Missy & Bob
Section 9
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.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” Bob asked once they were in the den.
“I’m positive. Just tired. You know I didn’t sleep too well last night and the emotion level today has been real draining.” Missy added.
“Well, I’m going to go down to the house and pack a bag and some groceries. This storm is suppose to snow us in and your mom doesn’t want us and Benji down in the garage by ourselves. I couldn’t argue with her so I agreed to go pack the bag.”
“I can come help.”
“No, just sit on this couch and rest. I’ll come get you when it’s time to eat.” Bob said and kissed his wife before covering her with an afghan and leaving the room.
When Bob brought Benji up about an hour later, Missy was sound asleep with Amanda Lynn sleeping on top of her.
“Hi, Jenn. How are you?”
“I’m fine. What’d you do to your wife though? She’s sound asleep in the den like Amanda Lynn.”
“I wore her out on our honeymoon. She’s still recuperating.” Bob teased. Kim got a towel and towel dried Benji.
“Dinner should be ready in 15 minutes and Kenny and Kevin should be here any minute.” Jenn announced.
“Okay, gives Missy time to wake up.”
“Just put Amanda Lynn in the playpen for me please?”
“Sure, Jenn.” Bob said and went back into the den. He gently picked up Amanda Lynn and put her in the playpen. Andy was curled up in a chair.
“Missy, honey. Wake up. Dinner’s almost ready.” Bob said into her ear before he nibbled on it. Her hand came up and hit him in the face. “Ow.” he said and nibbled again. Missy completely woke up that time.
“Bob?” she asked.
“Yup, time to wake up. How you doin?”
“I’m okay. Where’s Amanda Lynn?” she asked.
“I put her in the playpen. Here, sit up.” Bob said. She did as she was told and he sat down and told her to lean back.
“Do you think our children will be as good as Andy and Amanda Lynn?” Missy asked.
“I hope so. And I hope that they are just as special as you.” Bob replied.
“You think Jessie is special?”
“Just like you. It took alot of love and courage to give your baby up, Missy. And I know that right now you’re hurting alot for her because of the loss of her mother, but she is going to need you now more than ever. That little girl loves you alot and Paul thinks the world of you and the family. Jessie is going to grow up special and loved.” Bob assured her.
“Are you two going to come and eat or what?” Kim came dashing into the room to ask.
“We’ll be right there.” Missy said and went to stand up.
“I don’t wanna go in just yet. Come back down here.” Bob said and pulled her back down and began to kiss her neck.
“You are so bad. There’s a house full of people around.”
“So. What’s a little necking between newlyweds?” he asked. She laughed. They went into the dining room a few minutes later.
“Daddy!” Missy said as soon as she saw him.
“There’s my little girl! Mother said you two were back. Did you have a good time?” he asked.
“Just wonderful, Daddy.” Missy replied. “Hey, where’s Kenny?” she asked.
“Right here.” he said and picked her up from behind. Missy looked knowingly at Bob. “You’re gaining weight, sis. It’s about time.” Kenny noticed. “Welcome home.” he gave her a hug and a kiss on the forehead. “You both have been missed.”
“Thanks, Kenny.” Bob replied.
“Everyone, come sit down and eat.” Mrs. Nichols said.
Andy had woken up and joined them all half way through the meal. Kenny and Kevin began talking about the surgery Kevin had to perform earlier that day. Bob was explaining to Jenn about the honeymoon and Missy, Kim, and Marilyn were talking about AJ.
After supper, Missy went out and stood next to the picture window to watch the snow fall. She wanted to tell her mom about the pregnancy so bad. Kenny came over to her.
“Everything okay sis?” he asked.
“Everything is wonderful, Kenny. Just wonderful.” she assured her brother, “However, I could definitely use another hug.” she said. “I miss our hugs.”
“I miss you. Ever since the car accident last year, we haven’t been as close as we use to be. Promise me that we’ll start our monthly night out again.” Kenny said.
“I can’t. I’m going to be pretty busy.”
“With what?”
“Opening another store and ...oh, I have to tell you something, but you have to swear that you won’t tell another soul.” Missy exclaimed.
“You know I won’t. Tell me.” Kenny asked.
“I’ll also be busy redoing the nursery.” Missy whispered in his ear. She looked at him knowingly.
“How far along?”
“Two months. I’ve know since the rehearsal dinner. I told Bob right after we were pronounced man and wife.” Missy told him.
“Everything’s okay? You’re taking your vitamins and everything.”
“Yup. Dr. Feagel says I’m as health as can be and so is the baby. I know this is going to be hard for you to keep quiet about, but we’re waiting until I’m in the second trimester, just to be on the safe side.”
“I understand. I’m really happy for you. You deserve to be happy, sis. It’s about time some good things happened to you and Bob.”
“Mrs. Andrews died last night. Jessie and Paul are devastated.”
“Oh, god. I’m sorry. I didn’t know.”
“It’s okay. I’m fine now. I got some sleep and plenty of TLC from Bob.”
“Well, we’ll all be here for them when they need us.”
“Thanks. That means alot to me.”
“Hey, what are you two doing?” Bob asked as he joined them next to the picture window.
“Just catching up. Any news on the weather?” Kenny replied.
“Yup, we’re in for a doozy. Looks like a blizzard is going to snow us in. I’m going to go start a path to the garage apartment and a little area for Benji to go to the bathroom in. Just wanted to bring Missy a cup of tea.” Bob stated and handed over the tea.
“Thanks, honey. This will hit the spot before I go clear a path in my room for us for tonight.” Missy said.
“And I think I’ll join you, Bob. It’s got to be pretty cold out there.” Kenny offered.
“What’s my dad doing?”
