Missy & Bob
Section 10
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.
Later that night...
"Honey...this time, it's really time. The contractions are less than 10 minutes apart." Missy said, waking up her husband.
"You sure?" he asked.
"I'm positive."
"Let's go..." he said and off they went to the hospital.
"Hi there Matthew Paul." Bob said as he handed his son to his wife after she gave birth to the 9lb 8ounce, 23 inch baby.
“We have a little boy?” Missy asked as she looked at their son.
“You did good, honey. You were wonderful.” Bob kissed his wife.
“He’s so perfect. So handsome.” Missy said as she looked at her son’s little hands and little feet.
“Just like his mother. Okay, the nurses want to clean the both of you up so give me back our son and we’ll see you in a bit.”
“Okay...honey...I love you.”
“I love you too. Get some rest.” Bob said. He handed their son over to a nurse and went out to tell the family the news.
“It’s a boy!” Bob said as he entered the waiting room. Both sets of parents were there as well as Kenny and Jenn and Rick and Kerri.
“Congratulations! How’s Missy. How’s the baby?” questions came flying at him.
“Missy’s tired. Matthew Paul is precious, and I’m so glad that this is over with.” Bob said as he sat down in the nearest chair. Everyone laughed. “Where’s Kimmie and AJ?”
“Watching Jessie. The fever is back.”
“Oh no. Did you call the pediatrician?”
“Yes, they have her on a different type of medication. We promised Jessie that you would call her as soon as you could.” Mr. Nichols explained.
“Okay. Well, Dr. Feagel thinks all of you should go on home because Missy needs rest. I’ll call Jessie from Missy’s room. I’m going to stay a little while longer.” Bob said as he got back up then sat back down. He was dizzy. “Whoa.”
“You okay?” Rick asked quickly.
“Tired. Been up for over 24 hours.” Bob noted.
“You know Missy’s going to send you home when she sees you. I’ll stay and drive you home. Kenny, could you take your mother home?” Mr. Nichols asked.
“Sure thing dad.”
“You should be sleeping.” Bob said when he arrived the next day after a good night’s sleep.
“I just finished feeding Matthew. You should be at school.” she noted.
“I’m on my way, but I wanted to drop these off.” he said as he brought roses out from behind his back.
“Oh, honey. Thank you. They’re beautiful.” Missy replied as he handed one to her and put the others on the nightstand.
“Just like you. Dr. Feagel said you had a restless night last night even though they gave you a sedative. Are you okay? You didn’t have any nightmares, did you?”
“I’m fine. I just missed you alot after you left.” Missy said.
“Well, Dr. Feagel wants to keep you and the baby one more day until all of his test results come back. I don’t have school tomorrow so I’ll talk with Dr. Feagel and see if I can stay here tonight. How’s that.”
“That would be great.” Missy smiled. TJ Moreland, her therapist, and Jase Cauldwell, came into her room.
“Bob! We didn’t know you’d be here. We’re sorry to intrude.” Jase said when he saw his cousin.
“You’re not intruding, Jase. In fact, I have to get to class. Honey, I’ll see you later. Get some rest. I love you.” Bob kissed his wife.
“I promise. I love you too.” Missy said.
“Congratulations, Missy. How are you feeling?” TJ asked as she sat down next to the bed. Jase stood at the edge of the bed.
“Hi TJ, Jase. I’m okay. Have you seen the baby?” Missy asked.
“He’s beautiful, Missy. How’s Jessica?” TJ continued.
“She’s got a cold so she’s staying with my mother, but enough about me. Jase, have you and my father-in-law started speaking yet?” Missy asked.
“Funny you should ask about that. He was the one who called us last night to tell us that you had the baby. We must have talked for an hour. I’m meeting him for lunch today. I can’t wait. You and Bob are miracle workers.” Jase said and sat at the edge of the bed.
“Nah, we just pointed out that he needs you and your sisters as much as you need all of us and that whether he stopped being so stubborn or not, you would be around alot more at our house.”
“On that note, Jase, could we have a few minutes. I need to talk with Missy in private.” TJ asked.
“Sure dear. I’ll see you later. Missy, it was good to see you again. I’ll talk with you soon.” Jase said and kissed her on the forehead.
“Bye Jase.” Missy said and smiled and turned back to TJ. “Have you gotten me some names for therapists?” she asked.
“Yes, very good ones. You know I don’t want to do this...”
“But we have too since we’re family. It wouldn’t be right for you to have all my emotional junk in your head every time we get together. I understand and I’m glad you are so willing to help me search for someone new.” Missy took a hold of TJ’s hand.
“Hey, what are cousins for? Anyway, there’s a colleague of mine. Her name is Rhonda Meadows and she works at the same center that I do. I’ve given her your file and she would like to meet with you when you’re ready. Here’s her card.” TJ said and handed the card to her.
“Thank you. Now, how are you and Jase doing?” Missy asked.
“We’re okay. He’s started spending more time at home now and he’s finally going to his own therapist to talk about his parents and his brother. He’s finally opening up about that and I’m glad. He’s more like he was when we were teenagers. It shows in his eyes too, that he’s more at ease with everything now. It really hit home when a friend of his told him he was losing me. I wouldn’t go to our home for days on end because he would either be in a funk or out of town on business so I’d go home to my parents, where I felt needed and loved and safe. The children are staying with them for now until Jase feels ready to deal with everything at once.”
“You know what? Has he tried opening up to you? Have you tried making him?”
“I don’t think I have. I mean, he knows that I’m here if he wants to talk, but I’ve never pushed him to.”
“Maybe you should. It’ll only bring you closer. Believe me, I’ve learned that with Bob.” Missy said then yawned.
“I think I’m wearing you out. Why don’t you close your eyes and get some rest? I’ve got to get to the clinic. Give me a call when you get settled at home and maybe we could get together and do something?” TJ suggested.
“I’d like that. You take care of yourself and get your man to open up.”
“Thanks. Don’t forget to call Dr. Meadows. Call me if you need anything.” TJ said. They hugged before TJ left.
