FICTION - GAY/LESBIAN FICTION

$ XX.XX U.S.

Spitfire

gina glass

iUniverse, Inc.

New York Bloomington

Spitfi re

Copyright © 2008 by gina glass

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fi ction. All of the characters, names, incidents,

organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products

of the author’s imagination or are used fi ctitiously.

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ISBN: 978-1-440-10846-4 (pbk)

ISBN: 978-1-440-10847-1 (ebk)

Printed in the United States of America

iUniverse rev. date: 11/14/2008

To all of you who I have met, talked with, worked with, played with, or

crossed paths with, you have my sincerest heart-felt thanks!

To the fans that wouldn’t let the flame of Spitfire die out - thank you!

It’s because of your belief in Dillon & Ashley, and the story of their love,

that has brought us all together again! You are all so important, and I

appreciate every one of you!

To my family and friends, thank you for your love and support! You

realize what this dream meant to me, and you’ve encouraged me to

follow it!

To my parents, your love and support tells me I’m doing the right thing!

I love you!

To the great ladies who have helped to make Spitfire beautiful, both

inside and out: Giulia, Michele, CC, Lori, Judy, Kerry & Kim. You are

awesome Thank you for having my back!!

To Marnie Alton, button your soul and love for life is inspiring! Thank

you for being a part of Spitfire. I’m thrilled that you’re the one to give

Ashley her voice!

To Cathy DeBuono. C, you have been there since the day I brought

Spitfire to you! You have embraced Dillon, not only bringing her to life,

but also to bringing her to a new level! It’s been an honor to work with

you on this project! Thank You!!

Show Your Support!

http://www.myspace.com/spitfire_themovie

http://www.spitfire08.com/Spitfire.htm

http://www.myspace.com/gglass_author

http://www.myspace.com/cathydebuono

http://www.cathydebuono.com/index.html

http://profile.myspace.com/marniealton

http://www.myspace.com/krrrr

v

The smoke grew thick and heavy. Dillon knew that there wasn’t much

time left to find the boy trapped inside. She turned her air pack on and

grabbed her halagan.

“Get out of my way!” she yelled to her crew as she passed them. Her

best friend and partner, Jack, grabbed a pick and followed.

Th

e eerie creaking of the collapsing apartment rang loud in Dillon’s

ears; she hated this part of the job! She wanted to fi nd the boy and get

out! She and Jack dropped to their knees and began the search for the

missing boy. She heard a loud pop. Her instincts told her to move, as

part of the ceiling came down. Looking back, she saw that Jack had

moved out as well. Th

ey headed down the hall crawling, checking every

room. Th

ey came to a room with the door shut. Dillon jumped to her

feet to open it. It wouldn’t move. Jack moved in and tried to break the

door down. Dillon took her halagan and started to hack away at the door

until there was a sizable hole in it. A mans body lay across the doorway

blocking access to the room. Dillon climbed over him and looked around.

She reached down to check his pulse. Th

ere was none. She spotted the

boy in the middle of the room. She knelt down by him and took her air

mask off .

“Spit! What the hell are you doing?” Jack yelled at her. “It’s grab and

go!”

Dillon placed her air mask over the boys face and lifted him into her

embrace.

“Do you ever follow procedures?” Jack asked her as she walked by

him.

“Grab and go, Jack!” She said as she stepped over the dead body with

the boy still in her arms.

Dillon and Jack stopped in the living room. Dillon felt the smoke

starting to get to her.

Th

ey stepped through the piles of fl aming embers and walked to the

door. Part of the ceiling came crashing down, driving the fi refi ghters back

into the living room.

Dillon started to cough.

vii

Jack pointed to a broken window, and they moved to it. Jack cleared

the glass from the window and climbed out.

Dillon took the air mask off the boy and passed him through to Jack.

As she was about to climb through, the fl oor gave away. She moved to

her left and was blindsided by a beam crashing down. She lay lifeless as

the fl ames came closer to her.

viii

1

The ambulance rolled into the E.R. Dillon was still unconscious. An

EMT was checking her vitals as the other two drivers unloaded her.

They wheeled her into E.R. and into a room.

“She hit her head” the EMT explained. “Got hit by a falling beam

saving a boy. She’s taken in a lot of smoke. Th

ere’s a couple of broken

ribs and possible traumatic pneumothorax. Pulse is rapid, breathing

shallow.”

Dillon came to, still groggy and coughing. “Th

e boy. Need to get

him.”

Dillon tried to sit up but the pain and the hospital staff pushed her

down.

Th

e nurse hurriedly put a sedative in Dillon’s IV. It had a quick

aff ect on her.

“Th

e boy,” was all she could get out before she drifted back off .

“Is the boy she’s talking about the one from the apartment fi re?” the

nurse asked the EMT.

“Yeah, she went back into the apartment to get him. You should have

seen it. It was a fricken’ inferno she ran into. Two guys from her crew

pulled her out. She’s damn lucky to be alive.”

Rhonda Harris, one of the head E.R. nurses, walked into the room,

grabed the chart and started to read. “Spitfi re?” She looked at the

fi refi ghter lying there, her face covered in soot, hooked up to an oxygen

mask.

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“You know her Rhonda?” Th

e duty nurse asked.

“Everyone knows Spitfi re. She always follows in, especially the kids.”

Rhonda said.

“She pulled the boy in bed two out of a burning apartment. She was

hit by a beam in the process.” Th

e duty nurse explained.

“Th

at doesn’t surprise me.” Rhonda added “Is she stable?”

“Shortness of breath, rapid pulse, possible traumatic pneumorthorax,”

Th

e nurse said.

“Well, what are we waiting for? Come on people; let’s get a move on!

Let’s get her into x-ray A.S.A.P!”

A male orderly came running in. “Rhonda, there’s been a huge crash.

A metro-link train hit a bus. Th

ey’re transporting here.” He yelled.

“Wonderful.” Rhonda rolled her eyes. “It must be a Wednesday.

Steve, call for all available fl oor doctors, stat!”

“All ready done.” Steve said.

Rhonda left her team with instructions and walked back to the

nurse’s station.

“Hey Rhonda,” a female’s voice called out. Rhonda turned around

smiling. She knew the voice of her friend.

Dr. Ashley Wilkerson came walking up to her with her arms open.

She was a beautiful woman, all fi ve foot six inches of her. Her soft

blonde shoulder length hair shined, with radiant blue eyes that danced

when she laughed. All the women envied her natural beauty; all the men

wanted her in bed.

Ashley was a very private person, and only her closest friend, Rhonda,

knew anything about her.

Ashley recently became one of the staff doctors at Mount West-

L.A.

It was all very nice - the promotion, the money. But inside, Ashley felt

alone. After the promotion dinner, she came home to fi nd her girlfriend

in bed with another woman. It took Ashley a few months to get over the

shock. Her relationship with Giavanna was an extreme surge of ups and

downs. Th

ey continued living together for rents sake. Now six months

later, Ashley was fi nally earning enough money that she had asked Gia

to move out. Gia stalled Ashley’s request by saying, “I’m working on it”.

“I got the page. How can I help?” She asked her friend.

“Didn’t you hear about the apartment fi re?”

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Spitfi re

Ashley looked blankly at Rhonda.

“Apparently not.” Rhonda continued, “Five people dead, two are in

surgery now. Some jealous boyfriend tried to barbeque his girlfriend

and kids!”

Ashley looked at Rhonda. She never understood how people could

try to make light in such a tragic situation.

“Who survived?”

“Th

e mother is in ICU, not expected to live, and her nine year old son,

prognosis is good, burned with some smoke inhalation. He’s very lucky

to be alive. Th

ere was one fi refi ghter hurt - concussion, smoke inhalation,

fractured ribs, and possible traumatic pneumo of the right lung. Th

ey’re

popping pictures of it right now. Th

en, to add to the excitement, a metro-

link hit a bus. Th

ey’re transporting here.”

“Oh God.” Ashley said.

Th

e commotion was loud. Being in L.A. they were used to the media

frenzy that would follow every time something of a large magnitude

occurred.

“Right on time.” Rhonda looked at her watch. “Here, these are yours.”

She handed Ashley some charts. “Th

e top one is the most serious. Have

fun.” She winked at Ashley.

Ashley shook her head and chuckled. Rhonda could be a little much

at times, but she was a great friend. Ashley opened the chart as she heard

Rhonda yelling at the media in the lounge. She laughed, then turned her

attention to the paper.

“Dillon McCabe.” She read further then closed the chart. “OK, Mr.

McCabe. You keep your slimy fi refi ghter hands to yourself, and I won’t

kick your ass,” she said under her breath. Ashley walked into the room

and stopped dead in her tracks. She froze, staring at the fi refi ghter who

lay peaceful in the bed. She had beautiful black hair, with strong features.

“Wait a sec.” Ashley thought. She opened the chart again; there it was in

black and white. Sex F. Ashley smiled. “Well, good for you.”

She moved closer, taking all of the fi refi ghter in. Her arms were

muscular. Ashley felt a shiver up her spine. She looked around for a

possible draft. Nothing. She slowly placed her hand on the fi refi ghter’s

wrist to check her pulse. Th

e touch sent chills through both of them.

Dillon’s eyes opened. “Am I dead?” Dillon asked in her now raspy

voice.

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“Sssh. You’ll live,” Ashley said as she looked down at her watch. “But

you need to be quiet.” Ashley looked up and their eyes met. Ashley had

never seen such a rich shade of brown staring at her. Th

ose eyes were

amazing.

Dillon became fl ushed at the stare of the gorgeous blue-eyed

doctor.

Becoming fl ushed was a trademark of Dillon’s since she was a little

girl. A trademark she wished she could trade in.

Growing up Dillon was a tomboy, always picked fi rst for the sports teams,

playing with stinkbugs as opposed to Barbie dolls. With age also came the

decision to push away any feelings and crushes she had on the girls and female

teachers she had at school. She told herself that it was just idolizing, that she longed for a sister, instead of the cruel hearted older brother she ended up

with. Her mother forced her to wear a dress on Sundays, and by senior year

she was mostly a loner on campus, having only made a few friends along the

way. Dillon was pushed into going to her senior prom with Tommy Nichols.

Th

eir mother’s played tennis together. Tommy was nice enough, but he was

known for his wandering hands. On the way home from the prom he put his

hand on the inside of Dillon’s thigh. “I’m gay!” she proclaimed, much to both

of their surprise.

From that second on, Dillon knew her life would change. With just three

days until her high school graduation, she came out to her family. She was

eighteen and felt she couldn’t live the lie any longer. Her mother went into

theatrics about failing as a parent and never being able to show her face at

her Th

ursday night bridge game again. Her father grounded her until she

was eighty. Her brother laughed at her and called her a “Dyke,” and left with

his friends.

Th

e night of her graduation, her father lifted her restriction so she could

be with friends for the annual “all night party”. Instead, that night Dillon

drove down to Long Beach. She had been there once before and felt right

at home. She went to the Executive Suite and played pool and even danced

for a bit with a cute blonde that kept rubbing up against her. At about 1:00

am, Dillon drove home. As she turned left onto her street, there were four

fi re trucks, paramedics, police, countless news crews and onlookers. Dillon’s

home was ablaze. She pulled over and tried to head up the street on foot past

a huge crowd that had gathered by the police caution tape. Dillon tried to stop

4

Spitfi re

a few people, but no one would talk to her. She made her way to the policeman

guarding the barrier.

“Sorry, miss. We need you to stay back.”

“Th

at’s my house!” Dillon yelled. “My family! Where are my parents?”

Th

e offi cer quickly grabbed a woman in jeans and a leather jacket. She

turned to Dillon.

“ Is this your house?” she asked Dillon

“Yes! Yes! Here.” Dillon fumbled in her pocket for her ID. She handed

it to the woman.

“Please follow me.” Th

e woman lifted the police tape for Dillon to go

under.

Dillon stared at the woman’s eyes. Th

ey were caring and soft. Th

e kind

that you could get lost in. Th

e kind that were staring at her right now.

“Hi.” Ashley smiled.

Dillon couldn’t believe it. Yep, she must be dead cause there was

nothing truly as lovely as this vision in white that stood in front of her.

“Hey.” Dillon mumbled and coughed. She grabbed her side. “What

happened?”

“Well, you got hit by a beam in a burning house. Your partner and

another crew member pulled you out. You broke some ribs, you have a

concussion, and a traumatic pnumothroax. Good job Ms. McCabe.”

“Great.” Dillon tried to fi nd a comfortable position. “Th

e little boy?

Is he ok?” Dillon grimaced.

“Ben will be fi ne. He’s in surgery. I’ll keep you posted.”

Dillon smiled. “Can I go now?”

“Ah, you’re not going anywhere anytime soon.” Ashley said sternly.

Dillon looked at Ashley. Ashley gave the look right back. She knew

she was staying.

Th

e duty nurse came in.

“Let’s get her prepped for a chest tube.” Ashley told the nurse.

“Chest tube?” Dillon said groggily. She started to cough. She

struggled for her breath.

Th

e duty nurse put the oxygen mask on Dillon.

Ashley took out her stethoscope and put it on Dillon’s chest. “We

need to put that chest tube in stat. Let’s go.”

Th

e staff started to prep Dillon, and Ashley went to scrub up.

5

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Dillon struggled to watch Ashley as she slowly faded into a deep

sleep. Th

e fi re completely destroyed Dillon’s home. She was left only with

the clothes on her back. Th

e lead detective on the case, Kris Bryant, brought

Dillon to the station. From all accounts, they were blaming the fi re on a gas

leak. Dillon was in shock. She lost her entire family, everything.

“If you need a place to crash, I have an extra room.” Kris off ered to

Dillon. Dillon took her up on her off er and stayed for three years. It turned

out that Kris was a lesbian, which made Dillon feel even more at home. She

really opened up with Kris and shared her thoughts, her fears. Kris hooked

Dillon up with some EMT’s and soon Dillon tried out for the fi re academy.

She’d made a promise at her family’s memorial that she would honor them

by becoming a fi refi ghter.

On her graduation from the fi re academy, Dillon had two off ers for local

fi rehouses; she chose Engine Co. # 31. Th

at night, Kris took her dancing.

It was magical for Dillon! She danced with many of the women there, but

especially liked the slow dance with Kris. Th

ey drank and partied the night

away. When they got home, Kris took Dillon to her bedroom and did a

striptease for her. Dillon couldn’t believe it. Kris had a fabulous body! Th

ey

had sex many times that night. It was Dillon’s fi rst time. She was scared and

excited all at once. Kris was a good teacher. She showed her everything.

Th

e next morning, Dillon awoke to an empty bed, and a note on the pillow

from Kris. It read: “I think it’s best if you move out.” Dillon was a confused

mess. She called her new fi re station to see if she could start immediately. She went into an extreme workaholic mode. She knew that if she stopped, she

would think, and that would make her depressed. She decided that it was

indeed her fault that she was gone. After Kris, Dillon turned her heart off .

She now knew what her life would entail. She was incapable of loving someone

the right way, so she accepted her fate of living a solitary life.

For the next two years she excelled at being a fi refi ghter and becoming

one of the guys. She was a highly respected fi refi ghter. She would be there for Wednesday’s poker night, and was always willing to pick up a shift no matter

what.

Dillon’s memories woke her from her anesthetic. She tried to sit up,

but the pain overtook her and she let out a howl. Ashley was nearby and

heard her. She bolted through the door, followed by a nurse.

6

Spitfi re

“It’s ok.” Ashley’s smooth voice and deep green eyes had a soothing

eff ect on Dillon. Ashley could tell that Dillon had been having nightmares.

She was in a cold sweat from the pain.

She quickly took her pulse.

“You wanna talk about it?” Ashley off ered.

“No.” Dillon said fl atly “What I want are my clothes so I can get the

hell outta here! I’m on duty tomorrow!”

“Hmm, well, Ms. McCabe, it seems you will be joining us here for

a while.”

“What?” Dillon looked at Ashley. “And it’s Spit.”

“You have some blood that has collected behind that punctured lung,

...Spit.”

“Great.” Dillon said groggily. “I have to go to work.”

“I talked to your Captain and explained that you’ll be here for the

next week or so, and your recovery will take six to eight weeks. He said,

‘see you when you get better’ and not a moment before. So, I don’t think

you have any pressing engagements.”

“Six weeks?” Dillon sighed heavily. “What the hell am I gonna do

sitting around for six weeks?

“Rest comes to mind.”

“What’s next?” Dillon grumbled.

“You rest. You have a pretty nasty concussion too.”

Dillon rolled her eyes. “My head is fi ne, my ribs are fi ne. I’ve busted

them before, and I don’t need a tube.”

Ashley knew that Dillon wasn’t going to be an easy patient. “I hear

Ben is recovering, and I’m sure he would like a visitor.” Ashley off ered.

Dillon smiled.

“Oh my gosh, she smiled and her face didn’t crack! I’ll have to note

that on the chart.” Ashley winked at Dillon.

Dillon started to laugh which made her cough, sending her into a

coughing spasm which made her ribs hurt even more.

Ashley turned on the oxygen. Dillon breathed deeply. She fi nally

settled down. “Easy, there.” Ashley smiled.

Dillon looked into Ashley’s blue eyes. She is so beautiful, Dillon

thought.

Ashley took the oxygen mask off . “You feel better?” She asked.

Dillon shook her head.

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“I’m going to see about getting you into a room.” she said, walking

to the door.

“No! Wait.”

Ashley, with her back turned to Dillon, was smiling. She turned

around. “Can I get you something?” She walked back to Dillon’s

bedside.

Dillon tried to take in Ashley’s scent, but all she could smell was

smoke. She bet she smelled beautiful. Th

e doctor was stunning and her

skin was fl awless. A true lady, very classy. Dillon thought that the lucky

man who was with her didn’t know what he had. Dillon always dreamed

of Ashley’s type. She was the kind fairytales were made of.

“Ah, just, thanks.” was all Dillon could get out.

Ashley reached down and gently squeezed Dillon’s arm. Both women

felt the energy between them. Both got goose bumps.

“Just doing my job.” Ashley winked at Dillon. She didn’t want to

leave the dark haired fi refi ghter. She was so attracted to her. It scared her

a little and excited her too. She really wanted to get to know her.

Dillon watched her go, not wanting her to leave. She felt like the

good doctor was fl irting with her. “Who are you kidding?” Dillon told

her self “You know what happens, you fall for them, they dump you. Nope,

never again.”

But, through all of Dillon’s doubt, she kept feeling that Doctor

Ashley Wilkerson was diff erent, very diff erent.

8

2

Ashley made her way through the cafeteria. She’d always loved food and

never gained an ounce. Her Daddy always called her the bottomless pit.

She searched around the food picking up two slices of pizza, lasagna, a

salad, bread sticks, ice tea, chocolate cake and a carton of milk. She paid

for her meal and found Rhonda sitting at their usual table.

“Girl, I swear you could eat any man under the table!”

Ashley smiled proudly.

“I put on six pounds just looking at it.” Rhonda shook her head.

Ashley laughed. “Hey, how’s Ben doing?”

“Better. ICU says he opened his eyes.”

“Wonderful!” Ashley smiled. “What about his mother?

“Not so good. Th

ey’ve called in social services.”

“What a shame.”

“Yes, it is. By the way, word has it that you’ve spent quite a bit of time

in recovery with a certain fi refi ghter.”

“Word travels fast here.” Ashley said as she continued to eat.

“Yes, it does girl. So, what’s the scoop?” Rhonda looked at Ashley to

see if she could tell by the look on her face. Many years in the closet had

given Ashley the upper hand of showing no emotions.

“Th

ere is no ‘scoop’. I’m her doctor, that’s all.”

Rhonda looked at Ashley.

“What?” Ashley stared back. “ I swear Rhonda, don’t turn this into

something it’s not.”

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Rhonda continued to stare at Ashley. Th

ere it was, as plain as day.

“Girl!..........You are falling for Spitfi re!”

Ashley shot Rhonda a look. “Will you keep it down.” She looked

around to make sure no one else had heard Rhonda’s outburst.

“You so know I’m right.” Rhonda smiled triumphantly.

“Oh, please. I just met her three days ago. Don’t go picking out

bridesmaid’s dresses.”

Rhonda started to laugh.

“What?” Ashley asked.

“It’s nothing really. I was just trying to imagine you and Spit together.

Th

at would be like oil and water!”

“Well, I happen to think she’s interesting.” Ashley said matter of

factly. “I was even thinking of off ering her a ride home.”

“Well, before you send for the limo missy, let me give you the 411 on

Ms. Spitfi re McCabe.” Rhonda settled in to tell her tale. “She’s a loner

Ash, keeps to herself. She let’s no one past that stone cold heart of hers.

Trust me Ashley, fi nd someone else.”

“How do you know all this?” Ashley asked.

“Word gets around. You know, fi refi ghters and EMT’s talk n’

shit.”

“So, you’re basing your whole opinion of Dillon on a bunch of talk

n’…shit?”

Rhonda stood up. “Look, I need a ciggy. You now know what I know.

You make your own call, but don’t come crying to me when this one turns

you off like a fl oor lamp!”

“Well, thanks Rhonda, I’m glad to know you care this much about

who I date.”

Rhonda looked at Ashley in the eye. “I do care what happens to you.

I don’t want to see you hurt again.” Rhonda kissed Ashley on the top of

her head and walked out.

Hurt again? Ashley thought. “I’m the world record holder for getting

hurt. ” Ashley stopped to think. Since coming out twelve years ago, she had gone through at least fi ve diff erent girlfriends, thinking each new one was ‘the one.’ Luckily, she had the support of her parents. All her mother wanted was

for her to be happy and to give her a grandchild. Ashley tried to explain to

mother all that it entailed, but her mother was persistent. She never had the

heart to tell her parents about the last year she and her girlfriend Gia tried

10

Spitfi re

to reconcile. Th

ey decided that a baby would bring them closer. Ashley was

artifi cially inseminated. Gia calmed any doubts that Ashley had by saying

that this baby would solve all of their problems. After Gia missed Ashley’s fi rst ultrasound, Ashley found out that Gia was sleeping around again. Th

e stress

and shock of the whole ordeal sent her to the hospital, where she miscarried.

Th

e page of Ashley’s name over the intercom brought her back from

her thoughts. She looked at her watch. Th

ree more hours and she was

off . She could hardly wait; she knew she had some unfi nished business

to take care of.

Ashley quickly made her rounds, saving the fi refi ghter’s room for

last. She kept asking herself why she was so drawn to her. She couldn’t

give herself any kind of logical reason. She checked in at the nurse’s

station and walked over to Dillon’s room. She slowly opened the door.

Dillon was sound asleep. Ashley sat in the chair and watched, as the

fi refi ghter lay peaceful in her bed. She thought she would watch her for

a few minutes. It turned into two hours. Ashley couldn’t take her eyes

off Dillon.

* * *

The California sun was bright. Its rays danced off the stark white walls

of Dillon’s room. She sleepily took one of her pillows and held it to her

face.

“Good afternoon, sunshine.”

Th

e familiar voice sent chills through Dillon’s body. She took the

pillow from her face. Th

ere, standing before her, was an angel.

Ashley was smiling. She was in tight blue jeans, which curved at all

the right places, a tank top and a denim shirt. Dillon thought she looked

perfect.

“Do me a favor?” Dillon pointed to the window at the bright ball

beaming into her room. “Turn that off .”

Ashley chuckled and walked over to the window and pulled the

curtains.

“You gonna lay around here all day?” Ashley teased.

“You gonna let me go home?” Dillon looked hopeful.

“No, not yet, but, you don’t have to lie around like 3rd base either.

You can get some air you know.”

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“Well, thank you, warden.” Dillon looked smugly at the doctor. “But

I’m not walking around this place with my ass hanging out of this thing.”

Dillon slowly pulled herself up a bit. Her head felt like the end of a fi re

hose had hit it. Her pain was still evident to Ashley.

“Your head?” She asked.

“I don’t know what hurts more.” Dillon fi nally admitted.

“Well, I guess that means no marathons for you.” Ashley moved close

to Dillon to look into her eyes.

Dillon froze as the doctor gently cupped her chin in her hand. Dillon

breathed in, she could now smell Ashley. It was just what the fi refi ghter

imagined - clean, and natural.

“Well?” Dillon asked, not wanting the doctor to stop.

“I don’t know….”

“What?” Dillon looked concerned

“You’re going to live.” She reached down and picked up a bag. “Here.”

Ashley lightly tossed the bag to Dillon.

Dillon opened the bag to fi nd a pair of sweats, some house slippers

and a robe. Dillon grinned. She looked up at Ashley. “Th

anks, Doc.”

“Ben said he would like to meet you. So if you’re up to it....”

“Cool.”

“He’s still a little weary, but he’ll be fi ne. He’s out of I.C.U.”

“I’m there.”

Dillon reached for the blankets and pulled them back. Her lean

muscular legs took Ashley’s breath away. A devilish grin came to her as she

wondered what it would be like to have those legs wrapped around her.

“Ah...?” Dillon nodded at Ashley. She wouldn’t get dressed in front

of her, doctor or not.

“Sorry.” Ashley blushed. “Didn’t know if you needed some help.” She

quickly turned around.

“I think I can manage.” Dillon said shyly.

Dillon slowly sat up. She moved one leg at a time until both were

dangling over the bed. She scooted to the edge of the bed and stood up.

Ashley could hear her grunting, her determination to help herself.

She was a bit wobbly at fi rst. Dillon tried to reach back to untie the

hospital gown but couldn’t.

“Damn!” Dillon grabbed her side at the stabbing pain.

Ashley wheeled herself around seeing Dillon wince in pain.

12

Spitfi re

Dillon quickly grabbed Ashley’s shoulder for balance.

“Easy.” Ashley tried to lower Dillon back on to the bed.

“Just a little wobbly I guess.” Dillon tried to put up a front for Ashley.

Th

e cold sweat that beaded on her hairline gave her away.

“I think you need a bit more bed rest. No sense in pushing it.” Ashley

suggested.

“No way. Th

e sooner I’m on my feet, the sooner I get the hell outta

here!”

“You need to take it easy, Spit.”

Dillon looked at Ashley. She liked the way it sounded when Ashley

said Spit. “I can rest at home as well as I can here.”

“Maybe, but I don’t believe for a second that you would be resting.”

She looked at Dillon.

Damn! Dillon thought She called me on that one. “Look, I’m feeling

better now.” Dillon tried to hide her pain.

“You are?” Ashley asked.

“Yeah, but could you please untie it?”

Ashley slowly untied Dillon’s gown. She wanted so much to stare at

the fi refi ghter’s fi rm body, but she behaved. She had seen female bodies

before, but Dillon was diff erent. She was drawn to Dillon. So much so, it

started to scare her. She wanted to ask Dillon out, but knew that it would

end like all the others. It had only been three days, and all she knew was

that she wanted Dillon McCabe in her life.

“You know I fi nished fi rst in med school for this.” Ashley said.

Dillon chuckled. “Good to know.”

Ashley slowly helped the fi refi ghter off with the gown. Ashley

shivered as she saw Dillon’s broad shoulders. Th

ey were toned with

biceps to match. Th

ey were perfect.

Dillon tensed up at the silence. Ashley noticed the scar on Dillon’s

shoulder blade. Unknowingly, she traced the scar with her fi nger. It

startled Dillon.

“Hey!” She yelled as she shrugged Ashley’s hand away.

“Oh, I’m sorry.” Ashley was embarrassed. “Ah, I’ll get a wheelchair

and be right back.”

Still embarrassed, Ashley left the room without looking at Dillon.

Dillon watched her leave and looked down. Th

e hair was standing

up on her arms. “Why is this happening?” She thought. Th

ere was no way

13

gina glass

in hell she was falling in love with Ashley. She didn’t do that anymore.

And there was no way that Ashley would fall for her. She was beautiful,

incredibly beautiful. “She’s probably married and has a slew of kids!” Dillon tired to talk herself out of it. She was letting Ashley get to her. She had

to stop.

Th

e pain was excruciating, but Dillon’s fi refi ghter instincts told her

to keep going. She somehow managed to get dressed. Th

e cold sweat and

dizziness overtook her as she sat back on the bed.

Ashley walked in with a wheelchair. “Your limo awaits!” She smiled

as she looked up at Dillon.

“I don’t feel so hot, Doc.” Dillon admitted.

“Come on Spit, you need to lay back down.” Ashley moved to her

and helped her back into a laying position. “Th

is is ridiculous, you’re in

no way ready to be up and about.”

“I’ll be OK.” Dillon tried to ease Ashley’s worry.

“Look at you! You’re as pale as a sheet!” Ashley walked into the

bathroom and came back with a cold wet cloth. She laid it across Dillon’s

forehead.

Th

e coolness felt good to Dillon.

Ashley walked over to Dillon’s chart and started writing in it.

“What are you doing?” Dillon asked, as the color started returning

to her face.

“I am keeping you here longer. I was thinking about releasing you in

a few days, but there is no way now.” Ashley was very business like.

“No way?” Dillon was heated. “I told you I was just a little wobbly. I

just needed to get my sea legs.”

“Spit, you can’t even move around on your own. I can’t do it, and I

won’t do it.”

“Th

is is crazy.” Dillon stared at Ashley “Let me talk to a doctor!”

Dillon’s anger started to surface.

“I am your doctor.”

“No, I want a real doctor!” Dillon blurted out.

Ashley had had it. She could take the wall Dillon had thrown up,

but no one ever knocked her as a doctor. She got into Dillon’s face, her

green eyes on fi re.

“Look sweetheart, I am one of the head doctors here. You are darn

lucky I came this far with you! If you don’t like me, then fi ne, I’m outta

14

Spitfi re

here!” She walked to the door. She stopped and turned around. “I really

thought you were special. Silly me.” Choking back a mixture of anger

and tears, Ashley left.

Dillon was stunned. No one had ever called her special before. Ashley

was a tough little cookie. Dillon tried to laugh it off , but the feeling of

guilt wouldn’t let her.

Dillon McCabe didn’t need anyone. She’d been on her own and

a lone wolf for some time now. People didn’t care about her, with the

exception of Jack. Th

en why did she feel so strange when Ashley walked

out the door? Like she had suff ered a huge loss.

She looked around for her nurse buzzer and pushed it. Within

minutes an older gray-headed nurse came in. “One push is all it takes.”

she told Dillon sternly as she took the pager away. “What can I get for

you?”

Dillon looked at the nurse. Th

ey could have at least sent that cute

redheaded Amy back in. “I need to speak with my doctor. “ Dillon said

fl atly.

“Sorry, but Dr. Goldstein called in. He’s running late. Flat tire.” Th

e

nurse looked at Dillon.

“Dr. Goldstein?” Dillon looked puzzled. “No, my doctor is Dr.

Wilkerson. Ashley Wilkerson.”

“Not anymore. Dr. Goldstein is your doctor.”

“Wait a sec!” Dillon thought she must have been dreaming. “She

was just in here.”

“Well, sorry. Can’t help you out there. All I know is what they tell

me, and after thirty years, I still don’t understand half of them.” the salty

old nurse said. She turned toward the door. “If you need anything else,

just ring….once.” she said without even looking over her back.

Dillon watched the nurse leave. She sat there stewing. Fine! She told

herself. “I don’t need to get involved with a hothead like her. I’m just fi ne

alone!” She folded her arms in protest and gave herself a shot in the ribs.

It took her breath away as she tried to slowly move herself back down

into bed.

* * *

15

gina glass

A week passed and Dillon was recovering nicely. Dr Goldstein thought it

best to keep Dillon and let her heal in the hospital. They wanted to keep

an eye on her lung. It was fine with Dillon. It would give her a chance

to run into Ashley. She spent a lot of time talking and playing with

the kids in the pediatric ward. Kids had always loved Dillon. She spent

most of her time with Ben, the boy she had saved from the fire. Dillon

was sad; Ashley was nowhere to be found. Dillon didn’t want to admit

it, but she missed her. A lot! But as usual, she held her feelings back and

pushed people away. She had put up quite a wall to keep people out.

That way, she wouldn’t get hurt when they abandoned her.

After fi ve games of chutes and ladders with Ben, he looked up at

her.

“Hey Spit?” he asked.

“Yeah buddy?” Dillon started to put the game away.

“Why are you so sad?” He looked into her eyes.

Children could always see into your heart. Ben was no diff erent.

“Well, Ben, I’m kind of getting stir crazy in here. I wanna get back

to work.”

Ben smiled coyly at her.

“What?” Dillon looked at Ben.

“Why don’t you go see Doctor Wilkerson?” Ben chuckled.

Dillon looked at Ben in amazement.

“You know you want too.”

“How did you know?” Dillon asked.

“I just do. Besides she was here yesterday asking about you.”

“She was?” Dillon perked up.

“Yep.”

Dillon had an idea. She got up and patted Ben on the head.

“See you later, Ben. I have to make a phone call.”

Dillon walked to the hall and found a phone. She quickly dialed a

number. She couldn’t believe she was actually doing this, but somehow

it just felt right.

* * *

Ashley walked into the nurse’s station to start her shift. She had been

moping all week since the fight with Dillon. How could she possibly

16

Spitfi re

care so much about a stranger she just met a week ago? She kept trying

to talk herself out of her feelings. “You can’t reach someone like Dillon

McCabe.” She told herself. She would be better off just walking away.

But her heart wouldn’t let her. It told her that this was indeed worth

holding on to, that fate had brought them together for a reason.

“Th

ere you are! I’ve been looking all over for you.” Rhonda’s voice

brought Ashley back to earth.

“Hey, Rhonda.” Ashley tried to smile

“Now if that isn’t the saddest face I’ve seen around here! Girl, what’s

wrong with you?” Rhonda put her hands on her hips.

“I’m just a little tired.” Ashley replied.

“Un huh. Well, if you ask me -”

“Rhonda, please.” Ashley cut her friend off .

Amy, the cute redheaded nurse, came walking in carrying a huge

bouquet of yellow roses. She set them on the desk.

“Dr. Wilkerson, these just came for you.” She handed Ashley the

card. “I don’t know who he is, but he has my vote!” Amy smiled at

Ashley.

Ashley looked at the card.

“Well, aren’t you gonna open it?” Amy asked excitedly.

“Ok Miss Busy Body, you need to shoo. Didn’t your momma ever tell

you it wasn’t nice to mess in someone else’s business?” Rhonda looked at

Amy. “Now you get along missy.”

Ashley smiled as Rhonda walked Amy out.

She slowly opened the card. It read: “Doc- I’m an Ass! Always, Spit.”

Ashley smiled. She replaced the card back into its envelope and stuff ed

it into her pocket.

Rhonda came back in “Well?” She looked at Ashley.

“Well what?”

“Who are they from?”

“Rhonda you just gave Amy a lecture about getting in other people’s

business.”

“Yes, that’s right. But you are not other people. You’re family. It’s

OK to get into other family members’ business, so tell me who sent the

fl owers?”

Ashley looked at Rhonda and smiled. Th

at said it all.

“Oh Lord, they’re from Spitfi re.” Rhonda said.

17

gina glass

“Could you please put them in my offi

ce, Rhonda? I’ll be right back.”

Ashley grinned.

Rhonda shook her head as she watched Ashley head towards the

elevator.

Dillon was fl ipping through the channels. She hated T.V. Nothing

was ever on. She could hardly wait to get out of here. Th

e doctor told her

two more days. She was anxious to get on with her life. She did promise

Ben that she would visit often; she would miss seeing him on a daily

basis. She missed her work too, even though Jack called or came by with

daily station updates.

She stopped on a movie. Th

at Whoopi Goldberg was a scream.

Dillon loved her work and thought she was one of the most intelligent

women in the world today!

Th

ere was a soft knock at the door. Dillon muted the sound.

“It’s open, come in.” Dillon called to the knock.

Ashley walked in smiling. Dillon’s heart skipped a beat. Man, she’s

beautiful. Dillon thought.

“What’s up, Doc?” Dillon grinned.

“Hey, Spit.” Ashley came and sat on the edge of the bed. Th

ey stared

at each other.

“So, I hear you’ll be free in a couple of days.” Ashley tried to make

conversation, when what she really wanted to do was to curl up in Dillon’s

strong embrace.

“Yep. Can hardly wait,” Dillon smiled.

“Look Spit, I need to apologize to you.”

“No, you don’t.”

“Yes, I do.”

“No, you don’t.”

“Spit, I do! I just let myself get too sensitive. It’s just that I worked

my tail off to get where I am, and it wasn’t easy. It’s just when someone

pushes my buttons I get....

“Pissed off ? It’s OK, you can say that.” Dillon grinned.

Ashley looked into Dillon’s beautiful brown eyes. “I’m sorry.”

Dillon snickered. “It’s cool, Doc. Don’t go losin’ any sleep over it.”

Ashley laughed. “And thank you for the roses. Yellow are my

favorite.”

“I’m glad you like them.”

18

Spitfi re

“Th

ey‘re beautiful. Just like you.”

Th

e rush of red to Dillon’s face was in record time! “I need to

apologize too. I shouldn’t have said those things to you. You’re a great

doctor!”

Ashley smiled. “Well, at least we got our fi rst fi ght out of the way.”

Both of the women broke out in laughter.

“So, hey, how about lunch tomorrow?” Ashley asked.

Dillon thought long and hard. “Well, now, that all depends.” She

grinned.

“On?” Ashley played along.

“Where are you taking me?” Dillon asked.

“It’s a great French place Le Café..teria.”

Th

ey laughed.

“Well, I better get back to work.” Ashley got up and walked to the

door. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Spit.”

“Have a good one, Doc.” Dillon smiled as she watched Ashley leave.

For the last week Dillon had dreamed about what it would be like to

kiss her lips. Dillon was sure they were soft and sweet. She could easily

hold her in her arms all night long and make love to her. But as Dillon

thought, she realized that these were fantasies, just tucked away in the

corner of her mind, out of harms way, and behind the wall. Dillon turned

the sound back up on the TV and drifted off to sleep.

For the next two days that Dillon was in the hospital, she and Ashley

spent all of their free time together. Th

ey visited with Ben, they talked

about their work and their friends. Both women knew that they would

always have a friend in one another. Both secretly wanted more, but knew

that it wouldn’t happen.

* * *

Ashley wheeled a chair in at 10:00 am. She wanted to get to Dillon early.

She had promised the firefighter a ride home. She wanted to stop and

pick up a few things for her so she could settle in at home and continue

to heal. Ashley opened the door to Dillon’s room.

“OK, you win. Th

ey’re kicking you out.” She smiled and looked

around to fi nd that no one was in the room.

Th

e duty nurse walked in.

19

gina glass

“Hello Dr. Wilkerson.” Th

e nurse smiled.

“Hi. Hey, do you know what happened to Ms. McCabe?”

“Spit’s in pediatrics seeing Ben. She’s always up there.”

“How’s his mother doing?” Ashley asked.

“She’s brain dead. Th

ey’re gonna place Ben in foster care if they can’t

fi nd any relatives.”

Ashley shook her head. “What a shame.” She remembered her long

talks with Ben; he was a smart kid with a lot of potential.

“Would you like me to page Spit for you, Doctor?” Th

e nurse smiled

at Ashley.

“No, don’t bother. I’ll go up myself. Th

anks for your help, Kim.”

Th

e pediatric ward was empty except for Ben. He loved all of the

attention he got from the staff at Mount West, but it was Spitfi re he

looked forward to seeing the most every day.

Dillon told him stories about fi refi ghting. She had some of the guys

come over from her station to meet Ben. Th

ey brought him a huge fi re

truck that had all the bells and whistles on it. Th

ey both loved sports.

Dillon found out that Ben was a huge fan of the Dodgers. She promised

to take him to a game just as soon as he was better.

Ben was healing fast, but would require a few more skin graphs

before he could completely heal.

Ashley stepped off the elevator and looked around. She frowned

when she saw the orderly, Dan Jenkins, walking her way. It only took him

a second to radar in on Ashley. He was a jerk. All the women hated him.

He bothered Ashley, even scared her a little. His slimy advances would

make any woman’s skin crawl. She was caught alone with him once. He

made it very clear what he wanted from Ashley. She wanted to turn him

in for harassment, but she knew of a nurse that had tried and her life at

the hospital became such hell that she quit and moved out of the state.

“Hey babe, I thought that was you.” Dan smiled.

Ashley felt the unpleasant churn start in her stomach.

“What brings you by the BBQ Pit?” Dan chuckled at his own joke.

“You’re such a pig.” Ashley’s voice was loud as she looked at him. She

didn’t care who could hear.

Dillon did. She was sitting in Ben’s room playing fi sh, when her ears

perked up. She thought that she had heard Ashley’s voice. She looked

at the clock.

20

Spitfi re

“Come on, Ashley.” Dan slowly moved closer into her personal space.

“We both know you want it.” He slowly licked his lips.

“We both know that you’re full of it too.” Ashley started to get a

little scared.

Spit looked up again. Th

at was Ashley. “Hey partner, I’ll be right

back.” Dillon ruffl ed Ben’s hair lightly. She slowly moved up to the

doorway and peeked around the corner.

Dillon couldn’t believe she was seeing this creep advancing in on

Ashley. She quietly came up behind him, so quietly even Ashley didn’t

know she was there.

Dillon lowered her voice some. “I only hope for your sake that you’re

getting something out of Dr. Wilkerson’s eye.”

Dan froze. He felt the fi refi ghter’s breath on the back of his head.

Ashley was relieved. She smiled at Dillon, who returned a wink to

her. Th

en she put a fi nger to her lips.

“We were just confi rming a few things.” Dan said calmly. He didn’t

recognize the voice, but he knew that this guy had to be big.

“Well now, lets see here.” Dillon placed her large hand on Dan’s

wimpy shoulder. “It looks like you were trying to get into this lady’s

pants. Can we confi rm this?” Ashley nodded as she tried with all her

might not to break out into laughter. Dan was shaking! Beads of sweat

covered his hairline.

“No! Hey!” Dan tried to get out of it. “I just asked her if she’d like

to go out, that’s all.”

Dan felt the grip of the fi refi ghter’s hand intensify.

“Sounds fair enough.” Dillon smiled. “Young lady, would you like to

go out with him?”

“No.” Ashley looked Dan in his beady eyes.

“Well buddy, I guess that confi rms things. I suggest you leave her be

and get going.”

Dan took off like a shot out of a gun, not even trying to turn around

to get a look at Dillon. He kept walking faster with each step. Ashley and

Dillon watched until he was out of sight. Th

ey both started to laugh.

“My hero.” Ashley stood on her tiptoes and planted a kiss on Dillon’s

now fl ushed cheek.

“It was nothing.” Dillon said, trying to play it down.

“Well, it was to me. Th

at guy always gives me the creeps.”

21

gina glass

“Are you saying he’s done this before?”

“Yeah. He tries to pick up all the women here.” Ashley said.

“Doc! You have to turn him in. Th

at freak isn’t safe to be around.”

Dillon looked concerned.

“Spit, we can’t turn him in. He’s one of the good ol’ boys. Kisses up

to everyone he can. He had one nurse so freaked out, she turned him in,

and then she was harassed by him even more.”

“What happened to her?” Dillon questioned.

“She fi nally quit and moved.”

Dillon shook her head. Dan was lucky because she wanted to rip his

head off when she saw the way he was coming on to Ashley. He’d better

be careful.

* * *

Ashley pulled up to Dillon’s home in West Hollywood. The outside was

subtle, but nice. The lawn was immaculate and every flower trimmed to

perfection. The rose bushes were beautiful as they lined the path up the

walk. Their rainbow of deep, rich hues, and big hearty blooms, were the

sign of a true green thumb. Ashley was impressed. The firefighter was

quite an intriguing woman.

“Spit, your roses are beautiful.”

“Th

anks.” Dillon smiled. “It’s a family thing I guess. My mom loved

them.”

“Well, I’m impressed.” Ashley smiled. “I have such a brown thumb,

I can kill silk plants.”

Dillon laughed.

Ashley loved the way Dillon’s eyes would soften every time she

laughed.

“Well, thanks for the ride, Doc.” Dillon opened the car door.

“Wait.” Ashley pleaded. “I.... I.... kind of thought that I could pick

up a few things for you at the store. You know, since you’re supposed to

be relaxing and all.”

“Th

anks for the off er, but I can manage.” Dillon smiled.

Ashley was confused. “What was that about?” she thought. “We had

this thing going back and forth at the hospital and now suddenly you want to

22

Spitfi re

close the door and bam, it’s over? No way, babe!” Ashley told herself. She was too determined to breakdown that almighty wall of Spitfi re’s!

“Hey, how about lunch? I’m starving?” Ashley tried.

Dillon shook her head “No, thanks. I’m a little tired. I’m just gonna

go on in and rest.” Dillon smiled.

Ashley reached into her purse and pulled out her business card. She

grabbed a pen and scribbled on the back of it.

“Ok. Here’s my cell number, my pager number and my home

number.”

Dillon took the card and laughed. “Did you forget any?” She

winked.

Ashley chuckled. She wanted so badly for Dillon to invite her in.

