Comments on this story can be sent to: tdwelker@aol.com

Part 1 (Chapters 1 through 5)

THE NAKED SOULS

Part 2 (Chapters 6 through 10)

Teri Colosimo

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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.

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 3 (Chapters 11-15)