by
Chapter Twelve
Walking into the Stanley 's backyard, the DeSoto's were greeted by Hank's wife, Cheryl. She was a slim woman of average height and reddish blonde hair cut into a simple bob. Playing hostess to her husband's crew, and their friends and family came as second nature to her. These people were a second family to she and Hank and were always treated as such.
“Hi, Joanne, let me take that salad from you.” She reached over and took the glass bowl of macaroni salad out of Joanne's hand. “This must be your sister?” she said turning her attention to Julie. Roy acknowledged Cheryl Stanley with a smile and nod of his head while passing by to find Hank.
Joanne introduced the two women, “Yes it is. Cheryl, this is Julie. Julie, Cheryl Stanley.”
“Nice to meet you, Julie. My, you two do strike a resemblance.” She smiled at the sisters standing in front of her.
“Nice to meet you, too. Thank you for inviting me.”
“Oh think nothing of it you're family now.”
Julie smiled as she was led toward the brick patio. Looking around the yard she noticed Jennifer and Chris had joined some other children who were in the process of setting up a game of croquet.
Glancing toward the shed, she saw Roy standing watching a man, she assumed was Hank Stanley, empty a bag of charcoal into a barbecue pit. Standing beside her brother-in-law she noticed a taller dark haired man. The three were absorbed in a conversation and didn't notice the women step into the house.
The trio walked through the sliding doors and into the Stanley 's spacious kitchen. The room was bright and very modern. The appliances were all white and black in color, which matched the tiled floor beneath their feet. A fan hung from the ceiling, slowly spinning overtop of a round wooden table.
Right away Julie noticed the presence of a tall pretty blonde haired woman standing at the counter, slicing a tomato.
“Hi, Beth.” Joanne chimed.
The woman glanced up and seeing her friends, stopped the slicing motion, “Hi, Joanne. Is this your sister?”
“Yep. Julie, this is Beth Stoker. Beth, my sister, Julie Pierce.”
“It's nice you could come to the family barbecue, Julie. Have you met any of the others?” Beth questioned.
“Yeah, I met Marco, Chet, and Johnny at Jo's a few weeks back. They seemed nice.”
Beth went back to slicing tomatoes and continued the conversation without missing a beat, “Oh, they're nice all right. Although sometimes I think Hank could strangle them.” She chuckled.
“Really? Why?” Julie wondered. The thought had never entered her mind that members of Roy 's shift might not get along. “Does that mean they won't be here?” she asked, trying not to show how disappointed a confirmation of her question would make her. She was hoping for the opportunity to try out the art of subtle seduction on Johnny.
“No, no, they'll be here. Trust me, the barbecues without Johnny or Chet present, just aren't the same. I take it you don't know their history?”
“History?”
“Chet's a world class prankster and Johnny's usually his target. It's bad enough Hank puts up with it at work, but I think here at his home, it irritates him just a bit.”
“Oh.”
Having watched Cheryl place her salad into the fridge, Joanne poured herself a glass of wine and saddled up to her sister passing her a glass of ice tea, “You need any help, Beth?”
“No, I'm fine thanks. I just have this tomato and then I'll break some lettuce up and I'll be done.”
“All right, see you outside.”
The three women walked through the sliding door and out onto the patio again. Lining each side of the brick was a row of beautiful purple hydrangeas whose fragrance filled the air.
The women gathered around the patio table. A few too many incidents at past barbecues had taken a too on the cushions so the Stanley 's had invested in some new ones earlier in the summer. Cheryl, with and eye for color, chose a green floral motif that complimented the hydrangeas she planted each year. The older woman asked Julie about her studies and how she was getting along in the city. Cheryl knew Joanne had grown up on a farm and the two had once spoken about the adjustments it took Joanne when she'd first moved to L.A. with Roy . Cheryl assumed Julie was probably going through those same adjustments.
Moments later, Beth joined the other ladies brining a glass of wine for herself. They continued talking as the sounds of children's laughter and wooden mallets hitting wooden balls filled the air.
The gate to the backyard swung open and Marco, his girlfriend Maria, and Chet walked into the yard. Maria was carrying a brown ceramic bowl in her hands, while the two firemen each held onto the handle of a huge blue cooler.
Soon the bowl of three-bean salad was tucked away in the refrigerator and the cooler was placed in the shade next to the fence. After which, Marco and Chet retrieved beer not only for themselves, but one for each of their friends and headed over toward the other men still gathered around the barbecue pit.
Introductions were made around the table and the women continued their discussions. Julie couldn't believe how comfortable she felt amongst these female friends. They were all relaxed with one another, just as the men had been the day she'd helped Joanne paint her kitchen. And just as with the men, the women shared an easy-going manner with one another and laughter was a constant. She'd thought she would feel out of place and uncomfortable at the Stanley home, but now she realized how wrong she'd been. Roy and Joanne's friends were wonderful people who she hoped to spend more time with in the future.
