Starsky's Neighbour - Part IV

By

Judith Goodger and Elisa Valero

Vicky ran back towards the cabin, praying that her horrible supposition wasn’t true. That Billy hadn’t kept his promise, while his terrifying words, played through her mind, over and over. “Listen to me. One more time, and your lover will die...”

When Vicky arrived the door was open. And what she saw , made her legs double under her while her heart beat enough to explode. Starsky was tied in a chair. His face showed evidence of a beating, and a thread of blood slipped from his lips, running down his chin. Billy was facing him, but on hearing Vicky he turned towards her.
"VICKY, RUN!" Starsky shouted. Then Billy’s fist struck into his stomach with such force that he cried out in pain.
"Oh my God. Billy, NO. No please... Billy, don´t hurt him"
"For God sake Vicky...Where did you find this shabby guy ? Sleeping in some subway station?...Really, your taste for riffraff is so amazing darling!...although I must admit that he has guts!...But, come in Vicky...Join our little party. You need to see how I kill your lover...I warned you Vicky. But you didn’t listen to me."
The girl rushed towards her ex husband, but he didn’t need a great deal of effort to throw her against the wall with a knock of his arm.
“SHERMAN!! Don´t hit her!.”
“SHUT UP, PIG! I know how to treat this little disobedient hooker.” Again he punched Starsky´s stomach.
"Please....Billy. Please. I´m here. I’ll go away with you ... I’ll do what you want, but don´t hurt David." The girl spoke tearfully, raising herself from the floor, bleeding from a wound to her forehead.

Suddenly a strong but agile body pushed Billy´s back knocking down him to the floor. It was ... “SAMSON!!”
The dog had returned to the cabin and somehow he understood who he had to attack. With the momentum of the dog, Billy lost his gun ... which slipped next to Vicky who, in one rapid movement, grabbed it and aimed with tremulous hands at Billy. while the dog continued growling menacingly.
"Billy, leave Dave... Don´t hurt him, or I swear to you, I will shoot."
"You?... Oh, Come on. Don´t make me laugh. You won’t shoot me. You’re too much of a coward to do it....You’ll just stay there, petrified, watching as I cut the throat of your lover...”
“Billy, don´t do it. ..I WILL shoot you, Billy.!”
Billy, no longer had the gun but had removed a knife from his jacket pocket and was already putting it to the half concious Starsky´s neck, while at the same time, with his other hand, he seized Vicky’s hair, pulling her head up so she had no choice but to watch. Suddenly, she pulled the trigger. Billy let the knife slip from his hand, falling slowly onto the floor. He looked at Vicky for a few seconds with his eyes open wide in surprise. Vicky dropped the weapon suddenly, as though it burned. ...At that moment, Hutch rushed into the cabin to a terrifying scene. A man lying on the floor, looking very dead, bleeding from a wound in his chest, Starsky tied to a chair, beaten and scarcely conscious, and Vicky, sobbing at his side.
"HUTCH! Thank God! Help me... I can’t untie him... David, love... Speak to me. It’s over."
The girl, was trying desperately not to break down, but the tears were falling unchecked down her cheeks. Hutch cut the ropes that were holding Starsky with his pocketknife.
"Starsk, calm down, partner...I´m here...What happened here Vicky? Who’s he?... Billy?"
"Y...Yes ...I... I went out for a few minutes...Dave was sleeping. Then I saw Billy´s car in the forest...And...I came running back here and... " Then she burst into tears.
"It´s okay Vicky, try to relax. Now help me.”
He and Vicky carried Starsky carefully towards the sofa.
“Shh, Dave, don´t move, everything will be all right.”
“Vicky...Vicky. Are you okay?...” He was having trouble breathing and a bruise was begginning to form on his cheek.
“Sure love. I´m okay...Now don´t talk.”
“Hu...Hutch?”
“Yeah Starsk, I´m here.”
“That man...He’s Sherman... He took my gun and threw it out of the window... He wanted to kill me Hutch... but Vicky shot him...”
“I know buddy, I know. Hey...Try not to talk, just rest. Okay?” I’ll call for the ambulance.”
Then, Hutch bent towards Billy feling for a pulse in his neck .
" He's alive " Hutch said to himself. After calling the ambulance he and Vicky both knelt by Starsky´s side while Vicky gently cleaned the blood from his face, all the time talking to him, soothing, comforting words.
Finally, after fifteen eternal minutes, the ambulances arrived, taking both wounded men to the hospital.

Jenny put her arm around the shoulders of a very distressed Vicky as they listened to a Doctor Wilson explaining to them, in the Memorial Hospital waiting room, of Starsky´s condition.
“We have to take detective Starsky to surgery. The beating he received caused a slight internal bleed. Besides, his treated ribs are broken again. Nevertheless his vital signs are stable and we don’t expect any complications during or after surgery. The other patient, Mr Sherman, his condition is pretty serious. He has lost a lot of blood and the bullet has seriously injured his left lung before becoming lodged in his spinal cord. If he survives he will be permanently paralyzed. Now, I must get back to the operating room. When we finish with detective Starsky´s surgery I’ll talk with you again.”
Vicky was a living picture of desolation.. The surgeon words were more than she could take and her mind was asking thousands of questions to herself. Dave is in a hospital again, in surgery. Like last time...the murder attempt...God. It´s my fault! And If something goes wrong this time?...And if he can´t...
When the doctor moved away into the corridor two orderlies were taking Starsky to surgery. Vicky and Hutch approached him. He was already sleepy with the effect of the pre-anesthesia.
" Hey love. Don´t look at any nurses...Dave. I love you" Vicky said lovingly resting her hand over his pale cheek. He smiled through eyelids weighed down by the sedative. On the other side of the stretcher Hutch was taking his hand.
" Starsk... Partner. When you wake up again, we’ll be with you. Okay? "
When the stretcher disappeared behind the surgery area doors Vicky ran, crying, and shut herself in the hospital bath room, alone with her awful anguish.
"Vicky!...Vicky, wait. Where are you going?"
"No Hutch." Jenny said. "Give her a minute. She needs be alone for a bit. I’ll go to her in a moment.”
Hutch plunged into a chair with his elbows doubled on his knees, and his head between his hands. Then Jenny, sat down next to him.
“I can´t believe it. Vicky has shot Billy.” The blond girl said. “Really, all this is very hard for her...It was lucky you went back to the cabin. Now I see it Hutch. You and Starsky know perfectly when one of you is in trouble. It’s like some kind of sixth sense. Right?”
"Well, I suppose. I don´t know. All I can tell you is that after Vicky told me that they would be staying the night in cabin, suddenly, I knew that I had to go back because something would be very wrong there...Although I´m afraid I got back a little late to help them.” Hutch said staring at the floor.
“Come on Hutch. Starsky will be fine. I´m sure. Now I should go to speak with Vicky.” Jenny patting Hutch´s knee and rose from her chair, heading towards the ladies bath room.
“Vicky...Vicky, open the door... Come on Vick..Let me in ..VICKY!!... If it’s necessary I can batter down this fucking door!... You know I’ll do it!”
Vicky opened the door, and began to speak tearfully.
"Jenn, he told me... Billy told me that if I saw Dave again, he would kill him. And now, it’s my fault he’s here, in a operating room...I love Dave Jenn... Since the first day. But I’ve been selfish with him. So selfish!...I should have left him" Vicky again burst into tears.
"ALL RIGHT!! NOW, NO MORE NONSENSE VICKY!...You are not selfish. You love David and he knows it. Now listen to me. Billy has not killed David. You prevented it... David is alive, and he will recover. You heard doctor Wilson "
"I shot Billy... I shot a human being Jenny "
"A human being?...That´s arguable." Jenny managed to bring a weak smile toVicky's face
"Come on Vicky...Poor Hutch is alone and worried in the waiting room. Don´t you think we should go back there with him?" Jenny said, gently wiping with a damp paper towel the tears tracks down Vicky´s face.
A few minutes later Vicky and Jenny returned to the waiting room. Jenny had a hard time convincing Vicky that everything would be fine and that Billy wouldn’t hurt them any more.
The time passed slowly, but finally a surgeon came out, approaching them with a serious expression on his face.
"I’m sorry but I´m afraid that I have bad news. The patient has suffered a complication. A heart attack due to the amount of blood loss... We managed to resuucitate him, but he’s in a coma...His condition is very serious and unfortunately he could die into the next few hours...Maybe days." Before the surgeon could finish his words Vicky had passed out.
"Oh my God... VICKY! " Jenny said. While she and the doctor were kneeling down around the unconscious girl, Hutch remained still without talking, his eyes closed, and his forehead against the wall, tremulous and pale, trying to assimilate what he just had heard.
"Nurse. HERE!... Take this woman to ER... Her pulse is very weak and fast. She’s tachycardic... Possible heart attack! "
" Doctor...Wait a second doctor. It´s not possible. Doctor Wilson said that he wasn’t expecting any complications... That detective Starsky's condition was stable... " Hutch finally could speak, seizing the doctor´s arm, while Jenny stayed close to the stretcher that carried Vicky towards ER.
" Detective Starsky?... Oh! I'm sorry... I'm so sorry. I was speaking about the other patient. Mr Sherman. He’s in operating room number one, and detective Starsky is in number two...I haven’t been at his surgical operation but I think detective Starsky´s condition is pretty good and the surgery is near to finishing"
“WHAT?...So...Starsky is not?...TO THE HELL WITH SHERMAN...WE ARE DETECTIVE STARSKY´S FRIENDS!! Can you understand that? DETECTIVE STARSKY´S FRIENDS!!” Hutch shouted out, pointing his forefinger into the doctor´s face.He ran to the ER leaving the doctor a little scared of his reaction.