Take her into those big strong arms of hers so she could melt away. She

wondered what Dillon would do if she kissed her?

“Doc?” Dillon called her for the third time.

“Huh?” was all that Ashley could say as she came back from her

fantasy of Dillon.

“Th

anks again.” Dillon grinned at Ashley.

“Th

ank you, Spit, for saving me from Dan. I don’t know who I can

call for help now that you won’t be around.” Ashley smiled at Dillon.

Dillon looked into those magical green eyes of hers. She thought

about asking Ashley out on a date. Th

e urge was strong from the fi rst

day Dillon laid eyes on her. Hell, who was she kidding? She wanted Ashley

to move in and live happily ever after. But she couldn’t put herself through

the rejection that she knew would be sure to follow if she let Ashley too close.

Th

en something came out of Dillon’s heart, humming through her vocal

cords, then out of her lips. “You can’t get rid of me that easy.”

A slow grin spread across Ashley’s face. In an instant a good foot of

that wall around Dillon’s heart came crashing down.

“I don’t intend to.” Ashley put her Volvo in gear and rode off with

Dillon looking after her.

* * *

Dillon set a goal for herself for next week. She would work hard at

getting herself back in shape. She wanted to go back to work and move

on with her life. She would exercise to the point of exhaustion, then

23

gina glass

clean up and head over to see Ben. She carried Ashley’s card with her all

the time, but she never got the courage to call. She made the excuse that

she would only be setting herself up for rejection. What was the point

of going back there? Kris pulled one over on her, and she couldn’t trust

another woman not to do the same. Although she did admit to herself

that Ashley felt different, not like any of the girls that Dillon rushed to

sleep with after Kris. It just got to the point where Dillon just stopped

that part of her life altogether. She hadn’t slept with anyone in well over

a year. Why should she? It was all meaningless in the end. She’d meet a

girl, sleep with her, then right on cue, she would dump Dillon. Ashley’s

beautiful face filled Dillon’s thoughts. She made Dillon laugh and she

felt so good to be around. Dillon made a bet with herself that the next

time she ran into Ashley, she would suggest a dinner and a movie. Only

as friends of course. Dillon would like to see her again. It seemed that

every time Dillon went to the hospital Ashley wasn’t there. She pulled

the card out from her wallet and fingered the raised lettering of Ashley’s

name. She picked up the phone and started to dial the number. All of

the old feelings of doubt and insecurity came flooding back. Dillon

slammed the phone down. “What’s the use?” Dillon asked herself out

loud. She talked herself out of it once again. She looked at her watch

and grabbed her leather jacket. Ben had his final checkup today and

Dillon promised him she’;d be there. She jumped on her Triumph, put

her helmet on, and headed for the hospital.

* * *

It had been five weeks since the accident and Dillon was feeling top

notch. She planned on stopping by the station tomorrow. She missed

the guys, just as much as they missed her. She also wanted to ask her

Captain when she could start working again.

Dillon parked her bike and took her helmet off . Her hair was always

wild and had a mind of its own. She tried to brush it in some sort of

hairstyle, but settled for just out of her face! She looked down at her

watch as she entered the hospital. She still had time before Ben was

expecting her. She went up to the reception desk to sign in.

“Hey, Spit!” Th

e older gentleman behind the desk smiled.

“Hey, Gabe. How are you today?” Dillon returned his smile.

24

Spitfi re

“I’m alive.” Gabe retorted. He handed Dillon a visitor’s pass.

“Well, that helps the workday go by faster doesn’t it?” She chuckled.

“Hey, where’s the social services offi

ce here?”

“Right on the bottom fl oor, next to E.R.”

“Great. Th

ank you, Gabe. Have a good one.”

As Dillon made her way down the elevator, she leaned back and

thought. She exited and looked around. Rhonda spotted her.

“Hey there, Spitfi re.” She walked over and gave Dillon a hug. “How

are you feeling?”

“Much better, thanks.” Dillon smiled.

“Well, that’s great to hear! If you’re looking for Dr. Wilkerson, she’s

not on duty for about another hour.”

Dillon looked surprised. Did Rhonda know?

“Actually, I was trying to fi nd the Social Services offi

ce.”

“Oh.” Rhonda looked defl ated. “It’s just down the hall, third door

on your right.”

“Th

anks.” Dillon said coolly. “It was nice to see you again.”

“Come on, Chicken!” Dillon yelled at herself “Tell her the truth! Tell

her that you have fallen big time for the good doctor and that you want to

be with her. Tell her that you want to hold her in your arms and caress her

smooth fl awless skin. And how you could never, ever, want to stop making

love to Ashley Wilkerson!” ............... Nope not this time. Dillon swept

the feeling back in.

“Nice to see you too, Spit.” Rhonda smiled back at the tall fi refi ghter.

She watched her as she walked down the hall. She shook her head “If

these two don’t get together soon, they’ll spontaneously combust.”

“Ms. McCabe? Mr. Harris will see you now.” Th

e cute receptionist

smiled at Dillon.

“Th

anks.” Dillon smiled back. Th

at gal is a real fl irt! Dillon thought.

She goes to tell Mr. Harris I’m here, then comes out with her blouse unbuttoned

by two. Dillon kept her head buried in the magazine she was reading. She

caught the blonde staring at her out of the corner of her eye, licking her

lips. She was nothing compared to Ashley. But, according to Dillon,

who was? Before she met Ashley, she would have fl irted with the blonde,

maybe even asked her out. Now she was saving herself for a woman she

could never have. Th

at made a lot of sense. A tall, well-built gentleman,

25

gina glass

of fi fty, greeted her. Dillon was surprised. She never expected a social

worker to look like that.

“Dante Harris.” Th

e man held out his hand to Dillon.

“Dillon McCabe.” She took his hand and shook it.

Dante wasn’t surprised by the strength in Dillon’s handshake.

“Please, come in and have a seat.”

Dillon followed Mr. Harris into his offi

ce. He shut the door behind

her. Dillon took a seat in the soft leather chair across from Mr. Harris’

desk.

“So, Ms. McCabe, what can I do for you?”

“Well, it’s about Ben. Ben Wright.”

“Oh yes.” Dante pulled the fi le off his desk. “Th

e child from the fi re.”

He continued to read the fi le. “A charming young man.” He fl ipped the

page. “Wait, are you Spitfi re?”

Dillon chuckled. “Guilty as charged.” She smiled.

“Well, I guess you’re a hero Ms. McCabe. Or, do I call you

Spitfi re?”

“Please, Spit is fi ne.” Dillon grinned. “Mr. Harris, what’s going to

happen to Ben?”

“Well, he’ll be here for a while, depending on his mother’s outcome.

We either have to make an eff ort to fi nd his next of kin, which we’ve been

doing, so he can be with his family, or we have to put him in foster care,

where he’ll eventually be put up for adoption. Frankly, Spit, at his age,

it’s not likely that will happen.

“Do you have any info on the adoption process?” Dillon looked him

in the eye.

A smile came over his face. “We sure do. Just ask Tina for the info

kit on the way out. So you’re thinking about adopting Ben?”

“I sure am.” Dillon said proudly.

“Well Spit, I need to be honest with you. You’re in for a long battle

with this.”

“Why is that Mr. Harris? You just said that nobody would want

him.”

“Please, Spit. Th

ere are other factors.”

“Such as?” Dillon was growing impatient.

“Such as your job.” He looked at Dillon

“I make good money, Mr. Harris. I’m a fi refi ghter.”

26

Spitfi re

“Money is only a small piece of the pie. We need to know that the

child would be safe. Th

at he would have his parents there for him. And

that’s another issue.” Dante stared at Dillon. She knew what he meant.

“Are you saying I can’t adopt Ben because I’m a lesbian?”

“No, Spit, I’m not saying that at all. We have gay couples adopt all

of the time. But it’s not easy, and frankly, with his mother still alive, the

only thing we can do is wait.”

Th

e only thing Dillon hated more than that word was doing it. It

wasn’t what Dillon wanted to hear. But she knew it would be an uphill

battle. Why did she let herself get attached?

She stood up. “Where do I enlist for the battle?”

Dante could see Dillon meant business. It was nice to see. “I’ll have

Tina get you the proper paper work. Fill it out and bring it back here.

We’ll get the ball rolling.”

“Th

ank you, Mr. Harris.” Dillon smiled and held out her hand.

“No, thank you Spit, for opening up your heart.” Dante shook her

hand.

Is that what she was doing? It felt right. More importantly, it felt

good. Maybe things were looking up after all.

27

3

The bar was crowded, but Dillon didn’t mind. It felt good getting her

life back. She did miss Ashley. Most of her thoughts were about her. She

knew she blew it by not calling her. But if she had, she was sure Ashley

would have been like all the rest and turn her down.

Dillon’s buddy Jack came walking up with a bottle and a glass.

“One club soda on the rocks.” He handed it to Dillon.

Dillon smiled as she took the glass. “Salute, Jack.”

Th

ey clinked their glasses and took a swig.

Dillon looked around. “Where is everyone?”

“I told them you weren’t feeling well. Kind of wanted to hang with

you by myself.” Jack smiled at his friend.

“Aw man that’s sweet!” Dillon hugged Jack gingerly. She was still

sore.

“So Spit? Who is she?” Jack looked Dillon in the eye. He never

questioned Dillon’s sexuality.

“Who’s who?” Dillon always knew Jack could read her like a book.

“C’mon man. Th

is is Jack you’re talking to.”

Dillon looked into Jack’s eyes; they were so understanding, so wise.

She could tell him anything. Jack’s wife Marie was sure lucky to have

him. And Dillon was lucky that Marie shared her husband with her.

She loved them both dearly.

“Th

at obvious?” Dillon looked up.

“Yeah, Spit, it is.” Jack grinned.

28

Spitfi re

“It’s the doctor I met at the hospital. I mean I thought she might be

interested in me, she gave me her number and all.”

“Did you ask her out?”

“No, Jack. She wouldn’t want to be with me.”

“Spit, you’re so full of shit, I may need my hip-waders to continue

this conversation!” A serious expression came over his face. “Yes, I said

full of shit. You let one woman you slept with destroy your whole life?

Hell, it took me three marriages to fi nally fi nd Marie. You won’t melt

from one date.”

Dillon looked at Jack. Her fi rst thought was to throw up a defense.

How dare he say that to her. He had no clue what happened with Kris.

Kris was supposed to be the love of her life. Her fi rst and only! She made

big time promises to her that night on the dance fl oor. All she ever told

Jack was that she was burned. Th

e problem was that Dillon was pissed

that Jack could read her emotions and call her on it.

“And before you throw up that wall that you’re so famous for Spit,

let me tell you this. You’re a good friend to my family, and to me. I’ve

always been there for you, and will continue to be. I want you to fi nd

your happiness Dillon, and I have the feeling we both think that is with

the same woman.”

Dillon’s eyes welled up. She didn’t want to cry right here in the

middle of a damn sports bar! She grabbed Jack and hugged him “Th

ank

you for being you Jack, for being in my life.” She whispered in his ear.

Th

en she saw her. It looked like her. She stayed locked on the fi gure

in the tight blue jeans and navy blue blazer. Could it be?

Ashley plopped down in the chair. “So why are we here?” She asked

her friends who sat down next to her.

“We need to fi nd us some men!” Her friend Jody giggled.

Oh great! Ashley thought. Another Friday night spent dodging the

advances of the breeders! She didn’t know why she always let herself get

talked into these things. Th

ey were old college friends, getting together

for their once a month girls night out. Ashley had nothing in common

with them anymore. She shook her head. Th

e waiter came over to take

their order.

“Welcome beautiful ladies. What can I get for you?” He winked at

Ashley.

29

gina glass

“We’d like fi ve sex on the beaches, and the combo nacho platter.”

Rachel smiled at the waiter.

“Excuse me.” Ashley smiled. “Could you make mine a club soda with

a lime please?” Her friends looked at her.

“I’m on call.” Ashley explained.

“For you, doll, anything.” Th

e waiter smiled again and left.

“Whoa, Ash, I think he likes you.” Susanne smiled.

“You should go for him Ash.” Maria chimed in.

“Uh, hello? He’s a little young!” Ashley tried to get them to stop.

She hated this.

“Th

ere’s nothing wrong with a young stud in your stable.” Cathy

laughed.

Ashley looked down at her pager, hoping she would get called in.

Th

en she felt it, a burning throughout her body. Th

e same feeling she

felt the fi rst time she saw Dillon. “I’ll be right back.” Ashley excused

herself.

She looked around the bar. For what, she didn’t really know, but

something inside told her she had to. It was dim and hard to tell who

was who. It was all a mesh of alcohol, clinking glasses, loud voices, and

bodies coming together. She started to walk back toward the pool tables,

ignoring the whistles and the catcalls. She was on a mission.

“Doc?”

Th

e familiar voice was music to Ashley’s ears. She turned to see

Dillon approach her.

“Doc! Hey, it is you.” Dillon unknowingly threw her arms around

Ashley.

Th

ere in the bar and for an instant, Ashley melted in Dillon’s warm

embrace. She tried quickly to make an imprint. Her scent, her heartbeat,

the feel of her body next to hers.

Dillon broke away fi rst. “So what brings you here? Are you checking

up on me?” Dillon grinned.

“Ah well....” Ashley was still in a daze. “I met some college friends

here for happy hour.”

“Cool. Hey, ya got a minute, Doc? I’d like you to meet someone.”

“Sure, Spit.” Ashley had a sick feeling come over her. Was this it?

Was she going to meet Dillon’s girlfriend?

30

Spitfi re

Dillon led her to the bar. “Doc, I’d like you to meet my partner, Jack

Th

omas. Jack, this is Doc. Oh...um Dr. Ashley Wilkerson”

Ashley stuck out her hand to receive Jack’s. “Hi Jack. Nice to meet

you.” Ashley smiled.

Jack could see why his partner was all caught up in her. She was

stunning. “Th

e pleasure is all mine, Dr. Wilkerson.” Jack smiled back.

“Please, call me Ashley. Everyone does. Except Spit.” She winked

at Dillon.

“Can I buy you a drink Ashley?” Jack smiled.

“No, thank you, Jack. I’m on call.”

Jack shot Dillon a look as if to say what in the hell are you waiting

for?

Dillon caught it but she couldn’t speak. Ashley was in front of her,

and she couldn’t do it.

“Well, I guess I should get back. Jack, it was a pleasure meeting

you. Dillon, nice

seeing you again. Take care.”

“Th

anks Doc, you too.” Dillon couldn’t believe she was letting Ashley

walk away. She stared at Ashley as she made her way back to the other

side of the bar.

“Man, you’re crazy!” Jack turned to Dillon.

“What?” Dillon looked at Jack.

“Shit. Spit are you that blind? She’s in love with you!”

“Shut up, Jack!” Dillon started to laugh. “Not possible my friend.”

Jack looked into Dillon’s eyes. He could see the doubt, and the fear.

“Look Dillon, I know how things used to be for you, but she’s the real

deal! Don’t lose her!”

Jack never called her Dillon unless he was serious. Damn! Why was

she so confused? She wanted Ashley so bad that it hurt. But she was

terrifi ed. She looked at Jack. She couldn’t move.

“Damn, Dillon! Don’t make me kick your ass!”

Jack was getting angry. Dillon took a deep breath. She grabbed her

leather jacket and moved toward Ashley’s direction. She stopped and

turned around. “If you’re wrong about this Th

omas...” Dillon held up

her fi st.

“You’ll be thanking me tomorrow!” Jack called after her.

31

gina glass

Dillon spotted Ashley talking to a waiter. She had just fi nished and

was walking away. Dillon hurried her pace and caught up with her.

“Doc, wait a sec.” Dillon grabbed her arm.

Ashley spun around. “Spit? What’s wrong?” Ashley looked into her

eyes.

“Um.............” Th

at queasy sick feeling of doubt came washing over

her.

“Yes?” Ashley asked

“Would you...do you.........damn!” Beads of sweat were starting to

form on her hairline. It was now or never, she told herself. “Could we go

somewhere and have some coff ee…or talk…or maybe both?” She did it

and she was still standing. But just barley. Now she geared up for the big

let down. She held her breath.

“I’d love to. Let me get my bag and ditch my friends. I’ll meet you

out front.”

Dillon stared as Ashley went back to her table and made her excuses.

Dillon couldn’t believe it. Dillon looked around. A few eyewitness

accounts would be nice. Dillon looked back at Jack. She gave him the

thumbs up and smiled! She was grinning from ear to ear as she headed

for the exit.

She waited only a few minutes before Ashley made her way out of

the bar.

“I’m all yours.” Ashley smiled.

Th

e rush of heat sent color to Dillon’s cheeks immediately. “Where

would you like to go?” Dillon tired to play down her blushing.

“Well, I’m on call, so someplace not too wild.”

“How about my home, my bed, my life?” Dillon thought. “How about

the coff ee grinder?” Dillon said instead.

“Great!” Ashley said. “You want to drive?”

“Great, I’ll get my motorcycle.”

“Wait a sec…Lets take my car.” Ashley winked at Dillon. “If I get

called in, I might look a bit funny with bugs in my teeth.”

Both women laughed.

“Shall we?” Dillon asked

“Yes.” Ashley smiled, as they walked to the car.

32

Spitfi re

Th

e coff ee grinder was empty. Ashley sat at a table while Dillon

bought their drinks. Ashley smiled as the tall lean fi refi ghter came

walking up holding two cups.

“One tall, decaf, triple chocolate, mocha, frappy, crappy, sissy foo-foo

drink, with soy milk.”

Ashley laughed. “Very cute. And what did you order?”

“Well Doc, I’m not on call so I went all out and got an earl gray ice

tea, my favorite. I’ll be up till next Tuesday.

“Livin’ on the edge huh?”

Ashley sipped her drink. She looked up at Dillon. She had some

whipped cream on her nose.

Dillon chuckled. “You…..got a little...” She reached for Ashley’s

nose.

“Oh.”

Dillon carefully wiped the whipped cream off Ashley’s nose. She

looked for a napkin, but instead, licked it off her fi nger.

“Good?” Ashley smiled.

“Very.”

“Maybe you should try the whole thing next time.”

Dillon stared into Ashley’s eyes. “Maybe I will.”

Ashley grinned. Dillon shifted her weight.

“So do your folks live nearby?”

Ashley thought about not letting Dillon out of this one, but she did.

“Yeah, in the valley. Do you have any other family out here?”

“Nope. Just me. I have some family back in New York, but they can’t

be close to someone who’s, and I quote “Chosen the sinning lifestyle.”

“Oh geeze.”

“I know. I do however have an awesome cabin up on the Kern River.

It was my grandparents.”

Dillon stopped for a second and watched Ashley. She was so easy to

look at. Pure and graceful. She needed someone to pinch her to make

sure that this was real.

“I’ve been camping up there,” Ashley said. “What a small world. Ok,

tell me Spit, have you ever had the burritos at that truck stop on Weed

Patch Highway?”

“I love those!” Dillon grinned as she rubbed her stomach. “Made

myself hungry.”

33

gina glass

“Not to change the subject, but how are your ribs?” Ashley asked

concern.

“Gettin’ better everyday.”

Th

ey sat for hours and talked. After the shop closed, they walked

over to an all night cafe so they could talk some more. Dillon couldn’t

believe how easy she found it to talk to Ashley. She said nothing of Kris,

and Ashley told Dillon very little of her past relationships. Especially

Giavanna. Th

en came the sound that neither woman wanted to hear

- Ashley’s pager went off .

“Excuse me I have to call in.” Ashley reached for her cell phone.

“No problem.” Dillon smiled. She stood up and went to the dessert

counter.

“Two maple oat nut bars please.” Dillon couldn’t take her eyes off of

Ashley. She only hoped that Ashley wouldn’t be called away. Jack was

right about her. Dillon wanted to ask her out, offi

cially, on a date. But,

she knew she couldn’t.

“Here you risk your life walking into houses engulfed in fl ames, surely you

would survive asking the good doctor out.” She told herself.

Dillon took the bag and put the change in her pocket. She walked

back over to Ashley, her face said it all.

“Ya have to go in huh?” Dillon looked disappointed.

“Yes, I do.” She stood up and squeezed the fi refi ghter’s arm. “I’m so

sorry. Please believe me, I would have rather stayed here and talked with

you some more.”

“Really?” Dillon smiled. “Maybe another time?”

“Yes. Hey! I’m off tomorrow, let me make it up to you” Ashley

asked.

“OK!” Dillon smiled.

“Come on, I’ll drop you off at your bike.” Ashley said.

Th

e ride back to the bar was too fast for both women. Th

ere was a

confi rmation of tomorrow, but that was it for talking. Th

eir arms both

touched one another all the way back. Neither woman moved them. Both

smiled as they felt the heat radiate in their bodies.

Ashley put her car in park. “Spit, I had a nice time, thank you.”

“Yeah, me too.” Dillon smiled.

Th

ey stared at one another. Ashley leaned in. She wanted to kiss

Dillon since the fi rst day she saw her.

34

Spitfi re

Dillon spooked. “Ah, thanks again. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Ashley took the hint and let her off the hook. “Six o’clock, your

place.” Ashley reminded Dillon.

“See you then. Drive safe, Doc “Dillon shut the car door. She froze.

She couldn’t believe she had just said that. She stood watching as Ashley

drove off with a smile on her face. A smile no one could remove.

* * *

Dillon didn’t sleep much. She was way too nervous, although, deep in

her heart, she felt that Ashley was the one. Her inner demons kept their

vigilant reminder of her past, and the failure that this relationship would

also have.

Dillon tried hard to push the voices away. Th

e phone rang making

her heart jump into her throat. She looked at the clock. 8:30. Was Ashley

calling to cancel already? She slowly reached for the phone.

“Yeah?” was all she could say.

“Spit?” Th

e soft warm tones echoed in Dillon’s head, forcing a smile,

even though she was about to get dumped.

“Hey Doc.” Dillon answered tentatively.

“Did I wake you?”

“Nope, just lying here.” Dillon held her breath, ready for the big

blow off .

‘Well, good, I wanted to call -“

“Great, here it comes” . Dillon thought.

Dillon was so sure about Ashley calling to cancel, that she didn’t hear

her ask if she wanted to spend the day together.

“Spit?” Ashley brought Dillon back to reality.

“What? I’m sorry what did you say?”

“I said that it was such a beautiful day today, I was wondering if you

wanted to spend it together? But if you’re busy?”

“No! I…I...I… mean yes...I.... mean!”

Ashley smiled at the thought of the fi refi ghter blushing on the other

end of the phone. “I’ll take that as a yes.” Ashley chuckled.

“What time?” Dillon smiled.

“See you in an hour!”

35

gina glass

Before Dillon could answer, the phone went dead. She smiled. She

lay there for a moment listening to her heart race. Th

is lady really had an

aff ect on her. Dillon wanted to scream she was so happy. She just didn’t

want to jinx it.

Ashley fi nally hung up the phone. She couldn’t believe she was

actually going out on a date, let alone being the one who asked. She had

grown to like Dillon more each day.

Th

ere was a knock on Ashley’s bedroom door.

“What?” Ashley asked.

Gia opened the door. She stood in a pair of men’s boxers and a tank

top. She had been working on her tan and had been working out.

“Hey baby...oh man you’re already dressed.” She fell onto Ashley’s

bed.

“What do you want?” Ashley asked coldly.

“Well for starters, you, naked, on top of me.” Gia laughed.

“You wish. Look Gia, you need to get your life together, and get on

with it. It’s time for you to grow up.”

Gia got up and walked over to Ashley. She slowly wrapped her arms

around Ashley’s waist.

“I got it together babe, and I was kind of hopin’ that we could make

a comeback. Whatta’ ya say we start right now?” She pulled herself up

close to Ashley. She was swaying back and forth, grinding her hips into

Ashley’s.

“Baby, where are you?” Th

e faint voice came from the other room.

Ashley pulled Gia’s arms away.

“You’re sick.” Ashley said. She started for the door.

Gia blocked her way. “Come on, Ash, say the word and she’s gone.”

Ashley pushed her aside. “What word do I say so you’ll be gone?”

She walked out leaving Gia standing there.

Why did she let this woman get to her? She was like a drug. She knew

which buttons to push to play on Ashley’s emotions. Th

ey hadn’t slept

together in over a year, although Gia kept trying. Once or twice Ashley

did think about it. But that was also the time when Gia showed her true

colors.

She remembered bringing Gia home to meet her family. Her parents

never liked her, but they kept quiet, for the sake of their daughter’s happiness.

Gia used to make Ashley feel guilty whenever she wanted to go and see them.

36

Spitfi re

So Ashley quit going. She couldn’t believe that she let herself fall for Gia’s

head games. Her folks were so happy when Ashley told them that they

broke up.

Th

e ring on her cell phone brought her back to reality. “Hello?”

“Hi baby girl, this is Daddy,” the soft loving voice said on the other

end.

“Hi Daddy, how are you?” Ashley asked as she started her car.

“Just fi ne. How’s my girl?”

“Great Daddy. I’m on my way out.”

“Oh, working?” he asked

“No.” She giggled. “I have a date.”

“Really? It’s not with Gia I hope?” He sounded concerned.

“Daddy. I told you. It’s over between us. Th

is is someone I met at

the hospital.”

“A Doctor?” Th

e familiar female voice chimed in. “Are you seeing a

doctor?”

“Hi Mom. And no, she’s not a doctor.”

“A nurse then?”

“For goodness sakes Mary, give her a chance to tell us!” Bill said.

Ashley giggled. Her folks were so cute together and still in love! It

was nice to see.

“She’s a fi refi ghter.” Ashley told them.

“Hey, now that’s not bad.” Bill said.

“When do we get to meet her?” Mary wanted to know.

“Take it easy you two. It’s only our second date.”

“Well honey, I can tell by the sound of your voice, that she must be

someone special.” Bill was always so encouraging.

“She is Daddy. Very special.”

“Does she have any children?” Mary asked hopefully.

“No, Mom.” Ashley rolled her eyes.

“Does she want to have any?”

“Mary, please!” Bill reprimanded her lightly.

“OK, I’ve got to get going, I’m gonna be late.”

“Ok honey, have fun. Give us a ring when you get home.”

“Th

anks Daddy. I love you.”

“Ashley take your mace just in case.” Mary said.

“Oh mom. I love you both. Bye.”

37

gina glass

Ashley shook her head and laughed. She was truly blessed with two

wonderful parents.

She came out to them upon her graduation from med school. Her

mother went into dramatics about having failed as a parent. She claimed

that she would never again be able to face the world. She said that she

would have to go away for a while. It took her two weeks to come around.

Her father took her into his arms and said he already knew, and that his

love for her would not change. Ashley felt a huge release and relief.

Dillon was a wreck. She had already tried on six diff erent shirts and

hated every one of them. She had never had trouble throwing on a pair of

jeans and a t-shirt. Now she felt like she was trying to dress for a meeting

with the royal family. She decided on the black jeans. Th

ey were snug and

showed off her toned legs and ass. She went with a black tank top and a

purple shirt. She stared at herself. “Ugh!” she thought. Look at that hair!

She was blessed or cursed, as Dillon thought, with the McCabe family

hair. She ran to the bathroom and raked the brush through it. Couldn’t

it just behave for one day? When she was semi-happy with her hair, she

ran to the kitchen.

It was spotless except for today’s coff ee cup and cereal bowl. But to

Dillon, it could never be clean enough. She did a quick wipe down of the

sink, then looked around. Th

ere. It was perfect for Ashley.

Th

e knock at the door released the butterfl ies in Dillon’s stomach.

Th

is was it. Today was either going to be the best day in Dillon’s life or

the worst.

She stopped to take one more look at herself in the mirror. She took

a deep breath.

“Th

is is it.” She said to herself as she opened the door.

“Hey.” was all that Dillon could say. Ashley, standing there on her

doorstep, took her breath away.

“Hi, Spit.” Ashley smiled. She too was nervous and the sight of

Dillon in her tight jeans excited her. Couldn’t she just jump her now, so

they could get on with their lives and live happily ever after?

“Ah... sorry. Come in Doc.” Dillon felt like a fool staring at Ashley.

She hoped she didn’t notice.

Ashley giggled and stepped inside. Th

e house was very warm and

inviting. Very rustic and outdoors....very Dillon. Th

e river rock fi replace

38

Spitfi re

in the living room was beautiful. Th

e whole place gave Ashley a feeling

of safety and warmth.

“Spit, your home.............it’s wonderful.” She turned and looked into

the fi refi ghters deep brown eyes. “Very inviting.” She smiled.

Th

e doctor always knew the right words to make Dillon blush on

cue. Ashley loved it. She thought it was adorable.

“Th

anks.” Dillon managed to get out.

“Oh Doc if you only knew. ” Dillon thought. “Th

is place, my heart, my

soul, all of my love, it’s yours for the taking. Just say the word.”

“Well, should we get going?” Ashley asked.

“Ah, yeah, sure.” Dillon opened the door for Ashley. “What’s on our

agenda?”

“Hmm. I was thinking maybe Laguna Beach?” Ashley smiled.

“Great! A beautiful day for it.”

“Well, if you want, I have two tickets for Pageant of the Masters. I

thought we could walk around the Sawdust Festival, and then catch the

show. Have you ever been?”

“No, I haven’t. I hear it’s great though.” Dillon grinned.

“Well then, off to Laguna we go.” Ashley smiled as Dillon locked

up her house.

“You wanna take my bike?”

“You are kidding, right?”

“ I have two helmets.” Dillon tried to keep a straight face. She could

see Ashley horrifi ed at the thought of riding on a motorcycle.

“Funny, Spit! Get in, sit down, buckle up and hang on” Ashley looked

dead serious at Dillon.

Both of the women started to laugh. It was the start of a great day

in the making.

* * *

The drive to Laguna Beach was inspiring for both Dillon and Ashley.

They talked about a lot of things, music, movies, actors, singers. Ashley

was pleasantly surprised by what a bookworm Dillon was. Dillon was

equally amazed by Ashley’s love of the outdoors. Neither was surprised

by the lack of information either was willing to give on their past

relationships.

39

gina glass

Laguna Beach was postcard perfect. Th

e sun was playing hide-and-

seek as it dodged in and out of the clouds. It was breezy and cool for

August. Th

e town was abuzz with tourists for the annual Festival of

Arts, a showcase and sale of Laguna’s fi nest and brightest local artists.

Ashley loved Laguna. It was such a carefree town. She came a few

times with Gia. Th

ose were not memorable times for her. Th

ey argued

over where to eat and what to do. Gia thought the Pageant of the Masters

show was a bore. Why would anyone want to look at people replicating

paintings and statues? Especially when there was a great gay bar just

down from there. She wanted to sit on a bar stool, drink and check out

all the local hotties.

Ashley learned her lesson after that weekend. She decided it was

useless to do anything cultural with Gia. She would either take Rhonda

or go by herself. She never knew what she ever saw in Gia in the fi rst

place.

Th

ey met at the local gym one Saturday night during a power cycle class.

Giavanna Regitti. She was very Italian, with sharp exotic looks. Ashley was

attracted to her immediately. Gia wanted her, and wined and dined Ashley

until she got her into her bed.

Th

ey moved in together after two weeks of dating. Ashley had to admit

that sex with Gia was exhilarating. She was creative, that was for sure, but

that was all it was. Sex. Th

ere was never any emotion, or tenderness. Ashley

thought for sure that she could change Gia. She soon found out that leopards

don’t change their spots.

She knew that Dillon was diff erent. Shy, but with a hint of attitude.

So sure of herself and what she wanted. Ashley knew that she wasn’t in

her league, but her heart told her to try.

“Have you ever been to Laguna?” Ashley asked as they parked the

car.

“Yeah, once, a long time ago.”

Dillon remembered the last time she was in Laguna. Hand in hand

with Kris. How she fell asleep in Kris’ arms, in the hotel. It was also a week

before they slept together and Kris pulling the rug out from under Dillon’s heart.

Th

e Sawdust Festival was already crowded. People moved about like

slow moving cattle, grazing on everything the local artists had to off er.

Dillon promptly pulled out her wallet.

40

Spitfi re

“No way, Spit! It’s my treat.” Ashley looked at Dillon.

“Come on, Doc. You drove. It’s the least I can do.” Dillon raised her

eyebrow.

Ashley giggled. “Ok, thank you.”

Dillon paid for the tickets as Ashley shook her head. Wow! She

thought. Gia would have never off ered to pay. She would have just looked

around in a daze and waited for Ashley to pull out her money.

Th

ey joined the crowd as they walked from vendor to vendor,

admiring their fi ne works. Th

ey came across a jewelry stand. Th

e artist

had beautiful gold and silver jewelry.

“Spit, look at that!” Ashley said, pointing to a stunning gold necklace.

Th

e pendant was like a pear shaped cage and in its enclosure was a perfect

black pearl.

“Th

at’s nice, Doc. It looks just like you.”

“Care to try it on?” Th

e stocky female artist asked Ashley.

“Oh, no thank you. It is beautiful though.”

Dillon looked at Ashley. She couldn’t understand why some people

drooled

over things but never bought them.

“Excuse me, I need to use the restroom.”

“I’ll wait for ya here.” Dillon smiled.

When she was sure Ashley was out of sight she turned toward the

artist. “How fast can you wrap that up?” she motioned to the necklace.

“Th

is will look great on your girlfriend.” Th

e artist said as she put it

in a little gold box.

Dillon grinned as she paid for it. Man that sounded good.... my

girlfriend... I only wish.

It was expensive, but well worth it to see it hanging around Ashley’s

neck. She thanked the artist and slipped the gold box into the inner

pocket of her jacket. She went over to the restroom and met Ashley who

was just coming out.

“Much better.” Ashley smiled, “Are you hungry?”

“Yeah, I could eat.” Dillon looked at her watch. It was already noon.

Th

e day was fl ying by and she didn’t want it to end.

Th

ey walked up Pacifi c Coast Highway to the Cottage Restaurant.

Th

ere was a wait, but neither one cared. Th

ey were so into each other,

that a bomb could go off next to them and neither one would notice.

41

gina glass

“So where did you get the nickname Spitfi re from? “ Ashley fi nally

broke the silence.

“You know the sound water makes as it hits a fi re? Th

at sort of

spitting sound? My buddy Jack gave it to me. Company 31’s Spitfi re. Of

course it stuck and now everyone calls me that.”

“Th

at’s cute.” Ashley smiled.

“Cute, huh?” Dillon chuckled. “What about you? No nicknames?”

“Nope, not a one.” Ashley said

“Oh wait a sec! You answered way too fast Doc. Hmmm, must be

an embarrassing childhood nickname.” Dillon stared at Ashley. For the

fi rst time it was Ashley who was now blushing. “Th

ere it is! See! OK,

c’mon give it up.”

“No, really, it’s nothing.” Ashley tried to play it down.

“Yeah, sure.” Dillon grinned.

“Just you calling me, Doc.”

Th

e waiter came and called them to their table.

“Saved by the bell,” Ashley laughed as she looked at Dillon.

“It’s never over. I have ways of making you talk.”

Ashley smiled. She wanted to see every one of them.

Th

ey were seated in the back at a nice cozy table for two. Dillon

pulled out the chair for Ashley. She smiled as she took her seat.

Dillon took her jacket off and carefully hung it over her chair. She

grabbed the menu and looked at it. “Wow it all looks so good,” she

said.

“It is.” Ashley smiled. “I love it here. Big portions.”

Dillon laughed.

Th

e waiter came to take their order. Dillon ordered the chicken

fried steak and eggs. Ashley went for the chicken chili omelet with tofu

cheese.

“Tofu?” Dillon crinkled her nose. “Are you sure you aren’t one of

those crunchy tree hugger type gals?”

Ashley burst out laughing. “I can assure you that there is nothing

crunchy about me! I am one hundred percent smooth.”

Th

ey spent the next hour and a half laughing, fl irting, and joking

with each other. Both found out about a mutual love of horses. Dillon

told Ashley about her dream to one day own a ranch. Ashley smiled in

agreement.

42

Spitfi re

“Th

e picture over your fi replace. Have you been there?” Ashley

asked.

“Yes, that was my grandparent’s cabin. Th

e one I was telling you

about. It’s up on the Kern River. Hey! Can you get some time off ?”

“I guess so, I do have vacation coming.”

“Well, I’m going up there on Th

ursday and coming back on Monday.

Would you like to go?”

“I would love to.” Ashley said excitedly.

“Really?” Dillon asked.

“Yes, really. Let me see what I can do.”

“Cool.” Dillon said as she looked down at her now sweaty palms.

“Well, shall we join the masses again?”

“Lead the way.”

Dillon quickly grabbed the bill and put the money down.

All Ashley could do was smile. In fact, she was beaming.

Time seemed to fl y by as the girls explored Laguna Beach. Th

ey went

to see the Pageant of the Masters. Th

e sunset and the cool breeze came

sweeping through the canyon.

Dillon kept reaching in her jacket to feel the little gold box to make

sure it was there. She knew that Ashley had caught her a couple of times,

but never asked her.

Th

ey made their way into the bowl. Ashley had two great seats right

in the middle. Dillon frowned as she slid into the much too tiny seat. She

felt sorry for the sardines packed in the cans. But they at least had oil!

She put her arm over Ashley’s chair to give herself more room.

Ashley smiled and as the house lights dimmed, she slid close to

Dillon.

Th

e show was incredible. Dillon had never seen anything like it. Th

e

fact that these volunteer performers could freeze and perfectly depict a

painting or a sculpture awed her completely.

Dillon stood up and stretched. “Wow! Th

at was awesome Doc.”

“I know. It’s pretty cool.” Ashley smiled. She was pleased that Dillon

was at least showing some appreciation for it.

“Th

ank you so much for taking me.” Dillon grinned.

Th

ey started to follow the mass of people leaving the venue. Ashley

took Dillon’s hand as not to get lost. She looked at Dillon for approval.

Dillon smiled. Th

ey held hands all the way back to the car.

43

gina glass

Dillon looked at her watch. It was almost 11:00 o’clock. “You in a

hurry to get home?” Dillon asked her.

“Are you kidding? I’m having a great time!”

“You wanna shoot some pool? I know a great place in Long Beach.”

“You are so on!” Ashley grinned as she dug her keys out of her

pocket. “Be prepared to get your butt whopped.” She looked at Dillon.

“Is that so?” Dillon played along.

“Yep.” Ashley chuckled.

“Well darlin’ you got me shakin’ in my boots.”

“Really?” Ashley looked at Dillon.

“No. You’re toast.” Dillon grinned.

Ashley tossed the keys to Dillon, “You drive.”

Dillon smiled as she walked to Ashley’s side and opened the door

for her. She looked at Ashley. Th

ere was a look in both women’s eyes. It

was deep and it meant more than any one word that was said the entire

day. Ashley shivered.

Both knew from that moment on, without ever saying a word, that

they would never be apart.

* * *

Dillon drove up to Long Beach. It was a nice ride up the coast. She drove

to her favorite pool hall and parked the car.

Ashley got out and looked around. Th

e smell of the ocean fi lled her

senses. It was just steps away.

“Hey Spit, would you mind if we skipped the pool?”

“You OK? You wanna go home?” Dillon asked.

“No, not at all. Can we take a walk on the beach?”

Dillon smiled, “of course.”

Th

ey walked along the beach for a while. Th

ey saw the lights from

the oil refi nery and the Queen Mary. Th

e moon was full, the stars were

out, and the night was perfect. Ashley again took Dillon’s hand as they

walked. Th

ey had the beach to themselves.

“It’s so nice out here.” Ashley remarked. “I could stay out here forever.”

She stopped and turned to Dillon. “Th

anks.” She stood on her toes and

placed a soft kiss on the fi refi ghter’s cheek.

“What was that for?” Dillon asked.

44

Spitfi re

“For such a wonderful time.” Ashley smiled.

“Well, it takes two. So, I thank you too.”

Ashley moved close to Dillon. She leaned on her hoping the fi refi ghter

would take her in her embrace. Dillon happily obliged. Dillon’s ribs were

still sore. She grunted as Ashley fell into her.

“Oh Spit! I’m sorry, I forgot.” Ashley tried to pull away. Dillon held

her there.

“It’s ok Doc. I’m fi ne. Just a little tender.”

Dillon loved the way the moon lit up Ashley’s beautiful face.

“Spit, look.” Ashley lit up at the sight. “Th

e ocean, it’s glowing.”

Dillon turned. “It’s the phosphorus.”

“Th

at’s amazing.” Ashley said.

“It’s a plankton that blooms in the ocean that causes it to glow.”

Dillon remembered.

Ashley watched amazed by the ocean glowing in the dark.

Dillon looked around. “C’mon. We can see it better from up there.”

She pointed to the lifeguard tower. She took her hand and led her to

the ladder. Ashley climbed up fi rst. Dillon tried hard not to watch the

doctor’s fi ne assets as she climbed the tower. Lucky for her it was dark

outside.

Dillon climbed up next. “Now look,” Dillon told her and turned her

toward the water.

“It looks like lights being turned on from the ocean fl oor.” Ashley

said amazed.

Dillon sat against the tower and watched Ashley. She saw her

shiver.

“Doc, are you cold?”

“A little,” Ashley admitted.

“Come here.” Dillon took Ashley’s hand and led her down to sit

between her legs. She unzipped her bomber jacket. Ashley leaned back

slowly, careful not to lean against Dillon’s ribs. When she was settled in,

Dillon wrapped her arms around Ashley.

“Oh that’s nice.” Ashley let out a huge sigh. “Spit, look at all the

stars.”

“Th

is is nothing. Wait till you go up to the cabin. You won’t believe

it.”

45

gina glass

Dillon tried to take everything in as she sat there, holding this

beautiful woman in her arms. She wanted to remember this night, the

sights, the smells, the laughter. She had to keep this memory because

she knew that in the morning she would wake up and it would have all

been a dream.

* * *

Dillon pulled up to her house at 3:00 am. She was tired and sore. She

was running on pure adrenaline. Ashley had fallen asleep on the ride

home. Dillon looked at her as she soundly slept in the seat next to her.

She unbuckled Ashley’s belt and got out of the car to open the passenger

side. She knelt next to her.

“Doc.” She whispered, not wanting to startle Ashley. “Doc, we’re

home.”

Ashley sluggishly opened her eyes. She looked at the fi refi ghter and

smiled.

“Home already?” She asked, trying to wake herself up. She looked

at her watch. “Wow, I’d better get going.”

“No, it’s too late. Why don’t you just stay here?” She wasn’t about to

let Ashley drive home now.

“Are you sure?” Ashley smiled.

“Positive.” Dillon stood and held her hand out for Ashley. Ashley

grabbed her things and took Dillon’s hand. Th

ey walked to the front

door as Dillon fumbled for her keys.

“Th

anks for driving back.” Ashley smiled.

“No problem.” Dillon said as she put the key in the lock.

“Guess I got a little too relaxed out on the beach.”

Dillon opened the door for Ashley. “With all that snoring going on,

I thought you were bored with me.”

“Oh no, Spit, I snored?” Ashley looked horrifi ed.

Dillon chuckled. “It’s ok, you were tired.”

“I am so embarrassed.” Ashley looked at Dillon. “Trust me , it wasn’t

the company.”

Dillon led Ashley into the dark house, through the hall and stopped

at her bedroom door.

“Oh shit!” Was all that came from Dillon’s mouth.

46

Spitfi re

“What’s wrong?” Ashley asked.

Dillon remembered that in her quest to fi nd the perfect outfi t this

morning, her room was now littered with clothes.

“Look Doc, I need to tell you something.”

Ashley looked at Dillon. What was she going to say? She had a

girlfriend sleeping in there? She thought. “What?” Ashley swallowed

hard.

“I.... I had a little clothing dilemma this morning, my rooms kind

of-”

Ashley burst out laughing. “Are you serious?” She chuckled.

Th

e familiar fl ush came to the fi refi ghter’s cheeks.

“Tell you what” Ashley let her off the hook. “Point me to the guest

bathroom.”

Dillon pointed down the hall.

Ashley looked at Dillon. “Ya know, you’re awfully cute when you

blush.” She giggled and walked down the hall.

Dillon shook her head and opened her bedroom door. She moved as

fast as she could, grabbing her clothes and throwing them into the closet.

“Why Me?” She thought. “Why can’t anything go smooth?”

She went to her armoire and pulled out a clean pair of fl annel pants

and a sweatshirt. She knew these would swim on Ashley’s small petite

frame, but it was the only thing she had.

“Can I come in now?” Ashley asked just outside the door.

“All clear.”

Ashley stepped into the room. It was warm and cozy, like the other

parts of Dillon’s home. No one would ever think that a place so rustic

could be smack dab in the middle of L.A.

“Th

is is nice.” Ashley commented. “I love your sleigh bed.”

“Th

anks, my Grandpa and I carved it for a birthday gift for my

Grandma. I brought it back down from the cabin when…” She stopped

herself. She pushed the memory away. “A few years back.” She looked

at Ashley. “Here ya go. Th

ey’re kind of big.” She handed Ashley the

clothes. “Oh and....” She ran into the bathroom and brought back a new

toothbrush for Ashley. “Toothpaste is on the counter.”

