Night-Sky

Author

1

I do like you. You’re a great person and I would love to be your friend but I don’t date. Please don’t be angry at me for that. I should get going now I guess. It was nice talking to you on the trip down. Good Night.

AAUGH! How could I be so stupid? Why would someone like that want to go out with me?

Tricia was good at self-doubt and putting all the blame on herself. When Chellie rejected her, it was the last straw. I’m done trying. Maybe this town is not the one for me after all. She was heading back into town after the Search and Rescue was done. She had left her pack in the chopper and David, the flight Paramedic said he would leave it at the front desk for her at the hospital to save her from the trip out to the air strip. When I get home, I’m going onto the site to see what’s available around the county. She had a plan and she was ready to move on.

Tricia parked her truck in the hospital lot and got out. It had started to sprinkle and was going to just get worse. She headed inside and walked to the desk. The person was on the phone so she decided to go and check on the kid with the sprained ankle that had been rescued that day.

Hey Collin, how are you doing tonight. She sat and talked with him and his Mom for a few minutes.

**

Alice had finally ended her shift. Her replacement was late and she had to wait. Pediatrics is a very special place to work. She loved it completely, and had waited years for her spot at this hospital to open up. Alice was from Holden, Vermont, born and bred. She went away to nursing school and then she specialized at a bigger hospital for her Pediatrics and Neonatal training. She wanted to be the best she could before coming back to Holden. She wanted to make her life here and had never wanted to live anywhere else. When she left she wasn’t sure that she would be able to come back, let alone live here again, but Alice was strong and she was better than what had happened to her.

So are you all set now Glenda? They have all had their ten pm checks and I logged them in. I’m going to take off now.

Thank you so much Alice. I really appreciate that you were willing to stay. I can’t believe I was stuck behind that accident.

No problem, I’ll see you tomorrow. Alice headed out. She was kind of in a hurry since she was late leaving so didn’t really pay attention to who was around. Coming out the elevator, she walked past the front desk and the person standing there.

**

Tricia had left Collin’s room and returned to the front desk to retrieve her pack. Hey there, David said he would leave my pack here at the desk. Do you have it back there?

Sure I do Tricia. Hang on just a second. Lucy stepped around the wall to get it. Here you go Sweetie.

Thanks Lucy. Have a good night. Tricia headed out the door.

Alice hadn’t gotten far when she realized she forgot her jacket. It was cold and rainy and she wanted it. Turning quickly to go back inside she ran smack into Tricia. Oh my god, I’m so sorry Tricia.

It’s ok. I’m just having one of those days I guess. I should have just stayed in bed this morning.

Well that doesn’t sound very good. Do you want to talk about it? I’m a good listener.

I’m sure you have a husband or boyfriend waiting for you Alice. I’ll be fine, really. Blind – deaf – and oblivious.

Alice giggled her beautiful silly girly giggle. Not bloody likely there chicky-poo! You don’t know me very well. Come on, pop a squat.

Tricia turned her head and her eyes popped open as she looked at Alice. She had never given her a second thought. Really, Alice who works in Pediatrics and wears scrubs with puppies or kittens or teddy bears on them, that Alice. Anytime Tricia had seen her outside of the hospital she was dressed up or at least dressed pretty. Tricia could see that she was shivering in the cold rain. Here put this on, you’re cold.

I was just going back in to get my coat, but I’m sure yours is very warm. She was trying to flirt with Tricia. They stepped back inside the lobby and sat on a bench. Now spill. What going on?

Sorry, just a bad day I guess. I’m thinking about transferring away.

Let me guess. You finally asked the blond out and she shut you down, right?

How the hell would you know that?

There is more gossip in the hospital than on the internet. Chellie is a really sweet person. I liked her when I saw her visiting a child that was here. I didn’t really speak to her but she was sweet. What I know, that you don’t know, is that she’s taken. She just doesn’t know it yet.

What?!