“He was helping your mom with the dishes. Kim’s on the phone with AJ and Jenn is in the den, preparing the airbed and probably getting Andy to help.” Bob reported.
“Okay, guys. Get going before the wind picks up. I don’t like sleeping with popsicles.” Missy teased.
“Drink your tea. We won’t be long.” Bob said and kissed his wife. Kenny quietly slipped away from them as they continued to kiss. “I love you.” Bob said.
“As I love you.” Missy said and watched him leave.
“What are you doing?” Bob said when he entered her old bedroom an hour later. She had moved alot of the wedding presents into her closet.
“Bed’s all clear. Did you boys have fun?” She coyly asked.
“We sure did. Kim came out and took pictures of us and Benji. The snow is coming down pretty good. We should be snowed in by morning. So, what are you doing?” Bob asked.
“Well, I unpacked our bag and decided to wait until you and I had time together to unwrap these gifts and write thank you cards. Other than that, I’ve been reminiscing about the slumber parties my parents use to let me have. We would get so loud and I would get in so much trouble.” Missy laughed.
“Sounds like you had some good times in here.”
“And some bad times. Especially after the rape. I used to be so afraid that JJ would break into my room and rape me again. For awhile, I slept with Kim in her room.”
“You really remember everything now?”
“Everything. And I will do everything in my power to keep him out of our lives forever.”
“Well, you don’t have to worry about that. He’s in the federal jail system now and probably will be for the next twenty years.”
“Hey you two, we’re playing cards downstairs. Come down and join us.” Jenn suggested.
“As soon as I change out of these clothes. Thanks.” Bob said.
“See you soon.” Jenn said and left.
“Maybe...” Missy said as she jumped up and closed the door.
“Alone for a few minutes!” Bob said and flopped down on the bed.
“This isn’t the way I pictured our married life. Getting snowed in here at my parents. Too bad we didn’t go skiing on our honeymoon, we could’ve been snowed in the entire time.” Missy crawled up beside him on the bed.
“But you had fun in Disneyworld, right.”
“I had the time of my life and it’s all because of you, Bob. You’ve made all my dreams come true. We got married, got pregnant, went to Disneyworld, found out we’re rich, what more can I ask for?” Missy said as she brushed his hair back away from his eyes.
“This baby is meant to be for us, I just know it is.”
“I know, sweetie. I’m going to go down and join the others. You go ahead and collect your thoughts and get out of those wet clothes and come down when you’re ready. I’ll have coffee waiting for you.” Missy told him. She kissed him deeply before leaving him to his thoughts of fatherhood.
“No fair...I’ve never played before!” Kim said as she watched Kenny take her last cookie from her. They were playing poker and she lost. They were playing for cookies. Benji was scratching at the door to go out.
“Alright Benji, hold on. Let me get my stuff on.” Missy said and got up from her comfortable chair.
“Just let him go out, dear, he’ll stick close to the house.” Mrs. Nichols said to her daughter.
“I don’t want to take the chance of him getting lost, ma. We won’t be long.” Missy insisted as she bundled up.
“No, Melissa. I’ll do it. I’ll take the dog out.” Kenny stood up and glared at his sister. She didn’t mess with him. She went into the kitchen to make Bob a cup of coffee. Kenny followed.
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to sound so harsh.” he told her.
“That’s okay. I really didn’t want to go out anyway.” she told him.
“Here you are.” Bob said, coming into the kitchen.
“Yup, being domestic. Made you a cup of coffee.” Missy said and handed him the cup.
“I’ll be back. Keep the pot hot for me, okay?” Kenny asked.
“You bet.” Bob said and waited until Kenny left before turning to her and saying, “okay, what’s wrong?”
“Nothing. I’m just bored and it’s only because of the storm. If we weren’t in the middle of a blizzard, I’d probably be complaining that I have too much to do.” she covered for her and Kenny.
“Come here. I need to hold you in my arms for a minute.” Bob said and put the coffee cup down so that he could hug her and hold her tight. Missy walked right into them and closed her eyes tight. They began to dance to their own music, Missy let Bob lead.
“What’s playing?” Jenn said a few minutes later.
“Keeper of the Stars.” Bob said without missing a beat. Jenn smiled and went back into the living room.
“How long have you two been dancing?” Kim said a short while later. She startled Missy.
“Damn, just when I thought we were all alone.” she stammered.
“I don’t know. Is Kenny back in yet?” Bob replied.
“No. That’s why I came in here. wondering if he came back.” Kim said.
Bob walked over to the kitchen door and opened it while Missy turned on all the outside lights. Kenny was in the middle of the street trying to help someone out of a car.
“Hey dad, c’mon, Kenny needs some help out here.” Bob said and only grabbed his jacket and ran out the door.
“What’s going on?” Kevin asked and followed Bob. Marilyn and Jenn came into the kitchen. Missy and Kim were looking out the bay window.
“What happened?” Marilyn asked.
“Looks like someone flipped their car.” Missy replied. Bob came running back to the house.
“Kenny says that there are two hurt pretty bad and to call for 911.” Bob said when Kim opened the door. Marilyn grabbed for the phone and reported the accident to the operator and told her all she knew.
“Thank you, operator.”
“They’re sending an ambulance out.”
“Here, take these afghans out to them. Kenny and Kevin could use them to try to keep the people warm.” Jenn said as she ran back from the living room with all the afghans that had been lying around.
“Thanks, Jenn.” Bob said and trekked back out to the accident scene. By then, their neighbors - the Thompsons - had gone out to see if they could help.
“Oh my god, it’s Paul Andrews.” Kevin Nichols said to his son as they took Paul out of the car.
“I know dad. These other two people must be his parents.”
“Poppop? Poppop? Help!” came this little voice from the car.
“Jessica? Jessica? It’s Bob. Where are you, sweetie? Can you raise your hand for me?” Bob said as he searched the car for her.
