CHAPTER 2

This is the second chapter of the meeting between Bobby and Cindy Brady and Chris and Tracy Partridge.

'Thanks for the lift.' Chris and Tracy Partridge now stood outside their home; it was quaint and well kept.

Fortunately for them, their new friends Bobby and Cindy Brady, had been driving home from an after school meeting when Cindy noticed the disturbance. The gang leader had badly frightened Tracy while making sure Chris was restrained and unable to interfere; then he topped it off by using a long knife to cut Tracy's beautiful long hair. Only his sister's voice had kept Chris from killing him at that.

After the fight, they were both coming down from the rush with Tracy still shaking and being held by her brother; Bobby and Cindy watched this and gave each other a look of pure understanding that said ...Poor Kids...

Mrs. Shirley Partridge came to meet these four; first wondering why Chris and Tracy were late, then giving a horrified reaction at Tracy's beautiful, now damaged, hair.

Shirley Partridge was a slender woman with light eyes and a pretty smile; her hair style allowed her to look amazingly similar to Mrs. Brady. Cindy observed her with a critical eye, seeing how her jewelry was tasteful, her makeup understated and combined with her dress made her look stunning for her age which they were told was early 50's.

Bobby looked at her far differently: he gave a low whistle at how attractive she was. Chris got his attention and then said, 'Dude! My mom!' Shirley actually looked somewhat flattered while Bobby blushed. Then he realized how late it was getting.

'May we use your phone? We don't want the family worried.' 'Sure.' came Chris's reply. Tracy was still shaking so he sat her on the sofa then walked Bobby to the kitchen. In the kitchen, Chris repeated himself: 'Dude! I can't believe you whistled at my mom!'

Bobby made the call and got Alice, the housekeeper. She was a member of the family defined by closeness; everybody loved and trusted her. Originally, she was somebody who filled in when the boys mother died. Now she was a member of the family and Heaven help anyone who said otherwise. Recently, Alice finally succeeded in getting her boyfriend Sam, to the altar. She still loved the Bradys even though only Bobby and Cindy were still in the house.

'Bobby? Did you say Partridge Family?' Bobby heard the surprise. 'Can you get me an autograph? I'm a big fan.' 'Sure Alice, I'll ask. Just give mom and dad the message.'

'Can you beat that? Alice is a big fan and asked for an autograph.' Chris replied, 'After bailing us out today, an autograph is the least we can do.'

Tracy came into the kitchen, went to the refrigerator, and poured a glass of orange juice. 'Oh, we are being terrible hosts; would you like something?' 'Please,' replied Bobby. 'Some OJ if it's not too much trouble.' 'Not at all.' replied Tracy. Bobby noticed Tracy had a beautiful voice; it undoubtedly contributed to making her a fine singer. Her hair was gorgeous, he noted. Why did that punk with the knife destroy it? He was still half-surprised Chris hadn't killed him, only being stopped by Tracy's voice. She had sparkly eyes and a bright smile. Bobby didn't think a woman this beautiful could be real but here she was.

Cindy saw it all and decided to head it off. 'I would appreciate some ice water, please.' That startled Bobby and got Tracy's attention. 'Sure, Cindy.' -Damn- thought Cindy -She's looking at Bobby!- It was true; Chris had poured the OJ for Bobby while Tracy filled Cindy's ice water. Through it all, she kept glancing at Bobby, as if trying to decide something.

All 5 sat in the living room together, Mrs. Partridge was very cordial after they told her how the Bradys had saved her and Chris. 'So I remember there were 3 others; where are they?' Shirley responded, 'Keith and Laurie both went to college and earned degrees in Music. Keith enjoyed the spotlight when he was a teen but wanted a quieter life. He now gives singing lessons. Laurie teaches piano. Danny joined the Navy and became an officer; he's a lieutenant (j.g.) now and studies electronics.'

Chris began looking at Cindy and asked if she wanted a refill of water. She thanked him and gave him her glass. As he went to the kitchen, Tracy got up and followed. Bobby and Cindy could see her swat at her brother but she spoke quietly and they were unable to hear. Cindy then said, 'I feel sorry for those two.'

Even sitting, Cindy was about an inch shorter so Bobby glanced down to meet her eyes. Having grown up together, they shared a wordless communication that went past even telepathy. Sometimes all that was needed was a shrug or glance to tell each other something; here was proof. Locking her eyes with his, Cindy nodded; Bobby turned to stare into space wondering what she discovered. Looking right then left several times he then closed his eyes for several moments. His eyes widened in what was almost shock. Looking back to lock eyes, he pointed to her then himself with almost a smile on his face. Cindy nodded again. He got it.

What secret has been uncovered? Ch. 3 will reveal this and more.