Previously I do not own Molly of Denali, or any of the characters contained within this story. Molly of Denali is the property of Kathy Waugh and Dorothea Gillim.
I look forward to the reviews and criticisms (I know there will be some). I hope you enjoy the story, and just like the cartoon on PBS Kids, I am trying to stay true to the characters as shown each and every day. I am also including real elements like they've done on the show (racism, environmental, life, and death, etc..). I hope you like this when I start to repost the chapters.
Please review all of my stories. Feedback would give me ideas I can use for not only this story but for future ones. Thank you for your time and happy reading.
My story takes place in 2021 when Molly is twelve, Tooey is twelve and Trini is nine.
Holding Hands and Reaching Out
"I heard about your friend at the hospital. Have you talked to him since you had last seen him? Joy asked Trini. Trini shook her head, lowering her head and looking at the ground. Her thoughts went back to the boy she had met at the hospital and learned a few things about.
Seeing her demeanor change, Joy frowned and decided to change the subject. "Trini, now that you're back home, should I tell Molly you can take care of the animals?" Lifting her head, she nodded her head. "Sure mom, I can do this. Since you're here too, we can both help with Four-Spots, the chickens, and whatever else we need to do." Trini told her, smiling.
"Sure thing, I'll let her know." Joy offered. Before she could dial the phone, Trini tapped her on the arm. "Yes, Trini bear?" Trini turned and looked at the calendar held with a magnet on the refrigerator.
"How long are you going to be here? I am just wondering how long you'll be able to help me." Smiling Joy put the phone onto the side table before lifting her arms and gently pulling Trini onto her lap.
"I noticed you looked at the calendar over there. I started my leave today, so I won't be leaving until this same day but next month." Joy smiled as she informed Trini how long her leave was. Trini, not able to control herself, nearly jumped and to prevent her from falling Joy embraced her harder. Trini immediately froze when she was squeezed a little harder than she expected.
Joy released her as soon as she saw that she had caused Trini pain. "I am so sorry Trini. I didn't mean to hurt you. Honey I am so sorry." Joy told her through her small tears that formed in her eyes. Trini regaining her composure reached forward and hugged her mother around her neck.
"Mom, you can never hurt me. The hug surprised me, I am fine." Trini told her. As they were together Daniel watched them and saw the hug, and Trini's reaction. He went to the bag Atsaq had given him; he removed the pills Trini needed to take whenever she had pain.
He picked up a bottle of water and brought the pills to them. Trini turned and saw the bottle and the pills. Without saying a word, she took the pills and chased them with some water. "Thanks Dad." She told him placing the bottle onto the side table next to the phone.
Joy and Daniel watched as Trini stood from her lap and picked up Four-Spots. She played with him for a few minutes. They talked about Trini and what she needs to have now that she was home. Joy noticed that Daniel was watching her. "Is everything okay? You seem to be watching her every move?" Joy asked with a concerned expression.
"The pills she took a few minutes ago should kick in soon." Daniel told her. "Are they strong?" Joy wondered aloud. "Yes, she should be slowing down in a few moments."
Right on schedule, they noticed that Trini started feeling lethargic as she walked over to the sofa and sat down. Four-Spots jumped onto the sofa and laid on her leg.
"Fom, mad, di fee lirad dall luff a sunnen" Trini told them as she laid her head onto the arm of the couch. Joy turned with a questioning look to Daniel. "What did she say?"
Daniel showed mock disdain. "You can't understand your daughter when she is talking." Daniel laughed. "I seem to remember when she first started talking, we understood exactly what she was trying to say. Why can't you now, Mom?" Daniel asked smirking.
Joy just returned his smirk and gestured to their daughter. "Her baby talk, if I am remembering was never drug-induced." Joy countered. Daniel smiled, deciding to let her off the hook.
Daniel smiled and hugged her closer. "She said, mom, dad, I feel tired all of a sudden, I think." He said smiling. "Seems you have some trouble too." Joy said placing her arm around him.
Joy and Daniel watched as she passed out. "Um Daniel. What did you give her that knocked her out like that?" He stood and retrieved the bag he was given by Atsaq when they left the trading post. "Percocet. Normally it just dulls the pain but since she's had major surgery, it seems to affect her more than usual."
"I'll take her to the room and put her to bed while she'll sleep it off." Joy mentioned picking her up and walking to her bedroom and placing her onto the bed and covering her with the sheet and blanket.
Joy watched as Trini slumbered in her drug induced coma. She noticed that her dog jumped onto the bed and snuggled up to her as she laid there with her mouth open. Joy lingered a few more moments before returning to the living room.
Daniel was in the kitchen putting Trini's other sandwich into the refrigerator. "Are you hungry, or do you just want to spend some quality time together?" Daniel asked, closing the door to the fridge.
Joy walked over and hugged him and just held him like that and rocked back and forth. Daniel did not have anything else to do, just held her and rocked her. "Daniel, I have another suggestion." Daniel released her and looked down. 'What did you have in mind my love?"
Joy smiled slightly, "I guess since Trini is taking a nap why don't we join her and take some time for ourselves until she wakes up. How long will she be out?" Daniel looked at the clock in the kitchen, "We just gave it to her and it's 5pm, she'll be out for about three hours, maybe a little longer."
