5 comments/  16092 views/  12 favorites

Georgie Girl Ch. 07-09

By: coaster2



Authors Note: This story was edited by ErikThread and DaveT with my thanks and appreciation. Any errors are mine alone. It previously was posted on another site.

Georgie Girl

Chapter 7 Hey There, Georgie Girl

 I have some vague memories of being attended to by a paramedic and being lifted onto a gurney and into a van. I saw Georgette once or twice, but I don't remember what she was doing. I remember being rolled into what I thought might be an operating room, and then nothing until I started to wake up.

The room was dimly lit and it took me a couple of attempts to focus my eyes before I concluded I was in a hospital room. I appeared to be by myself. I could see several tubes and two bags of fluid on a stand, along with a fancy monitor that was showing my heart rate. Good news. I was still alive.

I could turn my head and when I did I saw the huddled figure of Georgette curled up on a chair in the corner, asleep I assumed.

"Hey there ... Georgie Girl," I croaked, trying to be a comedian.

"John!" she cried, jumping up and coming to me.

I felt her cool hands on my face and her kisses on my forehead as her tears splashed down into my eyes.

"Oh, God, Johnny, I was so scared. I thought you were going to die. I saw that knife sticking out of you and all the blood. I thought you might be dead," she cried.

"You and me both," I said, my voice not sounding like it usually did. "Can I have some water? My throat feels awful."

"Here," she said, passing me her water bottle. 

I took a sip and immediately felt better. Seconds later a nurse entered the room and snatched the bottle out of my hands.

"What are you doing with that? It's not sanitary. If you wanted water, then press the button," she said in a firm but not angry tone.

"Sorry," I said. "I just woke up."

She opened a door and came back a few moments later with a foam cup, a flexible straw and some cool water. 

"There you go. Fresh, clean water from the Sierras," she smiled.

"Thanks. What time is it?"

"Just after eleven."

"So, I've been in here for a couple of hours then?"

"Eleven in the morning, young man. You were in surgery for over three hours. Didn't your mother ever tell you not to play with knives?" she asked with a smile.

I put my head back on the pillow and noticed the control panel for the bed. I found the button to raise my head and immediately I could feel some stress on my chest. I wasn't sure what it was, but I assumed it had to do with the slash I had received in the fight. It was coming back to me now. I should have been frightened to death, but I was too stupid to be, I guess.

"What happened after I hit him?" I asked Georgette. "Did he get away?"

"No ... you knocked him out long enough for the sheriff's department to take him away. He's probably in the Tahoe City jail. I told the sheriff we'd press charges for attempted murder and all the other things he's guilty of. Father said he spoke to the county attorney's office and asked them not to grant bail. He's a threat to all of us."

"He didn't look like he was in his right mind from what I could tell," I said, my voice now beginning to return. 

"He isn't," she agreed. "He's crazy and probably has been for a while. He needs to be locked up for a long time."

"So, you told your dad what happened?"

"Yes. He and mother and Nan came right away. They're at the lodge, cleaning up the mess."

"I'm sorry about that, I really am. I need to phone my parents and let them know I'm okay."

"Already done," she smiled, kissing my forehead again. "My father called them."

"How?"

"I found their number in your wallet. They're both on the way. They should be in Reno soon. Father and Mother are picking them up at the airport and bringing them here. Nan's at the lodge with my aunt and uncle. Nan will be along to visit later. She was all set to take my father's shotgun and shoot Brad."

"I bet she was. She really is someone special, Georgette."

"I notice you allow her to call you Johnny. That must mean she's special."

"I used to hate it when Ginny called me that, but I figured out why after we split up. When she said it she was trying to tell me that she was in charge. It was like she was belittling me in a small way. I didn't really catch on until Nan called me Johnny that first time and I didn't mind. With her, it was a term of affection, like when she calls you Georgie-Girl."

"You called me Georgie-Girl when you woke up," she smiled.

"Do you mind?"

"Not at all ... as long as it's you. Special privilege for a special man."

"In that case, I can live with Johnny from Nan and you," I grinned, taking her hand and squeezing it."

As if on cue, a short, balding man entered the room. The smock and the stethoscope were a give-away. He was my doctor, I presumed.

"Nice to see you awake and alert already Mr. Smith. By the way, is that your real name?" he grinned.  

"Yes sir, it is," I said with chuckle and immediately regretting it.

"I don't recommend laughing, coughing or sneezing for the next little while. You're going to find it uncomfortable until the wounds heal. I'm Doctor Hilliard, by the way."

Georgette had stepped back and was sitting in the chair, listening to the conversation.

"How much damage did he do?" I asked.

"The slash on your chest is pretty much superficial. It wasn't deep, but it took something like thirty staples to close it. The puncture wound was another matter. In a way you were quite lucky. He only nicked a kidney and an artery, but you lost a lot of blood and it took us a while to find and repair the damaged bits. You should recover with no after-effects at all as far as I can see."

"How long will I be here?"

"I'd like to keep you in for another forty-eight hours just to make sure there's no infection and the sutures are holding. Then, you can go home and rest for a couple of weeks. I'd say a month from now you'll be back to something resembling normal activity."

"But I've got classes. I'm in college. Third year engineering. I can't afford to miss class."

"I can't help you there," he said. "Perhaps if you talk to the college, they can arrange something for you at home. You're going to need some help for a couple of weeks, so home is the best place."

"My home is in Coeur d'Alene and my school is in San Francisco."

"Don't worry, John," Georgette interrupted, "It's all taken care of."

"It is?"

"We'll talk about it later."

"Is there anything else I should know?" I asked, looking from the doctor to Georgette.

"I'll be around to check on you tomorrow afternoon," the doctor said, "and if everything looks okay on Saturday, we can release you."

"I'm getting a headache," I told Georgette as the doctor left. "Do you mind if I close my eyes for a few minutes."

"Of course not, darling," she smiled, kissing my forehead and then lightly on my lips as I faded away.

When I awoke, the room was dark again. I looked up at the clock over the doorway and it read four-fifteen. My headache was still there but wasn't quite as intrusive. I was thirsty again and remembering the lecture from the nurse, I pushed the call button. She appeared in less than a minute.

"May I have some water please ... and maybe something for a headache?"

"I can give you one Tylenol, Mr. Smith. That's all for now because of the pain medication you're on. You've got a big bump on the back of your head and I guess that's what's giving you the headache."

She stepped into the bathroom and returned with another cup of chilled water along with one pill. I took the pill and sipped the water gratefully.

"How are you feeling? Are you up to seeing your parents?"

"Oh ... they're here. Yes ... please."

She left, moving quickly and two minutes later my parents were ushered into my room.

"Just ten minutes for now, please folks," the nurse requested. "He hasn't been out of surgery very long."

I could see the red in my mother's eyes and I knew she had been crying.

"Hi Mom. Hi Dad. I'm sorry to bother you like this. A lousy way to celebrate the New Years, eh?"

"Oh John, we were so worried," Mom cried emotionally. "We couldn't believe someone had stabbed you. We're so happy that you're going to be all right. Mr. Fulton ... Thomas ... told us all about what happened." 

"He says you're a hero, John," my father smiled. "You saved his daughter's life as far as he's concerned. He and Sarah are two very relieved parents, and so are we."

"I don't feel much like a hero, Dad. I was scared to death and was forced to defend myself. I don't ever want to be in that situation again."

"Well, it's over now, so you can concentrate on getting better," my mother said. We'll be here over New Years and I'll be staying with you until you can get around on your own. The doctor said it would be about two weeks."

"Who's looking after the inn?"

"We just brought in an assistant manager and he's about to get his baptism of fire," Dad said. "Luckily, he's experienced in hotel management and knows what to do. I'll be back by Monday or Tuesday, so we should be okay. Jared should be fine until I get back. He's got my cell phone number, and he knows he can call me if he's concerned about anything."

"Where are we going to stay, Mom? There's no room at the apartment."

"I've been told we'll be staying with Sarah's mother, Nanette. She has two spare bedrooms and will welcome the company. She was hopping mad about that guy who attacked you. I think she would have gone after him if she'd had half a chance," Mom said with a wrinkled smile.

"It was Georgette's ex-husband. I think he's nuts. Delusional. He'd come up here to take her 'home' he said. Did you know he beat her when they were married?"

"We heard all about it from Sarah and Thomas on the way here," Mom said. "They are wonderful people, by the way. We stopped at the lodge and left our bags there. It's really a magnificent place, isn't it?"   

"They've been very nice to me too," I agreed. "I haven't met Georgette's aunt and uncle yet, but I imagine they are here now."

"Yes, and they've made us very welcome too," Dad said. "Devon and Mary if I remember correctly."

