Starsky didn't look up when Hutch sat down on his side of the desk. "And where have you been? I thought you wanted to get these reports done so we could go home."

Hutch silently handed Starsky a few copies of the form they needed then started working on his own reports. After a few minutes, Starsky raised his eyes from the paper.

"Hutch, you okay? Why are you so quiet?"

Still keeping his head down, the blond just shrugged. "It's getting late. I'm ready to get out of here. Shannon was busy, so I had to make the copies myself. You know how temperamental that old machine is. It can really get on your nerves."

"Are you sure that's all it is? Hutch, look at me. What's going on?"

Hutch finally met his roommate's eyes, pleading with him. "I just really want to go home. That's all."

Starsky took the report out of his partner's hand and sat it aside. "We can finish these in the morning. If Dobey wants to bitch, let him. Let's get out of here."

A few minutes later, as they drove home, Starsky watched Hutch out of the corner of his eye. The blond was huddled against the door, his arms crossed over his chest as if he were chilled. His worries increased as all attempts at conversation failed. Mystified, and more than a little concerned, he divided his attention between his friend and the street, driving almost by habit. As soon as the Torino pulled to the curb, Hutch sprang out of the car and ran up the stairs ahead of Starsky. Hastily locking the door and pocketing the keys, Starsky took the stairs two at a time and rushed into the apartment only a few seconds behind the blond. He could hear the sound of running water coming from the bathroom as he closed the front door and locked it. Gently, he knocked on the bathroom door.

"Hutch, are you okay?"

The water stopped running and the door opened a few seconds later. Starsky looked at Hutch's pale face and moved forward instinctively. "Please tell me what's wrong. You're scaring me."

Hutch moved past him and went into the kitchen, taking two beers out of the refrigerator. Walking back to the front room, he handed one to Starsky then collapsed on the couch.

"When I went to make the copies of the DD-5's, Shannon was busy, so I told her I would make a few until she got caught up. You know how finicky that machine can be." Hutch picked at the label on his bottle. "I guess I was talking to that stupid machine. You know, like I talk to my plants. It finally started spitting out copies, so I kept coaxing it. I wasn't paying attention and Jack snuck in behind me."

Starsky kept his voice calm. "What did he do?"

Hutch looked up, his eyes blazing with the same pain Starsky had seen earlier. "He made a pass at me. He told me that I looked good and then he reached out and stroked my shirt. I told him not to touch me, but he just said that he could make me happy if I let him. He admitted that he was the one that sent the rose. He was proud of it, like I should have been flattered. I told him to leave me alone and if he didn't, I'd tell Shannon that he made a pass at me. He said that if I did, he'd tell Dobey that we were more than just friends."

"He's bluffing, Hutch. How many people have tried that before? Christ, even Simonetti's tried it, when something we've done pissed him off. Jack doesn't know any more than Simonetti did."

"Starsky, he said he saw us! He watched us last night, while we were playing around. Only, he turned it into something else. He said he wished we'd made love on the couch instead of the floor. He told me that he could see right through the kitchen window into the living room. Damn it, he even said I looked adorable covered in mud! Then he tried to tell me he had pictures, but I knew that if he did, they wouldn't be any use to him. We weren't doing anything wrong! I called his bluff and told him to give it his best shot, that if he tried he'd be the one that came out looking like a fool. He just said not to bet on it. Then he kissed me. I thought I was going to be sick right in the copy machine room. He's crazy, Starsk. He says he's not going to stop until he gets what he wants. I don't know what to do."

Starsky took a drink then walked back to the kitchen. He pulled the curtains apart and gazed outside then turned back to Hutch.

"I'm going to get the binoculars. Stay here. I'll be right back."

Hutch sat his beer down on the coffee table and laid his head against the back of the couch. He heard Starsky run down the stairs and a minute or so later, heard him coming back. The door opened and Starsky walked past him, the binoculars in his hand. Woodenly, he stood up and followed Starsky back to the kitchen. The brunet was silent as he scanned the buildings he saw from the kitchen window. Finally, he pointed.

"It has to be that one. None of the other buildings give an unobstructed view of the front room. He must have used a telescope, because that building's gotta be two blocks away. Come on; I want to know if that bastard really saw us or if he's just blowing smoke."

Hutch shrugged slightly then picked up his jacket and followed Starsky out the door.

They drove the short distance to the building and waited until one of the tenants walked in then followed. Scanning the mail boxes in the lobby, Starsky pressed the buzzer for the manager's apartment.

"Yes?"

"Hi, my name is David Sampson. I'm looking for an apartment for my younger brother and I was wondering if you had any vacancies. I live over on the next block, so this would be a good location. My brother is new to California and I'll be chauffeuring him around for a while."

"Hang on a minute and I'll buzz you in."

Starsky turned to Hutch. "Let me do the talking. I don't want to tell this guy that we're cops."

"OK. This one is all yours, partner."

Moments later, the manager arrived and Starsky repeated his fictitious request. Arnold Abrahams nodded once and cast an inquiring glance at Hutch.

"Is this your brother? He doesn't look anything like you."

"No, this is a friend of mine, Ken Hastings. My brother will be arriving in about a week. I'd hoped to have a place all ready for him before he gets here. My place is really small, so he'll be more comfortable in his own apartment. Do you have any vacancies?"

"Right now, I've got two. There's a small efficiency apartment on the second floor and a two bedroom apartment on the fourth. Is your brother married?"

"No, he'll be living here alone. He's got some money saved up, but I think the smaller apartment would fit his budget better. Is there any way we could look at it?"

Mr. Abrahams frowned. "I'm right in the middle of dinner. My wife is an invalid and she needs help with her meal. I guess I could give you the key and let you take a look, if you don’t stay too long. The owner would have my hide if he found out, but you two look okay. There isn't much to see, anyway. The old tenant moved out a few days ago and I haven't had the chance to clean it up yet. But if your brother won't need it until next week, I don't think that will be a problem."

"That's okay; I just want to see it so I can give him an idea of what furniture he'll need. We'll only be a few minutes and I'll bring the key right back."

"OK, come with me and I'll get you the key."

As they followed Abrahams to his apartment, Starsky asked the most important question. "Would you need a deposit or anything before my brother gets here? I mean, has anyone else looked at the apartment? He could wire the money to me, but it would take a day or so."

"That's not a problem. There was another man looking at the place, but he was looking for something a little larger. He looked at the one on the fourth floor and said he'd get back to me on it. So, if you like this one, just tell your brother to get in touch with me. I'll get one of my cards while I'm getting the key."

"That'll be great, thanks. My brother is really independent and I don't want him to think I'm pushing him into anything. But it would sure help me out if he likes the apartment. He won't have the money for a car right away and he hates to take the bus."

"I don't blame him. I'd rather walk than get on some of those rattle traps. This is where I live. I'll only be a minute."

Starsky waited until the manager closed the door then turned to Hutch. "How much you want to bet that Jack was the other prospective tenant? Abrahams agreed to give us the key awfully fast, so it's a safe bet he did the same thing with Jack."

"It wouldn't surprise me in the least. I'm more interested in how Jack got our address. I know its common knowledge, but how did he explain why he wanted it?"

