?”

“I’ll be there. Somebody’s gotta keep you from getting killed. Or at least to identify the body when they do kill you. I like Ken too much to make him do that.”

“Gee, Jeremy,” Trini laughed, “That was cold. Thanks.”

“Yeah, whatever. Get going. I’m right behind you.”

As they hung up, Trini desperately hoped she and Jeremy could pull this all off. Quickly lifting the phone out of it’s cradle, Trini called “Sweet Alice.”

She answered on the third ring. Alice sounded scared and nervous, “Hello?”

“Alice, it’s Trini. I’m gonna come get Nick and go to the docks. I carry a gun and we decided it’d be safer that way. Just make sure you’re out of there by the time I get there, alright? I don’t want you in any danger. Oh, and don’t tell anybody where you’re going. It’s best that way.”

“Oh, Katrina! I am so happy to hear this, honey! I wuz awful scared about this. I’m gonna go right now. Thank you sweetheart.”

“You are more than welcome, Alice. Please tell Nick I’m on my way.”

“Will do, honey. Bye now.”

“Bye Alice.”

Trini hung up the phone feeling a little bad for lying to “Sweet Alice” but she had no choice. Alice couldn’t pull off what needed to be done.

Trini waited 15 minutes before lifting the phone off the hook one last time. Knowing Alice had vacated her apartment by now, Trini called Huggy.

“Home of the Bears. Big ones, small ones, ones you wanna hug. Huggy is speakin’ to you’s now.”

“Huggy,” Trini cut in, trying to sound panicked, “I can’t find Alice. Do you think you can track her down before… what were those guys’ name that came to the house… before they find her.”

“She’s out where Colton and Webble could see her? That girl’s done gone nuts! Where is the useless Starsky brother?”

“Alice’s. I’m going to get him now.”

“I’m already leavin’. Should I call the ‘duo’ an’ let ’em know what’s goin’ down.”

“Got it, Hug. Just meet us with Alice at the docks in 3 hours. Steamer got delayed.”

“Gotcha.”

Holding the dead phone to her ear, Trini finally set it back down. She stared at it a moment before dialing the number she dreaded. It only rang once.

“This better be good.” A deep, mean voice demanded.

“It is. Please tell Mr.Ramola that Nick Starsky’s daughter is on the phone. I’d like to help him find Nick for Mr.Colton and Mr.Webble.”

~~~

Trini knocked on Alice’s door and called out softly, “Open it. It’s your daughter.”

Nick opened the door far enough to look through the chain, shut it, then reopened it without the chain. He smiled at Trini. She didn’t smile back.

“Come on. You ready, Nick?”

He nodded and bent to grab his suitcase. “All here. Let’s get me to freedom.”

It took all of Trini’s willpower not to scream out, “Just like you to only think of yourself, Nick Starsky! Don’t you know how much danger everyone is in because of you? Don’t you care?! Instead, she merely grabbed his bag and started for the elevator. Nick quickly shut the door to Alice’s apartment behind him, then hurried after Trini.

“Hey. I can carry my own bag, darling. Your old dad isn’t that old.”

Turning to him and glaring, Trini informed him, “I’m not your darlin’ and you’ve never been my ‘dad’ so let’s not pretend. Fair enough?” With that, Trini dropped the bag dangerously close to Nick’s foot and turned away to stare straight ahead and wait for the elevator.

Nick, more than a little shook up his ‘charm’ had failed again, tried to reach out to put his hand on Trini’s shoulder. She saw it out of the corner of her eye and quietly warned, “Don’t.” Nick’s hand dropped back to his side. Wordlessly, they entered the vacant elevator together. Trini pushed “B” then turned to Nick.

“Let’s get something straight, right here, right now. I’m doing this to make sure you’re safe for me and the people I call my family. Not for you. Got it?”

Nick grimly nodded. What more was there to say?

~~~

The ride to the docks had been quiet. Trini was calculating in her head when Hutch and her uncle would arrive, and she hoped Jeremy was in place. She couldn’t call him since she hadn’t wanted to bring a cell phone that might ring when it shouldn’t. Trini also knew Dave and Ken wouldn’t have their phones on them either, for the same reason. The whole plan was working well. All she had to do was get Nick into position…

Nick’s voice interrupted the mental discussion Trini was having with herself, “So, I know you’re not talking to me, but I gotta know… where’s Davey and that husband of yours?” Nick looked out his window so Trini couldn’t see his face, but she could hear the sneer in his voice, “I know they can’t be too far away from each other.”

“You’re right. I’m sure they’re together. Right where they belong.” It was all the answer Nick was getting, and more than Trini felt his wiseass attitude deserved. She couldn’t wait to get this over with.

~~~

“What the hell do you mean ‘She picked Nick up an hour ago?’ Where’d they go?” Hutch knew he shouldn’t be yelling at “Sweet Alice,” but he couldn’t help himself. He was.

“That’s why I wuz tryin’ to call you, Hutch honey. I just couldn’t believe you’d let her go alone. You’re too good a man for that.”

Hutch sighed heavily, and rubbed his eyes. He was getting one of the worst fucking headaches of all time. And it had “Katrina Hutchinson” written all over it.

“I’m sorry, Alice. Thanks for calling. I have to go and find my wife now. Can you track down Huggy for me? Tell him to stay put. Our plan’s been shot.”
“I can try, Handsome Hutch, but the word I got from pretty little Candita is that Trini told him I was missing. He’s out lookin’ for me somewhere.”

“Please try, Alice. Thanks.”

Hutch hung up before Alice could reply. Trying to catch his breath, and calm the sense of panic and anger he was feeling, Hutch laid his head against the roof of Starsky’s car. He felt Starsky’s hand on his back a moment later.

“You okay, Pal? You look sick.”

Hutch looked up and Starsky saw Hutch’s eyes were gleaming with tears that were close to escaping.

Hutch began to talk in a dull, flat tone, “It would seem my wife wasn’t happy with our plan to get rid of Nick. She’s made up a plan we weren’t allowed in on.”

Starsky hurried to his side of the car, “Dammit! I was afraid of this. She wants him gone worse than I do. Get in. She’s at the docks. I just know she is.”

Hutch sat down and grabbed the dash as Starsky roared into traffic, “Yeah. She’s at the docks, and she’s in danger. Step on it, Starsk.”

~~~

Arriving in front of the gate at Dock Number Thirteen, Trini got out and pushed the unlocked gate open far enough for the Torino to get through, then returned to the car. As she climbed back inside, Nick’s grumbling started again.

“13?! You gotta be kidding! First you show up in this piece of shit that screams ‘look at me! I’m a bright red car with a stripe on it!’, then you bring me to dock 13! This all feels wrong, man. Really wrong.”

Pulling inside the gate, Trini started out of the car after grabbing her old set of cuffs from the glove compartment. Looking over her shoulder, Trini spat, “Shut up and be glad you’re still alive.”

She finished climbing out of the car and headed back to the gate. Pulling it shut, she slapped the cuffs loosely around the gate to lock it. She looked out into the darkness for a moment and strained her eyes. No headlights. Her ‘calvary’ wasn’t on it’s way, yet. They’d just have to see the cuffs and know it was her clue. Or else they’d spot her uncle’s old car. One way or another, they’s find her. Silently, she turned back to her car. She had to get this over with.

Trini shut the door and shifted the car gently into ‘D’. Slowly inching forward in the darkness, she caught sight of Jeremy off to the side. He ducked down quickly, and Trini breathed easier. She looked at Nick, but he hadn’t seem anything. Trini’d naturally left her headlight off, and Nick couldn’t see much of anything. Thankfully.

Trini stopped the car and started to get out. Nick leaned over and whispered, “Do I need my case?”

She nodded. “Yeah, and you’re not packing a gun, are you?”

He shook his head, “Davey told me not to.”

She nodded back, “Good. You listened for once.”

Nick glowered at Trini’s back, then hurried to follow her. He didn’t like the dark and Trini was moving fast.

Nick caught up and nervously looked around. He leaned over and whispered, “Are they here, yet?”

Staring in the direction Jeremy should be by now, Trini gave one tight nod. “The people I need to be here, are.” she whispered back, “You’re getting out of the trouble you’re in. I saw to that.”

Nick might have been grateful if Trini had smiled or seemed to care even a little. As it was, Nick shivered. Maybe he was cold, or maybe he was just nervous. Or scared. This girl didn’t like him. Not one bit.

~~~

Stopping in front of Dock 6, Starsky looked around in the darkness then grumbled, “I can’t see a goddamned thing, can you?”

Silently, Hutch shook his head and looked down the docks. He got out of Starsky’s car and made a motion to shut off the car. Starsky did and got out to join Hutch.

“You see something?” he whispered. Hutch continued to stare off at something in the dark. He whispered back, “She’s not here. What’s her favorite number, Starsk?”

Hutch looked over his shoulder at Starsky. They both drew their guns and said at the same time, “Thirteen.”

Silently, but quickly, both men started for the gate separating them from docks 12 through 21. Standing in front of the gate Trini’d locked with her handcuffs, both men smiled and Starsky whispered, “Bingo.” Hutch was already using his keys to unlock the cuffs and had turned serious again. He could hear somebody yelling. Starsky heard it, too, and looked to Hutch before they separated and took opposite sides of the dock. Hutch motioned Starsky forward with his gun, then ducked down to slide off the crates and move closer. He could hear Trini clearly now.

Hutch was so intent on moving closer to Trini, he didn’t see Ramola’s men tap Starsky on the shoulder. Defeated, Starsky let his gun dangle loosely over his left index finger. The man Starsky knew as Colton leaned to whisper in his ear, “Let’s just watch this touching father-daughter moment a little bit more, shall we?”

Carefully sliding his long legs down, Hutch finally touched solid ground and laid down flat on the wooden planks. Scooting forward, he could see Trini standing with her feet placed a little apart, gun pointed straight at Nick. Looking close to soiling himself, Nick had his hands up in surrender and was pleading with Trini. She didn’t seem to be listening as she took a quick glance to her left. She smiled a little, then turned her attention back to the whining Nick.

“Come on… Trina… It’s me… your dad.”

Slowly cocking her gun, Trini informed him, “It’s Trini. Not Trina. You don’t know shit about me. David is my dad.”

Nick has the nerve to look indignant, “I’m your father!” he yelled in desperation and anger.

Slowly, Trini shook her head, “No, you’re not my father. Fathers care and love and help you through the bullshit of everyday life. You’re just a sperm donor.”

Then, without any warning, Trini pulled the trigger. Hutch thought he yelled for Trini to stop but he wasn’t sure. He must have yelled something because Trini looked his way before running away into the darkness. Hutch rose and began to follow his wife down the docks. Hutch never even spared a look to where Nick’s body had flown into the water. He did look to see Starsky was alright. That stopped him dead in his tracks. One either side of Starsky were Ramola’s goons.

Cautiously, Hutch let his gun hang loosely around his thumb as he lifted his hand in surrender. “We’ve got no business with you guys. Let my partner go, okay?”

Both men shoved Starsky towards Hutch. Webble growled, “We never wanted him, Blondie. We got what we needed to.” He laughed. Not a nice laugh, but a mean one that sounded like metal scraping against metal. “Well, your little wifey did the work for us. Don’t matter none, though. We still get paid.”

Both hired guns walked over to the edge of the dock. It was about 12 feet down to the black water. No bubbles surfaced, no body bobbed up. Satisfied, both men laughed again, then left.

Shakily, Starsky walked to the edge and looked over. Hutch followed him. Tiredly, he rubbed at his burning eyes.

Looking to Starsky, he whispered, “What did she just do?”

Starsky shook his head in return, “I don’t know, but whatever she did, she thought it was right. For all of us. I don’t know about you, but I didn’t see anything here tonight.”

Starsky turned and sat down heavily on a crate. He started to cry, “Go find her, Hutch, and forgive her. Nothing good can come of you holding this against her.”

Patting Starsky’s shoulder, Hutch went in search of his lost wife. Lost in more ways than one.

~~~

Hutch stopped at the last Dock. Trini’s muffled sobbing could be heard inside the office. Well, it had been an office once. Now it was just a dirty old room with a door and two windows. Hutch pushed the door open and stepped inside. Shutting it behind him, he could make out Trini crouching in a corner crying. His heart was breaking, but Hutch didn’t know what to do. He knew he’d comfort his wife, and he’d never report her to the police. After that, he didn’t know. Could he stay married to her after all of this? Shaking his head to push the thought away, Hutch went and crouched in front of his wife.

Hutch pushed a lock of stray hair behind her ear. Trini looked up at him with her big, brown eyes and her face covered with tear streaks. Hutch was lost and pulled her to him. She fell into his arms and sobbed even harder as they slid down onto the floor she’d covered with her jacket. Wordlessly, she reached out to Hutch’s pants. It caught him off-guard. She wanted to make love? Now? Hutch wished he could argue, but the way she was already pushing him down on her jacket and loving him with her mouth got the better of him. Hutch felt a tear slide down his cheek. Maybe this would be their last coupling. He didn’t like to think that way, but Hutch wasn’t sure he could live with someone who could do what Trini had just done to Nick.

Good intentions or not.

He decided to enjoy this. It could be the last time he saw her above him, face flushed with desire, opening only for him. Another tear escaped. Hutch couldn’t do this.

“Trini,” he gasped out, “I can’t. This isn’t right.”

Rising off Hutch, Trini told him, “It is right. You came after me even though you thought you just saw me kill a man in cold blood. I didn’t, but you didn’t know that. You came after me anyway.”

Confused, Hutch tried to sit up. Trini covered his mouth with hers and whispered, “I’ll explain it all. Just not now.”

She sighed and reached between them to guide Hutch inside her. Then, Trini leaned forward to kiss her confused husband as she began to move on him. Trini whispered words of love to Hutch as she slowly made love to him… in between kisses.

Trini felt Hutch begin to thrust from below, and matched his pace. She shuddered on top of him, then felt Hutch grab her hips before firmly pulling her against him. Happily, Trini felt Hutch’s own release as his warm juice filled her. Contented, she leaned forward and lay on him. Hutch caught his breath and Trini waited for the question she knew had to be coming. Instead, Hutch caressed her hair, and kissed the side of her face.

He was cying again when Trini looked to him. But, at least he was smiling as he told Trini, “I woulda followed you anywhere. Guilty or not.”

Trini knew she didn’t need to explain it all now. Hutch would be with her forever. She had plenty of time to explain it all.

Thank God.

 

CHAPTER 14

As Hutch lay below Trini, spent and satisfied, his mind was racing. Trini knew it, but she was so filled with nervous energy she couldn’t think clearly. The explanations would have to wait, but she had to tell Hutch something now. He had come after her. Right or wrong, he came after her. God she loved this man.

Looking down at her husband, Trini simply stated, “I love you. And, I’m sorry you thought you saw something horrible. Let’s get home so I can explain this just one time. I don’t think my nerves can handle the telling of this tale more than once.” Trini rose and started to dress as she held a hand out to help Hutch up. He was sitting up, knees bent and Trini thought he wanted help when he held his hand up to her.

No. He wasn’t looking for help. Trini figured that out as she tried to zip her pants with one hand, and help Hutch up with the other. He caught her off-balance and pulled her, face down over his bent knees. Trini flinched a little when Hutch’s hand smacked her, hard, across the buttocks.

“OW!,” she protested and tried to wiggle away. Hutch held firm and informed her as he continued to paddle, “You deserve this. Act like a child who can’t listen to her elders… this is what you get.”

Two swats later, Trini wiggled off when Hutch let loose. Scooting away from her frowning husband, she quickly buckled her pants and spat out, “Sure. Use me for sex, then punish me. Sicko.”

Hutch rose and informed her, “Use you? I believe I was taken advantage of, here. And you scared the shit out of me. You’re lucky I stopped at five.”

Nodding, Trini apologized, “I know, but I had to do it this way. You both had to look genuinely shocked. You did. Webble and Colton were convinced. They’re gone, we’re safe, but I’m sorry I scared you.”