Hearing his estimate, Joy took his hand and lead him into the room and just laid down on the bed and waited for him to lay down as well. Once he did, she moved onto his chest and just slowly ran her fingers up and down his chest.
Neither said a word and just waited in the quiet, until they both relaxed enough to fall asleep. Now that the family was together again all of the parents, kids, and animals were quiet during the calm but snowy weather happening in Qyah, Alaska.
* Ookami Residence *
Tooey waited patiently for Molly, who had left earlier to take care of the dogs that were in the shed. Looking around the home. His thoughts returned to earlier when Molly helped clean the place after they had made breakfast again.
"Wish I could have done more. This chair is more limiting than I expected." While thinking about Molly, she opened the door and walked back inside the house. He observed that her coat was covered in snow.
Before she closed the door, he saw that the snow was falling slowly and lightly. Nothing like when they were all stuck in the blizzards the week before. Smiling he watched as Molly removed her parka and placed it onto the hook beside the door.
Molly placing the coat onto the hook she turned and saw that Tooey was watching her intently. "Teekkone?" Tooey shook himself out of the daze and looked at Molly, "Yes Molly." "You were just now watching me. Is there something wrong with me, or something I should know?" Molly asked, smiling.
"Umm," he said smiling toothily. Smiling wider, she walked over to him and placed her hands on each of his armrests. Molly leaned over Tooey; he watched as her face came closer. She placed a kiss onto his forehead. At the same time, he leaned forward and placed a kiss on her neck.
Startled Molly jerked back when she felt him place a kiss on her neck. Tooey watched as she rubbed her neck but did not remove it while watching him. Puzzled by her reaction, Tooey frowned, "Shaeeyaa, did I do something wrong? Please, tell me what happened."
Molly composed herself, willing her heart to slow down. She sat on one of the chairs at the table and watched Tooey. Tooey fidgeted in his chair. Wondering if he had done something to offend Molly.
Molly just watched him as she waited for her body to calm down. "Tooey, you didn't do anything wrong. I was just not-" The opening of the front door startled them into silence.
"Hey kids, Trini is home and now all of you are back in Qyah. I am very happy. Is everything good here?" Atsaq asked, closing the door, and placing her parka onto the pegs.
Molly and Tooey turned towards Atsaq. Hearing her question Molly cleared her throat, "Yes Atsaq, everything is good, just like yesterday, we made breakfast." Tooey piped in, "We also cleaned the dishes and put everything away."
"Great kids, didn't you have lunch or dinner since it's late? Should I make something for dinner?" Atsaq asked walking into the kitchen. Not realizing they had missed lunch, their stomachs answered for them. Atsaq hearing them, smiled. She walked into the kitchen, opened the refrigerator, and pulled out some reindeer sausage.
"Do you need any help with dinner Atsaq?" Molly asked standing up. Tooey watched as she walked towards the stove next to his mother. He was still wondering what had happened that made her flinch when he had kissed her.
His thoughts were interrupted when Molly's phone began ringing. Pulling it out, she looked at the display, her mother was calling. "Hey Mom, what's up?"
* Denali Trading Post Earlier *
Layla finished checking the plane before entering the Trading Post. "I am so glad everyone is back home in Qyah, safe and sound." She told no one in particular as she walked past the front desk and walked up the stairs into the living area of the trading post.
She saw Walter and her father sitting in the living room. "All finished honey?" Walter asked. Layla nodded her head and slumped down onto the recliner. Walter walked over and pulled her up and instead sat down and he pulled her into his lap. Once settled, "Yes, I am tired, I should probably get some sleep."
"Nat and I made some moose stew, while you and Atsaq were bringing Trini back." Walter told her, pulling her close and hugging her tightly. "What took so long Layla? The flight to Anchorage should have only been about eight hours." Nat asked, placing his newspaper down.
Layla realized her father was sitting in the living room. "Dad, when did you get back from Nenana? Did Kenji come back as well?" She asked. Nat shook his head. "He went from Nenana down to Gnome to visit his sons."
"Oh, does Atsaq know he went to Gnome." She wondered aloud. "He called her when she was discharging Trini. She should be aware of his whereabouts." Nat relayed.
"Good to know. Back to your question dad. It took a little longer than expected because I also brought a surprise for Trini." Layla smiled snuggling up to Walter.
Smiling Nat waited a few seconds. "What surprise would that be?" Layla's smile widened as she hugged Walter again. "Well dad, I brought Trini a special present that I picked up from Juneau while Atsaq was discharging Trini."
Walter holding her was a little curious too. "What did you pick up honey?" Layla turned towards Walter with a big grin on her face. "Joy." Walter joined her in smiling, "Trini will love that. I am glad she was able to get leave so they can all be together." Nat smiling too, "Me too. She'll be incredibly happy having her mother as well as everything else she loves about Qyah." "The other good thing about it is I can take a break from flying for the weekend. At least until Sunday since I have to get the mail after the weekend." Layla mentioned yawning. Nat and Walter both yawned, smiled, and then laughed. "Was Atsaq just as tired as you were when she returned with you earlier with Trini?" Walter asked, easing his hold on her as she leaned lower on his chest and settled in. "Exhausted, while I was waiting for her, she told me she did the rounds of the emergency room and a few other patients of doctors she knew were there. Why?" Layla asked, trying to get more comfortable.
