Missy & Bob
Section 11
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.
“Mom. We’re back.” Missy said as she opened the back door.
“Momma! Daddy!” Jessie said with joy and ran over to them. She had been coloring at the kitchen table.
“Hi sweetie. Where’s gramma?” Bob asked. Missy gave her daughter a hug.
“Changing Matthew.” Jessie reached for Bob.
“Hey, kiddo.” Bob said and gave her a hug.
“Hi, Aunt Coll.” Jessie said and reached for Colleen.
“Hey you. You been good for gramma?” Colleen said and held on to Jessie for a little while.
“Real good.”
“Jessie? What are you doing here? Aren’t you suppose to be over Chrissy’s?” Missy asked.
“Chrissy got stung by a bee. She got a rash all over so her mom called all the parents and told them what was going on and said that she was sorry but that maybe they should come pick us up. I told her she had to call gramma cause you had errands to do.”
“You okay? You’re not disappointed about me not getting you?”
“No gramma told me about my other gramma. Is she okay?”
“The doctors are doing some tests. Why don’t you and daddy go find gramma and Matt and Colleen and I will make some tea?” Missy suggested. As soon as Bob and Jessie left the room, Colleen broke down in tears. Missy embraced her and let her cry on her shoulder. The phone rang and Missy picked it up. It was her dad.
“Daddy? How’s Anna?” Missy asked.
“Missy...listen to me. Anna didn’t make it. She had an allergic reaction to the dye for the cat scan...” her father began to say.
“No, daddy...” Missy began to cry. Colleen looked at her and Missy held on to Colleen even harder.
“I’m sorry honey. Just a few minutes ago. I have to go talk to Jason and Rick. Will you tell the others?”
“I’ll try.”
“That’s my girl. Have mother page me.” her father said and hung up the phone. Missy composed herself long enough to shout for Bob. “Bob!”
“Missy? What’s wrong?” he asked.
“Mommy’s gone.” Colleen said and ran into her brothers arms. The three of them had a group hug for a long time. Missy’s mother came in and took Colleen in the other room. Bob began to cry into Missy’s shoulder. They sunk to the floor where Missy just rocked him back and forth. Jessie came in and sat down next to her father and put her head in his lap. “I love you, daddy.” she whispered.
“Let’s go see your dad. They’re all probably home by now.” Missy suggested after she had gotten Bob a glass of water and they had moved to the table. Colleen was sitting on the end with her head down. “You should be with him now.”
“Okay.” Bob whispered.
“I’ll go get the kids.” Missy said softly and left the room.
“Daddy?” Colleen asked as Bob opened the door.
“He and Jason, Jr. are out on the patio.” Kerri said as she met them at the door. Colleen ran back there, while Kerri gave Bob a long hug. “Rick’s down in the rec room.” she told him. He looked back at Missy.
“Go...we’re ok.” Missy insisted. Bob gave her a hug. “Thanks.” he told her.
“C’mon, let me take Matt.” Kerri said. Missy handed Matt to her. “I’m going to go put him in the playpen. Go on out and see Jason and Jason, Jr.” Kerri said.
“Thanks, Kerri.” Missy replied and made her way to the patio.
“Now, Kerri and I are going to go into the kitchen and make some dinner. I don’t want to hear I’m not hungrys out of y’all. Anna wouldn’t want you to starve yourselves and I won’t take a no for an answer. Understand?” Missy asked her in-laws. She didn’t wait for an answer she went back in and greeted Amy.
“Thanks for calling me, Missy. Where’s JR?” Amy and Missy hugged.
“He’s out on the patio with his father and Colleen. Stay for dinner okay?” Missy suggested.
“Of course.” Amy said. Missy walked with her to the patio door.
“Jay” Amy ran over to Jason, Jr. He buried his head in her hair.
“Okay, Kerri. What’s for dinner?” Missy said as she joined Kerri in the kitchen.
“How about Meatloaf and potatoes and corn? There’s at least 3 pounds of ground beef thawing.”
“Alright. Let’s make all of it. I have a feeling Jase and his sisters will show up sometime soon. How about potatoes?”
“Mom had gone grocery shopping this morning. We should have a new bag. Let me help.” Colleen said as she stood in the doorway.
“Sure, c’mon over. Missy, call your mom. She’s called.” Kerri said with a smile.
“Mom? Hi, what’s up?”
“Your father and I will be over soon. What’s going on over there?” Marilyn asked.
“Missy, Colleen and I are making dinner. Meatloaf, mashed taters, and corn. The guys are all devastated and Colleen is clingy with me. It’s okay though, I understand. Could you bring over some of your camomile tea? Bob’s dad really likes that.” Missy asked.
“Sure. Are you okay though?”
“I can’t answer that right now because it hasn’t hit me yet. We’ll see you soon, mom.” Missy replied and hung up the phone. She went back into the kitchen. “I’m going to go check on Matt.”
“Missy, go on and lay down for a little while. You’re looking pale. Bob would never forgive me if something happens to you. Colleen and I have everything under control.”
“Okay, my mom will be here soon. Thanks, Kerri. Colleen, you okay?” Missy asked.
“I’m okay, go lay down or my brother will have my hide too. I’ll come check on you when I get these potatoes done.” Colleen instructed.
“Thanks girls.” Missy sat in the rocker in the nursery after checking on Matthew just watching him sleep.
“You’re suppose to be laying down.” Bob said a little while later.
“Bob? How are you?” Missy asked. He walked over to the crib.
“Drained. How about you? Colleen said you were looking pale?”
“I’m okay. Haven’t eaten much today. I think my blood sugar’s low.” Missy replied.
“Dinner’s almost ready. Your dad went and got some more baby food for Matt. My mom was dying of cancer, Missy. My father didn’t even know. She wouldn’t let anyone who knew tell any of us.” Bob said as he stroked Matthew’s cheek.
“Did my dad know?” Missy replied.
“No. When they got her file from her doctor’s office, it was in a security envelope. She wasn’t suppose to live this long. She should have been dead last summer.” Bob said.