Hutch pulled her tightly to him. Trini held on just as tight. Trini started crying when she realized Hutch was trembling. He’d been just as scared as she’d been.

~~~

Trini sat down gingerly in the driver’s seat of the Torino, then shot an angry look towards her snickering husband. Hutch removed his jacket and folded it up to make a pad for Trini’s sore rump.

“Here,” he gently told her. “Lift up.”

She did and Hutch put the jacket under her, “Better?”

Trini nodded. “Am I supposed to say ‘thanks’ or cuss you out for making my ass sore in the first place?”

Hutch roared with laughter. “You’re supposed to be grateful I love you. And that I stopped at five. Remember?”

“Oh. I get it, ‘This hurts me more than you. It’s for your own good.’ Is that was this was?”

Hutch shrugged. “Not really. You had it coming. And, I kinda liked it.”

Now Trini laughed. “Sicko. You truly are a sicko, Hutch.” Then, she leaned over and kissed him. Gently, slowly, and very tenderly. When she pulled away, she whispered, “I do remember. And I’m always grateful you love me. Even enough to beat me.”

Hutch laughed again as Trini turned to fire up the Torino and head home. She had a lot of explaining to do, and Trini was worried about her uncle. No telling what David Starsky was feeling and thinking right now, and Trini HAD to set the record straight with these men she adored.

~~~

Trini wasn’t sure what to expect when she and Hutch arrived home. Would every light be blazing? Would Huggy and Alice be there with her uncle? The answer to all of her mental questioning was answered when Trini and Hutch pulled in their driveway. The only lights on were the back porch light and the small light in their kitchen above the sink. Starsky’s SUV sat in the driveway.

Trini shut the car off and left it in the driveway. If she wasn’t killed by her uncle in the next few minutes, she’d need to go retrieve Michael. Plus, pulling into the garage made her face her uncle sooner. The garage opened into the house. Out here, she could stall. Hutch noticed.

“Trini,” he soothed, “Come on. We’re both dying to know what the hell really happened on that dock. He’ll let you live long enough to tell that much.”

Trini snorted at her husband’s back as he departed from the car. “Gee. That helped.”

Despite his teasing, Hutch moved around the car to hold his wife’s hand as they started for the door. Pissed, teasing, scared… it didn’t matter. Hutch would always be there for Trini. And, he felt like the dumbest prick in the world for letting even a moment of doubt slip into their life. It’d never happen again.

Trini stopped at the door and looked to Hutch.

“You go first,” she whispered. Hutch nodded and opened the door. Once inside, he turned back to her, “See? No shots fired yet.”

“Yet.” she grumbled. Still, feeling safe her uncle wasn’t going to tackle her and beat her ass, Trini moved inside. Hutch had already gone to join her uncle in the dark frontroom. Trini couldn’t see their faces clearly in there, and decided not to turn on any more lights. This might be a whole lot easier if she didn’t have to look anyone square in the eye.

Stalling for more time, Trini moved to the fridge and grabbed three beers. Opening hers, she took a long drink. Deciding it wasn’t ever going to get easier to do this, she moved into the front room. Gingerly, she sat down next to Hutch and set the three beers on the table in front of them. Hutch didn’t look at her or make any jokes about her trouble sitting. All of Hutch’s attention was on the strangely silent Starsky. Grabbing his beer, Hutch took a drink after thanking Trini and looked back to Starsky.

Starsky was just sitting there, staring blankly at Hutch, holding an empty beer. Trini reached out to lay a hand on her uncle’s leg. He looked down and placed his hand over hers. Hutch ventured out his own hand. Starsky placed a hand over Hutch’s as well.

Smiling a mostly drunken little grin that wasn’t quite sad, yet wasn’t quite happy, Starsky slurred, “You two okay?”

Hutch smiled. “Yeah, Starsk. We’re okay. You?”

Starsky leaned his head back on the couch, “Not really…okay… not bad, though. You?”

Hutch patted Starsky’s leg to draw his attention back, “You already asked if we we’re okay.” Hutch looked to Trini and pointed at the remaining beer on the table. Trini nodded and moved it out of Starsky’s reach. The man had obviously had plenty.

Starsky lifted his head off the couch and tried to focus on Hutch’s face, “Oh.”

Trini looked to Hutch and nodded to her uncle. She was worried he wasn’t coherent enough to understand what she had to say. Hutch just shrugged. Who the hell could tell? Maybe Starsky would get it, maybe he wouldn’t. If he didn’t, Hutch could always explain it again in the morning.

Trini took a deep breath and jumped right in, “David. I know you think I killed your brother. I didn’t. I just had to do it this way to get him out of our lives for good. I’m sorry I didn’t let you and Hutch in on it.” She drew another long breath and stated again, “I had to do it this way. Please let me explain,” she pleaded.

Rubbing his face vigorously, Starsky sat up and leaned towards Trini. Very quietly, he whispered, “What… did… you… do?”

Trini hated when he did that. It meant he was VERY, VERY pissed at her and was trying to control his temper. Trini knew she couldn’t count on Hutch for help, either. She knew he was still {rightly} pissed as well. Scooting back further onto the couch to get away from her uncle, Trini closed her eyes. She couldn’t look at either of them when she said this.

“Your plan sucked. Nick woulda been back. He always lies. I made sure he wouldn’t be back.”

“Hutch,” Starsky started out with forced calmness, “did you know our plan sucked?”

Hutch shook his head. Trini opened her eyes and glared at him when he stated, “Nope. Thought it was a good plan, Starsk. Little Miss Katrina here, didn’t.”

In her own defense, Trini pointed out, “Oh yeah? You two jackasses were just gonna give him money and scold him! ‘Now, Nick. Don’t spend it all in one place and don’t come back to haunt us. You’ve been a bad boy, but we’ll pull your ass out of the fire again.’ Bullshit! He had to know I… we… were serious. I don’t want his useless ass coming back. Do you?”

Pushing up from her seat, Trini started to pace between the two men who sat staring up at her from opposite couches, “How can a dead man come back? One who got blown away in front of the men his own daughter called to set him up? The man who heard with his own ears how the daughter he deserted hates him. He’s not my dad. There’s nothing for him here. I gave him some fucking money and word never to come back.” Trini turned and looked to Hutch, now. He had to know she’d said this. She had to be honest with Hutch. “I also sent word if he ever came back, I’d kill him for real. He won’t be back.”

Hutch nodded. He would have done the same thing. Hutch was proud of Trini for telling him this, and he’d never hold it against her. She was honest and so strong.

 My little warrior, his mind called out. How could Hutch help but love a woman who would do anything to save her family? Looking to Starsky, Hutch could see him smiling up at Trini through the darkness. At least he was sobering up.

Patting the couch cushion next to him, Starsky stated, “Sit down, Trini. I wanna hear all of this. From the first moment you decided our plan sucked.”

Cocking her head to one side, Trini considered sitting that close to her uncle. She’d be in choking distance, and Trini still wasn’t sure if Hutch would jump in to help David, or her. She took the risk and sat down.

When Starsky reached out to her, Trini jumped a little. She didn’t need to worry. Pulling Trini to him, Starsky laid her head on his shoulder and practically sobbed, “Jesus Christ, Trini! I was so scared! I thought those two were gonna blast you for shootin’ Nick! Then they tell me you called THEM! I think they enjoyed telling me that. What the hell were you thinking?!”

So close to crying, Trini whispered back, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to hurt anyone. I was trying to help.”

“Help?! You call this help?” Hutch yelled. “We thought we saw you kill a man, a useless man, but still. You called hired killers. You went there alone…”

Trini’s head shot up, “No, Hutch. I may be strange, but I wasn’t alone. I’m not stupid.”

Both men looked to each other and shared a “Coulda fooled us” look. Trini noticed.

“Thanks for the faith. I had Jeremy and some of his friends with me. Can I tell you now?”

Gesturing with an open hand, Hutch told her, “Oh, by all means. Do tell.”

Starsky nodded, “Yeah, we gotta hear this.”

“Well, you already know part of what I did and why. I didn’t want Nick back, and I didn’t want Colton and Webble coming back. I figured if Nick ‘died’ in front of them… well, it’d solve all our problems. Jeremy was in the Navy before he became an EMT. A ‘seal’. He threw on his scuba gear, took an extra tank down with another buddy, and they saved Nick from drowning. I had to run to the end of the docks to see if they made it. When the boat flashed it’s spotlight at me twice, I knew they had him on board. I don’t know what I would have done if he’d actually drowned. Anyhow, I saw them tear off across the water just as Hutch found me. They were taking Nick across to the ambulance they’d ‘liberated’ from the hospital for the night. All I know is this, Nick was fixed up and sent on his way with the money I gave him. My friends made sure of it.”

Both men sat there and stared at Trini. She wished one of them would say something! Anything!

Starsky leaned closer to Trini and questioned, “Sperm donor? That was harsh, Trini. I don’t think even I’d feel welcome after that.”

Hutch smiled and gave a small laugh, “I wondered if I was the only one who heard that.”

Trini chanced a smile, “You liked that, huh? Well, it’s true! What the hell has he ever done for me?”

Starsky grew serious and grabbed Trini’s hand in his and looked deep into her eyes. She met his intense blue gaze with a loving brown one. Starsky stared into her eyes a moment more before Trini whispered, “What?”

“I love you that much, too. I heard every word you said.”

Leaning in, Trini hugged her uncle and kissed his cheek. Starsky broke the embrace when he held her at arms length and gruffly informed her, “Still, as your surrogate father, I oughta paddle your ass…”

Trini looked to Hutch a little panicked. Thankfully, Hutch was actually going to defend his wife, “Um, Starsk. I already beat her ass at the docks.”

“Good. I hope she can’t sit for a week.” Starsky looked to Trini and gave her a little shake, “Next time you think one of our plans sucks, you tell us. Got it?”

“Got it.”

She looked to Hutch and told him, “I’m going to go get my son. You two can sit here and discuss how you enjoyed beating my ass. You’re both obviously very comfortable with the thought of spanking someone my age.”

Both men laughed as Trini turned to go. Just for spite, she flipped on all the lights before exiting the front room. Trini smiled as both men grunted at the sudden light like vampires who’d strayed outside into the sunlight.

~~~

By the time Trini’d returned home with her sleeping child, everyone {except for the already sleeping twins} was there to hear what had happened. Angie and Michelle had even followed Trini home to hear the tale told again and again. The sun was coming up when everyone finally settled down and decided to fall into beds and onto couches. Tired and with her nerves stretched to breaking, Trini went to start coffee. Michael would be up soon and she couldn’t afford to fall asleep now. She might not hear him get up if she did.

Trini was rolling her neck, trying to stretch out the tired muscles when she felt Hutch’s strong hands sweetly try to work out the knots for her.

“Mmmmm. That’s nice,” she sighed and leaned back into her husband. He still loved her! No ass paddling today. She hoped.

Leaning over to whisper in her ear so as not to wake Huggy and Candita on the frontroom couches, Hutch told her, “Go get some sleep. You had a big day, little one.”

Turning to Hutch, she whispered back, “Yeah. We all did, but Michael will,” she yawned now, “sorry, he’ll be up soon.”

Hutch pointed over her shoulder to the kitchen window. Trini followed his gaze and saw Marcus and James pulling up with Lunk’s girlfriend, Maria. Lunk would run the show down at the office, and the three people who’d slept could watch Michael. Hutch had already made the calls.

Gratefully, Trini kissed her husband before staggering to bed. Hutch let everyone in and thanked them before going up to join his wife.

Trini had curled up on top of the sheets, and fallen asleep fully clothed. Hutch smiled and kissed her curly head before covering her with the comforter. Turning away to undress, Hutch went to the dresser to remove his jewelry and take the change out of his pockets.

That’s when he remembered that ugly rabbit’s foot in his pocket.

Hutch looked at the foot, then laid it down on the dresser. Over his shoulder he could see Trini in the mirror. Safe, in their bed, where she belonged. On impulse, Hutch picked the damn thing up, kissed it, and whispered, “Someday I gotta remember to thank Starsky for this ugly-ass thing.” Quickly laying the foot back down, Hutch hurried over to bed to hold his sleeping wife to him. It helped him to be touching her right now. Soon, he could sleep, too.

~~~

“‘Mom, Daddy!”

Michael was running dangerously fast up the gangplank to the cruise ship as Hutch trailed closely behind him.

“I’m coming son. Slow down.”

Trini stood where she was with her uncle and Leslie at the bottom of the walkway. They were all smiling up at Hutch and Michael. There was a time when this almost wasn’t meant to be.

Starsky voiced what everyone else was thinking, “I’m glad we’re all here together. This is gonna be great!”

With that, Starsky hurried onto the boat with Huggy and Candita closely behind. Candita and Huggy were playfully bickering back and forth about Huggy’s hat and his choice of clothes. Trini just shook her head and laughed. The twins, and Michelle and Angie were already on board so Trini knew it was time she followed suit. She bent and picked up her suitcase before looking around. Nobody was watching her as Trini looked skyward and whispered, “Hey up there. I’m not sure who I’m supposed to thank, but whoever helped make this all possible… Thanks.”

Trini took one more look around then hastily followed her family on board.

~~~

The twins and Michelle had taken Michael down to see a play in one of the showrooms. Hutch made great use of the time he and Trini had alone. So far, the man had given her a full body massage, made long, sweet love to her, then had held her safely in his strong arms. Trini stretched and raised her arms above her head. When she did, it left her breasts in the open. Hutch couldn’t resist them and bent his head to nibble on one, causing Trini to giggle.

“Hutch,” she tapped gently on the top of her husband’s bent head. He continued to ignore her. “Huuutcchh. I gotta pee.”

He laughed and let go of his wife. “Get out of here then. I’m already surrounded by water.”

Trini headed to the bathroom as she threw over her shoulder, “Yes dear. I hear and obey, my Master.”

Hutch snorted at that, “Whatever. ‘Master” my ass.”

Once Trini’d shut the door, Hutch rolled out of bed and grabbed the package he’d wrapped several days before. He slid it under the blanket and climbed back under before Trini came back out. When the bathroom door opened, Trini smiled at her husband and asked, “You want some more wine?”

Hutch nodded and looked around for his glass. Trini just grabbed the bottle and came back to bed. Without glasses. Trini sat down on the bed and tilted the bottle up for a drink. Smiling, she turned the bottle to her husband to drink from. Hutch tried, but Trini purposely tilted it too far and it overflowed out of his mouth onto his chest. Trini quickly bent her head and stated licking the overflow. Sighing in delight, Hutch leaned back and let his wife work her magic.

Hutch jumped a little when Trini poured the cold wine over his belly, letting it trail into the hair down below. Trini’s warm mouth quickly followed to heat the areas cooled by the wine. Hutch laid back and folded his arms behind his head. Trini looked up at him then, and whispered, “Jesus Ken Hutchinson. You are beautiful.”

A little, self conscious laugh came from Hutch’s beautiful lips, “Shit, Trini. I am not. I’m getting older and losing more hair as we speak.”

“I’ll stop what I’m doing if you argue with me again, Ken.”

Mock panic crossed Hutch’s face, “NO! I’m gorgeous, I’m incredible, I’m sexy… anything you wanna hear. Just please don’t stop!”

Trini laughed, “Asshole. I won’t stop, but don’t disagree again.”

Hutch could only moan and nod when Trini bent her head to lap up even more poured wine. As Hutch started to feel the passion taking over, Trini quickly changed positions and sat down on Hutch’s male hardness. Settling down quickly so as not to ruin Hutch’s moment, Trini was more than ready for him to be inside her as well.

Hutch gently lifted upward into Trini as she moved downward on him and sighed. Hutch knew he was a lucky man to have a wife who enjoyed making love to him as much as Trini did. Trini couldn’t get enough of him. Hutch couldn’t get enough of her.

It was now a mutual appreciation, and no worries for the future, or how long or short it might be. The Hutchinsons had survived some pretty bad stuff together and now all the time they had left would be spent enjoying their time together. Hutch had noticed a much more relaxed Trini since Nick was out of their lives, and Hutch was well again. He was glad, too. Who knew how much more time he had on this planet? Hutch just knew he didn’t want anything to spoil what he and Trini had. He intended to make her happy for the rest of his life.

Trini must have been very close to release, but was holding back for some reason. Hutch noticed and breathlessly whispered, “Go ahead. I’m right behind you.”

Slightly flushed, Trini shook her head and whispered back, “No, together.”

Hutch obliged by speeding his own pace. The explosion, for lack of a better word, left them both breathless. Trini lay down flat on Hutch and gasped for air. “You know, my uncle’s gonna think I can’t walk right ‘cuz you spanked me again.”

Hutch laughed against her hair, his warm breath flowing through her hair and down onto her face. Trini closed her eyes and smiled. She loved when any part of this man touched her. Even his warm, wine scented breath. Truly, he was what she’d been searching for her whole life. She sent out another silent prayer of thanks before rolling off her husband.

“Ow. What the hell…?” Trini had rolled onto the small box Hutch had placed in bed and was reaching down to retrieve it.

“Sorry. I meant to warn you, but then you poured wine on my…”

“I know what I did, wiseass. Is this for me?”

Hutch snorted, “Nah. It’s for the next girl who pours wine on my…”

She kissed him then. To stop him from babbling, and to thank him. Even though she didn’t know what it was.

“Aren’t you going to open it?” Hutch prompted her.

Shaking her head a little, Trini said, “I don’t know. I can’t think of anything else I need in this world, so I’m wondering if you should just get your money back.” Hutch glared at her and she hastily added, “I appreciate it, but…”

“Trini. Open the goddamned present. Don’t worry about our money. Even with what you spent to get rid of Nick, we’ll be fine. Even if I have to keep working full time.”

Trini nodded a little. “Thanks for understanding. I’d like to see you quit if you’re ready. I don’t want to be the reason you have to keep working. I don’t need presents from you.” She grinned shyly at Hutch, “But I like them.”

He smiled back, “Then open it.”

Ripping the paper off, Trini found a small jewelry box inside. When she opened it, she found a white and yellow gold braided bracelet. In the center of it was an area that could be engraved. It had a looping, cursive T.S. joined by a heart to K.H.

“Turn it over,” Hutch whispered.

On the back, in small block letters it read, “To Trini, with all my love forever. My soul will be with you always, Hutch.”

Trini’s eyes filled with tears as Hutch reached to put the bracelet on her. As he did, Hutch hands were shaking as bad as the voice he was now trying to use, “Trini, I promise you, if there’s a way for me to come back when my body is through here, I will. I’ll do it just to let you know I’m fine while I’m waiting for you. After all, I’ll need my soul back.”

Reaching out to hold Hutch, they both cried. Trini knew he’d come back to her if he could. Hutch could do anything.