"Well, Atsaq is exhausted, Tooey is still in a wheelchair, and Kenji is now in Gnome. You should call Molly and let her know, that if she is needed there, she can stay there until they are able to function for a bit without her." Walter told her, handing her the phone from the end table.
Giving him an annoyed look, "I was just starting to get comfortable you know." Walter smiled holding his hands up once she took the phone from him and started dialing. "Sorry." That was all he said, hugging her as she was calling their daughter.
Layla listened as the phone rang a couple of times before Molly answered it. "Hey Mom, what's up?"
* Mumford Residence *
Without opening her eyes, she instinctively reached over and pulled her little fluff ball of a dog closer. Hugging him really tightly. Enjoying the attention, he turned and licked her face a couple of times.
Joy watched as they bonded in their slumber. A slumber that was instantly interrupted when the dog licked her a third and then a fourth time. Trini opened her eyes, "Four-spots, I have a shower for that, you know." She remarked, closing her eyes, and pulling the covers up to her neck burying the both of them in blankets.
"Speaking of showers, would you like one, Trini Bear?" Hearing her mother talking, she opened her eyes again and this time pushed the covers from off of her and Four-Spots. Smiling she saw her mother and shimmied to the end of the bed. Without putting her slippers on she ran to her mother and jumped into her arms.
Joy opened her arms and accepted the enthusiastic hug her daughter wanted to give her. She realized a second too late that despite her daughters' need for this hug. She didn't need to hug as hard as she did because Trini grunted but thankfully didn't scream.
"I am so sorry Trini Bear. Did I hurt you?" To her surprise, Trini was still smiling when she turned her head up to look at her mother. "No, the medication is still keeping it from hurting. I can still feel the staples and stitches, and I'm still sore. But the hug was great."
"Thank goodness, I never want to hurt you my little Trini Bear." Joy told her planting a kiss on her forehead. Smiling Trini placed a kiss on her chin when her mother moved back from kissing her. "It's all good mom. How long was I out?" She asked looking at the radio clock that was on her nightstand. She saw that it was 6:30pm.
"About four hours, are you hungry. Dad has some soft foods for you to eat while you're healing." Trini looked at her, "Soft food, you mean like that bland, tasteless stuff I was given at the hospital?" She watched her mother trying to keep a straight face.
"Mom, you should never lie to your child, and being the child, "What you talking about mom."" Trini said mimicking one of her favorite tv. shows. Hearing her daughter calling her out, she began to laugh. "Just kidding Trini Bear, dad is warming up some moose brisket, corn on the cob, and some mashed potatoes, that actually have flavor. Nothing like the bland soft foods you had to eat because the doctor's prescribed it for you."
Trini let out the breath she didn't realize she had been holding. "Besides sweetie, I am not a doctor, and I would never prescribe you food like they prepare for patients at the hospital. Some of that stuff isn't fit for a dog." Joy mentioned.
Both were startled when Four-Spots barked at her comment. Looking at him, "Four-Spots, you know in this family we feed all our animals better than that." Trini told him as she reached down and petted him. "You still haven't answered me, would you like a shower, or dinner first?" Joy repeated holding her not-so-tightly.
"Dinner first, I'll take a shower later, and Four-Spots, can join me."
Trini almost left her mother's lap when she realized she was being held in place. "Trini Bear?" She heard her mother asking her. Turning she looked up at her mother. "Yes, mom."
"Can I see the staples you mentioned?" Trini nodded and then lifted her shirt and showed the seventeen inches of staples that covered most of her chest. Joy sucked in some air when she saw the staples and how much of her chest had to be opened to fix her broken ribs.
"I am very sorry you had to go through that. I know it must have hurt a lot when they got you out of surgery." Trini lowered her shirt but shook her head. "Nope, I have been on painkillers since then, so I have never felt them since the surgery."
"I imagine if I missed taking some of the medications, it would probably hurt so much I would probably be crying." Trini informed her.
"Now, enough about me, let's talk dinner." Trini said jumping off her mother and getting her bathrobe, tying it around her clothes before putting on her slippers.
* Ookami Residence *
"Hey sweetie, dad, dad, and I were just talking and wanted to let you know that you can stay there and help for as long as they need you. You know Atsaq and I are tired and cannot be of help until we get some rest." Layla began. "I know mom, Atsaq just made a quick dinner and then went upstairs and probably passed out." Molly informed her.
"Before you go mom, can I ask you a question?" Molly asked standing and walking upstairs. Tooey watched as she left the room and went upstairs. Tooey wondered about what she could be talking to her mother about. He just had to wait until she returned to find out if she wanted him to know about it.
Molly walked into the bedroom where Tooey and her slept when she visited. "Remember I told you that Tooey and I talked about how we feel about each other right?" Layla nodded her head, and also said, "Yes, sweetie. I remember. Why?" She asked wondering about her daughter.
"I already told you that I kissed him. That is not the problem. I am just wondering about something he did." Layla immediately perked up and sat up. Walter watched as she sat up, no longer needing to sleep just yet.
She stood and walked to the kitchen table and sat down. "Molly, what did he do?" Before she could chicken out, "He kissed me this morning. The-" "Did he do anything that you found inappropriate?" Layla interjected.
