TCOT Bedeviled Doctor Part 7

Della Street moved slightly beneath the luxurious bedding and smiled. Savoring those last moments before one awakens, she stirred and stretched a bit, then allowed her beautiful hazel eyes to open. Scanning the room and not hearing any water running or a familiar whistling, the lovely smile ceased and a quizzical look came over face. As she started to throw back the covers, she heard the key turn in the lock and the door open and close. A split second later, Perry Mason walked through the bedroom door, a wide grin on his handsome face. Della propped herself up on her elbows, returning the smile. Perry walked over to the bed and sat down, gently bringing her up into his embrace and holding her tight to him for a few minutes. Pulling back, he brushed the hair away from her face and spoke in a low voice. "Good morning Sunshine, how's my beautiful girl?"

"Good morning to you too,Counselor." Della's voice was soft as she placed her hand on Perry's face. "I'm just fine, thank you very much."

"You slept well, didn't you?" Very lightly, Perry began stroking Della's hair and caressing her face, then moving down to her neck and throat.

"I…I cert…certainly did." With just those soft touches, Della was finding it hard to think of what she wanted to say. "How did you know?"

Perry chuckled and raised an eyebrow. "How wouldn't I know?" My dear Miss Street, don't you realize I am very knowledgeable in everything "you", especially your sleeping habits. It just so happens that when I woke up, I found you in the same position as when you fell asleep….snuggled up close, right here in my arms. Besides, you looked as if you were in a very deep sleep." Perry continued his course, this time lowering his fingers to the area right above Della's breasts then moving to her sides, up and down her arms, then around to her back, repeating the course with tender kisses.

"I…I …al…always sle…sleep better in…in y…your arms. Per….Perry… wha...what are you…you doing?"Her words were punctuated by the small gasps she made each time his lips brushed her skin.

Perry lowered his voice to a whisper. "I'm just saying good morning to my sweet…loving….beautiful….girl. Perry's lips gently met Della's soft skin after he spoke each endearment.

"Ummm…..Perry…..wh…..where did you…go?"

"I didn't have the heart to wake you and I wanted to get that message to Paul. So I just got up and dressed and went to the radio room. I was going to send him a wire but I actually was able to place a ship to shore call. I spoke to Paul, who, by the way, sends his love. He said he'll have something for me by the end of the day or tomorrow morning at the latest." Perry paused and met Della's gaze with his own. Can we please not talk about Paul or anyone else? We have to meet the Harris's in a little over an hour."

"And?….."

"And….I really want to concentrate on the lady in my arms. What do you think about that?"

Della breathed deeply. Moving even closer into Perry's embrace, her voice was smooth and silky. "I think darling, that you always seem to have the most amazing ideas at just the right time."

There was silence in the cabin as Perry leaned down and captured Della's delectable smiling lips with his own in such a heated passionate kiss, that even the seagull, who had made it a habit of perching himself on the balustrade outside their cabin every morning turned his head away.

"So Della, tell me if you don't mind, how long have you been working for Perry?" The two couples had eaten a delicious breakfast, played three sets of tennis, of which the ladies had won two and now Della and Judith were sitting around the pool, enjoying the warmth of the afternoon sun. Perry and David were on the deck above, improving their golf score by way of the driving range. When finished, they were going to play one round at the mini course, then join the women at poolside.

Della turned to her new friend and answered the question. "Perry and I have been working together for twelve years now. I can't believe it's been that long. Sometimes it feels like yesterday."

"I know what you mean. David and I have been together for 14 years. We met my freshman year in college. Dave was already a junior. It was a party my sorority was giving to raise money for the local kids who fathers had been killed in the war. It was Spring….May 10th to be exact." Judith chuckled. "The dance was called 'The Spring Fling.' Sounds corny I know. Anyway, Dave walked into that gymnasium and that was it for me. I took one look at him and my stomach flipped-flopped the rest of the night. We both were there with other people but three nights later Dave came to see me at my dorm….I hadn't moved into the sorority house yet. We went for coffee and I almost missed curfew. We've been together ever since. We got married the month after I graduated. I taught for a year, then I got pregnant and that was the end of my career…..at least for now."

There was a slight wistfulness in Della's voice. "Are you sorry you didn't get to teach more than one year?"

