Theta Ferry RP February 22 - Doc, Anna and Gabby

Doctor Song Oh Hello fancy seeing you Anna.

Anna Wright smiles at Rose "Oh hey Rose! I was just thinking of grabbing a coffee. God I've been on the ferry half the day already..." She laughs "How are you?"

Gabrielle Rousseau gets on the ferry and climbs to the passenger level with the others.  As is her habit, she heads for the cafe and blinks, seeing a familiar fed pony tail.  "Anna?  Anna Wright?"  her voice is cautious but joyous.

Doctor Song "I'm Good Going to Vancouver to pick up Leo at the airport" she smiles and notices another familiar face.

Anna Wright is listening to Rose and smiling but then hears Gabby's voice behind her calling her name and turns with a start "Gabby!" She's happy to see her but also a little awkward so she draws in Rose "This is my friend Rose.....Rose, Gabby, Gabby...Rose...." She adjusts her pack "Where's Leo coming from?" She asks Rose belatedly.

Gabrielle Rousseau sees Rose, but hasn't seen Anna in some time.  She watches Anna's reaction with a small half a grin.  "We know each other.  Hey Rose."  she seems amused.

Doctor Song Hello Gabby Good to see you Both, Leo is coming From Cyprus,  says the  Layover in Dallas was horrid got harassed by the security there. so i thought i'd surprise him at the airport."

Anna Wright blinks and smiles back at Gabby "You look well...healthy....you know. Is life good to you?" She swivels her head to Rose "Well at least it wasn't one of the 7 deadly travel ban countries but yeah...travel through the USA is no picnic right now. Cyprus...that would be a long flight...Whew..."

Gabrielle Rousseau nods.  "I wish you luck on that."  she looks towards Anna and then down at herself.  "Well.  Healthy or fat, but I'm good.  Life is good."  she watches her turn back to Rose, still amused.  She takes a step forward.  "How are YOU, Anna?  Sky wonders about you from time to time."

Doctor Song  politely  lets Anna and Gabby  get caught up while she glances over the menu for a quick snack.

Anna Wright watches Rose walk away like she might try and lunge at her so she can't leave and then looks wide eyed at Gabby before smiling politely "You are NOT fat. He does.....what...does he wonder?" She says with a short chuckle "Tell him I say hi though." She looks at the coffee shop and Rose again, drifting, her life boat ebbing away and blurts out "Let's follow Rose's lead and get coffee.....yes coffee is good...." She makes to line up behind Rose "Your hair is SO blue....you must have to dye it all the time..."

Gabrielle Rousseau watches Rose go off and silently wonders if Anna will pounce her in order to save herself.  That idea amuses her. "I guess he wonders what we all wonder.  How it may have been if things had worked out with us. At least ONCE."  she smiles.  "It's great the Fates have given us the opportunity to meet again."  she heads for the counter.  "Coffee sounds FANTASTIC.  Where you headed, Anna.  I'd love to catch up!" She glances at the menu.

Doctor Song "Yes and no There is a trick to it i use an old laundry product called Bluing and rinse it with that to keep it blue."

Anna Wright hears Gabby and trips over her own foot with a little choking sound and then tries to play it off casually and clears her throat before a quiet "Uh thank you...but no. But I support you in your....journey with that...both of you....and whoever else might be on that .....path." She pats Rose on the arm now like she might grip it at any moment, like a slightly frightened child "Bluing you say....fascinating....tell me all the steps!"

Gabrielle Rousseau grins.  "Both of us.  All of us.  Really Anna, loosen UP." she places a hand on Anna's arm.  Partly because she's like that and partly because Anna is adorable uncomfortable.  "It's an interesting color."  she peers at the hair.  We could never make it naturally.  Phoenix would have loved that .. with all his oh so blond hair.  You remember Phoenix, don't you, Anna?"  she pats the arm.  "He's still over on Alexandra.  I'm going to make sure to see him while I'm there."

Doctor Song  "Actually it is plant based, using Indigo and  Woad woad being a controlled plant substance so expensive to get and you have to be careful with it."

Anna Wright peers at the cupcakes in the case, her face flushing a deep crimson "Oh Phoenix lives there now? " She pauses for a moment and then says "Well have a nice visit." She gulps and looks at Rose "We were all part of a sort of commune on Salt Spring years ago...Gabby, Sky, Phoenix, who you don't know. A back to the land community. Gabby are you still building stuff? That was your thing if I recall correctly."

Gabrielle Rousseau looks interested.  "Ah, I'll have to look that one up."  then she smiles and looks at Anna as if surprised she'd remember.  "Yes, Phoenix is still there.  He runs a music shop.  He still gets to Salt Spring from time to time."  she nods, still touching Anna.  "I still build.  And refurbish and all.  Houses.  Buildings."  she rubs"  she smiles.  "Are you stopping at Alexandra, Anna?"  she sounds hopeful.  "I know Phoenix would LOVE to see you again!"

Doctor Song  "it's what was in the dye used by Scotsmen and viking beserkers can cause you to do strange things if you abuse it. but lucky you could never buy that much of it."  ah so a back to the land green living group?"

Anna Wright smiles awkwardly again "Yeah I am heading to Alexandra as well. My Dad's 65th birthday. I'm meeting him and his....let's call her a friend because I don't know if they're....well whatever...friend.....for dinner. But yeah we could have coffee. I'll have some time before I meet them." She points to a scone and asks the clerk "Are those currents? If they are, I'll have one please...and a coffee?" She looks thankful for the distraction of Scotland and blue hair and draws in Rose "What happens if you use to much? Do you become a Viking or a blue faced Scot?"

Gabrielle Rousseau shakes her head.  "Not really.  They never left the land on Salt Spring to need to go back to it."  she explains.  "It's always been and always will be.  Beautiful and natural.  Summer campy sometimes since .. oh .. over 100 years now, I think."  she claps her hands at Anna's news.  "We'll have to get something together.  Coffee.  Oh your Dad has a GIRLFRIEND!  That's far out!!  More power to us.  I want to still be active even as a centurion!"  she looks at the clerk.  "Just coffee for me, please."  she smiles at him.

Doctor Song Laughs " You remember the movie Braveheart with Mel Gibson?  Well You get rather shitfaced  put on a kilt and go around mooning peeps and fighting like a wild bear.

Anna Wright shudders slightly at Gabby's joy over her father's potential virility and then laughs at Rose, because the whole conversation is indeed far out all around "Yes Salt Spring is it's own deal....like Scotland but less blue..and sheep." She takes her coffee and scone and thanks the clerk and then sighs "I don't know if I'd call this woman a girlfriend. Sort of a when the phase is right, maybe it's cycled to the moon. Sunflower Meadow. You'd like her, both of you really, got her own back to the land hobby farm on Alexandra with goats and no plumbing....she's weird about my Dad though so we don't always see eye to eye. He has to bail her out of a few too many jams...it's not really balanced. But you know what...none of my business really. If he's happy doing it." She steps back to make room for others ordering.

Gabrielle Rousseau arches a brow and nods slowly, but then sighs deeply. "All of life is when the phase is right, Anna." she philosophizes.  "We'll talk about it more. Cause we HAVE to catch up."  she takes her coffee and moves beside Anna .. who is clearly not going to get away from this reunion, ESPECIALLY as they're going to the same place.


Doctor Song: " I don't really buy into the phases of the moon stuff peeps can be good or bad any time , I guess I've seen too much of it in my work. " she sighs lightly  maybe  someday when i am not so hurried  we can sit down a  go  over some herbal stuff  together  maybe make us some Melissa Tea ."

Anna Wright smiles at Rose "I was kind of kidding about the ebb and flow of my father and women, but that sounds interesting." She smiles at Gabby, getting a little more comfortable. She does like Gabby, they just have a bit of an awkward history. "What's Melissa tea?" She's moving to pay now and is scanning the table to see where the three of them can chill for a bit while the ferry chugs on to Alexandra.

Gabrielle Rousseau smiles, nods and pays.  "People can be bad anytime but the moon still rules us all.  We are part of the earth, after all. Unless you're of the school we're abandoned children of aliens." she laughs softly.

Doctor Song giggles "you never know about us Reindeer types "  she looks wildly  " I did leave my antennae in the car," she grins like an IMP.

Anna Wright picks up her order and smiles back at the other women "Well all this human food and coffee placates me just fine. I'll grab us a table?" She's happy to pass the time with delightfully strange company because, after all, the day will only get stranger.

Theta RP log February 15th

Sky Phillips carefully opens the big door. He seems to be cradling something small in the palm of one hand and covering it gently with the other.

Doctor Song  sits at the piano, It's  A slow day  and she just some how finds playing an old tune relaxing

Gabrielle Rousseau was walking towards the cafe and spotted Sky.  Hurrying. she enters the door before it closes and looks at his hands with an upturned brow.

Sky Phillips hears the music and walks in a bit further to see who's behind the piano. He calls out "Hello!" to Rose and then turns and sees Gabby with a look of delight "I made a friend.....a ladybug friend Gabs." He opens his hands so she can see the small creature crawling around.

Doctor Song Hears the sound of people and walks over to the counter to help out with any orders.

Gabrielle Rousseau hears the music and as she looks into Sky's hands tries to identify the tune.  "Well hello, Gabs."  she says to the ladybug, a finger hovering near but not on it..  The music stops and she sighs looking around.  "She's pretty."

 Sky Phillips laughs "I was talking to YOU....but I could name her Gabs." He leans in and kisses Gabby on the cheek "Want a coffee? I'm getting one.....I need to figure out where to put the bug while I fix it up." He starts walking towards the counter, looking at the resources for bug housing purposes "Rose you don't have a small box do you? Hi...by the way..."

 Doctor Song "Hi Sky, Hi Gabby ,  let me take a look  I think I got a small Cup cake box will that work and hmm   a bit of paper towel with some honey on it for your little friend too ."

Gabrielle Rousseau chuckles.  "You could if she sticks around like I do."  she teases.  "Buy me one and I can ladybug-sit for you?" she watches.  "I have some mayonnaise nearly finished at home if you want to give her a permanent home later."

Sky Phillips smiles at Rose "Yes to both and two coffees please." He looks at Gabby "You can set Gabs up while I fix up our brew. How long do that live? Maybe she'll lay a thousand eggs. We could set up a colony of them in the garden....."

Doctor Song "She would really love it If she had a home near some roses Ladybirds love to eat the Aphids off them , When I was little my Mor Mor used to pay me a Krone a Ladybird so she could let them keep her Roses nice."

