Missy & Bob

Please note: This is copyrighted (©) by me, Tammtamm. Please do not copy it or save it without my permission. Thank you. Also, I've been writing in this story for nearly six years (yes, six years). It is currently 228 pages long and I may put every single page up on the web for y'all to read, but only ONLY if you send me feedback stories@iwuvjoey.com with Missy & Bob in the title. Any similarities between the characters and people in real life are purely coincidental. These are characters from my mind (although some names and characteristics were "borrowed" from Baywatch). This is purely for enjoyment purposes only. Any and all comments should be sent to me at iwuvjoey@iwuvjoey.com unless it's feedback pertaining to the story. Thank you.

The lights were soft and dim. The candles on the table were lit and soft music was playing in the background. Kerri Matthews and Missy Nichols were waiting for their significant others to appear shortly for dinner - twins, Bob and Rick Cauldwell.

It was a fluke how the four of them got together. Missy and Bob started dating first. They had met on a Friday night while out cruising through Main Street in Northfield. Missy had stopped at the mini-market for a soda when Bob accidentally bumped into her when he was reaching for a six pack of spring water.

After a month of them dating, Missy and Bob came up with the great idea to bring Kerri and Rick together as a double date.  At first Kerri and Rick were both against that idea, but when they met each other, it was love at first sight.  All that happened sixteen and seventeen  months ago.  Although the two couples do many things apart, when they are a foursome, they're inseparable. 

       

"Kerri? What time did they say they'd be here?" Missy asked. She looked at her watch.

"Relax, Miss. They said around eight.  It's only a quarter of.  Besides, dinner is not quite ready." Kerri said from the kitchen.

Kerri was nervous for Missy. Tonight, Bob was going to ask Missy to marry him and Rick and Bob had told Kerri a few days ago although Bob had been thinking about proposing for weeks.  Bob had asked Kerri to borrow Missy's Pink Ice ring so that when he went to the jewelers' he could have the ring sized immediately.

Missy had to talk to Bob alone.  The results from the tests she took the other day were in. Kerri and Rick didn't know that Missy thought she might be pregnant.

"Kerri. I have to tell you something.  I was going to wait until the guys got here, but I think you should know now." Missy said as she walked into the kitchen.

"What's up?"

"I went and had some tests done through my doctor a few days ago and I got the tests back today..." Missy was interrupted by the doorbell.

"Miss, can you watch the food.  I'll get the door." Kerri took off her apron and left the kitchen.

"Damn," Missy slammed her fist down on the counter top.  Kerri heard her as she went to answer the door.

"Good, you're here.  Missy is upset.  She has something to tell everyone." Kerri said to Rick and Bob. Rick and Kerri looked at Bob.

"She doesn't know about what I'm planning to do tonight, does she?"

"No, nothing like that. She had tests done the other day and got the results back today. Did you know she had tests done?" Kerri asked. The guys came into the house and took off their jackets.

"Yes, I didn't know the results were back though. Where is she?"

"The kitchen."

"Give us a few minutes?"

"Just keep an eye on the food so it doesn't burn." Kerry told Bob.  Bob hurried into the kitchen.

"Missy? What happened today? Kerri told me you were upset about something." Missy was at the stove stirring the gravy for the potatoes.

"Did she tell you I got the test results back?" Missy couldn't look at Bob.

"Yes. What is it? Are you pregnant?"

"Yes and no." she said softly.

"What does that mean."

"Yes I am, but the baby I'm carrying is deformed and the doctors don't think that the baby will be born alive." she stopped stirring the gravy and looked away from Bob, out into the backyard. She had finally started to let the tears fall down her face and allow herself to grieve.

"Oh, honey. I'm sorry. Why didn't you call me at work? I would've left early to be with you", Bob put his hand on her shoulder, "Kerri, could you come take care of the food? C'mon hon. Let's go for a walk." Bob handed her his handkerchief and led her out the back door. Kerri and Rick went into the kitchen.

"Something's wrong, Rick. I just know it." Kerri said and then went to the stove to stir the gravy and check on the other food.

"Bob, what are we going to do? I don't know if I can handle this. I feel so alone, even though I know I'm not." Missy said.

"Tell me everything the doctors told you, Missy, everything." Bob and Missy sat down under the Weeping Willow tree.

"Dr. Adams said that there is a 99 percent chance that the baby would be badly deformed and a 100% chance that the baby would most likely be stillborn if we carried out the labor term. He said that because of all the drugs that I was on from the car accident a month ago that I should have miscarried the baby, but I haven't. He didn't come out and say that I should abort the pregnancy but he said that if I wanted to that there wouldn't be any legalities involved. That the abortion would be for medical reasons and that if I need to talk to a counselor or anything that he would set it up for me."

"Well, it looks like you have a decision to make." Bob said.

"Not me, Bob, we. We have a decision to make. I can't make this decision on my own. This is your baby too." Missy stated.

 

"They've been out there a while. Maybe one of us should go out there and tell them that dinner is ready." Kerri said as she looked out the kitchen window.

"It looks like they're discussing something pretty serious. Let's just put dinner in the oven and turn the oven down to warm until they come back inside." Rick said with concern.

 

"I think we should tell our families what is happening because they'll want to help anyway they can and that maybe we should get a second opinion.  Just to verify Dr. Adams initial diagnosis." Bob explained.

"I'm not ready to tell everyone.  I can't do it." Missy got up and walked to the back of the yard.

"Honey, everyone is going to find out sooner or later.  We shouldn't delay in telling them what's happening. I'll be with you when everyone finds out.  I won't let you go through this alone.  I love you." Bob followed her.

"You mean it?" Missy turned around and looked at him.

"Of course I do, sweetheart.  Do you think I would say it if I didn't mean it?"

"I'm sorry, I just feel so alone that I don't know what I'm saying.   Excuse me, I need some time by myself." Missy kissed him on the cheek and left him standing alone in the back yard.  Missy went back into the house and grabbed her car keys and left.

 

"Uh-oh, she's really upset.  Rick, you'd better go see to your brother.  I'll try to talk to Missy." Kerri said.  Rick was already walking out toward Bob.

