Alright, folks. Here is the 28th chapter of this story.
Now, this chapter is going to be something different. Parts of it are inspired by the season three episode 'Bulletin Board', but it is its own idea.
Aside from it being payday, and Colonel Potter declaring a field day to get people's minds off of working in OR and to bring up morale, there will also be plenty of fluff between Andrew and Margaret, starting from how she asks a favor regarding her sister who is a captain, and Andrew follows that favor, and the fluff between them goes up from there.
How will this go for the couple? What kind of fun will be taking place for field day? And is there anything else that's going to happen at the M*A*S*H 4077? Find out now!
IN THE OFFICER'S CLUB:
It was payday at the M*A*S*H 4077. And that meant everyone was to gather in a single file line outside the Officer's Club, and wait to be given their money that was earned. The money earned from payday was used for different methods.
Some people used the money for gambling purposes for an all-or-nothing competition. Then some spend it on personal stuff that they happen to stumble their eyes upon. Certain people, such as Father Mulcahy, donate the money to charities for places like the orphanage. And others tend to hold onto it and keep it in a safe place so they can use it for a special occasion.
Currently, one of the people in line to get the money for payday was Andrew, who was wearing his usual green uniform and cap, with the army chain tags worn as a necklace. He was standing right behind Father Mulcahy, and the others around him were unnamed doctors and nurses. Andrew wasn't too crazy about getting the money, to be honest. But if he deserved it, then he wasn't going to deny accepting it.
"Ah, there's nothing better than the smell of payday," Father Mulcahy commented. "Don't you agree, Major?"
"Yeah, I guess so..." Andrew said sheepishly, not too enthusiastic.
"Something wrong, Andrew?" The Padre called him by his first name. "You sound like you aren't crazy about payday."
"Well, it's somewhere in between," Andrew admitted. "It's not that I don't appreciate being paid on payday. It's more of the fact that I'm not too crazy about money in general. I'm also not too fond of being driven by greed and selfish motives."
"I can see where your getting at," Father Mulcahy nodded in understanding. "A lot of people here tend to use it as gambling money instead of using it for more worthy causes."
"I've noticed that. While people like you donate the money to charities, others such as Rizzo waste the money in poker games," Andrew remarked.
"Yeah," Father Mulcahy then decided to share. "If you don't mind me sharing, I'm going to use the money I get from payday to donate to the orphanage."
"That's a nice and worthy cause," Andrew complimented.
"Thank you," the Chaplin then asked. "What about you Major? What will you be doing with the money you get from payday?"
"Hmmm...I dunno," Andrew tapped his chin. "I guess I might save it for something important. I don't know about you, but I prefer to save my money to use when something comes up and I have to use it to do the right thing. I uhhh...hope you understand my motive, Father Mulcahy."
"I see," the Padre looked at him thoughtfully. "Well, you do what you need to with your money. The choice is entirely up to you Major."
"I know that Father," Andrew nodded.
Not another discussion was shared between the two as they continued to wait in line. Eventually, it was Father Mulcahy's turn as he got a total of $40 from the pay giver, for which the Chaplin was grateful.
"There you go Father," the pay giver gave him the money "A total of $40 as expected."
"Many thanks shall go to you, sir," Father Mulcahy told him. "I'm sure that the Lord will be proud of this money being used for a worthy cause."
"Sure Father. Go and donate it to the orphanage, and thanks for your corporation," the pay giver said. "Next!"
With that, Father Mulcahy walked out with $40. And now it was Andrew's turn, as he approached the desk.
"Okay, so you are?" The pay giver queried.
"Major Andrew Peterson sir," Andrew told him.
"Ah yes, Andrew," the pay giver looked at the paper and found where it said Andrew Peterson. "Here you are. This payday you earn a total of...$420 in cash."
"Wait a minute! Did you say I got $420 for payday," Andrew was shocked by this as the pay giver gave Andrew a total of $420 in cash.
"That's what the data says," the pay giver told him. "You've earned $420."
"FOUR HUNDRED AND TWENTY DOLLARS!" The people behind him yelled in jealousy and argued about this outrage.
"Now people, there's no need to get excited," Andrew held his hands up. "Sir, this has to be a huge mistake. I don't deserve all this money. I haven't earned all this. This isn't necessary."
"Ah yes. Being modest as always, huh Major," the pay giver moaned. "Well I'm afraid that's too bad. The information shown here reveals that you've done the most work out of anyone. You're dedicated to your work. You are an honest worker. And I-Corps gave the green light that you've earned this much. Therefore, this $420 belongs to you."
"Are...are you sure about that?" Andrew queried in concern.
"Yes. The data doesn't lie," the pay giver insisted. "So take it and go. Next!"
Andrew sighed. He didn't really deserve this. No amount of luck landed him at this point. It was pure dedication and passion to his position at the M*A*S*H 4077 that got him this much cash. He really didn't want them to go through this much trouble. But he decided to relent and accept this amount of cash as a gift. He would end up saving it for a special instance anyway. So why deny it?
"Very well then, sir," Andrew turned around and walked away, avoiding the envious people that were giving him that look.
Once he got outside, he pocketed the cash immediately to avoid people and the possibility that they'll start buttering him up just for the $420. He didn't want to cause any commotion throughout the whole compound. It already happened several times before, so he didn't want a repeat of that mistake.
With the cash pocketed, he walked off and put a lid on the amount of money he earned just to keep people off of his back. What he didn't know what that the $420 that he earned would end up being used for something anyway, and that there would be no hassle coming from anyone...
IN THE SWAMP:
Back in the Swamp, Andrew was on his bed counting the money he earned to make sure that he got $420 and that this wasn't a trick being pulled on him. This took only a few minutes for him to do.
"400. 410. 420," Andrew finished counting. "I guess I really did get $420."
He stacked up the dollar bills so they couldn't scatter. What was he going to do with $420? He wasn't going to waste it on gambling, or on buying some antique in South Korea. No, this money was to be kept in case of an emergency. And he would make sure of that too.
Just then, his three bunkmates entered the Swamp, each of them having been paid on payday. Needless to say, they were satisfied with what they earned.
"I'm telling you guys, it's always a good day on payday," Hawkeye remarked.
"Yeah," BJ agreed with him. "We get to use our money on anything we want."
"Gentlemen, anytime payday comes, something always comes up and the payment that we've earned gets wasted on some ludicrous occasion," Charles spoke up.
"Well I'm gonna use my $40 at Rosie's Bar, to take part in that poker game tonight," Hawkeye declared.