“Kenny, I’ve got Paul. Go help Bob.” Kevin said. “Larry, go get my wife and tell her that we need her help.” Kevin asked his neighbor.
“Jessie, it’s uncle Kenny. Where are you?” Kenny asked from the other side of the car.
“I’m down here. I’m cold.”
“I know, sweetie. Uncle Bobbie and I are going to get you out of there, but you have to be brave for me, okay.”
“What are we going to do?”
“Break the back off of the seat that’s got her pinned to the roof.”
“Kenny, Bob? What is it?” Mrs. Nichols asked.
“It’s the Andrews. Jessie is trapped. Talk to her while we break the seat.” Bob whispered.
“Here mom, over here. You can hold her hand.” Kenny said and helped her over to his side. They finally heard sirens headed their way.
“Jessie, honey. It’s nana. You okay?”
“I think so, nana. Is my daddy and gram and gramps okay?”
“Poppop is looking after them. How about if we sing a song? Okay?”
“Mary had a little lamb...” Jessie began.
“Missy’s going to go beserk when she finds out.” Bob told Kenny as they put all their weight on the back of the seat.
“I know. So wait until we get Jessie out of here.” An ambulance, firetruck, and police truck pulled up. Immediately the paramedics went over to where Kenny and Kevin had placed Paul and his parents. The firemen went over to the car and took over. Mrs. Nichols stayed with them and kept Jessie calm while a firemen crawled in under her to catch her when the seat completely broke away.
“You’d better go tell Missy and start the Landrover. That’s the only auto that is big enough for everyone.” Kenny told Bob before going over to help his father and the paramedics.
“Missy! Missy!” Bob said when he came in the house. She came running from upstairs.
“Here’s some warm clothes.”
“No time. Sit down.” Bob said and pulled out a chair for her. he got down on one knee. Jenn and Kim came into the room.
“What is it? Who was in the car?”
“Honey. It’s the Andrews. Paul, his parents, and Jessie.” he said softly.
“Are they okay?” she whispered, trying to hold back the sobs.
“The adults are in pretty bad shape, Jessie’s trapped against the roof of the car, but she’s alert and talking. Mom is singing with her to keep her calm.”
“How’s Paul? How’s Paul?” Missy asked.
“I don’t know.” Bob looked at Kim. “Kim, I need you to get warm clothes for your parents and Kenny. I’m going to go start the LandRover. Jenn, can you stay with Missy?” he asked.
“Of course.” Jenn said and pulled a chair up next to Missy.
“Missy, Jessie’s okay. Try to calm down. It’s not good for you to be upset.” Bob whispered in her ear. She nodded at his voice. “I’ll be right back.” he said and went back out into the cold.
A half hour later the firemen had Jessie freed from the car and in her grandmother’s arms. Her father and grandparents were on their way to the hospital with Kevin.
“C’mon, Mom. Bob’s got the landrover. We’re going to take Jessie in for a check-up.” Kenny explained.
“Jessie! Jessie!” Missy cried as she ran over to them.
“Hi, Mi.” Jessie said as Marilyn handed Jessie over to Missy.
“Are you okay?” Missy said as she checked for blood and bruises.
“I am but daddy’s hurt. He got to ride in an ambulance. Just like mommy. Is he going away too?” Jessie asked.
“I don’t know honey.” Missy said. Bob drove out of the driveway. Missy, Jessie, Kenny, and Marilyn hopped in and headed for the hospital.
“Jessie what were you doing over next to our house?” Kenny asked as he placed her on a gurney once they got to the hospital.
“The storm was getting bad so daddy said that we would try your house because we were closer to yours’ than ours.” she replied.
“Do you know what caused the car to flip over?” he asked.
“Yeah, a big deer with horns jumped out in front of the car and daddy tried to avoid it. He really did.” Jessie began to cry.
“Baby, it’s gonna be okay.” Missy held her hand.
“I want daddy.”
“I know you do, but the doctors...” Missy’s father came out of the exam room that Paul was in and shook his head. Missy picked up Jessie and backed away from everyone and started crying.
“Missy...honey.” Bob turned around to grab her.
“Mi...what’s wrong? Mi???” Jessie asked. Missy looked for a chair to sit down in. Bob directed her to one.
“Missy...let me have the baby.” her mother said. Jessie went to her.
“What’s going on?” Jessie asked.
“Missy?” Bob said, kneeling next to her.
“She’s lost both of her parents in two days...two days.” Missy cried.
“I want daddy.” Jessie told Marilyn.
“Jessie...honey...” Missy tried to talk to her.
“Mi...what’s wrong?” Jessie asked. Marilyn put her down next to Missy. Missy took her hands. Bob was rubbing Missy’s back.
“Jessie, daddy’s gone to be with mommy. He’s in heaven.” Bob told her.
“Daddy’s not going to get better?” Jessie asked.
“No, baby. He’s not.” Missy said and put Jessie in her lap and let her cry.
“Kevin, what about the grandparents?” Marilyn asked.
“His mother was DOA and his father is in a coma. We don’t think he’s going to make it either.” Kevin explained.
“Oh, god. Bob...Benji’s still outside. He never came home.” Missy said all of a sudden.
“Kenny? What happened to Benji?” Bob asked once he got over to where Kenny was standing, writing in Jessie’s chart.
“Kim got him.”
“What’s going on over here?” Missy asked as she slipped, Bob caught her before she completely fell. “Thanks. I’m okay.”
“We’re going to head on home. We’re all drained.” Bob said.
“What about my father?” Missy asked.
“Dad is going to stay on and keep an eye on Mr. Andrews.” Kenny answered her.
“Well...okay, I guess we should go home then.” Missy said and turned and went back over to her mom.
