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Don't Give Up On Us, Baby
(From The 'Rosey Malone Series')
by
Sue
M
It was just another sleepless night in Rosey Malone's life, even though it had only been six months since she had left Los Angeles and had gone to Mexico with her father.
She did find Mexico to be a different country from the United States. She did enjoy life in the small Indian village in which they had settled. It had been a big adjustment. They lived among the Mexican Indians in the northwestern part of Mexico, just below the US-Mexican border. Many of the people barely existed. Many of them were uneducated. They did not have the basic necessities of life - food, water, shelter, clothes, a good education. She had learned Spanish in high school in the US, so she was able to communicate with the local people. Also during the years that she had had a boutique selling Indian arts and crafts and artifacts, she had learned to speak Mexican Indian. During the years she had lived with her father, they have spent a lot of time between Los Angeles and Mexico.
However, it was not enough. She could not get the memory of one Los Angeles Police Department Sergeant David Starsky out of her mind. They might have only been together for several days, but they had been the happiest days of her life.
David had been assigned to find out information about her father from the time that her father had decided to testify until the time that he had appeared in front of the grand jury... Rosey did not know that he was an undercover policeman until her father had found out. However, it was too late - she had fallen in love with him.
Rosey began to remember every detail of those short days. She imagined what it was like to run her fingers through his long, dark, curly hair. She closed her eyes and she could see his beautiful dark blue eyes.
In the living room, she could hear the ticking of the antique clock, but in her mind she could hear his voice, which sounded like music in her ear. In the night silence, she could almost hear him whispering sweet nothings in her ear.
Rosey arose from the couch and began to walk around the living room. She began to take in the different scents. She stopped to smell the freshly cut wild flowers from her own garden. But that did not make her forget the scent of David's cologne - sandalwood with a touch of musk.
She went into the kitchen to pour herself another mug of coffee. She took one sip of it and poured the rest of it down the sink. It needed to be heated up and she was not really in the mood to do it.
Instead, she could almost taste the wine that they had the first night they were together. It was a very sweet white wine that she was not able to purchase in Mexico. In many ways, that that was an advantage because it would bring too many memories of that night together.
In the distance, Rosey could hear the sound of sirens. It triggered her memory of David's car - the 1974 red Gran Torino with the white stripe around the middle. It had earned the nickname "The Striped Tomato." As she closed her eyes, she could almost hear the car driving away with the muffler that died a long time ago.
She reached for a piece of gum in her purse and the taste of it in her mouth reminded her of how soft and tender his lips had felt on hers. She almost could feel them on hers at that moment.
Rosey began to examine her fingernails. It was another of those things she missed about living in Mexico - there was really no place she could get a good manicure. It also brought to her mind the night they spend together. She could almost feel him touching and kissing each one of her fingers.
Rosey had always been attracted to men with hairy chests and what she could remember about David, he did not disappoint her in that department. She could just imagine running her hands through it as he kissed her passionately.
After Rosey was finished remembering all the things of their short relationship, she went to the window to see if the sun was coming up yet. The horizon was just beginning to turn a lovely pink and she knew it would not very long before the sun would be up.
Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Police Detective Sgt David Starsky was tossing and turning in his bed.
Every time he closed his eyes, all he could see was Rosey Malone.
Over in his mind, he started to remember every detail of the two days that they were together.
He began to remember how much she enjoyed it when she ran her fingers through his hair. He also thought of how much he was turned on by running his hands through her long dark hair.
He tried to turn over on his side, and close his eyes, but all he could see was her lovely brown eyes.
He decided to turn on the local soft rock radio station. However, every song seemed to remind her of Rosey. One song in particular reminded her of her voice and all the things she said to him during the brief period they were together.
As David tried to let his mind go blank, he could not help but think about her on the first night they spent together. He could remember the sweet nothings he whispered in her ear and how she reacted to them.
He could almost feel her in his arms as she melted to each loving touch he gave her - each hug, each kiss, each caress.
David came to the conclusion that the best way for him to go back to sleep was to get up and walk around the apartment. He hoped that would tire himself out. He went over to the French doors, which lead to the small patio on the ground floor. He could smell the lovely scent that the air took on after the rain. It mad him think of how sweet her own scent was - a lovely, natural scent, not heavy like some other girls he had dated.
He went into the kitchen to get a bottle of root beer to try and relieve his dry throat. However, all he could taste was the orange juice he made her the first morning they spend together.
He reached for a piece of gum on the coffee table, and after he started to savour the flavour in his mouth, it reminded him of the flavour of her lipstick - strawberry ice.
David started to examine the ring on his left baby finger and it had him think of the lovely Mexican art ring she wore on her finger. It depicted a Mexican sunset.
David could not help but remember the second morning that he went to see her after she had thrown him out of her apartment after her father had informed her he was a cop. He had not felt that way about anyone else and he was sure he would never feel the same way about anyone again. He desired to have her with him right then and he knew that he loved her more at that moment than he had in months.
He was beginning to get frustrated because he was beginning to think he could not get a break. Was everything in his life from now on going to remind her of her?
Meanwhile, back in Mexico, Rosey had decided to go and lie down for a couple of hours. Her father usually arose at 8 am. He liked to rise early and work on his garden until the sun was too hot.
After a few hours, of fitful sleep, she decided to take a chance and go to Los Angeles and look for David. Her father had arisen at his usual time and by 11 am, he was in the house, reading his mail and talking on the telephone with one of his friends. Rosey arose and got dressed.
She was not sure he would take the news very well, but she knew it was something she had to do. After her mother had died about two and a half years ago, she had assumed the role of the female head of the household. But she knew that her father would make out just fine. In the short time that they had been in Mexico, he had made several lady friends and Rosey was sure that any one of them would make a fine wife for Frank.
"Daddy, I have something I need to tell you." Rosey decided to just jump in with both feet.
"Yes, Rosemarie." Frank looked up from his newspaper.
She took a deep breath and said, "I have decided to go back to Los Angeles and look for David Starsky."
Frank answered with a concerned look on his face, " Why in heaven's name would you ever want to go back to Los Angeles to him?"
"Daddy, I think I am still in love with him."
"How long were you with the guy? Two days?"
"Yes. Two of the most amazing days of my life." she stated as she went off in a dreamlike state thinking about them.
"But he is an LA cop."
"So? Well, nothing is perfect."
"There are lots of guys I can introduce you to."
"But, David is so sensitive, and compassionate, and caring."
"Okay, okay. Suppose you do find him. You will be in danger because of what we left behind in the States."
"It has been six months since we left."
"Well, but, they will still be gunning for you."
"Why?"
