Recollections: The First Summer Together
DJ Dubois
January 1997/April 2003

Notes: Gabrielle is from Xena Warrior Princess, which is owned by StudiosUSA and Renaissance Studios. All other characters are of my own creation. Please send comments to dante0220@yahoo.com.

Preface [Amazon Village, c. 85 AD]

Gabrielle, Bard-Queen of the Amazons, writes....

As my travels with Xena have often reminded me, it is fascinating how a single event can trigger memories. No less so with our friends, David and Angela, as the closing of an important place caused them to remember their first season together.


Chapter 1

With the passing of the holidays, the Duboises' second anniversary loomed late in January. For the couple, each wanted to surprise the other in memorable fashion.

Dave wanted to find something exquisite for Angie at the mall. After browsing for hours on end, he settled on a dozen red roses and a bottle of expensive perfume-Chablis 37. It's $125 a bottle, but I love the scent on her. 

[Yeah an' she's gonna love the bill too, Chief.]

Dave sighed. [Figures you'd want to get into the act. Look, this is grown up stuff.]

[Sounds like sissy stuff to me, the Child assumed.]

[If it doesn't involve blowing something up, it's sissy stuff to you.]

[Damn straight. Hey, don't go all mushy on me tonight.]

[Tough. Deal with it.]

[Ya'll packed the treasure hunt bag, right?]

[What do you think?]

[Crap. Ya'll forgot it. 'GAIN!] With that, the Voice went silent.

After paying for his purchases, he drove rapidly back to the apartment to relieve Francesca of babysitting duty.

"Francesca!" he called, opening the door. < "Is Angie in there?" >

< "No. You're safe!" > she replied in Italian.

< "Good," > he expressed, walking in with his goods before shifting to English. "How are the twins?"

"They're fine. I sung them a lullaby and they're sleeping in the crib," she assured him.

He snuck a peek into the nursery to see his daughters snoozing away. Good. Sleep tight, Ladies, Papa's here. He smiled warmly as he closed the door quietly and returned to the living room. "Just give me a minute and I'll help you with dinner."

"Don't worry. I've got everything under control. I see you remembered your anniversary," she jabbed verbally.

"As if I'm going to miss that," he retorted, placing the flowers and perfume behind the desk in his study. "I asked Lori to call here when Angie leaves work."

Hearing the phone ring, the Literature professor chuckled, "That could be her." Picking up the receiver, she answered, "Hello?"

"Hi, Francesca, this is Lori Applegate. How are you?"

"I'm great," Francesca replied. "How are you?"

"Fine thanks," the receptionist responded cheerfully. "Dave asked me to call when Angie left here. She just stepped into the elevator. Please wish them both a happy anniversary for me."

"I will. Gratze! Ciao!" Francesca concluded and hung up. Turning to her cousin, she reported, "Your wife is on her way."

"She'll need to stop off at the mall as well. Meantime, how's that chicken francaise coming?" he inquired.

"It's fine. I'll put it in at six. Meantime, why don't you wrap that box of yours? By the way, what did you get her?" she inquired.

"Her favorite perfume," he informed her, cutting a small section from the wrapping paper roll in his study.

"Mama Mia! You know how much that costs?" she asked, trying to keep her voice down.

"I just bought a bottle so yeah. Francesca, it's our anniversary, all right? Let me enjoy it," he told her.

"Okay, Testadoodah," she conceded. <Still, it's great that he dotes on her like that. >

"Gratze for that," he cracked, finishing the wrapping. "Now, we wait...."

****

At that moment, Angie rushed out of the elevator, heading for her Mazda. I can't believe I forgot that today's our anniversary. Gosh darn it! I still haven't bought Dave's gift! She sped down to the El Con Mall and swept through the shops. A half-hour into this whirlwind trip, she saw two CDs that she knew he would enjoy. Perfect! Then she saw video copies of Othello and Hamlet for sale. Why not? She paid for all four items at the register. 

Having secured her prizes, she headed back for the car. Glad that inspiration hit me. Whew! 

****

Ten minutes later, Dave thought he heard a car pull into the lot. Looking out the window, he recognized his wife's car. 

"Is that her?" Francesca wondered, taking the chicken francaise out of the oven.

"Yeah, it's her," he said with certainty. Rushing back across the room, he took a bowl of salad out of the refrigerator and gave it one last toss. Biting into a chunk of cucumber, he savored the marinade and spices tingling on his tongue. 

"Well, Smart Guy?" his cousin sassed.

Using a second fork, he speared a piece of pepper and stuck it in her mouth. "Manga."

"Mmm...you can make a salad all right," she agreed.

Just then, Angie walked in the front door. "Hi, Dave. Francesca, nice to see you!"

"Good to see you too, Angie. I was just helping the cook here," Francesca replied. "By the way, do you want me to watch the girls tonight?"

"If you could for a couple hours, that would be great. Thank you," the oncologist replied.

"I would be delighted," Francesca concluded, collecting her cooking wear. "Be back in an hour for them. Enjoy, you two." With that, she walked out the door.

Angie smiled. "Can you give me a couple of minutes to wrap the gifts? Sorry, I just got back from El Con."

"I left the wrapping paper in your study, Princess," he advised. "Take your time. I'm going to go look in on the girls." Seeing that everything was under control in the kitchen, he walked back into the nursery.

He's something else. Last minute stuff doesn't faze him in the least.

****

Two hours later, the happy couple reclined in their chairs, satisfied with the great food and, of course, each other's company. 

"This has been so heavenly! So what else do you have up that sleeve of yours?" she cracked.

"Just my arm," he replied. "I do have dessert ready in the kitchen. Give me a minute." He got up and walked over to the counter where a pan of cherries jubilee waited.

Just as he struck the match to light it, the phone rang.

