Author’s Note: This gen story comes from a current real life personal experience of the author’s which fit with the 10/31/20 Friday Fiction Prompt on the Starsky&Hutch Fans&FanFiction FaceBook page. The prompt sentence is underlined, below.
December, 2020
“Didn’t mean to wake you, Starsk.”
“Wasn’t asleep.”
“Just wanted to see how you’re doing.”
“What you see is what you get.”
“I didn’t hear you run to the bathroom, so the chicken broth and rice must have stayed down.”
“So far.”
“Excellent! Starsky, that’s the first food you’d had in five days.”
“Yeah. Guess I knew that. Hey! You’re wearing a fresh mask!”
“How can you tell? They’re all alike.”
“But the one you’ve been wearing was all pinched around the bridge of your nose. You have a habit of doing that.”
“You know me too well.”
“No such thing. Besides, your gloves are a different color, too.”
“Variety is the spice of life, Starsk. Speaking of which, you want to try to eat something else? You’ve been on a long fast.”
“Ugh, don’t remind me. That’s your thing. But, no, not right now. I want the rice to settle a bit, first.”
“I poached a few chicken thighs in ginger broth. That ought to taste pretty good, when you’re ready.”
“Okay. Are you getting enough to eat, Hutch? I sure don’t want you to come down with this thing.”
“I’m doing fine, honestly.”
“Gotta take your word for it, since you’re the one in charge around here right now.”
“And don’t you forget it, Mr. I Am The Patient.”
“Geez, your bedside manner sucks.”
“No, it doesn’t. I’ve been told I’d have made a great doctor!”
“By who? Undertakers?”
“Oh, it’s good to hear that sense of humor, again, Starsk.”
“I’m tryin’.”
“So I’ll avoid the obvious sarcastic comeback, and just say let me know when you’re ready to eat something else. In the meantime, I’ve made up a pitcher of that oxygen water. You need to drink another glassful, right now.”
“You’re pushy, Hutchinson. You realize that, right?”
“It’s been mentioned.”
“Actually, the stuff doesn’t taste bad. Thought it would.”
“Hydration’s vital with this virus, according to what I’ve read.”
‘”Okay, I understand that. There! I finished it.”
“That’s a good boy. Pineapple juice next.”
“Later, maybe.”
“Soon, though. Want a book? Watch some TV?”
“Hutch…”
“Yeah?”
“Thanks for being here.”
“Where else would I be, dummy?”
“No, I mean, thanks for being here. If I’d known what I had before I called, I don’t think I would’ve. God! I’d never have wanted to expose you to this!”
“I know. So I’m glad you thought it was food poisoning.”
“What made you stop on the way over, though, and pick up masks, gloves, and disinfectant wipes?”
“Hunch?”
“Whatever it was, if you hadn’t been holding my hand last night, keeping me grounded, I don’t know what I might have done. I’ve never felt anything so excruciating. It was the worst yet.”
“I almost carried you down to the car and took you to the hospital.”
“Glad you didn’t.”
“Knew you’d have hated it. ‘s probably the only reason why you’re not there right now.”
“Thanks.”
“Pain meds have their purpose, buddy, as you well know.”
“Yeah, they do. But having you here was better. Sorry about the crushed knuckles.”
“Don’t worry about it. Made me forget the arthritis creeping down those fingers.”
“Did I scream?”
“I might have heard a whimper or two.”
“That’s embarrassing.”
“You were in pain, Starsk.”
“I know I made a joke about Aunt Rose’s chicken soup that time, and it was bad. Bellamy’s poison was worse, but this… this is like nothing I’ve ever felt before. Why didn’t I see this coming, Hutch? Why has it taken me so off-guard?”
“I don’t know. From all the accounts I’ve read and everything I’ve seen online, nausea and vomiting are symptoms but the kind of vicious intestinal agony you’ve been going through wasn’t mentioned. And, with you, fever was certainly not the first indicator.”
“The virus affects everyone differently, huh?”
“That’s what I’ve read. But somebody else must have experienced this. I can’t imagine all of them keeping it to themselves.”
“Well, you better believe I’m puttin’ it out there. Just as soon as I can get up and sit at the computer for a few minutes.”
“Maybe you should suggest they get themselves to a hospital if they feel extreme pain coming on.”
“That’s probably a good idea.”
“Hospitals can keep them hydrated and fed while they monitor the discomfort levels.”
