1A/N: Thanks to the Reviewers! You've been great!
Finding My Son, Finding Myself
Chapter Thirteen
Roberto had finished his breakfast and, upon hearing his mother's bedroom door open, asked to be excused from the table. He hurried down the hall, anxious to see his father, and softly knocked on the ajar door. Bobby, who had decided to just throw on a pair of sweats and a tee-shirt for breakfast, was sitting on the corner of the bed and greeted him with a smile.
"Good morning, 'Berto," he exclaimed, wrapping him into a hug and kiss. "How's my boy today?"
"I'm well," he smiled, hugging Bobby in return. "Where's mommy?"
"She's in the shower already. I let her go first, 'cause I'm hungry – I wanted to eat first."
"I ate already – Grandma cooked breakfast."
"Well, it smells delicious. You wanna' keep me company while I eat?"
'Berto nodded, taking Bobby by the hand as he rose from the bed and headed for the kitchen.
Carlos greeted Bobby with a smile, peering over his newspaper. "Good morning, Robert. Sleep well?"
"Yes, thank you," Bobby answered. The gleam in Carlos' eyes didn't go unnoticed. His father-in-law to be knew that Bobby had, indeed, had a good night.
Rosa served Bobby a hot mug of coffee, kissing his cheek as she bent to place the cup on the table. "Good morning, Robert."
"G'morning, Mom."
"You hungry, honey? What can I get you for breakfast?"
It almost made Bobby feel uncomfortable – he wasn't used to be waited on. "Um, whatever you cooked this morning smelled great." He wasn't picky.
"Okay, bacon and eggs and pancakes... how would you like your eggs?"
"Umm, over easy, if that's okay."
"Of course it's okay, sweetie. Whatever you want," she said with a smile, heading for the stove. "Do you want your pancakes plain, or with blueberries — or I have some chocolate chips," Rosa offered.
"Blu-blueberry would be great, thanks." Bobby's thoughts wandered as he took a sip of his coffee, "so, this is what it feels like to be part of a normal family." It was a feeling of love —one of comfort and security that he'd never known. It made him happy to know that his own son had experienced it all his young life.
Maria Elena appeared in the kitchen, saying 'good morning' to the family. She stood behind Bobby's chair, bending to kiss and whisper an 'I love you' in his ear, as she wrapped her arms around his broad shoulders.
Roberto looked on; his parents' happiness reflected in his face. "Mommy!"
Rosa turned from the stove, startled, " 'Berto! You yelled so loud, you scared me," she laughed.
"Look, Grandma!" he exclaimed, pointing at his mother, "Mommy got a wedding ring!"
Carlos lowered the paper and Rosa turned from the stove as she took the frypan from the burner. The facets of the brilliant stone reflected little sparks of light about the room.
Rosa rushed to her daughter, "Oh, sweetheart – congratulations! Let me see!" 'Berto looked on, as well, as Maria explained it was an 'engagement' ring – that they weren't married, yet.
Mr. Vasquez got up to shake Bobby's hand and kiss his daughter. "Congratulations, Robert, congratulations, sweetheart," he said, with tears of happiness welling up in his eyes.
Narration:
It was a day that Carlos Vasquez feared would never come. He and Rosa had spent the past twelve years caring for their daughter during her pregnancy, watching and helping her raise her child as a single mother – almost pitying her – afraid that she was living under the delusion of truly having had a love affair, (rather than merely being a pawn in a Police Department charade and carelessly becoming pregnant), and an even greater delusion that she would some day be reunited with 'Berto's father.
Had it not been for the fact that Maria Elena had seemed so "normal" in the other areas of her life, like continuing her education, earning excellent grades and having the initiative to go into business for herself, as she had always dreamed, Carlos and Rosa would have seriously considered whether or not she was "in touch" with reality. They would have wondered if their daughter's heart or mind had been broken so badly that the reality of her situation was too horrible to bear, leaving her destined to a fantasy — the dream of a life that would never be fulfilled.
When 'Berto was a toddler, Carlos and Rosa had a long talk with Maria, trying to convince her that she should get on with her life – begin dating, try to find a husband and a father figure for her son. They assured her that she was beautiful and intelligent – a great catch for any man. Her only reply was to thank them for their concern and explain to them how she felt about Robert O. Goren: that he was the love of her life and that no one else could compare. She would rather remain single than settle for second best. When her mother persisted, Maria Elena had merely asked: "Mom, can you imagine yourself being married to anyone other than Dad?" Her mother smiled – she now understood. The subject was never brought up again.