While lost in her thoughts she hadn't noticed the gate to the yard open once more and Johnny step through, until she heard Cheryl Stanley acknowledge his presence, “Johnny, it's about time you showed up.”
“Hi, Cheryl. What would you like me to do with this?” Johnny asked, while raising a bag containing hamburger meat and buns in the air.
Hearing his voice, Julie came out of her self-induced daydream and looked up at the man who currently seemed to be plaguing her thoughts. He was wearing a pair of jeans and a blue cotton button up shirt. The sleeves were rolled up above his elbows, showing off his nicely tanned forearms. He had on a pair of sunglasses so she couldn't see his eyes, but that smile she was beginning to fall in love with was present.
“Why don't I take them and you can go join the guys,” Cheryl stood and took the bag out of Johnny's hands.
“Kay, thanks. You sure you don't need any help?”
“John Gage, are you implying I don't know my way around a kitchen?” she asked, a challenge in her tone.
“No never! I…”
The women seated around the table burst into friendly laughter over the man's uneasiness.
“How can you honestly think Cheryl's mad at you?” Beth asked, giving the dark-haired man a gentle poke in the ribs.
“I don't think…uh I'm…uh…I think I'm just gonna' go join the guys if you don't need my help.”
Cheryl chucked as she retreated into the house while the others continued to chuckle over how easily Hank's wife managed to get Johnny caught up in his characteristic stammering.
Julie watched the man walking away and noticed he stopped to chat with the kids before continuing on toward the men, who were now brining out lawn chairs from the shed. Her brother-in-law noticed Johnny's approach and handed him a chair, which he unfolded and plopped himself into.
As they all sat down their body language became animated and it didn't take Julie long before she realized they were badgering Chet about something. Their laughter filled the air and Chet jumped out of his chair and was pointing a finger at Marco. Marco spread his arms out and shook his head no.
The women continued to chatter and question each other about the latest happenings in their lives. Everything from household renovations, jobs, studies, children and their men were discussed. Cheryl Stanley popped her head out the sliding door and managed to catch Julie's attention. She waved the young woman over, whom got up from the table and walked into the house.
“You do need help.” Julie commented looking at the state of the counter top. Apples, oranges, strawberries, cantaloupe and a pineapple were spread out and Cheryl stood washing her hands underneath the running tap water.
No, I was just hoping you could take the meat tray out to Hank, I'm just going to whip up a fruit tray and I'll be back out to join you guys.”
“Oh sure. “ Julie looked around the room and noticed a platter of hotdog wieners and hamburger patties, with a small bowl of barbecue sauce and a brush sitting on it. Walking over to the round table she picked up the platter and a pair of tongs sitting beside it and headed out the door toward the group of men. It was then that she realized she didn't know tow of them yet. One being Hank Stanley, the other being the man she noticed Roy speaking to when they had first arrived.
Marco saw Julie approaching and took the platter out of her hands.
Roy stood and motioned for her to come over to him. Placing an arm around her, he turned towards his captain. “Hank, this is Julie, Julie this is my captain, Hank Stanley.”
Stretching out his hand, Hank took her hand in his, “Julie, it's nice to meet ya'. I'm happy you could join us.”
Letting her hand fall out of his, Julie smiled, “Thank you, Mr. Stanley, it's nice to meet you, too.”
“Hey, wait a minute. It's Hank, not Mr. Stanley.”
“Okay. Thanks for inviting me, it was nice of you.”
“You're welcome. Okay Marco, let's get started.” He rubbed his hands together while turning to the man holding the tray of meat.
“Julie, this is, Mike Stoker. Mike, my sister-in-law, Julie.” Roy turned Julie toward the lean man sitting in a lounge chair.
“Hey, Julie.” Mike nodded his head in her direction, lifted his sunglasses up above his eyes and smiled at her.
“Hi.”
“The rest of the guys I believer you've met.” Roy commented while looking toward Johnny and Chet.
“Yeah, she met the best first.” Chet replied, slapping himself on the chest.
Rolling his eyes, Roy let the comment slide. Johnny however let a small “ump” slip out his mouth.
“Can't take the truth, John?” Chet chided.
“Sure I can, Chet, when I hear it. Actually, come to think of it, she did meet me first.” The younger man grinned.
“In your dreams, Gage.”
Hank turned around facing his men, “Gentlemen, need I remind you there's a lady present? Must you insist on acting like children?”
“Awe come on, Cap, we were just having a little fun. Nobody was getting hurt or anything.”
“Chet, social graces say when there's a lady present, you be on your best behavior. Now, have I mad myself clear?”
“Yeah, sure Cap.”
Johnny's smile grew wider as he realized he'd managed to stay out of harms way. He didn't relish the idea of being chastised in front of Julie, even if it was only in fun and games. Realizing she was still standing beside his partner watching the exchange between Chet and Hank, he spoke up.
“Have a seat, Julie.” He gestured toward Roy 's vacated seat.