"I am your father and word travels fast. Once word gets out that you have returned, they will be after you."
"I promise to be careful."
"You can never be too careful. He cannot protect you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week."
"Daddy, but you can never know what you can do until you try."
"Yeah, yeah, sure sure. However, knowing Sergeant Starsky, he probably has had at least ten other women since you. "
"He did tell me he did love me."
"How much did he really know about you? You only knew each other about 2 days."
"Enough to know that I am sure we had something that was worth exploring."
"I am not going to be able to change your mind, am I?"
"Afraid not, Daddy."
"Okay, then I guess you might as well go, but don't come crying to me if things don't work out."
"Daddy, I guess you will never understand how I feel about David, but I will just like to know that you will give me your blessing."
"Rosey, you know how I feel about Sgt Starsky and I cannot give you my blessings. But I will have to let you go. You are old enough to make your own life and I cannot live your life for you."
"Daddy, I am leaving today as soon as I can pack. "
Rosey left the room and began to pack. Her father reluctantly drove her to the airport. She was able to get a flight right away to Los Angeles.
It is a usually hot day in Los Angeles that afternoon. Her flight from Mexico had been delayed forty-five minutes because of engine problems. She claimed her baggage from the revolving luggage rack and proceeded to the car rental company. Since she knew she would be doing a lot of driving and taxis were not on her list of favourite things, she knew a rental car was the best idea.
She was grateful for the fact that she had dressed for the weather. She had chosen a bright blue bra dress that was backless and was cool in the 95-o F weather. Her hair was tied back in a ponytail with a bright blue ribbon. She had chosen white sandals, which complimented her outfit.
As she drove past the precinct, she had mixed emotions. Many things were going through her mind. Six months had passed since she had left town. She had not even tried to contact him. Had he moved on with his life? Had he met someone else? Was he angry with her? During these months, had he ever thought of her? All of those questions had crossed her mind many times and were crossing her mind once again.
She took one last drive around the block. The familiar red stripped 1974 Ford Torino was parked outside the front door, which proved he still, worked there.
She mustered up enough courage to park her rented car. Her hands were just shaking as she found a parking space a block and a half away from the building. There was still a part of her that was telling her to forget the whole venture. But her heart knew she was doing the right thing. She parked the car, turned the ignition off, and got out. She put some money in the parking meter. She walked down the street to the back of the building and she entered the building through the back door.
There was a security guard sitting at a desk just inside the door. She asked him how to get to the detectives' squad room. He pointed in the direction behind him and stated 3 doors down on the left.
She walked down the hall, with the stomach-full of butterflies and the dry mouth keeping her company.
She entered the room. It was a busy room with detectives leaving and entering. As Rosey looked around the room, she spotted him right away. He had his back towards the door.
She thought to herself, I know that long, curly dark hair anywhere.
She had fantasised about running her hands through that hair many nights over the past little while. He had on his familiar tight blue jeans that looked like they had been painted on him. David was sitting at his desk with his feet up and talking on the telephone.
One of the other police detectives who were leaving the room noticed she was entering and politely asked her if he could help her.
She answered, "I am looking for Sgt David Starsky, but I already see him. So thank you."
"You are welcome."
"Any time."
He continued on out the door and she went to David's desk. It took every ounce of willpower she had not to put her arms around him and give him the biggest kiss she could. She knew that in the back of her mind she would have time for that later. She waited patiently until he was finished with his telephone call. She called out his name, "Sgt Starsky?"
"Yes ma'am." He turned around as he said the words.
"I wondered if you can help me."
"Rosey Malone?" He arose from his chair. "Is it you?" She noted a tone of recognition in his voice. Her hair was a bit longer than it had been six months before and she had a deep tan from working in her garden in Mexico.
"Yes, David, it's me." He took her hand and she could tell he was glad to see her. "Is there some place around here we can go to have a bit of privacy?"
"Yes, there's a restaurant just around the corner from here." he answered
"How do you get there from here?" she wanted to know.
He lead her to the door of the room and pointed down the hall from the opposite direction she had come in "Just go to the front door and go to your left about 1/2 a block."
"What's it called?"
"Mom's Place."
"Okay. See you in about 10 minutes."
David walked over to his partner and best friend, Sgt Ken "Hutch" Hutchinson who was over in the corner pouring himself a cup of coffee from the coffee maker. He told Hutch, "I am going out for a while. "
"Okay, Starsk. So if Dobey comes looking for you, I'll cover for you."
Rosey left the room and about ten minutes later, she found herself around the corner from the station in a booth with David sitting with her. She had arrived before him and had found an unoccupied booth in a secluded corner. David had come in not long after and found her right away. It was not a very busy place, but then considering it was mid-afternoon, it was not unusual that it was pretty quiet.
He slid in the booth and sat facing her. "Hi" he said to her as he looked in her eyes. Her heart almost melted from the way he said it.
Her heart skipped a beat and she answered, "Hi". She could secretly tell that he was glad to see her.
His first question was "When did you get back into town?"
"I came here straight from the airport."
"May I ask why you came back?"
"Because I love you."
The waitress came over and asked them if they would like anything. They both ordered a coffee. When she had left, David looked at her with a stunned look on his face and said, "What?"
"You heard me - I never stopped loving you."
"Rosey, but you never tried to contact me. You never phoned me. You never wrote to me at all during the last six months."
Rosey's eyes started to fill up with tears and she looked away as she said, "I know. But I guess I didn't have the courage to do it. I didn't know how you would react to it. After all, the way I left you, I know I hurt you."
"You hurt me really badly when you left. I really thought we had something and that you could have stayed back here in Los Angeles with me after your father left."
The waitress showed up with their coffees and after she was gone, Rosey asked David, "Do you mean that it is over between us?"
"No, I never said that. Rosey, it took me a long time to get over the anger. I can understand why you felt you had to go to Mexico to be with your father. Your life was in danger."
"Yes."
"Speaking of your father, did he come with you?"
"Nope, I came alone. He stayed back in Mexico."
He slid over to be closer to her, cupped her hands in his and said, with a lump in his throat, to her, "I am sorry. I hope I didn't come down hard on you just now. It is that Hutch and I just finished a really difficult case, which was emotionally draining. We're both taking a few days off and just hanging around at home to get it out of our systems."
"Sounds good."
He confessed, "I never stopped loving you either. There were many times I was tempted to go out and find someone else to ease the pain of your leaving. But during these last six months, I was never with anyone else. Oh, I did go on dates, but never saw any other women any more than once or twice."
"Really?"
"That's the truth. It's just taking every ounce of willpower I have not to just take you, throw you to the floor right here, tear off all your clothes and make passionate love to you here and now."
