Gary's Day Off

by egonspengler

The newspaper gives Gary the day off...Or does it?

2. Gary's Day Off 2 Final

Gary's Day OffGary's Day Off

Installment 2

by Irene Brabson

Disclaimer, etc., in Installment 1.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Gary's Day Off

Installment 2

by Irene Brabson

Part 11

Getting up from their seats, Wayne and Lorraine joined Doctor Baylor and all

three

walked towards the room where Allison was. When they arrived they could see

that

Allison had quiet down some, she was still crying, but no longer screaming.

Doctor

Murdock had just got done examining her arm and was standing at the end of her

bed.

Both Lorraine and Wayne enter into the room, as they did so Allison saw them

and

began to call out.

"Mommy, Daddy," she cried as she held out her good arm for them.

Lorraine walk over and sat on the chair next to Allison, stroking her hair she

began to

conform her child.

"Its okay, sweetie, don't cry. Daddy and Mommy are here, so don't you worry,"

said

Lorraine. Wayne came over too and also began to comfort his young daughter.

"Hey 'Love Bug' everything is going to be okay. Mommy and I won't let any thing

more

happen to you.

Doctor Murdock was writing on Allison's chart. He had been a Orthopedic

Surgeon for

14 years and had set many broken bones over the years, but still found it hard

to deal with

when it was a small child.

"Mr. and Mrs. Porter, could I just talk to you for just a minute?" asked Doctor

Murdock.

Wayne turned to his wife. "You stay here with Allison, I'll go talk to the

doctor."

Lorraine nodded her head as she continued to stoke her daughter's hair. Doctor

Murdock

and Wayne stepped out into the hall. Wayne waited patiently while Doctor

Murdock

began to explain about Allison's broken arm.

"Mr. Porter, Allison's arm was broken just below her elbow. I was told she

fell about 30

ft. Is this true".

"Yes," Wayne nodded his head with a tear streaking down his cheek. "She had

fallen into

a well and a man who helped my sister-in-law get to our house after her car

broke down

help me to rescued her. He tried a rope around his waist, when down into the

hole to get

her. Me and my horse Valentine pulled both him and Allison out of the well.

It was the

first time in my life that any stranger I met was so willing to help a total

stranger. All I

can say thank God for men like Gary Hobson."

"Well I am certainly glad that Mr. Hobson was there for you and your family.

Allison has

been totality examined and she seems fine except for her arm and some minor

cuts and

bruises. I'll have the nurse give her a little sedative so she can sleep and I

will get her

ready to take to the OR and have her arm set. We should be ready for her

soon," said Dr.

Murdock.

Wayne nodded his head and went back into Allison room to wait with Lorraine.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gary and Jillian looked at each other. Neither one was sure of what just

happened a few

minutes before, one moment they were talking about Ernie and his rubber ducky,

the next

they were in each others arms and kissing. It seems to happen so fast that

they were both

shocked with surprise.

"Gary?" asked Jillian.

"Mmm?" answered Gary.

"Gary, did we just kiss?" asked Jillian.

"Yeah, that exactly what we did," answered Gary.

"Uh, did you like it?" asked Jillian.

"Oh yeah. I hope you like it too," answered Gary.

"I don't know, I need a second opinion," said Jillian and she put her lips on

his, as she did

so her heart pounded and butterflies were starting to flutter in her stomach.

This kiss was

longer and better then the first one. No doubt about it, Jillian was falling

in love.

Gary's heart felt like it was going to pound right out of his chest. Her lips

felt good

against his and he wanted this moment to last forever. No doubt about it Gary

was falling

in love.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The shot was beginning to work. Allison's eyes were getting heavy and she was

slowly

slipping off to dream land. A gurney was bought in and she was place gently on

it.

Wayne and Lorraine walk with her as far as they could go and they both kiss her

as she

was being roll into the OR.

"Allison, honey, Daddy and I will be here waiting when you come out. Don't you

worry

sweetie, we both love you very much," said Lorraine.

"See you soon Love Bug. Love you," added Wayne.

Wayne and Lorraine stood together hand and hand as they watch the orderly wheel

their

daughter into the OR Lorraine suddenly started to cry. The sight of seeing her

daughter

being taken into the OR was just more then she could take. Wayne took his wife

in to his

arms and did his best to comfort her.

"Lorraine it's going to be all right. Come on honey lets go back to the waiting

room and

wait.

Hugging and kissing each other, they slowly walked back to the waiting room.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bernie was tossing and turning, he was having trouble sleeping, looking at the

clock he

seen that it was only 3:30 a.m. Boy, this is a long night he thought to

himself. Looking

over at Lois, he could see that she was sound asleep. He watched as her chest

went

slowly up and down and listened while she mumbled softly in her sleep. He

couldn't

quite make out was she was saying, but he did hear Gary's name at least twice.

Maybe she

was dreaming about a time when he was little, he thought laughing to himself.

Lois stir and began to wake up, as she did she could see that Bernie was

staring right at

her.

"Bernie, is there something wrong?" asked Lois.

"You know that you are beautiful when you sleep?" said Bernie, answering Lois's

question with a question.

"Bernie, its 3:40 in the morning, now you didn't wake me up to tell me that,

did you?"

asked Lois.

"No, I was just wondering, what time did Gary say he be home tomorrow?" asked

Bernie.

"He said around noon. It could be 1, he wasn't totally sure. Bernie, are you

okay with

this? If you aren't you should have said something last night when Gary

called," said

Lois.

"Oh, yeah. I'll okay. I was just curious that all," said Bernie.

"Oh, I thought for a minute that that shinier you got last night might have

spooked you

into not wanting to deal any more with the paper," said Lois.

"Oh, Lois you know I'll always there for Gar. No black eye would keep me from

helping

my boy or anything else for that matter," said Bernie.

"I know and I am sorry. I know you will always be there for him and you have to

know

that Gary appreciate everything that you and Chuck has done so he can have this

day off.

I am so proud of the both you and Chuck. Gary couldn't put his paper in better

hands,"

said Lois. She kissed her husband on the lips. After Lois kissed Bernie she

told him to

get some sleep, for the cat and the paper would be here before they knew it and

it would

be time to start a new day.





------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Briiii. The phone on the kitchen wall started to ring. Jillian and Gary could

hear it

ringing but didn't want to leave each other's arms. They both tried to ignore

it but it just

wouldn't stop ringing.

"Jillian, maybe you better answered that a maybe Wayne or Lorraine calling,"

said Gary.

Yeah, I better," said Jillian and she stood up as Gary released her and she

walk over to

answered the phone.

"Hello," said Jillian.

"Jillian this is Lorraine. They just took Allison to the OR to have her arm

set. Her arm

was broken below the elbow, but she wasn't serious hurt anywhere else," said

Lorraine.

"Oh, I glad to hear that. When did they take her?" asked Jillian.

"About 10 minutes ago. They say it could take a couple of hours. Is Chris

okay?" asked

Lorraine.

"Yes, he's fine. He woke up about hour or so ago, but he's back to sleep now.

Gary and

I are sitting in the kitchen, having some coffee and cake and listening to the

radio," said

Jillian.

"Well thank you and Gary for staying with Chris. Wayne and I surely appreciate

it," said

Lorraine.

"You don't have to thank us Lorraine, we were more than glad to do it. By the

way have

you and Wayne gotten any sleep?" asked Jillian.

"No, but we are going to try and get some. Why don't you and Gary do the same?

You

both could use some rest, yourselves," said Lorraine.

"Okay, we will if you will. Agreed?" asked Jillian.

"Agreed." answered Lorraine.

"Lorraine do you want to talk to Gary, before we say good-bye?" asked Jillian.

"No. Just tell him thank you for me. I call you as soon as Allison comes out

of surgery,"

said Lorraine.

"Okay, will do. Talk to you later sis. I love you. Bye" said Jillian.

"Right back at you. Bye, sis," said Lorraine.

Jillian hung up the phone and turn towards Gary.

"Is everything okay?" asked Gary, concernedly.

"Yeah, they just took Allison to the OR to set her arm. Lorraine said it could

take a

couple of hours. So, we thought we all should get some rest. I going up stairs

and try to

get some sleep. Maybe you should do the same?"

Gary looked over to the couch. He was tried and he could use some sleep.

Walking over

to the couch, he picked up the blanket, laid down on the couch, and covered up.

Jillian

walked over and kissed him good night on the forehead and started up the

stairs.

"Jillian, I see you in the morning," said Gary as he smiled at her.

"Okay, Gary. Pleasant dreams and don't let the bed bugs bite," said Jillian.

"You too," said Gary.

With that Gary turned towards the back of the couch and went straight to sleep

and Jillian

walked up stairs to the guestroom.

Part 12

Gary laid on the couch and thought about the things that had happen in the last

few hours.

He never thought that he would fall in love after helping a complete stranger

that morning.

But falling in love is what he did. He loved every thing about Jillian. Her

auburn hair and

the color of her eyes, the way her dimple lighted up when she smiled, her

beautiful face

and how it was covered with the cutest freckle he ever saw. Yes he was really

smitten

with her and he knew he had to find away to keep her in his life. As he drifted

off to sleep

he began to think of a way to do just that.

Jillian was dressed in her pink lace nightgown and she was sitting at the top of

her bed

with her legs tucked under her chin. She never met a man like Gary Hobson. He

was so

kind and caring and those puppy dogs eyes didn't hurt either. She loved kissing

him

tonight and she felt safe in his arms.

She knew that she could never let him go. She was definitetly in love with this

man. She

loved his smile and the cute little way he rubbed the back of his head when he

was

nervous or the way he would look at her when he was confused and that stuttering

was so

adorable.