“Here we are.” Bob said as he opened the door for her and Matthew when they arrived home the next afternoon. Both families were there. Bob and Kenny had decorated the porch with banners and balloons and streamers. Jessica was the first to get to them.
“Hi, momma. I’ve missed you.” she said.
“We’ve missed you too. Say hello to your baby brother.” Missy said and knelt down so that Jessie could see him.
“Hi, Maffu. I love you.” she said as she patted his hand.
“Let’s go inside so I can put him in his cradle.” Missy said to everyone.
“Here, let me take him. I know you’re still a little sore.” her mother-in-law said. Bob helped her up the stairs.
“Thanks, mom.” Missy said once they got onto the porch. Everyone made their way into the house. “Boy, honey. Who cleaned this place up?” Missy laughed.
“Kerri and Jenn helped me yesterday.” Bob replied.
“What’s all this ruckus?” Mrs. Nichols mother replied as she came out of the kitchen.
“Nana! You’re here. Mom said you were off somewhere in England.” Missy stated.
“I was and as soon as I heard that my granddaughter had another child, I hopped on the first plane home. I’m going to stay with you for the next few weeks to help you out around the house and everything and then I’ll go back to England to finish my vacation. You don’t think I would miss an opportunity like this now do you?” she said after they hugged. Missy had tears coming down her cheeks. “Aw, now what are those for?”
“I was hoping you’d come, nana.” Missy stated.
“I’m glad I did. Now, no more tears. Bob, why don’t you go on and put the baby down up in your room. Rick and Kenny can help your wife to the couch.” Nana instructed. Everyone spread about and had a little `Welcome Home’ party of sorts for Missy and the baby. Even TJ and Jase stopped by. Missy smiled when Jase and Jason, Sr. hugged for a few minutes.
“What are you smiling about?” Bob asked.
“Look at your dad and Jase.” Missy pointed to where they stood, hugging.
“Wow. It’s about time.” Bob stated. “You okay?”
“Yeah, go on over there.” Missy gently pushed him away.
Jason, Sr. and Kevin manned the grill for an early evening dinner
“Nana, go sit with Missy. Marilyn and I will clean up.” Jenn had gone into the kitchen to say after dinner. Nana was doing dishes.
“I’m fine, Jennifer.”
“You’ve barely had any sleep in three days. We don’t need you in the hospital, now scoot.” Jennifer said sternly.
“Just like Kenny and Missy you are.” Nana giggled before doing as Jenn asked.
“Bob, why don’t you and the guys go on down to the rec room? You don’t have to stay up here watching my every move. You deserve some fun too.” Missy said after they finished eating.
“You sure? It’s okay?” he asked.
“If you don’t get your ass down there, I’ll get Rick to throw you down there. Go and have some fun with the guys. I’m going to go check on Matthew and feed him.” Missy said. Bob walked her to the stairs.
“You’ll be okay?”
“I’ll be fine. Go have some fun.” Missy said and gave him a kiss before going upstairs.
“You’ve been up here for a long time now, honey. Is everything okay?” Mr. Nichols asked an hour later.
“Yeah, dad. I’m just watching Matthew sleep. I missed out on so much with Jessie that this feels so wonderful to do with Matthew.” Missy said as she looked at her son.
“Jason and I are going to get the women and go home. I just wanted to come and see you for a few minutes by myself before your mother and I left.” he said.
“Oh, daddy. You’re not going to get sentimental on me now are you?” Missy said.
“I’m your father and I can if I want to.” he smiled.
“Well, daddy. You have another grandson. Aren’t you proud?” she asked.
“I’m ecstatic. And I’m really happy that you and Bob are so happy. Your mom and I have decided to drop the civil suit against JJ Grant.”
“Thanks, dad. You don’t know how much that means to me.”
“Well, seeing as he’s going to be in jail until he dies. There’s no point in pursuing the case because he’ll be in the federal pen in Virginia in Maximum Security. And your mother and I want to focus on our lives with the family and not on a vendetta.”
“Good, daddy. C’mon, let’s go downstairs so I can say goodnight to everyone.”
Two months later...
“Mom...I can’t find my pink sneakers.” Jessica said as she came running into the kitchen.
“Ssh...you’ll wake Matthew. Did you leave them down in the Rec room?” Missy asked.
“I don’t know. I’ll go check.” Jessie stated. The phone rang. Jessie ran down the stairs.
“Hello.” Missy answered the phone.
“Hi, Missy. Are you and the kids ready?” Bob asked.
“Almost. Jessie’s looking for her pink shoes. Where are we going?” she asked her husband.
“You’ll see. I’ll be home in a few minutes. I’m at the corner of Michaels and Cherry Lane.” Bob said.
“Alright, see you in a few minutes.” Missy said and hung up the phone. “Jessie, did you find them?” Missy asked as she stood up in the doorway leading to the basement. Missy began feeling dizzy and held onto the railing.
“Yeah, mommy. Are you okay?”
“Go wait on the porch for daddy.” Missy said before falling to the floor.
“Missy, honey...wake up, sweetie.” Bob said as he put her head on her lap. “Jessie, go get me the phone.” Bob told his daughter.
“Bob...Bob...” Missy said waking up.
“Hey there. Jessie said you were looking ill. You’re running a fever. I’m calling your father and we’re going to either hire a nanny or rely on our mothers more. No arguments. Understand?” he asked. Missy just nodded. “Why didn’t you say anything?”
“Didn’t want to disappoint you.” Missy replied.
“Can you sit up? Jessie, honey. Come help mommy.” Bob said as Missy leaned against the doorway. “Hi, dad. It’s Bob. Listen, Missy isn’t feeling well. Could you tell Kerri and then come over and check her out. She’s running a fever.” Bob explained as he walked into the dining room.
“Sure, I’ll bring mother too. Are you sure she’s okay?” Kevin said to his son-in-law.
“I don’t know. She passed out at the top of the stairs to the basement. She’s lucky she didn’t fall down them.”