I nodded. "That's right. Well, you've done better than I have then. You've met everyone. But where's Georgette?"

"She's been sent home to get some sleep," Mom said. "Did you know she was with you every minute that you've been in here until we arrived? The only time she wasn't beside you was when you were in the operating room. When were you going to tell us about her?"

"I did, if you'll remember. I said I had a girlfriend, but that it wasn't serious because of my studies."

"I get the feeling she's a lot more than just a girlfriend," Dad said with a smile.

"Yeah ... she is. That's just happened. I realized she was important to me when I was home for Christmas. I was having a hard time accepting that she was interested in me. You probably noticed that she's a bit older than me."

"So what?" my mother said, shocking me. "If she's the right one, then it doesn't matter. Besides, she's not that much older."

I looked at Dad and he was smiling that smile he has when mother was stating the obvious. 

"I'm glad you feel that way," I told them. "It's a big load off my mind. I wasn't sure how you'd feel about it."

"I might have been a little more concerned about her family wealth if I hadn't met her parents," Dad said. "They are very down-to-earth people and instantly likable. Of course, they have a very high opinion of you, John."  "None of this was planned, you know. It just happened. She saw something in me that attracted her and after I got to know her a bit, I felt the same way. I'm still a little shell-shocked that she's chosen me. It just didn't seem possible ... and yet it is."

"Well, based on her actions, there isn't much doubt how she feels about you," Mom said. "I want to get to know her better. She isn't at her best right now and she needs to get some rest and recover from a horrifying experience. So do we, for that matter. I think our ten minutes is up, Carter. We'd better get going. We'll see you tomorrow, John. Sleep well, dear."

After a kiss from Mom and a light handshake from Dad, they left. I was tired again and allowed my eyes to close. I didn't awaken until after ten that evening. I'd been aware of a catheter in my penis, so I could relieve myself when I needed to, but once again, the headache was back and I was thirsty. I pushed the button and a new nurse arrived a minute or so later.

"May I have some water and a Tylenol please? My headache is back."

"Let me check with the resident and make sure the Tylenol is okay. In the meantime, I'll get you some water."

I guess she was persuasive enough that I was allowed another pill and within an hour I was asleep again. I woke up a couple of times during the night, but willed myself to relax and go back to sleep. When I awoke at seven the next morning, I was aware of two things: my headache was almost gone and I was hungry. I pressed the magic button and waited.

This time it was five or so minutes before another nurse appeared.

"Happy New Year. Would you like some more water, Mr. Smith?"

"Yes, please ... and I'm hungry. What's the chance of getting something to eat?"

"Let me check with your doctor. He should be here in about an hour. I'm glad to hear you have an appetite. That's a good sign," she smiled.

"Okay, but if you hear something that sounds like thunder coming from this room, it'll be my stomach demanding satisfaction," I said with a grin.

"Well, a sense of humor too, I see. That goes a long way to getting our cooperation, you know."

"I'm counting on you, Miss. I'm hoping you can keep a man from starving on your ward."

"I'll do what I can," she smiled again. I was praying she'd succeed.

Doctor Hilliard arrived just after eight, striding into my room with a smile.

"Happy New Year, Mr. Smith. I hear you're interested in some solid food ... even if it is hospital food," he chuckled.

"Yes, I am hungry."

"Good. That's a good sign. Let me just check on your incisions and make sure everything is okay. In the meantime, the nurse is checking your recent urine samples to make sure your plumbing is working properly. We'll take the catheter out and get you up and walking ... at least to the washroom."

He peeled back the bandages over my chest and examined me carefully.

"Good ... no sign of seepage and no indication of infection. So far, so good. As soon as I have an all clear from the lab, I'll let them know you can start on solid food."

"Thanks. I guess I missed New Years last night. How was it?"

"Well, in my home it was pretty quiet since I was on duty today. There were fireworks on the other side of the lake that were quite spectacular. We're saving the champagne for tonight when I'm off duty for a couple of days. I will drop in tomorrow though, and with luck we may be able to release you. Let me just have a look at that bump on the back of your head while I'm here. I noticed you took a Tylenol last night. Did that help?"

"It must have because I went back to sleep and when I woke up this morning it was gone."

"We x-rayed you when you were admitted and there was no sign of fracture and so far no symptoms of concussion. The paramedics thought you banged your head on the edge of the counter when you dropped to the floor. If you've got an appetite that would rule out nausea, so I think it's just a bad bruise that was giving you the headaches. Do you have a family doctor nearby?"

"No ... I'm just a visitor here. I don't even have one in San Francisco other than the student health services. My family doctor is in Coeur d'Alene."

"Well, find a clinic near where you live and if you have recurring problems with headaches or any other symptoms from your trauma, see a doctor right away. We can transfer your medical records instantly once we have approval."

"Okay. I'll do that as soon as I get back there."

Less than an hour later, an orderly arrived with a cart and a tray of food. It was a pretty bland breakfast, but I was hungry and I didn't have any trouble eating it all without any upset. I was also told I was now on the regular schedule and I'd be getting a lunch in a couple of hours. That was even better news. I took this as a good sign.

When I was finished with my tray, it was put out in the hallway and a nurse came and removed the catheter. Very slowly and gently, she helped me rise and get out of bed. It took me a few seconds to overcome the dizziness and stand on my own. I wasn't very steady, but together we walked to the washroom and I was left in privacy. When I was done, I got up, still a bit unsteady, but splashed some water on my unshaven face and felt better. I made it back to my bed without incident.

My parents arrived just after ten o'clock and Nan was with them. I know I gave her a big smile and she gave me one in return.

"Hi Nan. Good to see you. I wish it were in better circumstances."

"Don't you worry about that, Johnny. I'm just glad you're alive and kicking. You didn't even put a dent in the frying pan," she laughed.

"Hi Mom, Hi Dad. You caught up on your sleep yet?"

"Yes," Mom said with big smile. "That house is so quiet and comfortable that we slept in this morning. We're going to have to visit you in shifts. Georgette is waiting in the little café downstairs, so she'll be up here when we leave."

"How is she? She was looking pretty rough last night. I hope she got some sleep too."

"Yes, I think you can rest easy on that," Dad said. "She's looks much better this morning and I can see why you would be attracted to her. She's a very beautiful young woman, John."

"She is, isn't she," I agreed.

"How are you feeling?" my mother asked.

"Much better, Mom. I'm on solid food and everything looks good with my recovery. I'm planning on getting out of here tomorrow."

"Wonderful," she said. 

"How was your New Years Eve?"

"Very quiet," Dad said. "Your mother fell asleep on the couch but woke up in time to watch the fireworks on the far shore. The view from that front window was great. We could see everything. After that, we had a glass of champagne with our new friends and went to bed. We didn't have any trouble getting to sleep."

"You stayed up too, Nan?"

"I sure did. Wouldn't miss it for the world. They always put on a great show at midnight."

"I'm sorry I missed it, but I wouldn't have been very lively company."

"Thomas got it all on his video camera, so your can see it when you get back to the lodge," Dad said.

We talked for a bit, with Nan sitting on the edge of the bed. She had taken a very protective attitude toward me and I'm sure my parents noticed. My grandparents were still alive, but except for Grandfather Smith, we weren't any closer than I felt Nan was. I'm not sure why, but that's how it seemed to me.

They left after a half hour and I was alone for less than five minutes when Georgette came in. I got a gentle hug and a not-so-gentle kiss from my girl. 

"Feeling better?" I asked.

"Yes ... much better, love. There's a rumor going around they might let you come home tomorrow. Any truth to that?"

"I'm counting on it. So far no problems, and as long as Doctor Hilliard gives me the okay, I'll be back in the lap of luxury once more."

"You'll be back in my lap if I have anything to do with it," she claimed, covering my lips with another, deep kiss.

"Our parents are getting along really well, don't you think?" I suggested.

"I'm not surprised. They must be great people to have a great son like you. I think the biggest surprise, though, is my mother. You should have heard her talk about you to your parents. If there was one person I worried about, it was her. Not any more," she grinned.

"That's great. I feel so much better that everyone gets along. I still haven't met your uncle and aunt, but I'm sure I'll like them too."


Georgie Girl Ch. 07-09



"You will. They'll be here this afternoon to visit. You'll like Uncle Devon. He's full of fun and just like his mother ... feisty."

"I'm looking forward to it," I said, taking her hand and squeezing it gently. "So, our little love session kind of got sidetracked. Looks like I'm going to be out of commission for a while." 

"There are other things we can do that won't put any stress on your wounds."

"Oh ... well ... you'll have to show me," I chuckled.

"I plan to do more than just show you. I plan to reward you for being my hero. For saving me from a fate worse than death," she said seriously.