It’s a long story and I would be happy to explain it to you at some point, but for right now just know that Chellie is off the market. Trust me, this is a good thing. Now, are you going to ask me out to dinner tomorrow night, or are you going to run away like a little girl?

Why didn’t you ever say anything before? Tricia couldn’t stop looking at her beautiful green eyes and full soft lips.

A woman does like a little romantic chase you know. I’m sorry I’m not tall, blond, and stick thin but I can be cute when I try.

Alice, you are very cute. I just thought you were straight. How about a casual dinner tomorrow night? No big expectations, ok? I haven’t decided if I’m staying here or moving on yet.

Ok, how about we meet at O’Rourke’s Pub, say six pm. Will that work for you, easy-peasy no heavy romance? Her eyes twinkled and her nose wrinkled as she grinned at Tricia.

Ok Alice, sounds like a plan.

Can I ask you a question?

Sure go ahead.

Do you believe in fate?

No, I think we make our own way. We train and study and learn so we can be who we want to be. I wouldn’t write off all the hard work I did to get where I am, and neither should you.

That’s not quite what I meant. I was talking more about worldly life issues. You know, like love and life, not just your career choice.

Wow, your deep. It was really nice running into you tonight Alice. Thank you for talking me down. I am looking forward to tomorrow night. I’m really tired though and I’m sure you are as well. Go get your coat and I’ll wait right here then walk you to your car.

**

Tricia crashed when she got home. Exhausted from the adrenalin rush of rescue then the letdown of not being able to do a repelling rescue, and finally the trek back down the mountain and rejection from Chellie that seemed like days ago, she jumped in the shower then fell into bed. Expecting to wake up sad and lonely, she was surprised that she dreamed of a cute little red head with big green eyes. She woke up happy and looking forward to the date she had.

Since she had the whole day off, she went running first thing then grabbed her gear and went rock climbing for a few hours. That usually cleared her head. When she got back to her apartment at four-thirty, she sat and had a beer. Tricia was surprisingly nervous about this chance with Alice since she was a hell-fire and she was beautiful. Shower time, Tricia had to be presentable.

**

Alice had picked up a half shift for one of the other nurses so she worked ten to two. Once she was done, Alice headed home. She had prepping to do. Starting with a bubble bath, she shaved and put lotion on. Alice liked her body when it glistened. She had picked her matching bra and panties. Alice loved feeling very feminine, and when she painted her finger nails and toe nails to match her undergarments, she smiled to herself. Tricia was someone she had secretly longed for but never went after. Hearing that she was thinking about moving away due to loneness was what pushed her to push Tricia to ask her out. This was probably her only chance to capture Tricia’s heart. She stood in front of the mirror and slipped on the fun little dress she was keeping for a special occasion. Finishing up with sandals and her jewelry, she wore little make up since it wasn’t needed. Her short red wild hair just enhanced her personality. She was fun and funny and feminine. Alice was happy that the day had turned out warm, shivering due to the cold was not really sexy. Grabbing her sweater, she headed out, it was five-thirty.

**

Tricia arrived at the pub at five-forty-five. She went inside and smiled to Colleen. Hi Colleen, how are you tonight?

I’m well Tricia, how are you? It’s been awhile since you’ve been in.

I know, sorry, I’ve been in a funk lately. But I am meeting someone here tonight. She smiled.

Who’s the lucky lady, do tell?

Alice Trainor, Pediatrics nurse at the hospital. Cute little redhead.

I know Alice. I’m friends with her mom Carol. She is a sweet girl. You be nice to her.

Yes Ma’am. They both turned just in time to see Alice coming through the door.

Alice stepped in like pure oxygen. She was beautiful and high maintenance.

Tricia stopped breathing, her mouth dropped open, and her heart skipped a beat.

Colleen saw this happen and whispered to Tricia. Close your mouth before you start to drool. Are you ready for this?

Hell No She quickly tried to regain her composure.

