This is no way involved with Early Edition, TriStar, CBS, and Fox Family.  This is Gary's and Toni's first Valentine's Day as a family and all the fun they'll have.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
A Special Valentine's Day
by Lori Anderson

Chapter 1

Gary decided to give Toni a special valentine's day gift and he wanted it to be something she'd like.

"I've been tryiing to think of what to get Toni for Valentine's Day, and I'm having a hard time deciding what she'd really like besides the usual flowers and candy," he told Marissa inside his office one day.

Marissa sipped her coffee.  "Why not take her out for supper that night? Make it a specail night for both of you.  Have someone babysit the twins while you and Toni go out and have fun," she said.

Gary thought about it for a minute.  "That sounds like a good idea Marissa. I'll tell her about it later."

"I'm sure she'll love the idea Gary.  If you need a babysitter, Emmit and I could watch your twins."

"I'll mention it to her when I see her for dinner tonight when she gets back from shopping."

"Who did she go shopping with?"

Gary sipped his coffee and smiled.  "Her mother.  They came by for a surprize visit today, and her mother wanted to take Toni and the twins out shopping.  Her father is helping me out around here."

Mr. Brigatti came inside the office just then.  "Marissa, your husband is here to see you.  I think he has something important to tell you by the look in his eyes," he told Marissa.

"Thank you Mr. Brigatti.  I'll go see what he wants," Marissa said and went to the foyer .

"Hello Emmit dear.  I hear you have something important to tell me," she said smiling at her husband.

Emmit kissed her on the check.  "I want to take you out to dinner tonight honey.  I feel like celebrating," he replied sitting on a chair across from her at a table.

"Hmmm.  Did you win your first case or something?"

 "Uh huh.  I'll tell you all about it at dinner tonight at the resturant you like so much."

"I can't wait to hear about it.  Okay.  What time do we leave?"

"I've got reservations at seven."

"Sounds great.  I'll be ready."

Meanwhile, Toni and her mother were shopping for clothes for the twins in a store downtown, and Toni was wondering what to get Gary for Valentines' Day.

"What should I get for my husband for Valentine's Day mother?  I want it to be special," she asked  looking at her mother.

"Is there something that he really likes Toni?  Something that you've heard him talking about," Mrs. Brigatti replied as she looked at a dress for her niece.

Toni thought for a monment.  "He does like baseball a lot.  He has so many baseball caps around.  He also likes the Bears and the Bulls.  You know, a sport nut."

"I'd give him something romantic since Valentine's Day is for sweethearts."

"Something romantic, huh?  What can you give for a guy that's romantic."

"You'll think of something dear.  Did we ever tell you that we're glad that you married Gary?"

Toni nodded.  "Yeah.  A couple of times.  Colonge!  That's what I'll get him, and I know what kind he likes."

"Good idea Toni.  Has he told you what he's getting you beside the usual?"

"Not yet, but I have the feeling he will later tonight at dinner when we're alone."
 

Chapter Two

Toni walked towards the men's department in the store that she and her mother were in with the twins.

"Excuse me.  I'm looking for something special to give to my husband for Valentine's Day," she told the clerk.

"I believe I can help you find what you're looking for.  Does he wear cologne?  We carry a varitey of men's cologne that will really put some romance in your special night," the clerk said smiling.

"What would you suggest?  I want to get the best cologne for him."

"I think I have just the one you're looking for.  I'll bring it to you."

The clerk walked over to where the cologne was kept and picked up a bottle.

She showed it to Toni.  "This is the one that most women buy for their men when they come here.  It's musk scented.  Here, smell it."

Toni took a sniff of the cologne and nodded.  "Perfect.  I'll take it.  In fact, I'll take two bottles."

"Very good .  Your husband will love it."

"I want the tag to say "To Gary.  With Love. Toni."

"Is that your husband's name?"

"Yes.  His name is Gary Hobson."

The clerk smiled again and wrote what Toni wanted on the gift tag.  "There you are Mrs. Hobson."

"Thank you." Toni paid the clerk and went to rejoin her mother and her children in the baby department.

"I got Gary two bottles of Musk cologne," she told her mother.

"That's exactly the kind of cologne I get for your father.  Gary'll love it," Mrs. Brigatti said.

Back at Mc Ginty's, Gary and Toni's father were having coffee inside his office.

"Toni wants to get a house before the kids get too big for the loft," Gary said sipping his coffee.

"She mentioned it to her mother and I when she saw us earlier.  I can help you get you a house Gary.  I know a good realtor who works here.  I can give him a call later," Mr. Brigatti told his son-in-law.

"You don't have to do that sir.  I can check the paper for the For Sale ads."

"I know  Gary, but I do want to help you and Toni anyway I can."

"So how do you like Chicago so far?," Gary asked changing the subject.

"It's a nice city.  I'm glad that Toni moved here and got her job in the police department."

"I didn't ask her to quit her job sir.  She did it without any regrets."