Julie turned toward Johnny and realized he was inviting her to sit down beside him. Not wanting to let the opportunity pass she immediately sat.
“How ya' been?” he asked.
“Good.”
“Been playing any volleyball lately?
“Yeah, played last night actually.”
“You play volleyball huh? I played in high school.” Mike joined the conversation.
Soon, Julie was chatting and laughing just as easily with the men as she had been with the women. The conversations ranged from cars, to camping, to baseball, to new recipes each was going to be trying out at the fire station in the coming weeks.
The smell and sound of the meat sizzling on the barbecue make her realize how hungry she was. She hadn't anticipated how quickly she'd tire of macaroni and cheese, grilled cheese sandwiches, and hotdogs. The food aspect of her living on campus hand never entered her mind when she'd decided to live there.
Half an hour later, Julie noticed Hank putting the cooked burgers and dogs back on the platter. Buns and salads would need to be looked after, so she excused herself and walked toward the house, hoping to help the women prepare for the onslaught of hungry men and children.
Johnny, disappointed by her leaving, tried discreetly to watch her departure. After looking her up and down, his eyes settled on her legs, noticing how shapely and toned they were. He continued to gaze at her when she stopped at the patio table and spoke briefly to Beth and Joanne. He was shocked at his own disappointment when she disappeared into the house and out of his line of sight.
“You okay, Johnny?” Mike asked.
“Huh?”
“You didn't give me an answer, Pal.” Hank commented.
“Oh sorry, wha' da' ya' say?”
“I asked if you could help Roy, Chet, and Mike with the picnic table.”
“Oh, yeah sure.” He replied. Getting up, he went over to the wooden table, helping the others bring it onto the patio next to the house. Placing the table down where Hank asked them to, the four men took a seat and waited for the announcement that dinner was served.
Roy glanced at his partner wondering what was on his mind. Normally, the only time Johnny got caught up in a daydream or his own thoughts was when something was bothering him.
“You sure you're okay?” he asked.
“Yeah, I'm fine. Just thinking.”
“If you need an ear, you know I'm here.”
Beth Stoker popped her head out of the door and announced to those still seated outside that dinner was ready and to help themselves.
The four men stayed seated while the children came running toward them. Hank's two teenage girls walked into the house while Christopher and Jennifer, along with the two Stoker children just took a seat at the patio table. Knowing either the house was a little full at the moment, or in the case of the Stoker children, knowing their mother would make them a plate and bring it to them.
Soon enough, the first wave exited the house with plates and found places to sit. Mike got up from the picnic table and helped Beth get their two small children settled. When the task was finished, he entered the home himself; with Chet, Roy, and Johnny close behind.
Entering the house, Johnny immediately searched out Julie and found her leaning against the counter talking with Maria. He once again looked her up and down, his eyes finally resting on her face. Julie hadn't seen his actions, but Marco's girlfriend had. He looked towards Maria and threw here a small grin. She returned his smile with a twinkle in her eyes. Johnny knew at that moment, not only had his actions been caught, but so too, had his thoughts. Leave it to a woman to catch me he thought to himself as he grabbed a plate and helped himself to food. Finally reaching the end of the counter where the two women stood, Maria took the opportunity to encourage some interaction between Johnny and Julie.
“Johnny, have you met Julie?” she asked, knowing perfectly well they had.
“”Yeah, we've met.” He answered, while reaching behind Julie's back to get a fork and napkin.
Julie turned and found him standing closely beside her. She was surprised when her heart started to race just a bit faster. He seemed so tall compared to her small five foot two stature. She pegged him to be at least six feet. She hadn't noticed his height the few other times they'd met, and suddenly, she felt like a child standing next to him.
She also noticed him look down at her while answering Maria, so she smiled up at him. Letting her eyes meet his and lingering just a bit.
“Well, I'm gonna' go find Marco, excuse me.” Maria made her escape while thinking to herself what a cute couple Julie and Johnny would make. She'd only had a brief conversation with Joanne's kid sister, but she instantly liked her. She was smart, friendly, and seemed relaxed around the close-knit group gathered at the Stanley home. She knew how awkward meeting this group of people could make you feel if you allowed yourself to panic over the meeting. She felt Joanne's sister had done a rather admirable job of fitting in, considering her age. Or possibly her age was the reason she did seem so relaxed.
“I think she's trying to leave us alone.” Johnny commented, just before shoving some of Marco's been salad into his mouth.
Looking around the kitchen, Julie realized she and Johnny were the only ones left in the room. Not knowing what to say, she just nodded her head. Thankful she had a mouthful of food, making it look as though she didn't respond for that reason.
“You having a good time?” He asked, feeling once again like a contestant on a game show.
“Very. Your co-workers are really nice people. I wish my friends and I could have relationships like this.”
“What do you mean?”
“You guys are very comfortable with one another, and not just you men, but the wives as well.”
Giving her comment a few seconds of thoughts, Johnny replied, “Comes from being thrown into tough situations together I guess.”