The conversation became a bit more intimate, and as it did I became aware that something else was happening. I was getting hard. Whatever drugs might have been in my system weren't affecting my ability to be aroused. Georgette didn't fail to notice.

"Oh, look what I see," she smirked. "Something has come up." She snaked her hand under the single sheet and up under the hospital gown, gripping my now rigid member.

"And doesn't that feel good?" she teased. "Nice ... and big ... and hard. Just how I like it. I think we're going to have a very good time when you're healed, John. I'll have to make sure we take extra good care of you until you are. Make sure to build up your strength ... and stamina." 

The look on her face and the glint in her eyes told me everything. She was as anxious as I was to consummate our relationship. I didn't know when that would be, but it wouldn't be one day longer than necessary.

"What if someone comes in?" I asked, watching the door for unexpected guests.

It was a good thing I did. A couple of minutes later, a man in a suit appeared at the door and knocked on the frame. Georgette's eyes went wide and she quickly withdrew her hand. Luckily her back was to the door and our visitor probably wouldn't have noticed.

"Come in," I said as we got settled again.

"Are you John Smith?"

"Yes, I am."

"I'm Detective Penick of the Placer County Sheriffs Department. Can I ask you some questions about the incident on Wednesday evening?"

"Yes ... sure. This is Georgette Fulton. She was there when it happened."

"Good. I can get her statement later. Would you excuse us please, Miss Fulton?"

Georgette reluctantly agreed and went out into the hallway. I suspected she wouldn't be far away.

"Would you describe what happened on Wednesday evening, beginning when you were aware that there was someone in the house with you."

I began, telling him about the broken glass, the encounter with Brad Little and his grabbing a knife, the attack and then the result. I couldn't remember much after discovering I had been stabbed.

"Where was Miss Fulton while all this was going on?"

"I presume she was in the great room. I didn't see or hear her, but then my concentration was on the guy with the knife. I just hoped she had called your department and then got to someplace safe in case he got by me and came after her."

"Did he say he was going to harm her?" the detective asked.

"I don't recall. But he did say he was going to take her with him whether she wanted to go or not. I knew for a fact she didn't want to go. He said something about her being his wife and she'd do as she was told. He had beaten her before and there was a restraining order out on him. I thought she was in real danger."

"Anything else you can remember?"

"No ... I don't think I've left anything out. I thought I heard Georgette scream just before I blacked out, but I can't be sure."

"Okay, Mr. Smith. That's very helpful. Thank you. Are you going to be here long?"

"I hope not. I might be released as early as tomorrow."

He nodded. "I'm sure that would be welcome," he smiled.

"Yeah ... it would. Say, Detective, while I think about it, is there any chance Brad Little is going to be released on bail?"

"I doubt it. I think the county attorney is pretty adamant that he's not only a flight risk, but a danger to you and the Fulton family. I sure as hell hope some judge doesn't let him out. I'd have to put a watch on the house twenty-four-seven with him running around."

"So ... he hasn't been arraigned then?"

"No, not until Monday at the earliest. The New Years holiday, you know."

"Well, I guess we'll have to hope for a judge with some common sense."

"Yeah. I'm with you on that," he said before leaving.

Georgette didn't return for another twenty minutes, and I guessed that the detective had found her and taken her statement. Hell of a thing, having to work on New Years Day. No chance to watch the bowl games.

"So, did you get the third degree from the detective?" I asked when she returned.

"He's nice. He was very easy to talk to, John. Wasn't he the same with you?"

"Yeah ... he asked some straightforward questions and I gave him everything I could remember. But he did ask a question that I couldn't answer. Where were you when Brad and I were dancing around in the kitchen?"

"I grabbed the phone and ran into the bathroom and locked myself in there. You had your back to me when I went by, but I'm sure Brad saw me and could guess where I was going. I was just hoping that the sheriff would arrive before he broke down the door and got to me."

"But you didn't stay in there. What made you come out?"

"It got quiet. I couldn't hear anything. I waited for a minute or so, and then I decided I had to find out what had happened to you. When I peeked into the kitchen, I could see Brad on the floor and he wasn't moving. Then I saw all the blood and the knife sticking out of you as you sat on the floor. I thought you were dead and I screamed."

"Okay ... now I think I know what I heard. How long did you have to wait for the sheriff's department to arrive?"

"Only a couple of minutes after I came out of the bathroom. I heard the sirens and I went to the front door to let them in. They had already called the paramedics and they were right behind them. The guys from the sheriff's department took over then and took me back into the great room to wait for them to deal with you and Brad. 

"When I saw them wheel you out on the stretcher, I could see some things hooked up to you and an I.V. bag too. I was praying that meant you were still alive. I was so scared, John. I wanted to go with the paramedics to the hospital, but they wouldn't let me."

"Where did they take me? Where is this hospital?"

"You're in Tahoe Forest Hospital in Truckee. It's a great hospital and has all the services you needed. There was no need to airlift you anywhere else."

"I guess I'm lucky in a lot of ways. At least I'm still alive."

"Thank God, John. I don't know what I'd have done if I'd have lost you. I really don't."

"Well, now you don't have to," I smiled, putting my hand on her cheek. "I love you, Georgette."

"I love you too, John," she whispered, smiling through fresh tears.

Chapter 8 Rest, Recovery and Reorganization

I was released on Saturday, just before they served lunch. They plunked me in a wheelchair and an orderly pushed me to the elevator and then through the lobby to the main entrance and out into the brilliant sunshine. Waiting for me was Devon and my parents, along with Georgette. Devon was driving the biggest Chev Suburban they made. I was helped into it by my father and Devon and made myself as comfortable as I could. I wasn't keen on the shoulder belt, but I did it up anyway. I was stiff and sore, but I could get around now and I knew I was on the road to recovery.

Dad's insurance plan covered my stay and I was glad it was something that didn't burden the Fultons after what had happened. I had met Devon and Mary the previous afternoon when they came up for a brief visit to introduce themselves and tell me how proud they were of what I had done for their family. I was embarrassed at the amount of praise I was receiving from all of the Fulton-desBiens family. I felt like I was being given more credit that I was due.

We arrived at the lodge twenty minutes after leaving the hospital. Devon was careful not to hit any bumps that he could avoid and I was grateful. I wasn't anxious to test my threshold of pain just yet. I was helped into the house through the back door. Georgette pulled off my boots and put my moccasins on for me. I shuffled my way through the kitchen, pausing to look at the spot where I had dropped along with Bradley Little. There was no sign of our confrontation.

Sarah Fulton approached me and clasped my head with both hands. There were tears in her eyes when she spoke.

"We are so thankful to you, John. Words can't tell you what you have done for us. We will always be grateful for your bravery."

She kissed me then and I have to admit, I was a little misty-eyed too. Nan took one arm and Sarah took the other as they led me to the big sofa.

"Ladies, if you don't mind, I'd like to sit in one of those upright taller chairs. I'm afraid if I sit on the sofa I won't be able to get myself up."

The big chairs I was referring to were large and sturdy with arms that would easily support my weight. I could more easily push myself up out of them than the low, soft sofa. I got no argument from the ladies and I sat gingerly near the front window, looking back into the great room. A glance over my shoulder confirmed the spectacular view across Lake Tahoe.

I was curious about the sleeping arrangements. There were three couples, plus Georgette, Nan, and myself. With four bedrooms and the hide-a-bed, I wondered how it would work out. Georgette cleared up the mystery.

"Nan and I will share my bedroom. You'll sleep in Father's den on the hide-a-bed. That way you won't have to climb the stairs."

"Okay, that makes sense. You said it might work that way. I'll try not to be too lonely knowing the love of my life is a few feet away but out of reach."

"Oh, John, you are sooooo brave," she teased. "Don't worry, I'll find a way to make it up to you."

"You don't have to make anything up to me. 

"Don't argue. Just trust me," she said with a determined look.

I wasn't allowed to have any alcohol while I was taking Percocet. On the advice of Doctor Hilliard, I was weaning myself off them, down to two per day and hopefully only one in a couple of days. I was warned about withdrawal symptoms, so I was being careful as I reduced my need for them. The pain I had been experiencing was now reduced to something akin to soreness and ordinary Tylenol had been prescribed as an alternative to the narcotic. Happily, the headaches were now a thing of the past and, while I still had a bump on the back of my head, it wasn't bothering me.

It seemed hard to believe that all this had happened in the space of less than four days. It was Saturday, January 2, 2010, the last year of the first decade of the twenty-first century. So much had changed so quickly. An innocent meeting in a sorority mixer last September had led to my taking part in Georgette's interviews, which led to something else altogether. Something that I hoped would last a lifetime.

