CONSEQUENCES V
Previously on my ER
Dave and Kerry became close friends after a minor bike accident
After being involved in a serious car accident they realised
how much they meant to each other
Kerry asked Dave to stay with her while he was recuperating
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A few weeks had passed since the accident. Kerry and Dave were both back at work and Dave had settled in to the basement flat that once was Carters. Both had agreed to take this relationship slowly and not to rush into things.
At work little had outwardly changed. Dave had expected a lot of teasing at his expense and was prepared for it. However he had not expected the restraint showed by the staff.
Whereas before he would have joined in any conversation going, now it seemed like every time he showed up people suddenly changed the subject or toned down what they were talking about. He also noticed that Kerry's name was seldom mentioned in his presence, and when it was, it was usually just to pass on an instruction.
He asked Carter about it one day while they were waiting in the ambulance bay for an incoming trauma.
"What you have to understand Dave," said John. "Is that people are wondering if you're going to run straight to Kerry and tell her what's been said about her behind her back. It's sort of like being the teachers kid in school. Everyone's a little wary."
"Did you have the same problem when you were living with her?" asked Dave.
"That was different. I'd been here a lot longer and everyone knew me."
"They really think I'd tell tales?" Dave was appalled that his colleagues would have such a low opinion of him.
"Well, not deliberately, but it's very easy to let something slip during 'pillow talk'."
"But we.." Dave bit back the words. It was on the tip of his tongue to say that they hadn't got to that point in their relationship, but he knew that he couldn't say something like that to John or anyone else in the ER for that matter. In the same way he had never told Kerry anything he had heard about her in the ER even before the accident.
He sighed heavily. Initially when he had moved in with Kerry they had decided not to rush things. He remembered the conversation.
"I want to make sure that we're doing the right thing," Kerry said. "I don't want to rush into something and then realise that not only is it not working, but that I've lost a good friend in the process."
"Whenever you're ready I'll be here," replied Dave.
Since then they had enjoyed each other's company but neither of them had taken the next step.
Now Dave wondered if the moment had passed. Maybe I should have just swept her off her feet there and then he thought to himself. He knew it was unrealistic. At the time he had barely been able to carry an overnight bag, let alone a fully-grown woman. But now his injuries no longer bothered him (much). He just wondered if maybe he had lost his chance. Maybe she regrets saying what she did in the hospital he thought. Still there's only one way to find out.
He was brought back to the present by the sound of approaching sirens.
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It might have surprised him somewhat to learn that Kerry's thoughts had been running along the same tracks. She also had noticed a difference in people's behaviour around her. Dr Romano had made a snide comment about keeping her personal and professional lives separate, but that was typical Romano. Mark seemed uncomfortable around her (at least more so than usual). Still she could live with that.
What she wasn't sure she could live with was her stalled relationship with Dave. Although she had been the one to suggest taking things slowly, she hadn't wanted it to be this slow. Of course there was nothing to stop her from making the first move, but what if Dave wasn't ready, or worse yet, what if he regretted what he had said in the hospital that first night.
"You're afraid," she told herself in sudden realisation. "You Kerry Weaver, who has faced down lions in Africa and committees in Chicago, are afraid of being rejected by the man you love."
Suddenly she decided, things have been moving slowly for too long. It was time to get things moving. She quickly checked the ER rosters. Today was no good because both she and Dave were working the same shift, but tomorrow she would be finished work before he was. All going well, tomorrow night would be the night.
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Dave was drinking coffee in the lounge when the thought struck him. If he wanted his relationship with Kerry to change, he couldn't just sit around and wait for her to make a move. Tonight was no good because they would be both off shift about the same time. So even allowing for the time Kerry needed to 'run the board' and finish her paperwork she would still be home too soon after him, unless he got a little help from someone. At that moment Luka walked in.
"The very man," thought Dave.
Out loud he said "Dr Kovac would you do me a favour?"
"What is it Dave?" asked Luka.
"I'm trying to organize a special evening for the chief at home, but I don't want her turning up too early. Would you be able to delay her a little when she finishes work?"
"Is it her birthday? I hadn't realised," said Luka
"No, nothing like that. I just want to do something nice for her. You know, something different."
Luka smiled. "Ah. You mean candle-lit dinner, romantic music, that sort of thing?"
"Something like that. You think she'd like it?"
"All women like to be made feel special. I will do my best to delay her for you, but you know Kerry, it may not be possible. And if we get busy..."
"I understand. If there's a trauma or anything all bets are off and I'll try again another time. I really appreciate it"
"I'll let you know when she leaves if I can."
"Thanks man, I owe you."
Dave left the room smiling. Now all he had to do was organize a romantic evening before the end of his shift, and get it all set up before Kerry got home. No problem.
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Several hours later Kerry limped into the house. "What a day," she thought. It had seemed to drag on forever, and just when she was finally ready to leave, Luka had cornered her with what had seemed like a trivial request for information on a paper he was researching which had taken ages to answer. Still at least she was home.
"Hi Dave I'm home," she called out as she removed her coat.
Dave stuck his head round the door of the kitchen.
"I'm nearly finished cooking dinner. It should be ready in a little while," he said.
"Do you want a hand?"
"No. You just go and change. I have everything organized."
Kerry went to her room noticing as she did so that the dining room table had been set with her best china and silverware. The smells coming from the kitchen were making her hungry. She was impressed. Usually when Dave cooked dinner they ended up eating on trays in front of the TV.
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Kerry pushed her empty plate away from her and said "that was amazing Dave. I never knew you could cook so well."