Gabrielle Rousseau nods and holds her hand out.  "Give her here ... and how do you know its a girl?  Could as well be a boy!"  she protests.

Sky Phillips takes the box and things and settles the ladybug in and passes it to Gabby "Then we should find some more so they breed. Roses....hmm....maybe we'll plant some. I was reading a lovely story on the CBC about a red panda finding a mate......funny things red pandas, aren't they? Gentle creatures...." At this moment he is in fact not stoned, but just naturally odd. He takes out his wallet and counts out cash for two coffees, mostly in change "Mor Mor. Is that mother in was it Sweden?"

 Doctor Song " Beste Mor is for sweden Mor Mor is Norwegian for Mothers mother Or grandma,  sorry If I confused you with that It's just what I always called her . she sighs " I miss her she was a sweet old woman."

Gabrielle Rousseau considers as she takes the box..  "That would mean letting the poor thing out in the world alone."  she giggles.  "Oh Sky.  Have you talked to Phoenix Fire lately?"  she wonders, a twinkle in her eyes.  Then she gasps.  "Oh!  Lets grow the roses in pots!  I'm so .... transient.  I'd hate if I had to leave them!  In pots we can take them anyplace with us!"

Sky Phillips has a look of dawning "That's right, Norway. the saunas ans fjords. She's still with you though." He smiles sweetly and takes the coffees, adding some cream and sugar as he replies to Gabby "I need to reach out to Phoenix soon." He gives a long slow blink "I wonder if he has any roses. We could ask for a cutting. I know ladybugs like basil too."

Doctor Song  "You could let her choose and Grow an entire potted garden , and I have some Bonsai roses I need to start this spring From seeds as well as some trippy Rainbow roses, and my herb gardens."
Gabrielle Rousseau smiles.  "Phoenix loves plants.  I know he grows his own herbs.  I'll talk to him about it.  I want a little potted kitchen garden like his."  she sighs a little and looks at their little cake box and new pet. "And I have a new job.  Just found out this morning.  So we'll have money for all kinds of things."  she squees a little bit.  "And I'm lining up summer work as well."  she sighs in relief.

Sky Phillips smiles at Rose as he stirs and then beams at Gabby "Great! What's the work then?"

Doctor Song  "You two Know about the new herb shop next door  she may have some seeds ." she suggests, "  a lot of new Businesses coming in I guess things are coming back around here ".

Gabrielle Rousseau grins.  "Well .. immediately I've been hired to oversee a big old house on Alexandra Island but over the summer I'll be working on the Alexandra Academy and the Cedar Point School.  Both need work and we need money." she looks at him.  "And you already know who my painter will be ....."  she teases.  "We can visit with Phoenix for food .... ladybug parenting advice and of course ... fun ..."  she nods. "I'll check that out.  I need seeds, dirt and containers.  We never know where we'll be or for how long.  As long as its mobile I'm happy."

Sky Phillips perks up at the words herb shop and nods at Rose "We'll have to give it a look." As he listens to Gabby his face breaks into a big grin "Yes to all of those." He thinks "I'm supposed to repair a downspout and rain barrel connection for someone today.....we might need to take the coffee to go...."

Doctor Song Grabs two Extra Large to go cups  and pours enough coffee to top off their existing cups.  " Free Refills if you Come back with the cups or bring in your own."  cause I like you two. " she says with a genuine smile.

Gabrielle Rousseau takes her cup n one hand and keeps the box in the other.  "Good to see you again Rose."  she turns for the departure.

Sky Phillips floats out after Gabby with the coffee calling back to Rose "Thank you. We like you too. Stay wonderful and ubiquitous! Farewell dear lady. Farewell."

 Doctor Song waves  and Thinks about Ladybirds and her Mor Mor

Steamed about Steampunk

 Written, edited and role played By Doctor Song and Hikari Horatio

L (Elena Horatio) and Bat (Elektra) Matsouka Meet up during a free Period Break before 7th period electives.



Bat Matsouka: Hey L come chill with me a bit?

L Horatio : chuckles as she walks in adjusting her hat abit 'ello ' she say soflty smiling 'you look wonderful !! 's he chuckles

Bat Matsouka : " Likewise with you, I got an Hour to kill before I need to get home and roll grape leaves for dinner."


L.Horatio: laugh soflty 'i feel abit silly but excited to be dress like zis 'she say blushing adjusting her hat .. i cant wear ze hat in the building at school 'she smiles .. 'i zink i got weird looks 'she say embarrassed.

Bat.Matsouka : answers " Yeah If i didnt just finish mine today in Robotics shop I wouldnt be able to get away with it ," she sighs " but to Hell with the dumb Rules on Hats and stuff !"

L.Horatio : fakes a posh look 'no lady or gentlemen is complete without zere hat ' she giggles 'i wear hats .. hat are cool' she jokes softly . and looks at the detail of the swirling mechanics of her hat .. she pulls out a small magnifing glass and admires the detail . 'si magnific ' she chuckles 'well i finish ze pin .. she pulls out pin that has steampunkish 2 heart and clock gears 'i'm working on it for my love .. ' she blushes 'for valentines day ' she looks down .. 'its not done yet .. ' she looks down.

Bat.Matsouka: Looks at the Pin and admires the detail and craftmanship " Wow L thats just super awesome Owen is gonna love that " now he will have The time Lords two hearts."

L.Horatio : chuckles 'i was thinking of welding it on to a skate board wheel like a little on ' she smiles ' since he loves skating and all but what do you think 'she say looking imploringly at Bat and blushes 'well he already has my eart.. ' she admits 'im falling ard for im ' she say soflty 'more ze i ever have for anyone ' she blushes as she traces the two bronze hearts that are interlocked on the pin ' she sighs happily and looks up at her "im sorry .. so you love steampunk too ' she say embrassed trying to change the subject.

Bat.Matsouka : " Love is such a simpleword for MY biggest fandom, eversince I first Heard Abney Park and Steam Powered Giraffe and watch Paul Mc Gann play the Doctor. One of these days I should show you my Victorian era Bride's Homemaking book. "


* editors Note I actually have the 1889 edition.



L.Horatio : raises her eyebrow and chattins 'i just got into Abney Park . she laughs "my uncle took me to my concert of theres at a steampunk con last summer in Quebec 'she gigle 'oh that neat ' she beam ..'ive alway love the period well the eleganence of the fashion ' she beams at her .. i just look your outfit 'she laughs and looks at her own but beams at Bat 'not to get off topic but why do ze call you Bat?'

Bat.Matsouka : Giggles " My Last name is greek for Bat, Matsouka means Bat. When i was little my dad called me his Baby bat and well the nick name stuck and i been bat ever since. "

L.Horatio: laugh soflty 'aww zat in so sweet 'she beams at Bat 'well za are very misunderstood creatures ' she nods 'my mazer has a fruitbat name Fifi ' she chuckles 'very intelligent ' she beams.


Bat.Matsouka : " I would Love to have a bat to care for, But my Dad says no cause it requires Rabies shots and he hate needles." she sighs " but i am very active on the wwf site for bats and animal preservation.

L.Horatio : smiles 'yeah were big animal lovers . I'm mainly vegetarian .. except i like fish.. and pepperoni .. she blushes abit 'but my mazer is a research zoologist ' she smiles " well maybe when your older ' she sips her tea 'its weird .. when im dress like zis . it get ze sudden urge to lots of tea she chuckles.

Bat.Matsouka : " Oh Me too especially Jasmine or Earl grey Hot , She giggles at the Trek reference she made , but anytimes a good time for a cuppa Govenor" she says with a rather fake Brit accent laughing.

L.Horatio: laughs with her, smiles at Bat 'i love jasmine tea 'she beams 'its my favorite ' she grins widely and chuckles even more at her friend joke 'always a great pick me up ' she beam ' so speaking of tea and ze great british empire .. what do think of maybe starting a steampunk club? ' she proposes.

Bat.Matsouka : "Oh I am Game on with that and maybe we can get the others to join up would be the coolest and Get this there is a New shop in the mall that has some steam stuff and robot stuff.

L.Horatio : laughs 'well have to tea and go shopping ' she beams big and chuckles 'im so glad to fun anozer person zat appriecates the genre ' she smiles 'ill talk to some of ze kids at my school and yours ' she asks . she takes out her pocket watch from inside her jacket 'ohh to have tardis 'she say abit frustrate.. 'i have a fix point to get to 'she laughs 'history class ".


Bat.Matsouka: Yeah Me too gotta make It to Curling Practice then Home and make dinner for everyone, sooo see you in class tomorrow ?"


L.Horatio : looks at her 'no i only have class monday , wednesday and fridays 'she stands "i have a tardis in the shape of ferry to catch 'she cursties.


Bat.Matsouka : "Ok see yas be safe my Friend."


L.Horatio : smiles and chuckles 'you too as well be care of airship pirates 'she jokes.


Bat.Matsouka: "lol that would be my malfunction to be caught in" she ponders, then exclaims
"To the bat cave!"

L.Horatio : laugh 'well also long as not Dalek you be ok ' she waves.

Fire Inspection - Judith, Hank, Maisy, Penny, Erica and Jeff

Judith rushes home after work on Friday night to feebly attempt to do a last minute Hail Mary straighten of her place. She's given Hank directions to get there and he's probably driving off the ferry any minute. She throws armfuls of stuff into the closets and kicks clutter to the edges of the walls. Oh why hadn't she accepted Connie's offer of help? Once the closet doors were forced shut it wasn't so bad though. Food! She needed to start dinner after all her offers to cook for Hank. Food was so much more fun than cleaning. Thankfully, she had shopped last night so took out her medium enamel casserole pan and started slicing dates and shallots on the cutting board. Maybe he wouldn't open the closets in his inspection. Or better yet, maybe he was kidding? She stopped slicing long enough to set her fire extinguisher in plain view from under the sink. That should count. She had fresh batteries in the smoke detector too. It would be fine....

Hank drove off of the ferry and, even as he followed the directions, he looked around the town.  Naturally, he was dressed in civilian clothes, but he had considered dressing in uniform.  Instead he had simply brought his clipboard with its checklist along with his duffel bag of clothes.  He found the address pretty easily and parked, half wondering if he needed an overnight parking pass, as he would if he was visiting Alexandra, and then decides that he'll worry about it later.  Taking his duffel and clipboard he walks up to the house and rings the bell.