Sarah and Mary had fixed a nice buffet lunch for us and I found my appetite was completely restored. I would miss my usual Anchor Steam, but the lunch was so delicious that I feasted on that instead. I had lost a few pounds even during the short stay in hospital, so I rationalized I could do with a few extra items from the buffet.

I could see that Devon was Nan's son. He was lively and full of good humor and didn't at all seem like the sober senior partner in a prestigious law firm. Perhaps that was the face he put on when he went to work and the real Devon was the man we saw here in his family environment. His wife, Mary, was much quieter but had a lovely, peaceful look about her. You didn't have to be around them very long to see they were devoted to each other.

"I've been meaning to ask where you went on your most recent trip," I said to Devon.

"Hawaii ... Maui, actually. We rented a cottage in Lahaina for three months. We'll be there until the end of February."

"So, you just came back for New Years?" I asked, surprised.

"Yes. Didn't want to miss the family gathering, and mother was adamant that we should meet you," he smiled.

I had no idea how to respond to that and ended up with a feeble "Oh."

"Turns out she was right. We really did need to meet you," he chuckled, "although you went about it in very strange way."

"I'll try and avoid doing this again in the future," I smiled.

"Good plan," Mary said. "How are you coming on your studies?"

"I was doing fine until this happened. I'm not sure how I'm going to cope when the new semester begins. It takes all my effort to maintain my grades and missing class would be hard to overcome."

"You won't be missing class, John," Georgette said with authority.

"Oh ... why is that?"

"I'll be getting you there. All your classes are wheel-chair accessible. We just have to let them know in advance that you'll need a space for a month and it will be no problem."

"What about your dissertation ... your interviews?"

"They aren't time-dependent. I'll happily take a break to look after my man," she smiled.

I looked around the room and saw nothing but smiles of acknowledgement. If Georgette said it was so, it must be so.

"John has a minor learning disability," Georgette added, "and that's why he needs all his class time."

"What kind of disability?" Sarah Fulton asked.

"I have what's called a storage problem in my short term memory. It just means I have to learn differently than other people. I have to repeat things several times to make sure they are there when I need them."

"That doesn't sound too serious," Mary desBiens said.

"It isn't, just time consuming. I can't just pick up a text book or attend a class and make a few notes. I take a small digital recorder with me when I go to class. That way, when I review my work in the evening, I can hear the lectures word for word. All I have to do is edit out the extraneous stuff that doesn't matter and I can store the important information on my laptop."

"Does that apply to your everyday life ... you know ... the usual things like appointments or where you parked your car?" Thomas asked.

"No ... it doesn't seem to work that way. I mean, we can all be a little absent minded now and then."

"Tell me about it," Mary said, looking at Devon. That brought about general laughter.

"It seems to relate to large quantities of new information that need to be understood. Complex instructions. For example, if I bought a new DVR, I'd be forever learning to program it until I got used to the procedure."

"Just like me, then," Thomas laughed.

"As an engineering student, I'm bombarded with complex information all the time, so it makes learning a lot more challenging."

"And yet, you're succeeding," Nan said with a hint of pride.

"Yes. It's important to me that I make it. It's a goal and I can't let anything distract me from it right now."

"Like me, for instance," Georgette said with a smile.

"Especially you," I chuckled, noticing only slight discomfort in my chest.

"I have the sense that nothing will stop you from achieving your goals, John," my father said, showing his definite confidence in me. 

"You must be immensely proud of him," Sarah said, looking at me with a warm smile.

"We are," my mother said. "But we're also embarrassing him right now. Can we change the subject?" she asked gently.

"How about them 49'ers," Devon laughed.

"Yuck!" was Thomas's reply. "Maybe the new coach, a new quarterback and a new secondary might make them competitive."

The conversation wandered all over the place for the next while. I sat back and listened. Georgette had helped clear the table with her mother and aunt, then returned to the great room and sat on the rug next to me. I dropped my hand over the arm of the chair and she took it, holding it as we listened to the comfortable chatter. It felt good. It felt very, very good.

A bit of strategic planning sorted out the action required on Monday. Thomas and Sarah would be returning to the city. With them as far as Sacramento would be my parents. My father would be catching a plane at one o'clock to Spokane via Portland. His car was in the Spokane parking lot, and he could be home from there in a matter of forty minutes. Mom would continue on to San Francisco with the Fultons. Devon and Mary were taking Nan back to San Francisco before packing once more to return to Maui. That left Georgette and me to return on our own.

It had been decided that I would stay with Nan along with mother. She had two unused bedrooms that we could occupy and, although I wasn't sure I really needed mother to be there, I said nothing since it seemed to give her some peace of mind. She was being very protective of me and I could understand that.

I wasn't supposed to drive yet, so I couldn't spell Georgette on the over three hour trip back to the city. Luckily, the weather had held and there was no snow on the descent down I-80. By the time we got to the outskirts of Sacramento, the temperature on the car's thermometer read sixty-two. Much warmer than it would be in San Francisco.

We stopped at Vacaville for a rest break so that I could stretch and walk around for few minutes. It was nice to be out in the relatively warm sun for a change. I was feeling a bit stiff, but I noticed there was very little pain going on and I was grateful for that. I hoped that my recovery would be sooner rather than later. I didn't want to be dependent on Mom or Georgette any longer than necessary. They had their own lives to live.

We arrived in the city just before three in the afternoon. Georgette made a detour and pulled up in front of a medical supply outlet.

"What's up?" I asked.

"I'm renting a wheelchair so I can get you around campus without you straining yourself or being late for class."

"Oh. You think that's necessary?"

"For now, yes. When you get stronger and can walk more easily, we can return it and you'll be on your own," she grinned.

"So ... you're going to push me around, huh?"

"You might as well get used to the idea. I am very strong-willed, you know."

"Yeah ... I'm getting that impression."

Georgette had booked ahead on the Internet from the lodge, and they were ready for us with a new light-weight chair. It also had a carrier on the back where I could put my books and laptop. She had pretty much thought of everything.

"Let me put it in the trunk," she ordered. "You aren't supposed to be doing any lifting right now."

"So, carrying you up the stairs to your bedroom is out, I guess."

"For now," she said with a raised eyebrow and a smirk.

The wheelchair was left in the trunk as we had moved our bags to the back seat for the short ride to her home. Our skis and boots had been left at the lodge since we planned to get some skiing in as soon as I was healed. Georgette assured me that there would be adequate snow well into April at the upper level. I should be good-to-go long before then.

Thomas took my bags and toted them up the stairs to the middle bedroom. It was plenty big with lots of closet space. We would go to my apartment and get my clothes and other personal items the next day. I had enough in my travel kit to make do. Once again, Thomas insisted that he help me with moving my things, so we made arrangements to go over the next morning. 

Classes resumed on Tuesday, but I knew from experience that little beyond a snap-shot of the curriculum would be presented. I was sure I could pick that up on Wednesday when class began for real. It was when we arrived at the apartment that I got an unexpected surprise.

"Hey, Willie, what's up? I thought you'd be in class now."

"We got a notice in our mailbox yesterday and I thought you better see it right away," he said.

Willie was William Petrovic, another third year student studying environmental sciences. He was an ideal roommate: neat and quiet. We got along very well.




Georgie Girl Ch. 07-09



"What kind of notice?"

"This one," he said, handing it to me.

"Eviction? What's this all about?"

"The place has been sold and they're planning to renovate and sell the units as condominiums. They are giving us legal notice."

"When do we have to be out?"

"Before the first of April."

"But we won't be finished classes by then, much less exams. Can they do this?" I asked, looking around.

Thomas took the paper from my hand and looked at it. He pulled out his cell phone and pressed a speed dial number.

"Devon, we have a situation and I could use your help," he said. He went on to explain what was happening while I turned to Willie and let him know that Devon was a senior partner in a very big law firm and if anyone could help, he could.

I wasn't paying close attention to Thomas's conversation as he had wandered away before returning to me.

"Do you have a lease?" he asked, holding the phone away from his ear.

"No ... we're month-to-month. The landlord didn't want to be locked in to a group of students who might flunk out or cause problems with the other tenants."

"Okay. Devon says we can't stop them from doing this, but we can slow them down so that you can at least finish the semester. That will give you part of the summer to find alternate accommodation. I'm afraid this is becoming a common practice these days. But, as Devon says, if they want to make your life miserable, he can give them plenty of misery in return," he said.

"Thank you, sir. I'm William Petrovic, but my friends call me Willie. You've just made our day. I'm sure the other two guys will be relieved to find out we're not going to be out on the street in ninety days."

"I'm Thomas Fulton and this is my daughter, Georgette. Your roommate John had quite an adventure over New Years. We're moving him into our house for the time being. I'll let him tell you about what happened while Georgette and I pack up his belongings. John, if you could show us the way, we'll get started."