Some minutes later, Jenny and Hutch were still in the waiting room. The doctors would not allow Jenny to go in with Vicky, and the young woman was furious and scared for her friend's condition.
“Damn stupid doctor. It’s his fault Vicky is there, sedated, with her heart beating at a thousand miles per hour, and with the same blood pressure as that of a horse... And the worst thing is that we can’t tell her that it’s not Dave who is in a coma...SHIT! I´d like to wring the neck of that mental retard!”
“Hey...Come on Jenny.Take it easy. She’ll be fine.I´m sure!” Hutch was speaking to the girl in his most gentle and calming voice.
“Yeah Hutch...And Starsky too” answered the girl, putting her head on Hutch’s shoulder, who, a little surprised, put his arm around her.

Then, Doctor Wilson came out from the operating room, and, after making apologies for his colleague´s mistake, told them that the surgery was over and Starsky would recover easily. On the other hand, luckily, Vicky had not suffered a heart attack, but just a breakdown. When the doctor finally okay’d it Hutch headed towards Starsky's room to wait, close by his friend's bed until he began to wake up from the anesthesia.
While Vicky was in another room under sedation with her pulse and heart more stable after her shock.. Jenny was with her waiting for her best friend to wake up, and to tell with her about Starsky without upset her again.
So it was, a little while later, in rooms 514 and 518 of Memorial hospital, the same scene was being played out ...
“Hu...Hutch?”
“Hey, Starsk...I´m here. Take it easy partner. I´m here.”
“Hutch...What happened? " Starsky asked with slurred voice.
"Don’t you remember Starsk? The cabin?... Sherman?"
"Ow!... Yeah. Now I remember...VICKY?... Where’s Vicky Hutch?" Starsky said, trying to sit up in the bed. The sudden movement caused him a wave of pain. Starsky closed his eyes tight, gripping the bed sheets for a few seconds until the pain subsided.
“Hey, hey, calm down. Vicky will be fine Starsk...” Hutch said softly, taking his friend´s hand.
“Will be fine?...What do you mean?...What´s happened Hutch...Why isn’t she here? That bastard hurt her?...Hutch, please. Tell me the truth” An anguished Starsky was gripping Hutch´s wrist.
“Starsk, a while ago, Vicky passed out, she’s in another room in this hospital, but she’ll be okay. Don´t worry partner. Right now she needs some rest, but I'm sure that, in a while, she’ll be here with you "
"But, why. Why did she pass out, Hutch?"
"Well. A stupid doctor gave us some bad news... Not about you, but about Sherman. He’s in a coma. But... at first we thought that he was speaking about you... and then she..”
“My God...”
“She’s okay Starsk. I promise. And Jenny’s with her ...”
“I´m thirsty Hutch...My throat...hurts..”Hutch asked for some ice chips from a nurse, and a moment later, he gave a couple of spoonfuls to Starsky.
“Now why you don´t try to sleep a bit? You need to rest too. And I’ll be here..”

Meantime, in Vicky´s room....
“Dave...Dave”
“Hey. Welcome back sleepy-head. How are you doing?”
“Jenny...Oh Jenny...Dave...He’s...?” Vicky could not finish the question, and burst into tears.
“No, no Vicky.” Jenny said, hugging Vicky “Listen to me Vicky. David right now is waking up from the anesthetic. The surgery went without a problem, he’s in another room of this hospital. Hutch is with him, and he will be fine."
“NO! Dave is in a coma...And he can die...The surgeon said ..."
"The surgeon is a true idiot Vicky. He was wrong, wrong patient, wrong relatives, and surely wrong profession...
“What...What are you saying?”
“Vicky, that stupid Doctor wasn’t speaking about David, but about Billy...Believe me. David will be all right”
“What’s his room? I want to be with him...Where are my clothes?” Vicky said, tearfully and still a little light headed.
“Vicky wait..”
“Look Jenny. I’m going to be with Dave and I don´t want him to see me dressed in this lousy thing. If he sees me like this he will think that I´m wounded and will be frightened, so, my clothes, or your clothes? It’s your choice ...”
“Okay, okay. To order my captain!” Jenny joked, taking the clothes from a wardrobe and giving them to Vicky.

The door opened softly into Starsky´s room. One visibly worried Vicky entered, approaching to the bed where he was sleeping, looking pale, and with a IV in his arm.
"Hey Vicky. How are you feeling?" Whispered Hutch rising from the chair and helping her to sit down.
"How is Dave Hutch?" Was her only answer.
"He’s sleeping. Vicky, Starsk will soon be okay...That surgeon made a great mistake.”
“I know...Jenny told me..”
Hutch went out of the room while Vicky was sat close Starsky´s bed gently caressing his soft curls. She spent a long time just looking him and holding his hand, until finally Starsky woke.
“Mmmm...Vi...Vicky?”
“Yes Dave. I´m here”
“What happened to you Vicky?...Are you okay?”
“Don´t worry sweetheart. I´m perfectly fine...Try to relax. I´m here.”
“You...You’re... wounded.” Starsky´s said weakly, touching gently the bandaid on her forehead.
“It´s just a cut,. Dave...” Vicky took Starsky´s hand and kissed his fingers “Now, no more talk, okay?..”
Stasky spent an unsettled night, while Vicky stayed by his side, taking care of him, not leaving the room for a moment, and trying to easy his discomfort as much as possible.

The following days passed quickly. Starsky was still in the hospital, accompanied by Hutch, Vicky, or both, who attended to all of his needs. The first days were pretty hard, due to the pain from his injuries, and the worry for Vicky and Hutch. When Starsky felt a little better, in spite of hating hospitals, he enjoyed like a child being the center of so much attention and care, and Vicky and Hutch, at last more relaxed, enjoyed too caring for and loving him. At the same time, between Hutch and Vicky grew a sincere trust and friendship. Both loved Starsky, and that bonded each to the other more every day. With regard to Jenny, she and Hutch dated sometimes, and she admitted that this cop, blond and attractive, was really an agreeable and very kind man. Hutch also enjoyed being with a young woman who was beautiful, brave and very funny.

Soon, Starsky was discharged from the hospital, and back in his apartment. Vicky moved there to take care of him. The hard days they had overcome, served to bring them even more together. Both enjoyed love with it’s thousand little details. Sharing a popcorn bowl, both curled up together in the sofa with hands entwined as they watched some old movie on the TV, sleeping embraced every night, eating breakfast in the bed together, or talking about memories, projects and dreams while sitting on the sofa with Starsky´s head on Vicky´s lap, while she fingered his curls. It was in these times that Vicky, terrified, listened as from Starsky's own lips, she heard all the frightening things that had happened in his life. The Simon cult kidnapping, his poisoning by Bellamy, and all the things, that had almost cost his life.
It was in these quiet days that she realised he was the bravest man she would find. Not just because he had survived all that fate had thrown at him, but because he could keep alive his passion for his work , and his optimism for life.

In other happier moments, he was shown a girl who was an excellent guitar player and singer, owner of a surprisingly beautiful voice.

Some days Hutch and Jenny, spent a lot of time there too... Suddenly, November was nearly finished, and Thanksgiving day had arrived.
That year was very special. Not because they would see their families again. In fact neither Hutch, Starsky nor the girls, would see their relatives this time, but maybe at Christmas. Together they would do on that day something special for all things that they were grateful.
They would spend the day in Starsky´s place with Vicky and Jenny. The two girls were cooking a delicious turkey...inspite of the constant incursions in the kitchen by Starsky and Samson.
"Dave...Dave love...Where’s the black pepper?"
"What?" Whispered Starsky from behind, very close her ear, taking Vicky by her waist, as Jenny smiled.
"Ahhgg!" Vicky shouted "David Starsky...Do you want to scare me to death?"
"No sweetheart...I want only a kiss." He embraced Vicky with his arms, kissing her.
"Come on, come on...Vicky...We have a lot of work still to do here...Dave, please, leave us alone awhile, Right?"
"Okay Jenny, but just awhile."
Five minutes later, Starsky said .
“Vicky?”
“Yeah?”Click. The sound of a shutter from Starsky’s camera.
“No, Davy! I´m just horrible right now.” The girl showed an apron printed with yellow flowers, her brown curls tied in a braid, and her nose stained with flour.
“I don´t think so honey”
“SAMSON!!” Jenny shouted out. The dog had placed his legs on the kitchen table and, absolutely calmly, had stolen a baked potato from the serving dish.
“HUUUTCH! I Need a cop NOW!!...Hutch, please. Get this man, and this dog, out of here. ..Or phone a chinese restaurant, so that they can bring us food! We can’t work like this!”
Hutch smiled as he leaned against the frame of the kitchen door, and was happy. Happy seeing Starsky and the girls joking and laughing in the kitchen. Happy smelling the delicious smells that came out the oven...Happy seeing the happiness of his best friend.