Judith beams as the doorbell rings and quickly washes and dries her hands before going to answer. She steps back so Hank can step in and then tilts her head up and reaches for him, seeking a hug and a kiss in greeting. "Hi, and welcome." She frowns at the clipboard "Damn you weren't kidding, were you?"

Hank hugs and kisses her right in the doorway and laughs.  "Hi.  No, I wasn't kidding."  he looks at her frown.  "Occupational hazard.  Ford grumbles every year when I inspect his house, and when he moved to Cedar Point Wendy and I demanded one before he BOUGHT the place."  he half turns and uses the clipboard to point at his car.  "DO I need to stop by the town hall and get a parking permit for street parking?"  he asks.  "Not really an occupational hazard but I now live above the chief of police."

Judith smiles and shakes her head at Hank "Alright then. I don't think it's too bad in here for you to scrutinize. I'll cook while you inspect...." She gives a little groan and then looks past him to the street "Oh if you want to move it to the parking pad at the side, there's no problem with a  permit. It's not my weekend for the car co op so I'm not parked there now. I sold Eric's car when he passed away...I don't need to drive that often anymore anyway so I just time it and the co op works well for me."

Hank nods.  "Well let me move the car now.  Leave the door unlocked, but I will knock before I come back in anyway."  he peers through the door.  "So far it looks alright.  I don't grade for neatness."  he seat his bag inside the door and goes to move his car.

Judith stands there with a small frown at his words. Grade for neatness? Was he suggesting it WAS tidy or not tidy enough? She was trying to not feel chastised and sighed, heading back to the counter and her chopping. This was Hank, her beloved who made her heart soar, who made her weak at the knees with the slightest touch, who was her soul mate like no other. They could get through this little neurotic need of his to inspect her home.

Hank moves his car and comes back around, looking at her front and making the first of the marks on his clipboard.  Moving back to the door he knocks and then enters, so she knows it is him.  He stands and looks around, taking in everything.

Judith takes her oil and vinegar out and then starts pulling off rosemary sprigs. She watches Hank quietly looking around her house and smiles a little. He fits in her home naturally, just like everywhere else in her life. She has family photos everywhere as well as a wall hanging from Mexico which is more recent. The older pictures are street scenes and rural scenes from Moosejaw, Saskatchewan where she grew up. There is one picture of Eric still on the dresser in her bedroom, her favourite picture of him from the summer Erica got married, just before the worst times.

Hank usually only looks for the violations, but this was very different.  Now he is also seeing Judith's house for the first time, so he looks at that as well.  But he also does his job and opens the hall closet, then kneels and pushes a couple of hats and purses back inside.  Then he moves into the kitchen looking at her fire extinguisher and testing her smoke detector.  He smiles and moves to her, kissing her on the cheek so as not to disturb her cooking.  "Love you."  he winks and heads for the bedroom.  He glances up at the ceiling and then enters the bedroom.  After about a minute a "Ahhh!"  can be heard along with the tumbling of many solid objects.

Judith tries not to watch Hank like a hawk as he moves around but every time she can sense his back is turned she cranes her head around looking to see where he is in the house. As he kisses her on the cheek she smiles "Love you too." She's just opening the fridge to pull out a package of chicken breasts when she hears him yell and things falling. Judith cringes and dashes to the bedroom "Oh...god you opened it. Are you OK Hank?" She feels her face flush in utter embarrassment now.

Hank is on the floor, siting up against the bed.  He pulls himself up and sits on the bed, rubbing his head and chuckling to himself.  "Yes ....  yes I opened it."  he reaches for her and hugs her.  "Piled it all up in there hoping I wouldn't check the closets, eh?"  his voice is filled with humor and he'll try to pull her into his lap, not caring about the picture of the man, presumably Eric, in the room with them.

Judith gets pulled into Hanks' lap and buries her face in his shoulder "I was really really hoping you wouldn't open the closets..." She admits, starting to crack up laughing "Remember when you asked me if I had flaws? Here you go dear...." She's still laughing.

Hank laughs and kisses the head buried in his shoulder.  "Always check the closets."  he laughs.  "And I don't know if its so much a flaw, but closets don't make things less flammable."  he pulls her off a bit so he could look into her eyes.  "I couldn't stand for anything to happen to you, Judith."  he tells her sincerely.  "This is ... just one way I can think to keep you safe.  If you got caught up in a fire ....." he shakes his head, refusing to go on.

Judith runs her fingers down his face lovingly "Oh Hank. I am careful with cooking and candles and everything I can be. I worry about you...because you have to walk right into them and get people out. I couldn't stand for anything to happen to you either, and especially since you've been through enough of it already." She brushes her nose past his and kisses him lightly.

Hank grins.  "I have, but this is my life.  One very major injury in all my years in the Department."  he sighs.  "And I have no doubt you're careful with the open flames."  he gets a bit more serious.  "But I noticed all of your vents are covered with newspapers, books or cardboard boxes."  he addresses the more serious violations first.

Judith qualifies "I would NEVER ask you to change who you are for me. But I will worry from time to time because I love you." Her eyes go wide "Oh shoot...all of them? I was kind of shoving stuff to the sides so I think it's fair to say that's not an all the time thing. And I'm a little cheap about turning on the heat, even though I tend to run cold so nothing's blowing through right now. But I'll fix it." She looks sheepishly at him "Will they kick you out of fire chiefing if your girlfriend fails an inspection?"

Hank caresses her face.  "Just you loving me too makes it all worth it."  he tells her.  "Besides.  Alexandra doesn't have many major fires, remember.  SO its nice and dull.  Martha's place is a regular, but so far we get there with plenty of time to spare."  he grins at her.  "Well once you clear the vents ... the heat you let in will be more efficient.  Can't have your boyfriend being."  he holds up his pinky finger.  "This cold, can you?"  he teases her right back.  "No, they can't fire me, but my crew will teas me relentlessly over it."

Judith gasps a little fake scandalized giggle "You need to promise not to tell or they'll all tell you to find a woman who's up to the code. Thank goodness Aunt Martha's already flunked." She looks at his little finger with an eyebrow wiggle "No...I want you at full capacity later....so let me go uncover those vents before I finish cooking." She gives the pinky finger a seductive little nibble and then moves to stand up.

Hank laughs.  "Oh you are very much up to code."  he stands with her.  "For now I can shove all of this back in the closet, but I'd like to help ... if you won't get mad at me."  he bends, already shoving things back in her closet and closing it as if there were a monster inside that needed to be hidden away.  He moves out of the bedroom.  "You collect and I've sort of embraced a lot of minimalism." he observes.  "But I think I can adjust.  That's how you got so much drawer space in my apartment."

Judith smiles "I won't get mad at you if you're not judging me. Thank you." She leaves the bedroom before him and starts moving things off vents starting with the basket of kid's toys and defends it "This one might have been Maisy..." she says with a laugh "She likes to climb in here and try to nap among the stuffies....of course she seems to hate naps right now so it's really just a game. Erica's losing her mind with no naps." she explains "We have them tomorrow at about noon by the way, both girls." She pulls the box of books off the other vent "Oh I keep meaning to donate these.....damn...behind the couch where I can just forget." She gulps and smiles and walks to the other vent she can see covered "Oh my crosswords...I was making room to eat on the table because when it's just me, I do let one side pile up with these." She plunks the pile on the desk chair, safely off the vent "Were there any more?" She had missed the gift bag leftover from Christmas on one in the bedroom.

Hank comes out and leans almost lazily against the door frame watching and listening to her.  "Your house is just fine except for the vents and the smoke detector."  he tells her.  "I'll buy you another and install it before I'm a day older."  he promises.  "There was a bag in the bedroom, but I already moved it.  I could suggest some organization tips .. nothing all Fire Department lecture ... just ideas .. to help with the clutter?"  he tells her.  He moves to her and takes her in his arms.  "I can hardly wait to meet the girls.  And ... their mother?"  he asks, not sure how that will work out.

Judith tenses at his wish to help her declutter but then visibly relaxes a little in his arms "I'll work on it, but let's enjoy our time this weekend. Jeff is dropping them off and Erica is picking them up. They're running in separate directions tomorrow. It was easier when they worked for the same hotel...for all of them...." She frowns "I need another smoke detector?" She looks around "It's a small house....."

Hank chuckles, but lets it go with only a comment.  "But I was so looking forward to seeing all of your lingerie."  he nods.  "That's got to be rough."  then he glances up.  "Small yes, but one in the kitchen plus just outside your bedroom will give you that much more early warning.  Maybe I am being overprotective but ... I will call it half occupational hazard and half being completely in love with you."

Judith bites her lip at his words about lingerie and then has a melting look about the last words "Mmmm Hank.I love to hear you say that..." She lets the H come out on the bulk of an exhale and steps closer "And I can think of much more fun ways to show you my lingerie." She's wearing a simple sleeveless soft teal dress with a pair of black stockings. Just to let him know the thought is already in her head she slides the neck of her dress to one side and pulls it slightly open revealing a lacy slip under neath. Then she lifts on knee along the side of him and places his hand on her thigh through the fabric of the dress to let him know by feel that the stockings are held up by garters.

Hank closes his eyes and shudders.  When she speaks his name like that .. gets him all over.  Brain ... Heart .... Groin.  He pulls her close.  "Does this mean dinner will wait?"  he asks moving a hand down and nodding to himself.  "Garters.  God Judith."  he chuckles.  "You make me feel half my age when I'm with you."

Judith lets out a quiet soft little moan at his positive reaction "Nothing is in danger of a fire hazard yet with the food.....but I might need you to get out your hose because I've stashed oodles of cardboard right under the bed...." She teases and then steers him to the bed and pulls off her dress revealing a layers of black silky lacy see through lingerie. Before he can even think of peeling it off her she undresses him and drops to her knees, determined to make him forget her messy closets entirely.

Hank forgot everything but Judith for a while.  But after love came food, which he also enjoyed.  For him, her having clutter meant nothing.  He would take her as she was ... well, as long as the food and the love kept on flowing.   Love, dinner, love, dessert, love, sleep.  The morning meant love, breakfast ... but then Hank had to pull himself back to reality and g out to buy a new smoke detector, which he installed while waiting for the grand children .. and their father ... to arrive.

Judith sipped on a cup of coffee while she watched Hank up on her step stool through the bedroom door with a little grin "As the teenagers who don't think I can hear them would say to each other, you're fuckin hot Hank Stanley." Judith didn't normally swear so she was putting it on, even though she absolutely meant it. She didn't have time for any more though because there was the distinct sound of a car pulling up and doors opening and closing. The children were about to invade. "Saved by the bell..." Judith jokes and then goes to open the door and catch Penny running into her arms "Hello Sweetheart!"