Toni's father nodded.  "I know Gary.  She explained it to her mother and I. She could work at home if she wanted to."  He checked his watch.  "They should be coming back anytime now.  I'll give you a friendly word of advice: Watch out when she says she wants to take you shopping with her."

Gary smiled.  "I don't mind shopping with my wife.  Is there something I should know about that you're warning me about sir?"

"Please call me Dad.  Sir is getting a little too formal for me.  You'll going to end up carrying some packages that you don't expect to.  Believe me I know."

"I don't think you have to worry about that with Toni, Dad.  She's pretty reasonable when she goes shopping."
 

Chapter 3

Later that evening, Gary was playing with his children while Toni was fixing their supper in the kitchen.

"Be careful with them honey.  They're tired from shopping today with my mother," she told Gary.

"How were they today sweetheart?," Gary asked gently touching Rose's hand with his finger.

Toni smiled.  "They were good.  Didn't cry once in the store.  How did you and my father get along?"

"Okay.  He wants to help us get a house.  Said he knows a realtor here in Chicago."

"That's my father for you.  Always trying to get involved with other people's business."

"He's a nice guy.  I have something I want to ask you before I forget."

Toni paused as she was fixing their salad.  "Oh?  What is it you have to ask me?"

"I was thinking about taking you for dinner and dancing on Valentine's Day as a special treat.  What do you say?  I want to do something really special for you on our first Valentine's Day as husband and wife."

Toni put down her knife and walked over to her husband.  "What do I say?  I say, go ahead and make the reservations.  That is the sweetest and most romantic present you can ever give me ."

Gary smiled.  "I knew you'd see it that way.  Okay.  I'll make the reservations for us."

Toni kisssed him on the check, and took her daughter from his hands.  "It's time for this young lady to go to bed before she falls asleep in your hands. You can put Jeff in his crib as he's sleeply too."

Gary gently carried his son over to his crib and put him down so the baby could sleep.

Toni did the same with Rose, and after covering her up, went back to the kitchen.

"I got you your Valentine's Day present today, but you won't get it until that night."

Gary went over to the refrigator and took out two bottles of beer from inside.  "One for you and one for me."

"Good.  Set them on the table after you've opened them. "

Gary nodded and went over to the table to put their beer bottles by their places.

"That was some rescue I had this morning before your parents showed up," he said sitting down in his chair.

"Tell me about it honey.  I hope you didn't hurt yourself."

Gary sighed.  "It wasn't dangerous.  Two neighbors were fighting over a stupid lawn ornament, and one was going to hit the other one with a rake.  I intervined, and told them it was stupid to fight over something like that. Then, the first one accused the second one of stealing the thing, and of course, the neighbor denied it.  I asked the first neighbor if he had proof that his neighbor has stolen the thing, and he said no.  The second neighbor showed me the recpeit from the store he had brought the lawn ornament from.  I had him show it to the the one who accused him of stealing, and the guy apologised saying that he had been wrong and was sorry."

"What was the lawn ornament they were fighting over ?"

"It was a little dwarf. You know the kind you see in some lawns."

"Oh yeah.  I know what you're talking about.  Why didn't the neighbor show the other one the recepit so that none of this would happen?"

"He was going to, but didn't get the chance."
 

Chapter 4

Toni and Gary were enjoying a romantic dinner by theirselves while their children were sleeping.

"Mmmm!  This steak is delicious!  Just the way I like it," Gary said after taking a bite of his steak.

Toni smiled.  "Thank you honey.  Your mother told me how you like your steak done as well as other things I needed to know.  You get more handsome each day," she replied sipping her beer.

Gary took a sip of his beer and almost blushed.  "Thank you.  You get more beautiful each day too."

Toni took a bite of her salad and wondered how he would take what she was about to tell him.

"Gary," she began, "I've called the realtor's number that my father gave me before he and mother left. I told her we'd see her tomorrow afternoon at 2 to discuss what type of house we're looking for."

"You did?  When did you do this?"

"It was when you were getting ready for dinner.  Please don't be mad."

Gary smiled at his wife.  "I could never be mad at you.  I'm just surprized you went ahead and called without telling me first.  Two o clock tomorrow afternoon, huh.  I'll have Marissa watch the bar while we're at the realtor's office.  She and Emmit are doing a little celebration of their own tonight."

"I know.  She told me that Emmit had won his first case as a lawyer."

Toni was relieved that Gary wasn't mad at her for calling the realtor without telling him first.

"You better do something about your snoring my love."

"I don't snore."

"Oh?  How do you know?  Have you ever stayed awake long enough to hear yourself?"

Gary didn't like the way she had asked the last question.  "Okay.  What brought this up?"

"I don't want your snoring to wake our children during the night.  If it does, you're going to be the one who's going to get up, and calm them down. Understand what I'm saying?"

"Okay.  I understand what you're saying.  Don't worry.  I won't wake our children up that way.  Can we talk about something else now? "

"Agreed.  You should have heard my mother today in the store.  She said I should buy you something romantic for Valentine's Day.  You have no idea how hard it is to buy something for you like that."

"I'm not going there.  I know you finally brought me something."

"Let's just finish dinner and enjoy each other."
 