And that’s the way the day continued.All of them grateful for what they had. As they sat around the table Jenny spoke.
"I thank God that he allowed us to be here today. That our paths crossed the way of two good men. That he gave us peace again. That he has put a smile in Vicky´s heart and an extraordinary human being in her life. Never did I think that she would find a man, that he would respect her, he would love her, and he would take care of her like David does...For all this I’m grateful.”
Then it was Vicky´s turn.
“A times I never thought that we would see this day. Or perhaps that I wouldn’t see it. That I would have nothing to celebrate and to be thankful for. Now I know I was wrong. I should thank God for having the love of the best friend than anybody could find, and to have the love of the most generous and stubborn man, who has the most beautiful soul in the world...He was some kind of miracle for his best friend Hutch, a year and a half ago, and now, he is a miracle for me also...I was very near a dark abyss this time, but he took me from there. He looked for me, found me, and he has given me a life again. A beautiful life...I want to thank God for that.”
When Hutch began to speak talk all eyes were already shining.
"There is just one thing that I can say that nobody has said around this table. Just one thing I can thank God for, that I thank him for every day since Starsky recovered his health and his life. ..My best friend, the best friend than I have in the whole world, is a man that is always giving. He always think of others before himself... I thank God because Starsky is here today, loving us how as only he knows how. And I thank God also, that he has brought into his life a brown curly-haired, angel named Vicky to make him happy.”
“I don’t know if right now I can speak.” Starsky´s said. “Really, I don’t know. In fact, I don´t know even if I should speak. ..I have so many things to thank God for that perhaps this will take too much time . God has given me a beautiful and good life, in spite of the risks, the danger, the deep sadness at times, or the pain, but every day gives me more reasons to follow my way. and more love to survive across everything.” On saying those words he looked lovingly at Vicky. “I just want to thank God for that.”

It was a special and beautiful Thanksgiving day. One of those days that the passage of time could not wipe from their memories.

When, days later, Starsky felt more recovered Vicky began to look for a job, and finally she got back her place at the veterinary surgery where she was previously .
Soon, Starsky could return to work too...And the days flew past...

A couple of days before Christmas, Vicky came back to Starsky´s apartment,with Jenny and on opening the door both sood speechless. The whole lounge was filled with beautiful Christmas ornaments, and in a corner, there was a wonderful Christmas tree.
"Oh! Jenny. Look at this...It´s...beautiful!" Then, from the bed room, Starsky, Hutch and Samson, came out... All three wearing around their necks brilliant Christmas garlands. " Do you like it sweetheart?... Hutch and I did it for you."
" Dave... This... is so beautiful... I." Vicky couldn’t stop the tears.
“Hey, Vicky, come on. We haven’t done this to make you cry ... but to tell you that this is a Christmas you will not forget. " Starsky said embracing Vicky.
"You can be sure of it Vicky. I know it well... I’ve enjoyed more than one unforgettable Christmas with Starsky." Hutch said mischieviously.
“I have something more for you." Starsky, headed to his bedroom, returning a moment later with a small box in his hand. He gave the gift to Vicky.
"Hey Starsk. ..If this is going to be a private party, Jenny and I, maybe we should go." Hutch joked, although he knew perfectly what the small box contained.
"No blondie. Stay, please. You too Jenny. I want our best friends to be here right now.
"Vicky, this is for you. Open it, honey” Vicky, opened the small box, her eyes shining with emotion. Inside there was a gold ring with a beautiful diamond in the center.
“Dave...What?..”
" I know that we only met each other just three months ago, and if you don´t want to, or you need time to think, I’ll understand, but I´m totally sure of my feelings"...“Vicky...Do you want to be my wife?” The girl stood in silence a few seconds, looking at the ring, and drying her tears with the back of her hand, while Starsky looked expectantly at her, with his hands on her waist. In the lounge the silence hung heavily until Jenny spoke.
"Oh for God sake! Vicky, say something, please! ...Yes David. Vicky is absolutely crazy about you, and wants to be your wife!"
"JENNYYY" Starsky, Hutch and Vicky shouted with one voice.
"I´m sorry, I´m sorry. ..It’s just, this girl make me very nervous at times!!"
Then Vicky, spoke “I...I...Dave...Yes. My God! Yes...I want to be your wife....I love you, I love you so much...”

If someone else had been in that place right then, had seen, how Starsky and Vicky kissed each other with a kiss full of love...While Hutch and Jenny watched the scene, with their arms surrounding each other waists, their heads very close and tears of happiness tarnishing their eyes.

PART FIVE
Christmas day loomed early in Starsky’s apartment. Ever since Vicky had accepted his proposal of marriage he had been living on cloud nine. They had visited Huggy and the Dobey’s to tell them the news and so far everyone had been delighted for them both. Today though was the day Starsky would tell the one person who meant more to him than either Hutch or Vicky. Rachael Starsky would be waiting for his breakfast phone call and this year she would be in for a surprise like no other. Starsky wondered how his mother would react. He knew she would be upset that she and Vicky had never met but that was something he intended to rectify as soon as possible, or as soon as Dobey could be persuaded to give him some leave! He hoped with all his heart that she would be happy for him, he so wanted them to get on.
Nervousness and anxiousness drove Starsky and by 9.00am, when he was due to phone, he had completely cleaned the apartment and had everything together ready for when Hutch would arrive. The two would be spending Christmas day with Vicky and Jenny in the house across the road. Since the day it had been ransacked the whole interior had been thoroughly cleaned and decorated and an alarm fitted. Vicky had been adamant that she would return there, unwilling to allow Billy to drive her out of the home she had built up on her own. Starsky had insisted on the alarm for his own peace of mind and she had willingly agreed. Starsky glanced across the road and, not for the first time, felt like pinching himself just to make sure that it was real and he wasn’t in some kind of dream. Thinking back over the last couple of years he knew how lucky he had been. Almost killed, he had fought back and returned to a job he loved with a friend he also loved. Vicky had been the icing on the cake and had brought the joy back into his heart that had been missing since the death of Terry.
Thinking of Terry took Starsky away from the window and into his bedroom. Slowly he crossed to the dresser and picked up the silver frame that held a smiling Terry. He had taken the photograph himself on a day when they had gone for a picnic on their own. Lovingly he ran his finger round the outline of her face as he sat on the edge of his bed.
“ I loved you Terry more than I could have thought possible and I would have given everything for you to still be with me as my wife. It wasn’t to be though, that maniac Prudholm made sure of that. I never thought I would find someone to take your place Terry but Vicky has. You’d like her, I’m sure of that. She’s so like you, only she looks after stray animals not children. Guess that’s why she likes me so much, Hutch always says I’m like a stray puppy.” Starsky grinned before continuing. “It’s time for me to move on now Terry. Vicky and I are to be married in the spring…be happy for me my love.”
For a few minutes Starsky simply held the frame to his chest, eyes closed, lost in his memories. Then he turned to the dresser and slowly pulled out the bottom drawer. Gently he laid the precious photograph in the drawer and closed it, closing with it a part of his life that he would always hold dear. He was wrong he realised, Vicky hadn’t taken Terry’s place, she had made a special place of her own alongside of it.
A loud banging on his front door brought Starsky back to normality and he left the bedroom without looking back. As he walked across the room he could hear Hutch’s voice calling him.
“Starsky, come on …it’s me. Open the door before I drop everything. Starsky laughed and opening the door deliberately stood blocking the entrance.
“Hi Hutch, having problems?”
“Very funny Gordo. Unless you want the smell of wine to permeate your carpet for the next six months I suggest you get out of the way and let me in. Even better you could give me a hand with some of this lot.” Hutch had a precarious hold on a dozen different bags and boxes, the top one of which was filled with half a dozen bottles of wine and was in imminent danger of slipping.
Starsky stretched up and took the offending box then moved away from the door allowing his partner and friend inside. He watched fascinated as Hutch carefully put his load on the floor.
“I know the girls asked you to get a few things Blintz but there was no need to buy out the whole store. Starsky rubbed his wrist as he spoke. The plaster had been removed earlier that week and Starsky was just beginning to get full use from his wrist. Again he thanked his lucky stars that it had been his right wrist broken not his left. That would have meant he couldn’t have gone back to work for a while. It would also have meant, Starsky realised, that he would have been unable to hit Hutch the way he had that day he had faced up to him at Huggy’s. He knew he still had to make up for that one!
“Still aching partner?” Hutch pointed to the wrist Starsky was favouring and he immediately stopped.
“Yeh, a little, but nothing that will make any difference. Did you bring the box I asked for?”
“If you mean the one from the butchers with the present for Samson yes I did. Though how you ever managed to find a bone that size is beyond me Starsk. That dog will love you for ever and a day when he gets his teeth into that.”
“Hey! Don’t you knock Samson. If it hadn’t been for him things could have been a lot different right now buddy.”
Suddenly the telephone rang and Starsky became instantly serious.
“Ma! Damn I’m late. Now she’ll be worried in case I’m ill or something. Why didn’t you tell me what time it was Hutch?”
Starsky strode across to the phone, leaving Hutch with his mouth open, head shaking at his partners back. He bit back the retort he was just about to make, realising how nervous Starsky was about talking to his Mother. He watched as Starsky took a deep breath before picking up the receiver.
“Happy Christmas Ma…..Yeh I know I was supposed to ring you….No, everything here is fine…Hutch turned up just as I was about to ring, sorry!”
Hutch watched as Starsky’s face lit up in the full grin he knew so well.
“Ma says happy Christmas Hutch. Listen Ma… I’ve got something to…”
Hutch laughed to himself as he realised that his partner was having his usual problem of getting a word in edgeways.
“Ma would you listen for a moment” Hutch winced as Starsky’s voice echoed across the room and he saw Starsky shrug his shoulders to him.
“No, I’m sorry Ma, I didn’t mean to shout but I have something important to tell you and I need you to listen.” Starsky took another deep breath. “Ma, I’m getting married.
Hutch watched his partners face as Starsky continued telling Rachael about the girl who had stolen his heart. When he finally saw the grin return to his partners face Hutch knew it was okay and unconsciously uncrossed the fingers he hadn’t even realised he had crossed.
“Yeh Ma. I’ll bring her to meet you just as soon as I can arrange it with Dobey. In the meantime you better go buy a new hat.” Starsky listened as his mother spoke some more. Gently he broke in, hearing the tears in her voice and unwilling to continue any longer before he too began to cry.
“Listen Ma I’ll call you again tomorrow and you and I can have a real long chat. I have to go now, Hutch is waiting. I love you Ma. Take care.”
Starsky hung up the phone and stood staring at it for a few moments. He jumped a little as he heard the cough just behind his left shoulder.
“Everything okay Starsk?”
Starsky turned to see a concerned Hutch watching him.
“Yeh Hutch, everything’s fine. At least it will be once Ma meets Vicky. She’s really happy for me buddy…I wish she lived closer..”
“Hey, once the holidays are over we’ll go see Dobey together and get you the time off so’s you can take Vicky to New York. The two of them can have real old chinwag and they’ll get everything organised so fast you’ll be an old married man before you know it!”
Starsky gently poked Hutch in the ribs. “Less of the old partner. I’m younger than you and don’t you forget it!”
Both men laughed before Starsky spoke again.
“Thanks Hutch, for everything. You’ve always been there partner. I don’t know what I would have done without you sometimes. I promise you Hutch, nothing will ever change between us. Vicky understands how it is with us and she accepts it just like Terry did.”
“I know Starsk, I know. She told me the same thing a couple of days ago.” Hutch moved his arms to hold Starsky’s. “I owe you as much as you owe me buddy, we’re equal. I couldn’t be more happy for you and I know you and Vicky will have a long life together. I love you both Starsk and nothing will ever change that either.” Hutch pulled Starsky forward and for a brief moment hugged the friend he had nearly lost but had managed to hold on to against all the odds.
A loud coughing from the doorway parted the two men and they turned embarrassed faces towards the door. Huggy Bear stood, leaning nonchalantly against the doorframe, arms crossed and a smile on his face.
“Now that’s a scene that could take some explaining to the right person…if you get my drift fellas.”
Huggy shifted and, pushing himself upright he turned to pick up a parcel lying just behind him before entering the apartment.
“Hey Hug, Merry Christmas. What brings you out and about so early?” Starsky moved away from Hutch as he spoke the colour in his face slowly turning back to normal.
“On my way to my cousin’s for lunch so I thought I’d stop by and leave you guys a little something to help celebrate.” Huggy handed the parcel to Starsky and moved to stand next to Hutch. “Well you gonna open it or look at it. I promise it ain’t gonna bite!”
Starsky peeled off the paper and peered inside the box. A huge chocolate gateau filled it. Covered in cream the smell was enough to make Starsky’s lips water and he closed his eyes as he took a deep breath.
“Oh man, Hutch get a load of this. Huggy you are an artiste. The girls will love it. Thanks.” Starsky moved into the kitchen area gently carrying the box in front of him.
Hutch turned his back and spoke softly, “Did you manage to get it Hug?”
“Yeh man, it wasn’t easy but I got it. You owe me one for this Hutch.” Huggy quickly handed over a small package to the smiling blond who took it and hurriedly hid it inside his jacket.
“Thanks Hug. I’ll make it up to you.” Hutch turned to face Starsky again.
Huggy moved away to the door. “Hey bro... I gotta split. Have a good day and kiss that beautiful fiancée for me Starsk.”
“I will Hug and thanks again. See you for lunch tomorrow.” Starsky watched as Huggy sauntered out of his door then turned to Hutch.
“You gonna give me a hand with some of this lot. The girls will be wondering what’s keeping us.”