 

"Bob. Bobby?" Rick said.  Bob had fallen down to his knees and just stared straight ahead.  "Bobby?"

"Um, yeah?" Bob finally answered.

"You and Missy okay?"

"I don't know, bro.  I just don't know."

"Talk to me.  What's going on?"

"Missy's pregnant but she was told by the doctor that the baby would either be born severely handicapped both mentally and physically or that the baby would be stillborn.  In fact, the doctor actually told her that he's surprised that she hasn't miscarried with all the powerful drugs that she has been taking since the car accident a month ago.  Missy is not taking this well.  She's just not taking this well. The doctor also told her that because of the facts that he told her that if she decided to terminate the pregnancy that there would be no legalities involved, that it would be for medical reasons.  Is she inside?"

"Kerri went after her.  I don't know where she's at.  Don't worry.    Kerri will find her.  C'mon, let's go inside."

"No.  I've got to go after her.  I can't let her be alone like this.  There's no telling what she'll do, where she'll go."

"Bob.  I'm not letting you out of my sight.  Now get back in the house."

Kerri was waiting for them when they went back inside.

"I lost her.  She was headed towards her parents' house.  What happened?" Kerri explained.

"Rick can explain it to you.  I'm going to call her parents' house." Bob stated and went into the living room to use the phone.  Mr. Nichols answered the phone.

"Hello?"

"Hello, Mr. Nichols. This is Bob. Is Missy there?"

"Why yes she is. She just came in a few minutes ago. She's in the kitchen with her mother. Do you want to talk to her?"

"No. I'm coming over there. Please keep her there. Don't let her leave.  She got some really bad news today and she's not taking it well. I'll be there in ten minutes." Bob hung up the phone.

"Rick, you and Kerri might as well eat without us. I'll be back in a bit." Bob said and left to go over to the Nichols' house.

 

"Melissa, what's wrong honey? I know you're upset. I can tell that you've been crying." Mrs. Nichols told her daughter.

"I got some really bad news today. At first it was good news but it turned into bad news because of the car accident from a month ago, mom.  I don't know what to do." Missy said. Her father came into the kitchen with a box of tissues.

"Well, maybe your mother and I could help.  Why don't you tell us." Mr. Nichols sat down across from Missy.

"Um, maybe.  Late last week, I went in for a routine check-up and while I was there, I asked them to run some tests to see if I was pregnant. I got the results back from those tests today and the good news is I'm pregnant.  The bad news is that the baby, if born, will be severely mentally and physically handicapped or the baby could be born stillborn." Missy paused and looked down at the table.

"Oh, honey.  I'm so sorry." Mrs. Nichols took her daughter's hands in her own.

"What can your mother and I do to help you through this?  Does Bob know about this?" her father responded.

"I told him and then I left before he could really talk to me about it.   I told him I needed time by myself when all I really wanted was for him to hold me." Missy said.   They all heard a car door slam.

"Well, now you can get him to hold you. That's Bob, Miss.  He called to say he was coming over." Mr. Nichols said.

"We'll leave you two alone." Mrs. Nichols said.

"No, ma.  Please stay.    I know we would really like your input as well as Bob's parents input." Missy begged.  Bob rang the doorbell.

"Alright dear, I'll just go let Bob in." Mrs. Nichols got up and kissed her daughter on the forehead before leaving the room to answer the door.

"Hi Bob."

"Hello, Mrs. Nichols.  Is Missy still here?" Bob asked.  His face was flushed from crying.

"Yes, dear.  She's in the kitchen with her father.  Let's join them." Mrs. Nichols said.

"Did she talk to you both yet?"

"She just began.  C'mon, now.  She's really sorry that she left you to be alone."

"I know, that's why I've come after her."  They both went into the kitchen.

"Hello, Mr. Nichols." Bob said as he stood next to Missy.

"Hi there, Bob." Mr. Nichols replied.

Missy stood up and walked into Bob's waiting arms and cried.

"See.  That wasn't so hard now, was it?" Bob asked.  Missy shook her head.

"No, it wasn't. I want you to call your parents and ask them to come over here as soon as possible.  I've told my parents some of it, but before I continue, I think we should include your parents." Missy said.

"Yes, Bob.  Do call them.   I'll put some water on for coffee and tea." Mrs. Nichols said.

"Alright, I'll call them.  Missy, come with me?  I'm going to need you to help me explain to them why they should come over." Bob asked.

"Sure." Missy replied and followed Bob into the den.

"Hello?" Bob's youngest sister Colleen answered the phone.

"Hi, Coll.  Is Dad around?"

"Yeah, Bobby.  Do you want to talk to him?"

"Yeah, it's pretty important."

"Okay, hold on, I'll go get him."

"Thanks." Bob put his hand over the mouthpiece to the phone, "Oh, boy. I can tell this isn't going to go well."

"Just tell him that it's very important that he comes over here with your mother right away."

"Bobby? Is everything okay?" came Mr. Cauldwell's voice from the other end of the phone.

"Dad! No, no it's not.  Missy and I need to talk to you and mom and her parents right away.  Can you and mom come over to Missy's parents house. I wouldn't ask you unless it was important and it is." Bob spoke quickly.

"Missy's not pregnant, is she?" his father asked.

"Yes and no, dad. Please come over."

"Okay, give us a half hour."

"Thanks dad." Bob hung up the phone, "he said to give them a half hour."

Missy sat down on the couch and closed her eyes.

"I can't believe this is happening. I just can't believe it." she said.  Bob went over and sat down next to her. He took her hand in his.

"What can I do to help?" he asked.

"Just hold me and never let me go." Missy looked into his eyes.

"I'll do my best." Bob said and wrapped her in his arms.   They sat in the dark until his parents arrived and then joined everyone in the kitchen.  Missy's mom had heated some muffins and Missy's mom and Bob's mom served the muffins and drinks.

Bob spoke because Missy couldn't.

"Mom, dad, we have to bring you up to speed on some events that Missy found out earlier today. I found out about two hours ago and her parents found out a little while ago.  Missy is pregnant, but there are some major complications.  Because of all the powerful drugs she has had to take since the car accident a month ago, Missy was told that there is a 99% chance that the baby, if carried to full term, would be severely handicapped, both mentally and physically, and that there is a 100% chance that the baby might be stillborn.  Her doctor also stated that because of medical reasons, if she were to get an abortion, that there would not be any legalities.  The reason why we asked you here is because we're scared.  Very scared and we don't know what to do about this.  We would like your help.  We would like your help in deciding what to do." Bob said very fast.