She began to wonder, would the heart break of losing Jimmy to her best friend

Linda,

finally be mended? Will Gary be the one to do it? Jillian knew that she would do

all she

could to mend Gary's broken heart. They both been through so much, but Jillian

knew that

the pieces of their broken hearts were being put back together.

She had no doubt that she was in love with Gary.

Jillian slid down under the covers and started to think that maybe Lorraine, her

sister, and

Gary's mother were right. 'Gary stopped this morning not only to help me, but

also to

deliver me from my pain. Yes Jimmy I can finally save good-bye to you. You can't

hurt me

any more. Gary Hobson I love you and will find away to keep you with me

always.' At

that she drifted off to sleep ----------------------------------------------

"Meow!"

Bernie looked at the clock and could see that it was 6:30 and he heard the cat

meowing

impatiently at the door. Grabbing his robe and trying not to wake his still

sleeping wife,

Bernie headed for the door.

"Meow!"

"Okay. Hold your horses will you? Sheesh is this what Gary has to put up with

every

morning? Now I understand why he always so grumpy," said Bernie

Bernie opened the door. Cat was sitting on the paper. He was glad to finally see

Bernie

open the door, now he could get back to Chris before he woke up and left to do

just that.

Bernie bent down to pick up the paper, he didn't see where cat had gone, but

figured he

was around some where. He didn't know that Cat had returned to Chris. For that

is where

he was needed. Cat knew that Bernie and Chuck could handle the paper.

"Bernie is that the paper? asked Lois as she woke up.

"Yes Lois it's the paper," said Bernie. "What else would it be at this hour?"

mumbling

under his breath.

"I heard that Bernie Hobson," said Lois with a hint of irritation.

"Well I'm sorry, but you have to admit that was a dumb question," said Bernie

"Oh never mind that. Is there anything that needs to be taken care of right

away?" asked

Lois.

Bernie searched though the paper.

"The first save isn't until 8:30, there's a small boy who gets hurt when a

teenage boy steals

his bike."

"Where does it take place?" asked Lois

"On Canal street. Just out side of the boy's front door."

"Oh. Is there any other save you have to do before Gary returns?" asked Lois

"Yes there are a couple more, but nothing Chuck and I can't handle," answered

Bernie.

"Well speaking of Chuck, maybe you should get showered and dressed and go see if

he's

shown up down stairs yet," said Lois

"You go ahead and shower first. I can wait," said Bernie.

"Bernie I know the first save isn't until 8:30, but that paper has been known to

change. I

really think you should shower first," said Lois as she threw a towel at him.

Bernie knew there was no sense in arguing with his wife once she made up her

mind. He

knew that she could be very stubborn when she did.

"Okay, you win. Now I know where Gar get's his stubbornness from," whispered

Bernie.

"Hey you! None of your wise cracks," said Lois as she pick up one of the

pillows and

threw it at her husband.

The pillow smacked Bernie in the back of the head. Grabbing the pillow up from

where it

had fallen, Bernie turned around and gave his wife a wicked smile. "So you want

to play

rough do you? "

"Bernie! Don't you dare throw that at me," cried Lois .

"Oh, I see, we can dish it out, but we can't take it," said Bernie.

Bernie dropped the pillow and ran over to grab his wife. When he had her he

started to

tickle her, which caused her to scream even more.

"Bernie! Stop, please stop!" she said through a fit of laughter.

"Say Uncle."

"No! Never. "

"Say Uncle."

"Bernie if you don't stop. I'll really scream."

"Not until you say Uncle".

"Bernieee! Okay! Okay! You big nut. Uncle! "

Bernie stoped tickling his wife and turned her around to him. He kissed her with

so much

emotion that Lois melted in his arms. After all these years he was still the one

and only one

for her.

As much as they both wanted this moment to last they knew they had to get

dressed and

face the demands of the paper.

"Well I guess I better take my shower. Would you like to join me Mrs. Hobson?'

Lois thought about it for a moment. She was tempted to take his offer, but

decided not to.

"You go ahead Bernie. I'll just straighten up here a little. "

"Okay, but you own me a rain check," said Bernie .

"Okay, I'll do just that," said Lois

----------------------------------------------

Wayne was sitting on the chair next to his daughter's bed. She looked so small

laying

there with her right arm in a cast. The nightmare of a few hours earlier was

finally

beginning to end. Allison stirred a little in her sleep and Wayne took her good

hand and

just held it tight as if to make sure she was really okay.

Lorraine was sleeping on the cot at the foot of Allison's bed and was having a

nightmare.

Her children were calling for her and she couldn't reach them.

"I coming," she shouted in her dream. "I can't see you Chris. Allison. Please

help me to

find you. Please! " Lorraine screamed out.

Wayne got up from his seat and hurried over to his wife's side. Gently taking

her in his

arms he began to wake her from the nightmare that was taking over her sleep.

"Lorraine, honey it's all right wake up. The children are fine. Allison is here

with us and

Chris is safe with Jillian and Gary. You're just having a bad dream, come on

honey wake

up. It's okay," said Wayne as he held his wife close to his chest.

Lorraine woke up with a start. She was crying and shaking badly. Wayne took her

in his

arms and comforted her the best he knew how.

"It's okay Lorraine, you're just having a nightmare. Chris and Allison are both

safe."

Lorraine continued to sob. As she was crying she told Wayne about her dream.

"Chris and Allison were in danger, but I couldn't find them, I couldn't get to

them. It was

like an invisible force was keeping me from getting to them. They kept calling

me but I

couldn't reach them. I was so frightened. " She continued to sob in Wayne's

arms.

"Lorraine it was just a dream. That's all. Everything is all right."

"Mommy? Daddy?"

The Porters turned towards the sound of their daughter's voice. Lorraine walked

over to

her daughter's side. Wayne was behind his wife.

"Good morning Love Bug. How are you doing this morning?" asked Wayne as he

kissed

his daughter on top of the head.

Lorraine took Allison's good hand and stroked her hair. "Hi baby are you

feeling better?"

Allison looked at both her parents. She had a question of her own.

"Mommy? Daddy?"

"Yes Love Bug what is it?" asked Wayne.

"Where's my angel?" asked Allison.

"Your angel Love Bug?" asked Wayne.

"Yeah, Daddy the angel that got me out of the big hole," said Allison

"Oh that angel," said Wayne.

"Where is he? Will he be back Mommy? Does he have a name? He was really nice to

me

Mommy," said Allison

"Allison honey, your angel's name is Gary and he is with your aunt Jillian and

Chris and

yes he will be hear to see you soon," answered Lorraine.

"Really Mommy? When?" asked an excited Allison.

"Oh sometime this morning Love Bug," Wayne answered for his wife.

"Hey Love Bug are you hungry?" asked Wayne

"Yes Daddy. I want some waffles," answered Allison.

"Well I'll see what I can do," answered Wayne.

Wayne turned to his wife " Are you okay now sweetie?" He asked, referring to her

nightmare

"Yes, I think so. Thank you for being there for me Wayne." She kissed him

tenderly on

the lips.

"You're welcome sweet heart," said Wayne.

"I'll go and talk to Allison's doctor, see if I can get her some waffles and

call Jillian and

find out when her, Chris and Allison's angel will be coming," said Wayne.

"Okay, I'll stay here with Allison, " said Lorraine as she watched her husband

walked

down the hall.

Part 13

Marissa was sitting at the bar drinking a cup of coffee, when she heard

footsteps coming

towards her. She turned around when she heard a familiar voice.

"Good morning Marissa," said Chuck as he sat down next to her.

"Well good morning to you Chuck and how did you sleep last night?" asked

Marissa.

"Don't ask. It was one of the worse nights I ever put in," answered Chuck.

"Why is that?" asked Marissa inquisitively.

"Well last night, thanks to that stupid paper, I had the most disturbing dream

I ever had in

my life," said Chuck .

"Oh? What was the dream about?" Marissa asked.

"The dream I had last night was so weird that I was afraid to go to my door,

when the

cleaning lady knocked on it, so she could clean this morning," said Chuck.

"Oh come on Chuck, it couldn't have been that bad," said Marissa.

"Oh you don't know the half of it. The dream started out with me in bed, the

alarm goes

off, suddenly I hear a big thump that sounded like an earthquake. It was so

loud, it shook

my whole apartment. The next thing I hear is a something that sounds like the

roaring of

some kind of animal. Well curiosity got the best of me and I went to see what it

was. I

opened the door and sitting on top a bunch of newspapers wrapped in twine was a

giant

copy of the cat. It was just sitting on top of all those newspapers, as if it

were sitting on it

throne. When he meowed at me, the sound was like an earthquake. He gave me a

looked

as if to say these are yours buddy and he moved off the bundle of papers and I

bent to pick

them up. Would you like to know what these papers were? Would you Marissa?"

Marissa nodded her head.

"Those papers were 50 copies of tomorrow's paper from every state in the nation

from

Delaware to Hawaii. All fifty states," said Chuck. Marissa couldn't help but to

laugh at

Chuck's wild dream. "What did you do?" she asked through her laughter.

"What any sensible American guy would do. I slammed the door, ran back to my

bed,

dived in and pulled the covers over my head. That's what I did. That's what

anybody else

would have done, except maybe Gar. In all likelihood he would have found a way

to deal

with all fifty newspapers. Yes I'm quite sure of it, that's what he would do,"

said Chuck.

"Oh Chuck, now you're being silly. I don't think that Gary, would try and cover

all fifty

newspapers," said Marissa.

"Oh I don't know about that. Yes I truly think that he would," said Chuck.

Marissa just shook her head and took a sip of her coffee.