"I don't know mom. This is why I am asking you. He kissed me on my neck when I was kissing his forehead. He did that and I immediately felt overheated, and my heart was racing like a jackhammer." Layla smiled and let out a small laugh as she listened to her daughter pouring her jack-hammered heart out.
"Do you want the good news or the bad news?" Layla asked her smiling again. "The bad news. I guess." Molly picked wondering where this was going. "Well, for starters, I am glad you are able to show your feelings. He is also showing his feelings to you. He is basically testing the waters to see how far he can go with you, and whether you are feeling the same way he does."
"Are you saying he's testing me, but kissing my neck?" "Not exactly Molly." Molly thought about what she was being told. "I'm just saying that he is kissing you expecting a reaction. He is just gauging the reaction." Layla told her. "What should I do? I am not sure how to respond to him." Molly confessed.
"Molly, when he tries it again, catch him and confront him about it. Find out what he's thinking. You might like the response you get." Layla remarked. "Okay, I'll do that. What's the good news?" she asked. "The good news is that you are both proceeding at a good pace. I think it's kind of fast, but, since you have known each other since you both were babies. I can see how your feelings have been building. He is trying to show you those same feelings." Molly nodded her head despite her mother not being able to see her.
"Okay, thanks mom. I was scared for a moment that this was something we would have to talk about as a group." Layla laughed a little, "That may very well happen in a little bit, but Molly I think you got this. I trust your judgement. If anything makes you uncomfortable talk to me before anything happens. Okay?"
"Sure thing, mom. Good night." Molly ended the call and put her phone onto the charger that was plugged into the outlet next to the desk. She stood and returned to the dining room table and helped Atsaq with dinner.
A little while later, after they had finished eating, Atsaq stood up, "Would either of you want any more before I pack everything away?" Atsaq asked. Molly and Tooey put their forks down and rubbed their stomachs. "Atsaq, I am good. I couldn't eat another bite." Molly sighed contentedly. "I agree with Molly, Mom. I am stuffed." Tooey mentioned pushing his chair away from the table.
Atsaq smiled but yawned, covering her mouth. "Are you tired Atsaq?" Molly asked. "Yes, I had quite a few rounds and of course all of the flying. It tends to wear you out. You should know that since you fly a lot with your mother." Molly nodded, understanding since she went flying quite a few times.
Standing Atsaq stifled another yawn as she reached for some of the dishes that were on the table. "Atsaq, get some rest, I have this. I am here to help." Replacing the plate and glasses she had reached for, "Thank you Molly, I am glad you are here to help. This has been a really trying couple of weeks. Especially for you kids. I am glad all of you are back safe in Qyah." Molly smiled looking at Tooey, who was trying to pull the chair back up to the table to help gather some of the dishes.
"Teekkone!" Molly said loudly scolding him. Smiling sheepishly, he placed the plates back onto the table. "Yes, Molly?" Tooey asked showing 9lots of teeth. "You can't carry them. Your legs remember." Molly told him, canting her head and pointing at his lap.
Without looking down he knew that he was wearing braces. Atsaq watched as the kids "bantered" back and forth. "I'm going to get some sleep. Since you're staying over, I'll see you guys in the morning. Good night kids."
"Good night, Atsaq." Molly said.
"Good night, Mom." Tooey said.
Atsaq ascended the stairs and a few moments later they heard her bedroom door closing. Hearing the door closing, Molly stared at Tooey for a few more moments. "Teekkone, I don't want you to hurt yourself trying to help. That's why I am here." Molly told him, scolding him with a smile on her face.
Seeing her expression, he wheeled his chair closer to her and he curled his finger at her. She placed the dishes she had been carrying onto the table and sidled over to him. Leaning down, she brought her head closer to him. "Yes, Teekkone?"
He waited until she was really close. "Shaeeyaa. I haven't had a chance to tell you that I am glad you're here helping when my family really needs you." Molly smiled and sat down in the booth they had been eating at.
"Is there anything else you want to tell me before I leave?" Tooey's expression changed, and he stared at her for a moment. "I have to feed the dogs that are in the shed, remember?" Molly said running her fingers along his neck and then tapping his nose lightly." Understanding dawned on him and he smiled as he caught on to what she was saying.
"Yes, but before I say that." Tooey began pulling her closer by gently tugging on her arms and she scooted to the edge of the bench seat. She leaned over and turned her head so she could listen to him.
Once her head was turned, he leaned forward and placed a second kiss onto her neck. Again, she pulled back and caressed where she had been kissed like she had done earlier. Watching her, "What I wanted to ask was why did you react like you just did this morning?"
Just like in the morning she leaned forward and pushed his chair back a few inches. Once he was clear of the table she stood up and walked to the door. Tooey had another puzzled look on his face as Molly walked away from him. This time when Molly was walking away, she was facing him the entire time.
He watched her as she put on her parka, scarf, and gloves before she opened the door, waved at him, and closed the door. Tooey wondered what she was hiding. "I wish I could read her mind. What happens to her when I did that?"
* Denali Trading Post *
Nat put on his parka and removed his gloves from his pocket. "Walter, I am going to head on home. If you need me, just give me a call." Walter continued caressing Layla as she slept in his lap. He waved him off while also nodding his head.