“Get her to lay down on the couch and give her two motrin. Keep the children near her but not too close. You don’t want her to freak because she can’t see them. We’ll be there in twenty minutes.”
“See ya. Thanks dad.” Bob replied.
“Daddy, mommy said she’s gonna be sick.” Jessie came running in.
“Okay. Go say hi to your brother and make him smile for a few minutes for me.” Bob said as they walked back into the kitchen.
“Good thing I got here when I did.” Bob grinned as he scooped her up and took her into the bathroom where she proceeded to lose her breakfast. “Looks like something didn’t agree with you.” he handed her a cool washcloth once she was done.
“Thanks, honey. What were your plans for this afternoon?”
“The Grand Opening of your second store.”
“Aw, you’re so sweet.”
“You done?”
“I think so.” Missy stated as she got up. “I still feel lightheaded.”
“C’mon. I’ll carry you back to the couch.” Bob replied and picked her up again.
“You’re too good to me.”
“You’ve been going non-stop since you had our son. Even when Nana stayed for a few weeks to help out. It’s time for a nanny.” Bob replied.
“Are you sure. I don’t want the children to think we don’t love them.”
“Missy, you’re doing too much. When you’re not cleaning the house or taking care of me and the children, you’re working on the new store and volunteering at the clinic. Something has got to give. I don’t want you looking so pale and getting so sick.” Bob replied.
“I’m just keeping busy.”
“Too busy and when I offer to help, you don’t let me.”
“You’ve got a huge workload on your shoulders with school.”
“Don’t worry about that. We’ll talk with your mom and my mom. Maybe we can get Colleen and Kim to help out after school around here or something. Once school starts for Jessie, things won’t be so bad. But for now, just agree with me.” Bob grinned.
“Alright, I’ll agree.”
“Mommy, are you okay?” Jessie came in and asked.
“I’m going to be just fine. I just feel icky.”
“Like I did when I had to go stay with gramma for a few weeks.”
“Exactly. Oh, Bob, could you go get Matt. I left him in his car seat in the kitchen.” Missy replied. There was a knock at the back door.
“Sure. And that should be your parents.” Bob replied.
“Alright, Melissa. What’s wrong.” her father asked a few minutes later.
“I think it’s the flu, dad. I’m dizzy, nauseous, and I’m running a fever.” Missy said as her father felt her head and looked at her eyes.
“Headache?”
“I had one yesterday afternoon.” Missy replied.
“Okay, I think you just need some rest and your mother to take care of you for a day or two.” Mr. Nichols replied.
“Was Kerri disappointed?” Missy replied when her father tucked her under the afghan.
“No, she’d rather you stay home and get better. Now don’t worry, I’m going to stay and take care of you for the afternoon. Bob, is that okay with you?” Mrs. Nichols asked.
“Sure, we wanted to ask you two if maybe Kim would like to come over in the afternoons and help Missy. You know how Missy is doing too much for one person and she won’t let me get a nanny. She won’t even let me clean the house.”
“I just want to keep things easy for Bob while he’s in school. He should be studying, not cleaning.” Missy replied.
“Well, I think if maybe you guys were willing to contribute to Kim’s cash flow, she’d be more willing everyday, and I could watch Matt in the afternoons so that you’re not doing several things at once.”
“Alright, you all win. You all win. Is Matthew still sleeping?”
“Soundly. I’ll go check on him again though and fix you some soup.” Mrs. Nichols replied and headed back out to the kitchen.
“Thanks. I’m going to go get some pillows. Jessie, why don’t you come help me?” Bob asked. He and Jessie disappeared upstairs.
“Now, Missy. You haven’t been having any dizzy spells that you didn’t tell Bob or me about, have you?” he asked.
“No, I haven’t. I’m telling you it’s just the flu. I’ll be fine in a day or two.”
“If your fever isn’t down by the morning, I’m going to tell Bob to take you to see the doctor. Understand?” he said as his beeper went off. “I need to call the hospital honey. I’ll go in the den. Now rest.”
“Yes, daddy.” Missy didn’t argue, she closed her eyes instead and settled in for a deep sleep. When she stirred a few hours later, Jessie was asleep next to her and they were both tucked under the afghan. Bob had the radio playing softly for her. It helped her sleep.
“Hey, you’re awake. How you feeling?” he asked as he came in to check on her. He had set up his school work on the dining room table so he could keep an eye on Missy and Jessie. Matthew was asleep in the cradle next to him.
“Thirsty. Jessie shouldn’t be sleeping with me.” Missy whispered.
“I didn’t want to yell at her. Besides, your dad thinks you’ve just been overdoing it lately. I’ll get you some water.” Bob said as he felt her forehead. “You still feel warm.”
“How’s Matthew?” she asked.
“Fed, changed, and sleeping. Your mom went home to make a casserole for Kim to put in when she gets home then she’ll be back. Your dad had to go to the hospital for emergency surgery. He’ll call later when he gets a chance.” Bob replied. “I’ll be right back.” Bob disappeared for a few minutes. When he returned, she was sound asleep again. He smiled. She knew she was safe.
“Missy, c’mon and wake up. Let’s get some soup down you.” Mrs. Nichols said a few hours later.
“Aw, ma. I was having a nice dream.” Missy said as she woke up. Bob was grinning at the dining room table.
“Where’s Jessie?”
“Playing downstairs with Andy and Matt is contently watching everything and everyone from his swing chair.” Bob said from the table. Missy looked at Matthew and saw him smile when she looked at him.
“Bob, you shouldn’t have let her sleep the afternoon away.” Mrs. Nichols said.
“I had everything under control and quiet until you came back, mom. I’m surprised she didn’t hear you banging the cabinets in the kitchen.” Bob stated. Missy laughed.
“Okay, you two. I’ve already admitted that I’ve been overdoing it. Everyone says that I need rest so when I get it, mom, you tease Bob for letting me sleep. Leave him be. He’s just doing what daddy use to do for you. I remember the times when he would stay up after doing a thirty-six hour rotation to watch me and Kenny and Kimmy so that you could go shopping or catch a nap. Admit it, Bob’s a good guy.” Missy teased. Mrs. Nichols put the soup on the table.
