Chapter 6: Comin' Home
Traffic into the airport was worse than she'd expected, and Nancy didn't get to the pickup until 3:40. Her father was waiting at the curb, when she pulled up. They greeted each other warmly, then loaded his luggage into the back seat of the bug and headed back towards Langley.
"So, how've you been feeling, sweetheart?" Carl asked.
"Physically, I'm feeling fine," she replied truthfully.
Her father looked at her closely, "And mentally . . ."
Nancy shrugged, "I've had better weeks . . . better months," she admitted, "Hopefully HM will make it home by tomorrow morning so he can be at the ultrasound."
"Hunt never changes," Carl said, shaking his head, "the man doesn't understand that work is not a priority in everyone's life. Is he looking for another pilot?"
"I've not seen any evidence of it," she admitted, frustration evident in her voice, "I'm starting to think I should put out my own ads and find one myself."
Her father laughed, "I doubt you could do so to Hunt's satisfaction, dear," he said resignedly, "I'm afraid it's an exercise in futility."
They talked off and on for the rest of the drive. Nancy stopped at the house, and her father took his bags up to the spare room Nancy had prepared for him. When he came back downstairs, Nancy was getting ready to leave again.
"I've got to head to the Community Center for rehearsal with Jasmine," Nancy said, "You don't need to come, I should be home in a couple hours."
"Are you kidding," her father said, "I wouldn't miss your first rehearsal for anything. I still can't believe Terra convinced you to do this. I'll come along, then maybe we could go out for supper afterwards."
At the Community Center, Char came out of the office when Nancy and Carl arrived, "I've got you and Jazz set up in one of the smaller rehearsal rooms," she said, looking at Nancy with a knowing smile, "she thought it might make you more comfortable for the first practice - she said you sounded nervous."
Nancy smiled, "That's just as well - I'd like to see how it goes before we have too many people in the room listening."
Char squeezed Nancy's shoulders as she led them back to the practice room, "It'll be fine - I'm really looking forward to hearing you two perform."
"Me too," Carl agreed, "It'll sure beat 2am!"
Nancy elbowed her father, and Char looked at him curiously, "2am?"
"When Nancy was a kid, she used to wake up in the middle of the night and serenade me, though usually it was classical piano."
The rehearsal room Char had them set up in was a 8' x 8' room with an upright piano along one wall, and a couple folding chairs and a high stool. Jazz had set up her own synthesizer, and had it sitting on top of the piano. She had pushed the piano bench along the wall, and was trying to adjust the sound level on the keyboard so it wasn't overwhelming in the small room.
She turned when Char, Nancy and Carl came into the room and greeted them sheepishly. Nancy glanced around the room, before opening her guitar case, "Where's Terra?" she asked.
Jazz nodded out the door, "She has dance until 6 - I figure she'll be down after that."
Char had closed the door and was leaning by the door jam, "I hope you don't mind if I listen in for a little while," she ventured tentatively.
Jazz looked at Nancy, who smiled, and answered, "No, Char, you can stay if you like."
Nancy's father had taken a seat in one of the folding chairs. Nancy pulled the stool over next to the piano bench, and sat on the edge of it with one foot up on the bench. She strummed a few times, then asked Jazz for a tuning chord, and tuned the guitar to the piano.
She leaned on her guitar, "So, how do you want to start?"
Jazz smiled, and pulled out a play list she'd worked on that afternoon, holding it out to Nancy, "This is a tentative plan - take a look and make adjustments how you see fit. I took heavily from Shawn Colvin to begin with, since you said you knew her stuff. I've added some material from America, Bonnie Raitt, the Eagles, Billy Joel - whatever was adaptable for a couple chicks," she added ruefully, "then I listed some possible songs that you can check out and see if you feel comfortable with . . . they're not exactly in keeping with the folk theme, but I think you might like them. I even made you a tape of some I think we could try . . .," she handed Nancy a cassette, that Nancy put in her guitar case.
Nancy glanced through the list. Jazz had really done her homework. Nancy knew most of the songs on the first page, which meant, with a little work together, they should be able to play a pretty respectable program of songs. Jasmine was looking at Nancy expectantly.
"Looks doable. I'll listen to the tape later," Nancy said, laying the list in her guitar case with the cassette, "What do you want to start with?"
Jasmine smiled, "Why don't you pick?" she suggested.
Nancy considered the list for a moment, "How about Round of Blues - it fits my mood."