"Damn it! Why now?" he complained.

Saved by the bell, Ah'd say, the Child commented.

[Dave growled to himself. Oh shut up!]

[Them are fightin' words, Boy!]

[Yeah? Well, I don't need the color commentary. Got it?]

[And what are ya'll gonna do about it?]

[Maybe do some of that stuff you love so much.]

[UGH! PUKE! ] With that, the Voice went silent.

"Hang on, Honey," she assured him. He's having one of those moments again. Best keep things under control. "Hello?"

"Hi, Angie. It's Karen. How's everything?" Karen Montoya wondered.

"Oh great! Dave and I are celebrating our anniversary. Lots of good food and some half-baked dessert he's trying to whip up," she replied, making a comic face at him.

He shook his head and smiled.

"Well, I hate to spoil the mood, but I did have some bad news," the nurse sighed.

"What's wrong? Is everyone all right?" the oncologist inquired, the worrying clearly in her voice.

He stared at his wife. "What?" he mouthed.

She motioned him over to her side.

Karen continued, "Yes, everyone's fine. It's just that Daddy decided to sell Packet Place. It's gone."

Angie considered this statement for a minute. That's been an Alvarez family landmark for years. We all have memories of that place. But I imagine that Dave and Karen would have tons of stuff to think about.
"That's a shame, Karen. We had a lot of fun working there. Well, I'll let you talk to Dave about it. Kiss Little Dave and Mika for me."

"And you kiss Little Karen and Lauren for me," the nurse shot back. 

Angie nodded and handed the phone to him. "I'll get the cherries jubilee. You'd best talk to Karen."

"Uh huh," he agreed. "Hey there. What's this about the restaurant?"

"Daddy sold it. I guess he had too much going on to run it anymore. I guess I'm being silly since I haven't seen it in several years," she informed him wistfully.

"We all have good memories of that place, Karen. Mike and you had great times there," he started. Then he turned to his wife and looked at her in the candlelight. "And Angie and I really got to know each other there as well. Best summer of my life."

"Thanks, Honey," she expressed, her eyes shining in the dim light at him.

[Yeah. Big mistake if ya'll ask me], the Child interjected.

[We didn't-so zip it.]

Karen sighed again. I can feel his personalities arguing from here. Will the Other ever give him some peace? Geez! Trying to change the tempo of the conversation, she reminded him, "And then there was the summer that Caroline, you and me worked there too! Remember?"

He chuckled. That was a great summer too. 

[Ah'm gonna hurl, the Dark One complained.]

[For the last time, SHUT UP!] Dave collected himself and pressed on. "Those were great times. While we do have to move ahead, we'll always have those memories too."

"How philosophical of you, Sir," his former girlfriend cracked. 

"Hey, it's true. That place gave me a head start on the best relationship of my life. No disrespect meant to you, Karen," he remarked.

"I know what you meant," she laughed. "Umm...I think we'd best get off before your dark alter ego has a hissy fit."

"Yeah, I guess," he grumbled, clearly ticked off. "Well, take care. Keep Mike in line, all right? And look in on Mika and Dave."

"Right. See ya," she agreed and hung up.

[Finally, Ah git some resp'ct!]

[Yeah well, she could make you shut up when you were face to face. ]

[That's old times.]

[Yeah? We can test that theory on her next visit.]

The Voice hissed in defeat.

He shook his head as he hung the phone up.

"He never leaves you alone, does he?" his wife wondered.

"Nope," he replied. "But I'm not going to let him dampen our spirits. That was some summer wasn't it?"

She grinned and hugged him closely. "Oh yes! Days bussing tables. Nights spent on the pier."

"I never found out if you liked me or the slushes more," he teased.

"Dave! Honestly!" she laughed.

"Gotcha!" he exclaimed, kissing her. "Now, let's enjoy that dessert."


****


An hour after that, Angie placed the dishes in the dishwasher as he picked up the girls. After the latter had been put to bed, they retired to their own sanctum and took full advantage of the occasion's spirit.

"Nice to see you still think I'm pretty. I still feel fat," she complained.

He planted a soft kiss on her shoulder. "It doesn't matter to me. You're beautiful, Princess. Pleasant dreams and happy anniversary."

She kissed him back. "And the same to you, Sweetie. Thank you for being there for me." With that, she drifted off to sleep and into Dreamland.

There, she relived her memories of that first summer at Packet Place....



Chapter 3 [Start of Angie's Dream-Note: This starts the morning after "A New Beginning" DC 2.1]

Angie's eyes opened quickly and she looked around. She had really enjoyed the previous night. After dreaming about the guy she met in San Antonio for five months, they had been brought together on a blind date by their friends. Was it a dream? If so, then where am I? One quick look around the room dismissed that last notion. The walls had a few pictures on them. Across the room stood an enormous bookcase crammed with books. A pine desk with a 486DX computer sat alongside the far wall.

Wow! It was real. Well at least some of it. Throwing on her terrycloth robe and slippers, she padded over to the bookcase. There she found a lot of medieval history, literature, books in languages she couldn't read and a substantial collection of science fiction. "This would be up Dave's alley, all right. But how would these be here?"

"Maybe because you're in his room?" a familiar voice inquired.

The resident turned to see her friend, Karen Montoya, standing in the doorway. "Good morning, Karen! You mean I didn't dream about the dinner at the fish place last night?"

"Nope," the nurse responded.

"I really met up with Dave?"

Karen chuckled, "You sure did. In fact, he offered you his bed and slept on the couch last night. Trust me, you had quite a day."

She sighed. "I sure did. You all sure surprised us! I can't believe he would do this though for me."

"Oh, Dave's one of a kind," Karen assured her. "Angie, I do have one request though."

Angie stared in confusion at her friend. "And that would be?"