"Who knows? First let's see if this is the right place then we'll take it from there."

Abrahams came out a moment later and handed Starsky the key and a card. "Here you go. Take a look and if you like it, have your brother get in touch. When you're done, just put the key through the mail slot. I may not be able to hear you if you knock."

"OK, thanks for all your help, Mr. Abrahams. We'll be talking again, soon."

The two detectives walked up the stairs and searched for the apartment Abrahams told them about. Starsky unlocked the door and flipped the light switch as he walked into the small apartment. Hutch stood in the middle of the room, looking around him.

"Boy, Abrahams wasn't kidding when he said he hadn't cleaned up yet. If we were serious about renting, I would be out the door before Abrahams knew it."

Starsky spared only a glance at the trash strewed around the room and the dust that covered the floor. Instead, he crossed over to the only window in the apartment, pulling the binoculars from under his jacket. As he bent slightly to get a better view, he got a closer look at the dust on the floor underneath.

"Hey, Hutch, look at this."

The blond crossed the room in a few steps and examined the area where Starsky had pointed. Four small squares of clean tile were evenly spaced amid the dust. He glanced at Starsky.

"The telescope must have had a tripod. Now, how the Hell did Jack get past Abrahams carrying a telescope and tripod?"

Starsky pointed to the window. "He used the fire escape. Jack probably got the key then went out the window and carried the stuff up the stairs. Abrahams probably didn't see a thing. He's a pervert, Hutch, but no one said he was dumb."

"I guess not. So, is this the right apartment? What do you see?"

Starsky looked through the binoculars for a moment. Then, without speaking, he passed the glasses to Hutch. The look on his face told the blond what he saw. Hutch took a deep breath then looked through the lenses. As if by magic Venice Place appeared, followed by his kitchen window. He adjusted the magnification and his front room jumped into view. The place on the floor that was the object of Jack's insane fantasy was as clear as if it were in the same room as he.

The binoculars hung limply from its strap as he turned to Starsky. "Oh, my God, he was telling the truth. He can see every inch of our apartment." Blue eyes widened in panic. "He thinks we're gay and he can twist everything we do to fit his delusions."

Starsky took the field glasses from Hutch before they dropped to the floor. "They're still just delusions, Hutch. He can't make up proof where there isn't any. Even if he has the guts to say something, it's our word against his. I don't think he'll risk it. He could lose Shannon and Colin if he pushes this."

Hutch glanced out the window then back at his lover. "And what could we lose, Starsky? How many times can we deny the gossip before people start listening to it? Having somebody that's pissed at us spreading rumors is one thing, but Jack doesn't even know us. If he convinces Dobey that he doesn't have a reason to lie, it could mean the end of our careers. Besides, I don't think I can put up with everyone looking at us like we're freaks, especially when we aren't guilty of anything."

"Hutch, they've been doing that for years. Don't you remember all the sarcastic remarks we've heard? I think you're wasting time going out with women. Why don't you just date each other, instead? No one bought it then and they won't buy it now. If Jack is dumb enough to go to IA or Dobey, he'll have to explain how he saw what he thinks he saw. He's bluffing, Hutch. Don't fall into his trap."

Starsky put out a hand to comfort his partner, but Hutch simply slapped it away.

"So, I'm supposed to go on like none of this happened? How do you suggest I do that? He spied on us, Starsky! He sat up here like a peeping Tom and watched us! How can we just stand here and do nothing about it?"

"Because that's what we have to do. If we go on with our lives and act as if nothing happened, he doesn't have any ammunition to use against us. If we freak out now, we're falling right into his hands. He can't hurt us if we don't let him."

Hutch stalked away from the window, kicking trash out of his way as he moved. When he looked at Starsky, his eyes blazed with anger.

"He's already hurting us! We're not even safe in our own home now, thanks to him. It isn't fair! We're not gay! There's nothing wrong with us living together! It's none of his business! Why can't he just leave us alone?" He slammed the palm of his hand against the wall then turned and slid down until he was sitting on the filthy floor. The anger left him and he looked at Starsky, pleading with him. "Why can't they all just leave us alone?"

Starsky crossed over to the blond and sat down beside him. "I don't know, buddy. Some people are too narrow-minded to believe that we can live in the same place and still be straight."

Two pairs of blue eyes met. Hutch whispered mournfully in the empty room. "Yeah, but Jack isn't just narrow-minded. He's obsessed and he's dangerous. What are we going to do, Starsk?"

The brunet put his arm around Hutch. "The same thing we always do: we'll deal with it, together."

Starsky stood up and offered a hand to the blond. "Come on; let's get out of here. We've seen enough."

Hutch took his hand and stood up, brushing the dust from his clothes. He followed Starsky out of the room, turning off the lights as they went. They stopped long enough for Starsky to put the key through Abrahams' mail slot then went back to the Torino.

Starsky could still feel Hutch's pain as he stared up at the second-floor window. His mouth twitched in a smile as he tried to lighten the mood.

"I guess we need to get heavier curtains."

Hutch chuckled slightly. "Can we get them lined with lead?"

Starsky laughed as he got into the Torino. "We're going to need a stronger curtain rod." He reached over and touched his friend on the shoulder. "We're gonna be okay, Hutch."

Hutch put his hand on top of Starsky's. "I hope so, Starsk. I really hope so."

 

Hutch laid his head against the back of the seat and closed his eyes. The confrontation with Jack and the discovery that his and Starsky's privacy had been violated had left him completely exhausted. When he felt the car stop, he opened his eyes, but frowned when he saw the neon sign blinking above The Pits.

"What are we doing here? I thought we were going home."

"I figured we could use a drink."

Hutch smiled ruefully. "I know I sure could. The thought of going back to our apartment right now gives me the willies. I know you said that we can't let Jack take over our lives, but I'm afraid that whenever I walk past the couch, I'll imagine him watching us from that window. Having a couple of beers sounds a whole lot better."

He got out of the car and waited for Starsky to lock the doors then walked into The Pits. Huggy was at the end of the bar, drying glasses when he saw them walk in. He put the clean glasses under the counter then drew two beers from the tap and walked to where they were sitting. Without saying a word, he set the beers down in front of them.

Starsky nodded gratefully then took a long drink from his mug. "Thanks, Huggy. How'd you know what we wanted?"

"I didn't. I figured that if I gave you something to drink, it would give you a reason to pull those chins off the floor. What's up with you guys? I've seen cheerier expressions on death row."

Hutch glanced at his partner then shrugged. "It hasn't been a good day, Hug. We've got something heavy going on right now and there isn't anybody we can talk to about it."

Huggy Bear spread his hands out. "And what am I, chopped liver?"

Starsky gazed steadily at the slim, black man then turned to Hutch, raising an eyebrow. Hutch shrugged slightly then nodded. Starsky leaned over the bar.

"Let's go upstairs. We need to talk about this in private."

Huggy nodded and walked to the end of the bar. He filled a pitcher with beer and grabbed another mug then motioned for them to follow him.

"Diane, watch the bar, will you? I need to confer with these two yahoos for a bit. I'll be upstairs if you need me."

Huggy unlocked the door and waited until they were seated then locked the door back. He straddled the other chair and poured himself a beer then waved his hand at Starsky.