“Th

anks, Spit.”

“You just make yourself at home and settle in. Sleep well.”

47

gina glass

Ashley was a bit disappointed. After all, she was standing in the

woman’s bedroom. She wasn’t going to try anything? Not even a kiss? Maybe

I’m not her type? Ashley thought.

“Can I get you anything else? Dillon asked.

“No this is great. Th

anks.”

“Th

ank you again. I had a wonderful time.”

“Me too Spit, thanks.” Ashley walked over to Dillon.

Dillon’s mind was racing. Should I kiss her? Should I just thank her

again and shake her hand? Maybe she just wants me to leave her alone. Th

e

doubt came knocking at Dillon’s inner door. She chose the latter. “Well,

good night, Doc,” she said as she closed the door behind her.

Ashley sighed and started to undress.

Just outside the bedroom door, Dillon stood silently, listening to

Ashley’s movements. She looked down, watching, until she saw the sliver

of light from underneath the door go black. She reached inside her jacket

pocket and pulled out the small gold box. She opened it and fi ngered the

necklace she had bought for Ashley. Maybe some day she’s get the chance

to give it to her. She closed the box and returned it to the safety of her

jacket pocket. She kissed her fi nger and gently touched the bedroom

door. “Sleep with the Angels,” she whispered and walked away.

48

4

Dillon woke up fast. She was sore and stiff. She spent the night on the

couch, mostly waiting for sleep to find her. It did in spurts. She thought

maybe Ashley would come to her senses and leave in the middle of the

night.

She rubbed the sleep from her eyes and tried to move her neck

around. She really overdid it yesterday and she was sure feeling it this

morning. She didn’t care. She had the most amazing day of her life

yesterday with Ashley. She would cherish it always. She pulled her

jacket off the end of the couch. She felt inside her jacket pocket for the

box. “Yep, it was there. Th

is wasn’t a dream after all,” she told herself. Th

e

smell of frying bacon and fresh brewed coff ee fi lled her senses. She got

up holding her side and slowly walked into the kitchen. She smiled at

the site before her. Ashley was leaning against the sink reading the paper.

She was wearing Dillon’s sweatshirt and nothing else. Dillon felt the heat

rush through her. Only this time it wasn’t to her face. She got a queasy

feeling deep inside. Was she fi nally falling in love again? Th

at thought

scared Dillon.

“Morning.” Dillon smiled rubbing her side.

“Good afternoon, sleepy head.” Ashley giggled.

“What?” Dillon looked up at the clock “12:30! Oh man, I’m

sorry.”

“It’s fi ne Spit, I’ve only been up a bit myself.”

“Did you sleep OK?” Dillon yawned.

49

gina glass

“Like a log!” Ashley smiled and grabbed a piece of bacon. She walked

over to Dillon. “Hungry?” She asked, teasingly. She held the piece of

bacon to Dillon’s lips. Th

ey locked in a stare. Dillon slowly opened her

mouth and tenderly bit into the bacon. Ashley popped the rest of it into

her mouth.

“Pretty good huh?” She turned back to the stove. “I had a great time

yesterday.”

“Me too. It was a blast.” Dillon smiled.

“So what are your plans today?”

“Um, well I thought I’d shower, then go see Ben.”

Ashley turned toward Dillon. “Spit, I was wondering, if you don’t

have any plans tonight, would you like to have dinner?”

“No, Doc, I don’t.” Dillon said.

“What?” Ashley looked at Dillon.

“No, I mean I don’t have any plans.... Yes, I would like that very

much. Where would you like to go?”

“I was thinking I could cook.”

“You cook more than just bacon?” Dillon grinned.

Both women laughed. Ashley’s pager screeched from the other

room.

“Yes I do Spit, and not just in the kitchen.”

She ran to the other room to retrieve her pager, leaving Dillon

speechless.

Dillon was scared. She was falling hard for Ashley and she knew it.

She had to push her feelings aside. Th

is would only lead to heartbreak

for her.

Ashley came back dressed in her clothes from last night.

“I’m sorry, I have to go in.” Ashley was upset.

“I understand.”

“Are we still on for tonight?” Ashley looked hopeful.

“Sure. What time?’

“About seven?”

“I’ll be there.”

“Great.”

Dillon walked Ashley to the door and opened it for her.

“Sorry about breakfast.” Ashley off ered.

“Not a problem.” Dillon smiled.

50

Spitfi re

“How about a rain check?” Ashley winked.

Dillon blushed.

Ashley reached for Dillon and kissed her on the cheek.

“See you later.” She turned and left.

Dillon watched from the doorway as Ashley jumped into her car

and drove off .

“Shit!” Dillon yelled. “You forgot to get her address!” She slammed

the door. Well she could have her paged at the hospital when she went

to see Ben.

Ashley hung up her phone. She turned her radio up. After surfi ng

the channels, she put her CD on. Melissa Etheridge’s “Kiss Me” came

on. Ashley turned it up and sang along. She knew her heart was falling in

love with Dillon. She wanted to tell her how she felt, but wasn’t sure how

the fi refi ghter would take it. She didn’t want to seem pushy, especially if

Dillon only wanted to be just friends. But if she waited around to see if

Dillon would make a move, they would both be too old to act on it!

Ashley clouded over as she thought about last night, sitting in Dillon’s

strong embrace up on the lifeguard tower. Surely Dillon felt something

too, and as she got into Dillon’s bed last night, she could have sworn

Dillon was standing outside of the door waiting for her to fall asleep.

Ashley pulled into the doctor’s parking lot. She thought about

tonight. She would just play it cool.

“Oh crap!’ Ashley said out loud. She grabbed her cell phone and

dialed her house. She got the answering machine. “Gia this is Ashley,

I’m having company over for dinner tonight and you need to get lost.

Th

anks.”

* * *

Dillon walked into her bedroom. Ashley had made the bed and had the

clothes she borrowed folded neatly on the corner of the dresser. Dillon

picked up the sweatshirt and held it to her face. She took a deep breath

and smiled. It still smelled like Ashley. She would never get tired of that

smell. She walked to her closet and opened it. All of the clothes she had

piled up when Ashley came over were now neatly hung in place. Dillon

spotted a note. She read it. “I always clean up my messes and I’m house

51

gina glass

broken too.” Dillon laughed out loud. She loved Ashley’s sense of humor.

The phone rang.

“McCabe.” She said in her usual fi refi ghter way.

“Ms. McCabe, this is Dante Harris.”

“Oh hey, Mr. Harris what’s up?”

“I’m sorry to bother you, but I wondered if you might be able to

come down?”

“Is it about Ben?’

“Yes. Can I expect you’ll be here then?”

“On my way, Mr. Harris.” Dillon hung up the phone.

She grabbed her things and headed for the shower.

Dillon pulled her bike into the visitor’s space. She removed her

helmet and tried to make some semblance of her hair before she went

in. She walked in through the hospital hoping to possibly catch a glimpse

of a certain adorable doctor. As she walked through, she was greeted by

a couple of cute nurses. At one time Dillon would have stopped to fl irt

with them, but since Ashley came into her life just a short time ago, no

one else now existed. She stopped and reached into her pocket, the gold

box was still in its hiding place. Dillon only hoped that she would have

the nerve to give it to Ashley.

She walked into the social services offi

ces. Dante Harris was waiting

for her. He moved to greet her.

“Ms. McCabe, thank you for coming in on such short notice.”

“No problem.” Dillon looked at Dante.

“Please have a seat.”

“Just cut to the chase, Mr. Harris.”

“I know your interest in Ben and your intentions. I thought you

should hear this from me.”

“What?” Dillon’s heart sank.

“We found Ben’s Aunt and Uncle. We put the info out to the media

and they contacted us yesterday. Yes, Ms. McCabe we had them checked

out. We have to.”

“Oh.” Was all that Dillon could say.

“Ms. McCabe, I don’t want you to think for a second that we were

not thinking of considering you. It’s just that we have to follow policy

and do everything in our power to fi nd next of kin.”

“No..... I understand.” Dillon smiled, trying to hide her feelings.

52

Spitfi re

“Ben’s Aunt and Uncle are upstairs with him now. Th

ey asked if you

would be so kind as to go up there and meet them.”

“Sure.” Dillon forced a smile.

“I know it’s hard when you become attached.”

Th

ose words rang in Dillon’s head. It was the same words that Kris

told her the day she moved out. “Yeah, well, thanks Mr. Harris.” She

swallowed hard, trying to keep her emotions in check. She shook hands

with Mr. Harris.

“I only wish that there were more like you who cared.”

Dillon smiled and nodded.

She closed the door and turned right into Rhonda.

“Sorry.” Dillon grabbed Rhonda so she wouldn’t fall over.

“Hey, Spitfi re.” She smiled. “How are you?”

“Fine, thanks. Have you seen Doc?....tor Wilkerson?”

Rhonda leaned in. “Just between you and me Spit, I know you two

went out. You can call her Doc.”

Th

e fl ush came straight to Dillon’s face.

Rhonda smiled. “Yep, Ashley was right. You are cute when you

blush.”

Rhonda chuckled as Dillon changed two shades.

“If you see her, can you please tell her I’m upstairs with Ben? Th

ey

found his Aunt and Uncle.”

“Oh Spit, I’m sorry, honey.”

“It’s OK. I mean, he should be with his family.” Dillon looked at

Rhonda.

“I’ll be sure to give her the message.”

“Th

anks.”

Dillon turned and walked toward the elevators.

* * *

Dillon made her way to Ben’s room. She made a promise to herself: no

tears. She kept telling herself that this was for the best. Ben needed to be

with his family! Family was everything.

She knocked on the door and peeked inside. A man and woman were

sitting on chairs next to Ben’s bed. Th

ey looked like an Aunt and Uncle

53

gina glass

should. Warm and caring. Ben was in bed laughing and to her surprise

Ashley was sitting with him.

“Spit! You came!”

Ben’s delight in seeing her pulled at the fi refi ghter’s heartstrings.

“Hey, buddy, how are ya?” Dillon smiled at Ashley “Hi Doc.”

“Spit, this is Ben’s Aunt and Uncle, Lee and Henry Lake.” Ashley

looked at Dillon.

“Hi. It’s a pleasure.” Dillon shook their hands.

Lee stood up and hugged Dillon. “Th

ank you so much for saving

Ben’s life.”

“I was just doing my job ma’am.” Dillon tried to stay focused. She was

thrilled to see Ashley here. She wanted to thank her for her support.

“I’m sorry for your loss.” Dillon found herself saying.

“Th

ank you.” Henry said. “It took us awhile to fi nd out about this.

We only saw it on the news a few days ago.”

Dillon looked at the man. She wasn’t satisfi ed with that answer. It

had been over a month and now they are now just fi nding out about it?

“Ah, sir, may I speak with you outside?”

“Of course.” Henry stood.

“Excuse us a moment.” Dillon smiled at Ashley.

“Spit, when you come back I got a card trick to show you.”

“Cool Ben. I’ll be right back.”

Th

ey walked into the lounge and shut the door.

“What can I do for you?” Henry looked at Dillon.

“Well for starters Mr. Lake, how come it took you so long to fi nd

out about this? It happened fi ve weeks ago. Didn’t you know where Ben

was?”

“My sister was not a smart woman Miss....”

“McCabe.” Dillon said fl atly.

“Ms. McCabe. My sister was the type who would con you out of

every last cent you had, then take off . We would go years without hearing

from her. My family is large and we have all tried to help her. Especially

when we found out about Ben. She was heavily into drugs, and didn’t

know who his father was.”

Dillon cringed and shook her head. She hated the drug part!

54

Spitfi re

“Ms. McCabe, I promise you that Ben will have a good life. He has

many cousins he hasn’t even met yet. He’s a bright boy, who deserves a

future.”

Dillon didn’t know what to say. Yes, Ben did deserve a future, and

she knew it had to be with his family. She grabbed a napkin and a pen.

She scribbled something on it.

“Mr. Lake, if there is anything I can ever do for Ben or your family,

please call me.” She handed him the napkin.

He smiled. He could see the feeling that Dillon had for the boy. He

too wrote something down on a napkin and handed it to Dillon.

“You’re welcome in our home anytime. Please feel free to visit

Ben..”

Dillon looked at the address and phone number. She folded it and

put it in her pocket.

“I want to thank you for caring so much about Ben. Mr. Harris told

us that you were looking to adopt him.”

“Yeah, but Ben should be with family. It’s important.”

“You’ll always be family to us Ms. McCabe.”

“Th

ank you, sir.”

Dillon was taken aback by Mr. Lake hugging her. Her heart felt at

ease. She felt good about things now.

As they walked back into Ben’s room, Dillon was thrilled to see that

Ashley was still there.

“Spit, Doctor Wilkerson and I are playing fi sh.”

“Watch out Ben, she cheats.”

Th

ey all laughed.

“Well, this cheater needs to get back to work.” Ashley stood up. “It

was so nice to meet you Mr. and Mrs. Lake.” She shook their hands. “Ms.

McCabe, may I speak with you outside?”

Ashley sounded so offi

cial; Dillon tried hard not to laugh.

“Of course, Dr. Wilkerson.”

Th

ey excused themselves and walked out.

“What’s up Doc?” Dillon smiled.

Ashley pulled out her prescription pad and tore the sheet off . She

handed it to Dillon.

“Are you gonna medicate me?”

55

gina glass

Ashley laughed. “Maybe on the next date. It’s my address. For

tonight. Oh, and about the weekend…..” Ashley looked at her

“Oh. OK.” Dillon looked disappointed.

“No, I can go.” Ashley grinned.

“Really?” Dillon beamed.

“So I’ll see you tonight?” Ashley asked.

“Yep, I’m looking forward to it.”

Ashley smiled. “Me too. I’ll see you later.”

Dillon watched until Ashley was out of sight. She smiled at the

thought of their weekend at the cabin. She chuckled to herself and then

walked back into Ben’s room.

* * *

Dillon pulled up to the address Ashley had given her.

It was a nice little West L.A. complex. She took her helmet off , and,

as always, tried to make her hair look passable. She opened her saddlebag

and pulled out the bottle of wine she had purchased on the way over.

Not being much of a wine drinker, Dillon had no clue which wine went

with what. She left it up to the cute sales clerk with the fake boobs. She

provided more than just wine tips. She fl irted with Dillon, and wouldn’t

let her go until she took her phone number, which Dillon promptly

disposed of when she was out of view.

“Just my luck!” Dillon thought. “When I was in my wild dating years,

I had no one. Now that I’ve found Ms. Right, the women throw themselves

at me!”

Dillon found Apt 4C. She took a deep breath, and knocked on the

door.

She grew anxious as she heard the footsteps approach the door. Th

e

door opened. Dillon was surprised to see Gia. Wow she thought. What

a beauty.

“Ah.... Is Doc around?”

“Who?”

Dillon stepped back and looked at the number on the door. It was

4C. “Ah, Dr. Ashley Wilkerson?”

“Oh yeah. Come on in.” Gia said fl atly. “Hey babe your friend Saliva

is here!” she yelled to Ashley.

56

Spitfi re

“Dang it, Gia!” Ashley came from the kitchen ready to lay into Gia.

She saw Dillon and stopped. She looked beautiful. She smiled. “Hello,

Spit.” She walked to Dillon and hugged her hard.

Gia just watched, then cleared her throat.

Dillon didn’t want to leave the embrace, but she stepped back.

“I see you met Gia.” Ashley shot her a look. “Who was just

leaving!”

“No, it’s cool” Gia smiled. “I have time.”

Dillon started to feel sick to her stomach. Was Ashley using her to get

back at Gia? She wanted out!

“Hey, if this is a bad time?” Dillon looked at Ashley.

“No, it’s fi ne. Please, have a seat. Gia is leaving.” She looked at Gia.

Gia knew that Ashley was getting upset. She smiled. “Well hey, it

was nice to meet you Saliva.”

She stuck out her hand. Dillon shook it reluctantly.

“I’ll be home in a bit doll.” She winked at Ashley. “Call me if you

need me.”

She took her leather jacket and left.

“I’m sorry.” Ashley said. “She was supposed to be gone an hour

ago.”

“It’s OK Doc.” Dillon said, though it wasn’t. She remembered the

bottle of wine she had in her hand. “Oh, I brought some wine. I hope it’s

ok?” She handed it to Ashley.

“Hmmm 1983, a very good year!” She smiled. “It’s perfect. I hope

you like pasta?”

“It’s my favorite.” Dillon smiled.

“Th

en take off your jacket and stay awhile.”

Dillon smiled as she slid out of her leather jacket. She was wearing

a tight black muscle shirt.

Her toned, tanned biceps were on display. Ashley noticed at once.

“Dinner is just about ready Spit.” Ashley said all fl ustered.

“Can I help you with anything?” Dillon asked.

“Sure, you can open the wine.” Ashley smiled. “Follow me.”

“You got it.” Dillon grinned as she followed Ashley into the

kitchen.

She could tell that the kitchen was Ashley’s domain, everything in

its place. It was very white and very sterile. You could tell a doctor lived

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there. She watched as Ashley pulled the bottle opener from a perfectly

straightened drawer.

“Smells wonderful, Doc.” Dillon grinned as she took the opener

from Ashley.

“Th

anks,” she smiled back.

Th

ey locked into a stare for what seemed like forever. Th

en Ashley

broke it off .

“I can’t wait until Th

ursday! It’s all I’ve been thinking about!

“Yeah, it should be fun.” Dillon agreed.

“Do we have to wait until Th

ursday? I mean, can we leave after work

tomorrow?”

“I guess so. It’s a long drive, you sure you won’t be too tired?”

“No. I’m way too excited! I’ll be fi ne.” Ashley grinned

“OK, but we need to go to the store and pick up some food, and you

need to pack.”

“I’m already packed.” Ashley announced proudly.

“Wow, you are a fast one.” Dillon chuckled.

“I just want to get out of here so bad.”

“I know the feeling.” Dillon smiled. “Hey maybe we could do some

grocery shopping after dinner.”

“Great!” Ashley smiled.

She had thought of nothing but Dillon and their day in Laguna. She

had fallen hook, line and sinker for the tall fi refi ghter. She had decided

to let her know of her feelings once they got to the cabin. She planned to

spend the weekend in the arms of Dillon McCabe.

Th

e pop of the wine cork brought Ashley out of the clouds. She

grabbed two wine glasses and handed them to Dillon.

“Let’s eat!” Ashley smiled.

Dillon followed Ashley into a dining area. It was a bit small, but

Ashley really knew how to make it cozy. Th

e table was set in a white

tablecloth with blue place mats, and matching napkin rings. Th

e yellow

roses that Dillon gave her were at the center of the table. Th

ey were now

wilting but still there. Dillon smiled.

“Th

is is a nice place you got here.” Dillon said.

“Well thanks. It’s OK I guess. Gia makes it less attractive

everyday.”

Ashley walked back into the kitchen.

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Spitfi re

Dillon thought about possibly giving Ashley the necklace. She

hesitated. “Why give her something if you’re being used?” she told herself.

She grabbed the glasses and started to put some wine in each.

Ashley came back with two plates fi lled with pasta, grilled chicken,

sun dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts.

“Oh, Doc this looks great!” Dillon smiled. Th

is sure beat the frozen

food dinners she was used to having. Ashley made one more trip to the

kitchen and came back with a salad and garlic toast.

Dillon handed her a glass of wine. “What should we drink to?” she

said, leaving the question opened-ended.

“Ah, how about to us and our new friendship?” Ashley wanted to

shoot herself! What a moron! she thought.

Dillon clinked her glass and sipped her wine. She looked at everything

and started with the main course. Well, now you know where you stand!

Dillon’s little doubting voice told her.

Dillon knew what she had to do. Gather up all of her feelings for

Ashley and sweep them under the rug! Th

ere was no reason to pretend

anymore.

* * *

After dinner Ashley gave Dillon a tour of the rest of the place. Dillon

rolled her eyes as she passed The Love Goddess Lives Here sign on Gia’s

door. Some Goddess you are! You don’t even know how to treat a woman.

Dillon thought.

“And this is my room.” Ashley opened the door.

Dillon was surprised. It didn’t seem like Ashley at all. It was very

white, and very plain. Not many things around, just a TV, DVD player,

a stereo, and her dresser. It almost looked like Ashley was moving out.

“It’s nice..........very...........”

“Bland?” Ashley off ered.

Both women began to laugh. Th

ey looked into each other’s eyes.

Ashley wanted so much to kiss Dillon.

Dillon wanted her too.

Neither acted on their impulse.

“Maybe we should get to the store.” Dillon said.

“I’ll get my bag.” Ashley looked defl ated.

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Dillon met her at the door. She put her jacket on and felt the little

gold box in her pocket.

Th

ey stepped out onto the porch as Dillon watched Ashley lock the

door.

Ashley turned to see Gia walking up. She grabbed Dillon and

brought her close. Before Dillon knew what happened, she and Ashley

were engaged in a kiss. Ashley’s soft lips were expertly moving over

Dillon’s. Her knee’s weakened at the doctor’s touch. She wasn’t about to

stop, even if she passed out right there!

“Well, this is quite the sight.”

Gia’s voice pierced through Dillon. She broke off the kiss.

Dillon was fl ushed. She had a tidal wave of emotions crashing

through every inch of her.

Gia slapped her on the back. “Seems like dessert is being served out

on the porch.”

Ashley scowled at Gia. “You’re home early.”

“Yeah and it looks like I was just in time too.” Gia smiled and walked

up to Ashley and softly touched her cheek. She winked at Dillon and

went inside.

“I think I should go.” Dillon said. She started to walk away.

“Spit, wait!” Ashley pleaded.

“Th

anks for dinner, Doc.” Dillon tried to smile, her heart broken.

Ashley could see the hurt in her eyes “Please, Spit, wait a sec!”

Dillon stopped. She kept her back to Ashley so she wouldn’t see the

tears welling up in her eyes.

“It’s ok.” Dillon tried to play it down.

“No, it’s not, Gia is a…”

“A bitch?”

“Yes.”

“Maybe so, but it’s plain to see that she still has feelings for you.”

Dillon’s stomach was churning. She wanted to run, but her legs were

frozen.

“I don’t care about her feelings.” Ashley felt her own tears reaching

the surface. “I care about yours.”

Dillon wanted to turn around and take Ashley in her arms. But she

couldn’t.

“Please say something.” Ashley begged.

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Spitfi re

“What do you want me to say? I don’t want to get in between you

two.”

“You’re not Spit.”

“Look, I need to go.” Dillon just wanted to hop on her bike and

ride.

“You don’t have to, you know.” Ashley’s voice cracked holding back

the tears.

Dillon turned to her. “Yeah, I do.” She tried to smile. She slowly

reached out and wiped a tear from Ashley’s cheek.

Ashley searched Dillon’s eyes for anything; they were cold and dull.

She never wanted to hurt her.

“It’ll be OK.” Ashley off ered.

“Will it?” Dillon looked Ashley in the eye.

“I promise you. It will.”

Dillon leaned and kissed Ashley on the forehead. “I want to believe

you, Doc.” She looked into Ashley’s eyes. “I’ll see you tomorrow.” She

turned and walked away.

Ashley watched as she got on her bike and left. Relief came to her.

She had another chance with Dillon. Th

is time she wouldn’t blow it.

Gia had to go!

She marched back into the apartment, only to fi nd Gia sitting on the

couch in boxer’s and a tank, eating pasta and sipping wine.

“I gotta give credit to Saliva. She has pretty good taste in wine.”

“Gia, you need to move out!”

“Honey, come on now.” Gia shook her head.

“Th

at’s it! Just stop it, Gia! I’ve put up with enough of you. I want

you out!”

“Hey Ash, baby, just chill.” Gia tired to calm her down.

“Don’t tell me what to do!” Ashley felt the heat rise in her face. “I am

not about to let you screw this up for me!”

“What? Her?” Gia laughed. “Now I know you can do better. Course

when you’ve had the best...........” She winked and sipped her wine.

“Please, Gia, give the world a break!” Ashley barked “You could take

lessons from her!”

Gia set her food down and walked over to Ashley. “I thought we were

gonna get back together. Remember we talked about it?” She tried to put

her arms around Ashley.

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Ashley pushed them away. “You are kidding?” she said.

“No, baby, I’m serious.” Gia looked at her.

“Why should we? So I can sit around and watch you sleep with the

remainder of L.A.’s lesbian community? No Gia, it’s over. I want you out

of my house!”

“Correction. Our house.” Gia smiled. “My name is on the lease

too.”

Ashley hated when Gia was right. “Fine! I’ll move!” Ashley went into

her room and slammed the door.

Gia smiled and went back to her dinner.

* * *

Dillon turned the light off and slipped into bed. Although it wasn’t a

pleasant end to their evening, Dillon was still lost in Ashley’s kiss. Her

lips were incredible, so warm and soft. She hated what went on there

tonight. Ashley’s stupid ex almost ruined it for them. Dillon wanted her

out of the picture, and now! She didn’t like Ashley in the house with

her alone. Gia couldn’t be trusted. She stopped to wonder about what

happened after their kiss. Had Ashley only kissed her because Gia was

coming up the walk? “Oh great!” Dillon thought, “Now you’re a toy in some jealousy game. Why were you so stupid to let your heart get attached?” She

looked at the clock on the DVD player. It was 12:30am. She wondered

what Ashley was doing? Wondered if the kiss they shared meant the

same to her. Dillon had to find a way to tell Ashley how she felt.

A noise caught Dillon’s attention. She sat up and looked around. She

quickly walked into the hall and listened. Th

ere it was again. She moved

to the entry hall, in front of the door. She watched as the knob slowly

started to turn. Dillon slowly unlocked it, then opened the door. She

fl ipped the porch light on.

Th

ere stood Dillon’s future. She was in jeans and a sweatshirt,

suitcases on either side of her. Dillon thought it was the most beautiful

sight she had ever seen.

“Doc? What the hell?”

“You scared me.” Ashley grabbed her chest.

Th

ey stood looking at each other.

“What are you doing here?”

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Spitfi re

“I needed to talk to you.”

Dillon took Ashley’s hand and brought her into her embrace. Ashley

fell willingly into it. She sighed.

“Are you ok?” Dillon stroked her hair softly.

“I am now.” She held tighter. “I wasn’t sure you would ever talk to me

again after what happened.”

Dillon chuckled, “I don’t blame you.”

“You should. I should have told you what to expect.” Ashley said,

still holding tightly onto Dillon.

“Why didn’t you?”

“Would you still have come?”

Dillon squeezed Ashley tighter. She wanted to tell her exactly how

she felt, but the words wouldn’t come out. “Come on. It’s late and you

need to sleep.”

Dillon grabbed Ashley’s bags, shut the lights off and locked the door.

She took Ashley’s hand and led her to the bedroom.

“Sweet dreams, Doc.” She smiled as she walked to the door.

“Spit?” Ashley asked.

“Yes?”

“You can stay you know. If you want to?” Ashley looked at Dillon.

Dillon wanted to very much. She wanted to take Ashley in her arms

and make love to her all night. But she was frozen. Th

e inner demons

left by Kris were running rampant through her. She replayed that scene

with Kris in her mind a thousand times.

Dillon softly touched Ashley’s cheek. It was soft and beautiful. She

delicately kissed Ashley on the head. “Sweet dreams Doc.” Dillon smiled

and closed the door behind her.

Ashley tossed and turned. She wanted to tell Dillon how much she

loved her. She needed to be close to her. She slowly opened the bedroom

door and walked to the living room. Dillon was on the couch sleeping.

“Spit?” Ashley whispered. Th

ere was no answer from the fi refi ghter.

“I guess you’re asleep. I just wanted to tell you… geeze listen to me,

blubbering like a stupid schoolgirl with a crush. But this isn’t a crush…

Dillon, I’m falling in love with you.” She waited to see if there was any

sign from the couch. “Well, good night.” Ashley said, as she walked back

into the bedroom.

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Dillon lay there quietly waiting until she heard the bedroom door

close. She rolled over. She heard every word Ashley had said. She closed

her eyes. She tried to sleep but there were too many things rushing

through her mind. Ashley proclaimed her love to her and now she would

be forced once again to wake up and fi nd Ashley gone.

* * *

Ashley’s internal alarm clock woke her up. She focused on the VCR

clock. 5:30am already? She sat up and turned the light on. There was

Dillon sleeping in the chair next to the bed. Ashley smiled and walked

over to her. She never heard her come in. She lightly kissed her head.

She quickly made the bed and went into the bathroom.

Dillon woke up. She looked around. Th

e bed was empty. Her heart

dropped into her stomach. Panic overcame her. So much so that she

didn’t hear the shower running. She knew it was a dream. It had to be.

She could never get someone like Ashley Wilkerson. She stood up and

tripped over Ashley’s bag. Falling to the fl oor brought her back to reality

and the sound of the shower running.

She thought about going in to surprise Ashley, but she thought

better of it.

Twenty minutes later, Ashley came into the kitchen to

fi nd Dillon eating toaster waffl es and reading the paper.

“Boy, I’m sure glad I’m not your last patient today.” Dillon

chuckled.

“Ha ha! I need coff ee.” Ashley looked at Dillon.

“One cup o’ Joe coming at you.” Dillon got up and poured her a

cup.

“Hey, Spit. I was thinking. Maybe you can drive me to work and take

the car. I know we need food and all, this way we can leave right at six.”

“Great idea.” Dillon smiled. “Give me a second to change.” She ran

toward the bedroom. “Hey Doc, I know it’s not bacon and eggs, but there

are a couple of waffl es for you in the toaster.” Dillon yelled. “I don’t know

what you want on them but there’s stuff in the fridge. Help yourself.”

Ashley smiled and shook her head. Gia would have never made

her breakfast, even if it were toaster waffl es. She opened the fridge and

laughed. Dillon had made her a lunch. It was in a soft cooler with a white

64

Spitfi re

piece of sports tape across it. Doc was written on it and there was a smiley

face. Ashley melted.

Dillon came running in “OK, I’m ready.... did you fi nd everything

ok?”

“Yes, I did.” Ashley smiled as she held the cooler up.

“Oh, well, I thought you might get hungry, so I made ya a lunch. It’s

turkey... I hope its ok?”

Ashley set the cooler down and walked over to Dillon. She kissed

her on the cheek.

“A kiss just for making lunch?” Dillon winked.

“Wait till you see what happens if dessert is involved.”

Dillon chuckled “You’re going to be late.”

“Th

is is the best reason I can think of for being late.” Ashley

giggled.

Dillon wanted to tell Ashley that she, too, had fallen in love with

her. Th

e words just wouldn’t come out. “Come on, you.” Dillon looked

at Ashley. She grabbed Ashley’s lunch and her purse.

“Yes, dear.” Ashley giggled as they headed for the door hand in

hand.

* * *

Ashley walked into the cafeteria carrying her cooler. She was exhausted

but she didn’t care. She was on cloud nine. She spotted Rhonda and

went to sit by her friend.

“Well if it isn’t Ms. Happy!” Rhonda chuckled.

“Yep!” Ashley plopped down.

“Bringing your lunch now?” Rhonda looked at the tape and noticed

“Doc” written on it. “Hey, wait a sec. You were late for rounds, you

brought your lunch, goofy grin.........Did you and Spitfi re?”

“Shhhhhhhhh! Rhonda keep it down.” Ashley looked at her.

Rhonda looked around. “Details, I want details.”

“What’s to tell? I’m having a real nice time.”

“Nice time? You call a lunch bag with Doc written on it just a nice

time?”

“Oh, Rhonda. Dillon is wonderful!” Ashley beamed.

“Dillon? Good Lord child you’re in love with her.”

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“Head over heels. She makes me feel so alive.”

“Well, I must say, I haven’t seen you smile this much ever!”

“Rhonda, I have a feeling this smile is here to stay.”

“So when do we get to meet her?”

“You already know her Rhonda.”

“Girl, please! I don’t mean walking past her in a hospital hallway. I

mean bringing her over and meeting us.”

“We will Rhonda, after this weekend.” Ashley took a bite of her

sandwich.

“What’s this weekend?”

“Spit and I are going to her cabin on the Kern River. We leave after

work tonight.”

“Ashley, hold on. Dating is one thing, but you can’t go off with this

stranger for the weekend.”

“Rhonda, Dillon is kind, gentle and loving. She’s everything I’ve ever

wanted.”

“I understand all of that Ash, but you’re not thinking clearly... Th

e

sex is clouding your judgment. You’re going to a cabin on a river with

some possible psycho fi refi ghter that might kill you?”

Ashley laughed out loud. “You are kidding right?”

“You may think it’s funny now missy, but you won’t be laughing when

they fi nd little pieces of you fl oating in the river.”

“Rhonda, stop. I’m a big girl and I can take care of myself. And if you

must know, we haven’t slept together... yet.”

Rhonda shook her head, “Even worse!” She reached into her purse

and pulled out a black leather case. “Here at least take this with you.”

She handed it to Ashley.

“Pepper spray? Rhonda, c’mon.”

“Take it! You can never be too safe.”

Ashley took it to appease her friend.

“You’ll thank me later,” Rhonda said looking at Ashley.

Ashley was hurt. Why couldn’t Rhonda revel in the excitement with

her? Why did she have to put those thoughts into her head? She knew

that Dillon was diff erent from anyone she had ever met. Th

e eyes never

lie and Dillon’s told Ashley everything she ever needed to know.

“You’ll be apologizing later.”

“I hope I am.”

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Spitfi re

She dropped the can of pepper spray into her purse and watched as

Rhonda smiled.

“So what about Gia?” Rhonda asked next.

“What about her? It was over a long time ago. You knew that. In fact,

I asked her to move out last night.”

“Whoa this is serious. What did she say?”

“She refused.”

“And?”

“I’m gonna move.”

“In with Spitfi re?”

“I hope to.”

“Ashley Wilkerson! Have you completely lost your mind?”

“I’m telling you Rhonda, she’s the one.”

“Th

at’s what you said about Gia, and Cathy, and Audra and-“

“Ok! Ok.” Ashley stopped her. “Th

is feels diff erent Rhonda, real

diff erent. I know in my heart she’s the one.”

“Well, we’ll see about that. But if she hurts you... she’ll have to

answer to me!”

Ashley laughed.

“What did your folks say?”

“Shit!” Ashley sprung up. “I forgot to call them!” She gathered

her things and leaned over to kiss Rhonda on the cheek. “See you on

Tuesday.”

“Have fun and be careful!” Rhonda yelled after Ashley. She shook

her head and went back to her lunch. “Th

e girl is fi sh food.”

* * *

Ashley looked at her watch, 5:58pm. She stood in the same spot that

Dillon dropped her off in. She was nervous and excited. She could

hardly wait to be alone with Dillon. Finally! She looked up to see Dillon

turning into the lot. Ashley’s midnight blue Volvo s80 was shinning.

Dillon put the car in park and jumped out and opened the door for

Ashley. She smiled and started to get in. She noticed the single rose

sitting on the car seat. She took it and sat down.

Dillon closed the door and smiled as she got in the car.

“Th

is is beautiful. Th

ank you.”

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“You’re welcome. How was your day, Doc?”

“Long. I couldn’t wait for my shift to end.”

“Me too.” Dillon chuckled and squeezed her hand.

“Did you get the car detailed?” Ashley asked looking around.

“Is that ok?” Dillon looked concerned.

“It’s great. Th

ank you.” Ashley smiled.

“Good. Cause I also got your oil changed and had your tires

rotated.”

Ashley laughed. “Remind me to pay you back.”

“Remind me to teach you about cars.”

“I know about cars. You put gas in them and they go.”

Dillon laughed. She hadn’t felt this good in a long time. A real long

time.

* * *

The drive up to the cabin was long. They stopped at the truck stop

on Weed Patch in Bakersfield. Dillon was delighted that they had her

favorite little burritos fried up. Ashley ate three. Dillon marveled at the

petite doctor’s hearty appetite. Dillon filled the car up and they were off

again.

“Oh Spit, I almost forgot. My folks wanted us to stop by on the way

back if you don’t mind?”

Dillon got a little nervous. She had never met anyone’s parents before.

Th

at was a big fat hairy deal!

“Ah, sure Doc.... that’s great.”

Ashley saw the tension in Dillon’s face.

“Relax, my parents are cool. Th

ey’ll love you.”

She took Dillon’s hand and laced her fi ngers through hers and

squeezed.

Dillon smiled. She knew that everything would be ok.

Although it was very dark out, the ride up the Kern was beautiful.

Th

e moon was full and bright. Just before entering the canyon Dillon

pulled over and rolled the windows down. She took a deep breath and

closed her eyes. Th

e orange blossoms were in bloom and they smelled

so sweet.

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Spitfi re

Ashley watched as Dillon kept breathing in the sweet orange scent.

She saw the relaxation come to her face. Dillon was at peace. Ashley

remembered coming into Dillon’s room late at night after rounds. She

looked the same way, very content.

As they drove on, Dillon tried to point out some of natures best.

“It’s kind of hard to see in the dark.” Dillon pointed out. She was

driving for a bit when a Bobcat dashed across the deserted two-lane

road.

“What was that?” Ashley asked with excitement.

“A Bobcat.” Dillon smiled.

“Th

is is so awesome.” Ashley smiled.

Dillon laughed. “Wait till you see it in the daylight.”

Dillon hung her arm out the window. It was hard for her to get used

to being in a car. She felt closed in.

“Spit, please bring your arm inside. Th

at’s dangerous.”

“I ride a motorcycle, this is not dangerous.” Dillon chuckled. “Unless

a bear rips it off as we drive by.”

“I’m a doctor, I know about these things.”

Dillon was now intrigued. “It’s dangerous to drive with my arm out

the window?”

“Yes.” Ashley said seriously

Dillon laughed.

“Laugh if you want to. A rock could lodge under you skin, an infection

could set in.”

Dillon’s smile was quickly replaced by a frown. She felt it. It was big.

It was bad and it was ugly!

“Oh no.” Dillon slowed the car down and pulled over.

“Are you ok?” Ashley asked.

“No.”

“Spit? What is it?” Ashley was getting a little concerned.

Dillon pulled her hand inside. A bug! A big juicy bug had decided to

end its life on Dillon’s hand. It was gooey and it was gross.

Ashley couldn’t contain her laughter.

“Not funny.” Dillon fl ipped the interior light on and looked for a

tissue.

“No, it’s not funny.” Ashley had tears streaming from her eyes. “It’s

down right hysterical!”

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Dillon had to admit that it was indeed funny. Besides, she’d have

a million bugs splatter on her if she could see Ashley laugh like this all

the time. Tears were streaming down her face as she continued to laugh.

What a sight. Dillon thought. I would never get tired of it. Dillon started to chuckle.

Ashley reached under the seat and pulled out a container of wipes.

She pulled out a couple and handed them to Dillon.

“Th

anks.” Dillon grinned. She took the wipes and cleaned herself up.

She looked at Ashley smile, put the car in gear and continued to drive.

After another hour Dillon pulled over to the side of the road and

turned the car off .

“What’s wrong?” Ashley asked.

“Get out of the car.” Dillon said.

“Why?”

“Just get out!” Dillon demanded.

Ashley was dumbfounded. She opened the door and got out just as

Dillon did.

She thought about what Rhonda had said. Oh my God! Could it

be true? Was Dillon going to? No, not Dillon, Ashley told herself. She

remembered the pepper spray just as she heard the doors lock and the

alarm set on her car.

Dillon came up behind her and put her hands on her shoulders. Th

is

is it! Ashley thought. She was paralyzed with fear and couldn’t move.

Rhonda was right.

Dillon leaned over to Ashley’s ear. “Look up.” She whispered.

“What?” Ashley asked.

“Look up.”

Ashley looked up toward the sky. She was speechless.

“It’s the Milky Way.” Dillon smiled.

“Spit...................Wow.” Ashley said as she looked around.

A layer of thick stars formed a strip across the sky.

“It’s magical.” Ashley said mesmerized.

“Th

at it is. I said the same thing the fi rst time I saw it.”

“Look at all of the stars.” Ashley spun around

“Yeah, you can see them all when it’s this dark. No city lights to

hamper the view.”

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Spitfi re

Dillon reached into her jacket pocket and pulled out the little gold

box. “Doc.”

“Yeah?” Ashley answered, still looking toward the heavens.

“I...sort of ...kind of...got this for you.” She said as she handed the

box to Ashley.

“You didn’t have to get me anything.” She opened the box. Th

e moon

was shining bright enough for her to see it. “Oh my...I can’t.”

“Yes you can. It was made to be worn by you. We both knew that the

minute we saw it.” Dillon took it from the box and put it around Ashley’s

neck “It’s perfect. Just like you.”

“Spit this is so sweet.”

“Ya know, I’ve been waiting for you.” Dillon choked out the words as

tears formed in her eyes.

“You have?” Ashley looked up.

“Yeah. All my life I’ve waited for someone like you, and now you’re

here.”

Ashley watched as Dillon fought off the tears that now overtook

her. She had such a beautiful soul. “I can’t think of any other place I’d

rather be.”

Dillon took Ashley’s face in her hands placing a soft kiss on her lips.

Th

en another. “I’ve wanted to do that for a long time.” Dillon smiled.

“Why didn’t you?” Ashley asked.

“I…. I…. guess I just didn’t think you wanted me to.”

Ashley tiptoed to kiss Dillon. It was soft and gentle, fi lled with

passion. Dillon pulled Ashley close and held her tight. After what seemed

like forever Ashley broke off the kiss.

“I think we need to get to the cabin.” Ashley smiled.

Th

is time it was Ashley who was blushing, but Dillon couldn’t see it.

Dillon opened the car door for Ashley.

“Th

ank you.” She kissed her again. She got into the car and Dillon

closed the door.

Dillon walked around the car and stopped. She looked up to the

heavens. “Th

ank you” she whispered and got into the car.

Neither one said a word the rest of the way. Th

ey held hands and

listened to a CD. Th

eir touch said more than any words could have.

* * *

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Dillon unlocked the cabin door and turned the light on.

Ashley was in awe. It was beautiful. It was all wood and river rock.

Th

e furniture was made of logs, and there was a huge fi replace.

“Make yourself at home Doc. I need to turn on the water and gas.”

Ashley set her bag down and looked around. She went to the kitchen

and turned the light on. She reached over and plugged the fridge in. She

could live here forever, she thought. It was just as amazing as it’s owner.

“You like it?” Dillon asked startling Ashley.

“It’s wonderful.”

“I’ll show you the rest of it before we unload.”

Dillon took Ashley’s hand and led her down the hall. “Th

is is the

bathroom.”

“Ooooooh indoor plumbing.” Ashley giggled.

“Th

is is the guest room.” Dillon opened the door.

It was nice. A bed, a chest of drawers, a closet. It had a painting of

a cowboy and Indian riding and some Indian rugs and baskets. Ashley

went to get a closer look at the baskets.

“My great-grandmother brought them over with her when she

crossed the Oregon trail.”

“Wow, really?”

“Yeah. And the rugs too.”

“I love them.” Ashley smiled.

“C’mon. I’ll show you the master bedroom.”

Th

ey walked down the hall to the back of the cabin. She opened the

door and turned on the lights. Ashley had to catch her breath... it was

beautiful. A bed frame made out of logs with a matching chair. More

rugs and baskets hung on the wall; there were big double doors that led

to a deck.

“Check this out.” Dillon unlocked one of the doors and took Ashley

outside.

It was getting cooler and a breeze was cutting through the trees. Th

e

rushing water from the Kern River echoed below.

Ashley looked up to see all of the stars still shining bright. Th

ey

glowed like little lights dancing over the water and rocks.

“Ah.... so, where would you like to sleep?” Dillon blushed. She knew

that she and Ashley professed their love to one another, but she wanted

to be sure.

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Ashley answered with a kiss. Th

is one was diff erent. A bit more

intense and Ashley wanted to explore. She could tell that Dillon was

nervous, so she backed off .

“I’ll go get the rest of the stuff .” Dillon made a quick escape. Her

heart was racing, and she felt like running. Th

ings were moving so fast.

She needed to tell Ashley why she kept bailing out in the heat of the

moment. How do you tell the woman of your dreams, the woman you’ve

waited for and dreamt of all your life, that you’re scared? She couldn’t keep pushing Ashley away. She didn’t deserve to be treated like this.

Dillon came back in carrying the last of the supplies. Ashley emerged

from the bedroom already showered and in her pj’s.

“I’m starving!” She smiled as she grabbed a bag off the table.

“I hope I brought enough food. I forgot about the bottomless pit.”

“Cute.” Ashley laughed, as she stuck her tongue out at Dillon.

Tell her now! Dillon’s inner voice said. She couldn’t. She watched as

Ashley went through the bags.

“Where’s the food?” Ashley turned to Dillon.

“What?” Dillon was surprised.

“Th

e real food?”

“It’s right there.” Dillon pointed.

“Th

is is all a bunch of fruit and health crap.”

“What do you call food then?” Dillon asked.

“Anything from the three food groups.” Ashley shot her answer

back.