Karen took a deep breath and told her, "Angie, be very patient with him. Life hasn't been very good for Dave for the last several years. You've really helped turn his outlook around. Be willing to teach him a few things and, if he does slip up, just bear with him. Dave won't ever be pushy, but try not to hurt him, okay?"

Angie studied her friend's face. What could be wrong with this guy that she would make that request of me? Then again, it could be related to why he wouldn't talk about his family down in San Antonio. "Okay, Karen. Believe me, after what little Dave told me about your relationship, it sounds like you taught him a lot. I know I'm dealing with a big kid, but he has a big heart too. I do care for him and I will try."

She doesn't know how apt her words are. Karen mused about his dark alter ego. I hope that you'll deal with him a lot better than I did when it happens again, Angie. 

"Is there something else I should know, Karen?" Angie asked, guessing that her friend was thinking about Dave further.

"No. Hey, breakfast is almost ready so let's get downstairs! Okay?" Karen requested.

"Sure," Angie agreed, following her hostess toward the dining area.

****

Meanwhile, Dave and Caroline sat at the kitchen table, savoring their morning caffeine fix and a bowl of cereal apiece.

She couldn't help but notice how he was positively glowing after the events of the previous evening. Karen, you hit it on the head. Angie, whatever you're doing, keep it up. "So I heard last night went great."

He blushed and grinned. "Heavenly. I can't believe it! I also don't know how you all pulled it off under our noses."

She snickered, "Believe it. Actually, it wasn't that hard. I'm glad for you though."

"Thanks, Caroline," he expressed.

"On a lighter note, how was the couch last night, Chief?" she inquired wryly.

He shook his head. "Very funny. It's actually pretty comfortable. As long as Angie slept well, I'm fine with it."

"And I did indeed," Angie cheered, entering the kitchen with Karen. "Good morning!" She smiled and rubbed him on the shoulder.

He watched her walk across the room and pour her coffee. Even like that, she's beautiful.

[Ah'm gonna be sick, the Child hissed.]

[Who asked you?]

[Ah'm the immoral majority.]

[You mean the immature majority.]

[At least Ah'm not a sissy.]

[It's life-deal with it.]

Hearing the grumbling in his head, Dave collected himself and walked over to his girlfriend's side. "Hi, Angel. Is everything okay?"

"Yes. Why?" she wondered.

"Well, um...you just walked by and well...." He squirmed anxiously.

[Just ask 'er to kiss ya an' be done with it! The Child urged, fighting nausea.]

She giggled. "You want a kiss, don't you?"

"Well...yeah...I was kind of hoping for one, but if you...don't want to," he stammered.

[Ah'm gonna be sick, the Child complained. ]

[Stick it. I mean it! Dave shot back inside of his head.]

Angie arched her right eyebrow at him. "What do you think, Karen? Should I?"

The nurse glanced at her sister and then, at them. She's playing with him. Worse, I can feel You-Know-Who yelling at him. Have her get on with it. "He did let you have the bed last night."

"Yeah, I guess," Angie cracked, setting her cup down and hugging him. Then she kissed him for a good two minutes before surfacing for air. "There. How's that?"

He took a deep breath. "Wow!"

"Are you satisfied now?" the resident laughed, taking another sip of coffee.

"You really want the answer to that one?" he retorted.

"I thought not, but let's not get greedy," she teased.

"Okay. So what did you have planned for today?" he asked.

Feeling a sudden burst of shyness come over her, she winced. "This is going to sound really silly."

"Try me," he said, trying to reassure her.

She bowed her head not wanting to look into his eyes as she made the request. "Well, I was hoping to hang out and maybe...well...play some catch if that's okay...with you."

"Sure. On one condition," he agreed.

"What's that?"

He picked her chin up and looked her in the eye. "That you look me in the eye. Never be afraid to ask me about anything, all right?"

She managed a nervous smile and embraced him again. "Thanks, Dave, for being you!"

He stroked her hair and looked over at Karen with a smile on his face.

She nodded back in approval.

"Well, let's get dressed and I'll meet you outside," he suggested.

Angie grinned and hustled back upstairs.

"Don't overwork her now," Caroline urged,

"I won't," he promised, taking his bag from the previous day into the downstairs bathroom.

****

A couple of minutes later, he walked out in the navy Arizona football jersey, a gray t-shirt, denim shorts and a Boston Red Sox cap. Both gloves were in the bag.

By now, Mike had joined the sisters at the table. "There he is! In his stuff no less!"

Dave shook his head. "I get a wise guy in every group. Tell Angie I'm waiting outside for her, okay?"

"Gotcha," Karen agreed. After her former boyfriend had left, she commented, "It's nice to see him like that again."

"I'll say," Caroline noted. 

"Well, I hope that I can keep making him happy," Angie's voice sounded from around the corner. "I hope he doesn't mind what I'm wearing."

"Dave knows you're a sports fan. What's wrong?" Karen asked. "Come in here. It can't be that bad."

"Okay," the resident agreed, entering the room. Seeing everyone's stares, she worried, "I knew it! He's going to hate this!"

"Uh...you have told him about your team loyalties, right?" Mike inquired. This is going to be really interesting. She's just as fanatical as he is.

"Not really. Why? Is it going to be a problem?" Angie fretted.

"Probably not," Karen assured her. "Why don't you go out and let him decide?"

"Okay," Angie agreed nervously. "Here goes!"


****

Around the corner, Dave stood about sixty feet from the garage with a tennis ball in his hand, eyeing the distance and feeling the early summer breeze on his face. It's a great day-in more ways than one. With that, he began his pitching regimen against the garage wall. Arm's still flat from yesterday.

