Chapter 9

The strike had ended and the couples were no longer cranky to say the least. Ironically, Gage and DeSoto had both caved, at nearly the same time. Each of them had signed the peace treaty that had been supplied, with out reading its contents. That would prove to be a big mistake.

Now the gang was gathered at Wolfie's house. Since her home used to be a volunteer fire house, it came complete with a banquet hall that had been converted into a living/dining room. On the front table were two framed treaties for all present to see. Besides the two former warring couples, the others included Hank and Emily Stanley, Dixie and Kel Brackett, and Sandy Dixon. She had whole heartedly agreed not to tell Chet. She was fond of him to say the least but she was also aware of his obsession and alter ego, The Phantom. She couldn't bring herself to cause these men such misery.

The other larger part of the agreement was a little harder to swallow. This was the part that the two paramedics should have read over before signing on the dotted line. Of course considering their level of distress, it may not have matter either way. They had to cook up a delectable, culinary master piece of a meal and serve it to everyone else. That was the easy part.

While performing their duties they had to wear a certain outfit, chosen by their lady friends. Not daring to piss in the Captain's cheerios, they had originally not included him on the fun. However, apparently Emily thought that equal justice should prevail. She informed her husband that he would willingly participate in the performance or his stint of celebacy was just getting started.

The outfits in question were Chippendale customs, which consisted of tight fitting black tuxedo pants, along with a snug tuxedo vest, in silky black. Wanting the image of the three men to last a lifetime, photos were taken.

When informed of their wardrobe for the evening, a bit of whining was taking place. Hank was reminded of Em's ultimatum, and more than happy to oblige.

Roy was given an offer he couldn't refuse, Jo promised him a little extra, something when they went home.

A.J. whispered in Johnny's ear, "If you're a good boy, I'll show you my brand new tattoo....it's located it's in a place that only you will ever see....." Johnny was rarely at a loss for words, that exact moment was the exception to that rule.

The dinner proceeded with out a hitch. The women then showed their men mercy and informed them they could change back into the usual attire. Each lady was satisfied that they had won the battle of the sexes.

Clean up was left until morning, with Johnny promising to help A.J. later on. The rest of the evening was pleasant, with everyone enjoying each others company.

"Hey I have to ask you something. Dixie how come you didn't tell Kel about this whole disaster?" Johnny was curious as to why Dixie had kept it to herself.

"She told me everything. Why do you ask Johnny?" Brackett could see the look of confusion twisting Gage and DeSoto's faces.

"Then how come you managed to stay out of trouble?" Roy just had to hear this explanation.

"That is quite simple. You see I basically sit back, watch and listen. I figured if most of those pretty nurses, before A.J. of course, could manage to exercise their will power and self restraint by not going out with Gage, then...well that says it all." He thoroughly enjoyed the dirty looks from two of his favorite paramedics and the laughter that had erupted in the room.