Judith smiled. "I thought I would be but I have to say that I wouldn't trade my life now for anything else in the world. The children are young, they're 8, 5 and 2. They're only going to be little once and I can always go back when they get older. David and I talked about it when I first got pregnant with Abby. We were able to make it work so ten years later here I am." Judith paused as if to say something, thought about it, then remained quiet. A comfortable silence settled over the women. Judith looked thoughtful for a moment, then asked the question that had been on her mind ever since the previous evening.

"Della, I know we just met and I know your penchant for privacy…and I don't blame you, but…well….can I ask, what was it like when you and Perry first met. I mean….personally?"

Della looked at the beautiful young woman sitting next to her. Intuitive that she was, she recognized something in Judith Harris….an honesty…..an unpretentiousness. She had liked Judith immediately and hoped that this would be the start of a strong and lasting friendship between the two couples.

Della flashed Judith one of her brilliant smiles. Her voice became soft and as she began to tell Judith about her relationship with Perry, her eyes took on a faraway look.

"All I can tell you Judith was, it was the same for me. I had moved to L.A. from Chicago, actually Oak Park which is a suburb just outside the city. I had just graduated business school and wanted a change. I was very young and my parents weren't all that thrilled. It took a lot of convincing on my part for them to finally come around. I moved out here and took a position with a big, prestigious law firm. After a while, I wasn't happy. It was mostly corporate and entertainment law and it seemed to me that the people in the firm weren't very genuine. The just loved to gossip about anything and anyone and that wasn't my style. Then there were the lawyers who thought that just because you worked for them you "owed" them something in return if you get what I mean. That was the one thing that really upset me. I worked there for two years. Then one day, I got a call from a girl who lived in the apartment one flight down from me. She said a friend of her mother's was retiring and that the man she worked for, a criminal lawyer was looking for a replacement. She was very happy with her job but knew I wasn't so she asked if I would like to apply. I figured I didn't have anything to lose so why not? Then, she told me about all about this lawyer. When she was through I almost changed my mind."

"Why?" Judith had been spellbound by Della's story and was hanging on to every word.

"Well for one thing, Mary, that was the girl who told me about the position, had heard all about Mr. Mason from her Mother and Mrs. Taylor, his secretary. She told me how demanding he was, how much he expected, that he could be fierce and relentless in court but he could be just as nice….and that he was very handsome. I started to be really conflicted but I wanted to leave my present job so badly, I went ahead and set up the interview. A week later I walked into Perry's office, took one look at him, with those gorgeous blue eyes and heard that voice…and like you with David, I was completely gone. He showed me into his office, had his secretary bring in coffee and we started to talk. An hour and a half later, he walked me to the door, shook my hand and I left. I was mortified because I thought I'd made a terrible impression. Till this day, I can't remember what I said although Perry always tells me the interview was wonderful and he knew right away that he would offer me the job." A slight blush appeared on Della's face as she continued. "Anyway, two weeks later I walked into that office for my first day as his secretary and the rest, as they say is History. He's the most wonderful amazing man in the entire world. He has the deepest sense of integrity and honesty of anyone I know and the way he treats people is remarkable. He spends countless hours on a case and treats his clients with so much caring and respect. He can be fearless, that's true but it's because he believes in the justice system and wants everyone to have a chance. Della's face took on an illuminating glow and her eyes held a sparkle brighter than the sun's rays. Her voice became even softer and Judith had to almost strain to hear her. "I fell in love with Perry the first day I met him and I've been in love with him ever since."

Della suddenly felt a strong, gentle hand on her shoulder and heard a deep resonant voice. "Della's not the only one who fell in love at first sight."

Della looked up and met Perry's gaze. His smile matched hers and his voice was warm. "Well, I see you two lovely ladies have been getting to know each other."

"How long have you and David been standing there Counselor?"

"Long enough to hear you tell Judith how we met and I must say, Miss Street I am very impressed with your recollection of the facts." The attorney smiled, then winked at Judith.

"Perry! Don't you know it's not polite to listen in to someone else's conversation."

Taking hold of Della's hand, Perry brought it up to his lips and placed a soft kiss in the palm. "I'm sorry darling, it's just that it sounded so wonderful and brought back such beautiful memories. I couldn't help myself. Although, I will say that your description of me is a bit over the top.