As he threw over and over again, his mind flashed back to high school-to what he could remember at least. He was getting ready for a pickup game at McKnight Field with his friends and could almost smell his grandmother's cookies baking from the house. Ah, the good times...what few there were.


****


"Where is he?" Angie asked, looking around.

Caroline stuck her head out the window and listened carefully for the "whap-whap-whap" noise. "He's over by the garage throwing a tennis ball."

"Doesn't he need someone to throw to?" Angie wondered anxiously.

"Not for that. He does that when he needs to think," her hostess told her.

"Okay. So, should I interrupt him?"

"Absolutely. Hey, Dave! Your friend is waiting for you, remember?" Caroline yelled to him.

"Hmm?" he asked, stirring from his reverie. "Caroline..." It took him a minute to stir himself back to reality. "Is Angie with you?"

"I'm right here," Angie told him, walking over and taking a look at him. "I don't believe it!" she laughed.

"Now what?" he asked, turning to look at them.

[Oh this is really rich! The Child giggled at the irony of the situation.]

[You, stick it. Dave shook his head, as he looked her over. ]

She was dressed in a white Arizona State football jersey, a blue tank top, matching shorts, and a baseball cap on her head. 

"This is a joke, right?" he asked Caroline, not believing this situation.

"We didn't know she followed the Other Side," Caroline assured him.

Angie, not to be outdone, jabbed, "Nobody's perfect even if you're a U of A fan."

[Them there are fightin' words 'specially from a Scummy! The Child snarled.]

[Put a lid on it.]

[Are ya really buyin' this? Oooh...whipped...whipped.]

Dave sighed, trying to shut out the obnoxious voice in his head. 

"Is the Mildcat scared?" she laughed, not getting what was going on in front of her.

He glanced up at her with a snarky grin on his face. "Am I scared? Listen, Toots, I'm all right with it. As for being perfect, I think that depends on your point of view." He looked her up and down. "Too bad about the clothes," he jabbed back. "Still, the overall picture is a nice one...even if you are from the pit. Get your mitt and get out there."

"Are you sure?" she asked. "I don't want to strain your poor little paw."

"Just get back there and try not to sit on your pitchfork," he directed, slipping the mitt on his left hand. Seeing her get in place, he threw a rainbow to her.

She snagged it effortlessly. "Not bad." She fired it back at him. "Give me something with some more gas on it."

She's got a good arm. He wound up and threw the next one hard at her. "Incoming!"

"I see it," she replied with a saucy lilt to her voice as the ball hit her glove. "Dave, I was wondering, how is your job search going?"

He took her return toss and fired another pitch at her. "I have a job at U. Mass-Dartmouth starting the last week of August. Did you find that job?"

"I'm transferring to Fall River to complete my residency. Just like you, I start the last week of August. I guess we'll have plenty of time together. If...that's okay with you," she replied, feeling shy again.

He nodded and took his glove off. "Just a minute."

"You're not getting tired already, are you?" she asked incredulously.

"No. Just changing arms is all," he assured her, putting his right-handed mitt on. "Throw it." A minute later, he caught the ball.

Not bad. "Can you throw with that arm or this just a show?" she challenged.

He grinned and threw a hard one right at the "10" on her chest.

Out of self-defense, she managed to get the glove up and stop it. But she dropped it.

"And Miss Devil has butterfingers!" he roared in laughter. "Error! Error!"

"What was that?" she scoffed.

"You heard me," he snickered. "Come on, give me another one, will you?"

She smiled wickedly and returned the favor.

He took a step back and snagged the throw chest high. "See? I didn't drop it. That's how you do it."

She shook her head and walked toward him. "Thanks for being so understanding, Dave."

"Of what?" he asked. "Oh, your outfit? Well, we will have to work on your fashion sense, you know." He let his eyes twinkle at her.

"Who's gonna work on who?" she challenged, still managing to laugh.

"I guess we'll have to deal with each other. Come on, let's take our showers and I can give you the ten-cent tour of Scituate," he suggested.

"Sounds good," she agreed.




Chapter 4 [That evening]

That night, everyone sat around the picnic table in the backyard, waiting for Mr. Alvarez to finish his barbeque activity. The chicken, hamburgers and ribs smelled wonderful, taunting everyone's stomachs in the process.

"How did the first day go?" the cook asked.

"Okay," Dave nodded. "We played catch and then, took a drive."

"You have a really nice town here," Angie complimented.

"We like to think so," Mr. Alvarez concurred, flipping a hamburger. "Seriously, Angie, this is the happiest that I've seen him in quite some time. Keep up the good work."

"I'll try, sir," she replied, feeling bashful.

"Just be you and that'll do," Dave assured her.

"Thanks...even with the ASU stuff?" she teased.

"I said be you. I didn't say how you'd do it," he retorted good-naturedly. "I'm glad you're going to be here all summer."

"On that note, you both need summer jobs. I can't think of a better place than the Packet Place. How about it? Work for me and spend time with each other?" Mr. Alvarez offered.

"Works for me," Angie agreed.

"And for me," Dave accepted. "When do we start?"

"Help me with these things, will you, Dave?" the elder man requested. As they worked, he continued, "I was figuring we'd leave next Wednesday, stock and clean on Thursday, and open on Friday."

"Are we working the same hours?" Caroline asked.

"Yes. 6:00-3:00 with a half hour for lunch," he noted. "You two complete the staff. I'm the fry cook. Caroline, you and Angie can waitress. Dave will work register. A veteran crew if I don't say so myself."

"Be careful, Dave, it gets really busy on the beach," Mike teased humorously.

"Mike! Dave knows what he's doing," Karen admonished.

"Oh, let the blowhard go, Karen. I do have some experience with a cash register, you know," Dave assured her, dismissing the half-assed comment.

"I'll say," the nurse concurred. "Ten years overall and two years in that restaurant."