“Dad, we’re going to take the girls home. I had to leave a message for Paul’s sister-in-law to call me back.” Kenny told his father.
“Okay, son. Missy looks really pale. Make sure she eats something before she goes to bed.” He said to Bob.
“Jenn, they’re back.” Kim said as she looked out the window. Jenn had decided to make some sandwhiches for when everyone returned. “Wait...they’re stopping at the apartment. Bob’s carrying Jessie into the apartment.”
“We don’t need a play by play. Go get some towels and blankets to warm Kenny and your mom up.” Jenn ordered.
“She’s sound asleep.” Bob said when he came downstairs. Missy sat at the window looking out onto the street. Bob put his arms around her. She began to cry. On their way home, her father had called the car phone and told Kenny that Grandpa Andrews had just died. “We’ll take care of Jessie. You and me. I promise.” He said when she began to calm down.
“Mommy! Mommy!” Jessie screamed. Missy ran to the spare room.
“Sssh, baby. Everything’s going to be okay. Mi’s here.” Missy said and rocked Jessie back to sleep. Bob came in a short time later.
“C’mon. I made you some soup before bed.” Bob took her hand and led her down to the kitchen table. Missy ate the soup and helped clean up with barely saying a word. There was a knock on the door. It was Kenny.
“You guys okay down here?” he asked when Bob let him in.
“Yeah. We were just about to go to bed. Where are you headed?”
“I just came out to check on you three. Mom was worried when you didn’t answer the phone.”
“I’m sorry. I turned off the ringer. Didn’t hear the answering machine come on.”
“It’s okay. Call if you need anything.” Kenny said. “Missy? Are you okay?” he went over to her.
“I’ll be okay. Thanks for all your efforts tonight.” Missy said and hugged him.
“C’mon, Missy. Time for bed.” Bob said.
“Goodnight, guys.” Kenny said and left the apartment.
Missy slept late into the morning while Bob fed and played with Jessie. He was going to take Jessie up to the house, but couldn’t get the door open. They were literally snowed in. Bob had talked to Kenny and Kenny was going to come out and shovel the snow away from the door.
“Bob...Bob...Mi’s sick.” Jessie said a few minutes later when Bob was looking for a shovel.
“Jessie, stay down here for a minute...Miss...” Bob said and ran up to the bathroom, “Honey, are you okay?” he asked.
“Morning sickness, dear. One of the blessings of being pregnant.” Missy replied. Bob wet a wash cloth and handed it to her. “Thanks.
“I’m going to take Jessie up to the house once Kenny clears the door for us. Then I’ll come back for you.”
“Honey, where’s Benji?” Missy asked. Bob sat down next to her.
“Up at the house with your family.”
“Can I get you anything?”
“No...I’ll be down in a minute.” Missy said and went into their bedroom. Bob went downstairs and made some lunch for Jessie. Missy came down shortly thereafter.
“You okay, Mi?” Jessie asked.
“I’m fine, sweetie. How about you?”
“I’m okay.” Jessie said.
“Did Kenny start shoveling yet?”
“I just got off the phone with him. We’re going to have to climb out. There’s at least a foot of ice. Your parents want us up at the house with them until this blizzard blows over.”
“I can’t go up there. I can’t. They’ll all catch on. Just take Jessie up. We’ve got plenty of food, firewood, and stuff to do down here.” Missy pleaded with him.
“Your father and brother are doctors, Miss...”
“What? Are you afraid something could happen?” Missy asked.
“Jessie, could you go on upstairs and watch tv in our room? The remote is next to the tv.” Bob asked. Jessie took her lunch up to the bedroom.
“Yes, I am. I know that Dr. Feagel said that you and the baby are as fit and healthy as any other, but I’m worried about you. You didn’t sleep well last night either. You can’t hold anything down. And do you really think that Kenny’s going to let us stay down here with everything that happened the last two days. He’s just as worried as I am. I know he knows we’re going to have a baby. He told me last night at the hospital.” Bob said.
“I’m sorry. I had to tell someone.”
“It’s okay, I told Rick the day we called home while on vacation.” Bob said.
“We’re going to have to tell everyone we’re pregnant if we’re going up there then. As long as you understand that I don’t want to be pampered. That I’m fine and that my mom and dad are going to be hovering over me.” Missy said to him.
“Like they don’t do that already?” he teased, “Everything will be okay.” Bob told her.
“Well then. I’d better go pack some more clothes for us.” Missy replied.
“No...you sit here and eat some of this toast and drink this milk. I’ll go pack.” Bob replied, he turned to look back at her, “Kenny said it would help settle your stomach.” he added. Missy didn’t argue.
“All bundled up and ready to go?” Bob asked Missy an hour later. Kevin and Kenny had dug as far down as they could and were waiting for Missy. Jessie was already out and on her way up to the house.
“I guess.”
“Okay, dad. Be careful.” Bob said as he lifted Missy up to her brother and father. Kenny didn’t let go until he was sure she was steady.
“Okay, Bob. Your turn.” Kevin said and reached for Bob’s hand. Bob jumped up and out after tying a string to the doorknob to shut the door behind him.
“Mom, dad...We’re pregnant.” Missy told her parents after everyone was in the house and sitting around the kitchen table.
“So soon?” her mother asked.
“Dr. Feagel had said there was no reason not to go ahead and try.”
“How long have you know?” her father asked.
“Since the night of the rehearsal dinner.”
“What’s Dr. Feagel say now?” her father asked. Both his pager and Kevin’s pager went off. It was the hospital.
“It’s the hospital, dad. We gotta go.” Kenny said.
“Bob, take good care of the family?” Kevin asked.
“You bet.” Bob said.
“I’m going to go take a nap.” Missy said and quickly exited the room.
