Sabrina came downstairs carrying a bag in one hand and a package in the other.
Kelly opened the door for her.
"Thanks," Sabrina said after she got inside. She handed the package to Kelly as Bosley pulled out of his parking space and started driving.
"Already?" Kelly asked in surprise, opening it.
Sabrina nodded. "I think they came out pretty good."
Kelly looked the pictures over. "Pretty good? They're terrific!"
"Thanks."
Kelly passed the pictures over to Kris and Bosley for inspection. "How much do I owe you?"
"Two dollars," Sabrina answered.
"That's all?"
"For now. After I get really good I'll start charging for labor as well as materials."
"Did you develop these yourself?" Bosley asked curiously.
She nodded. "You like them?"
"Very good," he commented. "I would have thought they were done by a professional."
She smiled, pleased by the compliment.
"Can you make reprints as well as enlargements?" Kris asked.
"Sure," she replied. "That's no problem. I'll do your developing for you if you want. I'll only charge you for the use of the equipment. Besides, I need the practice."
"No, you don't," Kelly contradicted. "These are great."
"You know what they say," Sabrina responded. "Practice makes perfect."
"Well," Bosley stated, "Maybe I'll start taking pictures for you to develop."
"Thanks a lot," Sabrina said, rolling her eyes.
Everyone laughed.
"Where are we going, anyway?" Kris asked.
"Kern River," Bosley answered. "Does anyone need to make any stops before we get on the freeway?"
They all shook their heads.
"What did you bring?" Kris asked.
"You'll have to wait until we get there to find out," he said mysteriously.
"And they probably have about a million calories apiece," Kelly added ruefully.
"Maybe we'll see Charlie there," Kris said hopefully.
"Fat chance," Sabrina replied. "He'll be at least 50 miles away. Right, Bos?"
"I wouldn't say 50 miles," he corrected. After a few seconds, "25, maybe."
"See?" Kelly complained.
"A girl can hope, can't she?" Kris asked.
Bosley decided to change the subject. "Do you take pictures as well as develop them, Bri?"
"Talk about changing the subject," Kelly stated.
"That was the original topic to begin with," he countered.
"Yes, I do," Sabrina answered.
"Of what?" Kris asked, fascinated.
"Oh, anything and everything. I try to go to a different place each time I go out. A supermarket, the zoo, a bank -- "
"Do people mind getting their pictures taken?" Kelly asked, intrigued.
"Well," Sabrina answered carefully, "I don't go up and ask them if it's all right. I stand about a half block away and use a telephoto lens. I like it better that way. It's more natural."
"Don't they realize you're taking their pictures?" Kris asked.
"Nobody's said anything so far," she remarked. "I have a feeling that they think I'm a freelance photographer for some newspaper or something and their picture will end up in it."
"Like the enquiring photographer?" Bosley asked.
"Exactly," Sabrina affirmed.
"Have you tried selling any yet?" Kelly asked.
"Not yet."
"Why not?" Bosley asked in amazement.
"I wanted to get a little better before I tried anything like that," she admitted modestly.
"You can't get much better than this," he objected. "These are fantastic! I'm sure you'd have no problem."
"Bosley," Kris said, "stop it. You're embarrassing her."
"Am I?" He asked.
"You are," Sabrina agreed, "but go on."
Everyone laughed.
Two men were searching Sabrina's apartment.
"It's got to be here someplace," James stated furiously.
"Look, why don't we just forget it?" Jack asked, looking around nervously. "She doesn't even know who we are."
"When our pictures are in the paper she'll know," James countered. "Keep looking. It's got to be here somewhere."
Later that afternoon Bosley and Sabrina were in front of her apartment building. They had already dropped off Kris and Kelly.
"Did you have a good time?" He asked warmly.
"Yes, I did. How about you?"
He nodded.
"I'm glad Kris brought her camera. Now I have more pictures to develop."
"Don't you have enough to do?"
"Nope," she said wryly, smiling. Her canvas bag has been lying on the floor by her feet. She picked it up, not realizing that her camera had slipped out. "I need the practice." She opened the car door. "Thanks again for the picnic." She got out, closing the door behind her.
"Bye," he called out, watching her go in the front door. Once she was inside he pulled away from the curb and drove off. He had gotten about a half mile away when he spied the camera on the floor. He turned the car back around.