Della felt herself being pulled up into Perry's embrace. His eyes swept over her perfect figure in the teal, aqua and turquoise swim suit she was wearing. The black rushing on the sides and neckline made it look even more appealing and that, together with the thin straps, gave her a subtle but sensuous look. Perry felt himself losing control and all he wanted to do at that moment was to hold Della even tighter in his arms and kiss her senseless. Knowing this was impossible at the moment, he breathed deeply. Gathering himself, his eyes suddenly took on a mischievous gleam and his voice held a challenging tone…albeit a teasing one. "Come on, gorgeous, let's go for a swim. I'll race you to the deep end and because I'm so honest and fair, I'll even give you a head start."

"Della picked up oh his game and without missing a beat, played right along. "That won't be necessary Counselor." Turning to the Harris's she smiled and said, "David, I noticed you're wearing a watch with a second hand. Would you be a dear and time us? We'll just dive in here and you can start when we hit the water, alright? Trying not to laugh, she turned and winked at Judith, an understanding look passing between them. Then, faster than Perry could say "I object your honor", Della grabbed his hand, stood at the pool's edge, feet placed slightly over the cement and said, "ready.….set…GO!

Together they dove in, letting the touch of the clear water, cool their heated skin…in more ways than one. As Perry swam the length of the pool, with strong, deep strokes, he was the envy of everyone who was watching. His body moved with the agility of a man much younger than he, and his large form seem to glide effortlessly across the water. Quickly reaching the other side and winning the race, he again became vertical and scanned the water, looking for Della. He didn't see her immediately and began calling her name. The idea of the race was only supposed to be a tease…he just wanted to have a little fun. Now he was really frightened. For the briefest of seconds his heart went to his throat and his pulse began to quicken. Then, like a beautiful, graceful mermaid, she was beside him, rising out of the water, hair tousled, skin smooth and sleek and eyes shining with delight and exhilaration. Laughing, she turned and threw her arms around Perry's neck. He tugged her to him and laughing slightly with relief said, "you my beauty, are something else. Even though I know you can swim and you look stunning in that suit, for a split second I didn't see you and…"

"Clutched there for a minute didn't you, Mr. Mason?"

Perry's gaze held Della's and taking her chin in his hand, he lowered his voice. "It's …It's just that I couldn't find you."

Della realized that Perry had become frightened. In an effort to assuage his fears, she put her arms on his and moved in even closer. Looking up into those marvelous eyes of blue, her voice was but a whisper. "I'm sorry aweetheart. I just was kidding around a bit. Besides, it's only a pool. I knew you were right there and you wouldn't let anything happen to me. She began rubbing his wet, exposed chest in circles causing Perry to forget anything else he wanted to say to her. Instead, he brushed her now damp, beautiful chestnut curls away from her face. Bending down, his warm lips kissed the top of her head. Then gently holding her face between his hands, he shook his head and smiled that special smile. "What" he asked, slowly stroking her face with his fingers, "am I ever to do with you?"

There was no hesitation. In a low but clear voice she said, "just love me and never let me go."

Right before, bringing his lips down to Della's and leaving her breathless with a deep, passionate kiss, Perry whispered, "that my sweet girl, is the easiest request that anyone has ever asked of me."

Hand in hand, David and Judith walked around to the side of the pool closest to Perry and Della. Kneeling down, David raised his voice so he could be heard above the adults talking and swimming and the children's sound of happy play as they splashed about.

Hey you two, you looked great. Are you sure neither one of you has ever been on the Olympic swim team? By the way, tonight's movie night. I think it's a horror picture or thriller or mystery. I know it's not a comedy. Are you game?"

"Thanks for the compliment Dave. Della and I love to swim, although we don't get a chance to go as much as we'd like. "As for the movie, I'm in, although Della's not a fan. Although she's a good sport and she'll go with me if I'm really in the mood to see one. What do you say honey? Want to see the movie tonight?"

Before she had a chance to answer, Judith interrupted, sounding exasperated.