Bobby, Maria Elena and Roberto spent the remainder of the day walking and having a picnic lunch on the beach, playing frisbee and going for a bike ride around the neighborhood, relishing the togetherness of their little family. Rosa Vasquez spent much of the day calling their relatives, spreading the happy news of her daughter's engagement, formally (but informally, since there wasn't time for mailing) inviting them to attend the small wedding ceremony and reception that was to take place on the beach the following Sunday. The couple had decided that they wanted an informal, intimate ceremony – just family and the closest of friends.
As the family sat relaxing on the porch with some fresh-made lemonade late in the afternoon, it occurred to Bobby that Sanchez was due to fly back to New York. He felt bad that he hadn't called Darius to thank him, again, for all his help, so he reached for his phone and dialed.
"Hello?"
"Sanchez, it's Goren."
"Hey man, how's it goin'?"
"Good – really good. I, umm, I wanted to call you before – I forgot you were flying out today."
"No problem - I'm outside LaGuardia now, waiting for a cab."
"Well, I just wanted to say 'thanks' again for all your help – and hospitality."
"Any time, man — hey, gotta' go...I caught a ride."
"Okay – I'll call ya' soon."
Bobby knew he had a few calls he had to make, thinking to himself, "most important, Alex, and Lewis and Deakins and — oh, what the heck, Carver too — and Morris... I should see if Morris wants to come." He asked Maria Elena the time, trying to speculate on what time Alex would be home from her lunch and shopping expedition. "It's too bad my friend Darius flew back today – he probably would've liked to come – he's a fun guy."
"C'mon, honey," Rosa said to 'Berto, come inside and give Grandma a hand getting dinner ready."
Carlos stood up from his chair, as well. "I'll give you a hand, too, honey." The three of them went into the house, leaving Bobby and Maria Elena alone on the porch. Bobby got up from his seat and joined Maria Elena on the swing, putting his arm around her.
"I-I'm sorry – that was insensitive – I wasn't thinking." As soon as the words had left his mouth about inviting Sanchez he regretted it. "How could I have been so callous?" he asked himself.
She nuzzled into him, kissing his cheek. "It's okay, Sweetheart. Didn't I tell you last night that I understand? If your friend Sanchez hadn't been there – well, then Benny would've killed you and you wouldn't be here with 'Berto and me. It's not your fault, it's not Sanchez' fault — and after knowing what Benny was going to do to me and our baby twelve years ago..." her voice trailed off.
Bobby hugged her tighter.
"Sweetie," she continued, "if you want to have your friend at our wedding, you go right ahead and invite him. I owe him, too, for saving your life — and it's like we discussed – we won't tell mom and dad about any of the details — everything will be fine."
"Thanks," Bobby said, kissing her and squeezing her even tighter, "If you're sure it's all right."
"I'm sure," she answered, returning the kiss.
"I, I have to call Alex – she has to be here" Bobby said, reaching for his phone.
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Meanwhile, back in NY
Alex was out of breath from climbing the stairs with all her packages. Frustrated as she fumbled with her keys as she heard the ringing phone from inside her apartment, she quickly pushed the door open, dropped her shopping bags and grabbed the receiver, teasingly cursing Bobby out under her breath, "Didn't I tell you not to call me 'til night?"
"Hello," she said, catching her breath.
"Hey, I'm flattered — I didn't plan on leaving you breathless 'til later," came the sexy voice from the other end of the line.
"Sanchez, don't you ever quit?" she said with a smile.
"I'm in a cab on the way home – my plane just landed."
"Did you see Bobby before you left?"
"I saw him yesterday afternoon when he brought my car back – he had the kid with him."
The thought made Alex smile. "So, I guess he's doing all right."
"Yeah – he seemed really happy. It's kinda' weird, ya' know? Seeing him...and then this littler version of him."
"I can't wait," Alex answered.
"Yeah, well enough about Goren. I'm callin' you to collect on your debt."
Alex rolled her eyes.
"I wanna' take you out tonight. You free?"
"Well, I just got in – I've been out all day, I'm kinda' beat..."
"It's only 5:30 – why don't you rest up a bit and I'll pick ya' up at eight."
Alex let out a sigh, hoping that Sanchez hadn't heard it. "A promise is a promise," she thought to herself. "I might as well get it over with."
"Okay, eight is good."
"Eight it is, pretty lady. Lemme' jot down your address."
Alex gave him the info and asked, "What are we doing? What should I wear?"
"Ahh,"
She could almost hear his grin over the phone.