“Oh, I see. And they are?

“Frozen, canned, and packaged.”

Dillon playfully shook her head. “And you call yourself a Doctor?”

“Damn straight Skippy I do.” Ashley smiled.

Dillon laughed and grabbed a bag off the table. “What about all that

tofu crap? Here, try this one.”

Ashley took the bag from Dillon. “Just a clever ruse to get you to

notice me…mmm…jackpot!” Ashley squealed with delight. Th

e bag

was fi lled with all kinds of junk food. “Now we’re talking.” She smiled

as she pulled out a bag of pinwheels. “How did you know these were my

favorite?”

“Just a lucky guess.” Dillon smiled.

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Ashley opened the bag and took one out. She dangled it seductively

in front of Dillon. “You know you want it.” She winked at her. She moved

in close. “C’mon, be bad for once in your life hot shot fi refi ghter.” Ashley

teased.

Dillon chuckled and took it. “FYI Doc. I love Pinwheels. She bit into

it and licked her lips.

Ashley pulled her down to her and kissed her.

“Better get the stuff in the fridge before it melts.” She looked at

Ashley.

As they unloaded the rest of the groceries, Dillon told Ashley of her

times at the cabin with her grandparents. Dillon could have stayed there

talking all night. It was safe for her. Safe from what would come in the

morning when Ashley would be gone.

* * *

Dillon finally turned the water off from her long hot shower. She kept

putting off what she knew was coming. She needed to talk to Ashley

before it was too late.

Ashley sat in the lounge chair out on the deck. Th

e night was cool,

so she wrapped herself in a blanket. Th

ere was no way she would miss

the show in the sky. She looked up at the stars trying to remember some

of the constellations from her high school astronomy class. She drifted

off in a dream of what it would be like to make love to Dillon out here

underneath these glorious stars. She wanted Dillon so bad. She noticed

that Dillon kept holding back and Ashley hoped she wasn’t being too

pushy. Maybe Dillon wanted to date awhile. But she knew that Dillon

was the one for her and she wanted to start building their life together.

Dillon came out of the bathroom in her fl annel pants and muscle

shirt. She noticed the cool breeze from the open door right away. She

grabbed a sweatshirt and threw it on and stepped out onto the deck.

“Th

ere you are.”

“Spit, I’m in heaven looking at all of these stars.”

“It’s pretty amazing.” Dillon agreed.

“So are you.” Ashley looked at Dillon.

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Dillon’s stomach started to churn. She knew what Ashley wanted.

She wanted it too. She also knew that the outcome would destroy her

heart.

Ashley stood up and took Dillon by the hand and led her back into

the bedroom.

Dillon stopped and looked into Ashley’s eyes. Ashley continued to

lead Dillon to the bed. She pulled her down on her as she lay on the

bed.

Dillon continued to search Ashley’s eyes. She was looking for

anything that would put her mind at peace.

Ashley tugged at Dillon’s shirt until the fi refi ghter’s lips were softly

kissing hers.

Dillon kissed her passionately, then moved to her cheek, then down

her neck.

Ashley’s heart started to race as she arched her back toward Dillon.

Heat was quickly taking over her body. Something she never had felt

with any of her lovers before.

Dillon continued to slowly explore Ashley with her lips. She made

her way back to Ashley’s sweet tender lips and kissed her. It was a long,

passionate kiss, and Ashley wanted to taste every part of Dillon leaving

her tongue just dangling on Dillon’s lips and nibbling on them. Dillon

fought to catch her breath.

Dillon moaned as Ashley reached under her shirt and touched her

breast. Dillon pulled away and stared at her. She slowly lifted Ashley’s

T-shirt. Oh she is so beautiful, Dillon thought. Just how she imagined her

body would look. Dillon swung her leg over to straddle Ashley. Th

ey

never stopped looking into each other’s eyes.

Ashley tugged at Dillon to remove her shirt. Dillon obliged. Her

biceps and shoulders were perfect. Ashley traced their curves with her

hand. She slowly moved to Dillon’s collarbone, all the while fi xed into

each other’s stare.

Dillon leaned down and started to kiss Ashley’s neck again. Th

ey

were both very aware that their skin was now touching one another, the

internal sparks it was creating. Dillon found her way to Ashley’s lips.

She sucked and probed, slowly teasing her. Dillon could feel her arching

again trying to push up against her.

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Ashley broke off the kiss. “Make love to me, Dillon.” She

whispered.

Dillon froze. Every alarm and bell went off in her head. She wanted

to make love to Ashley, but like it had been with Kris, she new it would

be all over by morning. Panic overcame Dillon as she jumped from the

bed and fumbled for her shirt. “I’m sorry, Doc,” was all she said as she

left the room and closed the door behind her.

Ashley lay there, very still, part in shock, part in sadness, tears

streaming down her cheeks.

* * *

Dillon sat on the front porch, in a sleeping bag. It was one of her favorite

things to do. It was special to her to watch the sunrise. This time it

didn’t feel so special. Tears fell, and her heart ached.

Th

e front door opened, and Ashley stepped out.

“Hey.” Dillon choked out. She tried to cover the fact that she had

been crying.

“Hey.” Ashley’s horse voice responded.

“Doc....I...I...I’m so sorry.” Dillon said.

“It’s not you..............It’s me. I shouldn’t have pushed myself on

you.”

“You didn’t. Trust me.”

Th

ere was a long pause as the two looked at each other.

Ashley shivered.

“C’mon, get in here.”

Dillon unzipped the bag so Ashley could get in. She sat on her lap.

She leaned into Dillon’s warm body. Dillon wrapped her arms

around her.

“I need to tell you something.”

“I already know.”

“You do?” Dillon was surprised.

“Yeah. I know I’m not your type.”

“What? Whatever gave you that idea?” Dillon asked.

“Spit, do you really want to re-live what happened?”

“Please, let me explain.”

Ashley looked at Dillon.

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“For starters, you are very much my type. In fact, I think you are the

most beautiful, incredible woman that God has ever put in my path! It’s

just ...................” She took a deep breath.

“Tell me. Please.” Ashley looked at Dillon.

“After my folks passed, I lived with this woman. She told me that she

loved me. Th

e night we made love for the fi rst time, the earth moved for

me. I thought, ‘this is it. I found my true love.’ Th

e next morning, there

was a note on the pillow that told me to move out.” Tears started to run

down Dillon’s face.

“Oh, Spit.” Ashley gently wiped them away.

“After that night, I swore I would never let myself get that close

to a woman again. Th

en I met you and wham! My heart didn’t know

what hit it. I’m just so...............so scared that you’ll leave too.” Dillon

couldn’t believe that she poured her soul out to Ashley. She had never

cried about Kris until now. She felt the release as the ghosts from her

past fl ew away.

Ashley kissed Dillon’s tear-stained cheek. She took her face in her

hands and looked into her eyes. “I promise you, I will never leave you.”

She smiled at her. She kissed Dillon on the lips... the kisses grew longer.

Ashley looked at Dillon and smiled. She unzipped the sleeping bag

and stood up. She took Dillon’s hand and pulled her to her feet. Dillon

followed Ashley into the house and back into the bedroom. She laid

Dillon on the bed.

Dillon watched as Ashley peeled off her clothes until her beautiful

body was in front of her. Dillon felt a stir inside her. Heat was rushing

through her body. She pulled Ashley to her and kissed her.

Ashley took Dillon’s hand and placed it on her breast. Dillon caressed

her until a soft moan came from deep within Ashley. Dillon rolled

Ashley onto the bed. She stood up, stopping to look at what lay before

her. She took off her shirt and then her pants. She slid into bed next to

Ashley, her heart pounding.

Ashley climbed on Dillon, making sure that every inch of their

bodies were touching. She could never be too close. Ashley kissed Dillon,

starting at her lips and slowly moving downward. Her chin, her neck,

her shoulders, her chest, taking in every inch of Dillon by kissing, licking

and nibbling. Dillon was about to explode as Ashley traced small circles

around Dillon’s erect nipples.

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No one had ever touched Dillon like this. Th

en again, there never

was one until now. No one from Dillon’s past existed. It was all about

Ashley now, and the life they would make together.

Ashley continued to descend upon Dillon’s body. She kissed and

licked the fi refi ghter’s tight stomach. She looked at Dillon wanting to go

further, but not sure if she should.

“Doc...........” Dillon managed to get out between her heavy breaths.

“Make love to me.”

Ashley kissed Dillon long and hard. “I love you, Dillon McCabe,”

were the last words they spoke as the two now became one.

* * *

Dillon sleepily opened one eye. She was sore, exhausted, and exhilarated.

She looked at the clock on her nightstand. 3:30! She had slept the entire

day. She rolled over to find Ashley sitting in bed reading.

“Hey there.” Dillon grinned.

“Hey there, yourself.” Ashley smiled “How are you?”

“Kind of sore.” Dillon chuckled.

Ashley tossed her book to the fl oor and slid into Dillon’s arms. “You

should see a

Doctor.” Ashley giggled.

“Oh really?”

“Yes.”

“You know a good one?” Dillon grinned.

Both women laughed at their childish behavior.

Dillon looked deep into Ashley’s eyes. “Oh Doc, what you’re doing

to me.”

“Dillon I-“

“Shhh.” Dillon put her fi nger to Ashley’s lips. She followed it with

a kiss. As they made love that afternoon, Dillon felt free. Free of her

doubts, free of her past. She had one thing to live for and she was holding

her in her arms.

Dillon let the cool water run over her tired sore body. She and Ashley

stayed in bed the entire day. She fi nally dragged herself into the shower.

She reminisced on the past twenty-four hours. She felt a little awkward in

bed with Ashley. It had been a while since she last made love to a woman,

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Spitfi re

and then it wasn’t really love. More like sex after a date. Ashley was

diff erent. She was wonderful in bed. A great lover. Very kind and gentle.

She only hoped that she couldn’t see her inexperience. Dillon smiled as

she recalled the way Ashley called her name. She was so wrapped up in

her thoughts that she didn’t hear Ashley walk in.

Ashley quietly slipped out of her clothes and into the shower behind

Dillon. She slowly rubbed Dillon’s back.

“Mmmm. You’re hired.”

Ashley looked up at her lover’s back. She once again saw the scar that

hovered above her right shoulder blade. She wanted to know about it,

but knew not to ask Dillon. She started to fi nger it.

“You not knowing about that scar is gonna be the death of you isn’t

it?” Dillon turned around and took Ashley in her arms.

Ashley laid her head on Dillon’s chest. “I just want to know everything

about you, Dillon McCabe.”

“Well darlin’ after what we’ve been doing the last twenty-four hours,

I’d say you pretty much do.” Dillon chuckled.

Ashley looked into Dillon’s eyes.

Dillon kissed her. “All right. I’ll tell you. Th

e morning I got that note

from Kris, well, I also found out that she had a girlfriend, a very big, very

butch girlfriend. I didn’t want any trouble, so I packed up my stuff . As I

was about to leave, this chick burst into the house. She had a knife.”

“Spit, no.” Ashley said.

“She tied me up for three hours. She was very methodical about it.

She cut my buttons off my shirt. Cut the sleeves off . My bra. She kept

asking me if I was fucking her woman. I told her no. I said I was just

packing my things and moving on. She backhanded me with such force

she broke my nose. But when I came to, I was on the ground, the chair

was broken and my hands were free. She was drinking a beer and I knew

I had only one shot. I grabbed part of the chair, to strike her with it. She

heard me and came at me with the knife. I turned my back in time cause

she was aiming for my heart.” She squeezed Ashley tighter.

“How did you get away?”

“Kris came in and stopped her. Told her that we hadn’t done anything,

that I was just a charity case she helped out.”

“Oh baby, I’m so sorry.” Ashley kissed Dillon’s chest.

“I learned a lot. I don’t take things for granted anymore.”

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“Well you’re all mine now, so I’ll protect you from that mean butch

bitch.”

Dillon laughed. She leaned over and kissed Ashley again.

Ashley’s knees weakened. Dillon had such a way with her kisses.

Th

ey were long, lingering, and very passionate.Th

e fact that Dillon

was unaware that she kissed that way made her even sexier, Ashley

thought.

“You fi nish up and I’ll get dinner started, ” Dillon said, smiling.

Ashley wouldn’t let her grip go. “I have all I need right here.” She

nuzzled back into Dillon’s chest.

“What, no food? Oh, baby, you got it bad.” Dillon laughed.

Ashley dropped her arms and looked up. “Oh, food?? I’m starving!”

She winked at Dillon.

Dillon laughed. “Th

ere are some things we need to talk about too.”

Dillon kissed Ashley one last time and smiled at her as she left the

shower.

Who would have thought that just fi ve weeks ago she would fi nd the

key to her happiness lying in a hospital bed?

* * *

Ashley opened the bedroom door expecting to have her senses filled

with some delicious meal that Dillon was preparing. She too was a bit

sore from the past hour activities. She walked into the kitchen. There

was nothing, not even Dillon.

“Hey, what gives?” Ashley called out. Th

ere was no answer. She

looked around and went to the back porch. “No way!” Ashley smiled.

“Where’s my camera?” She ran back to the bedroom to retrieve it. She

stepped out on to the porch and started snapping pictures.

Dillon was lying on a patch of grass facing a fawn that was doing the

same. Th

ey were almost nose-to-nose, as Dillon talked to the baby, gently

stroking it. Th

e doe was close by, grazing.

“Don’t move fast.” Dillon instructed in an even tone.

Ashley continued to snap pictures. “Spit, this is incredible.”

“Put your camera down slowly.”

Ashley did.

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Spitfi re

“Now step off the porch in even slow steps. Th

e mother will come up

to you. She’ll check you out. Just let her smell you.”

Ashley did as she was instructed. Sure enough, to her delight, the

doe walked over to her and smelled her. She stuck out her hand. Th

e doe

sniff ed it and went back to grazing.

“Oh, Spit.” Ashley beamed.

Dillon grinned. “You did it. You passed the test, Doc. Now, slowly

walk to my feet.”

Ashley did.

“OK, one knee at a time get down to my level so that you’re lying

next to me.”

Ashley now lay beside Dillon. Th

e curious fawn licked Ashley’s

extended hand.

“She likes you.”

“She should. I cried during Bambi.”

Dillon shook her head, trying to stifl e her laugh.

Th

e doe suddenly heard a noise from the road and took off with the

fawn following close behind.

“Oh no.” Ashley said.

“Th

ey’ll be back.” Dillon assured her, as she got to her feet.

“How do you do that?”

“I don’t know, I just do.” She held her hand out to Ashley and helped

her up.

“Well, you must be pretty special.” Ashley looked at Dillon. “In fact,

I know you are.” She kissed Dillon. “Now, what about my dinner?”

Dillon laughed as she took Ashley’s hand and walked back into the

cabin.

* * *

The next day was beautiful. It was sunny, but cool. Dillon wanted to

get an early start. She was taking Ashley up to the Giant Sequoias. She

woke up early and made lunch. She wanted to talk to Ashley about their

next step since they didn’t do much talking last night. Dillon grinned.

She couldn’t believe how each time they made love, it only got better.

More intense. More permanent.

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Ashley came out dressed and ready. She was glowing. She was in love

and she wanted everyone to know it. Rhonda was in for a big surprise

when she got back.

Ashley snapped photos as Dillon drove and pointed out some sites. It

was stunning, green everywhere. Th

ey stopped along the river and Dillon

took Ashley down to feel the coolness of the water.

Th

ey made it to their destination of the Trail of 100 Giants. It was

still cool up that high, with fall coming soon.... and most of the tourists

had gone. Th

e girls had the trails to themselves. Dillon loved it. She could

walk around with her arm around Ashley’s waist.

Ashley was amazed at the size of the Sequoias. Th

ere were some that

were struck by lighting. Th

ey remained living trees with charred middles,

while others stretched 300 feet into the sky.

“Some of these bad boys are hundreds and hundreds of years old.”

Dillon told Ashley.

Dillon took Ashley to one tree that stood tall, almost reaching to

the heavens. Th

e trunk was enormous. Ashley climbed into the fork in

the trunk and Dillon snapped a photo of her. Ashley had Dillon stand

inside too. She pulled Dillon to her and kissed her. “Ever make love in a

Giant Sequoia, Spit?” Ashley grinned. She took Dillon’s hand and laid

it on her breast.

Dillon swallowed hard. She wanted Ashley.

A nearby park ranger stopped and peeked inside.

Dillon quickly pulled her hand back and turned about three shades

of red.

“Hello there,” he said.

“Hi.” Ashley smiled. “How are you?”

“Fine, thank you, ma’am.” He grinned.

Ashley asked if he wouldn’t mind taking a picture of the two of them.

He happily obliged.

Dillon was thrilled to have the fi rst of many photos taken of them

together.

“Th

anks.” Dillon said to the ranger.

“My pleasure. Enjoy yourselves.”

He walked away.

“We were trying to, before you came by.” Ashley said under her

breath.

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Spitfi re

Dillon snickered. “Come on before you get us thrown in the pokey.”

Dillon grabbed Ashley’s hand.

“Th

e pokey?’ Ashley laughed.

“It’s a jail.”

“Yes, I know that, I just didn’t know that anyone ever used that word

anymore.”

Dillon looked at Ashley. She chuckled. “C’mon.”

After a couple of hours of exploring, they went back to the car to get

lunch. Th

ey found an out-of-the-way picnic table near a stream.

“I’m starving.” Ashley proclaimed as she inspected the ice chest.

“I swear, Doc, I now know why your folks wanted you to become a

Doctor...to help pay the food bill”

Ashley laughed. She handed Dillon a sandwich. “You have no clue

what you’re getting yourself into.”

“I’ll take my chances.” Dillon grinned and pulled Ashley to her knee.

She kissed her. “I could kiss you forever, Doc.”

“Mmmm. And I’ll let you kiss me forever.” She kissed her again.

Dillon’s hands started to caress Ashley’s breast. It took her breath away.

“Hey, now you behave.”

“ Oh, I’m tryin’ real hard.” Dillon nibbled on Ashley’s neck, sending

a rush of chills over her body. She let Ashley go. Pouting at her.

“Got to keep our strength up, babe.” She teased.

Dillon arched her eyebrow. “Oh, don’t worry about that.”

Ashley laughed. “I can see why you love it up here. I wish we could

stay forever.”

“Well, we can come up anytime you want to.”

“I want, I want.” Ashley grinned. “What’s further up?”

“More trees and a little town. Th

e Ponderosa. I’ll take you there for

dinner tonight.”

“It’s a date.” Ashley said. She poured some ice tea for them.

“So, Doc.... I kind of wanted to know...what happens next?”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, what about Gia?”

“I told you. She’s the past. We‘re the present, and the future.”

Dillon grinned. She loved the sound of that. “I was thinking, since

I have the rest of the week off , I thought maybe I could go and pick up

your things from the condo.”

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“You don’t have to do that. I can stick it in storage until I fi nd a

place.”

Dillon rolled her eyes. “Where do you think you’re moving to?”

“I’ll fi nd something.”

“I give up!” Dillon threw her hands in the air. “Doc, I want you to

move in with me.”

“What?” Ashley asked surprised.

“Well, if you don’t want to…”

“No, I do, more than anything. I just didn’t want to rush you.”

“What rush? I know how I feel about you. I want us to be

together.”

“I want that too.”

Dillon took Ashley’s hand and looked deep into her eyes. “I don’t

need time and I don’t want to take it slow. I know in my heart Ashley

Wilkerson, that you are the one I want to share the rest of my life with.

I want you in my arms, in my house, in my bed, but more importantly, I

want you in my life..........forever. Now, if you need some tim-“

Ashley put her fi nger to Dillon’s lips. She kissed her lover. “All I

need is you.”

Dillon took her in her arms and kissed her. Th

is was one incredible

woman.

“Spit. I need to tell you some things. About my past.”

“I don’t care about that.” Dillon looked at her.

“I know, but I need to.”

Th

e two fi nished lunch and found a shade tree to sit under. Th

ey

spread a blanket out and lay under the tree for hours. Dillon held Ashley,

softly caressing her back while she lay against Dillon’s chest, telling her

of her past. She told Dillon of the baby that she tried to have with Gia,

and how she lost it.

Dillon asked her about how she came out. She couldn’t believe that

Ashley’s parents were so supportive. She told Ashley about her parents

and how her life choice tore their relationship in two.

Th

ey laughed and cried all afternoon, becoming closer, if it were possible.

Th

ey made love under the tree. It was intense and passionate. As long as they

could look into each other’s eyes, the world around didn’t exist.

* * *

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Spitfi re

Sunday came and Dillon woke up to find Ashley asleep in her arms.

She loved it. She wished she could make time stand still. She watched

Ashley as she slept soundly.

Ashley felt the heat of Dillon’s stare. She opened one eye to see

Dillon ‘s intense blue eyes looking at her.

“Morning.” She grunted at Dillon.

“Good morning, beautiful.” Dillon kissed her on the forehead. “How

are you?”

“Pretty damn sore thanks to you.” She smiled. “It feels great.”

Dillon chuckled. “I was thinking, maybe we should head home

today. Th

at way we have some time to get you settled in.”

“I don’t want to leave here. Th

is place is magic for us.”

“I know, but I want you to be settled in before you have to go back

to work.”

“I am settled. Look at me. I’m lying naked in your arms. I’m not

going anywhere.”

Dillon smiled. “Th

at’s not what I meant.”

“Spit, I have everything I need. I don’t care about the other stuff ! It’s

all material things. It can burn in hell with Gia for all I care.”

“But what about your personal things, Doc?”

Ashley sat up. It was obvious that Dillon wasn’t going to let this go.

“Spit, please! I don’t want to talk about Gia, or the condo, or moving! It’s

about right here and right now. Th

e past is just that, the past. I want to

be with you, Dillon McCabe, for at least the next hundred years or so.”

Dillon smiled.

“And besides, you promised to take me fi shing and to the fi sh

hatchery, and I’m holding you to it!” She fell dramatically back into

Dillon’s arms.

Dillon stroked Ashley’s back softly. “What did I ever do to deserve

you and this

much happiness?”

Before Dillon knew what was happening, Ashley’s hands were already

stroking her nipple. A moan came from the back of Dillon’s throat as

her eyes started to fog over. Ashley started to suck and trace circles with

her tongue expertly over Dillon’s now erect nipple. Ashley slid her leg

between Dillon’s legs. She pushed her thigh up into Dillon. She could

already feel the wetness coming from her. As she continued her lip and

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tongue assault on Dillon, she could feel her own arousal start to stir.

Ashley slid her other leg between Dillon’s forcing her to spread her legs

further apart. She happily obliged. Ashley slowly worked her way down,

licking, kissing, and sucking all over Dillon’ s body.

Dillon felt the waves start to build deep within from Ashley’s

touch.

Ashley kissed the inside of Dillon’s thigh; she quivered as she knew

what was yet to come. Slowly and methodically, she ran her hand up and

down Dillon’s wetness. Ashley looked at her lover. She knew she wanted

more. She slowly started to lick Dillon. Small strokes, up and down. Th

e

waves inside Dillon were growing. She couldn’t take much more.

Ashley looked up at Dillon as she inserted a fi nger deep within her.

Dillon gasped and arched her back, as Ashley moved expertly inside

of her. Dillon pushed in rhythm with Ashley now moving in and out of

her. Ashley inserted another fi nger, which sent Dillon through the roof.

Dillon’s rhythms were starting to have an eff ect on Ashley. She, too, now

felt the building of her own passion. Dillon released, strong and hard.

Ashley felt the waves as she stayed inside Dillon as her body quaked.

Th

ey had made love many times in the past few days. Each time it

grew more passionate as they grew together. Dillon was now gasping for

air. She pulled Ashley onto her. Feeling Ashley’s wetness on her leg, she

kissed her long and hard.

“I love you so much, Doc.” she managed to get out.

“Show me.”

With one quick move Dillon had Ashley underneath her.

“Baby, you just unleashed a wild woman.”

* * *

They had been quiet all day. Dillon took Ashley to the fish hatchery

when the thunder started to roll in. It was big and booming. It startled

Ashley a couple of times. They rushed through the hatchery and got

in the car just in time before the sky opened up. Fishing was out of the

question now. They came back and Dillon made a fire.

Ashley came out with her bag and set it down. “All packed.” She said

fl atly. She picked a book out, plopped down on the couch and started

to read.

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Dillon couldn’t stand this. What was all of this about? Ashley just

completely turned around. Was this weekend simply that? One weekend?

Th

e old Dillon would have retreated and left things as they were. Th

e

new Dillon couldn’t. She slammed her hand down on the coff ee table.

“Damn it, Doc! Don’t do this!”

Ashley jumped. “What?”

“You haven’t said but two words to me all morning. Why are you

pushing me away?”

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry.” She walked to Ashley. “Talk to me.”

Dillon took Ashley in her arms. She heard her begin to cry. “What

is it?” She took Ashley’s face into her strong hands. “Why are you

crying?”

“It’s just this weekend. It was so...perfect. I just don’t want it to end

once we get off the mountain.”

“It won’t.” Dillon looked into Ashley’s eyes. “I promise you that I’ll

try to make every day like this weekend for you. We don’t have to be

here for me to show you how I feel. Just give me a chance.” Dillon kissed

Ashley until she felt her body relax.

Dillon chuckled inside. She felt like a new woman. She would have

expected that this weekend would have been a fl ing, that once they got

home, Ashley would leave, and Dillon would continue being alone. Now

she felt strong and sure, capable of loving, caring, and providing. She

would cherish every second she had with Ashley.

“Dillon McCabe, do you know how much I love you?” Ashley looked

at her.

“I think so, but you have the rest our lives to show me” She kissed

her again.

Ashley could feel her knees start to weaken. She broke off the kiss

and looked hungrily into Dillon’s eyes. She took Dillon’s hand and started

to kneel in front of the fi replace.

“Hey, what about your folks? I thought we needed to be there for

lunch?” Dillon grinned.

“We’re gonna be late. Real late,” Ashley said as she pulled Dillon to

her and kissed her.

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5

The rain was still coming down at a steady pitch, sometimes making it

hard to see. Dillon took the car expertly down the hill. As soon as they

reached the exit of the canyon, the rain let up some. Dillon pulled into

the truck stop.

Ashley fi nally got a signal on her cell phone, and called her parents.

Dillon walked into the restroom. She took a long look in the mirror.

She looked diff erent. More at peace. She was nervous meeting Ashley’s

parents so soon. What if they didn’t like her? Here they had made life

long plans, and her parents may disapprove.

“NO!” Dillon said out loud. She stopped herself. She wasn’t going

to let those negative demons back into her head. She loved Ashley and

wouldn’t let her family’s disapproval stop her. She splashed some cool

water on her face and dried it with a paper towel.

“You’ll be fi ne.” She told herself and walked out.

Ashley was waiting for Dillon, eating a burrito. “Want one?” She

off ered.

Dillon was still queasy. “No thanks.”

“Momma said to bring your appetite.” She looked at Dillon who was

almost green. “Are you ok?”

“Doc. What if your folks don’t approve of me?”

“Are you kidding?”

“No.”

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“Spit. My parents are going to love you. And even if they don’t, they

can’t tell me who I can and cannot be with.”

Dillon looked at Ashley.

“Now, get your ass in the car.” Ashley said.

Dillon chuckled. “What was that I heard? Did the good doctor say

a naughty word?” She shook her head and jumped in the car.

* * *

They arrived in the valley about 4:00pm. Dillon looked around. It was a

nice neighborhood. Very suburban, the houses were all kept very well. It

looked like a movie set. They passed a perfectly manicured park. Ashley

slowed down.

“I had my fi rst kiss right behind that tree.” Ashley smiled as she

recalled.

“Yeah? With who?” Dillon asked.

“Oh crap. What was her name?” Ashley tried to think.

“Must have been memorable for you” Dillon teased.

Ashley continued to drive. “Jody! Jody Richards!” she said proudly,

having now remembered. “Cute little redhead. Boy what a...........” She

stopped herself. “We’re here.”

Ashley squeezed Dillon’s hand for reassurance. “It’ll be fi ne, baby.”

She smiled at Dillon.

Dillon exhaled... she hoped so.

Ashley turned into the driveway and shut the car down.

Dillon was nervous. She swallowed hard.

“Sweetie, you look like a deer caught in the headlights. Relax.”

Ashley’s parents came out of the house. Ashley ran and jumped into

her Daddy’s arms. She hugged and kissed him, then did the same to her

mother.

Dillon wiped her sweaty palms on her jeans and stepped out of the

car. She smiled as she saw the warm exchange between Ashley and her

parents. She missed her family. She would have loved them to have met

Ashley.

Ashley came back and took Dillon’s hand. “Mom, Daddy. Th

is is

Dillon McCabe.”

“Hi.” Dillon said softly.

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“Dillon, nice to meet you,” Bill said as he off ered his hand to Dillon.

“Welcome to our home.”

“Th

ank you, sir.” Dillon said as she shook it.

“Welcome Dillon.” Mary smiled.

Before Dillon could react Mary was hugging her.

“Th

ank you, Mrs. Wilkerson.” Dillon smiled. She already liked

them.

“She smiled at Dillon. “Are you hungry? I hope you’re hungry. Mind

you it’s not much, but I made a little something to snack on before we

eat.”

“You’re late. Did you run into bad weather? Bill asked.

“Just an unavoidable delay,” Ashley giggled.

“Come in Dillon, let me show you around.”

Ashley laughed as her mother took Dillon by the arm and led her

into the house. She hugged her father again.

“You look diff erent sweetheart.” He smiled.

“I’m happy, Daddy. For the fi rst time in my life, I am truly happy.”

Bill had heard his little girl say this at the start of each new relationship.

But he had to admit, this time she did indeed look happy. “You said you

met her at the hospital?”

“She came into the hospital one night on a stretcher. I walked into

the room to treat her, and bam!”

Bill laughed at his daughter. He knew about the pain Ashley had

been through with Gia. It was so nice to see her smiling again. “As long

as she makes you happy.”

“Oh Daddy, she does. She’s kind, sweet, and wonderful!” Ashley

beamed.

“Th

en that makes me happy, pumpkin.” He kissed his daughter

again. “We better get in there and save Dillon. Th

ere won’t be much left

once your mother gets a hold of her.”

Th

ey laughed and walked into the house.

Th

ey found Dillon and Mary sitting on the couch. Dillon already

had an iced tea in one hand and cheese and crackers in the other. Mary

was sitting next to her with the family photo album open.

“Aw, Mom! Not the family photos! I don’t want to scare her away.”

Dillon chuckled. She had a ‘help me’ look on her face.

“She also plays the guitar and sings like an angel.”

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“Really?” Dillon looked at Ashley

“She won three talent contests.” Bill smiled proudly.

“In high school. I haven’t played in years.”

“I know, it’s sitting in its case under our bed.”

“It’s a shame.”

“Oh, please.” Ashley rolled her eyes.

“I hope you like burgers, Dillon?” Bill asked.

“Yes sir. Th

at’s great.”

“Well, fi ne, then I’ll start the BBQ.”

“Can I help you, sir?” Dillon asked.

“Can you fi x a starter on a grill?”

“Dillon is a guest, Bill.” Mary looked at him.

“I don’t mind at all. It would be a pleasure” Dillon looked relieved.

Dillon stood up and smiled at Ashley. She followed her father

outside.

Ashley waited until she heard the back porch door close. “Well,

mom?”

“She seems very nice dear.”

“Oh Mom, she’s wonderful!” She plopped down next to her mother

and hugged her.

“Does this mean I get a grandchild?”

Ashley laughed. “We haven’t talked about it yet, but I think there’s

a good possibility.”

“Th

en I like her a lot.” Mary smiled.

Dillon grabbed the pliers and got the handle to unlock.

“Well, I’ll be damned, you are a strong one.” He smiled.

“Yes sir, I have to be.”

“A fi refi ghter right?” Bill loved to give Ashley’s dates the third degree.

He remembered the fi rst time Ashley brought Giavanna home. She was

rude and disrespectful to him and his wife, and he didn’t like the way

she treated Ashley. He kept quiet for his daughter’s sake, and watched

her suff er. He vowed that he would never sit by and let that happen to

his little girl again.

“So Dillon, tell me about yourself.” Bill looked her in the eye.

“What would you like to know, sir?” Dillon looked back.

Bill slowly smiled, the interrogation starts now. “How long have you

been a fi refi ghter?”

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“Seven years.”

“Do you live in a house?”

“Yes sir.”

“Do you own it?”

“Paid it off two years ago.”

“Do you drink?”

“Wine, occasionally.”

“Have you ever driven drunk?”

“Never.”

“What do you drive?”

“A motorcycle.”

“What kind, a Harley?”

“No sir. A Triumph.”

“Have you taken my daughter on it?”

“No sir, I haven’t”

“Please see that you don’t.”

Dillon couldn’t believe this. She looked around for Ashley. It was

obvious this man loved his daughter, but c’mon. She took a long drink

of her ice tea.

“Have you two slept together?”

Dillon started to choke. She started coughing.

Ashley and her mother came to the rescue. Dillon looked liked she

had been raked over the coals.

“Is everything ok out here?” Ashley asked.

Bill looked at Dillon, waiting to see what she would do.

“It’s great, Doc. Just getting to know your father better.” Dillon

winked at Bill.

A slow smile came across his face. He liked this one. His little girl

was right. She was something special.

Dillon ate two burgers and Ashley three. Th

ey were stuff ed. Th

ey

sat in the backyard and chatted with Ashley’s folks. She was thrilled.

Whenever Ashley brought someone over, her father never talked. He

had found that Dillon loved old cars too. Th

ey were non-stop talking

about them. Bill was amazed at Dillon’s knowledge. He could tell she

knew her stuff .

“Follow me, young lady.” He told Dillon.

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Dillon looked at Ashley. She smiled to her. Dillon winked back.

She followed Bill into the garage. He turned the light on. Th

ere was a

car covered neatly.

Dillon grinned. She could tell what was under it.

Th

ey pulled back the cover to unveil a 1957 Chevy Bel-Air

convertible.

Dillon was drooling. It had a few rough spots but it was in fi ne

condition.

“Wow! Sir, she’s a beauty.” Dillon grinned.

“I’m still restoring her. I don’t get out here as much as I used to.”

“Do you drive her much?”

“No, not much. Just to the store and around the block every now and

then.” He looked at Dillon. “Want to take her for a spin?” He smiled.

“If it’s not too much trouble.”

“Not at all! Just have Ashley move her car.”

Dillon ran back to Ashley and her mother. “Hey Doc. Your father

is gonna take me for a ride in the Chevy. Could you please move your

car?”

Ashley looked at her mother. Daddy was taking Dillon for a ride?

He never took the car out for Ashley’s dates, not even Gia. “Sure, hon.”

Ashley smiled. She’s in, she thought to herself.

Ashley backed the car and parked it on the street.

Bill started up the Chevy and backed it out of the garage. He put it

in park and moved to the passenger side. “You drive her, Dillon.”

A smile came across Dillon’s face. She smiled at Ashley, and jumped

into the car.

Th

ey drove around the neighborhood. Dillon loved the feel of this

car. It was smooth.

“She purrs like a kitten. You’ve done a great job with her.”

“Well, I still have more to do, but thank you. Turn left at the next

street and pull over.”

Dillon did as instructed. She shut down the car.

Th

ey sat there for a few minutes, just looking around.

“Dillon, I think I need to explain my actions earlier.” Bill fi nally

said.

“Sir, that’s ok. I understand. You just love your daughter.”

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Bill smiled. “Yes, I do, very much. She’s my world, Dillon. It’s been

very painful to sit by and watch my daughter be mistreated by her

girlfriends.” He looked Dillon in the eye. “I don’t want to see her hurt

again.”

“Mr. Wilkerson, I may not be the fi rst to say to you that I would

never hurt your daughter, but I can promise you that I mean it.”

He could tell that Dillon was honest, and that she meant what she

said. “I take it you know about Ashley’s last girlfriend?”

“Yes sir, I do.”

“Well, if you’re anything like her, I suggest you keep moving and leave

my daughter alone.”

“Sir, I’m nothing like Giavanna.”

Bill smiled. “I can see that you’re not.”

Dillon relaxed a little. “Mr. Wilkerson, I respect your daughter a lot.

She’s a wonderful woman and my best friend.” She looked at him. “I...

I....’m in love with Ashley, and I want to spend the rest of my life with

her.”

Bill smiled and shook his head. “She thinks very highly of you.”

Dillon smiled.

“I guess I only have one more thing to say.” Bill was serious now.

“Yes sir?”

“Ok, two things. First of all, no more sirs, call me Dad.”

Tears welled up in Dillon’s eyes. What a wonderful thing to hear.

He reached over and gave Dillon a hug.

“Th

ank you for letting me love your daughter...Dad.” Dillon choked

out.

Bill looked at Dillon. “And the second thing is a warning. My wife

and I are hell bent on having a grandchild.” He smiled and winked at

Dillon.

Dillon laughed. “I’ll see what I can do.” She started up the Bel-Air

and headed back to the house.

* * *

Ashley looked at her watch, It was already 7:00 and they had a long

drive ahead of them. “Well, I think we need to get going.” She looked at

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Dillon and arched her eyebrow. It’s been way too long since I’ve had my lips

on you, she thought.

Dillon took the dessert plates and coff ee cups into the kitchen. Mary

followed closely behind.

“Now Dillon, please don’t.”

“I don’t want to leave you with a mess.” Dillon smiled.

“Don’t be silly, we’ve had such a lovely time meeting you.”

“Well, thank you. It was nice meeting you. And may I say that was

the best Red Velvet Cake I have ever tasted.”

“Well thank you, Dillon. Let me wrap the rest of it up for you to

take home.”

“Oh no, Mrs. Wilkerson, please, you don’t have to go to all that

trouble.”

“It’s no trouble Dillon. Besides, Bill doesn’t need it.”

Dillon smiled as she watched Mary wrap up the rest of the cake.

“It’s nice to see Ashley smiling again, Dillon. Th

ank you.”

“She’s a wonderful woman, Mrs. Wilkerson.”

“She says the same thing about you.”

Ashley came into the kitchen. “You ready?”

Dillon smiled. “Yeah, just getting my doggie bag.”

Mary came over and handed Dillon the cake. “Dillon, we hope to see

you again soon.” She took Dillon in her embrace and hugged her hard.

“You too, Mrs. Wilkerson. Th

ank you for such a nice time.”

“Please, call me Mom.”

Ashley beamed. Th

is was so great to see her parents accept Dillon

so fast. Th

ey had never let any of her other girlfriends call them mom

& dad.

“Th

ank you, Mom.” Dillon smiled.

Ashley hugged her mother. “Th

anks, Mom, I love you.”

“I love you too dear. Give us a call when you get home.”

“Will do.” Ashley smiled. She took Dillon’s hand and walked

outside.

Bill was watering his roses when they walked outside. His way of

protesting his daughter leaving.

“Daddy, it just rained. I love you, you silly man.” Ashley hugged her

father.”

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“I love you too princess.” Bill said. “You drive safe, you hear.” He

smiled.

“We will.” Ashley said.

“Dillon.” He looked at her. “It was a pleasure, meeting you.”

“You too sir... er, I mean Dad.” Dillon grinned. “And thanks for

letting me drive your little baby.”

Ashley started to chuckle when Dillon realized what she said. She

started to blush. She prayed that Ashley’s Mom and Dad didn’t catch

it.

“Dillon, you don’t be a stranger. You’re welcome in our home any

time.” He came up and hugged Dillon.

“Th

ank you.” Dillon whispered in his ear. “Th

at means a lot to me.”

Dillon opened the car door for Ashley and walked to the driver’s

side.

“Th

anks again.” Dillon said as she got in.

Ashley waved goodbye, as Dillon started the car.

“We want a grandchild!” Mary yelled.

Ashley rolled her eyes and blew them a kiss as they drove off .

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6

Dillon awoke to the sound of Ashley in the shower. She sat up. She had

a million things to do today. She knew she couldn’t move Ashley’s things

by herself. She planned on calling a mover.

Th

ey spent the last twenty-four hours in Dillon’s bed, sleeping,

talking, making love, and planning. It was a nice way to end a vacation.

Dillon looked around. Her master bedroom wasn’t that big. She

would have to try to rearrange so Ashley could get her dresser and things

in. Th

ey would need to buy a bigger place.

Ashley walked out of the bathroom wrapped in a towel. She saw

Dillon deep in thought.

“Morning, sweetie.” She smiled.

“Huh? Oh, hey beautiful. Good morning.”

Ashley sat on the bed and kissed Dillon.

“Penny for your thoughts?” Ashley looked into Dillon’s eyes.

“Well, I’m trying to fi gure out where we can put your things.”

“My things?”

“Yeah, your dresser, desk, lamps, TV. I thought I’d call the movers

and we could go over at lunch time and-“

“Whoa. Wait a sec.”

“What’s wrong ? I thought we agreed last night we’d get some of

your things.”

“Nothing’s wrong. It’s just that you need to rest. You start back to

work in a few days. I know you. You’ll want to help and lift stuff . No

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way!” She kissed Dillon again. “And frankly, I don’t care if it gets done

today or ever. I told you I have everything I need right here.” She hugged

Dillon.

“ I just want you to feel that this is your home too.”

“I already do. Th

at’s because of you, not things. I don’t want any of it.

Just my personal things, I’ll stop by after work and pick those up.”

“You want me to meet you there?” Dillon looked at Ashley.

Th

ey both knew what this was about...Gia. Dillon didn’t want Ashley

to have to have any more confrontations with her. Ashley wanted to see

her and say her peace for once and for all.

“Th

anks, sweetie, but I can handle it.” She kissed Dillon hard.

Dillon took Ashley and rolled her onto the bed.

Ashley giggled. “You’re gonna make me late,” she said looking into

Dillon’s eyes.

“Should I stop?” Dillon asked, as she started to remove Ashley’s

towel. She bent over and licked Ashley’s cleavage slowly. “I’ll stop if you

want me too.”

“No.” Ashley said breathless. “Don’t ever stop, Spit.”

After Ashley left for work, Dillon went into the kitchen. She looked

into the fridge. It was pretty well empty. She had a lot to do today. She

stopped and smiled. She could have never imagined that she would have

met her soul mate, fall in love, and now have her move in. She knew that

most would think that they were moving way too fast. Dillon knew in

her heart that Ashley was the one. Th

e only one! Th

ings were falling

into place and it felt good. Th

ere was no turning back now - only going

forward! By tonight Ashley would be home, in their home. Dillon looked

at the clock. “Better get your ass in gear McCabe.” She told herself.

* * *

Ashley was thrilled that it was six o clock. She was tired of fielding

questions from Rhonda about what happened with Dillon. Although

Ashley trusted Rhonda, she always kept her personal life inside the

home. Even when she was with Gia. Ugh! Ashley thought. She wasn’t

looking forward to facing Gia. She knew it had to be done. Ashley’s cell

phone rang, startling her.

“Hello.” She said softly.

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“Is this that sexy, gorgeous, doctor who works at Mount West

L.A.?”

Ashley giggled. “Why, yes it is. How can I help you?”

“Well, you see Doc, I met the most beautiful woman about fi ve weeks

ago.”

“Oh?” Ashley smiled.

“And now it’s like............ I can’t even explain it, I just want to be with

her. She makes my heart race, and I break out in a sweat. I can’t breathe.

I think I may even need mouth to mouth.”

“I see. Well, you’re in luck. I do make house calls.”

“You do?”

“Yes. Just make sure all of your clothes are off when I get there.........

ya nut!” Ashley laughed.

“How was your day?”

“Long. How was yours?”

“Well, most of it was spent missing you, but I did manage to get

some stuff done.”

“I missed you too, Spit.”

“Are you on your way?” Dillon asked.

“To the condo, yes.”

“You sure you don’t want me to meet you?”

“No, I need to do this on my own.”

“I understand.”

“Th

ank you.”

“You can thank me later.”

“Trust me, I plan to, and for a very long time to come.” Ashley

smiled.

“I look forward to it.”

“Me too. Oh! I almost forgot. Rhonda wants us to come over for a

BBQ on Saturday. And Mom and Dad called. You’re in! Daddy loves

you!”

“Your folks are great.”

“Ok, sweetie, I’m here. Oh, did you want me to pick dinner up?”

“Nope it’s waiting for you when you get here.” Dillon said.

“I won’t be long.”

“Call if you need me.” Dillon off ered

I will. I love you, Dillon McCabe.”

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“You too, Doc.”

Ashley hung up the phone. She took a deep breath and got out of

the car. She looked around and didn’t see Gia’s truck. Maybe she would

luck out.

She unlocked the door and walked into the condo. It felt strange.

Like it was never her home.

“Hello? Gia?” She looked around. Nothing.

She walked into the kitchen. Everything was hers, but she didn’t

want it. Th

e past needed to stay right where it was. She took a few

of her favorite coff ee mugs and the cereal bowl that belonged to her

grandmother. She remembered how Gia would always tease her about

the bowl and pretend to drop it. She went around grabbing a few knick-

knacks here and there. She went to her bedroom and unlocked it. Pity

she had to keep it locked now, but she didn’t trust Gia or the slime that

followed her home.