"Actually I cheated a little. Most of it came straight from the freezer. But I did peel all the potatoes myself."
"You still did a great job." Kerry meant it. The food, the candles, the soft music playing in the background, Dave seemed to have thought of everything. He had even put a small bunch of flowers on the table.
"But what about dessert," she asked. Knowing Dave's sweet tooth, she had been surprised not to see dessert settings on the table.
"Ah," he said taking her by the hand and leading her from the table. "Dessert will be served in the lounge."
He led her into her lounge where a warm fire was blazing merrily and sat her down on the floor in front of it.
"Won't we be too hot?" she asked
"Maybe. Maybe not," he said enigmatically.
He went to the kitchen and returned with a bowl of strawberries and a bowl of chocolate sauce.
"Did you forget the spoons?" asked Kerry.
"I think we can manage without them."
Kerry's eyes widened in surprise as Dave plucked a berry from the bowl, dipped it in sauce and fed it to her.
"Your turn now," he said.
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"I've got chocolate and syrup all over my fingers," laughed Kerry.
"I'll clean it off." Dave took Kerry's hand and gently sucked the syrup off her fingers.
Kerry sat there in stunned silence for a moment, before saying softly "I think I have some syrup on my lips as well."
Dave gently leaned in and kissed her slowly and fully on the lips.
He sat back and said "I've been waiting to do that for a long time."
Kerry reached for him and said, "Well don't stop now," as she pushed him to the floor.
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A few hours later Kerry awoke in Dave's arms. The fire had been reduced to glowing embers, but she still felt warm.
She stretched like a cat then snuggled closer to Dave. The movement woke him.
"I didn't mean to wake you," she said.
Dave looked at the clock. "That's ok," he said. "It's about time we were going to bed anyway."
Kerry burst into a fit of helpless giggles, which weren't helped by Dave starting to tickle her. One thing led to another and the idea of going to bed was forgotten for a while.
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Some time later.
"I don't know about you, but I have an early start tomorrow," said Kerry. "It's time we were in bed."
"Sure thing. Your place or mine."
"You'll have to stop making me laugh, or we'll never get anywhere," said Kerry in between chuckles.
"I'm never going to stop trying to make you happy."
Kerry was silent for a moment.
"Do you know what would make me happy?" she said. "Finding my real parents."
Dave hugged her close to him and said, "If that's what you want, then we'll do it together."
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CONSEQUENCES part VI
They continued their conversation the next morning, as Kerry was getting ready for work.
"I tried the Internet, but got no response. I hired a private detective, but the woman he found couldn't have been my mother," said Kerry. "I'm not sure what to do now."
"I don't know about a detective, but I knew a few people from college, who're good with computers. If there's anything to be found out about your background on the net, they can find it. I'll give them a call before work."
"What would I do without you?" asked Kerry.
"Probably get a lot more sleep," replied Dave.
They kissed and then Kerry left for work.
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Dave's friend Dee quizzed Kerry on what she knew of her history, and promised to get in touch as soon as she turned up anything.
Although Dave was optimistic about the search, Kerry was convinced it would prove fruitless. After all she had been disappointed before. A few weeks went by with no news.
Then one day Dave caught up with her as she was making her way to the lounge.
"Kerry," he said quietly. "Can we talk somewhere?"
The suture room was free so they went in there.
"What's the matter?" asked Kerry.
"Dee phoned a few minutes ago. She said she wanted to call round and talk to you."
"Has she found something?"
"She didn't say. I told her tonight about eight would be ok."
"Maybe she just wants to tell us that she can't find anything and she's not going to keep looking," said Kerry despondently.
"Hey don't be so pessimistic," said Dave as he took Kerry in his arms. "Dee doesn't give up that easily. She probably just wants to give you a progress report."
"Or a lack of progress report."
"That too, but we'll find out soon enough."
"You're right. I should be more positive. Anyway we'd better get back to work before anyone notices that we're missing."
"They'll probably think I dragged you in here to have wild passionate sex with you."
"More likely they'll think I called you in here to give you a tongue lashing,"
"Anything you want do with your tongue is fine by me."
"Try to keep your mind out of the gutter Malucci, at least while we're on duty."
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By the time eight o'clock came, Kerry was pacing the floor nervously. She jumped when Dee rang the doorbell.
A few minutes later they were all seated in her lounge.
"So Dee," said Dave. "Why'd you want to see us?"
"I have some news for you," said Dee. She opened her briefcase and pulled out some papers. She handed one of them to Kerry. "I believe this is your mother."
It was a copy of a newspaper photo of a woman in her mid thirties. Kerry stared at it in shock.
Dave was the first to speak. "She looks just like you."
"You mean I look like her," said Kerry in amazement. She looked at Dee. "Where did you get this? Where is she? Who is she?"
"Slow down, slow down. I'll tell you how I found this in a minute."
Dee hesitated before going on. "Her name was Sarah Casserly."
"Was?" said Kerry. "You mean she's.."
"I'm afraid she died in a car accident when you were about six months old."
Kerry sat back on the couch holding the picture. Dave put his arm around her and pulled her close to him.
"All this time I was looking and she was already dead," she said sadly.
"Well at least you know now," said Dave trying to comfort her.
Kerry pulled herself together and said to Dee "Thank you for all you've done. At least I know she didn't abandon me."
"I'm not finished yet," said Dee. "I also found out about your father. And he is still alive."
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Dee continued, "When you were about six months old, your family was involved in a serious car accident. Your mother died and your father was seriously injured. You were placed with foster parents, the Weavers, and later they adopted you."
She paused before continuing, "I believe that the accident was the cause of your limp."