His parents were stunned and sad that Missy and Bob were going through this.   Tears had welled up in their eyes.

"Oh, kids!  We're so sorry to hear about this." Mrs. Cauldwell said.  She got up and went over and hugged Missy.

"I still can't believe this is happening.  It's not even real to me.  I told Bob earlier that I feel so alone.  I've never felt so alone like this before in my life." Missy confessed to everyone.

"This isn't going to be an easy decision for you and Bob to make.    We all know that, and your mother and I are behind you one hundred percent." Missy's father stated.

"As well as Mr. Cauldwell and myself." Bob's mother added.

"Not to mention Rick and Kerri." Bob said.

"Thank you. All of you. You're right. This is going to be a tough decision. I was very happy when the doctor told me I was pregnant, but then he told me everything else and now I feel as if I'm being punished for conceiving a child before I'm married."

"Honey, that's nonsense. We all know how much you and Bobby love each other." Mr. Cauldwell said to her.  Bob looked at his father and quickly interrupted him before he could say anything else.

"Dad, can I talk to you outside please." Bob said. Everyone looked at him with concern.

"Uh, sure. Excuse us everyone." Mr. Cauldwell said and followed his son out on the porch.

"Dad, the reason why I cut you short is because I haven't asked Missy to marry me yet. I was going to, but as soon as Rick and I arrived, she told me about her test results. I didn't want you to spill the beans about me proposing just yet."

"Well, when do you plan on asking her?"

"I don't know. When the time is right, I guess.  I don't want her to think that I'm asking her with ulterior motives." Bob said.

"Good idea son. Look, I know that this is going to be rough on you two for the next few weeks, but you have each other and you have us and Mr. and Mrs. Nichols. Don't shut us out, understand?"

"Yeah, dad. Thanks." They went back in and joined everyone else.

"...I'd like to stay here tonight, mom. In my old room, if I could." Missy asked.

"Why of course, honey. You don't have to ask us to stay over.    Besides, I think Kimmy would like to spend some time with her big sister.  She won't be home for another couple of hours though."

"Thanks, mom. I appreciate it."

"Whoa, wait a minute, Missy. I really think you and I should talk and just be together." Bob said as he sat down next to her.

"We can. I just want to stay here tonight. I need to stay here tonight."

"I should be and need to be with you tonight.  Don't shut me out.  Please don't shut me out." Bob said.

"I can set up the air bed in the den for the both of you." Missy's father stated.

"Is that okay?" Bob asked Missy.

"Um, yeah...yeah it is..." Missy replied.

"Good.  Now, I've got some good news for you.  I was going to ask you before we found all of this out and I'm hoping that this will cheer you up a little bit." Bob said.  He took his handkerchief and wiped the tears from Missy's eyes. "Missy look at me." Bob said.    She lifted her eyes to look at his face.   Bob went down on one knee and took a small box out of his pocket and opened it.

"I want to ask you to marry me, Melissa.  I've wanted to for sometime now.  I can't stand to be without you and I want you to know that what we have is special and that I love you very much.  Will you marry me?" Bob asked.  Missy had started crying again.  This time they were tears of joy.  She was nodding her head yes because she couldn't speak.

"Well, Missy.  Don't leave Bob hanging.  Answer him." her father asked.

"Yes!  Yes!  Yes, I'll marry you." she exclaimed and hugged Bob.  Bob pushed her away.

"I want you to understand that all I want is for you and me to be together and if it means that we add a new addition in seven months then so be it.  And if we decide that we have to terminate the pregnancy, then that's fine too because I love you and I want us to have a family and to be happy.  Please don't think that I'm asking you out of pity because I'm not.  I truly and honestly do love you."

"Those are the most beautiful words that I have ever heard and I love you too. Very, very much." Missy cried.

"Enough of this mushy stuff.  Let's see the ring!" Missy's mother declared.  Everyone laughed.  Missy proudly showed off the engagement ring to her parents and to Bob's parents.

"This calls for a toast. Marilyn, where's the grape juice?" Missy's father asked her mother.

"Yes, absolutely, a toast." Mrs. Nichols got the grape juice out of the refrigerator and some glasses from the cupboard and Mr. Nichols poured a glass for each of them.

"Well, kids.  Let this be a lesson to ya!  Love can and will conquer all.  Mrs. Cauldwell and I wish to congratulate you both and look forward to having Melissa as our daughter-in-law."

"It looks like daddy's little girl is all grown up.  I'm so happy for you, Missy.  Your mother and I aren't losing a daughter; we're gaining a woman and a son.    Congratulations!"

"Hey! What are the congratulations for?" Kimberly Nichols asked as she entered the kitchen from the living room.  Melissa held out her hand so that Kimberly could see the engagement ring.

"Oh, wow!  Oh my god!" Kimberly said and hugged her sister.  "This is fantastic! Congratulations."  Kimberly then preceded to hug Bob.

"Thanks, Kim. Look, everyone. I'd like to be alone with Missy for a few minutes. If you'll excuse us." Bob led Missy into the den and closed the door.

"Bob, what's going on?" Missy asked.

"I just wanted us to be alone for a few minutes. I had planned on asking you to marry me at dinner with Rick and Kerri this evening. I want you to know that I'm not asking you to marry me because you're carrying my child.  I'm asking you to marry me because I can't bear to live my life without you.  You are a very important part of my life." Bob had tears in his eyes.  Missy knew just by looking at him that he loved her very much.

"Hon, I love you too, and I want very much to marry you.  And I want this baby.  I want to try to carry our baby to term.  I know the chances the doctor gave us but I have this feeling that we can beat the odds.    Please, Bob, tell me you'll stand behind me with this?" Missy said.  Bob was in shock.

"You know I will.  And our families as well.  C'mon, let's go tell everyone the news."

"I thought you wanted to be alone."

