Missy & Bob

Section 6

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.

Two weeks later...

              “Do we have to go back?” Missy asked as they packed the car to go back to civilization.

              “Yeah. We do. We both have alot to catch up on. You almost ready?”

              “Just need to take one more look around to make sure we haven’t forgotten anything.” Missy said.

              “Don’t forget Benji, too.”

              “The oaf.” Both Missy and Bob laughed.

              “Is your statement ready for the press?” Bob asked once they were in the car.

              “As ready as it’s going to be. I hope they don’t ask too many questions. I don’t want to talk about what happened for the rest of our lives if I don’t have to, you know what I mean?” Missy said.

              “Completely. Here, phone your mom and tell her we’re on our way.” Bob said as he handed her the phone.

              “No way. She’ll have the entire clan there and then some for when we get there. Let’s turn the tables and surprise her.” Missy put the phone in the glove compartment. “Out of sight, out of mind.” They drove the entire length home listening to music that they wanted played at their wedding reception. They had decided on “Right Here Waiting” as the first song they would dance to because it was the first slow song they ever danced to as a couple.

 

              “Look, they’ve replaced the garage door with a wall.” Missy noticed as they pulled into the driveway. The only car that was there was hers. It was almost lunchtime.

              “I wonder what else they got done while we were gone.” Bob said as he helped Missy out of the car. Mrs. Nichols came running out of the back door.

              “Welcome home!” she cried as she hugged both of them. “You look much better, Melissa. Much, much better.”

              “Thanks, mom. You the only one home?”

              “Yup. Your father is working and Kimmy’s at school.”

              “The gang has really done a terrific job on the garage wall.” Bob said.

              “Well, come on in and tell me about your time at the beach.” Mrs. Nichols said. “I can make us hamburgers for lunch?”

              “Yeah, Bob. We can get the bags later.”

              “Oh, my. Benji’s grown over the last two weeks, hasn’t he?” Mrs. Nichols asked as they all entered the house.

              “Oh yeah. He’s a pain, too. He’s very stubborn and very playful.” Bob answered.

              “Can I help with anything?” Missy asked her mother.

              “No. You just sit there and take it easy. Everything is under control.” The front doorbell rang.

              “I’ll get it.” Missy said.

              “No you won’t. I’ll get it. It’s probably your mother, Bob.”

              “Why didn’t we go to the apartment first? I’m still being treated like I’m sick, Bob. I don’t like it.” Missy whispered to Bob once her mother left the kitchen.

              “Just calm down. She’s got to get use to you being home again is all.” Bob patted Missy’s hand. Benji had laid down under the kitchen table.

              “You’re right. I just thought that maybe she’d not be so protective and motherly of me.”

              “Look who’s here. It’s Gramma.” Mrs. Nichols announced as she and her mother, Natalie Cohn came through the house.

              “Nana? Nana, what are you doing here?” Missy stood up to hug her grandmother.

              “Visiting. What’s it look like? How are you?” Nana asked back.

              “I’m pretty good. This is my fiance, Robert Cauldwell.” Missy introduced her grandmother to Bob.

              “Bobby. I’ve heard so much about you.” Nana hugged Bob.

              “That’s funny, because I haven’t heard anything about you.” Bob eyed Missy.

              “That’s because Missy doesn’t get to see me much so she doesn’t talk about me much.”

              “Yeah, okay nana. Mom, Bob and I need to go over to my apartment and check in with Kerri at work. We’ll be back later. Please don’t call everyone and have an impromptu get together or we won’t be back. C’mon Benji.”

              “What’s Missy’s problem?” Nana asked.

              “J.J. Grant and Jenn’s pregnancy.”

              “Mom. Do you mind? I’ve just gotten back from two weeks of rest and relaxation and healing over major surgery and the loss of my baby. I’ll be the one to tell people what my problem is and right now, my problem is the press conference that I’ve scheduled for 4:30. So don’t speculate on what my problem is.” Missy said before storming out of the house.

              “Sorry, Marilyn. She is still touchy about JJ and she will be until he’s behind bars permanently.”

              “It’s okay. I’ll see you back here for the news conference?”

              “Yeah. I’ll get Missy to call Kevin. Enjoy your afternoon.” Bob said and went out to the car. Missy was already on the cell phone talking to her father.

              “Daddy, could you be here by 4:30 for the news conference or not?”

              “Of course, sweetie. I’ll be there. You okay?”

              “I’m good daddy. I really am. Just moody. Once everything’s settled and over and done with, I’ll be okay.”

              “Okay. Don’t give your mom a hard time any longer. I gotta go. I’ll be home by four.”

              “Okay. Thanks, daddy.”

              “No problem.”

              “What’s with the mood swings, Missy?”

              “I’m just anxious for normalcy in our lives again, Bob. Can we just go see Kerri, please?”

 

              “Missy! Bob! I’ve been wondering when you two would come back to civilization.” Kerri teased when they came into the store. “Welcome home.”

              “I’m going to run to the bank and take Benji back to your folks house. Call me when you’re ready for me to pick you up. I love you.” Bob said before he kissed Missy good-bye.

              “I love you, too.” Missy and Kerri watched him leave.

              “You two okay? He seems preoccupied.” Kerri noticed.

              “Yeah. I’ve called a press conference for 4:30 to give my say in the JJ Grant crap.” Missy said as she went behind the counter. “So, how’s business been?”

              “Pretty good actually. Kimmy and your mom have been helping out in the evenings and on Saturdays because Carol’s been out with pneumonia.”