“‘Discomfort levels.’ That’s a good one, Hutch. Is that what I’ve been experiencing for almost a week?”
“I’d say yours were right off the scale.”
“That’s what it felt like from in here. But, seriously, Hutch, people aren’t taking enough care, this is really nasty stuff!”
“You’re getting no argument from me, pal.”
“I know. ‘Cause you’ve been here with me through every minute since Sunday.”
“One thing I haven’t asked…”
“Where did I get it?”
“Right.”
“I’ve had a lot of time to think about that and I figure it must have been the old guy who came by Thursday afternoon to look at the Cutty Sark.”
“I noticed she was gone.”
“He called first, then showed up about five. Wasn’t wearing a mask. I was, but I kept my distance anyway. He spent half an hour looking at details. Stroked every plank of the hull and decking. Even took out a magnifying glass to study the way I’d braided heavy sewing thread to make the stuns’l rigging.”
“A sea faring man, was he?”
“Naw. I think he was just trying to make me think he knew what he was looking at. Probably didn’t know a studding sail, or its required rigging, from a flying jib.”
“I’m going to miss her.”
“Me, too.”
“I love the way you carved the base so that she was heeled over, all her canvas — including those wonderful stuns’ls — catching the wind and hurrying her toward some exotic destination.”
“You sound like a sea faring man, yourself, Hutchinson.”
“What? No! Norwegians were Vikings. We plied the seas in oar boats with one large square sail. Clippers are what I dreamed of, though.”
“They were iconic, that’s for sure.”
“Tell me something. If it’s not a trade secret.”
“What?”
“How did you get all the sails to billow out, to look as if they were actually filled with wind?”
“Wet the cloth. Smooth it over an appropriately shaped, rounded object, then hit it with spray starch.”
“Ingenious.”
“I couldn’t think of anything else. And it worked.”
“The guy obviously bought it.”
“Yeah. Just when I was ready to tell him it wasn’t for sale, he told me he’d take it and handed it back to me. I packed it up, he paid me, and left.”
“And you didn’t wash your hands, did you?”
“No.”
“After which, you probably started to make dinner.”
“As I remember, you’re right.”
“Did you wear gloves when you took the money to the bank on Friday?”
“No.”
“Well, all the tellers are required to wear them these days, I think. They’ll be safe. But you need to call the guy. Strongly advise he get tested.”
“Bet he’s not going to like that.”
“Maybe not, but if he doesn’t exhibit any of the symptoms, he could be a carrier. And those people are the worst! They spread this disease as if it had no bearing on them.”
“I’ll dig his number out and call him later. I’m a little tired right now.”
“Sure you are. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have –”
“No, Hutch, I didn’t mean it that way. I love that you’re here. I need you here. I just don’t want to talk about this any more for a while.”
“Would you like some ginger ale?”
“What were those two bottles I saw on the counter after you got back from the grocery store? Ginger beer?”
“Noticed those, did you?”
“Yes, I did. What does it taste like?”
“I have no idea.”
“Well, crack one open and we’ll split it. Maybe I can put a little cheer on this First Food Day. And then, maybe then, I’ll be able to face whatever else this virus has in store for me with a better outlook.”
“Now, that’s the Starsky I know.”
“Speaking of which, as you said a few minutes ago, what day is today? I’ve lost track. When’s Christmas?”
“Not for a few days, yet.”
“Well, your present’s under the sofa. Haven’t wrapped it.”
“Under the sofa? That’s a pretty small space to hide something.”
“Not much room needed for a hockey stick and a couple of pucks.”
“A hockey stick? Really, Starsk?”
“I know you’ve been dying to get back on the ice, ever since we saw that Torvill and Dean documentary. And I figured, even if our City Council still hasn’t kept its promise to rebuild our rink, we can always drive up to L.A. and tickle the cubes at one of their facilities.”
“That’s a great idea! Thanks! Did you buy two?”
“Of course. Couldn’t have you running off to have fun without me, could I?”
“Perish the thought.”
“Oh, definitely, perish the thought.”
“You probably won’t like what I got you as much, but I –”
“No, Hutch, don’t tell me! I can wait.”
“Since when?”
“Since the virus, I guess. I think I want to savor every moment, as it comes, from now on. I don’t want to know about the bad things, or the good ones, before they happen.”
“That sounds like a perfect approach to life, Starsk.”