"Yeah, I do.  But we have news that just can't wait." Bob said.  They both laughed into the kitchen.  Rick and Kerri had joined their parents in the kitchen.  Kerri noticed right away that Bob and Missy had gotten engaged.

"Oh my god!  You got engaged!" Kerri hugged both of them at once.  "Let me see the ring.  Is it the right size?"

Rick pulled his brother off to the side, away from everyone.

"I gather that everything has been talked through?"

"Yes.  It has and Missy and I have even come to a decision about the baby.  Find a seat.  You're going to need it." Bob commented and the both joined in on the noise.

"Okay everyone.  Bob and I have come to another decision as well and it concerns my pregnancy.  I'm not going to have an abortion.  We are going to try to have this baby and raise the baby the best we can.  Now, we've taken into consideration everything my doctor told me and we feel that if God saw to it that I have not lost this baby yet, then we want the chance to give this baby life no matter how bad the deformities.", Missy explained, all the while, Bob was squeezing her hand. "However, we're going to need help and support from all of you."

"Are you both absolutely sure this is what you want to do?" Mrs. Nichols asked.

"Yes, we are." Missy stated.  Bob nodded in agreement.

"Well, then.  I see that you both intend to keep Mrs. Cauldwell and myself very busy the next few months." Mrs. Nichols smiled.

"Yeah, mom, I guess it looks that way, but, I don't want to discuss it tonight, okay?  I think everyone, including myself, has been a bit overwhelmed by all that has happened today."

"Fine, dear.  You let me know when you do want to discuss it."

"Thanks mom.  Dad, can you prepare the air bed for the den?  Bob and I are still going to stay the night."

"Sure, honey.  C'mon Kimmy, this is a two person job." Mr. Nichols said and as they left the kitchen, the phone rang.

"I'll get it mom." Missy said and answered the phone, "Hello?"

"Missy?  There you are.    I've been calling all over looking for you." it was her brother, Kenny.

"Really?  What's up, Kenny."

"How come you were at the hospital today and didn't come by to see me?" Kenny was an Emergency Medicine Intern.

"I'm sorry, I had a lot on my mind and needed to think.  Listen, I know it's late, but could Bob and I come over immediately?  There is something that you and Jenny should know and I don't want to tell you over the phone." Missy asked.

"Sure, sis.  Is everything okay?   Is the family okay?" Kenny now sounded concerned.

"Yeah, yeah.  Everything is fine.   I'll tell you when Bob and I get there. See you in a bit." Missy hung up the phone and joined the others.  "That was Kenny, looking for me.  Somehow he knew I was at the hospital today and he wanted to know why I didn't stop by to see him.  Bob, I told him we were on our way over to see him.  I want him and Jenny to know what's going on and I'd like to tell them in person before someone else does.  Can we get over there right now?" Missy asked.

"It's late honey, you should wait until tomorrow." Mrs. Cauldwell said.

"Mom, Missy and Kenny are very close. We'll be okay. You and dad should go on home and let Colleen and Jason know what's going on. I'll call you tomorrow." Bob said and he grabbed his and Missy's coats.

"Do you want us to go with you?" Rick asked.

"Thanks, but, not tonight.  I'm really sorry about dinner.  Bob told me how he was going to propose tonight.  Why don't you two go and salvage whatever is left of dinner and spend some time alone."

"If you're sure." Kerri said as she hugged Missy.

"Yeah, we'll talk tomorrow.  I just want to talk to Kenny tonight.  Okay?"

"C'mon, we'll walk out to the cars with you.  Mom, dad, I'll see you at home later." Rick said and the four of them left.

 

AT KENNY'S HOUSE.
"Missy, Bob. Hello. It's been a few weeks since we've seen you." Jenny said when she answered the door.

"We're sorry. We've been busy, Jenn. How's Andrew?" Missy replied and let Jenny take their coats.

"He's teething right now. Kenny's trying to calm him down. C'mon into the kitchen. Would either of you like some coffee or tea? Kenny told me you were coming over so I heated up some water and made a fresh pot of coffee."

"Coffee, please." Bob replied.

"Tea for me, please. Thank you." Missy replied.

"Jenny, why don't you sit down and hold Andrew. He's fussing for you now. I'll take care of the coffee and tea." Kenny suggested. His wife obeyed and Andrew quickly calmed down in her arms, oblivious that his Aunt Missy was there. Kenny quickly served two Coffees and two Teas.

"I'm going to skip to the reason why I was at the hospital today, Ken.  I had tests done a few days ago and the results were in.  Dr. Adams told me news that was both good and bad, but Bob and I have come to a decision about this news.  So to wrap this in a nutshell.  I'm pregnant, Bob and I are engaged, and we're keeping the baby." Missy said as quickly as possible.

"That's wonderful news, but what was this bad news?" Kenny asked.

"The doctor told Missy that there is a 99% chance that the baby could be born badly disabled, mentally and physically, and a 100% chance that the baby could be born stillborn." Bob explained.

"You've thought all your options through then." Kenny said.    Being totally neutral.  He was happy that Missy didn't want to have an abortion but sad about what the doctor told her.

"Yes.  But Bob and I both feel that since I didn't suffer a miscarriage with all the medicine I was on after the car accident, that God wants us to have this baby as well."

"Wait a minute.  How far along are you?" Jenny asked.

"Six weeks." Missy replied.

"And the doctor didn't give you any thoughts as to why you didn't miscarry?  After all, the impact of the steering wheel into your chest when that car hit you from behind..." Kenny trailed off into his own thoughts.

"Nope."

"This is truly a miracle, Miss, a miracle." Jenny whispered.

"Wait.  There's more news.    Bob and I are engaged to be married." Missy said.  Kenny and Jenny smiled.

"When did this happen?" Kenny asked.

"Well, I was going to ask Missy at dinner, however, we never got that far and when we were talking with the parents, the words just started flowing and I proposed." Bob said.  Missy showed Jenny the ring.  Andrew looked at his aunt.

"Here, let me take him for a little bit.  It's not often that I get to see him, and when I do, he's usually asleep." Missy suggested.  Jenny handed her son to Missy.

"Well, congratulations on your engagement.  Jenny and I wish you to all the happiness you could possibly have...now, back to Missy being pregnant.  Have you gotten a second opinion?" Kenny was serious.