Vicky and Jenny were just beginning to think they would have to go and knock for their guests when they heard banging on the doorstep and the sound of glass breaking on the step. It was followed by a fit of giggles that instantly had Samson at the door his stump of a tail moving back and forth so fast it could hardly be seen and his back end moving along with it.
Jenny moved to open the door and hold on to the dog but Samson was to quick for her and shot out of it in an instant heading straight for the owner of the giggles he had heard. Before Starsky knew what was happening he was flat on his back, the full weight of the dog on his chest and a wet tongue washing every inch of his face. Letting go of his burden Starsky grabbed at the huge neck and pushed with all his might.
“Samson get off! I had a shower before we came here.”
It took Starsky a good few minutes to finally extricate himself from under the dog and regain his feet, by which time he was soaking wet from the contents of the bottle of wine that had slipped from Hutch’s grasp as they reached the door.
“Oh man. Vicky I’m sorry, what a mess.” Starsky looked up to see his best friend, girl friend and friend desperately trying not to laugh in his face. Looking down again as the wine slowly dripped off of his clothes to form a puddle on the floor beneath him he too began to snigger and before long all four were laughing until their sides ached.
Samson suddenly sneezed loudly as the effects of licking up the spilt wine finally reached his nostrils. Turning to look at the huge dog Starsky took another look at himself also.
“I think, if it’s okay with you guys, I’d better go and change”. So saying he turned and hurried back across the road and up the stairs to his apartment listening to the giggles and sneezes coming from behind him.
Hutch finally managed to get a hold of himself and picking up the rest of the bags he moved on into Vicky’s home. It was the first time he had been back since the repairs and he looked around admiringly. Vicky had excellent taste and the house had a happy atmosphere around it. For a moment Hutch really envied his partner and friend. Even when he had been married his home never felt as welcoming as this house now did. Vicky watched as his eyes roamed and she seemed to sense his mood.
“You’ll always be welcome here Hutch, you know that I hope.” Vicky looked into his eyes as she relieved him of some of his bags.
“Yes… I know Vicky. Thanks. It’s gonna take a little getting used to not having Starsk there whenever… well you know. But I promise not to become a bad penny. If you get fed up with me, or you think I’m in the way, then say so. Promise me.”
Vicky nodded slightly and moved on into the kitchen, Hutch following and Jenny bringing up the rear.
“Did you get the surprise?” Hutch heard a whisper in his ear as Vicky bent to put things away in the cupboards. Smiling he turned to Jenny and winked, patting his pocket as he did so. He winked as he turned back to offer his help.
By the time they had finished Samson was once again at the front, door his stumpy tail wagging furiously, his huge feet on the door, his nose pressed against the window. This time though Hutch made it to the door and took a firm hold on his collar before he could knock Starsky flat once again.
“Thanks buddy, a guy can only change his clothes so many times in one day.” Starsky bent and made a fuss of the animal in front of him. “Hey Hutch, only you could make a collar on Christmas day!”
Hutch groaned loudly and turned to finish helping Jenny in the kitchen. Vicky wound her arms around Starsky and kissed him lightly on the nose. “Happy Christmas Dave.”
Starsky returned the kiss and for a moment the two were so engrossed in each other that they forgot everything and everyone around them. A loud cough from just behind then both made them jump and brought them out of their own little world.
“I said, coffee anyone or do we get to open our presents yet?” Jenny was standing with her eyes watching the twinkling lights on the tree under which lay a small pile of neatly wrapped presents.
“What say we have both?” Starsky joined Jenny and bent as though to make slight adjustments to the silver and red decorations. Unseen by all but Jenny he slipped two small packages from his pocket and hung them onto the tree. Turning back he saw Jenny grinning at him and he winked back holding his finger to his mouth as he did so.
Jenny moved so that the others couldn’t see the action and tried hard to suppress the giggles. For the first time in a long time she knew that Vicky and herself were going to enjoy this day. For too many years Vicky had spent it in fear of what Billy would do to her and she had spent it worrying about her friend. This year they would both know the real meaning of Christmas. They had both been to the midnight service at the nearby church and both had fallen in love with the people who had welcomed them to the service. They had enjoyed the simple service and joined in with the carols as they rang around the tall building. Jenny had thought that Hutch would have liked it but both he and Starsky were on duty that night until four in the morning. This was the first year for them that they would have Christmas day off, usually the pair offered to work allowing their married colleagues to be with their families. Suddenly Jenny realised that this would not only be the best Christmas in a long time it could also be the last she, or Hutch, spent with their friends. This time next year Vicky and Dave would be married and would surely want to spend the day together. For a moment Jenny felt a tinge of sadness enter her thoughts. Turning back to face the others she spoke softly.
“Vicky, Dave, everyone has their own tradition. When I was a child we would all open our presents after breakfast. My Mum would have made a roaring fire and we’d all sit around it, my brother and me on the floor, and pass the presents round watching each others faces as they were unwrapped. This will be your home soon, time to make your own tradition.”
Starsky and Vicky looked at each other. Then Vicky’s head fell as she walked across to join her fiancé.
“We always used to be at our grandparents, then I married Billy and … well .. you all know what that was like.” Starsky gathered her into his arms, holding her tight and gently kissed the top of her head. For a moment the silence hovered around them all until Hutch broke it with by clearing his throat.
“I remember Christmas morning early, about six, sitting at my Grandad’s feet as the dawn broke. We’d watch it together and exchange our presents before anyone else was about. It was our special time… before Dads business colleagues invaded the house, and Mum spent the day rushing round entertaining them. My Sister and I were pretty much left to get on with it then so the time spent with Grandad were extra special. After he died things were never the same, until I came here and met Starsky. It’s pretty hard to be miserable with one of Santa’s helpers for a partner.”
“You’d have made the perfect scrooge Hutch. Think yourself lucky I came along when I did or you’d be well on your way for a visit from the three Christmas ghosts.” Starsky threw the comment back at Hutch without thinking then blanched visibly as he saw his friend flinch.
“I do Starsk, have done for a long time. I knew I could get through the day as long as you were around somewhere with your continual enthusiasm and crazy decorations. Somehow it was like it used to be in those early hours.” Hutch spoke softly and personally. He too had realised the same thing Jenny had. Next year he would probably be back to spending the day at work longing for it to all be over.
Again the silence hung over them until Starsky released his hold on Vicky and moved to take hold of both Hutch and Jenny’s hand. Placing their hands together he then took one of Vicky’s placing it on top then he gently covered all three with one of his own.
“Like Jenny said, it’s time to start our own tradition in our own home. I never knew what it was like to feel unloved at this time of the year. When Dad was alive we would all sit up and watch as the clock ticked past midnight then we would all exchange one special gift. Later, when I came here to live with Aunt Rosie, I was encircled in the fun and laughter that always filled her home especially when the family were altogether. I can’t help loving Christmas, it brings up so many happy memories in a life of sad ones.” For a moment Starsky lowered his head, then swallowed and looked back up at the three people who meant so much to him. “From today, our first Christmas, our house and our hearts will always be open to both of you. If you can get here then eleven o clock will be the time we all gather together under our tree to exchange gifts and celebrate. If you’re too far away then we’ll place your gift in a special place by the fire until you can get here. Either way I pray that we, the four of us standing here, will always be together on this day.” Again there was silence during which Hutch and Starsky exchanged looks. Hutch’s was questioning as if to confirm what he thought he had heard. Starsky’s was soft and gentle, his eyes talking to his partner the way they had always done, reaffirming what he had just said.
This time it was Vicky who broke the silence. “What say we get this tradition on the road.” Bending down she picked up a brightly wrapped parcel and handed it to Jenny. “This is from me to you as a special thank you for always being there for me.”
Jenny took the parcel and slowly unwrapped it as the others settled themselves on the floor around the tree. Inside Jenny found a photograph in a silver heart shaped frame. It was picture of the two of them taken just on Vicky’s hen night. It was to be the last time for a long time that they would both look so happy and relaxed. The next day Vicky and Billy were married and Vicky’s life descended into a personal nightmare.
“Thanks Vicky, I’ll treasure this always.” Jenny turned away as her eyes watered and she felt Hutch’s arm go around her shoulder. For a few seconds they stood together then Hutch turned her round towards the tree and pointed at Starsky. He was picking parcels up and reading the labels. Each one with his name on was duly squeezed, shaken and prodded before being unceremoniously ripped apart. Laughing the two joined in the fray along with Vicky and it wasn’t long before almost every parcel had been opened and they sat beneath a pile of torn wrapping paper and ribbon. Starsky was busy trying on the pullover Hutch had brought for him as Vicky produced a camera and hurriedly snapped his photo before he knew what was happening.
“Hey! Not fair. I’m the photographer around here. Least I would be if I’d remembered the camera.” Starsky was a little cross with himself for forgetting it. He had purposefully left it out loaded with a new film the night before but the arrival of Huggy with the gateau and hutch with so many bags to carry had made him forget it.
“Starsky didn’t your mother ever tell you not to pout? My Nan always told me the wind would change and I’d stay like it.” Hutch was grinning at his partner.
“Wondered how you came to look the way you do Blintz, now I know!” Starsky ducked as a cushion flew over his head and landed on the floor behind him. It was returned as fast as it had arrived and Hutch caught it before it hit him straight in the face. For the next five minutes pandemonium broke out as the two carried out their pillow fight with the cushions. It was brought to an end by Samson who, deciding that it was unfair for the humans to have so much fun without him, decided to jump in the middle on top of Hutch.
“Gerroff!” the sound was muffled as Hutch fought desperately to remove the weight from his chest and head.
Vicky and Jenny tried to pull him off but the pair were laughing too much and neither had the strength left. Inspiration struck Starsky and he picked up the one remaining parcel under the tree that was unwrapped. Calling Samson’s name loudly he pushed the parcel under his nose so he could get a really good smell. As soon as he had the dogs interest Starsky dropped the parcel on the floor in the kitchen and watched as the big dog tore into the paper. Five seconds later he emerged with the biggest bone Vicky or Jenny had ever seen. Stumpy tail wagging Samson turned towards the back door and demanded to be let out into the yard where he lay with his prize between his front paws lovingly licking it. Scrambling to his feet Hutch thanked Starsky then made his way to the kitchen where the smell of cooking was drifting around the room.
“Hey Vicky, what time’s dinner?” Hutch sniffed the air appreciatively.
“Well it will take you and Hutch about ten minutes to tidy this lot up while Jenny lays the table so that’s when.”