Walking over to Alice, she reached out her hand. Alice smiled shyly at her and placed her hand in Tricia’s. Alice, you look beautiful.

**

Once they were seated and Colleen had brought over their wine, Tricia tried to regain herself. So tell me Alice, what did you do today?

Well I worked a half shift, ten to two, for one of the other nurses, so she could go to her daughter’s play at school. After that it was all about making me irresistible for you.

You did a good job.

Just good?

Ok, you did an incredible job. Do you always do this kind of stuff? Tricia motioned to her whole outer shell.

Yes, when I have a date, which isn’t often, I like to look nice. I like to feel feminine. I like to be soft and smooth and pretty. Is that a problem for you? You don’t like soft or smooth or pretty?

I just … I never required that from another person. It isn’t something I strive for myself so never felt it necessary to require my date to go through the process. Maybe I’m not saying this right. Alice you are a beautiful woman. You don’t need to put all the finish, on an already perfect self.

Tricia wasn’t trying to, but she hurt Alice’s feeling. Her eyes lowered and she felt self-conscious.

I’m sorry if I disgust you because I like to be pretty… Just then Chellie walked in with her little gray dog. Chellie nodded to Colleen and headed for the stairs. Alice saw Tricia watch her walk by. … I guess you aren’t over the blond yet. Well, good luck with that. Maybe this town isn’t the right place for you after all. We don’t need to have dinner together, I get it. I’m not your type. Alice opened her clutch and pulled out a ten dollar bill. This will cover my portion of the wine. Good Night. She slid out of the booth and pulled on her sweater since she no longer felt the warmth.

Colleen came over, Alice is everything alright?

No Colleen, I made a big mistake coming here tonight. Alice had tears in her eyes as she ran from the pub.

Tricia! What is wrong with you? What did you do to her? She’s crying. Colleen stood at the end of the booth waiting for an answer.

I just told her she didn’t have to do all the fancy stuff to be pretty, she already was.

Nice, are you really that insensitive? Alice obviously likes you, though why, I’m starting to ask myself. She did all that for you. Did you have a better offer Tricia?

Not tonight Colleen. I’m not in the mood for witty banter and a whipping for my behavior. I know I screwed up. I guess I just freaked a little bit. Tricia pulled out a ten and set it down with Alice’s. Good night Colleen.

2

Alice had been furious when she left the pub. She didn’t understand Tricia at all. The only thing she did know was that when Chellie walked by, that was where Tricia’s attention went, away from the woman sitting in front of her actually wanting her attention. Well, enough of that crap. She parked her car, went inside and flipped on the stereo. As the jazz played out to her, she carefully took off the dress and rehung it in the closet. Her sandals went into the empty cube they occupied earlier. She removed her jewelry and stood in front of the mirror she stood at earlier. Alice was pretty, she was in shape. She wasn’t sleazy or slutty. Saddened, she turned from the mirror and stepped into the bathroom. Placing her under garments in the bag for delicates, she slipped on her tee shirt and shorts. Flipping off the music then the light, Alice climbed in bed.

**

Alice started the day shift, working six am to two pm the next day. Her phone beeped letting her know she had a message waiting, so on her break she took it out. Smiling at hearing her friend Kim’s voice, she listened.

So, how was the date? You didn’t call me last night so I’m assuming you slept with her and was too busy to call. I miss the fun first sex thrill. But I wouldn’t trade Erica for all the fun first sex in the world. So I think we have a decision made on donor. Call me. I’m dying to hear all about the single life again. Love you Ali – bye.

Hey Kim, I got your message. I’ll stop by after work around seven. The date sucked. I was home by seven-thirty pm, alone. We’ll talk later. Bye

Always showing a happy face for the families she dealt with, Alice made her way through the day. She was walking by the nurse’s station when she noticed the flowers on the counter. Most didn’t send flowers to children; it was usually balloons and bears. Since she was curious, she looked. Lorraine saw her and smiled.