~~~

Dinner below decks was wonderful. Everyone had sat at the Captain’s table and ordered when Starsky leaned over to Hutch.

“Hey, you know, this is a lot more fun than we had last time.”

“No shit, dummy. We we’re on a case and almost killed.” Hutch’s words were gruff, but he was smiling. Starsky smiled back. He knew they were just tormenting each other to torment. They both loved it too much to stop now.

The girl and the three men at the opposite end of the table had been watching the banter between the two men as well. Hutch hated the way they were all staring. Even if they were smiling.

“Starsk, you know those people down there?”

Looking that direction, Starsky cleared his throat and confessed, “Yeah, Hutch. I been meaning to tell ya, but you and Trini spent almost the entire day ‘napping.’ I couldn’t introduce you to them.”

“Why do I need to be ‘introduced’, Starsky. And what do you care if we napped…”

Starsky leaned closer and whispered in Hutch’s ear, “You can’t lie for shit if you’re not on a case. You weren’t sleeping.”

Hutch punched Starsky’s leg under the table. The four people all smiled again. Hutch, never a patient man at the best of times, turned and demanded, “Starsky, either you tell me what the hell is going on right now or I’m gonna kick your ass. Right here.”

Placing a calming hand on Hutch, Starsky leaned in and whispered, “Well, you remember that book I wrote… the one about us?”

“Go on.”

“Remember how I said some studio was looking at making it into a movie…?”

Panicked, Hutch turned to Starsky and stammered out, “Wh? No! Starsky, you can’t be serious!? Are you?”

“They’re here to research the real us, buddy. I thought it’d be okay if they observed us in a relaxed state, away form work and asked a few questions. I didn’t have time to ask you. They called yesterday.”

Hotly, Hutch pulled Starsky up and away from the table. Pointing a threatening finger at Starsky, Hutch informed him, “I’m not some side-show freak! I am here on vacation… with my family. So are you, in case you forgot!”

Beaming happily, Starsky informed his best friend, “I know that, dummy. They’re just here to observe for a couple days. Then, if they like what they see, they’re gonna make the movie and pay us a lot of money to act as ‘advisors’ on the script. They might even make it into a series, Hutch! Think of the possibilities!”

Hutch was. This might be his way out of working, and going full time at home with Trini and Michael.

“Alright, Starsky. But you tell them to keep out of our way. No bothering us. Observation only.”

Starsky clasped his hand on Hutch’s shoulder, “Of course. I ever let you down before?”

The “Hutchinson Glare” crossed Hutch’s face before he and Starsky turned to sit back down.

Once back in his seat, Trini leaned over to whisper to Hutch, “What the hell was that about? And who’s the group of ooglers on the end?”

Hutch just grunted, “Check with Les and see if Starsky’s life insurance is paid up before I toss him overboard.”

Trini smiled, but waited for more explanation. Hutch sighed and kissed her cheek.

“I’ll explain it all later, okay? Let’s just eat for now.”

Trini nodded and turned back to cut up Michael’s food.

At the other end of the table, the four studio people were all speaking quietly into recorders or scribbling furiously onto notepads.

 “It’ll be hard to find someone with a glare like the blond…”

“They seem to be genuine friends. Not just related by marriage. Will have to find people who have the same fire and ‘connection’…”

“One has to be blond and the other has to have dark curly hair… it fits them somehow…”

“They interact well, even when angry. Add that…”

The lists went on and on all night. Hutch pretended not to see them when he was dancing {or at least trying to} with Trini. He ignored them when they took discreet photos. He looked through them all night, then decided to tuck Michael in. Trini followed.

“Okay, Hutchinson. My uncle’s up to something. Will you tell me in the room?”

Hutch nodded and carried their sleeping child into their cabin.

Hutch and Trini went into the bathroom to change clothes and talk so they wouldn’t wake Michael.

When he was done, Trini sat down on the edge of the tub and whispered, “Holy shit.”

Hutch nodded, “Yeah, that about sums it up for me, too.”

 

CHAPTER 15

After Hutch and Trini had given it some thought {and gotten over their shock} they both realized the movie wouldn’t be such a bad thing. Weird, but not bad.

It all seemed almost surreal.

The lives of Kenneth Richard Hutchinson and David Michael Starsky played out for {hopefully} millions of viewers, by actors. Well, it was just weird. Hutch and Trini were determined to act as casual and nonchalant as they could with the studio people around. At least Trini was. Hutch was a ham and Trini knew he wouldn’t be able to resist the lure of an interview or posing for pictures very long. He loved this sort of shit, he just was loathe to admit it.

The next morning, Michael woke Trini up by bounding into the bed she and Hutch shared, landing in the middle of his mother’s belly. Trini sat up with an “oof” and looked around for the other parent who should have been watching Michael. That was when Trini realized Hutch was too busy preening to “protect” her from their son.

Trini kissed Michael and finished sitting up. Playfully, she pointed at Hutch {still staring intently into the mirror} and giggled, “Isn’t Daddy silly?” Michael nodded and laughed before jumping down to run to his father. As Michael wrapped his arms around Hutch’s leg, he said, “Pick me up.” After one more quick glance at his own reflection, Hutch did as his son requested. Then he turned away from the mirror to face Trini.

“I am not ‘silly.’ I just want to look nice in case they take pictures or something.” Looking over his shoulder to glance in the mirror again, Hutch questioned, “Do you think I should get a haircut? Or comb it more like this?” He ran his fingers through his bangs and pushed it a little differently. Maybe. Trini couldn’t really see any difference considering there wasn’t much left to his “bangs” anymore.

Still, she wisely kept quiet as Hutch continued to examine himself in the mirror. He turned this way and that way. Straightened his shoulders, and sucked his stomach in more. Sighing, Trini rolled out of bed and went to stand by her husband. Looking around him into the mirror he was once again examining himself in, she leaned close and whispered in his ear, “You are the most goddamned gorgeous man in the whole world. Stop fretting.”

Hutch smiled and turned to kiss his wife. He was happy and it showed on his whole face. Trini loved it when he glowed like this.

Hutch nodded to the bathroom, “Go shower, oh woman of mine. I shall feed our child, then be back for you.”

Trini leaned to kiss Hutch then pulled back, and asked, “Is it okay if I get close? I’m not clean and I’d hate to sully up your Mr. Macho look.”

Hutch gave her a playful glare and leaned to kiss her. As she turned to shower, Hutch swatted her lightly on the rear.

Michael looked to his father and asked, “Mommy bad?”

Hutch nodded and laughed, “Mommy always bad. That’s why Daddy marry her.” Hutch quickly exited the cabin with his laughing son. Michael had no idea why he and his father were laughing, but it didn’t matter. He was with his Daddy. That’s all that mattered.

~~~

Trini’d showered and was dressed when Hutch came back. Alone.

Trini questioned him, “Our child?”

“Your uncle is showing him off to Melody.”

Trini’s hair on the back of her neck stood up at the mention of another woman’s name from Hutch’s lips. He noticed and quickly tried to rectify the problem before it became one.

“One of the studio people. Melody, Hank, Russ, and Doug. I can’t remember which is which yet.”

“Oh. Well, is David ready? We’ll be at port soon, and I wanna shop a little. Sightsee. Maybe rent some scooters.”

“Ummm, we’ve got an interview. Then we can go.”

There it was. The “ham” had been bitten. Hutch so loved a captive audience.

Trini grinned and tried not to laugh out loud at her furiously blushing husband. Instead, she grasped his hand in hers and started for the door.

“Come on, lover. Let’s go make sure all the tales get told properly.”

~~~

As promised, Hutch hurried through the interview, but offered to do another one some other time. Starsky jumped up and offered to give his interview while Hutch and Trini took Michael into port. Trini had to practically drag Hutch off the ship when he heard that.

“Hmph. Your uncle’s gonna be telling lies and making himself sound wonderful. He’ll probably tell them so much B.S. I’ll never get them all straightened out.” Hutch kept looking over his shoulder at the mischievously beaming Starsky as Trini dragged him off.

Leslie pushed Hutch gently from behind, “Quit worrying so. I do believe Hank… or was it Doug? Anyhow, I believe they’ve already figured out my delightful husband is a bit of a liar.” She winked at the now laughing Trini. “It adds to his charm, though.”

Hutch grunted, “Whatever.”

~~~

Thankfully, Hutch forgot about Starsky’s tale-telling almost immediately. Leslie and Trini headed to the hat shop right off, dragging Hutch and Michael with them. {Candidta, Angie, Michelle and Huggy had taken off the other way in search of more souvenirs.} They all tried on hat after hat. Michael even got a small sombrero. Hutch got more than that. He got an audience. The “ham” was in full throttle again.

While Leslie and Trini had been modeling for each other, Hutch occupied Michael by modeling hats as well. Michael squealed with laughter as his Daddy put on a sombrero and did a little dance, then moved on to all the other hats as well. Hutch and Michael were so adorable together, they drew a small crowd. Hutch ate it up. He even tried on a horrid pink hat with a garish daisy pasted on the front. When Hutch began talking in a high voice and wiggling around, the crowd burst out laughing. Trini was taking picture after picture. These were more of the memories she wanted to keep dear.

As Trini crouched down to get another shot, a voice whispered, “Can I take one of them? They’re adorable together.” Trini spared a glance at the elderly man questioning her. He seemed harmless, and all alone. Why not?

“Sure.” She smiled, then she turned back to snap another picture. It was a perfect shot. Father and son, both in sombreros, puckering up sweetly for a kiss. Trini couldn’t wait to develop that picture. After she snapped the picture, Trini turned back to the old man.

“Hi. My name’s Katrina. What’s yours?”

“Vernon, miss. Nice to meet you. That your good looking boy over there?”

“Yes. Wait… which boy? The husband or the son?”

Vernon laughed, then fell into a wheezing fit. Once he was done, he pointed to Hutch as he approached carrying Michael, “Both.”

Hutch wrapped his free arm protectively about Trini and looked at the old man before nodding in greeting, and saying, “You found a friend, honey?”

The old man held out a knarled hand. Hutch removed his arm from Trini’s waist to shake hands with the man. “Vernon March.”

“Ken Hutchinson. This handsome little man is Michael. The lovely lady over there is Leslie. You here on a cruise line? Are you alone?”

Trini looked at her husband and tried to cover her smile. Hutch would always be overprotective, and he’d always be a detective. He couldn’t help it.

“No Ken, I’m not with any group. Here on my own. My wife and I used to come down here and watch people together. Now it’s just me, but I still love to watch people. I take pictures and turn them into paintings. Would you care to see some?”

Hutch looked at Trini with his “Ah-ha!” look. Hutch seemed to believe the man was peddling something. Trini felt differently. Gently nudging Hutch with her elbow, Trini nodded and smiled at Vernon.

“We’d love to.”

Hutch and Michael had no choice but to follow Trini and Leslie as they trailed behind the old man who rambled as he slowly walked along the sidewalk.

“..and this is where Mabel and I lived before she got too ill to climb the stairs.” Vernon pointed up at a beautiful stucco building that looked as though it had been there since the dawn of time. Old, but well kept. Leslie asked about some of the surrounding architecture and listened to Vernon’s explanations. Trini nodded and urged Hutch on with her hand. He was trailing behind on purpose. If he wasn’t so big, Trini could swat him for being so honery.

Finally, they all approached a little shop with windows in need of washing, a door in need of painting, and a heat warped sign that stated the hours barely hanging onto the paperclip that had been used to hang it in the window several years before.

Vernon bent over slowly and with a perfectly steady hand, opened the door. He stepped in and turned on the lights, but never turned the closed sign to “open.”

Vernon motioned everyone inside with a smile and a broad sweep of his hand, “Come in, come in. You are all welcome. You can put the boy down, Ken. Nothing that can’t be replaced.”

Hutch nodded and set Michael free, but he wasn’t really listening. He was as taken by what he saw inside as Trini and Leslie were.

Along every wall, and all the way across the store’s curved ceiling, was picture after picture. All painted by Vernon, all of people laughing, walking along beaches, shopping, and just living life in general.

Trini’s voice was filled with awe as she tried to voice what she felt inside. She knew whatever she said wouldn’t be enough, but she tried anyhow.

“Mr. March… this is the most fantastic thing I’ve ever seen.”

“Absolutely stunning,” Leslie added.

Hutch nodded, “It’s wonderful work. How long have you been working on this?”

Vernon chuckled and fell into another coughing fit. When he was contained, he stated, “Vernon, kids. Call me Vernon. And, I’m glad you like it. Been working on it since Mabel died last year. Nothin’ else to do.”

Trini stepped to one wall and inspected the mural there. It was a sweet depiction of a mother helping a child up after falling down. The scene ran along to the end of the wall with the shops Trini had met Vernon in. The shop where they’d bought the hats in was all empty, blank, white. Trini placed a hand on the hat shop they’d all been in.

Smiling, Trini turned back to face Vernon and asked, “Right here, huh?”

With sparkling eyes, the old man nodded, “Yup. Is it alright?”

The realization had come to Hutch as well. The old man would develop the pictures, then use the images for his walls. Michael and Hutch would be immortalized on these walls. Why not?

“We’d be honored, Vernon,” Hutch stated, “But only on one condition.”

“What’s that, son?”

“Join us for dinner tonight. I’d also like to bring the rest of the family by to see this.”

Beaming, Vernon agreed, “Deal, Ken.”

~~~

Starsky immediately moved to the back wall of Vernon’s shop and inspected the scene there. It was of an outdoor restaurant of course. He called everyone over to see how lifelike the people were, how good the food looked, and he noted the two empty chairs. Pointing a finger at them, Starsky asked, “Hey. Who goes here?”