"Hey good morning Chuck-o and to you too Marissa," said Bernie as he walked into

the

bar. "Good morning to you too Bernie," answered Marissa.

"Where's Lois? Chuck asked.

"She's up stairs straightening up a little. She'll be down in a little while.

Well Chuck-o, are

you ready to go?" asked Bernie.

"Yeah, I'm ready. What's the first save of the day?" Chuck asked.

"The paper says that we have to go on Canal Street and stop a teenage boy from

stealing a

little boy's bike. The paper says that the small boy gets hurt, when he tries

to stop the

older boy from stealing the bike from him," said Bernie.

"Where on Canal Street and what time is it supposed to take place?" Chuck asked.

"At the 500 block and according to the paper 8:30," answered Bernie.

"Well let's going then. Is it all right if we use my car?" Chuck asked.

"Yes. It 's all right," answered Bernie. "Oh by the way, what were you talking

about

before I entered the bar?" asked Bernie.

"Oh I was just telling Marissa about a silly dream I had is all," answered

Chuck.

"Yeah, well you can tell me about it on the way," said Bernie.

Chuck agreed to tell Bernie about his dream and slipped off the bar stool and

said good

bye to Marissa and headed for the door.

Bernie also headed for the door and the turned back towards Marissa.

"See you later Marissa, tell Lois I will called her later," said Bernie.

"Okay Bernie. You and Chuck, be careful out there. Bye Chuck," said Marissa.

"Bye." Bernie and Chuck said in unison and hurried out the door.

----------------------------------------------

Briiiiiiiiiiiii! Brriiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii!

Jillian sat up in bed and rubbed the sleep out of her eyes. Hearing the phone

she reached

for it on the night stand and answered it.

"Hello?" Jillian asked with a hint of drowsiness.

"Jillian, this is Wayne. Good morning to you."

"Oh, Good morning Wayne." said Jillian, with a yawn. "How's Allison this

morning?"

"Oh she doing fine. She came through with flying colors after the surgery. She's

awakenow and is wondering when you will all get here. She told me she wants to

thank

her angel for saving her," said Wayne.

"Her angel huh?" Jillian asked.

"Yes. Her angel," answered Wayne.

'Oh Allison you don't know how right you are,' thought Jillian to herself. 'He

is my angel

too.'

"Jillian are you still there?" asked Wayne.

"Yes, I'm here," answered Jillian, but before she could say anything else, she

heard a

commotion that nearly terrified the life out of her.

"Hey, stop it! Get off of me! Hey leave my feet alone," shrieked Gary.

"Get him Lucky. Wake him up. Come on Gary it's time to get up," said Chris

through all

of his excitement.

"Wayne, something is going on down stairs," said Jillian.

"What's happening?" asked Wayne with hint of worry.

"I'm not sure, but Gary is yelling about something and I can hear Lucky barking

and Chris

squealing too. So tell Allison that Chris, I and her angel will be up there as

soon as her

aunt Jillian finds out what is going on and I have everyone ready to go," said

Jillian.

"Will do, see you later sis-in-law," said Wayne.

"Bye" answered Jillian.

Jillian hung up the phone and grabbed her robe. She hurried down the stairs to

see what all

the commotion was about. When she entered the room she saw a sight that made her

crack up with uncontrollable laughter.

Gary was lying helplessly on the couch. Lucky was sitting practically on his

face and was

playfully licking him. The new comer, the strange yellow cat who seemed to come

out of

no where was playing and biting at his toes and Chris was sitting on Gary's

stomach

chatting, "Get up. Get up."

"Jillian, would you please help me? They're driving me crazy. Okay I'm awake

already.

Jillian, would you please help me?"

"Okay. Chris, I think Gary's awake now," said Jillian trying to control her

laughter. "So

please get off of him. You grab Lucky and I'll get the cat."

"Oh do I have to?" Chris wanted to know.

"Yes you have to. Gary is not a trampoline for you to bounce on, so please do as

I say and

get down," said Jillian

"Okay, come on Lucky, Gary's awake now," said Chris.

"You too," Jillian said to the cat as she lifted him off of Gary and put him on

the floor.

Gary sat up on the couch and gave a sigh of relief.

"Good morning Gary," said Jillian as she sat down beside him and gave him a good

morning kiss.

Gary returned the morning kiss with one of his own.

"Good morning, " said Gary still trying to recover from his ordeal.

"Well how did you like your wake up committee?" asked Jillian trying to compress

her

laughter.

"Well I prefer an alarm clock," said Gary. " It's a little less dangerous."

Lucky was sitting on the floor, his tail was wagging and he was barking up a

storm.

"Woof! Woof!"

"Oh Lucky we don't need any comment from the peanut gallery," said Jillian.

"Woof! Hooooooooooool!"

"Hey that's enough, every body is awake now. Okay little fellow? You don't have

to keep

it up, so stop all ready," said Jillian.

Gary sat on the couch. He was trying really hard to compress his laughter, but

was having

a really difficult job of doing so.

"Okay, Buster, what's so funny?" asked Jillian.

Gary was laughing so hard by this time that tears were streaming down his face

and he

was having trouble forming the words that were in his throat.

"Well?" asked Jillian.

" Well uh you see uh," Gary was try to talk though his laughter. "It's just so

funny, that

you are trying to get Lucky to stop barking and the more you try, the more he

barks,"

roared Gary. Jillian could no longer control the laughter inside of her and let

it out.

"Oh come on you nut, we have to get ready to go and see Allison," said Jillian.

"Okay," said Gary.

Gary got up from the couch and walked over and kissed Jillian passionately on

the lips.

Jillian return his kiss with so much emotion, that Gary fell even more in love

with her and

her in love with him.

Jillian wanted to stay in Gary's arms, but she knew that they had to get ready

to go.

"Gary, we really have to get ready. Allison is asking about the angel that save

her from the

big scary hole," said Jillian.

"An angel? I'm no angel. I was just at the right place at the right time," said

Gary.

"Oh yes Allison is right, you are an angel, you saved my niece's life and that

makes you an

angel in my eyes too."

Gary face turned three shades of red. "Okay if you and Allison want to think I'm

an angel I

won't argue with you, but I'm just a regular guy that just happened to be there

because I

gave a lift to Allison's and Chris's gorgeous aunt." said Gary.

Now it was Jillian 's turn to blush. She could feel the redness creep up her

neck and goose

bumps all over her body.

"Oh Gary I love you." At that she wrapped her arms around the back of his head

and

pulled him down to kiss his lips.

After the kiss Gary whispered in her ear that he loved her too and returned her

kissed with

so much love that they could feel it in their hearts.

"Hey you two stop all that mushy stuff so we can get ready," said Chris with a

look of

discust.

"Okay Chris. Gary, Chris and I are going to go up and get ready, you can get

ready after

us," said Jillian.

Gary nodded his head in agreement and planted one more kiss on Jillian 's lips

before

Jillian went up stairs.

Gary found himself alone with Lucky and Cat. Glaring at Cat he said. "Don't get

any ideas

that you are going to play with my feet when we get home buster."

Cat just looked up at Gary and then proceeded to wash himself.

"Oh Boy," said Gary as he stared at the cat.

Part 14

Bernie and Chuck arrived at the scene around 8:18 A.M This was plenty of time

to stop

what was about to take place.

"Okay this is the place, now what's the next move?" Bernie asked Chuck.

"Well I guess we just wait?" answered Chuck.

As soon as Chuck had given his answer, a small boy around 10, with brown hair,

wearing

blue jeans and a red shirt, came out of the house at 505 Canal Street. He was

pushing a

brand new red 10-speed bike. This was where the whole event was to take place.

"Okay, there's the first boy. I wonder where the other boy is?" asked Bernie.

As if on clue, the second boy came into view. He was a teenager, maybe 14, with

dark

curly hair and an olive complexion. He was wearing a pair of pants that looked

to be 2

sizes too big and a white t - shirt. He also looked like he was looking for

trouble.

" I guess I better go and see if I can talk this kid out of what he's planning

to do," said

Chuck

"You, I don't think so, Marissa told me the last time you tried that, you got a

gun pointed

at you and your car was also stolen," said Bernie.

"Well that was then, this is now, besides I know what I did wrong and I will

handle this

problem better. Hey besides we don't have time to argue. Well here I go, wish me

luck,"

said Chuck.

"Okay, good luck, but I think I should be the one," said Bernie.

Chuck just shook his head at Bernie, (thinking that, boy no one has any faith in

me) and

began walking towards the teenager. Taking a quick look at the paper, Chuck

noticed

that the boy's name was Manuel Diego.

"Hey Manuel!" shouted Chuck

Manuel turned around at the sound of his name. Who could be calling him, the

voice

didn't sound familiar to him and he was wondering who it could be.

"Over here Manuel" said Chuck.

Manuel looked up to see a man walking towards him. A man who looked to be in his

mid

30's with receding light brown hair and medium height. Manuel knew he never seen

this

man before and wonder how he knew his name.

"Hey man, how do you know my name?" asked Manuel.

"That's not important. What is important, is that you don't go through with what

you are

planning," answered Chuck.

"What makes you think I'm planning anything?" asked Manuel.

"I know you're thinking about stealing that little boy's bicycle?" said Chuck as

he pointed

to the young boy on the porch.

Manuel was shocked. He couldn't believe that this stranger knew what he was

planning

to do.

"Well what if I was? Look at where he lives, his father could afford a dozen

bikes, so why

can't I have that one? Hey man I need that bike," said Manuel.

"Why, do you need that bike?" asked Chuck.