"Eh, I'll either do that or find some antique being sold," BJ remarked.
"Do whatever you bozos want with your money," Charles scoffed. "I'm saving my money for a special occasion."
"You mean buy some more records?" Hawkeye quizzed, raising an eyebrow.
"What I intend to do with my money is my business," Charles snorted. "In any case, I want you two to stay out of it."
"If you say so Charles," BJ shrugged before looking towards Andrew. "Andrew, did you get paid yet?"
"Yeah," Andrew nodded, after looking up towards him.
"Do you have any plans for the $40 you got?" Hawkeye queried.
"Well, not exactly," Andrew said nervously. "I didn't get $40. To be honest, I got more than that."
"More than $40, the amount that is usually given," Charles raised an eyebrow. "Would you care to tell us how much money you've gotten?"
"Well, it's nothing special," Andrew murmured shyly.
"It can't be nothing if it's more than $40," BJ insisted.
"Yeah, so just tell us how much you did get," Hawkeye told him.
"Well...to tell you the truth, I got..." Andrew took a deep breath before revealing. "Oh...$420."
"FOUR HUNDRED AND TWENTY DOLLARS!" All three of them nearly screamed loud enough for the whole camp to hear.
"Keep it down! I don't want anyone else knowing!" Andrew hushed them with a hiss.
"Uhhh, Andrew? Not that it's any of my business, but how could you have gotten $420 while the rest of us got $40?" Hawkeye thought that this was odd.
"I don't know," Andrew shrugged. "From what I was told, the reason that I got this much has something to do with how I've done the most work out of anyone. I'm dedicated to my work. I am an honest worker. And I-Corps gave the green light that I've earned this much. At least, that's what I was told."
"I don't believe it. Andrew, you have been holding out on us," BJ shook his head. "How could you get so lucky like this?"
"Now look, it's not luck that got me this, or anything," Andrew said modestly. "And frankly, I feel that I don't deserve to have all this money."
"Huh, well if I-Corps gave you the green light to have that much money, then you are entitled to do whatever you want with it," Charles huffed. "In other words, take advantage of it."
"I see," Andrew gave him a thoughtful look. "I'm just not sure what to do with all this cash."
"Why not go to Rosie's Bar and gamble with it at a poker game," Hawkeye suggested.
"Thanks but no thanks Pierce," Andrew shook his head. "I'm not going to waste this cash on a poker game, only to lose it all in a second."
"In that case, how about buying something, an antique maybe," BJ made his suggestion. "Who knows? Maybe you'll find something that interests you."
"I'm gonna pass on that on Hunnicutt," Andrew said with sincerity.
"Or if you are like one of the other bozos in this cesspool, you could waste it at the Officer's Club to drink," Charles retorted.
"Yeah. That's out of the question Winchester," Andrew commented sharply.
"That figures," Charles only rolled his eyes on that.
"Well Andrew, what do you think you should do with it," Hawkeye questioned as the three Swamp rats went to their respective beds.
"I...have no idea," Andrew murmured. "I...guess I should save it for something important."
"Well, it's your money," BJ shrugged. "You make the decision."
"Indeed. How you spend it is entirely on your behalf," Charles remarked.
"One more question, what could be so important for you to save $420 for?" Hawkeye asked.
Andrew was about to say something but was cut off when someone knocked at the Swamp door. Who could be visiting the Swamp at a time like this? Hawkeye was the one to speak first.
"Whoever that is, please feel free to come in," Pierce permitted this visitor the entry needed.
The door opened, and the visitor came in. Turns out the visitor was revealed to be Margaret. She was wearing the usually green uniform that the other nurses were wearing, minus the hat of course. It was also worth noting that she had her hair tied into pigtails. And just like Andrew, she was wearing those army chain tags as a necklace.
The members of the Swamp were actually surprised that the head nurse decided to stop by. In Andrew's case though, he always enjoyed having his girlfriend come to the Swamp. It was always a treat for him.
"Oh, if it isn't Margaret Houlihan," Hawkeye commented. "Pleasure to have you stop by."
"We are always grateful for your visits here," BJ remarked.
"Now, may I ask what the sudden arrival to the Swamp is for, precisely?" Charles quizzed.
"I'm not here to see you three Swamp rats," she said. "I'm here to see Andrew."
"I'm right here," Andrew waved to her from his bed. "What can I do for you, Margaret?"
"Andrew," she walked over to his bed and sat down next to him. "I need to ask a favor of you."
"Certainly. What kind of favor do you need?" He asked her.
"Andrew, I need you to loan some money to me," Margaret got to the point. "I want to get something for my sister."
"Why sure, I'd love to-" Andrew stopped midsentence when he heard what she just said towards the end. "Sister?"
"That's right," Margaret nodded.
"I didn't know you had a sister," Andrew expressed his surprise towards this revelation.
"Well yes, I do. She is younger than me, and she is a Captain," Margaret informed him. "And the reason I need some money is that I want to get her something for her first anniversary since she was married."
"Really? That's thoughtful," Andrew was impressed. "Okay Margaret, how much do you need?"
"Well, all I need is a simple hmmm...$420," she gave him an honest answer.
"$420," Hawkeye jumped in. "What a coincidence. Andrew got $420 from payday today."
Margaret glanced at Pierce before turning back to face Andrew. "Andrew, is that true?"
"Yes Margaret," Andrew nodded. "I got $420 today."
She decided not to ask him about it. Considering how often weird things have happened, and how Andrew has gotten treats out of circumstances, she felt that it was best not to grill him for answers.
Instead, she sighed and got to the point. "Well anyway, I need $420 to get my sister an anniversary gift."
"And as I said before, that is very sweet Margaret," Andrew told her. "If you must know, I don't have any siblings. I'm an only child. But that's not a problem to me."
"I see," she then looked at him. "So what do you say, darling? Will you give me the $420?"
Before Andrew could say anything, Hawkeye decided to comment on this situation.
"Well, I've seen this happen before," Pierce then commented. "Yeah Andrew. Don't be like Frank Burns and refuse to give her $420, only to give it to her later on the condition that she signs an IOU and pay 5% interest."
Andrew could only react by giving Hawkeye a dirty look, before giving him a deadpan question. "Do I look or act like ferret face, Pierce?"
"You've made your point," Hawkeye waved his hands and stayed out of it.
"Anyway Margaret," Andrew had the $420 in his hands. "I'll be happy to give you the $420 with nothing out of it."
"You will?" Margaret asked as Andrew nodded and placed the $420 in her hands, giving her the answer she needed. "Oh thank you, darling! You are a sweet wonderful man and an excellent boyfriend!"