“The wives though?” Julie questioned.
“Sure, especially the wives. They have to become single parents on a weekly basis and rally around one another when an injury occurs, either to one of their children, or to one of their husbands. Believe me, they go through some tough times, but somehow they manage to do it with grace. They don't fall apart. I have a lot of respect for those women out there. It can't be easy. This bean salad is really good, have you tried it?”
Smiling at Johnny's sudden change of subject, she once again looked up at him, “Yeah, it's fabulous. I'll have to make sure I get the recipe from Maria.”
“You mean, Marco.”
“Pardon me?”
“You mean Marco, he made it.”
“You're kidding?”
“Nope.” Johnny replied, eyeing the hotdog in his hand. “You know, we really should go out and join the gang.”
Agreeing with Johnny, the two walked out to the backyard and looked for a place to sit. Seeing a couple of the children had already finished their meals and were now playing with a soccer ball, Julie and Johnny sat down at the patio table with Mike and Chet.
Soon everyone had finished his or her meals and the kettle was put on for tea and the coffeemaker was brewing. Most of the women were in the kitchen cleaning up while the men had gathered outside, most were playing a game of soccer with the kids.
When the coffee had finished perking and the kettle was whistling, Beth went outside to she whom, if anyone wanted a tea or coffee. Finding her answers she returned to the house and went to work on filling the order.
While Joanne and Maria continued putting dirty dishes into the dishwasher, Cheryl wrapped the leftovers and made room for them in the fridge, Julie decided to give Beth a hand with the beverages. Grabbing the kettle off the stove, she filled the teapot with boiling water, while Beth poured three coffees.
After letting the tea steep for a few minutes, Julie turned to Beth, “Where are the mugs?”
“Oh, here, I'll get them. Why don't you take the coffees out to the guys.” Beth replied.
“Sure.” Noticing Beth had placed the mugs on a small tray, which also contained some of the fruit Cheryl had cup up earlier as well as some cookies, she picked it up and walked outside.
Placing the tray down on one of the tables she placed her hand over her eyes and called out to the men, still playing soccer with the kids. “Your coffees are ready guys.” She yelled, not sure which three had wanted a coffee.
All the participants of the game looked up at her and decided to call a time out. Roy and Hank walked over to the table and each picked up a mug. After taking a sip, Roy made a face and handed his mug over to Hank who gladly accepted it while giving his coffee to Roy . Both men walked away and took a seat beside the barbecue pit.
Julie looked down at the cup of black coffee and wondered if Beth had made one too many drinks. Shrugging her shoulders she picked the mug up and was about to bring it back into the house when Johnny appeared out of nowhere.
“Is that mine?”
“Must be.” She smiled and gave the mug to him. Letting her hand hold the cup a tad longer then was necessary, letting Johnny's hand not only wrap around the mug, but her hand as well.
Johnny took the mug and couldn't help but notice Julie's reluctance to give it up. Looking into her face he smiled down at her, “Thanks.”
“You're welcome.” She replied, wishing she could hold the mug longer, but realizing she had to let go. She hoped Johnny had been able to pick up on her message. She saw he hadn't put his sunglasses back on after eating and also noticed the sun was beginning to set and a gentle breeze was softly blowing.
“Who's winning?” she nodded towards the kids who had picked up the game of soccer once again.
“Not my team.” He sighed.
“Does that bother you?”
“No, I just don't like losing to Chet.” He laughed.
The other women walked out of the house just then and brought an end to the tiny moment of intimacy Johnny was starting feel with Julie. With the sun setting behind his back it cast a soft glow on her appearance, making her look younger than her nineteen years. He suddenly felt a strong protective surge towards her.
Joanne walked up beside them and handed a cup of tea to her sister. Taking the tea from Joanne, Julie wrapped her hands around the mug and felt a small shudder travel through her body.
“You cold?” Johnny asked.
“A bit. It's starting to get a bit chilly.”
“That's because you're wearing shorts.” Joanne commented. “Did you remember to bring some pants?”
“No.”
“Oh, then lets see what we can do?”
Walking off toward the children, Joanne tapped fifteen-year-old Brenda Stanley on the shoulder. The two exchanged a few words and finally Brenda Walked over to Johnny and Julie.
“Joanne says you're getting cold. I probably have some track pants that'll fit you.”
“That'd be great. If you don't mind?”
“Not at all, come on.” Brenda nodded towards the house and the two were gone.
Knowing he had to start mingling or he'd be busted by someone else, and that someone, with a bushy mustache and big mouth, wouldn't be as tactful as Maria had been, Johnny decided to chat with Mike for a while and joined him at the table.
As Mike and Johnny sat talking with Beth and Cheryl, Johnny saw Julie and Brenda reappear and couldn't help but take in her appearance. The lavender shorts she'd been wearing all afternoon that had shown off her shapely legs were now replaced with a pair of drab gray track pants. He was pleasantly surprised to find they didn't take away from her shape at all. As a matter of fact, he instinctively knew the pants fit her much differently than they would have Hank's young daughter.