"Because, I want to give it to my little brother, Jose, for his birthday. He

want's a bike just

like that and Mom can't afford to get it for him, even though she's working two

jobs. Ever

since our father left us, my mother has had trouble making ends meet," said

Manuel, with

tears streaming down his cheeks .

"I'm really sorry to hear about your father, I know that must have been a

terrible blow to

your family, but don't you think your mother has enough problems? Do you think

she

would like to get a call from the police station, telling her that her oldest

boy was arrested

for stealing?" asked Chuck.

"No, but I only have 75 dollars I earned by running a few errands. That won't

buy a decent

bike," sobbed Manuel.

"Tell you what, I know where there is a thrift shop that sells bikes for 40

dollars and up. I

promise you will find a decent bike in there to give your brother for his

birthday. And that

way no one gets hurt. What do you say?" asked Chuck .

"Okay," said Manuel wiping a tear off his cheek. Where is this place? "

"Come on, we will take you there. My name is Chuck and this is Bernie."

"Hi Chuck and Bernie," said Manuel.

"Hi," said Bernie

Chuck walked over to his car and opened the door for Manuel to get in. Ten

minutes later

they were in front of Joe's thrift shop.

"Well let's go in," said Bernie.

The three of them entered the store. At the counter was a man in his early 60's

with salt

and pepper hair, with a dark completion.

"Hey, Chuck, it's really nice to see you," said Joe.

"You know this guy? asked Bernie.

"Well sure, Chuck and I have been friends for quite a few years, right Chucky?"

"Yeah, Joey, we sure have. Hey Joey, this is Manuel and he's looking for a bike

to give to

his brother for his birthday."

"Hi Manuel. How much money do you have to spend?" asked Joe.

Manuel liked this person. He felt that he was kind and could be trusted.

"75 dollars sir." answered Manuel

"Well, I think we can find a nice bike at that price, maybe you will even have

some left

over to get your mother something nice. How would you like that?" asked Joe.

"I think that would be awesome sir, " answered Manuel .

"Call me Joey. Now let's find you that bike," said Joey .

Manuel started to follow Joey, but then turned around to face Chuck and Bernie.

"Thank you for talking me out of what I was planning to do and bringing me

here," said

Manuel.

"You're welcome, just stay out of trouble and be a big help to your mother,"

said Chuck.

"I will," said Manuel and with that he followed Joey to where the bikes were

kept.

Chuck and Bernie walk out the door and to Chuck's car.

"Well that's one good deed. Now what else does the paper have for us?" asked

Chuck.

Bernie looked at Chuck. " I must admit you did a swell job there. Gary would be

proud,"

said Bernie.

"Thanks. Now let's see what's next," said Chuck "Oh boy. There's a small boy on

Dexter

street, who loses his life. He get's hit by a car, while playing a dangerous

game of

chicken," said Bernie.

"How much time do we have before this happens?" asked Chuck.

"About 20 minutes," answered Bernie.

"Then we better get a move on," said Chuck.

"Yeah, I'll handle this one, for personal reasons," said Bernie.

Chuck shook his head and drove toward Dexter Street. He wondered what Bernie

meant

by personal, but didn't probe him for the answer. He figured he would find out

soon

enough.

"Oh come on Kyle, don't be such a chicken," said a tall thin boy around 15.

"Yeah," said another boy. " If you want to be part of this group, you have to

play the

chicken game."

"But what if I don't get out of the way in time?" asked Kyle.

"Well if you're afraid, I guess you can't be in this group of friends," answered

the

15-year-old boy.

Chuck drove his car up to the corner and parked it.

Both him and Bernie could see 3 or 4 teenage boys surrounding a much younger

boy. He

was small and a little on the heavy side, maybe 11 or 12. He had dark brown hair

and wore

a blue shirt with blue jean overalls.

"Hey you boys!" yelled Bernie as he came towards them.

The teenage boys took off as soon as they saw the strange man coming towards

them.

"Hey Kyle Martin, don't do what they are trying to bully you into doing," said

Bernie.

Kyle looked puzzled at the stranger. He knew he didn't know him, so how did he

know his

name?

"I know you don't know me, but I'm here to tell you that playing chicken is a

very

dangerous game. You could get hurt, maybe even killed. I don't think your

mother would

be too happy if she lost you in this way. Do you?"

Kyle continued to stare at the stranger. He wasn't sure what to say. Finally he

found his

voice..

"You, don't understand," sobbed Kyle. "I don't have very many friends and they

promised

to be my friends if I do this."

"Kyle, with friends like that, you don't need any enemies," said Chuck

"Chuck's right Kyle, no true friend would make you do something that dangerous.

I am

sure there are lots of kids who would like to be friends with you and wouldn't

expect you

to do something like this," said Bernie.

"Yeah, besides you just made a couple of friends," said Chuck.

"I have?" asked Kyle.

"Well sure, Bernie and me," answered Chuck.

Kyle's face turned into a bright smile. He was glad to have met Bernie and Chuck

and was

grateful to them for saving his life.

"Bernie and Chuck, do you really think I can make friends?" asked Kyle.

"Absolutely," said Bernie. "There is no reason with your charm. Why not?"

"You just have to have more faith in yourself, that's all," said Chuck.

"Yeah you're right. I'm going to try real hard to make new friends and to stay

away from

boys or girls who are just being my friend for their personal games," said Kyle.

"Good for you," said Bernie

"Bye guys and thanks," said Kyle. And at that he walked away.

Chuck and Bernie waved good bye as Kyle walked away.

Chuck and Bernie walked back to Chuck's car and Chuck opened the driver's side

and got

in. He waited for Bernie to enter the passenger side of the car. He started

the engine and

drove toward McGinty's. Driving along he decided to ask Bernie the question that

was on

his mind.

"Hey Bernie what did you mean by personal reasons for wanting to handle this

case?"

asked Chuck.

Bernie looked at Chuck, he wasn't sure how to answerthe question that Chuck had

just

asked, but he decided to try and do just that.

"Well, Chuck, when Gary was that age, he also played a foolish game of chicken.

I thank

God it was me that came around the corner of our street and not some hot rod. I

was able

to stop, but it sure scared the willies out of me," said Bernie.

"What happened after that?" asked Chuck.

"Lois and I made sure he was alright and then we grounded him for a month for

pulling

such a stupid stunt.

"Oh, I was just wondering," said Chuck, and they both remained quiet for the

rest of the

drive.

Part 15

"Mommy? When is Aunt Jillian, Chris and my angel going to get here?" asked

Allison.

Lorraine looked at her daughter with loving eyes. She was also wondering when

they

would arrive.

"I'm sure they will be here before you know it sweetie. Daddy went to called

Aunt Jillian,

he should be back soon. Do you want some ice-cream while you wait for them?"

asked

Lorraine.

"Oh yes Mommy and can I have strawberry? Please," said Allison.

"Absolutely," said Lorraine. " I will ask a nurse to bring you some. Okay?"

"Okay," answered Allison.

Wayne had returned to the room and walked over to his wife and daughter.

"Daddy are they coming?" asked Allison enthusiastically.

"Yes, Love Bug. I just called Aunt Jillian and they will be here soon."

"Wayne, I'm going down to the nurses' station and see about getting her some

strawberry

ice-cream. I will be right back,"said Lorraine.

"Okay, honey, Love Bug and I will just sit here and keep each other company.

Right Love

Bug?" asked Wayne.

"Right Daddy" answered Allison with a big grin on her face.

"Okay. I'll be back soon," said Lorraine.

----------------------------------------------

"Come on Chris honey, you have to get a move on, Allison is waiting and Gary has

to get

cleaned up too you know. So hurry up and get dressed and then come down stairs.

Okay?" said Jillian.

" I'm almost ready," said Chris. "I just have to put on my socks and shoes."

"Okay, but please hurry so Gary can clean up too," said Jillian.

"Okay," answered Chris.

Thirty minutes later, the threesome was ready to go. Gary had Cat in his arms

and Jillian

was making sure that everything was secured and in it's place.

"Well everything seem's to be in order, so I guess we better get a move on,"

said Allison

"Wait. What's Gary going to put the cat in?" asked Chris.

Gary knew that Cat would ride in back with him with out a cage, but he also knew

that

Jillian and Chris didn't know.

"Well, I don't have anything to put him in," answered Gary.

"Aunt Jillian? Couldn't we let Gary uses Taffy's old cage?" asked Chris.

"Who's Taffy?" asked Gary.

"Taffy is a cat they had, that died about a year ago. She was Butchy's sister.

She came

down with pneumonia and died from it. Lorraine and Wayne paid Doctor Logan, the

local

Vet, hundreds of dollars to try and save her, but she didn't make it," answered

Jillian.

"Yeah. Allison cried for quite awhile, because Taffy was her favorite cat," said

Chris

"Oh, I'm really sorry to heard about Taffy, but do you think that Allison would

want me to

use her cat's old cage?" asked Gary

"You know, I don't think she would mind it in the least. After all it's her

angel that is

borrowing it," said Jillian with a smile that melted Gary's heart.

Gary returned the smile and agreed to borrow Taffy's cage.

"Chris, run out to the barn and get Taffy's cage," said Jillian.

"Okay," said Chris and was off in a flash to retrieve Taffy's cage.

Gary looked down at Cat, who was resting comfortably in his arms. He wasn't sure

how

the feline would take to the cage, but he was hoping that everything would work

out.

"Cat, I know you don't like being caged up, but please go a long with me this

time. So I

can get you back home safely and Jillian and Chris won't start wondering about

you," said

Gary.

Cat just looked up at Gary with a look of understanding. He wasn't crazy about

being put

into that box as he referred to it, but for the sake of his and Gary's new found

friends, he

would cooperate this once.