              “Is Carol going to be okay?”

              “Yeah. She’ll be out for another week though.”

              “That’s okay. I’m coming back. Listen. We need to talk about the weddings. Bob and I have been thinking and I hope you’re not going to be mad, but we want our wedding to be just us getting married. Please don’t be mad.” Missy looked at her best friend for a reaction.

              “I’m not mad. Rick and I have also been doing some talking and we’re going to have a long engagement. Rick is going to move in with me and we’re going to try living together first. We don’t know each other as well as you and Bob know each other and we want to do that before we get married. You know, I was worried that you would be upset.” Kerri laughed.

              “Hardly. This way, you and I can have more fun with you being my maid of honor. How about if I come over after the press conference so we can get started? Bob and I want a Valentine’s Day wedding.”

              “That’s less than four months away! You aren’t giving us enough time to make it perfect, are you?” Kerri said.

              “Don’t worry. While we were at the beach we laid all the plans out. Now we just have to follow through with them.”

              “That’s where Rick and I come in...”

              “Yup, and my parents, Bob’s parents, and Jenn and Kenny and Kimmy. However, right now, I would like a report from you on how the business has been over the past month.”

              “Everything has been going well. Business is up. People have been coming in to ask how you are and buying something before they leave. And they keep coming back.”

              “That’s because of you. Okay, well, I’m going to go in the back for awhile and have a look at the books. Give me an hour or so?” Missy asked.

              “Sure.” Kerri replied.

 

              “Excuse me, Rick?” Mrs. Grant asked Bob as he stood in line at the bank.

              “No, I’m Bob, Mrs. Grant. What can I do for you?” Bob asked as he stepped out of line to let her talk.

              “How’s Missy? Is she going to be okay? Is there anything my husband and I can do?” she asked.

              “Don’t go there, Mrs. Grant. Missy’s well being is of no concern to you or your family.”

              “Okay. Well then, I’m just going to ask you flat out. Would you go see JJ in lock-up? He really wants to talk to you.”

              “The only talking will be through the courts. I want nothing more to do with him ever. I’m sorry that JJ has done what he has and that he’s hurt you, your husband, daughter and AJ the way he has. As far as I’m concerned, JJ is dead. Now, I have errands to get finished. Mrs. Grant, I hope that you’re family will continue life without JJ in a safe environment. Good day.” Bob said and got back into line. Mrs. Grant left the back with tears falling down her cheeks.

 

              “Kerri? What’s this entry marked MBFUND?” Missy asked as she came out of the office and almost knocked down her brother. “Kenny! What are you doing here?” she asked.

              “Dad told me where you were. You’re looking healthy and alive again.” Kenny gave his sister a hug.

              “I feel better too. Thank you for coming over, but I’m really swamped right now. Can we get together sometime tomorrow?” Missy asked.

              “That’s okay, it’s not important. I just needed to see you for myself before the media swamps you with questions later. Is it okay if Jenn and I are there?” Kenny asked.

              “Sure. I gotta go. See you soon.” Missy said and kissed him on the cheek. “Kerri? Kerri?” Missy asked and went looking for Kerri.

              “...Mrs. Grant. Please, just go away. Missy doesn’t want to see you.” Kerri was at the counter trying to get Mrs. Grant to leave. When she looked in Missy’s direction, Mrs. Grant turned and started walking towards Missy. Missy sped back past Kenny toward the office.

              “What’s wrong?”

              “It’s Mrs. Grant. I don’t want to see her. Please get rid of her.” Missy said and closed the office door behind her and locked it. She stayed in there and worked on the books for another half hour until she heard a knock on the door.

              “Missy, it’s me...Kerri. She’s gone. You can come out now.” Kerri said. Missy unlocked the door.

              “Kerri, what’s MBFUND? And why is there nearly five thousand dollars in it. Where did all the money come from?” Missy asked.

              “It is a fund that the community started for you and Bob. For you to use whatever way you wanted.”

              “Do my parents know about this fund? Does Bob?”

              “Your dad does and so does your lawyer, but Bob doesn’t know about it.”

              “Amazing.”

              “Excuse me, but is there a Melissa Nichols here?” a delivery boy asked. He was delivering flowers.

              “Yeah, that’s me.”

              “I have a delivery for you. I just need your signature.” the boy asked.

              “Here, Kerri.” Missy handed the receipt book to Kerri so she could sign for the flowers. Missy gave the boy five dollars and he handed her the flowers.

              “Bob is so romantic.” Kerri sighed as she followed Missy back into the office. Missy immediately ripped open the flowers and searched for the card.

 

                            Missy,

                               Each day I fall deeper in love with you. The past two weeks have been heaven for me. I’m so proud of you for going back to work. Call me when you’re ready to come home.

                                                                               Love, Bob

 

              “Yes, he is such a romantic. I think I’ll call him now.” Missy said and called the cell phone.

              “Hello?”

              “I’m ready to come home.” Missy said.

              “I’ll be right over.” Bob said.

              “Well?” Kerri asked.

              “He’s on his way. Can you lock up?”

              “Yup. I’ll meet you at the apartment later?”

              “Yeah. If I’m not there by seven, don’t panic. Call my parents house, okay?” Missy asked.

              “No sweat.” Kerri replied.

              “Don’t forget to tell Bob that Mrs. Grant was here, okay?”

              “It’s not important. I didn’t talk to her anyway. See ya later.” Missy said as she grabbed her flowers and exited the store. Bob was at the light.