Although there wasn't much of a height difference between Julie and Brenda, the two's body types were quite different. Like Hank's daughter, Julie's body was tight and firm, but she also had the beautiful shaped curves of a woman, which Johnny couldn't help but admire.
He silently watched the two walking and laughing as they made their way toward Hank and Roy . When Julie reached up and passed a hand through her locks she turned her head and looked him straight in the eye. Holding the look for and instant as she was throwing him a smile, Johnny felt a familiar jolt pass through his body. In that instant, he knew he wanted to get to know Julie better and more importantly, he wanted to get to know her one on one. He took a quick glance toward Roy and wondered what his partner would think of him asking his sister-in-law out on a date? For the first time since they had become partners six years earlier he had absolutely no idea what Roy would think of something.
Continuing to watch Julie as she chatted with his partner, he tried to think of what he would do on a date with her? He knew she wasn't the type of woman he could wine and dine and fall into bed with in a single evening. Realizing he was getting way ahead of himself, after all she was only nineteen and he'd never date her if Roy had any objections. He decided he'd have to get his partners blessing before he'd ask her out.
Before long the sun had completely set and some citronella candles were casting a soft glow throughout the yard. A bag of marshmallows were brought out and all the children huddled around the pit with sticks, roasting the white puffs under the supervision of Hank and Mike.
More coffee and tea had been poured and the rest of the adults were sitting around the picnic table chatting. Julie had managed to sit between Johnny and Maria, she suspected she'd gotten some unasked for assistance from Marco's perceptive girlfriend.
Absent-mindedly she reached for a marshmallow and popped it into her mouth while listening to Chet and Marco talk about an upcoming firefighter's challenge Hank had posted on the bulletin board the day before.
“You like ‘em roasted?” Johnny asked.
Realizing Johnny was making reference to the marshmallow now sliding down her throat she could only nod her head in the affirmative.
“Go ahead.” He encouraged her.
“No, I'd feel silly.”
“You like ‘em soft and chewy or hard and burnt?” he asked.
“Burnt.”
“You got it.” Johnny replied while getting up from the table. Before she could stop him, he was across the yard and standing at the pit. He stood between Jennifer and one of Mike's kids and picked up a stick putting a marshmallow on the end of it. The soft glow of the burning embers danced across his features. Julie felt a small flutter in her stomach. She couldn't believe he was roasting one for her. His words still rang in her head. Was he flirting with her when he'd asked her how she liked them? She couldn't tell. How she wished she had more experience in the art of romance.
Continuing to watch the group gathered around the pit, she laughed when the gooey white blob on the end of Johnny's stick fell into the low burning fire. He peered into the pit with a slight pout on his face. The group of kids gathered around him thought if the funniest thing in the world and joined her laughter.
Heaving a heavy sigh, Johnny grabbed another one and patiently waited for it to burn. Finally achieving his goal, he turned on his heels and returned to the table. Sitting down beside her, he gave Julie the stick with a perfectly blackened marshmallow on the end of it. Once again, he noticed how she looked straight into his eyes, allowing a leisurely gaze to pass between them.
“Thank you.” She spoke with just a touch of shyness in her voice.
“Welcome.”
An hour later the picnic goers started to disperse. The Stokers were the first to leave, having two small children under the age of five they wanted to get home, bathe them and put them to bed.
Marco and Maria were the next to leave. Maria was the receptionist in a dentist's office and had to get up early the next morning for work. Finally the DeSoto's were ready to leave. Being a school night they wanted to get their children home to bed as well.
“Just let me take these pants off and give them back to Brenda before we go.” Julie commented to Roy and Joanne.
“That's okay, just give them to Roy when you get a chance and he can give ‘em to my dad. There's no hurry.” Brenda assured her.
“Um...okay.”
“I should head out, too. Thanks for the dinner, Hank, Cheryl.” Johnny smiled.
“Yeah, me too. Thanks as well.” Chet followed the paramedic's lead.
“You're welcome, boys. See you soon.” Cheryl walked over to the two single men. “Behave yourselves and stay safe.”
“Yes, ma'am.” Johnny grinned, accepting his captain's wife's motherly words and affectionate hug. Opening the gate, Johnny walked out with Jennifer and Chris close behind him.
“Uncle Johnny, are you coming to Aunt Julie's birthday dinner next week?” Chris asked.
Turning to face him, Johnny replied, “I didn't know it was her birthday. When is it?”
“Wednesday, we're taking her out for dinner.” Jen replied.
“Oh, um…I've got plans already guys. Plus, I wasn't invited.”
“You don't need a n invitation, mom always says you're family.” Chris said.
“For something like this I'd need an invite, plus like I said, I have plans.”
“Can't you cancel them?”
“No, I'm going camping with a friend. We planned it weeks ago.”