"OK, there's no one here but us fishes. The floor is yours, my man."

"What we tell you goes no further, understand? If anyone finds out about this, it could be the end of our careers, and our lives as we know them."

"I won't say a word. Cross my heart and hope to die."

Starsky took another drink while he searched for the right words. "Hutch and I have been partners and friends for a long time. I know you already know that, but let me finish. Over the years, we've been the butt of some pretty sick jokes. Our job makes it hard for us to have a relationship with anyone else. Whenever we try to date, we get called out on a case, we work long and crazy hours, and we spend more time with each other than anyone else. People have snickered behind our backs for years, calling us gay."

"And this is your big news? I hate to break it to you; Curly, but I've heard the rumors. What's the big deal?"

Starsky's jaw tightened. "The big deal is until now, that the rumors have been just that: rumors. No one gives any credence to them, because they know us. We're close friends, yes, but we're healthy heterosexual males. We love each other, but we're not in love."

Huggy smiled slightly. "You don’t think I know that? After Gunther damned near took you out, I watched Blondie here going through Hell. Nothing anyone said or did made a difference. The only thing that mattered to him was getting you back to normal. He was worse than a she-lion, guarding her cubs. He was going to take care of you himself, come Hell or high water, and no one was going to get in his way." He grew serious. "The relationship you two have only comes along once in a lifetime, if at all. It's like you were brought together in some kind of cosmic plan. If some nut wants to make it into more than it is, let him. Your real friends will know the truth."

Hutch sighed with relief and looked at Huggy. His voice was barely audible in the room. "What Starsky and I have is special, Hug. He's my partner, my best friend, and I care about him more than I ever have anyone else. But that doesn't mean we're gay! We moved in together so I could take care of him after Gunther. With all his medical bills, it was just too hard on him financially to keep his apartment, so he let it go. We kept living together because we're comfortable with each other. We talk, we watch TV, and we horse around. I thought we could relax and be ourselves in our own home, but we can't even do that now."

Huggy looked confused. "Why not? What you do in your own home is nobody's business."

Starsky shook his head. "It's not what we do in private; it's what this guy thinks we do. He's threatening to go to Dobey and blow the whistle on us."

"So? It won't be the first time some schmuck has gossiped about you. What makes this cat so different?"

Starsky gazed frankly at the black man. "He's a cop, and he says he can prove that we're gay. He set up a telescope in another building and watched us through our window. He said he saw us playing around together after Hutch fell in that mud bath, but he took it to a whole new level. It's all in his head, but he's really giving us the creeps. He wants Hutch."

Huggy sat back. "By that, I take it you mean he has more than a simple case of the hots. Are we talking obsession, here?"

Hutch flushed with embarrassment. "You could say that. He made a pass at me, and suggested that we have a little fling. Starsky wouldn't have to know, and neither would his wife. When I rejected him, he told me that he'd go to Dobey and spill the imaginary beans about us. I told him that he'd be the loser if he did, but that didn’t seem to bother him. He's already spied on us once. I don't know what he'll do next, but I don't think he'll give up this easy."

"Who is he?"

Starsky took a drink and conjured and image of Jack in his mind. "His name is Jack Wentworth. He's around thirty years old, has reddish brown hair, brown eyes, about five ten or eleven, and weighs about a hundred and fifty pounds. I think he got his shield about six months ago. He's doing rotation now and Eric Silvers is his partner. His wife's name is Shannon and they have a son, Colin."

Huggy thought for a moment. "OK, what do you want me to do?"

The brunet shrugged. "If he follows through with his threat, it would be nice if we had some ammunition to fight back. He and Shannon have been married a long time, and I can't believe that Hutch is the first man he's been attracted to."

"I'll send out a few feelers and see what I can come up with. If he hangs out at any of the gay bars, someone is bound to recognize him. But the fact that he's a cop may make it a little hairy, especially with the hookers. They won't want to cross him. I'll see what I can do, though."

"Thanks. Right now, all we can do is act like nothing happened. But this guy makes me nervous. He made a pass at Hutch in the same department where Shannon works. If he's that cocky, there's no telling what he'll do next."

Huggy got up and gathered the pitcher and glasses. "You got that right. Well, I'd better get back to work before Diane sends up a posse after me. Hang in there, amigos. If I turn anything, you'll be the first to know."

Hutch squeezed him on the shoulder. "Thanks, Hug. Just talking to you about it helped. There isn't anyone else that we could trust."

Huggy winked. "You can always trust me, Blondie. I've got more secrets locked in this cranium than the Pentagon. Yours will never pass my lips."

The two detectives followed Huggy down the stairs and waved as they exited The Pits. Silently, they got into the Torino and drove away. A few minutes later, Hutch turned to Starsky.

"Do you think he'll actually find something? Jack's been living a lie for a long time. If he's willing to go as far as marrying Shannon, he'll do anything to keep his secret."

"Maybe, but I can't see him staying celibate all these years. He took a big risk going after you like that. He doesn't impress me as being that good at controlling his urges. You know how those bars are. If you're wearing the right clothes, you can blend in and no one will even notice you. It would be the safest place to pick up a date for the night."

Hutch nodded then asked the question that had been on his mind. "Do you think Shannon knows?"

Starsky sighed. "I'm not sure. She's a good person. Why would she be willing to live a lie all of her life? She could find someone who really cared about her, and could make her happy. But being married in every sense of the word would be impossible for Jack. I can't see him going to bed with her, and she'd have to wonder why after a while."

"They have Colin, remember. They had to have sex at least once."

"Yeah, well, that could be part of his plan. Who's going to think a man that's married and has a kid would be gay? John and Maggie never had any kids, remember? I always thought there was a medical reason, that one of them couldn't have kids. Now I'm not so sure."

"But Maggie knew about John. She had her reasons for staying married to him. Maybe Shannon does, too."

Starsky shook his head as a thought occurred to him. "You know, we've been assuming that Jack is gay because he made a pass at you. Maybe he's bi-sexual and swings both ways."

Hutch made a frustrated sound in his throat. "Does it matter, Starsky? He's still lying. His marriage to Shannon is still a sham, and he still made that pass at me. If he was simply running around on Shannon, having affairs with other women, we wouldn't be having this conversation. It would be between Shannon and Jack. But he sent that rose to me and he spied on us. That makes it our business, whether he's gay or bi. Either way, he's living a lie, and forcing Shannon to do the same."

Starsky looked over at the blond. "That's the really crappy part about all of this. If Jack forces our hand, Shannon and Colin are the ones that are going to suffer the most. We've survived malicious gossip before. No matter what happens, we'll still have each other. Who are Shannon and Colin going to have?"

Hutch shook his head, staring out the window. "God, what a mess."

Starsky was silent as he parked the Torino in front of Venice Place. They scanned their surroundings instinctively before going upstairs. Once inside, Starsky went around the apartment, closing all the curtains. Hutch watched him with a frustrated expression.

"Is this how we're going to live from now on, with the curtains pulled, blocking out the rest of the world? Am I supposed to second guess myself when I want to touch you on the shoulder, or pat you on the back? We can't even feel safe in our own home any more. He's holding us hostage and there isn't a damned thing we can do about it."