"Well, I'm looking forward to working with you again, Dave. Angie, welcome aboard," Caroline expressed.

"Thanks, everyone. Karen, I...um...hope I can fill your shoes okay," Angie replied self-consciously.

Karen rubbed her friend's shoulder. "Just worry about breaking in your own shoes rather than filling in mine. You'll do great in my place...." She looked at her former boyfriend before continuing, "....in more ways than one."

Dave nodded and smiled warmly at his newest companion. 

She flushed slightly; still she was glad he felt that way.

The others at the table sensed that the torch had officially been passed off-at long last. Now they could all move ahead with things.



Chapter 5 [A week later]

During the next week, Angie and Dave filled out the paperwork for their upcoming jobs and her new apartment. They also spent time getting to know each other further. Watching each other's progress only solidified their mutual feelings. Both knew they were finally heading down the right road.


**** 


On Tuesday night, they pulled into the Alvarezes' driveway. On that day, she had signed her lease in Fall River, completing the things on their "To Do" list. 

"We made it," Angie commented. "We actually got everything done."

"We sure did," Dave agreed. "I wanted driving time and I sure got it."

"That you did. Thank you for being my chauffeur this week. I do appreciate it," she told him, giving him a kiss. "I know sleeping on the couch isn't exactly great for you either."

"As long as you're okay," he assured her. "Come on, we need to get packed. It's going to be an early start tomorrow."

She nodded and followed him into the house, ready to start on the next leg of their adventure.


****


[Later the next day]

The ride over the Cape Cod Bridge and down Route 128 was spectacular. The sun shone brightly. A gentle breeze blew off of the water. The beachfront cottages relaxed in their peaceful backdrop. 

As they headed down the off ramp and into Sagamore, Angie looked around, "Dave, this is beautiful!"

"You're acting as if you've never been to the shore before," he noted. 

"Well, only once...when I was really little. My folks don't leave the farm much," she admitted, flushing a bit.

He patted her shoulder. "Then welcome to Cape Cod, Angie. Enjoy the summer." He followed the Alvarezes' station wagon as it made the right turn up to their summer cottage. "And here we are!" 

She surveyed the medium-sized white house with green shutters. The structure sat in the midst of a lush green lawn surrounded by a white picket fence. "This is nice."

"We think so," Mr. Alvarez agreed, taking a box from the station wagon's trunk. "Come on, let's get everything inside and get over to the restaurant."

Angie managed a nervous smile and helped Dave unload the Subaru. This is going to be a really interesting experience.


****


Four hours later, the group followed Mr. Alvarez down the street to the town pier. About fifty feet from the water's edge, he took a silver key from his pocket and led them toward a small luncheon restaurant. The outside was brick with cedar tiles on the roof. Over the door, a sign read "WELCOME TO PACKET PLACE: YOUR HOME FOR FINE FRESH SEAFOOD!!"

"This is it," he told the others, unlocking the door. "Welcome back to Packet Place!"

They walked in and looked around. The café had ten booths lining the walls. In front, the counter gleamed in the sunlight. Fifteen padded stools sat in front of it. Behind the counter, the grill and deep fryer awaited the first meal orders.

"This is nice, Mr. Alvarez," Angie complimented. "Kind of like the place back home."

"Thank you. With a little spit and polish, she'll be ready to go," he agreed. 

"You have a place like this in Wabash?" Dave asked.

"Our coffee shop. It's about this size, but I'm sure it gets busier here. I was a waitress there after school back then," the resident pointed out.

"You'll do fine," Caroline reassured her, grabbing a broom. "Let's get to work sweeping this place down."

"Meantime, Dave, can you give me a hand with the food order?" Mr. Alvarez requested. "I hear the truck pulling up in back."

"Right," the librarian agreed and hustled off to help his host.



****


About 3:30 PM, everything was set. To everyone's amazement, the work went faster than they had anticipated. They had swept and mopped the floors, straightened the shelves, dusted and wiped down the booths and counter, stocked the pantry and cooler, and prepped the grill.

"We could start tomorrow if you all wanted to," Mr. Alvarez assessed.

Angie and Caroline looked at each other. Then they looked over at Dave.

"I'm game," Dave agreed. "If you both are."

"I'm in," Angie concurred.

"As am I," Caroline chimed in.

"Great!" Mr. Alvarez expressed. "Then it's settled. Look, we can get things finished here. Why don't you all head down to the pier or something?"

"Aye, aye, Captain," Dave cracked, saluting him.

The elder man shook his head. "My daughter asks me to board a stinking comedian. Wise guy." Still, he managed a grin. It's good to see his sense of humor. "Go on. It's getting late."

"Yes, sir," Dave agreed. "Come on, Ladies."

As the trio walked back out into the mid-afternoon sun, Caroline inquired, "Are you sure you want me along?"

He looked at her incredulously. "I haven't forgotten how much you like the Rocky Road at the Pier's End Parlor, Caroline."

His friend smiled at the memory. "You remember that?"

He nodded. "I remember some of that summer. Of course, I'm ready for some new memories too." He hugged Angie for emphasis.

"Oh brother!" his girlfriend teased, rolling her eyes playfully. "If this is what I'm in for, then it's going to be a long summer. They better have a good cherry slush there too, Chief."

"We'll see," he advised as they entered the parlor.


****


Fifteen minutes later, they sat at a picnic table along the pier's edge, enjoying the view and each other's company. Dave savored the cookies and cream ice cream after the busy morning. Angie sipped away on her cherry slush. Finally, Caroline smiled at the taste of the Rocky Road sundae.

"This is so nice," Angie sighed. "Despite the strip here, it's so quaint."

"Welcome to Cape Cod," Caroline declared.

"So do you still like being here?" he wondered.

