Chapter 4

Henry awoke to find a note on Vicky's pillow.

Meet me at the office later, Coreen coming in today and Gerald picking her up from work, we finally get to meet Mr. Hunky. That was Coreen's pet name for her new husband. Henry hoped Vicky never called him something as cutesy as that.

After a quick shower and dressing Henry called to tell Vicky he was on his way.

"Is he there yet? Can't wait to check this guy out." He told her.

"No not yet, but gird your loins because mom is." she said softly so as not to be overheard.

"Crap" and he hung up.

Vicky went out to the outer office where Coreen and Marjory were having a couple of lattes'. "Got one for me?" Vicky asked. But before she could get an answer her mom said "You really should cut back dear, you seem so tense lately." Coreen gave her a look that said 'sorry that one was yours'. Vicky groaned to herself and said "Thanks mom, I'll work on it". But her look to Coreen said 'I need coffee and I need it now'. Coreen jumped up and handed hers to Vicky.

"Here Vic, have mine they didn't add whipped cream and you know how much I like whipped cream. I'll go get them to make me another one." Vicky shot her a look of 'Thank God and I owe you big time' as she took the paper cup from her and took a big swallow.

After Coreen left Vicky tried to talk to Marjory about Henry. Her mother had the same idea.

"What do have against Henry? He is really trying to be nice to you" Vicky started but her mother interrupted her.

"It's not that I have anything against him personally, I mean he does want to marry you"

Vicky suddenly felt like she five again and her mother was telling her that she should feel lucky that Marci Allen had invited her to her birthday party. Like she wasn't good enough to be included on her own but was only included with the rest of the class.

"He's so young, and he could have any pretty girl he wanted."

"What am I Quasimodo? I'm not exactly over the hill here mom. And men do find me attractive" Why did she sound so unsure of her self? It wasn't that long ago that she had two men after her at once.

"Oh don't be silly Vicky; I'm just saying that he's so young, handsome and obviously well off. He must have women falling at his feet." 'Oh if she only knew Vicky thought' "Why would he pick someone like you?"

"Because I love her" Henry said firmly. He'd had enough. Walking into the room he added "Look Marjory we need to get something straight right now." He held up his had to tell Vicky not to try and stop him. Vicky sat back down.

"Vicky is the best thing to come into my life in a very, very long time. I think she is beautiful, funny, and smart. I like the fact that she can kick the ass of anyone who gets in her way and that she won't let anyone, including me, walk all over her. And' he added in a more firm tone 'I would appreciate it if you would treat her with the respect due to her. We will all get along better if you do"

Time seemed to stand still for Vicky; she was preparing herself for the fallout.

"You know Henry dear, your right. Now why don't you sit here next to me and we can get better acquainted" then she smiled a full on I accept you smile. "I do admire a man who isn't easily intimidated and knows what he wants." Henry beamed his best smile in her direction and sat down.

Vicky was glad she was already sitting because she knew her legs wouldn't have held her up. Now she had seen everything. Mount Vesuvius had been turned into a puddle at Henrys feet. She'd later revise that thought.