"My parents, my adoptive parents, were never able to tell me exactly what had caused it," said Kerry. "They just told me I'd hurt it when I was a baby. But why would I be adopted if my father was still alive?"
"I don't know that. I do know that he wasn't married to your mother."
"This is a lot to take in all at once," said Kerry.
"I know. What I'll do is leave you this report. It details everything I was able to find out. If there's anything that needs explaining, Dave has my number."
"Thank you Dee for all you've done."
"Just glad to help out an old friend."
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After Dee had left, Kerry pored through the file soaking up all the information on the family she had never known.
"Look at this," she pointed out to Dave. "My mother was ten years older than my father. Just like the two of us."
"Actually I've been meaning to talk to you about that," said Dave. "You see I was a child prodigy. I graduated from medical school when I was sixteen. So you're actually about twenty years older than me."
For a moment she almost believed him, he looked so serious. Then he grinned and she swatted him with the file.
"Sorry," he said. "I couldn't resist it. What else did Dee find out?"
"My mother was a professional violinist and my father was a policeman," her voice trailed off as she looked at the next line.
"What's wrong?" asked Dave, concerned.
"He lives here in Chicago."
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CONSEQUENCES part VII
Kerry was very subdued that night after she had read the file prepared by Dave's friend Dee.
"It's all so weird," she said to Dave. "All this time I assumed that my mother was a teenager or student who got pregnant and either couldn't or wouldn't have an abortion. I never gave much thought to who my father was. I just figured that he wasn't in the picture. Now I find that he was a part of my life for six months and then gave me away. I just don't know how to handle it. I mean why would he do it?"
"You know there's only one way to find out."
Kerry sighed and said, "I know. But I'm not sure I want to know. What would you do?"
"I don't know. But I do know that I'll support you no matter what you decide to do."
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Kerry's dreams that night were haunted by a shadowy figure that resisted all her efforts to catch up to. She pushed her way through faceless crowds crying and calling "don't leave me."
She awoke with a start to find tears streaming down her cheeks. "Don't leave me," she whispered as she sat upright.
"I'm right here Kerry," said Dave as he sat up sleepily. "What's the matter?"
"I'm alright, it was only a bad dream."
"You're not alright. You've been crying and you're shaking. Tell me what it was."
He hugged her protectively.
Safe in his enveloping arms, Kerry started to relax.
"It was my father. I couldn't see him clearly but I knew that's who it was. But every time I tried to catch him he just moved further away, leaving me behind, abandoning me."
Dave stroked her hair gently as she continued, "I'm going to see him."
"I think you should probably phone him first."
"You think that's best?"
"I think that if you show up on his doorstep, looking so much like that picture of your mother, it might be a bit of a shock to him. At least if you get in touch by phone, he won't have the double shock of finding his daughter and seeing the ghost of his dead girlfriend."
"Will you come with me?"
"You know I will."
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Kerry managed to juggle the rosters to give them both the afternoon off a few days later.
They had decided to drive to the area where her father lived and phone him from the car.
The closer they got the more nervous Kerry became. Dee's research had turned up a lot of information but there were still gaps to be filled. Kerry knew that his name was Michael Nordquist that he had retired from Chicago P.D. a few years earlier and that he was currently unmarried. There was so much more that she wanted to find out.
Finally she pulled into a car park about two blocks from the address that Dee had given her.
"Are you ready?" asked Dave.
"As ready as I'll ever be." She steeled herself and finally dialled the number on her mobile.
The phone was picked up on the third ring.
"Hello?" said a voice on the other end.
"Is this Michael Nordquist?" asked Kerry.
"Yes, who is this?"
"Mr Nordquist, you don't know me but my name is Kerry Weaver." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, "this may sound strange, but I think I may be your daug
There was silence on the other end of the phone.
"Mr Nordquist? Are you still there?"
"Yes I'm still here." His voice sounded a lot unsteadier than it had been.
"I'd like to come and see you if that's possible. I'm only a few minutes away."
"Yes, I think that would be a good idea."
"I'll be there in ten minutes."
As Kerry replaced the phone in her bag her hands were shaking.
Dave reached for her hand and squeezed it.
"It's going to be fine," he said.
"I hope so."
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A few minutes later they pulled up in front of the house.
As they walked up the path the front door opened. A man in his sixties stepped out.
"Oh my god," he said. "You look so like your mother."
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Kerry sat nursing a cup of coffee wondering how to raise the question she most wanted an answer to. Michael had filled her in on how he and Sarah had met and got involved.
"The day you were born was the happiest day of our lives," he said. "And for six months we were the perfect family, and then came the accident."
"You don't have to talk about that now," said Kerry who could see the sadness in his eyes.
"No I want to tell you. I can see that you want to know why you were adopted."
He sighed heavily. "Having you adopted was the biggest mistake of my life. But at the time I thought I was doing the right thing. I was banged up pretty bad in the accident. At the time the doctors thought I wouldn't survive. You were placed with foster parents when you got out of the hospital. The doctors said it would be several months before I could leave the hospital and maybe a year or more before I could work again. They persuaded me that it would be best if you were left with foster parents until then. When I got out of hospital I tried to get you back, but the social workers said that you had settled with the Weavers and you had been through enough upheaval. I am so sorry that I didn't fight harder for you."
He took Kerry's hand and said, "Can you ever forgive me?"
"I do forgive you. You did what you thought was best at the time."
Kerry hesitated before asking her next question, "One thing I would like to know, is why you and my mother never married?"
Michael sighed heavily. "Because we thought we had all the time in the world to get married, instead we only had a little over two years. But they were some of the best years of my life."