 

              “Hi, honey. How was work?” he asked as he parked the car and got out to open her door for her.

              “You made it brighter with these flowers. Thank you.” she replied and gave him a big, fat, wet, lingering kiss. Several cars and pedestrians were gaping at the duo.

              “Wow! I’m gonna have to do the flower act more often.” Bob teased when they finally came up for air.

              “As long as you will always be in love with me, the flowers don’t matter, because you brighten all my days and nights.” Missy told him.

              “You know, this public display of affection could really get me in trouble.”

              “Oh, really? How?”

              “If my fianceè finds out, it could ruin my life. She’ll call off the wedding! There goes the house and the six kids and the happily ever after.” Bob was lauging.

              “Well then, I guess you’ll just have to settle for me.” Missy played along.

              “You’ll do.” Bob grabbed her in a hug.

              “You are so good to me. I love you.” Missy whispered in his ear.

              “I love you too. C’mon, you’re dad and lawyer are meeting us at the house.” Bob took the flowers from her and carefully placed them in the trunk. Missy got in the driver’s seat. “What are you doing?” Bob asked.

              “Driving. Get in.” Missy ordered. As soon as Bob got in the passenger’s side and closed the door they were on their way home.

             

              “Honey? Is the CB on? We should see if we can get a hold of the kids.” Mrs. Nichols said.

              “They’ll be here any minute. I just talked to Kerri. Nothing to worry about.” Mr. Nichols told his wife.

              “Hello? Mom? Dad?” Missy asked as she opened the kitchen door.

              “Hi, honey. Did you have a nice afternoon?” Mr. Nichols asked.

              “Yeah, daddy. I did. Everything arranged at the high school for the press conference?” Missy asked.

              “Yup, but the Grants want to be there.”

              “No, daddy. They don’t belong there and they don’t deserve to be there. AJ seeing Kim is one thing, but to let his parents sit there and listen and possibly interrupt me is another. I don’t want them there.”

              “Fine. Now, Dan wants to talk to you about something.”

              “Hello, Melissa. You’re looking well.” Her lawyer replied.

              “I feel well for the first time in quite a few weeks. What’s up?”

              “I found the FBI Agent who rescued you and got you away from JJ and his accomplice. She’s agreed to meet you.”

              “Great! When?”

              “How’s tomorrow afternoon?” Missy looked at Bob.

              “What do you think, hon?”

              “Go for it.”

              “Okay, Dan. Let’s do it.”

              “Fine, I’ll set it up.”

              “Good. Are we all ready for the press conference?”

              “Kimmy and I will watch from here.” Marilyn Nichols told her daughter.

              “Okay, mom. I’m going to go change really quick and then we can get going.” Missy told everyone else.

              “You can use your apartment now.” Her father suggested. Both Bob and Missy looked stunned.

              “What? You mean the garage is all done?” Bob asked.

              “Yup. Your dad and I finished last night. Go on and take a look.” Mr. Nichols beamed. Missy ran to the garage door and opened it. It was home.

              “Oh my god. It’s gorgeous.” Missy exclaimed. “Absolutely wonderful.” She said as she walked through the apartment.

              “There’s even a doggie door for Benji.” Mrs. Nichols pointed out.

              “How many people helped out with this? We were estimating two months.” Bob commented.

              “The mayor organized a group of volunteers to help. When your father got the call at work then told us we all felt that we couldn’t refuse.” Mrs. Nichols explained.

              “Bob? You didn’t know about this at all?” Missy asked.

              “No, sweetheart. I’m just as surprised as you are.” Bob assured his future wife.

              “It’s terrific daddy.” Missy ran over and hugged her father.

              “We’re glad you liked it. C’mon, you’d better go get changed. We should leave here asap.”

              “Okay.” Missy said and her mother showed her the little cornered off room where the closet was.

              “We’ll be in the house.”

 

At the high school gym...

              “Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for coming. I know that you all have questions for me but first let me say what I have to say and then if I haven’t answered your questions, I’ll take a few and try to answer them the best I can. Alright? Okay, let’s get started.” Missy said and took a drink of water.

              “I’d like to start by saying thank you to Agent Pam Morris for seeing that I received medical help as soon as possible after my kidnapping, according to the doctors who treated me, if I hadn’t have gotten there when I did, I wouldn’t be here today. The past few weeks have been torture for me and I’m sure by now that many of you know why, but, I’m happy to say that after getting away and getting some much needed rest to get well that I’m back and ready to face what lies ahead. That includes getting back to work and getting married on Valentine’s Day of next year.” Missy paused and looked over at Bob. He smiled at her. “As for the baby that Bob and I lost, we’re still mourning over the death of the baby and probably will for awhile, but life goes on and we both believe in our hearts that its what is best for us. To my sister-in-law and brother...I love you and am happy for you both. As for JJ Grant. He wants a fight. I want justice and sooner or later, justice will prevail. Finally, I’d like to thank my family, friends, and the public for your prayers, your love, and your support. Earlier today, I discovered a fund that was started on my behalf. I want to thank everyone who donated to that fund. It was not expected but is appreciated. It has not been decided on what it will be used for since I have medical insurance. My lawyer and I are in discussion about it. It’s time that we as a community make our childrens’ lives safer no matter what their age. I’d like to start a crisis center, but again my lawyer and I are discussing that. Dan? Could you come up here and help me field questions.” Missy asked her lawyer. She took another sip of water.

              “Missy, how do you feel about JJ being put on house arrest and taken out of the jail system?” a reporter from the local paper asked.