"Yes, I do. I think I can put up with you for the summer after all," she teased.

"You think so?" he retorted, giving her a hug.

"Umm...Dave, you're melting my slush," she giggled.

He rolled his eyes. "Why me? I asked for it, didn't I?"

[Ya'll sure did, Meathead, the Child remarked testily. This is makin' me sick.]

[Tough. Deal with it, he told the Other, allowing the smile to remain on his face. I don't want to kill this mood.]

As they couldn't sense what was going on inside of his head, the girls continued to enjoy their desserts and laughed warmly with him. And that was the way he wanted it.



Chapter 6 [The Next Morning-Opening Day]

Angie slept well despite the butterflies in her stomach. She really wanted the summer to be successful and to pull her own weight in the process. 

The alarm clock buzzed at 4:30, stirring her from her slumber. It's time to get going. Come on, Angie. This is going to be fun. She shook herself out of bed and threw on her robe. After grabbing her plastic bag of soap, shampoo, etc., she trudged to the bathroom where she saw Caroline coming out. "Good morning."

"Good morning, Angie. It's all yours!" her friend told her.

"Thanks," Angie murmured, entering the bathroom. Once in the shower's steamy embrace, she began to wake up. Much better! Then she wiped herself off and put her robe back on. Heading down the hall to the bedroom she shared with Caroline, she closed the door behind her.

Let's see...what to wear? She selected a white button down blouse and her beige chinos. Putting those items on, she looked at herself in the mirror while combing her hair. "I hope I look all right," she worried.

"You look fine, I'm sure," Dave's voice assured her through the door before he knocked.

"You haven't seen me yet so how would you know?" she laughed.

"I trust your judgment, Princess. That's why," he assured her.

"Go on! I'll be there in a minute," she requested, securing her hair in a ponytail. 

Five minutes later, she walked into the living room to find him waiting for her. 

"There you are!" he greeted with a smile. "And looking good too, I might add."

"Oh pooh! You're just saying that," she cracked, stealing a kiss from his cheek. "I do appreciate it though."

"Glad to hear it. Come on, the others are waiting for us," he replied pleasantly.

"Great. Talk about a lousy start," she worried.

"What are you talking about?" he wondered. "We're fine. They only left about ten minutes ago. Relax. It's okay. No fretting now. Got it?"

She nodded. "I'll try."

"Good," he cheered, leading her out into the early morning and locking the door behind them. "Hey, look at that sky!"

She looked up and saw the pink and salmon colors in the east, signaling dawn's approach. "It's beautiful!"

"See what I mean?" he declared, taking her hand. "Nice morning and good company. What else can a man ask for?" 

"You're too much," she sighed as they walked toward the restaurant. At 5:10, they walked through the front door.

Mr. Alvarez turned from the grill. "Good morning! Everyone's here!"

"Sorry I held Dave up, sir," Angie apologized.

The cook waved the apology away. "Don't worry about it. We don't open for an hour yet."

Mrs. Alvarez walked over from the counter. "I have some waffles ready for you if you want to take a seat. Caroline, time for breakfast!"

Her daughter came over from where she was setting up a table. "Hey, guys! Some view, huh?"

"It's lovely out there!" Angie exclaimed.

"I'll say," Dave concurred.

[Stop it already, will ya? The Child complained.]

"Dave." Angie blushed.

Caroline smiled and shook her head. This is great to see him like this. "He's right, Angie. Corny but right."

"I'll third that motion," Mrs. Alvarez noted, setting a Belgian waffle apiece in front of them. "Eat up now. We're up in half an hour."

The trio dug in, anticipating the rush.


****

Right at 6:00, Mr. Alvarez opened the doors and took a look outside. The streets were just starting to hum with activity. "Give it about fifteen minutes," he told the crew.

Sure enough, the customers began walking in at 6:20. By 7:00, they had packed every seat in the restaurant.

The small crew played their parts well, making sure everything went right. Angie whipped through the orders, getting food and coffee to every customer along with a pleasant smile. Caroline also brought food out as well. Mr. Alvarez stayed next to the grill, keeping the food cooking. His wife kept the dishwasher going in the back. When he wasn't ringing up a bill on the register, Dave got coffee for people too.

About 10:00, a lull set in. The breakfast customers had their fill and it was still too early for lunch.

Dave poured five coffees. "Okay, everyone. Let's drink up before we wipe everything down." After handing everyone a cup, he drank his down. "If it's okay, I'll start on the other side." He took a damp cloth and went to work."

"Need some help, Dave?" Angie offered, grabbing her own cloth and going over to join him.

"I'll make lunch for them while they're doing that," Mrs. Alvarez offered to her husband. Walking behind the counter, she opened a container of chicken salad and made sandwiches for them. Watching the clock, she told herself, "This is going to be close."


****


Right at 11:00, the lunch crowd started coming in. Noontime came and went. The crowd came through although not as heavily as in the morning. 

Finally at 3:00, Mr. Alvarez shut the doors and breathed a sigh of relief. "Well done, everyone. Lots of satisfied customers." Looking at Dave who was counting out the cash drawer, he asked, "How did we make out?"

"About $1200.00," the cashier replied.

"Not bad for a first day, but it'll get busier," the owner-cook noted. 

"Wow. I forgot how hectic it could get during the rushes. I hope I did all right," Angie expressed as she started cleaning tables again.

"You did fine," Dave assured her. "Come on, let me get this money dropped and then, I can help you out there."

Taking the receipts from him, Mr. Alvarez told him, "Can you help in the back, Dave? They can get the front."

"Sure," the younger man agreed and went to help with the dishes.

A veteran crew indeed. Maybe we could be bigger but we wouldn't have more heart.