Smiling, he opened the door and closed it behind himself. He looked out over the landscape and saw the paths that had been plowed by Mr. Rowley and Patak. "The kids are home and now we have to give them time to heal from the wounds they have both mentally and physically."
Instead of walking home, he turned and made his way to Midge's house. He looked up and saw the Moon with the halo around it. Seeing the moon, he reached up and pulled on the hood of his parka.
A few moments later he knocked on the door and waited for Midge to answer. Hearing movement from within he looked down and saw a shadow covering the bottom of the door. A second later the door opened, and Renata was standing there. "Hello Renata, is your mother home?" "Yes, Mr. Kidelee. I'll let her know you're here. Please come in and have a seat."
Nat walked in and removed his parka and placed it onto the chair besides himself. "Nat, wants some tea?" He looked up when Auntie Midge entered the room from the bedroom. She retrieved the teapot, and she put it onto the stove after filling it with water.
Nat waited and watched as she set the table for four people. She also placed a platter of pilot bread and three jars onto the table. He looked at the labels. There was a jar of Wildflower honey, blueberry jam, and fireweed jelly. Nat smiled when he saw that the fireweed jelly had a picture of Trini and Molly.
Once the kettle began boiling Midge placed a trivet onto the table and placed the hot kettle onto it. Renata, Oscar, and Midge joined him at the table. "Thanks for coming over Nat, but what brings you to our humble home." Midge asked pouring some water into her tea leaves that were in her cup.
"Trini's home and Joy is also here to visit and help her on her recovery. Molly is over at the Ookami's' house helping with Tooey, and Layla and Atsaq are both exhausted from their flying schedule the last few days since we had found the kids." Nat told her also filling his mug of tea leaves and pouring water over them.
"Mr. Kidelee thanks for the update." Renata began. "Nat, please call me Nat." "Yes sir, Nat. I am just glad to know that all my kids are back in Qyah." Even though he was the youngest at the table he raised his hand, and all of the adults turned towards him.
"Oscar, this is not school, you don't have to raise your hand. However, since you have our attention what's on your mind?" Renata informed and asked him. "Yes mom, I know that, but I thought this was more polite than interrupting." Oscar mentioned lowering his hand.
"Okay then Mr. Marsh, what were you thinking about?" Renata asked smiling. Clearing his throat, "I heard that Trini was hurt really bad, can I go over and visit her, Tooey and Molly, now that they're all back from the hospital and the snow has subsided?"
As he was talking Midge had gotten up and walked to the radio and retrieved her pad that had some information on it. "I am not sure; she is right now visiting with her family and -" Renata stopped talking when she saw her mother's hand had been raised.
"Not you too mom, you haven't been to school since-" "A long time, I know I was just following Oscar's example so as not to interrupt." Midge countered placing the pad onto the table. "Ok then, mom. What's up?" Renata asked looking at the pad in front of her mother.
"When I was on the radio this morning, the latest report from Nenana was that the blizzards have subsided, and some slightly warmer air was coming in from the south. I was also told that the sun will be finally starting to rise again in the next couple of weeks. You all already knew about that last part though." Midge finished pushing her glasses further up her nose.
"That's a relief, I'll let Layla know when she wakes up later about the weather. That will definitely make her next few flying runs easier." "That's good to hear. School isn't expected to begin again until next week. I am glad the kids won't have to be cutting paths through fresh snow." Renata added drinking her tea.
"Grandma, I will visit them after they have all settled and things return to normal. I mean as normal as can be since I know they were all injured." Oscar whispered sitting with his mug of tea." Midge watched him, "You'll be able to visit your friends soon enough, I know you miss seeing them."
"Is there any other news I should know about Nat?" Midge asked. Nat shook his head, "That's was the most recent news I have found out since Layla, Atsaq, Trini, and Daniel returned earlier this afternoon. If I find out anything else I'll be by again to let you know."
The conversations became less serious once the news had been relayed. Nat spent a while at Midge's place before departing and returning to his home.
* Mumford Residence *
Trini walked towards the bed and deposited Four Spots wrapped up in a towel. She then started drying his fur, even though he tried to pull away from her. She managed to keep control of him. "You're not shaking on me Four Spots." She told him, keeping the towel on him. He barked lightly and tried to get away again. A moment later, she finished and allowed him to get away from her.
He walked over to the edge of the bed and proceeded to shake. Since she had dried off the bulk of the water, very little was thrown around she didn't get wet again. "Haha, I already took a shower, and you can't get me." She was surprised when she was picked up from behind by her mother. "I can get you, Trini." Joy yelled.
Trini also almost yelled and turned towards her mother. Joy saw the expression and immediately placed her back onto the floor. "Did you feel that sweetie. I am very sorry if you did." Joy apologized.
"No, mom not pain, just felt the pressure. The medication is still working." She reassured her mother throwing the towel onto the bed and turning to hug her mother. "When you're ready, please come into the living room." Trini released Joy and turned her head slightly wondering what she meant by the way she had said that.
"Am I in trouble, mom?" Trini asked. Hearing and seeing both her demeanor and voice change she smiled. "No, Trini Bear you have not done anything wrong." Trini cocked her head again. "Is this about the friend I met when I was in the hospital?" Joy looked around the room before settling on her daughter.