              “I think that it was uncalled for. The pictures that were taken of me and shown to the jury and to the public have shown the brutality of the rape and the punishment certainly did not fit the crime. However, kidnapping is a federal offense and now, JJ will be going to trial in the federal court system.” Missy said.

              “Missy, what is your fiancee’s name?”

              “Bob.” Was all Missy would reply.

              “Will you be pursuing the civil case along with your parents?”

              “No, I will not. That is between my parents and JJ. The less I have to do with JJ Grant, the better for me and for him.”

              “What about his family?”

              “What about them? His brother is doing just fine living away from his parents and the media and as for his parents. They should have never agreed for him to be under house arrest at their home. Because of him, they’re about to lose their house.”

              “Are you still planning to have children?”

              “Very much so, god-willing.”

              “Don’t you think you’re a little young to have children?”

              “I’m 24 years old. I’m not too young. How old were you when you got married, Marion?” Missy countered. Marion was a high school friend.

              “Point taken.” Marion replied.

              “What was it like being kidnapped?”

              “I have no idea because I had been running a very high fever after surgery. When I had gone to sleep under the anesthesia I was in one hospital, when I woke up I was in another.” Missy replied.

              “How is your relationship with your fiancee?”

              “Better and stronger than ever.”

              “Where will you two be living?”

              “I’m glad you asked because while Bob and I were away, many volunteers including the mayor helped get my home livable. Thank you to everyone that helped and thank you for asking that question.”

              “Is there anything else? We should be going? Missy is still recuperating.” Dan broke in.

              “What are you going to do now?”

              “Well, I’m going to see that justice prevails, start physical therapy again, plan my wedding and get my life back to normal as soon as possible. Tonight, I’m going to spend with family and close friends and probably have dinner and laugh alot. I hope you guys and gals won’t be too critical in your reports of this press conference. Thank you for coming and good night.” Missy said. Bob grabbed her hand and he, her father, and Dan led her through the crowd of media people back to the car and away from the high school.

              “So, how did I do?” Missy asked

              “Very well.” Dan said.

              “I hope I never have to do that again.” Missy said and laid her head on Bob’s shoulder.

              “You okay, sweetie?” he asked her.

              “Yeah, I just never thought that a press conference could be so draining.” She replied.

              “Well, it’s over with. Life can get back to normal again.” Her father said.

              “Thank god!” Missy and Bob said in unison.

 

              “Are they home yet?” Jenn and Kenny asked as Marilyn Nichols greeted them at the door.

              “No, not yet. Come on in.” Marilyn said. She and Kim were making salad.

              “Did you watch the press conference?” Kenny asked.

              “Yes. Your sister handled herself pretty well. Where’s my grandson?”

              “Sleeping in his carseat on the porch. Kenny, can you get him?” Jenny asked. “I put him down for a minute, I swear.” Jenn exclaimed.

 

              “Jason, we should get going. Rick and Colleen are on their way over to Kevin’s.” Mrs. Cauldwell told her husband.

              “Just five more minutes. I just need to finish attaching the screws for their sign.” Jason said.

 

              “Gramma? Can I go over to the Nichols?” AJ asked his grandmother.

              “I think Missy just wants to be with her family tonight, okay, dear? I’m sure Kimmy will understand.” His grandmother explained.

              “Maybe...I’m gonna go finish my homework.” AJ went back to the den.

 

              “Any sign of reporters?” Bob asked as they pulled onto Missy’s street.

              “No. It’s a miracle!” Mr. Nichols announced. Everyone laughed.

              “Cool. We won’t be hovered over.” Missy replied as they pulled into the driveway.

              “Mom! We’re back.” Missy said as she came into the house. Kenny greeted her and gave her a big hug.

              “It’s so great to have my little sister back.” He said.

              “Easy. I’m still a little tender in my abdomen.” She warned. “Where’s Jenn?” she asked.

              “Changing Andrew. She’ll be out in a minute.” Kenny assured her.

              “Missy? You were great” Mrs. Nichols said.

              “Thanks. I’m going to go change back into a pair of jeans. Bob, are you coming?” Missy asked as she walked toward the garage door.

              “In a minute, you go ahead.” Bob said. He turned to Kenny and immediately asked Kenny, “Did you get the dress?”

              “Yes. It’s lying on the bed.” Bob was referring to the dress that Missy had bought before the car accident that was ruined in the car accident. Kenny had taken it to a tailor to see if it could be fixed.

              “Thanks. She’s going to love it!” Bob said and went into the garage. Missy was sitting down on the couch with her eyes closed.

              “Tired?” Bob asked her as he sat down next to her.

              “Exhausted. Aren’t you?” she asked.

              “Yeah, but it’s a good tired. You think you wanna go out and join the family for awhile?” Bob said closing his eyes too.

              “In a minute.” Missy said and laid her head on his lap.

 

A half hour later...

              “What are they doing in there? Do you hear anything?” Marilyn asked Rick.

              “No. It’s quiet.”

              “I’m going to see what’s going on.”

              “Marilyn! How do you know you aren’t interrupting something?” Mr. Nichols warned.

              “Simple. I’ll knock first.” Mrs. Nichols replied and did just that. She knocked and then walked in. She saw them sound asleep on the couch. She took the afghan off of the chair and covered them with it.

              “Well?” Rick asked.

              “They’re sound asleep.” she replied.

              “That’s just great. Now what are we going to do?” Kim asked.

              “Enjoy each other’s company. There’s plenty of food and things to do and talk about.”  Mr. Nichols announced.