Vernon looked at Starsky and smiled, “Not sure yet, David. Looking for the perfect pair to make the painting right. Just haven’t found ’em yet.”

Starsky stomach growled and he smiled sheepishly while his family moaned. Hutch just laughed.

“Come on, Gordo. Let’s get back to the ship and eat.”

And eat they did. Starsky had already made the necessary arrangements to bring Vernon on board to dine, but it hadn’t really been necessary. The Captain knew Vernon and liked the old man. He’d told Starsky, “Nice old guy. Not gonna live long, I don’t think. Lonely since ole Mabel died and he coughs a lot. Smokes too much. Hell of an artist, though. Painted me a picture of my folks. Looks just like them.”

Starsky and Hutch had kept Vernon in stitches and coughing all night. The poor man had barely been able to eat his meal, he laughed so much and so hard. Finally, the two men had gone outside to smoke cigars and to talk privately about the proposed movie. Vernon had followed a discreet distance behind them.

When Leslie came up quietly behind him, Vernon turned to her and smiled.

“I think I found that perfect pair for the restaurant scene.”

Looking over Vernon’s shoulder as he snapped pictures, Leslie had to agree. They were the perfect pair of people to complete the joyful restaurant scene. Both men were laughing, happily, at ease with life. Dark hair blending with the moonlight, blond hair shining in the moonbeams.

Yes. A perfect pair, indeed.

~~~

Vernon had bid everyone farewell after getting addresses, and promised to send copies of the photos along with photos of the finished artwork. Starsky grumbled something as they all walked back to the ship, but nobody could make it out clearly.

Trini caught up with her uncle and asked what he’d said. Starsky repeated it, and she laughed. He pushed her away playfully and hooked a thumb over his shoulder, “Get back with your old man where you belong, Niece.”

Slowing up her pace to let everyone else by, Trini waited for Hutch to catch up. He did and pulled her to him before pushing her quickly into a darkened corner. Pinning her against the wall, Hutch kissed her deeply and ran a free hand up inside Trini’s loose blouse. She sighed and kissed him back, then pulled away.

“Much as I like this, we’re gonna get mugged here in the dark,” she giggled.

Looking around, Hutch decided she was probably right. Grabbing her hand, they hurried to catch up to the group.

Once they had, Hutch whispered to Trini, “What did he say that made you laugh?”

“Who? Oh, my uncle… he’s just pissed ‘cuz you get to be in two parts of the mural and he only gets to be in one.”

Hutch laughed, once again, at his friend’s expense.

Unseen by them all, the photographer from the studio who’d followed them all day, still continued to snap pictures. Well, maybe not unseen, but nobody spared him a glance if they did notice.

Quickly, he grabbed a cab and rushed to the ship. He had some great shots of these people to develop.

~~~

They arrived in Florida the next afternoon. It was too late to hit Disney World, so Starsky suggested they go to see the marine shows. Everyone was game.

The whales had been fantastic to look at, the shows had been fun and informative, Michael had thrown fish and squids to feed animals all day, and everyone had enjoyed the day.

Once again, Starsky announced he was hungry. Hutch called him a whale and started stating facts about how many, many pounds of fish whales ate versus how much Starsky ate. Hutch guessed Starsky to be a blue whale. He was punched for that comment. Candita agreed, but stayed silent. She wasn’t about to be punched by Starsky. Everyone else also wisely kept silent.

Huggy pulled out a map, “Well, we can eats here, or head to a restaurant. Can your stomach hold up that long, or do we gots to eat our vittles here, curly one?”

Marcus looked to Angie and Michelle who were wrinkling their noses, and commented, “I believe we’ve all had enough ‘park food’ Dad. Can’t we go to a restaurant?”

Nodding, Leslie added, “I’d like to sit down, David. Let’s get out of here.”

Shrugging, Starsky looked at the crowd he’d brought into the park with him and whined, “I just wanna eat. I never said we had to stay here.”

After hastily buying some souvenirs, they all left for the closest steak and seafood restaurant.

After eating their fill, everyone decided it had been a long day and they headed back to the hotel they were staying in for the next couple of days.

Hutch reached in to lift Michael from his seat, but Starsky tapped him on the shoulder. Hutch rolled his eyes and leaned back out of the van to whisper, “What?”

Pointing to the sleeping child, Starsky told him, “Let me an’ Les keep Michael tonight. He’s already asleep and I’m sure Trini wants some time alone with you.”

Smiling warmly, Hutch patted Starsky’s shoulder and nodded, “Deal. I’ll buy you a hot dog and a toy tomorrow.”

Holding up two fingers, Starsky corrected Hutch, “Two hotdogs. I’m a growing boy.”

Still smiling, Hutch handed Starsky the overnight bag for Michael and nodded again. “Deal.”

Hutch knew he owed his “brother” one for this. He also knew he’d gladly pay up for the privilege of being alone with his wife and knowing his son was in the Starsky’s loving care.

~~~

Having already let herself into the hotel room, Trini was already unpacking and taking off clothes simultaneously. Hutch walked up to the door, knocked, then laughed when his semi-naked wife opened the door to him.

“Did you at least look out the peephole, Mrs. Hutchinson?” Hutch asked as he closed the door behind him.

“I did Mr. Hutchinson. Where’s Michael?”

Instead of answering, Hutch slowly unbuttoned the last two buttons still holding Trini’s shirt on her. As Hutch had guessed, Trini’d already removed her bra. Her shirt fell loosely opened and exposed her pale breasts for Hutch’s enjoyment. Instantly, Hutch’s eyes became dark with desire as he leaned in to kiss Trini.

Trini tilted her head back to kiss her very tall {to her, at least} husband. She enjoyed the kiss, and everything about it. The way Hutch’s lips were pressing gently, yet slightly demanding on hers. How he tasted so delicious, just like the cheesecake they had shared after dinner.

As Hutch moved closer to deepen their kiss, Trini felt his swollen manhood pressing into her thigh. She sighed happily into his mouth.

Hutch smiled slightly, then moved his lips lower. First to her neck, then he slowly ran the tip of his tongue across her shoulder blades. Trini shivered and arched her chest toward her husband, her breasts practically begging his mouth to taste them. Hutch bent to take her breast in his mouth, as they both knew he would. Trini reached down to stroke his hair, smiling down at the top of her husband’s head as she watched him enjoy her as much as she enjoyed him enjoying her. Trini drew in a deep breath and leaned her head back a little before closing her eyes.

Hutch continued his attention to Trini’s breast for a moment before dropping to his knees. Taking Trini’s hips in his hands, Hutch pulled her closer to him and began kissing her abdomen. Playfully, Hutch’s tongue darted in and out of Trini’s belly button. It tickled and she laughed.

Hutch smiled and looked up, “So, you wanna do this standing up or do we move to the bed?”

Mischievously, Trini pulled away from her husband, “Maybe I don’t want to make love tonight, did you ever think of that?”

Hutch snorted and teased back, “Well, I’m going to bed then.”

Not bothering to stand, Hutch sent Trini into a laughing fit as he “walked” to bed on his knees.

“Oh stop it,” she said, still giggling, “you can get up now.”

Hutch shook his head “no.”

“Can’t. You wounded my pride and it’s what made my legs function properly.”

Rolling her eyes, Trini dropped to the floor on her knees as well. In mock anger, she questioned him, “So Buster… what will make those knees work so I can get you into bed?”

Hutch eyebrows shot up, and he snapped his fingers, “I do believe another kiss should do it.”

Trini leaned in to do her husband’s bidding just as he added, “And you could lose the pants.”

She giggled again and rolled away from Hutch. He leaned out his long body and easily caught her, gently pinning her underneath him.

Hutch reached between them, “You need help, my love?”

“Oh yes, my big strong man. Please do.”

He did. So hastily it made Trini laugh again. Hutch loved that Trini and he were so at ease and comfortable with each other. They knew each others thoughts, how the other one felt, what touched their souls. This love had turned out to be just fine. Stops, starts, heartaches and all. It was just fine now. Thank God.

Trini raised her hips so Hutch could wiggle her jeans down over her hips. Once he had, Hutch sat up and slowly started unbuttoning his own shirt. It was too slow for Trini. She lifted herself off the floor a little and grabbed the bottom of his shirt by the hem. She pulled it over his head without touching one button. Then, she grabbed his jeans and undid the top three buttons before stopping.

As though she’d never noticed it before, Trini stopped to gaze upon Hutch’s bulge straining to be set free. She laid a hand on it and rubbed. Hutch moaned, and she smiled before pressing on to bigger and better things. Gently, Trini pushed a hand on Hutch’s chest. He got the hint and rose, then helped Trini up before they moved to the bed. Hutch laid down on his back while Trini waited.

Laying with her head by Hutch’s hip, Trini reached out to rub him through the material again. Then, she moved to place her lips over his manhood through the cloth. She drew in a breath and breathed the warm air onto him. Hutch lifted his hips to place himself more firmly against Trini’s mouth. She wrapped her mouth around the head of his penis as best she could through the material and pressed her lips together to “nip” the end of his penis.

Hutch sighed and pushed harder against his wife’s mouth.

Trini smiled and continued to blow and stroke as she ran her hand along the top of his shaft.

That was all Hutch could take.

In a shaky and slightly breathless whisper, Hutch told her, “Unless you want me to come, you’d better stop soon.”

She quickly removed her hand and mouth, “Not without me, you don’t.”

Reaching down, Hutch barely had time to finish undoing his pants before Trini was pulling them down and sliding Hutch’s briefs down to mid-thigh. She hastily grabbed Hutch’s warm and silky phallus and moved over him. She hadn’t removed her underwear and didn’t bother to now. Seating herself into a comfortable position, Trini used Hutch’s penis to shove aside the cloth covering the moistness of her and quickly fit him inside of her. Hutch was impressed by Trini’s want of him. She’d always at least removed her undergarments before!
Moving her hips forward and back, Trini used one hand to slide around the base of Hutch’s cock that was exposed as he’d move in and out of her. He was getting double the pleasure. And he wanted to make sure Trini got the same.

Reaching out a hand, careful not to interrupt what Trini was already doing, Hutch placed his thumb on her clitoris and rubbed gently. Trini moaned and pushed against him as her thrusts became harder and faster. Removing her hand, Trini leaned forward then to thrust harder. Hutch had no choice but to move his hand, so he grabbed Trini’s hips in his hands and thrust up into her. He shuddered and shoved deeper, a moment before Trini’s warm inner walls gripped his penis even more tightly and spasmed in release. She caught her breath, then sat up. The movement caused them both to shudder in the aftermath of their orgasms. After she’d caught her breath, Trini lifted herself off Hutch’s still hard manhood and laid at his side. Out of breath, Hutch pulled her to him and kissed her on the forehead. He could tell she was already so content and nodding off. But Hutch still had one problem.

“Trini, honey,” he whispered.

“hmmm?”

“I either need to pull my pants up or take them off.”

Trini laughed against his chest, “I’ll get them for you, sir.”

She bent and pulled them off leaving Hutch naked. She loved when he was naked next to her in bed. His warm, golden body was just as good to look at as it was to touch. As an afterthought, Trini removed the shirt that was hanging open on her and slipped free of her panties before tossing all the clothes to the floor.

Hutch smiled as she laid beside him. Sweaty, naked, and his. All his.

“So,” he questioned her, “what ride do you want to go on first in the morning?” He was talking about Disney World. Trini knew it, but it wasn’t what she wanted to talk about right now.

“You, love. You.”

“Oh.”

“Oh? Is that all you have to say?”

“No. Thanks. I’m glad I’m still your favorite playtoy.”

Trini poked him in the ribs, “Well, I’m glad you’re glad. Am I still your favorite playtoy?”

“Always and forever. You’re my favorite playtoy, lover, wife, mother of my… oooof.”

Trini’d punched him lightly. “I’d better be,” she grumbled.

Hutch hugged her to him and Trini wrapped her leg around him. She might have actually fallen asleep if he made her laugh when he whispered, “How could you not be my favorite? All the others could at least wait to take off their underwear.”

 

PART FOUR

CHAPTER 16

Thankfully for everyone, Michael slept in a little before the big first day in Disney World.

Upon rising, Michael and the Starsky’s knocked on the Hutchinson’s door and Starsky called out, “Rise and shine, loverbirds! Breakfast and the fun park! Hurry up!”

Trini groaned and rolled over to pull Hutch closer. No such luck. He was already out of bed, showered and dressing. He smiled lovingly at her and winked.

“Good morning.”

Trini stretched and jumped out of bed then moved over to kiss Hutch on the cheek, “Morning, Kenneth.”

Hutch grabbed Trini and pulled her to him, “Kenneth? You use me, then make glorious, sweet love to me, and I’m Kenneth?”

A short snort of laughter came from Trini, “You like being used. And I kinda like Kenneth.”

Hutch wrinkled his nose, “You’d better not.”

Smiling, Trini moved to the bathroom, then called out over her shoulder, “Hey…. coffee, huh?”

“Not if you call me Kenneth. I only fetch complementary coffee for women who are close enough to me to call me Hutch.”

Pushing the door partially shut, Trini looked around it and winked at her husband. Using her sugary sweet voice with Hutch, Trini said, “Hutch, honey, could you get me a warm cup of coffee? I need to wake up properly after a wonderful night of love.”

Hutch nodded once, “Better.”

Trini laughed and hurried to shower. She didn’t want anyone waiting on her any longer than they had to. Especially her son.

~~~

The park was already quickly filling up, and Trini insisted on Michael being close by her side. She held his hand or put his hand in Hutch’s to assure the boys’ safety. Starsky smiled as he watched Trini in action. The girl was overprotective, but he knew she couldn’t help it. Trini loved that boy more than life itself. Just like Starsky loved her. He was proud of her. So proud, it made his throat tighten up.

Hutch turned around and started to say something to Starsky while Huggy and Trini got everybody’s tickets out and they moved to the gates. The look on Starsky’s face stopped Hutch. He put a hand on Starsky and asked, “You okay, buddy?”

Starsky shook his head and brought himself back to the present. He smiled at Hutch, “Yeah. Just thinking.”

Hutch smiled gently and managed to tease his friend lovingly, “You hurt yourself?” He asked.

“Maybe.” Starsky smiled back, “It’s just ‘cuz I’m getting old and nostalgic.”

A half smile crossed Hutch’s face, “I know, Starsk. Me, too.”