She felt better after she heard the words she knew she needed to hear. "Oh, David."
"Would you like to have dinner with me tonight?"
"I'd love to. What time?"
"Say about 7? At my place?"
"Sounds good. Let me cook."
"Hey, the lady knows how to cook. Sounds great." he commented. "Hey, come here." He moved in so he was right beside her. He put his arms around her and gave her an affectionate kiss. He whispered in her ear, "I'm glad to have you back. I missed you." after he had finished. She just smiled and kissed his cheek.
They both finished their coffee and he said, "Well, sweetheart," in his best Humphrey Bogart voice, "I'd love to stay and drink coffee with you all afternoon, but I've to get back to work and finish the report on the case. "
They both slid out of the booth, one at each end. She bent over and got her purse. They left a tip for the waitress. David paid for the coffees and they left by the front door. He opened the door for her and then they walked out of the restaurant with their arms around the other's waist. They walked to her car.
"Hey, got a piece of paper and a pen?" he asked.
"Sure."
"It might be a good idea if I gave you directions as to how to get to my place."
"Yuppers."
So she reached in her purse and got both for him. He wrote down specific directions and then handed her the things back. She got the key to the car door out of her purse and opened the door. Before she got in the car, he took her in his arms and kissed her tenderly. Then he pressed his lips against her cheek and said, "Drive carefully. I don't want anything to happen to you. See you at 7 or slightly after." He also reached in his front jean pocket and pulled out a key. "Here, you might want this. Key to the front door." He gave her one of his patented grins and said, "You already have the key to my heart." He took her hand and affectionately squeezed it with both his hands.
"Bye, David."
"Bye Rosey."
She got in the car and he closed the door for her. He waited for her to start the car. She rolled down the window. He bent forward, took her hand, brought it up to his lips and pressed his lips on it. He moved away from the car and watched her as she drove out of sight. He blew her a kiss. The last thing she saw was him waving her good-bye. He went back to the station to finish writing up the report.
She stopped at a local market she found along the way and picked up the ingredients for homemade lasagne and garlic bread.
After David returned to the squad room, Hutch asked him, "Who was that?"
"Rosey Malone."
"You are kidding. When did she get back into town?"
"Nope, She came here straight from the airport."
"Did she come alone?"
"Yup."
"Why is she back?"
"Because she is still in love with me."
"Are you still in love with her?"
"Well, if I wasn't, I would not have bought this." David reached into his front pants pocket and pulled out a small jewellery store box. He opened it to show it to Hutch.
"Hey, that's a lovely ring."
"She is making dinner at my place tonight. I am going to ask her then."
"Do you think your stomach can handle anything that is not take-out?"
"Ha ha ha."
"So, if all goes well, you and I and Rosey might be flying to Las Vegas tomorrow. If so, will you be my best man?"
"You can count on me, Starsk, you sly one."
********
As she drove up to the front of the house, Rosey noticed how airy and spacious it was. She climbed the stairs from the path to the front door. She opened the front door with the extra key David had given her. She went back into the car, opened the trunk and brought all of the bags with the groceries into the house. S. She closed the door behind her. The sun was shining into the window in the living room and it made the rustic furniture look great. She could imagine David sitting on the couch when she would come home from work. However, there was no one but her at the house. She went into the kitchen and set to work making the lasagne from scratch. She had also bought a large French bread stick and she started to make garlic bread. By the time 7 o'clock came, the lasagne was in the oven and she was waiting for him to come home.
David was a few minutes late. It was around 7:15 when she heard the key in the lock. "Rosey, are you here?" he called after Rosey heard the door shut.
"David, I am here." She went to the front door. He put down his packages and he took her in his arms. He kissed her passionately on the lips. When they came up for air, she asked him, "What's in the packages?"
"Some wine."
"Hmmmm, sounds good. What kind?"
"Remember the kind that you liked that I bought on our second date?"
"Yes."
"Well, I went to the wine store and got it."
"That sounds great."
"Hey, what smells so good?"
"How about some lasagne?"
"Great, I love pasta."
"Good."
"Anything I can do to help?"
"Don't you find it a bit chilly in here?"
"I'll keep you warm." He began to let his hands touch her all over.
"David, that is a great idea, but how about a fire in the fireplace."
"Rosey, how about putting out my fire?" he whispered in her ear.
"I never want to put out your fire."
He started to nibble on her ear, "Rosey, I want you. Ever since the first time I saw you, I have loved you and wanted you."
"David, if you continue this, dinner is going to burn and all my afternoon's work will be ruined."
"Okay, I guess you are right. We can continue this later."
"David, don't think I don't want you too. It is just I worked hard on dinner for you and I don't want all my work to go to waste.
He broke the embrace and set to work to start a fire in the fireplace. After he was finished, he went into the kitchen where she was putting the finishing touches on dinner. He informed her that he was going to take a shower to get all the sweat off him.
While he took his shower, and got dressed, Rosey found plates, utensils and wineglasses. When he returned, he was wearing a great looking pair of tan pants and a dark brown long sleeved shirt. He helped her bring the things to the coffee table.
They ate by the glow of the fire. David could not help to notice how beautiful she looked. He watched her and knew in his heart that what he was about to do was the best decision he could ever make. The way she looked in the glow of the fire made him even more sure of his decision.
"Did I ever tell you how beautiful you are?" he asked as he snuggled up close and he took her in his arms.
"Tell me David."
"Well, I am telling you now. You are as beautiful as I remember. I also have something else to tell you."
"David." she whispered in his ear.
"Just listen to me. I have thought about this all afternoon and I want to get this right."
"Okay."
"You know, a great meal like that deserves only one thing." David stood up from where he had been snuggling close to her. He took the small jewellery box out of the front pocket of his pants.
The dishes had been done and put away. David and Rosey were enjoying a cup of coffee She thought to herself " Well, this cup is better than the coffee I had the other morning."
He held the box in his hand, took the mug from her hand, put it on the table, got down on one knee, took her hand, opened the box and asked her the question: "Will you marry me?"
"David..."
"Well?"
"Of course."
"Let's see if it fits. The guy at the jewellery store said if it didn't fit or you didn't like it, I could take it back."
She took a good look at it as he slipped it on her finger. It was a simple ring with a single diamond in the middle. "David, it is beautiful. I don't want to get any other than this one."
"And tomorrow we leave for Las Vegas."
"What?"
He sat down on the floor beside her. "I have gone long enough without you and I don't intend to wait too long until you and I are married. I hope you are not upset."
"Not in the least. I think it is romantic to elope to Las Vegas."
"Hey, aren't you going to give me a kiss or anything?" he asked in a small boy's voice.