The next couple of hours went past in a blur as the two men tidied and the girls laid out dinner. They had opted for a traditional Christmas lunch with turkey and all the trimmings but it was followed by Huggy’s gateau and a toast was made to their absent benefactor. The washing up was in the dishwasher and Stasky made to pick up the wine bottle and take it through into the sitting room. He was stopped by Hutch who grabbed it before he could pick it up and put it into the fridge. “You’ve had enough Starsk. How about a coffee?”
“If I wanted coffee I’d have made one. Come on Hutch it’s not every day we get to enjoy a good wine in fine company and we don’t have to work tonight if you remember. Dobey gave us two days off.” Starsky looked peeved as he made to retrieve bottle but Hutch refused to budge from the door.
“Ah ah Starsk. Like I said you’ve had enough!” The Hutchinson finger was waved in Starsky’s direction and he stopped, changing direction he instead grabbed a beer from the shelf in front of him and opening it took a long swig from the can. He was astonished to find it pulled smartly from his hand.
“Hutch what the hell! What’s the matter with you? In case you hadn’t noticed I’m a grown man and I only had two glasses of wine with lunch. One beer ain’t gonna turn me into Jack the Ripper.” Starsky was getting angry, his eyes flashing at his partner.
“No but it will put you over the limit and I’m not about to let that happen.” Hutch was manoeuvring himself past his irate partner with care. “Come here, I got something for you pal.”
Starsky followed Hutch through to the sitting room and watched as he picked up his jacket and pulled something from the inside pocket. Catching it as Hutch threw it across the room towards him he was slightly baffled by the small box he now held in his hands.
“Don’t stand there looking at it Starsky, open it!”
Vicky moved to stand beside Starsky as Jenny smiled at them both and moved to stand next to Hutch.
“That’s from Hutch, me, Captain Dobey, Huggy and about a hundred other guys you know Starsky. It comes with all our love.” Jenny spoke softly as Starsky continued to turn the package over.
Finally Vicky could stand the suspense no longer. Taking the box from Starsky she began to open one end then gave it back to him.
“Open it Dave.” Vicky laughed.
Starsky tore open the other end and using two fingers he pulled the contents from inside the box. There in his fingers he held a miniature model of his beloved Torino, complete in every detail.
“Turn it over Starsk.” This time it was Hutch who spoke moving forward to watch as his partner gently held the car in front of him.
Starsky did as he was told and found, taped to the bottom, a key. It was a key he would recognise even in the dark and he pulled it from the model.
“My car key. Hutch if this is some kind of a joke it ain’t funny.” Starsky’s voice was almost a whisper and there were tears in his eyes.
“No joke Starsk. Like Jenny said this comes from a lot of people. We all know how much that striped tomato of yours meant to you so…. well… go and look out the back Starsk, Huggy should be there about now.”
Starsky slowly crossed the room to the back door then paused to look again at his partner.
“Hutch?”
“Go partner, we’ll be right behind you.” Hutch nodded towards the door and Starsky delayed no more. Throwing it open he went out into the small yard and crossed to the gate. There outside the fence was his Torino. Slowly he opened the gate and walked around it. There was no sign of the accident on the freeway, no sign of blistered paintwork from the fire. Lovingly he rubbed his hand across the bonnet before putting the key into the lock, opening the door and slipping into the driving seat. Huggy, who had moved out of sight as he heard the door open, now moved around the car and, opening the passenger door, he helped Vicky into the seat next to Starsky.
“Take them both for a spin Starsk. We’ll be inside when you get back.” So saying Huggy shut the door and stepped back. For a moment nothing then he heard the unmistakable sound of the Torino’s engine as Starsky gunned it to life then roared away down the alley.

It was an hour later that Hutch, Huggy and Jenny caught the sound again. Jenny rose to open the door and watched as Starsky opened Vicky’s door and, taking her arm, led her up the front path. Once inside Starsky walked straight to Hutch.
“How Hutch? At the hospital Vicky said ..”
“I know what Vicky said Starsk. But she didn’t reckon with Merle, and a lot of good friends who came up with the money. We were going to save it for a wedding present to you both but you’ve been wandering round the precinct like a bear with a sore head from having to ride in my car that Dobey suggested we give it you for Christmas. It took a lot of secret phone calls but Jenny made most of them for me. I had the easy job of keeping you occupied and out of the way.”
“I don’t know what to say Hutch. She’s perfect again. How do I ever thank you?”
“You don’t Starsk. I seem to remember going off a cliff and being found by a guy who scoured every scrap yard and dump he could until he found the right car. I think this just about makes us even don’t you?”
“Man that took some finding I can tell you.” Huggy broke in. “The guy at the scrap yard thought Starsky was stark raving mad when he offered him three times more than he paid for the thing in the first place.”
“Yeh Hug, but it was worth it to see your face Hutch.”
“Same here Starsk, same here.”