Looks like someone wants to be forgiven. Who’s the lucky one, and are you going to give a second chance to whoever it is?

Alice looked at the card. Sorry, please give me another chance. She tore it up and grabbed the flowers. No, I’m not. Be right back. She headed to the elevator. When she returned two minutes later, it was without the flowers.

What did you do with them?

I brought then down to Geriatrics to cheer up their station. I didn’t want to see them.

Ouch, what happened?

Doesn’t matter, it won’t happen again. I have to get back to Jill.

**

When Alice’s shift ended at six, she was ready for a nice cold drink. She knew Erica would make a pitcher of Margarita’s after the message she left for Kim, so she headed there instead of home. She didn’t get far. Waiting by her car was Tricia.

Please get out of my way. It’s been a long day and I’m tired. Alice hit the button on her fob.

Did you get my flowers Alice? I’m really sorry about last night. I think you misunderstood what I was saying and I would like to clear that up if you let me.

I’m not interested in your explanation Tricia. Please let me by. I brought the flowers down to Geriatrics. Their area needs more cheering up then ours.

I wasn’t trying to cheer up the Pediatrics Department Alice. The flowers were for you. Please can’t we talk?

I’m late. I’m meeting friends, so no.

Ok, another time then. When can we get together?

We can’t Tricia. Good bye. Alice stepped around her and opened her door. Starting up her car she quickly pulled away. She didn’t want Tricia to see the tears in her eyes.

**

Kim was standing in the doorway as Alice got out and walked to the porch. Sweetie, what the hell happened? Get in here. Erica made a pitcher of drinks. Kim smiled at her then pulled her into a hug. Why are the hot ones always a pain in the ass?

You tell me. Thanks for being my friend, Kim. I just don’t get it.

Well, between the three of us, we should be able to figure it out. They went inside and had a good visit. She told them about all of it while they made their way through the pitcher of Margarita’s.

She had the nerve to be at your car when you left the hospital tonight?

Yeah she was.

And did she explain why she acted like an idiot?

No, I didn’t let her.

Do you want to know why?

Why should I give her the opportunity to come up with some line of bullshit about it? I’m clearly not her type. She wants a tall, stick thin, blond and I’m a short, regular, redhead. I should have known better than to think I could compete with that. Don’t get me wrong, I like Chellie, though I have never really spent time with her, I know she’s a Veterinarian, she does Search and Rescue and she is well liked by the community. My mom is a good friend with Colleen O’Rourke who knows Chellie very well.

So you need to find someone else Ali. You are a beautiful, vertically challenged, curvaceous, redhead. You are far from regular.

How about some dinner Honey? I have a pan of lasagna in the oven and it should be done about now. I’ll make some garlic bread and we can enjoy all the flavors. Please join us? I’m a pretty good cook so I’ve been told. Erica smiled brightly.

That sounds wonderful. Thank you both for being such good friends. But before we eat I want to see who you picked to be the donor.

Kim you show her, I’m going to get dinner finished up. Erica left the living room.

Kim and Alice went to the desk and Kim booted it up. Once on the site she keyed in the donor number and his profile popped up. What do you think? His eyes are just like Erica’s and his ancestry is similar as well.

I think it wouldn’t matter what he looked like; the two of you will love this child unconditionally. You will both be great parents. I can’t wait to be an Aunt, so to speak.

You will be a wonderful Aunt to our child, and maybe Godmother? Kim was asking.

Really, you want me to be your child’s Godmother? You are going to raise the child as Catholic then?

We are going to raise the child as non-denominational. But I had a Godmother, and she was very special to me so I want my child to have one as well. And you look like the Fairy Godmother type. Please Sweetie?

Of course I will. That would be my honor. Oh, I’m so happy for you both. Alice had tears in her eyes for her friends.

Dinner’s ready. Erica called out from the kitchen.