"Yes, it is. I have never met him so I would like to know a little bit more about him. Is that okay?" Trini nodded but watched her mother. She had a feeling something was up, and they weren't telling her something. "I'll be out in a few minutes. I have to brush Four-Spots." Trini mentioned walking over to her desk and retrieving the dog's brush.
Ten minutes later, she entered the living room and saw both of her parents sitting in the loveseat. She walked over and Four-Spots followed her onto the sofa. She sat down, and Four-Spots climbed onto the couch and then onto her lap.
"Honey, dad, and I have been talking about the boy you had met. He told me a few things about him. Since you were the one to meet him, I would like to know a few things about him from you. Is that okay?" Joy asked, watching her daughter's demeanor.
"Okay, what do you want to know about him?" Trini asked sitting at the end of the sofa. Joy looked from Trini to Daniel and Daniel just nodded. "What happened to the young man you met?" Trini took a deep breath, "He had fallen into the lake in Nenana, they pulled him out of the water and brought him to the hospital."
"Dad told me about meeting his parents. Have you ever met Robbie's parents?" Trini quickly shook her head. "Dad said he learned something from Robbie's parents; Have you spoken to Robbie about it?" Trini nodded getting a sinking feeling. "I talked to him about Robbie and then I looked at the computer in the ward and found out some things about what dad had told me."
Joy drank from her cup of tea she had beside her. "What was that Trini bear?" Trini took another deep breath and nearly coughed since she couldn't take that deep breath. "He had told me that Robbie needed to see a psychiatrist, because his parent's believed he was trying to kill himself. I don't think he was, but I am not a doctor, Atsaq is."
"How were you feeling when you heard that?" Joy asked. Trini shrugged her shoulders, "Mom, we've heard about things like this happening all of the time in Texas, New York, and many other places around the world. I am not surprised if it happens here too."
"Do you like talking to Robbie, Trini?" Joy asked placing her mug onto the side table. Trini nodded her head. "Yes, mom I do. I have a friend that doesn't live here in Qyah. He lives in Nenana. I have his number and when we're done here can I call him."
Sure thing, Trini bear. Thank you for talking to me about him. I'm sure you and him will be great friends." Trini got up for the sofa and walked over and hugged her parents before picking up the cordless phone and walking back to her room.
Joy and Daniel both watched her leave the living room and enter her bedroom closing the door behind her.
* Ookami Residence *
Molly rolled Tooey back into the bedroom and pushed him next to his desk. She rolled the chair to its usual place between the desk and bed. Before locking the wheels, She turned him towards her. Once in place she locked the wheels.
"Teekkone." She called out to him. Tooey watching her and smiling, "Yes Shaeeyaa. How can I help you, my love." Hearing him, Molly smiled broadly despite the speed of her heart. "Mom called me before I went to take care of the dogs." Tooey nodded since he saw her answer the phone.
"Molly Nani, did I so something wrong this morning and again this afternoon?" He asked fidgeting in his chair. Placing her hands on his cheek she beckoned for him to lean forward. Not sure what she was doing he leaned forward keeping an eye on her.
She reached to plant a kiss on his forehead, turning her head slightly. Tooey seeing the opening again leaned in to kiss her neck. He was pleasantly surprised when she changed trajectory and planted a kiss on his lips, tentatively pushing her tongue into the equation. They shared the kiss for a few moments before Molly pulled back sitting back onto the chair she was using.
Molly and Tooey smiled as they enjoyed the post kiss euphoria. "Teekkone, the reason I kept leaving when you kissed my neck was because I got excited and didn't want you to notice when it happened. Tooey smiled, "You do know I can tell when it happens just like you can tell when it happens to me. I just have to remind myself not to cover it up or get embarrassed." Molly cocked her head, "Why?" Tooey continued smiling, "I am with a person I have grown to love. I can't be embarrassed when you want to show me your love or kiss me. I enjoy them when they happen." Tooey told her reaching for her hand and holding it.
As he held her hand, she liked the feeling of closeness they were experiencing. "I feel the same way Teekkone. You know that our parents probably know about this right?" Tooey nodded, thankfully, that the chair was facing the doorway. "I am pretty sure our families know about it." Tooey told her glancing at his mother who had been standing in the door holding her finger to her lips.
Tooey pulled her closer by the hand he was holding and kissed her by the ear as well as hugging her. Molly took in his scent. It was kind of sweaty but pleasant. She smiled as she was being held.
Atsaq quietly walked back to the bedroom and closed the door. She then returned to bed and blissfully climbed in and found sleep almost immediately with a smile on her face.
New feelings flooded Molly's body as she acknowledged his feelings for her. Molly broke the moment when she stood and retrieved her pajamas from her bag that had by the wardrobe.
Molly placed her puffin pajamas, socks, and underwear onto the bed. She also placed additional shirt and shorts onto the bed. He watched as she walked to the dresser and retrieved a pair of swim trunks and placed them onto the bed next to her clothes..
"Why did you place swimming clothes onto the -" Molly walked over and silenced him with another kiss. Astonished and confused, he just stopped talking and continued to observe her as she prepared her sleepwear and his swim clothes.
Without saying a word, he watched as she unlocked the wheels and pushed him into the bathroom. She left the chair alongside the bathtub. She reached forward and turned on the cold water and then turned the hot water. He remained silent as she left the bathroom.