"No.  Why should I?    I completely trust Doctor Adams." Missy said.  Andrew had closed his eyes and began to fall asleep.

"Doctor Adams is a general practitioner.  You really should see an OB/GYN and get that second opinion.  Didn't Doctor Adams suggest that to you?" Kenny's voice was raised.  Missy's lower lip started to tremble.  She handed Andrew back over to Jenny.

"Excuse me." Missy ran out of the room.

"Kenny!  Are you out of your mind raising your voice like that to her right now." Jenny said as she left the room to put Andrew to bed.

Kenny sat in front of Bob with his head in his hands.

"God.  I'm sorry.  I didn't mean to raise my voice like that.  I just can't believe that this is happening to her.  Bob, she should get that second opinion and a lawyer." Kenny apologized to Bob.

"Why a lawyer?" Bob wanted to know.

"Because the minute Doctor Adams got the blood tests back, he should have referred Missy to an OB/GYN or conferred with one at least.  Judging by the way she left the room, he did neither.  He's playing god with her and the baby, Bob.  This isn't the first time he has done this, either."

"What?" Bob was taken aback by what Kenny just told him.

"We've gotten complaints about his work ethics from numerous other patients and some are threatening lawsuits on the hospital because of it.  Look, have her get that second opinion, just to verify the test results.  If you want, I can give you the name of a lawyer friend of mine?"

"Let me think about it, talk it over with Missy, and I'll get back to you..." Bob was interrupted by Jenny.

"Kenny, Bob...Missy's gone.  She was in our room while I went to put Andrew down for bed and when I returned, she was gone.  I've checked the entire upstairs and the kitchen.  She's not here." Jenny announced.  They heard a car starting.

"Shit!  She's not suppose to be driving yet." Bob said as he got up and charged the front door.  "She must have a spare set of my keys."

"Jenny, stay here and call my parents.  Bob you go after her and turn the CB to 37, I'll go and recruit my father to help us.  Keep me informed.    Jenny just tell them what happened." Kenny and Bob left.  Bob zoomed off in the direction that Missy took and Kenny headed for his parents' house.  Jenny called the house.

"Hi, Mom.  It's me, Jenny.  Things got a little heated between Missy and Kenny earlier and Missy took off in Bob's car."

"Oh, no.  Did Bob go after her."

"Yes, and Kenny's on his way over to recruit dad.  They're using channel 37 on the CB.  You might want to turn that on.  I don't know all that happened, but I just wanted to let you know what's going on."

"Thanks, dear.  I'll keep you posted.  I'm going to hang up now." Mrs. Nichols said.

"Okay.  I'll talk with you later." Jenny hung up the phone.

"Kevin!  Kevin!" Marilyn Nichols yelled through the house.

"What? What is it?"

"Missy is missing from Kenny's house.  That was Jenny on the phone.  Apparently things between Kenny and Missy got pretty heated and she took off in Bob's car.    Kenny's on his way here and Bob went after Missy.  Jenny said to turn the CB onto channel 37, that the boys were using that channel." Marilyn walked over to the rec room and turned on the CB.  They could hear Bob and Kenny talking.

"...lost her after that last turn on Macabe Ave. Jeez...where's she going?" Bob was telling Kenny.

"I don't know.  Just try to find the her.  I'm about two miles from my dad's house." Kenny replied.

"Kenny, I'll catch up with you.  Turn around and go find your sister.  I've got the handheld with me." Kevin Nichols said over the radio.

"I have an idea.  Why don't we go down to 19 and broadcast Missy's description, the car's description and license plate number?  It's worth a shot to get people looking at least." Bob said.

"Okay.  Sounds good.    I'll meet you down on 19."

"I'm leaving now" Mr. Nichols told the boys.

"Okay dad.  Take it down to 19.  That's where we'll be."

"Right-o."

After Bob turned the CB down to 19 he immediately broke in.

"Breaker-1-9.  Breaker-1-9."

"Go Break."

"Thank you.  I need everyone who is mobile on this radio tonight to help me out."

"What's the problem buddy." a voice asked.

"My fianceé is missing.  She took off in my car.  She's not suppose to be driving and she's really upset.  The license plate id is TWIN1 and it's a black 1983 mustang with grey striping.  Has anyone seen it?" Bob was getting frantic.

"I think I saw it just turn onto the interstate.  I only caught N1 on the license plate."

"Thank you.  Listen, she's 6 feet tall, dirtyblonde hair that comes to the middle of her back and she's wearing black leggings and a purple and black checkered sweater.  If anyone sees her, please let me know, my handle is TWIN1 and K-DOC and PAPA-DOC are also looking for her."

"No problem.  Sure.    Okay." many voices replied.

"K-DOC is checking the interstate.  Which way was she headed."

"Southbound."

"TWIN1.  I think she's heading to Trish's house.  I'm heading there on a hunch.  Keep looking.    I'll beep you and PAPA-DOC when I get there."

"Leave me alone." came a female voice over the air.

"SweetStuff.  Is that you?" Bob broke in.

"I'm okay.  Daddy go home.  K-DOC go home.    I don't want to talk to you.  I just want to be left alone.  By myself.  TWIN1...I'm sorry.    I love you, but I can't go through with the engagement or ..." Missy stopped speaking.

"...I see you, SweetStuff.  Pull over." KDOC spoke.  Missy gave him the finger and sped up.

"Damn it, woman.  Slow down."

"SweetStuff...listen to me. It's me...Daddy.  Don't say that and don't do it.  KDOC didn't mean to yell at you or to get you upset."

"Please don't do this, SweetStuff.  I love you too much to let you do this.  Just drive the car home and meet me there."

"I can't.  I've made up my mind...I'm sorry." SweetStuff answered and then turned off the car lights and the CB and sped off into the darkness.

"I lost her.  She was just in front of me and now she's gone.  Damn it!" Kenny said over the air.  Bob had pulled over and began to cry.  Missy's father was in route to the interstate.

"She just can't disappear.  Keep looking." Mr. Nichols said.

"TWIN1...You there?" Kenny asked.