“I never said he wasn’t, but you won’t be able to sleep later.” Mrs. Nichols stated.
“Trust me. I’ll be able to sleep later.” she said as she made her way to the table. She felt better. Bob reached over and felt her forehead.
“I think your fever has come down some. That’s good.” He said and went back to studying.
“Tell that to the peanut gallery.” she cracked. They both laughed.
“Eat your soup young lady.” Mrs. Nichols said and went back into the kitchen.
“How long has she been here?” Missy whispered.
“About a half hour or so. She made sure that Jessie and Adam were fed before bothering you.” he said.
“What about you and Matt?” she asked.
“I took care of Matt. He drank an entire bottle and I just changed him. As for me, I had leftovers. I’m fine.” he replied.
“How about giving the studying a break for the evening?” Missy replied.
“After Jessie and Matt are in bed. Let me study until then?” he asked.
“Sure.” Missy replied and ate her soup. Kerri called after she was finished. Bob handed her the phone.
“Hi, Missy, feeling any better?” Kerri asked.
“Some. I’m sorry about this afternoon.”
“Don’t be. Made me feel like I was the boss.” Kerri laughed.
“Everything go smoothly?”
“Would’ve been perfect if you were there. Jenn and Kenny made great substitutes though.”
“Good. Listen, I can’t talk. Mom’s over and if she catches me on the phone...”
“You’ll be in big trouble. I understand. Call me when the coast is clear.” Kerri said and hung up the phone.
“All done?” her mother asked.
“Yes, mom.”
“Want any more? I’ve put the water on for tea if you’d like some.”
“No, mom. I’m fine. Let me just sit here and watch my husband study, okay?” she asked.
“Okay. I’m going to straighten up the kitchen and then Jessie and Andy and I will go home.” she replied.
“Does Jessie have to go?” Missy looked at Bob.
“Andy asked if she could spend the night at gramma’s. You know I can’t say no to the both of them.” Bob laughed.
“Okay, okay.” Missy replied softly.
“Hey, this is for your benefit.” Bob took her hands in his.
“I know. Thank you. Really. I appreciate it.” Missy told them both.
“I’ll have Jessie call you before she goes to bed.” Mrs. Nichols replied.
“Thanks mom. Is Jessie’s bag packed?”
“Yup.” Bob replied.
“Where’s my crocheting.” Missy replied. Her mother handed it to her and moved the swing chair over close to the table.
“Bob wouldn’t let me take Matthew.” Mrs. Nichols replied.
“Mom...let me keep at least one of my kids for the night.” Missy said. The doorbell rang. Bob got it. It was her father.
“Hi, dad.”
“Hey, princess. You’re up. How you feeling.” he asked.
“Better. Please take mom out of here. She’s driving us nuts.” Missy replied.
“I will. First though, Kimmy and AJ will be here after school tomorrow to help out with Jessie and Matthew.”
“Oh, I nearly forgot. Jessie starts school tomorrow.” Missy gasped.
“Not to worry, we’ll pick her up from your mom’s tomorrow morning and take her to school. Everything’s been planned.” Bob said.
“Okay, okay, everything’s fine.” Missy said to herself.
“Marilyn! Let’s go. Jason and Anna will be over at seven.” he stated.
“Okay. There’s soup in the tupperware with the blue lid and I made some fresh ice tea for you two. Also made some more bottles for Matt. Those are on the door.” she stated.
“Thanks for everything mom.”
“Jessie! Andy! Let’s go.” Bob yelled down to the kids. They came running up into the dining room.
“Hi, ma. Feeling better?”
“Much sweetie. Daddy and I will pick you up in the morning for school okay?”
“Yup. Love you.”
“Love you too. Be good.” Missy said. Jessie gave her a hug and went over and gave Bob a hug. Andy did the same.
“Okay, let me put Matthew up to bed then we’ll go into the family room and cuddle, okay?” Bob suggested.
“Sounds good.” Missy replied and went to the kitchen for some ice tea.
“Hey, what are you still doing out here? I thought you’d be in the family room waiting for me?” Bob said a few minutes later.
“I was just looking at the sky. It’s beautiful tonight.”
“Would you rather go sit on the porch swing?” he asked.
“Could we? I really am feeling much better.” Missy replied.
“Okay. I’ll grab the afghan and baby monitor. Meet you out there?”
“Okay.” Missy replied and went to turn on the stereo.
“It’s so beautiful out here.” Missy said to break the silence.
“Nothing compares to you.” Bob got romantic.
“You are so sweet.” she replied.
“And you are dynamic. Every day I thank god for you. You know that?” he asked.
“And I you. We’re so lucky to have each other and Jessie and Matthew. She loves you so much.” Missy replied.
“And she adores you too. Earlier, after she woke from her nap, she looked at you and said. Get better mommy. Matt and I want to love you forever.” He said.
“That’s too cute.”
“I’ve been thinking. Maybe you and I should go to the beach house this weekend. Just the two of us. My parents would be happy to take the kids. We both have been busy and could use the breather.” Bob said as they swung back and forth.
“Everytime I get sick or collapse, we can’t take a vacation. We’ve got two children to worry about. I need to slow down. My routine needs to change.”
“I take it your answer is no.”
“My answer is no. It wouldn’t be fair to the kids. Let’s save the getaway for our anniversary.” Missy replied.
“Are you sure?”
“I’m sure.” Missy said. They heard Matthew on the baby monitor.
“I’ll go check on him.” Bob said and left her sitting on the porch. She curled up and swung back and forth on the chair until he got back, she was nearly asleep.
“Time for bed, Miss.” he whispered and scooped her up, took her up to their room and helped her change then tucked her in before going downstairs to lock up the house.
“Your not mad about the weekend are you?” Missy asked when he finally came up to bed that night.