****

By 4:30, Dave and the girls had finished their duties and cleaned up at home. Then they took a walk along the beach, surveying the sights. Finally, they decided on a spot near a rocky outcropping and put a blanket down on the sand.

"That's some place," Angie commented as she lay on her stomach, allowing the sun to tan her back.

"It's always been a big hit. Trust me, it'll get a lot busier," he noted. "Still, it was busier there today than at any point when I worked there."

"That's true. It's been what? Three years?" Caroline asked.

He nodded.

"Why the long leave of absence?" Angie wondered. Seeing the concerned look he gave her, she realized, "Mike and Karen, right?"

"Uh huh. I didn't want to cause any trouble so I stayed away," he commented, turning over to sun his stomach and the front of his legs.

"Well, I can tell you that Daddy's glad to have you back behind that register," Caroline assured him. "Remember, this is as much your place as it is Karen's as far as we're concerned."

"She's family. I'm the boarder," he retorted.

"You're not just a boarder, Dave. You're a part of this family too, all right? Karen would say the same thing," Caroline disagreed.

"Look, I appreciate that, but I want everyone to be happy, all right? The last thing I want is a fight around here," he declared, feeling his moods starting to swing.

[If ya'll would stand up fer us, the Child interjected.]

[Shut up.]

[Ooh...touchy, ain't cha?]

Dave chose not to respond to that one.

"Excuse me, Dave," Angie jumped in.

"Yes, Dear?" he muttered, trying to keep some humor.

"I was noticing the other day that Mike likes to push you around. Don't let him, all right? He's not half the man you are. Stand up for yourself!" she asserted.

[Well, well, she has spunk, Bro. She has pot'ntial, the Child approved.]

[So glad you approve, Dave mused with an air of sarcasm, fighting yet another mood swing.]

Caroline sighed. That would be the end of Mike. We all know that. Wait'll she sees an eruption for the first time.

"I don't think that Karen would agree," he doubted.

She rubbed his arm. "Hey, that's her loss! Don't get me wrong, Karen's a wonderful friend. But she blew it twice. Once when she lost you and then when she hooked up with Mike. Based on what I've seen so far, I've got the better end of that deal." She sealed it with a kiss. "Feel better?"

"Much," he agreed.

"Well good. I don't want to see you moping anymore. Just as you don't want to see me doing it," she declared and snuggled up against him.

Caroline shook her head. I really should be mad about that comment, but how can I be? Mike did mistreat her by his own admission. And she's trying to make a point to Dave. Just forget about it.  She lay down on her towel and just meditated on things for an hour even as her cohorts enjoyed each other's company.



Chapter 7 [End of August]

For Angie, June, July and most of August went by in a flash. There were night walks on the beach. Slushes shared on the pier with Dave. Occasionally, they did get two-day breaks from the restaurant. During these times, she drove with him to different places. While each place held some special quality, the value came in the deepening feelings for each other.

Finally on August 20th, they worked their last shift at the Packet Place. For the most part, they stayed too busy to think about the situation. However, when Mr. Alvarez locked the doors, it hit them. This was the last shift. Charles had volunteered to fill in on the register and Mrs. Alvarez would do some waitressing to fill the void.

Dave counted the drawer for the last time. It's been hectic but enjoyable. After preparing the drawer for the next morning and handing over the receipts to Mr. Alvarez, he asked him, "Is there anything else?"

Mr. Alvarez shook his head. "You and Angie have done enough, Dave. Things are going to slow down for a bit, but they'll boom again come Labor Day."

"I just wish we weren't leaving at midseason," Angie expressed.

"We can handle it," Mrs. Alvarez assured her. "You did a great job this summer...both of you. While we could sure use your help, it's time you both got on with your careers. Angie, keep up the good work."

"I'll try," the resident agreed.

"And you, take care of the house," Mr. Alvarez requested of Dave.

"I will," he agreed. "Thank you for the opportunity."

"You earned it," Mr. Alvarez assured him. "Good luck with your jobs."

"Let us know how the first day goes!" Caroline told them.

Dave looked at Angie and smiled. "Shall we pack, then?"

"I guess," she sighed as they left the restaurant.

"What's wrong?" he inquired with concern.

"Oh, I wish we didn't have to go. I want this summer to keep going," she moped.

"Reality calls, Princess. Besides, I'm not going anywhere," he declared, kissing her. "Come on, let's get everything in the car. Then we can do Lenny's. Sound good?"

"Yes!" she agreed. 

"Dave, thank you," she purred, snuggling up to him.

"For what?" he asked her.

"For this magical summer. I've never had so much fun or been with someone I cared about so much," she told him, gazing into his eyes.

"I feel the same way," he agreed, taking her hands in my own. 

"Promise me something?" she requested. Leaning close to me, she whispered, "Stay with me forever."

"I will," he agreed without hesitation. "If you'll stay with me."

She grinned and hugged him. "I'll be there for you through the fire and the rain no matter what...."

I hope she means that. I wonder if she knows what she's getting into? How will she react when she finds out about the Child and me? He worried about that point and not for the last time.


****


[Three Days Later]

Angie walked into the lobby of Fall River Hospital, fighting her nerves. She worried about how people would perceive her. Well, here goes. She walked up to the receptionist's desk and greeted, "Hi."

"Can I help you?" the red headed woman asked.

"Sorry. Yes, umm...I'm Angela Blackwell, a new resident starting today," she introduced herself.

The receptionist recognized her name. "Yes. Dr. Moten mentioned that you would be coming by. Please go on upstairs to Room 412."

"Thank you," Angie expressed and climbed the stairs. Upon reaching the fourth floor, she made her way to Room 412. Okay, Angie, this is it. She knocked on the door.

"Come in!" a voice called.

She walked into the office. 

Inside, a man with a dark Mediterranean complexion, black hair, a bushy mustache and wearing a white lab coat looked up at her. "Can I help you?"