              “Dad, no offense, but I haven’t talked with my sister in over two weeks. I want to talk to her. Not you.” Kim said.

              “Well, she’s had a busy day and I say let them sleep for a little while longer.” Mrs. Nichols said.

              “Sorry, can’t do that. The bums are home and we’re here to have a celebration.” Rick said and knocked loudly on Bob and Kim’s door. “Bob? You up?”

              “Wha? Huh?” Bob woke up. Missy didn’t. He gently lifted her head so he could get up and put it back down on the couch and went to the door.

              “Bobby!”

              “Rickie.” Bob said when he opened the door to his brother.

              “I know you guys were probably sleeping, but I couldn’t wait for you to wake up on your own.”

              “It’s okay. Let us wake up and then we’ll be out.” Bob explained. He closed the door on his brother and went to wake up Missy.

              “Just five more minutes?” she asked.

              “Can’t do that sleepy head. I think everyone is waiting for us.” Bob said. Missy sat up and rubbed her eyes.

              “What time is it?” she asked. Bob looked at his watch.

              “Almost seven-thirty. Why?”

              “I’m suppose to meet Kerri at the apartment after eight.” Missy said and got up and wandered up to the loft. Bob waited for her to say something. She didn’t say anything, but ran back down to him instead with the dress in her arms and gave him a big hug as tears ran down her cheek. “I thought I’d never see this dress again.”

              “Miracles do happen, honey.” Bob said.

              “Thank you. For everything.” Missy told him.

              “Be sure to thank Kenny too. He searched all over town for a tailor who could find the cloth and fix the dress. Besides, Kenny and I both love that dress on you. Your brother thinks you look like a goddess and I think you are a goddess in that dress.” Bob said.

              “Why thank you. I’m going to go change into jeans. I haven’t seen Benji  since we got back. Where is he?”

              “At the vet for his shots, blood work, a grooming, etc., etc., etc..” Bob explained.

              “Oh. Okay. I’ll be over shortly. You gonna wait for me or go on over?”

              “I’ll go on over. Don’t be too long or another posse will be sent.” Bob warned as he kissed her on the forehead.

              “I won’t be long.” Missy promised and went back upstairs while Bob joined the family.

              “Hey! Where’s your better half?” Kenny asked as Bob came into the living room.

              “Changing. She loved the dress, Kenny. Thanks again.”

              “No problem. How was the beach?”

              “The first few days Missy spent sleeping alot and then once her stomach began to heal we would go for walks on the beach or to the water’s edge. Talked about a lot of things and planned our wedding.”

              “I’d say you got a lot accomplished!” Rick said as he came in from the kitchen with a tray of food.

              “Yeah, yeah we did.” Bob said. “Hey, are mom and dad coming over?”

              “They’re in the kitchen. Collie’s upstairs with Kim.” Ricks replied.

 

              “Mom? Dad?” Bob raised his voice a little as he walked to the kitchen.

              “Bobbie, son. Your mother’s missed you.” Mr. Cauldwell said as he and his son hugged. Mrs. Nichols handed Kevin and Jason trays of sandwiches.

              “These things will happen.” Bob laughed. He and his mother hugged too.

              “I suppose you watched the press conference.” He asked them.

              “A Valentine’s Day wedding. Marilyn and I don’t have much time to shop for a dress.” his mother said.

              “Nothing too fancy, mom. The wedding will be small and comfortable. That’s how we want it, alright?”

              “Of course.”

 

              “Mom, I’m hungry.” Missy said as she came into the kitchen from the back door.

              “Why didn’t you come in the other way?” Mrs. Nichols asked.

              “I had to get my purse out of the car.” Missy replied.

              “Well, everything should be in the family room. I’m done in here.” Mrs. Nichols said, shooing everyone out of the kitchen.

              “I just need a glass of water.” Missy had to take her medication.

              “We’ll be right in.” Mrs. Nichols told Anna and Bob and waited for them to leave.

              “So how was your vacation?”

              “Much needed. I still have nightmares, but I feel 90% better.”

              “Jenn’s really worried about you. You should go talk to her.” her mother replied.

              “I know mom. I’ll talk to her when we get a moment alone. At the time, I just couldn’t handle her good news. Can you understand that?” Missy asked her mom.

              “Of course I can, sweetie. Don’t worry. Someday, you and Bob will have another child.” her mother hugged her, “We’d better get out there and join everyone before they think we’re snubbing them. Oh, I’d better warn you. We turned the ringers off of the phones and have the answering machine on upstairs so that we won’t be disturbed.”

 

              “Missy?” Kim shouted as she ran from the living room into the kitchen.

              “Hey you.” Missy said as she gave Kim a hug.

              “You don’t know how much I’ve missed you.” Kim said.

              “I can imagine. We’ll have a girls night next weekend. Just you and me, okay?” Missy suggested.

              “You bet.” Kim said. The three of them went out to join everyone in the living room.

 

An hour later. Rick was on the phone with Kerri...

              “Are you coming over or do you want me to come home?” Rick asked.

              “I’m swamped Rick. I want you to stay and have a good time with your brother. Okay?”

              “If you’re sure.”

              “I am. Now, let me speak to Missy.”

              “Missy? It’s Kerri.” Rick said and handed the phone to her.

              “Hey, Ker...I was just about to come over.”

              “I know we were suppose to talk about wedding plans and catch up, but I’m still doing paperwork. Can we wait until later this week?” Kerri asked.

              “The paperwork can wait until tomorrow. I can mind the store while you do the work, okay?” Missy suggested.