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Several hours later Kerry and Dave finally left Michaels house. Michael had given Kerry some photos of himself and Sarah and one of the three of them together. They promised to meet again soon.
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"How do you feel?" asked Dave as they drove home.
"I don't know," replied Kerry. "I mean I have the answers I was looking for but I still feel sort of empty inside. I'm probably just tired. It's been a draining few days."
"We'll be home soon and then you can rest."
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That night Kerry was unusually quiet after they had finished their lovemaking.
"Penny for your thoughts," said Dave as he wrapped his arms around her.
"I was thinking," said Kerry slowly. "About how I'd like to marry you."
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Consequences part VIII (final episode)
Kerry was unusually quiet after they had finished their lovemaking.
"Penny for your thoughts," said Dave as he wrapped his arms around her.
"I was thinking," said Kerry slowly. "About how I'd like to marry you."
She could feel Dave tense up and she cursed to herself. Why had she said anything?
Out loud she said, "I'm sorry, forget I said anything."
Dave sighed. "Kerry, when I go home next week will you come with me."
Kerry turned to look at Dave. This was the last thing she had expected.
"Why do want me to come with you?" she asked.
"Do you trust me?"
"Of course."
"Then come with me next week and I'll explain it all to you then."
"I'd love to."
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A week later they were both on a train heading for Dave's hometown.
As the train meandered through the countryside Dave watched the scenery and Kerry watched Dave. In spite of her probing he had refused to tell her why he wanted to bring her home. All he said was it was to do with a keeping a promise.
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Kerry followed Dave off the train. In spite of his assurances that she would be warmly welcomed she was still apprehensive about meeting his father and stepmother.
Dave stepped off the train and headed straight for a couple in their early sixties.
Tom Malucci had a kindly weather-beaten face, with black hair speckled with silver.
Kathy a slight woman was as fair as her husband was dark. They greeted Dave warmly.
"Dave my boy. It's been too long," said Tom as he hugged him warmly. "You really should have let us come to see you while you were in hospital."
"I didn't want you to have to travel so far just to sit round a hospital bed."
"We'd have travelled a million miles to make sure you were alright."
"I know."
He put his arms round his stepmother and kissed her on both cheeks.
"Kathy, you're looking wonderful as always."
"I hope you've been taking care of yourself since your accident. You really should have come home and let us look after you," replied Dave's stepmother.
"Hey I was fine. After all I had my own personal physician." Dave reached out and pulled Kerry into their group.
"Dad, Kath, I'd like you to meet Kerry Weaver."
"Mr and Mrs Malucci, I'm very pleased to meet you," said Kerry shaking hands.
"Please, call us Tom and Kathy," replied Dave's father.
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The next morning Kerry was woken by a gentle kiss on her forehead, but she didn't open her eyes until she had also been kissed on both cheeks and her lips.
"Good morning," said Dave. "Did you sleep well?"
"Well I found it a bit lonely without you."
"Sorry about that. I would have joined you but, well it didn't seem right with my Dad next door."
"It's ok I understand."
"Good, because Dad's out mowing the lawn and Kath's making breakfast, so if you're still lonely..."
Kerry put her arms around Dave and pulled him down on top of her.
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After breakfast Tom asked Dave what his plans were.
"I thought about going to The Garden," said Dave.
Tom nodded his head. "I'll get you some flowers to bring with you."
"Thanks Dad."
"And what about Kerry?" asked Tom.
"I thought I'd bring her with me."
Tom and Kathy exchanged knowing glances with each other.
Kerry was intrigued but didn't want to say anything in front of them.
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After a half hour drive they pulled up in front of "Garden of Peace", a small cemetery on a hill.
Dave retrieved the flowers and led Kerry through the gates and up the hill.
About half way up he stopped in front of a small headstone.
Kerry read the inscription. Florence Malucci, beloved wife and mother.
"Is this?" she started to say.
"This is my mother," said Dave as he replaced the withered flowers with fresh ones.
He stood up again and took Kerry by the hand. They stood in silence for a few minutes.
Finally Dave led Kerry back to a bench near the entrance where they sat down.
"There's something I want to explain to you," began Dave.
"A long time ago I promised my mother that I wouldn't get engaged to someone that she had never met."
"That's why you brought me here, to meet your mother?"
"It's the only way I could think of. Plus I wanted to get this from Tom, he's been keeping it for me."
Dave produced a small box from his pocket and opened it. Inside was a small gold ring with two green and one white stone set into it. He slid onto one knee in front of Kerry and took her hand.
"Kerry, will you marry me."
"Oh Dave. Of course I will."
She drew him into her arms and they kissed.
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Dave sat back up on the seat and took Kerry's left hand. "Let's see if this fits you. If not we can always get it resized." He paused "that is if you like it? If not we can get another one."
"I would wear any ring you gave me."
"It belonged to my grandmother and then my mother. A few years before my mum died she got all us kids together to choose what jewellery of hers we wanted. This ring was my favourite."
"It's beautiful, and it fits perfectly."
They sat in silence looking out at the headstones.
After a few minutes Kerry laughed.
"What's so funny?"
"I was just wondering what our children will say when they find out you proposed to me in a cemetery."
"We can always tell them that you proposed to me after we'd had sex."
Dave paused for a moment before continuing, "Do you want to have children?"
"I want to have your children."
"I love you Kerry."
"I love you too."
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And so the years rolled by and when their children and later their grandchildren asked about the proposal they were told it happened in a beautiful garden, and with that they were content.