"Yes sir, are you Dr. Moten?" she asked, still fighting the butterflies.

"I am indeed. And you are Angela Blackwell?" he inquired.

She nodded. "Pleased to meet you, sir." She extended her hand.

"Likewise. You come with high recommendations from Columbia. Welcome aboard!" he greeted, shaking her hand. 

"Thanks, sir. I'll try my best," she assured him.

"I'm sure you will, Dr. Blackwell. Now, let's get you a set of charts and get you started on your rounds," he commented.

She sighed contentedly. The rest of my life is underway! Now, which way to the first patient?


****

Right at 8:00, Angie finally stumbled out of the facility. It had been a grueling day. However, she felt satisfied. During that day, she had treated twenty patients and got to know several others. She assisted in keeping one critical person-a young woman in her teens-alive after the latter's heart attack. Walking over to her new Mazda, she mused, You're in the big world now, Angie. After taking one last look at the hospital, she drove off into the night.

About twenty minutes later, she pulled into the parking space beside her apartment. Home sweet home. She climbed the stairs to the second floor and started to unlock her door. However, as she did so, she noticed a potted pothos plant and three roses beside it. Who could have? She saw a note with them, but it was too dark for her to see it. Accordingly, she brought them inside with her. 

"Messages already?" she asked, walking over to the answering machine. Pressing the "Play" button, she found out that she had two messages. One was from her mother in Wabash. The other was as follows:

"Hi, Princess. It's Dave. I have to work late over at the university so I wanted to leave you a message. I hope that your first day went okay and that your job is going all right. I really like things here so we'll have to swap notes. I hope you like the housewarming plants. Talk to you tomorrow, all right? Love you. Bye!"

Her eyes watered. He's so sweet! Opening the note with the plants, she read:

"Dear Angie:

Thanks for the wonderful summer and the great outlook on life! I can't remember the last time I felt this great! Please accept these roses and the plant as housewarming gifts for your apartment. I hope everything went all right. Please let me know how everything went. I'm glad you're in my life.

Tuum Amo

Dave"

"What a guy," she sighed and picked up the phone. Upon getting the machine at the Alvarez home, she left this message:

"Hi, Sweetums! It's Angie. I just got home. My job's great. I love my flowers and the plant. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for being you! I love you too! I miss you-talk to you tomorrow! Bye!"

I hope he likes that. She jumped in the shower, allowing the steam to relax her. After that, she put on her sweats and climbed into bed. What a day! What a summer! With that, she turned out the lights and surrendered to her sweet dreams.



Conclusion [Present Day]

The scent of coffee filled the bedroom and tickled Angie's nose.

Hmm...coffee? Oh Dave's making it. But that would mean that I'm awake. She looked down at the third finger on her left hand and saw the diamond glistening back at her. "I am awake, right?"

"You are," Dave assured her, sticking his head in the door. "Finally. You know what time it is, Ms, 'Laz-a-Bed'? What were you dreaming about last night?"

She looked at the clock and panicked, "6:20! Oh gosh!" She ran for the shower, hurrying through it all and landing at the table about fifteen minutes later in her robe. "What should I get us for breakfast?"

He put his hand up to calm her down. "Everything's set. The twins' formula is going on the stove. Cereal and fruit are in front of you. Here's the newspaper." He handed her that morning's edition of the Arizona Daily Star and the babies' bottles. "How'd I do?"

She tested the liquid on her wrist. "Perfect. You're a wonder, Sweetie."

"I try." He shrugged and offered her a small smile. "But you never answered my question."

"Why are you so concerned?" she asked.

"Oh, you were smiling and laughing to yourself all night," he noted with a grin. "Happy thoughts?"

She flushed and admitted, "The best kind. I dreamt about that first summer at Packet Place."

"That's nice," he agreed. "And as I said last night, it was a wonderful time for both of us."

"What a place. Too bad we don't have one like it here," she lamented.

He laughed, "But we do. Remember what I told Karen last night? We'll always have it in our hearts and, as you discovered last night, the memories are just as good."

"Well almost as good. I wasn't married to you yet. I didn't have our daughters to cheer me up. Nor did I have our beautiful home to enjoy," she sighed and looked at him. "Thank you for such memories, Sweetums. For that and more, I love you with all of my heart." Then she kissed him passionately.

"Wow. On that note, I hate to break this up, but..." He stole a look at the calendar and began to laugh.

"What's so funny?" she demanded.

"Look at the Star. I just realized what day it is," he snickered.

She picked up the newspaper and looked at the date. She smiled. "You Silly Goose! You got me up early on a Saturday for nothing?"

"Well...gee whiz, Doc," he surmised. "I don't feel tired. The girls are sleeping and we have the day to ourselves. Whatever shall we do?"

She chuckled, "I still have a little bit left on my dance card from last night. Besides, I think it's time for your physical."

"What? Again?" he teased.

"Yes...well...a good follow up exam every so often is necessary for good health," she insisted.

I'll bet. He shook his head and glanced at her skeptically. "And does the doctor need to prep before her exam?"

"What did the patient have in mind?" she inquired, wondering what he had up his devious sleeve now.

He held a bottle of scented skin oil in his hand and arched his eyebrow up and down while grinning broadly.

Angie, you've created a monster. Que sera, sera. "Since you put it that way, I guess we'll follow standard procedure," she giggled, following him into the bedroom.

They had quite the day together, drawing out the celebration related to their anniversary for as long as possible. Love, no matter at what stage of a relationship, must be cherished. While their careers had advanced and their little family had grown, the love between Angie and Dave had remained constant. What they shared in San Antonio and on Cape Cod provided a base for their lives together. And what could be a better foundation than that?

THE END (for now)


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