She then grabbed his face, pulled it over to her face, and gave him a loud wet kiss, which lasted 5 to 10 seconds. Andrew wasn't surprised by this. Considering how many times she kissed him on the mouth, it had grown onto him. Of course, that was one of the perks of having Hot Lips as a girlfriend, which he never felt shame about.
Soon, their lips separated, and Andrew gave her that smile he gives whenever they kiss. This got Margaret to beam and giggle.
"Seriously Andrew, I'll do something for you as thanks," she told him.
"Aww Margaret, you don't have to do that," Andrew was being modest again. "All I did was give you the $420."
"But I insist honey," Margaret told him. "Trust me, you'll love it."
"Well...I suppose that's alright," Andrew smiled at her. "I think I'll love it anyway."
"Oh, I wonder what it could be," Hawkeye wondered.
"Button it, Pierce," Andrew told him. "This is just between us."
"Fine." Hawkeye waved his hands and stayed out of it.
Before anyone else could say anything, a voice was heard on the intercom microphone.
"ATTENTION ALL PERSONNEL! THIS IS YOUR COLONEL SPEAKING! I'D LIKE THE FOLLOWING PERSONNEL TO REPORT TO MY OFFICE, ON THE DOUBLE! CAPTAIN PIERCE, CAPTAIN HUNNICUT, MAJOR WINCHESTER, MAJOR PETERSON, MAJOR HOULIHAN, CORPORAL KLINGER, AND FATHER MULCAHY! THAT'S AN ORDER!"
As soon as that announcement was made, those who were in the Swamp currently were confused by this. What could their Colonel want with the seven of them? Could there be some important news for them? Whatever it was, it seemed important, especially if it was an order for them to get there.
"What do you suppose that could be about," Andrew queried.
"Either the Colonel has something important to tell us, or something has come up that he needs to attend to." Charles took a guess.
"Whatever it is, he wants us there on the double," BJ commented.
"Well, no need to keep the ol' Colonel waiting," Hawkeye told them. "Let's go see what this is about."
"Yeah. We should go report to the Colonel," Margaret stood up and faced Andrew. "Shall we head out, darling?"
"After you, dear," Andrew got up from his bed.
The five of them left the Swamp and went straight for the Colonel's office. They could only wonder what their C.O could want to discuss with them. They were about to find out in a few minutes...
IN COLONEL POTTER'S OFFICE:
"So, I'm pretty sure you're all wondering why I've gathered you here today," Colonel Potter said, walking back and forth from behind his desk.
All seven of them were curious about this as they exchanged looks with each other.
"Well now that you mention it, the question did enter my mind," Hawkeye commented.
"Yes. It would help if we had so much of an answer to this gathering," Charles huffed.
"Well hold onto your petunias. What I've got for you is some big news," Colonel Potter started. "Now we have all been very busy and preoccupied with working in OR, and whatnot, and it has been backbreaking to us, some more than others."
"Well we have been working a lot in OR," BJ commented.
"And that's not the only reason. We've needed something to help boost morale around here since some of us have been suffering from lack of energy," Colonel Potter continued to explain. "Or as I like to call them, the cranks."
"Yeah, come to think of it, some of us have been a little on edge lately," Father Mulcahy remarked. "And it's hard to keep everyone's spirits up when we've been working day and night in OR."
"So? What's the big surprise for us, sir?" Klinger encouraged.
"I'm glad you asked me that Klinger," Sherman Potter made the reveal. "Folks, we're going to be having a field day."
"A field day," Andrew asked, scratching the rim of his cap. "Isn't that like a day for maneuvers and exercise or something like that?"
"In the military, yes. But in this M*A*S*H unit, it's a bit different," Colonel Potter exclaimed. "While there will be some exercise involved, it won't be as brutal. And for that matter, everyone is expected to attend and take part. No exceptions."
"Oh come now Colonel," Charles was already dreading this. "Surely you aren't serious about us exercising for field day, do you?"
"Oh yes I am serious Winchester," Colonel Potter said. "We aren't talking horse hockey here! What I am saying is that this will be a bit more fun than what is shown in the military!"
"That seems fair enough to me Colonel," Hawkeye shrugged.
"No complaining there," BJ added.
"Oh, I am already dreading this field day," Charles complained. "And I thought pretending we were competing for the Olympics was exhausting."
"You thought you had it bad," Klinger grimaced at that memory. "I had a stomach ache that time from all the salami I ate."
"Hmph, probably because you were trying to eat yourself to a discharge, you moronic boob," Charles huffed.
"Alright, just so I can clear things up, Klinger, don't eat any salami. And Winchester, lighten up." Colonel Potter declared.
"If I may say something Colonel, I think this field day is just what the doctor ordered," Father Mulcahy said. "We could all use some fresh air and exercise to get us in a good mood and help us with getting our minds off of the OR."
"Say, by the way, Colonel," Hawkeye started to ask. "When are we having this field day?"
"The field day will be taking place in exactly 1800 hours," Colonel Potter told them. "And you'll be given plenty of time to get ready for it."
"In that case, I fully support this idea of yours Colonel," Andrew spoke his part. "This field day is something that everyone in this unit could use! It will help bring up everyone's spirits, including Winchester! And it should help with keeping us in shape!"
"I agree with him," Margaret said. "This field day should be something that'll keep us on our toes and make sure that we stay strong and act as a representation of our unit too. Therefore, I will be happy to take part in this field day!"
"Good. It's nice to know that two of my Majors are eager to take part in this field day," Colonel Potter exclaimed. "Oh! That reminds me! Did I forget to mention that these games will be done in pairs? Everyone will be with a partner for the duration of the field day."
"In that case," Hawkeye looked at BJ in the eye. "How about we compete in this field day? If I win, you'll have to do my socks for a whole month."
"And if I win, you'll have to do my socks for a whole month," BJ told him. "You'll also have to make sure no one makes water balloons out of them."
"Oh come on. You aren't going to hold that against me, are you?"
"Only for the duration of the competition."
"Hold it! Hold it there boys! Hold it," Colonel Potter got them to stop. "This isn't for competition. This is for fun. Pure simple fun. Comprende?"
"The Colonel is right you two," Andrew spoke up. "We are not in this for some silly competition. This is not your local poker game or some sort of bet that you two usually make with each other. This is a field day. We are doing this for pure enjoyment. So I highly suggest that you two stop with the competition for once and have fun with field day. Is that clear?"