“Drive safe, okay? And call us once in a while.” Marilyn told her husband and son.
“Missy? You okay?” Kenny had run after her.
“Yeah, tired’s all. Be careful out there. I can’t handle another accidental death right now.” Missy replied from the bottom of the stairs.
“You know Jenn and I are happy for you.”
“I know, thanks. You’d better get going. The hospital needs you.” Missy gave him a hug.
“And you’d better get some sleep. You’re sleeping for two now.” he gently teased her.
“I’m going...I’m going...” Missy said and walked up to her room.
After Kenny and Kevin had left, Bob went out and shoveled the path some more. Snow was still coming down at a steady pace.
“Missy, come on...you need to eat something...wake up.” Jenn said a few hours later. She had brought a tray of food up with her.
“I’m not hungry.” Missy said. She hadn’t gotten much of a nap.
“Eat anyway...come on.” Jenn nudged her.
“Just so I can throw it up again? No thanks.”
“You’re that nauseous? Wow! I was never that nauseous.” Jenn commented.
“Gee, thanks. Makes me feel so much better.” Missy snickered and sat up. “Don’t go. Stay with me?”
“You look great.” Jenn said as she sat down at the end of the bed.
“No, you’re the one who looks great. You already have your figure back. I’m going to blow up like a balloon.” Missy said as she poked at the salad.
“Nah...you’ll look great. All pregnant women do. I overheard your parents talking this morning. They’re going to seek custody of Jessie if you don’t.” Jenn turned serious.
“Her parents aren’t even buried yet and my mom wants custody!”
“Your mom doesn’t want Jessie traumatized anymore. Besides, a lawyer has called here this morning wanting to talk to you. I think it was the Andrews’ lawyer.”
“What’s my mom doing now?”
“Reading to Andy in her room.”
“Where’s Bob?”
“He and Kim are outside shoveling the driveway.” Jenn said.
“Jenn, thanks for the lunch, I just can’t eat it right now.” Missy said and put the salad back on the tray and got out of bed. As she was walking out of her room, her mom came walking out of hers.
“Missy, we need to talk. It’s about Jessie.”
“There’s nothing to talk about until after the reading of her parents’ will.” Missy said.
“Where is she going to stay?” her mother asked.
“I need to talk to Bob, mom. After I talk with him, I’ll have your answer.” Missy replied and went down to the kitchen door. She couldn’t see Kim or Bob. “Bob! Bob!” she yelled. Bob came running.
“You okay?” he asked almost out of breath.
“I’m fine. How long have you been out here?”
“Since Kenny and dad left.”
“That was nearly three hours ago. It’s time to come in, Bob. Kim! Let’s go. Time to come in.” Missy stated.
“I’ll make some hot chocolate.” Mrs. Nichols replied and went to work in the kitchen. Missy grabbed some towels from a basket next to the door and handed both of them towels as they walked in.
“Thanks, honey. Did you get some sleep?” he asked.
“A little. We need to talk when you get warm and dry, okay?” Missy asked.
“Sure.”
“Alone.” she added.
“Meet you in your old room?” Bob suggested.
“Okay.” Missy replied and handed him another towel, kissed him, and went up to her room.
“Okay, what’s up?” Bob said when he came into the room fifteen minutes later.
“I want Jessie to live with us.” Missy said.
“Are you sure about this?” Bob asked and sat down. Missy nodded.
“I don’t want her going into a foster home. She’s my daughter and your step-daughter. This means you’re an instant daddy.” she told him.
“Honey, I want her to be with us too, but what about her mother’s sister?”
“I don’t know yet. She hasn’t even called and asked about Jessie. She didn’t even page Kenny back when she got the message about Paul. I want Jessie to be a part of our family day to day, not as a holiday member.” Missy told him.
“If that’s what you want.”
“I just want to know if it’s what you want too.” Missy said.
“I adore that little girl and love her and will love her as if she were my own. I want her with us too.” Bob stated matter-of-factly.
“Instant parenthood for us.” Missy said.
“Like we weren’t gonna be in a few months anyway? I guess we’re going to have to move into your grandparents’ house now, huh.”
“Do you want to?”
“Jessie needs space and we’re going to need a room for the baby. I say we should.” Bob said.
“You think?” Missy didn’t want to leave the apartment.
“I know we should. And I know that you think it’s a good idea too.” Bob said.
“We’ll be closer to your parents and the hospital and the state college.” Missy noted.
“And with Kim getting her driver’s license, you’ll see her all the time. And your mom too.”
“We’re going to have to start planning the move now, then. It would be easier on Jessie.”
“So we’ll move then?”
“Yeah, we’ll move. We’re going to have to give notice to the current tenants. I’ll get daddy to talk to the lawyer about that.”
“...so you understand, mom, that we’re going to do this?” Missy asked that night at dinner.
“I’m glad you are and I’m glad that you both want to live in the house.” her mother had tears in her eyes.
“You’re not mad that we’re moving across town?”
“I’m upset that you’re moving out again, but we’ll see each other often.”
“Do you remember the video you two made for us to view before our honeymoon?” Bob asked.
“Yeah.”
“We’ll we’ve decided to follow you’re advice. I’m going back to school and Missy’s going to look into opening a store with Kerri overseeing the day to day running of both stores.” Bob said.
“When did you two decide this?”
“Well, we talked about it while we were on our honeymoon and finally decided to do it today. We also wanted to see if maybe our mothers wouldn’t mind spoiling our children on occasion for several hours a day if need be.” Missy said.
“You know I’d love to help out in any way and I’m sure Jenn will to.”
“Mom, I also want pay for the Andrews’ funeral expenses as well as his parents.”