"Grandma Grandma Grandma...I learned to jump on a horse!" A sweet little voice exclaimed.

Jeff followed, carrying Maisy who was fussing and cranky "Oh I think those molars are coming...I'm so sorry Judith.....it's fit city today."

"Oh honey..." Judith reached for Maisy who came to her immediately "It's OK Jeff. We all have those days."

Penny stepped away when Maisy was picked up and looked through the doorway to the bedroom at Hank with wide eyes.

Hank laughed at the swearing and the comment.  Ah, if only her students knew.  As the car doors close, Hank steps off of the stool and folds it up, leaning it against the wall as he takes two steps into the living room and kitchen ... and front door area.  He offered a smile he hoped was still friendly, knowing hos his scars often looked to little kids.  "You must be Penny."  he guesses, knowing he's right.  But he doesn't move any further until he knows he isnt spooking her.  With a t-shirt on his scars, which end just beyond his elbows can be see, as can his facial scars.  But only those.  The scars on his chest are hidden.  Still, he suddenly wonders if he should have worn a long sleeved shirt and curses his lack of foresight.

Penny back up into her grandmother who is still holding a fussing Maisy. Judith  looks down at Penny "It's OK, he's with me. This is Hank."

Jeff can see what's happening and steps forward and reaches to shake Hank's hand, setting the example. Judith had told them about the burns in advance. "Hi I'm Jeff. It's nice to meet you Hank." Jeff has a firm handshake and a kind face with sort of puppy eyes and what seems to be permanent scruff. He catches Penny's eye and winks at her.

Penny shyly smiles up at Hank and then goes to take off her shoes and take her backpack to the livingroom. She takes out a booklet of drawings and a set of pens and quietly starts colouring, letting her eyes dart to the grown ups now and then.

Judith is watching Penny and not the one in her arms and Maisy lunges forward at Hank and smacks one of her damp little hands onto the burn on his cheek. She looks at him curiously but isn't bothered by it, almost like she thought she could rub it off. Judith feels the movement and looks down "Sorry Hank...Maisy....no grabbing Sweetie."

Hank takes Jeff's hand, shaking it firmly.  "Good to meet you, Jeff."  he is glad that seems to relax Penny and then all of a sudden its Maisy.  He smiles and looks at Judith.  "No, its fine.  A lot of grown ups want to feel it.  I'm glad someone has the ears."  he looks at Maisy.  "You're Maisy Mouse.  I know."  he looks at her.  "Go ahead.  Feel the other cheek.  Can you feel the difference?"  he deals with kids too often, using his own face for them to experiment on before they touch a parent,  relative or loved one.

Maisy beams at him when he calls her Maisy Mouse and slaps both hands on his face, one on each cheek, giggling. She doesn't quite have the words to answer him yet but she can feel the difference and it's a fun game. Her hands smell a little like spit because she's been chewing on them in the car.

Penny watches it all thoughtfully but still at her own comfortable distance.

Judith smiles and then turns to Jeff "Did they have lunch?"

Jeff looks stressed "Sort of...sort of rejected the lunch Erica packed for the car but I brought it along in case they change their minds...It's been that kind of a day. And I have to run. Erica will get them sometime after 5:30...don't worry about the nap....she just ugh...." He kisses Maisy's cheek as she's still hanging onto Hank's face and laughs at her "Be good Maisy Mouse....be nice to Hank...."

"Hank Mouse!" Maisy chirps "Hank Mouse Gamma Mouse."

Judith looks at Hank like her heart just melted and eases Maisy into his arms now so she can take some bags from Jeff before he goes.

Jeff squats down and looks at Penny "Do I get a hug?"

"Maybe...." Penny says like she just might not you know and then runs to give one with a lighting fast cheek kiss before going right back to her drawing.

Jeff moves to the door and waves "Thanks...and good luck." He says to the other adults and heads back out.

Hank lets his eyes go big when she slaps him on both cheeks.  "Ohhhh the boys better watch out!"  his unscarred cheek actually goes a little red.  "Take care, Jeff."  he calls after the man as he takes Maisy.  He laughs at his new name and lifts up his hand.  "Can you gimmie 5?"  he asks, not terribly interested in being slapped where he isnt scarred.

Maisy slaps Hank's hand about 20 times and squeals.

Judith laughs and opens the lunch bag "Are you girls off the egg salad? You barely took 2 bites of your sandwiches each...."

Penny makes a face "It's squishy....I don't want it."

Judith pulls out grapes and carrots "OK, well you need to eat the fruit and veggies....I'll see what else I have."

Penny absently takes a grape from the Ziploc bag and eats it and Maisy tries to leap from Hank's arms and yells at her sister "MINE!!"

Penny looks annoyed "You can't have them ALL Maisy....."

"MINE!" She wails "My gapes!!!!!"

Hank arches his brows and wonders if he should put Maisy down and let toddler chaos ensue, or protect Penny from the toddler chaos.

Judith is clearly used to the squabbling and comes back into the room with two small plastic bowls and separates the grapes. "Maisy's grapes....Penny's grapes..." she says resolutely. They'll never argue over the carrots so she leaves those alone.

Maisy looks like she might just swan dive to get her bowl if Hank doesn't put her down soon.

Judith looks at Penny and says "You know the drill...wait for it...Go ahead Hank.....there's a pattern to this...."

Penny gives her Grandma a little knowing smile and nod.

Hank nods, as if given an official blessing to put Maisy down.  He does so and moves to Judith.  "Maisy is STRONG."  he whispers to her.  "She smacked me like I insulted her clothes."  he kisses her on the cheek, chuckling.

Judith laughs "Sorry, did you?" She teases and then says "Watch this.." in a whisper.

Maisy goes to her own grapes and then giggles and runs to grab Penny's and hops into the toy box, settling into eat the spoils.

"Maisyyyyyy...." Penny over acts. "Not again!" She waits until Maisy is smugly eating and takes the other bowl.

Hank snorts.  "I'm not stupid.  She looks as great as her grandma."  he watches and can't help but chuckle.  "Ahhhh  very smart ... but I would have taken mine, too.  You know if I was a toddler."  he grins.

Judith smiles "You charmer Hank." She walks to the fridge thinking on what else the girls might eat and then takes a few emergency muffins from the freezer and tosses them in the microwave to thaw them. She's got some in the mix for Hank and her lunch needs too. The girls accept the substitute. Penny is content to keep drawing but as soon as muffins are done Maisy starts fussing again, and yawning intermittently. Judith tries reading to her but the books aren't holding her attention. She picks her up and tries walking and swaying but Maisy twists in her arms like it's torture.

Hank grins and stays mostly out of the way as Judith putters in the kitchen.  Settling himself in Judith's rocking chair, he watches as Maisy gets more and more tired and fights it like an enemy of the people.  He looks at Judith, arching his brows and nodding at the television, which is off, but he also begins to rock a few times, as if silently asking if rocking and television might help.

Judith nods back at Hank and gently tries to slide Maisy into his lap, passes him the remote and head juts to the bathroom. She had changed Maisy but hadn't gone herself since very early in the morning with all the fussing and busy day.

Maisy looks happy to be handed to Hank and grins and puts up a hand wanting a high five "Hank Mouse!"

Just as Judith is about to head into the bathroom, Penny dashes past her desperately and shuts the door. Judith sighs and smiles at Hank as she stands and waits.

Penny takes her time, swings her feet and sings a little song, imagines dragons in the pattern on the ceiling and then finally finishes, flushes and washes and comes back out. Judith darts around her and gets in, thinking she will probably have to take over for Hank if Maisy fusses again.

Hank offers his hand for a high five, then takes the remote and goes through the music channels that come with the cable package.  He selects fantasy music with curiosity.  Out of the corner of his eye, he watches Judith miss the dash for the bathroom.  Then he begins to rock.  Pleased, some rather peaceful music comes through the speakers.  He knows some of this from watching Harry Potter with his grandchildren and he hums along, rocking the Maisy mouse.

Maisy has been fighting the edge of sleep but was also picking up on Judith's stress as she kept trying. As soon as the music started her eyelids drooped and then closed soon after. By the time Judith was back she was right out and flopped on Hank like a rag doll.

Judith gave a silent gasp and then beamed at Hank for his success. When she could see Maisy was truly down she gently scooped her up and transferred her to the middle of the bed in the other room. Tiptoeing back she whispers "You had the magic Hank." And kisses him lightly on the lips.

Penny looks up from her drawing at the kiss and asks Hank a question after "Are you my grandma's boyfriend?"

Hank watches Maisy as she drifts and finally loses the battle against sleep.  But he doesn't stop humming until Judith takes the toddle into the bedroom.  Accepting the kiss happily, he looks at Penny.  "Yes, I am."  he replies.  "I'm really lucky."

Penny smiles a little, liking this answer and then makes a request "Do you know how to play Hangman?" She starts drawing a frame for the noose on a blank sheet of paper.

Judith blushes a little and grins and then looks curious as Penny seems to be reaching out.

Hank nods.  "Yes, I do."  he gets out of the rocker and joins her at the table.  "But you pick the words."  he suggests, not knowing the scope of her vocabulary.  Then he stage whispers.  "I'm not as smart as your Gran."

Judith giggles quietly as she takes a few things to the kitchen.

Penny looks thoughtful "Do you watch any kids movies?" She taps the pen on her face while she waits for an answer.

Hank nods.  "I have grandkids too.  So sometimes we watch things like How To Train Your Dragon.  I think they might like the new one called Bunyon and Babe."  he tells her, giving her all of his attention, like he does with his grandkids.

Penny perks up at the mention of how to train your dragon and then frowns for a second and takes the paper to Judith whispering in her ear. Judith can't help but go into teacher mode and tear a piece of paper off asking "Mmm how do you think it might be spelled? Give it a try and I'll help you if you need it..." Penny looks up at the ceiling and then writes and waits to see if she's correct. Her grandmother quietly jots something down and Penny runs back after counting out 9 letter lines "I got one!"

Hank watches curiously, not planning to cheat, that's for sure.  Watching Penny come back he takes a deep breath.  "All right."  he rubs his hand together.  "Let me think ....  Is there an .... i?"  he begins.

Penny smirks and draws the head "Nope." She figured Hiccup would be too easy.

Judith watches Hank connecting with Penny like she's one of his own grandchildren and it confirms all her feelings once again. This wonderful loving man is such an unexpected gift in her life.