Trini came back and started handing out tickets to everyone. She handed her uncle his ticket and made eye contact when she did. Smiling broadly, she reached up and pressed a tender hand on his cheek before turning to grab Hutch’s free hand. Both men winked at each other before parting. Life was good, and they both felt so lucky to be together sharing it.

~~~

Michael squealed and wiggled in his father’s arms to be set free as soon as they walked in the park. Trini noticed and took Michael. Hutch was a lot better, but if Michael kept bumping against that leg… it was just better if Trini held him for now.

James and Michael looked up at their parents with eyes that plead a silent, ‘please?’

Leslie nodded, “Go on. Explore.” Both boys took off together and Leslie had to holler the last part, “But stay together and meet us here at Noon.”

Both boys nodded as they ran.

Starsky sighed and looked first at Hutch, then to Huggy before commenting, “Man. Did we ever have that much energy?”

“Candita thinks I still gots it,” Huggy joked.

Leslie nodded vigorously, “I agree. There are still moments.”

Trini piped up, “Hear, hear.”

Hutch rolled his eyes and looked to the now blushing Starsky, “Come on. Let’s distract these wenches we married with some rides here.”

They all laughed and set off. Trini spied the Merry-Go-Round and looked up at Hutch. He nodded and smiled back at her. Trini had mentioned how she’d never been on one as an adult, or with a man. She’d been too heavy before, and avoided them. Now, she was thinner, happier, and she wanted to ride on it with Hutch and Michael. Everyone else followed as well.

Trini was going to pick one of the chariots to sit all three of them in, but changed her mind and climbed on a horse with Michael seated in front of her. Then, she looked to Hutch.

“You get up here, okay?” she whispered.

He winked and swung his left leg up and over effortlessly, “See? Just gotta mount on a new side.” He wiggled his eyebrows up and down then leaned across to kiss Trini on her horse.

She laughed, “And you thought we needed distracting? Whatever.”

Michael’s eyes grew large when the ride started, but he didn’t seem afraid. How could he? His uncle and Huggy were on horses in front of him, ‘beating’ them to win the race, Candidta and Leslie were laughing at their husbands, and his Mommy and Daddy were happy. This couldn’t be bad if everyone else seemed to be having so much fun. Indeed, Michael loved it and almost stated crying when they walked off. Hutch quickly distracted him by pointing to another ride as the pair hurried forward to get in line. Candidta and Huggy looked at the show playing on the other side of the park.

Huggy questioned Starsky, “An’ I suppose you’ll be staying here with young Michael an’ a playin’, right?”

Starsky beamed at the boy as he and Hutch got in line, “Sure. My own children are in search of thrills and women,” he did his best ‘Groucho’ impression now, “and not necessarily in that order.”

Leslie nodded to her husband, “I’ll stay and keep and eye on him. Have fun. Meet you for lunch?”

“Yeah. I’ll need some sustenance or something to keep my ‘He-Man’ like strength up.”

Trini shook her head, and hurried to catch up with her husband. Leslie pulled the camera out of her fanny pack and handed it to Starsky.

“Here, honey. I know you want this.”

“Thanks, Babe.” Starsky took the camera and snapped pictures of the other three members of their family as they waited in line. Hutch hoisting Michael high on his shoulders to see the whole park, Trini beaming up with love at her husband, Hutch smiling happily and so at ease.

Starsky snapped a picture then lifted his eyes and looked over the camera. He nodded and cleared his throat to get Leslie’s attention. She looked where her husband was nodding, and laughed.

“Is that one Russ or Doug?”

“Not sure. They sure as hell want pictures of us, though, huh?”

High on one of the rooftops, security guard closely in tow, was the studio photographer. He took pictures in the general direction of Huggy and Candita, then pics of the trio in line waiting. After that he spoke into a walkie-talkie and turned to get a picture of Leslie and Starsky.

The photographer startled when he focused on the Starsky’s and saw a camera pointing up at him. He waved over his camera, laughed and snapped the picture anyhow. It’d be fun, and a great example of what good detectives these guys still were. The blond had seen him the day before and nonchalantly turned to make a silly face behind his wife’s back, before winking at the camera that had found him through the crowd.

Russ {that was his name, after all.} turned to the unsmiling guard and laughed, “They keep spotting me.”

The guard snorted and gruffly commented, “Well, you did say the studio wants to do a movie about them. If they sucked, there wouldn’t be much basis for a movie, now would there?”

Russ laughed heartily, “Right you are my good man. Can I buy you lunch while we wait?”

The guard brightened a little, “We leaving the park to eat?”

“Whatever. I’ll tell them I need you.”

“You’re on.”

~~~

Russ wanted to eat early before the people he was following in the park did. He wanted to get back as soon as possible. Double checking with the other guards, and his ‘spies’, Russ quickly found the location of the ‘Bear’, Hutchinson, Starsky group. They were all at the entrance waiting for the Starsky’s twins to join them. The boys came running up, out of breath, but right on time.

Starsky looked at his watch, “Right on the nose. I don’t have to kill you.”

Marcus nodded, and a little winded laughed, “Yeah, we knew better than to make you late for a meal.”

Starsky grabbed his son in a playful headlock and started walking with him trapped like that. Marcus laughed and started tickling his father. Starsky laughed and let go.

Trini looked around, then told Hutch, “Hey. Doug-Russ is snapping pics again.”

Hutch never looked in the direction Trini was, he merely nodded and continued to laugh at his best friend and the boy he considered his nephew.

“Yeah, I know. Those’ll be good shots of Starsky, huh?”

Looking to her husband a little incredulously, Trini asked him, “You’re eating this up, aren’t you?”

Smiling gently in his wife’s direction, Hutch shrugged, “The more I think about it, the better an idea this all seems. I want the world to know and love Starsky the way I do.”

Gently, Trini took Hutch’s hand in hers and kissed it.

“I shoulda known.”

Playfully pulling his hand from her and acting offended, Hutch sniffed down at his wife, “Yes. You should have know it wasn’t all about me.”

Then, he grabbed her and did his best “Ramon” dip on her. Trini thanked God he didn’t drop her as they laughed.

“You just had to get an action shot of you, didn’t you?”

Hutch just laughed and helped her up, “Well, I am still the best ex-cop within miles of here. Gotta get plenty of shots of me to work with.”

Starsky turned back around, “Second best ex-cop.”

Everyone else groaned and quickly moved away from the two men.

Starsky shrugged and raised his eyebrows in question to Hutch. He understood and they wrapped an arm around each other before pasting on cheesy grins and posing in Russ’s direction. Russ groaned and laughed at the same time.

The security guard he’d taken to lunch looked at Russ and grunted, “You sure those two hams were cops?”

Russ could only laugh and reload his camera with more film. These two were hams. Big ones.

~~~

Lunch was eaten in laughter as plans were made to “ride this” or “ride that” with the boys. Michael laid his head against Trini’s shoulder and yawned after he’d eaten. Candita patted Trini’s arm and whispered, “I go get his stroller.”

They had toted a stroller into the park that unfolded completely so Michael could lay down. Since they’d checked it into a locker close by, Candita hurried for it.

Hutch reached over and ran a loving hand down Michael’s back, “I’ll take him, honey. You go ride or something.”

Trini shook her head, “Nah. All five of you boys need to go play. I’ll shop while he sleeps.”

Hutch rolled his eyes at the mention of shopping, but he smiled.

Huggy puffed up and said, “I ain’t no boy. You’s just ask my adoring wife when she returns.”

~~~

A tired boy slept while his mother, Candita and Leslie shopped for gifts and souvenirs. When Michael woke up, the women set off in the direction the “men” were.

Starsky had rightly guessed Michael was due to wake up, and they were heading back to join their group.

Wet and laughing.

The sight of them brought smiles to the women and Michael who was trying to undo his seatbelt at the sight of his Father.

Hutch hurried over to help Michael as Leslie asked, “Water ride, boys?”

James smiled mischievously, “Water ride, water fight… Is there a difference?”

Candita laughed as Huggy wrung out his soaking wet hat, and Starsky made attempts to pull his wet shirt from his body. It didn’t help. It’d just stick again.

Trini playful swatted Hutch’s rear end, “We’re gonna kicked out of here, aren’t we?”

Laughing, Hutch shook his head, “Nah. It was a booth over there. They were selling water guns. They sold a lot more when we were through.”

Trini smiled and said, “Come on. Let’s get this little kid on a ride or two.”

And ride they did. Big ones, small ones, children’s rides they all enjoyed. They saw shows and they shopped some more. Finally, all were filled with as much fun as they could handle, and decided to head back to change and rest before dinner.

At the hotel, Starsky went to the front desk to check for messages from Lunk. There was only one, in Lunk’s usual manner, “Everything’s fine.” Starsky laughed and turned to go, but the desk clerk stopped him, “Oh wait Mr. Starsky. There’s an envelope for you, too.” It was a large manila envelope with a post-it note stuck on front. It read, “Russ. I’m Russ. ha! Enjoy the pictures. And, when you all have time… can I get another interview. Well, Doug and I. Remember, Doug’s the other one.” Starsky laughed and opened the envelope. There were some great pictures in there. Starsky hurried to show Hutch and Huggy.

~~~

Doug turned on the recorder and smiled, “Thanks for meeting us. We need a little bit more info on you two.”

Starsky nodded to the rather large pile of papers off to one side of the desk, “What’s all that?”

Russ beamed back at the men and gushed, “Some of the copies of your old case files. You guys were great!”

It took everything Hutch had in him not to groan at the twentysomethings in front of him. He was proud of what he and Starsky’d accomplished on the force… together… but, these two were maybe a little too starry eyed about police work. They’d probably watched to many of those fakey-ass cop shows on the TV. Still…

“So,” Doug started, “Can we ask you about some of this stuff we read? Not just the black and white, on paper stuff. The insider stuff. Emotions. Crime scenes.”

Hutch felt a little better. Maybe these two were capable of this being handled properly. Still, he’d wait and see.

Starsky was obviously feeling the same way. He eyed the young men over carefully, folded his arms across his chest, then smilingly leaned back in his chair. “Sure. Hutch and I’d be delighted. Wouldn’t we Hutch?”

Hutch grinned, “Sure, Starsk.” Hutch knew these two probably hadn’t seen the crime scene photos form the original folders. Starsky knew it, too. The Doug-Russ duo were in for it.

Hutch grinned again, and covered his laughter with a small cough. Starsky winked and nudged Hutch gently on the foot with his.

Let the games begin!

~~~

“So, you’re telling me, this guy thought if he killed these girls and drained them of their blood… he could bring his dead wife back?” Doug’s eyes were wide in disbelief, Russ on the other hand, was still full of questions. Even if he was acting a little sick to his stomach. “And he fell to his death?”

Hutch nodded. Starsky yawned.

“So…how did you know all about the plan to sacrifice a small child? How did he practically drain the victims of their blood?”

Hutch decided to answer questions for awhile. “We did a search of his place. He kept a journal of how the ‘priest’ and he needed al the blood. They were, supposedly, going to grab a child to be sacrificed after being covered in all the blood. It was going to be, again supposedly, enough of a sacrifice for the Lord of Death. All the blood of the women, mixed with the pure blood of the child, at just the right time…..” Hutch shrugged. “Who knows? The priest said all he ever used was goat’s blood. And, that all his ceremonies were just for money.” He shook his head, “And those girls lost their lives over a hoax.”

Russ’s eyes returned to normal size, but all he said was, “Whoa.”

Starsky chuckled a little, but only Hutch noticed.

After a moment of overdramatized waiting, Hutch shook his head again. Looking to Starsky, he said, “Hey, do you remember how those girls’ throats looked?”

“How could I forget? And that thing we found… that pump like thing that drained most of the blood from the victims.” Starsky reached for the files, “I wonder if we could find it and show it to these guys…”

Doug’s eyes grew as wide as Russ’s had been, “No, that’s alright. We really don’t need to see any crime scene photos. Thanks. We’re just after this stuff.”

Hutch grinned a little into his hand when Doug said, “As a matter of fact, I believe we know more about this particular case than we need right now. Can we get ahold of you guys later?”

“Not tomorrow,” Hutch informed them. “We’re going back to Epcot and Disney.” Hutch looked intently into Russ’s eyes and added, “Alone.”

Russ got the hint. No pictures tomorrow. He nodded and smiled, “You got it guys. Have fun. And let us know when we could catch up to your lovely wives. If you don’t mind.”

Doug leaned forward and smiled at Starsky, “I get this story right? His wife,” nods to Hutch, “Is your niece?”

Starsky nodded, “So?”

“No, no problem. I just figure she’s got ALOT of stories about both of you.”

Hutch groaned, and commented, “Well, we’ve only been married a little while.”

Russ pulled out a paper and looked at, then asked, “You helped her out when she was, um.. let’s see, papers say she was like 8 when her mom disappeared.” Russ looked to Starsky, “You raised her then?”

Starsky nodded, “More or less.”

“And Ken’s money from some funds or something…”

Hutch leaned forward and pointed a threatening finger at them both, “Listen fellas. We’ve been doin’ alright so far. Let’s not fuck it up, okay? Nothing, I stress, nothing about Trini’s childhood or any money I may or may not have used is to be brought up. Get it? Her childhood is a bad book better left closed. If you want to have any co-operation from Starsky or me, that is.”

Both men nodded back, “We got it. No childhood.”

Starsky rose to leave and Hutch followed suit after smiling pleasantly, “Night fellas.”

As Russ and Doug watched them leave, Doug turned to Russ and said, “We gotta get the studio on the phone. I think Melody has the right idea. We GOTTA get these two on screen. No actors playing them.”

Nodding vigorously, Russ agreed, “I know! You see how they still defend each other? When you asked about that case where that guy wrapped the dead girls in television wire…”

“Rightwood.”

“Yeah! Rightwood! Hutchinson jumped right in and blocked all the questions. Still protecting Dave… I don’t know, man. I think it’d be a better story if they told it. From their perspectives, and the audience could see the way these two still are. A team. United together..”

Doug cut in, “Still partners.”

Quietly, Russ agreed, “Yeah, man. Still partners.”

 

CHAPTER 17

The next morning, Trini awoke feeling slightly nauseous. Quickly covering her discomfort, Trini ducked into the shower before Hutch and Michael woke up. When she could breathe easier, Trini turned on the shower and ducked inside.

 Now is not the time to be ill! she told herself. We have a whole vacation ahead of us! Gotta get over this. Reaching out of the shower, Trini opened the bottle of Pepto-Bismol and swallowed a mouthful of the vile liquid. Her stomach had to get better before they hit the park!

Hutch snuck in to join Trini while Michael was sleeping. He was hoping to catch some quality time with his wife and maybe…

Trini rested her head against the shower wall and let the water beat over her. Finally, she was feeling better! Trini felt the shower curtain move and saw Hutch’s feet in the tub behind her. Smiling, and glad she was better now, Trini turned to her husband.

“You leave the door open for Michael?”

Hutch nodded and grabbed the soap. He quickly lathered himself, knowing his wife was already clean. He had to get clean as well, before Trini would “get dirty” with him. It was a well known fact in the Hutchinson household. No nookie if you’re too dirty! It had made Hutch crazy at first, but now he admitted it was the way to be.

Now clean, Hutch gabbed his wife to him and kissed her. There was no time for pleasantries this morning. Michael could wake up at any time. Quickly, Trini braced one leg on the shower ledge and Hutch moved quickly inside her. It took Trini’s breath away to be acting so primal with her husband. It was a nice change from their normally sweet or long love sessions. Just what the morning needed!

Hutch was quickly thrusting and Trini leaned over to press her mouth against his shoulder to stifle her moan. Arching up with her hips, Trini grabbed Hutch and shoved him more firmly into her as she exploded. Hutch let her, then moved some more. His breath came out in a whoosh as he, too, met a wonderful release. His breathing slowed and Trini traced a finger along his upper lip. Then she giggled, and said, “Good Morning.”

Breathlessly, Hutch said, “Good Morning.”

He bent to kiss her and whispered, “That was nice. Thank you.”

“Mm-hm. Just what I needed to start the day. A quickie before our child wakes up.”

“Yeah. And I think I hear him waking now. Not a moment too soon.”

Trini nodded and reluctantly pulled from her husband’s embrace to care for the child she heard coming in the bathroom to join them. She bent out of the tub and looked her child in the eye.

“Hey you.”