She found an empty gym bag and started to put her things in it.

She heard the front door open. She knew who it was.

“Hey Ash? Is that you?” Gia’s voice came from the front of the

condo.

“Yeah, I’m back here.” Ashley yelled.

Gia dropped her things and walked back to Ashley’s bedroom. “Hey,

what’s up?” Gia said looking around.

“Sit down. I need to talk to you.”

Gia took a seat on the edge of the bed.

“I’m moving,” Ashley got out. She looked Gia in the eye.

Gia chuckled. “You’re joking, right?”

“No, Gia, I’m not.”

Gia searched Ashley’s eyes. She could tell she was serious. “Why?”

“Why? Gia come on, our whole relationship was a farce.”

“Gee thanks.” She looked at her.

“You know what I mean. Sex isn’t the foundation of a relationship.”

“But I thought you and I could try again, Ash. I can change.”

“No. Th

ere is no way we could ever go back.”

“Where are you moving to? Who with, that Saliva chick?”

“Gia! Her name is Dillon. And yes, I’m moving in with her.”

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Tears started to well up in Gia’s eyes. Ashley was stunned. She had

never seen Gia cry before. She didn’t know if this was the real thing or

just another ploy.

“She’s my soul mate and I am very much in love with her.”

“From one weekend?” Gia shot back.

“Gia, I knew it from the second our eyes met. We belong together.”

“What about the condo?” Gia asked wiping tears from her cheek.

I don’t want it. I’ll sign it over to you. I’m only taking what I need,

the rest is yours.”

Th

ey looked at one another. Ashley just kept thinking of Dillon, and

the fact that she would be waiting for her when she got home.

Gia tried to kiss Ashley one last time. Ashley kissed her on the

cheek.

“What can I say?” Gia looked at Ashley.

“Nothing.”

Gia looked around. “Well then, good luck, Ashley.” Tears were now

streaming from her face. “I gotta go.” She left Ashley’s room and ran into

hers. She slammed the door.

Ashley took a deep breath. Tears were now coming down her cheeks

as well. She didn’t think Gia would have taken it this way. She continued

to pack the things she wanted and left the rest of her old life there at 4C.

* * *

Dillon heard Ashley’s car pull up. Her heart started to race. This was the

day that would officially mark the start of their lives as partners together.

There was no turning back now. A smile came across Dillon’s face. She

grabbed the single rose and a white jewelry box off the table. She ran to

the door hiding the rose and box behind her back. She opened the door

for Ashley, who stepped inside. Dillon could tell at once that Ashley had

been crying.

“Welcome home, Doc.” Dillon smiled as she gave the rose to

Ashley.

“Th

anks, sweetie.” Ashley looked at Dillon and fell into her arms.

“Just hold me please.”

“Forever.” She put her strong arms around her.

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Ashley devoured Dillon’s essence. She focused on her heart beating.

Th

ey just needed time to be.

Ashley relaxed in her lover’s arms. She took a deep breath.

“You ok?” Dillon fi nally broke the silence.

“I am now.” Ashley snuggled closer.

“Dinner’s ready if you’re hungry.”

“No, not really.” Ashley looked into Dillon’s eyes. “At least not for

dinner.” She slowly smiled at Dillon. She took her by the hand and led

her into the bedroom.

Dillon kissed her as she slowly peeled off Ashley’s clothes. She kissed

her and slowly moved her to the bed. Ashley watched, her eyes fi xed on

Dillon’s,

Dillon reached down and started to stroke the inside of Ashley’s

thighs. Ashley shivered with delight as Dillon’s strong hand moved over

her.

Dillon quickly found Ashley’s swollen clit. Ashley arched her back

as Dillon teased Ashley, lightly caressing her wetness.

Ashley wanted her lover deep inside her. She wanted to know that

Dillon loved no one but her, and that there would never be another.

“Pleaseeee,” was all that Ashley could get out. Her breathing was

becoming shallow as the volcano deep within her started to reach the

boiling point.

Dillon knew what Ashley wanted. She stroked down on Ashley once

more and went inside her lover.

Ashley was ready to explode.

Dillon moved deep inside... She could tell Ashley was on the verge

of release.

She pulled out a bit, then went in teasing Ashley. “I’m here baby,

come to me,” she whispered in her ear.

Ashley moaned as Dillon worked her body into a screaming

frenzy.

Ashley could no longer hold back the eruption that came from

within, her body stuttering as Dillon stayed inside her, their eyes, still

fi xed on one another.

Dillon lay there holding Ashley.

Ashley turned to her lover and kissed her. “I love you so much.”

“You too, Doc.”

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“I’m so glad to be here in your arms.”

“Me too. ...........Do you want to talk about it?”

“It was just harder than I thought. “ Ashley fi ngered Dillon’s chin.

Ashley told Dillon what happened, fi nally getting it off her chest

and letting it go.

Dillon made sure she listened to Ashley. She wanted to hear every

word. Th

is time Ashley spoke of Gia diff erently... she truly was the

past.

When Ashley fi nished, Dillon presented her with the little white

box with red satin ribbon.

“For me?” Ashley smiled.

“Yep.” Dillon smiled.

She watched as Ashley fi ngered the black pearl necklace that Dillon

had given her. Since that night under the Milky Way, she never took it

off . Ashley untied the ribbon and opened the box. Th

ere, inside, was a

key. She looked at Dillon.

“It’s a key to the house,..........our home.”

Ashley smiled and kissed Dillon.

Th

ey lay there in each other’s arms and drifted off into dreams of

their future yet to come.

* * *

Dillon slowly rolled over. Yep, she was still there. She smiled. She softly

reached for Ashley’s hair and gently stroked it.

“I love it when you do that.”

Dillon smiled; she moved up closer to Ashley and spooned her.

“I love it even more when you do that.”

Dillon chuckled softly. “Did I wake you?”

“No. I couldn’t sleep.”

“Why not?”

“I guess I’m too excited. I just can’t believe I’m actually here in your

bed.”

“Our bed. You know, I think we could be the poster children for

uhaulin’”

Ashley laughed. “I know. To most people it would seem that way, but

it feels diff erent.” She turned to face Dillon. “Doesn’t it?”

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“Way diff erent. I couldn’t ever have imagined I would fi nd the one.”

“I know. I knew it when I walked into your room.”

“When I opened my eyes and saw yours, it was like something inside

me just relaxed. It’s hard to explain. I just felt like I was at home.” She

kissed Ashley. “I have a surprise for you too.”

“You do?” Ashley sat up and grinned

“Yep.” Dillon jumped up and quickly ran into the other room.

“Close your eyes!” She yelled from the hallway.”

Ashley chuckled. She loved every minute she spent with Dillon.

“Are they closed?”

“Yes.”

Dillon looked around the doorway. “No peeking.”

“I’m not.”

Dillon quickly jumped back on the bed.

“Can I open them now?”

“Yes.”

Ashley opened her eyes and Dillon sat holding a guitar. She

strummed it.

“What’s this?”

“A guitar.”

“I know that silly.”

“More importantly, it’s your guitar.” Dillon grinned.

“It is?”

“I had your folks send it down.” She handed it to Ashley. “Play

something.”

“I don’t…”

“Please?”

Ashley strummed a few cords, then started to play a melody. She

suddenly stopped.

“What’s wrong?”

“Th

at’s all there is. I started to write it for…” She sat the guitar down

and pulled Dillon to her. “I love you so much for doing this for me.”

“I hope you fi nish that song, Doc.”

“Maybe one day. Actually, Spit, there is something I would like to

do today.”

“Name it.”

“Go for a ride.”

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“What kind of ride? Horseback?”

“No…”

Dillon grinned, “Ohhhh. You mean that kind of ride.” She raised

her eyebrow. “I so didn’t know you were like this Doc. I have to say it’s a

little bit of a turn-on.”

Ashley looked at Dillon.

Th

e shade of red Dillon was now turning showed Ashley that she

wasn’t. Dillon was embarrassed. “I was joking.”

“Uh huh.”

“Couldn’t you tell? Dillon started to become uncomfortable.

Ashley kissed her long and hard. “I can take that ride anytime. Take

me on your motorcycle.”

“Are you serious?”

“Yes.”

“I thought you hated my bike.”

“I don’t hate it. Just maybe a little jealous of it.”

“You? Jealous of my bike?” She laughed, “Th

is I gotta hear! Why?”

“Just how you throw your leg over and settle in to the seat.”

Dillon grinned; she kissed Ashley’s neck. “Tell me more.”

Ashley giggled as Dillon kept nibbling at her ear and down her neck.

“Th

e way you grip those handlebars and start it up.”

“Th

at makes you jealous?”

“It’s just the relationship you have with it.”

“You’re right. I love my bike. But not half as much as I love you!”

“So you’ll take me?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“Why not?” Ashley sat up and looked at Dillon.

“I don’t think you’d like it.”

“Stop joking.” Ashley lightly pushed Dillon.

“I’m not. It would mess up your hair.”

“I’d wear a helmet.”

“Oh, helmet hair, even worse.”

“Spit!” What is going on here? It sounds like you’re trying to avoid

taking me out on your bike.”

“No, it’s not that.”

“Th

en what is it?”

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Dillon looked in Ashley’s eyes. She remembered the promise she

made to her father. She wouldn’t take Ashley on the motorcycle. She

sighed.

“What? Tell me Dillon, please?”

“Doc, I promised your father that I wouldn’t take you on my bike.”

“You promised him? When?”

“Th

e day I met your folks. He was grilling me, and he made me

promise that I wouldn’t take you on my bike.”

Ashley looked at Dillon with her mouth open.

“I swear, Doc, he did.”

“No, I believe you, I just can’t believe he would do that to you.”

Dillon kissed Ashley. “I’m sure glad that’s settled. So what do you

want to do today?”

“Ride your bike.”

Dillon rolled her eyes. “Didn’t we just go over this?”

“Th

ere’s something you should know about me.”

“Uh oh.”

“I don’t let anyone, anyone, tell me what to do.”

“Yeah, but this is your father.”

Ashley stared at Dillon

“And he – “

She continued to stare.

Dillon looked at the fi re that was coming to Ashley’s eyes. She slowly

pulled back the covers and got out of bed. “I’ll meet you in the garage.”

* * *

“No it’s three down and one up.” Dillon rolled her eyes.

“OK, OK. Don’t get all crazy on me.” Ashley looked frustrated as

she sat on Dillon’s bike.

“Doc, these are the gears. Like a stick shift.”

“I know. I got it. One down and three up.”

Dillon put her hand over her face. She took a deep breath and

exhaled. She looked at Ashley and smiled. “Sweetie, why don’t I drive

till you get the hang of it?”

“No! I don’t want to be on the back of your bike! What’s next a t-shirt

that says Honk if the Bitch Falls Off ?”

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Spitfi re

Dillon laughed. She smiled at Ashley. She could tell she was in for

it with this one! She had a lot of spunk backed with a whole lot of pride.

She slid on behind Ashley, and moved up close. She put her hands on

Ashley’s thighs. “I think I can show you better this way.” She said.

Ashley loved having Dillon so close to her. She arched her back and

started to rub up against Dillon’s chest.

“Umm, ok, now it’s three down,” she moved her hand to the inside of

Ashley’s thigh and pushed on it three times, “And one up.” She squeezed.

“You think you got it?”

“Maybe you should show me one more time.” Ashley said, breathing

a bit more heavily.

“Th

ree down.” She pressed, “And one.”

Ashley took Dillon’s hand and moved it to her crotch.

Dillon felt the enormous rush of heat come over her.

“Like this?” Ashley started to rhythmically rub up against Dillon’s

hand.

“Oh yeah, umm, that’s good.” Dillon took her free hand and started

to caress Ashley’s breast.

Ashley quickly got off the bike and got back on, now facing Dillon.

She grabbed her and kissed her hard. She quickly started to unbutton

her jeans.

“We should go back inside.” Dillon said, in between kisses.

“Haven’t you ever done it on your bike?”

“No, can’t say that I have.” Dillon leaned Ashley back onto the gas

tank. She slowly put her hand into Ashley’s jeans,

107

7

2 YEARS LATER.............................

Ashley had taken the day off . She wished Dillon had too. It was a

big adjustment for Ashley to be with a fi refi ghter. Th

eir schedules were

sporadic. She would be on for three days and off for four. Th

ey could be

out having dinner and Dillon would have to leave. Ashley hated when

Dillon was away. She looked forward to the days when she came home

and found Dillon waiting for her. She tried to push that out of her

thoughts! Today was their second anniversary. Ashley had planned a

wonderful meal, and wanted to talk to Dillon. She went to the doctor’s

and brought back all of the information. She and Dillon talked last year

about starting a family. Ashley now wanted to put that plan into motion.

She knew that she and Dillon would be together forever. Now it just

seemed like the right thing to do.

Ashley looked at her watch. Dillon had called while she was out and

said she would be late. She was at a gas station fi re and it was a mess.

She sat down in the living room and took out one of the pamphlets on

artifi cial insemination. She knew the deal, pick a donor, go to the clinic,

then whip out the turkey baster and..... either you’re pregnant or not. Th

e

doctor did tell Ashley there were other ways, including doing it in your

home. She liked that idea.

She heard the door unlock and Dillon stepped in. She smelled like

gas and smoke She was carrying a bouquet of yellow roses.

“Happy Anniversary, Baby.” Dillon grinned.

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Spitfi re

“Happy Anniversary, Dillon.” Ashley took the roses. She tried to kiss

Dillon but the fumes were intoxicating.

“Pee-ew.”

“I showered at the station twice. Let me clean up again and I’ll be

right out.” Dillon smiled, “unless you care to join me?”

Ashley smiled. She was so happy and still very much in love with

Dillon. “You go get cleaned up and I’ll fi nish dinner. You must be

starving.”

“Yeah, I am.” Dillon said.

While Dillon showered, Ashley made a carpet picnic in front of the

fi replace.

Dillon came out in her sweat pants and t-shirt. “Mmm. Smells

good.” She smiled. “And the food doesn’t look bad either.”

Th

ey laughed.

Dillon took Ashley in her arms. “Th

ank you, for two wonderful

years.”

“Th

ank you, too.” She kissed Dillon. “Th

e food is getting cold.”

“Maybe, but other things here are just heating up.” Dillon smiled at

Ashley.

Th

ey kissed again. Th

is time Ashley broke it off . “C’mon, I’m

starved.”

Dillon took a seat on the fl oor next to the coff ee table. She leaned

against the couch. Ashley handed her a plate. Chicken, green beans,

garlic mashed potatoes.

Dillon was in heaven. She wolfed down her meal and went back for

seconds. She could tell that Ashley was anxious about something.

“How was work today?” Dillon asked.

“I decided not to go in.”

“You ok?” Dillon asked.

“Yes, I’m perfect.”

“Just needed the day off ?”

“Yeah, something like that.” Ashley grinned. She grabbed her guitar

from the side of the couch.

Dillon grinned. “You?”

Ashley nodded. “You’re the reason I could fi nish it. So that’s what

it’s called. ‘You’re the Reason’.”

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Dillon watched, mesmerized as Ashley played and sang the beautiful

words. Tears fi lled her eyes.

Ashley fi nished. Th

ey stared at one another.

“Doc…” Dillon dried her eyes. She kissed Ashley. “I…I..don’t know

what to say…you’re amazing.”

“I love you.” Ashley smiled. “Time for presents.”

“Th

ere’s more?”

Ashley reached behind the pillows on the couch and pulled out a

gift-wrapped box. She sat it in front of Dillon.

Dillon grinned. She loved presents. She sat on the couch next to

Ashley.

Ashley loved to watch Dillon open presents. She ripped through the

wrapping like a little kid on Christmas morning.

Dillon tore through the wrapping. It was the watch she had been

eyeing for months. “Oh, Doc.” She smiled at Ashley. “ I can’t believe you

found a Lucky Dog. It’s awesome!” She kissed Ashley. “And so are you.”

She opened the box and put it on.

“It almost took an act of God, but I got hold of the artist, and she

had one left.” Ashley said.

“Hey it fi ts!” Dillon held her arm up proudly. She kissed Ashley

again. She reached into her pocket and pulled out a box. She looked at

Ashley. “I didn’t know what to get you. What do you get the woman that

has given you one hundred percent happiness for two years now? Doc, I

never thought I could love anyone to the capacity I love you, every day.

When I look into those beautiful blue eyes, you make me fall deeper.”

She got down on one knee. “Doc, I want to be with you, forever.” She

opened the box.

Ashley gasped. To her surprise, it was a ring set. She had wanted

rings for the longest time, but Dillon kept putting it off .

“Will you marry me?” Dillon picked up the ring for Ashley and

placed it on her ring fi nger.

Tears started to fall from Ashley’s eyes as she looked at the beautiful

platinum and diamond wedding band.

“I love you.” Dillon choked out.

Ashley grabbed Dillon and kissed her. “I’m so lucky to have you,

Dillon.” She picked up the matching band and took Dillon’s hand.

“Dillon McCabe, it is an honor to be loved by you. You are my heart,

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Spitfi re

and you complete me. I never thought it was possible to be loved like

you love me. I cherish you and our love every day, and when I look into

those big brown eyes of yours, it reminds me of our commitment and

that we’ll be together forever.” Ashley slid the ring on Dillon’s fi nger. “It

would be an honor to be your wife.” She kissed Dillon long and hard. She

remembered her other surprise. “Oh, I forgot. Th

ere’s something else.”

“Boy, I’ll say.” Dillon took Ashley into her arms and nuzzled her

neck.

Ashley giggled as she freed herself from Dillon’s tight embrace.

She pulled some papers from the couch.

Dillon laughed. “What else you got hiding in there?” She leaned back

against the couch and put her legs up. Ashley crawled onto her lap.

“I went to the doctor’s today.”

“Babe, are you sure you’re ok?” Dillon asked.

“Yes, I’m fi ne. In fact, better than fi ne.” Ashley smiled.

“Th

en, what’s up?” Dillon looked confused.

“Spit........... let’s have a baby!”

Dillon froze. A baby? Dillon’s mind raced. Th

ey had talked about

kids in the future when they fi rst met, but she never thought it would

ever come to be. “A baby?” Dillon looked at Ashley.

“Spit. I got checked out at the doctor’s and she said I’m healthy. Look.

I got all the information on artifi cial insemination. We just have to pick

the donor, we bring the sperm back here, we make love and-“

“Hold it, hold it, Doc!” Dillon interrupted. “A baby? Are you sure?”

She looked at Ashley.

“Yes, a baby. I’m positive.......... you don’t.....”

“No, it’s not that. I just....” Dillon looked around.

“What sweetie?” Ashley caressed Dillon’s cheek.

“I.......... just don’t know...if I would make a...good parent.”

“Oh Spit, you’ll make a wonderful parent. I knew it when you wanted

to adopt Ben. You’re warm, and kind, and a big kid yourself. Our baby

will be raised in a house of love by two mothers that have so much to

give.”

Dillon smiled. Ashley was right. Still, there were other things. “Doc,

there’s a lot to consider. You have to quit working, we would need a bigger

place,……“

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Ashley put her fi nger to Dillon’s lips. “I can work while I’m pregnant,

and after the baby’s born. I’ll have a few weeks off .”

“A few weeks? I don’t want to leave my child with some total nut case

while we’re at work. One of us needs to be here.”

“I’ll quit.” Ashley said.

“Just like that?” Dillon looked at her.

“Yes.” Ashley looked back.

Dillon took Ashley back into her embrace. Th

ere was no way she

was going to start a fi ght.

“Doc, I’m all for a baby. A little scared, but all for it. I know you love

what you do. We’ll work something out. Together.”

Ashley kissed her fi refi ghter. “We’ll have nine months to fi gure it

out.”

“OK, when do we start?” Dillon grinned.

“Well, I have this for us to read.” She reached back behind the couch

and pulled out a notebook and more paperwork.

Dillon laughed. “Are you going to pull the baby out of there next?”

Ashley laughed and climbed back onto Dillon’s lap. For hours they

read all the information Ashley brought home. Th

ey looked through the

book of donors. Ashley said she wanted the baby to look like Dillon.

“Well?” Ashley asked. “I like number 161.”

“Yeah, he’s ok.” Dillon fl ipped the pages. “What about 211?” She

read: “Firefi ghter, 6’3” 240, BA, into sports, the outdoors, and music.

No family history of disease, no mental illnes in his family tree. What

do you think?”

Ashley took the book and tossed it to the ground. “I think we have

a winner.” She kissed Dillon passionately.

Dillon scooped Ashley into her arms and stood up. “Let’s go

practice.”

Ashley giggled as Dillon carried her to the bedroom.

112

8

The timer was ticking as Ashley and Dillon waited for the results of the

in-home pregnancy test. Dillon was a wreck. They had been trying for

four months to get pregnant, but it just didn’t happen. Dillon looked for

a new home to keep her mind off things.

Ashley was beginning to give up hope. Maybe having the miscarriage

when she was with Gia screwed up her insides? Th

e doctor assured her

that she was in perfect health. She wanted to have this baby for Dillon

in the worst way. She could tell how discouraged Dillon became every

time they didn’t conceive.

Both sat on the edge of the bed, waiting. Dillon took Ashley’s hand

as tears began to fall.

“Aww c’mon, Doc, don’t cry.” Dillon put her arm around Ashley.

“I have to be pregnant. I just have to be!” She started to cry harder.

Dillon embraced her. “Hey, now, easy. It’s alright.” She held Ashley

tight.

“Spit, we’ve been trying for months now! I don’t know what’s wrong

with me.”

“Th

ere’s nothing wrong with you. Remember, the doctor said it was

hit and miss with this.”

“I just don’t want you to hate me.” Ashley blurted out.

“Hate you? I could never hate you.”

“But what if I can’t get pregnant?”

“Th

en we’ll buy a dog.”

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Ashley laughed a little.

“We can always adopt. Don’t you see? It’s all about us. We’re a team.

I would love for us to have a baby, but you’re the most important part of

my life.” She wiped the tears from Ashley’s face.

Th

e timer went off . Th

ey stared at each other.

“Spit.........I can’t...........” Ashley whispered.

Dillon kissed her again and stood up. She walked into the bathroom.

She prayed that the test was positive. She couldn’t handle Ashley going

through this anymore. She slowly removed the stick and looked at it.

Ashley held her breath as she waited for Dillon.

“Oh, hell yeah!” Dillon screamed as she came out of the bathroom

waving the stick. “Hot damn, Doc, you did it!” She pulled Ashley to her

and kissed her.

“Are you sure?” Ashley was stunned.

“Take a look at the stick! Positivo!”

Ashley smiled as she took the stick from Dillon. “You think it’s

right?”

“Honey, yes, I think it’s right. You got my baby in there!” Dillon

leaned down and kissed Ashley’s stomach. “Hi baby, it’s me, Spit!”

Ashley laughed.

“Hey we need to call your folks.” Dillon smiled as she picked up the

phone.

“No, wait, Spit. Don’t.”

“What?”

“I just want to make sure, cause of what happened before.” She

looked at Dillon. “I’ll go see Doctor Brannagan tomorrow.”

“We’ll both go.” Dillon said with a reassuring smile. She took Ashley

in her arms. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too.” She settled into her lover’s embrace. “Will you hold

me for awhile?”

“Forever, Doc. Forever.”

* * *

Dillon’s leg bounced rapidly as she and Ashley waited in the reception

area. It was crowded and Dr. Brannagan squeezed them in for a test. She

knew what a toll this was taking on both Dillon and Ashley.

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Spitfi re

Ashley kept putting her hand on Dillon’s knee. “You’re making me

sick. Please stop doing that.” She whispered.

“Sick? See you must be pregnant, Doc. You’re having sickness.”

“Ms. Wilkerson? Th

e doctor will see you now,” the nurse called

out.

Dillon jumped up, and Ashley grabbed her hand.

“Come on babe, it’ll be ok.” Dillon smiled.

Th

ey walked into the doctor’s offi

ce. Ashley sat while Dillon paced.

Her heart was racing. She kept thinking of all the things they still needed

to do. She wanted a big home with a yard, a swingset, and a dog. Dillon

also thought about selling her bike and buying a car. She had yet to see

a child car seat on the back of a bike.

“Dillon, will you sit down please. You’re making me nervous.”

Dillon took a seat next to Ashley. “What’s taking so long?” She

looked at her watch.

“I know it seems like forever. Are you scared?”

“Excited.” She winked at Ashley. “We’re having a baby. I can feel it.

You?”

“Just scared it will be another false positive.”

Th

ey both looked at each other as Doctor Branagan came in. She

was carrying Ashley’s chart.

“Well hello ladies.” She nodded to Ashley and Dillon.

She was so business like, Ashley was starting to feel uneasy. She took

Dillon’s hand.

“Your pregnancy test came back.” She opened the fi le and read.

“Congratulations. You’re pregnant.” She smiled.

Alright!” Dillon yelled. She kissed Ashley on the cheek.

“How far along?” Ashley asked.

“About eight weeks.”

Ashley looked at Dillon. “How can that be?”

“It happens sometimes. False positive readings, and all the while,

you are.”

“Is it a boy or a girl?” Dillon asked.

Th

e doctor laughed. “I’m good Dillon, but I’m not that good. We

will have an ultra sound in a few weeks.” She looked in the chart. “Th

is

should put your due date around early January.”

Dillon’s face went blank.

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“Dillon?”

“We’re having a baby, Doc.” She smiled at Ashley. “Th

ank you, Dr.

B, you’re a miracle worker” Dillon shook the doctor’s hand.

“It’s my pleasure, but I can’t take all the credit.” Th

e doctor smiled.

“You both had a little something to do with it. If you’ll excuse me.”

“Th

ank you.” Dillon and Ashley said in unison.

Th

e doctor smiled and walked out.

“Wow.” Dillon smiled.

“We did it! We’re going to have a baby!”

Th

e two screamed with delight. Ashley kissed Dillon.

* * *

Dillon unlocked the door and opened it for Ashley. She stepped in and

waited for Dillon to lock up. She fell into Dillon’s strong arms.

“I am sooo happy sweetie.” She smiled.

“Me too, Doc. Th

is will be awesome. Our own family.”

“Can we talk about something?” Ashley asked.

“Of course.”

Ashley was about to tell Dillon what was on her mind when the

phone rang.

“Better get that.” Ashley said.

“No, the machine will pick it up. Talk to me.”

“It’s ok, it can wait.” Ashley ran to the phone and picked it up. “Hello.

Hi mom, how are you?”

“Hi dear,” the happy familiar voice said on the other end.

“Mom, where’s Daddy?”

“He’s right here.” Mary said.

“Tell him to get on the other phone. We’re gonna get on speaker

phone.” Dillon pushed the button.

“Hello?” Bill said.

“Hi, Daddy. Dillon and I are on speakerphone.”

“Hey Spit, how are you?” Bill asked.

“Fabulous, Dad, and you?”

“Doing good, thanks.”

“Hello, Dillon dear.” Mary chimed in.

“Hi, Mom.” Dillon smiled. She loved talking with Ashley’s parents.

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Spitfi re

“Guess what?” Ashley asked excitedly.

“What Sweetie?” Bill asked.

“We’re having a baby!” Dillon and Ashley screamed into the

phone.

“What? Are you sure?” Bill asked.

“Oh my heavens. For real?” Mary said.

“Yes! Yes!” Ashley said. “We’re eight weeks.”

“Oh my Lord. I’m gonna be a grandmother.”

“Yes you are!” Dillon chuckled.

“Is it a boy or a girl?” Bill asked.

“We don’t know yet. We have to get an ultrasound in a few weeks.”

“I bet it’s a girl.” Mary said.

“Could be a boy too. Chip off the ol’ block.” Bill grinned.

Dillon’s pager went off . She looked down and saw the 911.”Sorry

Mom and Dad. I have to run. Love to you both.”

She ran into the other room and grabbed her helmet. She walked

back into the living room as Ashley was just hanging up.

“I have to go. It’s a 911 call.” She kissed Ashley long and tenderly. “I

love you, Doc.” She smiled and leaned down to Ashley’s stomach. “I love

you too, baby.” She kissed Ashley stomach.

Ashley looked into Dillon’s eyes. She didn’t want her to go. “Be safe

Dillon.” She tried to hold back the tears. “I love you.”

“I’ll be home soon. Tomorrow we’ll start looking for a new home, and

we’ll go buy a bunch of baby things.” She kissed Ashley again.

Ashley watched as Dillon mounted her bike and drove off . Tears

came easy to her. She hated this! She hated Dillon’s job. It scared her. It

was too hard to sit around and wait to see if this would be the day she

didn’t come home. Ashley couldn’t bare the thought of raising this child

by herself. She had decided that when they got pregnant she would ask

Dillon to retire from the department and fi nd another job. It was a hard

decision, but Ashley knew she had to ask Dillon to make it. Ashley lay

down on the couch and picked up the phone. She dialed the hospital’s

number. She needed to talk to Rhonda.

* * *

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A massive barricade was in place when the engine rolled on the

scene. From the information they received, they knew it was a meth

lab. A woman from inside the house called 911 when she noticed her

boyfriend’s violent behavior getting worse. Th

ere were two other men

inside, a woman and two children. Th

ere were also enough chemicals

throughout the house to blow up the neighborhood. Now the crazy

man was running around with a lighter in one hand and a machete in

the other.

Dillon and Jack suited up and stood by. Unless there was a fi re or a

rescue, it was all in the police department’s hands. Th

ey had the SWAT

unit placed around the house.

“It’s a waiting game now.” Jack looked at Dillon.

“I hate these calls when there are kids inside.” Dillon shook her

head.

“Th

is is gonna be a long one.” Jack said.

Dillon looked at her watch. “I need to get back to Ashley.” She

said.

“She ok?’ Jack asked

“Crap! Man, I didn’t tell you. We’re gonna have a baby.” She

grinned.

“Oh man, that’s great news, Spit! Congrats to you both.” Jack

smiled.

“Th

anks,” was all Dillon could get out when the explosion happened.

Th

e force knocked Dillon and Jack to the ground.

Dillon turned on her air pack, and grabbed her pike pole. She and

Jack ran to the back of the house. Two women came running out of the

house screaming,

“My babies! Save my babies!” She saw Dillon and ran to her. “Please,

somebody, save my babies!”

Dillon moved quickly into the house, not waiting to see if Jack followed

her in. Th

e smoke was becoming thick and black. More chemicals were

starting smaller explosions throughout the house. She saw two bodies

lying in the room. She moved around quickly, dodging fl ying debris, not

sticking with the procedures she had been taught.

She heard a scream from the other room and ran to it. Th

ere in front

of her were the two children, coughing and crying. A man was standing

in a pair of boxer shorts between the children, holding a machete.

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Spitfi re

“I ain’t going to prison!” he yelled at Dillon.

“I ain’t a cop!” she yelled back. “Let the kids go!”

“I told you, I ain’t going to prison!”

“Look pal, this place is ready to come down on your head. I don’t care

if you want to stay here or not! Let the kids go!”

He stood, staring at Dillon. “Take em’ and get the fuck out!” He

yelled.

Another explosion went off as part of the wall collapsed. Th

e children

screamed louder, panic overcoming them.

Dillon took a step forward and took one of the kids safely in her

arms. She felt the burn, then the pain. It was a sharp deliberate pain.

She looked down to see that the machete had sliced through her jacket

and blood was streaming out of the cut on her forearm. She scooped the

other child up and headed out. As she turned the corner to head for the

door, part of the roof collapsed behind her. She fell to the ground.

“C’mon kids.” Dillon yelled as she regained her footing and made

it to the door. She passed the kids off to waiting EMTs and fell to the

ground.

Jack and Eric came rushing to her and dragged her back, away from

the house.

“Anyone else in there?” Jack asked.

“Not anyone who’s alive.” Dillon coughed. Jack gave the all clear as

the fi re department started their assault on the home.

Eric helped Dillon out of her jacket and promptly cut her sleeve away.

“Hey, that’s a nice one, Spit.”

“You know me Eric, I’m your job security.” Dillon tried to make light

of her injury.

“Well my friend, it looks like you get to go for a ride. You need to

be sewn up.”

Jack came back over and looked at Dillon’s arm.

“I’ll live.” Dillon smirked. “How are the kids?”

“A lot of smoke and they’re scared, but they’ll be fi ne.”

“Let’s get you to the hospital.”

“I’m OK, Eric.” Dillon argued.

Jack looked at Dillon. “Spit, shut up and get your ass in the

ambulance.”

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Dillon knew that when Jack gave her the look, it was no use.Besides,

it was department policy.

Eric and his partner got her on a stretcher and sat her upright. She

was angry. She needed to get back to Ashley.

“I’ll come by and pick you up,” Jack yelled to her as they wheeled her

around the side of the house. Th

e crew had the fi re under containment.

As they wheeled Dillon to the ambulance, camera crews and news media

tried to get past the police barricades to get to Dillon. She wasn’t thrilled

to see photographers snapping photos of her as she lay on the stretcher.

Dillon’s captain led the Police Chief over. “McCabe, that was some fi ne

work you did in there, saving those kids.” Her Captain shook her hand.

If he only knew that she didn’t follow procedure, she would be getting

suspended, not commended. “Th

ank you, sir.” Dillon grinned.

“Ms. McCabe. Did you see any of these men inside?” Th

e Police

Chief held up three photos.

Dillon took one of them. “Yeah, that’s the guy who cut me.”

“Cut you?” Th

e Police Chief asked.

“Yeah, I went in and found the kids in the back room with this guy.

He had a machete in his hand.”

“Did he say anything to you?”

“I told him to let the kids go. All he kept saying was that he wasn’t

going back to prison. He said it a couple of times. He fi nally said to take

the kids. When I reached for one of them, he took a swipe at me. He

wasn’t coming out, sir, so I left with the kids. I couldn’t go back in there.

Th

e place was disintegrating. Th

ere were two other dead bodies in there,

both male. It was probably them.”

“Th

ank you for your time Ms. McCabe,” the Police Chief said, and

walked away. Dillon’s Captain stayed behind. “McCabe, when you’re

felling better, I want you to see me. We need to talk.”

Dillon wasn’t sure, but she thought she saw a smile crack the face of

her Captain.

Eric and his partner lifted the gurney into the ambulance and they

drove off .

* * *

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Spitfi re

Ashley turned the T.V. off . She saw the breaking news story and

knew that Spit’s crew must have been the one called to the scene. She

started having bad cramping feelings. She knew the feeling. She had had

it when she miscarried.

“Th

ere’s no way I’m losing this baby,” she said out loud. She lay on the

couch and did some deep breathing exercises. Th

e cramping subsided.

Th

e door unlocked and Dillon entered. She saw Ashley on the

couch.

“Doc. You should be in bed.”

Ashley looked at Dillon, her arm in a sling, blood on her shirt.

“Oh my God, Spit, you’re hurt.” Ashley got up from the couch.

Dillon put her arm around Ashley. “I’m fi ne babe, but it looks like I

get a few days off .”

“What happened?”

“Just a little nick. I’ll be OK if you just stay close to me.” She hugged

Ashley tighter.

Ashley thought it best not to worry Dillon about her cramping.

“I love you so much Doc. And our baby.” Dillon kissed Ashley.

“I love you too. Come on, lets get you out of theoe clothes and into

the shower.”

Th

ey worked slowly together as Dillon told Ashley what happened.

Th

ey lay in bed together. Dillon on her back, Ashley tucked in safely

into Dillon’s chest. Neither could sleep. Ashley thought about what

Dillon had told her earlier. What if that crazy man stabbed her in the

heart? Dillon wouldn’t be here, and she wouldn’t be in her arms.

Dillon felt Ashley shake. “Are you cold?” Dillon asked.

“No” was all Ashley could say before she started to cry.

Dillon held her tighter. “Hey now, why the tears?’

“Spit, I can’t do this anymore.” Ashley said through the tears.

Dillon froze. Couldn’t do what? She thought. Was Ashley falling out

of love with her? “Can’t do what?” Dillon choked out.

“I’ve been wanting to tell you for some time now, but I just

couldn’t.”

“Doc.... you can tell me anything. You know that.”

“I’m scared. We’re going to have a baby and all I can think about is

what if you don’t come home? What if there’s a backdraft? What if that

freak tonight killed you? I just can’t take it anymore.”

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Dillon tried to calm Ashley down. “I’m a good fi refi ghter. I know

what I’m doing. I’ll be OK.”

“How can you say that? You don’t know what will happen.”

“What do you want me to say?” Dillon said. “Yes, I could have gotten

killed tonight. But I didn’t. I could just as easily have stepped off the curb

and got hit by a bus. It’s my job, Doc. What do you want me to do?”

“Quit. I want you to quit your job. I want our child to be raised by

both its parents.”

“I’m not going anywhere. I’m too ornery to die. Besides, I still have a

whole lot of love left to give you and our kid.” Dillon kissed Ashley.

“Promise me you’ll think about it? “

“Doc....” Dillon couldn’t talk. Th

e most important person in her life

wanted her to give up the one thing that meant the most to her.

* * *

Dillon heard Ashley get up. She lay there, still not wanting to face her.

She was awake all night thinking about Ashley’s request. She loved

Ashley so much and now with a baby on the way, she could understand

Ashley’s fear. She felt Ashley slide back into bed and come up close.

“Are you awake, sleepy head?” She kissed Dillon’s back.

“Morning,” Dillon said fl atly.

“How’s your arm?”

“You know me, no big deal.”

“OK. So tell me then, why won’t you face me?”

Dillon sighed and rolled onto her back.

Ashley looked at Dillon. She was never one to hide her emotions

very well.

“Th

is is about last night isn’t it?” Ashley asked.

“Doc, I know my job makes you nervous, but I can’t just up and leave

it. It would be like me asking you to quit being a doctor cause you might

catch some strange disease or get stuck by a needle.”

“I know how much it means to you.”

“It’s my life.” Dillon looked at her.

Ashley was silent. Dillon just put her job before her family. It was

hard for Ashley to take. She grabbed Dillon’s sweatshirt and threw it

on. She got out of bed.

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Spitfi re

“I thought we were.” She walked out.

Dillon knew she hurt Ashley’s feelings. “Damn you!” Dillon said to

herself out loud. “What the hell were you thinking, McCabe?” She got

out of bed and went after Ashley.

She saw Ashley sitting in the back yard on their swing. It was Ashley’s

favorite thinking spot, although now her thoughts turned to tears.

Dillon walked over to her and sat down. Ashley fell into Dillon’s lap,

crying uncontrollably.

“Doc....I’m sorry...I’m a jerk...please don’t cry.”

Dillon brought Ashley up to her and wiped the tears from her face.

She sweetly kissed her. “You and the baby are my life.” She kissed her

again. “I’ll look for another job.”

Ashley looked at Dillon. “You will?”

“If it means that much to you, of course I will.”

“Oh Spit!” She kissed Dillon. “I love you so much.”

“You too.” Dillon smiled. She was glad that her decision made Ashley

happy. Too bad it was breaking her heart.

Dillon knew that she, Ashley, and the baby were a team and that,

within the team, compromises would have to be made. It was a fi fty-

fi fty partnership and Dillon and Ashley had made a vow to one another.

Dillon took that vow very seriously.

Th

e rest of the morning Dillon was online looking for new homes,

while Ashley was on the couch going through baby books.

“Hey, how about down by the beach?” Dillon looked at Ashley.

“Honey, that’s way too expensive.”

“We could aff ord Santa Monica.”

“Eww.” Ashley made a face. “I don’t like it down there.”

“Th

ere’s always Malibu.” Dillon off ered.

“Did you win the lottery and forget to tell me?” Ashley looked at

her.

Dillon shook her head and chuckled. “Hey, what about a real move?”

Dillon smiled.

“A what?”

“A real move. Like to Laguna or San Diego.”

“Dillon, you’re crazy. Remember, we work in L.A.”

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“So, there are other hospitals and there are other.............places for

whatever it is that I’ll be doing.” She looked at Ashley. “How about by

your folks?”

“Th

e valley? You want to move to the valley by my parents?”

“Sure it would be great for the baby to know his or her

grandparents.”

“For the baby yes, for me, I’d go crazy.”

Dillon came over and sat next to Ashley. She put her arm around her

and brought Ashley to her chest. Dillon softly stroked her hair.

“Wow. Th

is is all so much, Spit.”

“I know, pretty overwhelming.”

“We’re doing the right thing, aren’t we?” She looked at Dillon.

“I know we are. When our son or daughter gets here, you’ll see all of

your doubts will be erased.”

Ashley smiled. “How come you always know the right thing to

say?”

“I don’t know, it just feels right”. Dillon shrugged. “OK, let’s get back

to house hunting.”

Ashley held Dillon. “Nooo... can’t we just stay here?”

“Doc, there’s no room in here as it is for two.”

“Let’s add up. Or on.” Ashley looked at Dillon.

“Let’s start a new life, the three of us, in a new home. We can fi nd a

home with some land, maybe get some horses. You know we both love

them.”

Ashley stopped to think about it. Th

ey both did love horses and how

great would it be to have them in the backyard. It would be wonderful

for the baby to get into horses.

“Alright, horses it is.”

“Are you sure? I mean this isn’t some hormone enraged decision now

is it?”

“No.” Ashley rolled her eyes.

“Cool...horses it is.”

124

9

For the next three months Dillon and Ashley spent all of their free time

looking at houses. If Dillon liked one, Ashley hated it. If Ashley liked it,

Dillon didn’t.

Th

ey wanted to stay in the area. Ashley was being courted by a

general practitioner to partner with. She could fi nally have a normal

schedule, be home every night, and have the weekends off . He was so

impressed with Ashley’s credits, he was willing to wait until she had the

baby. It was a dream come true.

Dillon looked for other jobs, but nothing could come close to the

rush of being a fi refi ghter. She would talk to Jack about it for hours.

He understood Dillon’s decision, but wasn’t pleased with it. She had

promised Ashley that she would retire from the force after taking the

year off for personal leave. She had accrued enough time that she would

still be paid.

“How about arson investigator?” Jack suggested.

Dillon thought about it. “Something to think about.” Dillon

smiled.

Johnson came up and sat next to Jack at the table.

Dillon frowned. She knew that when he was around all he wanted

to do was start trouble.

“Damn McCabe, you trying to make us look bad?” Johnson looked

at her.

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Dillon looked at Johnson. She knew what was next. He always had

to attack her sexuality. No matter how subtle it was, Johnson knew how

to push Dillon’s buttons.

“Don’t go there, Johnson.” Jack warned.

“Come on, Jackson. If my wife knew that McCabe was planning

to retire after her little gal pal gave birth, she would want me to do the

same.”

“Here’s a thought. Don’t tell her.” Jack said.

Johnson ignored him.

“So, on behalf of all us non-dyke’s in the department, I just want to

thank you.”

“Maybe, if you knew how to show some respect to a woman, you

wouldn’t have that problem.” Dillon looked at him.

“You saying I don’t know how to treat a woman?”

Dillon stood up. “Just let me know if you need me to show you.”

Jack snickered as Dillon winked at him.

She turned to leave as Johnson stood up. He thought about going

after her, but remembered the last time he cornered Dillon McCabe. He

couldn’t sit for a week. She was physically strong, but he knew how to

get into her mind. “Let me know if your woman wants to be with a real

man.Mine doesn’t strap on!”

Dillon froze. Anger came to her fast. She could care less if the little

prick tried shit with her. But when he started in on Ashley, it was the

last straw.

Jack stood up and stepped between them. Th

ey had both been

warned before. “C’mon you two.” Jack raised his voice. “We’re a team

damn it! Act like it!”

Johnson just smiled at Dillon. He wanted her to throw a punch. He

wanted her ousted from the department.

Dillon looked at Jack. “He’s not worth it,” Jack said under his

breath.

She knew he was right. She backed off just as her Captain came into

the room.

He cleared his throat. “Did I interrupt something?” the Captain

looked at Dillon.

“No sir. Nothing.” Jack smiled and went back to his seat.

126

Spitfi re

Th

e Captain looked at Johnson. “Just congratulating the new daddy

on the baby.” He raised his eyebrow to Dillon and grinned. He walked

away.

“McCabe, can I see you in my offi

ce?” Th

e Captain said. He turned

and walked away with Dillon following behind him.

Th

e Captain’s offi

ce was always cold. No matter what time of year it

was, or how the weather was outside, it was the frozen tundra in there.

Dillon was always amazed at how clean the Captain kept his offi

ce.

He was always the “show by example” kind of guy. Dillon liked him. He

was always fair.

“McCabe, I wanted to make sure you were OK.”

“You mean Johnson? Sir, he’s just an ass with a big mouth.”

Th

e Captain chuckled. He liked Dillon. She was a great fi refi ghter

and a wonderful role model.

“No, I mean you. You seem sort of pre-occupied these last few

months. Nervous about the baby?”

Dillon looked surprised. She never talked about her personal life. It

must have been Johnson fl apping his trap. “Yeah, a little, among other

things.”