“Oh.” Jen and Chris replied in unison, both unable to hide their disappointment.
“Okay, kids, in the car.” Roy instructed upon reaching the driveway where his partner and children stood talking.
Noticing Joanne and Julie coming behind Roy , Johnny decided to find out if his instincts correct. He needed to find out if Julie had been sending him signals during the course of the evening. He hoped so. He knew the familiar feeling he'd felt earlier had been more than a casual attraction and wanted to explore it.
“Uh…look, Roy , I can drive Julie home if she doesn't mind.” Seeing Roy look toward both Julie and Joanne, Johnny spoke again before any protest could be made. “The campus is on my way, it's kinda outta yours.”
“If you don't mind, I don't.” Julie interjected before Roy or Joanne had a chance to respond.
“Okay.”
After saying their goodnights, Chet, Johnny and Julie, and the DeSoto's drove off in different directions.
Having previously been given directions to her dorm, Johnny had no problem finding Julie's building when he reached the campus twenty minutes later. The ride had been filled with simple idle chatter, neither one of them coming up with a topic that would break the ice. Finally, Johnny pulled the land rover up to the curb of Julie's street.
“Thanks for the ride. It was really nice of you.”
“No problem. If ya' ever need a ride anywhere…” his words drifted off as he looked into her eyes, hoping to see what he was looking for.
Julie sensed his unasked question and another flutter danced in her stomach. “That'd be nice.” She smiled.
“Well, listen, it's pretty dark out I'll walk you to your room.”
“You don't need to do that.” She said, surprised he'd offer such a thing. Isn't that an old fashion sort of thing to do? She wondered.
“I'd feel better knowing you reached your room safely.”
“Alright.”
Johnny shut the engine off and locked the door after slipping out of the Rover and headed toward the building. As they climbed the stairs side by side he commented, “I hear it's your birthday next week.”
Surprised once again she stopped and turned toward him, “How'd you know?”
“Chris and Jenny wanted me to come for dinner with you guys.”
“Oh.” She started walking up the stairs again, “Would you like to?”
“Yes, but I already have plans. I'm going camping with a friend who works out of another station.”
“Oh.”
Johnny picked up on the dejected tone in her response and finally knew that yes, the young woman was interested.
“Maybe I could take a rain check?” The hell with Roy 's blessing.
“That'd be nice. Well, here it is.” Julie said while coming to a stand still in front of the door to her room. Johnny stopped and slid his hands into the pockets of his jeans, leaning his shoulder against the wall.
“Thanks again for the…”
Suddenly the door flew open and Tanya walked out, nearly colliding with her roommate. “Oh, hi. Sorry, I was just going down the hall to get a tea out of the vending machine. Don't mind me.” With that she scooted down the hall and around the corner.
“My roommate.” Julie blushed.
“She's getting a tea out of the vending machine? That's gotta be horrid.”
“Trust me, it is. You'd think between the two of us tea toddlers one of us would own a kettle.”
Johnny smiled, hearing the approach of someone coming up behind him. Avoiding the urge to turn around, he decided he should leave.
“Well, I'll let you go. If I don't see you before hand have a nice birthday.”
“Excuse me. Don't mind me. I'm not even here.” Tanya walked between the two and into the dorm room with a Styrofoam cup in her hand a shut the door. Both Johnny and Julie giggled at the appearance and obviously hurried disappearance of Tanya.
“Thanks again for the ride home. Have fun camping.”
“See ya'.”
“Yeah, see ya'.” Julie said as she placed her hand on the door to her room and turned the knob. Johnny threw here a deadly smile before turning on his heels and walking down the hallway. Before she knew it, he'd rounded the corner and was out of sight, although the sound of his hiking boots could be heard going down the stair well.
Practically before she entered the room, Tanya was all over her. “So, was that Johnny? God he's gorgeous, no wonder you have the hots for him. Wow!”
Julie laughed at her friend's reaction. She hadn't seen Tanya so animated in the few short months they'd lived together. “Yep, that's him. Told ya' he's cute.”
“Cute! Boy he's more than cute. So, did he kiss you goodnight?”
“Tanya!”
“Did he?” she continued, ignoring her friend's inability to feign outrage.
“No.” Julie admitted and started to wonder if she'd done something wrong, or maybe Johnny hadn't picked up on her interest in him, or worst, he had and wasn't interested.
“Oh, that's too bad. Maybe next time. He did ask you out didn't he?”
“No, not exactly.” Seeing her friend's frown, Julie continued. “He said he'd take a rain check on my birthday dinner next week. Seems my niece and nephew invited him.”
“But he couldn't make it?” Tanya sounded just as disappointed as Julie felt.
“No he's already made plans. But, like I said, he said he'd take a rain check. That' good, isn't it?”
“I guess it depends on whether or not he meant it. Gosh, I can't believe he walked you to the door. That's so romantic.”
“It is, isn't it?” Julie grinned; realizing that old-fashioned could be a good thing after all.