He watched as the tub was filling with warm water. After a few minutes, the tub was only about a quarter full. A few seconds later, she returned with not only his swim trunks but her shorts and shirt. He was about to say something when she sat on the edge of the tub in front of him and pushed the chair back until it hit the vanity.
Looking down there was about three feet between the tub and his chair. He expected her to help him to his feet. Instead, she unclasped the bottom straps on his right leg. Catching on, he undid the straps on the right leg, and then repeated it on his left one.
Tooey began to roll them down to his knee. He then lifted each of his legs slightly so she could finish unrolling them. A few tense moments later they were off and placed onto the vanity.
Looking up Molly noticed that Tooey was sweating. "Did it hurt?" Tooey shook his head, "It was just hard to move my legs, even a light bit. Now I know what mom meant when she told me this would tire me out, so for that reason I was grateful you're here to help Shaeeyaa." This made Molly smile. "Thanks, now I need your pajamas."
He complied with his pants and underwear. He then waited for Molly to help him to his feet. She never moved to help him. She was in the process of putting his feet into his swim trunks. She then waited for him to raise himself up again using the armrests. Once he did she slid them up his legs until he was covered again. "Can you tie them Teekkone?" He nodded and tied them tightly.
Once he was finished Molly turned and saw that the tub was almost full. She turned off the water and placed the box of bubble bath on the side of the tub. She then held her arm out. He placed his arm into hers and was eased back to a standing position.
She then raised his arm and placed it over her shoulder. He turned and sat onto the edge and then, Molly picked up his legs and turned him until they were in the water. He eased himself into the water like he had done before. Molly waited until he was settled into the water before picking up the bubble bath and pouring a little into the water.
Tooey swished his hand until the surface was covered in bubbles. He was going to say something when he looked up and saw that Molly was sitting on the toilet and was removing her pants and underwear. She then put her shorts on. He watched transfixed as she removed her Qaspeg and her t-shirt. Tooey noticed that she was blushing from head to toe but didn't stop until she had put on her swim shirt she had worn when they went to Totally Hidden Hot springs.
He then watched as she sat on the edge of the tub, swung her feet, and placed them into the water. "Did you want to join me Shaeeyaa?" Molly still blushing, "I would love too, but your legs could be bumped if I were actually in the tub with you. This is as close as we can get without me accidentally hurting you.
"I'll take what I can get." Tooey mentioned moving down into the water and letting his legs reach the other side. Molly's legs were safely out of the way so he could move them. She then moved herself closer to his chest so as not to hit his legs when she moved her legs.
He was thankful for the soap bubbles because he didn't want to cause Molly any embarrassment if she saw his excited state. Molly thought to herself, "I wonder if he can tell how I am feeling in these clothes. It's a good thing the shirt isn't wet, he would definitely know how I am feeling right now."
Not wanting to break the mood, or the silence they each used a washcloth and washed themselves. They both blushed when they were cleaning under their clothes but never removing them. Afterwards they remained in silence until the water started feeling cold to Molly and she swung her legs out and picked up a towel to dry herself off.
Just like before Tooey watched as Molly turned away from him and removed her wet clothing and left them on the vanity. Now that she was mostly dry she wrapped the towel around herself.
When she was sure the towel was secure, she helped ease Tooey to the edge of the tub and helped him to stand. Like her, he removed his trunks and used a towel to reach as far as he could without moving his legs too much. Molly helped him to reach the places he couldn't. When she finished, Tooey wrapped the towel around himself, and she eased him down into the chair.
"I'll put those in the dryer when I get dressed and have you in bed."
Tooey nodded and waited for Molly to take him to the bedroom. A moment later they were in the bedroom. She pushed him alongside the bunk beds and left him there a moment. "I need to get dressed before I can help you. Is that okay?" Tooey nodded and waited as behind him he could hear her fidgeting and moving around but he never turned around.
Molly got dressed and placed the towel on the desk in front of Tooey. He saw she was wearing a matching green pajama set with dogs on the front. Molly smiled when she was in front of him. She helped him to stand, he dropped the towel and sat on the bed.
She handed Tooey his shirt, which he donned in about two seconds. Seeing that he was mostly covered, she helped him by putting underwear and the pajama bottoms onto his legs and bring them to his knees. He lifted himself off the bed, she pulled them up to just under his shirt. He reached down and pulled them the rest of the way.
Now that they were bathed and dressed, Molly sat down at the desk and rested a few moments. Tooey watched her and patted the bed next to him. Smiling, she stood and sat down next to him. Making sure she wasn't bumping his legs she eased herself a few inches away from him.
He waited until she was where she wanted to be. "Is it okay, that we are in the same bed together Molly?" Tooey asked apprehensively. Looking the situation over, she nodded in agreement and continued sitting next to him.
He was about to say something when Molly suddenly stood up. What's wrong?" he asked. "I have to put our swim clothes into the dryer." Tooey nodded and waited for Molly to return.
Five minutes later, Molly entered the door and walked back over to the bed and sat down next to Tooey. "Molly, you do a lot of leaving, but my favorite part about you leaving is you keep coming back." Molly smiled and leaned onto his chest as they were sitting on the bed.
"I really love you Teekkone." Molly said smiling and kissing his chest.