She reached her apartment door. She put the key in the lock and entered. Once inside someone came up from behind her and put a chloroformed rag over her mouth.
She struggled fiercely but the fumes got to her and knocked her unconscious.
He still held her for a few more seconds, making sure she wasn't faking. After she made no movements he let her drop to the floor.
"Search her," James instructed sharply, going through her purse.
Jack started going through her pockets. "There's nothing here," he said anxiously.
"It's got to be there. It's not in her bag."
There was a knock at the door.
Both men froze, looking at each other.
"Bri," Bosley's voice called from the other side, "you okay in there?"
"Out the window," Jack whispered fearfully.
They both hurried to the window and climbed onto the fire escape. The chloroformed rag slipped out of James' pocket in his rush.
"Bri," Bosley called again, more loudly this time. "Open the door." He tried the door knob and found it unlocked. He went inside cautiously and saw her unconscious on the floor. At first he thought she'd passed out, then seeing the disarray feared she was knocked out. He went over to the opened window and saw a car drive off. He found the rag on the floor, picked it up, and held it under his nose for a quick sniff. "Chloroform," he remarked. He then went back to the bag at Sabrina's side and took her keys. He locked all the windows, picked her up, and carried her to his car, locking her front door behind him.
When Sabrina awoke she was in Bosley's apartment lying on his couch. She saw him sitting on a chair across from her. "What happened?" She asked softly. She tried to sit up and got very dizzy. She put a hand to her forehead, sighed, and collapsed heavily back against the cushions. "Where am I?"
"My apartment," he answered. "You were chloroformed, remember?"
"Oh, yeah," she said, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath.
"How are you feeling?"
"Okay, I guess. A little dizzy."
"That'll pass. They used too much chloroform. What happened?"
"I don't know. I opened the door," she paused thoughtfully. "The next thing I know I'm on your couch. How'd you find me, anyway?"
He got up and went over to the bar. "You forgot your camera so I came back to give it to you." He mixed her a drink and brought it over to her. He sat next to her on the couch and helped her sit up. "I knocked, got no answer, and got worried. Your door was unlocked. I found you on the floor." He handed her the drink. "Your apartment's a mess."
She took a deep swallow, closed her eyes and sighed appreciatively. "Oh, I needed that."
"Anyway, I locked up your apartment and brought you here."
"How long have I been out?"
"About five hours."
Her eyes opened wide in surprise.
"Do you have any idea what they wanted?"
She shook her head. "How do you know there was more than one person?"
"Common sense. Did you see what they looked like?"
"No. They got me from behind." She finished her drink and put the empty glass on the table. She tried to stand up and found that the room was spinning. She closed her eyes tightly until the room stayed stationary.
"Sit for a while," he said reassuringly. "Where did you think you were going?"
"Home. I have an apartment to straighten up."
"I don't like you going there alone at this hour. I'll make you a deal: you spend the night here and tomorrow I'll go back with you and help you clean up. Okay?"
"Fair enough." She didn't feel up to doing any major cleanup, suddenly feeling exhausted.
"Good. You can take the bedroom and I'll take the couch."
"I don't think I can make it to the bedroom," she admitted softly.
"You don't have to." He lifted her up in his arms and carried her into the bedroom. He placed her gently on the bed. "There. One problem solved. You'll have to wear a pair of my pajamas. I have an extra toothbrush you can use. Anything else?"
"You said I left my camera in the car?"
"Yes, why?"
"I don't remember bringing it with me."
"There's one way to find out." Bosley went into the living room, then returned two minutes later, camera in hand. He handed it to her. "Yours?"
She examined it, then nodded. "I was taking some pictures this morning. I must have forgotten to take it out of my bag. It's too bad, too. I still have three pictures left on this roll. I could have finished them this afternoon."
"Oh, well," he took the camera away from her and put it on the table, then went over to the dresser. He opened a drawer and took out two pair of pajamas. He handed her one of them. "You put these on and I'll fix you dinner in bed." He walked over to the door, carrying the remaining pair.
"I'm not very hungry," she called after him.
"You must be. The last time you ate anything was five hours ago."
"Not right now." In fact she felt nauseous. "You go ahead if you want to."
"That's all right. I'll wait until later." After a minute he said, "You slip into those. Tomorrow we'll figure out what they wanted. Tonight we'll just put it out of our minds. Agreed?"