"Oh yes, sure Major Andrew Peterson," Hawkeye retorted.
"It wouldn't be in us to not have fun with this," BJ added.
"It better be kept that way," Margaret spoke up. "The Colonel expects full corporation from everyone. And that means everyone. So you two better not get competitive with these exercise activities and ruin it for everyone else. Because if you do step out of line, the Colonel will be notified about this. Do I make myself clear?"
Not wanting to argue with her, the two captains simply nodded.
"Anyway sir, you said that this is being done in pairs, correct?" Andrew queried.
"That's right. No donkey donuts about it," Colonel Potter confirmed. "Either you can choose your own partners, or I'll be forced to chose them for you if you don't decide by 1100 hours. So if you don't want to be paired up with someone who you can't tolerate, you will have to make a decision as soon as possible. Understood?"
All of them nodded at that, as there were still a couple of things that had to be cleared up.
"Uh Colonel, if I may ask, should I take part in this field day?" Father Mulcahy questioned.
"Well Padre, the choice is entirely up to you," Colonel Potter told him. "I would highly suggest that you do take part in it though since there will be a lot of fun involved. And you shouldn't have to miss out on that."
"If we are going to make some fun out of this, I'm going to choose one of the nurses as a partner," Hawkeye spoke up. "That is if anyone objects to it."
"Well what about me, pal," BJ brought up. "Are you going to leave me hanging dry?"
"Now Beej, there's likely someone else for you to be partnered up with," Hawkeye tried to think of a suggestion. "How about being partnered with the Father himself."
"Oh, I don't know Hawk," BJ did some thinking. "Maybe there will be someone else for me to choose..."
"Yeah. I think the Father should be paired up with Winchester," Andrew made a suggestion. "Father Mulcahy's positive uplifting attitude might do some good for Winchester and his constant complaining."
"Me? With the good Father himself," Charles scoffed. "Surely you jest?"
"Would you rather be paired with Klinger, Winchester?" Colonel Potter spoke up.
"Me with the moronic boob," Winchester snorted at the suggestion. "Please. I wouldn't be caught dead with that Lebanese American."
"Excuse me? I'll have you know, sir, that I'm not exactly a moronic boob like you call me," Klinger sneered at the Major. "You just say that about me because of all the Section 8 capers I've pulled!"
"Certainly," Charles rolled his eyes. "In any case, why don't you get paired with Major Peterson instead?"
Andrew had to pinch the bridge of his nose from that suggestion. "Uh, Winchester? There's just one problem with that choice. I've already decided on my partner."
"You-wait, don't tell me," Charles felt some aggravation come forth as he knew exactly who he chose for his partner. "Is it the girl that you are destined to be with?"
"Okay. You're not entirely wrong. My partner is Margaret," Andrew groaned. "But I want you to know that as of right now, it's a steady relationship. And while I have feelings for her, I don't want that to keep her from being an independent strong-willed woman that I admire about her. I hope that makes sense."
"Right," Charles huffed. "So does that means I'm gonna be stuck with Klinger?"
"It's either the hairy cuckoo or the Padre," Colonel Potter told him. "It's your call."
"And let me remind you Winchester that I can still be an independent woman and still have a steady relationship with Andrew," Margaret stepped in. "Or would you like me to remind you of what I'm capable of? Because I can decide as to who your partner should be, with the Colonel's permission, and Andrew doesn't have to help me with that. So you best make your decision carefully Major."
"Well, it seems that I might need some time to come up with a decision," Charles cleared his throat. "Therefore, I shall come to choose who I'm paired with as soon as possible."
"As long as it's less than 1100 hours, you can take as much time as you need to," Colonel Potter suggested.
Charles could only huff and utter under his breath. He had no way around it. He could either choose Klinger or Father Mulcahy. Regardless, he was going to be with one of them, and he couldn't do anything about it unless of course, he wants to get threatened by the Colonel with his boot or his horse.
"So Colonel, is there anything else that you need to tell us?" Andrew questioned.
"No. That's about it," Colonel Potter decided to dismiss the crew. "Dismissed."
And with that, the seven of them were allowed to leave the office and they walked out the door and headed back outside. Most of the group separated as they had their own places to go to at the moment.
"Hey Andrew," Margaret got his attention. "I have to go and take care of a couple of things for a bit."
"Oh, okay," Andrew said slowly. "That's fine with me."
"I'll see you later, darling."
"Alright, dear."
And with that, Margaret left to take care of some business, as Andrew watched her leave. Once she was out of sight, Andrew let out a rather sad sigh.
There was no secret that he loves her and that he is happy to be in a relationship with her. But at the same time, he felt that because of that, she stopped showing off her more independent strong-willed side of her personality. It was there before he came to the 4077, but ever since they became a couple, he hasn't seen it. It had vanished. Could he be the reason why it disappeared? Was he responsible for it? Did she go soft when they got together? No matter the reason, Andrew started to feel regretful for it.
I feel really selfish for taking away the independent side of her personality. Andrew thought with a frown. It's my fault that she lost that side of her. The very part of her that got me to fall for her in the first place. It's one of the traits that I admire about her, and now it's gone.
He had no idea what to do about it. But the more he thought about it, the more guilt started to build up inside of him. Sometimes he had to wonder if he was a burden for causing it. But he tried his best not to think of such a thing.
"Maybe getting myself a drink at the Officer's Club may help my nerves," Andrew said to himself, as he made his way for the Officer's Club.
He wondered how things would go for him from here on out...
IN THE SWAMP - 9:37
Andrew felt a little refreshed after having stopped at the Officer's Club as he was heading back to the Swamp. As soon as he entered, the only person he saw at the moment was Klinger, who was waiting there for someone to show up. This got Andrew a little curious.
"Hey Klinger," Andrew queried. "What are you doing here?"
"Oh, well I was waiting for Major Winchester to show up, regarding that field day," Klinger answered. "He wasn't here, so I decided to wait for him to return."
"I see," Andrew sighed as he walked over to his bed.
However, when he got to his bed, he saw that something was resting on the surface. Taking a closer looker, he saw that it was two chocolate bars and a folded-up piece of paper. Getting curious, he decided to ask Klinger about this.
"Hey Klinger," he asked. "What's this on my bed?"
"Huh? Oh, that," the company clerk said. "That was there when I got it. I think someone left something special for you."
"Hmm...it looks like two chocolate bars," Andrew picked both of them up and observed them. "Hey! They are chocolate bars."
Putting them on the desk nearby, he saw the folded-up piece of paper still on his bed.