“Took me long enough, huh?”
“It’s never too late to adopt a new attitude.”
“Well, you can stop pontificating now and dig out one of those sticks! I want to lie here in my pain-free moment and watch you slide a puck all over the floor.”
“Your wish is my command, sir.”
“We’ll see how long that lasts after I get better.”
Author’s Note: whatever ‘care’ you’re taking, people, take more. And, then, take even more. This Covid 19 is serious stuff and, believe me, you do not want to get it. Stay safe and well and have as happy a Holiday Season as possible.
Great, timely story, Pat. Love the guys’ conversation.
But what about you? Sounds like you’ve been under the weather, to put it mildly. Also sounds like you’ve made it back. Yay! If only more people would abide by the guidelines.
Wishing you a peaceful holiday season.
Thank you, ChocolateEgg, so much. I’m glad you enjoyed my little story which, unfortunately, has been only too true for me these last four weeks. I seem to have contracted the long-lasting variety of this dreadful disease and I’m not over it yet.
I was hoping, when I wrote it, that maybe Starsky’s voice would get through to people when other sources might not. Thanks for reading and then for taking time to let me know it struck good chords with you.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF, please.
Fantastic story- I love the dialogue with all the details. The pinched mask (I do that!), rhe mention of arthritic hands- so many. Thank you!
I do hope you’re feeling better- you’re right, this virus is a horrible thing. Stay safe.
Thanks, Kate. I think the dialog-only format is my favorite and it seemed appropriate for this tale. I’m happy to know you liked it.
I can’t say I’m getting better, yet, but at least I’m no longer getting worse. So I have hope for the new year. Say safe and well, yourself, and thanks, again!
Oh no, does that mean you had it? Hope you’re feeling better now!
I am not leaving the house or seeing anyone without a FFP2 mask these days (they also protect the wearer).
What a lovely little piece of conversation between the two lads. Love how well they still get on and are there for each other!
I’m afraid it does, KiraBerlin; had it for four weeks, so far.
I was five days into it when I wrote the first draft of this story; wanted Starsky’s horrific experience to ‘get out there,’ if possible. Thankfully, Flamingo agreed to post it.
I’m very glad to know you enjoyed the guys’ conversation and their continuing commitment to each other. Forever Me&Thee!
What a delightful conversation between the two. I could hear both their voices speaking loud and clear and the Me and Thee bond is still as strong as ever.
Hope you’re feeling better.
What a nice thing to say, Lapfordlass, that you could hear both their voices. That really makes me smile!
And, yep, Me&Thee, still goin’ strong!
Thanks for your kind words and wishes, too. I’m workin’ on it.
Take care, stay safe and STAY WELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You do dialogue well. It’s spot on for me. Thanks!
You’re welcome, kat; I’m so glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for reading and then for your kind comment. Both mean a great deal.
Happy Holidays!
Flamingo and All Elves:
THANK YOU for the wonderful image at the end. It’s perfect!
Stay safe, stay well, and have a great holiday season!
You are very welcome!
Pat…this is an awesome, wonderful story. All the dialog fits perfectly with the guys.
Thank you for this lovely story. KUDOS
Now, I am sorry to hear what you’ve been dealing with. Know you are in my heart and prayers for a complete recovery. HUGS
You’re very welcome, Nancy! As horrible as it’s been, I wanted to give readers a hopeful Covid tale to take into the new year. Thank you for reading and then for leaving your kind words. Take good care of yourself!
Pat, so sorry you are still suffering from the virus. I know it has many really bad and long lasting effects on some people. I swear those people who refuse to wear masks and stay home must not know anyone who has ever had it, otherwise they would be much more careful. But I do love in your story, Hutch has taken over Starsky’s care, because we know he will do everything to help his other half get better. A cautionary tale, for sure but also a glimpse that better days are coming.
Thanks, EdieCee, I truly appreciate your kind words. And, yes, I do seem to be one of the ones who contracted a not-nice-case of this stuff. At least, I’m still breathin’, as opposed to many, many others. I believe you’re correct, too: those who are still down-playing and poo-poo-ing the virus are people who haven’t had it themselves and don’t know anyone who has.
Yep, Hutch will take care of his Starsky and they’ll move into the New Year side by side.
Thanks for reading and then for taking time to let me know you found value in it. I greatly appreciate both!
