The Gilmore-Grey Union Book II: The Homecoming

By Michael Weyer

POV: Bruce

It's getting late as I finish up some of the files at the office. Having Judge Grey take a sudden day off throws a few things off but then it's my job to handle such things. I know she'll be able to get back on track once this whole Vincent deal is settled.

I am still wondering how this will effect Judge Grey. I know she's had her problems already with breaking up with David and teasing a run for Congress. I have to admit, it's better that she sticks with her job here. She's way too moral and upright to get herself bogged down in Washington politics.

Course, I have to admit, I'm also glad because I truly enjoy working with her, more than any other judge. I just can't see this place the same without her. She was born for this and I've hated seeing her sidetracked with stuff like criminal court. She's too good for that.

I'm wrapping up my paperwork when the phone rings and I pick it up. "Judge Grey's chambers."

"Bruce? It's Amy."

"Judge Grey. How are you?"

"Okay. Well, considering." I can hear the fatigue in her voice so I know the situation must be a lot more tiring than she's letting on. "How is my docket?"

"I managed to push a few things around, a couple of cases until tomorrow."

I hear her take a deep breath. "I'm going to need them pushed back a bit more."

I frown deeply. "Why?"

"Well, it seems Rory, that's the girl Vincent…" I can tell she doesn't want to say it.

"What about her?"

"Her grandparents want to have some big dinner, the whole family and everything for tomorrow night."

"Ah. So you need me to keep the docket clear then too?"

"Yeah. I know, it's a lot to ask so suddenly..."

"I've got it."

"Are you sure? I know you take such care with-------"

"Judge Grey," I gently cut her off. "I got it."

"Thanks, Bruce." I can she her flashing that great smile of hers. "Like I said, this is a big deal and we need to get ready for it."

"Not a problem. Anything else I can do for you?"

There's a slight pause before she speaks. "Um..actually…are you doing anything tomorrow?"

I pause, my pen hanging over the pad with the planned docket for tomorrow. "Ah, not really. Why?"

"Well…I thought…" She sounds uncertain before plunging ahead. "I was wondering if you'd like to come with."

I blink. I honestly didn't see this coming at all. "I…thought this was a family thing."

"Well, you're practically family."

"Judge Grey…"

"Bruce…I just would feel better if I came over with someone besides Mom. I know it's even more to ask and maybe it's not at all right but…"

"Judge Grey, are you asking me on a date?"

"Oh, God, no!" she laughs. "No, not a date at all. Just…a dinner with the family and, well, I admit I want to make a better impression with Rory's family by showing I do have something of a life and I thought you'd be good to help out with it and…"

I can hear the slight pleading in her tone and that's what tips my answer. "I'll be happy to."

"You…you will?" she sounds surprised to hear it. "Um…well, thank you!"

"You're welcome. Where is it?"

She gives me the directions. It's not too long a drive from Hartford and they're staying at some small inn before heading to the dinner. "You can come alone or get a ride with Peter and Gillian," she finishes.

"I'll see you there, Judge Grey."

"Thanks. Oh and Bruce…Ah…it might be a little better if you don't call me 'Judge Grey' all the time while you're there. You can call me Amy."

"I…don't fell right doing that, Judge Grey."

"At least…consider it, ok? Thanks, I have to go, I'll see you tomorrow, thanks a lot, Bruce."

She hangs up and I stare at the phone for a moment. On the one hand, this is crossing a line I've done my utmost to never cross. I believe we need some decorum between us. I'm her court officer, she's the judge, that's it.

However, she considers me a friend and for a family affair like this, that's what's important. So, for Vincent and this Rory, I'll do my best to be an escort for…

Amy.

Coming Soon: Book III: The Dinner (or Friday Night Smackdown)

A family gathering so big it needed its own separate book.