After discussing the day's activities for over an hour, the two girls settled into their beds and were soon fast asleep.
Chapter ThirteenOn Wednesday morning, after being relieved by B-shift, the members of A-shift hurried into the locker room in order to change and go home. Marco and Chet chattered on about plans they'd made to go on a double date with Maria and her friend Debbie. Chet had apparently been wary at first; Marco had assured him Debbie was indeed a knock out in the looks department, besides having a nice personality.
Mike smirked as he listened to the obviously excited Chet warn his friend that the woman in question had better not be a dog or he'd never speak to Marco or Maria again. It was then that Mike looked over at Johnny, wondering why he hadn't used the obvious opening to take a barb at the Irish man.
Johnny stood in front of his locker buttoning up his shirt while taking a few quick glances at his partner. Mike then wondered what was on the dark-haired man's mind. He looked like he was lost in thought. He'd been doing quite a bit of that lately.
Having finished dressing into his civilian clothes, Stoker grabbed his bag containing his dirty uniform and said his good-byes to his shift mates and exited the room, followed closely by Chet and Marco. This left the two paramedics alone in the room, as Hank was still in the office finishing up a briefing with B-shift's, Captain Jones.
“Uh, Roy , I have something for you to give to Julie.”
Roy looked at his best friend and wondered what the heck he was talking about. Then he noticed a medium sized box in Johnny's hand. A box wrapped in birthday paper decorated with different colored printed balloons and streamers, and Happy Birthday written all over it.
“Johnny, you didn't have to get her anything.” How did he know it was her birthday? “How did you…” he never finished his sentence.
“The kids invited me to go. They seemed a bit disappointed that I had plans. I figured I'd still get her a present.”
Roy took the box and placed it on the bench between them. “It's too bad you can't come.”
“To tell you the truth, Julie seemed a bit disappointed that I had plans, too.” Johnny started to fidget with his hands. Despite the fleeting thought the night of the barbecue that he wouldn't seek his friends approval in asking Julie out, he once again felt it was important he have it.
“She asked you, too?”
“Yeah, I mentioned the kids asked me and she asked if I could come as well.” Johnny looked into Roy 's face. “I told her I'd take a rain check.”
“Oh…”
“You don't mind do you?”
Roy just stood staring at his partner for a moment. Johnny was his best friend and although he usually confided in Roy about the newest woman in his life, Roy now realized Johnny was seeking his approval to see Julie. The thought made him realize not only how much he respected his partner, but also the fact that the feeling was obviously mutual.
“Mind your taking her out?” Roy questioned, wanting to make sure they were both on the same page.
“Yeah…do you mind?”
“No…no…”
“Good, because I do plan on asking her out. Maybe the next weekend we have off.” Johnny ventured further, testing the waters.
“Oh.” After pausing for a few seconds to think about Johnny dating his sister-in-law, Roy changed the subject, not wanting his mind to delve deeper into the possibility of his friend and Julie dating.
“Have a nice camping trip. See you in a few days.” He finally said, feeling like a fish out of water. Sure Johnny often filled him in on whom his next target would be, but he didn't want to hear about Julie. He knew his sister-in-law would say yes when Johnny asked her out. But that didn't mean he wanted to discuss it any further for now.
“Sure will. Hope your days off are just as relaxing, partner.” Johnny grinned, happy and relieved with the fact that Roy hadn't flown off the handle at the prospect of his going on a date with Julie.
~~51~~
Later in the evening, the DeSoto family along with Julie and Tanya, entered the well-lit family restaurant, Jake's Diner. The place was a throw back to a classic fifties eatery. Booths filled the large room, with a Wurlitzer jukebox blaring out a Chubby Checker song. A long counter top ran along the back of the room in front of the kitchen. In front of the counter were twenty swiveling chrome stools with red vinyl seats; menus sat in chrome holders behind bottles of ketchup and vinegar. The wall behind the counter top was checkered with white and red tiles with a narrow mirror running its length.
The waitress' wore blue and white oxfords, bobby sox, with knee length skirts. White blouses, blue scarves tied around their necks and red, white and blue pillbox hats rounded out the uniforms.
Sitting in a rounded booth, the group was soon greeted by their young waitress, Tammy, who had a pad of receipts in her hand and a pen in the other. “Will this be on one bill?”
“Yes,” Roy answered.
After receiving and eating the assorted orders of hamburgers, French fries, and ribs and salads, coffees and tea were ordered. Joanne reached down and picked a bag off the floor and placed it on the table in front of Julie.
“Why don't you open your gifts?”
“Yeah, Aunt Julie, open your gifts.” Chris urged.
“Here, you can open mine first.” Tanya handed her a package.
Stopping to admire the beautifully wrapped package, she finally laughed at the humorous card. Opening the wrapping, she found a beautiful silk coral blouse. “Oh my, Tanya, it's marvelous. Thank you.” Julie ran her hands along the front of the garment, letting her hands top to inspect the ornate golden buttons.