"David, of course." He cupped her face in his hands and kissed her tenderly on the lips. "So, when do we leave for Las Vegas?"
"Why don't we phone the airlines and find out when there is a flight?"
"Sounds good."
He took her hand and led her to the phone. They found the phone book among some things in the living room. After phoning some of the big carriers, Southwest Airlines actually had a live person answering the phone. There was a 6:30 am flight to Vegas.
David decided to go and pay Hutch a visit. He chuckled to Rosey, "I am sure he is going to be thrilled about catching a flight to Vegas at that ghastly hour."
Once in the Striped Tomato, the newly engaged couple headed to the waterfront and Hutch's haunt. Hutch was enjoying his evening off just catching up on the news on the local Los Angeles TV station.
When Rosey and David were settled on the couch, David informed Hutch, "Well, you had better pack your bags. There is a flight to Las Vegas at 6:30 tomorrow morning. "
"Yipes. The things I do for my friends."
"It is now 11 p.m. Suppose we throw a few things in a suitcase and plan to meet around 5 or 6 at Los Angeles International Airport so we can get our tickets. "
"Sounds great."
Hutch gave Rosey an affectionate squeeze and jokingly said, "Well, I am glad that someone finally reeled this guy in. I cannot think of a better person to have landed him than you, my dear."
"Thanks, Hutch."
David put his arm around Rosey's waist and walked her to Hutch's front door. "Well, Rosey has a rental car and she will be driving it back to the airport tomorrow. So bring your beloved bucket of bolts and I will bring my car and we will just park them in the rental parking lot. So how about we meet at 5 am in front of the Southwest Airlines ticket counter."
"Sounds good," Hutch agreed.
Hutch congratulated them once again and they left for David's house. During the next four hours, David helped Rosey sort out her clothes that she had brought from Mexico. And he also gave her some drawer and closet space.
********
At 5 am, they met Hutch at the ticket counter. The rental car was safely back in the possession of the rental company and both David and Hutch's cars were parked in the overnight paid parking lot. There were plenty of seats still available for the flight to Las Vegas.
David had changed his clothes from the brown outfit to a very flattering baby blue 3-piece suit that set Rosey's heart a flutter when she saw him in it back at the house. It really brought out his violet blue eyes and was a real change from his usual blue jeans that he wore while on duty.
Hutch had also chosen to go the dress-up look. He chose to wear a shade just a bit darker than David. With his blonde hair and blue eyes, he could not help but look sensational.
Rosey had also changed from her bra dress and was wearing a lovely short-sleeved green short dress with a matching jacket.
********
After Rosey, David and Hutch had gotten their tickets for the 6:30 flight, they decided to get something eat at the 24-hour, overpriced airport restaurant.
When David saw the price they were asking for burritos, he almost hit the roof. However, he decided to start Hutch's day off right and he ordered two of them.
Rosey was not in an adventurous mood and she decided to stick with the tried and true breakfast - eggs, toast, coffee, juice, hash browns, sausage, and a slice of tomato. Her excuse was, "I am usually starved in the morning."
Hutch, who is usually a bear before he has a coffee in the morning, decided to just stick with yoghurt, coffee and some fresh fruit.
The flight to Las Vegas was about one hour long. Once the three friends were on board and the plane took off, the stewardess inquired if they wanted anything. She also served coffee and breakfast squares. David asked for a blanket of which he and Rosey took full advantage. They were both contented to just snuggle close. The removable arm between them was in the up position. David had removed his jacket and loosened his tie. He had his arm around Rosey and she was content to have her head on his shoulder. Every few minutes, he whispered how much he loved her in her ear, brushed the hair out of her eyes, gave her affectionate squeezes, kissed her on the ear, nibbled on her ear lobe and just did gestures of love to show how he felt about her.
Hutch, who had been watching the proceedings from the other side of the aisle, commented, "This is the first time in his life that Starsk has not tried to make time with the stewardess."
David just gave his friend a warning look and stuck out his tongue at his best man. He looked down at Rosey who was looking up at him. He gave her one of his patented grins. She snuggled close to him and whispered in his ear, "I love you, David."
When they did land in Las Vegas and gotten their luggage, the three friends headed towards the rental car desk since they had dropped off the rental car in Los Angeles. After the car was secured, the first destination was City Hall. The clerk's office opened up at eight a.m. and David and Rosey were anxious to get that over with. The next thing on the list was to find a place to stay. Since the trip was a spur-of-the-moment trip, there had not been time to get any reservations.
They decided to get two adjacent rooms. The Days Inn that was not far from the Strip had some vacancies. David and Rosey wanted their wedding night to be special. Therefore, David took one room with Hutch and Rosey moved into the other one.
The first thing on the agenda was to get some much-needed sleep. Since they had not slept the night before, everyone decided to get some rest.
It was late afternoon by the time Rosey rolled out of bed. It was the first time in months she had slept more than four hours in a row.
She went over to the locked, shut door leading to the next room. She knocked on the door and softly called David's name. David came to the door after a few minutes. He was dressed in nothing but a pair of blue pj bottoms. He opened it and shut it behind himself as he entered her room.
"Hey there, sweetheart," he said in his best Bogey voice. "Ready for the biggest ride of your life?"
"Yeah, I guess so."
"Hey, that wasn't very convincing. Maybe this will change your mind." He gave her his patented grin and pulled her in for a passionate kiss.
When they come up for air, she responded with, "Maybe I need a little more convincing."
"That's an invitation if I have ever heard one," he whispered in her ear as he gave her a bigger grin. He kissed her even more passionately. "How was that?"
"We had better not get anything started we cannot finish," she suggested.
David broke the embrace and said, "Well, keep that thought. We really should do a few things before we head out."
"Yeah, I am starved. "
By this time, Hutch had woken up and had noticed that David was not in his bed. He was wearing a pair of light green pyjamas. He stuck his head through the door. "Yeah, that sounds great."
Rosey suggested, "Why don't we order room service? " It was mutually agreed they would order room service and while they were waiting for the food, they took turns taking showers.
The three friends decided to wear the clothes they wore on the plane - David and Hutch in their blue suits and Rosey wore her green dress. While David and Rosey were enjoying their last meal while they were still single, they started going through the phone book and telephoning some of the wedding chapels in town. Most of them were booked up months in advance, but, the Little Church of the West, had had a cancellation. It was about a 20-minute drive according to the church.
However, there was one stop that had to be made before David and Rosey could become man and wife, they needed to get wedding rings.
It was back to the phone book to find the nearest jewellery store. There was one jewellery store, the Jewellery Exchange, which was on the way to the chapel. David took the wheel of the rental car this time. Rosey snuggled up beside him in the front seat and Hutch sat in the back.