"Oh David, there you go again with your horror movies. What will Perry and Della think? Just because you like them, you think everyone does." Judith looked at Perry and Della and rolled her eyes. "I swear, he's like a big kid. He's already terrified Suzanna and given her nightmares. He runs after her with this horrible mask on that looks like something right out of one his movies. Jeffrey goes into hysterical convulsions of laughter every time it happens and Abby just takes one look and says "Don't be scared Sue-Sue it's only silly Daddy. Honestly, I don't know what possesses him to behave like that."

David and Perry laughed and Perry said, "you never know about some people. They can appear nice and innocent and all of sudden they can attack from NOWHERE!" Even as he spoke, Perry took hold of Della and pushed her away from the edge of the pool. Her footing lost, she yelped in surprise and jumped into Perry's waiting arms. Then realizing what he did, she cuffed him on the arm and gave Mr. Mason "the look." Perry laughed and kissed her forehead, her eyes and finally settled his lips on hers. Already holding Della in a strong but gentle embrace, Perry maneuvered her body so she could be cradled in his arms like a baby and softly touched her face with a soothing, loving caress. Observing this tender moment, a perceptive look passed between their new friends. It was the same look they had given each other the previous evening at dinner. Although surrounded by activity and people, the handsome attorney and his beautiful secretary were happily lost in a world of their own.

One deck above, paying close attention to the couple that he was most concerned with since the cruise began, Daniel smiled sardonically to himself. Even as passengers passed him by, no one saw the small camera he'd removed from his pocket. Engrossed in their own world not a single person saw Daniel stand as close to the railing as he could get….Not a single person saw him clicking away, taking pictures….personal…. intimate…..loving…. pictures of the one couple who tried to avoid publicity as much as they possibly could.

"That was some movie, I'll tell you. I usually can handle anything but this one…man oh man. It was really something. What did you think Perry? The two couples were seated at a table in one of the ships three cafés. They were enjoying coffee and desert, the women opting for a lighter fare of fruit, cheese and sherbet, the men choosing pie a la mode with a caramel crisp topping. The movie they were discussing was Diabolique. It was a French psychological thriller/horror movie, staring Simone Signoret. The plot was eerie, filled with strange and mysterious events and a terrifying ending.

"It was pretty heavy, Dave. Like you, this type of movie doesn't get to me but as you say, this one was a heart stopper. I thought the story was well written, it's just that seeing it there, right in front of you was kind of spooky, especially the part where the husband comes "back to life." I'm still trying to figure that one out." Perry laughed, then continued with his review. "Then there was the whole business of the affair between the headmaster and the teacher and how they plot to kill the wife. I thought I knew how it was going to end but I was wrong."

Judith voiced her opinion. "The ending was really surprising. That last scene made me jump in my seat."

"Well all I know is, that was a little too much for me." Della shuddered and moved in her chair in order to be closer to Perry. Wrapping her hands around his arm, she looked at him and said, "I don't think we're going to see another movie like this again Counselor, at least not for a long time."

"Yes dear, whatever you say." Perry chuckled then patted the top of Della's hand and said, "I wouldn't want you to get angry at me. I might wind up in a bathtub."

With that, he thumbed Della under the chin and all four broke out in laughter. The convivial conversation went on for a while longer then David noticed a perplexed look on his wife's face. Putting his hand over hers, his voiced concern as he asked, "what's wrong dear?"

Judith leaned in closer to the table and lowered her voice. "I didn't say anything before because I wasn't sure but now I think I need to mention it."

"What is it Judith? What has you so worried?" Perry was aware that something was troubling her

"Today, when were leaving the pool, I happened to look up. I saw that young man that was at the Captain's Table with us. He was standing next to the railing. I also saw him in the theater. He was sitting a few rows away from us….and now he's sitting at that table by the door. It almost seems as if he's….he's following us."

Perry smiled slightly. He too lowered his voice. "Judith, you should have been a detective. You're absolutely right. I do think he's following us but I think it's me that he wants to speak with. I had that feeling since last night when he all but tripped over his feet trying to explain where he worked and all about his boss. I didn't see him when we left the pool, but I did recognize him in the theater."

"Perry, don't you think it's a bit odd? I mean if he wants to talk to you, why doesn't he just come over and ask you himself?"

Della answered before Perry had a chance to speak. "David, Perry refuses to give interviews and that boy probably wants one. I bet he figures that if he succeeds, it will go a long way in furthering his career."