Chapter 5

The next morning, Toni was preparing breakfast in the kitchen as Gary was reading the paper.

"Anything interesting in the paper this morning honey?," she asked pouring him a glass of orange juice.

Gary glanced up from his paper.  "Nothing too much.  Uh oh,   I spoke too soon," he replied.

"Don't tell me.  You've got a rescue today sometime."

Gary nodded.  "At ten oclock, some lady is going to have her purse stolen as she's walking down the street towards Walgreens.  She's the only one that I've got to help that I can see."

Toni sighed.  She put the toast on a plate and turned back to check on the eggs.

"Okay.  Just be sure you're back by lunchtime.  I'm having the chef fix us something specail for lunch."

"I promise I'll be back before then sweetheart.  Have you feed the kids yet?"

Toni nodded.  "I got up at five and feed them while you were still sleeping. Breakfast is ready."

Gary put his paper down and went over to their table where Toni had everything ready.

"Mmmm.  That sure looks good," he said looking at his plate of food.

"It'll take even better.  I made your eggs the way you like them."

Gary took a bite of his eggs and smiled.  "It's good.  Okay.  What are you up to?"

Toni looked over the rim of her coffee cup at her husband in surprise at the question.

"I just thought that you'd like to have lunch here without one of us cooking it today."

"That's nice of you honey.  I'm sure whatever the chef fixs will be terrific."

Toni knew that he was still nervous about seeing the realtor today about looking at houses.

"Gary, I know you've lived in the loft for a long time now.  I wouldn't mention about moving to a house if I didn't feel that it was necessary.  Are you nervous about seeing the realtor this afternoon?"

Gary shook his head.  "No.  I know you're right.  The twins will need their own rooms , and the sooner we find the right house we want, the better. I'll miss the loft, but I have you and the kids now."

"I'm glad you feel that way.  Makes this whole thing a lot better for the both of us."
 

Chapter 6

Gary ran down the street looking at his watch to see what time it was.

"Almost ten oclock.  I should be seeing the lady with her purse any minute now," he said looking around.

He saw the woman walking towards Walgreen's with her purse and he saw the theif coming towards her.

Without a monment's hesitation, Gary ran over towards the lady and warned her that someone was after her purse.  "Better keep your purse real close to you miss.  Someone may try to steal it," he said.

"Oh my!  Thank you young man!  I'll keep it close to my side from now. What's your name?," she asked.

Gary smiled.  "Hobson.  Gary Hobson."

"Thank you again Gary Hobson.  My name's Nancy, and I'm sort of new here."

"Nice to meet you Nancy.  Just be careful from now on okay."

"I will, and thank you again."

Gary made sure she got to the store alright and then returned to McGinty's for his lunch with Toni.

Toni was downloading some files from work on her laptop computer sitting at the table.

There was something in them that she wanted to look since she wasn't working at the station anymore.

Rose and Jeff were sleeping in their cribs after having their diapers changed.

She missed working at the station, but she still could do some work at home.

"Hmmm.  This looks interesting.  A purse snatcher whom we had a hard time catching.  I remember this guy for some strange reason.  Wonder why that is," Toni said frowning at her screen.

"I thought you said you weren't going to work anymore," Gary said as he came inside their loft.

"I'm not lover.  I'm just downloading some of my case files from work in my laptop.  How did your save go?"

Gary smiled and went over to sit besides her.  "It went real well.  I prevented the lady's purse from being snatched by some guy who was walking behind her and coming up fast," he replied kissing her.

Toni kissed him back.  "That's good honey.  This one case involved a purse snatcher that Paul and I had a hard time catching.  The twins are asleep.  I changed their diapers after you left."

"Were there any calls for me while I was out?"

Toni nodded.  "Your mother called from Hickory.  She wanted me to tell you that she and Berine are planning to come up this weekend and see their grandchildren."

"That's nice.  They deserve to spend sometime with their grandchildren.  DId you tell my mother that we were thinking of buying of a house sometime?"

"No.  We can tell them when they get here.  She also said to tell you that your father is begining to enjoy his retirement.  You never told me that he was retired from his work."

Gary went over to the refrigator to get something to drink.  "My dad retired from his job and was having a hard time with it for a while.  Mom thought she had bored him which wasn't true.  Dad just wants to be useful."

When Toni had finished with her downloading, she logged off and shut off her computer.

The phone rang and Gary went to answer it before it woke up his children.

"Hobson residence," he said speaking into the phone.

"Hey Hobson.  It's Miguel Diaz," Miguel said from his loft phone where he lived.

"Hello Miguel.  Nice to hear from you.  What's up?"

"I thought you should know that my brother, Joey, is getting out on in a couple of days. "

"From prision?  That's great Miguel.  He must be getting out for good behavior."

"That's right.  He's going to be living with me, and I'm going to help him find work."

"I wish you luck and tell Joey that I said hello."

"Sure.  How does it feel to be married and have a family?"

"Words can't express how I feel Miguel.  I'm just happy.  Thanks for asking."