Rosey had not discussed this with David, but she was hoping that he would want to wear a wedding ring. She knew a lot of guys who refused to wear them, but when she and David started to look at them, she was pleasantly surprised when he started to try ones on. They found a simple band that they both liked and they were fortunate to find that the store had the band in both their sizes. After David paid for the rings, he handed them over to Hutch for safekeeping. "After all," he said, "that is one of the duties of the best man."
"Next stop, " David said to Rosey as he gave her a big hug and one of the biggest grins he could, "The Little Church of the West." He took the keys to the car, put them into the ignition and started the car. When they reached the chapel, Rosey commented how lovely it was. It was so quaint and rustic.
When they got to the front of the chapel, David jokingly said to Rosey as he gave Hutch a wink, "You know, it is not too late to change your mind."
She gave him an affectionate squeeze and said, "I love you David Starsky. I can't imagine spending the rest of my life with anyone else."
They opened the door and went inside. An older woman greeted them. David introduced himself to her and she said she was Emily Sweet, the wife of the gentleman who performed the ceremonies. She called for her husband who came into the room. He introduced himself as Paul Sweet. After introductions were made, they went into the chapel part of the church and Paul said, "Well, we can get started if you wish."
They went to the front of the chapel. He told Rosey to stand on the left and David and Hutch on the right. He asked them what kind of ceremony they would like and he explained the different types of religious ceremonies he was ordained to perform. Rosey knew that David was Jewish and she did not object when David showed an interest in that type of ceremony.
Paul then asked them, if before he began the ceremony, if either of them had anything they would like to say to the other one. Both David and Rosey said yes as the same time. So Paul let Rosey go first.
Rosey looked into David's eyes, and said, "David, I fell in love with you that day that we went to the Galleria after the second time we met and I was showing you around. The more time I spend with you, get to know you and learn more about you, the more deeply in love I fall in love with you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you."
David gave her a wink and looked into her eyes that were filling up with tears of joy, "Rosey," he said as he took her hand. "I loved you the first time I saw you that day in the park. When you showed up at police headquarters yesterday, I knew my life had begun again. I lost you once and I don't want to lose you again."
Paul then stated, "Well, if everyone is ready, let us begin." He began by addressing the room. "We are gathered here today to celebrate one of life's greatest moments, to give recognition to the worth and beauty of love, and to add our best wishes to the words which shall unite David Michael Starsky and Rose Marie Malone in marriage." Turning to David and Rosey, he continued, "David and Rosey , life is given to each of us as individuals, and yet we must learn to live together. Love is given to us by our family and friends - we learn to love by being loved. Learning to love and living together is one of the greatest challenges of life; and it is the shared goal of a married life.
"But we also must remember that it is not mankind which created love, but God who created love. Blessed art thou, O Lord God, creator of all things."
Paul turned to David, and asked him, "Do you, David, take Rosey to be your wife?
David - "I do".
Paul Sweet - "Do you promise to love, cherish and protect her, whether in good fortune or in adversity, and to seek with her a life hallowed by the faith of Israel?
David - "I do."
Paul Sweet then turned to Rosey and asked her, "Do you, Rosey, take David to be your husband?"
Rosey - "I do."
Paul Sweet - " Do you promise to love, cherish and protect him, whether in good fortune or in adversity, and to seek with him a life hallowed by the faith of Israel?
Rosey - "I do."
Paul Sweet - "In some Jewish ceremonies, we have a part where you can share a cup of wine and if you wish to do that here, I am fully capable of officiating it." David looked at Rosey and they agreed. Paul gave David the goblet with wine in it. David took a sip and gave it to Rosey. As they did so, Paul said, "As you have shared the wine from this cup, so may you, under God's guidance, draw contentment, comfort and strength from the cup of life. May you find life's joys heightened, its bitterness sweetened, and all things hallowed by true companionship and love. Do you have the rings?"
Hutch, who had been put in charge of the rings, reached in his jacket pocket and gave them to Paul.
Paul looked to David, and said to him. "David, as you place this ring upon the finger of Rosey, speak to her these vows: 'With this ring.'"
David said, "With this ring," as he slipped it on her ring finger of her right hand."
"'Be thou consecrated unto me.'"
"Be thou consecrated unto me."
"'As my wife.'"
"As my wife."
"'According to the law of God.'"
"'And the faith of Israel.'"
"And the faith of Israel."
Paul then turned to Rosey, " Rosey, as you place this ring upon the finger of David, speak to him these vows: 'With this ring.'"
"With this ring."
"'Be thou consecrated unto me.'"
"Be thou consecrated unto me."
"'As my husband'"
"As my husband"
"According to the law of God'"
"According to the law of God"
"'And the faith of Israel.'"
"And the faith of Israel."
Paul continued, "David and Rosey, as the two of you come into this marriage uniting you as husband and wife, and as you this day affirm your faith and love for one another, I would ask that you always remember to cherish each other as special and unique individuals, that you respect the thoughts, ideas and suggestions of one another. Be able to forgive, do not hold grudges, and live each day that you may share it together - as from this day forward you shall be each other's home, comfort and refuge, your marriage strengthened by your love and respect for each other. "Blessed are Thou O Lord God, who sanctifies Thy people of Israel by the covenant of marriage. In the presence of this company as witness, you have spoken the words and performed the rites which unit your loves. I therefore declare David and Rosey married not in accordance with the laws of the State of Nevada, but also married publicly and before this company according to the rich traditions of the Jewish faith.
"I ask you and all your dear ones to bow your heads in reverence. Silently pray that God will bless the home of David and Rosey and that they each, and together, may achieve their highest hopes. After a short pause, Paul continued, "May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious unto you. May the Lord lift up his countenance unto to you, and give you peace. Amen"
"The breaking of the glass at the end of a wedding ceremony serves to remind of two very important aspects of a marriage. The bride and groom - and everyone - should consider these marriage vows as an IRREVOCABLE ACT - just as permanent and final as the breaking of this glass is unchangeable. But the breaking of the glass also is a warning of the FRAILTY of a marriage. That sometimes a single thoughtless act, breech of trust, or infidelity can damage a marriage in ways that are very difficult to undo - just as it would be so difficult to undo the breaking of this glass. Knowing that this marriage is permanent, the bride and groom should strive to show each other the love and respect befitting their spouse and love of their life."
Hutch was instructed to place the light bulb wrapped in a white towel (to represent the bottle) on the floor in front of David.
Paul declared, "Congratulations, David, you may kiss your bride."