**

Tricia was frustrated. She knew she screwed up but didn’t know how to fix it. So as she always did, Tricia stuck her head in the books. She was on night shift as Paramedic and it was usually quiet. Tricia always had either a periodical on some new procedure that was being done or she was reading a book about some other entirely new hobby she was trying. Tricia was a very smart woman. She could fix almost anything in her apartment or her truck. She was very computer savvy. Being athletic and strong and healthy she was a good fit for both the Fire Departments volunteers and the Search and Rescue. Rock climbing was one of her favorite past times, but hiking and camping were good fun as well. Since she was working nights, she spent her days in the woods now that it had warmed up. When the shift ended, she headed into the mountains. Finding an empty trail she would hike till about eleven am then would find a nice sunny place to sleep, usually on top of a nice flat rock. Tricia would soak up the sun and work on her tan. She was part Native American and a mix of other stuff. That gave her a unique look. Her straight jet black hair was almost always tied back and her eyes were as deep and dark as the night. She had her mother’s cheekbones and was quite beautiful but she never felt it.

She had been trying to figure out how she was going to fix this mess with Alice, so far she had come up with nothing. Alice wouldn’t talk to her. She got rid of the flowers sent to her, and nothing else was coming to mind.

**

On her last night shift this schedule, she and her partner responded to a call of a woman in distress. When they arrived, they found a very pregnant woman who appeared to be in labor. Once they got all the pertinent information, the woman was loaded into the ambulance. Tricia had been in a delivery situation before so she rode in the back with the woman. They didn’t think they would be at the hospital in time and she was not at full term in the pregnancy. Certainly she was far enough along for the baby to survive but Mary Chambers did not want to deliver this early. As Tricia worked with the hospital on the radio, she tried to keep Mary calm and gave her what they told her to, in an attempt to slow or stop the labor. Nothing was working and about two miles from the hospital Mary gave birth to a sweet little girl. Tricia did what was needed and got both of them safely there.

The ambulance was met by two teams, one for the infant so it could be assessed and cared for, and one team for the mother’s evaluation and care. There is always a ton of paperwork and each team needed to be brought up to speed on each and every step and procedure that Tricia had done while in route to the hospital. Tricia and her partner Curt were in a conference room sitting at the table. I’m going to go and restock while you finish up with this, ok?

Yeah sure, I won’t be much longer. This is almost done and I just have to make copies for both groups. Give me fifteen minutes.

Cool, I have the list for restock so I’ll be done by then.

**

Alice had finished her shift hours ago and was home asleep when the phone woke her.

Hello She wasn’t really awake.

Alice, this is Dr. Mason, I’m at the hospital and Mary Chambers just delivered three weeks early. I know you’re on days but I would feel better if you were here. You are the best we have and this baby girl needs you.

Of course, I’ll be right there. Alice disconnected the line and grabbed her clothes. She drove quickly and went inside. Once changed into her scrubs she went to find Dr. Mason.

I got here as quickly as I could. Do you want to fill me in?

Actually, I would like you to go and get a quick walk through with the Paramedic that brought them in. I know it’s all written out but skim over it to make sure nothing was missed. I’ll see you in NICU in a couple minutes.

Alice pushed open the door and saw Tricia just getting up from the table. I’ve been asked to hear the high lights of the trip from you before taking the notes into NICU. Can you please tell me what happened tonight? Alice was trying to be professional.

Sure, have a seat. Tricia sat across from Alice. She started to go through the call starting at the time the call came in and they responded to the time they arrived here at the hospital. I have written it all out for you and you have a copy for the other Dr. as well. Am I dismissed now?

Yes, thank you for what you did to save them both tonight Tricia. I’m sure Mary will be grateful for your efforts. You saved them both I have no doubt. She quietly got up to leave.

Please Alice, Please give me a second chance. Tricia was sincere.

I don’t know Tricia. I’ll think about it though, ok? She left the room.

**

When Tricia finally got back to the ambulance bay, Curt was in the driver’s seat almost asleep. It’s about frigging time. What took you so long?