"You're welcome Hobson.  You deserve to be happy.  See you around."

"Bye Miguel."  Gary hung up the phone after talking to his friend.
 

Chapter 7

"Toni," Gary said, "Are you sorry I asked you to give up your job for our children and I?"

Toni put her arms around her husband and looked him in his muddlepuddle eyes.

"No.  I love you and our children.  You're more important to me than my job right now.  I do miss not being at the station, but I'm totally happy being your wife and our children's mother.  Don't ask me that again, okay," she replied and Gary was relieved to hear that from her that he gave her a big kiss.

"That was Miguel Diaz on the phone just a minute ago.  He said that Joey is getting out of prision in a few days, and that he's going to be staying with Miguel."

"I know.  Paul told me about it when I was at the station that day.  Let me give you a piece of advice: Don't let friendship stop you from doing what you know is right.  I know you felt like you had do what you did for Miguel that day (Spolier; False Witness eposide), but you should've identified Joey in the line up."

Gary nodded.  "Any idea of what house you think we should be looking for today?"

"I was thinking of a house with a yard big enough for the kids to play in and maybe have a dog."

"Let's see what the realtor has to offer this afternoon when we see her."

At noon, they went downstairs for the special lunch that the chef had prepared for them in the kitchen.

Toni carried a baby monitor with her so she could hear when the babies woke up.

"Good afternoon  Mr and Mrs. Hobson.  I have prepared a very special dinner for you today.  Please be seated.  I will get the wine for you." Tony, the chef, told them smiling.

Gary pulled out a chair for Toni to sit on, and gently pushed her up to the table.

He then went around and sat across from her watching as his chef came back with a bottle of wine.

"One of our best bottles.  Allow me to pour the first glasses for you."

After the wine was poured, the chef proceeded to place the special meal in front of his boss and his wife that he had made in their honor.  "I shall leave you alone to enjoy it.  I will bring you the desert later."

Gary sipped his wine and licked his lips.  "The wine's delicious," he said.

"Here's a toast to us sweetheart," Toni told him raising her glass of wine.

Gary raised his glass and they clincked glasses in the toast.

"The reason I had the chef made this meal for us is that I wanted us to be alone for once.  You're going to think is funny when I tell you what happened the other day while I was shopping.  Your ex-mother in law was in the store and she happened to see the twins and I with my mother.  She came over and introduced herself. She said that she was happy for Gary to finally have the family that he wanted for so long.  She had no bad feelings for you, and wanted you to know that.  She also said that it had been unfair of your ex to pour salt in your wounds by telling you that she was marring your ex-boss.  She wants to be friends.  I told her that I would tell you what she said, and see how you felt about it before I got back to with about it."

Gary waited until he had swallowed his piece of meat with his wine before he said anything.

"You can tell her the next time you see her that I always think of her as a my friend.  I'm glad that she's happy for me.  She had always told me that she felt like my ex was using me just for her own gain.  Let's just enjoy the lunch and forget about anything else, except us and the kids."

They ate the rest of their meal in slience just enjoying it and each other.
 

Chapter 8

At two oclock, Gary and Toni drove downtown to the realtor's office with the twins to see pictures of houses.

''There it is.  J.Smith. Realtor.  Wonder what the J. stands for?",  Gary asked looking at the sign.

"We'll find out once we get inside.  My father said that she's a real good realtor," Toni replied.

Gary parked the van in the parking lot and got out to help his wife put the twins in their stroller.

"Nice office she has.  I'll let the secretary know that we're here," Gary said looking at the office.

"Welcome Mr. & Mrs. Hobson.  Mrs. Smith is expecting you.  Go right on in," the secretary told them.

"Thank you.  Let's go sweetheart," Toni said and pushed the stroller towards the main office.

Gary opened the door for her, and then followed her inside to the realtor's desk.

Jane Smith smiled and stood up to greet her customers from her desk.

"Hello.  I'm Jane Smith.  You must be Mr. & Mrs. Gary Hobson.  Please be seated." she said.

Toni and Gary sat down in the chairs in front of the desk as Jane sat back down.

"I understand that you're looking for a house.  What type of house did you have in mind?"

"We want  a house with a big yard for our children to play in when they get bigger, and that's closer to my husband's  business.  He's part owner of McGinty's bar here in town," Toni replied.

"I see.  I think I can help you find just the right house you're looking for.  I'll get the book out for you to look at."

Jane went opened her bottom desk drawer and took out the book that had pictures of houses in it.

She put it on the desk in front of them to look at and pick out the right house they wanted.

Gary opened the book and he and Toni began to looking at each of the pictures of houses.

Four pages later, Toni found the picture of the perfect house and showed it to Gary.

"Fenced in yard and big enough for the kids to play in when they get bigger. It's a two story house with a basement where you can put some of your stuff like your pinball games." she said.

"Looks alright.  The price is what worries me," Gary told her hoping it wasn't too expensive.

"It's a very a reasonable priced house Mr. Hobson.  The location is within driving distance of your business."

"Could we see it before we make a final decision?"