"I found it," said Chris and he ran into the living room.

Gary took the cage from Chris and placed it on the floor.

"Okay, Buddy, let's put you in, so we can get going. Allison is probably

wondering what

happened to us," said Gary.

Cat went in without any trouble and Gary picked up the cage and headed out the

door,

with Jillian and Chris.

----------------------------------------------

Francine Baylor was making her rounds and decided to check on the little girl

that was

brought in the night before, the one that had fallen into the well. She located

her room and

walked in.

"Hi everyone," said Francine as she entered the room.

"Hi there. Allison do you remember Dr. Baylor?" asked Wayne.

Allison looked at the tall lady across the room. She did remember her and

wasn't too sure

she wanted her in the room.

"Hi Allison. How are you feeling this morning?" Francine asked.

Allison continued to stare at Dr. Baylor. She still wasn't sure whether to speak

to her or

not.

"Love Bug, Dr. Baylor is talking to you. So I think it would be nice if you

answered her.

What do you think?" asked Wayne.

Allison looked at her father and then back to Dr. Baylor.

"I fine, thank you," she finally answered.

"Well I'm glad that you are feeling better. You were one scared little girl

yesterday and I

know it seemed like I was hurting you and I am very sorry about that," said

Francine.

"That's okay," said Allison. " My Mommy went to get me some strawberry ice-cream

and

my Aunt Jillian and Chris and my angel will be here soon.

"Oh. Your angel huh?" asked Francine.

"Yeah, his name is Gary and he helped Daddy get me out of the big hole," said

Allison.

"Oh, I see, but wouldn't that make your daddy an angel too," asked Francine.

"No, my Daddy is my hero, and God sent Gary to help Daddy, because even heroes

need

help," said Allison.

"I see. Well I hope your angel get's here soon," said Francine.

At that moment, Lorraine returned to the room with Allison's ice cream. She

walked over

to Allison's bed and handed her the ice-cream and then turned to Dr. Baylor.

"Thank you Dr. Baylor, for everything you did for Allison last night" said

Lorraine. "Is Dr.

Murdock going to be in to see her today?"

"You're welcome Mrs. Porter and Dr. Murdock is in surgery this morning, but as

soon as

he is finished he will be in to see Allison," said Francine.

"Okay, that's fine," said Lorraine.

"Well, I have to continue my rounds. I'll check back with you later. Okay

sweetie?"

Francine asked.

"Okay," answered Allison.

As Francine left the room and started down the hall she was stopped by Jillian,

Gary, and

Chris.

"Excuse me, can you tell us which room Allison Porter is in?" Jillian asked.

"Oh, you must be her Aunt Jillian and her brother Chris," said Francine. " Yes

I can tell

you which room she's in. Room 209, first bed."

Looking at Gary, Francine could see why Allison was calling him an angel,

because she

sure thought he looked like one.

"You must, be Gary," said Francine.

"Yes, I'm Gary."

"Well all I can say, is that you are one sexy angel. Mmm, Mmm," said Francine as

she

started to walk down the hall.

Gary's face turned a scarlet red and he felt hot all over.

Jillian loved to see him blush, and thought it would be a good time to tease him

about it.

"Hey sexy angel, let's go, Allison is waiting," said Jillian with a silly grin

on her face.

Gary thought the grin on Jillian's face was so adorable, God he loved this

woman. He

couldn't believe he fell in love with her in just one day. 'If this is a dream,'

he thought, 'I

hope I never wake up.'

"Hey you two, come on let's go all ready. I want to see Allison," said Chris.

"All right Chris, we're coming," said Jillian.

All three walked down the hall towards Allison's room. They finally reached 209

and

entered the room.

"Mommy! Mommy! They 're here," said Allison as Chris, Jillian and her angel

walked in

the door.

As soon as Chris saw his little sister he ran over and gave her a big hug.

"Boy that's something we don't see too often," laughed Wayne. "Any other time

your

mother and I ask you to hug Allison, you say yuck, that sissy stuff."

"That was different, she didn't get hurt those other times," said Chris. "I'm

sure glad that

you are all right Allison. Lucky and I didn't mean for you to get hurt."

"I know," said Allison as she hugged Chris back.

Jillian walked over to the other side of Allison's bed and took her good hand.

"How are you doing sweetie?" asked Jillian

"Okay. Is that my angel standing over there?" asked Allison.

Gary was standing in the doorway, waiting for Jillian and Chris to greet

Allison, so he

could greet her too.

"Well aren't you going to come over and say hello?" asked Jillian, as she looked

over at

Gary.

"Yeah, I was just waiting my turn," said Gary and at that he walked over to

Allison's side.

Jillian stepped aside so Gary could take Allison's hand.

"Hi honey, I am really glad I was there to help you and your daddy yesterday,"

said Gary

as he smiled at Allison.

It was not easy with her broken arm, but Allison was determined to give her

angel one

heck of a big bear hug.

"I love you Gary, thank you for helping my Daddy and Valentine to save me from

that big

hole," said Allison

Tears were beginning to form in Gary's eyes. He was so glad that this little

girl was okay.

"You're welcome sweetie," said Gary. "Any time."

"I want to thank you too," said Lorraine as she hugged Gary.

"Me too buddy," added Wayne and shook Gary's hand.

Jillian walked over, threw her arms around Gary and planted a kiss on his lips.

"That's my thank you, for rescuing my niece," said Jillian and then she kissed

him again.

Gary returned the kiss with all the passion that he had.

"Hey you two, you're supposed to be visiting Allison, not playing kissy face,"

said Chris

with a disgusting look.

"Chris, Aunt Jillian was just thanking my angel. Right Aunt Jillian?" asked

Allison.

"Right, Allison, that's all I was doing," said Jillian and at that she kissed

Gary again.

"Yuck!" said Chris. "That's sissy stuff."

At that everybody started to laugh.

Part 16

Lorraine was standing by the door, watching while Jillian, Chris and Gary had

their visit

with Allison. She knew that Gary would be leaving soon and wondered what Jillian

was

going to do.

"Jillian, could we please go for a walk? I would like to talk to you about

something." said

Lorraine.

"Okay, Gary and Chris can visit withAllison while we are gone." said Jillian.

"Okay. Wayne. Jillian and I are going to get some flesh air. We'll be back

soon," said

Lorraine.

"Sure honey, we'll hold the fort down here. Right guys?" asked Wayne.

"Right," said Gary, Chris and Allison together.

Lorraine and Jillian stepped out side and walked to the back of the hospital. In

the back

was a beautiful flower garden. Lorraine found a bench and she and Jillian sat

down.

"Jillian, Gary is going to be leaving soon. I know you two have fallen in love

with each

other. What do you plan to do? Are you just going to let him drive away?" asked

Lorraine.

Jillian looked at her sister, Jillian loved her very much and always welcomed

her advice.

"Oh, Lorraine, I never thought I could fall in love with a man in just one day,

but I have

and I don't ever want it to end. I love Gary so much that it hurts and I am so

afraid that

after today I will never see him again," sobbed Jillian.

"Then what are you going to do about it?" asked Lorraine.

"I don't know. You and Wayne need me here," said Jillian as she continued to

cry.

"Jillian, Wayne and I aren't going anywhere. With Allison's arm broken, she is

going to

need us here and Chris needs us now too. Besides Wayne and I have made

arrangement

with the other farmer to have a meeting to decide what to do about the Baker's

Farm. So

why don't you ride back with Gary? You can check on Judy and Roger Lamont and

see

how that dog is doing. The one you and Gary found laying in the road," said

Lorraine.

"Lorraine, do you really think he will take me with him?" asked Jillian.

"If Gary loves you, as much as you love him, you bet your sweet life he will.

You can go

with him as far as to where your car is being fixed and then make some

arrangement to

get together soon. Jillian please don't let this wonderful man drive out of your

life forever.

You may regret it if you do." said Lorraine.

Jillian threw her arms around her sister and held her tight. She knew Lorraine

was right

and was determined to keep Gary in her life.

----------------------------------------------

"Gary, would you wind up my new music box my Mommy bought me. It plays my

favorite

song. Do you want to know what my favorite song is Gary?" asked Allison.

"Well of course I do. What is your favorite song?" asked Gary as he took the

music box

to wind it up.

"It's Teddy Bear Picnic. Do you know that song Gary? It goes like this, 'Picnic

time for

teddy bears, the little teddy bears are having a lovely time today'. Do you

know it Gary?"

asked Allison.

"I certainly do," answered Gary.

"Will you sing it with me?" asked Allison.

"I want to sing it to," said Chris.

"Okay, but I warn you. I don't have a very good singing voice," said Gary.

"That's alright neither does Daddy, but he sings," said Allison.

"Yeah, Daddy always says, "To sing anytime you want, even if you're not a very

good

singer. Don't let that stop you from enjoying music and singing," added Chris.

"Okay let's give it a whirl," said Gary.

Wayne sat on a chair by the closet and listened to his two children and Gary

singing to the

Teddy Bear Picnic.

He loved to see his children having such a good time and thought that Gary was a

terrific

person.

"See Gary, wasn't that fun?" asked Allison.

"You didn't sing that bad. I thought you had a lovely voice. Didn't he Daddy?"

asked

Allison.

"Yes Love Bug, Gary really did have a nice singing voice."

"Gary, where do you live?" asked Allison.

"I live in Chicago, sweetie," answered Gary.

"Chicago!" screamed Chris. "You live in Chicago? Allison did you heard that? "

Allison was so happy that she was bouncing up and down on her bed. "Hooray! Now

Aunt Jillian and Gary can be together," yelled Allison and Chris together.