“Daddy already made arrangements. He talked with Paul’s uncle last night and they said thank you but that everything was already paid for but said that donations can be made to the National Adoption Agency on behalf of Paul and Anna, as well as Paul’s parents.”
“Then we’ll do that.”
“And Mark Andrews said that it was Paul and Anna’s wish that Jessie and Missy be reunited permanently upon their deaths.” Kevin said as he came in.
“Dad, hi! When did you talk to him?”
“He’s their lawyer. He came in today. We had a long talk. After the funeral, the reading of the will will take place at our lawyer’s office and you, Bob, your mother, and I are to be there.”
“When?”
“Wednesday.”
“Honey, you hungry?”
“Yeah, Kenny’ll be in in a minute too, I’m gonna go wash up.” Mr. Nichols left the room.
“We’re a family?” Jessie asked from the dining room entrance.
“Jessica, how much did you hear?” Missy asked.
“All of it. Andy and I were playing in the dining room.” Jessie replied.
“Honey, Bob and I want you to live with us. We want to be a part of your family and for you to be a part of ours, we’ll find out for sure next week what’s going on.” Missy explained.
“So, you’re going to be my mommy again?”
“Is that okay?”
“Yeah, I love you. I’m glad you’re my other mommy. I was lucky, God gave me two mommies, right nana.” Jessie said.
“Right, sweetie. Go wash up for some ice cream.” Marilyn told her grand daughter. Jessie ran out of the room.
“I’m a mom.” Missy said and giggled.
“Hard to believe, isn’t it?” her mother asked.
“I’m going to go help Kenny.” Bob said and excused himself.
Mrs. Nichols placed a cup of tea in front of her daughter.
“Mom, I’m a mom.” Missy said in disbelief.
“Yeah, my little girl’s a mom and you’re doing just fine.” Mrs. Nichols said.
“Bob’s a dad. Oh, man, this is all hard to believe.” Missy looked at her mother.
“Your father and I felt the same way after we had Kenny. It’s a breeze, but, we’re here to help you both and guide you. Jessie’s a smart little girl. You should be very proud of her.”
“I am and I’m very thankful for her too.” Missy said.
“Okay, mother, I’m ready” Kevin Nichols sat down at the table to eat.
“I’m going back up to lay down. Please tell Bob where I’ve gone.” Missy said to her mom and kissed both her parents before going back upstairs.
“She’s sleeping too much.”
“Dr. Feagel says to let her sleep whenever she can. The less worrying Missy does the better. The less stress, the better. Understand?” Kevin told his wife.
“Completely. I think they’re going to be moving into the house to give Jessie more room to roam.”
“That’s fine. Then we can use the garage as a guest house or until Kim graduates from school and let her live there during the summer. Give her a feeling of independence.”
“Talking about me again, dad?” Kim asked as she came into the kitchen.
“When don’t we. Hey, thanks for helping Bob shovel today. I appreciate it.” her father said and handed her some money.
“Dad, I didn’t do it for the money.”
“I know you didn’t, but since I refuse to let you get a job, some money now and then doesn’t hurt.”
“Thanks dad.” Kim said and gave him a kiss.
“Now get outta here so I can finish my dinner.”
“Oh, I came in here for some crackers and tea for Missy. She’s feeling nauseous again.” Kim looked at her mom.
“Oh, okay. I’ll bring it right up.”
“Missy’s going to be okay, isn’t she. She’s so sick.”
“Missy’s pregnant, Kimmy. Nothing seven months won’t cure. Go call AJ and see how he and his grandparents are holding up in this storm. Ask him if there’s anything that they need. Kenny and I will go get it.” her father said.
“Okay daddy. Thanks.” Kim left the kitchen. Bob and Kenny came in.
“Just heard the weather report. Blizzard like conditions again tonight, dad. And the plows are working on the roadway now.” Kenny said and sat down.
“Bob, sit. I’ve made plenty of coffee to warm you up.” Marilyn Nichols said.
“Where’s Missy?”
“Laying down, she’s feeling nauseous again.” Kevin said.
“I’d better go check on her.” Bob said and went to get up.
“No, you said yourself that she’s been tossing and turning since you guys got back. She needs all the sleep she can get. She’s realizing that she’s a mom of a six-year old with another baby on the way. With her medical history, the more sleep and less stress, the better. Understand?” Kevin asked.
“Yeah.”
“Good. As soon as her tea is ready, you can take up a tray to her. Now, get warm. It’s going to be another long night.” Kevin said, trying not to smile.
“Bob, you’re suppose to stand up to the man instead of letting him tell you what to do.” Kenny teased.
“Nah, he’s right. Missy needs sleep and I need coffee.” Bob said.
“Thanks for shoveling today, Bob. I appreciate it.” Mr. Nichols said.
“You’re welcome. Kim and I had fun doing it.” Bob said as Jessie came into the room.
“Where’s Mi?” Jessie asked.
“Laying down. What’s the matter?” Bob asked.
“Nothing. I just wanted to give her a hug.” Jessie replied.
“Will I do?” Bob asked and held out his arms.
“Yeah.” Jessie said and jumped into his lap.
“Missy, here’s your tea.” Bob said when he opened the bedroom door. She was sleeping. “Missy...wake up.” Bob said. She didn’t budge. She was in a deep sleep.
“Is she sleeping?” Jenn poked her head in the room.
“Deeply...let’s not wake her.” Bob said and set the tray on the nightstand before leaving.
“How’s it feel being an instant dad?” Jenn asked out in the hallway.
“I don’t know yet. I knew I could handle being responsible for two people, but four? I’m not sure yet.”
“You’ll do fine.” Jenn assured him.
Kenny and Kevin had both gone back to the hospital after taking short naps and Bob had gone to check on Missy. She was looking out the window.
“Hi, sweetie.” Bob said when he opened the door.