Mrs. Smith nodded.  "Of course.  I can take you to it right now if you like."

"Let's go see it then.  I would like to move into a house very soon," Toni said.

Five minutes later, they were at the house that was in the picture, and the realtor unlocked the door.

"This is the living room.  The bedrooms are upstairs.  Please follow me," she told them.

Gary and Toni went up the stairs with the realtor as the twins slept in their stroller.

Jane showed them the master bedroom first.  "This is where you would sleep. The master bedroom."

Gary liked how big the room was.  "Just right for us.  What about the nursery, or the kids' bedroom?"

"Follow me please.  I'll show you where your children will sleep."

They followed her to a room was a few feet from theirs.

"This is where your children will sleep, or nursery  if you wish.  Close enough for you to check on them."

Toni liked the room.  "It's perfect!  Just the right size and space for them for now," she said.

She turned to her husband to see if Gary felt the same she did about it.

"If you like it honey, then I do too.   We'll take it Mrs. Smith," he said smiling.

"Good!  We can go back to my office and sign the papers.  You've just brought yourselves a house."

"My parents will love the house when we show it to them this weekend."
 

Chapter 9

Gary and Toni finished signing the papers for their new house and went back to McGintys.

April was behind the bar working and Marissa was sitting at a table waiting for them.

"Well, tell me about your new house Gary," she said as Gary and Toni sat down besides her.

"It's really nice Marissa.  It has a fenced in yard that the kids can play in, and the house is a  two story one. The bedrooms are upstairs, there is a bathroom upstairs and one downstairs. There's even a basement for some of my stuff that I might want to put
there," Gary replied smiling.

"Sounds nice.  So when are you and Toni moving into it?"

"As soon as we can rent a moving van and get some help with the furniture," Toni replied.

Gary saw April working behind the bar.  "I thought today was her day off. What's she doing here?"

"I asked her the same question and she said that she was going to save her day off for another time when she could really use it.  She's a hard worker. She seemed kind of tired when she came in.  I asked her what was wrong, and she said she was glad she had finally finished her paper for a class project and e-mailed it to her professor.  So, how close is the house from here?"

"Just a five minute drive.  I wish you could see it Marissa."

Marissa smiled.  "Your description of it helps me form a picture of it in my mind Gary."

"I think it's time I took the twins upstairs and see if they need a diaper change," Toni said.

"I'll help you honey.  Marissa, tell April I want to see her in my office please."

Marissa nodded.  "I'll tell her Gary."

Gary rose from his chair, and helped his wife carry their children up the stairs to the loft.

He helped Toni change the diapers and then, went back downstairs to talk to April in his office.

April wondered what he wanted to see her about as she went towards the office door.

"You wanted to see me Mr. Hobson?," she asked as she entered the room.

Gary nodded.  "Please shut the door April and sit down," he replied.

April shut the door and sat down in the chair across from Gary's desk.

"I'm a little curious as to why you would give up your day off to come and work."

April sighed.  "I need the money for college next year Mr. Hobson.  I tried getting one of those loans, but you have to pay them back at the end of the term.  I even considered getting a grant of some kind.  I'm trying to get enough money saved to pay for an off -campus apartment."

Gary understood what she was saying.  College cost a lot of money if you don't have a grant to use.

"I can help you with the housing part of it April.  As you probably heard, Toni, the twins, and I will be moving into our new house soon, and the loft will be empty.  How would you like to live in the loft and pay for the rent by still working here parttime when you're not in class?  Does that sound like a good deal?"

April was shocked.  She didn't expect Gary to help her in anyway with her problem.

"Uh, sure Mr. Hobson.  I'd be glad to live in the loft and still work here after class.  Thank you."

Gary smiled.  "You're welcome April.  I'll tell you the day when we move out."

"You're the best boss a girl could ever have Mr. Hobson."

"Thank you and please call me Gary."

April left the office and went back behind the bar happy that some of her problems were solved.

Gary walked over to Marissa and told her what he had told April in his office.

"That is so sweet of you Gary.  I know how expensive college housing can be," Marissa said.

"That is why I told her that she can live in the loft after Toni and I move out with the twins."
 

Chapter 10

Gary's parents arrived on Friday afternoon with their trailer "The Gray Ghost" hitched to the back of the truck. Gary was behind the bar working when his parents came inside the bar.

"Mom! Dad!  Good to see you!," Gary said hugging his mother and dad.

"We were lucky to aviod the traffic rush today.  So, where's Toni and the grandchildren?," Lois asked.

"They're upstairs Mom.  Toni's resting after taking a long walk with them eariler today."

"I can imagine how tired she must be taking care of twins.  I'm proud of you Gary.  You have a family, and only doing your saves when it's necessary.  I think I'll go up and say hello to Toni."

"I'll be up later Lois.  I want to talk with Gary for a while," Berine told his wife.

"Bernie, you promised me you'd wait until we were together to tell Gary the news."

"I'll keep my word Lois.  Just go on upstairs and see the grandkids."

Lois nodded and went towards the stairs to go up to the loft where Gary and Toni lived.