“No, honey. I’m not. Don’t worry about it. We’ll save it for our anniversary.” Bob said as the cuddled together and fell asleep.”
“I’ll get him.” Bob said when Missy got up to check on Matthew in the middle of the night.
“Go back to sleep. You need it after taking care of me yesterday. I’m fine. It’s my turn.” Missy insisted. She noticed police lights flashing outside. “Ah, honey. Something’s going on outside.” she looked out the window, “there’s several police cars and a helicopter.” she looked at Bob as he got out of bed and went over to the window.
“Don’t even go there, Melissa. He’s in maximum security in Virginia. You’re safe here.” Bob replied. Missy didn’t say a word. She moved away from the window and went to take care of Matthew. She changed him and heated up a bottle for him and fed him. Bob went down to see what was going on. Missy heard shots and screamed. Bob came running.
“It’s okay, Missy. We’re safe. We’re okay. Open your eyes and look at me.” Bob said when he got to her. She had clutched the baby to her chest and closed her eyes, afraid to move. Bob had ran to her and put his hands on her face. “Open your eyes.” he whispered. She opened them. “It’s okay. Those shots were outside. They were outside.” Bob said. Missy buried her head in his shoulder. There was a knock at the door a few minutes later. “I’ll go check it out. Don’t worry.” Bob said and grabbed the baseball bat next to the door before going downstairs.
“Missy, grab some diapers and bottles for the baby. We’re being evacuated.” Bob said when he came back into the room a few minutes later.
“What’s going on?” she asked as she put the baby down in the crib.
“Hostage situation a few doors down. They didn’t know the guy had a gun until a few minutes ago.” Bob threw some clothes in a bag for the both of them.
“That explains the gunshots I heard.” Missy replied.
“Let’s go. We’ll go over to your parents’. I told them we’d go out the back and take the car. Benji, come!” Bob replied. After he attached Benji’s leash, they went down the back steps and out to the garage.
“Daddy...open up. It’s Missy, Bob, and Matthew.” Missy said as she pounded on the front door.
“Honey, it’s 2am. What are you doing here?”
“The police evacuated us from our home. There’s a hostage situation a few doors down from us.” Bob explained.
“C’mon in.” Mrs. Nichols said behind her husband. “I’ll go get the playpen down for the baby so that you guys can use the garage apartment.”
“I’ll help. You two just get settled.” Mr. Nichols said and closed the door behind him.
“Thanks, mom and dad.” Missy replied.
“You okay?” Bob asked Missy. She was still trembling. Bob felt her forehead.
“I’m relieved. You?”
“I’m fine. Here, let me have Matthew. Go sit down.” Bob replied. Missy looked pale. He felt her head. “You’re warm again.”
“It’s just acting up. There’s some Motrin in my purse.” Missy said and got up to go get some water.
“No. I’ll do it. Just relax.” Bob said as he put Matthew in his car seat.
“Okay, what happened tonight?” Mr. Nichols asked once the playpen was down.
“Hostage situation.”
“Melissa, you look as sick as when I first got there earlier today. What happened?”
“Well, daddy. I woke up to take care of Matt and saw all these flashing lights. Then when Bob went down to investigate...” Bob interrupted her.
“She heard gunshots and that scared the hell out of her. Brought back her headache, fever and headache were gone by the time we went to bed though.” Bob replied.
“Well, I’m sorry that happened. You know where everything is in the apartment. Here’s some fresh towels. I’ll have Kim and Jessie come down and get you for breakfast in the morning.” Missy’s mom kissed the both of them. “I’m glad you came here and that you’re all safe.”
“Thanks, mom.”
“C’mon, I’ll walk you guys down.” her father said.
“Matthew stays here. He’s sound asleep and if you’re gonna get rid of this flu, you need some uninterrupted sleep young lady.” Mrs. Nichols replied.
“I’m too tired to argue. How about you, hon?” Missy asked her husband.
“That’s fine with me. C’mon, Benji.” Bob said. Benji ran out the door and down to the garage entrance.
“That dog doesn’t forget.” Mr. Nichols laughed.
“Amazing.” Bob agreed.
“Okay, kids. Get some sleep. We’ll see you in the morning.” Mr. Nichols said and gave them both a hug.
“Race ya upstairs.” Missy looked at her husband and headed for the loft.
“You cheated.” Bob said as he flopped down on the bed next to her a few seconds later.
“Nah, just tired.”
“How’s your head?”
“Fine.”
“Can I get you anything?”
“No, just hold me for awhile?” Missy asked. Bob wrapped her in his arms and they fell asleep that way.
“Here’s some fresh towels, Bob. How’s Missy?” Kim asked the next morning.
“Better. She’s still sleeping though. What’s Jessie doing?”
“Finishing breakfast then I’ll bring her down. Oh, the police called. They said that you could go back home now.”
“Thanks.” Bob said and closed the door behind her.
“Who was there?” Missy asked as she came down the stairs.
“Your sister. She brought fresh towels and a carrafe of coffee and tea with the fixings.” Bob said.
“My mother is amazing.”
“C’mere.” Bob replied. He wanted to feel her forehead.
“Your head feels normal. How do you feel?”
“Fine. I need a hug though.” Missy replied. Bob willingly obliged.
“How’s this.”
“Definitely better. I’m going to go jump in the shower. Wanna join me?” she asked.
“Jessie’s due down here any minute, better not.” Bob said as their lips connected for a kiss.
“Alright. Save me some tea.” Missy replied as she reluctantly went back upstairs to take a shower alone.
“Mommy, can you and daddy pick me up after school?”
“Daddy’s got school, but mommy can.” Bob replied for the both of them as they drove Jessie to school.
“Okay, pumpkin, Matthew and I will see you right here after school. If I’m not here, you go to the office, understand?”
“Yes, mommy. I know the routine. I love you.” Missy kissed her daughter.
“Have fun, sweetie.”
“I will, daddy. I love you.” Jessie gave Bob a hug. Missy and Bob watched as Jessie walked into the school.