"Yes, there is. We'll think of something, but you have to give it time. We'll figure a way out of this, eventually."

The blond took off his jacket and hung it on the peg on the wall. He turned back to Starsky.

"What if that apartment wasn't vacant? What if he hadn't found a way to spy on us? Would he still have the conviction that we're lovers?"

"Playing what-if isn't going to help, Hutch. He saw us, he's convinced in his warped little mind that we're gay and now we have to deal with it."

"How, by buttoning this place up like Fort Knox? I'm not going to live like this forever, Starsky. We didn't do anything wrong, and I'll be damned if I'll let Jack make me feel like we did." He threw his hands up in the air. "I'm tired of talking about this. I'm going to take a shower and go to bed. You can sit up all night, guarding the door if you want to."

Starsky watched his roommate disappear into the bathroom and cursed under his breath.

"Damn you, Jack Wentworth! Why couldn't you keep your obsession to yourself? I've had about all I can take. If you push me any further, you'll be the one to regret it."

A short time later, Hutch came out of the bathroom, clad in a robe and sweat pants. The belt was fastened around the robe tightly, covering his chest completely.

Starsky shook his head sadly. "You're already letting him get to you, Hutch. You're walking around like you're in some hotel lobby, instead of your own bedroom. Relax, would you?"

"I'll relax when that son of a bitch is out of our lives." He closed his eyes and sighed. "The shower's yours if you want it."

Starsky searched for the words to make his friend feel better, but couldn't find any. Throwing his hands up in despair, he walked into the bathroom. He had only been in the shower for only a few minutes when the phone rang.

Hutch picked the receiver up and answered it, preoccupied. "Hutchinson."

From the other end of the line, he could hear music.

 

And when we get behind closed doors

Then he lets his hair hang down

And he makes me glad that I'm a man

Oh no one knows what goes on behind closed doors.

 

A masculine voice whispered over the music. "They're playing our song, Hutch."

Cursing, he slammed the receiver down on the hook and threw the phone across the room. "Leave me alone, damn it!"

Starsky rushed out of the bathroom, dripping wet. "Hutch, what's wrong? What was that noise?"

He saw the telephone lying on its side. Sighing, he picked it up and put it back on the table. "Let me guess. Wentworth."

Hutch threw his hands up in the air. "Yeah, I guess since he has our address, getting the phone number wasn't a problem."

Starsky closed his eyes and counted to ten. Speaking calmly, he tried to reason with his roommate. "You're playing right into his hands, Hutch. You're letting him get to you. Don't do it. The creep isn't worth it."

"How can you say that? He's forcing himself into our home, and our lives. He can destroy everything we have."

Starsky walked over to the blond and put a hand on his shoulder. "I won't let him do that. I promise."

Hutch just moved away and walked into the bedroom. By the time Starsky got out of the shower, the blond was already in bed, lying on his back with an arm flung across his eyes. The brunet pulled the roll away bed out and let it down. Climbing under the covers, he looked at the still form in the double bed.

"Good night, Hutch."

Hutch turned over onto his side, mute.

Starsky rolled onto his back and sighed. He turned to look at Hutch, his eyes filled with sadness.

He raised his voice slightly. "I said, good night, Hutch."

Blue eyes closed in misery. "Good night, Starsky." Then, in a barely audible voice, he whispered. "I'm sorry I got us into this."

 

For the next several days, Starsky and Hutch tried to avoid Jack whenever possible and concentrated on several small cases that came their way. However, the cloud hanging over them took a toll on their nerves and they took pains to stay away from the station whenever possible. The situation nearly came to a head one morning when Starsky happened to catch Jack with his defenses down.

The two men had hoped for a quiet morning, but they were only on the streets for a couple of hours when the first call came over their radio.

"Dispatch to Zebra 3, see the woman about a 311 at Gertie's Restaurant, 9450 South Main."

Hutch rolled his eyes and looked at his partner. "Isn't it a little early for some pervert to be exposing himself?"

Starsky snorted. "Well, at least he picked a good day for it. He won't have to worry about freezing his ass off before we get there."

Hutch laughed and shook his head. "Starsky, that's bad, even for you."

An older woman was waiting for them when they arrived at the restaurant. They could see a smaller person standing behind her, but her wide girth blocked most of him from view. Starsky got out of the Torino and walked to the woman. He flashed his badge briefly.

"I'm Detective Starsky, this is Detective Hutchinson. You called in a complaint?"

"You damned right I did! My name's Gertie Watkins. I own this restaurant. I was right in the middle of serving breakfast when one of my best customers comes to me and tells me he's going to Ned's Shed from now on. I asked him why, and he pointed out the window. I took a look-see and this scrawny little geek was standing right in front of my place." Before they could speak, Gertie pulled the hapless individual around and pushed him toward Starsky. "Now, I'm a tolerant person, but this was a little much. How were my customers supposed to eat with his privates hanging out of his coat? Man, that's enough to kill anybody's appetite."

The two detectives looked at the perpetrator and groaned. Hutch shook his head.

"Awww, Chicken Legs, you promised last time that you wouldn't do this any more. You're supposed to be down on Porno Row. What are you doing up here?"

Arnie "Chicken Legs" Reynolds squinted up at the blond. "Hey, give me a break, will you? I was hungry. Those perverts down on Porno Row haven't held a steady job in twenty years. Trust me, the only thing they have to give, I don't want."

Starsky glared at Arnie. "And what are you, Citizen of the Year?"

Arnie put a pitiful expression on his face. "Come on, Starsky. All I want is something to eat. Now, are you going to bust me, or not? They've already served breakfast at the jail, and if you don't get me booked pretty soon, I'll miss lunch, too." Arnie put a hand to his mouth. "Ooops. You didn't hear me say that."

Hutch raised an eyebrow. "Now, let me get this straight. You did this on purpose so we'd run you in? Damn, you must be in bad shape."

"Look; I tried to get a real job, but who's going to hire me? All of the missions are full and I don't have enough money for a room, even on Skid Row. The jail ain't such a bad place to be. You get three squares a day and a place to sleep. Plus, none of the skells will bother me. I ain't pretty enough or young enough for them. So, how about it, guys? Indecent exposure ought to be good enough for a few days in the pokey."

Hutch laughed in spite of himself. "Arnie, you have to be the only perp in town that actually wants to be arrested. Come on; we'll get you booked and fingerprinted and you'll be sitting in a cell in plenty of time for lunch. And I’m not wasting my time handcuffing you. I don't think you're a flight risk."

Arnie clapped his hands and skipped ahead of them to the Torino. "Well, what are you waiting for? Time's a wasting."

They took their willing prisoner to the station and started the booking process. As they were waiting for one of the jailors to pick Arnie up, Hutch turned to his partner.

"Why don't I go on up and start the paperwork on this one? Dobey won't be happy if he finds out that we wasted half the morning on a 311."

Starsky nodded. "Sure, you go ahead and I'll wait for Cliff to pick Arnie up. It should only be a few minutes."

Hutch wasn't gone long before Cliff came and claimed his new prisoner. Arnie went happily off to lock-up, quizzing Cliff on the day's menu. Starsky shook his head again at Arnie's eagerness to be confined.