“Hi, hon.” Missy said.
“What’s wrong?” Bob asked.
“Nothing, I was just looking at how beautiful everything looks with the snow and ice on it.” she commented.
“It is beautiful out there. Let’s go out for a little while and have some fun. Jessie’s in bed for the evening.”
“Oh gosh! What time is it?” Missy said.
“Almost nine. So you wanna go out and play?” Bob asked.
“Sure. Why not. I’m going to go check on Jessie and then I’ll be down.” Missy told her husband.
That Wednesday, after the funeral...
“Missy and Bob, I just need your signatures on these documents and then you are officially Jessica’s new guardians.” The Andrews’ lawyer said after the reading of the will. Missy looked at Bob.
“Welcome to parenthood.” Missy said as she signed the documents.
“Thank you all for coming. Please take care of yourselves and god bless.” The Nichols’ lawyer said once the documents were signed.
“It’s official, she’s my daughter again?” Missy asked the lawyer.
“Yes, Melissa. She belongs with you and Bob.” the lawyer said. Missy started crying.
“Let’s give Bob and Missy some time alone.” Mr. Nichols suggested and everyone left the room. Bob and Missy both cried.
“You scared?” Bob asked.
“Petrified.” Missy replied when she calmed down.
“Me too.”
“C’mon, let’s go get our daughter.” Missy said. They walked out hand in hand.
“Mom...where’d you put the curtains for the kitchen?” Missy asked. It was early April and they were moving into the house Missy inherited when she got married. Bob was at school and Jenn and both moms were helping Missy unpack the house. Adam, Amanda, and Jessie were napping.
“I think I left them in the car. Let me go check. Jenn? Have you seen the kitchen curtains?” Mrs. Nichols asked as she passed Jenn shaking a rug on the porch.
“Backseat of my car, ma.” Jenn said as she finished arranging a bowl of flowers in the hallway.
“You know, we’ve gotten alot done these past few days.” Mrs. Townsend said as she came downstairs.
“The kids still sleeping?” Missy said as she came into the foyer from the living room.
“Soundly. I finished the bathroom and hallway closets. Now what?”
“Lunch on the porch. I think it’s warm enough.” Missy said with a smile.
“You okay? You look tired.” Jenn noted.
“I’m tired. I think this is it for today. Why don’t we just relax for the rest of the day? We have gotten alot done.” Missy said. Her mom came back into the house.
“What? Ya’ll quit for the day?” she asked.
“Time for lunch mom. Who wants to go wake Jessie and Adam?” Missy said.
“I’ll do it. Jenn, would you hang these curtains in the kitchen for Missy?” Mrs. Nichols asked.
“And I’ll make some fresh ice tea.” Mrs. Townsend suggested.
“Hi, mom. Can I help?” Jessie said a few minutes later as she came into the room.
“Hi, sweetie. Here, have a seat.” Missy pointed to the stool next to her at the counter.
“What are you doing?”
“I’m cutting up some fruit. Here, have a piece of cantelope.” Missy handed her I bite-size piece.
“That’s good.”
“Thanks...how do you like your room?”
“It’s great! My other mom and dad would be very happy that I got to keep everything from my old room.”
“I know they would. Do you want Kool-aid or milk with your lunch?” she asked.
“Milk.”
“Okay, can you take this out to the picnic table on the front porch where grammy T is setting the table?” Missy handed her the bowl of cantelope. Jessie’s face lit up.
“Sure.”
“Missy, you are so wonderful with her.” Jenn had sat on the kitchen counter behind them after she hung the last of the curtains and watched mother and daughter talk.
“Thanks, I’ve had some great teachers.” Missy said.
“Doesn’t it bother you the way she refers to the Andrews like that?”
“No. I’m glad she still does. They were her parents for 6 years. I don’t want her to forget them.” Missy said. Jenn washed her hands.
“Oh, AJ said that you gave his parents visitation rights?”
“Yes, I did. It’s only right that she knows who her paternal family is. Even though her biological father will have no rights to her, AJ and the rest of the family shouldn’t suffer.”
“When did you and Bob decide this?”
“We’ve been talking for a month or so now about it and I can’t blame AJ and his parents for JJ’s actions. When Jessie is old enough to understand, Bob and I will tell her how she came about. All she knows right now is that I love her very much and when I gave her away it was because I couldn’t take care of her then and that I wanted her to be happy. She also knows that her birth father is a bad man and is in jail. There, I do believe lunch is ready. Thanks, Jenn. For helping with the house and your support. Kenny is really lucky to have you.”
“Thank you for being a sister to me. Being the only girl in my family, it was rough.”
“You have fun shopping with gramma,`kay?” Missy said as she helped Jessie put a sweater on after lunch
“You gonna be okay all by yourself?”
“Yup. I’m gonna take a bath and then a nap. Daddy will pick you up at gramma’s after he gets done from school.”
“Okay, I’ll have fun with gramma. You have fun too. I love you.”
“I love you too, sweetie. Be good.”
“You ready, Jessie?” Mrs. Nichols asked.
“Thanks mom.” Missy gave her mom a hug.
“No problem, gives me a chance to spoil her and gives you a break. Get some rest. We’ll see you tomorrow.” Mrs. Nichols told her daughter.
“C’mon, gramma.” Jessie tugged at her grandmother’s hand. Missy watched from the porch as her mother and her daughter left for the afternoon. Jenn and her kids and her mother-in-law had left after they finished cleaning up after lunch so Missy now had her new home to herself. She made sure the front and back doors were locked before going upstairs to draw herself a bath. Bob knew she like to take long baths so he had gone out and bought a TV specifically for the bathroom and connected it up in the corner opposite the tub so that she could watch tv while she took her long baths. She turned on one of the soaps and called his voice mail.