"Yeah...Oh my god.  She just drove by me without the car lights on.  Kenny, Mr. Nichols...go on home.  I'll take care of this." Bob pulled himself together and followed Missy.  He stayed a ways away from her so that she wouldn't be suspicious.  She was heading toward the beach and Bob wasn't about to let her be alone.

"Bob...where are you?" Kenny asked.

"Headed toward the beach.  Missy loves it there.  That's where she goes to think."

"Are you sure you don't want us to show up there?" Mr. Nichols asked.

"Thanks, but let me calm her down.  Ken, I know you didn't mean to raise your voice to her, but you did and she's pretty upset.  Let me take care of my fiancee.  We all know how unrational her thinking is when she is tired and upset.  Mr. Nichols, we'll be home shortly.  Please don't wait up for us." Bob turned off the CB and followed Missy from a distance.

"Dad, Bob's right.  I'm worried about her too, but we have to let him handle her.  I'm going home to calm down Jenny.  Jenn's pretty upset at me as well.  I'll call you tomorrow. Okay?"

"Alright.  Make plans for you, Jenny, and Andrew to come over for dinner.  We need a family pow wow about helping Missy and Bob.  I have a feeling this is going to be a doozy."

"Okay.  I'm clear."

 

Bob was right.  Missy did go to the beach.  She parked the car and walked down to the shore line and looked out at the ocean.  She knew Kenny was right about the second opinion.  She should have asked for one no matter what.

Bob watched her from the car.  He turned the CB back on and asked for a break.

"Go, breaker."

"Thanks.  This is TWIN1 and I just wanted to say thanks to everyone who was on earlier for helping me locate my fianceè.  Everything's cool now."

"Hello, TWIN1.  What's your 20?" Rick broke in.

"Our place at the beach, TWIN2."

"Ok. Powder Puff wants to know what happened with Sweet Stuff."

"Not tonight.  Sweet Stuff has had enough talking and emotional discussions for one day.  Maybe in a day or two.  I've got to convince her to leave KDOC's car here and let me drive her home.  Thanks for the break, I'm clear." Bob turned off the CB and got out of the car to walk towards Missy.

  "Well, it sure has been one hell of a day." he said when he came up behind her.  Missy  nodded her head in agreement.  Bob wrapped his arms around her.

"Kenny didn't mean to upset you."

"I know, I just didn't want to hear anymore from anyone... including myself.  He's right though.    I should get a second opinion.  After all, Dr. Adams is not an OB/GYN."

"Are you going to get one."

"Yes.  This time, though, I want you to be with me when we find out the results.  I want you to help me find out everything we possibly can and if I can't think of something to ask, then maybe you can." Missy said all of a sudden

"Okay.  That's only fair.    Look.  After you left the room, Kenny suggested that maybe we should consider consulting a lawyer.  Your case isn't the first that Dr. Adams has treated this way."

"A lawyer!  I can't afford a lawyer.  I can barely afford living on my own now that I'm pregnant." Missy was getting hysterical.

"Are you forgetting something?"

"No."

"What about me?  What about us?  Are you forgetting that we are engaged to be married, that you will be my wife?" Bob asked.

"No."

"Missy you are not alone in this dilemma.  Tonight, we are going to sleep in your parents den.  Tomorrow, we will make plans to see a lawyer, an OB/GYN, and we will start house hunting.  Also, you are no longer living alone.  Either I move in with you or you move in with your parents.  And no more driving.  You really scared me.  How's your back?" Bob instructed.  Missy liked him taking charge of everything that way.

"I'm okay.  I just want to forget about everything for a little while.  I don't think we would be in this predicament if it weren't for the car accident and then Dr. Adams."

"Well, let me help you try to forget everything for at least the rest of tonight. Let's lock up your brother's car at the beach house and I'll drive us home to your parents' house." Bob suggested.

"Are you sure that nothing will happen to the car?" Missy asked.

"Yes.  We'll lock it in the garage and I'll call my parents when we get home.  C'mon.  You shouldn't be driving yet anyway.  I'm not going to let you drive home.  The house is less than a mile away from here.  I'll follow you there.  Okay?"

"Alright." Missy didn't argue it anymore.  Missy got into his car and Bob drove Kenny's up to the house.

"Stay in the car, while I go in and unlock the garage door from the inside." Bob told Missy.  Missy parked the car and slid over to the passenger's side and waited for him to return.  She watched as the garage door opened and Bob came out from inside the garage.  He waved at her and smiled, reassuring her that everything was okay before getting into Kenny's car and parking it in the garage.  Within minutes he came out the front door and got into his car.

"Safely secured in the garage, my dear.  Now, are you ready to go back home?" Bob asked.  Missy nodded her head, closed her eyes and sat back in the seat.    "We'll be home soon." Bob kissed her hand and started the car.

Once they got in city limits again, Bob turned on the CB and left it on 2 to see if anyone was on.  His brother and some others were.

"Breaker channel 2." Bob said.

"Go breaker." someone replied.

"Thanks, how `bout it TWIN2.  You got a copy on TWIN1?" Bob asked.

"Yeah, how are you and Sweet Stuff doin?  Powder Puff and I were starting to get worried." Rick replied.

"As well as can be expected.  I managed to talk her into letting us leave KDOCs car at the beach house.    She's sleeping now."

"What's your 20?"

"About 15 minutes from my destination.  What's your 20?"

"Sweet Stuff's home 20.  PAPA-DOC and PAPA-TWIN wanted to talk to me and Powder Puff."

"10-4.  Listen, I'm going to let the others talk now.  We'll be there in a few minutes.  Thanks for the break, we're on the side." Bob said.

"Hey, TWIN1." another voice spoke.

"You got him.  Who's asking."

"Grizzly.  Did you ask Sweet Stuff that question tonight?"

"Yes I did and she said yes." Bob answered.

"That's great man...congratulations."

"Thanks, Grizzly."  Bob stopped for a red light and glanced over at Missy.  She looked so angelic and peaceful when she slept.

"Hello TWIN1." Bob smiled as he recognized the voice.

"Hello COOKIE.  You just getting off of work?" Bob replied.

"Yup.  What you doin' out so late."

"On our way home to Sweet Stuff's.  It's been a pretty intense evening."