              “Sure.”

              “Fine. I’ll be over in fifteen minutes.” Missy said.

              “See you soon. I’ll put the water on for tea.”

              “That would be wonderful.” Missy said and hung up the phone.

              “Alright, Miss. What’s going on?” Bob asked.

              “I’m going over to the apartment for a bit. Okay?” she told him in front of everyone

              “Okay, better take my car. Your’s is buried.” Bob handed her his keys.

              “Thanks, honey. I love you.” Missy said.

              “I’ll walk you out. It’s getting too crowded in here.” Bob replied and followed her out to his car.

              “You okay with me going over to see Kerri?” Missy asked.

              “Yeah. I’m fine with it. Just try not to be out til all hours. You’ve got doctor’s appointments galore in the morning before you go into work in the afternoon.”

              “I won’t. I just want to catch up with her. Did you know that she and Rick are postponing their wedding?”

              “No. Rick didn’t say anything. Okay. I’ll see you in a bit. I’m going back in. Drive safely.” Bob said. He waited until she pulled out of the driveway and was out of sight before going back into the house.

 

Next afternoon...

              “What did your doctors say?” Kerri asked when Missy came in with lunch for the both of them.

              “I’m healing nicely. Finish my medication. And that I can come back to work again. Has it been busy this morning?” Missy asked.

              “Steady’s more like it. What’s Bob doing today?”

              “He’s going to unpack our gear and go get our dog and make dinner.”

              “When’s he go back to work?”

              “Monday.”

              “So he’s got a four day weekend to play?”

              “He deserves it. He was so great the way he took care of me at the beach. You should see him with the puppy. He’s great. And with children, he’s going to be a terrific dad.” Missy said as she took the food out of the bags. “Darn, I forgot my medicine.”

              “Bob didn’t. He dropped it off first thing this morning.” Kerri produced a few pills in a baggie. “He said to tell you to leave the bag in the desk drawer so that they’re there.”

              “He thinks of alot of things. Now. Tell me about what’s been happening between you and Rick.”

              “There’s not much to tell. I’ve been swamped with work lately and he’s been trying to cope with it the best way he can. Now that you’re back, though, hopefully, things will get back to normal. It’s just a rough patch.” Kerri said.

              “You sure?” Missy was worried about her friend.

              “I’m positive.” Kerri said, trying to sound convincing. ”Oh, your dad’s lawyer called. Your meeting with the Agent has to be postponed. She was called out of town on business.”

              “Drat. I really wanted to meet her. Oh, well. I guess it’ll have to wait.”

 

              Missy worked until 6 that evening. Bob had called and said dinner would be at seven.

              “Kerri, I’m leaving now. How’s the paperwork?” Missy asked.

              “All caught up. See you tomorrow?”

              “Yeah. I’ll open, you don’t have to be in until after lunch. Okay?”

              “Thanks. Have a good night.”

              “You too.” Missy said and grabbed her purse and left.

 

Fifteen minutes later...

              “I’m home.” Missy said as she came in from the outside door. Bob had turned down the lights and lit the candles on the little dining room table. The table was elegantly set.

              “Wow. You’ve been busy.” Missy exclaimed as Bob brought her a glass of milk and took her sweater. “Thank you.”

              “You’re welcome. Since you’re still on medication, I didn’t think a glass of wine would be too good right now.”

              “You are too good to me.” Missy said as she sipped the milk.

              “We are going to have a good time tonight. I have Steel Magnolias in the VCR, ready to play, Dinner will be ready in a half hour or so, and for dessert, ice cream.” Bob teased her.

              “Where’s Benji?” Missy asked to change the subject.

              “Kim took Benji to the park to meet AJ, who, by the way says welcome home and all that jazz.” Bob said as he caressed Missy’s shoulders. Missy kissed his neck. The sexual tension between the two was unbelievable.

              “We can’t do this yet. I’m not ready.” Missy said. She grabbed her purse and keys and ran out of their home, leaving Bob speechless and confused. “We were only kissing.” he said and shook his head. He ran after her.

              “Missy, honey, wait. Please, don’t go.” he said and jumped behind her car so she couldn’t go anywhere. “It’s okay. Let’s talk about it.” he pleaded with her.

              “I can’t talk about it.” Missy said and stared straight ahead. Bob came around to her side and took the keys out of the steering column.

              “We’ve talked about everything but fooling around for the past two weeks, I think it’s time to talk about it.” Bob said softly but sternly. Missy still wouldn’t say anything. “I know you went and saw Dr. Feagel today and you must have brought the topic of sex up with her. For pete’s sake, we were only kissing!” Bob’s voice was raised just a little.

              “Sex is not an option for me right now. I’m still healing, according to Dr. Feagel.” she told him.

              “Honey, that’s okay. I’m content with just kissing you and holding you. There are still other ways to be intimate with one another. I love you and I know you love me. Just come in the house so we can talk about this. Please.” he begged. He opened the car door. Missy looked at him and got out of the car. “Did you think I would get angry with you and think that you didn’t love me? Is that why you left?” he asked as they walked back into the house.

              “I’m not sure why I left. I just know that I didn’t want to disappoint you.”

              “Well, I have a proposition for you. C’mere and sit down.” Bob pulled a chair out from under the table for her. She sat down. “I propose that we wait until our wedding night to make love again. How’s that sound?”

              “Like torture.” Missy smiled.

              “Well, what do you say to waiting.”

              “You must really love me to wait that long to make love again.” Missy smiled.