She nodded gratefully. "Thanks, Bos."
"For what?"
"For being such a good friend."
"You're welcome. Change. I'll be back shortly." He went into the living room, closing the door behind him. He picked up the telephone and dialed a number.
"Hello?" A man's voice said on the other end.
"Charlie?"
"Bosley! How was the picnic?"
"It went well, but there was a sour note."
"Oh? What happened?"
"Sabrina's apartment was ransacked and she was chloroformed."
"Is she all right?" Charlie asked in concern.
"So far, anyway. She's spending the night here. I was worried about her going back there until we find out what they want."
"Did you call the police?"
"Not yet. I was thinking we'd do that tomorrow. I'm sure they'll want a list of what's missing."
"Very well, Bosley. Call me if there are any further developments. Maybe the other Angels and I can help."
"Thanks, Charlie. I'll talk to you later." Bosley hung up the telephone.
He went into the bedroom about 20 minutes later with a bottle of wine and two glasses.
"I was wondering what kept you," Sabrina said. She was propped up against the pillows and under the covers.
He put both glasses on the table, sat on the edge of the bed beside her, and opened the wine. "How do you feel?" He poured the glasses and handed one to her.
"A little better," she said, taking a sip from her glass. "I can't figure out what they wanted."
"I thought we agreed not to think about this until tomorrow," he chided.
"You're right, but I can't get it out of my mind." She lowered her eyes.
"Hey," he took her hand. "I'm always here whenever you want to talk."
She looked up at him gratefully. "How did I ever get lucky enough to find a friend like you?"
"Maybe you have a friend upstairs."
She laughed. "I just might."
"You want to do anything?"
Her eyebrows rose in surprise. "Like what?"
"Play cards, backgammon, scrabble, anything like that," he clarified. After a minute, "Maybe not scrabble."
"Why not?"
"I seem to recall that the last time we played that game you beat the pants off me."
She smiled again. "In that case, since you're afraid -- "
"Afraid, me?" He said, affronted.
She nodded, taking another sip of wine.
"I challenge you," he announced decisively.
"You do?" She exclaimed in surprise.
"Yes." He went out into the other room and returned a few minutes later, game in hand.
45 minutes later she was ahead by a considerable number of points. They had also consumed the entire bottle of wine.
"That's it," he proclaimed dejectedly, "I give up."
"Don't give up, Bos. I didn't beat you so badly this time."
"Thanks a lot," he commented in annoyance.
"I'm sorry." She drained her glass. "It's just as well. I'm a little high from all the wine."
"That's what you get for not eating first."
She smiled. "Right now I don't care about that."
"You will in the morning," he pointed out.
"Probably," she admitted.
"You'd getter get some sleep. We still have to clean up your apartment tomorrow."
"Don't remind me," she yawned. "I may never feel this relaxed again."
"Sure you will. Come on, now. Get some rest."
She nodded and curled up under the covers. "Thanks again for taking care of me." She closed her eyes and was sound asleep in seconds.
The next morning they were having breakfast.
"How are you this morning?" He asked.
"Better, thanks," she answered.
"That's good. Hangover?"
"Not really."
"Good. Have you thought about what those burglars wanted?"
"I can't think of anything. I mean, it's not like we're working on any cases lately."
He nodded. He couldn't figure it out at present himself. "You ready to go back to your place and take inventory?"
"I guess."
"All right. After you're finished I'll do the dishes while you get dressed. Deal?"
"Fair enough." She pushed away from the table and got to her feet.
"You don't have to rush, Bri," he chided. "We have plenty of time."
"I'm full."
He stared at her in disbelief, eyebrows rising. All she'd eaten was one piece of toast and some coffee.
"Honestly!" She affirmed, smiling, reading the expression on his face all too well.
"If you're sure."
"I'll get dressed. I won't be long."
They left for her apartment about an hour later.
They got there in about 20 minutes.
She took the key out of her purse and unlocked the door. They both went inside.
"The police should be here any minute," he stated, looking at his watch.
"I'll take a look around to see what's missing."
"I'll make us some coffee."
An hour later the police had arrived, taken their report and gone. Bosley had poured two cups of coffee and took one over to Sabrina, sitting beside her on the couch. She'd been sitting there while the police were questioning her.