"I love you too Shaeeyaa." Tooey said placing his arm around her.
* Mumford Residence *
"I know I put that number somewhere, where is it?" Trini thought to herself and partially aloud. She removed everything from her bag. Her clothes, a couple of notepads, and a stuffed dog (which reminded her of Suki) were all deposited to the floor. She then picked up each notepad and shook them, nothing. She then picked up the other one and a sheet of paper flew out of it and fluttered to the floor.
Picking up the paper she looked at it, she saw the number Robbie had given her. A moment later, the phone was ringing. "Hello?" Trini heard. "Hello, my name is Trini Mumford, is Robbie home?" "Mumford, Mumford. Are you the daughter of the gentleman we had spoken to at the hospital in Anchorage a few days ago?" "Yes ma'am." Trini answered automatically.
"Hold on a moment, I'll go get him." Trini heard the phone being placed onto something, probably a table. She looked down and watched Four-spots jumping onto the bed, turning, and flopping onto his spot near the pillows. She smiled just before hearing the phone being picked up."
"Hello?" Trini smiled when she heard his voice. "Hey Robbie. How are you doing?" she asked. "I am doing okay." Trini could hear the sadness in his voice. "What wrong?" She asked as well as wondered.
"You remember what we had talked about when I was in the hospital." Trini sighed heavily, "Yes I remember. Are they going to have you see the doctor?" "Based on what the doctor told them, yep." Robbie sighed himself.
"I just had a conversation with my parents about you as well. I didn't like them asking about you." Trini admitted. "I am glad you feel the same way I'm feeling about it." Robbie told her entering his room and closing the door.
"When you come up to Nenana, do you want to come by and visit?" Trini's mood brightened when she heard the invitation. "I would love to visit. I'll ask my dad if we can go there to visit." "Just don't come over on a day I have to go to the doctor's office, okay?" Trini's mood soured a bit, "Why?"
"Mom and dad told me that before I go to see the doctor. I have to take some pills, and I know that those pills will affect me, and I don't want you or your father to see me like that. The good thing is that they wear off the next day." He told her. Trini frowned.
"I hope when I come up there one of my other friends would be with me and you can meet them too." Trini offered. "I would like to meet them, from what you had told me, they sound like great people." Robbie remarked smiling. "The best friends, a Texas girl who now lives in Alaska could hope for," Trini gushed while talking up her friends.
"Do you have a computer?" she asked hopefully. "No, I don't, but the library has four of them. I can use one when I am there." Robbie informed her. "How am I going to know when you go to the library? I mean, my dad works at the library here." Trini fretted, thinking quickly.
"I don't know Trini, but before you get off the phone, can I tell you when I going to see the psychiatrist, so you don't come on those days.?" Robbie wondered asking. "Sure thing. Let me get my notebook and a pen."
Robbie waited a few moments before he heard her shuffling the notebook. "What days do you have to see the doctor?" she asked. "Two times a week. The doctor is here in Nenana. I see him on Tuesday and again on Thursday."
Trini finished writing the days of the week down. "How long do you have to see him?" She inquired putting her pen down. "Two months. I have to go there for two freaking months."
"Don't worry, your friend will be there for you" Trini added smiling. "I am glad we met. I am just not happy you had to learn about this." Robbie nearly whispered. "Robbie, I am the only one that doesn't care about that. I am just glad I made a friend and have someone else to talk to besides my Qyah friends." Trini remarked as she was smiling.
"I'm glad you are my friend because the ones I used to have here, are avoiding me because of what the doctors said about me. My parents are telling everyone." As he spoke, Trini could hear the sadness deepening in his voice again.
"It would be nice if you were here, and we could spend time together, play, or hang out." Robbie offered. "I can ask my parents if we can go there this weekend. My mom is here on leave and since the snow isn't that bad right now maybe we can do that. I'll ask, okay?" Trini mentioned countering his offer.
For the first time in their conversation Trini didn't hear sadness in his voice. "I would love that. I'll ask if I can go to the library, it's open all week plus Friday. Maybe we'll see each other then. Let me know if you can make it, okay? He asked with a hopeful expression on his face.
"Is this your phone or, family phone?" Trini asked. This is the family phone I don't have one." Trini frowned, "This is my phone, so if you want to you can message me. I'll do the same."
Robbie looked at the phone for a second. "No problem, I can leave you messages, just remember any messages you send my parent's will be able to see them." Trini thought for a moment. "I'll leave you messages that only talk about when we can meet up again okay?" "Sure thing, Trini. I am glad you called, running into you may have been the best thing that's happened to me, since falling into the ice. Bye."
"Bye Robbie, I'll let you know if we can make it this weekend. Bye." Trini told him hanging up the phone.
Yupik Dictionary
Waquaa! – Hello
Aana – Mother
Tua-I-Ngunrituq – Goodbye
Tuntuvak – Moose
Quyana – Thank you
Gwich'in Dictionary
Shgguya – My grandchild
Ti'yaa – My father
Dak Niighit – "She rises into the air" Layla Mabray's Native name.
Shchada'a – My grandfather
Dinjik – Moose
Khoh t'án - Rose
Shahnyaa – One who informs us – Molly's native name
Shaeeyaa = Shimmering Stars, comic book hero created by Molly.