As the brunet walked up the stairs, he saw Jack standing beside the corner of the squad room. Jack was looking toward the squad room door, licking his lips lasciviously and running a hand down his shirt. Starsky moved slightly so he could see through the large window of the room. Hutch was standing just inside the door, talking to one of the other detectives. The blond was half-turned toward the back, giving Jack a complete profile. For a moment, Starsky tried to look at Hutch through a homosexual's eyes. Hutch had taken his jacket off, and had thrown it over one shoulder, holding it by two fingers. The cream-colored shirt he was wearing went well with his blond hair and accented his wide shoulders and trim waistline. The brown dress slacks were tight enough to define every muscle in his hips and legs. You know, I never realized how handsome he is. It's not exactly something I think about, though. He looks like he just stepped out of one of those high class men's magazines.

Then, he saw Jack staring at Hutch, almost drooling with desire. His jaw set in a grim line, Starsky moved a few feet then coughed loud enough for Jack to hear.

The younger man whirled around, gasping inaudibly. When he saw Starsky, his expression turned neutral.

"Starsky, you startled me!"

"What are you doing, Jack?"

"Me? I wasn't doing anything. I took some files back to R & I for Eric and was on my way back to the squad room."

Starsky moved closer and lowered his voice menacingly. "Bull. You were spying on Hutch. I saw the way you were looking at him. I think you're getting awfully cocky, leering at him the way you were in the middle of the hall."

Jack laughed sarcastically. "You've got a nerve calling me cocky. You swagger around here like you own the whole building, including Hutch. I can stand where I choose and look at whomever I choose. You aren't in charge here."

Starsky pointed a finger at Jack. "Now, you listen to me. I want you to leave Hutch alone! He's not interested in you. Back off, or I'll blow your whole charade out of the water."

Jack let the hatred show in his eyes. "I don't think that would be wise, Starsky. I'll do what I damn well please, and if you get in my way, you'll regret it. Bet on it."

Starsky stepped closer. "Don't push me, Wentworth. Or you'll see what happens when I really get pissed. Don't send any more cute little gifts to Hutch, and don't call any more! Stay out of our lives! Now, get out of here before I forget where we are and punch your lights out."

Jack turned on his heel then turned back. "You know, one of these days someone is going to come along and knock you off that high horse. Be careful, Starsky, be very careful."

Starsky watched him go with fire in his eyes then shook himself all over. He had to regain his composure before Hutch saw him, or the blond would know something had happened. Moments later, he put a smile on his face and walked into the squad room.

Hutch looked up from the report he was writing. "Well, did Cliff get Arnie down to lock-up in time for lunch?"

"Yeah, the last I heard, he was grilling Cliff about what they were having."

"Poor Cliff. He always seems to draw the weird ones. I'm about done then we can get back on the street. It'll be time for our lunch before long."

They were almost out of the squad room when the phone rang on Starsky's desk. The brunet shrugged at his partner then went to answer it. He spoke briefly into the phone then hung up.

"That was Huggy. He says he has something for us."

Hutch breathed a sigh of relief. "It's about damned time. Let's go."

The two detectives left a hastily written message for Dobey and drove to the bar. When they walked into the room, Huggy pointed upwards and walked to the back. Starsky and Hutch followed him to the small apartment upstairs.

As soon as the door closed, Starsky turned to the black man. "What have you got, Huggy?"

"It seems your new nemesis is well known at the Green Parrot. I'm sure you remember Sugar? Well, it seems that Jack has been a steady customer for a long, long time. Sugar almost fainted when I told him that Jack was a cop. He said he saw Jack leave more than once with a sweet young thing. But Jack never caused any problems and was the soul of discretion."

"So, is there a particular type that Jack prefers?"

Huggy shook his head. "Sugar didn't say there was. He'd come in alone, sit at the bar, and before the night was over, he'd leave with his flavor of the night."

Hutch asked, "Did Sugar give you any names? It would help if we could talk to some of his… dates."

"I'm way ahead of you, bro'. If you can swing back by after your shift, you can hear the whole story from the horse's mouth, or one of them, anyway."

Starsky spread his hands out. "You just name the time. How do you want us to work this?"

"He's pretty skittish, so when you get here, just go on upstairs and wait in my apartment. When he gets here, I'll send him on up. And while you're waiting, I'll even send Diane up with a cold one for you."

"Wow, thanks, Huggy."

The black man strode to the door then turned. "Don't mention it, Starsk. I'll put it on your tab."

The two men laughed and walked out of the bar. That evening, after they finished their shift and went home to change clothes, they returned to The Pits. After nodding at the black proprietor, they walked up the stairs and into the small room. Diane knocked a few moments later and when Starsky opened the door, handed him a tray with the ever present pitcher of beer and three glasses. Starsky poured a glass of beer for him and Hutch then the two men waited for their guest. It was getting close to midnight when Huggy stuck his head in the room. He nodded once and whispered encouragingly to the person standing behind him. Slowly, the young man entered the room. Under his sullen exterior, they could sense the fear deep inside him. When Huggy shut the door, he stood against it, studying the two detectives suspiciously.

Starsky tried to soothe the scared man. "It's okay, we're not out to bust you. Huggy said you might have some information for us, about Jack Wentworth."

The frightened witness nodded slightly. He was youthful looking, and smaller than Jack. His dark hair framed his face in curls, and one single earring sparkled from his left lobe. Almond-shaped dark eyes were accented by high cheek bones, giving the young man an oriental appearance. Hutch pulled out a chair and motioned for the young man to sit down.

"I'm Hutch, and this is Starsky. What's your name?"

The young man sat down in the chair, crossing his legs in a false bravado. "Nori."

The two men sat on each side of Nori. Hutch smiled genially. "We're not going to hurt you, Nori. How long have you known Jack?"

"I met him a while back; I'm not sure how long ago. I ran away from my parents in San Francisco and hitch hiked down here. I was living on the streets when Jack and his partner busted me. The other man was hateful, and threatened to send me home, but Jack talked him out of it. I should have known he wanted something in return. Cops never do anything nice for you without a price."

Starsky filled the spare mug Diane had given them with beer, but held it back. "How old are you, Nori?"

"I'm twenty-one. I know how young I look, but it's the truth. Jack was really turned on because I look like a kid. He said it was the best of both worlds. He could live out all his fantasies without breaking the law."

Starsky looked skeptical, but pushed the beer toward him anyway. "What kind of fantasies did he have?"

The dark eyes staring back at him were ageless. "What kind do you think? He bought me kid's clothes and wanted me to play the kind of games kids did. They always ended up the same way, though. Anyway, he set me up in one of the rooms down at the Biltmore, and introduced me to some of his 'friends'. They were a little kinkier than he was, but he made sure they never got rough. And when his cop friends were going to raid the Parrot, he always let me know so I could disappear."

Hutch leaned forward. "Did he ever get rough with you?"

The thin shoulders shrugged. "Sometimes, but it wasn't anything I couldn't handle."

Starsky glanced at his partner then back at Nori. "Did you know Jack was married and had a kid?"