Vicky had moved across to the fire and stood looking at the tree. As she gazed at the decorations she suddenly spotted the two extra ornaments hanging on it.
“Hey, what are these doing here?” Vicky bent or a closer look and realised they weren’t ornaments but carefully wrapped parcels about two inches square. Gently she reached out and took them both down. Looking at the labels on each she held one out to Hutch. She recognised the writing instantly as being Starsky’s.
“Dave what are these, and when did you put them there?” Vicky looked questioningly at Starsky who moved to stand next to her.
“Hutch and Jenny aren’t the only one to have secrets V. Do me a favour though and open them together will ya?” Starsky took her hand and led her to stand with Hutch who looked at her and shrugged his shoulders.
“I learnt a long time ago to play along when he gets like this. It’s usually more fun.” Hutch turned the tiny parcel over in his hand. “Ready…Go!”
Together Hutch and Vicky carefully unwrapped their parcels revealing red tissue paper. This they undid to reveal half a gold heart shape, Hutch had right, Vicky left.
“Put them together.” Starsky whispered softly.
Hutch and Vicky did as they were asked and read the words revealed on the back. To Hutch and Vicky. I give you all my heart, with love.
“Dave that’s beautiful. I love you so much.” Vicky was crying and Starsky kissed her gently
“She’s right Gordo. It is.” Hutch too had tears in his eyes and Starsky laid a hand on his shoulder.
“I didn’t now how else to say it Hutch.”
“I’d say you found a pretty effective way Starsk. Thanks.”

The sound of the telephone ringing brought them all back and Jenny moved to answer it.
“Hello … Oh hi Captain Dobey… Yes he’s here. Hang on a minute and I’ll get him.” She held the phone out to Starsky who took it warily.
“Hi Cap what’s up?”
“Nothing Starsky Rosie wanted to wish you the compliments of the season. She misses her Uncle Dave and Uncle Ken dropping in this year.
“Yes sorry Cap we never thought. Put her on.” Starsky indicated for Hutch to come and share the call. At hearing her Vicky was immediately curious and grabbing Jenny they both headed for the extension in the bedroom. Picking it up they were just in time to hear a young voice sing Silent Night across the telephone line.
“That was lovely Rosie thank you. Hutch and I will be over to see you in the morning. Take care of yourself honey.” Starsky gently hung up the phone. Turning to look at the girls as they left the bedroom he said. “Well I don’t know about you guys but I think that about rounds off today pretty well don’t you?”
Wrapping his arm around Vicky’s waist together they walked across to the window and watched as the first stars began to twinkle in the night sky. Hutch and Jenny joined them closely followed by Huggy.
“It’s been a long, hard slog Hutch but we made it. Finally lady luck seems to be smiling down on us.” Turning he looked into Vicky’s eyes. “If I could have one wish V it would be that we could always be as happy as we are right now, surrounded by those we love the most.” So saying he pulled his fiancée into a long and loving kiss.
Smiling Hutch, Jenny and Huggy moved away to leave them alone. Hutch couldn’t help hoping that his partner wasn’t tempting fate but for now he too would enjoy the happiness.

The day of Starsky’s wedding to Vicky dawned bright and clear with promise of a warm, dry day. Fortuitous thought Hutch since they were to exchange their wedding vows on the beach in front of a few special friends. There had been a long route to get there but finally they had made it. It had been a rough ride made worse for Starsky by the fact that his Mother wasn’t sure if she would make it or not. Starsky had managed to take Vicky to meet her at the end of January and had been relieved when the two women had got on so well. The only fly in the ointment was the fact that Vicky wasn’t Jewish. Not that it had mattered a jot to Starsky but it had to his Mother. She had longed to see the day her eldest son would stand before the rabbi and make his vows. There was no way now that this would happen and for a while it had threatened to spoil the relationship she had always cherished with her son. Rachael Starsky though was nothing if not sensible and had quickly realised that he only thing that really mattered was the happiness of the young couple and had very quickly learnt to hide her disappointment. She liked Vicky and could see how much Vicky loved her son. This in itself made her a special person as far as Rachael was concerned. Together the two women had planned the special day and, with a lot of help from Jenny and Hutch, things had all come together. Then, two weeks before the big day Rachael had fallen ill with flu which had turned to bronchitis and had ended up in the hospital for a short stay. Unable to get more time off Starsky had fretted, almost making himself ill, until Vicky had stepped in and gone to New York on his behalf. Every night she would phone Starsky and let him know how his Mother was progressing until the day when she was allowed out of the hospital. A week later Vicky had left New York to make final preparations for her wedding with the news for Starsky that his Mother was okay but would probably not be well enough to make the journey.

Hutch walked up the stairs to Starsky’s apartment aware that this would be the last time he would ever do it. As from tomorrow the place would be up for let and Starsky would be across the road with his new wife. Part of him felt sad for what seemed like the end of an era. When he and Starsky had first met at the academy he was the one who was married and Starsky the bachelor. As from three pm today that would all change. Starsky would be happily (he hoped) married and he would be on his own. Despite everything Starsky and Vicky said he knew that he would not continually interrupt them. He had already told himself that midnight phone calls were out and nights playing monopoly could be no more. Part of his heart ached for what he would lose. The biggest part though was happy that he was a part of this special day. After everything that Starsky had gone through in his life, right from losing the Father he adored to almost losing his own life at the hands of Gunthers’ goons, Starsky of all people had won the right to a little happiness. Sometimes, when the two had had a hard case and they had gotten drunk together they would talk of their dreams. For Starsky it had always been the same, a wife and a couple of children to love and care for. Now at last one of their dreams looked as though it might be coming true and Hutch couldn’t be more happy for his friend and partner.

Hutch let himself into the apartment and looked around. He had promised Starsky that he would be there to cook him his favourite breakfast in lieu of his Mum. Hutch knew how much it was hurting that she would not be there and had tried to keep his friend cheerful. What Starsky didn’t know was that Hutch had been in constant contact with Rachael and right now she was heading for the airport along with his own Mother who had taken it upon herself to take matters into her own hands. Once Hutch had explained the problem to her she had arranged for Rachael to have the best possible care that money could buy and it had resulted in her making wonderful progress. All that remained was to get her to Bay City and weather and flights willing Mrs Hutchinson would make sure she was there somehow. It was amazing what a little money could do Hutch thought. He had hesitated for only a second to ask for his Mothers help but for Starsky he would do anything. It had taken only a few moments to explain things to his Mother and he knew he had done the right thing. Hutch’s Mother may never understand the relationship he had with Starsky but she long ago accepted it, knowing how much the two relied on each other. She knew of the many times Starsky had been there for her son, sometimes keeping him alive by will power alone. She was one of the few people who knew how Starsky had risked all for Hutch after Forrester had forced him onto heroin. This was her chance of saying thank you and she had grasped it with both hands.

Hutch could hear water running in the bathroom and knew Starsky was in the shower. Heading for the small kitchen area he proceeded to hunt through the cupboards for the making of pancakes. He had even brought the maple syrup and ice cream. Laying the ingredients on the worktop Hutch began to mix the batter, listening as he did for the sound of Starsky finishing in the bathroom. So it was that as Starsky emerged Hutch was just dishing up a mound of pancakes complete with maple syrup and ice cream, which he placed in front of his partner along with a mug of steaming coffee.
“Happy wedding day Gordo. How did you sleep?” Hutch and Starsky had been at Huggy’s bar until midnight when they had come back to Starsky’s place for coffee. Once there they had talked until the early hours before Hutch finally left to get some sleep.
“Don’t ask Hutch. My eyes have so much grit in them they could line a birdcage. I saw every hour tick over. Finally dropped off about an hour ago.” Starsky took a mouthful of the coffee before attacking the pancakes hungrily. “Hey Hutch this is good. Almost as good as…” He stopped and dropped the fork he was using. Pushing himself away for the table he walked across to the table where his phone stood. “I thought she might ring this morning Hutch, you know, to wish me luck or something…”
Starsky looked like a lost boy and Hutch’s heart ached for him. For an instant he was going to tell him the truth but then managed to stop himself. Rachael had made him promise not to say a word in case things went wrong and she didn’t get there. She didn’t want to upset Dave anymore than she already had done. Picking up Starsky’s plate Hutch dropped it into the sink. He would come back later and sort everything out, for now it could stay there.
“Hey Starsk, you remember to pick your suit up for the cleaners yesterday?” It was a mundane question but the only one he could think of off the top of his head. Anything to get Starsky’s mind back to the here and now.
“Yes Hutch I remembered. It’s hanging up with yours on the back of the bedroom door.” Starsky turned away from the telephone and Hutch breathed a sigh of relief. “What if she changes her mind Hutch?”
“Vicky! She won’t Starsk. She loves you too much. I called her before I came here and she told me to tell you no to be late.” Hutch smiled. “Calm down Starsk. It’s the bride that’s supposed to get nervous you know. Where’s the ring?”
In the drawer by my bed. Hang on a minute and I’ll get it.” Starsky disappeared into the bedroom and Hutch waited for him. When he didn’t come back out Hutch went looking for him and found him sat on the side of the bed with the picture of Terry in his hands. Starsky looked up as he walked over and sat down.
“I was just thinking Hutch. This should have been her day. Instead she’s lying beneath the ground and here I am getting ready to marry someone else. Do you think she’d understand Hutch?” Starsky had tears in his eye and he looked at Hutch as though desperate for an answer.
“Not only would she understand Starsk, she’d wish you well. Terry loved you as much as Vicky does. But she’s dead Starsk and there’s nothing you can do to alter that. Lord knows you tried. You have to let her go, let her rest in peace. You’re a lucky man Gordo. Most only find one woman in their life to love, you found two. Terry was then, Vicky is now. Don’t destroy what you have with Vicky with memories of Terry, she wouldn’t want that. Besides, no-one can live on memories alone Starsk.”
“Yeh, guess your right Hutch. Sorry!” Starsky turned away and opening the bottom drawer he tenderly replaced the photograph in its place.
For a moment there was silence then Starsky got up and handed something to Hutch.
“Here. Don’t lose them whatever you do or I promise to shoot you in front of everyone.” Starsky smiled and dropped two rings into Hutch’s outstretched hand.
Hutch grinned. “She finally persuaded you I see.” Hutch knew that Vicky had been determined for Starsky to have a ring like hers and he had been equally determined not to. “What changed your mind?”
“Well I finally realised that I loved Vicky too much to fall out with over something as silly as wearing a wedding ring.” Starsky shrugged his shoulders.
“Well it sure took you long enough. I thought I was going to have knock some sense into that thick skull of yours.” Hutch laughed and the two men walked back out from the bedroom. “What time is the car coming for Vicky?”
“Eleven thirty. The ceremony starts at midday so that should give her enough time to get there. I told her we’d leave about ten minutes earlier so we’d be out of the way. Jenny was adamant that I didn’t see Vicky before the ceremony.” Starsky cast a glance at the clock on the wall. One hour to go and he would be married. It would change his whole outlook on life he suddenly realised. From this day forth he would have responsibilities, have someone else to consider before he acted. For a moment the thought frightened him and he visibly shivered. Hutch caught it from the corner of his eye and he looked questioningly at his partner. “Sorry Hutch, I just realised something. There’s no going back from this is there? “What if it changes us Hutch, you and me, how we work. I’d hate that.”
“It won’t Starsky. You’ll always be there for me same as I am for you. Me and Thee Starsk, not even a wife could alter that.” Hutch’s voice was firm and confident as he answered. In truth he had asked himself the same question over and over but had always arrived at the same answer. The two of them had gone through too much together to think that they would ever not be there for each other just because one or the other had a family.
“You sound pretty confident about that Hutch. I hope you’re right.” Starsky turned away from his partner to look through the window at the house across the road. “Wonder how Vicky feels right now?”