“She’s remarkable.”
“Just like her mother. C’mon, lets go home.” Bob said and drove them home.
Halloween...
“You’re a pretty angel, Jessie. As soon as daddy gets home, we’ll go trick or treating, okay?” Missy said.
“Thanks, mom. When will he be home?”
“Right now.” Bob said as he came through the back door. “It’s going to be a great night for trick or treating.” he said. “My girls ready?” he asked as he looked at both of them.
“We sure are. Kim will meet us at my mom’s and she’ll take over from there. Matthew is already at your mom’s.” Missy said after kissing her husband hello.
“Let’s go already.” Jessie tugged at both of them as she tried to drag them out the door.
“Let me change first, okay?” Bob asked her.
“Well, hurry up. Your waisting valuable candy time.” Jessie told him. Both adults laughed.
“Wow, Jessie! Looks like you made out like a bandit. Look at all that candy.” Kim said when they got to Missy’s parents house.
“I know. Mom and dad even got some too.” Kim looked at both of them.
“That’s what we get for wearing costumes.” Bob shrugged.
“Okay, well, don’t worry. Jessie and I are going to go back to the house and watch some tv before going to bed.” Kim laughed.
“You sure you don’t mind staying the entire night?” Missy asked.
“I’m glad you asked me. You guys just go have fun. We’ll be fine.” Kim insisted.
“Yeah, guys, we’ll be fine.” Jessie agreed with Kim.
“Alright, thanks Kim.” Bob said and slipped her some money. “For pizza and soda.” he whispered.
“Don’t eat too much candy and let Kim check the rest of it for you, Jessie.” Missy said as she gave her daughter a kiss.
“Okay, momma. Now get going.” Jessie said and ran to Bob for a hug.
“We’ll see you in the morning. No parties.” Bob teased.
“No fun.” Jessie teased back.
“Thanks again Kim.” Missy said before she and Bob left for the party at Kerri’s apartment. “We’ll be at Kerri’s if you need us.” she added.
“We’ll be fine. Thanks for letting me play big sister.” Kim said.
“Anytime.” Bob and Missy finally left them on the porch and headed toward Kerri’s.
“This feels so weird.” Missy replied as they pulled up in front of the apartment.
“What coming back to the apartment?”
“No...going out to a party and leaving our kids with someone else.” Missy replied.
“We deserve tonight, Missy.”
“I know we do. God knows we do, but don’t you miss the kids?”
“Yeah, but I miss the alone times with us too.”
“And the social times with adults?”
“A little.”
“C’mon Mr. Wolf, let’s go in and enjoy the party.” Missy said as she put on her hood.
“Okay, little Red Riding Hood.” Bob smiled and helped her out of the car.
“Missy! Bob! You made it! Wow, you guys look great!” Rick said when he opened the door.
“Thanks. Did Jase and TJ make it?” Bob asked. Rick took Missy’s shaw from her.
“Yup. They’re Ken and Barbie over in the corner talking with Pooh Bear.”
“Thanks. Hon, you okay?”
“Fine, go have fun. I’m going to go find Kerri.” Missy replied to her husband.
“Hey. Are the four of us still on for the Sleigh Ride on New Years’ Day?” Rick asked Missy.
“Bob’s planning on it. It depends on the kids.” Missy said as they walked together into the kitchen.
“Hey, Missy! You look fab!”
“Thanks, you’ve really done it this time, Kerr.” Missy laughed as she looked around the kitchen. “Who helped you?”
“Jenn did. She was amazing. She’s got alot of talent. I told her that if she ever needed a job, I’d hire her as a decorator. She might take me up on it.” Kerri shook her head.
“You’re too much. No business tonight. We agreed. Remember?”
“Yeah. In that case, how’s it feel to be away from the kids?”
“Weird. Like I shouldn’t be here.”
“Nonsense. You deserve to have some adult fun.” Kerri said and handed Missy a soda.
“Can I help you with anything?”
“Nope, everything’s out and all you have to do is have fun.”
“How are you and Rick doing?”
“Really good. He got promoted the other day. It was so cute. I came home to a catered dinner and a dozen red roses. He told me the minute I got in the door. Such a shame all that food went to waste.” Kerri smiled.
“You’re kidding!” Missy gasped.
“No, I’m afraid not. Once we started, we couldn’t stop. By the time we were ready for real food, everything was cold.”
“Bad, bad Kerri.” Missy shook her finger at Kerri.
“Real bad Kerri.” Rick came up and wrapped his arms around Kerri’s waste.
“Hey there, Zorro. Is that a gun in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?” she asked.
“You two are rotten.” Missy sighed and went to look for her husband.
“Where’d you two stash the kids?” Bob asked Jase.
“Your dad called and asked if we were coming to the party. When I said we couldn’t find a sitter, he asked if we wouldn’t mind dropping them off with him and Aunt Anna. I couldn’t refuse.” Jase replied.
“I think you are doing wonders for my dad’s demeanor. He’s softening alot.” Bob commented.
“Just like his son.” Missy replied as she came up behind them.
“Hi Missy. You’re looking good.” Jase commented.
“Thanks, I’m feeling good.” she replied.
“Thank goodness we didn’t ask my parents to watch Jess, Missy. Dad swindled Jase’s instead.”
“Whoa! Your father asked for them? That is a surprise.” Missy stated.
“Yeah, he talked Jase into letting them have the kids for the whole weekend. I nearly died when Jase told me.” TJ came back and joined them.
“It’s Missy’s fault. She nearly yelled at my dad and told him that no one’s to blame for Uncle Jase’s death and that he shouldn’t ignore you and your sisters. He looked away from her for a second, focused back on her and said `Gee, Melissa, I guess you’re right’. She’s worked miracles in my family.” Bob said and gave his wife a kiss on the cheek.
“You’d better keep her then.” Jase teased.
“Thanks, Jase. I’ll remember that.” She cracked.