Gary looked at his dad.  Something told him that something was wrong.

"Dad, is something going on with you and mom that I should know about?"

Berine shook his head.  "No.  We're fine Gar."

"Then, what was mom talking about when she said you promised not to tell me until both of you were here?"

"Do you remember your friend, the policeman, back in Hickory?"

"Yes. What about him?"

"He was involved in high speed chase the past week and is in the hospital here in Chicago."

Gary was stunned by this news.  His friend was in the hospital in the very town he lived.

"Tell me exactly what happened Dad.  I can't believe this."

Berine put his hand on Gary's shoulder and looked him right in his mud puddle green eyes.

"He got a police bullltien about a robber who was last seen coming towards Hickory.  Being the dedicated policeman he is, Jack got in his squad car and went to the edge of town to see if he could stop the guy. He spotted the car which was stolen and gave chase.  It was pretty scary to watch.  Anyway, he managed to shoot out one of the robber's tires and it caused the car to skid off into a nearby ditch.  Jack parked his car a few feet from the robber's car, called for backup, and carefully walked over to
the driver's side.  Just as he got to the door, the guy took out his gun and when Jack told him to come out, the guy did and shot Jack .  The robber was captured by other lawman responding to Jack's call, but Jack was down on the ground with a bulliet in his right side.  He was airlifted to the hospital in the medic plane.  That's all I know so far."

Gary felt like someone had just punched him in the stomach.  His friend was shot in the line of duty.

"Does anyone know what his condition is?  I would like to see him."

"You can call the hospital and find out.  I thought you should you know since you two are friends."

Upstaris, Lois was watching her grandchildren sleeping in their cribs sipping some coffee that Toni had made.

"They sure do have Gary's eyes.  So what's this surprise you have to tell Berine and I?," she asked.

"Gary and I have brought our dream house.  We signed the papers yesterday afternoon," Toni replied.

"You have?!  That's wonderful Toni!  I want to see this house while I'm here."

"We'll take you both there when Gary wants to.  I know you'll love it when you see it."

At that monment, Gary and Bernie entered the loft, and Toni could see by the look in her husband's eyes that something was wrong and upsetting him.

"Honey, what's wrong?  You look like you're about to burst into tears," she said taking his hand.

"A friend of mine from Hickory ,who's a policeman, is in the hospital here in serious condition.  He was shot in the line of duty  trying to arrest a robber," Gary replied.

"I'm so sorry!  I'm here for you."

Gary hugged his wife trying not let the tears come to his eyes.

"I had to tell him Lois.  We just done talking to the hospital before we came up here," Berine said.

"I understand.  He had the right to know," Lois replied hating to see her son sad.
 

Chapter 11

Gary and Toni went to the hospital to see Jack after learing that he had been shot in the line of duty.

"Excuse me nurse.  Could you please tell us which room Jack is in?  We're friends of his," Gary said.

"He's in room 210.  His wife is with him right now," the nurse replied.

"Thank you.  Room 210."

He and Toni walked down the hall towards the room number and saw the number on the door.

They entered the room and Toni went over to give Linda a comforting hug.

"I'm Gary's wife.   How are you holding up Linda?," Toni asked Linda.

"Better than when he was first brought here.  Berine told us that you and Gary had gotten married.  Do yo have any children Toni?," Linda replied smiling at Toni.

Toni nodded.  "We have two.  A girl and a boy.  They're twins, and we named them Rose and Jeff."

"Twins.  I'm so happy for you both. "

"How are you doing Jack?  My father told me what happened to you," Gary said looking at his friend.

Jack smiled at Gary.  "I'm doing a lot better than I was.  So, how's married life treating you?  I heard you got married and have twins," he replied.

"Just great.  She's talking with your wife right now, and the twins are with my parents while we're here to visit you.  Think you'll get a medal for being shot in the line of duty?"

"I don't know Gary.  I'm not going to worry about it.  I'm sorry you have to see this way."

"Hey, don't worry about it.  I'm just glad you're going to be alright. "

"Your wife looks like she could be a policewoman."

"She was a detective for a while before we got married.  Don't ever get her mad.  I found that out the hard way. She can really punch you good when she's mad at you."

Jack laughed.  "I bet.  The doctor said that I might be getting out in a few days."

"That's good news.  Why don't you and Linda drop by before you go back to Hickory?  You could see the twins and the new house we just brought."

"Maybe some other time.  We have our kids with the grandparents and they're anxious to see us."

Gary nodded.  "I understand.  I can't tell you the last time I was in the hospital as a patient."

"You were a patient?  How did that happen?"

"Uh, that's a long story, and I think you don't need to hear it right now."

Toni came over and stood by her husband.  "Hi Jack.  I'm Toni," she said introducing herself.

"Nice to meet you Toni.  I wish it wasn't like this," Jack told her.

"Don't worry about it.  Your wife was just telling me some interesting stories about you and Gary."

Gary and Jack both groaned at this.

"I'll tell you about it later Toni.  When we're back at the loft alone," Gary promised.