Allison continued to bounce happily on her bed and Chris was dancing around the

room.

"Daddy did you hear that?" asked Allison.

"Yes, I did," answered Wayne.

Looking at Gary he noticed that he looked a little confused.

"Gary they're happy that you live in Chicago, because in a few weeks Jillian is

moving

there, to open a dentist office." said Wayne.

"See you don't have to say good bye now," said Allison.

"Boy, I can't wait to tell Aunt Jillian the good news," said Chris.

"No! I'm going to tell Aunt Jillian," whined Allison. " Gary's my angel, so

there. "

"Okay you two, you can both tell Aunt Jillian," said Wayne.

Gary was sitting there, trying to let it all sink in. Now he knew the real

reason why the

paper let him have the day off. It was so he could meet Jillian and find a love

he never

thought possible. It was true, Gary and Jillian were going to be together.

----------------------------------------------

Jillian and Lorraine were walking back to Allison's room, as they walked in

they could

hear Allison and Chris chanting over and over again, "Aunt Jillian and Gary can

be

together, Aunt Jillian and Gary can be together."

"What are they talking about?" asked Jillian.

"I'll tell you," said Chris excitedly.

"No! Mommy I want to tell Aunt Jillian!" cried Allison.

"I tell you what, why don't we let Gary tell Aunt Jillian. How does that

sound?" asked

Lorraine.

Both Allison and Chris agreed to let Gary tell Jillian the wonderful news.

Jillian turned around and looked at Gary, Gary walked over and took her in his

arms and

held her close to his body.

"What do they mean?" asked Jillian, as she looked up into Gary's mud puddle

green eyes.

"They told me that you are a dentist, and you are going to be opening an office

in

Chicago, well guess where I live," said Gary with a smile that lit up his face.

"Chicago!" screamed Jillian. "You live in Chicago? "

Gary nodded his head and began to kiss Jillian. The kiss was long and Jillian

was

breathless and dizzy with love when it was over. She couldn't believe that she

and Gary

were going to be together. Lorraine was right, everything was going to work out.

Love

had a way of doing just that.

Gary looked over at Wayne and Lorraine. He really liked them and was very happy

to

have met them and was sure that he would see them again.

"Thank you for everything," said Gary.

"No, we thank you for being there when Allison got hurt, you were a Godsend Gary

Hobson." said Lorraine

"Hey you come back to see us soon. Okay?" added Wayne.

Lorraine looked at her sister and gave her the 'go ahead and ask him' nod.

Jillian understood what Lorraine was trying to tell her and turned to Gary.

"Gary, I have to pick up my car, so would you like to have some company on the

way

back?" asked Jillian.

Gary looked at Jillian. There was nothing more in the world that he wanted,

having Jillian

ride back with him made his heart beat with pure delight.

"Of course you can ride back with me. In fact I was going to ask you if you

wanted to

come along. I love you Jillian and I can't wait for the time that you and I can

be together in

Chicago, so I want you with me as long as possible, because we will be apart

until that

day," said Gary and he kissed her tenderly on the lips.

Jillian soaked in the tenderness of Gary's kiss. She was determined to make

every moment

count until she could be together with her man again.

"Hey you two, aren't you going to say good bye to Allison and me?" Chris asked.

Gary walked over to where Chris and Allison were, sitting down on the chair, he

looked at

them both.

"Hey you two, I'm going to miss you both so much," said Gary.

"I don't want you to go," said Allison as she reached up to give Gary a hug.

"You're my

angel, please don't go, I love you Gary," said Allison as tears flowed down her

small face.

Tears were beginning to form in Gary's eyes too. He hated to see Allison so

unhappy.

"Allison sweetie, I love you too, and believe me I would stay if I could, but my

home is in

Chicago, but don't you cry. I promise we will see each other again real soon.

Okay

sweetie?" Gary held Allison in a loving embrace.

"Yeah Allison, don't cry. Gary loves Aunt Jillian, so maybe someday they'll get

married,"

said Chris.

Allison's face lit up like a Christmas tree.

"If you married Aunt Jillian, you'll be mine and Chris' uncle. Uncle Gary, I

like that," said

Allison.

"Hey, I like the sound of that too," said Gary.

"Well you two finish your good byes, so Aunt Jillian and Gary can get on the

road," said

Lorraine.

"Bye Gary," said Allison and Chris together.

"Bye you two," said Gary and hugged them both.

"You both be good and Chris you take real good care of your little sister."

"I will. I promise I won't let her fall in no more holes," said Chris as he

hugged his little

sister.

"You, know with a brother like you to protect her, I'm sure she will be just

fine."

"Well I guess this is it," said Gary.

"You drive safely, and we will see you again real soon," said Lorraine. "Jillian

called me

when you get back to South Bend."

"I will Lorraine, bye and good luck with the Baker's Farm," said Jillian.

"Thanks. You take care," said Wayne.

"We will," said Gary and Jillian and at that they left the room waving good- bye

and

heading towards the doors to the main lobby.

Part 17

Gary and Jillian left the hospital and walked arm and arm over to Bernie's

truck. Gary

opened the door to the passenger side of the car, so Jillian could get in, then

he kissed her

and closed the door behind her. Going around to the driver's side, he looked in

the back

window to make sure that Cat was still there.

Cat stared back at Gary with his yellow eyes and stretched to lay down.

"Okay Buddy," whispered Gary. I just wanted to make sure you were still here. Go

back

to sleep."

Gary opened the door and climbed into the driver's seat.

"Are you ready to go?" he asked Jillian.

"Yes, but maybe you should call home first. It's nearly noon and you were

supposed to be

home by now ,"suggested Jillian.

"Yeah, you're right, so many things came up. I better give them a call," said

Gary.

Gary dialed the number to McGinty's and waited for someone to answer.

----------------------------------------------

Brriiiii! Briii

Marissa felt around for the phone, she found it and picked it up.

"Hello, McGinty's. How may I help you?" asked Marissa as she spoke into the

phone.

"Marissa, it's me," said Gary.

"Gary, where are you? You should have been back by now," said Marissa, with a

worried

tone in her voice.

"The good bye's took a while," said Gary. "Jillian and I are leaving now."

"Jillian is coming with you?" asked Marissa.

"Only 3/4's of the way. I'm taking her so she can pick up her car and so we can

check in

on the elderly couple that we helped and see how the dog, that we found on the

road is

getting along," said Gary.

"You love her? Don't you?" asked Marissa.

Gary looked over at Jillian, oh how he loved her.

"Gary are you there?" asked Marissa.

"Huh? " asked Gary.

"Do you love her?" asked Marissa.

"Yes, I do, Marissa. I really truly do," answered Gary.

"Well, when will you be seeing her again?" asked Marissa.

"Soon, in a few weeks, she will be moving to Chicago and will be opening up a

new

dentist office. She's a dentist Marissa. I'm really thinking about changing

dentist's you

know?" said Gary as he smiled at Jillian.

"Boy, I bet you are," said Marissa.

"Is that Gary?" asked Lois as she walked into the office, after being up stairs

in Gary's

loft.

"Yes," said Marissa and she handed Lois the phone

"Gary, honey is everything alright?" asked Lois.

"Your father, Marissa, Chuck and I were really starting to get worried. Where

are you

sweetie?" asked Lois.

"I'm still in Little Creek, Indiana, but I'm on my way home now. Mom I'm sorry

I worried

every one, but like I told Marissa, the good bye's took longer then we thought."

"Oh, will you being seeing Jillian again?" asked Lois.

"Yes, Mom," Gary said with happiness. "She is going to be moving to Chicago in

a few

weeks, and we will get together then."

"Oh sweetie, I'm so happy for you. Will your father and I get to meet her?"

asked Lois

hopefully.

"Yes Mom, you and Dad will get to meet her," said Gary. "She's a dentist and is

going to

be opening a dentist's office."

"Okay sweetie. When do you think you'll get here?" asked Lois.

"I think around 4:00, so please ask Dad and Chuck to handle the paper a little

while

longer. Okay Mom?" asked Gary.

"Will do sweetie, see you soon. I love you," said Lois.

"Love you too Mom. See you in a few hours. Bye Mom," said Gary.

"Bye sweetie."

----------------------------------------------

Gary started the car and pulled out of the hospital parking garage and soon he

and Jillian

were on their way.

Jillian watched out the window as the world breezed by them. It was a gorgeous

afternoon

and Jillian just loved the wind whipping through her hair. As Gary continued to

drive,

Jillian thought to herself. Just a little more than 24 hours ago, she didn't

know this sweet

loving man that was sitting next to her. She nearly laughed out loud, when she

thought of

what she called her car when it broke down early yesterday morning. Gee, if that

piece of

junk hadn't of broken down, I never would have met Gary and fallen in love with

him.

Besides what would have happened to Allison if my car wouldn't have broken down?

Sure

she would have been saved, but it would have taken a lot longer and Gary was so

good to

her and she really did love her angel. Thank you God for that piece of junk that

sent Gary

to me, Jillian prayed. Suddenly Jillian was shook out of her thoughts, for she

felt

something leaping into her lap, looking down she saw Cat sitting on her lap and

looking

up at her.

"Hey boy, how did you get out of the cage?" asked Jillian as she stroked Cat's

fur.

Gary looked over and saw Cat sitting on Jillian's lap.

"Oh Boy," said Gary. " I guess I didn't close the door tight enough, I guess."

"Gary, I saw you put him in there and the lock was secure, maybe he's part of a

magic act

or something and knows how to get out of cages." said Jillian.

"Oh yeah a regular Houdini," said Gary. "Look I'll pull to the side and put him

back in the

cage."