THE END
This story continues in Always on my mind
Previously on my ER
Dave and Kerry became close friends after a minor bike accident
After being involved in a serious car accident they realised
how much they meant to each other
Kerry asked Dave to stay with her while he was recuperating
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A few weeks had passed since the accident. Kerry and Dave were both back at work and Dave had settled in to the basement flat that once was Carters. Both had agreed to take this relationship slowly and not to rush into things.
At work little had outwardly changed. Dave had expected a lot of teasing at his expense and was prepared for it. However he had not expected the restraint showed by the staff.
Whereas before he would have joined in any conversation going, now it seemed like every time he showed up people suddenly changed the subject or toned down what they were talking about. He also noticed that Kerry's name was seldom mentioned in his presence, and when it was, it was usually just to pass on an instruction.
He asked Carter about it one day while they were waiting in the ambulance bay for an incoming trauma.
"What you have to understand Dave," said John. "Is that people are wondering if you're going to run straight to Kerry and tell her what's been said about her behind her back. It's sort of like being the teachers kid in school. Everyone's a little wary."
"Did you have the same problem when you were living with her?" asked Dave.
"That was different. I'd been here a lot longer and everyone knew me."
"They really think I'd tell tales?" Dave was appalled that his colleagues would have such a low opinion of him.
"Well, not deliberately, but it's very easy to let something slip during 'pillow talk'."
"But we.." Dave bit back the words. It was on the tip of his tongue to say that they hadn't got to that point in their relationship, but he knew that he couldn't say something like that to John or anyone else in the ER for that matter. In the same way he had never told Kerry anything he had heard about her in the ER even before the accident.
He sighed heavily. Initially when he had moved in with Kerry they had decided not to rush things. He remembered the conversation.
"I want to make sure that we're doing the right thing," Kerry said. "I don't want to rush into something and then realise that not only is it not working, but that I've lost a good friend in the process."
"Whenever you're ready I'll be here," replied Dave.
Since then they had enjoyed each other's company but neither of them had taken the next step.
Now Dave wondered if the moment had passed. Maybe I should have just swept her off her feet there and then he thought to himself. He knew it was unrealistic. At the time he had barely been able to carry an overnight bag, let alone a fully-grown woman. But now his injuries no longer bothered him (much). He just wondered if maybe he had lost his chance. Maybe she regrets saying what she did in the hospital he thought. Still there's only one way to find out.
He was brought back to the present by the sound of approaching sirens.
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It might have surprised him somewhat to learn that Kerry's thoughts had been running along the same tracks. She also had noticed a difference in people's behaviour around her. Dr Romano had made a snide comment about keeping her personal and professional lives separate, but that was typical Romano. Mark seemed uncomfortable around her (at least more so than usual). Still she could live with that.
What she wasn't sure she could live with was her stalled relationship with Dave. Although she had been the one to suggest taking things slowly, she hadn't wanted it to be this slow. Of course there was nothing to stop her from making the first move, but what if Dave wasn't ready, or worse yet, what if he regretted what he had said in the hospital that first night.
"You're afraid," she told herself in sudden realisation. "You Kerry Weaver, who has faced down lions in Africa and committees in Chicago, are afraid of being rejected by the man you love."
Suddenly she decided, things have been moving slowly for too long. It was time to get things moving. She quickly checked the ER rosters. Today was no good because both she and Dave were working the same shift, but tomorrow she would be finished work before he was. All going well, tomorrow night would be the night.
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Dave was drinking coffee in the lounge when the thought struck him. If he wanted his relationship with Kerry to change, he couldn't just sit around and wait for her to make a move. Tonight was no good because they would be both off shift about the same time. So even allowing for the time Kerry needed to 'run the board' and finish her paperwork she would still be home too soon after him, unless he got a little help from someone. At that moment Luka walked in.
"The very man," thought Dave.
Out loud he said "Dr Kovac would you do me a favour?"
"What is it Dave?" asked Luka.
"I'm trying to organize a special evening for the chief at home, but I don't want her turning up too early. Would you be able to delay her a little when she finishes work?"
"Is it her birthday? I hadn't realised," said Luka
"No, nothing like that. I just want to do something nice for her. You know, something different."
Luka smiled. "Ah. You mean candle-lit dinner, romantic music, that sort of thing?"
"Something like that. You think she'd like it?"
"All women like to be made feel special. I will do my best to delay her for you, but you know Kerry, it may not be possible. And if we get busy..."
"I understand. If there's a trauma or anything all bets are off and I'll try again another time. I really appreciate it"
"I'll let you know when she leaves if I can."
"Thanks man, I owe you."
Dave left the room smiling. Now all he had to do was organize a romantic evening before the end of his shift, and get it all set up before Kerry got home. No problem.
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Several hours later Kerry limped into the house. "What a day," she thought. It had seemed to drag on forever, and just when she was finally ready to leave, Luka had cornered her with what had seemed like a trivial request for information on a paper he was researching which had taken ages to answer. Still at least she was home.
"Hi Dave I'm home," she called out as she removed her coat.
Dave stuck his head round the door of the kitchen.
"I'm nearly finished cooking dinner. It should be ready in a little while," he said.
"Do you want a hand?"
"No. You just go and change. I have everything organized."
Kerry went to her room noticing as she did so that the dining room table had been set with her best china and silverware. The smells coming from the kitchen were making her hungry. She was impressed. Usually when Dave cooked dinner they ended up eating on trays in front of the TV.
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Kerry pushed her empty plate away from her and said "that was amazing Dave. I never knew you could cook so well."
"Actually I cheated a little. Most of it came straight from the freezer. But I did peel all the potatoes myself."