They called in a special Neo-Pediatric nurse and wanted me to go over the call again in person before I left. I’m done, finally, let’s get back so we can end shift. Christ it’s almost four am already.

When they got back to base, word had spread about the call and how it went. Tricia was called into the Chief’s office. She sat across from him and waited.

You’ve had quite a night so far.

Yes, and it isn’t over yet, still two more hours on shift Sir.

Are you up to finish shift? I know the adrenalin must have been pumping pretty hard for all that time.

I’m good, but thanks. Spending an hour and a half reviewing and reciting it three times dropped it back to smooth. No problem with finishing up Sir.

That makes how many now?

Four Sir.

Four; and how many are named Tricia or Patricia?

Three Sir.

Three so far. I’d be willing to bet by the end of the day, that number will increase. He smiled at Tricia. She was a good fit to the team. So I am going to ask you another question.

Yes, I’m gay.

That wasn’t the question. We already know the answer to that one. My question is; are you moving on?

What, who told you that?

I heard a rumor and want to know if it’s true. Are you planning to find a new department to go and work for?

I can’t answer that question Sir. I don’t know. I was hoping things would work out for me here, but they don’t seem to be.

Does this have to do with work, or anyone within this department? I really need to know Tricia. We don’t want to lose you. You’re an asset to this department and others.

What, no Sir, this is in no way related to Holden’s Fire, Rescue, or Response departments. Everyone I work with here is great.

Is it a money thing? Are you looking for better wages? I can try to do something but I can’t guarantee anything.

That is a great gesture Sir but no, it isn’t the money either. It’s personal, and really I don’t think it much matters where I go, the results will be the same, so. Tricia shrugged her shoulders. I haven’t decided anything and I would never leave you in a bind so please don’t worry at this point. I really like Holden, and the activities that abound here. You know, rock climbing and hiking. This is a really good place for me, but I’m just looking for a mate so to speak. Sorry, not trying to make you feel queasy, just trying to explain.

I get it Tricia. If you ever get the urge to move on again, please come and talk to me first. We would hate to lose you. But don’t let your ego inflate. And congratulations on tonight.

Tricia stood up and snickered. No ego problem, I know I’m the best. Thanks … Sir. She headed out of the office and back into the call room.

Curt was sitting there reading the morning paper that had just arrived. I suppose you’re going to get some medal for being a hero.

No, just shooting the shit and quelling rumors. Seems you and I are an item.

What the fuck? He was totally taken in.

Tricia stood there laughing her ass off. You are just too gullible man. Like anyone would buy that loaf of bread. Seriously She was still laughing when she sat across from him. Hand me movie section, I might want to go see something."

It was quiet for the rest of the shift and they worked together to make sure the rig was clean and ready for the next shift. Tricia had the next two days off, and then would be on the middle shift. It was the waste of a whole day in her mind. Two to ten shifts sucked according to her. She traded that shift as often as possible.

**

Alice fell in love with the new little preemie that was now in her care. Baby Chambers was doing well. She was still in the incubator but was breathing with only the oxygen now. She had one IV still connected but that was for basics. When Mary Chambers came in to see her, Alice brought over a wheelchair so she could sit and spend time with her baby.

How is my little girl doing? She was staring at the tiny baby.

She is beautiful and strong, and no doubt waiting to hear your voice. Alice went over to the incubator and flipped a switch. Sweet Pea, you have a visitor. Go ahead and talk to her, she can hear you muffled, like in the womb. She will respond to your voice, you’ll see.

Mary spent the next two hours talking to her little girl. Her baby would wiggle her limbs and turn her face toward the sound. Mary was amazed. Alice, do you know the Paramedic that delivered my baby and got us both here alive?

Yes, her name is Tricia.

I was told they called you in specifically due to our situation.

Yes they did Mary, why, is anything wrong with how I’m caring for her?