"Della's right. I don't give interviews. I never have and I am not about to start now. The only thing I have done is to speak to the press after a case is over. I'm not happy doing even that, but I think it's important for the public to see that justice is served correctly. Now, as far as our young friend goes, I'm curious about him myself."

Not wanting to divulge too much information, Perry quickly changed the subject. "The boat docks tomorrow in Mazatlan. I don't know about the rest of you but I can't wait…..hmmm?" He turned to Della and smiled, catching her eye and raising his eyebrow in a suggestive look. With that small intimate gesture, she felt her pulse quicken and a warm blush on her face.

"I can't wait either Counselor. Three whole days of warm sand, clear beautiful water, sightseeing and shopping…..and of course these starry nights. Who could ask for anything more?"

"I'm with you Della. I've been planning this ever since David gave me the tickets and told me we were going. That was three months ago. Even though our anniversary is not until June, this cruise sounded so good, he couldn't pass it up. Yes, this cruise has been the perfect gift. Sleeping as late as I want, no car pooling, errands, laundry, giving baths and making dinner. Don't get me wrong, I love my kids more than anything and I miss them like crazy but this is so nice."

"Glancing at his secretary, Perry's voice took on a softer tone. "Every woman deserves a surprise now and then, special occasion or not." Seeing a smile cross her face followed by a yawn, Perry asked, "ready to call it a night Della?"

"Actually I am. I'm sure we have to be up early with the boat docking and all and I for one want to have enough energy to enjoy the day."

The two couples stood and made their way to the door. Perry stopped at the cashier and took care of the bill. Walking out of the café, he noticed that Daniel Harrington was no longer there. After making plans to meet in the late afternoon of the following day, goodnights were said. The Harris's walked off in the direction of their cabin while Perry, with his arm around Della and tugging her close, led her the opposite way to theirs.

Perry opened the door of the cabin and stepped aside, allowing Della to enter first. Noticing her yawning again, he closed the door and came up behind her. Putting his arms around Della, he drew her back to him and put his face next to hers burying it in her hair. Pulling back a bit, his voice was soft and low as he said, "that's the second time you yawned in less than fifteen minutes sweetheart. You really are tired aren't you?"

Della turned within the circle of Perry's arms. Looking up at him, she smiled a lazy smile. "I don't know why, but yes, I am tired….in fact I feel plain worn out. Maybe it's from all that activity, tennis this morning, then swimming and all that sun and the movie tonight. If it's alright with you, I think I'll just take a quick shower and go to sleep."

"Afraid to take a bath?" There was a teasing tone to Perry's question.

Too tired to catch on to Perry's question, Della gave him a quizzical look.

Perry, enjoying the fact that he could continue the banter, went on with his repartee. "I would think you'd rather take a bath than a shower my dear. After all isn't that more relaxing? You're probably afraid. Don't worry. You have nothing to fear. You don't think that I would come in and….?"

"Stop It! Perry didn't have a chance to finish. Della had caught on and playfully hit him on the arm. "Very funny Counselor. Now if you don't mind letting me go, I would really like to take that 'shower'…..and for your information, it has nothing to do with my being afraid. It's faster, that's all and the faster I get through the faster I can go to sleep. I hear that beautiful bed calling me and I plan on making use of it as just as soon as I can."

Perry brushed the hair away from Della's face and bent down to lightly kiss her forehead. Smiling, he spoke in a low voice. "I'm sorry Darling. You're so adorable standing here, looking so sleepy and wanting to get in that shower. I just couldn't resist. Perry removed his arms from around Della, then placed a gentle hand on her face. Go on, and when you're finished I'll tuck you in. How does that sound?"

"Mmmmmm…..absolutely wonderful but aren't you coming to bed too?

"I think I'll read for a bit. If I sit over there in the corner with the light on, will it bother you? I could just as easily go into the other room."

"Sweetheart, I am so exhausted, nothing will bother me." Sliding her hands around Perry's neck Della brought his face down to meet hers and placed a soft warm kiss on his lips, then smiling, turned, heading for the bathroom.