"You still did a great job." Kerry meant it. The food, the candles, the soft music playing in the background, Dave seemed to have thought of everything. He had even put a small bunch of flowers on the table.
"But what about dessert," she asked. Knowing Dave's sweet tooth, she had been surprised not to see dessert settings on the table.
"Ah," he said taking her by the hand and leading her from the table. "Dessert will be served in the lounge."
He led her into her lounge where a warm fire was blazing merrily and sat her down on the floor in front of it.
"Won't we be too hot?" she asked
"Maybe. Maybe not," he said enigmatically.
He went to the kitchen and returned with a bowl of strawberries and a bowl of chocolate sauce.
"Did you forget the spoons?" asked Kerry.
"I think we can manage without them."
Kerry's eyes widened in surprise as Dave plucked a berry from the bowl, dipped it in sauce and fed it to her.
"Your turn now," he said.
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"I've got chocolate and syrup all over my fingers," laughed Kerry.
"I'll clean it off." Dave took Kerry's hand and gently sucked the syrup off her fingers.
Kerry sat there in stunned silence for a moment, before saying softly "I think I have some syrup on my lips as well."
Dave gently leaned in and kissed her slowly and fully on the lips.
He sat back and said "I've been waiting to do that for a long time."
Kerry reached for him and said, "Well don't stop now," as she pushed him to the floor.
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A few hours later Kerry awoke in Dave's arms. The fire had been reduced to glowing embers, but she still felt warm.
She stretched like a cat then snuggled closer to Dave. The movement woke him.
"I didn't mean to wake you," she said.
Dave looked at the clock. "That's ok," he said. "It's about time we were going to bed anyway."
Kerry burst into a fit of helpless giggles, which weren't helped by Dave starting to tickle her. One thing led to another and the idea of going to bed was forgotten for a while.
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Some time later.
"I don't know about you, but I have an early start tomorrow," said Kerry. "It's time we were in bed."
"Sure thing. Your place or mine."
"You'll have to stop making me laugh, or we'll never get anywhere," said Kerry in between chuckles.
"I'm never going to stop trying to make you happy."
Kerry was silent for a moment.
"Do you know what would make me happy?" she said. "Finding my real parents."
Dave hugged her close to him and said, "If that's what you want, then we'll do it together."
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CONSEQUENCES part VI
They continued their conversation the next morning, as Kerry was getting ready for work.
"I tried the Internet, but got no response. I hired a private detective, but the woman he found couldn't have been my mother," said Kerry. "I'm not sure what to do now."
"I don't know about a detective, but I knew a few people from college, who're good with computers. If there's anything to be found out about your background on the net, they can find it. I'll give them a call before work."
"What would I do without you?" asked Kerry.
"Probably get a lot more sleep," replied Dave.
They kissed and then Kerry left for work.
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Dave's friend Dee quizzed Kerry on what she knew of her history, and promised to get in touch as soon as she turned up anything.
Although Dave was optimistic about the search, Kerry was convinced it would prove fruitless. After all she had been disappointed before. A few weeks went by with no news.
Then one day Dave caught up with her as she was making her way to the lounge.
"Kerry," he said quietly. "Can we talk somewhere?"
The suture room was free so they went in there.
"What's the matter?" asked Kerry.
"Dee phoned a few minutes ago. She said she wanted to call round and talk to you."
"Has she found something?"
"She didn't say. I told her tonight about eight would be ok."
"Maybe she just wants to tell us that she can't find anything and she's not going to keep looking," said Kerry despondently.
"Hey don't be so pessimistic," said Dave as he took Kerry in his arms. "Dee doesn't give up that easily. She probably just wants to give you a progress report."
"Or a lack of progress report."
"That too, but we'll find out soon enough."
"You're right. I should be more positive. Anyway we'd better get back to work before anyone notices that we're missing."
"They'll probably think I dragged you in here to have wild passionate sex with you."
"More likely they'll think I called you in here to give you a tongue lashing,"
"Anything you want do with your tongue is fine by me."
"Try to keep your mind out of the gutter Malucci, at least while we're on duty."
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By the time eight o'clock came, Kerry was pacing the floor nervously. She jumped when Dee rang the doorbell.
A few minutes later they were all seated in her lounge.
"So Dee," said Dave. "Why'd you want to see us?"
"I have some news for you," said Dee. She opened her briefcase and pulled out some papers. She handed one of them to Kerry. "I believe this is your mother."
It was a copy of a newspaper photo of a woman in her mid thirties. Kerry stared at it in shock.
Dave was the first to speak. "She looks just like you."
"You mean I look like her," said Kerry in amazement. She looked at Dee. "Where did you get this? Where is she? Who is she?"
"Slow down, slow down. I'll tell you how I found this in a minute."
Dee hesitated before going on. "Her name was Sarah Casserly."
"Was?" said Kerry. "You mean she's.."
"I'm afraid she died in a car accident when you were about six months old."
Kerry sat back on the couch holding the picture. Dave put his arm around her and pulled her close to him.
"All this time I was looking and she was already dead," she said sadly.
"Well at least you know now," said Dave trying to comfort her.
Kerry pulled herself together and said to Dee "Thank you for all you've done. At least I know she didn't abandon me."
"I'm not finished yet," said Dee. "I also found out about your father. And he is still alive."
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Dee continued, "When you were about six months old, your family was involved in a serious car accident. Your mother died and your father was seriously injured. You were placed with foster parents, the Weavers, and later they adopted you."
She paused before continuing, "I believe that the accident was the cause of your limp."