She took a small sip and leaned back against the headrest. "That's strange," she said reflectively.
"What, the coffee?"
"No. I went to make a list of what's missing."
"And?" He prompted.
"I couldn't find anything."
"Maybe you interrupted them before they got what they wanted."
"Maybe," she said thoughtfully. "I still can't figure out what they'd want, though."
"I don't like this," he said, frowning. He thought for a minute. "Pack a bag."
"Why?"
"You're staying with me."
"No, I'm not," she protested.
"Then we'll find you someplace safe to stay," Bosley said reasonably.
"This is my home and I won't be scared away," Sabrina stated firmly.
"Bri, be realistic. They didn't find what they were looking for, so they'll be back."
"So? I can take care of myself."
"Like the last time?" He pointed out.
She stood up, slamming the coffee cup on the table. "That was a cheap shot," she snapped, hurt evident in her voice.
He sat her down again and put his arm across her shoulders. "It wasn't meant to be. I just mean that they could sneak up on you or ambush you. I know you can defend yourself. You can fight better than most men I know. I just don't want to see you getting hurt. Okay?" After a minute he said, "I have an idea. I'll take you out to lunch, anywhere you want."
"Don't change the subject," she warned, eyes narrowing in anger.
He sighed, throwing his hands up in the air. "Look, Bri, I care about you and I worry about you. Sue me! That's what friends do. I'm only concerned for your safety."
"Thank you for being concerned, but you don't have to be." She closed her eyes as the stress was getting to her. "Maybe we do need a vacation."
"That's the spirit!" He exclaimed, relieved that she seemed to be coming around.
"We'd have to find a place where no one would find us."
"I know the perfect place."
"Where?"
"That's a secret. I have to check it out first. I'd hate to tell you to find out it's not doable. Now, let's eat. I'm starved."
"You mean you're not going to tell me?" She asked in disbelief.
"Not now. Maybe later on."
"If I guess would you tell me?" She pressed. She hated not knowing what was going on.
"You'd never guess, but I will give you a hint. It's not Charlie's."
"Oh," she said defeatedly. She racked her brains and couldn't think of anything else that would make him so secretive.
"Come on, pack," he urged, smiling. "The more I think about it, the more I like it."
She stood up and looked at him, deciding to try a different tact. "I just want you to know that I'm going to go crazy wondering where this place is. Sure you won't reconsider?"
"Positive."
She sighed in resignation and walked into the bedroom.
He looked after her, making sure she was out of earshot, then picked up the telephone and made a quick call.
An hour later they were driving along the freeway.
Finally she could stand it no longer. "John Bosley, would you please tell me where we're going or do I have to beat it out of you?"
He chuckled. "Okay, okay! You don't have to use brute force."
She glared at him, arms folded across her chest, waiting expectantly.
"You ever hear of Jonathan Hart?" He asked casually.
"Who hasn't? Hart Industries, Hart Shipping Lines -- " she broke off.
"That's it."
"That's it?" She repeated in disbelief. "Where on earth do you know Jonathan Hart from?" From what she knew of the Harts they were almost like royalty.
"We were in the navy together."
"You were in the navy?" This was just too weird. If she didn't know better she'd think he was pulling her leg.
"You sound surprised," he commented dryly. "That was before he became the Jonathan Hart."
She leaned against the headrest, head spinning. "Jonathan Hart," she repeated, dazed. "They don't mind?"
"Not at all. I haven't seen the Hart's in ages."
"The Hart's?"
"Jonathan and Jennifer. You'll like them. They're great people."
"I have a question. How do we catch these burglars if we go into hiding?" She asked pointedly.
"We're not going to stay in hiding. This is only until we figure out what they want. While I'm packing you can call Charlie and fill him in," he explained reasonably.
"You know, I wish you would have told me where we were going earlier. I would have packed some nicer clothes." Her mind was focussing on everything at once.
"Please! All your clothes are great. Did you pack a dress?"
"Why?" She asked apprehensively.
"You look great in a dress," he answered honestly.
That was definitely not the answer she expected and she blushed. "Thank you."
"Any time. Don't worry. Anything you don't have we can buy later on."
"Okay," she settled comfortably in her seat. "Do you think if they'd mind if I took a picture of them?"
"I don't think so. There's only one way to find out."
"Would you ask him for me?" She was definitely nervous about this meeting.