She and Jazz checked their tuning again, before beginning. Jazz played the set up chords on the keyboard, and decided on a good backup percussion rhythm. After a couple false starts, they hit their stride, and Nancy began singing:
Here we go again
Another round of blues
Several miles ago
I set down my angel shoes
On a lost highway
For a better view
Now in my mind's eye
All roads lead to you
So wherever you go
You better take care of me
This time
If you're gonna go
Remember me and all
This time
We had our bitter cheer
And sweet sorrow
We lost a lot today
We'll get it back tomorrow
I hear the sound of wheels
I know the rainbow's end
I see lights in a fat city
I feel love again
So wherever you go
You better take care of me
This time
If you're gonna go
Remember me and all
This time
All this time
I been makin' deals
Shades of black and white
On a Hollywood reel
All this time
I been missing
Something so real, so real
All this time
I been a face in the crowd
Now I'm living in color
And laughing out loud
All these names
For just foolin' around
It's a new breakthrough
It's an old break down
We smoked a lot of hope
We did our cryin', too
We're finally waking up
To what real love can do
Down a lost highway
Under the twilight moon
A chorus in your eyes
Another round of blues
So wherever you go
You better take care of me
This time
If you're gonna go
Remember me and all
This time
We had all this time
We had all this time
Finishing up, Nancy and Jasmine both looked at Carl and Char, gauging their reactions. Char had a broad smile on her face, "You can tell you haven't played together much, but it still sounded good," she said sincerely, "A little bit of practice and you'll be bringin' down the house."
Carl agreed, but offered some constructive criticism, "You need some backup vocals. The music actually sounds pretty good, but Nancy's voice, alone isn't holding up to the keyboard and guitar both."
Char nodded, "Carl's right, though I think that might have to do more with the acoustics in the room. If Nancy's miked it may work out better. We can play with that on stage."
Nancy looked at Jasmine, "I do think back up vocals on the chorus would help add some interest to the song," she suggested tentatively, "Do you think you could give it a try - I'm sure you can carry a tune."
Jazz smiled, "I don't much like my voice, it's not at all strong, but it's probably good enough for backup. Why don't we give that song another try."
They actually played the song a couple more times, making improvements each time, and getting more comfortable playing together. They then tried several more songs together, with Char and Carl making suggestions for improvements as they went along. Two hours later, both Nancy and Jasmine were getting tired and hoarse.
Nancy sighed, "I'm just not used to singing that long - I'm definitely going to have to work on my stamina."
Jasmine nodded in agreement, "Me too."
Nancy put her guitar away and straightened, looking at Jasmine, "When do you want to get together again?" she asked.
Jazz looked at Char quizzically, "Can we have the rehearsal room same time tomorrow?"
Char smiled, "Of course," she said, "as long as I'm invited to listen in."
Jasmine looked at Nancy, "Is that OK with you? We really need to get enough songs in shape to be able to play at Charlie's in a couple weeks. The more we practice, the better," seeing Nancy's hesitation, Jazz rushed on, "We'll only have to rehearse a lot to begin with. Once we have a bunch of songs worked up, we should be able to drop our rehearsal schedule back, just working up new stuff to add to the play list."
"OK, but I'm going to hold you to that," Nancy said, "I don't mind rehearsing, but I also don't want this to take over my life. I've got enough other commitments to worry about."
Jazz nodded, "It went way better today than I thought it would. I think we'll be in good shape pretty quick. I'll see you tomorrow, though right?"
"I'll be here," Nancy said, "I promise."
Char smiled slyly, "You know, if you two rehearse every night this week, I bet you could be ready for a small exhibition concert for the kids on Saturday evening. It would give you a chance to see how you do in front of a crowd."
Jasmine was excited, "That's a great idea, Char!"
Nancy was much less enthusiastic, "Let's see how the next couple practice sessions go," she said uncertainly, "I 'don't mind practicing each night this week, but I'm not convinced I'll be ready to sing in front of a bunch of people by Saturday."
Jasmine smiled, "We've got to play in front of a bunch of people at some point in time, Nan."
She smiled, "I know, but give me some time - I'm gonna have to work myself up to it!"
When they arrived in Houston this time, the General left Murdock at the jet, "This is a sensitive matter, Captain," he said in explanation, as if Murdock would feel left out for not being invited along, "I'll return this evening. You and Mr. Kent are on your own until then."
Murdock sighed in relief, adding as a reminder, "I'll prepare the flight plan for Langley while you're gone."
The General nodded curtly, "Very well, I'm not sure what time I'll be back. But we should be able to head back to Langley sometime this evening – barring anything unforeseen."
After the General had left, Murdock turned to Jeff, "Looks like we're on our own for a few hours," he said.
Jeff nodded, "Let's go grab a bite to eat in the 'port and relax."
Murdock nodded, "OK, but I want to get back in plenty of time to get the flight plans filed and be ready to go when the General gets back."
Jeff grinned, "Anxious to get home, Murdock?"
"You know it!"
Nancy and Carl decided to go to Mabel's Diner for dinner. As they walked in several people greeted Nancy, including Blanche, who led them to their table.