“God wanted her to stick around for us. He knew that she needed to be with us.” Missy replied.
“Colleen took off. Jase and Jason and their better halfs went after her. Colleen’s got to be totally lost.”
“Right now, I’m not worried about them. I’m worried about you, my husband. How are you?”
“Numb. One minute I want to cry, the next minute I want to deny it’s happening, then I think of you and the kids and finally I wanted to see how you were all doing.”
“We’re fine. Worried about you and the family, but fine all the same. I’m so sorry about your mom. I really loved her like my second mom.” Missy explained.
“I know and she adored you too. She was so amazed at how you kept everything together the way you’ve been doing. Remember the first time I brought you home to meet the family?”
“I was so nervous.”
“Mom waited up for me after I took you home to your apartment. She was glowing. She said that she knew I had found my soulmate. She was so happy.” Bob started to cry again.
“Don’t be mad at her, Bob. She didn’t want anyone to worry about her. Your mom was a very proud and stubborn woman.”
“Just like her daughter-in-law.” Bob smiled. “Rick won’t even cry. I think he’s too stunned at the moment.” Bob said. Matthew started to fuss so Bob picked him up.
“He’s hungry. I’ll go heat up his dinner.” Missy replied.
“We’ll come with you. A baby can make anyone smile.” Bob said.
A few days later, after the funeral...
“Missy, I want to talk to you.” Kenny, her brother, said and led her into their father’s den.
“What is it? I have to get back out there.” Missy replied.
“I know about your visit to Dr. Feagel yesterday. Are you okay?” Kenny asked.
“I’m just stressed out. It’s just stress. I went to see her because I was getting some pretty bad cramps and because my period was late.” Missy replied.
“Does Bob know?”
“Yes, he does. Everything’s okay, Kenny. I swear.” Missy replied.
“You look tired.”
“I am. Matt’s been fussy, Bob’s been distant, and Jessie has just been trying to be a good little girl and if Bob’s not snapping at her, I am. I can’t sleep at night because Bob sits downstairs and tries to concentrate on his schoolwork when he knows that I know that his mother’s death is eating him alive.” Missy began to yell. She stopped herself and looked at her brother. “Oh my gosh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to yell at you.” she said and ran out of the room, past all the guests and out to the back yard. Rick stopped Kenny as Kenny was about to go after her.
“What happened in there?”
“She’s suffering from chronic fatigue. One thing after another is happening that is just getting to her. Bob’s distant, doesn’t talk about your mom’s death and Missy’s just in overload.”
“I’ll go after her. Go check on your wife though. How much longer before you guys tell everyone she’s pregnant?” Rick teased.
“When we’re sure the baby’s healthy. How can you tell?”
“Kerri noticed the glow in her eyes.” Rick said and went out to Missy. She was sitting on the bench looking at the roses. Rick handed her his handkerchief. “Hey there, sweets.” he said.
“Thanks.” Missy said and wiped the tears away from her face.
“I didn’t know this week was so hard on both you and Kerri. Does Bob know your feelings?” Rick asked.
“He has enough on his mind right now. I’ve been trying to make things easier for him.”
“Melissa, you’re special. Bob would move mountains for you and you know it. You are his first priority. You always have been and you always will be, whether or not the rest of the family exists. You and Jessie and Matt are his life. Kerri and our baby are my life...” Rick explained.
“Wait a minute, Kerri’s pregnant?” Missy asked.
“Ssshh, she wanted to be the one to tell you. We just found out this morning. Don’t change the subject. You know, Kenny’s going to go to Bob about the blow up. Dad’s going to take Colleen home, I suggest that you and Bob go on home and Kerri and I will take Jessie and Matt until tomorrow. Okay?”
“I couldn’t let you...”
“Excuse me, but you need some rest without any worries and Bob needs you just as much as you need him. Besides, Kerri and I need the practice.” he replied.
“Alright. Could you get me a glass of ice tea? I’m feeling really drained.” Missy replied.
“Okay and I’ll see if I can find that husband of yours.” Rick gave her a hug.
“Remember, you are the light in his life. You have to tell him about not being able to sleep and worrying and everything. Alright?” Rick asked. She nodded.
“Hey...how’d I get home?” Missy asked several hours later.
“I brought you home.” Bob whispered from behind her. They were sound asleep on the futon in the rec room. Benji was laying at the foot of the bed. She went to get up.
“Where are you going?” he asked.
“There’s laundry to be done, the kids rooms need picked up.” Missy replied.
“Oh no you don’t We’re getting a house maid and that’s final.” Bob said sternly.
“But this stuff still needs to get done.”
“You haven’t been getting alot of sleep and frankly, neither have I. Come over here and lie down. You’re tired and need the rest. And if I have to tie you down, I will.” Bob replied. Missy was too tired to argue so she laid back down in front of him. “That’s better. Don’t you know that you are the most important thing in my life? You and the children. Dr. Feagel and both Kenny and your father said that your lifestyle has to change. You are fragile, Missy. Whether you choose to believe it or not. You have to learn to lean on me, okay?” Bob asked. Missy nodded. “Besides, my mom would never forgive me if I anything happened to you and I could never forgive myself. I love you Missy and I don’t want to lose you.” Bob said softly. She turned to look at him.
“Mom may be gone, but she’s watching over all of us. I know that she didn’t want us to fuss over her and that she didn’t want to spend the time she had left in a bed and not allowed to do anything. I’m at peace with her passing and I know my father is too, even Rick. It’s Colleen and Jason, Jr. we’ve got to watch. And you. You do too much for everyone else and not enough for you so I’m putting my foot down. Understand?” Bob asked. She nodded again.
“Good, because if I lose you, I don’t know what I’d do.” Bob said and pulled her closer to him. They fell asleep that way. He knew that her mother was coming over later to check on them and had given her the key to get in. Missy fell asleep in his arms once again.
“Hi, Bob. I’ve left dinner in the microwave for you guys. We’ll see you guys tomorrow for dinner. Don’t forget.” Marilyn told her son-in-law.