As Perry watched her walk away, he smiled to himself, thinking again of how much he loved her and how much she meant to him. Changing into his pajamas and robe, then going over to the comfortable reclining chair in the corner, the smile disappeared as something else disrupted his pleasant thoughts. Why indeed was Daniel Harrington following him and what did he want? Picking up the book from the table and before beginning to read, Perry had another thought. He hoped the report from Paul would reach him in the morning and it would bring some answers to this real mystery.

The cabin was dark, save for the soft, small light on the table by the recliner. Perry was reading a book he had started a month before but because of time constraints had not been able to finish. It was a spy thriller and Perry was thoroughly enjoying it. So concentrated on the story was he, that the first small whimpers did not reach his ears. A few minutes later the sounds, becoming somewhat louder, drew his attention away from the book and over towards the bed. Abandoning both the book and the chair, Perry quickly walked over to the bed. It was apparent that Della was in the middle of a fitful slumber. She was restless…tossing and turning and she was emitting troubled moans. Perry sat down next to her and with a soft voice and as gently as he could, began to wake her.

"Della….Della….wake up. You're dreaming. Della continued to move about so Perry leaned over her and tried again. "Della, come on honey…wake up. It's me, It's alright. I'm here. He shook her once more just a bit harder and that seem to do the trick. Della opened her eyes, and looked at Perry. Sitting straight up, she threw her arms around his neck, shaking. Perry held her tight to him, all the while comforting her by rubbing her back and speaking in a low, soft voice. "Shhhhh….Shhhhh…Shhhh. It's alright now. It was just a dream. I'm right here. You're safe in my arms." He pulled back a bit in order to look at her and brush the hair away from her face. Gazing at her lovingly and tenderly caressing her cheeks he asked, "better now?"

"Yes"….Only please don't let me go. Della blew out a deep breath. She was quiet for a time, then she said, "It was horrible…so scary. I dreamed I was watching the movie…..only I was watching myself. It was just like we saw it, but I was the one they were after. I kept looking around for a way out but I couldn't find one….and I couldn't find you. It was just so awful." Della took another deep breath, then collapsed against Perry, shaking.

"I'm sorry Della, I shouldn't have teased you like I did." Perry put his hand under Della's chin and brought her face up to his. "From now on, no more horror movies, alright? I'll let you pick the movies. Although, if you chose tear-jerkers, I might be the one having nightmares!"

Della's voice was drowsy as she laughed softly. "Sounds good to me Counselor.

"Perry?"

"Hmmm?"

"Are you finished reading?"

Perry smiled. Bringing Della back into his embrace, he whispered softly. "Yes sweetheart, I'm finished reading for now. I just have to turn out the light. As he started to break away, Della stopped him. In a barely audible tone she said, "You don't have to turn it off…it…it wouldn't bother me."

Understanding the hidden meaning behind those words, Perry slipped into bed next to Della, settled her as close in his arms as he could and again covered her with the blanket. His voice was soft and soothing. "It's alright now Darling. It's time to sleep. Shhh…Shhh…..Shhh…. Good night my baby, sleep tight. I'm right here. I won't let you go. I promise, this time you'll have beautiful dreams alright?" From her place in Perry's arms, Della made no movement or sound. Instead, she just held on to him and shook her head up and down. Soon, Perry's loving attention and the slow movement of the ship lured her back into a deep and peaceful slumber.

The smell of chemicals permeated the small bathroom. Daniel Harrington pulled the last of the photos from the stop bath of his makeshift portable darkroom equipment. He examined it closely under a red bulb. A cunning smile curved the corners of his mouth. This was the photo he'd been waiting for.

The shot was a close up of one of California's most powerful and well-respected defense attorneys, skin to skin and face to face with his lovely assistant. It was shot at the pool earlier that day, and showed Perry Mason holding Della Street close to his body, his gaze intent upon her. The lovely Miss Street, water streaming from her shining hair, returned the look with smoldering eyes, her hands resting lightly on the powerful chest of the man who many considered to be one of the most eligible bachelors in Los Angeles society. Impervious to their surroundings, the couple's embrace made it clear to even the most casual observer that there was deep feeling between the two.

Daniel's smile widened. He had what he wanted. This photograph, once published, would draw very public attention to what was evidently a very private relationship. Daniel knew Perry Mason would never let his secretary be subjected to such scorn or scrutiny. He would have to give the reporter the interview he wanted.

There was no other choice.