"My parents, my adoptive parents, were never able to tell me exactly what had caused it," said Kerry. "They just told me I'd hurt it when I was a baby. But why would I be adopted if my father was still alive?"
"I don't know that. I do know that he wasn't married to your mother."
"This is a lot to take in all at once," said Kerry.
"I know. What I'll do is leave you this report. It details everything I was able to find out. If there's anything that needs explaining, Dave has my number."
"Thank you Dee for all you've done."
"Just glad to help out an old friend."
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After Dee had left, Kerry pored through the file soaking up all the information on the family she had never known.
"Look at this," she pointed out to Dave. "My mother was ten years older than my father. Just like the two of us."
"Actually I've been meaning to talk to you about that," said Dave. "You see I was a child prodigy. I graduated from medical school when I was sixteen. So you're actually about twenty years older than me."
For a moment she almost believed him, he looked so serious. Then he grinned and she swatted him with the file.
"Sorry," he said. "I couldn't resist it. What else did Dee find out?"
"My mother was a professional violinist and my father was a policeman," her voice trailed off as she looked at the next line.
"What's wrong?" asked Dave, concerned.
"He lives here in Chicago."
----------------------
CONSEQUENCES part VII
Kerry was very subdued that night after she had read the file prepared by Dave's friend Dee.
"It's all so weird," she said to Dave. "All this time I assumed that my mother was a teenager or student who got pregnant and either couldn't or wouldn't have an abortion. I never gave much thought to who my father was. I just figured that he wasn't in the picture. Now I find that he was a part of my life for six months and then gave me away. I just don't know how to handle it. I mean why would he do it?"
"You know there's only one way to find out."
Kerry sighed and said, "I know. But I'm not sure I want to know. What would you do?"
"I don't know. But I do know that I'll support you no matter what you decide to do."
--------------------------
Kerry's dreams that night were haunted by a shadowy figure that resisted all her efforts to catch up to. She pushed her way through faceless crowds crying and calling "don't leave me."
She awoke with a start to find tears streaming down her cheeks. "Don't leave me," she whispered as she sat upright.
"I'm right here Kerry," said Dave as he sat up sleepily. "What's the matter?"
"I'm alright, it was only a bad dream."
"You're not alright. You've been crying and you're shaking. Tell me what it was."
He hugged her protectively.
Safe in his enveloping arms, Kerry started to relax.
"It was my father. I couldn't see him clearly but I knew that's who it was. But every time I tried to catch him he just moved further away, leaving me behind, abandoning me."
Dave stroked her hair gently as she continued, "I'm going to see him."
"I think you should probably phone him first."
"You think that's best?"
"I think that if you show up on his doorstep, looking so much like that picture of your mother, it might be a bit of a shock to him. At least if you get in touch by phone, he won't have the double shock of finding his daughter and seeing the ghost of his dead girlfriend."
"Will you come with me?"
"You know I will."
---------------------------------------
Kerry managed to juggle the rosters to give them both the afternoon off a few days later.
They had decided to drive to the area where her father lived and phone him from the car.
The closer they got the more nervous Kerry became. Dee's research had turned up a lot of information but there were still gaps to be filled. Kerry knew that his name was Michael Nordquist that he had retired from Chicago P.D. a few years earlier and that he was currently unmarried. There was so much more that she wanted to find out.
Finally she pulled into a car park about two blocks from the address that Dee had given her.
"Are you ready?" asked Dave.
"As ready as I'll ever be." She steeled herself and finally dialled the number on her mobile.
The phone was picked up on the third ring.
"Hello?" said a voice on the other end.
"Is this Michael Nordquist?" asked Kerry.
"Yes, who is this?"
"Mr Nordquist, you don't know me but my name is Kerry Weaver." She hesitated for a moment before continuing, "this may sound strange, but I think I may be your daug
There was silence on the other end of the phone.
"Mr Nordquist? Are you still there?"
"Yes I'm still here." His voice sounded a lot unsteadier than it had been.
"I'd like to come and see you if that's possible. I'm only a few minutes away."
"Yes, I think that would be a good idea."
"I'll be there in ten minutes."
As Kerry replaced the phone in her bag her hands were shaking.
Dave reached for her hand and squeezed it.
"It's going to be fine," he said.
"I hope so."
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A few minutes later they pulled up in front of the house.
As they walked up the path the front door opened. A man in his sixties stepped out.
"Oh my god," he said. "You look so like your mother."
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Kerry sat nursing a cup of coffee wondering how to raise the question she most wanted an answer to. Michael had filled her in on how he and Sarah had met and got involved.
"The day you were born was the happiest day of our lives," he said. "And for six months we were the perfect family, and then came the accident."
"You don't have to talk about that now," said Kerry who could see the sadness in his eyes.
"No I want to tell you. I can see that you want to know why you were adopted."
He sighed heavily. "Having you adopted was the biggest mistake of my life. But at the time I thought I was doing the right thing. I was banged up pretty bad in the accident. At the time the doctors thought I wouldn't survive. You were placed with foster parents when you got out of the hospital. The doctors said it would be several months before I could leave the hospital and maybe a year or more before I could work again. They persuaded me that it would be best if you were left with foster parents until then. When I got out of hospital I tried to get you back, but the social workers said that you had settled with the Weavers and you had been through enough upheaval. I am so sorry that I didn't fight harder for you."
He took Kerry's hand and said, "Can you ever forgive me?"
"I do forgive you. You did what you thought was best at the time."
Kerry hesitated before asking her next question, "One thing I would like to know, is why you and my mother never married?"
Michael sighed heavily. "Because we thought we had all the time in the world to get married, instead we only had a little over two years. But they were some of the best years of my life."