“Thanks, ma. We’ll see you tomorrow.” Bob replied and carefully got up off of the futon. Careful not to wake Missy. “I’ll walk you out.”
“Jessie called and left a message on the answering machine for you and Dan will get in touch with a professional service for a house maid and a nanny. What are you doing about school?”
“I’m going to finish by June to graduate with the seniors. Then go back to work for the family business. I told Missy that I was hiring a house maid and a nanny and that I won’t take no for an answer from her.”
“And?”
“She didn’t say no.” Bob said as they got to the door.
“Good, I’m glad. I’ll see you two tomorrow. Have a quiet night.” Marilyn kissed him on the cheek before getting into her car and driving off.
Missy was still sleeping soundly when he went back down to check on her. He decided to let her sleep. He got some studying done and went over their finances before warming up a little dinner. He called Jessie to say goodnight and talked with Rick for a few minutes before taking a shower and grabbing an extra pillow and joining Missy on the futon.
“Bob...Missy...wake up.” It was Missy’s father. It was three am.
“Daddy, what’s wrong?” Missy asked as she and Bob woke up.
“It’s Jason, Sr., He’s had a heart attack. Colleen’s hysterical. She’s asking for Missy.” her father replied.
“How’s dad?”
“He’s at the hospital. Jason, Jr. is there with Colleen. Marilyn is in route. I was going to call but mother said that the ringer was off.”
“Missy, go with your dad. I have to tell Rick and call the pastor.” Bob said. “I’ll be there as soon as I can.” Bob pleaded with her.
“You sure?” Missy looked into his eyes.
“My sister needs you. Go to her and tell her I’ll be there shortly.”
“Okay, Jason. What do you think you’re doing?” Missy said to her father-in-law when she got to the hospital. He was in intensive care but was asking for her. “Don’t you know that we all need you. Anna wouldn’t want you in here. She’d want you at home with us. Don’t you worry about Colleen. She’s gonna stay with me and Bobbie until you come home.” she said.
“You are so good to my family” he stuttered.
“No talking. Doctor’s orders. You need to rest. Bobby and Rick will be here soon.” Missy told him. “Close your eyes and get some rest.” Missy told him.
“Colleen?”
“She’s sleeping in the waiting room with my parents.”
“JR?’
“Pacing the floor. You want me to get him?” she asked. Jason, Sr. nodded. “Alright, I’ll be right back.” Missy said and kissed his hand before she left.
“Missy?” Jr. asked.
“He wants to see you. He’s suppose to be sleeping.”
“So are you. Go rest in the waiting room. The orderlies brought some pillows and blankets in for everyone.” he replied.
“Okay, thanks.”
“Did you and Bob get to talk?”
“Some. Go see your dad. Where’s Amy?” Missy told him.
“I told her to stay in New York for her business meeting. She left last night.” Jr. headed for his father’s room.
“How is he?” Marilyn asked her daughter when she walked into the waiting room.
“I don’t know mom. He doesn’t look good.” Missy replied.
“That’s what I was afraid of.” Bob said from the doorway. Missy turned around and gave him a hug. “I want you to lay down on that couch over there while I go check on my dad and talk to JR.” Bob instructed.
“Where’s Rick?” Mr. Nichols asked.
“Talking with a nurse. What did the doctors say?”
“He’s had a bad heart attack. They’re doing tests to determine the amount of damage to the heart. He may need a transplant.” Mr. Nichols replied.
“Thanks. I’ll be back.” Bob said to his wife. Missy gave him a kiss before going over to the couch and laying down.
“C’mon, Missy. Let’s go home.” Bob said a little while later.
“How’s your dad?”
“Finally sleeping. Colleen’s going home with JR. And we’re going to our own house. Kenny’s on duty and promised to call if anything happens.” Bob explained. Missy wiped the sleep from her eyes.
“What time is it?” she asked.
“Almost six.” Bob replied. They walked out to the car hand in hand.
“I’m going to go take a shower.” Missy replied when they got home. “Care to join me?” she asked. They were sitting on the bed. Bob was looking at pictures of the kids.
“I’m going to just lay down for a little while.” Bob said.
“Okay.” Missy replied softly and went into the bathroom. When she came out, he was sound asleep. She covered him with a blanket and watched him from the window seat before drifting off to sleep herself.
Bob had woken up and moved her over to the bed next to him and laid there for a little while just praying for his father when the phone rang. He knew it was news about his father. He took the phone into the other room.
“Dad’s gone.” Jason, Jr. said on the other end of the phone.
“When?” Bob barely whispered.
“I just got the call. Haven’t even told Coll yet.”
“I’ll get Missy. We’ll be over as soon as possible..”
“Thanks.” JR replied.
“Bob? Bob?” Missy said as she woke up. She looked around the room. Bob came in, tears streaming down his face. “Oh, no.” Missy cupped her hand over her mouth and began to cry. She knew that her father-in-law was dead. Bob joined her on the bed.
“Ssshhh, dad wouldn’t want us to get so upset. He’s happy in heaven with my mother.” Bob stroked her hair as they rocked back and forth.
“Momma? Daddy?” Jessica came running into the room.
“Jessie, how’d you get here?” Bob asked.
“Gram brought me, she’s downstairs. She thought we should be here for you and momma since grampa T is gone.” Jessie said, “Momma?”
“Jessie, go help gramma okay? Me and your mother need some time alone.” Bob said.
“Okay.” Jessie left the room again.
“Missy, don’t do this. Don’t shut your daughter out and don’t shut me out.” Bob forced Missy to look at him. “Dammit, I need you now more than ever.” Bob told her.
“I know. I know.” she whispered to him.
“Then promise me you’ll shout or scream or yell or something right now cause if you go into that shell like you did after the rape, I don’t know if I can handle it.” Bob said.
“Me? What about you? It was your father that just died and you’re telling me that we shouldn’t get upset that he’s with your mother. Jeez, Bob. If anyone should cry out, it’s you.” Missy yelled at him. Bob closed the door.