              “So do you agree that we wait?”

              “Yes.” Missy said. Bob smiled and kissed her.

              “See, that discussion wasn’t so hard. Now, I must finish dinner. Wanna help?” he asked.

              “Yup, after I roll up the window in my car. Can I have my keys back please?” Missy asked. Bob gave her the keys and went back to finishing up dinner.

 

              “I’m doing dishes.” Missy said once dinner was done. She got up and began to clear the table.

              “Oh, no you’re not.” Bob put his hand on her arm.

              “I thought we agreed that if one cooked, the other had dish duty?” Missy asked.

              “We did, however, there are special circumstances at the moment.” Bob insisted.

              “Like what?”

              “Like you are just getting back to normalcy and have got to be exhausted. We’re going to ease you into it.” Bob took the dishes out of her hands.

              “Fine. You wash and I dry.” Missy suggested.

              “That’s very dooable.” Bob laughed.

              “You know, Kim’s been gone with our dog for quite a long time. What’d you do? Bribe her?” Missy said as they cleared the table.

              “Yup. Gave her ten dollars to keep him for a few hours.” Bob replied.

              “Bob! That dog is never going to get use to the house!.” Missy said.

              “Well, we really didn’t have a romantic evening last night, so I thought we would tonight and that includes getting the dog away from you for a few hours.” Bob said and grabbed her in an embrace after she put everything down on the counter.

              “Dinner was wonderful tonight. Thank you.” Missy expressed as Bob ran the palm of his hand down her cheek.

              “You feel warm.” he said.

              “I’m fine, Bob.” she said.

              “You sure?” he asked.

              “Yes. Stop fussing.” Missy insisted. The phone rang.

              “Saved by the bell.” Bob said out of the blue. Missy answered it.

              “Hello?”

              “Missy? It’s Dan.”

              “Hi, Dan. What’s up?” Missy asked and sat down on the counter.

              “You’ve been subpoenad to testify at a bail hearing for JJ Grant by the Federal attorneys.” Dan replied.

              “Do I have to appear in court or can we videotape it? I don’t want to appear in court. I don’t want to be in the same area as JJ.” Missy replied.

              “I’ll see what I can do about having your session videotaped. I just wanted to let you know about the subpoena. Bob’s been subpoenad, too. Can we meet tomorrow to discuss?”

              “Around two, okay? I’m working in the morning.” Missy replied.

              “Two sounds good. See you then.” Dan hung up first.

              “What’s wrong?”

              “We’ve been subpoenad to testify in front of a federal judge against JJ.” Missy said.

              “That must mean that they want to get this trial started quickly.” Bob said.

              “That’s good, but I don’t want to testify with him there. It hurts too much.” Missy said and looked away from him.

              “Did you ever go to some type of counseling after the rape?”

              “I had some therapy. After the therapy I had blocked it out.”

              “Did you ever go to group therapy?”

              “Why are you bringing this up?” Missy asked.

              “Because, if it still hurts you seeing him, then maybe you should start your therapy again.” Bob stopped running the hot water for the dishes and looked at Missy. “I mean it. I don’t want you to always be afraid that he’ll come back into our lives again. I don’t want you to be afraid, period.” Bob said.

              “I don’t know.”

              “Just think about it. Okay? For me?” Bob asked.

              “Okay.” Missy got up and helped him clean up the kitchen before they put in Steel Magnolias to watch. Kimberly had let Benji in through the doggie door an hour or so later.

              “Where are the tissues?” Missy asked once the movie was over.

              “Hold on.” Bob said. He needed them too. They weren’t on the table next to them. Bob looked behind the couch and saw that Benji had gotten them and was sleeping on them. “Missy, look at what Benji did.”

              “Benji!” she raised her voice. Benji wagged his tail and looked up at them.

              “A lot of good that did.” Bob said. Missy got up to shoo the dog away and clean up the mess.

              “I’m tired. I think I’m going to turn in.” Missy told Bob a little while later. Bob was going over some memos and reports that Rick dropped off about work earlier in the day.

              “I’ll be up in a little bit. I just want to finish reviewing this report.” Bob told her.

              “Alright. I love you.”

              “I love you, too.” Bob watched her go up the stairs to the loft. “Follow her, Benji.” Bob told the dog. The dog went upstairs as well.

              “No...stop...stop...No!...”

              “Missy. Wake up. It’s just a dream.” Bob said. Missy woke up and immediately reached for the safety of his arms. She had been dreaming of the night that JJ had raped her. She had been perspiring. “You want to talk about it?” he asked her.

              She shook her head no and replied, “Just hold me.”

              “You okay?” Bob asked a little while later. Missy pretended to be asleep. Bob was right. She should go to counseling again. She was afraid to go back because she didn’t want to remember everything that happened that night. She began to cry and so Bob held her a little tighter and a little closer to him. He hated to hear her cry. He hated to see her go through this. But he knew that in time she would tell him everything.

 

              “Missy? Missy?” Bob said when he awoke the next morning. He looked at the clock. It was almost nine. Missy was probably at work. He decided to call her.

              “Odds & Ends.” Missy answered the phone.

              “It’s Bob. You okay?”

              “I’m fine sweetheart. What are you doing today?” she asked.

              “I’m going into work for a few hours and then I’ve got a therapy session.” Bob announced.

              “Really? That’s good.”

              “How long will you be at work today?”

              “Until noon and then I’ve got a group counseling session at the Rape Crisis Center and then a meeting with Dan about JJ’s trial.”