"I've never known you to be shy before," he teased.
"Come on, please?" She pleaded.
"All right, all right. For you I'll ask."
"Thank you."
They pulled up in front of Bosley's apartment building. He parked the car in the garage and they both went upstairs. He opened the front door. "I won't be long," he said, heading into the bedroom.
"I have an idea," she said. "Why don't I pack for you and you can call Charlie?"
"What difference does it make who calls him?" He asked in surprise.
"I don't really feel like talking about everything right now. Besides, I want to pack some decent clothes for you."
He drew himself up, affronted. "I beg your pardon."
"You can't wear just anything to Jonathan Hart's."
He stared at her, eyebrows rising. This was carrying things too far.
"You know what I mean," she explained hastily. "You men will wear anything. You have to look nicer than you usually do."
"You got out of that one by the skin of your teeth," he remarked.
She smiled. "I know. Come on. Besides, I like to pack."
"I never met a woman who had that particular fetish."
She hurried off into the bedroom before he could change his mind.
He picked up the telephone, shaking his head, and dialed a number. "Hi, Charlie."
"Bosley! How did things go with the police?"
"Fine."
"Were you able to discover what was missing from Sabrina's apartment?"
"Nothing."
"Nothing? That doesn't make sense."
"I know. We're going to disappear for a few days. We'll be staying with Jonathan and Jennifer Hart."
"You'll be gone for about a week then?"
"I doubt it. More like three or four days, just until we get things straightened out."
"All right, then. Call me if you need anything."
"We'll talk to you later." He hung up the telephone, then went to the bar to mix two martini's. "You almost done in there?" He called out.
"Almost," Sabrina replied.
He poured the martini's and brought them over to the table. He sat on the couch and took an appreciative sip.
She came out a few seconds later, struggling with his suitcase.
"Leave that where it is," he instructed, not wanting her to strain herself. "Here. I made you a drink."
She took a glass, sitting on the chair next to the couch. She took a sip and then gasped. "Isn't that a bit strong?"
"You think so?" He asked innocently.
"Uh huh," she took a few deep breaths.
He took another sip of his. "I don't think it's that strong. You're just not used to a martini mixed properly."
She took another cautious sip. "This could take the paint off the wall. I tell you, a few of these could make you forget anything."
"Can I fix you something else?"
"No, thanks. You shouldn't be drinking that, either. Not if you're driving."
"Just this one won't hurt. You sure I can't get you anything else?"
She shook her head. "I'm fine."
"What did you pack?"
"Some nice shirts, a few pairs of pants, one suit, socks, underwear, a razor -- you know, the usual things."
He stared at her in surprise. "What do I need a suit for?"
"In case we go to a formal dinner."
"You're taking this too far," he chided.
"You never know." She wanted to be prepared for anything.
He finished his drink. "You ready to go?"
"Are you sure you're able to drive?"
"Bri, relax! Why are you so nervous?"
"I guess it's the excitement of everything."
"Look, Jonathan Hart is just a man." He knew that if she kept this up she'd be a nervous wreck before they even arrived. "He puts his pants on one leg at a time just like everyone else. There's an old trick you can try if you're nervous. Imagine him in his underwear."
"His underwear?" She laughed.
"Sure. It's guaranteed to make you relax."
"It's not that. Trying to figure out what those burglars wanted is driving me crazy!"
"Don't worry about it. It'll come to you eventually. Come on, the Hart's are waiting. I'll take the bag downstairs and you can wash the glasses. I'll meet you downstairs."
They arrived at the Hart household. Bosley rang the doorbell.
Max opened the door.
"Hi, Max," Bosley said warmly.
"Hey, Mr. Bosley," Max rumbled. "How ya doing?"
"Great, thanks. This is my friend, Sabrina Duncan."
Max took her hand. "Hi. Mr. and Mrs. H should be down in a few minutes." He gestured inside. "Come in and take a load off."
They went into the living room and sat on the sofa.
"I'll tell them you're here," Max stated. He went upstairs.
Sabrina looked around in appreciation. "This is beautiful!"
"Thank you," a voice from behind them said.
They both turned around and saw Jonathan Hart coming down the steps. "Hello, John."
Bosley rose to his feet and hurried over to him. "Jonathan!"
They both shook hands.
"How's life been treating you?" Jonathan asked.