“You know I’m not like that.”
“Mr. Control, that’s you. Mr. calm and collected. I don’t believe that for a minute. Look how you went after JJ Grant.”
“Don’t you dare bring him into this.” Bob said. He was standing next to the closet. Missy went to him. He was crying again. This time Missy took him in her arms and he broke down.
“It’s gonna be okay, sweetheart. You’ll see.” Missy said as she rocked him.
When he finally calmed down and could speak again he looked at her. “Let’s go over to the house JR and Collie are waiting.” Missy suggested. They went down to the kitchen, her mother had made some coffee.
“I called Amy for JR, she’ll be on the next flight back. Tell him that?” her mother asked.
“We will. Could you take the kids for a little while longer?” Bob asked.
“You know I will.” his mother-in-law stated.
“Thanks, mom.” Missy gave her mom a hug and she and Bob headed over to his parents’ house.
Colleen ran out of the house and straight for Missy when Missy and Bob got out of the car.
“C’mon Collie, let’s go into the house.” Missy said. Colleen held onto Bob and Missy the entire way back into the house. Rick and Kerry were in the living room. JR was on the phone.
“Rick?” Missy said when she saw him and gave him a hug.
“Ssshhh, dad’s with mom now. He’s okay.” Rick said to her. Colleen clung to Bob.
“C’mon, Collie, help me make some tea.” Kerry suggested. Colleen followed Kerry into the kitchen. Bob joined the hug Missy and Rick were sharing.
“He knew he was dying.” Rick whispered, “He told me that he loved us all very much but that he couldn’t live without momma. I told him we’d be okay. We’d all be looking out for each other. He smiled at me, closed his eyes, and went into cardiac arrest. He died a few minutes after that.”
JR interrupted them a few minutes later.
“Uncle Joe and Katie are on their way over. Jase and Tammy are too. Uncle Joe said not to worry, that he’d take care of all the arrangements.” JR explained.
“Amy’s on her way home, JR. My mom called her and explained everything.” Missy said to him.
“Thanks, that explains why there’s no answer at her hotel room. I’m going to, um, go for a walk. I’ll be back.” JR said.
“You okay?” Missy asked. Bob and Rick had gone outside.
“I just need some time alone. I’ll be okay. Take care of Collie? She’s really upset.” JR asked.
“I will. Take the cell phone in case we need you.” Missy handed him her cell phone. Bob came over.
“JR, you okay?”
“I need some air. Won’t be gone long.” JR hugged his brother and quickly left. Colleen came out of the kitchen.
“Where’s Jay going?”
“He needs some time alone right now before everyone starts calling and coming over. Time to collect his thoughts. How you doing?” Missy explained. Bob quietly left them and went into the kitchen.
“Hi, Kerry. How are you?”
“Worried about Rick. He’s trying to hide how hurt he is. He watched your father die. After your dad was gone, he was silent until he called JR and then silent while we drove over here. Can you talk to him?” she asked.
“I’ll try. He’s in shock is all.” Bob explained. The tea kettle whistled. Bob helped Kerry with the coffee and hot tea. and joined Missy, Rick, and Colleen in the living room. Colleen had found some home movies and they were playing them on the VCR.
Uncle Joe showed up a little while later with the lawyer in tow. He, Rick, and Bob immediately went into the den.
“Missy, you okay?” Kerry asked her best friend as she went to pour some more tea. Her hand was shaky. She nodded.
“Here, let me do that.” she said and finished pouring her tea for her. “Aunt Katie is here. Why don’t you go on upstairs and lie down with Colleen for a bit? It’s what Bob would want you to do.” Kerry suggested.
“I will, as soon as I finish my tea.” Missy spoke softly.
“Good. I’m going to go help Katie. When I come back out here, you better be upstairs. Understand?” Kerri asked. Missy nodded.
“Colleen? You okay? You feel warm?” Missy asked when she checked on Colleen.
“I want my parents.” Colleen replied.
“I know, sweetie and I wish I could bring them back to you, but I can’t. But, I’m here for you and so are your brothers and my family.” Missy said. Kim and AJ interrupted her as they came into the bedroom.
“Collie? We just heard.” Kim cried. She had been crying and went over to Colleen and gave her a hug. Colleen started crying. AJ left the room. Missy joined the two on the bed. Kim stayed with them until they both fell asleep before going downstairs.
JR had returned and was talking with Bob in the living room. AJ and Rick were shooting hoops in the driveway and Kerry, Uncle Joe and Katie were in the kitchen talking when Kim came down.
“How are they?” Bob asked.
“Both are sleeping. Mom wants Colleen to come to our house for a few days so that she can take care of her. JR, you should call her and talk it over with her. Daddy’ll be over after he gets out of surgery and Kenny’s with a patient.” Kim said as she sat next to Bob.
“Did Collie talk to you?” JR asked.
“No, she just cried. I think she’ll open up to Missy or my mom sooner or later. Let her come stay with us for a few days and AJ and I will stay with her unless she pushes us away.” Kim said.
“Thanks, Kimmy. How are Jessie and Matt?” Bob asked.
“Jessie didn’t go to Sunday school today. She wants to be with you and Miss and Matt’s the perfect baby.” Kim replied. Bob went over and called his mother-in-law.
“Mommy? Mommy? Wake up.” Jessie patted her mother’s arm. Missy’s mom brought the kids over after she talked with Bob on the phone.
“Jessie? What are you doing over here?” she asked.
“Gram brought me. I wish grampa was here.” she replied.
“Me too. C’mon, let’s go downstairs and let Collie sleep.” Missy suggested. Jessie took her mother’s hand and led her downstairs. Jase and Tammy had also arrived. Marilyn Nichols was in the kitchen with Uncle Joe and Katie. Matthew was sleeping in his playpen in the dining room.
“Hi, mom. Thanks for bringing the kids over.”
“Your welcome. How’s Collie?”