"Oh no, you don't have to do that, he seems content just sitting here with me.

Right boy?"

asked Jillian.

Cat looked up at Gary as if to say, 'I'll be good, you won't even know I'm

here.' Gary

agreed to let Cat stay on Jillian's lap and reach over and stroked him on back

of the ear.

"Okay boy, you don't have to go into that cage if you don't want to, but

remember, the

lady is already taken. Okay boy?" said Gary as he smiled his most gorgeous smile

at Jillian.

Jillian return the smile, with all the love she felt for her man and lean over

and kissed him

on the cheek.

"Hey handsome are you getting hungry?" asked Jillian.

"Yeah, I could eat," answered Gary. "Would you like to stop some where?"

"Yes, I'm famished. I just saw a sign for Hamburger Heaven. It was a mile back.

It said to

get off of exit 15. So why don't we get off and go check it out?" asked

Jillian.

"Sounds good to me," said Gary. " I've never eaten there, but I heard their

hamburgers are

pretty good."

"Well I've have eaten there and not only do they make great hamburgers, but they

make

the best onion rings you've ever tasted. They make them from scratch, and boy

are they

really good. I'm quite sure you will love this place," said Jillian.

"Sounds great," said Gary. Let's go find this place. "

Gary found exit 15 and drove off the intersection, after he drove around for a

few minutes

he finally spotted Hamburger Heaven and pulled into the drive through.

"May I take your order please?" asked the girl at the microphone.

"Yes, just a moment please," said Gary.

"Okay, honey what would you like," asked Gary. "I want a hamburger, with mayo,

lettuce, and tomatoes. Hold the pickle. I also want a large order of onion

rings and a large

Pepsi," said Jillian.

"I'll have the same," added Gary.

"Okay," said the girl. Come around the front.

Gary pulled around the front, he paid for the meal and picked it up and then he

thanked

the server.

Jillian noticed a small picnic table across the road, she turned to Gary and

said "Gary, let's

sit over there and eat our meal.

"Good idea," said Gary, as he looked over to where Jillian was pointing.

Jillian and Gary sat and ate their meal together in silence. Gary was watching

the beautiful

scene that was setting next to him. He thought back to the morning before when

he found

out that the paper gave him the day off. Boy how his parents, Chuck and Marissa

fought

with him to take the day off and enjoy himself. He really wasn't crazy about

taking the day

off, but he finally agreed and now he was certainly glad he did, for if he

hadn't he never

would have met this glorious women that was sitting next to him. He never

thought he

would ever find true love again, but found her he did and he had no intention of

ever

letting her go. She was the one that would make all his dreams come true and he

was

going to do anything to make sure her dreams came true too.

"Hey, gorgeous, did you get enough to eat," asked Gary.

"Yes I did and I am ready to get back on the road handsome," answered Jillian.

Jillian and Gary cleaned up the picnic table and threw away the garbage in a

near by trash

can and headed back to the truck arm and arm.

"Hey boy, here's a bite of hamburger for you," said Jillian as she gave Cat a

couple of bites

of hamburger.

"Hey, I guess you were hungry too boy weren't you?"laughed Gary, as Cat gobbled

up the

meat.

"Here boy, I have a bite for you too," said Gary and he tossed the meat to Cat,

who ate it

happily with a purr.

Jillian and Gary entered into the truck and Gary started it. They left the area,

with Gary's

hand in hers.

Part 18

Judy Lamount was sitting in her husband's hospital room knitting a scarf for a

close friend

of her's. Roger, her husband was admitted to the St. Michael's hospital the day

before

when he suffered an epilepsy seizure. If it wasn't for that nice young couple,

Roger may

not have been here today. The doctor said it was really a bad one that he had,

but he was

doing much better today. Suddenly Roger started to stir which caused Judy to

lower her

knitting and to see if he was okay.

"Roger, honey are you okay?" asked Judy, as she took her husband's hand.

Roger looked up at his beautiful wife of 40 years and smiled at her to show her

that he

was fine.

"Yes princess, I'm just dandy, I was just looking at the prettiest girl in the

world, that's

all." said Roger.

"Oh, you, don't be silly, I'm sure that they're prettier girls in this world

than I am," said

Judy.

"Nope, I took a poll and you are with out a doubt the prettiest," said Roger.

"Okay honey if you say so. How are you feeling today?" asked Judy.

"Well, I'm a little tried and I don't remember too much about yesterday, but I

feel okay,"

answered Roger.

"Are you hungry?" asked Judy

"Yes, I am," answered Roger.

"Alright, I'll see about getting you some kind of a snack, I think it's too

early for a meal.

I'll be right back," said Judy. " You stay put, Okay?

Roger smiled at his wife and nodded his head.

----------------------------------------------

Gary and Jillian were looking for the road that would take them to St. Michael's

Hospital.

They were on their way to visit Roger and Judy Lamount. They were going to check

in to

see how Roger was doing after he suffered a seizure the day before.

"There's the road Gary," said Jillian. "I remember the white house on the

corner, it has a

big bird house that looks like a small house, turn here.

Gary saw the house that Jillian was referring to and turned at that corner. They

soon

spotted the hospital road sign and followed the arrow on the sign.

"There it is," said Jillian. "Boy it's bigger than I thought. "

Gary looked up at the hospital, he had to agree that it was a much larger

building than he

had remembered. He figured that they were too worried about Roger to see how big

the

building really was the first time they saw it.

Jillian and Gary both exited the truck. Gary made sure that Cat was secure in

the cat cage.

Then Jillian and Gary walked towards the main entrance of the building.

Walking inside, Jillian made her way over to the information desk and asked

where

Roger's room was.

"Excuse me. Could you please tell me what room Roger Lamount is in? We're the

ones

that were with him and his wife, when they bought him in last night." said

Jillian.

The lady at the information desk looked up at Jillian

"Mr. Lamount's room is on the 4th floor he's in room 404. You take the elevator

up to the

4th floor and turn right, you will see the waiting room, and his room is 2

doors over on

your right, "answered the lady.

"Thank you," said Gary

"Your welcome," answered the lady.

Gary and Jillian entered the elevator and took it up to the 4th floor, a few

minutes later

they located room 404 and proceeded to walk in the door.

"Hey you two, could you use a couple of visitor's?" asked Gary.

Judy turned around to see the two people that helped her husband the day

before.

"Oh Gary and Jillian, we're so glad that you came. You two are just the nicest

couple we

have ever known," said Judy. "If it weren't for you two, Roger may not be here

today.

Thank you so much."

At that Judy put her arms around Gary and hugged him tightly. She then turned

to Jillian

and gave her a hug also.

Taking Jillian's hand, Judy took her over to her husband.

"Gary, you can come over too," said Judy. "Roger, this is Gary and Judy. They

were the

ones that helped you and me when you became ill yesterday. They didn't have to,

but they

were both kind enough to go out of their way to help two total strangers. They

were both

God sent."

Roger looked at both Jillian and Gary, he was having trouble finding the words

to show

his appreciation for what they did for him and his wife. Taking Jillian's hand

he started to

tell them how he felt.

"Jillian, Gary, I really don't remember much about yesterday, but I want to

thank you both

for being there, " said Roger.

"It was nothing, it was just being there at the right time sort of thing," said

Gary.

"No it was more than that. My wife is right, you didn't have to help me, you

could have

turned around and walked back to your car and drove off, but you didn't and for

that I am

very grateful. If there is anything we can do for you, please let us know. "

"Yes there is," said Jillian. "Make sure you listen to your doctor and wife.

Take your

medication promptly... and take good care of each other," said Gary finishing

Jillian's

sentence.

"Oh I will take my medicine like a should, I never ever want to put my beloved

wife

though that kind of fear again," said Roger.

"Yes I will definitely make sure that Roger takes his medicine and listens to

his doctor and

we promise, we will take good care of each other," said Judy.

"We're really happy to hear that," said Jillian

"When do you think you'll get released?" asked Gary.

"We hope he will get to go home in a couple of days. His doctor says he is doing

just

fine." answered Judy

Jillian and Gary visited for another 20 minutes and then they had to say good

bye and

return to the road.

"Bye, you two, have a save trip back home and if you are ever in this area

again, please

stop by and visit us, " said Judy.

"Yes, our door will always be open to both of you," said Roger

Both Jillian and Gary said their good-bye's and left the room.

"They're such a nice couple, do you think we will see them again Roger?" asked

Judy as

she watched Jillian and Gary walk down the corridor.

"Yes Judy honey, I am quite sure that we will see them again. In fact you can

count on it,"

said Roger.

Jillian and Gary returned to the truck and they both enter in, as soon as

Jillian was seated

and buckled in, Cat jumped into her lap.

"You know boy, I'm going to figure out how you do that yet," said Jillian

laughing as she

stroked Cat's fur.

When you do, please tell me, thought Gary to himself.

Gary started the car and pulled out of the parking lot and proceeded back down

the road.

"I guess the next stop is Doctor Anderson's office to check on the dog?" asked

Gary.

"Yes, that's the next stop," said Jillian. "So let's go. "

Gary was driving for about 30 minutes when Jillian spotted the road that would

lead them

to Doctor Dianna Anderson's Veterinarian Hospital. Ten minutes later they found

themselves in front of the pet hospital.

"Boy I thought we'd never find this place," said Gary

"Oh, I knew you could find the place. I never doubted it for a moment," said

Jillian. as she

leaned over and kissed Gary passionately on the lips.

Gary loved feeling Jillian's warm lips on his. He loved how sweet her kisses

were and how

soft she felt. The kiss only lasted for a few minutes, but the kiss was full of

so much love

that it didn't matter the length of it. They both knew they were in love.