Hank sees the head, but isn't worried yet.  "Any ...  A's?"  he figures work through the vowels and hope for the best.

Penny blinks and looks sweet as pie while she draws a neck below the head.

Judith stifles a giggle at Penny's expression.

Penny looks pleased and writes in two O s after the first letter space. "Now you're getting it."

Judith puts a couple of dishes into the dishwasher and glances at the clock on the microwave. It's almost time for Erica to come get them but Maisy is napping hard.

Hank sighs and places a hand on his chest, audibly relieved.  "Alright ... now ...  E?"

Penny consultants her tiny cheat sheet for the spelling and puts an e third from the end and then grins at Hank "Very good."

Judith lets her giggle out this time and then she hears Erica's car pull up and shortly thereafter she turns her key in the lock and steps in with an awkward smile "Hi.." She looks around confusedly "Where's Maisy?"

Judith greets her at the door and then points into the bedroom. Erica looks at her sleeping child and her jaw drops. She steps into the living room and asks Judith "Mom... how did you.."

Judith shakes her head "Not me... Hank."

Erica hasn't formally acknowledged Hank yet but Penny looks up at her mom and smiles reporting "He's Grandma's boyfriend!"

Hank smiles.  "Thank you."  he considers the sheet as a woman he assumes is Erica walks in.  He glances at her and then waves a little at her, before turning to Penny again.  "T?"  he wonders using no more science than the first letter of the first word he said.  Thank.

Penny looks back down and writes a T at the beginning and then another after the two O s. She looks up between her mother and Hank, sensing her mothers hesitation.

Judith watches Erica with a hopeful expression

Erica swallows and then sets her purse by the door. She comes to sit on the couch on the other side of Penny and reaches a hand out to shake "Nice to meet you Hank. Thanks for working a nap miracle." Her tone is kind but still a little cautious.

Hank looks at the letters and then looks at Erica as she sits and offers her hand to shake.  Using the excuse to think, he reaches over to shake her hand.  His scars unashamedly burned.  "My daughter in law tells me I have a talent for putting young people to sleep."  he shakes her hand firmly.  "Some of my crew agrees with her, and I've never put them to sleep .. that I know of."  he keeps his tone friendly and looks at the paper.  "T-O-O-T blank blank E blank blank."  he reads.  "Tootsie?  Like Tootsie Roll."  he looks quickly at Erica and her mother and stage whispers.  "I like those but don't tell anyone cause they're bad for your teeth."

Penny giggles like crazy can barely contain herself. It's driving her crazy that he hasn't guessed "And if you have lots of bad teeth you could end up....?" She prompts Hank.

Erica knew about the burns but seeing them and feeling the skin was different than knowing. She works not to stare as their hands shake and glances at her mother. She's seen through all this man's layers and here he is cracking jokes at she and her daughter, cute jokes even that have got Penny giggling. And he got Maisy to sleep. Hmmm. Erica gives her mom a genuine smile and Judith returns it.

In the other room Maisy wakes up and shouts out "Hank Mouse!"

Erica laughs and stands, calling back to Hank "Well my girls seem to like you so you must not be as boring as you think."

Hank looks at Penny, as if he is a wise man.  "Well, I'd wind up a toothless ...."  and his eyes widen.  "TOOTHLESS!"  he looks genuinely surprised.  "Well, I guess I'm NOT going to hang after all."  he smiles and turns.  "Maisy Mouse."  he calls.  "You fell asleep on me."  he winks at her.  Then he looks at Erica.  "They are incredible girls.  You've done an incredible job with them."  he tells her.  "But I can be boring.  Just ask the Maisy Mouse.  I tried to hum to her and."  he dramatically drops his head to the side and lets out a large and obnoxious snore.

Erica comes back with Maisy in her arms looking sleepy but grinning at hank, as is Erica and chuckling as well.

Judith looks so happy she might cry watching Erica warm up. Hank was just magic.

Penny writes in the whole word now and beams "Toothless......Toothless the dragon." She puts the pen down and leans her head on Hank for just a second and then looks at her mother "Do we have to go now?"

Erica shrugs "Grandma and Hank might want a quiet dinner after you two."

"We were quiet!" Penny protests "Maisy slept for half of it."

Judith looks at Hank and then Erica "What time is Jeff done? You could stay if you want...I've got two big frozen salmon bags in the freezer I could cook up for us..."

Maisy starts to wriggle in her mother's arms so Erica puts her down and takes out her phone "Let me check in with him..."

Maisy makes a beeline for Hank and climbs into his lap, putting her hand on the burn scar on his face and rubbing it. It still doesn't come off. Penny watches her sister and then quietly asks "Does it still hurt?"

Hank chuckles.  "Now I get it.  You're good, Penny."  he watches mother and daughter.  "Oh they were fine."  he tells Erica.  "No trouble.  My grandkids."  he mock shudders as Maisy climbs into his lap and rubs at his scar.  He looks at Penny.  "Not anymore."  he tells her.  "It was more than twenty years ago."  he emphasizes the word 'twenty' to let her know how long ago it was.

Erica smiles at her phone as it makes little active texting noises and she types back to them "Jeff's not sure he can get away but he'll try in a bit." She looks between her mother and Hank "Sure we're not crashing your date though?"

Penny nods slowly about the 20 years ago and looks at her mother "She already kissed him today Mom. I SAW!" She giggles.

Judith cracks up laughing at her granddaughter "Yes we're fine with the one for now." she winks at Hank. "So yes to salmon? And maybe roasted potatoes...oooh I still have rosemary....I made that chicken you like last night Erica."

Maisy takes her hand off Hank's face and starts chewing on her fingers again. She's clearly rubbing at her gums where molars are coming in.

Hank chuckles.  "Well, I have no problem with some extra company.  Watching Maisy he arches his brow slightly, thinking a little bit about Robbie.  It won't be too long before he's there, as well.

Erica follows her mother into the kitchen "Oh the one with the dates? Yum! Can I chop potatoes for you? I don't want to make you cook after watching my kids all afternoon."

Judith smiles "I had a partner in that today, and I think Hank did more watching than I did." She pulls salmon from the freezer and talks over the counter to Hank "You must be Super Grandpa with those three of yours." She muses.

Erica gulps "Three? Oh my god that's brave. Jeff and I had to stop before the kids outnumbered us....."

With the hang man game finished, Penny stands up on the couch to look over at the counter and snoop on what the supper will be "Fish?" She makes a face.

Maisy crawls out of Hank's lap and goes to the toy bin, seeming to just shovel things out onto the floor at random while she searches for something.

 Hank leans on the counter.  "Oh your two are like a dream compared to my three."  he assures Erica.  "Robbie is the baby, so no problems there.  It's the TWINS."  he lifts his hand to his temple as if feeling a headache come on.  "Mabel likes to climb things.  Now, if that meant the trees, it would be one thing.  Last time I heard, she'd gotten on the school ROOF.  And Mason ...."  he blows out a breath.  "Great mind for math and computers.  Hacked the school's PA system not too long ago.  Basically keeping them entertained is a nightmare."  he looks at Penny.  "I have to eat a lot of fish."  he tells her.  "I told you, I'm not too bright and fish is brain food"

Penny looks intrigued by these children Hank is describing. She's always been a rule follower but kids who don't fascinate her. "Fish makes you smarter? Is that like broccoli makes you tell better jokes? My Dad says stuff like that to make me eat things I don't like." She's eyeing Hank suspiciously now.

Judith has to fight not to grin and says "Fish actually does have essential fatty acids that are important for brain function Penny. Hank is brighter than he's letting on." She teases.

Erica looks at Penny "Remember, Grandma's a nutritionist?" She narrows her eyes "What's Maisy doing?"

From a distance it looks like Maisy might have a toy from the toy box but what she actually managed to get a hold of is the TV remote. She's currently smacking it on the floor trying to find out what's inside the battery compartment. Probably something bite sized!


Hank shrugs.  "Broccoli is best raw."  he argues.  "Or steamed just a little but, before its all soft and gross."  he looks at Judith.  "Well, I am the Chief .. and the arson investigator.  If I'm going to toot my own horn, I have to admit there is a little bit more to it than putting the wet stuff on the red stuff."  he looks at Maisy.  "Looks like she's getting into trouble."  he observes and considers moving but this isn't his fight and she inst in danger until she tries using a AA battery as a teething tool.

Erica steps a bit around the counter and sighs "She's got the remote again. Penny can you take it from her and bring it to me please?"

Penny nods at her mother and goes to get it. Maisy does not want to give it up though and fights her older sister, pulling back.

"Maisy let go!" Penny says, trying to pry her little fingers off it. Maisy can see the prying might actually works and changes her tactics, using her teeth instead to distract.

"Ow! Maisy!!! Mom!!! She's biting me!!" Penny yells.

Erica dashes over to break up the chaos "Maisy.....no!" She gives her the look and Maisy releases Penny's hand from her mouth. She's made quite the mark and it's bleeding a bit. Penny starts to cry, partly in pain, but mostly in anger.

Judith abandons the fish and goes to help, leading Penny away before she considers clonking Maisy on the head in retaliation. She squats down and hugs Penny.

Erica sits on the floor pulls Maisy into her lap "No biting. Biting hurts people." Her tone is firm, not yelling but Maisy starts to cry anyway, knowing she's in trouble for this.

Hank watches, already inching towards the bathroom, where he's seen the first aid kit.  He returns with it.  "Can I help?"  he offers, setting the little plastic box down.

Judith looks gratefully at Hank and nods "Yes I think some polysporin and a bandaid would fix you right up Penny. thank you Hank."

Penny lifts her head to look at Hank and stick out her arm, clearly wanting him to do it.

Maisy reaches for a toy and her mother holds onto her arm, stopping her "No toys. Time out." She sits with her for the time out because otherwise Maisy will just start playing and forget she needs to be in one "And you need to say sorry to Penny."

Hank smiles and takes her arm in his hands.  "Oh yea, this isn't too bad."  he takes out a cleaning swab and the ointment and band aid.  "No need for an IV."  he cleans it, adds the ointment and the band-aid.  "There.  And I won't even charge you, since I am off duty."  he winks.

Penny smiles a bit at Hank's joking around and leans her head on her Grandma's shoulder. "Thanks."

Judith looks at Hank with absolute adoration as he just takes it all on like he's been doing all day.

After her two minute time in, Erica picks up Maisy and walks over to Penny, prompting her "What do you say Maisy?"