I told Willie about the confrontation and the stabbing. As you would expect, he wanted all the gory details. I was getting tired of telling the story, but Willie was fascinated by what had happened. He knew that I had been seeing Georgette, but he didn't know just what the relationship between us was. I was sure he was getting the idea by now.

It took very little time to pack up my stuff and put it in the car. Willie helped Mr. Fulton and I thanked him. I'd leave it up to him to explain where I was and why when my other two roommates got back from college that evening. Knowing Willie, I was sure he could make it an interesting tale, embellished as it likely would be.

"You won't have to worry about a place to live, John," Georgette said. "I've got two spare bedrooms and you're welcome to stay with me."

"Ahem," her father said as he cleared his throat. "Might I suggest you clear that with your mother, young lady?"

"Father, we are both adults and we aren't fooling anyone that we are in love with each other. Don't you think that I should be able to make this decision on my own?" There wasn't any hesitation in Georgette's voice. She sounded pretty determined.

"I understand. But I still think, for the sake of courtesy, that you propose this to your mother. I think you will be pleasantly surprised that her thinking has changed."

"Oh ... oh ... okay then," she said as if discovering something. "That's what I'll do. Peace on the home front, huh?" she smiled.

"Exactly," he replied in an upbeat voice.

"Can I say something?" I interjected.

"Of course," they answered in unison.

"Let's leave the status quo for now until Mother returns home. Besides, I think Nan would be disappointed."

I saw a look pass between Thomas and his daughter.

"You're pretty wise for a young fellow," he said lightly.

I gathered that we had come to an agreement. Besides, when Mother went home I was going to be in much better physical condition. Living with Georgette, fitness would most likely be a very necessary requirement.

We settled into a routine fairly quickly. Mother and Nan got along famously and both of them shared the housework and meal preparation. I felt like I was living at home and, in a way, I was. I was now on the register of the Fulton family doctor and he had my medical records transferred from both our family doctor in Coeur d'Alene and Doctor Hilliard in Tahoe. I met with Doctor Martelli on Wednesday after class and he examined the staples and took a blood sample while I provided a urine sample. I was almost off the Percocet and that was a relief. I would be clear of them by the following week.

I worried about Georgette, however.

"What are you doing while I'm in class?" I asked her.

"Well, as you've seen, I'm auditing a couple of them. I'm also reviewing my notes from my interviews and seeing what patterns and possible questions are forming. I'm also looking for a couple of interns to administer the questionnaire. Don't you worry, I'm not bored. And I get the bonus of having lunch and being with you every day."

"I'm just glad this campus is reasonably flat and wheelchair friendly," I said. "At least in a week from now I'll be able to help you. I'm still uncomfortable that you've given up your work to look after me."

"That's how it works when you're in love with someone, John. You make sacrifices when they are necessary. It would be a lot harder on you if you missed class than it would be on me."

She was right, of course, but that didn't make me feel any better about it.

With everyone but Devon and Mary around, we often had dinner as a group. It was Thursday evening and the six of us were having dinner at the Fulton's.

"They finally arraigned Brad today," Thomas announced. "He was denied bail as we requested and his trial is set to begin June 18th. He'll be in custody at least until then. He's been charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, breaking and entering, criminal trespass, and violating a restraining order."

"No attempted murder charge?" Georgette asked.

"No ... apparently not enough evidence of intent. I find that hard to believe, but his story, fabricated of course, is that he'd just come to collect his wife and take her home. He's still under the delusion that you're still married and that you would willingly go with him, but John interfered. I don't know what his defense attorney will make of that, but I'm sure it will be inventive."

"I wonder what is going through his mind?" I asked myself aloud.

"I suspect there will be a psychiatric exam requested by the defense before the trial. That would seem automatic to me," Thomas said.

"Did anyone figure out how Brad got into the lodge without setting off the alarm?" I asked.

"The only thing I can think of is that he went through my purse and found both the key and my little notepad where I recorded the alarm code," Georgette said. "He could have made a copy of the key easily. He would have had to do that while we were still living together."

"Can we change the subject," Sarah asked with a pained expression. "I can't bring myself to think about this whole situation without feeling nauseous."

"Sorry, dear," Thomas responded. "I've been spending too much time with your brother."

"How are you making out with your escort service, John?" Nan chuckled.

"He's not making out at all and that's the problem," Georgette said immediately.

That brought about general laughter and changed the mood back to something much more comfortable.

"Oh ... one other thing," Thomas said. "Could you find some time on the afternoon of Friday, January 22nd, John? A Mr. Rex Lyman from Dow Chemical is willing to meet with you to discuss your project. I think he was suggesting you meet at the airport as he has a flight back to Michigan that evening."

"Oh ... great. I'll be there. Thank you, Mr. Fulton, I really appreciate your help."

"John, I think we've gotten to know each other well enough that you can call me Thomas. I don't respond to Tom, though," he grinned.

"Thank you, Thomas. I appreciate your help. I hope I can take advantage of it."

"Good luck," he smiled.

I was happy with that. He had said he would try and help and he did. Rex Lyman was the technical representative for the Filmtec division and the very guy I had been trying to get in touch with. It was up to me to take advantage of the opportunity. I had fifteen days to prepare for the meeting.

My fitness and recovery was going very well. I saw Doctor Martelli a week after my original visit and said the self-dissolving staples had in fact dissolved. My chest scar would be minimal and would almost disappear in time. The puncture scar would last longer, but it wasn't a large scar to begin with. The bandages were removed and even better, I was off the Percocet. The lump on the back of my head was almost gone and I felt much better. I asked the doctor about exercises and, aside from lifting weights, he felt I could resume light jogging, riding my bike, swimming, or other moderate exercise.

I was almost completely back in business.

Mom stayed with us until Friday, the fifteenth. We drove her to the airport and happily, her flight was on time. It was a non-stop and would take only two-and-a-half hours, rather than five if it went via Portland or Seattle. Dad would meet her at the airport and take her home. It was the first time in many, many years that they had been separated for any length of time and I could tell she was anxious to get home even though she would be leaving me here.

"Well, Johnny, when are you moving in with Georgie-Girl?" Nan cackled as we drove back to the house.

We were in Georgette's car while Thomas and Sarah had taken their own car to the airport.

"As soon as Mother knows that's what I want," Georgette answered.

"Hmmm ... so you're not asking permission then," Nan deduced.

"Nope. I'm a big girl now and I can make my own decisions."

"Do you think your mother will object?" I asked. "Your father indicated that she might not."

"I'm not going to present it like a request, John. I'm going to do her the courtesy of letting her know what her adult daughter has decided."

That brought a hoot from Nan. "Good for you girl. It's time you settled down with this guy. He's a real catch."

"Thank you, Nan. That's exactly the way I feel about him too."

I wasn't privy to the conversation between Georgette and her mother, but the result was that I moved my things from Unit 2 to Unit 3 the next day. And there wasn't any doubt which room, either. We shared a closet in the master bedroom and I had my own medicine cabinet in the double sink bathroom. The large, modern, ceramic walled shower stall was easily big enough for two.

Whoever had built and re-built this home had done a wonderful job of sound-proofing. In the time I had spent in Nan's unit I never heard a sound from either the Fultons or Georgette's unit. It enhanced the feeling of privacy that we didn't have at my previous apartment residence.

***

The first time we made love, it was so much more than I expected that I didn't know what to think. I was worried that she would anticipate more from me than I was capable of. I was worried that she was more experienced and wouldn't be satisfied by me. I was just worried, period. 

I know I mentioned that special feeling we had when we touched, especially early on in our relationship. Well, it was back. There was no pretense or acting or role playing that first time. We entered the bedroom, undressed and climbed onto the bed and embraced. Just to feel her naked body against me was as incredible as anything I had ever experienced. I didn't have enough hands to caress and squeeze and stroke her the way I wanted to.

Georgette was letting me take this at my own pace. I had dreamed that I would last the entire night, satisfying her at every turn. I knew almost right away that the dream was just that ... a dream. I was so energized with this amazing woman that I wondered if I would last ten seconds. In fact, that was about as long as I did last.

But first, I wanted to prepare her and use my tongue and fingers to do so. She was quite prepared to allow me to lead and I slipped down her body, kissing her breasts and tummy, sticking my tongue in her navel, and then to her slit. She was shaved. Not completely, but the remaining pubic hair was in a narrow wedge almost pointing to my target. I began immediately to work my tongue on her sensitive labia and ultimately, her clit.