Nori laughed. "Yeah, he was always talking about them. I think he actually likes her, and he's crazy about that kid. It was like he had a split personality or something. When we met in the Parrot, he was a regular guy, but when we went up to my room, he was a pervert. Sometimes he got so weird that he gave me the creeps."

"Are you still seeing him?"

Nori shook his head. "Not really, I mean, I still run into him at the Parrot, but we don't have a thing going on any more. I guess he found someone he likes better."

Hutch made a face. "I guess he did. Did Jack ever give you money, Nori?"

"You mean, for sex? No, but he bought me clothes, or food, or he'd pay my rent. He said it wasn't soliciting if he bought me stuff instead of giving me cash."

Starsky muttered under his breath. "Yeah, right." He finished his beer and stood up. "OK, Nori, thanks for talking to us. In case you haven't figured it out already, Jack's not a nice guy. If you want some friendly advice, stay away from him. He's into something heavy now, and if you're still involved with him, he could take you down, too."

Nori snickered. "Man, you ain't telling me anything I don't already know. Is that all you wanted, to talk? Hey, you guys are all right, for cops. Huggy said you were cool, but I still thought you were going to bust me."

Hutch smiled for the first time. "We're not Vice, Nori. We won't gain anything by throwing you in jail. But, if you see Jack again, don't tell him you talked to us. That would put you in real danger. Just be cool, and stay away from him."

"Sure, dude, I hear you. I can crash with some friends of mine, and Jack will never find me. Later, dudes."

Nori finished his beer in one gulp and slid out the door. Hutch looked at his partner.

"Well, what do you think?"

Starsky refilled his mug and took a sip of beer. "I think Jack's even more perverted than I thought. If anyone finds out that I gave Nori that beer, I could get arrested. There's no way that kid is eighteen, let alone twenty-one. I'd be willing to bet that Jack knew it, too."

"You're probably right. That gives us a little ammo to fight back with, at least." Hutch took a drink then thumped his fist on the table. "But the end is still going to be the same! If we have to fight Jack, it will kill Shannon and leave Colin without a father."

Starsky rubbed his chin. "Maybe not. The next time Jack pushes, we'll push back. It might be a game he's not willing to play, if he knows how high the stakes are."

Hutch sighed as he opened the door. "I wish I had your confidence, Starsk. Jack was pretty explicit about what he wanted. I don't think he'll give up without a fight."

Starsky thought back to the confrontation he'd had with Jack earlier that day. He showed his teeth in a humorless grin. "Well, we'll just have to show him how dumb that would be."

 

 

The next morning, Shannon Wentworth stood beside Colin's crib, smiling tenderly as she watched her son sleep. I love you so much, Colin! I'd do anything for you, and I'll never regret what I've already done. I know your grandma loves you, but I also know that she never expected a grandchild from me. I wasn't pretty, or popular. I didn't want to be a cheerleader, and I wasn't good at sports. I was the black sheep of the family. She never thought I'd get married, let alone have a child as wonderful as you. Well, what she doesn't know won't hurt her, and I'll do anything to make sure she never discovers my secret.

Shannon sighed as she turned away from the crib. On the way out of the room, she caught a reflection of herself in the mirror over Colin's changing table. She gazed steadily at herself as she turned to face her reflection. So what if I'm just a plain Jane? I know what they all said about me. I was the smart one, the one with the good personality and terrific sense of humor. That's simply a nice way of saying that I'm not pretty, that no boy would ever fall in love with me. Just like when my mother said that I was big-boned, and didn't look as good in my prom dress as my sisters did. She wouldn’t call me fat to my face. Poor daddy, he always tried to make me feel better. He said that men didn't like skinny women, anyway. There was just more of me to love and to hold. So, why were Kristy and Jennifer engaged before they ever got out of high school? Mom never expected them to go to college. She never told them that they needed a career, something that would support them for the rest of their lives. Even before I graduated, she gave up on me ever finding a husband. Well, we fooled her. We fooled everybody, and we still are.

Shannon had been at Parker Center only a few months when she met Jack Wentworth. He'd come down to the caverns, asking for the forms necessary for applying to the academy, and Shannon had been on duty. Over the next few days, she helped him fill out the forms, and they became friends. After Jack was accepted, they started dating, but three months after they met, the relationship was still platonic. Shannon enjoyed his company, but his lack of romantic interest filled her with self-doubt. Even thought they spent much of their time in his apartment, alone, Jack never did more than kiss her. Then, two days before he started his training, Jack confessed he was gay. Shannon was devastated. She'd hinted to her family that a wedding was in her future just to see the look on her mother's face, only to find out that it was never going to happen. All of her hopes were dashed by that one revelation, or so she thought. Jack made a completely different kind of proposal that would satisfy her parents and safeguard his secret.

Jack told her that he dreamed of being a police officer all his life, but he knew that his sexual preferences were a big obstacle to that dream. Even in the age of free love, gays on the force were viewed as being deviants and outcasts. Although he was only in his twenties, he was already adept at hiding his secret life from his family. The Wentworth's had served the public for three generations. His great-grandfather, and his grandfather were well known in the local political circles, and Jack's father had served on the police force for over twenty years. If Jack was going to follow in his father's footsteps, he had to make sure his secret was well hidden. The best way to do that was for him to marry a "nice girl" and settle down. As far as he was concerned, Shannon was perfect. She came from a good family, had lived in Bay City all of her life, and was already established at the 9^th Precinct. Still, Shannon wasn't sure about the arrangement he suggested, until he told her about his other dream, the one he thought was unattainable. As much as he wanted to be a cop, there was one thing he wanted more: to be a father. He knew there was no way anyone would let a gay couple adopt a child, and the cost of a surrogate mother was way out of his reach. On the other hand, if he were to marry a respectable girl and have a child, no one would ever suspect his true inclinations. Shannon looked down at the rings on her finger as she remembered his proposal.

Shannon, I love you in my own way. If you agree to be my wife, I'll be your friend, your confidant, and I swear that I'll never hurt you. I'll stand by your side and we'll raise our child in a home filled with love. I know this isn't what you imagined your life would be like, but if you'll do this for me, I'll do my best to see that you never regret it.

She could still feel her heart pounding in her chest as the ramifications of what he asked careened in her mind. But what if you fall in love with someone else after we're married? What will happen to me and our child? Will you simply desert us, leaving me to raise our child alone? I don't know if I could do that, Jack.

He had taken her hand and gazed earnestly in her eyes. I've never had much luck with relationships before, Shannon. I'll promise you this: if I find myself involved with someone, I'll be discreet and never cause you any embarrassment or shame. And if you find someone that can give you what I can't, I'll step aside. The only stipulation that I would ask is to continue to be involved in our child's life.

She looked in his eyes then and saw how much he wanted her to say yes. Before she had the chance to change her mind, Shannon touched his cheek and whispered her answer. All right, Jack, I'll be your wife, and I'll have our child. Then, to herself, she'd prayed. And may God have mercy on all of our souls.

Now, Jack had everything he'd ever wanted. He was a detective, and the father of a precious baby boy. Shannon looked at the woman that was staring back at her in the mirror. I guess I have everything that I wanted, too. I have a husband, a beautiful baby, and a job that I love. Maybe we aren't your typical family, but what is typical these days? Jack's been good to me and a wonderful father to Colin. We have a good marriage, and a good life. And no one will ever know the truth.