Maisy looks grumpy about it but finally almost yells out "SORRY!" and then laughs.

Penny seethes at her little sister "She's NOT sorry at all!" She spits back.

"Maisy?" Her mother says in a warning tone.

Maisy suddenly looks sadly at her big sister "I sorry Penny." Her eyes are simply huge.

Penny exhales "Fine." And steps away from her Grandma and Hank.

Erica hangs onto Maisy for awhile, not wanting to throw them back together immediately.  She  sighs at Hank and her mother "I'm going to take Maisy out to the garden for a few minutes...."

Penny takes out a fresh piece of paper and begins to draw again.

Judith nods at Erica and stands up as she leaves. She smiles at Hank "You really are my hero today Hank." She moves back into the kitchen, giving Penny her space to cool down.

Hank smiles.  "You're welcome, sweetheart."  he replies to Penny and then watches little Maisy.  Once Erica takes her out to the garden and Penny starts drawing again, he cleans up the minor mess his work made and picks up the box, following Judith into the kitchen to throw it away.  He looks at Judith.  "Oh .. they're kids."  he smiles back.  "But it's always handy to have an EMT around."  he chuckles.  "However, I will not complain about a Hero's Welcome later on."  he winks and goes to put the First Aid Kit back in the bathroom.

Judith has to bite her lip not to give any kind of reaction that's not kid appropriate to the hero's welcome comment. She shakes her head around and starts washing up the potatoes. If Erica couldn't come back in or assist, she'd ask Hank to chop them. This was all new again, having a partner she could rely on and even ask for help. She'd forgotten how much she valued that. She set the potatoes aside and made up the marinade for the fish.

Penny had drawn a picture of her on a horse watching Hank put out a fire. There was also a small jail that contained her sister with her mother and father and grandmother drinking coffee beside it.

Erica could be heard outside talking sweetly to Maisy but no words were clear. It did sound cheerful though.

Hank isn't asked, but the moment Judith sets them aside, he begins to chop them.  "Diced, sliced, french fries?"  he asks, not looking at her, only helping.  For him it is just manners.  A labor of love.

Judith gives him a grateful smile "Wedges if you would please Hank? And thank you."

Penny walks up to the two of them cooking and holds up her drawing "Tada!" She is clearly waiting for a reaction of sorts.

Judith beams at her "Oh isn't that lovely. Is that Maisy.....in jail dear?" She asks,trying not to laugh.

Penny nods "Mhmm...she set stuff on fire and Hank had to put it out."

Hank quickly cuts up some wedges and grabs a clean towel to wipe his hands off and looks at the picture, his blue eyes twinkling.  "Well, Judith love.  Arson IS a crime."  he reminds her.  "But at least you get coffee.  I hope there's some for me when that fire is out."  he considers.  "Maybe someday you'd like to meet my Shift mates." he offers.  The engine is always a big hit with the kids, although his vehicle tends to bring snickers even if it IS as fast as a car.

Penny's eyes brighten "I'm sure there's coffee. My Mom and Dad make a really big pot. Which is good because Dad says they'd die without it." She thinks about his offer "You mean all the fire fighters? Do you have a pole you all slide down? Can I go down it? Maisy's too small...."

Judith grins as she settles the fish in to the marinade and then moves it into the fridge.

Hank grins.  "I like your Dad."  he smiles.  "Well maybe not ALL of them.  We have three shifts.  A Shift, B Shift and C Shift.  I am the captain on A Shift and the Chief of the whole Fire Department on Alexandra.  But you can meet the 5 firefighters I work with."  he sighs.  "I'm afraid we don't have a pole."  he admits.  "But we have a helicopter and a fire boat.  And yes, Maisy is a little too small for those.  She'll have to get big, like you."

Penny looks intrigued and nods "That might be fun. Do you know any police who ride on horses?"

Judith laughs "Penny has seen the musical ride and is still quite affected by that. Are you still wanting to become and RCMP officer so you can apply to ride in that dear?"

Penny nods vigorously "You have to be really good though."

Hank shakes his head.  "Alexandra doesn't have any Mounted Police, honey."  he tells her.  "But our police are very good, even without them."  he grins.  "I live just above the new Chief of Police on a boat."

Judith points at the fridge "Why don't you stick your picture on the fridge? I have lots of magnets."

Penny turns and takes her picture to the fridge looking for space and the magnets, both of which Grandma has handy. After she puts it on she looks back at Hank "You live on a BOAT? Where do you guys go pee?"

Judith cracks up now, she just can't help it. Sometimes the kids just had the best questions.

Hank grins at Penny and blinks for a second.  "Well, we spent a long time making the boat into apartments, so ... we have a bathroom with a toilet just like anybody."  he offers, still grinning. He'd have to share that one with Josh.

Penny seems satisfied with this answer and is about to say something else when the front door opens and Jeff walks in with a grin at everyone.

"Daddy!" she yells and runs to him hugging him around the middle. Jeff bends down and picks her up and swings her around "My horse girl. Has it been a fun day?"

Penny nods, grinning and then frowns, remembering "Most...cept Maisy bit me!" She holds up the bandaged hand and Jeff kisses it.

"Oh no.....you're sister's a vampire already?" Jeff teases. "Are you OK?"

Judith smiles "She's fine. It wasn't that bad. Hank fixed it up and then she was drawing again in no time."

Jeff snorts "Can't be that bad then. Thanks Hank." He sets Penny down "Where's Mom and Maisy?"

"Outside." Penny reports and then points to the fridge "Look what I drew!"

Jeff chuckles as the picture comes into view "Jail....fire....coffee. Excellent." He tosses a glance back "She's adopted you now Hank, you're in the drawings."

Judith beams "And Maisy adores him...he got her to sleep."

Jeff walks up to Hank and shakes his hand again "Damn I shoulda brought you beer."

Hank smiles and nods at Jeff.  "No problem."  and then he laughs.  "Well, that's good to know." he looks at Judith and back to Jeff as they shake hands.  "Maybe next time, eh?"  he offers.  "You have incredible daughters.  I can still feel Maisy's hand on my good cheek."  he laughs.

Jeff snorts "Oh yeah she's got a good wallop, and a bite. the biting is new. No one ever warns you how vicious the children are...thanks...." He laughs and looks at the food "Ooooh roasted potatoes?"

"And salmon.....and maybe..." She looks at Penny "Sweetie will you eat green beans?"

Penny immediately negotiates "How many do I have to eat?"

"Ten!" Her father intercedes and holds up 10 fingers at her.

Penny nods reluctantly and then goes to poke through the toy bin.

The front door opens again and Erica walks in with Maisy with a bouquet of weeds in her little fist "Gamma Gamma.....fowers!"

Judith looks at Maisy like she's melting "Oh...thank you Maisy. Let's get a vase." She comes to collect Maisy and bring her to the kitchen to put the "flowers" in water and let's Maisy "help". Jeff steals a kiss from Maisy as they pass and Maisy beams at both her father and Hank.

Erica walks to the counter and greets her husband with a tired hug and a kiss "We're free..."

Jeff returns both "Mmhmm. I win the longer day though." He jokes "But no one quit during the event."

Erica rolls her eyes "Show off. I didn't lose a chef this time though.......the rest we can cover in a pinch. Today it was a catering server...who.." She clears her throat and just makes a face implying the word she won't say in front of the kids "....the bellhop.....so I thought it was going to be both, but he held his ground and stayed....Oh my god....."

Judith cringes and preheats the oven, giving Hank a gentle nudge back to his wedge potato task as she passes with the flower vase and Maisy.

Hank smiles.  "They can be a little dangerous.  But I've seen worse sibling bites."  he confesses.  Smiling at the flowers, he half listens to the work chatter  and then mock starts and gets back to cutting potato wedges, feeling like part of a family.

Judith sets Maisy down after the put the vase on her small table and points at Penny by the toy bin. She watches Maisy toddle off, hoping enough time has passed that the girls will just play happily for a little while.

Maisy climbs right into the toy bin and grins at her sister.

Penny gives her a little smile back and then comes at her with a plastic T-Rex, roaring like Maisy loves. Maisy fishes around for the Triceratops and butts it at the T-Rex, fully getting into the game. And just like that the earlier fight and bite are forgotten.

Erica and Jeff look at their girls and sigh, still loosely hugging each other.

Judith walks by them to the fridge and pats Erica's shoulder. She comes back to stand beside Hank with rosemary, garlic and a big roasting pan, beginning to pull sprigs off and creating a wonderful fresh aroma "Dump the potatoes in here please Hank."

Hank only glances at the girls, making a mental note of Maisy climbing into the toy box.  Then he nods.  "Yes, dear."  he begins dumping the potatoes, inhaling deeply.  "Ah, Rosemary.  I might have wanted to name Ford that if he'd been a girl."

Judith smiles sweetly at Hank "Rosemary Stanley. That would be a lovely name. If you don't mind my asking, where did Ford come from? In the family? Or are you that partial to the automobiles?" She jokes.

Jeff snorts and says "I'm assuming we're eating on the patio with this many. Judith do you want me to go get the table and chairs from your shed?"

"Yes please Jeff....key's on the hook by the back door." She quickly replies while waiting for Hank.

Erica looks cautiously at the girls, still happy and starts to follow "Scream if you need us back. I'll help him."

Maisy and Penny's game has become quite elaborate. Now the T-Rex is eating all the Fischer Price people and the Triceratops is trying to save them.

Hank chuckles.  "No, I did not name my son after the automobiles."  he grins.  "I fell in love with The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy when it came out and named my son after Ford Prefect.  I think he likes it too."

Judith shakes the rosemary onto the potatoes and grabs for the olive oil "Oh yes I remember those, clever and witty." She pulls open a drawer and gets out her garlic press and presses no less than 6 cloves into the potato mixture and then walks to the other cupboard for her salt shaker and sprinkles some on before mixing it all up. It smells like heaven before it's even cooked. "Could you be a dear and open the oven for me?" She asks as she picks up the big roaster.

The T-Rex is lying on the floor while the Triceratops jumps on it and the last living plastic round little people cheer. Predator and prey be damned.

Hank watches her press all that garlic.  "No one will kiss me now."  he bemoans and nods, getting the oven door for her and closing it up afterwards.

Judith winds her arms around him after he shuts it and murmurs "I will. I love garlic...and you..." She forgets herself for a moment and kisses him deeply. He's just so irresistible she can barely stand it.

The door opens and Erica and Jeff walk in on it and Jeff chuckles.

Erica mock scoffs "Who's watching the kids while you two make out?"