Every woman reacts differently to sexual stimulation, whether it's oral or vaginal. My limited experience told me to expect the unexpected. Georgette, my Georgie-Girl, was very responsive to my foreplay. Her back arched and her moans told me that I was bring her pleasure and that was just what I was hoping for. Every once in a while I could hear her gasp for breath as I worked first my tongue and then my fingers into her vagina, searching for her G-spot.

"Johnny ... it's time," she told me in a strangled cry. 

"Yes ... it is," I whispered as I moved up and prepared to enter her.

She helped me find exactly the right place and then pulled me into her, slowly but steadily. It was more than either of us could stand. I came with a shudder, then she came just as explosively. It was over that quickly.

"Oh God, Johnny. What happened? I came like crazy when you filled me."

I was beside myself with frustration.

"I'm sorry, Georgie, I couldn't help it. I was just too excited to hold back. I'm so sorry. I wanted this to be perfect for you."

"No, Johnny, No! It wasn't that ... it was something else. I couldn't handle it either. All these weeks of waiting and something just snapped when I felt you in me. I had no idea I was so ... unprepared. Don't be sorry. It was amazing. It's going to be even better the second time."

"It was like an electric current went through me," I said softly. "Almost like the very first time you touched me. I can't remember ever feeling this kind of thing until you came into my life."

"What happened then?" she asked, truly curious. "What did it feel like? The first time it happened, I mean."

"My stomach muscles tightened, and my ... cock ... tingled and came erect. I felt a little light-headed. I thought that was just something people said ... that it was a way to say how someone affected you emotionally. But ... this was physical and very real. This time, as I entered you ... it was even more intense. I had no control over what happened. No control at all."

"I don't remember the first time I touched you, but I remember how I began to feel when we were talking in my second interview. You were so open and honest and as you talked, I could feel myself getting aroused. I invited myself to dinner with you, then I had to keep you there so I took you for that drive. I don't know how many times I wanted to pull over and just rape you right there."

"You're a pretty good actress because I couldn't tell," I admitted. "But maybe because I was just as aroused as you were and I didn't want the evening to end either."

"I had our first night in Tahoe all planned out," she said, her fingers entwined in my pubic hair. "I was going to have you right on the sofa. I was going to strip you and suck you hard if you weren't already and ride you like a stallion."

"I wonder what would have happened if Brad had shown up ten minutes later?" I asked.

"Shut up about Brad. That's in the past. I'm your future, John. And now, back to business," she said with a glint in her eye.

She slithered down and gently took my flaccid penis in her mouth. I knew it wouldn't take long for me to recover. I could feel my abdominal muscles quivering from tension. But I wasn't going to interrupt her either. I wouldn't be as vulnerable this time. Not like the first time. This was going to take longer, and if I had any control at all ... much longer.

When she was satisfied that I was restored to full strength, she mounted me once more and she repeated the slow, sure entry of my member into her body. This time there was no immediate orgasm. This time there was only the liquid, warm comfort of being inside her. She smiled at me as she began to rock back and forth. Her eyes closed and her head went back as she savored the sensation of my cock as she moved around on it.

I had my hands on her full breasts and I was lightly pinching her nipples between my thumb and forefinger. I hoped it was adding to her pleasure because I know it was adding to mine. It wasn't long before I found I couldn't resist thrusting into her. There was no pain or discomfort on my part, so I continued as we slowly rocked ourselves in a blissful rhythm. 

Her head flopped forward and her eyes opened to stare at me with a look of wanton pleasure. She leaned down, supported by her arms, and kissed me lightly on the lips, then the cheeks, then the ear lobes, throat and upper chest. Her scent was intoxicating and it proved to stimulate me to increase my penetration. It wasn't possible, but it didn't matter. She increased her motion and we stepped up the intensity another notch. 

When I came, I knew it was likely the last time for a while. I was fatigued and it would be a while before I recovered. My immediate need was for sleep. 

"I'm fading, Georgette. I'm not going to be with you much longer."

"That's all right, Johnny. I'll be right here with you. Sleep, baby. Get your rest. You made beautiful love to me tonight and I will sleep very well beside you."

I don't remember anything else until the call of nature sometime during the night. I forced myself out of her embrace and stumbled into the bathroom. As I looked at myself in the mirror, I could see the long, red scar that the kitchen knife had left behind. It looked angry but I was confident I had done no harm to myself. I brushed my teeth before returning to bed since I hadn't done my usual bedtime routine before we made love. When I touched the area of the stab wound, I felt nothing in the way of pain or discomfort. I smiled as I thought of the freedom to make love to Georgette when and where we wanted.

Chapter 9 Double Jeopardy 

As Thomas had predicted, the landlord rescinded the eviction order and it was modified to July 1st, not ideal since my three remaining roommates would have to find an alternate place, but better than being tossed out before they had finished the year. Since I would be living at Georgette's place free (she absolutely refused to let me pay rent), I gave my share of the rent for the remaining months to Willie and the boys. It was only fair I didn't penalize them for my good fortune.

The day before I was to meet the Dow man, I got a call from Willie.

"Dude, there's a letter here from the Placer County Attorney's Office for you. You forget to pay a jaywalking ticket or something?"

"No ... I'm guessing it's about the trial of the guy that stabbed me. I'm probably going to have to testify."

"Oh ... well ... good luck with that. I hope they put the son-of-a-bitch away for life. How you feeling, anyway?"

"I'm good, Willie. I'm almost all the way back."

"Good to hear it. You sure hit the jackpot with that fox you're dating."

"Yeah. No doubt about it," I agreed.

I arranged to pick up the letter the next day when Georgette and I were on our way home from school.

"I'll be a witness for the prosecution when this comes to trial," I told her, reading the summons. "Looks like they want me to come in and talk to them about it. When is spring break?" I asked, thinking that would be the time to return to Tahoe.

"March. The middle I think," she said.

"I'll call their office and see if I can come up there then. I don't want to miss any school."

"Don't worry about it," she said. "We can ski while we're up there. It'll be fun, and we'll have the lodge to ourselves. Does that give you any ideas?"




Georgie Girl Ch. 07-09



I called the Placer County prosecutor's office when I had a free period Friday and asked them if I could come in during spring break since I was a student. They agreed and we set up an appointment for Tuesday morning, March 16th. With that settled, I called Rex Lyman of Dow Chemical at his cell number and arranged a meeting at three o'clock at the Peninsula Bar in San Francisco International. 

I'd spent some time going over my notes and performance projections for my water treatment concept and I was as ready as I was ever going to be to make my presentation to the Filmtec technical representative. Taking nothing for granted, I took the afternoon off from class and was at the Peninsula almost a half-hour early. I didn't order a beer and instead settled for an iced tea while I waited for Rex to arrive. He said I would recognize him by his shirt.

When a fairly stout, middle-aged man, carrying a thick computer bag and wearing a dark blue polo shirt with a Dow diamond logo on it strolled into the bar, I was sure I had found my man. I waved to him and he approached my table.

"Mr. Lyman? I'm John Smith."

"Nice you meet you, John. Pardon the casual wear, but I've finished my scheduled calls for the week and I won't be home until after midnight tonight, so I put comfort before formality."

"Not a problem. Thank you for meeting with me. I was hoping I could get some time to show you my concept and where Dow Filmtec fits in. I have a memory stick with my presentation on it, so you can review it when you have time. I thought I'd give you an overview of the concept and then you could ask any questions you might have."

"Do you have a Non-Disclosure Agreement for me?" he asked.

"Yes ... right here. Nothing special about it. It's pretty straightforward my legal advisor tells me. I've made application for patent in a couple of areas and they are mentioned in the agreement."

"Okay. I'm authorized to sign, so let's have a look at it," he said, first reading, then signing the agreement.

I went through the slides since I knew them by heart and all I needed was a list of the order they were in. At first Rex was paying scant attention to my presentation, but as I got going, I could see him examining my work more closely. By slide number seven, he began asking questions.

When I finished the presentation almost an hour later, he sat back in his chair and looked at me.

"This isn't what I expected at all. This is a much more refined concept than I was led to believe. How long have you been working on this?"

"It started as a high school project and evolved from there. That was four years ago."

"Filmtec is really just a small part of this, but from what I can see, it's going to be a critical part. I'm going to have to look at your expectations for the filter's performance and see if we've got something that will meet your needs. I like the concept. If you can produce something as compact as you are suggesting, I can see a big market for it. Dow is a worldwide corporation and we have representation on almost every continent. That would make your project viable. It would have critical mass, and for us, that's essential."

"What do you need from me next?" I asked.

"Nothing right now. Keep working on it and let me see where we might fit in. I'll bump this up the food chain and see what kind of response it gets. My gut tells me that I'm going to have to tell your story to get them interested, but once they are, it could be big. I'll make sure everyone knows we have a N.D.A. in place. Keep your fingers crossed, John."  "Sure. Thanks for listening to me, Rex. I really appreciate your taking an interest in the project."