As she poured them each a cup of coffee, Blanche began talking eagerly, "I can't tell you how excited Jasmine is about this concert you're gonna play at Charlie's," she said effusively, "she's practicing all the time when she's not working here. It's so good to see her throw herself into something so whole-heartedly. Thank you, Nancy – really!"
"It's no problem, Blanche," Nancy said self-consciously.
Blanche continued, "Well, it's meant the world to us. We've got Jasmine back, and she's happier than I've seen her in years," she turned as another waitress came up, "Oh this is Laney, she'll be your waitress . . . I gotta get back to work, but I'll stop by later. Enjoy!"
Nancy and her father placed their orders with Laney, both electing to get the lasagna special without looking at the menu. As soon as Laney left, Brett Katt came walking up to the table, "Hey, Nan – how're ya doin'?" he asked warmly.
She looked up, "Hi Brett," catching her father's curious look, she took up introductions, "Dad, this is Detective Brett Katt, he works Vice. Brett, this is my father, Carl Clay."
The two men shook hands. Brett looked at Nancy hopefully, "Mind if I join you . . ."
"Sure," she said, "Eating alone tonight?"
Brett slipped into the booth next to Nancy, and Carl cocked an eyebrow at his daughter, but she didn't notice.
"Not now," Brett said, grinning, "If ya gotta go out alone, Mabel's is the best place to go – you can usually find someone friendly to eat with."
Laney came by the table, "What can I getcha Brett?"
He turned on a charming smile, "I'll take the lasagna, Laney, thanks."
"Sounds like you're a regular here," Nancy said.
"Yea, I eat here couple nights a week," he said, "that's kinda the life of a bachelor. Used to see your husband here quite a bit . . . of course that was before he was your husband."
"Actually, now that you mention it, HM brought me here on our first date," Nancy said, smiling at the memory, "I remember when we left I commented on the fact that he must eat here a lot – Blanchey treated him like an old friend."
"Where is the flyboy, anyway?" Brett asked curiously, "I've seen you around, but it's been awhile since I saw him."
"He's been piloting for Stockwell Enterprises and out of town a lot lately," Nancy said regretfully.
"But he'll be home by tomorrow," Carl said certainly, "He won't want to miss the ultrasound."
Brett's brow furrowed, "Is something wrong?" he asked, looking at Nancy solicitously.
"I'm measuring ahead of my due date – so the Doctor wants to check the baby's development. Truth is I, uh," she hesitated, "Well we weren't too sure about the conception date – it came as kind of a surprise."
"Weren't quite ready for kids, huh?" Brett asked.
"Well, we were planning on kids," she said, "We just didn't think it would happen so quick . . ."
Carl chuckled, "You and HM never have messed around once you've made a decision," he said, "You were engaged after dating for what . . . three or four weeks?"
"Yea," Nancy said with a thoughtful smile, "he kinda swept me off my feet."
Brett was looking at her, "Some guys have all the luck."
Nancy elbowed him disbelievingly, "You just feel sorry for him," she said teasingly, "He's gonna have to put up with my moodiness for a long time to come . . . not to mention my Uncle."
Laney came with their salads, and bread, and they started eating. Carl looked at the young man sitting across from him thoughtfully, "So, Brett, how long have you known Nancy?" he asked in what his daughter always referred to as his lawyer tone.
Brett looked up from his salad, "Known her for, what," he looked at Nancy quizzically, "atbout 8, 9 years – ever since she moved to Langley. Joe introduced us."
Carl noticed that his daughter looked decidedly uncomfortable with the turn of topics, "Joe Martin, Trixie's husband, you remember him don't you, Dad? He and Brett work together on the force," she rushed on, "that reminds me – did I tell you Trixie's working on a new class at the college . . . a practical field op class."
Carl nodded, "I think you mentioned it, dear," he said smoothly. Looking back a Brett, he asked, "So Brett, you're a bachelor – anyone special in your life at the moment?"
"I'm not seeing anyone right now," Brett admitted, looking at Carl curiously. Laney arrived with their meals, and conversation stopped for a few minutes as plates were exchanged.
Nancy could tell her father was winding up for another question, and decided to head him off at the pass, saying the first thing that came to mind, "Brett was involved in the Kennedy bust at the beginning of the year, Dad," she said, "He helped me out with a couple leads . . ."
"Not very good ones," Brett said, "Though I do wish you'd let me in on your hunch about Penny Turner."
Nancy's look turned self-recriminating, "I wish I had, too," she said quietly, "Maybe then she'd still be working the corner by the Boar."
Brett looked at Nancy and shook his head, "You didn't know – you shouldn't blame yourself for what happened. Penny was running in some pretty rough circles Nan, it was bound to happen sooner or later."