The girls don't even notice as their scene continues, absorbed in play.

Hank grins and gets into the kiss, only to be interrupted.  "They are replaying the Jurassic."  he protests.  "Not worried about us."  he smiles.  "It's not too cold out there, is it?"  he wonders about the patio.

Erica giggles "It's Mom's way of making sure dinner guests don't overstay their welcome I think. It's actually not too bad today, and we won't stay late after supper." She casually opens the fridge like most adult children are prone to in their parent's home "Do you have any wine?"

Judith winks at Hank and then steps away to the fridge "Do I have any wine? Is the Pope Catholic dear? There are 4 bottles of while on the bottom....and a few reds in the cupboard. What would you like?"

"That Riesling from Christmas..." Erica requests. Both women are now leaning over the fridge.

Jeff laughs and turns to Hank "Judith did warn you she's a wino right? So's Erica. Just one glass Babe, we brought separate cars remember?"

Erica whispers "Fuck." only to be heard by adults in the kitchen.

Judith pretends to chastise her "Language dear..." She jokes "And yes I have that one..." She pulls out the bottle and they stand together looking at it before looking up at the males.

The girls seems to be expanding their game and adding in new toys, the town is growing and the T-Rex comes back to life. Must be Jurassic Park 2...

Hank chuckles.  "I don't think I've see you sloshed yet, dear."  he grins.  "That could be interesting.  Or is that just how you stay warm eating on the patio in February in Canada of all places."  he teases.

Erica smiles at Hank "She's very giggly and it happens slowly so you won't know until...it simply is...."

Jeff nods vigorously "Uh huh..."

Judith waves them off "Oh you two make me sound like an alcoholic. I'm NOT. and if it's not below zero by suppertime, we'll sit outside. Otherwise we'll eat on our laps."

Erica laughs "It did call for snow today Mom...And we weren't all born in the prairies where they plug in their cars."

"It hasn't snowed YET...." Judith argues as she opens the wine and pours two glasses. She looks at Jeff and Hank "Wine?"

Jeff walks past her to the cupboard "Yes please but red."

The children  are oblivious to it all as they keep playing.

Judith smirks "Red or white Chief Hank?"

Jeff is already pouring himself a red and teases Judith "How formal."

Erica rolls her eyes "It was his profile on the dating site they met on. I looked you both up. You can browse without joining."

Jeff gasps "You weren't browsing were you?" He grins after to show he's kidding.

"Nope.....but since it seems to work, I might recommend it to a friend who was.....or your mom."

"Hey....you leave MY mom out of this." Jeff protests.

Erica toasts him "Oh pot kettle....who was telling me to relax last week." She looks at Hank sheepishly "No offence."

Judith now toasts her daughter on her transparency.

Hank grins.  "White, please."  and then he looks at Erica a bit sharply.  "Oh God, please tell me it was AFTER I fixed my profile.  My grandson created my original profile.  Found my Academy picture ... my profile was just ..  just ... obviously written by a ten year old."  he laughs after the spouses tease each other.  "None taken.  My son's initial reaction was something like 'You did WHAT'? As if I'd retired and gotten a job as a Chippendales dancer."

Judith almost spits out her sip of wine at the dancer comment and pats Hank on the arm "I think you'd be quite the fun show myself." She wiggles her eyebrows at him.

Erica shudders "Mom...make those jokes later." She laughs and looks at Hank "No it's pretty much how you look now. And it was since Mom told me. Has your son calmed down?" She looks curiously at her mom after she asks.

Jeff sets his wine down and takes out his phone "OK I feel out of the loop now. What's the site called?"

"Table for Two...it's a BC thing even." Judith qualifies as she pours Hank a glass of the white.

Jeff hums slightly and clicks and scrolls "No I don't want to make a profile....spammy spammy.....Chief Hank....oh there you are....."

There are sounds of carnage from the Jurassic era again.

Hank chuckles.  "Alright, no jokes in front of the children."  he moves his wine glass between Erica and her husband.  Then he nods.  "Yes.  But more because we cleared a lot of the air between us regarding his mother.  My late wife."  he sips his wine.  "It was a shock to him, but in the end ... I got my son back."  he looks at Jeff.  "Yes.  I think I can probably delete that profile now."

Erica looks keenly curious but doesn't inquire.

Jeff just seems to take Hank's words at face value and nods.

Judith looks lovingly at Hank and replies "I should too... but I might write them a testimonial."

Hank reaches over to touch Judith's hair.  "We should both write one, I dare say."  he suggests and sees Erica's curious expression and wonders if he dare try and explain.

Judith leans her head into Hank's touch like she's drinking it in like her favourite wine and smiles.

Erica watches their affection and is still pondering his other statement. She steps away and goes to check on the girls. She squats down and listens to Penny explain the story of their game.

Jeff recognizes his wife's discomfort and tries to compensate, turning back to Hank "Ford is his name? Did I catch that right? What did he end up doing?"

Hank gives most of his attention to Judith, but sees Erica move.  But he looks at Jeff.  "He's the general Manager at the Cedar Point Cannery."  he replies.  "Didn't follow in the old mans footsteps, but I can't blame him.  I'm proud of him, regardless."

Jeff takes a sip of his wine when he listens and then perks up as Hank finishes "Oh Cedar Point...buddy of mine lives out that way. Has a vet practice on the edge of the town....sorta part time because he's a park ranger on Falcon Island.....Erica and I got married on the island actually."

Erica turns her head and gives Hank and Jeff a little nod at this.

Judith chuckles as she checks the potatoes and then puts in the fish. "Small world, ours."

Hank laughs.  "Really?  Dr Ayala, right?"  he wonders.  "He handles our animal populations.  Last year we had an over population of cats.  ant there have been tarantula sightings the last few months.  Only two, but he's been out a few times.  Usually when he is picking up pets to spade or neuter."  he nods.  "It IS a small world.  He's a good man."

Jeff grins "The best. He's been a real friend to our family as well as a pal of mine. and I need to catch up with him soon. Damn work keeping me running. Tarantulas? On Alexandra? That must be pets escaping right?"

Judith takes a bag of frozen green beans from the freezer and turns around facing Jeff and Hank "Ziven was looking for the tarantulas too? Such a kind man. He should ask Aunt Martha. She told me she saw another two when she was out for breakfast one day at that Greek place..." She trails off and then has a thought "Erica, the Mariner's Hotels. It's a tiny chain, just two. do you know it?" She's sort of addressing Jeff too.

Erica nods "Yeah I've heard of them. Cedar Point and Alexandra, why?"

Judith gives her a thoughtful look "They were just sold. I read it in one of the small town papers...not the trashy one, a legit one."

Jeff chimes in "Oh yeah Marakesh Meera or Meeratech."

Judith confirms Jeff's naming "Yes him. I have one of his alarm systems in the house even. I barely use it now, but I was nervous alone in the house for awhile.....but not what I'm getting at. Erica, maybe...uh send in a cover letter and see if they're looking for anyone, heck both of you..." She extends the thought to Jeff.

Hank nods.  "Most definitely escaped pets."  he assures Jeff.  "I am hoping that they are two males or two females or just friends, or things could get more interesting than I like on Alexandra."  he nods.  "Either town is great.  Good schools and all."  he can speak for Alexandra, at least.

Judith moves around the kitchen tossing the veggies into a steamer and setting it up to steam, leaning briefly on Hank as she picks up her wine and sips again and then setting the oven timer. It's all seamless. Cooking is like breathing for Judith.

Jeff and Erica exchange a thoughtful look and then Jeff says "It would be nice to work together again someday."

Erica sighs "We could bite the bullet and open a B&B."

Judith turns around "There IS one of those in Cedar Point. It made that trashy paper."

Erica laughs "A B&B? What are they bored writers? They should come write about your spider invasion." she smirks at Hank, softening but still hedging a little. She can tell her mother is happy, but she still wants to know what he meant before about his wife.

Judith rolls her eyes "I'll let you read it for yourself. Then there was a whole scandal with both town's mayors being lovers...I mean they might be but who cares. They're sweet old people. Let them have their happiness if they've found some." She shrugs and then says "I met Theta's mayor's wife last week, Philomena Kenner. Spunky lady, sort of a friend of an acquaintance....well the lady who runs my favourite coffee shop, Rose. And it's not true what that Potter woman says about our coffee there either..."

Hank gives Judith a touch there or a stroke there all the time.  He is very much into just touching her, even casually.  "We don't really have one in Alexandra, but there is the hotel and the Pantheon.  It's sort of a furnished place.  I hesitate to call it a B&B because the owner has his Greek restaurant in the lobby."  he considers it and dismisses it.  He chuckles.  "Fred Sewid ... I never would have thought.  But there has to be someone for everyone, right."  he strokes Judiths hair with a contented smile.  "Oh you can't take anything Potter says seriously."  he agrees.

Judith adores Hank's affection and reciprocates it as often as he doles it out. In particular she kisses the burn scar on his cheek as well as running a hand casually along his outer arms or his back. It's meant to be sweet but she also gets a little charge feeling the strength of his body through his clothes. She moves to lightly rub at his mid back again after checking the fish and potatoes again. In her other hand she holds her wine, looking like this sweet stance is something she has indeed been doing for 40 years.

Jeff watches them with a crinkle eyed grin, like he thinks they're just adorable. "Well we'll check out the Mariner's. What's Meera like anyways? He owns a lot of businesses...makes me think of that Yahoo running the show at our neighbours below the border. I keep hoping we're not next on the build a wall plan."

Erica stands up and sighs. The girls are back into another game "Surely Trump knows both countries depend on trade with each other? He'd be shooting America in the foot too if he banned Canada."

Judith snorts "Well we'll see how the prime minister's chat goes with him. Hopefully our love of Syrian refugees doesn't come up as a topic.The food's almost ready by the way. We could check the weather and set the table."

Hank loves her touch and does nothing to discourage it.  "Meera owns the largest house and the largest buildings in Alexandra."  he tells them.  "The house is way out.  Separated.  It's mostly on the water.  And he also lives in the penthouse on the Greybar building.  I think his son lives there more than the father does."  he huffs softly at the talk of politics.  "He's aggravating everyone, and he's barely gotten unpacked."  he looks out of the window and can't suppress a grin at what he sees outside.

Judith hasn't looked out the window yet and has started digging in the cutlery drawer, counting out forks and knifes. "Erica dear, would you get the plates out, leave them in the kitchen till we serve up though."