"John, you have no idea how many of these individual concepts come our way in the span of a year. This is one of the very few that has genuine potential. I'm glad I had the time to have you present it to us and thanks for thinking of Dow."

I left the bar on a high that didn't require any alcohol. A big step in my concept was accomplished that afternoon and I was really excited by the prospect. It wasn't the only problem to be solved in the development, but if other potential contributors knew that Dow was on board, it would carry a lot of weight with them. I had to hope that Rex could convince his own people.

Georgette and I got away from class on Thursday afternoon, March 12th, and headed for Tahoe. We planned to ski the weekend and just hang out together until Tuesday when I was scheduled to meet with the Placer County prosecutor. Classes resumed on Thursday, so we would head for home on Wednesday afternoon.

I found I had to take it a bit easier skiing. First, I wasn't fully recovered from what the stabbing had done to my fitness. Second, we were at over six thousand feet altitude on the slopes and that meant less oxygen which exaggerated my lack of fitness. Georgette didn't mind at all and we had a great four days on the slopes and five nights in the bedroom and other rooms, making love. 

I arrived at the Placer County courthouse just before nine Tuesday morning and entered the county attorney's office.

"I have an appointment to see Mr. Neville Ferguson. I'm John Smith," I said, handing over the summons I had received in the mail.

I waited less than five minutes before I was ushered into a large office and met by two men.

"I'm Neville Ferguson, Mr. Smith, and this is Lyndon Byers, my assistant. He will be prosecuting the case against Mr. Little. Won't you have a seat?"

I sat in a comfortable leather chair and turned down an offer of coffee. Ferguson explained what he expected to happen at trial and when I would be called. It was important that I had my story straight and didn't deviate from the facts or add information that wasn't already on the record. That was the purpose of this meeting.

We went over the events of the evening that Bradley Little broke into the lodge and I recited my recollection of my actions as best I could remember them.

"That's pretty much exactly what you told the sheriff's department on two occasions, so that's good," Byers said.

We went over what the expectations of the kinds of questions that the defense attorney would ask, trying to break down my story. It would be important to stay calm and not get rattled if he got very aggressive. The trial was still three months away and we would meet again before the trial to go over the testimony one more time. They were being thorough and I appreciated it.

"I'm glad you're taking this seriously, John. It's important that we convict this guy. He's a dangerous person and I'm really upset that he's been granted bail."

"What!" I almost screamed. "Are you kidding me? I was told he was denied bail and that he was still in jail. What the hell is going on?"

"His lawyer appealed the first judge's ruling and got him released on a one million dollar bond," Byers said, looking nervously at his boss.

"Where is he?"

"He's under court order not to leave Placer County," Ferguson said. "As far as we know, he's still here."

"Jesus! I've got Georgette Fulton here with me, his ex-wife. If he finds out she's here, God knows what he'll do. How the hell could this happen?"

"I'm sorry, John, we thought you knew. The sheriff's department was supposed to inform you of his release."

"When did this happen?" I asked, more than just a little upset.

"Late January. I take it by your reaction that no one informed you."

"So he's been running around loose for over six weeks?"

"That's how long he's been out on bail. I don't know what he's been doing. I can check with the sheriff's department and see if they have anything current on him."

"Yeah, well it's a little late now, isn't it? The horse is already out of the barn. I'm going to get Georgette and we're getting the hell out of here pronto. God damn it, I thought we were safe, but I can see that isn't the case. Where can I get a gun permit?"

"Now look, Mr. Smith, taking the law into your own hands isn't going to get you anything but serious trouble," Ferguson said firmly.

"I'm not standing around waiting for him to come and get me or Miss Fulton. He almost killed me once and I don't plan to give him a second chance. Now where do I apply for a permit?"

"See the sheriff's department. Don't do anything stupid, Mr. Smith. I don't want to be prosecuting you for murder or attempted murder."

"Tell that to the judge who let him out on bail," I snapped, storming out of the office.

Within a few minutes I had cooled off enough to change my mind. I went directly back to the lodge, hoping that nothing had happened in my absence. I was relieved when I found her curled up on the sofa, reading a book.

"Grab your things, Georgette, we're getting the hell out of here," I announced as I marched into the great room.

"Why? What's going on, John?"

"Some idiot judge granted Bradley Little bail on appeal. He's been out and on the loose for six weeks."

"Oh my God!" she said, horrified. I didn't have to encourage her to follow me upstairs and begin packing. By eleven o'clock, we were on the road and headed back to San Francisco.

"We'd better let your parents and Nan know," I suggested.

She pulled her cell phone out of her jacket pocket and pressed the speed dial symbol for her parents.

"Father, you aren't going to believe this, but Brad has been granted bail. He's been out for six weeks. We were never informed were we?"

I couldn't hear the other side of the conversation, but I could guess.

"No ... we got no notification either at the house, John's old apartment or at the lodge. Someone really screwed up. We would never have come up here this week if we had known."

(Pause)

"Okay, let us know what's happening. We are on our way back home. We'll be there by three or so. Thank you, Father."

"He's going to get ahold of Uncle Devon and see what we can do about getting his bail revoked. Knowing how crazy he is, he may just have violated the conditions of his release and we can get him put back in jail. I hope so."

"I can't believe some half-witted judge would grant him bail," I said bitterly. "Someone must have greased the way. He's got four charges against him and three of them involve violence."

"His father has a lot of political clout. I'll bet he's involved. He's the only one who could raise that kind of money that I know of."

"He isn't doing Bradley any favors," I grumbled. "Letting him out to run amok may just seal his fate. I just hope he doesn't try anything with us again."

"Father said he was going to see about hiring some protection for us. We can't just hide in the house until he's found."

I didn't respond, but she was right. We had to go on with our lives, but I sure as hell didn't want to be looking over my shoulder for the next three months.

Devon and Mary were home from Hawaii and he quickly dug into what had transpired that led to Bradley being granted bail. The judge, a man known for his liberal views and reluctance to administer harsh sentences even when warranted, had allowed the appeal. Through some foul-up between the court, the prosecutor's office, and the sheriff's department, neither I nor anyone in the Fulton family had been notified of the action.

The sheriff's department had a record of Bradley's last known address in Tahoe and checked in on him. Fortunately, he was still there and they confirmed that he was living up to the conditions of his bail. That, at least, gave us some comfort that he wasn't running around loose. But it wasn't all good news.

"He fired his lawyer and has applied to the court to act in his own defense," Devon told us. "His father tried to block it, but so far he hasn't been able to. I understand he's now trying to get Bradley declared unfit to stand trial by reason of mental disorder."

"You'd think that would be obvious to the court, wouldn't you?" I suggested.

"It isn't as easy as that," Devon said, shaking his head. "He'll have to undergo a psychiatric examination and so far he refuses to submit to one."

"Catch 22," I moaned. "He's as nutty as a fruit cake, but he has to agree to have someone prove it."

"Almost," Georgette's uncle said, shaking his head sadly. "The system isn't perfect, and this is one of those times that demonstrate it. Remember, Bradley is a lawyer, and while we might question his competency, he does know enough to make the process very messy and obstructive."

Since Bradley had remained in Tahoe, we breathed a little easier. Thomas Fulton had hired a man to keep an eye on him and make sure he didn't try and slip out of Placer County and return to San Francisco. It wasn't a seven-day around-the-clock watch, but it gave us some hope that if he tried to move, we'd soon know about it.

We went back to our regular routine. I caught the bus to campus each morning while Georgette carried on with her interviews. Exams would be starting in five weeks and I was already preparing for them. As previously mentioned, this year had seemed a little easier than the first two because I'd developed a method and I had become much more familiar with my subjects. While I wouldn't make the Dean's List, I would be okay and able to complete my degree in the next year.

Going to bed and waking up every day with Georgette was something that I hoped I never got used to. We didn't make love every night, but we held each other and caressed and snuggled under the covers the way lovers do. More than a few times I had to pinch myself just to make sure this was really happening to me. 

I also found that living in the four-unit home was an advantage of its own. Regular contact with Nan, the parents, and Devon and Mary was a real pleasure. I was treated as one of the family, even though that formality was over a year away. Sarah and my mother had agreed that the wedding should be in late May or June of next year and the only question remaining was whether it would be held in San Francisco or Coeur d'Alene. 

"It's the bride's day," I said as we discussed the question, "so I think it should be the bride's decision ... and the bride's family's decision."

"I don't know, John," Thomas said thoughtfully, "The idea of a wedding in Coeur d'Alene is pretty appealing. Especially at that time of year."