"Not bad. I see you're doing well," Bosley commented wryly.
"It's a living," he remarked. He turned to Sabrina and smiled warmly. "And your taste in women has definitely improved." He took her hand and kissed it. "And who is this charming young lady?"
"This is my associate, Miss Sabrina Duncan."
"It's a pleasure to meet you," Jonathan said, releasing Sabrina's hand.
"Hello, Mr. Hart," she said nervously, certain everyone in the room can hear her heart beating furiously. "It's nice to meet you."
Bosley looked around curiously. "Where's Jennifer? Did she get smart and leave you already?"
"Very funny," Jonathan said, turning to face him. "She's upstairs."
"Did I hear my name mentioned?" Jennifer asked as she walked into the room.
"Jennifer," Bosley said, going over to her and kissing her on the cheek. "You're looking lovelier than ever."
She smiled. "Thank you."
"Darling, this is Sabrina Duncan, John's associate," Jonathan introduced.
"I hope we're not putting you out, Mrs. Hart," Sabrina added.
"Please call me Jennifer. It's no trouble at all. The guest house is all set up for you."
"Guest house? Bosley repeated, a little awed in spite of himself. "My, Jonathan, you've certainly moved up in the world since I've last seen you."
Max walked into the room, "Dinner should be ready in about an hour or so."
Freeway ran in and jumped all over Sabrina.
"Hello, there." She knelt down to pet him.
"Hey," Max objected, pointing his finger at the dog. "You're dinner's in the kitchen. Get movin'."
The dog raced off in the direction that Max pointed to
"What's his name?" Sabrina asked, straightening up.
"Freeway," Jonathan answered, smiling.
"Would you like a before-dinner drink? Some coffee or something stronger, or would you rather rest before dinner?" Jennifer asked.
"I think we'd better unpack at least," Bosley admitted. "Don't you think so, Bri?"
"Sure," she agreed. "Why not?"
"I'll show you the way," Max offered.
Once Bosley and Sabrina went inside they went into their respective rooms and started unpacking.
When Bosley was finished he came into the living room. He was wondering what was keeping Sabrina so long. After another two minutes he got up and knocked on her door.
There was no response.
He opened the door and saw that she had fallen sound asleep on the bed. He smiled and finished unpacking her clothes for her. After he was finished he went back into the living room and started to read. He waited about 45 minutes, then checked his watch. He had to wake her now or else they'd be late for dinner. It wouldn't do to be late their first night there. He went back into the bedroom and shook her gently. "Bri, dinner's ready."
She stretched and yawned. "I must have fallen asleep."
He laughed. "You must have. Come on, the Hart's are waiting."
She stood up and rubbed the sleep out of her eyes. "I have to change." She turned to go to into the bathroom.
"Why? You look fine. Besides, you can't hold up dinner."
She stopped and turned to face him. "I'll only be a few minutes."
"Bri, would you relax?" He protested. "They're people like you and me. Let's go."
She straightened the wrinkles out of her clothes and glanced down dubiously. "Are you sure I look all right?"
"You look gorgeous," he stated gallantly.
"You must be hungry," she teased.
He laughed. "Only a little, but you do look gorgeous. You always do."
She looked at the ground, embarrassed. "Thank you."
"Come on, then, before they come looking for us."
"I'm coming, I'm coming."
They both walked over to the main house and rang the bell.
Max opened the door, and showed them to the terrace.
"Do you know that Sabrina didn't believe I knew you?" Bosley said while they ate.
"Bosley!" Sabrina exclaimed, mortified. She was nervous enough and he was not making her feel any better.
"We were in the navy together," Jonathan explained.
"Many years ago," Bosley added.
"Not so long, really," Jennifer protested. She looked over at Sabrina. "Don't you like the dinner? I can have Max fix you something else if you'd prefer."
"Oh, no, everything's fine," Sabrina hastened to assure her.
"Are you sure? You've barely touched a thing."
"I just have a lot on my mind."
"She's eating with the famous Jonathan and Jennifer Hart," Bosley announced. He turned to face her. "Remember what I told you?"
She nodded.
"What did you tell her?" Jonathan asked curiously.
"Just something to help put her mind at ease," he answered evasively.
Sabrina smiled.
Everyone looked at her.
"What did you to, tell her to imagine us in our underwear?" Jonathan asked.