"Really?  Everything okay?"

"Not exactly, Cookie.  Listen, have your brother page me tomorrow.  I need to talk to him."

"Sure.  Well, I've reached my destination.  You take care of yourself and your better half.  We'll catch ya later.  I'm outta here..." Cookie said.

Five minutes later, Bob pulled up in front of Missy's house.    Kerri must have been watching out the window because she bolted out the door once Bob got out of the car.

"How is she?" Kerri wanted to know.

"Sleeping at the moment.  I'm going to try not to wake her.  Go open the front door for me." Bob suggested.  Bob opened the passenger door and unbuckled the seatbelt that was on Missy.

"Ow, my back hurts...Bob?" she whispered.

"It's alright, honey.  We're home.  Go back to sleep." Bob said as he lifted her into his arms.

"My medicine." she said softly...eyes still closed.    She laid her head upon her shoulder.

"Okay, let's just get into the house first.  I've got you." Bob said and walked up and into the house.    "Kerri, could you get her purse for me?   I left it in the car.  It's got her medicine in it.  Thanks." Bob asked once inside the house.

"Hello, son."

"Hi, Dad.  Mr. Nichols." Bob replied as he walked down the hall to the den.

"How'd you manage to calm her down?" Mr. Nichols asked.

"The ocean and my smile." Bob replied with a grin.

"Daddy?" she stirred as Bob put her down on the air bed.

"Ssshhh, it's okay." Mr. Nichols replied.  Kerri came in with a glass of water and Missy's purse.

"Here, Miss.  Here's some water and your medicine." Kerri handed Missy her purse and a glass of water.

"Why don't we men leave Missy to change into her sweats.  Kerri could you help her?  Her back's beginning to hurt her." Bob asked.  Bob and the fathers went to the kitchen.  Rick was on the phone with Mrs. Cauldwell.

"...here, mom.  Do you want to talk to him?...yes, they're fine...no. I don't know." Rick said.  He waved for Bob to take the phone.

"Hi, mom!  It's me, Bob."

"Bobby!  How is Missy?"

"Just fine mom.  She's resting now."

"Good.  I gave your father your shaving kit and some clothes since you're staying over there tonight.  Are you okay."

"I'm just tired, ma.  Thanks."

"I love you, son."

"I love you, too, ma.  Here's dad." Bob handed the phone off to his father.  It was 2 in the morning.

"How about some coffee?" Mr. Nichols asked.

"Sounds good, but I'm really drained.  I'm going to go rejoin Missy.  Goodnight everyone." Bob said.

 

"Missy, I'm really sorry you have to go through all of this." Kerri said as she helped Missy change into some sweats.

"Please, Kerri.  I don't want to talk about what has transpired over the course of tonight.  I know you're available if I want to talk about anything and I love you for it, but right now, I'd rather forget about it.  Okay?  I promise we'll talk another day about everything." Missy said as she laid back down on the air bed.

"Okay.  I won't let you drop it.  But I will give you some breathing space.  Since I have to be at work in a few hours, I'm going to head on out of here.  Are you going to be alright?" Kerri asked.

"Yeah.  Bob is staying here with me tonight.  Our parents thought it was a very good idea.  Why do you think I'm not up in my old room talking with Kimmy.  I'll be okay." Missy said and then took a dose of her medicine.

"Yeah, you'll be just fine." Bob said as he walked into the den.  "Thanks Kerri for helping Missy."

"Sure...no problem.  Missy, call me tomorrow?" Kerri asked as she made her way to the door.

"Uh-huh.  Goodnight."

"All of a sudden, I'm exhausted." Bob said as he sat down on the air bed next to Missy.

"Funny, I though you're name was Bob." Missy said with a grin.    Bob looked at her.

"I love to see you smile.  I really, truly do, even if it's at my expense." Bob said.

"Thank you.  I'll take that as a compliment." Missy said.  She laid on her side as she watched him change into a pair of sweatpants.  Bob looked at her.

"What?  It's not as if I haven't seen you naked before." she blurted out.

"I know, but when you look at me like that, I know what you're thinking and it gets me started.  You know that we shouldn't..." Bob said.  Missy grabbed his arm and pulled him down to the bed.

"I know.  I just want to be in the safety of your arms is all.  Just hold me." she asked.

"How can I resist." Bob slid under the covers with her and laid his arms around her.  "Is this better?" he asked.

"MMMMmmm.  Much better." Missy said as she closed her eyes and snuggled up next to him.  She always felt safe and secure in his arms and welcomed the nights that they spent wrapped up under the covers.

"I love you, Melissa."

"And I love you, Robert." Missy whispered.  10 minutes later, Mr. Nichols knocked on the door.

"Kids, you still awake?" he softly asked.

"Ssshhh, Missy's sleeping." Bob whispered.

"Sorry.  I was just checking in on you both.  Listen, your parents and Marilyn and I were talking after you both went to Kenny's tonight.  Marilyn and I were thinking of turning the garage into an apartment for you and Melissa.  The garage is pretty big once all of the junk is out of it.  You would only have to pay us a little bit each month until you two can definitely make it on your own.  I'm not saying that you can't, but with Melissa's recent accident and pending lawsuit and the pregnancy, this might be a good solution for you both.  Your father and Rick are willing to help renovate the garage and your father has offered to help pay for the renovations.  Will you talk this over with Melissa and let your father and I know what you've decided?" Mr. Nichols asked.

 "Yes, I will.   Thank you.  Goodnight, Mr. Nichols."

"Please, you're going to be my son-in-law, you can call me Kevin or dad, just like you may call my wife Marilyn or mom.  Good night."

"G'night, Kevin." Bob said.  Bob decided to wait until after he and Missy got married before calling her parents mom and dad.

Mr. Nichols closed the door behind him, and Bob closed his eyes to get some sleep.

 

"Oh, no..." Missy said as she bolted out of the bed and headed for the closest bathroom.  Bob was behind her.

"What's wrong?" he asked.  Mrs. Nichols came out of the kitchen.

"What's going on?" she asked.  Missy was already hugging the toilet in the bathroom.  "Oh, I do believe you have morning sickness dear.  Bob, go upstairs to my bathroom and wet a washcloth with cool water for me." Mrs. Nichols instructed.