“Hey! There are other people at this party, ya know!” a deep male’s voice said from behind Missy. Her face turned white. She recognized his voice right away and it brought back some flashes of memory she was still missing. She managed to turn around to greet him.
“Boomer, hi. Long time no see.” she replied as nicely as she could. Ed “Boomer” Nelson was a friend of JJ Grant’s from high school.
“Hey Ed.” Bob said. Boomer looked at him.
“Oh god! Bobby! How ya doin’, man?” he asked. The two men hugged each other.
“I’d like you to meet Jase and TJ Cauldwell. My cousin and his wife.” Bob said.
“Is it okay if I borrow Missy for a few minutes? I really need to talk with her.” Boomer asked.
“I’m sorry, Boomer. Now’s not a good time. Excuse me.” Missy replied and bolted for the bedroom bathroom. Luckily no one was in there.
“What the...?” Bob was concerned.
“Let me go.” TJ replied and looked at Jase before following Missy.
“Boomer, what’s going on?” Bob and Jase looked at him.
“I’m not sure. My mother said Missy was having some serious problems with JJ, but I didn’t think I was included in those problems. Is she okay?”
“She’s working on it. What about you and JJ?” Bob replied.
“When Missy and JJ were dating, I was the `third musketeer’. We were inseperable, then my father got ill and I moved upstate to be with him in the middle of junior year.”
“She’ll be okay.”
“Missy, c’mon, let me in. It’s just me, TJ.” TJ knocked softly on the door. Missy had climbed out the window and called into the house from the car phone.
“Rick, put Bob on the phone.” Missy said when Rick answered the phone.
“Bob, it’s for you.” Rick handed him the portable.
“Hello?”
“Bob? I’m in the car. Can you get someone to take you home?” Missy asked. Bob handed the phone to Jase and bolted out the door. Missy was behind the wheel shaking uncontrollably.
“Melissa, give me the keys.” Bob said as he opened the door. She gave him the keys. “What is it? Did you remember something?” Bob put his hand under her chin and moved her face to look at him. Jase, Rick, Boomer, and TJ came running over.
“Get him away from me before I kill him.” Missy replied to her husband. TJ pushed her way through the men.
“What the hell did you do to her, Ed?” Bob said. He had never heard Missy threaten to kill anyone before. Bob got in Ed’s face.
“Missy, c’mon, let’s go inside?” TJ suggested.
“No. I don’t want to be near him. I don’t want to see him. I don’t want to hear him. He let it happen. He let it happen. Didn’t try to stop it.” Missy said and put her head on the steering wheel all the while repeating over and over again that Boomer didn’t try to stop it..
“You’re saying he let the rape happen?” TJ asked. The men didn’t hear her because they were trying to calm down Bob.
“He was in the next room. He knew what was happening and he didn’t try to stop it.” Missy cried.
“Ed, what did you do?” Bob yelled at him.
“Nothing, I swear!” Ed tried to defend himself.
“Rick, Jase, take Ed back to the house please.” TJ said as she walked over to them. “Bob, she needs you.” TJ said softly to Bob. “Wait, Bob.” she waited until Jase, Rick, and Ed headed back to the party. “Bob, Ed was in the next room the night she was raped. He did nothing to stop it.”
“He was the John Doe that was the witness?” Bob asked.
“Reluctant witness.” TJ stated.
“That son-of-a-bitch!” Bob turned back at the house.
“Let me take Missy for a drive. I know where she’s coming from concerning rape. I can get her to really talk about it.” TJ requested.
“Fine. Jase and I will meet you back at my house. Thank you.”
“Don’t thank me yet. And don’t go in there looking for a fight with Ed. He’s not the one who raped her. He’s a man who made a mistake in high school.” TJ gave him some advice.
“I won’t. Give me a few minutes with Missy before you leave.” Bob said.
“I’ll go tell Jase our plans.” TJ gave Bob a hug. “She’s making some great progress, try not to worry too much.” she whispered in his ear.
“I know she is.” Bob said. He went back over to the car. “Missy?”
Missy was looking for a tissue in the glove compartment.
“Boy, do I know how to ruin a party or what!” she replied.
“This was the last place you expected to see him. Don’t worry about it. I’m going to stay here with Rick awhile. Jase will bring me home. TJ thought that maybe you’d like to talk about it so she’s going to go for a drive with you. You and I can talk about this in the morning.” Bob replied.
“You sure?”
“I’ve learned to give you the space you need, besides, I know that TJ’s had a similar experience and that you can talk with her. It’s alright.” he assured her and gave her back the keys.
“You’ll call and check on Jessie?” Missy asked.
“Yup.”
“Missy, you ready?” TJ asked, coming up behind Bob.
“Yeah.” Missy replied as she looked into Bob’s eyes. “I love you.” she told him.
“I love you too. I’ll see you later.” They kissed for a moment.
“Bye.” Missy told him. He closed her door.
“Drive safely.” he warned as he watched them drive off. Jase had joined him there.
“Ed left.” he said as they walked back to the party.
“That’s fine.”
The next day...
“Mom, I’m telling you that I was so angry I wanted do bodily harm to him. Severe.” Missy said when her mother called first thing that morning.
“What’s Bob think about all this?”
“He’s being very supportive. Rick and Jason came over and I made him go out and play.” Missy said.
“Eddie said at the trial that he couldn’t hear you scream because of the music. All he knew was that JJ wanted to talk...that you two were having some problems. I believe him, honey. Do you?”
“I don’t know. Not all of the pieces are together yet.” Missy said as she folded laundry.
“Are you going to the center today?” her mother asked (meaning the rape crisis center).
“I promised TJ I would.”
“I can come get Jessie if you want.”
“She’s staying over at a friend’s house tonight. She’s already over there. And Bob’s going to pick up Matthew this afternoon.”
“Sounds like everything’s under control.”
“It’s getting there. I’ve got to go, ma. I’ve got to go check the laundry in the washing machine. I’ll call you when I get back.” Missy replied.
“Wait a second, your father wants to talk to you.” Mrs. Nichols handed her husband the phone.