"Huh? I wonder what this could be," Andrew grabbed the paper and unfolded it to see what was on it.
However, once he took a look at it, his face went entirely red from feeling flustered. Turns out that on the inside were a couple of kiss marks left behind courtesy of some hot pink lipstick. But that wasn't what got him shocked. What did make him shocked was the signature that was on the bottom left side of the paper. And he could read who it was signed by as clear as day.
Margaret Houlihan
Andrew was on the verge of fainting from seeing this. She didn't have to do this for him at all. This was pretty much unnecessary.
"She didn't have to do this," Andrew shook his head. "She really didn't need to do this for me."
"What is it, sir," Klinger was curious.
"Well Klinger," Andrew took a deep breath. "It turns out that those two chocolate bars and this note were from Margaret."
"Major Houlihan? Why did she leave those there?"
"I guess it has something to do with the $420 I gave her earlier."
"$420?"
"Long story Klinger," Andrew groaned as he looked at the note and then the chocolate bars, before putting them in his chest.
The longer he looked at both of them, the more he started to feel guilty again. Guilty over the fact that he was stripping her of her independent strong-willed personality. This note here just about proves that it's his fault. He only had himself to blame for this.
That frown from before returned and deepened pretty fast. It didn't take long for Klinger to notice the look on his face.
"Hey Major? Is something wrong?" He queried.
Andrew noticed Klinger giving him a look of concern. So he decided to take another deep breath and turned to face him.
"Klinger? I want to ask you something," he started. "Do you think I'm a horrible boyfriend towards Margaret?"
Klinger was a little startled by that question but answered it anyway. "Not that I know of. If you were, then I haven't seen it. Why do you ask?"
"Well," Andrew groaned. "I feel like I've been taking advantage of her. And that I'm the reason she's gotten soft."
"Soft? Major what are you talking about," Klinger was startled by this. "She hasn't gone soft towards me."
"Well, there's more to it. Like I'm the reason why her more independent strong-willed side is gone. It was there before I got here, and before we became a couple. Now I haven't been seeing it from her."
"Hmmm...I wouldn't say it's completely gone sir," Klinger brought up. "Did you see her the other day when I got food all over the mess tent floor and at the table, she was sitting at? She was so angry, she was about to throw her boot at me for being a clumsy nincompoop. And you were not accompanying her, at least not in the mess tent."
"Yeah, I did catch sight of that," Andrew mused. "You really should be careful."
"Don't remind me, sir," Klinger said shamefully. "And it's not just me either. There was the time Pierce and Hunnicutt pranked her by dumping booze all over her when she was about to enter the shower tent. I could have sworn that she was about to hit them with an empty booze bottle. They ran out and stormed for the Swamp afterwards."
"Yeah. I saw them running for the Swamp," Andrew remarked. "And I only caught sight of that too."
"And then there's the issue with Winchester cleaning the floor in OR," Klinger brought up. "She wanted him to use a razor to scrape that was stuff. He refused to do so and then she threatened him by saying 'Do Winchesters heel?'. She seemed pretty strong-willed at that point."
"Yeah," Andrew nodded. "But then again, the Colonel has threatened to use his boot on him or have Sophie buck him several times. Not to mention I threatened him at least once or twice."
"That's true," Klinger agreed. "So what I'm saying is that it hasn't completely gone away."
"Yeah. I guess the reason why I haven't been seeing it is that I haven't been doing anything to get her angry," Andrew remarked. "And that's because I don't want to start trouble with her."
"I've noticed that considering how you refuse to pull pranks on her," Klinger admitted.
"Exactly," Andrew crossed his arms. "The one thing that I don't want to do is start a conflict with anyone that doesn't deserve it, especially Margaret."
"Don't you think the reason she isn't mean to you is that you hardly do anything to get her mad?" Klinger took a guess.
"Probably," Andrew shrugged. "But my problem is that her independent strong-willed side of her personality is what got me to fall in love with her in the first place. She was not like any of the girls that I knew in high school. The girls I went to high school with were a bunch of hussies and bimbos who didn't know that the boys they were dating were sexist. I was never like those sexist men, and Margaret was nothing like the hussies and bimbos that I remember."
"I see," Klinger looked at him thoughtfully. "I understand what you're saying, sir."
"And that's why I've been asking myself, were we really meant to be a couple?" Andrew asked, sounding doubtful.
"Well sir, I can't answer that," Klinger told him. "You are the only one who knows for sure if you two were meant for each other."
"I understand," Andrew frowned. "I'm just not sure if we should be together..."
"Well, do you love her Major?"
"Of course I love her," Andrew admitted. "There's no doubt that I love her with all my heart and soul."
"And do you still want to be a couple with her?"
"Sure I do," Andrew nodded. "I was overjoyed when we first became a couple."
"Then you have to tell yourself that," Klinger suggested. "I know that I'm just a Corporal, and you're a Major, but I'm just trying to help."
"I know Klinger, and I appreciate it," Andrew gave him a small smile. "But what about the independent strong-willed side that I admire about her?"
"Talk with her about it the next time you two meet up," Klinger said. "I know that Major Houlihan has changed before you got here, but that doesn't mean that you have to make yourself miserable."
"Yeah, I guess your right," Andrew let out a small chuckle. "Heh, you know? For someone who's pulled a lot of Section 8 stunts, you really helped with cheering me up."
"Hey, it's no problem pal," Klinger assured him. "That's what friends are for."
"That's right," Andrew smiled slightly. "You are a good friend, Klinger."
"I do what I can, Peterson," Klinger said.
"Yeah. I'm gonna talk with her about it later," Andrew sighed. "For now, I'm going to head to the mess tent to eat."
"Alright. It was nice talking with you Major," Klinger said.
"You too, Corporal," Andrew headed for the door. "Oh, and when Winchester gets back, tell him to not be so antsy when it comes to field day, will you?"
"I'll give him the message," the Corporal promised. "Thanks for the talk."
"No problem. See you," Andrew opened the door.
With that, Andrew walked out of the Swamp and headed for the mess tent while Klinger remained behind, waiting for Charles to show up. He wondered what was keeping him. Or if he was stalling to avoid him. Regardless, Klinger decided to stay put until he returns...
35 MINUTES LATER - AT 10:42
After Andrew ate something in the mess tent, he decided to head back to the Swamp, to maybe unwind for a bit before doing anything else. He had to wonder if the field day would be a good idea and if he could talk to the head nurse before it happens.