"Well Mr. Hobson, I believe we're here," said Jillian.

Gary pulled Jillian close he didn't want to go in quite yet. He wanted to spend

a few more

minutes with the women he'd fell in love with.

"Oh, we can go in, in a few minutes," said Gary, as he started to kiss Jillian

again.

"Hey big boy there's plenty of time for that, why don't we go in and check on

our friend?"

said Jillian.

"Oh, okay," said Gary as he gave her one more kiss.

Jillian returned the kiss and then they walked hand in hand into the pet

hospital.

Part 19

Gary held the door open for Jillian as they both entered into the pet hospital.

Walking over

to the main desk, Jillian asked to see Doctor Anderson. A few minutes later

Doctor

Dianna Anderson entered into the waiting room.

"Well, I didn't expect you two back so soon. I guess you're here to see your new

found

friend?" asked Dianna.

"Yes, we are. We wanted to see how he is getting along," said Jillian.

"He's doing quite well, for what he has gone though. Please come with me and I

will take

you right to him," answered Dianna.

Jillian and Gary followed Doctor Anderson back to the room, where she kept her

patients.

Dianna walked them over to the cage that the dog was in.

"Here he is. Hey boy you have some visitors," said Dianna

The dog's tail started to wag with happiness when he saw Jillian and Gary

standing there.

He knew in his own way, that these were the two nice humans that had helped him

and he

was really glad to see them. He was barking with joy and trying to get to them

even

though his leg was broken.

"Hey boy don't you get up, I can pet you just fine," said Jillian. "How are you

doing boy ,

hmm? Are you feeling better?"

The dog licked Jillian's hand and barked at her to show her he was fine.

"Well he sure does sound a lot better," said Gary with a laugh. "Hey boy, I'm

glad that you

feel better."

The dog suddenly edged his way over to Gary and he put his nose into Gary's

hand. Gary

gladly gave the dog what he wanted by petting him and talking encouraging words

to him.

" Hey boy you're going to be just fine. Doctor Anderson is going to take real

good care

of you. Okay? "

"Excuse me Doctor Anderson, have you been able to locate the owner yet?" asked

Gary

as he continued to pet the dog.

"No, not yet, but it's only been 36 hours, I need to wait at least two weeks,

before I can let

anyone adopt him." answered Dianna.

"Oh, do you mean I have to wait two more weeks?" asked Jillian sadly.

"Yes, I am afraid so, but I put out quite a few flyers so I should know

something by then."

said Dianna.

"That means if you don't find the owner then Jillian can adopt him?" asked Gary.

"Yes that's what I mean," answered Dianna.

"Hey boy, did you hear that. You might be my dog in two weeks. I'm going to

come back

then and I hope we will be going home together. Hey you know what? I think I'm

going to

call you Sherman. You like that name boy?" Sherman licked Jillian's face in

approval.

"Sherman?" asked Gary.

"Yes, Sherman. I don't no why, but I've always liked that name," said Jillian.

"Oh boy, and Marissa thought Zeke was bad," said Gary laughing out loud.

Jillian shot Gary a dirty look. She really did like this name and she didn't

like being made

fun of not even by the man she loved.

"Well Sherman is better then Zeke any old day. Zeke? What kind of a name is

Zeke?"

asked Jillian.

Gary looked at Jillian. He found himself a little nervous by the way she was

acting and

how she was looking at him .

"Jillian, honey I was only joking, I think Sherman is a good name for the dog,

and he

seems to like it too. Please don't be angry with me. I love you," said Gary as

he gave

Jillian his best I'm sorry look.

Jillian softened at that very moment and went into Gary's arms. "I forgive you

and I love

you too," said Jillian and then they both kissed.

"Hey you two love birds you will have plenty of time for kissing later. Right

now I need to

know where I can reach you if I am unable to find the owner," said Dianna.

"Okay," said Jillian. " Gary why don't you wait for me in the truck and I'll be

right out

after I give Doctor Anderson the information that she needs. "

"Okay, honey I'll be right out here waiting for you," said Gary and he kissed

her again

before he walked out the door and headed for the truck.

Gary had been sitting in the truck for about 5 minutes, when Jillian walked up

and got into

the truck.

"That didn't take long," said Gary.

"No, she just needed my home and work phone number is all. Since I'm getting

ready to

move in six weeks I just gave her my home number. I figure that was enough for

her to

reach me," said Jillian.

"Six weeks huh?" said Gary sadly. "Boy that sure is an awful long time to be

with out

you."

Jillian looked into Gary's mud puddle green eyes. She hated to see him so

disheartened.

She wished that she could go back with him right here and now, but she knew that

this

wasn't possible.

"Gary, listen to me, six weeks really is not that long, it will fly by before we

both know it

and then we will be back together. We will have a never-ending love. I promise

Gary,"

said Jillian as she kissed his tear streaked face. I promise." Gary took

Jillian's hand in his

and held on like he was never going to let her go. " I'm just going to miss you

so much. I

don't know if I can make six weeks without you," said Gary wiping a stray tear

from his

face.

"I know, but you have to. We will be together real soon. Okay?" asked Jillian.

"Okay," said Gary. "Well I guess we better get over to Triple A and pick up

your car. "

"Yes I guess we better," said Jillian.

For the next 30 minutes, Gary and Jillian drove down the road in complete

silence. They

were holding each others hand and neither one wanted to let go of each other.

They soon

arrived at the Triple A station, where Jillian's car was taken the day before.

Gary took Jillian's hand and they walked into the shop.

"Can I help you?" asked Doug Long, who was working on a Chevy Malibu.

"Yes, my name is Jillian Matthew, and I called earlier today and they told me my

car was

ready,"

"Oh, yes it's ready to go. Come with me. I will take you to your car," said

Doug.

"There she is," said Doug as they approached Jillian's small Volkswagen.

"What was wrong with my car?" asked Jillian.

"She just needed a new radiator hose. It's been replaced and she's as good as

new and is

ready to roll." said Doug .

"Thank you," said Jillian. "How much do I owe you?

"No, I will pay the man," said Gary. "How much?'

"Gary, I can't let you pay this bill for me. I have enough money to pay him,"

said Jillian

and then she got the money out of her purse.

"Jillian, put your money back inside your purse. I will pay for your car and

that's my final

answer," said Gary.

Jillian knew that she wasn't going to win this argument and returned her money

to her

purse. Gary paid the mechanic and the mechanic drove Jillian's car out of the

shop.

Jillian glanced at her car, she knew she had to go, but she just wasn't quite

ready to say

good bye yet. Turning and running into Gary's arms she began sobbing so hard

that her

whole body shook.

"Oh God, I'm going to miss you so much, you are so right, six weeks if really a

long time

to be without you,"

Jillian sobbed as Gary held her closely to him and kissed the top of her head.

He lifted her

face up to his until they were making eye contract. Looking into her beautiful

violet eyes,

he said "Jillian, you were right too. Six weeks isn't long and we will be with

each other

then. I'll be counting the days." said Gary .

"Will you call me?" asked Jillian.

"Yes, everyday, but first we need to exchange phone numbers," said Gary .

"Oh yeah, we can't call each other if we don't know each others phone number.

Can we?"

said Jillian with a small hint of a smile.

"No we can't," said Gary.

Gary and Jillian wrote down their phone numbers for each other and exchanged the

pieces

of paper.

Gary and Jillian locked lips for one more kiss before they both had to go their

separate

ways.

"See, you soon Mr. Gary Hobson," said Jillian .

"You can count on it Miss Jillian Matthew. "

Gary opened the door to Jillian's car and she slipped into the driver seat,

stealing one more

kiss from Gary, she was soon on her way.

Gary stood by the Triple A shop until he could see her no more and then he

walked back

to Bernie's truck and drove the 25 miles home.

30 minutes later Gary found himself once more in front of McGinty's. He exited

the truck

and walked into his bar.

The first two people he saw were his mother and Marissa chatting with each other

at the

bar. "Hi Mom, Hi Marissa, I'm home," said Gary.

"Gary, welcome home honey. Did you enjoy your day off?" asked Lois as she

grabbed her

son in a big bear hug.

"Mom, you're squeezing me," said Gary.

"Oh sorry, but did you enjoy your day off and how soon will we get to meet

Jillian."

"Yes Mom, I did enjoy my day off and Jillian will be moving here in six weeks. I

promise

you, that you and Dad will get to meet her then. "

"Okay, sweetie. I'm really glad you had a good time and that you are home," said

Lois,

tenderly kissing her son on the cheek.

At that moment, Bernie and Chuck walked through the door.

"Hey Chucko, look who's here, my long lost son. Welcome home Gary," said

Bernie.

"Yeah, it's about time you were showing up," said Chuck. " Well did you enjoyed

yourself.

"Yes Chuck I did. Dad how did you get your black eye?" asked Gary.

"Didn't your mother tell you about that?" asked Bernie.

"So much has happen since yesterday morning, I don't remember if she told me are

not."

"Well you don't have anything more in the paper until 7:30 tonight, so why don't

we walk

over to the bar and I will tell you all about it and then you can tell us all

about your day

and about Jillian. How does that sound son?" asked Bernie.

Gary nodded his head in agreement and walked over to the bar with Bernie and

Chuck.

Soon everybody heard all the stories and Gary excused himself to go to his

loft and lie

down for a little while.

Gary walked into his office, noticing the cat he pick him up and said, "Hey

Buddy why

don't you and me go up stairs and lay down for a while. Okay boy?" said Gary,

and at that

he started up the stairs to his loft.

The End



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Email the author: reaness46@yahoo.com

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