"We'll leave you and Linda alone now.  I've got to see if my twins are hungry or something."

"Thanks for stopping by.  We'll pay you a visit when we get the chance," Jack said.

Gary and Toni said goodbye, and walked out of the room .

"I'm glad that he's going to be alright.  He's a good policeman," Gary said as they walked out of the hospital.

"He's nice.  Let's go home and see how our kids are doing with your parents," Toni replied.
 

Chapter 12

Gary was on the phone calling the resturant to make the reservations for him and Toni on Valentine's Day.

"That's right.  A table for two.  My wife and I.  Mr. and Mrs. Gary Hobson. Seven o Clock," he said.

"Yes Mr. Hobson.  Seven o clock.  You're on my list for that night," the manager of the resturant replied.

"Thank you sir.  We'll be there.  Good bye."

Gary hung up the phone and thought back to another valentine's day  a long time ago with someone else.

It had been cold and snow was on the ground.  He and Erica had been having dinner together when the story about the baseball player had been in the paper, and that had almost ruin his evening .  He was sure that nothing would ruin this Valentine's Day with his wife.

"We're all set for that night Toni.  Seven o clock.  A table reservered for us," he told his wife.

Toni nodded as she feed Rose her bottle of milk.

"That's good honey.  Why don't you show your parents our new house while I finish feeding the twins?   I  know they want to see it.  You can play with the kids when you come back," she said.

"Sure.  I know they'll love it."

Gary and his parents went to see the new house that he and Toni were going to buy.

"The realtor gave me the keys so I can show you the inside.  The yard has a fence around it.  Come inside.  I'll show you the entire house including where the nursery will be," he told them walking towards the door.

Gary unlocked the door with the key and opened the door for them to enter the house.

He took them to the kitchen first. "  This is the kitchen.  One look at it, and Toni fell in love with it.  It's going to have a table big enough for all of us to sit at and room to move around.  Okay, next is the living room."

Gary showed the living room and told them what it'd look like once the furniture was there.

They went upstairs and Gary showed them the room where the nursery was going to be.

"This is the nursery for the twins.  It's close to the master bedroom, so when one of us has to get up and check on them, we don't have far to walk. I'll show you our bedroom now," he said leading the way.

"This is yours and Toni's bedroom I take it.  It's big enough for the both of you," Lois said.

"Mom, we're going to have one bed for the both of us.  My bed.   Well, what do you think?"

Berine smiled.  "We like it.  Especially the fenced in yard where you can keep that cat," he replied.

"That cat's not going to stay here.  Toni's allergic to it.  If we get a pet, it's going to be a dog."

"I love your house Gary.  It's what you always wanted, and now, you have it. Let's go back to the bar.  Toni might need some help with the babies," Lois told her son smiling.

They went back to McGinty's and Gary's parents went upstairs to see how their grandchildren were.

"Well, did your parents like your new house?," Marissa asked sipping her coffee.

Gary nodded.  "Yeah.  They liked it a lot.  Did I get any calls while I was gone?," he replied.

"No.  Things have been going smoothly here so far."

"Good.  I'm going up to see how Toni's doing with the kids.  I'll be back down in a while."

"Gary, your parents are here to see you and the twins.  I can handle things down here.  Go up there and enjoy yourself.  Don't worry about things down here."
 

Chapter  13

Gary and his parents entered the loft and Toni smiled from the kitchen where she was pouring coffee.

"So how did your parents like our new house honey?," she asked coming over with a tray.

Gary took his coffee cup off the tray and took a sip.  "They loved it. Especially the nursery," he replied.

"Good!  I made us some coffee so we all could sit down and talk about when we're moving."

"I like the fenced in yard.  Don't have to worry about the children getting out on the street," Lois said.

Toni sat down beside Gary on the couch and sipped her own coffee.

"That's one thing I was speific about when we were thinking about buying a house.  I don't want my children to be in any danger from a stranger or anyone else."

"I promise you  honey that you won't have to worry about that," Gary told her putting his arm around her.

Berine sipped his coffee and smiled proudly at his son and daughter in law together on the couch.

"Lois, you should've brought your camera with you.  We could've taken a picture of the house," he said.

"I'm waiting until they get all moved in before I take a picture of the house."

"Don't they make a good couple?  Our boy's finally happy."

Gary and Toni both smiled hearing what Berine had just said.

"I knew he was the man for me the first time I saw him.  There's something about his smile that just makes me melt inside.  He has that certain something that I've always looked for in husband," she said.

"Oh.  What is that Toni?," Lois wanted to know.

Toni looked at her husband trying to decide what to say in reply.

"It can't be that hard sweetheart," Gary said .

"You'll blush if I tell them what it is lover."

"Go ahead and tell them.  I don't mind."

"Okay.  He loves children and will be a good father to ours.  Also, I just love those eyes of his."

"When are you and Gary moving into your new house?",  Berine asked changing the subject.

"As soon as possible.  It's close enough to the bar that I can drive without worrying about traffic."

"That's great Gary.  I know how much your job means to you," Lois said.

