After the Return
(ATC & A/N: Perry Mason Returns. I was never quite satisfied with the way this movie ended. It seemed kind of anticlimactic. I thought maybe a more romantic ending based on a beautiful song. Many thanks to the Righteous Brothers.)
Perry Mason has cleared his former secretary, Della Street, of the murder of Arthur Gordon. With the help of Paul Drake, Jr., it had seemed like old times. After their celebration dinner, Paul, Jr. left to find some younger companionship. Perry and Della now sat staring across the table at each other. Dishes had been cleared away. Two cups of coffee remained untouched. The candle in the center of the table cast a soft glow on their faces as it slowly burned down.
Perry would start to say something, but Della would stop him with a slight shake of her head. Della then tried to smile but the solemn expression on Perry's face turned the smile into a frown. Now neither of them knew where to go from this point.
As Perry once again started to speak, the jukebox in the corner came to life and the strains of the old song started drifting through the room. Perry stood and taking Della's hand, drew her up into his arms, and they began swaying to the music.
Oh, my love, my darling
I've hungered for your touch
A long, lonely time
And time goes by so slowly
And time can do so much
Are you still mine?
"Are you still mine Della?"
"Perry, I…"
I need your love
I need your love
God speed your love to me.
"Della, please."
Lonely rivers flow
To the sea, to the sea
To the open arms of the sea.
Lonely rivers sigh
"Wait for me, wait for me"
I'll be coming home, wait for me.
"Perry, you need to give me time. It's been so long."
Oh, my love, my darling
I've hungered for your touch
A long, lonely time
And time goes by so slowly
And time can do so much
Are you still mine?
I need your love
I need your love
God speed your love to me.
Perry bent his head, barely touching her lips.
"I love you Della. I've never stopped loving you."
Della reached up to place her hand on his strong jaw, feeling the softness of his beard.
"Please take me home."
Trying to keep the disappointment from his face, he led her back to the table so she could gather her things. Walking to the door ahead of him, she turned and smiled.
"And I've always been yours."
He caught up to her, wrapping his arm around her waist.
"Let's go home, my love."