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Several hours later Kerry and Dave finally left Michaels house. Michael had given Kerry some photos of himself and Sarah and one of the three of them together. They promised to meet again soon.
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"How do you feel?" asked Dave as they drove home.
"I don't know," replied Kerry. "I mean I have the answers I was looking for but I still feel sort of empty inside. I'm probably just tired. It's been a draining few days."
"We'll be home soon and then you can rest."
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That night Kerry was unusually quiet after they had finished their lovemaking.
"Penny for your thoughts," said Dave as he wrapped his arms around her.
"I was thinking," said Kerry slowly. "About how I'd like to marry you."
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Consequences part VIII (final episode)
Kerry was unusually quiet after they had finished their lovemaking.
"Penny for your thoughts," said Dave as he wrapped his arms around her.
"I was thinking," said Kerry slowly. "About how I'd like to marry you."
She could feel Dave tense up and she cursed to herself. Why had she said anything?
Out loud she said, "I'm sorry, forget I said anything."
Dave sighed. "Kerry, when I go home next week will you come with me."
Kerry turned to look at Dave. This was the last thing she had expected.
"Why do want me to come with you?" she asked.
"Do you trust me?"
"Of course."
"Then come with me next week and I'll explain it all to you then."
"I'd love to."
-----------------------------
A week later they were both on a train heading for Dave's hometown.
As the train meandered through the countryside Dave watched the scenery and Kerry watched Dave. In spite of her probing he had refused to tell her why he wanted to bring her home. All he said was it was to do with a keeping a promise.
------------------------------
Kerry followed Dave off the train. In spite of his assurances that she would be warmly welcomed she was still apprehensive about meeting his father and stepmother.
Dave stepped off the train and headed straight for a couple in their early sixties.
Tom Malucci had a kindly weather-beaten face, with black hair speckled with silver.
Kathy a slight woman was as fair as her husband was dark. They greeted Dave warmly.
"Dave my boy. It's been too long," said Tom as he hugged him warmly. "You really should have let us come to see you while you were in hospital."
"I didn't want you to have to travel so far just to sit round a hospital bed."
"We'd have travelled a million miles to make sure you were alright."
"I know."
He put his arms round his stepmother and kissed her on both cheeks.
"Kathy, you're looking wonderful as always."
"I hope you've been taking care of yourself since your accident. You really should have come home and let us look after you," replied Dave's stepmother.
"Hey I was fine. After all I had my own personal physician." Dave reached out and pulled Kerry into their group.
"Dad, Kath, I'd like you to meet Kerry Weaver."
"Mr and Mrs Malucci, I'm very pleased to meet you," said Kerry shaking hands.
"Please, call us Tom and Kathy," replied Dave's father.
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The next morning Kerry was woken by a gentle kiss on her forehead, but she didn't open her eyes until she had also been kissed on both cheeks and her lips.
"Good morning," said Dave. "Did you sleep well?"
"Well I found it a bit lonely without you."
"Sorry about that. I would have joined you but, well it didn't seem right with my Dad next door."
"It's ok I understand."
"Good, because Dad's out mowing the lawn and Kath's making breakfast, so if you're still lonely..."
Kerry put her arms around Dave and pulled him down on top of her.
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After breakfast Tom asked Dave what his plans were.
"I thought about going to The Garden," said Dave.
Tom nodded his head. "I'll get you some flowers to bring with you."
"Thanks Dad."
"And what about Kerry?" asked Tom.
"I thought I'd bring her with me."
Tom and Kathy exchanged knowing glances with each other.
Kerry was intrigued but didn't want to say anything in front of them.
-----------------------------------
After a half hour drive they pulled up in front of "Garden of Peace", a small cemetery on a hill.
Dave retrieved the flowers and led Kerry through the gates and up the hill.
About half way up he stopped in front of a small headstone.
Kerry read the inscription. Florence Malucci, beloved wife and mother.
"Is this?" she started to say.
"This is my mother," said Dave as he replaced the withered flowers with fresh ones.
He stood up again and took Kerry by the hand. They stood in silence for a few minutes.
Finally Dave led Kerry back to a bench near the entrance where they sat down.
"There's something I want to explain to you," began Dave.
"A long time ago I promised my mother that I wouldn't get engaged to someone that she had never met."
"That's why you brought me here, to meet your mother?"
"It's the only way I could think of. Plus I wanted to get this from Tom, he's been keeping it for me."
Dave produced a small box from his pocket and opened it. Inside was a small gold ring with two green and one white stone set into it. He slid onto one knee in front of Kerry and took her hand.
"Kerry, will you marry me."
"Oh Dave. Of course I will."
She drew him into her arms and they kissed.
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Dave sat back up on the seat and took Kerry's left hand. "Let's see if this fits you. If not we can always get it resized." He paused "that is if you like it? If not we can get another one."
"I would wear any ring you gave me."
"It belonged to my grandmother and then my mother. A few years before my mum died she got all us kids together to choose what jewellery of hers we wanted. This ring was my favourite."
"It's beautiful, and it fits perfectly."
They sat in silence looking out at the headstones.
After a few minutes Kerry laughed.
"What's so funny?"
"I was just wondering what our children will say when they find out you proposed to me in a cemetery."
"We can always tell them that you proposed to me after we'd had sex."
Dave paused for a moment before continuing, "Do you want to have children?"
"I want to have your children."
"I love you Kerry."
"I love you too."
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And so the years rolled by and when their children and later their grandchildren asked about the proposal they were told it happened in a beautiful garden, and with that they were content.
THE END
This story continues in Always on my mind