No, Alice you have been completely wonderful and I want to thank you for all the hard work. I would like to speak with Tricia also. Do you know how to get in touch with her?

I can give you the number to reach the office she works out of. I’ll be right back.

**

Tricia was out on top of Devils Horn. Most tried to do the trail and that was hard enough for them. She loved the inner climb up the steep rock. It was easy and relaxing for her since her ability level was much higher, but she did this one because she just needed to come down from the high of bringing another baby into the world. She tried to sluff it off as ‘all in a day’s work’ but really it was a complete rush to her. She had thought about going further in the medical world to become a doctor but the delivery was the only part that gave her the rush, the rest of it was way more than she wanted to have to deal with.

Looking up at the clear blue sky, she watched the clouds float by. Still not tired after her night shift, she thought about what she did want. Tricia still wanted a second chance with Alice. She thought Alice was beautiful and that night at the pub she realized that Alice was way out of her league. I could never keep that girl happy. Tricia closed her eyes and met Alice in her dreams.

Drops of water woke her out of a sound sleep. What the hell? She jumped up. Clouds had come in while she slept and a lite rain was starting. Shit Tricia grabbed her pack and headed down the trail. It was a quick trip at double time. Still, she was soaked when she reached the bottom and her truck. Tricia grabbed a towel out of the back seat where she kept at least a few days’ worth of clothes. When sufficiently dried off, she climbed inside and turned on the heater to help dry her off. While she waited, she picked up her phone. There were six messages left, which surprised her. Clicking it to speaker, she listened.

Hey Girl, heard about number four, congrats. How about a beer at Sammy’s tonight, around nine? Let me know. Her best friend Jess. She was kind of a stoner hippy type but a very sweet person.

Tricia, Chief Stevens, the woman whose baby you delivered is looking to meet with you in person. I told her you were off shift for a couple days but that I would let you know, so if you have a spare minute, stop by and see her. I have a five that says the kids name is Tricia.

Hey Kid, didn’t know if you were going to be around or if you were heading into the woods. If you’re around call me, we’ll hang out. I think it’s supposed to rain. Jeff, one of her climbing buddies.

Tricia, this is Mary Chambers. I got your phone number from one of the nurses. I don’t want to bother you. I just wanted to thank you and my husband wanted to meet you as well. Please don’t be shy. Stop in if you get a minute.

Hi Tricia… She sat up and sucked in a breath. It’s me Alice. I’m sorry if you’re mad that I gave Mary Chambers your number but she and her husband just want to thank you in person. Please stop in to see them if you can. The baby is doing very well… Why do you want to try again?

Tricia this is Nancy Wells from the Holden Press. I was hoping to speak with you for a couple minutes about the special delivery you made last night. Call me back please.

The truck was warm enough now so Tricia was headed back to town. She would change, stop at the hospital and head over to Sammy’s to meet up with her friend Jess. Jess was the first friend she made when she moved here. They were never romantic with each other, but good friends.

**

I’m so glad you called me back and we could meet earlier. Jess stood up and gave Tricia a hug. You’ve had quite a couple of days I hear. Why didn’t you call me and tell me about Alice.

They sat and Jess poured a mug of beer from the pitcher she had waiting. Handing it to Tricia, she was ready to hear the story.

I screwed up big time. I stuck my foot in my mouth and I’m not sure if I can get a second chance or not. Maybe, I’ll let you know.

Ok, she’s a cutie pie. You might want to step up your game plan a bit.

See, that’s what I mean. I just want to find someone to love. I don’t want to have to step up my game plan. I don’t want to have to be someone I’m not. And I don’t want the other person to be someone they aren’t. Why is that wrong?

It isn’t wrong Babe, but just as in the animal kingdom one creature has to attract the other. If everyone just walked along in their own world not paying attention to or trying to get the attention of another, hell Honey, the world would be a boring and not over populated place.

Ok, I get it. Put on a show to draw someone in, then I can be myself.

Jess shook her