"Maybe, but I contributed to the sooner," Nancy said ruefully, beginning to wonder why she had brought this particular subject up, "I can't believe I was so naïve with Kennedy breathing down my neck."
"You did what no one else had been able to do, Nancy," Brett said forcefully, "You got Kennedy to show his hand." He looked at Carl, "Kennedy was one cagey player, but he just couldn't resist a woman with the guts to stand up to him."
"Guts or just plain stupidity," Nancy said dismissively, "I'm just lucky that HM and the guys got home when they did – I have never been so happy to see anyone in my life, as when I looked up and saw Hannibal and BA!"
Carl nodded knowingly, he'd heard the story from several different angles, including Hannibal's and Murdock's, "Well, from what Hannibal said, it's a damn good thing he found you before Murdock – he didn't think that HM would have been quite so . . . lenient with Kennedy."
Brett nodded, "Murdock wouldn't have been alone – most of the force thinks of Nan like a kid sister. Kennedy's lucky he didn't do anything worse than give her a black eye. He might not have made it to jail."
Nancy shrugged, "I guess if you're gonna get yourself in those kind of pickles, it's good to have the right kind of friends!" she said ruefully, "I just wish I could have gotten out of that little scrape with a lot less fanfare."
"You know you got yourself in that predicament because you didn't listen to sound advice," Brett said, "If you'd take the police protection Joe offered you would have been fine."
"And Jazz and Terra might be dead now," Nancy said argumentatively, "It didn't happen like I thought it would, but it worked out . . ."
"Why can't you admit that you miscalculated," Brett asked, "You thought you could handle Kennedy yourself, and got in trouble, it's as simple as that. If you'd let us help, we could have gotten Jazz and Terra out without compromising your safety."
"You know, Brett, that's always been your problem. You think you can control everyone and everything. What happened, happened – and I dealt with it the only way I could. Police protection was not an option – hell, I didn't even think Kennedy would give me a second thought. But I sure didn't want the cops hanging around and scaring him off if he did make a move."
Brett pushed his empty plate away, "You are one cussed independent and infuriating woman," he said wonderingly, "How did this turn into my problem? I'm not the one that got kidnapped . . . given you're history, I'm surprised flyboy hasn't locked you up to keep you out of trouble."
"HM isn't like that," Nancy said evenly, her blue eyes sparking with anger, "he knows I can take care of myself – unlike some other people."
"You know, you need to learn not to mistake caring with controlling," Brett said sullenly.
"With you, it's a matter of semantics," Nancy retorted.
Brett was shaking his head, and stood, dropping a couple bills on the table to cover his tab and tip, "I guess I know when I've outworn my welcome," he turned to Carl and shook his hand, "Nice meeting you Carl." Looking back at Nancy, he smiled, "It was good to see you too, Nan. Even if we did end up in an argument." He turned and walked out of the diner without a backward glance.
Carl looked at his daughter expectantly, "Care to explain that?"
Nancy looked at him, her eyes still flashing in anger, "No, I don't."
After dinner, Nancy and her father headed back to the house. They listened to the tape Jazz had made, which helped Nancy relax after her little confrontation with Brett. They talked until about 10, then went to bed. Nancy was expecting at least a call from Murdock, so she followed basically the same routine as the night before, getting ready for bed. This time she was dozing, listening to Jazz's tape with her portable player, with headphones, until he called – this time after midnight.
She grabbed the phone, snatching the headphones off her head in annoyance after she knocked them with the telephone handset, "Hello?"
"Hi Short Cake," Murdock said warmly.
She laid back on the bed looking at the clock, "You're working some awful long days."
"Yea," he agreed, "your Uncle doesn't waste a minute of the day on these little trips. Mercifully, I didn't have to go with him today!"
"When will you be home?" Nancy asked, stifling a yawn.
"The General just got back from his last meeting of the day - we've been waiting for him to see what our schedule is. We're in Houston, again. I just filed flight plans for our trip back to Langley. We should be taking off soon."
Nancy smiled, "So you'll be home sometime this morning?"
"Told ya I would be, didn't I?" he said cheerfully.
"Well," she said uncertainly, "when you weren't here tonight, I started to worry that maybe you weren't gonna make it home after all."
"I'll be there," Murdock said certainly, adding playfully, "I'll be chasing you around the house before ya know it!"
Nancy could hear someone calling for Murdock in the background, "Sounds like they're ready to go - Have a safe trip back," she said.
"Yea - guess the General's finally ready to take off. I'll see you in a few hours, Short Cake. Love ya!" They said their goodbyes and hung up.
Nancy looked at the clock. She was wide awake now, and knew she'd have trouble getting to sleep knowing HM would be home soon. She put the headphones back on, flipping the tape over and pushing play. Then she headed downstairs to start reviewing the LaSalle and Caswell files, might as well make constructive use of the time.