As she turned to leave, her eyes fell on her sleeping son. "I'll never let anyone hurt you, Colin. Not anyone."

She shook her head briefly, going from the past to the present. Colin would be asleep for a while yet, giving her time to finish cleaning the cottage. She walked into the bedroom she shared with Jack and made up the twin beds. So what if we don't have a fancy double bed? I know lots of couples that sleep in separate beds. At least we sleep in the same room, not in separate rooms like strangers in some hotel. Then she went to the closet and took down the suit that Jack had asked her to send to the cleaners. She went through the pockets of his coat and trousers quickly, checking for any loose change or scraps of paper. Jack was a competent detective, but when it came to cleaning out his pockets, he was no better than a child. Shannon tsked as she withdrew a small piece of paper from his pant's pocket.

"Thank goodness I found this, or it would have been confetti after the cleaner was finished with it." She turned the note over and read what was scribbled on the front. "1027 ½ Ocean. Now, why does that sound familiar? Oh, I remember now. I've seen that address on different forms. It's Hutch's apartment. Why would Jack have it written down? I didn't think they knew each other that well."

Her mind went back to the conversation they'd had at the dinner table. You asked a lot of questions that night, Jack. What's going on? It has to be something to do with work. Starsky and Hutch aren't gay! But why would you need to know where they live?

A sound from the other room intruded on her thoughts, and she walked back to her son, sticking the note in her pocket as she went. As she fed her son and dressed him for the day, she was always conscious of the piece of paper. She put Colin in his play pen and surrounded him with his toys then studied the address again. Could it be that you're helping them with a case? Starsky and Hutch are undercover detectives. Is that what this is all about? You've been going out so much at night lately. Are you on a stake-out? Oh Jack, you promised you wouldn't do anything reckless! Maybe that's why you haven't told me. Well, I'm your wife. I have a right to know.

Her mind made up, Shannon made sure Colin was occupied with his toys then called her mother. Celia loved her grandson dearly, and always welcomed the chance to baby sit.

"Hi, Mom, it's me. I know this is short notice, but do you think you could watch Colin for a while this evening? I have an errand that I need to run. I won't be long, I promise."

"Shannon, you know that I love watching Colin any time. But, are you sure Jack wouldn't rather keep him?"

"He would, except this is his night to go out with his family. The Wentworth men all get together and have dinner at the club. It's silly, really, but he seems to enjoy it."

"In that case, I'd love to baby sit. What time will you drop him off?"

"I think around six or so. I really appreciate this, Mom. It will only be for an hour or two. Jack will be worried if I'm not here when he gets home."

"I'll be watching for you then. I'll see you later, Shannon. Give Colin a big kiss and hug for me."

"I will, Mom. Bye."

Shannon hung up the phone and gazed at her son. I'm going to find out what you're up to, Jack. Colin needs both his parents, and I'm going to make sure he has them.

Shannon took Colin to her mother's, and after kissing him good-bye, drove to Hutch's Venice Place apartment. Breathing a sigh of relief that Jack's car wasn't parked behind the Torino, Shannon stood on the sidewalk and stared at the light blazing in the second floor window. A twinge of uncertainty fluttered in her stomach and she turned back toward her car. If Jack finds out what I'm doing, he'll be furious. Wives are supposed to trust their husbands. What if he didn't say anything because he can't? Will I get him in trouble if I start asking questions? The logical part of her mind snickered. Oh, come on, Shannon. This isn't a movie, and Jack isn't 007. You've worked around cops long enough to know how they do things. Shannon argued with herself. Then what if this case he's working on is so boring that he didn't think there was any need to tell me? Maybe Starsky and Hutch are sitting in Jack's car right now, simply talking and drinking bad coffee while they gather information on a suspect. Her logical self conceded the possibility. Well, that sounds more like it. But, you'll never know unless you knock on Hutch's door and ask him. If you're going to do it then get moving. Otherwise, get back in the car and go visit Mom. Go ahead, bury your head in the sand and forget about that note.

Shannon whispered miserably. "I can't. I have to know."

Steeling herself, she walked up the stairs to Hutch's apartment and knocked on the door. She heard a voice from inside.

"Hang on, I'm coming!" Seconds later, Starsky opened the door. "What did you do, Blondie, forget your key? Oh, I'm sorry, Shannon. I thought it was Hutch."

Shannon fidgeted self-consciously. "I'm sorry to disturb you at home, Starsky. I was wondering if I could talk to you for a few minutes."

The brunet looked mystified but invited her in. "Sure, come on in. Hutch went to the store, but he should be back soon. Would you like to sit down?"

"Oh, no, I won't keep you that long." She stood in the living room as she searched for the words. "You see, I was cleaning out Jack's suit so I could take it to the cleaners, and I found your address written on a scrap of paper. I didn't think you knew each other that well, and I was wondering… why he had it. I thought maybe he was helping you on a case, or something."

Starsky shook his head slowly. "Jack hasn't finished with his rotation in Robbery yet. We haven't worked together since the liquor store robbery. Besides, he wouldn't need our home address. We'd meet at the station if he was helping us on a case. Have you asked Jack?"

She shook her head reluctantly. "No, I haven't had the chance. Jack goes out with his family on Tuesday nights. Anyway, I didn't want him to think I was prying. I trust Jack, but I know how much being a cop means to him. I wouldn't want him to do anything reckless."

"What makes you think he's doing anything risky? He could have our address for other reasons. What gave you the idea he was on a case?"

Shannon bit her lip. "Well, he has been staying out a lot at night lately. And he was asking questions about you and Hutch the other night. I thought he was just nervous about working with you." She tried to smile. "Your reputation can be a little daunting, you know."

"I wish I could help, Shannon, but I think you need to ask Jack about this. But don't worry. He's not on a case, so he's not in any danger."

She smiled for the first time. "That's a weight off my mind. Colin is so young. He needs his father more each day. I'm sure it's nothing. I'll talk to Jack when he gets home."

She turned to go, feeling relieved and a little foolish, until her eyes fell on the only bedroom in the small apartment. The wooden divider cut off part of the view, but she could see the large double bed in the center of the room. Her mind flashed back to the twin beds in her own home as she heard her own words. After Starsky went back to work, I guess it made sense financially for them to keep living together. Her heart thudded in her chest as she struggled for breath, and she ducked her head as her face grew hot.

"I really need to get home now. Colin is with my mother, and Jack should be home soon. I'll ask him about the note. I'm sorry that I bothered you."

"It's no bother, I promise. Are you okay, Shannon? Your face is flushed."

"I'm just embarrassed that I intruded on your privacy. I'll leave you alone now. Please, give my best to Hutch."

She fled out the door and ran to the car. After she climbed in and slammed the door, she buried her face in the steering wheel. Oh, my God, there's only one bed! Jack and I are married and we sleep in separate beds. Where do they sleep? Don't tell me one of them sleeps on the couch! Everyone knows Hutch has a bad back, and if they planned on living together for a long time, why didn't they just buy another bed? Even a roll-away has to be more comfortable than that couch. Oh, Jack, am I just fooling myself? Starsky's right. You wouldn't need Hutch's address if you were working together. This has to be something personal! She wiped her eyes then started the car. As she drove back to her apartment, she stared in the rear view mirror. Which one are you after, Jack, Starsky or Hutch? Which one are you willing to destroy our marriage for?