Erica glances at the back door window and grins along with Hank "Sure Mom, I'll leave them inside..." She passes her mother and starts to giggle.

Jeff looks at the back door and then the front windows and lets out a laugh.

Judith looks around at the other adults "What is WITH you all?"

Maisy looks up at the window and lets our an excited little squeal followed by Penny exclaiming "Look, snow!!"

Small Kindling for a New Flame - Erica and Judith

Judith walks off the ferry to meet her daughter Erica at the terminal. As discussed, Erica is child free and driving she and her mother to a dinner of their own. The two woman embrace as Judith approaches and then Judith steps back and bounces the bottom of Erica’s new haircut on the flat of her hand. Erica looks like a younger version of her mothering many ways except for the very pronounced map of freckles splashed across her face. Those are from her father’s side and skipped a generation even. She has chestnut brown hair in a curled under bob and is wearing a black v-neck t shirt, a light grey cardigan and skinny grey jeans with little black ballet flats. Judith is wearing her brown knee high lace up boots over brown leggings and a light green sweater dress with a pretty scarf.

“Back to the short. I like it.”

Erica rolls her eyes and smiles looking at her mother’s own similar haircut “You may be a little biased, but thanks. New job, new cut.” The smile fades instantly at the words new job.

Judith catches the facial expression and makes a note to come back to the job topic over dinner. “What are you hungry for Erica? I was thinking Thai food myself.”

Erica smiles “You always know where to go. Just plug the address into my Google map app. It’s nice to go out on our own. Haven’t done this in a long time.” She unlocks her phone and hands it over to her mother.

Judith smiles and nods as she keys in the restaurant name “Too long. This one’s called Leela and its right in White Rock. Untested by me so there’s the disclaimer.”

Erica wiggles her eyebrows “Fooding with the foodie. Come on hop in and we’ll see if it measures up.”

It’s a short drive and a short wait to a table and the two women are seated with menus and pouring over them.

Judith runs her finger slowly through one section as she squints a little at the menu. The lighting is terribly dim. “You guys are still doing the gluten free thing right?”

Erica inhales audibly with irritation “It’s not a thing, it’s an intolerance.”

Judith looks up kindly “Alright, you know your body. Have you seen a doctor about it?”

Erica folds her arms and looks squarely at her mother “I went to a naturopathic doctor. Have YOU seen a doctor recently?”

Judith smiles wryly “Point taken. I just worry about you honey.”

“I’m fine mom. And Thai works well for gluten free. They have lots of rice noodles. We should get Pad Thai in the mix.”

It dawns on Judith that Erica knows her buttons and is carefully steering her back to food to cease the medical conversation but she does love food and complies “Pad Thai is always the benchmark for a good Thai place, so yes. And some of those summer rolls with the peanut sauce…..and a curry…..my vote is green.”

Erica finds the green curry on the menu and notices her mother squinting again “Did you forget your glasses Mom?” She teases and then reads “The options are tofu, chicken and prawn.”

Judith huffs but smiles “They make me look like such an old lady. And I’m assuming tofu with the Pad Thai so let’s do prawn…..mmm you know what, chicken.”

Erica shrugs “Either is fine with me. But I’m amazed you’d choose anything over seafood.”

Judith looks neither here nor there about it “I’ve had a lot of seafood lately so chicken tonight.”

The waitress is very on the ball and is at their table almost as soon as the menus close, taking the order and pouring them jasmine tea in tiny mugs. She leaves the short metal pot on the table.

Erica looks at her mother curiously “Had a lot as opposed to made a lot? Does that mean you’re getting out more?”

Judith resists the urge to blurt out everything at once about why and says “Yes. Yes I have been. And it’s been very nice.”

Erica nods “Well good for you. Are you going to Mexico with Connie again this year?”

Judith shakes her head “Well we haven’t talked about it. I did love it though. I’m not sure what I’m doing with my spring break week. It’s kind of why I wanted to talk to you alone.”

Erica holds up a hand “Mom, I can see where you’re going with this, but there’s no way in hell I can get time off that fast for a trip. In fact I was going to beg you to take Maisy again because that damned daycare closes for the week because it’s in the school. I can sign Penny up for another riding camp though and she’ll love it. Jeff might get one or two days off then but certainly not all five.”

Judith smiles and sighs “I wasn’t asking you all to take a trip with me. And I’m glad it won’t be all five days, as much as I love having Maisy. You know I’ll help. Erica, I’ve met someone.”

Erica blinked hard over her tiny cup of tea and then sputtered “You….mean…a man, like romantically?”

Judith chuckles “Yes, a man, like romantically. His name is Hank Stanley and we met online. Connie talked me into one of those sites.”

Erica set her tea down and rotated it on the table between her pointer finger and thumb. She looked stressed out by the whole idea “How long has this been going on?”

Judith saw her daughter’s reaction and looked dismayed, but explained “Not very long. We started messaging just after New Years. I know it’s crazy, but we just clicked. He’s wonderful and kind Erica, and funny. I’d really like you to meet him.”

Erica took another sip of her tea and looked away and out the window “Since New Years? Well you can’t have been out that many times? Mom, I don’t want to put a damper on your excitement about dating again but maybe wait it out before introducing the family. That’s not even a month.”

Judith sighs “I know the timing. Our connection has been very intense for the amount of time it’s been. His work schedule is odd. He’s a fire Department Chief so he gets bits of time off in shorter spurts. We make the most of it….I can’t explain why but from the moment I met Hank, it was just instant chemistry.”

Erica’s eyebrows go up “Make the MOST of it? Instant chemistry? Mom….you haven’t….” She starts to ask anxiously but the waitress comes back with the summer rolls and she stops herself.

Both women are completely gracious to the waitress, betraying none of the tension between them at all.

Judith does finish her daughter’s question right after she leaves “Slept with him? Yes I have. I didn’t plan on it happening fast like that, but it felt right and he’s wonderful that way too. He didn’t use me and leave me either so it’s not like that. We care about each other a lot Erica.”

Erica rolls her eyes “Well he’s not going to leave if he’s still getting some. Please tell me you used condoms. Sex has changed Mom. It’s scary out there.”

Judith looks annoyed now “He’s not just with me for THAT. And not that those details are any of your business, but we’re both clean. We even took an HIV test on our first date.”

“On your FIRST DATE? What the hell kind of a date was your first date? Did Connie sign you up for Tinder? Was it just a hook up?” Erica looks incredulously at her mother.

Judith’s jaw tenses “It was not Tinder…or a” She does quotes in the air as she repeats back “a hook up” and then drops her hands to her lap and leans forward “We met on the ferry and went for dinner and then spent intimate time together because we just felt that connected. I know it’s a lot to take in and not what you’re used to from me, but I need you to keep an open mind. Please.”

Erica leans back, folds her arms and looks up like she’s seeking some sort of divine intervention. Then she snaps her gaze back to her mother “When I met Jeff, if I had said we met and slept together the same day, you would have been terrified for me. Please understand my perspective. I don’t want to deny you happiness. I just don’t want to see you get hurt. I’ve seen enough of you in pain for one lifetime Mom.”

Judith softens “I know honey, I know. Hank is also a widower. He’s been through a lot himself and I feel nothing but support and adoration coming from him about what I’ve gone through. He has three grandchildren who he loves to bits. He’s not just some guy from the internet.”

The food arrives and the waitress looks at the untouched summer rolls in confusion “Is everything OK?” She asks as she sets down the other dishes.

Erica awkwardly nods “Yes, sorry. We were distracted by conversation.” She takes a summer roll to her plate and some peanut sauce and then passes them to her mother for her to do the same.

Judith smiles apologetically “I’m sure they’re lovely. Everything smells wonderful. Thank you so much.”

The waitress goes and they silently plate up their shared food and eat a bit, unsure where to begin the conversation again until Judith decides to take a break from the tense topic and ask about something else “So how’s the new job?”

Erica puts down her fork and bursts into tears unexpectedly “I hate it. I absolutely hate it there.”

Judith looks concerned and reaches across the table to take Erica’s hand “Oh honey…”

Erica continues to talk through her sobs but they calm as she goes “The staff is gossipy and backstabbing and competitive. I feel like they hate me as their new hotel manager and they’re rebelling against me. The restaurant manager takes bookings and doesn’t tell me so we’ve had two scheduling catastrophes that I ended up taking the blame for. The home daycare was a relief to give up but I would give anything to go back to it now…maybe that’s not true. I wanted conversation with adults. I wanted to problem solve about more than sippy cups and fights over toys. I guess I am, and these overgrown children just have more colourful language. And I miss working with Jeff. I should never have let that post go. I mean he doesn’t love it where he is either but he also doesn’t hate it. I don’t know what to do now Mom.” She lets go of her mother’s hand and blows her nose in her napkin and then wipes her face and takes a bit of food “This isn’t bad Pad Thai…” She laughs about her outburst “Sorry…”

Judith shakes her head “Don’t be. You shouldn’t keep all that in. My god.” She takes a bit of Pad Thai as well to confirm or deny and nods slowly “Mmm….yes not bad.” She has a critical tone about it but this is not the time “Erica, keep your head down and scan the job postings. Don’t stay in misery.”

Erica takes a cleansing sip of tea “I was out of the field for years though, inconsistently back in after Penny and then out again. I feel like I need to reference from this place if I can stand it long enough to get one. I mean it’s the Waterfront right?”

Judith snorts “Yes it has a good name for anyone who doesn’t know what it’s like to work for them. What about some of the hotels in smaller areas. There’s that Mariner’s chain. I stay with them in Alexandra. The staff seems very happy and relaxed and…consistent. Not a lot of turnover is a sign of a happy work place. Incidentally, Hank lives in Alexandra.”

Erica nods about the consistency “Yeah. He’s the Fire Chief in Great Aunt Martha’s town? Oh shit…” She actually cracks her first smile in relation to Hank “And he still wanted to go out with you?”

Judith laughs “Yes! See? He is a good man. And they all adore Martha there. Apparently she flirts with all the men in the town, especially the uniformed ones.”

Erica laughs now “Go Martha!” And then she gets serious again “Mom, I’m sure he’s nice. I’m just not ready to see you with anyone who’s not…I know it’s been seven years….” She trails off looking out the window.

Judith looks kindly at her daughter “Dad? I know. No one can replace him honey. I don’t want Hank to and he doesn’t want that either. He gets it. When you’re ready, I’d love for you to meet him. But I won’t push you OK? I love you.”

Erica blinks, trying not to cry again, in a restaurant and nods with a quiet “Thank you. I love you too.”