As he entered the Swamp, he saw all three of his bunkmates present, as they were discussing with each other about the partners that they decided to go with. It was almost exactly 1100 hours, which was the deadline. Despite this, they already decided who their partners are going to be. After giving the decision to Colonel Potter, the swamp rats had returned to their abode and took it easy.
While Andrew headed over to his bed, he overheard the conversation that was being held by his bunkmates.
"Ahem, gentlemen, it is safe for me to say, that I have chosen...Klinger, to be my partner for field day," Charles said grudgingly. "As much as I resent the decision."
"Well, it could be worse," BJ commented. "I have decided on having Father Mulcahy as my partner for the field day."
"You guys are missing out," Hawkeye remarked. "I've already chosen the nurse that I should be paired with."
"And which nurse would that be," Charles raised an eyebrow.
"You all know Jennifer, the cute-looking redhead," Pierce revealed. "I chose her as my partner."
"Well, it seems that we're all ready for field day," Hunnicutt said.
"Yes. And it would appear that the Lebanese American told me to not be antsy with field day," Winchester commented. "This was because of a certain Major who told him to tell me to lighten up."
"Yeah," Andrew rolled his eyes. "Maybe because it's necessary."
"I rest my case," Charles huffed at that.
As the swamp rats continued to talk amongst each other, Andrew decided to get comfortable in his bed. He stretched his legs out and slowly placed his back against his pillow. However, once his back touched the pillow, he felt something underneath. And it felt like paper.
Getting confused, Andrew dug his hand underneath the pillow and found a piece of paper. Grabbing it, he pulled it out and then saw that the paper was folded up. Andrew had a feeling as to who left this under his pillow, as he already found a folded-up paper on his bed before.
Letting out a forlorn sigh, Andrew unfolded the paper and looked at what was written inside. When he unfolded it though, he noticed that this wasn't another love card. Instead, it was an invitation. Andrew carefully read what was written on the paper.
To Maj. Andrew Peterson
I am cordially inviting you to a rendezvous with me at the top of the hill just 10 feet north of the M*A*S*H 4077. I have a surprise that I want to share with you. Be sure to bring those two chocolate bars that I left for you. Meet me at this area at 1120 hours. I look forward to seeing you, Andrew.
Love, Maj. Margaret Houlihan
P.S. That's an order, Major!
Andrew was unsure about what to think of this. She was far more formal with this letter, while also making it an invitation to a rendezvous. At the same time, he was unsure as to if this was only a cover-up for what was really awaiting him.
Still, he couldn't pass up this invitation. After all, he really needed to talk with her about where things stand between them, and if he has been the reason why she lost her more independent side that he was quite fond of.
He hoped that even with their relationship, she could still show off that side of her. He didn't want people to think that he's making himself miserable because of his part in this. Besides that, she told him to bring the chocolate bars she left for him on the bed. Perhaps they were going to share a treat.
It then dawned on him that he had to meet her up that hill at 1120 hours, which after observing his clock, was about 38 minutes away from now. Feeling that he still had time on his hand, he felt the need to get ready now. He decided not to wear anything fancy, and just wear his usual green uniform, which he was wearing currently.
As he took one last look over the invite, his bunkmates noticed him looking over the paper in his hands.
"Hey, Andrew? What's that your reading," BJ asked.
"Huh? Oh, it's just an invitation I got," Andrew said softly.
"An invitation for what, if I may ask," Charles queried.
"It's just for some meetup that I'm invited to," Andrew answered, grabbing the two chocolate bars from his chest. "It's nothing special, really."
"Well, why don't we all go to this little meetup together," Hawkeye suggested. "What do you say, Andrew?"
"Thanks, Pierce, but uh, I'd rather go to this alone, if you don't mind," Andrew sighed, getting off of his bed. "I'm sorry, but I'd like to do this by myself..."
With that, Andrew walked towards the door and opened it, where he walked out with the two chocolate bars in one hand and the invitation in the other. His sudden forlorn tone got his bunkmates a little confused.
"I wonder what that was about," Pierce commented.
"Eh, there's probably something bugging him," Hunnicutt took a guess.
"Hunnicutt, if something was bothering him, we would have found out about it by now," Winchester told him.
"Yeah. I think we should just leave him be," Hawkeye made the decision.
The other two didn't object to that, as they dropped the subject and went back to doing what they were doing before...
AT THE HILLTOP; ABOVE THE M*A*S*H 4077 - 11:20
Andrew had gotten himself ready for this moment. He had been climbing up that hill, just so he can see what Margaret wants from him. As he did so, he couldn't help but feel dread build up in his stomach. She probably wasn't going to lash out at him. But how was he going to tell her about what's been bothering him? Could he tell her exactly what he told Klinger? And what will her reaction be?
He didn't want things to end between them. He truly didn't. If he did, people will notice that he'll be making himself miserable just for Margaret to not need anyone and be an independent woman. Yes, it might benefit Major Houlihan. But to him, it wasn't worth the sacrifice. He'd be putting himself down all over again, and he didn't want to go through that a second time, not after everything he'd been through.
I really hope that there can be a compromise made for us. Andrew thought. I want to see her mature and independent side of her personality, while we remain a couple. I'll just have to find out from her...
Even though he hadn't noticed it, she has shown some moments of being a mature woman even when she's with Andrew. The major had just overlooked them thanks to his self-regret and doubt. Even then, Andrew was every bit of a mature adult as she was. Surely they could move on as two mature adults in a relationship, right?
Letting out a slightly pained sigh, Andrew continued to climb up the hill to reach the top.
Eventually, he reached the top of the hill and saw Margaret sitting on a blanket. She was wearing the same attire she had on before, with her hair still in pigtails. He also saw that she had two empty martini glasses, as well as a bottle of French wine.
There was something pleasant about seeing this display, but it also caused him to feel more guilty about himself.
Why? Why did this have to happen to me? Andrew thought dreadfully. No! Get a hold of yourself, Andrew! Remember what Klinger said! Try to discuss with her exactly what's been bothering you...
Clearing his throat, Andrew then got her attention. "Uhhh...hey Margaret?"
This caught her attention as she slowly looked up towards him and saw that he made it on time.
"Oh. Hello, Andrew," she told him calmly. "I'm glad that you could make it."
"Yeah," Andrew shifted his gaze in all directions before taking those two chocolate bars and putting them on the blanket. "I uhhh...brought those two chocolate bars that you wanted me to bring..."
"Oh, thanks," she remained calm when talking to him as Andrew took a seat.
"Uh, hey Margaret," he started. "Before we start, I...I need to talk with you."
She had taken notice of the tone he was using, but she said nothing about it. "Sure. What is it?"