"Who's got the most family and where are they coming from?" Nan asked.

I shrugged. "My sister and her family are in Boise, my father's parents are in Wenatchee and my mother's live near Spokane. Twelve in all, counting me."

"Just the six of us," Georgette said, "not counting friends."

"Your parents own a motor inn, John," Thomas said. "We could set aside enough rooms for everyone by booking them. It would be a lot less costly for your family and a lot more fun than being here in the city. I looked up your place on the Internet and it looks very nice. Not an ordinary motel by any means. It's also right on the lake, so that would be a real bonus."

"I think it would be very nice," Sarah said, "but I think Georgette should have a say in this."

"I'd love to see John's home," she said immediately. "I'm going there with him this summer and I'm really looking forward to it. I think it would be perfect for the wedding."   

"Well then," Thomas said, "let's see how Carter and Marjean feel about it. You okay with it, Nan?"

"Heck, I don't care where you hold it," Nan said quickly, "as long we get those two married off and John is officially part of the family."

"I haven't been to Coeur d'Alene in years," Mary said. "I think that would be a lovely spot for the wedding."

"Sounds like it's unanimous on this end," Devon said with a big grin. "Let's see how John's folks feel about it."

I didn't have any doubt that Georgette's parents would be paying for all the rooms and the wedding. My future bride said her father and mother had told her that this was one wedding they really were going to celebrate. I don't think my parents had a prayer of talking them out of it.

My father had moved the family to Idaho when he sold his farm and orchard equipment business. I was nine at the time. After a six month search, my parents bought the Lakeside Resort Inn and moved our family into the main building. It was a really nice place, but took a staff of ten to run it. Mom was the accountant in the family and over the years she had obtained her certificate to allow her to act on behalf of the corporation my parents had set up to control the resort. 

My father was a bit of a Mr. Fixit and I took after him. He was the nominal general manager of the place, but it was just as likely you'd find him unplugging a stopped-up drain or fixing a balky window as sitting in the office "pushing paper" as he called it. I found him one time making a bed to show a new girl how he thought it should be done. He subscribed to the "Management by Wandering Around" philosophy, and the employees respected him for his willingness to pitch in when needed. The guests liked to see the boss making sure they were happy with their accommodations.

The more I thought about it, the more I felt the wedding in Coeur d'Alene was a good idea. Georgette was coming north with me this summer. We hadn't figured out how she would pass the time, but she didn't seem the least bit worried about it. I would have plenty to do helping my father and keeping things in order during the busy summer season. 

I had been thinking that I would be finished with school in a little over a year and with luck, be deeply involved in creating my water treatment system. Who would do what I had been doing around the motor inn for the last seven summers? My brother Jared had little interest in following in my footsteps, so Dad would have to find someone to take my place in a year or so. I didn't have any ready ideas.

Georgette and I left it up to the mothers to make the big decisions regarding the wedding, assuming that they would bounce them off us if they diverted from what we had already generally agreed upon.

April was warm and we were frustrated that we couldn't take advantage of the weather to get a last ski weekend in. With Bradley still around, it wasn't worth the risk. Normally, I would be headed back to Coeur d'Alene by the middle of May when exams were complete and I knew the results, but this year the shadow of the trial caused us to consider delaying the trip until our time in Tahoe was finished. 

Driving time from San Francisco to my home was two full days, over nine hundred miles. When we thought about it, we had a month between the end of school and the trial. I knew my help was wanted at the motor inn, so I suggested to Georgette that we drive to Idaho when I finished my exams and we would fly down to Tahoe for the trial. She readily agreed.

The next day, we got another surprise. A summons from the Placer County courthouse for Georgette indicating that she would be called as a witness for the defense and would be required to appear to be deposed. It didn't make any sense, but we couldn't ignore it. One phone call let us know that their plan not to call Georgie as a prosecution witness went up in smoke when Bradley Little named her as a witness for the defense. She couldn't refuse to testify without all sorts of legal problems, all of which would delay and muddy the water around the trial. It was a stupid decision on Bradley's part, since her testimony would be damning to him on cross examination at the least. On our behalf, Devon filed a notice of appeal, citing some statute or other. It was denied.

Our life was becoming more and more complicated.

***

The rear of the San Francisco home was quite short since each unit had a separate two car garage facing the lane. That left little more than thirty feet from the back of the two garages to the back of the house. The living units on each end had a covered deck that ran the depth of the unit. Each deck had space for a barbeque and at least eight chairs and a table. As the days got longer and the weather warmed, we became frequent visitors to one deck or the other. There was a narrow pathway from the back to the front on each end of the living units.




Georgie Girl Ch. 07-09



It had been a sunny, warm Tuesday in early May, and I was sitting on the Fultons' deck with Georgette and her parents. Nan would be joining us shortly as we barbequed some chicken and planned to eat outside. I had been reviewing my notes for my next exam, making sure I was ready for it two days hence. It was nice to just sit and read quietly while Sarah and Georgette chatted and Thomas was absorbed in his newspaper.

"Well, well, well, isn't this a nice domestic scene."

I recognized the voice and a chill went through me.

"Brad!" Georgette cried, alarmed and fearful. "What are you doing here?"

I turned slowly and carefully around to look at the intruder. He looked nothing like the Bradley Little I remembered. He was bearded and it appeared he hadn't had a haircut in months. His face was blotchy with red marks and his clothes were unkempt and dirty. In short, he looked more like a street person than a lawyer.

But street persons don't usually have guns. He looked a bit unsteady on his feet and I wasn't sure if he was drunk or on drugs or just tired. It didn't matter because the gun had my full attention.

"So ... here we are again, the cuckold husband trying to take his wife back from her boy-toy. I should have killed you when I had the chance, Sonny. I won't make that mistake again."

"No! Bradley ... put the gun down, please!" Georgette begged. "Don't shoot anyone. I'll go with you. Just don't shoot anyone."

"Oh, you'll be going with me, all right. Make no mistake about that. You need to rehearse your testimony at that phony trial. But boy-toy isn't getting off scot-free. I didn't get any satisfaction from him the first time, but I won't fail this time," he said, waving the gun around recklessly. 

I was frozen in place, unable to think of anything I could do to save myself or this situation. We had nothing to use in defense. We were vulnerable to whatever whim his twisted, diseased mind could conjure. I was horribly aware that this might be my last time on this earth and I didn't want that to be so. I had too much to live for. But one thing was sure, Georgette would not be going with him without a fight.

Bradley had gained access to the back by walking in from the front through the gate beside the Fultons' unit and along the narrow cement sidewalk that led to the back. He had stepped up to the elevated deck after he had announced his presence and was virtually ignoring Thomas and a terrified Sarah, concentrating on Georgette and me. I wondered if this was our only chance.

I had begun to calculate the odds of rushing him when I saw movement behind Bradley. It was Nan, as she was quietly approaching the deck and carrying something I immediately recognized. It was a single action 410 shotgun. I'd had one since I was a kid and my father called it "the peashooter" since it was a very small gun. Nan was carrying it like she knew how to use it.

"Put the gun down," Nan said in a harsh command, announcing her presence.

Bradley turned and looked to see who had arrived, then snorted a laugh.

"Who do you think you are, old woman? Annie Oakley?" 

"Put the gun down or I'll be forced to shoot you," she said again in a steady voice.

Bradley turned toward her and was waving the gun in her general direction.

"You don't even know how to fire that thing," he laughed.

"Put the gun down or you'll find out just how wrong you are." Nan was as steady as a rock and showed no signs of nervousness.

I was a second away from charging him when he raised the gun toward Nan once more. Nan didn't hesitate at all. She fired. The noise was deafening and I was so surprised that I stopped for a moment, wondering who had shot whom. As Bradley sunk slowly to his knees, I realized Nan had carried out her threat to shoot him. I moved quickly to the fallen man and yanked the gun out of his hand.

"Call 911, Thomas. He's going to need an ambulance."

Nan had been standing on the walkway, about three feet below the level of the deck. I couldn't see where she had been aiming, but I could hear Bradley moaning and saw him lying on his side in a fetal position. He was still alive, but I had no idea how badly wounded he was.

"Don't worry about him, Johnny," Nan said, cool as could be. "A half-load of bird shot at this distance won't kill him, but I'm sure I messed up his pants and privates."

"Police and ambulance are on the way," Thomas said as he put away his cell phone. 

I turned to Georgette and Sarah and went to them both. They had been shocked into silence and were almost catatonic. I put my arms around them and Thomas joined me. I could feel the trembling in both of them and I was sure this was something that would take a while for them to come down from. That was twice we had faced what might have been death and escaped, this time without any physical wounds. I wondered, however, about the mental wounds he might have inflicted on the women.

To Be Continued