David had a broad smile on his face that Rosey learned later to recognise as a smile that was reserved just for her. He pulled her in for a passionate kiss. When they came up for air, he whispered in her ear, "Hi, Rosey Starsky." He stepped on the bottle and broke it.
Paul finished up by saying, "May I be the first to present the new Mr. and Mrs. David Michael Starsky."
Hutch stepped forward and shook David's hand, "Congrats, Starsk. I hope you treat her well or you will have to answer to me, partner."
"Thanks, Hutch."
He turned his attention to Rosey. He leaned over and kissed Rosey on the cheek and whispered in her ear, "Well, Rosey, you finally did. Congrats to both to you"
"Thanks, Hutch."
Paul's wife stepped forward and said, "May God bless both of you and I hope you have many happy years together like Paul and I have had."
"Thanks, Mrs. Sweet," said Rosey.
David paid Paul for his services. They went to the back of the chapel and signed the registry and filled out the wedding certificate. They thanked the Sweets for their services.
David took her hand and led her outside into the Las Vegas night. Hutch followed. "Well, I guess it is too late now, Rosey. You can't back out now."
"David, I had plenty of opportunities to back out and did I run away?."
David pulled her in for a passionate kiss. "Hi, Rosey Starsky."
"Hi, David Starsky. I love the sound of that - Rosey Starsky. Rosey Starsky."
Hutch broke in, "Well, why don't we head back to the hotel and go out and have a drink and then go our separate ways and I can leave you two alone for some private time together?"
"Hutch, sounds good." David agreed. David took Rosey's hand and led her to the car. They got in the back seat and Hutch took the wheel and drove back to the Days' Inn. The newlyweds snuggled close in the back of the car and David started to do some of the things he did to her while they were flying to Vegas from Los Angeles - nibbling on her ear, brushing the hair out of her eyes, kissing her cheeks, kissing each one of her finger tips, whispering how much he loved her in her ear. They both laughed at Hutch in the front seat and David commented, "Now, keep your eyes on the road, Uncle Hutch."
When they got back to the Days Inn, they headed to the 24-hour restaurant. They found a table and ordered a bottle of the best house champagne. Hutch proposed a toast to the happy couple. Until the bottle was empty, Rosey swore she had the best time she had had in a long time. The boys kept her in stitches and she had fun getting to know her new husband and his best friend that much better.
Then the bottle was paid for and Hutch made some lame excuse about visiting the casino to leave David and Rosey alone for a while.
The newlyweds headed to their room. David moved all his things into Rosey's room and they settled into their room as man and wife.
About midnight, David and Rosey emerged from their room. Hutch had returned from the casino sometime during the time the Starskys were spending their first evening as man and wife. The Starskys decided to just let him sleep. They headed towards the twenty-four hour restaurant. Rather than stay in their room to eat, they both came to the conclusion that would be better if they ate out of their room.
After their dinner, rather than return to their room, the newlyweds decided to take a walk.. Rosey confessed to her new husband that she was not interested in gambling, and would rather not do it. David respected her decision and confessed, "Little Lady, we do not have to go the gambling route. We can find other activities to do rather than spending our time making love."
"Sounds great."
"Why don't we just head towards the Strip and take in the sights and sounds of Las Vegas at night."
"That sounds great," she agreed.
David paid for their dinner, took her hand, helped her to her feet and they left the restaurant arm in arm.
During the next several hours, they just enjoyed being together. It was fun just to go in and out of the some of the lobbies of the large hotels and look at the boutiques. They tried on different hats and made funny faces to go along with them. They also made a game out of watching people coming out of the casinos and trying to guess whether or not they had won.
At around 4 am, the Starskys decided to head back to their room and get some sleep. They had both enjoyed their little jaunt, but a few hours of sleep sounded like a good idea. When they returned to their room, they noticed the door was open to the other room and it appeared as if Hutch had returned to the land of the living.
David volunteered to venture into the room. Hutch had just stepped out of the shower and was drying his hair. He was wearing a bathrobe.
David yelled, "Rosey, it is safe to come in."
Hutch was standing in the bathroom worrying about his hair. He turned to David and asked him, "So what have you two been up to since we last talked?"
David gave Rosey a big grin and he answered, "Well, you know ....." as his voice trailed off.
"Besides that." Hutch laughed.
"Rosey informed me that she is not into gambling. About midnight, we got something to eat and then we walked around the Strip."
Rosey chimed in, "Taking in the sights and sounds of Las Vegas at night and just having fun."
David asked the inevitable question." Speaking of casino, how did you make out gambling?"
"Naw," Hutch answered. "All right I guess." He shrugged his shoulders. "I broke even. Wasn't really interested in breaking the bank. Didn't lose my shirt. Or did not break the bank. Just went there to kill some time."
"Sounds like a good time was had by all" Rosey said.
"So, what do you guys have planned for the rest of the day?"
"We are going to get some shut-eye and then play it by ear. May take my lovely bride shopping. I have not talked to her about this yet, but I thought taking her to a show might be nice. I don't know who is in town but I am sure it is not too difficult to get tickets."
"David, that sounds pretty good." Rosey agreed.
"Well, then, Lovely Lady, we shall go see a show. How about you, Hutch?" David asked.
"I was thinking of heading back to Los Angeles."
"Aw, come on. don't leave us. At least come and see the show with and then head back," Rosey pleaded.
"I don't want to feel like the third wheel in this. After all, you guys just got married yesterday."
"Hutch, I can understand what you are saying, but you are not in the way, is he, Lovely Lady?"
"Nope," Rosey answered.
"Okay, you guys talked me into it. Right now I am heading to the restaurant to get something to eat and then I will go and see what there is - who is in town, where and touch base with you guys later."
The Starskys headed back to their room to get a few hours' sleep and Hutch went his way.
By midmorning, the newlyweds had had enough of bed and decided to go shopping. Rosey had always enjoyed working among the Mexican Indians and she was curious as to what kind of things they might be selling in Las Vegas connected with the American Indians.
The Starskys decided to spend the afternoon after a quick lunch taking advantage of the indoor swimming pool. If Rosey thought David looked great in his baby blue 3-piece suit, she was even more amazed in how great he looked in his bathing suit. However, she knew that she had married him for what was inside rather than the outside.
Hutch paid them a visit when they were at the pool. He had returned to the casino for a few more hours of gambling. The Starskys had left word with the desk clerk as to where they would be. Hutch had also done his homework and almost of the hotels still had plenty of seats for most of the shows. He also had a list of the performers appearing in town.
After looking at the list, Rosey said, " Please don't laugh but I would love to go see Frank Sinatra."