At the same time Shannon was coming out of Venice Place, Jack was driving home from his night out with his father and grandfather. How he detested these weekly gatherings! Still, it was necessary if his true nature were to remain a secret. The dinner at that stuffy club, and the hours he spent listening to his relatives expound on their exaggerated tales of heroism were a small price to pay for his life. As he turned onto Pacific Way, he saw Hutch's dilapidated Ford parked at a small convenience store. He slowed and turned into the parking lot then turned off the car. Smiling to himself, he got out of his car and stood in the shadows close to the Ford. A few minutes later, Hutch came out carrying a paper sack. As the blond put the bag in the passenger side of the front seat, Jack stepped into the glow of the street light.

"Well, imagine meeting you here. I'm surprised Starsky let you out of his sight."

Hutch slammed the door shut then turned to face Jack. "What are you doing here, Wentworth? Are you following me?"

"I'm sorry to say that I wasn't. I was on my way home from dinner with my father when I saw your car. It isn't hard to spot, even in the dark."

"Then maybe you should just keep going. Go home to Shannon and Colin, Jack. They appreciate your affections. I don't."

Jack moved closer, forcing Hutch against the door of the car. "Why are you always in a hurry? There isn't anyone else around. We're not at the station, and Starsky is at home. The night is still young." He ran his fingers through Hutch's blond hair. "I love the way your hair glows in the moonlight. It makes you look like an angel. Am I really that repulsive? I know I could make you happy, if you gave me the chance."

Hutch slapped his hand away then growled. "If you touch me again, you're going to lose a hand. I'm telling you for the last time! Leave me alone. I'm not gay! Give it up, Jack."

Jack laughed then stepped back. "I love it when you play hard to get. It makes the chase so exciting! That's okay; I've got all the time in the world. You'll get tired of Starsky one day then you'll come to me."

Hutch backed around the car and pulled open the driver's side door. Before he got in the car, Hutch glared at Jack and pointed his finger. "You know, I haven't said anything to Shannon yet, because I don't want to hurt her. Let me make this plain to you. I don't want your gifts, I don't want you to call me, and I damned sure don't want you! If you ever touch me again, she'll be the first person I tell. But she won't be the last."

Jack watched as Hutch started the car then squealed out of the parking lot. His eyes gleamed with his obsession. "I guess that's a chance I'll have to take. You'll see, Hutch. I always get what I want. Always."

He climbed back into his car and drove off. Minutes later, Jack unlocked the door to the cottage and tip-toed in so he wouldn't wake Colin. The small lamp in the front room illuminated the area enough for him to walk into his son's bedroom. Jack bent over the crib to kiss his son goodnight, but blinked when he saw the empty bed.

Shannon's voice came from behind him. "He's not here. He's spending the night with my mother."

Jack turned around to face her. "He's spending the night? Why? He's never been away from home all night before."

"He'll be fine. Mom loves taking care of him and he has his favorite Teddy bear to keep him company. Besides, we have things to discuss and I didn't want any interruptions."

She turned on the over head light. The piece of paper was in her hand. "What's this?"

Jack flushed guiltily. "It's an address. I needed it for my job."

Shannon shook her head angrily. "No, you didn't! If you're working on a case, you don't go to the other detective's home. You meet at the station. I've worked at Parker Center long enough to know that, Jack. Besides, I already talked to Starsky. He didn't know anything about a case. Don't lie to me, Jack. Why did you need this address?"

Jack's face paled. "You talked to Starsky? When?"

"Tonight. I went over there, hoping for some answers. I wanted you to be working with them! I wanted to believe this was nothing personal. Then I saw the double bed in their room. It's true, isn't it? They're involved with each other. Two heterosexual men wouldn't share a bed every night. Which one are you after, Jack? Starsky?"

"Are you kidding? You actually think I would be attracted to that egotistical, swaggering, street urchin? We have absolutely nothing in common."

Shannon nodded to herself. "Then it's Hutch. How could you do that to me? You promised me, Jack! You said that if you got involved with someone, you'd be discreet. How can you be discreet when you go after one of the most prominent detectives on the force?"

"I’m not going after him, Shannon. I was curious. I've heard people gossiping about them ever since I joined the force. I've seen things that made me wonder if the rumors are true. So, I got their address from Personnel and went over to their apartment. I caught them in a compromising position! They were wrestling around in these muddy clothes, on the floor of all places! I know they were making love! And when they stood up, they both took their clothes off and went into the bathroom, together. Now I know what people say about them is the truth."

Shannon gaped at her husband. "You spied on them? How could you? And, what's it to you, anyway? What they do in their own home is their business, not yours! Unless, you thought you could break them up. Is that what you planned, Jack?"

He looked at his feet. "Hutch is a very attractive man. He's sensitive, intelligent, and compassionate. I have no idea what he sees in Starsky." His eyes met Shannon's. "I didn't intend for it to happen, I swear. I wouldn't hurt you and Colin. No one would ever know. I've been involved with other men since we got married, and no one was ever the wiser. I would have kept my affair with Hutch a secret, too."

Shannon laughed shrilly. "How could you keep it a secret? You're trying to split up the most admired partnership on the force! Not to mention that you'd destroy both their careers when this all came to light and your career as well."

She turned away from him and walked to their bedroom. Taking a suitcase from their closet, she started packing.

"I'm leaving you, Jack. I'm taking Colin and I'm asking for a transfer. I'll go somewhere new, where they've never heard of you. I'll start over and give Colin a good life." She looked up, tears glinting in her eyes. "You promised me that I would never regret marrying you. Now I wish I had never met you."

Jack moved closer. "Please don't leave, Shannon. Nothing happened with Hutch. I can't even get him to admit that he's gay! I won't do anything like this again, I swear! Please don't take Colin away from me."

"You say that now. What if you find someone else that you're attracted to? Will you spy on them, too? Who will it be, Jack? Will you care how much it hurts me, or Colin? This was a mistake, a horrible mistake. I have to protect Colin now. He didn't ask for any of this."

Jack's agitation grew as Shannon kept packing. Suddenly, his eyes flashed and he grabbed her, pushing her up against the wall.

"You're not going anywhere! Colin is my son! You can't have him!"

Shannon broke away and ran from the room, sobbing. She threw open the front door. "Get out! I'm not going to let you hurt my baby! I'll take him away from here and you'll never see him again! Now, go, or I'll call the police and have you arrested for assault. I swear I will!"

Jack stalked to the door then turned back. "This isn't over, Shannon. I won't let you take my son away from me!"

Shannon stood in the middle of the room until she heard his footsteps recede. Then she ran to the door, slammed it and locked it. As she slid down the wooden door, sobs wracked her body.

"Oh, God, what am I going to do now?"

 

Back to FanFic2   Back to Dark Desires Part 1 

 

Go to Dark Desires Part 3  Index