              “You’re going to counseling?”

              “It’s either I go to counseling and learn to live with this or I go on living in fear.”

              “What brought you to this conclusion?”

              “You and the nightmare I had last night.”

              “Well, I’m glad you’re going.”

              “I’m petrified.”

              “It’ll be okay. I love you.”

              “I love you too. I gotta go. A few customers just came in. “ Missy told him before she hung up the phone. Jason, Jr and his girlfriend had come into the store.

              “There you are. How are you.” Jason asked as he hugged Missy over the counter.

              “Much better. How are you?”

              “Pretty good. This here is my girlfriend, Amy.”

              “Nice to meet you, Amy.”

              “Same here. You have a lovely little store.”

              “Thank you. It use to belong to my grandparents. I took over when they retired last year. What do you do?”

              “I’m a private detective.”

              “That must be fascinating work. I’d love to hear more about it.”

              “Well, Amy and I would like to invite you and Bob to dinner next week some time, if that’s okay.” Jason, Jr. jumped in.

              “Thanks for the invitation. Can I have Bob get back to you on that. My next few weeks are pretty hectic and I’m not sure when I’ll have time for Bob, let alone dinner.” Missy said.

              “Sure. Well, we’d better go. We’ll talk later? Okay?” Jason, Jr. asked.

              “Sure.”

 

              “Hi, my name is Melissa Nichols, I have an appointment with Tamara Janice Moreland.” Missy explained to the receptionist when she got to the Crisis center.

              “Please have a seat while I tell her you’re here.” the receptionist said. Missy went and sat down.

              “Missy. It’s been a long time since we last talked.”

              “Seven years. I was sixteen then.”

              “And I was 18. C’mon back to my office. Janey, please take messages for me. Missy and I have a lot of catching up to do.” Ms. Moreland asked the receptionist.

              “Of course.”

              “So you really did it. You became a therapist.” Missy said once they were behind closed doors.

              “Yeah, partly because of you. I hope you don’t mind that I’m your therapist now. I can refer you to someone else.”

              “No, it’s alright. I feel more comfortable now.” Missy insisted.

              “Why’d you leave therapy? You were doing so well?”

              “That I’m not sure of. See, I blocked the rape and JJ out of mind until about a month or so ago and then all of a sudden, he was released on early parole and my younger sister was dating his younger brother. Then I had to tell my fiancee and then JJ kept calling and wanting to see me.”

              “I’ve seen the news and heard the reports. You’ve been through one hell of a time. So why have you come back?”

              “To learn how to get over the fear and the anger and the hurt. At first, I didn’t want to come back at all, but my fiancee and I thought that it was just what I needed after the news conference and then the nightmare last night.”

              “Nightmare?”

              “I remembered the rape so vividly, like it happened yesterday instead of seven years ago. I woke up prespiring and shaky. I couldn’t even talk about it. I ended up crying myself back to sleep because I couldn’t talk to Bob about it. Then I got up early and left the house before he woke up.” Missy had tears running down her cheeks. She grabbed some tissues out of her purse.

              “Why don’t we try some group therapy? You can sit in and observe my group which starts in half an hour. Is that okay with you?”

              Missy looked at her watch. “Let me call my lawyer and reschedule my meeting with him.”

              “Okay. I’m going to run down to the deli on the first floor. I’ll be back in a few minutes. The ladies room is right out this door, make a right and it’s the fourth door down.” Tamara Janice explained.

              “Thanks, TJ.” Missy replied. She called her lawyer.

              “Dan. It’s Missy. I’m going to be at least another hour in this meeting. Are you going to be free at say 3:30?” Missy asked.

              “Sure. Your father should be here by then. Is everything okay?”

              “Everything will be fine, Dan. Thanks. See you at 3:30.” Missy replied and hung up the phone. She looked around TJ Moreland’s office and found a picture of a group of young women sitting on top of a picnic table. Missy saw that she was in that picture but she didn’t remember the picture being taken or most of the women.

              “Excuse me, Tamm...” a male voice said as it’s owner walked into the room. “Oh, I’m sorry. I assumed that TJ Moreland was here.”

              “She’ll be right back. No harm done.”

              “I’m Jase Cauldwell, and you are?” the man asked as he extended his hand.

              “I’m Melissa Nichols. Cauldwell. You wouldn’t be related to Jason Cauldwell and his family, would you?”

              “He’s my uncle. Wait a sec. You’re not Bobby’s fiancee, are you? The one that’s had all the...”

              “Unfortunate problems. Yes, that’s me. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Sorry, but I don’t know much about you.”

              “That’s my fault, really. I haven’t been around much since my parents and younger brother died a few years ago. I’ve been spending alot of my time overseas in England, trying to get the family business up and operating over there.”

              “Jase! You weren’t suppose to be home until later. I see you and Missy are getting reacquainted.”

              “Reacquainted?” Missy looked puzzled.

              “I’ll explain later. Jase, dinner at my parents’ at 7:30. Alright?” TJ walked him to the door.

              “Okay. I’ll meet you there. I have to go fill Michele in on everything. If you need me, call me at her place.”

              “Goodbye...now, Missy. Where were we?” TJ asked. Missy put the picture down.

              “Why did I block out Jase and this picture. I have no recollection of any of these people except for you and me or the scenery.”

              “I don’t know, but I’ll help you find the answers. C’mon, we should be getting to the meeting. Are you ready?” TJ asked, ushering Missy out a door.

            “No, but let’s give it a try.”

to be continued...

Previous     Next

Home