"Is she going to be alright?"

"Sure..." Mrs. Nichols assured him.  Bob did as he was told and Mrs. Nichols held Missy's hair back away from her face.

"How long is this going to happen?" Missy asked her mom.

"That depends on how well you take care of yourself.  Don't worry.  I'll help you.  This will pass."

"Here's the washcloth, Marilyn." Bob said and handed it to Missy's mom.

"Thanks, dear.  Why don't you go on into the kitchen.  We'll be out to join you in just a few minutes." Marilyn Nichols suggested.  Bob didn't argue.  He hated to see Missy like this.

Ten minutes later, Mrs. Nichols returned to the kitchen and explained that Missy was changing and would be in to join them in a few minutes.

"How about some coffee, Bob?" Mrs. Nichols suggested.

"Um, okay.  Thanks." Bob was still half-asleep.

"How did you sleep?" Mrs. Nichols asked as she handed him a cup of coffee.

"Not too good, I'm afraid.  Missy kept tossing and turning all night."

"Yes, she does that whenever she's got alot on her mind.  Did you two talk everything out last night?"

"I think so. We're going to get a second opinion.  That reminds me, Missy's going to have to call an OB/GYN to make an appointment.  Oh, and I think I've talked her into getting a lawyer."

"Kenny and his father told me about the situation last night.    I really wish you two didn't have to go through this."

"Thanks, Marilyn.  Your support means alot to us.  If you'll excuse me, I should go take a shower.  I've got errands to do today." Bob got up and went back into the den.  Missy was laying on her side with her eyes shut.

"Hey, sleepyhead.  Your mom said you were changing."

"I did.  I'm tired.  I didn't get much sleep last night is all." Missy said and opened her eyes.  "I'm sorry if I kept you up."

"I couldn't sleep anyway.  Listen, I've got stuff to do today.  Promise me you'll make an appointment with an OB/GYN."

"I promise and about the lawyer bit...let me think about it a little bit longer, okay.  I've already got one suit pending."

"Fair.  Oh, your brother's car! Shoot...." Bob said and went over to the phone.  He dialed his parent's house.

"Hewwo?" a groggy Rick answered the phone.

"Rick? It's Bob.  You up?...Listen, I need you to go with me to retrieve Kenny's car.  I'll be home in twenty minutes." Bob explained.

"Okay, I'll see ya soon." Rick said.

"Rick?"

"What?"

"Wake up." Bob hung up the phone and turned to Missy, "I'll call you a little later, okay?"

"Yeah, I love you."

"I love you too.  Thank your mom for the coffee for me.  I'd better go jump in the shower." Bob grabbed his clothes and headed for the bathroom.

 

Missy waited until Bob left to do his errands before going into the kitchen.  Kimmy was helping her mom make a salad.

"Hi, Missy.  It's almost lunchtime.  Would you like a salad?" Kimmy asked.

"No thanks, Kimmy.  I don't think my stomach can handle it.  Mom?  Do you have Dr. Feagel's number handy?  I need to set up an appointment." Missy asked.  Her mother had set a place for her at the table with hot tea and toast.

"Yeah, I'll get it for you. You eat some of that toast and drink some tea.  Kerri called twice for you this morning.  She said for you to call her.  She wants details." Marilyn Nichols laughed.

"So do I." Kimmy stated.

"I know, I know, but right now, my only concern is getting that second opinion to either verify what Dr. Adams told me or find out he's lying."

"I'll get the phone number now.  Kimberly, don't cut those tomatoes too small now." their mother instructed as she wiped her hands off and went looking for the phone number.

"Missy?  What's it like to be in love?" Kimmy said once their mother was out of ear shot.  Missy spit out her tea.

"Kimberly Anne! Why do you ask?" Missy said once she composed herself.

"No reason." Kimberly's face turned red.

"Wait a minute.  Is it because maybe you've got a crush on someone?  Where exactly were you last night?" Missy began questioning her.

"Amber and I were at the school dance last night, if you must know." Kimberly continued to cut the tomatoes.

"Yeah, so who's the guy you've got a crush on?" Missy continued to ask.

"It's not a crush, I just think he's cute." Kimberly claimed.

"I'll be the judge of that. Keep talking."

"Well, he's sixteen and pretty tall, plays basketball and plays the sax in band.  He's really nice." Kimberly finally told her sister.

"You forgot something." Missy said.

"What?"

"His name."

"Oh, that. Well, it's AJ Grant." Kimberly downplayed the name.  Missy immediately looked away from her sister.

"JJ's little brother...I should've known." Missy whispered.

"Miss, he's not like JJ.  Honest." Kimberly said.

"We'll see, Kimberly, we'll see."

"Sooner than you think.  He's coming over a little later `cause he's taking me to the movies."

"I'll make sure I'm not here."

"Why are you so upset?  He's not JJ!" Kimberly stopped what she was doing and ran out of the kitchen.

"What's going on?  Kimmy just locked herself in her room." Marilyn Nichols asked when she went back into the kitchen.

"Nothing.  Did you find the number?" Missy asked.

"Yes, here."

"Thanks mom.  I've gotta go."  Missy left with the number and went to call it in the den.

 

After she made the appointment for the next day, she called Jenny.

"Hello?" Jenny answered the phone.

"Hi, Jenn.  It's Missy.  Did Bob and Rick drop off the car yet?" Missy asked.

"No, not yet.  What's wrong?"

"Nothing, could you just have him call me at mom's once he gets there?"

"Sure, no problem.  Is everything okay?"

"Yeah.  Listen, I was wondering if maybe you and Kenny and Bob and I could like go out one night away from Northfield.    What do you think?"

"I think it sounds great.  I'll talk it over with Ken and let you know.  Okay?  Oh, someone wants to say hello."

"Ba ba bababbba dada?" Andrew said into the phone.

"Hello Andrew." Missy was smiling.

"Can you believe he's trying to talk already!" Jenny said into the phone.

"It's fantastic.  You talk with Ken and I'll talk with Bob and we'll talk soon.  I gotta go.  Thanks."

"Sure." Jenn replied.

Missy hung up the phone and went to take a shower.

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