Sabrina immediately flushed, smile falling from her face. She stared at the floor.
"Well, I had to tell her something," Bosley said defensively. "She's been a nervous wreck all day about meeting you."
"But why?" Jennifer asked in bewilderment. "We're just like everybody else."
"Not only are you multi-millionaires, but you're famous detectives as well," Bosley explained. "Don't get me wrong. I love you both, but the idea does take some getting used to. Do you remember when I first had dinner with you after you solved your first major case? I was so nervous that I put salt in my coffee and had on two different colored socks."
Everyone laughed.
"Once she gets used to you and sees how down to earth you are she'll be fine," Bosley finished. He turned to face Sabrina. "Right?"
She looked up and nodded self-consciously.
"I'm sorry," Jennifer said. "We didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable. We didn't realize -- "
"It's not you," she interrupted, suddenly feeling awkward. "It's just your -- status in the community, I guess. I've always heard or read about you. I just never imagined meeting you, much less having dinner here."
"I know how you feel," Jonathan said understandingly. "I remember how I felt the first time we came into public attention. It was like living in a fish bowl. I didn't eat or sleep too much for the first few days."
Max came in carrying a tray with desserts -- baked Alaska.
"Do you know Charlie Townsend?" Sabrina asked impulsively.
"I think we met him once or twice at a party or something," Jennifer answered, trying to remember why the named sounded familiar to her.
"I've had some business dealings with him in the past," Jonathan added thoughtfully, "but only over the telephone. I've never really seen him."
"You should know I'd never take you to a place where they'd know Charlie," Bosley admonished, helping himself to the dessert.
"Don't you work for the man?" Jennifer asked in confusion.
"Yes," Bosley answered, "but she's never seen him before. Neither have the other girls."
"Well, I'd be curious myself if I were in the same situation," Jennifer stated with certainty.
"How does he communicate with you?" Jonathan asked curiously. "Just by telephone?"
Bosley nodded. "By the way, Sabrina was wondering if she could take a picture of you some time before we leave."
"Sure," Jonathan agreed, standing up. "I'm going to mix up some J&J." He went to the bar.
"J&J?" Sabrina repeated. "What's that?"
"Some concoction those two had in the navy," Jennifer explained. "It's not so bad, really, once you get used to the taste."
"After the first couple you don't care any more," Bosley agreed.
Jonathan came back with a pitcher full of liquid and four glasses on a tray. He set the tray on the table. "Here we go," he started to pour and hand out glasses.
Sabrina studied hers, frowning. "Is this supposed to be green?"
"It sure is," Bosley said happily. "A toast."
They all held up their glasses.
"To Jonathan Hart," Bosley said, "for his insight and wisdom."
They all clinked glasses and drank.
Sabrina choked as the liquor burned its way down her throat.
"I told you," Jennifer said. "It takes getting used to."
"This is as good as the last time," Bosley said.
"Good, I don't make it very often," Jonathan responded.
"Why is it called J&J?" Sabrina asked breathlessly, finding her voice.
"Because we invented it," Bosley answered. "Drink up. There's plenty more where that came from."
"And when we run out I'll make some more," Jonathan added.
"I would like to make a toast," Jennifer announced. "To our house guests. Without whom we'd never be drinking this stuff."
They all clinked glasses again and drank.
"Although I'm not sure if that's good or bad," she added.
They all laughed.
A few hours later Jonathan and Jennifer were in bed.
"Well," Jonathan said, "that was fun. Maybe we could do this again tomorrow."
"Jonathan!" Jennifer exclaimed in disbelief. "Why did you make so many toasts?"
"That was the only way Sabrina would drink at first," he explained.
"That's terrible! Did you see the condition that poor girl was in when they left?"
"I sure did," he chuckled. "Maybe she'll have a hollow leg by the time she leaves."
"Imagine how she'll feel tomorrow," Jennifer chastised.
"Imagine how we'll feel tomorrow," he countered seductively, leaning over and turning out the light.
"I take it this discussion's over," she smiled, staring into his eyes.
"I can think of other things I'd much rather be doing."
"Like what?"
"Turn out your light and you'll find out," he suggested, eyes twinkling.
She smiled as well and turning out the light on her side of the bed.
The room was completely dark.
After a minute she laughed. "You're right. This is much better."
"I thought you'd approve."