“Hi, daddy.” Missy said.
“Hi, did you see the paper today?”
“Not yet. I’ve been cleaning all morning. Why? What’s wrong?” she asked.
“When you go to read it, go back to the Personals. There’s a big apology letter to you in there from a guy who signed it Boomer.” her father explained.
“Oh no. Thanks, dad. I gotta go.” Missy replied and hung up the phone. She went down to the basement to retrieve the paper. Her father wasn’t lying. Ed Nelson bought the ad. “Oh, god. When is this going to end. Why can’t he just drop this?” Missy picked up the phone to call Bob’s cell phone when she heard a voice on the other end.
“Hello? Missy?” it was Bob’s sister, Colleen.
“Colleen? What’s wrong?” Missy asked. Colleen was crying.
“Mom’s been taking to the hospital. She’s unconcious.” Colleen cried.
“Okay, Collie, listen to me. I’ll be right over. Get Matt and put him in his car seat. I’m going to call Bob and Rick on the cell phone. I want you to call my parents for me and tell them what happened. Okay?”
“Okay.”
“Everything’s going to be okay, Collie.” Missy replied before resetting the phone to call Bob.
“Hey, Bob. The cell phone is ringing.” Jase said as he got a drink from the trunk.
“Answer it, it might be Missy.” Bob shouted back from the court.
“Hello?”
“Jase, it’s Missy. Is Bob or his brothers near by?”
“Hold on. Bob...it’s Missy.” Jase said. Bob ran over.
“Hi, honey? Everything...” Bob started to ask if everything was alright.
“Bob, your mom’s been taken to the hospital. I’m on my way to get Colleen and Matthew. We’ll drop the baby off at my parents. I think you and the guys should get to the hospital.”
“Does Colleen know what happened?”
“No, just that your mom was unconcious.”
“Thanks, honey. We’ll see you there.” Bob said and hung up the phone.
“Guys, we gotta go. Mom’s been rushed to the hospital.” Bob said to Rick, Jason, Jr. and Jase. Immediately they all piled into the car and headed to the hospital.
“Call us the minute you know anything.” Missy’s mother said from the doorway. Her father had left for the hospital the minute he got off the phone with Colleen.
“We will, mom. Thanks.” Missy said. She turned to Colleen. “You okay?”
“Once I find out how mom is, I’ll let you know.” Colleen replied.
“Bob? Any word?” Missy asked as they met in the waiting room of the Emergency ward. Bob gave her a kiss and a hug. Colleen ran to Jason, Jr.
“No one’s come out. Your dad just went in to see what was happening. My father’s talking with a nurse, filling out paperwork. How’s Colleen?”
“Worried. Where’s Rick?”
“He went to get Kerri. She was upstairs for a gyn check-up. How you doin? You okay?” Bob asked. They walked over to sit down.
“Did you see the letter Boomer put in the paper this morning?” Missy asked.
“No. He put a letter in the paper?” Bob questioned.
“It’s a full page apology letter in the Personals section.” Missy explained.
“What do you think of it?” Bob asked.
“I’m wary of it. Why did he wait so long to apologize? Why did he just show up at the party last night? Too many unanswered questions.”
“Maybe you should talk to him and get the answers to your questions?”
“No way. I can’t...not yet.” Missy replied quickly.
“Are you afraid?” he asked.
“Very.”
“Bob, Missy, Colleen and I are going downstairs to get some soda. You want anything?” Jason, Jr. asked.
“No, I’m fine. Thanks.” Missy replied.
“No thanks.” Bob said. Missy’s father came out to the waiting room. He went right to Bob’s dad.
“Jason, they need to do a CAT scan. They think Anna has some kind of pressure on her brain. She’s had a stroke and right now is still unconscious. She responds to the nurses and doctors tests for reflexes.”
“A CAT scan?”
“What happened at home?”
“She was finishing the morning dishes in the kitchen. I heard her drop a pot and went in to check on her and found her on the floor.”
“So you don’t know if she hit her head on anything?”
“No.”
“Okay, I’ll have them examine her head more thoroughly. Can we do the CAT scan?”
“Yes.”
“Want me to help you explain everything to the kids?” he asked.
“No, I think I can manage. I trust you with my wife, I want you in there. I don’t know the other doctors.” Jason told him.
“Okay, I’ll be back as soon as I can. In the meantime, we’re admitting her. The nurse will be out to tell you when you’ll be able to see her in her own room. Colleen is welcome to be with Marilyn if need be, you know that?”
“Without a doubt. Thanks.” Jason waited until Kevin went back into the examining room before going into the waiting room. Kerri and Rick had returned.
“Rick, I’m glad you’re back. Kids, your mom’s had a stroke and according to Missy’s dad, she may have some pressure on her brain. They’re going to do a CAT scan. Your mom wouldn’t want all of us here so I suggest that ya’ll go on home and I’ll call you if anything changes. Colleen, if you want, Missy’s mom said you can stay with her and Kimmy.”
“We’ll take you over, Colleen.” Bob said. “Dad, here. If anything changes, call us from the cell and handed his father his cell phone.
“Dad, Kerri and I want to stay with you for a little while. No arguments.” Rick said.
“Thanks, kids.” Everyone hugged everyone else then Missy started crying as they were walking toward the car.
“You okay?” Bob asked.
“Just stress. I’ll be okay in a minute. You drive?” she asked and handed him the keys.
“Sure. C’mon, my mom’s gonna be okay. Colleen, c’mon, Missy’s mom’s waiting for all of us.” Bob put his arm around his sister.
“Is Jason coming too?” she asked. Bob looked at his older brother.
“If he wants, but I think he wants to go home and get some stuff for mom and dad and take them to the hospital.”
“But I’ll come over after I’m done and pick you up and will go over to Bob’s for a little while. Okay?” Jason, Jr. gave Colleen a hug.
“Promise?” she asked.
“I pinky-swear.” Jason, Jr. replied. Colleen giggled.
“Alright, let’s get going.” Bob said.
to be continued...
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