“You need to talk?” Th

e Captain gave Dillon a warm inviting smile.

“Well, sir... I kind of promised my...um.........wife that I would retire

before the baby comes.”

“And you don’t want to?”

“No, sir, I don’t. It’s like having to choose between the two, and soon

to be, three things I live for.” Dillon looked at her Captain. “I love what

I do.”

Th

e Captain grabbed Dillon’s fi le from his desk. “You’re good at it.

McCabe. I’ve been going over your fi le. Seven years you’ve been here. It’s

quite impressive.”

“Th

ank you, sir. I think.” Dillon wasn’t sure what the Captain was

up too.

“Let me get to the point. You could retire, and you’re entitled to do so.

However, I think that it would be a waste of talent. Although, I would

regret losing someone like you on my team, I think I may have the answer

you’ve been looking for.”

“Really?” Dillon looked up.

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gina glass

“Th

ere’ll be an opening at the Fire Academy in March. I think you

would be a great teacher, Spit.”

Dillon smiled.

“Of course, you’d have to take some classes. It’s paid for by the

department. I just think if one Dillon McCabe can make such a

diff erence.... then the hundreds who would be taught by you could only

be better.”

“Wow. Sir...I don’t know what to say? Th

ank you.”

“Th

e pay is about the same, but the hours are better. You take

some time and think about it, and of course, you’d have my highest

recommendation.”

“Th

ank you, sir.” Dillon stood and shook the Captain’s hand.

“You’re welcome, McCabe. Please let me know your decision by

week’s end.”

“I will, sir. Th

anks again.” Dillon left the offi

ce.

Dillon found Jack and told him the news. He seemed happy. She

would still be close by and could see her friend, but more importantly,

she could be home every night with Ashley and the baby.

After her shift ended, Dillon stopped at the store. She bought some

fl owers for Ashley and some sparkling apple cider. Th

is was a time for

celebration.

She thought about a lot of things on the way home, mostly about

their baby. She wondered what it would be. Was there a slim chance

that he or she would look like her? Th

ey both chose at the ultrasound

not to know. Dillon secretly wanted a little girl. Someone she could share

things with, like Ashley. Dillon smiled. A little Ashley! Th

at would be

incredible. With those beautiful green eyes. Oh yeah, this kid already

had Dillon wrapped around its fi nger.

As Dillon came to a stop at the signal, her pager went off . She looked

down and saw the 911 call with the hospital’s number on it. “Doc!” She

said as she put her bike in gear and headed for the hospital.

Ashley was already in a room, when Dillon arrived.

She was lying in bed, hooked up to all kinds of machines. Rhonda

was taking her vitals when Dillon walked in.

“Doc?”

“Oh Spit. I’m glad you’re here.” She took Dillon’s hand.

“Are you ok? Is the baby?” Dillon looked at Rhonda.

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Spitfi re

“Everyone seems to be fi ne. Little miss ‘over-do-it fainted’.”

“I’m OK. I just got a little queasy.”

“She’s been running around like a chicken with her head cut off !

Taking Dr.Cannon’s load. She needs to rest.”

“Is the baby....”

“Th

e baby is fi ne. Ashley started having labor pains and cramping.

Th

e doctor is on her way.”

“Honey, we’re fi ne, really. Just a little tired.” Ashley smiled.

“I’ll be back. You keep an eye on her.” Rhonda said.

Dillon half smiled. She was so grateful to Rhonda and her family.

She was such a good friend to Ashley. Dillon loved her husband Daniel,

and the boys would always go crazy when Ashley and Dillon would come

over for a BBQ. She would play basketball or football with them.

Dillon leaned over and kissed Ashley.

“Mmm. Th

at’s more like it. I’m glad you’re here.” Ashley smiled.

“Where else would I be?” Dillon smiled back.

“I think we’re gonna have a soccer player.” Ashley giggled.

“We are?” Dillon chuckled.

Dillon took Ashley’s hand and placed it on her stomach. Th

e baby

was kicking like crazy. Dillon could see the discomfort in Ashley’s face.

“Talk to your child, will you?” Ashley gave Dillon a look.

Dillon leaned over to the spot where the baby was kicking. She put

her lips to Ashley’s stomach. “Hey, Little Bit, it’s me, Spit. Go easy on

mom, ok? She’s had a rough day.”

In an instant the baby stopped kicking. Dillon beamed. She was

already bonding with her child. She would talk to the baby every

morning, when she came home, and before they went to bed. When she

was on duty, she would have Ashley hold the phone to her stomach so

she could talk to them.

Ashley was amazed at the baby’s response to Dillon. “I think the

baby missed you.” Ashley let out a sigh. It was the fi rst time the pain

subsided all day.

“Doc, I have some news.” Dillon was excited. “I got called into the

Captain’s offi

ce today.”

“Were you fi ghting with Johnson again?”

“I always fi ght with him, he’s a homophobic asshole.”

Ashley shook her head and laughed.

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“Anyway, the Captain heard about our situation and wants to

recommend me for an academy teacher.”

“What?” Ashley smiled.

“He said he’s very impressed with me and thinks I’d be a great

academy teacher.”

“Really? Oh baby, that’s wonderful.”

“Yeah, and he said the pay was about the same and I’d be home every

night and on the weekends.”

“What more could you ask for? Spit, I love you.”

“You too.” Dillon looked into Ashley’s eyes.

Ashley started to drift off . Dillon sat with her and stroked her hair.

She was thrilled that Ashley was happy with the news. Too bad she

wasn’t. Th

e more Dillon thought about it, the more she tried to adjust

to her feelings. Th

is was the best thing for them. Still, Dillon knew that

she could never not have that desire every time she heard a siren.

* * *

Ashley was bored. She had been placed on limited activities and was

going out of her mind.

Spit was still working at the department, and Ashley missed her

when she was gone. She made time to chat with her college friends. She

couldn’t believe that she let them talk her into a baby shower. To make

matters worse, they were having it at their house.

Ashley and Dillon loved their new home. It had three acres and was

in between Malibu and the Valley. It was a four bedroom, single story

ranch house. It had a huge kitchen for Ashley and a four-car garage.

Dillon bought a truck. Not the typical mom mobile Ashley thought,

but it was a start.

Th

ey had decided to wait until after the baby was born to buy horses.

Plus Dillon wanted to fi x up the backyard.

* * *

Dillon insisted on going with Ashley and Rhonda to register for

baby gifts. Ashley spent over an hour trying to talk Dillon out of going.

She hated shopping with her. Dillon was always indecisive, three hours

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Spitfi re

to pick out a pair of jeans; a whole day spent at the outlet stores in the

dessert, only to have her buy one pair of shoes and a watch.

Ashley sighed. She tried to relax and just see the good in this. At

least Dillon was interested and wanted to be a part of everything. Gia

would have never had done the things Dillon did! Good Lord! Ashley stopped herself. Where did that come from?

“You getting excited Doc?” Dillon took Ashley’s hand and kissed

it.

“Sweetie, it’s just a baby store. You didn’t even need to bother coming.

Rhonda and I could have handled it.”

“Th

at’s the third time you’ve said that. I’m starting to think you didn’t

want me to come.”

“Don’t be silly! I just know how much you hate shopping.”

“True, but this is shopping for our baby! And, we’re not just shopping

at some slacker discount store.No ma’am, this is the mega baby-o-rama

store! She grinned at Ashley.

Rhonda looked at her watch.

“We’re on time!” She heard behind her. Rhonda looked up.

“Oh Lord, she brought Spitfi re. Heaven help us all.”

“Hey Auntie Ro-Ro!” Dillon said and gave her a hug. “Ready for the

baby-o-rama shop-a-thon?”

Rhonda chuckled. “Good question. Are you?”

“Yes ma’am, ready and waiting.”

“Baby, grab a cart and we’ll meet you inside.”

“One mega shopping cart coming up.” Dillon ran to the carts.

“I thought you weren’t bringing her with you?”

“She insisted.”

Rhonda gave Ashley a look.

“It’s her baby too…It’ll be fi ne, you’ll see.” Ashley smiled.

“Famous last words.”

After Ashley and Dillon registered, the clerk handed Dillon a bar-

code scanner. Th

ey were instructed to scan any items they wanted to

appear on the baby registry. Before the clerk could fi nish, Dillon was on

her way down aisles scanning almost anything she saw.

“Dillon, please slow down.” Ashley pleaded.

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gina glass

Dillon stopped and turned to Ashley. “Do you know how cool this

thing is? If you want a pacifi er, boom, you got one.” She scanned the item.

“You want two, bam, ya got two!”

Ashley shook her head and laughed.

Rhonda smiled, “Looks like you have two kids.”

“Honestly, I’ve never seen anyone so excited over a baby store.”

“It’s not just a baby store, it’s a mega baby-o-rama!” Rhonda reminded

her.

Ashley laughed. “Dillon wait!” She wheeled the cart over to Dillon,

with Rhonda in hot pursuit.

“Four car seats? Dillon, we don’t need four.”

“Yes we do.”

Ashley looked at Rhonda.

Rhonda quickly threw her arms up. “Hey, don’t put me in the middle

of this one.”

“Th

anks a lot Rhonda!” Both Dillon and Ashley said in unison.

“Sweetie, hold on a sec.” Ashley composed herself. “Why do we need

four car seats? We aren’t having quadruplets. One baby, one car seat.”

“Doc, one for you, one for me, one for your folks, and one for auntie

Ro-Ro. Four.” Dillon smiled proudly.

“We’ll always be in the same car Dillon, and if we’re not, only one of

us can have the baby at a time. If Rhonda is sitting, we can leave the car

seat with her.” She could tell Dillon was a bit defl ated.

“But I do think it’s a great idea to get one for Mom and Daddy.”

Dillon smiled. She kissed Ashley on the cheek. She held up the bar-

code gun.

“Even better!” Dillon took off toward the car seats.

“Have I thanked you again for coming?” Ashley hugged Rhonda.

“Hey, you can’t pin this one on me Doctor Wilkerson. I warned you

not to get involved with her.”

Ashley looked at Dillon, then back at Rhonda. “I’m so stinkin’ glad

I didn’t listen to you.”

Rhonda laughed. “Me too…besides, it’s nice to see how much her

heart is totally into this. Could you just imagine if you were having this

baby with Gia?”

“Oh My God. I can’t believe you just said that.”

“Chill Ash, I was just making a point.”

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Spitfi re

“No, on the way over, I was thinking the same thing.”

“Girl? What on earth are you thinking of Gia for when you have

that?”

Th

ey watched as Dillon tried to juggle three car seat boxes.

“I wasn’t thinking about Gia, I was comparing. I have no clue why;

Gia couldn’t even wipe Dillon’s shoes.

“Amen!” Rhonda confi rmed.

Th

ey walked over to Dillon.

“So which one did you decide on Spit?” Rhonda asked.

“Well, I’ve narrowed it down to three - the duckies, the fi shies, or

the horsies.”

Ashley laughed.

“What?” Dillon looked puzzled.

“Nothing. I just think it’s so cute the way big tough Spitfi re is saying,

‘duckies’, ‘fi shies’, and ‘horsies’.”

“I’m going to ignore the fact that you said that. OK, so, which one

do you like?”

“Th

e ducks.” Ashley said.

“Defi nitely the fi sh.” Rhonda commented.

“Great, and I like the horses. So in the event of a tie, the baby gets

the fi nal vote.”

“Say what?” Rhonda looked at them.

“Yeah wait till you get a load of this one. I’ve seen it and I still don’t

believe it myself!”

“OK hands on.” Dillon instructed.

Rhonda followed as both Dillon and Ashley put their hands on

Ashley’s tummy. Dillon bent down. “OK baby, it’s me, Spit. I’m here at

the baby store with Mommy and Auntie Ro-Ro.”

“You’re kidding right?”

“Sssh!” Ashley shot Rhonda a look.

“OK, we have three cars seats here. You tell o’ Spit which one you

want kiddo? First we have mommy’s favorite, duckies.”

Nothing happened.

“Ok, next is Auntie Ro-Ro’s fi shies.”

Still nothing.

“Finally, we have Spit’s favorite, horsies!”

Th

e baby started to kick wildly.

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“Ouch!” Ashley grabbed Dillon for support.

Rhonda stood there looking in amazement and bewilderment. “I

don’t believe it.”

“I know. Th

ere’s no explanation for it. I guess it’s the tone of Dillon’s

voice.”

Dillon beamed as she put the car seat in the shopping cart, and went

on.

“Ok that was just…”

“Magical?” Ashley off ered.

“Freaky was more of what I had in mind, but call it what you

want.”

“Told you she was somethin’ special.”

“Uh huh. Well look at Ms. Special.”

Ashley turned to see Dillon trying to fi gure out a machine. “I never

said she was perfect, just special.”

“You tend to Ms. Special, and I’m gonna fi nd the bathroom. Excuse

me.”

Ashley walked over to Dillon, who now had the box open and spare

parts scattered on shelves.

“Hi.”

“I don’t need any help thanks.” Dillon said quickly. She looked up

and saw Ashley. “Oh hey, Doc.” Dillon’s cheeks fl ushed.

“Whatcha’ got there?”

“Doc, this kind of blows me away.” Dillon whispered.

“It does?”

“Ssssh, keep it down. Where’s Rhonda?”

“Bathroom.” Ashley whispered back, “Why are we whispering?”

“I can’t believe that they would have these things here.”

“What are you talking about?”

“You know, look. Th

ey have toys here.”

Ashley started at her lover. “Sweetie, it’s a baby store, of course they

have toys.”

“Nooo… adult toys.” Dillon held up the item in her hand.

Ashley burst out laughing.

“Doc, it’s not funny. Th

ere are kids who come into this store.”

Ashley continued to laugh. She kissed Dillon softly on the cheek.

“Baby, that’s a breast pump, not a sex toy.”

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Spitfi re

Dillon quickly turned fi ve shades of red. ”I’m such a dork, huh?”

“You’re not a dork. You’re adorable.”

“So you use this to…”

“Express milk, in case we’re out or something. Dillon you didn’t

know about a breast pump?”

“Do I look like I would know? Th

is is the fi rst time I’ve been in a

baby store.”

“Do you know how cute I think you are right now?” Ashley smiled.

“It’s cause I’m holding a breast pump, isn’t it?”

Ashley giggled and kissed Dillon softly on the lips.

“So tell me you’re not going to put that on the registry?”

“Well, we do need one.”

“Th

en we’ll buy this one.” Dillon quickly put the pump back into the

box, and in their cart.

Rhonda walked up, holding a bottle of water. “Here, thought you

may need this.”

“Oh, thank you.” Ashley quickly took a drink.

“You have to see the wall borders on aisle six. Th

ey have some

adorable ones.”

“Lead the way.” Ashley felt a strong kick. “Whoa!” She stopped.

“You OK Doc?” Dillon moved to Ashley.

“Yeah, just a good kick.” She took a deep breath. “OK, I’m good. Lead

the way to the adorable borders. I want to see them.”

Rhonda took the cart. She looked down at the box, then back at

Dillon.

“It’s not a sex toy, it’s a breast pump. Haven’t you ever seen one

before?” Dillon looked at Rhonda, her defense up.

“I have…. have you?” She raised her eyebrow at Dillon.

Dillon cleared her throat. “Of course. Don’t be silly… OK, where did

you say those border’s were?”

“Spitfi re, you’re blushing. I don’t know why, but by the shade you’re

turning, I’d say it was a good one.”

Dillon grabbed Ashley’s hand and walked over to aisle six. Rhonda

followed, chuckling to herself.

* * *

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Dillon helped Ashley to the couch.

“Oh yeah, that feels good.”

“You overdid it, you need to slow down.”

“I’m OK.” Ashley gave Dillon a reassuring smile.

“Well, you rest, and I’ll bring in our loot from the baby store.”

Ashley closed her eyes. Th

e baby was taking a lot out of her. She

never thought to say anything to Dillon. She would be fi ne. Dillon had

read every nutritional book known to man, and put both she and Ashley

on a nutritious eating plan. For the most part, Ashley would adhere to

the plan, but at work, she would sneak a candy bar in every now and then.

She chuckled when she remembered Dillon fi nding the Payday wrapper

in her pocket. She got an hour-long lecture about the dangers of high

fructose corn syrup, and peanut induced allergies. She would just have

to be more careful next time not to get caught!

Dillon laid out everything to show Ashley.

“We bought that much stuff ?” Ashley looked at the living room.

“We needed it.”

“What’s that? Ashley pointed.

“What?”

“Th

at, over there.”

“Th

e car seat babe, don’t you remember?”

“I know what it is Dillon, but where is the one with the horses?”

“Oh… well I was thinking, sometimes the other mommy does know

what’s best, and you did like those cute little ducks, so….”

“Come here you.” Ashley pulled Dillon to her and kissed her.

“All this for ducks?” Dillon grinned, she kissed Ashley again.

“I love you so much.”

“You too, Doc.”

Ashley played with Dillon’s hair.

“Sorry I was such a dork today.”

“You weren’t. I’m real glad you came, Dillon. I had a lot of fun.”

“Yeah, it was fun. Guess I lost my head though.” She looked

around.

“Our friends will have a tough time getting us something, but, oh

well.”

“Who knows, maybe someone will buy us a horsey car seat.” Dillon

smiled.

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Spitfi re

Ashley giggled. She kissed Dillon again. “You make me so happy.”

“Th

at’s all I ever want to do.” Dillon could tell Ashley was tired.

“You close your eyes and rest. I’ll put this stuff away.” She kissed Ashley’s

forehead.

Dillon watched Ashley for a moment. She could fall asleep so fast.

She looked upward. “I know I’ve thanked you before, but I’ll thank you

again for bringing her to me. I don’t know what I ever did to deserve her

love, but I treasure every second I spend with that woman, and with our

new baby on the way.”

Her eyes started to well up. She started to pick up some of the items.

“Oh.” She looked up again, “It’s a breast pump… but I guess you knew

that.” Dillon picked up the rest of the things and put them away.

* * *

Ashley looked at her watch. Her parents were due to arrive any time.

Her mom and Rhonda agreed to help out and Daddy would hopefully

keep Spit busy. Ashley felt uncomfortable and Dillon could feel it.

Dillon had the party catered so Ashley could just relax. She decorated

the place and really went all out. Ashley knew that there would come

a time she would have to come out to her friends. She fi gured that by

now, most would have drifted off and started their own families. Now

she was having fi fteen of them in her house and they would all be asking

questions.

Dillon walked in and saw Ashley standing at the closet. “Tough

choice, Doc?” Dillon came up behind Ashley and started to rub her

stomach. It always relaxed her.

She laid her head back on Dillon’s chest and took a deep breath.

“Spit, I really don’t want to do this.”

“Aww, how come?” She kissed Ashley’s neck. “Ya don’t want to see

all your friends?”

“It’s not that. I just don’t want all the questions that are gonna come

from today.”

“Oh. Th

at explains why all the photos of us are missing.”

Ashley could tell that Dillon was hurt. “Spit, don’t take it that

way.”

“You’re embarrassed. It’s OK. I understand.”

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gina glass

“I could never be embarrassed of you! I just know how they are.”

“Th

ey’re just jealous, Doc. You have a great job, you’ve moved into a

totally cool home, we have probably the most beautiful baby in the world

on the way, and I might add, out of pure modesty of course, you have an

incredibly cute and sexy wife, who loves you very much.

Ashley chuckled. She turned and kissed Dillon. “I am so lucky to

have you.” She smiled.

“We’re both lucky.” Dillon said. “But, I can see what this is doing to

you, so I’ll get lost while they’re here.”

“Spit, are you sure?”

“Yeah, I can go to the movies or something.”

“Daddy will be here, just hangin’ out in the garage. Th

at way I can

have you close.”

“I can do that.” Dillon kissed Ashley.

Th

e doorbell rang. “You get dressed, I’ll get the door.” Dillon turned

to the door.

“You know you look mighty cute in those coverall’s and bandana!”

Ashley called after Dillon.

Mary and Bill hugged and kissed Dillon as they came in.

“Oh Dillon dear, the place looks great.” Mary said.

“Th

anks. I had to hide the last of the moving boxes, but I think it’s

pretty good. Ashley is getting dressed. Make yourselves at home. Th

e

eggs are cooked and in the fridge ready to be deviled. I’ll take your bags

to the room.”

“Th

at’s silly. Let Bill take the bags so you can get dressed for the

shower.”

“Ah, well, I’m not going to the shower.” Dillon looked at Ashley’s

parents.

“Why not?” Bill looked at Dillon.

“Well Dad, Ashley is a little uneasy about what her friends may

think, so I thought it best to hide out with you for the duration of the

party.”

Ashley’s parents exchanged glances.

Ashley came out of the bedroom.

“Hi Mom, hi Daddy.” She smiled.

“Well look at you!” Bill smiled.

“Please, I look like a beached whale.”

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Spitfi re

“How are you feeling?” Mary asked.

“OK. I’m just wishing that this party was over.”

“Excuse me.” Dillon half smiled and took the bags to the guest

room.

“Sweetie, Dillon just said she wasn’t coming to the shower, is that

true?”

“Mom, please. I’m just not in the mood to fi eld all the questions from

my friends, that’s all. Besides, Spit understands.”

“If these so-called friends are that petty, I don’t think I would be

wanting them as my friends.”

“Daddy, that’s not fair,” Ashley whined.

“And what you’re doing to Dillon is? Excuse me. I’m going to join my

daughter- in-law.” Bill kissed Ashley, then walked away.

“Mom, please don’t look at me like that! She understands.”

“Of course she does, she loves you. She would do anything for you.”

“I know.”

“Well, I know that I didn’t raise a daughter that would put her

partner through such a thing. Th

is is her child too. She’s entitled to be

at this shower just as much as you.”

Ashley watched as her mother stormed off . Th

e baby kicked her

hard. She rubbed her stomach. “Don’t you start on me too.”

Dillon ran the sand paper over the handmade crib she had made for

the baby. She had planned on surprising Ashley with it for Christmas.

Bill opened the door balancing a plate of food and two bottles of

water.

“Did ya get the boot too?”

“Yeah, it’s just a bunch of squealing, giggling, silly girls in there. Who

needs ‘em right?

Dillon looked at Bill.

“Oops. Sorry Spit, sometimes I just forget, you know?”

Dillon smiled. “Apology accepted. It’s OK. Really. I’ve never been

accused of being a squealing, giggling, silly girl.” She went back to sanding

the crib.

Bill watched for a moment. “Can I ask you something?”

“Of course, Dad. What’s on your mind?”

“Well, I’d like to think of myself as kind of hip, and up with the times

and all, and both Mary and myself understand about Ashley’s choices

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and being with you, but… I was just kind of curious about the girl with

the girl thing, you know, how the whole thing works…you know?”

Dillon blushed as she tried to contain her laughter. “Umm, well…

it’s just like you and mom. Th

ere’s friendship, communication, love,

partnership…it’s the same really…just minus a few parts.” Dillon smiled

awkwardly.

“And you love my crazy daughter after all she’s put you through?”

“Oh yeah, more than anything in this life.”

Bill searched Dillon’s eyes. Th

ere was nothing there but love for his

daughter. “You can honestly tell me that loving Ashley is easier that any

three alarm fi re you’ve fought?”

Dillon chuckled. “I wouldn’t say easier, but defi antly worth it!”

Bill reached for the plate. “Deviled egg?”

“Th

anks.” Dillon popped one into her mouth. “Mmm. Wow, these

are fantastic!”

“Yep, Mary still has the knack.”

“I’ll say.”

“Speaking of knacks Spit, this crib is amazing. Look at the

craftsmanship! Who taught you how to do this?”

“My grandfather.”

“He must have been a master. He taught you well. Look at that

dovetailing.”

“Th

anks.” Dillon smiled proudly.

Bill continued to watch Dillon work, the sounds from the party

inside echoed into the garage. Dillon stopped. Her heart sank. She

wanted so much to be in there with Ashley, celebrating their child with

her friends. Maybe one day, she kept telling herself.

Bill put his hand lightly on Dillon’s shoulder. She sighed.

“I thought so.” Bill said, “Th

is is eating you up, isn’t it?”

Dillon put down the sandpaper. She hesitated for a moment, then

turned to Bill.

“I don’t care if Doc doesn’t want to be out at work. It’s fi ne with me

and all, but I thought she would at least be comfortable enough in her

own skin, and with who she is, to be honest with her friends.”

Bill scratched his head. Maybe it was time for his daughter to have a

serious wake-up call. “Say Spit, would you do an old man a favor?”

“Sure.”

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Spitfi re

“How about you go in there and try to get Mary to give up some more

of those eggs? I’m sure she’ll run me off if I go back in.”

Dillon laughed. Not giving it a second thought, she walked into the

house. She stopped when she heard Ashley and the other’s talking about

baby names, and cute men.

“You know Ash, I know this real cute tennis player at the country

club. He would be so right for you.”

Rhonda looked at Ashley. “Am I missing something here?” She

whispered to her.

Dillon frowned. She quietly walked through the hall and into the

kitchen. Mary was busy slicing the cake.

“Pssst, is the coast clear?” Dillon asked, peaking around from the

side of the fridge.

Mary jumped. “Oh Dillon, honey, you startled me.”

“Sorry, Mom. I just came in to get some more of those deviled eggs

for Dad, but that cake sure looks good.”

Mary cut two slices and put them on plates.

“How’s it going in there?”

“It’s a nice party…would be nicer if both my daughters were there.

Dillon smiled and kissed Mary on the cheek.

“Where do you keep the extra paper towels?”

“I’ll get them for you.”

Dillon squatted next to the sink to retrieve a roll of paper towels,

when Terri walked in.

“Mrs. Wilkerson, Ashley said to bring the camera, she’s gonna

start opening…and who is this?” She smiled as she spotted Dillon’s

backside.

Dillon froze, not sure of what she should do.

“Oh,. that’s…that’s the…plumber,” Mary tried to cover.

Terri walked over to Dillon and looked down. “Nice…assets.”

Dillon rolled her eyes.

Mary quickly took Terri’s arm. “Let’s not keep Ashley waiting

dear.”

“OK.” Terri got out before Mary pulled her away.

Ashley opened her gifts while Rhonda wrote down what everyone

gave her. As she was getting close to the end, she looked up and saw

Dillon in the kitchen. She felt her heart sink. She couldn’t think of

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anything else except what her father had told her. She was so proud to

be loved by Dillon. Why should she care what any of them thought?

She grabbed a box that had no card. “Who is this from?” She looked

at her friends. No one answered. She opened the box to fi nd a cute

stuff ed Pony. Ashley giggled at the fuzzy toy. She looked in the box and

saw the card. She opened it. Tears came to her eyes as she read the card.

“You have given me many things in the two plus years we’ve been together,

two stand out. First, your love. I treasure it every second of every day. Second

our child. Th

is is a gift from God for us coming through you. I will look in

and our child’s eyes every day and see you in them. What more could I ever

ask for? I love you. Spit.”

“Ashley, are you OK?” Rachel asked.

“No. No, I’m not.” She wiped her tears away.

Dillon watched.

“I have something I need to say. First off , thanks for coming to my

shower. But more importantly, I want you to meet someone.” She walked

to the kitchen.

“Doc....no, what are you doing?.” Dillon whispered.

“Something I should have done three years ago.”

“It’s OK. You don’t have to do this.”

“Yes, I do. And I also need to apologize to you for being an incredible

ass! I don’t know what I was thinking, putting my so-called friends lame

prejudices in front of someone I love so very much. I’m so sorry, Spit.”

She kissed Dillon softly. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too…thanks, Doc.”

“What could you possibly thank me for?”

“For fi nally being you.”

Ashley smiled. “It feels good. C’mon, there’s some people I want you

to meet,”

Ashley said with a smile.

She took Dillon’s hand and came back into the living room. “Ladies,

I’d like you to meet Dillon Spitfi re McCabe.”

Various women nodded and said hello. Dillon shyly nodded back

mumbling hello.

“OK, here it is, plain and simple.” Ashley looked around. She saw

the smile on her mother’s face.

“Dillon and I are...partners. We’re having this baby.”

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Spitfi re

A few gasps were heard. Most were in shock.

“Well, it’s about damn time.” Rhonda smiled.

“You and the plumber? No way!” Terri said.

“No, Dillon isn’t a plumber.” She pulled the bandana off Dillon’s

head. She is a fi refi ghter. My fi refi ghter.

“You mean, you two are.......” Rachel looked up.

“In love? Yes, we are.” Ashley smiled, and looked at her mother.

Mary gave her daughter the thumbs up.

“We’ve been together for almost three years and plan on being

together for a long time to come. Right, Spit?”

Dillon looked at Ashley and smiled.

143

10

The next month was hectic. The baby was almost here, and Christmas

was only five days away.

Ashley’s parents were coming to visit. Doctor. Brannagan pushed up

Ashley’s due date to the fi rst week of January. Ashley’s folks decided to

stay and help out for a while.

Dillon was still at the station. Her job had been put on hold. She

decided to take a year’s leave when the baby came, then decide what she

wanted to do. Ashley reluctantly told her to stay on at the department

until the academy position became available. Dillon was guaranteed a

job, but it could take up to three years.

Th

ey had fully moved into their new home and loved it.

Dillon brought home a 10-foot Christmas tree. Th

eir vaulted ceiling

in the family room was perfect for it. She also came home with a carload

of ornaments, for the tree and the house.

Ashley laid on the couch, reading cards while Dillon decorated the

tree.

“Look hon, a card from Ben.”

“Really?” Dillon smiled.

“He says Merry Christmas and he hopes that everything goes well

with the baby.”

“He’s a special little guy.”

“Ten is hardly little, Spit.”

“He’s ten already? We’re getting old.”

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Spitfi re

“Speak for yourself.” Ashley looked at Dillon.

Dillon smiled. “You’re still beautiful.” She leaned over Ashley and

kissed her.

“You better say that.” Ashley chuckled. “Hey maybe we could go see

Ben and his family after the baby is born.”

“Th

at would be great. I miss seeing him.”

“Me too. Now shut up and kiss me again.” Ashley pulled Dillon to

her and started to kiss her when the doorbell rang.

“Must be Mom and Dad.” Dillon smiled. She went to the door to

let them in.

Ashley was glad they were coming down. She had a hard time with

Dillon leaving her side when she wasn’t working. For the past two weeks

she was with her twenty-four-seven. It was driving Ashley crazy. She

couldn’t buy Dillon any presents except online when Dillon was in the

shower, or went to work.

Mary and Bill came in and hugged their daughter.

“Th

at tree is a beauty!” Bill grinned.

“Dillon picked that out. Four hours and eight tree lots later! She

wanted the baby to have the best.”

Th

ey chuckled.

“You should have seen her. She took each ornament out of the box

and sat down and explained what each one looked like to my stomach”

She smiled.

“I think Dillon’s excited.” Mary said.

“Oh yeah. She’s going to be a great mom. Sometimes I have to pinch

myself to make sure this is all real. It’s too good to be true.”

“Well, it is real.” Bill grinned. “And soon we’re going to have us a

grandson!”

“Or daughter.” Mary added.

“And we’d know that if someone would have wanted to fi nd out the

results of the ultrasound.”

Ashley felt it. She wasn’t sure if it was just the baby moving around

or what. She took a deep breath.

“Pumpkin?” Bill looked concerned.

“I’m fi ne. I swear all this kid does is kick, kick, kick.” She smiled at

her father to ease his concern. Ashley knew that the baby wouldn’t wait

until after Christmas to make its debut.

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gina glass

Th

at night, Dillon and Bill fi red up the BBQ. Th

ough it was cool

outside, it was still nice enough to heat the grill up.

Dillon and Mary did the dishes while Ashley and her father wrapped

some gifts.

“Dillon, the house is just so beautiful and festive. It’s coming along

nicely.” Mary smiled.

“Well, thanks, Mom, but your daughter is the one with the eye for

design.”

“Oh come now, take a little bit of the credit.”

Dillon chuckled. “Well, we try to make it a joint decision.”

Mary grabbed Dillon’s arm. “Dillon, I want to thank you.”

“Th

ank me for what?” Dillon looked at her.

“For making our daughter so very happy.” She hugged Dillon.

“It’s easy with the kind of woman like Ashley. You have a wonderful

daughter‘.”

“Th

ank you, dear.” Mary smiled.

“Well, thank you and Dad for letting me love her. May I add that

I have never seen two parents who love their daughter and are so very

understanding.”

“Dillon, we didn’t understand at fi rst. It did take some time, but

in the end, it came down to love and Ashley’s happiness...that’s what

counted. For awhile, Dad and I didn’t think Ashley would ever be happy,

but with you, we truly believe she is.”

Dillon smiled. What amazing people to have in her life. So warm

and caring.

Mary hugged Dillon again. She remembered telling her folks that

she was gay, and the yelling and accusations that came with it. She could

see the fear in her parent’s eyes. Th

e unknown was a scary place. It was

scary for Dillon as well. Too bad they never got to meet Ashley.

Ashley waddled into the kitchen.

“Doc, what are you doing up?”

“I need to move around. Th

is baby is kicking the stuffi

ng out of

me.”

Dillon walked over to Ashley and put her lips to her belly. “Hey now

little bit, settle down. Spit’s here.”

Just like that, the baby settled down.

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Spitfi re

“See.” Ashley said looking at her mom. “Th

is baby will do anything

for her.”

Mary smiled. “If I recall correctly, I think you gave me a couple good

ones when I carried you.”

“Mom, I don’t know how you did it.” Ashley looked at Dillon. “Th

e

next one comes out of you.”

Dillon froze. Mother tried to cover her laugh with a dishtowel.

Ashley started to chuckle too. Soon all three women were sharing a

good laugh.

* * *

Christmas Eve was very peaceful.

Ashley and her mom made cinnamon logs out of leftover pie dough.

Dillon loved them! Last year she made herself sick on them. But she still

waited for the fresh cinnamon treats to come out of the oven.

Dillon and Bill were watching T.V. when Mary and Ashley came in

carrying a tray of cinnamon logs and glasses of milk.

A grin came over Dillon’s face. “Oh yeah,” she said as she took the

tray from Ashley and sat it in front of her. She took a warm cinnamon log

and bit into it, slowly letting the pie dough, cinnamon, and sugar, swirl

around in her mouth. “Great as ever, ladies.” Dillon smiled.

Ashley handed Dillon a glass of milk, then froze. Th

e sharp pain was

intense. She looked at her watch. Th

is was the third one about twenty

minutes apart. She knew the baby was on its way.

“You ok, Doc?” Dillon asked.

“Fine, sweetie. Th

e baby is just sitting on my bladder. Excuse me.”

Ashley walked down the hall. She made it into the bathroom, when

another contraction hit. She cringed as she tried to shake it off . Who’s

idea was it to have natural child birth? She felt the wetness as her water

broke... she went to the door.

“Spit! Spit!” Ashley yelled.

Dillon jumped to her feet and raced to the bathroom. “Doc?”

“Honey, its time.” Ashley looked at her.

“Time for what?” Dillon looked blankly. “Oh shit!” Dillon blurted

out.

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gina glass

She went into overdrive. Th

is was it. She ran back out to Ashley’s

folks. “It’s time! Th

is is it!” Dillon yelled. “Mom can you? While I?”

“Go get changed Dillon. I’ll get Ashley.”

“I’ll get the car.” Bill said.

“Th

anks, Dad. Th

e keys are by the door.” Dillon ran off to the

bedroom. She slipped on her jeans and a t-shirt. She grabbed her leather

jacket and hunted for Ashley’s bag.

“Doc? Doc?” She ran back to the bathroom. Ashley’s mother was

helping her clean up. “Where’s the bag?” Dillon looked at Ashley.

“By the door Spit, where you put it.”

Dillon ran off .

“Well, she’s calm under pressure.” Ashley giggled

“I can see that,” Mother smiled.

Ashley was so glad her parents were here.

Dillon drove like a maniac to the hospital. She’d called Doctor

Brannagan on her cell phone. Th

e doctor told Dillon that she was on

her way in and to stay calm and get Ashley there in one piece.

Th

ey took Ashley straight in while Dillon tried to fi ll out the

paperwork. All she wanted was to be with Ashley.

“Dillon let us fi ll that out.” Mary said. “She needs you to be with her.”

Mary’s warm smile seemed to calm Dillon down a bit.

“Th

ank you. Th

ank you, both.” She hugged and kissed them. “Th

e

next time I see you, you’ll be grandparents.” Dillon grinned. She ran to

the elevator.

By the time Dillon scrubbed up and changed, Ashley was in a room,

hooked up to monitors.

“Where have you been?” Ashley asked, trying to breathe through a

contraction.

“I’m sorry, baby. I couldn’t get past the wicked witch of the west.

Good thing I saw Rhonda.”

“I saw her too. She went to fi nd you.” Ashley breathed.

“Th

is nurse kept questioning me, wasn’t gonna let me in.” Dillon

leaned over and kissed Ashley.” But I’m here now.” She whispered in

her ear.

“I’m glad.” Ashley kissed Dillon again.

“Does it hurt?” Dillon questioned?

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Spitfi re

“Yeah, pretty much.” Ashley was trying to be a good sport about it.

It really hurt like hell.

“I was thinkin’, maybe we should have a few more after this. What

do you think?”

Ashley looked at Dillon. “You better be kidding,” Ashley got out

when a big contraction hit. She tried to breathe through it.

“You want me to have them give you something?” Dillon hated seeing

Ashley in this much pain.

“No, I’m OK,” she panted. “If I ever mention natural child birth

again, you have permission to slap me.” Ashley grunted.

Dillon rubbed Ashley’s back. It always calmed her down. “Doc, I

want you to know how much I love you, and how much our baby and

your family mean to me.” She kissed Ashley tenderly.

Th

e wicked witch of the west came in armed with a disapproving

scowl on her face. Two women having a baby, she thought. What was the

world coming to? She took Ashley’s vitals and checked her dilation. “Not

too much longer.” She looked at Dillon. “Are you two related?”

Dillon was just about to say something when the doctor came in.

“Well, I guess this is the moment we’ve all been waiting for.” She

smiled.

Dillon started to get a little nervous. Th

is was all happening so

fast. She was going to be a parent. A lifetime of responsibility, joy, pain,

laughter and heartache. A true miracle. And it was all Dillon’s and

Ashley’s.

Another contraction hit Ashley hard, making the monitor alarm

go off .

“Looks like we‘re going to have us a Christmas baby.” Doctor

Brannnagan smiled.

Dillon got Ashley to breathe.

“Ok, Ashley, last chance for an epidural?” Doctor. Brannagan said.

“C’mon Doc.... take it.” Dillon whispered.

“No,” Ashley panted. “I said I was going to do this natural and I

will.”

Dillon looked at Doctor Brannagan and shrugged her shoulders. She

knew that Ashley had a stubborn streak and when she set her mind to

do something, it was best just to step aside and let her do it.

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Th

e nurse placed Ashley’s legs in the stirrups, all the while with a

frown on her face, glaring at Dillon.

“OK kids, it’s time.” Doctor Brannnagan got into position. “Ashley,

I need you to focus on something and keep breathing. When I say push,

lean forward and push for an eight count. Dillon, I want you to breathe

with her and when she’s pushing, support her back. OK?”

Dillon nodded.

“Ashley, on the count of three, lets push. One...two...three...push.”

Ashley leaned forward and pushed. Dillon supported her. She took

Dillon’s hand.

“Spit, I’m scared. I don’t know if I can do this.”

“Doc..... this is the easy part. We still have to raise it!”

Ashley tried to laugh. Th

e pain was increasing.

“You’re doing good, sweetheart.” Dillon encouraged.

“OK, Ashley, we need another push on three...one...two....three...

push.”

Ashley pushed again as Dillon watched wide-eyed.

Two hours later, it was 12:30 am, and Ashley was exhausted. So

was Dillon.

She felt sorry for Ashley. She was having their baby and there was

nothing she could do to help her.

“Ashley, are you ready to push again?” the Doctor asked.

“I can’t.” Ashley started to cry. “It doesn’t want to come out.”

Dillon chuckled and kissed the top of Ashley’s head. “Th

e baby

just needs a little push and it’ll be right on out.” Dillon tried to comfort

her.

“Why won’t the baby come out doctor?” Ashley snapped.

“Th

at’s why we call it labor, I’m afraid. Come on, Ashley I need you

to push again.”

“Come on, Doc, we’re almost there.” Dillon said.

“No, I can’t”.... Ashley cried. “I just want to sleep.”

Dillon bent down to Ashley’s belly and put her lips to it. “Hey baby,

it’s Spit. It’s Christmas and we’re all waiting for ya.”

Ashley smiled. She knew she had to do it. She took a few deep

breaths. “I’m ready.”

“Alright, Ashley.... one.... two...three. Big push...........”

Ashley leaned forward and pushed with all her might.

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“Great job, Ashley. We have the baby’s head.”

Dillon smiled.

“Now, just a couple more. Ready, and, push,” the Doctor ordered.

“I can’t, it hurts.” Ashley cried.

Dillon leaned over. “I know you can do this. Just one more big one

and our baby is here.”

Ashley took a deep breath and pushed hard. Her body ached. Th

e

baby came out.

“Th

at’s it. You did it.” Doctor Brannagan said, as she held the crying

infant.

Th

e nurse handed Dillon a pair of scissors. She looked at the

doctor.

“Don’t you want to cut your daughter’s umbilical cord?”

“Daughter?” Dillon looked at Ashley. She was crying. “Doc, we have

a daughter.” Dillon leaned over and carefully cut the cord. She handed

the scissors back to the nurse. She watched as the nurse started to clean

the baby up.

“Spit.” Ashley called to her.

Dillon walked up to Ashley and took her hand. “You don’t mind a

girl do you?”

“Are you kidding?” Dillon kissed Ashley. “Do you know how

beautiful you look?”

“Please, I’m a disaster.”

“No, you’re not.” Dillon smiled and kissed her again.

“Congratulations,” the doctor said as she brought over their daughter

and laid her on Ashley’s chest.

Dillon couldn’t take her eyes off of her. “Doc, she’s perfect.” Her eyes

started to fi ll with tears.

“Do you have a name for her?” Th

e nurse asked.

“A name? Oh shoot, we forgot about a name.”

“Spit, if it’s alright with you. I was thinking we could name her

Zoë.”

“After my....” She looked at Ashley.

Ashley nodded.

“Oh, Doc,” Dillon choked on her words. She was so touched that

Ashley would want to name their baby after her mother, a woman she

had never met. “Zoë it is.” Dillon smiled.

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“Middle name?” Th

e nurse asked.

“You pick this one.” Ashley said as she caressed their new baby girl.

Dillon looked at the clock. It was Christmas Day. Th

at was it! “Noel.

Zoë Noel.” She looked at Ashley for approval.

“Perfect.” Ashley said in a slight daze. Zoë Noel McCabe

Wilkerson.”

Dillon leaned over to little Zoë, now snuggled close to Ashley. “Hey

little bit, it’s me, Spit.”

Zoë smiled and wiggled. Dillon beamed.

“She knows you.” Ashley giggled.

Dillon kissed Ashley softly on the lips. “Th

ank you, Ashley. I love

you.”

Tears came to Ashley’s eyes. It was the fi rst time that Dillon had ever

called her Ashley. “I love you too, Dillon. Very much.”

Th

e nurse came and took the baby. “If you want to gather the family,

I’ll take her to the nursery window.”

“Guess I have to go tell your folks, huh?’ Dillon winked.

“Send them my love.” Ashley smiled. Dillon watched Ashley as she

drifted off to sleep. She went to fi nd her parents.

* * *

Bill and Mary waited patiently.

Dillon fi nally came out. “Hey Grandma and Grandpa!” She hugged

them both.

“Well?” Bill asked.

“Come on.” Dillon smiled as she led them to the nursery window.

“Ashley sends her love.”

“How is she?”

“Exhausted, but fi ne.” Dillon assured them. “She was falling asleep

just as I left. She did it all natural.”

“Oh my.” Mary shook her head.

“Th

ey off ered her an epidural, but you know your daughter.”

As they reached the window, Dillon came behind them. “Mom, Dad,

may I introduce your granddaughter, Zoë Noel.”

“Granddaughter?” Bill asked.

“Yep, all seven pounds, fourteen ounces of her.”

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Th

e nurse brought her up to the window.

“Dillon, she’s beautiful.” Mary smiled.

“My thoughts exactly.” Dillon grinned.

“I think she looks like me.” Bill said proudly.

“Oh, Bill.” Mary shook her head.

“I can see that, Dad.” Dillon agreed. “I know it’s late. Why don’t you

go home and get some sleep? I’m gonna check in on Doc.”

“OK dear. Do you need anything?” Mary asked.

“No, I have everything I’ll ever need.” Dillon grinned. She hugged

Ashley’s parents and went to fi nd her.

Dillon stopped to talk to Rhonda in the hall. Rhonda was so happy

for them. She told Dillon that Ashley was already in a room and that her

blood pressure was a little low.

Dillon found the room and walked in. Ashley was asleep. She

carefully walked over to her and gently kissed her forehead.