David looked at her and gave her a squeeze, "Don't tell anybody but I have always been a closet Frank Sinatra fan. "
Hutch added, " My mother was absolutely in love with Frank Sinatra. She saw every one of his movies when she was a girl. I guess through osmosis, I became a fan. She has every one of his albums, even the ones on 78. So, I vote for Blue Eyes."
"So, I guess Blue Eyes it is" Rosey said.
"Okay, how about the midnight show. It is at the Sands. Let this be my wedding present to you two." Hutch suggested. Rosey and David looked at each other. "I am not taking no for an answer. I am going there right now and make reservations."
Hutch departed to do the assignment. He returned after about an hour later with inform the Starskys that he had done what he was supposed to do.
Everyone decided to meet for dinner at seven.
Rosey had a lovely long light purple dress that she decided to wear. David knew how much the blue suit had turned her on, and he decided to wear it. Hutch had chosen a tan sports jacket to go with his handsome tan dress pants.
After dinner, the trio decided to wonder through the strip. They spent several hours doing the same thing that the Starskys had done the night before. It was just as much fun with Hutch along as it had been the other. When David and Hutch started into their comic routine, it was just after an hour, Rosey was convinced she was going to die of laughter.
At about 11 p.m., David looked at his watch and decided to head towards the Sands Hotel and the Frank Sinatra show. When they arrived at their destination and the main ballroom, the door was open. They were allowing the audience to go into the room. An usher led them to their seats that were in the third row from the front.
Rosey commented, "You know, we should get him to get tickets for us more often. These are pretty good seats."
The waiter, whom they found out was named Tony, came over and asked then what they wanted to drink. The boys were thinking of ordering beer, but when Rosey said she would love some wine, they decided to order wine.
The comical conversation continued throughout the time they were waiting for the show to begin.
Shortly before twelve, the room lights went down and the announcement came over the public address system, "And now ladies and gentleman, the Las Vegas Sands Hotel is proud to present Mr. Frank Sinatra. During the next one and a half hours, Frank Sinatra did a full show, with songs from Broadway, such as "There's No Business like Show Business" and "New York, New York.", many of his hits such as "Something Stupid," "My Way" and "That's Life," and even some Beatle tunes such as "Michelle" and "Yesterday."
After it was over, the trio headed back to the Days' Inn. Hutch had decided that the next day to get up and catch whichever plane was leaving for Los Angeles when he arrived at the airport. The Starskys would not listen to him as he kept saying he was going to take a cab to the airport.
David said, "No, we will take no for an answer. We will all get up around ten or so, have breakfast at the restaurant and then Rosey and I will drive you to the airport. It is the least we can do for you coming along, being my best man and taking us out tonight."
"Okay, I can't argue with you anymore, Starsk. It will be enjoyable to have one last meal with you two before I disappear into the sunset."
"Hey, come on, you make it sound as if somebody is going to the chair or something."
Everyone headed to bed and still had the concert in their heads. All three fell asleep with various Frank Sinatra songs running through his/her head.
********
In the morning, Rosey was up early. It was something she would get used to . Her husband liked to sleep in on his days off and she had always been an early riser. She got dressed and decided to turn on the radio beside their bed to listen to the news. David woke up a little later after he reached for her and she was not there.
"Hey, handsome," she said to him when he looked up and found her sitting on the table beside the bed.
"Hey, yourself, Lovely Lady. What time is it?"
"About 9:30."
"I guess I can take a quick shower before we are meeting Hutch about 10."
"Sounds good. Go ahead. I am going to give him a buzz and see if he is up yet."
"Hutch is always up at the crack of dawn." David commented. He got up out of the bed. He came over to where Rosey was, leaned over and gave her a quick kiss.
She watched him disappear into the bathroom and she heard the shower water come on. She picked up the phone that was on the table near her and asked the front desk to ring Room 215. It rang a few times and Hutch answered.
"Hey, Hutch. Rosey here. I was hoping you would be up."
"Hey, Rosey, how are you this morning."
"Pretty good. How are you?"
"Fine. How long have you been up?"
"About an hour or so. I got up to listen to the news on the radio to see what has been going on in the world since we have been in Las Vegas."
"Is your husband up yet?"
"Yeah, he finally got up. He finally got up . He is taking a shower and as soon as he is finished, we could probably leave."
"Sounds good."
"See you then Hutch.
"Yuppers. Rosey."
They both hung up their phones at the same time.
By the time Rosey and Hutch had finished their conversation, David had finished his shower. He came into the room and got dressed. Since it was just going to be a casual day, he just put on a pair of cut off jeans and an LA Dodgers T-shirt. She could not help but notice what great legs he had for a guy.
Rosey had gotten some Las Vegas T-shirts during one of their shopping sprees. She wore one of them along with a pair of light green shorts.
When Hutch appeared, he was wearing his very smart looking dark brown dress pants and a short-sleeved dress shirt. The three friends headed towards the restaurant. They were still taking about the Frank Sinatra show the night before.
"My mother is going to be very jealous that I got to see her idol," Hutch observed. He had bought her a Frank Sinatra cassette of his greatest hits. He knew she did not have it. He had commented the night before, "She is going to love this." On the next free time Hutch was planning on taking, he had planned to go east to Duluth, MN to visit his folks. He had not been back in several years and he was looking forward to it.
David had been holding back showing Rosey what terrible eating habits he had. He decided to make his new wife nauseous. He ordered six pancakes and a great big order of strawberry sauce to slip on top of it and root beer to wash it down.
Hutch and Rosey just shook their heads.
Rosey decided to be the civilised Starsky. She ordered the classic breakfast - bacon, eggs, toast, home fries and coffee.
Hutch, who was the health conscious one of the trio, chose fruit salad and cottage cheese. The waitress swore by their freshly squeezed orange juice that he decided to try.
When they had been served, David asked, "Well, Hutch, back to LA today, eh?"
"Yup. I have had enough of Vegas for this trip. Think I will just bum around until Mon. I might take in a Dodgers' game."
"Sounds good." Rosey commented.
"What do you guys have planned?"
"Not sure, " David answered. "We may go horseback riding out in the desert, or I have always wanted to go dune bugging in the desert. We might check out other things - bowling, billiards, whatever."
Rosey answered, "That sounds like fun."
"Any of those appeal to you, Lovely Lady?"
"I have always wanted to go horseback riding." Rosey answered.
"Well, I wonder if there is horseback riding in Vegas."
"Probably outside the city in the suburbs, Starsk," Hutch suggested.
After breakfast, it was time to head to the airport. Hutch gathered up all of his things and he went to the front desk to pay his bill. When they had taken care of that, the Starskys and Hutch headed to find the rental car. David took the wheel and Rosey snuggled close to him in the front seat. Hutch jumped into the back seat.