Toni sipped her coffee again ,   "We're going out Valentine's Day Night to a special resturant where we can dance all night if we want to.  Gary made the reservations a while ago."

"We can babysit the kids for you while you go out, and also keep an eye on the paper." Berine said.

"Thanks Dad.  I hadn't thought about asking you and Mom yet if you wanted to do it."

"Gar, your mother and I are always here for you.  You know that."
 
Gary decided to change the subject.  "How were the kids while we were out?," he asked Toni.

"They were good.  You can help me change their diapers later," Toni replied.

Lois had to laugh at that.  "You've got him doing that already?"

Toni nodded.  "You bet Lois.  At first, he didn't like it, but now, he doesn't mind."

"Welcome to the world of henpecked fathers son!," Berine told Gary, and they both laughed.
 

Chapter 14

Gary was finishing putting his cuffs down on his tuexdo as he waited for Toni to finish dressing.

"You look so handsome in that tuxedo!  I wish I had my camera with me," Lois said smiling at him.

"Aw mom.  Please don't make be blush.  Thanks for babysitting for us tonight," Gary told her.

"You know we're glad to do it.  Your father's helping Marissa downstairs while you and Toni go out."

"What?  Oh bother.  I hope he doesn't do anything that'll cause the customers leave."

Toni came out of the bathroom dressed in her beautiful new dress she had brought the other day.

"Wow!  You sure do look beautiful tonight honey," Gary said as he looked at his wife.

"Thank you.  You're not so bad looking yourself in your tux.  Would you put my necklace on please?," she told him handing him the necklace that she had picked out of her jewerly box.

Gary steped behind her and put the necklace on her gently..  "There you are sweetheart."

"Thank you.  Now, I have something to give you before we leave."

Toni walked over to the table and picked up the wrapped box and card .

She walked back to Gary and handed him both items.  "Go ahead and open it."

Gary unwrapped the box and smiled at what he saw inside.  "Cologne.  My favorite kind too.  How did you know I liked this kind of cologne?"

"I didn't.  The lady at the store told me that most men liked it, and so I brought it for you."

"It's nice honey.  Thanks.  Now, I have something for you."

Gary went over and picked up the roses and a small wrapped box on the counter.

"This is for you Toni,  Happy Valentine's Day sweetheart."

"Oh Gary!  Roses!  My favorite flower.  It's beautiful!  I'll put it in water before we leave."

Toni kissed him on the check and then unwrapped the small box.

Inside was a heart shaped pin which she took out and looked at it.

"It's beautiful Gary.  Please put it on me."

Gary took the pin from her hand and carefully pinned it on her.

"There.  Now you look like a beautiful picture just for my eyes alone."

Toni kissed him again and turned to Lois.  " The twins have been fed, changed, and are asleep in their cribs. Should you need to call us for any reason, the number of the resturant is on the notepad besides the phone."

Lois nodded.  "I doubt we'll call you.  You and Gary go out and enjoy yourselves."

Gary picked up Toni's jacket and helped her put it on.  Then, he put his own jacket on, and lead her towards the door.  "Bye Mom.  We'll be back late. "

"Have fun and don't worry anything here.  It's all under control."

Gary opened the door for Toni, followed her out, and shut the door behind him.

He and Toni went down the stairs passing through the bar on their way out.

"You two really look nice tonight.  You go and enjoy yourselves, and don't worry about anything," Berine said.

"Thanks Dad.  See you later.  Bye Marissa.  Emmit," Gary told his father and friends.

"Bye Gary.  Have a wonderful time tonight," Marissa said smiling.

Toni and Gary left the bar and drove towards the resturant in her car and not the van.

Gary parked the car in the parking lot and escorted his wife towards the front door.

Once inside, they were met by the waiter who greeted them.

"Good evening.  Mr and Mrs. Gary Hobson, please follow me to your table," he told them.

They followed the waiter to their table and the waiter handed them a menu.

"What would you care to drink tonight?," he asked them smiling.

"We'll have some red wine please," Gary replied.

"An excellent choice sir.  I'll bring the wine to you."

After the waiter left, Gary and Toni studied their menus deciding what to order.

"You order for us Gary.  Whatever you order will be fine with me," Toni told him.

"Okay.  Special number five looks good," Gary replied looking at the menu.

"Go ahead and order it then."

The waiter returned with their wine bottle and two glasses.

"Your wine sir.  Shall I pour, or do you want to do the honor?"

"You can pour the first glass waiter," Gary replied.

The waiter nodded, and poured them each a glass of wine.

"Are you ready to order?"

Gary nodded.  "Yes, we'll have two number five specials please."

The waiter wrote it down, and went to the kitchen to give the chef the orders.

Gary raised his glass of wine.  "Here's to my special valentine.  Happy Valentine's Day!"

Toni smiled and raised her own glass of wine.  "You'll always be my Valentine lover."

They clinked glasses and drank their special toast.

They spent the rest of the evening eating their dinner and dancing to the music the orchesta was playing.

They both felt like they were the only ones in the room as they danced close together.

Email the author:  Lori Anderson
 
 

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