“What if he changes his mind Jenny? I don’t think I could bear that” Vicky sat in front of the mirror in her bedroom as Jenny brushed her hair for her.
“He won’t Vicky. You know how much Dave loves you and he’d never do anything to hurt you. Besides, Hutch is with him and I made him promise to make sure they get there on time. Stop worrying, you’re doing the right thing.” Jenny smiled in the mirror at the face of her friend. Last night she and Vicky had talked through the last few years burying the bad memories well in the past where they belonged. Billy had survived, he would spent the rest of his life in a wheelchair, and some time in a penitentiary hospital first, in jail after, and would never be able to hurt them again. Today Vicky would start a new life and she would know what it meant to be happy with a good man who she loved dearly. Jenny thanked God for the day Dave Starsky came into her friends life albeit via a faulty telephone.
The two girls continued in a comfortable silence and ten minutes later Vicky was ready. She looked at the reflection in the mirror. Jenny had managed to get her wayward curls to behave, at least for the moment, and her hair neatly framed her face as the curls ran softly down each cheek. Small silk flowers had been woven into them and they sparkled as the light caught them. The eyes that looked back at her were sparkling and Jenny had applied just enough make up to show them off. It was all topped off by a small diamond tiara that Edith Dobey had lent her. On her finger she wore her grandmothers eternity ring and around her neck she wore Starsky’s heart. The something blue she had around the top of her leg. Jenny had bought it for her. The garter was dainty, blue with a white lace trim and tiny pink flowers. Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. This time I’m going to do it properly! For a second Vicky’s thoughts shot back to her first wedding day. She and Billy had exchanged vows in the registry office in front of total strangers. This time she would be doing it in front of a priest and a rabbi and more friends than she thought she could possibly have. Rosie Dobey had been overjoyed to be her flower girl and Jenny would be her Matron of Honour. More importantly though, this time she knew it would be the right man waiting for her. Dave loved her, of that she had no doubt whatsoever. A kinder, gentler, more loving man she had yet to meet and she felt extremely lucky to have found him.
Vicky’s daydreams were interrupted by a knocking at the door and Jenny’s voice coming up the stairs.
“Vicky. The car’s here. Dave and Ken have just left so the coast is clear you can come down.”
Rising from her seat Vicky stood for one last look at herself. She smoothed the creases from her wedding gown as she did so. The close fitting dress was simple and finished at calf level in deference to the beach. A single red rose was fixed over her heart and the bodice showed off her figure to perfection. Making one last adjustment to her sandals Vicky turned and left the bedroom. At the top of the stairs she stopped, hearing a male voice in the room below. The voice was so familiar and suddenly filled her with a sense of happiness as she ran down the stairs as fast as she could. At the door of the dining room Vicky stopped. There, standing with his back to her talking to Jenny, was her father.
“DAD”. Vicky shouted and threw herself across the room and into his arms. “You came. Oh Dad.”
“Hey. Did you think I would miss the most important day in my little girls life?” The old mans voice was soft and choked with emotion. It had been a long time since he had held his daughter in his arms and it felt so good. “Your Mother and brother are waiting in the car behind yours to follow you to the ceremony.” He stepped back and took in the sight of his daughter. “You look beautiful Vicky. This Dave fellow had better deserve you.”
Vicky and Jenny both laughed. “He does Dad. The question is do I deserve him.” Vicky’s face became serious. “You’ll like Dave Dad.”
“Well from what Jenny has already told me and from the way you look he doesn’t seem too bad. Anyone who can make you look so radiant must have something going for him. Come on lets get you to him.”
Father and daughter left the house arm in arm and Jenny followed up behind. Just before she got into the car Vicky turned to her best friend.
“Thanks Jenny for everything. There are times over the last few years when I didn’t think I would survive, when I had nothing left to live for. But you were always there. You got me through it all and out the other side. I’ll always be eternally grateful for that. I’ll never be able to repay your friendship.”
“Hey, seeing you so happy is reward enough. Just promise me that you’ll name the first girl after me.” Jenny smiled and held her friends hand for a brief moment. “Now come on before Dave thinks you’ve stood him up.”
“Terrific, We’re not even married yet and already you and Hutch have named our children for us!”
Laughing together the two girls got in the limousine.

Starsky and Hutch arrived at the beachfront and were met by Edith Dobey and a very nervous looking Rosie. Starsky bent in front of the youngster and grinned at her.
”Hey pumpkin, you look beautiful.” Starsky kissed her cheek.
“Do I really? I wanted to look just right for you Uncle Dave.” Rosie’s cheeks blushed.
“That’s really kind of you Rosie. If Vicky decided to stand me up then I just might have to marry you instead.” Starsky stood and looked at Edith who was looking him up and down. “Will I do Edith?”
“You’ll do just fine Dave, just fine.” Edith Dobey nodded her head in approval at the man before her. Dressed in a black suit and bow tie Dave Starsky was transformed from undercover detective to the most handsome man she had seen for a long time.
Starsky felt a hand on his shoulder and he turned around. Harold Dobey stood wiping his brow with the ever present white handkerchief.
“I just wanted to shake your hand and wish you well Starsky. I’m glad one of you two has finally taken the plunge and decided to settle down. Maybe things will be a little quieter around here.”
“Thanks Cap…I think.” Starsky took the hand offered knowing the meaning behind the words spoken. Both he and Hutch knew that this big man had a soft spot for them both and they for him.
“Hey partner, it’s time you took your place, she’ll be here any minute.” Hutch steered Starsky through the people gathered for the ceremony. He was amazed at the number of people there.
“I thought we’d arranged a small ceremony Hutch. Where did everyone come from?”
Hutch laughed. “Dobey gave everyone the ok to drop by if things were quiet. I guess it is! Seriously Starsk, they all asked if I thought you’d mind them coming for this bit just to wish you well. I couldn’t say no could I?”
“Guess not Hutch. Man I never knew I had so many friends.” Starsky and Hutch made their way to the front of the crowd where a small gazebo had been set up, duly decorated with white and silver balloons. Waiting for them were the Rabbi from the local synagogue who Hutch had been to see on Starsky’s behalf and had agreed to take part in the ceremony, along with the priest from the little church Jenny and Vicky had attended on Christmas Eve and a few occasions since. Together the two men had put together a service which would entwine both faiths and at the end of which the couple would be married in the eyes of both religions. Starsky shook the hands of both men then turned to take his place. As he did so the crowd once again began to part and Starsky felt a gentle tap on his shoulder.
“Starsk, take a look.” Hutch whispered in his ear and Starsky looked up. A small woman was slowly making her way to the front of the crowd assisted by a taller, confident woman. Behind them, a little way behind but nonetheless there, was a younger version of Starsky.
“MA, Nick!” Starsky felt his knees go weak and he would have fallen if it hadn’t have been for Hutch quickly grabbing his elbow.
The old woman shook off the arm of the younger one and held her arms out. Starsky stepped forward and took his Mother in his strong arms.
“I don’t believe it Ma. You came. I thought…”
“You thought I’d miss the most my own sons wedding! Did I miss your Bamitzvah?” Rachael Starsky was gently smiling as she loosened her sons grip and stepped back a little. “Let me look at you Davy.” For a few seconds the two just looked at each other each trying to take the other in. Starsky was still trying to get over the shock of his Mother being there. The last he knew she was still to ill to make the long journey. Rachael was fighting her own emotions too. “You look just like your father Davy. He would have been so proud of you.” Stretching upwards Mother kissed son and for a brief moment no-one else mattered. Then Starsky heard a slight cough from just behind his Mothers shoulder and he looked up to see his brother Nick standing behind her.
“Hey Dave. Thought I’d come and see my big brother bite the bullet. Ma tells me this Vicky is beautiful…too good for you anyways.” Nick smiled almost shyly at his brother. Starsky looked at him for a moment before holding out his hand. As Nick took it he pulled him towards him.
“It’s good to see you to Nick. It’s been too long.”
“Come on Rachael, lets get you sat down before the bride arrives.” Starsky looked around as the younger woman who had escorted his Mother took her arm and led her to a chair at the front. It took him a few moments to work out why the face looked quite so familiar. It wasn’t until Hutch came and ushered him to his place as well that he realised.
“Hutch… That’s your mother!”
“Yeh Gordo, I know.”
“But …whats she doing with Ma?”
“Looking after her Starsk. How do you think she got here?”
“But..I…Hutch” Starsky was totally confused and Hutch decided to take pity on him.
“I knew how upset you were that your Mother was too ill to get here Starsk so I called my Mother and explained the situation. She sort of took over from there and arranged for your Mother to have special care then she arranged one of Dads jets to get her here. You know what my Mothers like when she gets a bee in her bonnet Starsk, anything is possible!”
Starsky swallowed the lump which had risen in his throat. He knew what it must have cost Hutch to go to his Mother asking for help. “Thanks Hutch.”
“Your welcome Starsk.”