“Spit?” Ashley groggily opened her eyes.

“I’m here.” Dillon kissed her again. “You get some sleep.”

“Did Mom and Dad.......” was all she could get out.

“Yes, they met Zoë. And they said to tell you that they love you.”

Ashley tried to smile. “Zoë looks like you.”

“Naw. She’s beautiful….like you.” She kissed Ashley again.

“Merry Christmas.”

She watched as Ashley drifted off to sleep.

Dillon walked back down to the nursery and watched Zoë. She too

was fast asleep. Dillon couldn’t sleep. Her mind was racing. She had so

much she wanted to tell her little daughter.

Dillon went downstairs to wish Rhonda and Ashley’s co-workers a

Merry Christmas. She was already bragging about her new daughter.

She went to the cafeteria and grabbed a bite to eat, then went outside

to watch the sunrise.

Ashley was sitting up nursing Zoë when Dillon came in.

“Merry Christmas to the two most beautiful women in the world.”

Dillon smiled.

“Merry Christmas, Spit. Mom and Dad called. Th

ey should be here

soon.”

“Great.” Dillon smiled.

“Have you had any sleep?”

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“I’m fi ne.” Dillon looked at Zoë who was now falling asleep. “Hey

there little bit.” She softly touched the baby’s cheek.

“Want to hold your daughter?” Ashley smiled.

“I sure would,” Dillon had a goofy grin on her face as she slowly and

awkwardly took Zoë from Ashley. Th

e baby wiggled and cooed at Dillon.

“Hey little bit. It’s me...Spit.” As on cue the baby giggled. Dillon looked

at Ashley and beamed.

Th

ere was a knock on the door.

“Come in.” Ashley said

Mary and Bill walked in holding a teddy bear and some fl owers.

“Merry Christmas.” Ashley smiled.

Mary smiled. “Is that my......”

“Yep, this is Zoë.” Dillon walked over. “Zoë, this is your Grandma

and Grandpa.”

“She’s a cutie.” Bill smiled.

“I know this is impossible, but the baby looks like Dillon.” Mary

kept comparing the two.

“Th

at’s what I said,” Ashley giggled.

“How’s my other little girl doing?” Bill asked, as he kissed Ashley.

“I’m fi ne. Just tired. Th

e Doctor said my blood pressure is a little

low.”

“After what I saw you doing in there Doc, my blood pressure would

be low too!” Dillon walked over to Mary. “Here Grandma, get a load of

this.” Dillon slowly handed Zoë over to her. Dillon smiled as she watched

Zoë interact with her grandparents.

She sat on the bed next to Ashley and took her hand.

Ashley leaned on Dillon. It felt so good to be close to her. Like her

own safety zone. She could hardly wait for Zoë to grow up and be able

to discover the magic of this woman.

Dillon remembered she had the camera and snapped some photos.

Bill took Zoë in his arms. He couldn’t take his eyes off of her. “Hi there

little Zoë. Th

is is your Grandpa.”

Zoë cooed. She knew who these people were and she could feel their

love.

Daddy handed Zoë back to Ashley. “Th

ere now. We should let you

rest.”

“You don’t have to leave so soon do you?” Dillon asked.

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“We have a million things to do before you come home.” Mary

smiled.

“Don’t you be going to any trouble.” Ashley looked at them.

“Hogwash!” Bill looked at his daughter. “Anything for our three

gals.” He winked at her.

Dillon hugged Ashley’s parents and sat back down with Ashley. She

looked at Ashley holding their child. “I love you so much, Doc.”

Ashley smiled at Dillon.

“I know I keep saying it, but I never thought I could fi nd someone

like you and get all of this.”

“I know. Me either.” Ashley said.

Dillon leaned over and kissed her softly on the lips.

Doctor Brannagan walked in. “Am I interrupting something?” She

smiled.

“Yes. But you can come in anyway Dr. B,” Dillon joked.

Doctor Brannagan chuckled. “How are you feeling, Ashley?”

“Better.”

“Good. Good. You had quite a time in there. It took a lot out of you.

Your blood pressure is still a little low.”

“When can we go home?” Ashley asked.

“I’d like to say tomorrow, but I think we may keep you to see if we

can’t get that pressure back up.”

“Is she OK?” Dillon asked.

“Yes, she’s fi ne. It just might take a day or two to bounce back.

If it comes back up in the next twenty-four hours, we’ll send you

home.” Th

e Doctor reached into her pocket. “Oh, before I forget,” she

handed the envelope to Ashley. “I’ll check back on you later. Again,

congratulations.”

“Th

ank you, Doctor.” Dillon smiled as the Doctor left.

Ashley looked into the envelope and smiled. She looked at Dillon.

“Merry Christmas, Spit.” She handed it to Dillon.

“Is this the Dr. bill?” she joked as she slid the papers out of the

envelope and carefully unfolded them. She looked at Ashley. Tears

started to fall as she read the paper. “Doc…”

“Sign them and Zoë is ours legally.” Ashley started to cry.

Dillon took the pen out of the envelope and signed the papers. She

looked at Zoë.

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“OK Little Bit, it’s offi

cial. I’m your mommy too.” She looked at

Ashley. “I know I say this a lot, but I love you so much, Doc.”

“I love you too, and I’ll never get tired of hearing it! Merry

Christmas.”

* * *

Ashley finished feeding Zoë. She looked at the clock. 8:30. The doctor

came in early to check her pressure. She said she was normal again and

they were free to leave. She called Dillon, who said she’d be on her way.

There was a knock at the door.

“Come in.” Ashley said.

Th

e door opened and Giavonna came in. She was carrying fi ve red

roses and a pink bunny. “Hey there.” She smiled.

“Gia...what are you doing here?”

“I was visiting a friend of mine in here yesterday, and I thought I saw

your folks... so I asked the nurses and here I am.” She handed Ashley

the roses.

“Th

anks.” Ashley said.

“Wow. Th

at’s her?” she smiled. “What’s her name?”

“Zoë.”

“Cool.” Gia looked at Zoë. She was sound asleep. “So Ash, how are

things going for ya?”

“Real good. I ’m very happy.” Ashley was starting to feel

uncomfortable.

“Th

at’s good.”

“And you?”

“Can’t complain. You still with what’s her name...ah”

“Dillon. Yes. Together, and very much in love.”

“Good to hear.” Gia’s tone was any thing less than excited.

Ashley looked at the clock. Dillon was due anytime now. She would

fl ip if she came in and saw Gia. “Why are you here?”

“I told you-“

“I know what you told me Gia. Now tell me the truth.”

“You know, baby, I still care about you. I think about you a lot.”

“Really?” Ashley chuckled. “So that’s why I haven’t heard from you

in over two years?”

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Spitfi re

“Ash, I’m not here to fi ght with you.” She looked at Zoë then at

Ashley. “She could have been our little girl.”

Ashley couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Now Gia wanted to

play mommy? “Gia, please stop. Th

ings work out the way they do for a

reason. We weren’t meant to be.”

“You know, Ash, I’ve grown up a lot since you left. I wanted to tell

you that I was sorry for how I treated you in the past. I was a real shit

to you.”

“I don’t know quite what to say. I accept your apology. I’m glad you

grew up. It takes a lot to admit when you’re wrong.”

“Yeah, well, hey, you know me.” Gia fought back the tears. She knew

that she had lost Ashley for good. “Well, I gotta go. I’m happy for you

and Dillon.” She looked at Zoë one last time and walked out.

Ashley sat on the edge of the bed, stunned. Gia had grown up. Too

bad it took her this long to do it. She put all thoughts of her out of her

head and picked Zoë up.

“Spit will be here soon to pick us up and we’ll live happily ever after.

Yes, we will.”

Zoë gurgled and cooed.

Th

ere was another knock on the door. Th

is time Ashley knew who

it was.

“Come in Rhonda.” Ashley called.

Rhonda came in and made a beeline for Zoë. “Let me hold that baby

before you leave.” She took Zoë in her arms.

“Rhonda, you’re meeting us at the house.” Ashley giggled.

“I know, but I need a little sugar before she goes. “How are you

feeling, girl?”

“Much better. Just waiting on my gal to come and pick us up.”

“Oh, she’s here. She’s busy passing out cigars to the staff .” Rhonda

laughed.

“Figures.” Ashley joined in. “Guess I’m offi

cially out of the closet

too.”

“Yep, it’s all the buzz in ER.” Rhonda kissed Zoë.

“Great.” Ashley snickered.

“Th

ey’ll get over it. Th

ey always do.”

“You know I’m so happy right now, I just don’t care what anyone

thinks.” Ashley smiled.

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“Wow, there’s a surprise.” Rhonda smiled.

“Want another one? Gia was here.”

“What? When?..........Why?” Rhonda was never fond of Gia.

“Just a few minutes ago. She said she was visiting a friend and heard

about the baby. She wanted to see if I was OK.”

“When will it end with her? I suppose she wants you back now

too?”

“She apologized for everything.” Ashley looked at her friend.

“Yeah, uh huh. Read my lips Ashley. Forget about her. Leave it where

it should be. All I’ve heard was how that was the past and Spit is your

future. Look at what I am holding in my arms.... she and the woman

coming upstairs to take you home, is all you’ll ever need to know.”

“I know Rhonda. I love Dillon.”

As on cue, Dillon walked in and looked around. She was armed with

the video camera.

“Ok Zoë, this is it. You and mommy get to come home today. Th

is is

Auntie Ro-Ro holding you. And these are all the nice cards and fl owers

and balloons that our friends have sent you.” She looked up over the

camera and turned it off . She spotted the pink bunny. She picked it up

and looked at it. “Where did this come from?” She asked.

Rhonda and Ashley exchanged a glance.

Rhonda handed Zoë back to Ashley. “Let me go hurry up that

wheelchair. I’ll see ya’ll at the house in a little bit.” She smiled at

Dillon.

“Th

anks, Auntie Ro-Ro.” Dillon smiled back. She waited until

Rhonda left. “So, what was the look for?” Dillon looked at Ashley.

Ashley wasn’t about to start lying to Dillon now. “Gia was here.”

“Th

at was her I saw downstairs. I wasn’t sure at fi rst.”

“You’re not angry?” Ashley looked at her.

“Did she upset you or the baby?” Dillon asked.

“No.”

“Th

en who cares? I know who you’re going home with.” She smiled

at Ashley.

Ashley smiled. “I do love you, Dillon McCabe.”

Dillon grabbed the video camera and turned it on. “Tell Zoë how

much you love me.”

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Ashley laughed. “Zoë honey, mommy loves Spit and you more than

anything else in this world!”

Dillon zoomed in on Zoë. “OK, Little Bit, you heard Mom. You’re

my witness.”

Dr. Brannagan came in followed by a nurse with a wheelchair. “Well,

you‘re now a free woman.” Dr. Brannagan smiled.

“Hey thanks, Dr. B, for everything.” Dillon turned the camera on.

“Little bit, this is the doctor that helped bring you into the world.”

Th

e doctor smiled and waved.

“Excuse her Dr. Brannagan.” Ashley shook her head.

“Not a problem. And may I say it’s an extreme pleasure to see a family

like yours, with so much passion for their child, and for one another.”

Dillon smiled.

“Th

ank you, doctor. You were very supportive of us. Th

at’s rare now

adays.” Ashley smiled.

“I need to get back to rounds. If you need anything, don’t hesitate

to call.”

Th

anks again, Dr. B.” Dillon shook her hand.

Th

e nurse stayed and helped Ashley get into the chair with Zoë.

Dillon grabbed the bags and gifts. She turned the camera on. “OK

Little Bit, here we go.”

Dillon ran ahead with the video camera and taped Ashley and Zoë

getting into the elevator and down to the main lobby.

“Spit, honey?” Ashley looked up.

“Yes?” Dillon smiled behind the camera.

“Th

e car.” Ashley giggled.

“Oh!” Dillon stopped fi lming. “Th

e car. Th

at would be a good thing.”

Dillon kissed Ashley, then Zoe. “Th

e car. Be right back.” She ran to the

parking complex to get the car, while the nurse waited with Ashley just

inside the doors.

Th

e drive home was wonderful. Dillon gave Zoë a full tour of the

town. She was unaware that she had fallen asleep along the way. Ashley

turned the camera on and fi lmed Dillon.

Ashley was so happy to be going home...fi nally.

“Everyone alright back there??” Dillon looked in her rearview

mirror?

“Perfect, sweetie. Just happy to be going home.” Ashley smiled.

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“Me too, I’ve missed having you in my arms for the last three days.”

“I’ve missed being there.”

As Dillon turned down the street, she stopped the car. “Oh Man!

Doc, hand me the camera.” She took the camera from Ashley and pointed

it to the house. “Zoë look at this.”

Th

eir front yard was transformed into a pink palace of balloons,

signs, and banners. Th

ere was a huge wooden stork on their lawn that

read, “It’s a Girl!”

“Spit, did you do this?”

“No, not me.”

Dillon pulled the car into the drive. She narrated to the camera for

Zoë as she walked around and opened the car door for Ashley.

Mary, Bill and Rhonda came rushing out. “Welcome home!” they

all yelled in unison.

“Th

is is so wonderful. Th

ank you, everyone.” Ashley said

“OK, now bring my granddaughter in the house before she catches

cold.” Mary said.

“Spit, will you bring my things in?” Ashley smiled at Dillon.

“I’ll take care of that.” Rhonda winked at Dillon. “You take your little

girl inside and show her around.”

Dillon grinned. “You’re a doll, Auntie Ro.”

“Yes, I know.” She looked at Dillon.“But don’t let that get around.”

Dillon chuckled. “Your secret is safe with me.” She squeezed Rhonda’s

arm and went inside with Ashley and Zoë.

* * *

The next few weeks were hard on Ashley and Dillon. The baby kept

them awake. Ashley was having trouble breast-feeding, Dillon started

to go to academy class. In her spare time she would play with Zoë.

Ashley was tired, sore, and confused. All Zoë did was cry around her.

The doctor told them no physical contact for three weeks, Dillon all but

slept in another room. Ashley missed having Dillon’s arms around her

all night.. Ashley was beginning to feel neglected. Ever since Gia had

come to the hospital, Dillon seemed different. Ashley waited until her

parents left before she talked to Dillon.

“Th

e baby is fi nally asleep.” Ashley announced.

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Spitfi re

“Mmm that’s nice.” Dillon mumbled from her book.

Ashley walked over to Dillon and plucked the book out of her hand.

“Enough!” She looked at Dillon.

Dillon could tell by the look in her eyes that Ashley meant

business.

“We’re not going to do this anymore.”

“Do what?”

“Th

is little dance we’ve been doing.”

“What?” Dillon looked confused.

Ashley sat on the couch and started to cry.

Dillon hated to see her in this state. Rhonda told her that this might

happen. She moved to Ashley and sat next to her. “Come here.” She took

Ashley in her arms. She held her until Ashley stopped crying. “You’re

exhausted, Doc.”

“I know, and I’m fat and ugly and you don’t want to be with me, and

the baby hates me. All she does is cry.”

“Hey, now, wait a sec.” Dillon looked into Ashley’s eyes. “Th

e baby

doesn’t hate you. And you’re not fat. I happen to think you’re still the

most beautiful woman in the world. As far as not wanting you...well that

can’t be further from the truth. I want you Doc, but we have to wait. I

want to hold you. But every time I do, you seem distant. I want to help

you through whatever you’re going through, I just don’t know how.”

“Are you mad that Gia came to the hospital?” Ashley looked up.

“Well, it wasn’t my favorite thing to have happen, but as long as

you’re OK?”

“When she walked into the room, it felt like a stranger came in.”

“OK. Now, can it be over? No more mention of her?” Dillon looked

at Ashley.

“Promise.” Ashley smiled.

Dillon kissed Ashley. “Whatta’ ya say to a little walk on the wild

side?”

Ashley giggled, “What did you have in mind?

“How about a little snuggle nap?

“Now you’re talkin’.”

Dillon led Ashley to their room. She kissed her again. Ashley lay in

Dillon’s arms. She listened to Dillon’s heartbeat and quickly fell asleep.

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Dillon heard the baby making noises. She listened until Zoë fell back

asleep. Her family was all that ever mattered to her and she would do

anything to show Ashley just how much.

* * *

Th

ey walked through the pier, over to the midway games.

“C’mon, let’s play some games. You can win me a prize. Spit, stop!

Look!” Ashley pointed to the stuff ed monkey sitting on the shelf. “He

looks like you when you pout.”

“I don’t pout.”

“Yes you do. C’mon.”

“Should we call Rhonda again?” Dillon asked, as she pulled out her

cell phone.

“We’ve been calling her every hour since we left. Th

is is our fi rst date

since the baby. Can you just try and relax?”

“What if something happens and Rhonda doesn’t hear it?”

“Baby, she’ll be fi ne. Rhonda is a registered nurse and a good friend.

She won’t let anything happen to Zoe.”

Dillon smiled, “Sorry Doc.”

“It’s OK. Tto be honest, I did call Rhonda myself twice when we

were at dinner.”

“Ah ha! I knew it!”

Th

ey laughed.

“Guess we’re just two suckers when it comes to that little girl.”

“She defi nitely has us wrapped around her fi nger.” Ashley agreed.

“Step right up little ladies!” Th

e game barker yelled to them. “Simply

shoot the star out of the center of the target and win a prize! It’s so easy

even a child could do it.”

“Let’s play, Spit.” Ashley smiled.

Dillon looked over to the game. “Five bucks! Are you serious?”

“It’s just a game.” Ashley shook her head. Dillon could be so damn

stubborn sometimes.

Dillon reached into her pocket and pulled out a fi ve. She reluctantly

gave it to the man.

“Here ya go. Aim well and let her rip.”

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Spitfi re

She picked up the rifl e and took aim. She squeezed the trigger and

shot.

Ashley looked on, trying not to laugh.

Th

e barked pulled the target up and examined it. “Aw, better luck

next time.” Th

e man took the rifl e from Dillon.

“Th

is is fi xed!”

“Lady, it’s a game of skill, of which it seems you do not possess.”

“What the fu-.”

“No need for obscenities. Tell ya what I’m gonna do.”

“Oh, brother.” Dillon rolled her eyes.

“I have a big heart. In fact, they call me Big Hearted Wayne.”

“I know what I’d like to call you.” Dillon said under her breath.

Ashley giggled.

“For three bucks, I’ll let the little lady take a shot.”

Dillon and Ashley exchanged a glance.

He took the rifl e and handed it to Ashley, then stuck out his hand

to Dillon. He grinned, “Th

ree more please.”

Dillon took out three more bills and slapped the money into his

hand. She bent over and whispered into Ashley’s ear. “Aim left and shoot

him in the nuts.”

Ashley laughed. She quickly hit Dillon on the arm. “You’re awful.”

Ashley got herself into position. She held the gun up and aimed.

“Now, take your time. Breathe.”

Ashley looked at Dillon.

“What?” Dillon shrugged her shoulders.

Ashley took aim again.

“Th

e gun has a little bit of a kick, so make sure you compensate for it.”

Ashley looked at Dillon wide-eyed.

“Do you put up with that every night?” Th

e barked asked.

Dillon shot the barker a look. “OK go for it.”

Ashley took aim once again. She sighed and took a couple of breaths,

just in case Dillon decided to talk again. She squeezed the trigger.

Dillon was amazed how well Ashley shot. “Hey you did it. Nice

shooting, Doc.”

“Sorry, but she didn’t.”

“What? You said the star had to be shot off , and if we’re looking at

the same target, then we both see that the star is gone.”

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Wayne took the target down and held it up. “See the corner? Th

ere’s

red right there.”

“You’re joking?” Dillon’s eyes narrowed.

“Sorry lady, just the rules.”

Dillon’s blood started to boil.

“Its OK Spit, let’s just go.” Ashley tugged at her sleeve.

“He’s a cheat!” Dillon yelled.

“Look, you played, and you lost!”

“What happened to Big Hearted Wayne? It’s more liked Wayne’s

full of big shit!”

“C’mon sweetie.” Ashley started to walk away.

“Or how about ‘No Teeth Wayne’?” Dillon kept on him.

Dillon noticed Ashley had left. She gave Wayne another dirty look

and followed Ashley. “Wait a sec, Doc. I’m sorry.”

“It’s OK.”

“Th

ese games just get me crazy. “

Ashley giggled. “I can only imagine. You’re very competitive.”

“Too much at times.”

“Well, I guess we’ll have to warn the socceer parents when Zoë starts

to play.

Th

ey laughed. Dillon looked at her. “If you want it that badly, I’ll

go back.”

Ashley smiled. “Its only a stuff ed animal. Besides, I have the real

thing.” She kissed Dillon’s cheek.

Dillon looked into Ashley’s eyes.

“What?”

“I want to make love to you so damn bad. Right now”

Ashley squeezed Dillon’s arm. “I know. Me too.”

“Well hell! We’re blowing this taco stand.” Dillon said.

Dillon took Ashley’s face in her hands and softly kissed her.

“Will you two get a room!” Ashley’s friend Terri and her friend

walked up.

“Hey, Terri.” Ashley blushed. She hugged her.

“How are you two? Ashley you look amazing. How’s the baby?”

“She’s wonderful. In fact this is our fi rst date since we had her.”

“Uh oh - calling every fi ve minuets?”

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“Actually, she’s been pretty good, I on the other hand…..” Dillon

laughed.

“Hi, I’m Ashley and this is Dillon.” She held her hand out to Terri’s

friend.

“Oh, this is Steve.” Terri smiled.

“Nice to meet you.” Dillon shook his hand.

“So what are you two up to?” Ashley asked.

“Nothing, just winning a bunch of games. Isn’t this monkey adorable?”

Terri asked holding up the stuff ed toy Ashley had wanted.

“Stunning.” Dillon said fl atly.

“Steve got it on the fi rst try.”

“Way to go, Steve.”

Ashley could tell Dillon was upset. “It’s nice.”

“Would you excuse me for a moment?” Dillon said.

“You OK?” Ashley looked at her.

“Yeah, I just want to make sure the baby’s OK. Keep talking, I’ll be

right back.”

Dillon ran back over to the shooting game. “OK pal, how much to

buy the monkey?”

“Oh, sorry, we can’t sell em.”

“Ten bucks.” Dillon pulled the bill out of her pocket.

“Sorry. No can do.”

“C’mon Wayne, I know we all have our price. Fifteen?”

“Look, lady, if you want the monkey, you shoot for it. Plain and

simple.”

Dillon was getting frustrated. “Twenty bucks!”

He looked at her.

“Th

irty?”

“Nope.”

“Forty, and I won’t tell anyone what a rip off and a cheat you really

are?”

“And we have another winner.” He took the monkey off the wall and

handed it to Dillon. She handed him the money.

“She must be some gal.” He winked at her.

“She is.” Dillon smiled.

“Spit?” Ashley walked up, “I thought I’d fi nd you here.”

Dillon smiled and proudly handed Ashley the monkey.

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“You won?”

Dillon smiled.

Ashley hugged her. “My hero. I knew you could do it.” She kissed

her, “wait till we get home. I’ll thank you properly.”

“Let’s go home Doc.”

Wayne watched as they walked off arm in arm. He shook his head

and smiled.

166

11

The next two years were ones of change.

Ashley loved her new offi

ce. It was great to be in one place and not

running all over the hospital. Her partner, Kent Cohen, was great too.

She joined him in the medical plaza across the lot from Mount West.

Th

ey worked great together. Th

ey had a solid reputation and a six-month

waiting list for new patients.

Dillon was out of school and back at the department waiting for a

teaching job to open. Th

ough Ashley didn’t like the idea much, it was

nice to always have someone with Zoë. Th

eir relationship suff ered from

it. Rhonda would take the baby on her day off , and Ashley’s parents

would come out once a month to stay so Dillon and Ashley could go out,

or go away for the weekend.

Ashley felt blessed. Everything in her life was going perfectly. Zoë

was becoming quite the little character. Dillon bought her a pony on

her fi rst birthday. Th

ey would ride almost every day. She taught Zoë

responsibility, and even now, at only two, Dillon thought she was ready

for the Olympics.

Ashley looked at her watch. Mom and dad should have Zoë down for

her afternoon nap, she thought. Dillon would be off at 4:00. Ashley had a romantic evening all planned. Dinner, dancing, a moonlit walk on the

beach, and a night at the Hotel Laguna. She had a few more things to

take care of.

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Dillon looked at her watch. One more hour. She could hardly wait.

She opened her locker and smiled at the photo of Ashley and Zoë. Th

e

alarm went off . Damn! Dillon thought. She grabbed her gear and ran to

the truck.

Th

ey arrived quickly to the intersection, where the three cars were

entangled. Broken glass, car parts and twisted metal covered the street.

As the truck pulled up, Dillon froze. She recognized Ashley’s car. Zoë’s

car seat was lying in the middle of the street.

Dillon’s heart skipped a beat as the realization of what was in front

of her sank in.

“No!” Dillon yelled as she jumped off the truck. “Doc!” She screamed.

She raced to the driver’s side of the smashed car. Ashley lay there, her

blonde hair now red, soaked, with blood. “Doc!” Dillon called to her.

She tried to open the door but it was too damaged. Jack came running

up to her. “It’s Doc!” Dillon yelled at Jack. She started to pull the broken

glass out of the window to the car. “Doc.” Dillon kept calling to her. She

saw that Ashley was still breathing. “Doc, hold on.” She looked at Jack.

“She’s alive!” She yelled to him.

Jack called the crew over with the Jaws of Life.

“Zoë!” Dillon looked around for the baby. “Zoë! Where are you?”

“Spit, you need to step out of this one!” Jack told her. He could see

his friend was now on the brink of losing it.

“Your ass I will!” She looked him in the eye. “Th

at’s my whole fucking

life in that car!”

“I know Spit. But you won’t do her any good if you lose it now! Back

out!”

She knew Jack was right. She had to keep it together.

“Th

ere’s no one else in this car.” Nelson told Jack. “Total loss in the

pick up truck, and a drunk dude with a couple of scratches on him.”

“Dillon ran to the other side of the car. She reached in and pulled

out Ashley’s phone. “Come on, Doc. Hold on.” She dialed the house

number frantically.

“Hello.” Mary’s voice was on the other end.

“Mom, do you have Zoë?” Dillon said.

“What? Dillon is this you? I can barley hear you.”

“Do you have Zoë?” Dillon raised her voice.

“Well, yes she’s here. She’s napping”

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Spitfi re

“Th

ank God. I can’t talk now; there’s has been an accident. It’s Doc.

Just meet us at the hospital!”

Dillon put the phone in her pocket. She was relieved to know that

the baby was safe. She could now fully concentrate all her eff orts on

Ashley.

Dillon crawled on the hood of the car while Eric and his partner tried

to stabilize her. Th

ey put on the neck brace and hooked her up. Dillon

stuck her head into the car. “Doc? Doc?” Can you hear me?” Ashley

could hear her. But words wouldn’t come out.

Th

e fi re crew went to work. Th

ey used the Jaws of Life to peel back

the roof of the car.

“Doc, don’t you leave me!” Dillon’s voice cracked. She looked around

and saw that Ashley’s legs were pinned under the steering wheel. “Hey,

we need to get her legs out!” Dillon yelled.

Th

e crew carefully removed the steering wheel to free Ashley’s legs.

After forty minutes they had Ashley on a stretcher. She was badly

cut and her leg looked broken. Dillon was worried about the impact

of the crash, and her back. She leaned over to Ashley. “Hang in there

sweetie, I’m here.”

Jack came behind Dillon. “You go with her. We have this under

control.”

“Th

anks, man.” Dillon looked at Jack.

“She’s strong, Spit! She’ll make it.” He gave Dillon a reassuring

smile.

“She has to Jack.” Dillon choked on her words. She followed the

stretcher into the ambulance. Eric did a vitals check and called in his

report.

Dillon fought back the tears. Her life lay before her, cut up and

lifeless. “Come on, Doc. Please...I need you. Zoë and I both need you.”

A slight audible moan came from Ashley.

Dillon took her fi ngers and slightly brushed past Ashley’s cheek.

“Spit?” Ashley said faintly.

“I’m here, I’m here.”

“Where...baby.”

“She’s with your folks. She’s safe.”

Th

e ambulance pulled into the ER parking lot. Rhonda was outside

to meet them.

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Th

ey carefully lowered Ashley out of the ambulance.

Dillon followed her out. She looked at Rhonda.

“Let’s get her inside stat, “was all that Rhonda could say. She cleared

a path as they rolled her into ER. Dillon followed them into the room.

She watched as they hooked Ashley up to the countless number of

machines.

“Give it to me!” Rhonda looked at Eric.

“Drunk driver took out two cars. One dead and her.”

“Scratches and bruises?”

“Yeah, that’s him.” Eric said.

“He’s in the next room.” Rhonda realized what she had just said.

It was too late to stop Dillon as she was already on her way. She blew

through the door and saw the guy sitting with his arm in a sling. She

walked to him, her adrenaline pumping. She grabbed the guy by his shirt

and picked him up off his chair.

“Hey man what the fuc-”was all the kid could get out. He was now

face to face with Dillon.

“I outta tear you apart piece by piece, starting with your heart, you

mindless pile of pig shit!”

“Who are you?”

“I’m your worst fucking nightmare if the lady in the next room

doesn’t make it.”

Rhonda entered the room followed by a cop. “Spit, don’t” she yelled.

“It won’t solve anything.”

Dillon knew that Rhonda was right, but she still wanted a piece of

this guy.

“Let him go.” Th

e offi

cer said sternly.

Dillon searched the guy’s eyes for some sign of remorse. He stared

blankly at her, reeking of alcohol.

“I said, let him go.” Th

e offi

cer’s tone was now louder.

“Th

ink of Zoë, she needs you now.” Rhonda said.

Dillon froze. Oh God. Zoë. Th

eir sweet little girl. Dillon released

her grip and pushed the guy back into the chair. She leaned over to him

and whispered in his ear. “If she doesn’t recover...I’ll come looking for

ya.” She stepped back and continued to stare at him.

“Come on.” Rhonda took her arm. “Let the police take care of

him.”

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Spitfi re

Dillon watched as the offi

cer took the guy away. “How is she?”

“She’s alive, that’s all we know now. Th

ey need to get her stable and

get some x-rays done.”

“I can’t lose her.” Dillon’s voice cracked.

“I know, sweetie. Ashley is strong though. She fought for you, didn’t

she?”

Bill and Mary came in. Zoë was with them. Dillon saw them and

walked to the lounge.

Zoë saw Dillon. “Spit! Spit.” She yelled and ran to her.

Dillon swooped her up in her arms. “How’s my girl?”

Zoë wrapped her arms around Dillon’s neck. “Love my Spit.” Zoë

kissed Dillon on the lips and then giggled.

“Love my Zoë.” Dillon held her tight.

Th

ey were more than just mother and daughter. Th

ey were best

friends. Ashley would sit for hours and watch them play. Zoë’s fi rst

word was Spit. When she fi rst said it, Dillon walked around for days,

just proud as a peacock. Now, more than ever, Dillon needed this little

girl. She had to be her focus so she wouldn’t fall apart.

“What happened?” Bill asked.

“DUI ran a red.” Dillon said fl atly.

Tears started to roll down Mary’s cheek. Bill put his arm around her

to comfort her.

Rhonda came out.

Dillon looked up.

“Th

e doctor gave me authorization to tell you. Th

ey’re getting ready

to prep for surgery.”

“Surgury?” Mary’s eyes fi led with tears.

“Here’s what we know. She broke her back, left ankle and her

collarbone. Th

ere’s some internal bleeding, and she has a concussion.

Th

ey’re just about to take her in.”

Dillon fought to hold the tears back. “Can I see her?”

“Spit, you know the rules.” She looked hard at Dillon. “Give me the

baby and hurry.” Rhonda took Zoe from Dillon.

“Dillon.” Mary called out. “Tell her we love her.”

Dillon slightly smiled. “I will.”

She walked into the room. Ashley lay there. Dillon wanted to take

her in her arms.

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A tech came in and saw her. “Excuse me, but we have to take her to

the OR.”

“Please, just give me a second.” Dillon pleaded with the tech.

Th

e tech smiled and left the room.

“Hey, Doc,” Dillon whispered. “Your folks send their love, and Zoë

too. We’re all here waiting for you.” She slowly put her hand on Ashley’s.

“I know you’re strong, you’d have to be to love someone like me.” She

chuckled through the tears that were now streaming from her eyes. “I

know you’ll be OK.” She kissed Ashley tenderly on the lips. “Ashley

Wilkerson, I love you, and I’m gonna be here waiting for you.” She looked

at Ashley. “I need you so much ....don’t you leave me.”

Two techs came in. “Sorry, but we have to get her in there.”

“Yeah.” Dillon said as she watched them wheel Ashley out the

door.

Rhonda walked in. She put her arm around Dillon. “C’mon, Spit.

She’s in good hands. She’ll be OK.”

“She has to be, Rhonda.... she just has to be.” Dillon turned to

Rhonda. She embraced her as Dillon cried openly. Rhonda could see

just what Ashley meant to her.

* * *

All they could do for the next six hours was wait. Rhonda brought in

some toys for Zoë. Mary read, and Bill watched golf on TV. Dillon

paced the floor, praying that Ashley would make it through.

“Spit, play.” Zoë tugged on Dillon’s pant leg.

Dillon looked down at the smiling face. It was Ashley’s beautiful blue

eyes looking back at her.

“Spit play wif me.” Zoë asked again.

Dillon smiled and sat on the fl oor. “What ya playing little bit?”

“Play horsey, Spit.” Zoë giggled.

“Horsey huh?” Dillon smiled at her daughter.

Th

ey played with the little toy fi gures. Zoë stopped and jumped into

Dillon’s lap.

“Where’s mommy?” Zoë asked Dillon.

“Well, little bit, mommy has a boo boo and the doctor’s are trying

to make it all better.”

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Spitfi re

“I want to see mommy.” Zoë said.

“Me too baby, me too.”

Two more hours passed when a doctor fi nally came in.

“Ms. McCabe, Mr. and Mrs. Wilkerson?” he asked, “I’m Doctor

Woods.”

Dillon jumped up. “How is she?”

“Please have a seat.” Th

e doctor pulled up a nearby chair. He had

some blood on him and had been sweating. “Ashley is stable. She’s lucky

to be alive, but she has a very long road ahead of her.”

“What happened?” Mary asked.

“She broke her back cleanly. We did a bone graft from her hip and

inserted two steel rods to shore up her vertebrae. Her central nervous

system short circuited from the impact of the crash.”

“She’ll be OK right, doctor?” Bill asked.

“Right now, that’s hard to say, sir.”

“What does that mean?” Dillon looked at the doctor.

“She has nerve and muscle damage. Not to mention the internal

bleeding, and her other fractures.” He looked at Dillon. “Right now,

Ashley is paralyzed from the waist down.”

“What? Are you saying Doc won’t ever walk again?” Dillon’s voice

cracked.

“She was in good shape when this happened. It’ll help her heal.

Personally, I think she’ll walk again, but right now, it’s way too early to

tell. She has a lot of healing to do.”

“When can she come home?” Mary asked.

“Well, Mrs. Wilkerson, she’ll be here for at least the next three weeks

or so. It depends on how she heals.”

“Can we see her?” Dillon asked.

“She’s heavily sedated. She won’t know you‘re here, but I know you

want to see her. When she gets out of recovery and into a room, I’ll have

Rhonda come and get you.”

“Th

ank you, Doctor Woods.” Dillon shook his hand.

“If you’ll excuse me….” Th

e doctor smiled and left.

Dillon looked at Ashley’s parents. “Could you stay for a while and

help with Zoë?”

“Of course, Dillon. We aren’t going anywhere.” Bill smiled.

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Two hours later Rhonda took Ashley’s folks up to see her. Dillon

thought it best not to let Zoë see Ashley like this. When they came back,

Dillon could tell that they had been crying.

“Dillon, we’ll take Zoë home and put her to bed.” Bill took her from

Dillon.

“Th

ank you so much.” Dillon hugged Mary.

“Dillon, if you need anything, you call us, ok?” She said.

“Th

ank you both. I’ll be ok.” She hugged Zoe. “You be good for

Grandma and Grandpa.”

“I wanna stay wif you, Spit.” Zoe threw her arms around Spit’s

neck.

“Spit’s gotta work baby. Go with your grandparents, I’ll be home

soon.”

“I wuv you.” Zoe kissed Dillon.

“Oh you too, kiddo.” She handed Zoe to Mary. She half smiled at

them and headed to the elevator.

Rhonda was getting off as Dillon was getting on. Rhonda decided

to stay on with Dillon.

“How you doing?” She asked.

“Hanging on.” Dillon said fl atly.

“Spit, why don’t you go home and rest? I’m on duty all night, and you

know I won’t let anything happen to her.”

“Th

anks Rhonda, but I can’t. I have to be with her.”

“Well, at least let me get you some scrubs to wear.”

Dillon looked down and realized she was still in her turn out gear.

“Th

anks.”

Th

ey stepped off the elevator and Rhonda led Dillon to Ashley’s

room.

Dillon stepped in. Th

e room was dark and still. Dillon had chills,

seeing Ashley lying there. “She looks so helpless.”

“She needs our prayers right now.” Rhonda said. “It’s gonna take a

long time.”

Dillon moved to Ashley. She took her hand. It was cold and clammy.

She kissed Ashley on the cheek and whispered to her. “I’m here, Doc.”

For the next week Dillon never left Ashley’s side, even though Ashley

was awake. Dillon took a personal leave from the department and moved

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Spitfi re

Ashley’s parents in to help with Zoë. She had to concentrate on getting

Ashley better and walking again.

Dillon had a team of professionals install an in-home gym and made

the house more user friendly for Ashley. Ashley’s father built ramps and

installed rails in the bathroom.

Anything that Dillon could think of, she bought and had it put in.

She wanted Ashley back, up and walking again as soon as possible.

175

12

It had been almost a month since the accident and Ashley was going

to be able to go home. She was healing well with the exception of the

paralysis. She was refusing to do her exercises and she was agitated most

of the time. She had sent two therapists packing already. Ashley said

both were too rough with her.

Th

e doctor examined her. “Th

is is nice, Ashley. You’re doing great.”

He reassured her.

“Really? Th

en how come I can’t walk?” Ashley snapped.

Dillon put her hand on Ashley’s shoulder. “Easy there, Doc.”

“Don’t easy me, you’re not the cripple in the wheelchair!”

Dillon looked at the doctor. “Excuse me.” She left the room.

Th

e last two weeks were starting to grate on Dillon. Ashley was in

a lot of pain still and she took it out on everyone. Dillon tried hard to

understand what Ashley was going through, but Ashley was making

things diffi

cult for everyone. She snapped at Zoë twice and made her cry.

Dillon thought it was best if she didn’t bring Zoë around. She would call

and let her talk to Ashley over the phone. It was becoming a problem,

and Dillon knew she had to talk to Ashley.

Th

e doctor came out of the room.

“Sorry, Doctor Woods. It seems to be her norm of late.”

“Dillon, let me explain this to you. Ashley can walk again. Her nerve

patterns are close to normal. Th

e shocks she gets are her nerves waking

up again. She needs her PT to get stronger.”

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Spitfi re

“But she says she can’t walk.”

“It’s partly in her mind. She’s so negative about the prospect of never

walking again, she’s refusing to try.”

“What can I do?” Dillon asked.

“For starters, don’t fuss over her too much. Treat her like you normally

would. Make her do things. Swimming is good. Just keep her involved in

her day-to-day routine, so she can see that she can still do things.”

“Tough love then.” Dillon smiled.

“Yes.” Th

e doctor smiled. “I’m going to have the therapist come to

the house now. Th

at might make things a bit easier.”

“Th

ank you, Doctor.”

“I think I know just the right person for her too. I’ll see if she’s

around and I’ll send her up.”

“Great.” Dillon smiled as she watched the doctor. leave. She walked

back into Ashley’s room.

“I think you’re going to get to leave, Doc.” Dillon smiled.

“Yippee.” Ashley said sarcastically.

“You need to start changing your attitude.”

“Really? And how would your attitude be Dillon, if you were in my

shoes? You have no clue how I feel.” She looked at her.

“Maybe I don’t know exactly how you feel, but I would know that

my family is here to support me and that they love me. You’re acting like

a child, and we already have one! She’s at home, asking and waiting for

her mommy.” Dillon looked at Ashley, waiting for a response. She fi nally

threw her arms up in disgust. “Sorry, but I can’t stay around for this. I’m

outta here.”

Dillon stormed out of the room. She would have loved to have just

jumped on her bike and taken off . Just get lost so that no one could fi nd

her. Free from her commitments and her responsibilities. She stopped

as she was about to get on the elevator.

As much as she wanted to run, she wanted that much more to stay.

She loved her life. Ashley and Zoë were her world. She walked back to

Ashley’s room and looked inside. Ashley was in tears. Dillon walked in

and took Ashley in her arms.

“I’m sorry, Spit. It just hurts so bad, I can’t take it anymore.”

“I know, but the doctor said it’s a good sign. Th

ings are waking up

and starting to heal.”

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“It sure doesn’t feel like it.” Ashley wiped tears off her cheek.

“It’s only been about a month.” Dillon stroked her hair to try to get

her to relax.

“Please don’t remind me.” Ashley sobbed. “I just want to go home.”

“We want you home, Doc. I miss you not being in our bed. And Zoë

asks about you constantly.”

“Well, the doctor went to check my tests. He said I might be able to

leave today.”

“See! Th

at’s the spirit. You know the doctor felt that you will be

walking again real soon.”

Ashley looked blankly at Dillon. “When are you going to face it? You

now have a wife who’s a cripple in a wheelchair.”

“Doc, don’t say that.” Dillon’s eyebrow’s narrowed.

“Well, it’s the truth.” Ashley said.

Before Dillon could answer, Dr. Woods came back in. “Well Ashley

your tests are great! I can’t see any reason you can’t go home today.”

“Th

at’s awesome!” Dillon smiled.

“What about my legs?” Ashley asked.

“Ashley. You’ve had a severe trauma to your system. Your muscles are

weak. Th

rough physical therapy and exercise you‘ll build them back up

and be walking in no time.”

Ashley rolled her eyes.

“I understand you have a gym at home and a pool?” Th

e doctor

asked.

“Yes, we do.” Dillon answered.

“Great! We’re going to let you do all of your physical therapy at home

Ashley.”

“You trust me, Dr. Woods?” Ashley smirked.

“I’m not totally crazy. Your physical therapist will be in shortly to

talk to you. I have a feeling you’ll really like her. She reminds me a lot

of you, Ashley.”

“Th

ank you for everything Dr. Woods.” Dillon shook his hand.

“My pleasure. I’ll see you in a week. We’ll check your progress and

take a few x-rays.”

He smiled at Dillon. He walked out. Boy, Dillon had her hands full

with her, he thought.

“Wooohoo Doc, did you hear that? Th

e new therapist is a she.”

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Spitfi re

“Probably some psycho enforcer type.” Ashley looked out the

window.

Dillon sighed as she tried to regain her patience. Ashley was getting

harder to live with by the second. Where was the woman I fi rst fell in love

with? She thought. “I’d better call your folks and let them know we’re

coming home.

Th

ere was a knock at the door.

“Come in.” Ashley said.

Th

e door opened and in walked a beautiful redhead. She was built

like Ashley, very toned. She had on jeans and a t-shirt rolled up at the

sleeves. She had very nice biceps, and wasn’t afraid to show them off . She

too, like Ashley, had beautiful blue eyes. Wow, what a knock out, Dillon

thought. She quickly got off the phone.

“Hi. I’m Jan.” She smiled and stuck out her hand to Ashley.

Dillon had seen her somewhere before, but couldn’t remember

where. “Hi. Th

is is Ashley and I’m Dillon. Please to meet you, Jan.” She

shook her hand.

Ashley looked at Dillon who was almost drooling.

“Dillon? Dillon McCabe?” Th

e pretty therapist asked.

“Yeah, that’s me.” Dillon looked at Ashley and shrugged her

shoulders.

“It’s me, Jan. Jan McKinley. I used to sit behind you in third grade

and all the way through high school!”

“Oh - no way! Jan? I remember you!” Dillon smiled.

Jan hugged Dillon in a tight embrace. “Th

is is a small world.” Jan

laughed.

“Yes, it is.” Dillon blushed.

Ashley was getting upset. Was this visit for her to get better or a

stroll down memory lane with Dillon?

“Did you hear that Doc? Jan and I went to school together.”

“Yeah, great.” Ashley said sarcastically.

Jan could see she would have her work cut out for her. “Well Ashley,

I read through your reports, and I think we can get your strength back

and you up on your feet again.”

“Sounds great.” Dillon smiled at Ashley.

“Th

e doctor said that we’d be doing in-home PT. You have a gym?”

“Yep. State of the Art.” Dillon smiled. “And a pool”

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“I’m sure it’s fi ne. I’ll need to check it out before we start anything.

We may need to add a few things.”

“Th

at’s not a problem.” Dillon said.