Carefully refolding the blouse, Julie placed it on the wrapping paper and proceeded to lift a box out of the bag in front of her. Opening the card, she was informed it was from her niece and nephew. Inside the package she found a new pair of desperately needed running shoes.
“Great! Thanks guys. I truly need new shoes for volleyball.”
“You're welcome,” they responded in unison.
Next she found a thing box accompanied by a tiny card and bow. The gift was from Joanne and Roy. She opened it to find an elegant watch inside. Placing it around her wrist, she looked up at the couple.
“Thank you, it's beautiful. I've always wanted a watch I could wear with a dress.”
Roy and Joanne acknowledged her thank you with a, “You're welcome,” while returning her smile.
Realizing there was still a parcel in the bag Julie frowned. She hadn't expected another gift at all. Being taken out for dinner and receiving two separate gifts from her sister and the kids was more than enough. Reaching in, she took the square box in her hands and looked at the card with her name written on it. She didn't recognize the handwriting. She looked up at Roy and Joanne with confusion written all over her face.
“Well, are you going to open it?” Joanne asked. “I'm dying to know what it is myself.”
The college freshman placed the box on the table and opened the card. Scanning over the pre-written hallmark words, her eyes finally focused on the unknown handwriting.
Julie,
Sorry I couldn't make it tonight. Next time, I'll take you out for dinner, just the two of us. In the mean time, I hope this helps keep you warm this winter.
Happy Birthday!
Johnny .
“Who's it from?” Jennifer asked.
“Johnny.” She replied.
“Uncle Johnny got you a present! Cool.” Chris shot out.
Julie smiled at her nephew. “Yeah, it is cool, isn't it?” She glanced over at Tanya and the two exchanged a small smile. She then proceeded to take the wrapping off the box sitting in front of her. Finally realizing what it was she started to laugh and took the object out of its box. “It's perfect!”
“It's a tea kettle!” Chris protested. “What's so perfect about that?”
“Uncle Johnny bought you a tea kettle? What kind of present is that?” Jennifer asked, seemingly just as shocked as her brother.
“It's a much need present. Isn't it, Tanya?”
“Oh yeah!” Tanya shook her head adding, “it's beautiful.”
Julie reached into the box and not only pulled out a couple of mugs but a small box of tea bags sitting at the bottom as well.
“I don't get it.” Chris shook his head.
“Chris, if your Aunt Julie likes it, that's all that matters. Roy admonished his son, understanding there must be a reason for the somewhat unconventional gift.
“Oh, I do like it. Gosh, I can't believe Johnny bought me a kettle and two cups!”
“Neither can I.” Chris mumbled continuing to shake his head.
“Actually, it's sweet.” Tanya piped up, realizing Johnny had thought of her as well as Julie.
“Really?” Jennifer asked excitedly, picking up on the unspoken communication between her aunt and her roommate.
“Yeah, the other night when he drove me home from the barbecue, Tanya was on her way out to get herself a tea out of the vending machine. Johnny made a comment about how terrible it must taste and I told him it did.” Julie smiled, realizing how much Johnny observed around him.
While Jennifer started to comment on how nice a present it was Julie picked up the card and ran her fingers across the words as she reread them. She grasped Johnny's words more fully the second time around. Oh my gosh, he's going to take me out! Just the two of us! I can't wait! I wonder when? Does he mean like a real date? I can't believe it!
After Tanya and the birthday girl were dropped off at their dorm, Julie hung her new blouse and placed her running shoes in the closet as well. Placing her birthday cards on her desk, she looked down at the card from Johnny, picked it up and reread it again. She wanted to make sure she hadn't misread it earlier.
“Julie?”
“Sorry, I didn't hear what you said.” She answered.
“I asked if we should christen this baby?” Tanya waved the chrome teakettle through the air.
“Yeah, lets!”
Tanya went down the hall and quickly returned with the kettle full of water. Putting it on top of the small refrigerator she plugged it in and set the two mugs out. After she unwrapped the cellophane from the tea box she dropped a bag into each mug, and the two women waited for the water to boil.
“So what had you blushing when you opened his gift?”
“I was blushing?”
“Not at first, I noticed you got all flushed when you reread the card.”
“Oh yeah that. I think he asked me out!” Julie squealed.
“You think?”
“He wrote me a note saying he'd take me out sometime soon.”
“You're kidding! That's great! Whatever you did at that barbecue worked.”
“Only did what you suggested.”
“Well that gorgeous fireman of yours read you loud and clear then.”
That night Julie got very little sleep, as she continued to read Johnny's card over and over again in her mind. Hopefully, she and Tanya were both right and his words were an invitation for a date.
Notes: Once again a few people to thank. Jill of course for obvious reasons, this portion of the story was also beta'd by Icecat62 and Bobbie. A big thank you to Jennifer for all her encouragement.~~~ Sharon