“Hi, honey. Jessie is with my mom for the afternoon, could you pick her up after school? I’m gonna take a bath and then a nap. Your son is kicking up a storm today. We love you. See you later.” Missy layed back in the tub for an hour and just relaxed and thought about how quickly they were able to move into the house. The previous tenants had called Missy’s realtor and told her that they were going to move out at the end of February because the husband was being transferred and if it was okay to break the lease. When Missy heard she said that it was no problem and asked the realtor to put in the credit file that the break was a mutual agreement because of job transfer and that they were excellent tenants. Then Missy and Bob went over to see the inside of the house while the other tenants were still there. Missy noticed how immaculate the house was and how new everything looked and had the realtor give them back their security deposit and an extra five hundred dollars thanking them for keeping the house in great shape. Missy had dried off and put on some sweats, had another glass of milk and sang to the baby before laying down for a nap. She left the radio on the country station low and made sure the answering machine was on.
“Missy? I’m home.” Bob said as he closed the door behind him. He had a feeling she was still asleep since the back door was locked when he got home. He put the take out food he bought in the microwave and quietly went upstairs to their room. He stood in the doorway and watched her sleep for a few minutes before slipping in beside her to give her a hug. “Hi, honey. I’m home.” he said as he kissed her neck and made his way to her ear to nibble on it and then to her lips.
“Mmmm, I hope my husband doesn’t come home to find you here.” she said as she kissed him back.
“I am your husband.” he whispered back before kissing her passionately.
“Where’s Jess?” she asked as she pushed up his shirt for him to take off.
“Sleepover at your mom’s with Andy and Amanda. Your mom insisted.” He said as they got more passionate and he undid her ponytail.
“All night?” Missy asked as she unzipped his pants.
“All night...” he replied as he took off her sweatshirt for her and began to kiss her neck and make his way down to her breasts. She moaned. They proceeded to make love all night long, taking little cat naps here and there to replenish their energy.
Missy awoke the next morning before he did and quietly went downstairs to make breakfast. It was Saturday, he didn’t have school, and Jessie was at her mom’s. She checked the answering machine.
“Hi, kids. Mom and I are taking Jessie, Andy, and Amanda to the zoo this morning. We’ll be over after lunch. Fair warning. Any questions, give us a call on the cell phone. Kim said she’ll be over around 11.” Missy’s father said in his message. Missy looked at the clock on the Microwave. 9:28. Missy started the coffee for Bob. The next message was from Kerri.
“Hey guys. I’ll be able to come over after lunch. Miss...we gotta talk about the new store when I get there. Rick will be over as soon as he can. I’ll talk to ya soon.” Missy laughed. Kerri was just as excited about the new store as she was and Missy loved all her ideas. The next message was from Dr. Feagel.
“Hello, Missy. Your test results came in and everything is fine. Don’t forget your ultrasound on Tuesday at 1:30. And don’t forget to take your vitamins.” That was the end of the messages. Bob came into the kitchen.
“Honey...I thought you were sleeping.” Missy told him.
“Couldn’t sleep after got up. Last night was wonderful. You and the baby okay?” he asked as he kissed her.
“Yeah, we were going to make you some breakfast. What are you hungry for?”]
“Just some toast. My father and Jason will be over around ten and then we’re going to work on putting the rec room together. The kitchen looks great.” he said. He opened the back door to let some fresh air in.
“Okay...but I would think that you’d be starving after last night.”
“I am, but not for breakfast food.” He replied and kissed her again.
“Later, Robert. Dr. Feagel called. The baby and I are just fine. We also have the ultrasound scheduled for Tuesday at 1:30. Can you make the appointment?” Missy asked.
“Wouldn’t miss it and I’m really glad you both are just fine. You know, you ladies got alot done yesterday.” Bob said as he looked around the room and walked through the dining room into the livingroom. “What a difference from yesterday morning. Pictures are up. Furniture’s arranged, you didn’t do that did you?” he asked. She shook her head.
“Your mom and Jenn did.”
“So what are you going to do today?”
“Set up the computer room until everyone gets here. And then, I thought I’d spend the afternoon giving Jessie all the attention she can handle while keeping you guys satisfied with plenty of food and drink.” Missy replied as she put some bread in the toaster for him.
"Sounds like a fun day. How about just you, me, and Jessie going to the park for a picnic tomorrow afternoon. Just the three of us and soon to be fourth." Bob asked as he hugged her from behind.
"Now that sounds perfect, provided it doesn't rain like it's been threatening to do." Missy said.
"Cool. I'll make sure that the coolers and the picnic basket are cleaned out. I'm going to run upstairs and throw on some real clothes before JR and dad show up. I'll be right back."
A few months later...
"False labor, mom." Missy said over the phone as Bob and she drove home from the hospital.
"How can it be false labor if you're four centimeters dialated."
"I know, ma. Dr. Feagel said for us to go home and wait. The baby's not due until Saturday anyway. How's Jessie?"
"Her cold's better and the fever is completely gone. She misses you both very much. I'm going to let her go back to school tomorrow if that's okay."
"Aw, we miss her too. And that's fine. Have her call us when she wakes up?"
"Okay, and you take it easy now. No lifting or anything. Anna said she can be there in a heartbeat if either of you need her and if you want, I can come over as soon as Kimmy gets home from school."
"No, ma. We're okay. I'm just going to go back to bed. And Bobbie's got some school work to do. I'll talk to you later. Love you."
"Love you too."
"Your mom disappointed?"
"I think so. I think she just wants another child to spoil." Missy laughed.
"I just hate this waiting. At least we were prepared for this." Bob laughed.
"You were so funny, the way you panicked and almost forgot me. Let's hope you don't do it when it's the real thing." Missy teased.
to be continued...
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