“Kim coming over when she did helped Colleen to really cry. I think the guys want to have her stay with you, daddy, and Kim for a few days. Is that okay?” Missy asked.
“Definitely. Now, have you eaten anything?” her mother asked.
“No.”
“Sit, I’ll fix you a sandwich.” Mrs. Nichols went to work fixing Missy something to eat.
“Colleen, do you want some help packing a bag?” Missy asked after it was decided that Colleen would indeed stay with her family for a few days.
“No thanks. I’ll manage. You and Bobby should go on home. Bobby’s ready for a nap and you’ve done so much for me already.” Colleen said as she stood on the bottom step.
“Call us tomorrow, okay?” Missy asked.
“Okay, I promise.” Colleen said. Jessie came up behind Missy.
“Daddy’s ready to go home, mom. Are you?” Jessie asked.
“Yes, I’ll go get your brother’s things. We’ll be right there. Go say bye to gramm.” Missy shooed her daughter away.
“Thanks for coming over today.”
“We’re family, Coll. I’m always here for you, even when I’m having a really bad time.” Missy said. They hugged once more.
“Jessie, honey, why don’t you and daddy go watch a movie while I make dinner?” Missy suggested when they got home.
“I’m not hungry.” Bob stated.
“You’re going to eat and that’s final. Let me make one more meal before the housekeeper starts.” she managed to get a smile out of Bob. “Good, it’s settled. Me and Matt will make dinner while you and Jessie watch a movie. Want something to drink?” she asked him.
“Just a glass of water.”
“Daddy, what movie shall we watch?” Jessie asked.
“A Disney movie.” he replied. “Go ahead and pick one out and I’ll be right down.” Bob said. Missy put Matthew in his swing. Jessie did as she was told and Bob swept his wife in his arms. “I love you.” he told her.
“And I love you. I’m really sorry about your dad. I loved him too. My mom offered to take the kids tonight, but I thought it would be better if they were here with us. I’ll let you know when dinner is ready.”
“You’re remarkable.” Bob said.
“Daddy!” Jessie yelled from the rec room.
“You’d better go.” Missy told him.
After Matthew was fed and both kids were in bed, Bob and Missy sat out on the porch talking.
“I can’t believe they’re both gone so quickly.” Bob said about his parents.
“At least they didn’t suffer too long or too much.” Missy told him.
“I know. But it’s so unfair. Collie’s only 15. Our parents will never see her graduate from high school or college or get married.”
“That’s why you and me and Kerri and Rick and JR will help her any way we can. My mom and Kim will always be there for her if she feels she can’t come to the rest of us. My parents adored your parents and will do everything in the power to be there for you and your brothers and Coll. You know that.”
“What I’m worried about is whether social services is going to come in and take Colleen and place her in a foster home or is she going to be allowed to stay with one of us or what? What’s going to happen to her?”
“JR should know already. Didn’t your father’s lawyer come by today?” Missy asked.
“JR wouldn’t talk about it.” Bob replied.
“I’ll be right back.” Missy went in and got the portable phone. “Call JR. Find out now what he knows.” Missy replied.
“Okay. Thanks.” Bob smiled at his wife. She just amazed him at how fragile she could be one minute and strong and stubborn the next.
“I’ll be in the kitchen.” Missy kissed her husband before disappearing into the house.
“Well, Uncle Joe and Katie are suppose to take custody of Colleen, but Uncle Joe and Katie don’t want to tear Collie away from us so JR suggested asking your parents about maybe letting Colleen live with them since JR is away on business so much and JR feels it wouldn’t be fair to us if Collie came to live with us.”
“Wait a minute, you’re her brother. I would love to have Collie here with us if she wants. Let Collie decide. She’s old enough to.” Missy pleaded.
“Let me finish...” Bob laughed.
“Okay...” Missy sat down on the bench across from the porch swing.
“At the reading of dad’s will, Colleen will be told of JR’s situation and how Uncle Joe and Aunt Katie feel. JR is going to tell Colleen about asking your parents or us if she can live with one of us. I told him that because Collie and I were really close when I lived at home that I felt having her here would do all of us some good as well as her. It’s closer to school and to Kerri’s and Rick’s.” Bob explained.
“You don’t need to convince me, hon. If Colleen wants to be here, then I want her here too.” Missy told him
“Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.” Bob said as they got passionate. He carried her up to bed where they made love all night long.
“Hi, Missy. How are you today?” Kerri asked when Missy opened the door the next morning.
“Better than yesterday. Bob took Jessie to school, come on in.” Missy invited her best friend in.
“I have some news for you and Bob concerning Rick and me and I’m hoping you’ve got a few minutes.”
“Kerr, I always have time for you. Let’s go into the kitchen and have some tea.” Missy led the way. Matthew was sleeping in the playpen in the dining room.
“We’re pregnant and we’re getting married next week.” Kerri blurted out.
“That’s terrific news. What brought the wedding on? I thought you guys were going to wait a few years?” Missy asked.
“We were, but with the pregnancy and both of his parents dying so suddenly, we both realized that life and time are short. We were up all night talking about it. We’re going to elope and then next year we’ll have a big wedding for the families and friends.” Kerri explained.
“I’m so happy for you.”
“We want you and Bob to be there for us at the wedding.” Kerri asked.
“We’ll be there.” they hugged.
“Good, now, down to business. Kimmy wants to come work part time at the first store, but your father won’t hear of it. Says she should enjoy high school and concentrate on good grades. I’ve thought of a way to keep her on as part time and she can do the work at home. I need you to help me pitch it to your dad. Your mom is all for Colleen doing this.” Kerri stated. She was interrupted by the phone.
“Hi, Mrs. Townsend. This is Nurse Murphy at the high school. Colleen is here and not feeling well. We tried calling your mother’s house, but got no answer.”
“That’s okay Nurse Murphy. I’ll be right there. Can I talk to her?” Missy asked.
“Hold on.” Nurse Murphy replied. Missy heard the shuffling of the phone.
“Missy? Can you come get me?” she asked.