Michael smiled and reached up. He was ready to take a shower. As usual.

~~~

Everyone decided to start in Epcot first. The sights and sounds were incredible and everyone had a wonderful time. No Russ. No Doug. No cameras snapping shots. No interviews. Just a great morning of learning and playing. After lunch, they all planned to hit the rides in Disney World again.

Michael nodded off again, and Hutch pulled Trini off to the side, “I’ll sit with him today. I didn’t bring you all the way out here to watch everyone else have fun, Babe.”

“Hutch, I’m fine. I don’t feel like riding right now.”

Bristling, Hutch snapped at his wife, “You think this is my last chance at a vacation or something? Michael and I are the only Hutchinson’s who get to have fun? Get out and ride dammit.”

Pressing a finger to Hutch’s chest, Trini quietly informed him, “I.. don’t… want…. to… ride. And nobody said anything about a ‘last vacation’ dear. You’re acting like an ass. Don’t ruin our vacation just ‘cuz you have to be right all the time.” Trini looked to make sure Leslie was still watching over Michael then turned and stormed away. Hutch was going to follow her until Huggy caught his arm.

“You know, blond one, sometimes people like you give blondes a bad name.”

Hutch just glared at Huggy and asked him, “What do you know about it?”

“I know you used to be a detective an’ yous oughts to be a lot smarter.” Huggy pointed to the sign beside the water ride Hutch had wanted Trini to join the boys on. It was a warning sign that said all people with back problems, pregnant woman, etc., shouldn’t ride the ride.

A light came on and Hutch looked at Huggy more softly now.

“You think…? Really?”

“Don’t know, my cranky-ass white brother. I just look at the facts. She’s not eating her ‘Starsky’ favorites like burritos. All I see is a lot of bland crap goin’ in her. Lots of that pink crap, too.”

Hutch looked back at his wife. She had finally stopped and was looking in the stores. Thinking back, Hutch realized Trini didn’t have any “feminine products” in their bags this time. Now he felt like an ass.

“Huggy. I’m sorry.”

Nodding, Huggy pointed to where Trini was, “Don’t be tellin’ me how sorry you are. Go tell the little ex-Miss Starsky. We got the boy.”

No more prompting was necessary. Hutch took off to apologize to his wife. He came up behind her and placed a hand on her shoulder. Trini shrugged it off and moved away. Hutch sighed and followed her to the other side of the room.

He tried again, ‘Trini, I’m sorry. Maybe it’s because I’m old enough to be your dad and I feel like I need to be the boss. Maybe it’s just because I’m old and bullheaded..”

“You are not old. You’re mature. Well, sometimes.”

Hutch smiled a little, “Hey. I’m sorry. I am, baby. Let’s go and find something you feel like getting on.”

Trini smiled and raised her eyebrows at her husband. He was forgiven.

“I meant,” Hutch laughed, “a ride in here.”

“Oh. Well, alright. But only if you stop bossing me around, okay?”

“Deal.”

Hutch quickly kissed her and Trini smiled. She kissed him back just as quickly. Then she took his hand and started to walk back. Hutch reached around and laid a hand on Trini’s stomach.

She stopped and looked at the hand that lay over their newly growing baby. Trini cleared her throat and continued to stare at the hand as she asked, “You mad? I didn’t want to tell everybody ’til we got home. I want to be sure it’s all okay…”

Gently, Hutch asked her, “You didn’t want to tell me?”

She shook her head, “Not until I felt it was safe. I haven’t even peed in a cup yet, but I’m pretty sure…” Trini sighed and looked off, “And… I’m worried I may be getting too old…”

Hutch laughed at that, and Trini looked up at him.

“That does sound stupid, huh?”

Hutch just nodded.

“Okay. The doctor just scared me when… Well, there’s a lot more danger the older I get. I’ll have to get tests done when we get home.”

“Okay. If there’s a problem… We’ll handle it. Together.”

Trini nodded, “Sorry. I just hate to worry you with stu…”

Hutch gave Trini a glare that stopped her. They were in this together and Hutch was pissed that she’d felt a need to “hide” stuff from him. Even if she felt it was to “protect” him from some unpleasantness.

Nodding, Trini smiled and said, “I was wrong. You’re right.”

Hutch grinned and started to walk back again, still holding his wife’s hand. A little behind him, he heard her mutter, “Jesus, I hate when that happens.”

~~~

The rest of the day went great. Hutch almost made Trini nuts a couple times when he insisted on being the one to carry Michael or push the stroller. She knew he’d get like this. He was Mr. Overly Cautious. Especially where his wife and child… er, children were concerned. Other than that, it was wonderful. Trini started feeling better and better as the day went on, everyone loved their day, and the night fell far too quickly for their liking.

Trini decided she was feeling very Starskyish then. In other words, starved. When she whispered, a little embarrassed, into Hutch’s ear just how hungry she was, he merely smiled and kissed her forehead.

“Come on,” he whispered back, “I shall feed you, oh mother of my children.”

Trini laughed with her husband, and they informed the rest of the group they were eating. Did anyone care to join them on their quest for Chinese food?

David Starsky, of course, piped right up, “Chinese?”

The rest of the Starsky clan shook their heads at the bottomless pit they all dearly loved. Leslie reached in her purse and pulled out a restaurant guide for Florida. That sent Huggy into uncontrollable laughter.

“Look, Curly! The poor woman slaves over your meals even when not in the kitchen!”

~~~

At dinner, the men all discussed what time they had to be up, which dock they had to be on, and who got first try at swordfishing in the morning. Maybe a marlin, too. All they cared about was that they were all going fishing. For big fish.

The three women yawned. Dinner was done, Michael had fallen asleep in his stroller, and they weren’t going fishing. They didn’t care. They were bored.

Clearing her throat loudly, Candita informed the men they were with, “We go back to hotel. You can stay here, but we going.”

That got the attention of the previously negligent males.

Penitent, they all began to smother the women with love and attention. Apologies overflowed and the waitress laughed as she and the busboy cleared their table.

“I’m sorry, Les. Hutch was being stupid. I had to set him straight on who was catching the big fish in the morning…”

“Here, Trini. Let me get the stroller, babe. I had to remind your uncle who was, and always has been, the best fisherman…”

“Sorry, Mom. Uncle Hutch and Huggy were placing bets…”

“Yeah, Mom! I didn’t know Dad even brought that much money! You shoulda heard how much he bet…”

“Cand, wait! I got the room key! Wait, honey….”

~~~

Michael and Hutch were sleeping soundly, Trini couldn’t. For the first time in weeks, she had felt like eating and eat she had. Far more than she should have. The indigestion was incredible!

Rising quietly, Trini stole into the bathroom to down more Pepto. She was rummaging in the carry-on when Hutch, eyes sleepy and half closed, came in to check on his wife. With the Pepto.

Whispering so as not to wake Michael, Hutch informed her, “I put it by the bed. So you could find it.”

Laughing lightly, Trini gratefully guzzled from the bottle then rinsed her mouth with water after washing the vile liquid down. Turning to her husband, now sitting groggily and yawning on the toilet, Trini kissed Hutch’s cheek.

Stopping mid-yawn, he asked, “What was that for? Not that I’m complaining.”

With slightly teary eyes, Trini smiled and said, “Just because I love you Ken Hutchinson. Not many other guys would drag their tired asses out of bed to bring their wives the Pepto. You are wonderful.”

Preening proudly, Hutch puffed his chest out and playfully whispered, “I’m a God, huh?”

Shaking her head, Trini grabbed Hutch’s hand and led him to the bathroom door. “Come on, oh great one. Cuddle with me.”

~~~

With the men gone fishing, the women spent all day shopping. Trini bought a few new clothes, but not many. She wouldn’t be able to wear them soon. She hoped.

Candita bought souvenirs for her family while Leslie was already doing her Christmas shopping. The many bags filled the bottom of Michael’s stroller. At lunchtime, they returned to the hotel to drop off some of the purchases and to eat. On the way back, the girls spotted a tattoo and piercing parlor.

Leslie looked at Trini and her face lit up. “Trini! You wanna?”

Trini looked to her aunt and shrugged, “Sure. Why not? Candita?”

“I’m game. After lunch we do this?”

Nodding and beaming, Leslie said, “Yep. After lunch.”

~~~

As the three women stepped out of the parlor, laughing and looking guilty, the men found them. It hadn’t been too hard. Trini’d left a message at the front desk so they wouldn’t worry.

Hutch pulled Trini to him and kissed her long and tender. Then Michael pulled on his leg. One kiss was ended, another given.

Huggy was looking sideways at his wife, “You were all in there? Should we dare ask?”

Giggling, Leslie lifted her hair to expose the top of her ear. Candita followed suit. Hutch lifted Trini’s hair and looked under it as she held their child.

“You all had your ears pierced again?” Starsky questioned. “All the way up there? Didn’t it hurt.”

Hutch took his son, “Your earrings match… that was intentional?”

“Of course, Ken. We good friends. We do stuff like this,” Candita sniffed in mock disgust.

All men looked at the tattoo/piercing parlor. Then, they all looked at each other. Simultaneously, they all took off together. Muttering as they went.

“Uh-huh. I don’t like these white boys that much to get nothin’ permanent on my body for them.”

“No way! I’ve gone this long without something being marked or stuck through me. I believe I can continue to go without, fair ladies.”

Starsky wasn’t as eloquent as his friends, but it was entertaining. As he walked quickly from the building, he said, ever so quietly, “Nuts. They finally went fucking nuts.”

~~~

Trini held Hutch’s hand in hers as they laid in bed together. Michael was sleeping ever so soundly in the small bed next to them when Trini turned to her husband and tapped him lightly on the chest.

Eyes still shut, Hutch grunted, “Hmm?”

Trini poked his chest again. This time he opened one eye and looked at her. Trini pointed to the bathroom. Hutch drew in a deep breath and rose to follow his wife.

 I truly must love this girl to drag my tired ass out of bed for her all the time. Yawning, he entered the bathroom and turned on the light Trini hadn’t.

Sitting on the sink and smiling mischievously, Trini motioned her husband inside and to shut the door. He did.

Trini sat there, looking to Hutch like the small child he once knew her to be. She had done something “wrong.” Hutch just knew it.

Her first words confirmed it.

“Honey,” she whispered, “I’ve gotta tell you something and I don’t want you to be mad, okay?”

Hutch looked at her sideways and waited.

Trini rose from the sink and took off the long teeshirt she wore as a nightgown. Standing only in her panties, Trini tapped her toe nervously as Hutch inspected her naked body. He sighed a little with relief when he saw nothing else had been pierced. Then, she started to pull her panties down and Hutch’s breathing stopped.

 She didn’t! She wouldn’t! I hope!!!!

On her right side, about 2″ away from her most intimate part, there was a small piece of gauze. Curiously, Hutch leaned forward to inspect the area. Breathing again, he realized it couldn’t be pierced at least.

Shyly lifting the gauze, Trini lowered her head and waited. No explosion from her husband gave Trini the strength to look up a little. As she did, Trini saw Hutch reach a tentative hand to trace around the area.

“Does it hurt?” he whispered.

“Nah. Not really.”

Grabbing Trini’s underwear, Hutch used it to gently pull her to him. She giggled when he kissed the area above the tattoo Trini had been contemplating for the last year. She’d finally been brave enough to do it.

“I almost wish Starsky could see this, Trini. It’s beautiful.” Hutch kissed beside the tattoo now and carefully re-covered it with the gauze. “You did this for me? And Starsk?”

Trini nodded. Hutch reached up and slowly pulled her panties the rest of the way down.

Trini closed her eyes and smiled when Hutch’s tongue darted out to lick her.

“Does it hurt too much for this?”

Shaking her head, and pulling Hutch’s mouth back to her now aching body, Trini informed him, “Never.”

Smiling hugely, Hutch pulled her back to him and continued.

~~~

Laying in bed, Hutch stared up at the ceiling smiling as Trini slept.

His wife had gotten a tattoo.

A small one. Maybe an inch around if it was lucky. But a tattoo nonetheless.

It was the same symbol on the keychains Trini had bought for him and Starsky when the investigations business had been started. The half black, half white “Ying and Yang.” The two teardrop shapes of opposite color, wrapping together to make one. Trini had always said she thought of her husband and uncle like that. It was how she wanted to remember them. Opposites always together. Always.

Smiling some more, Hutch sighed contentedly and pulled his wife to him in her slumber. He felt very lucky. This woman was very devoted to him. And to Starsky. Sleep came quickly as Hutch listened to Trini’s deep breathing.

 

CHAPTER 18

Angie and Michelle had been noticeably absent the last day or so, but with good reason. Michelle’s father lived in Florida and had finally decided he loved his daughter more than continuing to worry about what her sexual orientation was. The couple had been spending a little time with Michelle’s father.

Angie had called and talked to Trini the night before stating that the man looked like hell. Frail, on oxygen, bedridden. The forgiveness and change of heart had come just in time.

Sighing tiredly, Angie informed her friend, “Please tell Hutch and the gang where we’ll be until we head back to the ship tomorrow. And apologize for me… well, for us.”

“Ang, you wanna apologize? For what? For spending a few quiet moments with a dying man? No. I won’t apologize for you, but I’ll tell everyone where you are. We miss you two and we’ll see you on the ship in two days.”

“Thanks, Trini. Tell Ken he’s a lucky man.”

Snorting in laughter, Trini said, “Hold on, Angie. He’s crashed right here. You tell him. He’ll NEVER believe me.” Then, she pushed the phone at her resting husband.

Hutch made his wife laugh with his “Yello?” into the phone.

Why she always laughed, Trini didn’t know. Anybody else doing it would have seemed dorky, but when Hutch did it, somehow it was adorable.

~~~

“Wake up, Blintz. It’s time to go!” Starsky called as he pounded on Hutch’s hotel room door again. Michael and Trini answered it and snuck out the door with Trini’s finger up to her mouth in a silent “shhhh.” Trying to see inside, Starsky leaned to peer over Trini’s shoulder. She shut the door and scowled at her uncle.

“Nosey,” she quietly admonished him.

Leslie’s brow wrinkled up in concern, “What’s wrong with Ken?”

“Yeah, Trini….what’s wrong with Blintz?” Starsky had a look of concern Trini knew wasn’t all that necessary.

“He’ll be fine. His hip hurts. I got him some medicine. He wants to rest while we eat.” At Starsky’s concerned look, Trini placed a hand on her uncle’s arm and gently stressed, “He’ll be fine, Dave. He and Michael were playing horsy is all.”

Nodding, Starsky turned and followed his wife, nephew and niece down to the elevator. After he’d taken a moment to cast one long glance over his shoulder at the door he hoped would open. It didn’t.

~~~

Waking up, Hutch stretched and rubbed his leg and hip. They didn’t feel so bad now. Feeling something on his hands, Hutch sniffed his fingers and wrinkled his nose.

“Muscle rub. Nasty.” Still , he had to be grateful Trini had thought to do it for him. His stomach growled and Hutch decided to join the group downstairs for breakfast. He was attempting to wake up as he slowly rolled to the side of the bed to gently ease his long, golden legs over the edge. Sitting there, back to the door, Hutch heard it open. He left his head resting tiredly in his hands as he greeted his wife, “Hey, babe.”

The voice he heard was most definitely NOT his wife’s.

“Hello, lover.”

Hutch just shook his head and laughed, “Starsky, I just woke up. Or maybe not. I think this is a nightmare. Is that was this is?”

Settling easily next to Hutch, Starsky gently asked, “How’s your leg?”

Looking his best friend in the eye, Hutch smiled, “Better. I can keep up with my son now.”

“Not without breakfast.”

Hutch looked over at the tray Starsky had placed at the foot of the bed. Granola cereal with banana. Yogurt. A poached egg. Black coffee.

Starsky was truly a great friend. Hutch told him just that. Not with words. With a smile of genuine thanks, a loving pat on the leg, and a hearty appetite.

Starsky smiled back as Hutch dug into his food. It did his heart good to do things for Hutch.

They were the best of friends.

Brothers.

Partners.

Friends.

Forever.

~~~

“Parasailing, Hutch? My butt strapped on that little seat, all the way over the sea? I don’t know, Hutch.”

Hutch pointed to Huggy waving to them from high above. The brilliantly colored parachute carried their friend up into the sky, and out over the sea. After about three minutes, the boat towing Huggy about slowed and landed him gently on the beach next to Hutch and his group.

“Whooie!” Huggy beamed. “You’s guys gotta try this thing! Man, it is exhilaration in it’s finest hour!”

having heard enough, Leslie pushed her hesitant husband to the side, “If you’re not going, I am.”

Leslie strapped on the parachute while the man selling the rides readjusted the seat for her comfort. Double checking her straps, he looked to Leslie and smiled, “You ready, young lady?”

Starsky snorted when the man called his wife that, and was given a shin kick by Leslie.

Leslie nodded and smiled, “Trini! Don’t forget to take a picture of me!”

Waving and laughing back, Trini called out to her as Leslie rose off the ground, “Got it! Have fun, Les!”

Hutch picked Michael up and sat him on his tall shoulders so Michael could see as Trini snapped pictures. Starsky waved to his wife. Candidta just shook her head.

“No way. No way I go up there, Huggy.”

Hutch laughed and nudged Starsky, “See? Only girls won’t go up.”