She couldn’t get over it. Jan McKinley was standing in front of her.

Jan always sat behind Dillon in school. Jan was very smart. She would help

Dillon with math and Dillon would always protect her from the playground

bullies. No one would mess with Dillon McCabe. And if you were her friend,

they wouldn’t mess with you.

“I heard you’re going home today, so I’ll let you get settled in and I’ll

come by tomorrow.”

“Oh, goodie.” Ashley smirked.

“OK then. Ashley, it was nice meeting you and I look forward to

working with you. Dillon, it was great to see you again.” She hugged

Dillon again.

“Nice seeing you too, Jan. See you tomorrow.” Dillon grinned.

Dillon watched as Jan left. She turned to Ashley. “You ready to blow

this taco stand?”

“Was she one of your girlfriends?” Ashley looked at Dillon.

Dillon chuckled. “Jan? Please! We were friends in school. Kids used

to pick on her. I protected her. Th

at’s all it was.”

“And you never had the hots for her?” Ashley continued to question.

“Of course I had the hots for her and anything else with boobs! Please

don’t make this something it isn’t.” She kissed Ashley. “Besides, she

doesn’t have the boobs you do.” Dillon winked, and kissed her again.

Dillon picked Ashley up out of the bed with ease and set her in the

wheelchair. “You happy to be going home?

“Yes, I can’t stand it here anymore.”

“I know a cute little girl who’s going to be thrilled.”

Ashley smiled at the mention of Zoë. She could hardly wait to get

home and be a family again.

* * *

Dillon and Ashley pulled up to the house. Rhonda was watching Zoë.

Mary and Bill thought it best to give Ashley time to adjust. They had

both done so much to help out, they were beat and needed some time

to rest also.

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Th

ere was a banner out front that read: “Welcome Home, Mommy!”

with colorful squiggles on it.

Ashley chuckled. “Let me guess - Zoë’s handy coloring?”

“Nope, the squiggles are mine.” Dillon winked and turned off the car.

Dillon got out and walked to the back to unload the wheelchair.

Zoë came running out of the house over to Dillon. “Spit! Spit! You

bring mommy home.” She jumped into Dillon’s arms.

“I sure did Little Bit. Hey, lay one on me.” She made a fi sh face as

Zoë kissed her.

Dillon set Zoë down and opened the car door for Ashley.

“Mommy!” Zoë squealed with delight.

“Hi, baby.” Ashley smiled.

Zoë crawled onto Ashley’s lap. Ashley held her tight. “I missed you

so much Zoë.” Ashley’s voice cracked.

“Did doctor fi x your owie, mommy?” Zoë asked.

“Almost baby. We have to help him get me better.”

“I’ll help you. Promise.” Zoë looked at Ashley. “Lay one on me,” she

said just like Dillon.

Ashley laughed and kissed Zoë.

“Welcome home.” Rhonda smiled.

“Th

anks. It’s nice to be out of that hospital.”

“I feel the same way every day about fi ve.” Rhonda smiled.

“Th

ank you for helping out with Zoë.”

“Girl, you know it’s a pleasure. Just not sure of that woolly mammoth

thing you got out back.”

“It’s a pony, Rhonda.” Dillon shook her head.

“All I know is that it eats a ton and poops two tons and has big teeth.”

Rhonda said.

Dillon and Ashley chuckled.

“Lets get you inside.” Dillon looked at Ashley.

Zoë came up and pulled on Dillon’s pant leg. Dillon grabbed her and

raised her up over her head. “Monster, monster, monster!” She snarled

and growled, tickling Zoë’s tummy.

Zoë giggled and laughed wildly “Spit! Spit! Spit!” She got out.

Th

ey shared something so close that Ashley couldn’t even be included.

Ashley smiled. It was nice to see a mother that close to her daughter,

especially since Dillon never had the chance with hers.

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Dillon set Zoë down and took the chair over to Ashley. She leaned in

and lifted Ashley out of the car. She stood for a second holding Ashley.

“What’s wrong?” Ashley looked at Dillon.

“Come to think of it, I never did get to carry you over the

threshold.”

“Oh Spit, please.” Ashley blushed.

“Do it! Do it!” Zoë yelled.

“Ah, you heard our daughter.” Dillon grinned at Ashley and started

to walk in.

“You’re crazy.” Ashley giggled.

“For you, yes. Welcome home.”

“Th

ank you. It feels nice to be home,” she kissed Dillon as she was

carried inside. “I think I need to rest for a while.”

“Sure.” Dillon carried Ashley to their bedroom and sat her down

on the bed.

Rhonda came in pushing Zoë in the wheelchair.

“More Auntie Ro-Ro.” Zoë giggled.

“Can I get you anything?” Dillon asked Ashley.

“Some water would be good.”

“You two get settled in and I‘ll get the water. “Come on, Zoë, you

can help me.”

Dillon waited for them to leave and sat down next to Ashley. “Doc, I’ve

missed you so much. Missed having you in my arms. And in our bed.”

Ashley half smiled at Dillon.

Dillon leaned in to kiss Ashley and was surprised by the cold peck

on the cheek she got in return.

Th

e fi rst night back was hell. Ashley would scream, waking up in a

cold sweat.

Th

e doctor had said this was normal. Dillon felt sorry for her.

Th

e only thing Ashley could do was to medicate herself in hopes that

she’d pass out. But anything she took, the pain would just blow right past

it. She was so skin sensitive at times, that Dillon couldn’t touch her. Th

e

bed sheets even hurt.

Dillon couldn’t sleep. She was aware of every little sound or move

that Ashley made. “Sorry, you hurt Doc.” Dillon whispered. “I wish I

could take the pain away.”

“I know, thanks.” She squeezed Dillon’s hand.

“Just remember, it’s healing.” She tried to kiss Ashley’s shoulder.

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Ashley moved away. “Please.” Tears started to run down Ashley’s face.

Dillon sat up and turned the light on. “Should I call the doctor?”

“No, it’s not that.”

“Do you need another pain pill?” Dillon wanted so badly to hold

Ashley.

“I just don’t want to become a burden to you.”

“You’re not.” Dillon looked at her.

“What if I never walk? How could we ever have a normal life

again?”

“You will walk again.” Dillon tried to smile. “Th

is is crazy talk.”

“And if I don’t? You won’t want to stay with a cripple, who can’t make

love to you!”

Dillon had heard enough. She got out of bed and grabbed her pillow.

“You must really think that I take our commitment lightly. I’m not that

shallow. But I’ll tell you one thing, your negative attitude is really starting

to drag you down and I won’t hang around here and have you drag me

there with you. Have your pity party and get over it” She walked out of

the bedroom.

Dillon checked on Zoë who was still sound asleep.

She stopped at the door of the bedroom. She remembered the fi rst

time Ashley slept in her bedroom. She waited by the door for Ashley to

fall asleep. And now four years later, they were still together and had a

daughter. Why was Ashley being so stubborn? Dillon thought. Th

e doctor

said she was fi ne. She just didn’t want to try. Dillon hoped that maybe

Jan could turn things around. She settled herself on the couch and tried

to get some sleep.

Dillon was awakened the next morning with Zoë sitting on her back.

“Gihe up! Gihe up!” She was shouting.

“Hey, easy you.” Dillon snarled sleepily. She pulled Zoë off her back

and hugged her. “Good morning, Little Bit.” Dillon puckered her lips.

“Morning, Spit.” Zoë kissed her. “Mommy crying.” Zoë looked at

Dillon.

“She is?” Dillon sat up. She put Zoë on the couch and ran to the

bedroom. “Doc?” she yelled as she opened the bedroom door. She saw

the wheelchair tipped over in the doorway of the bathroom. Th

e water

was running. “Doc?” She called out again. Again there was no answer.

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She ran to the bathroom and found Ashley on the fl oor crying. She knelt

next to her.

“Spit.” Ashley said sobbing.

Dillon stood and turned the water off . She set the wheelchair upright.

She picked Ashley up and took her to the bed.

Zoë walked in. “Mommy, why you cry?”

“Mommy’s just tired baby.” Ashley tried to smile.

“Are you OK?” Dillon looked her over.

“Yeah, I am.” Ashley looked at Dillon. “Spit, about last night-“

“Sssh….” Dillon whispered. “I know.” She leaned in and kissed

Ashley.

Th

eir kiss was passionate. Dillon missed the closeness she once had

with Ashley. Th

is kiss was sparking a fi re in Dillon. One that she thought

was starting to fade away.

Dillon looked at her watch. Jan wasn’t due for a while. “Give me a

sec.” She grinned as she bounced off the bed.

She turned the TV on and put in a DVD for Zoë.

“Not that one.” Zoe pouted.

Dillon clumsily looked for another DVD. “Umm OK, here.” She

put the new one in.

“Not that one.”

“What? You love Baby Zoo Buddies.”

“Th

at’s for babies!”

“Well, hello?” Dillon shook her head. Sometimes Zoe was more a

pint-sized adult than a child. “OK, what do you want to watch?”

Zoe walked over to her shelf of DVD’s. “Ummm.” She grabbed a

disc. “Dis one.”

“OK, fi ne. Sit down and watch your DVD, I’m gonna go check on

mommy.” She ran to the kitchen and poured two glasses of orange juice

into champagne glasses and came back to the bedroom.

“What are you doing?” Ashley giggled.

“Can’t you tell?” Dillon kissed Ashley. She closed the door then got

into bed next to her.

Dillon wanted to make love to Ashley. She wanted to let her know

that she still found her desirable. She pulled Ashley’s shirt up and started

to lick and kiss her stomach.

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Ashley felt it. A stirring, lower this time. She felt the shiver. It scared

and excited her.

“Spit, I feel something.” She said.

“Yeah, me too, baby Big time.” Dillon said as she continued to kiss

Ashley’s body. She slid her hand up Ashley’s shirt and started to slowly

caress Ashley’s breast.

Th

e more Ashley became aroused the more her nerves were going

into overdrive. Dillon touched her nipple with her tongue. Ashley let

out a scream.

Dillon jumped. “Did I hurt you?”

“Man, that was a good one.” Ashley was trying to breathe it off as

she broke into a cold sweat.

Th

ere was a knock at the door. Dillon knew that their playtime was

now over. She rolled off the bed and opened the door. Zoë stood there.

“Spit, some at door.” Zoë smiled.

Dillon scooped up Zoë. She looked at Ashley “We’ll fi nish this

later.” She smiled at her.

Th

e doorbell rang again as Dillon and Zoë reached it. Dillon opened it.

Jan was standing at the door, smiling. She was in a tight workout

outfi t and looked good. Dillon remembered the geeky awkwardness of

Jan growing up.

“Good morning.” She smiled.

“Hey there, Jan.” Dillon smiled back.

“Am I early?” Jan asked as she looked at her watch and then how

Dillon was dressed.

“Ah, no, it’s cool. We just had a delay. Come on in.”

“Mommy fall down and cry.” Zoë giggled.

Jan looked at Dillon.

“She’s OK. Th

is is our daughter, Zoë.”

“Hi Zoë.” Jan smiled. “I’m Jan.”

“Jan. Jan.” Zoë smiled proud of her newly learned word.

Dillon put her down and closed the door.

“Can I get you some coff ee or juice?” Dillon off ered.

“Sure, juice would be great.”

Jan followed Dillon to the kitchen. She was impressed. It was a very

nice place. She loved the western theme. “Dillon, your house is great.

Real cozy.”

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“Th

anks.” Dillon smiled. “What kind of juice would you like? We

have orange, apple-cranberry, or pine-orange-banana.”

“Cranberry’s great, thanks.” Jan smiled. She couldn’t believe how

much Dillon had changed. She was muscular and toned, lean and tall.

Jan was very turned on by her old school friend.

Dillon handed Jan her glass of juice. “Help yourself to anything and

I’ll go see if Doc is ready.”

Dillon ran to the bedroom and opened the door. She couldn’t believe

it. “You’re dressed.” She smiled.

“Yep.... amazing huh?” Ashley grinned. “I think it was your tongue

and ah, you know.”

Dillon walked over to Ashley. “Yeah?” She kissed Ashley. “I could

send Jan home and we can do a little more tongue therapy?” She

chuckled.

“Hmm. Tempting.” Ashley kissed Dillon. “I’ll be right out.”

Dillon smiled. It was the fi rst time she had seen Ashley smile since

the accident. She put on her sweats and a sports bra and grabbed her

favorite muscle shirt and tossed it on as she walked out of the bedroom

and back into the kitchen.

Zoë was now chatting with Jan.

“Spit!” Zoë giggled and smiled.

“Are you keeping Jan company, Little Bit?” Dillon took Zoë and sat

her on her lap.

“She’s adorable, Dillon.”

“Yeah, like her mommy.” Dillon grinned.

“How old is she?” Jan asked.

“I almost tree.” Zoë said proudly.

Jan and Dillon laughed.

“Gee, Dillon look at you - a daughter, an awesome house. Wow.”

“Yeah, well. We have some more work to do out back, but it kind of

got put on hold cause of Doc.”

“Pony ride, Spit!” Zoë looked at Dillon.

“Later, little bit. Mommy has to exercise with Jan.”

“No, now peeeze, Spit.” Zoë pleaded with Dillon.

“Why don’t you go see if mommy is ready.” Dillon looked at Zoë.

“OK.” Zoë smiled as she climbed off of Dillon’s lap and ran to the

bedroom.

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“Wow, Dillon McCabe, a mother. Who would have thought?” Jan

smiled at Dillon.

Dillon chuckled. “Yeah, can’t believe it myself sometimes.”

“So, tell me Dillon, what happened in your life to get you here?”

“Well, let’s see, I came out to my family. On graduation, when I came

home, my house had burnt down, and my family was lost.”

“Oh, Dillon. I remember that. I wanted to call you but...”

It’s OK. You couldn’t of found me. Besides, we didn’t say much to

one another once we got to high school.”

“Dillon, it wasn’t OK.........I need to tell you, I purposely tried to stay

away from you.”

“You did? Why?” Dillon looked confused.

Jan looked down. “Dillon.... do you remember Billy Ford?”

“Yeah, captain of the football team.”

“I married him right after we got out of school.”

“No way! Really?”

“It only lasted two years.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

“Don’t be, Dillon. I wasn’t being honest with myself.” She put her

hand on Dillon’s arm.

It sent chills through both. Dillon looked at Jan. Th

ey froze, locked

into each other’s stare.

“Dillon, can I tell you a secret?” Jan asked breaking their stare. “I had

the biggest crush on you in junior high.”

Dillon felt the heat rush to her face. Ashley came in with Zoë on

her lap.

“Doc, hey.” Dillon got up and walked to Ashley.

“Mommy wheel more peeze.” Zoë said.

“Later baby, mommy has company.”

“Th

at Jan wiff Spit.” Zoë giggled

“Yes, I can see that.” Ashley said, looking at Dillon who was still

fl ushed with color. Ashley wondered what had been said.

“Good morning, Ashley.” Jan smiled. “How are you today?”

“Still in this stupid chair.”

“Stupid chair! Stupid chair!” Zoë repeated like a parrot.

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Dillon plucked Zoë off of Ashley’s lap. “Come on, squirt. Th

ere’s

a Goofy DVD with your name on it. Excuse us.” She took Zoë to the

other room.

“Well Ashley, I’m here to help you lose that stupid chair.” Jan

smiled.

“Th

at’s the only thing I intend to lose.” Ashley looked at Jan. Message

received - loud and clear.

“Well, should we get started?” Jan smiled like nothing was said. She

thought to herself that she really had no intention to steal Dillon away

from Ashley. She had dreamt of what it would be like to sleep with

Dillon. Was she wild and kinky, or gentle and romantic? She had such

a knack of seducing women, this would be a piece of cake. And, if in the

process, Dillon were to leave Ashley, she would be there to pick up the

pieces of Dillon’s broken heart. She smiled to herself. Starting today, she

would put her plan in motion.

Dillon wheeled Ashley to the gym followed by Jan. Jan was impressed

with the state-of-the-art equipment. Dillon had the room completed

when Ashley was in the hospital.

“I should get lost and let you two get to work.” Dillon smiled.

Ashley grabbed Dillon’s hand. “Please stay.” She squeezed her

hand.

“Sure.” Dillon smiled at Ashley.

For the next twenty minuets, Ashley worked on her upper body.

She was sore, but determined. Jan and Dillon pushed her through her

workout.

“OK, stop you two.... I need a break.”

Dillon grabbed a towel and a bottle of water and handed it to Ashley.

“You’re doing great, Doc.”

“Yes, Ashley, nice job.” Jan smiled.

Zoë walked into the gym and went over to Dillon. “Down ups, Spit.

Down ups.” She squealed.

“Well, I guess you’ve been a good girl today, so OK, c’mon.”

Dillon lay on the fl oor ready to do push ups. Zoë climbed on her

back. Dillon proceeded to do push ups eff ortlessly.

Jan watched with excitement as the fi refi ghter’s muscles fl exed.

Ashley could see the grin on Jan’s face.

“OK, Little Bit.” Dillon stopped.

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Th

e phone rang and Dillon jumped up to answer it.

“Was that fun, Zoë?” Jan asked.

“Yes. Me love Spit.” Zoë told Jan.

“I can see that.” Jan said.

Dillon came back. “Th

at was Stan at the fi re academy. He wants me

to come in.” She walked over to Zoë and kissed her. “You behave.” She

looked at Ashley. “You behave more.” She smiled and kissed her. “You

did great, baby.” She whispered in her ear. “Jan, I’ll see you later.” Dillon

ran from the gym.

Jan watched her as she left.

“So what’s next?” Ashley broke Jan’s stare.

“Ah, let’s work on those legs.” Jan smiled at Ashley.

For the next hour Ashley worked her legs. It was painful, but she had

to admit that Jan was a great therapist.

“So Ashley, how did you meet Dillon?”

“She was injured in a fi re and I was her doctor at the hospital.”

“Oh cool. It must be hard though.”

“What?” Ashley asked.

“You know, keeping a relationship going with the countless women

you see everyday at the hospital.”

“Well Jan, it makes me love Dillon that much more. She’s one of a

kind.”

“Yes, she is.” Jan cooed.

Childhood friend my ass! Ashley thought. She was after Dillon. “So,

you went to school with Dillon?”

“Yes, third grade through high school. She was very kind to me.”

Jan smiled.

“Dillon’s a very kind person.” Ashley grunted in between reps.

“She helped me understand a lot of things I was going through. You

know, I had the biggest crush on her in junior high.”

“Is that so? And you never told her?”

“Nope. Not until today.” She smiled at Ashley. “People change or

try to change. It’s a pity though. Just when you think you’re doing the

right thing, you realize it was for somebody else and not for yourself.

You think you have it all fi gured out and then bang, you don’t. I had big

time feelings for her, but where I come from, it just wasn’t accepted. So,

I just kept my distance from Dillon in high school. She probably thought

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I hated her or that she wasn’t good enough for my circle of friends. I hid

my feelings and married right out of high school. I fi nally realized who I

was and divorced after two years. I came out to my family and my friends,

fi nished my degree, met a gal and had a wonderful relationship. I wanted

more. She didn’t. So I left.”

Ashley looked at Jan. What was she driving at? Ashley thought. So

you married a man? Half the lesbians in the free world do. But, if she thinks

she’s moving in on Dillon, she has another thing coming to her.

“You’re very lucky to have each other.” Jan smiled.

“Yes, we are.” Ashley said.

“Don’t let her go.”

“I don’t intend to.” Ashley looked at Jan. She knew her type. She fi nds

out about the struggles they’ve been having and then she moves in. It was

like Gia. Look for the smallest of openings and step right on through it.

* * *

Dillon looked at her watch as she came in through the door. It was

11:30pm. She had a great meeting with the Dean, and had a tour of the

academy. She ran into some of her crewmembers and went to play poker

at Jack’s house. It was the first time she had been out in months. It felt

good to let off some steam. Ashley had told her that it was fine and that

Rhonda was coming over to help with Zoe.

She walked into the bedroom and found Ashley asleep in bed with

Zoë cuddled next to her. She smiled as she took her jacket off . She took

a quick shower and then took Zoë back to her room. Th

e kid slept like a

rock. Dillon stood in the doorway for a moment and watched Zoë sleep.

How she loved that little girl.

Dillon came back to the bedroom and slowly crawled into bed. She

came up close to Ashley and kissed her on the back of her neck.

“Hey Doc, I’m home.”

Ashley halfway opened her eyes. “Wha? What time is it?”

“Almost midnight.”

“Oh, where’s the baby?”

“I put her back in her room.”

“Mmmm. Good.” Ashley started to fall back asleep.

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Dillon wanted to pick up where they left off this morning, but it was

obvious that she was fi ghting a losing battle. Although the doctor said

that Ashley could try anything within her pain threshold, sex was one

thing she didn’t want to try. Dillon was amazed that they had gotten as

far as they did earlier.

Dillon kissed Ashley again. She felt the goose bumps overcome

Ashley’s arms.

“You behave.” Ashley said sleepily.

“Don’t want to. Do you?”

Dillon slowly started to caress Ashley’s body.

“Spit, please stop.” Ashley snapped.

Dillon knew it was hopeless. She rolled over and tried to sleep. She

tossed and turned. She fi nally got up and went into the guest room. She

turned on the TV and fi nally fell asleep.

* * *

For the next two weeks Ashley worked her tail off in therapy. She was

getting stronger. But her relationship with Dillon was weakening. She

noticed how Jan would show up early and spend an hour talking and

laughing with Dillon. Was this it? Was she finally losing Dillon? She never thought that she would ever ask herself that, but what could she do? She

knew Dillon wanted to make love to her, but she felt like she couldn’t.

Like she was only half a woman. It was easier to just not be intimate.

Dillon had moved into the guest room. She had started her new

job as an academy teacher and loved it. She was home by fi ve and made

sure she took Zoë riding and made dinner. After Zoë’s bath, Dillon was

either planning her lessons or on the computer. She would stop by and

say good night to Ashley.

Ashley would spend the rest of the night crying herself to sleep.

* * *

They were out in the backyard. Ashley was sitting out on the patio

watching Zoë and Dillon play in the pool. The phone rang. Ashley

picked it up.

“Hello.”

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“Hi Ashley, it’s Jan.”

“Oh, hello.” Ashley said fl atly.

“Is Dillon there by any chance?”

“Yeah, hang on. Spit, phone for you.”

“Come on, squirt, out of the pool.” Dillon took Zoë and climbed out.

She walked over to the phone and looked at Ashley.

“McCabe here.”

“Do you always answer the phone like that?” Jan giggled on the other

end.

“Hey.” Dillon smiled. “What’s up?”

“A bunch of us are going to play pool tonight. You guys want to

come?”

“Sounds like fun. Let me ask Doc.” Dillon put her hand over the

phone. “Jan and her friends are going to play pool tonight and they

wanted us to join them.”

“I can’t play.” Ashley looked at Dillon.

“So, we could sit around and chat, maybe make some new friends.”

“No thanks.”

“Doc, come on... it’ll be fun.” Dillon asked hopefully.

“I’m tired. You go if you want to.”

Dillon looked at Ashley before she put the phone to her ear. “Where

are you meeting at?” Dillon wrote the address down. “If we can make it,

we’ll be there.”

Ashley shot Dillon a look as she hung up the phone. “Why did you

tell her that?

“Cause, I thought it might be fun to possibly go out on a date with my

wife! Damn it, you never leave the house except to go to the doctors.”

“You think it’s easy for me?” Ashley raised her voice.

“No, I don’t think it’s easy for you. But guess what? It’s not easy for

me, or Zoë, or your folks, but we’re all trying to work with it! All of us

except you.” She got up and went inside.

Dillon was already showered and dressed when Ashley came in.

“So, you’re going?” Ashley asked.

“Yeah, you wanna join me?” Dillon asked.

“Th

ere’s no one to watch Zoë.”

“I’ll call Rhonda.” Dillon off ered.

“She hasn’t eaten dinner and she needs a bath.”

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Dillon looked at Ashley. “I think Rhonda is totally capable of sitting

with Zoë. She’s only done it a million times. Stop making excuses. Do

you want to go or not?”

“I’m kind of tired.” Ashley said. “It’s been a long day.”

Dillon shook her head. “Do you not want me to go?”

“No, don’t be silly. You go on and have fun.”

Dillon grabbed her leather jacket. “I’ll call you.” Dillon leaned over

and kissed Ashley on the cheek.

Zoë walked in and saw Dillon dressed. She hated it when she left.

“Spit stay!” Zoë pouted.

Dillon scooped her up. “I’ll be back soon, little bit.” She kissed Zoë

and tossed her on the bed, much to her daughter’s delight. “Love you

both,” Dillon said as she left.

Ashley just stared at Zoë on the bed.

* * *

The bar was packed. It was Saturday night and all the single women were

on the prowl. Dillon was a top catch from the second she walked in. She

had a look about her that would turn women on. She never noticed it.

She spotted Jan and her friends at the pool tables. Dillon had to admit

that Jan had really blossomed into a beautiful woman.

“Dillon, you made it,” Jan smiled. She jumped into Dillon making

sure she squeezed extra hard so Dillon could feel her. “Kim and Val.....

Th

is is Dillon. Dillon, Kim and Val.”

“Nice to meet you both.” Dillon politely shook their hands.

“Dillon, what can I get you from the bar?” Kim smiled at her. She

could see why Jan was talking about her non-stop.

“A club soda, thanks.”

“You got it.” Kim smiled as she walked to the bar.

“Hey Dillon, take your jacket off and stay awhile.” Val said.

Dillon smiled and slid out of her jacket, her arms now exposed from

her muscle shirt she was wearing.

Val looked at Jan and mouthed WOW. Jan winked back and

nodded.

Dillon searched for a pool cue, as Kim came back with their

drinks.

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“Ashley couldn’t make it?” Jan asked.

“Naw, she was tired and it was too late to fi nd a sitter.” Dillon said

“Oh, you have kids?” Val asked.

“A daughter. Zoë.”

“She is just a doll too.” Jan smiled.

“Th

anks.” Dillon smiled.

“So Dillon, Jan says you two met in school?” Kim asked.

“Yeah, we did way back in grade school.” She looked at her watch. It

was 8:30pm. She’d stay until 10:00pm and make it home in time to see

Ashley before she fell asleep.

“So what are we playing?” Jan asked.

“Eight ball?” Kim looked around.

“Sounds good to me.” Dillon smiled. She had always had a competitive

side to her. And being in a station house with a bunch of men, Dillon had

always pushed herself harder. Tonight was no diff erent. She wanted to win.

She paired up with Jan and they ran the table three straight games.

It was a nice time. Dillon wished Ashley would come out and do the

things they used to do. She looked at her watch.

“Got a date?” Val chuckled.

“No, I just have to get going soon.” Dillon smiled.

“Ah yes...home to the little woman.” Jan said. She was on her fi fth

rum and coke and she was starting to show it.

Dillon looked at the couples dancing on the fl oor. Yeah gotta get home

to the guest room she thought. What the hell was happening? She and Ashley were best friends and so much in love. Dillon went over it in her mind a

thousand times. She had done everything for their relationship. Now there

was Zoë. Dillon’s other passion . How could she look into those beautiful blue

eyes and tell her that mommy and Spit no longer loved each other.

“It’s your turn Dillon.” Val broke her train of thought.

“Oh.” Dillon looked at the table. “Eight ball side pocket,” she called as

she lined up her shot. She cracked the cue ball and sent it spinning wickedly

into the eight ball. It hit the back of the side pocket and dropped in.

Jan shouted wildly. Th

e booze was fi nally taking over. She

jumped on Dillon’s back and started to shout. “We’re number one!!!

Woooohoooooooo!”

Dillon chuckled.

Jan jumped off her back.

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“Well that’s it for me,” Kim said as she laid her cue down. “Come on,

good looking, let’s continue this party at home.” She smiled at Val.

“Dillon, it was a pleasure meeting you. Let’s do this again soon.”

“It was nice meeting you both. Drive safe now.” Dillon smiled.

Jan watched them leave. “Th

ey’re great huh?”

“Yeah, very nice.” Dillon said as she looked down at her watch. “I

need to get going too.”

“What’s the rush? Come on, Dillon let’s dance.”

“Ah, Jan I don’t think -“Dillon started to say.

“Dill...It’s for old times’ sake. Remember, I taught you how to dance

in junior. high.”

She pulled Dillon to the dance fl oor as Wynonna’s “Who am I

Suppose To Love?” started to play.

Jan pulled Dillon close, wrapping her arms around her. She laid her

head just under Dillon’s collarbone.

Dillon felt the heat rush through her body. She missed the feel

of holding Ashley close while they danced. Jan felt so nice pressed up

against her. Dillon felt guilty.

“You’re a great dancer Dill.” Jan smiled.

“I had a great teacher.” Dillon smiled back.

Jan looked up into Dillon’s eyes. She could see the uncertainty in

them. “You ever wonder why two people are brought together?”

“I guess it’s just meant to be that way.” Dillon said.

“I’m sure glad I found you again,” Jan squeezed Dillon.

Dillon didn’t know what to say. She was having some feelings that

she knew she shouldn’t be.

Th

e song stopped. Dillon looked at Jan. “Th

anks for the dance Jan.

But I need to get going.”

“Please stay for a little bit longer.” Jan said.

“Sorry, I can’t.”

Jan stood on tiptoe and kissed Dillon on the lips. “Th

ank you. I had

a nice time.”

Dillon was fl ustered. Her body was trying to push her into some

things her mind was warning her not to do. “Can you make it home

OK, Jan?”

Jan smiled. “Do I look like I can?”

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Dillon knew that she couldn’t leave Jan stranded. “Let me make a

call and I’ll take you home.” Dillon pulled out her cell phone and dialed

home.

“Hello.” Ashley said on the other end.

“Hey Doc. How are you?” Dillon tried to make conversion.

“I thought you said you would be home at ten?” Ashley’s toned

changed.

“I’m on my way, but Jan is still here and, well, she’s in no shape to

drive. I was going to drop her off , then head home.”

“How convenient for Jan.” Ashley could see what was happening

now.

“What?” Dillon asked.

“Oh come on now Spit. I wasn’t born yesterday.”

“It’s nothing like that.” Dillon said.

“Really... let me guess, she gets tanked, her friends leave, she asks you

for a ride home and you end up in her bed! And if that’s where you’re

headed Dillon McCabe, then don’t bother coming home!”

Th

e line went dead in Dillon’s ear.

“Well?” Jan looked at Dillon.

“Let’s get you home.”

* * *

Dillon pulled up in front of Jan’s condo. She got out of the car and

opened the door for Jan who was still wobbly.

“Nice.” Dillon said trying to make small talk.

“Wanna come up?” Jan asked.

Dillon didn’t know what to think or what to do. Yes, she did want

to go up. She longed to hold a woman in her arms again and make love

to her all night long. She was starting to have feelings for Jan. She made

her laugh and smile, the way Ashley used to. Dillon’s heart sank. She

thought about Ashley and their daughter Zoë.

“Come on, Dillon. I know you want to.” Jan looked her in the eye. She

took Dillon’s hand and led her to her condo. She fumbled for the keys

and fi nally unlocked the door. She smiled at Dillon. “Come on in.”

“Jan..... I...I...can’t.” Dillon said.

“Can’t or won’t?” Jan asked.

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Dillon was silent.

“I see the way she treats you, Dillon. You deserve better.” She moved

to Dillon and put her arms around her. “I can give you better.”

“Jan.... you’re sweet and beautiful. You deserve everything your heart

desires.”

“My heart desires you.” She pulled Dillon’s head down and kissed

her. “Th

ink about it.” She walked inside and saw Dillon turn and walk

away.

Dillon drove down to the beach, tears streaming down her face. She

needed to talk to her best friend right now. But that was Ashley. She

picked up her cell phone and dialed.

“Hi, Mom?” Dillon’s voice cracked.

“Dillon honey, are you OK?”

“I’m sorry to call so late. I hope I didn’t wake you.”

“No dear, not at all. What’s the matter?”

“I don’t know anymore. I don’t know what to do.” Dillon cried.

“I’m sorry, but I don’t know what you mean.” Mary said confused.

“It’s Ashley. I can’t get it through her mind that I still want to be with

her. She’s pushed me away. And tonight.................” She choked on her

words. “Oh God, I almost...........”

“Dillon, settle down. What can we do for you? Do you want me to

talk with Ashley?”

“I don’t think that’ll help. But do you think you and dad can come

and stay for a while and help with Zoë?”

“Of course, dear. But why?”

“I think I need to leave.”

For the next forty minutes Dillon told Ashley’s mother everything.

Mary was a godsend to Dillon. She listened and never judged. She

reassured Dillon and told her that they would call Ashley and be down

in the morning.

Dillon drove down to Long Beach. She went to the lifeguard tower

where she and Ashley had sat and looked at the ocean. She sat there all

night thinking about Ashley and Zoë. She cried and laughed until the

sun started to rise. She was exhausted and her head hurt from all the

thinking she had done. She got home at 8:30am. She slowly unlocked

the door. Zoë came running over.

“Spit! Spit!” she fl ew into Dillon’s arms.

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“Hey little bit, what are you up to?”

“Eating.” Zoë giggled.

“Zoë Noel! Come back and fi nish your breakfast please!” Ashley

called from the kitchen.

Dillon carried Zoë into the kitchen and sat her down at the table.

“You look like crap.” Ashley said.

“Feel like it too.” Dillon poured herself a cup of coff ee.

“Mom and Dad called. Th

ey‘re coming down.”

“Cool, it’ll be great to see them.” Dillon sat down at the table.

“Mommy, I done.” Zoë giggled.

“One more bite.” Ashley said.

“No mommy full.” Zoë pouted.

“C’mon Little Bit, one more.” Dillon took the fork and made like an

airplane. Zoë quickly gobbled her pancake up.

“Mommy, done now.” Zoë looked at Ashley.

“OK baby” Ashley said.

Zoë got down off her chair and ran to watch T.V.

Dillon took her dish and started to clean up.

“So?” Ashley looked at her.

“What?” Dillon kept cleaning.

“Don’t . Where were you all night?”

“At the beach.” Dillon answered. Th

ere was silence as Dillon

continued to clean the kitchen.

“Did you sleep with her?” Ashley’s voice cracked as she watched

Dillon throw down the dish and walk away. She started to cry.

* * *

Dillon took a long hot shower. She was tired and her head was spinning.

She knew she had to tell Ashley everything. It was the only hope she had

of saving their relationship. She got out of the shower and found Ashley

sitting there.

“Whoa Doc. Ya startled me.” Dillon grabbed a towel.

“Dillon. Look, I’m sorry for what’s happened to us, but I know you

want more than I’ll ever be able to give you.”

“What?” Dillon looked confused.

“I think it best if we go our separate ways.” Ashley choked out.

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Dillon looked at her, her heart falling into her stomach. “Is that what

you want?”

Ashley looked at Dillon. Tears started to stream down her face. She

turned and wheeled herself out.

Ashley’s parents came in about 11:30am. Th

ey could feel the tension

in the air. Dillon was in the backyard walking Zoë around on the pony.

Ashley was in the gym working out. She was having such bad pain

in her legs now that she couldn’t stand it. She called the doctor with

concerns that Jan may be overworking her. Instead, the doctor reassured

Ashley that the pain was a good sign, that she was feeling things again

and would be walking soon. He thought Jan was a great therapist for

her and she should stick with it. She didn’t care anymore. Dillon didn’t

want to be with her. Mary walked in startling Ashley. “Oh Mom, hi. I

didn’t hear you come in.”

Mary walked over and gave Ashley a kiss. “How have you been?”

“OK, thanks.”

“Don’t lie to your mother. I know you’ve been crying.”

Ashley knew she couldn’t keep things from her.

“I’ve lost Dillon.” Ashley’s voice cracked.

“What?”

“It turns out that my physical therapist is an old school friend of

Dillon’s.”

“Well, that’s nice.”

“Mom, no, you don’t understand. Last night Dillon went to play pool

with Jan and her friends.”

“Oh, and they didn’t invite you along?”

“Yes, I was invited.”

“Did you go?” Mother asked.

“No.” Ashley looked at her mother. “Mom, you’re missing the point.

Dillon didn’t come home last night.”

“Did you ask her about it?”

“It’s too late now.”

“Only if you let it be.” Mary got up and walked away.

Dillon led Zoë around on the pony. Bill snuck up behind them.

“Hey! When is it my turn?” He smiled.

“Papa! Papa!” Zoë screamed.

“How’s my girl?” Bill kissed Zoë.

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“Papa. Ride, Ride!” Zoë squealed.

“How’s my other girl?” He smiled and hugged Dillon.

“Trying to hang in there.”

“Papa, pull Blaze.” Zoë giggled.

Dillon handed the lead rope to Ashley’s father.

“Did you two talk?”

“More like not talking now.” Tears started to fi ll Dillon’s eyes.

Bill pulled Zoë off of her pony. “Sweetie, go on in and fi nd Grandma.

She has a present for you.”

“Gran! Gran!” Zoë yelled as she ran inside.

Bill put his hand on Dillon’s shoulder. “Let’s talk.”

Th

at night was silent. Zoë and Bill played while Dillon and Mary

cleaned up. Ashley went to her room to rest.

“Th

at’s everything.” Mary smiled wiping her hands on the

dishtowel.

“Th

anks, Mom. I appreciate the help.”

“Dillon? When was the last time you slept?”

“I had a few hours a couple of days ago.”

“Th

is is getting ridiculous.” Mary’s voice rose.

“I know Mom. I love Ashley. But I can’t go on like this anymore.”

“Th

en do something about it.” Mary looked at Dillon.

“I am. I’m gonna go to the cabin and try to work things out. I...I just

don’t know what else to do.” Dillon was surprised how fast the tears came

to her. Mary grabbed her and held her.”

“It’s OK.” Mary rubbed Dillon’s back.

Ashley fi nished her book and put it down. She was going crazy

just sitting around. She had been working out a lot. She felt the energy

coming back to her, not to mention her body was starting to show off

the results. She pulled herself over the side of the bed resting her feet

on the fl oor. She wasn’t sure, but she thought she could feel the carpet

under her feet.

Zoë came running in and bounced on the bed. “Mommy, come

play.”

“Well, look at you all clean and pretty.” Ashley smiled.

“Gram and Papa had bubby bath.”

“Th

ey did? Well, that was sure nice. Did you remember to thank

them?”

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“Th

ere’s the escapee.” Bill smiled as he came into the room.

“Papa, sit here!” Zoë pounded on the bed next to her.

“Grandma said to come on back and brush your chops young lady.”

“Brush chops! Brush chops!” Zoë giggled as she climbed off the bed

and ran out.

“She’s getting so big.” Bill smiled.

“Yeah. Seems like yesterday when Spit and I...” Ashley stopped

herself.

“Speaking of, where‘s Spit going?”

“What do you mean?” Ashley looked at her father.

“Well, she asked if we could stay here with you for a while. I didn’t

know she was still fi ghting fi res.”

“She’s not ”

“Hmmm. Well, she’s got her bags packed. Maybe it’s some academy

training.”

Bags packed were all Ashley heard. It hit her hard. Her heart sank.

She couldn’t believe that Dillon was actually going to leave.

Bill leaned over and kissed her. “Get some rest pumpkin.” He smiled

and left the room.

Ashley was stunned. Tears started to roll down her cheeks.

* * *

That night Dillon couldn’t sleep. Her heart was broken. The sadness

overtook her. She sat in Zoë’s room and watched her beautiful daughter

sleep soundly. She got up twice hearing a noise coming from the hallway.

She saw the light coming from under the door of their bedroom. Her

memory flew back to the first night Ashley was in her room. Again Dillon

wished she could tell Ashley how she felt. But all hope was gone now.

Ashley thought she heard something. She listened for a moment.

She couldn’t sleep. She was having pain in her legs, but it was nothing

compared to the pain of the loss she was feeling in her heart. All her

dreams were about to walk out the door and she was the one holding it

open. It just hurt so much to think that Dillon was with another woman.

Mother was right. Gia, yes. Dillon, never!

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She had to talk to Dillon, though she knew it was too late. She

turned the light off and slid down into her covers. She wept until sleep

overcame her.

* * *

The next morning Mary and Bill were already up when Dillon dragged

herself to the shower. She joined them at the breakfast table. Ashley

could tell Dillon hadn’t had any sleep either.

“Ah.... I wanted to tell you...I have to go away for awhile.” She looked

at Ashley. “I don’t know how long I’ll be gone.”

Ashley set her fork down and wheeled herself away.

Dillon looked at Ashley’s parents. She got up and went out back.

Th

e doorbell rang. Mary went to answer it.

“Hello. I’m Jan. Ashley’s physical therapist.”

“Come in.” Mary tried to smile.

Jan smiled and stepped in. “You must be Ashley’s mother.”

“Yes.”

“Jan! Jan!” Zoë ran up to her.

“Hey there, Zoë. How are you?”

“I fi ne.” Zoë smiled.

“Ashley’s in the gym.” Mary said.

“Great. Th

ank you.” Jan smiled.

“Me take you.” Zoë grabbed Jan’s hand and led her to the gym.

She found Ashley already lifting free weights. “Wow, look at you.”

Jan smiled at her. “You’re winning this battle, Ashley.”

Ashley looked at her. “I guess we know who the real winner is.”

Jan looked at Ashley. “Excuse me?”

“Zoë. Why don’t you go get grandpa and go feed your pony.”

“Pony food!” Zoë yelled as she ran out of the gym.

“Oh please, Jan. I know all about you. I know you can’t wait to sink

your teeth into Dillon. Well, now it looks like you’ll have your chance.”

“What are you talking about? Th

ere’s no way in hell Dillon would

ever leave you.” Jan looked at Ashley.

“Guess again.” Ashley’s eyes were on fi re. “I know Dillon didn’t come

home the other night.”

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“Well she wasn’t with me. I got drunk at the bar and Dillon took me

home. Don’t get me wrong, she’s pure sex and I did try to seduce her.

Dillon is awesome, but she’s way too much in love with you. She got me

to the door and left.”

“Are you telling me the truth?” Ashley asked.

“Unfortunately, yes. Th

at’s what happened.”

“Oh my, God. Dillon,” Ashley said as she wheeled herself out of the

gym. She had to stop her.

She caught Dillon at the front door. Zoë was pulling on her pant

leg.

“Spit no go!! No go!!”

Tears were streaming down Dillon’s face as she scooped Zoë up into

her arms. “I know, Little Bit, but I have too.”

“Read story to me!” She handed her book to Dillon.

“What ya got there?”

“Siderrender.”

“Huh? Oh Cinderella.”

“Ever happy end Spit.”

“Yeah. Happily ever after.” Dillon tried hard to control her tears.

“Why you cry, Spit?” Zoë looked at Dillon.

“Spit has a boo boo right here.” She pointed to her heart.

“I get mommy, she fi x boo boos.”

“Your mommy is a great doctor Zoe, but I don’t think she can fi x

this one.”

“Here, I kiss and make all better.” Zoë leaned over and kissed Dillon’s

heart.

Dillon chuckled. “You’re smart like your mommy. Beautiful like her too.”

Ashley was in the hallway listening. She was crying.

“Heart all better, Spit?” Zoë asked.

“It’s getting there.” Dillon tried to smile.

“Th

en Spit stay wif mommy.” Zoë said.

“I wish I could baby, but mommy doesn’t want that right now.” She

kissed Zoë. “Maybe, when she feels better.” She kissed Zoë again and

put her down. Tears were now streaming down her cheeks as she picked

up her bags. She never thought in her wildest dreams that she would be

leaving Ashley and their relationship. It hurt so bad. She slowly reached

for the door.

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“Spit, wait.... Please.” Ashley called to her.

Dillon froze.

“I’ll try.......... just please, don’t go.” Ashley said.

Dillon stopped. Did she hear her correctly?

“Mommy walking! Mommy walking!” Zoë screamed.

Dillon spun around to Ashley standing, sliding her feet inches on

wobbly legs.

Dillon dropped her bag and ran to Ashley taking her in her arms.

“Doc, you’re walking!” Dillon smiled.

Ashley smiled. “Please, don’t go.” Ashley looked into Dillon’s eyes.

“Kiss! Kiss! Kiss!” Zoe squealed.

“We can’t disappoint her.” Ashley smiled.

Dillon took Ashley’s face into her hands. “Are you sure?”

“Our family is the only thing I’m sure of.”

Dillon kissed Ashley passionately.

“You’ll stay?”

“Just try and make me leave.” She kissed her again.

“Happy ever end!” Zoe giggled with delight.

“What?” Ashley looked at Zoe, then at Dillon.

“Th

ey lived happily ever after.”

“Oh.”

“Can’t disappoint our daughter.” Dillon grinned.

Right there, at that very second, Dillon and Ashley fell in love all

over again.

TO BE CONTINUED

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Document Outline

- Cover

- Title Page

- 1

- 2

- 3

- 4

- 5

- 6

- 7

- 8

- 9

- 10

- 11

- 12

- here

Table of Contents

Cover

Title Page

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

here