“Sure, I’m on my way. Just stay there. Where’s Kim?”
“Math class.”
“Okay, I’ll leave a message for her not to worry that you’re with me so that she doesn’t panic after school. Give me about a half hour. “
“Thanks, Missy.” Colleen hung up the phone.
“Is she okay?”
“Bob and I told her that she didn’t have to go to school until she was ready and I know that’s what my parents stressed too, but it’s too much for her. Could you...” Bob came into the house.
“Hi, Kerri. It’s great to see you.” Bob said as he greeted the women.
“Honey, I’m glad you’re home. I have to go get Collie from school. She’s not having a good day.”
“Okay, go. Matt and I will just hang out for a little while.” Bob replied.
“I’m going to go too. I have lower management meeting with both stores today. I’ll call you later, Missy?” Kerri asked.
“Okay.”
“Mommy, Aunt Collie’s crying again.” Jessie said that evening while Missy was cleaning the kitchen. A house maid was starting the next day.
“That’s because she misses her mommy and daddy and won’t see them until she goes to heaven.”
“Like me?” Jessie asked.
“Like you. Why don’t you go give her a big hug and tell her you love her. That’ll help her feel better.” Missy suggested. After Jessie ran back down to the rec room, Missy went into the den to see what Bob was up to. He and Matthew were sound asleep on his sofa. Missy took the camera out of her pocket and captured father and son in a special moment. Missy went back out to the kitchen and called her mom.
“Hi, mom. It’s me.”
“Hi honey. How’s Collie?”
“If it’s okay with you, I want her to stay here tonight. She’s very upset and I think being here with Bob helped her today. They spent the afternoon together out on the patio and she let everything out and Bob was so great with her.”
“Okay, do you need me to bring anything over for her?”
“No...JR and Amy brought some things over a little while ago. Hey, did Kerri talk to you about Kimmy working at the store?”
“Yes, via the computer here at home. I think it’s a great idea. Kimmy wants to work with computers and this is a great opportunity for her.”
“Then why should I be the one to talk to daddy about it?”
“Because if we both gang up on him, he’ll let her do it. She’s already told him that she wants to earn her own keep and doing chores around the house and her schoolwork just isn’t enough. She wants to work. She’s like you and Kenny were.”
“Okay. I’ll talk to daddy. I gotta go get Jessie ready for bed. I’ll call you tomorrow.” Missy replied.
“Okay. Oh, did you know that Kenny and Jenn are pregnant again?” her mother asked.
“No, that’s wonderful news. I’ll have to call them later.” Missy replied. She said goodnight to her mom once more before hanging up the phone. Missy made some tea and hot chocolate and took it down to the rec room.
“Colleen, would you like some hot chocolate?” Missy asked as she gave Jessie a mug of hot chocolate and warned her that it was warm and to drink it slowly. Colleen nodded.
“I told my mom that I wanted you to stay with Bob and I tonight. I’ve got the spare room all made up for you.”
“Thanks.” Colleen managed.
“I’m gonna tell you this because I love you like a sister, Coll. I know your parents are both gone from this world, but they’ll never be gone from your heart and your soul. Bob and I want you to stay with us if you wish but it’s your decision. Joe and Katie said that the decision is up to you where you want to go. They don’t want to take you away from your brothers. Understand?” Missy asked her.
“Yeah, I do. Bob and I talked about that today. I’m gonna talk it over with JR, but I think I want to live with your parents. You and Bob don’t need a teenager to worry about and I need some structure. Your parents are godsends to me. They have been for the longest time. My mom always said that if anything every happened to her and dad that she would want me to live with your parents because they’re good people. So’s Kimmy. Kimmy came in and checked on me last night before she went to bed. And Kyle from school came up to me before homeroom yesterday and gave me a hug and told me he heard about daddy and was sorry about it. Then he said he would call me later. Sure enough, he called the house before JR and Amy came over.”
“Did you call him back?” Missy asked.
“Not yet. I like him, but I just want to be alone for awhile right now, you know?”
“Believe me, I understand. Just take things at your own pace. Tomorrow, a housekeeper will be starting here so if I’ll be showing her around in the morning. Help yourself to anything in the kitchen okay?” Missy suggested.
“Thanks.”
“And tomorrow afternoon, Katie, my mom, and I are going to be over at your parents house preparing for Thursday. Alright? I’m going to go put the kids to bed. You know where the movies are and how to work everything, so I’ll leave you be. I have some last minute things to do up in my office.” Missy explained.
“Okay, Thanks for letting me stay.” Colleen gave her sister a hug.
“Anytime. Jessie, say goodnight to Aunt Collie.” Missy said
“Momma? Does my mom and dad know that I miss them?” Jessie said as Missy helped her get ready for bed.
“I’m sure they do and you know what? Missy replied.
“What.”
“They miss you too. Now, it’s time for bed, you have school in the morning. Get some rest. Daddy will be in in a little while.” Missy kissed her daughter goodnight and turned on Jessie’s nightlight before leaving the room.
“Thanks for letting me sleep.” Bob said as he came down the hall with Matt.
“You needed it. I just put Jessie down. Why don’t you give me Matt and go say goodnight to her.” Missy suggested.
“Okay. Where’s Coll?” he asked as he handed Matt to her.
“In the rec room. I told her not to go to school tomorrow, if that’s okay. She’s coming out of the shock, but now she’s trying to deal with everything.”
“That’s fine. Matt’s kind of hungry so I’ll be down in a minute?” Bob queried.
“Can I fix you a snack or something?”
“Just a fresh cup of coffee? I’ve got some studying to do. I need to keep up with my studies.” Bob said.
“Will do. See you in a bit.”
After Missy fed and changed Matt, she prepared a pot of coffee for her husband before going up to her office to review some paperwork concerning the stores. Once she was satisfied that Kerri was doing an excellent job, she went down to check on the kids and slipped down the stairs. Bob came running.
“You okay?” he asked when he reached her. Colleen was right behind him.