~~~

The laughter from Hutch was so deep and loud, Angie knew exactly where in the hotel restaurant her friends were. In the back. Away from everybody else. The tight-knit little family all to themselves.

Making her way to the back, Angie wiped at her eyes, and pasted on a smile. It turned into a real one as she took in the scene before her.

Starsky was being tormented, as usual. Hutch was wiping at his laughter filled eyes. Leslie, Trini and Candita were all laughing and pointing at a photo Leslie was holding.

Moving inside the secluded room, Angie genuinely smiled. How could she not? The laughter, the happiness… it was just what she needed right now.

Looking up, Hutch saw his ex-wife in the doorway. For a fleeting moment, he’d seen the sadness in her eyes. Then, he’d seen her smile. It made Hutch feel better, but he was still worried about Angie. He leaned to Trini, whispered in her ear, then rose to talk to Angie in private. Trini waved to her and winked. Angie smiled back as Hutch easily wrapped his long arm about her waist and threw out, “Be right back, gang. Were going to let the waitress know Angie’s here so she can order.”

Starsky smiled at Hutch’s departing back and whispered to his wife, “He’s a horrible liar.”

Nodding, Leslie laughed lightly, “The white knight. He has to help those damsels in distress.”

In the hallway outside, Angie turned to Hutch and buried her face in his strong shoulders before the quiet sobs started. He ran a gentle hand down Angie’s head, and over her back soothingly. Then, he kissed her forehead. Angie started laughing then.

Hutch laughed too. They were a sight. The two ex’s, still caring for each other, still good to each other, still there for each other.

Wiping her face, Angie said, “I was a fool to let you go, Ken Hutchinson.” Then she grinned wickedly, and sighed dramatically, “If only you’d been a girl.”

Hutch roared with laughter, then. “Well, my dear. I’m not. Although, I really like girls. Guess I’m a lesbian, too.”

Angie shook her head and mock glared at her ex, “I’m not sure I like you now.”

Grabbing her hand and pushing her to the bathroom, Hutch informed Angie, “You do. Wash up so I can buy you dinner. Then, you can tell me what happened. If you want to.”

Tenderly, Angie told Hutch, “I lied. Trini’s the lucky one.”

“Oh! Hurry up, so you can tell her!”

Angie laughed and went into the bathroom to get cleaned up.

~~~

There was a park behind the hotel and Trini decided to take Michael there. Hutch was off with Angie somewhere, consoling her about something, and Trini had a desire to play. She went to find her uncle. He always liked to play, too.

Huggy and Candita tagged along, but sat holding hands under a secluded tree. Their idea of fun was each other. It warmed Trini’s heart to see them still so in love. Looking at her aunt and uncle playing on the swings with Michael, she felt her heart warm again. They were still so in love, too.

Sighing, she made her way across the balancing beams she was walking on and thought to herself, “I hope Hutch and I are always in love like this.”

As if on cue, {to interrupt anyways}, Hank… from the studio… walked across the lawn to Trini, calling out as he came, “Hello, Mrs. Hutchinson.”

She looked up and politely waved, but went about her exercising. The park was well equipped for stretching, balancing, and running. She liked it. And she really didn’t want to be bothered with questions about her private life.

Hank drew closer and looked around. Nosily, he asked, “Where’s Mr. Hutchinson tonight? I thought I saw him still in the hotel lobby. Talking with someone.”

Trini knew the man was just trying to bait her. She took it.

“Mr. Hutchinson is there. Talking with my friend, his ex-wife. Did you need that information for the movie, or you just nosey, Hank?”

Hank laughed and Trini glared at him until she realized he was laughing happily, not maliciously. Still smiling, Hank said, “He’s always helping, huh? You’re not jealous, the Starsky’s are happy, the Brown’s are super people… How in the hell am I supposed to make a movie about you people? No dirt at all!”

Trini laughed heartily and sat down beside Hank. She eyed him out of the corner of her eye, looking at him differently now, and said, “Thanks.”

Pretending surprise, Hank said, “For what?”

“For not digging up bones. Not looking for dirt. Letting those skeletons keep hiding in our closets.”

Looking down and plucking a dandelion from the grass, Hank handed it to Trini, “You are welcome, fair lady. I will only put in the stuff all of you gave us. I have enough on Huggy to ‘spice’ it up, anyhow. He told me some stories…” Hank shook his head and laughed again.

“I’m sure!” Trini laughed.

“Hey,” Hank started, “I heard some about the umm… past loves. Will you ask around, see if I use any of it? I won’t if they say no, but some of it was very important police work and I’d like to show it. It also will help the audience see their bond. The audience doesn’t know them. I want them to see the whole story behind David and Ken. They’re so easy to like, and I want the audience to see that, too. The friendship through adversity, the love, the…”

Placing her hand on Hank’s arm, Trini told him, “I thank you again, sir. You are kind. I know you’re asking me as well.”

Hank blushed slightly, “Yeah. I am. Sorry to do it so roundabout.”

“No. It was nice. The whole reason any of us hesitated was that. We don’t want… all of it out. It could be dangerous. Emotionally.” It was Trini’s turn to blush when she spoke again, “We weren’t sure if we could trust you ‘Hollywood Big Shots’ or not.”

Hank nodded.

“…Still,” Trini told him, “Leslie and I will discuss it with our charming husbands. We don’t mind the free world knowing about the vast amount of ex-lovers our spouses had.”

Hank laughed, “There were a few, huh? Oh, sorry.”

“Nah. It’s okay. It was the 70’s.” Hank roared with laughter and almost didn’t hear Trini when she spoke again, “Beside’s, it’ll make Les and me look like femme fatale’s this way. WE kept them. Those others all lost out.”

Hutch and Angie came over the rise of the hill then. Standing with Hank’s help, Trini dusted off her rear and informed him, “Just don’t make Les, Cand and me look like sluts, k?” Then, she winked and ran to join the man she adored.

Talking to nobody, Hank said, “Never. You’re strong women, not sluts.”

~~~

It was time to reboard the boat. Hutch again struggled with Michael, but Trini wasn’t carrying anything this time. Nothing. No overnight bag, no diaper bag, NOTHING. It would seem word of her possible pregnancy had spread through the group like wildfire.

As the rest of the group struggled, fully loaded, up the walkway, Trini smiled and laughed. Russ snapped a picture and she waved at him. This might be fun after all.

The fear of hating the “Hollywood People” was gone… Trini felt great, everyone was having a great time. Life was good. Again. Still.

~~~

“Hutch, I love you, but you are so full of shit!” Trini was laughing at her husband, but Huggy continued to eye his friend skeptically. Hutch was feeding him so full of crap and Huggy had bought it. For a minute.

“White boy, you shouldn’t oughta lie like that. Bad karma and all.” Huggy pushed Hutch and laughed, “I find a voodoo man…”

Hutch’s glare stopped Huggy, but sent everyone else into a fit of laughter.

Melody came over then, and Hutch felt Trini bristle beside him. Kissing Hutch on the cheek, she whispered, “Michael’s tired. I’m going to see if James and Marcus are in their room. If not, I’ll lay him down and wait in ours.”

Starsky nudged Leslie and nodded to Trini. “She hates Melody. Look at her,” he whispered.

Leslie nodded and said, “So do I.”

Startled, Starsky looked at his wife, “Really?”

Meeting her husband’s eyes, Leslie stressed, “Really.”

Melody leaned on the table and batted her eyes first at Huggy and Hutch, then turned to Starsky and repeated the move. Adding a thousand watt, toothy smile this time.

Looking at Starsky again, Leslie repeated herself, more firmly this time, “Really.” Snubbing melody right back, Leslie grabbed Candita by the hand and said, “Come on, girlfriend. I don’t wanna throw up watching this.”

Candita laughed and joined her friend. Melody had to use all her powers not to glare. She knew it’d make her forehead crease anyhow. Melody didn’t want any creases or lines on her perfectly made up face. Hutch felt it was overly made up, but wisely kept his mouth shut. It’s just give Trini more fuel against the woman.

“So,” Melody purred, “I’m all alone with the best looking men on the ship.” All three men shifted uncomfortably. Melody was what they all commonly referred to as a “man-eater.” Just for fun, she stalked, had her fill, then moved on for the next kill. Even if they weren’t happily married men, Melody wasn’t something any of them would partake of on a bad day.

Quickly, Melody added, “With all this manliness here, I may forget all the questions I needed to ask, but I’m sure gonna try.”

She pulled a tape recorder, and pad with pen from her purse. Huggy’s brows raised as he looked to his two friends. The presumptuous bitch hadn’t even bothered to ask if they minded. Melody thought her silicone tits, bleach blond hair, and fake nails were hard to resist. Hutch decided to prove her wrong.

Nodding slightly to Huggy, Hutch rose and politely informed Melody, “Actually, this good looking man is heading to bed with his good looking wife.” Looking to make eye contact only with Starsky and Huggy, Hutch said “Goodnight, guys. Swim in the morning?”

Barely concealing his grin, Starsky nodded. Huggy laughed and whispered, “Jackass. Got out of it.”

Politely staying and finishing their drinks as Melody quizzed them, the two men stayed trapped with the man-eater.

As Hutch walked off, he began to whistle.

~~~

The pool was delightfully warm and everyone joined in today. Michelle had Angie on her big shoulders as they attempted to wrestle James off of Huggy’s thin, little shoulders. It wasn’t hard to see who’d be the victor, but it was all in fun.

Hutch had Michael balanced up on an inflated alligator toy. He and Starsky pushed the boy between them while Michael threw his head back and giggled that laughter only an innocent child can.

Laying back in the recliner seats mounted in the pool, Leslie and Candita watched the action in amusement. Especially when Leslie and Marcus “helped” knock Huggy backwards.

Candita smiled and said, “Surprise my love held him that long. he not all that sturdy.”

Trini laughed and then sobered quickly. “Maybe not on the outside, but Hug’s made of strong stuff inside. Good, kind, stuff.”

Playfully smacking Trini’s exposed arm, Candita informed her, “I know. I married him, didn’t I?”

“Yeah,” Trini sighed, “None of ’em are perfect, but they’re ours and we love them. Most of the time.”

Both women laughed.

Starsky grabbed his great-nephew from behind and “stole” him from Hutch then. Casting the Hutchinson glare at Starsky for taking away his son, Hutch made everyone laugh when he stuck his tongue out at Starsky before turning towards Trini. Looking poolside, Trini rolled her eyes and laughed when she realized Russ and Doug had seen it all and were laughing. AND snapping photos.

“Great,” Trini laughingly groaned, “now the whole world gets to see their immaturity.”

Watching her husband swim to her in his long, strong stride made Trini forget all about his immaturity. Looking over her sunglasses in appreciation, Trini whistled low.

Looking at her friend, Candita shook her head and smiled. “What Is it with you two? Like rabbits, I swear.”

Hutch reached Trini then and rose out of the water looking every inch a Greek God, body glistening in the water that rolled down his chest. He leaned over, dripping, to kiss his wife.

Looking down at her once dry upper half, Trini teased, “Thanks lover. Now I’m all wet.”

Hutch wiggled his eyebrows and whispered, “I meant to get you that way.”

Trini pulled him to her and playfully kissed him again before he allowed her to push him under the water.

Candita laughed and looked over before mumbling, “Rabbits.”

 

CHAPTER 19

Trini was so relieved to be home. The traveling, the washing and unpacking when they got back, the eating out constantly while gone… it all added up. It was nice to leave, but always great to come home again.

Michael was asleep, Hutch was outside checking the pool chemicals, and Trini was mixing up cheeses and eggs for lasagna when Hutch came back in.

Reaching out to the sink by Trini to wash his hands, Hutch asked, “We’re having lasagna? I was thinking we could eat out.”

Exasperated, Trini spun and pointed her mixing spoon at Hutch.

“We’ve been eating out for over two weeks now, I wanna eat…” It was then that Trini noticed Hutch’s disarming grin as he lounged against the cabinet. She normally loved that grin, but he was being a little too “ornery” today for Trini’s liking. He knew it, too. And, he also knew he could win her over with that delightfully delicious way of smiling. Trini tried to fight the urge to forgive him as she turned away to finish fixing dinner before heading to work.

Hutch knew he was being a pain in the ass. He couldn’t help it. Maybe it was ‘cuz Trini used to be a Starsky. Hutch really wasn’t sure why he tormented his wife so, but he knew he needed to stop before she kicked his ass.

Smiling, Hutch moved to kiss Trini’s shoulder through her shirt.

Trini looked at him sideways and said, “Back.”

Hutch laughed and tried to be nice for the first time all morning, “Lasagna sounds wonderful.”

Trini pushed him away gently, “YOU don’t get any. I’ll order you take-out wise-ass.”

Smiling even bigger, Hutch pushed himself into full Hutchinson charm mode. He knew he could win her over. Maybe that’s why he started this shit all the time. Just to make up.

His eyes twinkled and glowed with merriment when Trini chanced a glance at her husband. Hutch’s smile, so warm and loving, won again.

Sighing and turning to Hutch after setting down her spoon, Trini admonished her hubby, “You practice that grin when you were younger, Hutchinson? You did, huh? I can see you… your young, stud-muffin self, practicing these grins, smiles, and flirty looks in the mirror…. THEN, you figured out what worked best and stuck with it. Not fair, Ken. Not fair.”

Looking crushed, Hutch pointed to his chest and said, “Moi? I would never do anything like that.”

Allowing Hutch to pull her closer, she snuggled against Hutch’s sun warm chest and grinned, “You did. You worked on that look.”

Hutch smiled into Trini’s hair, and mumbled, “Well, maybe a little.”

~~~

Leslie had office books to finish with Candita. Books Trini wasn’t even allowed to lift. She couldn’t believe it when the other two women had decided to work late, but sent Trini home.

Driving home, Trini mumbled to herself, “I’m pregnant, not helpless.” Still, since the doctor had confirmed what Trini had rightly guessed, everyone had been treating her like a porcelain doll. Hutch’s fears for Trini and the baby were worse this time. She wasn’t sure why, but Hutch was EXTRA paranoid this time around. Trini supposed it was just because so much had happened last year. The accident, their frightening near-separation. Hutch cherished every minute with Trini and Michael… as much as Trini did with Hutch. Still, he worried about everything. Smiling a little, Trini supposed she’d rather have it the way it was. People who worried and stressed over each other were better than ones who didn’t care at all.

The smell of lasagna greeted Trini when she opened the front door and stepped inside. Hutch had actually listened to her and put it in on time.

 “I’m impressed,” she thought to herself.

Michael and his joyfilled laughter directed Trini out to the back yard. Smokey and Percy were romping across the yard, making her child laugh and run after them. Sitting cross-legged on the grass, watching his child play, Hutch’s whole face was aglow.

For a minute, Trini had a hard time catching her breath. Her husband was always good looking, but when he smiled and played…especially with a child… he was even more handsome. Wide, toothy smile that went all the way up to those cornflower blue eyes, the way his face crinkled in delight… Trini placed a hand to her rapidly beating heart and tried to breathe normally.

 “My Lord,” Trini thought, “That man is gonna be the death of me. Gonna kill me one of these days when I stop breathing…”

Looking up from their playtime, Michael saw his mother and called out, “Come play, Mommy!”

The smile Hutch had been directing towards his son never faltered when he looked up at his wife, but it changed somehow. Trini loved it when he smiled at her like that. The eyes previously so full of merriment, now filled with such intense love. Trini’s poor heart almost faltered. Again.

Ruffling her sons curls, Trini bent to pick him up and kiss him, “Hello sweetie. You playing with Daddy?”

Michael nodded and wiggled to be free to chase the pets again. Trini let him down and sat on the patio close to her husband. She looked to Hutch and he was giving her “that” look. Handsome head cocked to one side, eyebrows lifted. Trini was about to ask him what the hell the look was all about when she heard her uncle behind her.

“Katrina, you supposed to be picking that boy up?”

Very pleased with his friend, Hutch nodded once at Trini in his “Just what I was thinking look.”

Trini rolled her eyes and called out, “Katrina? My, I am in trouble, huh?”

Coming outside, Starsky asked again, “You supposed to be liftin’ him?”

Ignoring her uncle’s comment and her husband’s look, Trini rose and held a hand out to help Hutch up. He chose to reach for Starsky’s hastily outstretched hand for help instead, informing his wife, “I weigh a lot more than our son.”

Trini sighed and headed inside. She started to close the doors and called out, “I will be setting the table if that’s alright with you two. ‘Battle Ax’ thinks that’s fine, I’m sure.”

Smugly, both men looked to each other and laughed.