Andrew had to take several deep breaths to get a hold of himself, before coming out with a simple question. "I just want to ask, have I been a horrible boyfriend to you?"
Margaret blinked. She wasn't sure why he asked her that type of question, but she kept a calm composure. "No. Of course, you're not a horrible boyfriend. Why do you ask?"
Andrew groaned. This was the part that he was dreading to talk about. "Well, I feel like I've been taking advantage of you in our relationship."
"Andrew, how could you have been taking advantage of me in our relationship," she queried. She had no idea why he was saying something like this, but it was clear something was bothering him, and she was about to find out.
"Well I feel like I'm the reason that you've gone soft," Andrew explained. "I mean, I'm responsible for how the independent side of you is gone. You had it before I got here, and before we became a couple. But now I haven't been seeing it, and I feel that I'm to blame for that."
Margaret remained quiet as he continued to explain to her.
"The problem that I am having at the moment is that your independence side and you being strong-willed is what got me to fall for you in the first place," Andrew continued with a doubtful tone. "I saw a couple of times where you were like this strong mature woman before we became a couple. For example, there was this one time at Rosie's Bar where this man tried to have his way with you, and you decked his lights out. And then there was the time that you told off this general for offering a position while making a sexually inappropriate comment. I admired both of those instances from you. And what about me? All I am is just a sensible doctor who seems out of place with a bunch of other doctors who are pervertic and rude. And lately, I've been feeling doubtful about us and that you've lost that side of you because of me. I think that it's all my fault that it happened..."
"Attention!" Margaret yelled out, getting Andrew to stand in attention. "Major Peterson! I want you to stop talking about yourself like that, and that's an order! Do you read me!?"
"Yes Major Houlihan," Andrew hollered back, giving her a salute.
"At ease," she told him, getting him to sit back down. "See Andrew, I'm with that with everyone, and your no exception. The reason why I'm not on your case like everyone else is that you don't give me any trouble or grief, and you do what you are commanded to do."
"That's because I don't want to create conflicts with anybody," Andrew admitted shamefully. "And I don't want you to get angry with me."
"I know that sweetie," she assured him. "Look, I wanted to be a couple with you because out of all the doctors in our unit, you happen to be the most mature, and sensible."
"I get that. I just want you to be that independent young woman who acts like she doesn't need anyone."
"That doesn't mean I can't be with you, Andrew. Your my boyfriend, and that's not going to change."
"I know," Andrew nodded. "I just hope you haven't lost that part of you that I admire so much."
"I haven't," Margaret insisted. "Believe me, darling, I haven't. In fact, I can act independently when I need to be."
"I see," Andrew remarked. "I guess my only concern was that you were losing your touch."
"That's not gonna happen anytime soon."
"Good. I'm sorry that I came to that assumption."
"Don't worry about it. I understand. Just know that I love you, darling."
"And I love you too, dear," Andrew let out a sigh of relief. "Now, what was the reason you invited me up here?"
"Oh yeah, I wanted to invite you up here for a drink of some French wine that I have," she showed him the wine in question. "This is Merlot French wine, and I wanted to see if you'd like to have some with me."
"Yeah, sure," Andrew nodded. "I could use some right now anyway. I mean, we're adults, right?"
"We're mature adults. We can handle this stuff. And besides, I know you like drinking in small doses, so I will make sure of that."
"Uh-huh. I would love that," Andrew started to smile. "Did you say this is French wine?"
"That's right. I got it as a gift, and it's from 1939."
Andrew was pretty impressed with that. Not only was it given to her as a gift, but it was from 1939. He supposed that it could be considered a good year if she was willing to share some with him.
"Ooo la-la, Margaret," Andrew said with a faux-French accent.
"Andrew? Could you say that again?"
"Ooo la-la, Margaret," he repeated, shyly this time.
"I didn't know that you could speak with a French accent," Margaret commented.
"Well...yeah," Andrew was bashful with answering. "But, it's nothing special. Really."
"Well, I think it's kinda hot the way you say it."
"Gee uhhhh...thanks," Andrew felt his cheeks burn a bright red.
"Anyway, shall we drank up?"
"Sure thing."
She then poured some French wine into both cups. It was the red liquid stuff, as Andrew took notice of it. As soon as their glasses were filled, Andrew raised his glass first.
"So uh, what shall we drink to?" Andrew queried.
"Hmmm...how about we drink to my sister's wedding anniversary, the $420 you gave to me, and to us having no doubts amongst each other."
"I'll drink to that."
Both of them raised their cups and clinked them before drinking them down. As soon as they were done, Andrew's mind was on something else. The chocolate bars that he brought with him. He wanted to know if they were going to eat them.
"Hey, those chocolates that I brought for us," Andrew started to ask. "Aren't we going to eat them?"
"Oh yeah. I asked you to bring those for a reason," Margaret brought up.
"Right, and I suppose we'll have one each, yes?" Andrew wondered.
She nodded and they decided to help themselves. The next few minutes were spent with them eating them, not saying anything. Eventually, they finished them. Margaret's mouth was kept clean, but Andrew's mouth was covered in chocolate. It was minor, but it was noticeable. The head nurse noticed it and decided to point it out.
"Hey uh, Andrew? You got some chocolate on your face." She told him.
"Huh," Andrew was confused until he put his fingers on his mouth and realized what she meant. "Oops. I can fix that."
"I'll get that for you," Margaret offered.
"Uh no thanks, that won't be necessary," Andrew told her hastily. "I can handle it. I can-"
He didn't even get to finish that sentence when his girlfriend went ahead and kissed him. Andrew should have expected that, but he didn't think she'd do that. By the time she was done, all the chocolate smears around Andrew's mouth were gone, as he felt stunned.
"Does that help?" She asked him, as he just nodded to answer her.
Gosh. Why did I think we wouldn't work out anyway? Andrew thought. I feel foolish for coming to that conclusion...
Andrew then shook his head and found his voice again.
"So uh, shall we drink some more French wine?" The major asked.
"Only if you can handle it," the head nurse said.
"I think I can handle a couple more small shots," Andrew insisted.
"Well okay darling," she poured them some more wine.
"Thank you, dear."
"You're welcome."
And so they drank another small glass of wine. Of course, what they didn't count on was that they'd end up having a couple more glasses of the stuff...
AFTER A WHILE OF DRINKING...
Eventually, they had had enough French wine since it seemed that it was all gone. At his point, we see both Majors sitting down next to each other, and they were shown laughing their heads off.