“Yeah, just tired.” she replied.
“Missy?” Colleen asked.
“I’m fine, Coll. Please check on the kids for me.” Missy asked as soon as she saw Colleen while looking at her husband.
“What happened?” he asked.
“The guardrail gave way. Help me up please?” she asked. Bob helped her up and into their room.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” he asked.
“I’m fine, honey. I’ll probably be a little stiff and sore tomorrow, but I’m okay.” Missy replied.
“I’ll fix the guardrail tomorrow. It’s late, let’s go to bed.” Bob suggested.
“Funny, that’s where I was headed when I fell.” Missy said sarcastically.
“That does it. I’m adding on to the patio so that you can have your workroom down there. No ifs, ands, or buts.” Bob replied.
“Sounds good dear.” Missy said as she made her way into the bedroom.
“Bob, Missy? Matthew and Jessie are sound asleep.” Colleen said as she tapped on the door.
“Thanks, Colleen.” Bob said and followed his wife into their bathroom.
“Bob, I’m okay.” Missy insisted.
“I know you are. I just wanted to tell you that I love you.”
“I know you do. I love you too.” Missy said before she reached for her toothbrush.
“Mrs. Townsend? I’m Jennie Smythe. The agency sent me.” Missy opened the door when the bell rang to a middle-aged woman.
“Hello, welcome. Come on in.” Missy greeted her with a smile. “I assume that my mother and my husband have given you the third degree so I won’t. I have some hot water boiling, would you like some tea?” Missy asked.
“I would love some. You have a lovely house.” Jennie Smythe replied.
“Thank you. Please, have a seat.” Missy gestured at the table.
“Nonsense, I’m here now, let me do the work.”
“Jennie, you’re here to help. I’m not an invalid, despite what my husband may have told you.” Missy replied.
“Mrs. Townsend, let me do this. The sooner I get acquainted with everything, the better. I don’t mean to offend you in any way. Now, where are the tea cups?” Jennie smiled warmly. Missy couldn’t help but concede.
“The cabinet to the right of the sink.” Missy replied as she walked over to check on Matthew. He was sound asleep in his crib.
“Your husband tells me that you own your own business.”
“Yes, I now have three stores locally. No tea for me please, I’m fine.”
“Ah, Jennie. I see you found the house okay.” Bob said when he entered the room.
“Jessie okay?” Missy asked after she greeted her husband.
“We have a conference with her teacher on Thursday afternoon, after the funeral, okay?”
“That’s fine, hon. I’ve got to get over to the house. Do you want me to take Matt?” Missy asked.
“If you wouldn’t mind. After I show Jennie the house, I’ve got some reading to finish before my exam this afternoon.”
“Sure. Jennie, our sister, Colleen is upstairs sleeping. She’s very touchy right now, so let her move about freely in the kitchen please?” Missy asked.
“Certainly.”
“Great. I have to go prepare Matt’s diaper bag, Bob could you check his bottle supply for me?”
“I’ll make sure he has plenty. Go on.” Bob said.
“I think that’s everything, dears. Thanks for the help.” Katie said once they had all finished cleaning up the Townsend house and prepared salads for everyone for after the funeral.
“I can’t believe we’re doing this again so soon.” Missy exclaimed as they all sat down at the dining room table.
“Unbelievable, huh.” Katie said.
“If Bob and I aren’t crying, we’re trying to hold back the tears around the kids. It’s terrible.” Missy replied.
“That’s how Joe is right now. Both of his brothers are gone now, Jason was his best friend. He flew out late last night to go see Janet and tell her in person. When I talked to him this morning, he said she knew Jason was gone.” Katie explained. Janet and Jason were twins. “They’ll be back tonight sometime.” Katie replied.
“Kerri said Rick is coping okay. He’s been quiet but he’s worried more about her and the pregnancy than himself.” Marilyn said.
“Bob’s the same way with me. The kids are keeping us both strong though. Last night, I found him with Matt asleep on the couch. It was so good to see him and Matt like that.” Missy replied.
“All of the kids are strong-willed. Jason and Anna raised them that way. I’m so thankful that they were all close with their parents.” Katie said.
“I’ve gotta go pick up Jessie. Katie, I’ll see you tomorrow night at the viewing. Momma, I’ll call you later.” Missy said and went to wake a sleeping Matthew.
“Daddy! Look what I did today.” Jessie said as she got out of the car and ran up to where Bob was standing on the porch. Missy saw that he looked upset.
“Jessie, honey. Go on down to the rec room and watch TV. Daddy and I need to talk.” Missy replied quickly as she got Matthew out of the car seat. “What’s wrong.” Missy asked as he took Matt from her when she got to the porch.
“JR took off last night. He told Amy he was going back to the house for some things and never came back.”
“Oh, no. No sign of him anywhere?”
“Your dad and Jase are calling the airlines to see if he flew out on a flight anywhere last night. Amy and your mom are inside. Rick and Kerri will be here in a little while.” Bob replied. Missy gave her husband a hug.
“Oh, honey. Does Colleen know?” Missy asked as she gave him a hug.
“No. She’s out with Kim. Your mom said that you were limping a little today. Your back hurting from the fall last night?”
“More like my rear end and I think I pulled a hamstring. Yes, I called the doctor. He said to try some Ibuprofen and if the pain persists in 48 hours to come in and see him.” Missy said as they walked into the house.
“Well, I’m going to put Matt down and make some calls. I’ll be in the den.” Bob said before kissing his wife.
“I’ll bring you in some coffee.”
“Thanks, hon.” Bob said. Missy joined her mom and Amy in the kitchen.
“I just don’t know where he could have gone. Mike said that he wasn’t up at the cabin, he’s not at the beach house, he’s not at the house. Where is he?” Amy said with tears streaming down his face.
“Now, now, the men will find him if he wants to be found.” Missy’s mom tried to comfort Amy.
“He was the closest one to his father. He and Colleen. He went crazy last night before he left. He said that he shouldn’t be taking it out on me and he said he was sorry and he left.” Amy cried.