When they arrived at the airport, David found a parking spot in the high priced parking lot. The Starskys decided to see Hutch off rather than just dropping him off. "Hey, you have been there for me through the years so we are not just going to get rid of you." David stated.
They walked him to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. The next plane was at 1 p.m. After Hutch got his ticket and checked his luggage, they went to the correct gate. When the first announcement for the flight came over the PA, everyone got together for a group hug.
"You take care of our girl, you hear, Starsk, or you will have to answer to me," He instructed David. He turned to Rosey and said, "You guys have a great rest of your vacation and give me a buzz when you get back into town." Rosey kissed him on the cheek.
She said, "Hutch, you're the greatest. Now I know why you and David are such good friends. I hope in the years to come, we can become good friends,. too."
"I would like that, Rosey," Hutch gave Rosey an affectionate squeeze. They announced the flight again.
"Time for me to go, you guys. Thanks for coming with me and I'll see you guys in LA." Hutch said.
"Bye, bud," David said.
"Bye, Hutch," Rosey called.
"Bye Starsk and Rosey," Hutch called over this shoulder.
The Starskys watched him disappear into an airline entrance that led to the airplane. David took her in his arms. "Well now that he is gone, what do you want to do?"
"Hey, " she broke his embrace, "don't say it that way. Hutch is a really nice guy."
"Okay, I love Hutch too, but it is just you and me, Sweetheart," he said in his Bogie voice.
"Okay, how about checking stuff to do - dune buggies, horseback riding, mini golf."
"That sounds good to me. Why don't we check at the hotel? They should have information."
The Starskys headed toward their hotel after they picked up their rental car to find out about things to do in Las Vegas besides casinos and shows.
After the Starskys arrived back at the Days Inn, they went to the front desk to ask the clerk if they had any names of any riding stables in the area. They gave David the names of several. When David asked if they could recommend any particular one, the girl mentioned a place called Johnson J-Bar Bar Stables. David thought. That sounds like a good place.
The girl gave them directions. It was not that far out of town - about 20 minutes by car from the hotel.
When the Starskys got there, it was mid-afternoon. The ranch looked a lot like one of those old ranches in the old Westerns that David loved to watch. He was half expecting to see John Wayne in full western gear to come moseying out of the barn.
There was lots of activity at the farm. People coming and going in cars and also riding horses.
David found a place to park the car and they headed towards the barn, which appeared to be the place to sign in. They found the place where one signed up and an employee talked to them about the establishment. She took them to the stables and both Starskys asked for a gentle animal. Neither of them had done much riding and they were not interested in a bucking bronco.
When they had gotten their horses, they headed off by themselves. The girl had given them a map of the trails and they just decided it would be much more fun by themselves. They went out until they found a group of trees. David told Rosey to stop. He got off his horse and went over and helped her dismount. They took the reins of their horses and led them to the trees. He took her hand and led her to one of the trees. He pulled her in for a kiss. "Rosey, I love you."
"David, I love you too. This is so much fun. I am having a great time."
"I am glad. But I would much rather be back at the hotel making love to you."
"Me, too, David, but I think sometimes you have to let loose and do something you would not normally do."
"Yeah," he said as he nibbled on her ear. "We can always continue this at the hotel."
"Yeah," she agreed.
They just stood there under the shade of the tree, holding each other and just enjoying the mid-afternoon Nevada sun. Finally, they broke the embrace and decided to continue on the trail for an hour or so.
They headed back, took the horses back to the stable, paid for the damage and went back to their hotel. By this time, it was dinnertime. They decided to dress up for dinner. The Days Inn had a dining room and also a disco for dancing.
So after dinner was over, they decided to head to the disco. David had brought his white 3-piece suit that he had worn about 2 years before when he and Hutch were undercover as drug dealers/pimps. When Rosey saw him in it, her heart skipped a beat. She later told him that he looked like John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever, but she said he looked better in it than John Travolta ever could. He was wearing a black shirt which was unbuttoned to his navel and which really had Rosey's desires for her husband multiply.
Rosey had a really lovely red dress that she wore.
They had a great time dancing to many of the fast songs from Saturday Night Fever and Grease and even better time during the slow songs. She loved it best when he held her close during the slow songs. However, after a while, they decided to just head back to their room. They were tired from their horseback riding and the dancing close had made them both want to have some quality time together.
David and Rosey just turned in early and spend most of the rest of the night making love.
The next day was another gorgeous day in Las Vegas. The Starskys had decided to make this the last day of their honeymoon.
The front desk had several ideas as to what the Starskys could do that day. When David saw the list, he suggested maybe a quiet day at the zoo might be nice. They had both enjoyed zoos when they were younger. So to the zoo they went.
The Southern Nevada Zoological and Botanical Park is located south of Las Vegas. They have a good variety of animals and have tried over the years to educate the public regarding endangered species. They also have a snack bar and the Starskys just had lunch there.
It was mid afternoon by the time David and Rosey headed back to their hotel. In some ways, they were anxious to get back to Los Angles, and in other ways they had enjoyed Las Vegas and hated to leave the city. David promised her that they would return some day and maybe see some of the other sights that Las Vegas had to offer.
The Starskys spent the part of the evening having dinner at the restaurant.
Their waitress had suggested they maybe head to a museum not far from them - Madame Tussaud's Celebrity Encounter. Madame Tussaud is world famous for their wax museums all over the world - London, England, Niagara Falls, Ont., Canada among others. They enjoyed their visit there. The museum was not a huge place, but most of the exhibits were very lifelike - sports celebrities, politicians and entertainment personalities.. There even was an exhibit with two TV stars that Starsky had never heard of - David Soul and Paul Michael Glaser. She commented how much one looked like David, but she said, "You look a lot better than him", meaning the one named Paul Michael Glaser.
David and Rosey headed to their room after the museum. It had been another long day and they were tired.
The next day, the Starskys got up, got dressed, went out to the restaurant for breakfast, went back to their room to pack, and then headed to the airport. After they had dropped off the rental car at the rental car desk, they headed towards the Southwestern Airlines ticket counter. There was an 11 am plane for Los Angeles that they were able to get tickets for.
The flight to Los Angeles was smooth and without problems. After they had landed and gotten their luggage, they headed to the paid parking lot and retrieved the Striped Tomato.
It was great to be home.
In the years and months to come, Rosey did eventually re-open her Galleria. She did make frequent trips to Mexico to handle that part of the job.
However, for the first few months of her marriage, she was content to stay home and take care of the house. Her husband's happiness was the first priority in her life and she enjoyed being a domestic engineer.
THE END