"Something...ummm, feminine — no 'cop' clothes, okay?"
"Okay. I'll see you later."Alex hung up the phone, regretting what she had gotten herself into.
xxxxxx
Meanwhile, back in Puerto Rico
Bobby shoved his phone back into his pocket with a sigh.
"What's the matter, baby?"
"Nothin' ...umm, Alex didn't answer her cell – it went straight to voice mail. I got her voice mail at home, too."
"Well, you can try back later," she smiled. "C'mon – it's time to eat."
The Vasquez/Goren family sat around the dinner table, excitedly talking about the wedding plans and all the little details that needed to be taken care of during the week, before the ceremony.
"Don't worry, Mom," Maria Elena reassured her mother, "Bobby and I are going first thing Monday for our blood tests and license — and we can talk to Father Perez after Mass tomorrow to see if he'll officiate for us — 'Berto, pass the rice and beans, please."
"Bobby, you want a beer?" Carlos offered.
"Sure, thanks."
"You eat, honey," Rosa said to her husband as she got up from the table, "I'll get them."
"I already talked to your Aunt Maria and Uncle Julio," Carlos continued. He turned to look at Bobby, as he informed him, "They have a restaurant and party supply business downtown – everything's taken care of."
"And cousin Isabel is taking care of the flowers," Rosa informed them, as she served Carlos and Bobby their beer.
"And Daddy said I could hold the rings," 'Berto chimed in, "Right, Dad?"
"That's right," Bobby smiled, "Your gonna' be my little best man."
The family relaxed and enjoyed the rest of the evening. Bobby kept an eye on the time every now and again and attempted, unsuccessfully, two more times to get through to Eames. A worrisome knot began forming in his stomach when, at 11:30 p.m. there was still no answer at either her apartment or cell numbers.
Meanwhile, back in NY (12:10 a.m.)
Serendipity II
"Thank you," Sanchez said, as the waitress placed the humongous portion of Frozen Hot Chocolate and some extra napkins on the table between he and Alex.
Her eyes grew wide at the size of the serving. "I can't believe all the time I've lived in the City and I've never made it here for dessert."
"I can't believe it, either," Darius said. "This place is famous — and part of the reason is for this dessert right here!" he attested. "Don't be shy – dig in."
"Yeah, just what my butt needs," Alex joked, "Ten thousand calories after midnight."
Darius laughed, "We danced off at least that tonight – besides...umm, never mind – I've managed to be a gentleman so far, so I'll keep my opinion about your butt to myself —for now."
Alex smiled, "Well, since you brought it up — I've gotta' tell you I'm pleasantly surprised. This night and...well, you, it's been nothing like what I expected.
"Really?" Darius questioned with a smile. "Well, you, my dear lady – you've been just what I expected– or hoped for, anyway. I'm having a wonderful time."
"Me too," Alex replied, holding her eye contact with him. "You're umm, very different than when you're around the guys."
"I know – I, I don't know why I'm like that – it's just me."
"I'm sure Bobby could give you a full psychological analysis on your behavior," she laughed, but then suddenly remembered to herself, "Bobby was supposed to call me tonight."
Darius saw the look on her face and asked, "What's wrong? You just remember you left the iron on at home or something?"
"It's Bobby - I told him to call me tonight."
"So call him," Darius said.
"Now? Here?"
"Sure, why not?"
" 'Cause I don't talk on my cell in the middle of a restaurant — I don't wanna' ruin the night by getting 'dirty' looks from the other customers."
"Okay, but once we're back in the car you can call."
Alex and Darius talked and finished their dessert, leaving the restaurant just before 1:00 a.m. She already had her cell phone out, while Darius saw that she was seated and closed the car door, taking care not to catch the hem of her dress. By the time he walked around the car and got in, Bobby's number was already ringing.
"Hey, sorry it's so late," she apologized.
"I, I tried calling a few times – I was getting worried," Bobby said, and Alex could sense the relief in his voice.
"I, I, I need to talk to you, Eames – Al-Alex."
"Is everything all right? You sound nervous."
"Everything's great, except I umm, I'm nervous that you won't be able to make it down here next weekend."
Alex's eyebrows raised, in both surprise and question to the comment. She looked across the front seat at Darius. Before she could even ask, Bobby answered.
"We, we're getting married on Sunday, Alex. I, I need you to be here." He waited for her reply, almost holding his breath.
"Well, congratulations! Of course I'll be there, Bobby, I wouldn't miss this for the world!" She smiled at Darius again.