I think you’ve hit on something valuable here, pat: a COVID-19 Public Service Announcement using beloved characters. Nice dialogue. Love that Hutch is fearless and isn’t berating Starsky for not insisting his visitor wear a mask indoors.
Get better soon, then well soon after that.
That’s what I was hoping for, Maria, a small way to help readers see the virus as something beside a report on the news or in the newspaper: it’s real and can be very debilitating, if not deadly.
I’m glad you enjoyed the dialog and just couldn’t see my way clear to have Hutch berate Starsky, although he probably felt like doing it.
I’m working at the getting better part but I don’t know how soon it’ll be.
Stay safe and stay well!!!!!
Sounds so perfectly them. Thank you!
What a nice thing to say, Silver Chipmunk. You’re most welcome and I THANK YOU.
Thank you for your gift, Pat. I made a comment before, but it seems to have gone bye, bye. Need to be a bit more careful when posting, I guess. I hope you get well soon. I like how Starsky sees his illness as an opportunity to take stock, and incorporate a new attitude, or perspective. Feel better.
You’re most welcome, Shazta. Thank YOU for commenting again; I really, really appreciate it.
Although I’m still in the middle of my battle with the virus, I had to try and give Starsky a positive spin on the ‘adventure,’ right?
Take care and have a happy Holiday Season!
Pat, sorry to read that you’ve been fighting this virus. I hope a new year brings you an easy recovery and return to health!
Once again you have given us a beautifully written example of Me and Thee. I hope everyone reading takes your advice to heart and protect themselves so they protect their loved ones.
Thank you!
Thank YOU, MatSir, I really appreciate your good wishes. Mine seems to be the long-lasting variation of the stuff but I have hopes I’ll be through it by the New Year.
And you’re more than welcome for my little cautionary tale; I’m grateful for your kind words. Thanks for reading and then for your lovely comment.
Stay well!
So sorry you were so sick and still suffering from aftereffects. Hugs.
This was such a sweet story, Hutch taking care of Starsky and worried so. Thanks.
I very much appreciate your kind words and thoughts, Dawn, thank you.
And you’re more than welcome for my little story. I’m glad my Hutch-taking-care-of-Starsky scenario struck the right chord with you.
Happy Holidays and STAY WELL, yourself.
Pat:
I enjoyed your COVID story. All the things Hutch did for Starsky to make him feel better were very thoughtful. I enjoyed the holistic remedies. Ginger is very effective for all kinds of maladies. Thanks for the other tips. I didn’t know about those.
I was in COVID quarantine for a week and missed work because I was exposed to someone who had it. I tested negative but she is still sick. I sent her an e-mail suggesting the food you mentioned in your story.
Infection levels are skyrocketing in Ohio. I heard holiday shoppers talking about it at stores I went to today. I ran out of food and had to go buy some.
Coming home and finding your story was a Day Maker!
Thanks and Happy Holidays
You’re welcome, Ursula, and thank YOU, I’m glad you enjoyed my story and I sincerely hope my suggestions help your friend. Thankfully, you never came down with it. Don’t stop taking precautions, though; we’re not out of the woods.
Take care of yourself and I wish you the Happiest Holidays possible!
Great story, Pat and I’m so sorry to hear about your illness. Hope you’ll be feeling better soon. Have a merry Christmas. ⛄🎄 ❄️ 🧸
Thanks, Lauren, I’m really glad you liked it. Thanks for your condolences and I am *finally* able to say I am beginning to feel better (I apparently had one of the nastier, long-lasting versions).
I greatly appreciate your reading and then letting me know you thought it was a Great story!
Stay well and Happy Holidays.
Thanks for your first-hand story so nicely told through our guys. So glad to hear that you’re doing better ❤️!
You are most welcome, Jennifer C. I was trying to send a sincere warning and hoped it wasn’t too personal. I am, *finally* able to say I’m doing better but it’s been a tough time. Thanks for reading and then for taking the time to leave your kind comment.
Stay safe, well, and Happy Holidays.
Pat, this is a lovely story, but I’m so sorry it was inspired by too-real life events. It sounds like you’re finally feeling better, so yay! Thank you, and best wishes for a much better 2021 for us all 💖
Thanks, Baby, for reading and then for the lovely comment. I hope you get a notice that I’ve replied. Yes, I am finally beginning to feel somewhat better, so I hope the worst has passed. Please stay well and have a Happy New Year yourself!