"Oh Margaret, I sure had fun with you today," Andrew giggled.
"Yeah, me too. That was something," Margaret agreed.
"And to think I thought that you weren't independent anymore," Andrew murmured.
"You're kidding me? I am still independent," Margaret proclaimed. "Why if one man tries to grab me and have his way with me, I'll sock him."
To go with that, the head nurse stumbled up, curled her right hand into a fist, and swung it into the air to show how serious she was. This was enough to get Andrew intrigued as he stood up.
"Yeah, dear," Andrew slurred. "You sure convinced me. I still think we make a great team when it comes to it."
"Same here darling," she stumbled towards Andrew and kissed him on the mouth. "I love you..."
"I love you too...uhhhh I think," Andrew stuttered before checking his wristwatch. "Great goodness. I didn't know how much time has...passed. We're gonna be late for field day..."
"Oh yeah, your right," Margaret remembered. "It's just about 1800 hours. We better report to the Colonel, post-haste!"
"Post haste Margaret! That means pronto," Andrew clumsily did a salute before laughing again, and his girlfriend found this to be funny too as she joined in the laughter.
Afterwards, they took the blanket and the empty French wine bottle and started heading down the hill, or trying to that is, without tripping over each other's feet. It was kinda hard with how they were acting currently. But just in case, they kept their arms on each other for balance.
By the time they got back to the 4077, they found themselves in front of the Swamp, where they stumbled down and found themselves sitting down. The Swamp rats saw them out front laughing and whatnot, and this got their attention as they walked outside.
"Good heavens. What has happened with Majors Peterson and Houlihan," Charles wondered.
"Isn't it obvious Charles? They've been drinking," BJ answered before seeing the empty bottle. "And based on the date and brand, I'd say it was French wine from 1939."
"And here he is; Andrew Peterson," Hawkeye pointed out. "The guy who says he hardly drinks."
"Well, we better get them sobered up and fast," BJ insisted. "Field day should be starting shortly."
"Indeed. It's almost 1800 hours as of this moment," Charles agreed.
"Well, time for this couple to get sobered up," Hawkeye said as he, BJ, and Charles helped the two of them up and worked on getting them sobered up for field day.
The two of them were shown laughing, even though they were being dragged away by the Swamp rats so they could get sobered up right away. They would then get prepared for field day afterwards...
Quite some time had passed afterwards, and field day got underway. Andrew and Margaret were able to get sobered up quickly and they were able to take part in the fun. As it was confirmed earlier, they remained partners throughout the whole thing. They along with the other teams successfully took part in the games. Whether they won or lost wasn't important. But what was that they were having fun while doing it, as they were instructed by their Colonel.
The field day had come and gone, as everyone was exhausted by it all. Still, it was worth having a break from the OR and being able to unwind from all the meatball surgery that was performed previously. Currently, they were all in the Officer's Club to unwind from all the excitement.
"Hot diggity, that field day was a success," Colonel Potter proclaimed. "Today was a lot of fun."
"It sure was sir," Klinger agreed. "So Major Winchester, am I still a moronic boob as you call me?"
"Okay, so I might have underestimated you, a little," Charles groaned. "But don't get your hopes up, you Lebanese American."
"Yeah, sure Winchester," Klinger rolled his eyes.
"I must say that today was fabulous," Father Mulcahy admitted. "Field day helped with calming our spirits, and might I say Captain Hunnicutt wasn't a bad choice for a partner."
"Yeah. I'm glad you feel that way Father," BJ said.
"You think that's amazing? I got to kiss Nurse Jennifer 12 times today after each event," Hawkeye remarked confidentially.
"And speaking of kisses, anyone knows how Andrew and Margaret held up," BJ wondered.
"Well, if you ask me, they seemed to be in pretty good spirits when it came to field day," Father Mulcahy answered. "That is, despite having drunk some French wine together."
"They won a couple of games, and they lost a couple of games," Klinger remarked. "Either way, they don't seem upset about that."
"I think there's more on their minds right now," the Colonel said.
Meanwhile, Andrew and Margaret were sitting down, with Andrew groaning and feeling irritated about what he had done.
"Ugh! I can't believe I did that. What a fool I've been, getting myself drunk like that," Andrew moaned. "But I guess it had everything to do with how much pressure I was under."
"Well Andrew, remember that both of us got drunk," she assured him. "So you weren't alone there."
"I guess your right," Andrew sighed. "I still had fun with you today Margaret."
"Me too," Margaret agreed with him. "Thanks for today."
"You're welcome."
The others watched them talk from a distance and saw how happy they looked at that moment.
"It seems that whatever was bothering Andrew earlier has been taken care of," Hawkeye commented.
"I wonder what was bothering him anyway," BJ said.
"Believe me, guys," Klinger stepped in. "You guys have no idea."
The rest of the day was spent in the Officer's Tent until they had to part ways and head back to their tents. It was a crazy day today. But they still got by without any issues. And that was the only important thing...
END OF CHAPTER 28...
Yeah, I'm glad I finished this chapter. It felt like a chore to do. I hope this was decent enough despite the stress I was under while writing it.
Speaking of which, the way this chapter came out resulted from a review that I got, and it kinda put me under pressure and stress, regarding the pairing focused in this story. I understand where it was getting at, but that pairing is what DROVE me to write this story in the first place. Although, I have to admit I made a mistake in how I went with it. I don't hate this story, but I feel that it could have been handled better.
In fact, I kinda wish that this story took place during the first three seasons, seeing how this chapter had the atmosphere of a season 3 episode. I'm not sure if this story will continue for much longer. But I do feel regret for how this turned out to be a bust. I still love how my OC Andrew turned out for this, and I still love the couple focused in this story; regarding Andrew and Margaret, but I think it would have worked better if this took place somewhere during the first three seasons.
One more thing, I'd like to consider this story an AU of some kind. But I'm not entirely sure about it.
Anyway, I don't know what the next chapter will be about, and if I'll continue this any longer, but I'll think of something. Or maybe I'll do a reboot of this story, only focused during the first three seasons, preferably in season 2. Still, tune in again readers, I guess.
For now, if you have any other constructive criticism for this story, please be friendly about it. In addition to that, only let me know of the minor nitpicks wrong with the story, and try NOT to bash the pairing focused here since I already see the grave mistake I've made with going about with it. I love the concept and the pairing, but I should have done it at a better point in the series. And of course, positive reviews are allowed at any time.
Otherwise, that's all I got. So until next time, I hope that you are at least able to tolerate this story for what it's worth. And with this said and done, thanks again for reading people!