From their left came the strains of a piano accordian, courtesy of another of Huggy bears cousins, began to play the wedding march and once again the crowd parted. Starsky and Hutch watched as Vicky slowly moved towards them on the arm of her Father, Jenny and Rosie following them. Hutch and Starsky moved forward in to place and Vicky took her place beside her husband to be. Afterwards Starsky was to admit to Hutch that he could remember nothing of the actual ceremony other than the bit where he and Vicky were asked do you take this person, does anyone know of any just cause where he was convinced someone would speak out and ruin everything, and the moment they exchanged their wedding rings. He knew he would always remember slipping the gold band on Vickys finger, his hand trembling as he did so. The next thing he knew both priest and Rabbi had declared them man and wife and he was kissing his new bride, long and hard, proving to the whole world how much he loved her, much to the delight of those watching.
Hutch stepped back and looked around him. At the front Rachael Starsky was gently dabbing her eyes. Son Nick stood with his hand on her shoulder, his own Mother sitting beside her, whose eyes were also shining. Starsky and Vicky were in a world of their own and, with a jolt, Hutch realised that he was no longer his friends only partner, nor the most important. The Dobey family were mingling with the rest of the guests and everyone was smiling happily. Suddenly he felt rather than saw someone at his shoulder and he turned to see Huggy standing beside him.
“Beautiful ain’t it bro?” Huggy looked at Hutch with a little concern. “She may be his wife now Hutch but you’ll always be his partner.” His eyes searched for Hutch’s and the two pairs locked.
“I hope so Hug. Starsky deserves all this and I couldn’t be more happy for him but I guess a little part of me feels lost. Does that make sense?”
“Hey Hutch. Eight years is a long time together. You wouldn’t be the person you are if you didn’t feel a bit like that. And Starsky wouldn’t be the person he is if he allowed this to affect ‘Me and Thee’. You two are a team Hutch, nothing, not even a wife, could change that. Besides, I know Vicky a little and I don’t think she would want to even try.”
“Thanks Hug. Come on, lets get his show back to the hotel. There’s a wedding cake to cut.”
Slowly people began to disperse and Starsky and Vicky were able to make there way to the waiting limousine. Just before they got in Starsky reached into his pocket and took something out.
“Here you go Hutch. Drive her carefully. A lot of good friends got her back into condition and I don’t want you crashing her gears.”
Hutch caught the keys to the Torino as Starsky threw them.
“Me crash the gears. That’s a good one Starsk, coming from the king of the handbrake turns. See you at the hotel. Jenny can I offer you a lift.” Hutch opened the passenger door and Jenny eased into the seat. Pulling away from the kerb Hutch made sure to burn the tyres just a little as he and Jenny sped away.

Vicky and Starsky had chosen an informal buffet for their reception since neither of them had expected their family to make the event and Hutch and Jenny had done them proud. This meant they could both wander freely amongst their guests and both took the chance to seek out their friends. Vicky manoeuvred Jenny into a quiet corner and hugged her fiercely.
“Hey What’s that for?” Jenny looked at her friend and could see unshed tears making them glisten. “No tears Vicky. This should be a happy day.”
“I am happy Jen. I don’t think that anyone could be happier than me right now. I want to say thank you for all this.” Vicky waved her arm indicating the room and people around them. “Dave and I weren’t expecting anything like this. We said a quiet do, remember?”
“Er, yes, well… Sorry Vicky but it was like playing Chinese whispers. As soon as one person heard about you and Dave so another would appear. In the end Hutch and I just made it open house. Look around you Vicky, you’ll never be short of friends again.”
“None of them could ever be as good a friend as you Jenny. I hope you know that I’ll always be there for you too.” Vicky’s face was serious for a moment hoping that her friend would understand what she was trying to say.
“I know Vicky, I never doubted it.” Jenny took Vicky into her arms and again the two friends hugged. Both knew this was a new chapter in their lives just beginning and both looked forward to it with eagerness and just a little intrepidation.

Starsky finally managed to corner Hutch late on in the evening. He found him by a window gazing out over the lawn.
“Penny for them Hutch.” Starsky held out a glass of wine to his friend who took it and toyed with the glass.
“I was just thinking it was a beautiful night Starsk. The stars will be through anytime soon.”
“You gonna make a wish Hutch? Starlight, Star bright and all that stuff.”
Hutch laughed quietly. “I already made my wish Starsk, early this morning and again as you and Vicky took your vows. I think a third time would be considered a little greedy don’t you?”
Starsky looked upwards as the first star appeared. “For you maybe Hutch but I can still try.” He turned slightly to watch the star twinkling and to think about his words. “I wish that you will never feel left out Hutch. Our house will still be open to you same as my apartment was. We’ve been best friends for too long to let it drift apart. I owe you so much, including my life.” Hutch glanced up and flinched. “It’s true Hutch. When I was lying in that hospital bed I had a choice. Don’t ask me how I knew I just did. I could have let go and drifted away, no more pain, no more fighting the evil that surrounds us. Or I could fight back. Know why I fought back Hutch? You. I couldn’t bear the thought of you being left on your own with no-one to watch your back…and I didn’t trust anyone else to do it for me. I could have let go Hutch but I didn’t because of you and you were there when I came back, holding me when the pain got too much, doing all the things I couldn’t do, taking all the flak I threw at you and never blinking an eye. You’re my brother Hutch, simple as that.”
Starsky raised his glass to Hutch and sipped the wine. Hutch fought hard to hold his emotions as he did the same.
“Brothers Starsk.”

The music began to reverberate around the room and calls for the happy couple to lead the dancing began to echo around the room. Huggy appeared at their elbows.
“Sorry to break this up guys but your bride awaits you Starsk.”
Starsky handed his glass to Hutch pausing to look into his eyes. A brief raising of his eyebrows was returned by an almost unperceivable nodding of Hutch’s head. The moment over but so much said without words Starsky made his way across the room and took Vicky in his arms. Gently and smoothly he led her around the room as the guests watched them slowly, beginning with Hutch and Jenny, others joined in. The evening continued on into the night until slowly guests began to drift away leaving a few close friends remaining along with Starsky’s family, Hutch’s Mother and Vicky’s family. Starsky and Vicky had danced with everyone and were now back together dancing another slow dance, arms entwined around each others bodies, their lips occasionally seeking each others out. Hutch and Jenny stood together watching.
Suddenly Jenny began to laugh "You see this Hutch?" The girl continued laughing " Have you ever seen something like this in your life?” More laughter
" What?" Hutch asked now totally disconcerted "
I´m not sure of something Hutch. ..Are we in a wedding. ..or in some kind of national convention of brown curled haired people. ..Look at them. They are alike, Vicky, her dad, her mum, her brother, Dave, Nick, Mrs Starsky...Even that waiter!! You know? I think it´s not very difficult to imagine how Vicky and David´s kids will be...I think you and I, we are the only non curly haired here...It´s like a science fiction movie...Brrr. Frightening!" Jenny simulated a shiver, and with a deep voice said "The invasion of the curly heads ...If you love your straight and blond hair...If you don´t want to be one of them, then...don´t approach them. ..Or soon you’ll be one of them."
Hutch, burst into laughter too, but when finally he thought that he would not be able to breathe from laughter, Starsky, asked Jenny for a dance ...And Vicky asked him!...
It was nearly midnight when Starsky and Vicky slipped away into the night. They would spend what remained of the night in their new home and in the morning Hutch was coming to drive them to the airport where Starsky had arranged flights to Hawaii for two weeks. As far as they were both concerned life had finally taken a change for the better.

If only it could be that simple!
THE END

Continued in From this Day Forth