“Did anyone tell Katie and Joe?” Missy asked as she put the water on.
“Bob called them for me.” Amy said.
“Okay, let’s calm down here. He’ll be found.” Missy said as she leaned against the stove. Her leg was pounding with pain. She proceeded with making Bob’s coffee.
“Momma!” Jessie screamed from the basement. Everyone went running down to the rec room. JR was sitting in the corner, badly beaten.
“Jessie, go get daddy.” Missy calmly spoke, “Mom, get Amy upstairs now. JR, you look like hell.” Missy whispered to him. Bob came running down into the room.
“Missy, what is it...oh my god, JR! What the hell happened to you?” Bob said as he moved in to get a closer look.
“I don’t remember. I just remember waking up on the beach, barely able to move.”
“Where’s your car? How long have you been here?” Missy asked as she turned on a light to get a better view of his face.
“Um, the car’s out back. I’m not sure how long it took me to get here.”
“Bob, we’ve got to get him to the hospital.” Missy replied. Rick came flying into the room.
“What’s happened.” Rick said. “Jeez, JR.”
“No yelling, let’s just get him to the hospital. I’m going to go get the mini-van. Missy, you think you can get Amy to stay calm? Maybe mom can bring her in to the hospital?” Bob suggested.
“I’m so sorry, guys.” JR said.
“For what? For missing our parents. Don’t be. We all do.” Rick said. Bob went out the basement door and Missy went upstairs to explain what was going on.
“Missy, what’s going on?” Amy asked as soon as Missy appeared.
“Jessie, run and get me a wash cloth and a towel. Amy, just stay seated and look at me. No crying. Nothing that has happened has been your fault.” Missy said and sat down next to her. Kerri was making some tea. “That was JR in the basement. Rick and Bob are going to take him to the hospital. He’s been badly beaten and looks worse than he probably is. If you can be calm and supportive, I think my mom will gladly take you to the hospital.”
“Beaten? What happened?” Amy asked, tears streaming down her cheeks.
“He doesn’t remember right now.”
“Here momma.” Jessie came running into the kitchen with a washcloth and towel.
“Thanks sweetie. Now, go check on Matt for me?”
“Okay.” Jessie said and left. Missy walked over to the sink and wet the washcloth.
“C’mon, Amy. Let’s go see JR.” Missy said and took Amy’s hand and led her down to the rec room.
“Did you go out and get drunk?” Rick asked his brother.
“No, I drove out to the beach, to the old fishing pier dad use to take us to when we were young. I must have sat there for hours and that’s all I remember. Next thing I knew I was waking up lying in the sand in alot of pain. I was about a half mile from that pier.”
“JR?” Amy whispered.
“I’ll be okay.” he replied. She moved closer.
“I always warned you if you did anything stupid, my brothers would beat you to a pulp.” she said with a smile. He grinned back.
“C’mon, let’s go.” Bob said as he came back into the room.
“Mom and Amy will meet you there.” Missy said as they watched Bob and Rick help JR to the minivan.
“Thanks, Missy.” Amy said and went up to the kitchen. Missy sat down on the coffee table and cried. Kerri came down a few minutes later with a cup of tea.
“He looks that bad, eh?” she asked.
“He looks really bad. I don’t know how he got himself here.” Missy replied. Kerri handed her the tea. “Thanks.”
“Your welcome. Your dad and Jase are on their way to the hospital. Your mom reached him on the cell phone. Kenny is waiting in the emergency room for them.”
“So much for a quiet evening.” Missy said.
“When Kim and Colleen get here, Kim will stay with Matt and Jessie and the three of us will go to the hospital. Okay?” Kerri suggested.
“Sure.”
“Good, c’mon, let’s go upstairs.”
“I have to clean this chair first.” Missy replied.
“No...you can deal with it later. Upstairs. Now.” Kerri ordered.
“Yes, mother.” Missy stated and they went up to the kitchen.
“How’s JR?” Colleen asked when they met up with everyone in the ER.
“Dad and Kenny are examining him now. However, Kenny did say that JR’s left cheek bone is broken.” Bob stated as he greeted Missy with a hug. “You okay?” he asked her.
“I will be once we know JR’s going to be okay. Where’s Amy?”
“Aunt Katie took her down to the cafeteria.” Rick stated as he came over to them.
“There you are.” Kerri said as she gave him a hug.
“Sorry, I was filing out forms for JR.”
Missy’s father came out to brief them.
“Hey gang. JR’s in pretty bad shape.” he said.
“What’s wrong?” Colleen asked.
Kevin Nichols took a hold of her hand, “Colleen, we’re going to have to go in and perform surgery. He’s having seizures because of some pressure on his brain from the beating he took. All of his ribs on his left side are broken. The ribs on his right side are bruised with the exception of one. It’s crushed. His left wrist is badly sprained. His cheek bone on the left side is broken. He’s got several cuts and abrasions that need stitched.”
“So the surgery is pretty major?” Colleen asked.
“Yeah, honey, I’m afraid it is. See, we’re also certain that he has some internal bleeding.”
“Is he going to be okay?” Colleen asked.
“He’s got very good chances. Just say some prayers for everyone, alright?”
“Thanks, Uncle Kevin.” Colleen gave him a hug.
“Kenny and I are going to be in the room with him so try not to worry. Most of you know the way to the ICU family waiting rooms. There’s one waiting for all of you. Kenny and I will be in to update you whenever we can.” Missy’s father said to everyone. “Melissa, how’s your leg?” he asked.
“Better dad. Go take care of JR.” Missy hugged her father and turned to Colleen.
“Kim said you guys didn’t eat yet. I’m going to go get some pizza. Do you want to come with me?” she asked Colleen. Colleen looked at Rick and Bob.
“It’s okay, Colleen. I know the cell phone number.” Bob said to her.
“Okay, I’ll go.” Colleen said. Bob hugged his wife, “Thank you.” he said to her.
“No problem, we won’t be long.” she assured him.
to be continued...
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