~~~

Patting his stomach, Starsky said, “Whoa, Trini. That was great lasagna. Thanks.”

Michael was still eating and Hutch was cutting up more for him. Nodding to Michael, Starsky said, “He likes it, huh?”

Hutch laughed and nodded as he kept cutting up small pieces to feed his ever starving son.

Trini rose to start clearing the table, “Glad you liked it. Wanna take some home for Leslie and the boys?”

“Nah. She took them to their friends’ house. We’re going out after she gets done at work.”

Hutch gave his friend a nasty glare that said, “Way to go, Gordo,” as Trini started in, “Well, I suppose you could already be out if I’d been allowed to stay and help.”

Sighing, Hutch informed his wife, “That evil woman you call a doctor said you work too hard. You do. It’s not worth you getting sick. Or worse.”

Saving them all from disagreeing more, Leslie came in through the kitchen door… sniffing.

“Mmm. Trini’s lasagna?”

“You hungry, Les?” Starsky questioned. “I thought you ate with Candita. Sorry.”

Bending to kiss her husband, Leslie said, “No. The boys were getting impatient to go eat at Lance’s. They had movies to watch, girls to sneak out and see…”

Starsky laughed, “Take after their old man, huh?”

Hutch couldn’t resist, “Horny and hungry. They’re all yours, Starsk.”

“Bite, me, Hutchinson. Bite me.”

~~~

The doorbell rang bright and early the next Sunday morning. Trini was expecting the visitors. Opening the front door, Trini smiled at Hank and his unknown guest.

“Come on in,” she greeted them. Stepping aside to let the men pass, she told them, “Hutch is upstairs in the shower. His stuff is in the garage. I’ll help you load it in the van.”

Hank looked to the man with him and said, “Oh, sorry you two. Katrina Hutchinson, Sonny Warner.”

Reaching out, they shook hands.

Smiling at the man, Trini told him, “My husband and uncle have no idea about this. Leslie, Cand and I agreed because you’re not hauling our hubby’s off to Hollyweird.”

Hank laughed, but Warner looked confused. Trini wasn’t sure the man was too bright. Hank confirmed Trini’s fears.

“Uh, Trini… Sonny here owns the studio that will be producing the movie. I wanted him to meet the men behind the characters.”

Looking at the man with mild amusement, Trini just nodded and led the way to the garage.

 “So this is the idiot who wants to put a couple unknown morons in the lead roles instead of the men who can play them the right way? He’ll see…a weekend with these two, and he’ll see who’s perfect to play the best cops. The one’s who actually lived it.”

Hitting the garage door opener, Trini helped the men load Hutch’s outdoor gear. They were staying in a cabin in Colorado, so Hutch would be fine with the little bit Trini had packed. The studio had provided enough food for the two studio members, Hutch, Huggy, and Starsky. All Hutch needed was his fishing gear, sunblock, and clothes. Leslie and Candita had packed all the same stuff for their spouses.

Shutting the back van door now that all of Hutch’s stuff was loaded, Trini turned to Hank and winked, “Give me a minute with Hutch. Gotta tell him he’s going somewhere.”

Hank’s laughter followed Trini back inside.

~~~

Starsky was pissing and moaning and squirming in the van like a 3 year old. Hutch punched him in the arm and said, “Quit being a freakin’ baby. You’re not gonna die. We’re staying in a cabin. We have food. We’re almost there. Shut up.”

“Yeah. Whoopie. A cabin. You remember what happened last time we had a ‘peaceful’ weekend in a cabin in the woods? You remember that, Hutch?” Hank laughed and continued to take notes of everything the men said even though the tape recorder was running. Still, as usual.

Hutch shook his head in exasperation, but remained silent. Starsky didn’t.

“Well, I remember. I thought about it the whole flight. Now, I’m thinking about it the drive up into these woods. I hate the woods, Hutch. Who’s idea was this?”

Huggy laughed and informed his bitching friend, “This idea was conjured from the curly-headed mind of one Miss ex-Starsky.”

Eyes wide, Starsky looked to Huggy, then to Hutch. Both men nodded their heads in confirmation. It had been Trini’s idea when the studio had called her.

Closing his eyes and laying his head back on the seat, Starsky grumbled, “She loves Hutch more than me. Making me go in the hills. I hate the woods. I hate the hills. I hate her.”

Now Hutch laughed.

~~~

Hutch bounded from the van the instant it stopped and stretched. Drawing in a deep lungful of mountain air, he smiled. It was nice to be here. Trini had known just what to do for him. For Starsky, too. Even if he wouldn’t admit it.

Huggy slowly stepped from the van and looked around. He leaned over to look down the mountain face. He turned to his left, then to his right. He looked up, and to the cabin. Then, Huggy looked to his friend and said, “Man. I hopes all goes well. Don’t see how we could get any kind of help ifin we needed it.”

Starsky glared at the man as he walked off, then hurried to keep up with him. No way did Starsky want to be out here alone. It was already getting dark.

~~~

“The reason we wanted to talk with you guys about the cases, out here, alone, was because this is our new plan. We, at the studio, want you guys to play you. On the TV. We decided to go television instead of movie. It’ll be a mini-series event. I figure it’s gonna take 3 nights to cover all this. The public will be drawn in by you three telling the tale. We’ll have actors to portray the ‘flasback’ scenes, but it’s going to be told by you three, and the voiceovers are you guys as well.”

Starsky leaned forward and looked Hank in the eye. “Us? You want us to play us? In a movie? What about our PI business?”

Hank blurted out, “We figured it’d help your business.”

Rubbing his eyes, Hutch told him, “It’d help. For awhile. But, none of us could work on cases anymore… providing the show did well. People would recognize us.”

Shrugging, Huggy looked at the other two men in “the trio,” and asked, “I speak with my comrades outside a moment?”

Whipping his head quickly to Huggy, Starsky asked, “Outside?”

Hank laughed and said, “We can go outside, can’t we Mr. Warner?”

Sonny Warner nodded his clueless nod and followed his worker out the door.

Speaking in hushed tones, Huggy leaned forward and said, “I don’t know bout yous two, but I’s bout ready to let Lunk take over anyhow. I gots lots of traveling and fishing to do.”

Staring at the floor, Starsky remained silent when Hutch looked at him, so Hutch spoke next. “I think we might just run the business end. It wouldn’t bother me to let Lunk and his boys take over the undercover work. I’d be just as happy. Starsk?”

Shrugging, Starsky still remained silent. Hutch reached over and ran an understanding hand down his back. Starsky looked up into Hutch’s eyes, so filled with understanding and love, and nodded.

“I just… it was so long… too long without all of us together. I just don’t wanna lose that again.” Starsky blushed a little and looked away. He needed Huggy and Hutch as much as they needed him. He didn’t need to be embarrassed about that. Not at all.

“Hey,” Hutch started, “we’re family. Nothing can come between that. Nobody’s moving away, or dying Starsk. We’ll have more time together if we do this.”

As usual, Starsky’s thoughts weren’t of the financial end of things, but of the emotional end. Hutch smiled. His dear friend worried and cared too much, but it was what had kept them all here…together and in one piece.

Huggy jumped in, “Yeah, Curly. I meant the fishing and stuff I wanna do with you guys. We the ‘Musketeers’, my brother. Ain’t nothin’ gonna change that.”

Slowly, Starsky began to smile that gorgeous and carefree smile. Hutch smiled back and nodded before going to the door to let the hovering Mr. Warner and Hank back inside.

~~~

The next morning, the men awoke to the smells of eggs. Starsky’s nose made him sit up, then he kicked out his foot to jiggle the edge of Huggy’s bed.

“Hey, Hug. Wake up, let’s eat.”

Huggy rolled over and looked Starsky in the eye. “Starsky. I don’t eat this crap. I brought my own ‘stash’ of food. You go. Help yourself. I, the former chef, shall prepare my own delicacies later.”

Starsky shrugged and bounded from bed. He was eating. Now, not later.

Bounding down the stairs, Starsky stopped mid-way and groaned. Somebody must have opened the door in the night and let the ‘strays’ in. Melody was downstairs. Starsky could hear her high pitched, fakey laugh. Pasting on a smile, he continued down the stairs.

Hutch had been intently watching the stairs like dog waiting for it’s master to come home. At first sight of the Starsky curls, Hutch’s face broke out into a relieved smile. If the man had had a tail attached to his cute butt, it woulda wiggled at the sight of his best friend coming to “save” him.

Quickly rising from his seat across from where Melody had placed herself, Hutch grabbed a plate and filled it for Starsky.

Shoving the plate at Starsky before he’d even sat down, Hutch extra-cheerily said, “Morning, Starsk! You ready for that hike? I know you wanted to get out of here today!”

For just a moment, Starsky was almost ready to say “nah” and let Hutch seethe the whole day… trapped inside with the ever clinging Melody. He couldn’t do it to Hutch, though. Starsky knew if he trapped Hutch, he was trapping himself.

Shoveling in big mouthfuls, Starsky eagerly agreed to the dreaded hike which would lead to the equally dreaded fishing. “Give me a minute, Hutch. Ready in a minute!”

Melody pouted in the fashion she must have been told was cute once. It wasn’t. Well, not to Hutch or Starsky anyhow.

“You boys leaving me here? I was hoping we’d do some more research. That’s why I came up here…script research.”

Shrugging and pointing to Russ as he pulled Starsky from the table, Hutch informed her, “Russ got a lot on the way here. I’m sure he’ll share.”

Knowing full well Melody’s eyes were glued to Hutch and Starsky as they departed, Russ flashed “the bird” at a beaming Hutch as they escaped.

~~~

Grabbing two fishing poles, his tackle box, his gun, and a duffel bag full of supplies and a first aid kit, Hutch started up the mountain. Starsky was close on his heels. Melody had them running scared.

After the two men were far enough away to feel safe, Hutch sat down on a fallen log to talk with his friend. Straddling the log, Hutch nodded to the empty spot in front of him. Starsky plopped down in front of him and questioned, “Yeah?”

“Yeah. I wanna hear your take on this movie thing. If Huggy had dragged his ass out of bed…”

Both men looked down the hill to the cabin as they had the same realization, at the same time. Their friend was trapped. With the man-eater.

Looking back to each other, they both laughed, then Hutch took up where he’d left off.

“… anyhow, I wanted to talk with both of you. Privately.” Smiling wickedly, Hutch looked back to the cabin, “If Huggy’s still alive, we’ll talk to him when we get back.”

~~~

Returning to the cabin, Hutch went inside to start cooking the fish he and Starsky had caught for dinner. Nobody was around but them.

Starsky came from upstairs, “He’s gone, Hutch. Think he was gobbled up?”

Hutch laughed and shrugged. “No telling. Lost of scary, man-eating creatures out here.”

On cue, the front door of the cabin opened to reveal Huggy helping a delicately limping Melody inside. Warner looked worried, Russ looked bored, Huggy looked irritated.

Setting herself gently in a chair {with Huggy’s un-needed help, of course.} Melody looked up, batted he lashes over her large, bug-like eyes, and cooed, “Oh, Mr. Bear, you are a gentleman to help me like this.”

Huggy turned to head for the kitchen and some ice. And to get away from Melody.

As he passed his two friends who were pretending to be intent on making dinner, Huggy whispered, “You white boys are dead.”

~~~

Carefully avoiding Melody again the next day, the men packed and prepared to return to their lives. The decision had been made. The three men would play themselves in a TV movie about their lives together. It felt weird and a little surreal, but it also felt good.

Starsky had made them all laugh when he’d said, “Well, I guess they’ll hear the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth if we do it, huh?”

Hutch had rolled his eyes and informed his friend, “Starsky, you have the right to remain silent.”

Huggy groaned and grabbed his pack. “I’m leaving you two on this here mountain if yous don’t stop that.”

~~~

Leslie reached to hold the man she’d missed terribly the past few days. Starsky feigned sleep, but his body didn’t.

Reaching out to her spouse, Leslie sighed dramatically as she ran a finger across the mass of still dark hair that covered Starsky’s chest. “I wish my husband was awake,” she sighed again, “I sure missed him.”

Still unmoving, Starsky waited for his wife’s next move. Impatiently, but still he waited.

Pretending to give up, Leslie rolled away from her man and teased, “He must not need me. He had Melody all weekend.”

Starsky reached out and swatted Leslie’s tiny rump and grunted, “Not me. She’s been ‘had’ a lot, is right, but not by any of us.”

Rolling in to face each other, the Starsky’s smiled lovingly. Starsky was the first to reach out. Laying his hand on Leslie’s hip, Starsky began a slow, gentle massage. Leslie scooted closer.

Reaching out to mimic he husband’s movement, Leslie commented, “I have no idea how you guys tolerated that buggy-eyed tramp. I wouldn’t have. I couldn’t stand her on the boat.”

Looking surprised, Starsky said, “Really? When she rolled over yesterday, she said…”

“You shit!”

Leslie giggled and grabbed for Starsky’s ribs. Tickling was nice. Especially as a prelude to lovemaking. The gentle, teasing touches. The laughter making the moment light and gentle. The knowledge of where the touching of tingling, warm skin would end.

Leslie had missed her husband. Sitting up, Leslie pulled her husbands old teeshirt off that she used as a sleepshirt and hit him in the face with it. Starsky laughed and pulled his near-naked wife back down on the bed beside him. Running his hands across Leslie’s still firm and tanned belly, Starsky bent his head to kiss her where his hands were roaming.

Sighing, Leslie knew they still had it. And good.

~~~

Trini’s tummy was growing by the day according to Hutch. He was convinced, and not in a bad way, that he could see their second child growing. Trini knew he was full of shit, and imagining it all, but it was cute. She’d only gained 9 pounds of “baby” so far and she was over 5 months pregnant. Trini ate even better than usual, and always continued to exercise gently, while pregnant.

Laying beside her in bed, Hutch looked to his dreaming wife and smiled sweetly. Trini was softly snoring, her brunette curls splayed about her head on the pillow, the mound of their new child moving gently up and down with each breath Trini took. Hutch scooted down in bed and rested his head softly on Trini’s stomach. She awoke slightly and reached down to run her fingers through his hair. Hutch smiled again and waited until Trini dropped back into a deep sleep before moving.

Sliding away from his wife, Hutch got out of bed and quietly exited the bedroom. Stopping first at Michael’s room, Hutch went in to look at his son.

Bending over to look at his son’s face, Hutch smiled as Michael’s lips puckered into a small smile in his sleep. Smiling bigger himself, Hutch quietly slipped from the room and made his way downstairs.

Sitting at the office desk downstairs, Hutch placed both hands on the desk and drew in a deep breath. He had to do this. He was a sensible man, and it was a sensible thing to do. Still, writing a will… well, it seemed so… morbid.

Hutch opened up his will form and filled out what their lawyer had directed him to. He would make sure his family was taken care of, even if he was gone.

Finished, Hutch folded the forms up and put them back in the envelope. Then he reached for the blank paper and began to write the letters he wanted included in the will reading. Hutch wrote letters to Leslie, Candita, Angie, Michelle, Huggy, James, Marcus, and Michael with a fair amount of ease. After their new child was born, Hutch would add a letter for that child as well.

Rubbing his eyes that were watering, Hutch flexed his writing hand and looked at the blank paper he still needed to fill with words of love and thanks for Trini and Starsky. Hutch wanted them to know how much he’d needed them while he was here, how much their totally unconditional love had meant… how lost and lonely he would still be if not for them.

Wiping impatiently at his eyes again, Hutch started the letter for Starsky first.

 “Hey babe. If you’re reading this, I went first, but I’ll save you a spot right next to me. I don’t wanna go through the “after” without your friendship…”

 

THE END