She heard his sigh of relief. "Thanks – I, I really appreciate it. It'd be great if you could get here earlier, ya' know...like maybe Friday."
"Don't worry, I'll get there. I'll call ya' and let you know my flight arrangements as soon as I make 'em, okay?"
"An-and the Captain, and Mr. Carver and Morris – I've gotta' call them — and Lewis...oh, geez, and Sanchez...I've gotta' call 'em all tomorrow."
"Well," she smiled, "You can cross Sanchez off your list – I'll tell him right now."
The line was silent for a moment. "You-you're there with Sanchez?"
"Uh-huh. Remember, I owed him a dinner date... hold on a sec while I tell him everything.
Alex filled Darius in and got back on the phone, "You can count him in," she happily announced.
"Great – I'll umm, I'll call all the others tomorrow and, umm, I'll call you at home so you can tell me about how your night went — you're all right, right?"
"Fine," she assured him. I'll talk to you later."
"G'night Eames."
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Back in Dorado, Puerto Rico
Maria Elena could sense his relief as he ended his phone call.
"So, she's coming?"
Bobby nodded, with a big smile, "Yes. She said she wouldn't miss it."
"Good! I can't wait to meet her... and all your friends," she said, hugging and kissing him, as they settled into bed.
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...and Back in NY
Sanchez pulled the car into the "no parking" zone in front of Alex's apartment, just three feet away from the fire hydrant. She glanced at him with a smirk, "I didn't know my date was a scofflaw."
"So," he said, turning the engine off and turning to face her, "Don't you think my idea is a good one?"
"Well, it's practical, anyway," she teased him.
"Then just say yes."
She gave him a skeptical look. Thoughts raced through her mind: "Why am I reluctant?" She didn't know. "Is it just force of habit? Playing hard-to-get?" Then it hit her: "I really like this guy — we had a great time — he's not really a macho jerk, the way he comes off when he's around the guys — actually, he's very sweet —and polite, respectful — and okay...damn it...he's handsome, too. Finally, she convinced herself. Maybe it was because of all the love and romance in the air with Bobby's good fortune – so "Why not?"
"Okay, yes," she said with a still slightly nervous smile.
"Great, then it's settled," he smiled. "I'll get our tickets with my frequent flyer miles– we'll fly out Friday– you can stay at folks' house —and you'll be my date for the wedding. The whole trip won't cost you a thing."
"Thanks, Dar," she said with a smile, followed by an awkward moment of silence as their eyes met – staying locked on each others for a few seconds past the point of comfortable.
"Let me walk you to your door," he offered. He exited the car, going around to the passenger side to open the door for her. He gently took her hand, assisting her out of the car. They slowly climbed the stairway to the front door of her building. Alex was about to turn to thank him for the lovely evening, but he spoke first. "No, all the way — to your front door. I wanna' make sure you get in safely."
The caution and courtesy immediately reminded Alex of Bobby – he always insisted the same.
They went inside and climbed the two flights of steps to Alex's apartment, Darius gently escorting her by the elbow. Upon reaching and unlocking her apartment door, she turned.
"Thank you, Darius. I had a really nice time," she said with a smile.
"Thank you, lovely lady. The pleasure was all mine. I had a wonderful evening, as well."
Alex looked up into his brown eyes, still unable to keep the thoughts racing through her head: "I can't believe this is the same guy I hated last Friday in the MCU and Carucci's." A smile at the thought crossed her lips.
"What's so funny?" he asked, resting a forearm on the door jam, leaning closer into Alex.
"I was just thinking — how different you are than what I expected."
"I guess that's a good thing," he joked — "I like the way you're looking at me tonight better than those sneers you were giving me last week," he said with a smile.
"It's definitely a good thing," she nodded, still smiling.
"May I?" he leaned over even closer. He gazed into her eyes, but still held back a few inches from her face. "I usually don't kiss 'good night' on the first date." He waited with an anxious breath for her reply.
She paused for a moment, studying his face; the piercing brown eyes looked so familiar; the straight nose, strong jaw line, the cutest little dimple on his chin ...and one on his left cheek, when he smiled; soft-looking lips–not to thin–not too full—just right for kissing.
"Neither do I. Yes, you may."
END Chapter Thirteen
I thought that "13" would be the end, but it just didn't happen that way...so, it looks like there will be one more. I've "written" three different endings in my head, but have yet to commit them to paper. One is happy, one is sad and the other is a mixture. Maybe a review vote will decide or maybe I'll just go with my "gut" feeling.
Blucougar, I already know what you want! ;-)