NYPD Blue Fanfiction

Ida's Fanfic

GETTING LOST

I started writing this story in June. I was going off the assumption that Capt. Fraker was killed when Rita shot him. Now that we know he survived, I thought about changing that fact in my story. But I’m tired of working on this thing and have decided to leave it the way it was. Hope you enjoy it. I want to thank my editorial crew- Carole, Vicki, Rene, Maggie, & of course our beloved VP, Tina for their input & help, you guys are the greatest! --- Ida 

 


 

This story takes place in mid July 2003. Lt. Rodriguez is recovering nicely from his wounds and hopes to return to work by Labor Day. In the meantime, Lt. Shanley is filling in for him again at the 15th. Shanley hasn’t changed a bit from his last stint as Tony’s replacement. Shanley is merely filling Tony’s chair. Andy is really running the squad. Andy is determined to keep the squad together. He’s working tirelessly to keep everybody’s spirits up, and to make sure that Lt. Rodriguez returns to a smooth running squad. Andy made sure that the entire squad showed up for Greg’s promotion ceremony, and he’s given Rita all the support that she would allow him to give. 

Rita is feeling better every day, witnessing Lt. Rodriguez getting shot, & killing Capt. Fraker in return really shook her up. But she’s taking full advantage of the therapy the department offered and it has helped her deal with not only this incident. But also with the breakup from Clark as well. She’s put her transfer plans on hold, promising the Lt. that she wouldn’t make a final decision until he returned.  

Andy & Connie have kept their marriage plans on hold until they know for sure that Fraker didn’t pass on the knowledge he had about their relationship. They continue to happily share their lives with Theo & Michelle. They have managed to keep their relationship hidden from Shanley by playing it cool in the squad and being careful not to tip him off. But Shanley is pretty much oblivious to just about everything that goes on around him. Connie had told Andy about Shanley’s behavior the last time he filled in for T-Rod. She had no idea when she confided in Andy that they would ever have to deal with Shanley again. Andy pretty much went ballistic when Connie told him. But when they found out that Shanley would again be T-Rod’s replacement. Connie made Andy promise that he wouldn’t do anything foolish.  

She knew Andy was a man of his word, and she wouldn’t accept anything short of a full promise. She simply reminded him that they were in a very precarious state, and that they didn’t need to borrow trouble. She also assured him that she could handle Shanley; and that he was the only man she wanted, or needed in her life. Their fears about Shanley were pretty much unfounded though. He knew IAB would be watching the squad closely, and he didn’t want them coming down on him. He pretty much ignored Connie most of the time, afraid that she would follow through on her threat to punch him in the face if he wouldn’t leave her alone. 

The city is in the grips of an oppressive heat wave and the squad has just wrapped up a case that had them stumped & frustrated for weeks. The case involved the murders of several men. Other than the fact that the bullets that killed the men all came from the same gun, they had very few clues & kept hitting dead end after dead end. Until an anonymous phone call gave them the break that they needed. They were able to trace the phone call & get the young girl that placed the call to tell them what she knew. She led them to the 2 teenage brothers that had committed the crimes. It didn’t take long for Andy to get the boys to confess.  

SCENE 1: Thursday morning about 10:00 AM. 

The squad is putting the finishing touches on the case. Doing follow up interviews and paperwork. It was a difficult case, & they are all relieved in knowing that it was almost over. ADA Heywood assured them that the young girl that came forward would be treated only as a witness, and would not be charged at all in the crimes. It had been a long couple of weeks, and the frustration, as well as the heat was taking its toll on everybody. Connie & Rita have just returned from their follow up interview with the young girl’s mother. It was a difficult interview and both Connie & Rita are feeling kind of down. They’re sitting in the coffee room talking about the case. 

Rita: I feel so bad for that mother. She thought that boy was going to be a positive influence on her daughter. Look at how he almost ruined her life.  

Connie: I know; it’s so sad how some parents lose control over their kids. I swear Rita, I’ll never let anything come before Theo & Michelle. The parents of those 2 boys couldn’t care less what they were doing, as long as it didn’t interfere with their social calendar.  

Rita: Yeah, it’s easy to see how kids like that can get lost. It’s such a shame. 

Connie: Yeah, I know, I tell you; cases like this make me feel like I wanna get lost. 

Andy was heading into the coffee room just as Connie makes the comment about getting lost. It was the only part of the conversation he hears. But in True Andy Sipowicz fashion, he jumps to the conclusion that Connie was talking about her home life. He turns around and goes back to his desk. Neither Connie nor Rita was aware that Andy had overheard them as they continue their conversation.  

Rita: I know what you mean, look how many families have been torn apart now. All because the parents of those 2 boys didn’t give a damn about their kids & what they were doing.  

Connie: Sad isn’t it? I can’t imagine ever losing touch with Theo & Michelle that way. I really can’t wait to get home tonight so that I can see their sweet little faces. They’re always good medicine for times like this. 

Rita: I bet they are, you’re lucky to have them to go home to. 

Connie: I know I am, I count my blessings everyday Rita. 

Rita: (With a touch of sadness in her voice): Good, I’m so happy for you. 

Connie: I’m sorry Rita; I didn’t mean to upset you. 

Rita: Don’t apologize; I’m glad you’re happy. You & Andy both deserve a little happiness. Andy really is a special man isn’t he? He’s been great to me since all this happened.  

Connie: (Smiling) Thanks Rita; Andy is special, he’s made me very happy. And Theo & Michelle bring us so much joy. I truly am blessed. 

Rita: I’m so happy for you, really. It’s nice to know that somebody can be happy.  

Connie: Thanks, how are things going for you, really? I hope you know I’m always here of you need somebody to talk to. You know, I don’t want to lose you as a partner. I think we make a great team.  

Rita: Yeah, I do too. I really haven’t decided either way yet. I promised the boss I wouldn’t make a decision until he got back.  

Connie: Good, so I have time to convince you to stay?  

Rita: Yeah, well, we’ll see. I’m really feeling a lot better these days. I think I’m better where John is concerned. I think I’ve cleared that hurdle.  

Connie: Good, I know that could not have been easy, seeing him every day after the breakup.  

Rita: Yeah well, it wasn’t. But I’m over him now. I wish him the best; but I’m going to move on & not look back at that part of my life. 

Connie: Good for you, who knows, your Prince Charming could turn up anytime now. 

Rita: (Laughing): I’m done looking for Prince Charming. I’m tired of kissing frogs & hoping they’ll turn into a prince.  

Connie: (Smiling): I hear you, I don’t miss playing that game at all. I sure didn’t expect to fall for Andy the way I did.  

Rita: But you guys are happy, right?  

Connie: Yeah Rita, we really are. We’re really blessed. 

Rita: Have you set a new wedding date yet?  

Connie: No, we haven’t discussed it. We really haven’t had time. Andy has been so preoccupied trying to keep things together here at the squad, and the baby hasn’t been feeling to well. We’re just playing it by ear. I guess we’ll talk about it

soon. Come on, we better get back to work. 

They leave the coffee room and go back to their paperwork. 

SCENE 2: Lunchtime: Andy & Jr. are grabbing a quick lunch at the diner near the precinct and enjoying a little time outside the squad. 

Clark: You going to see the boss tonight? 

Andy: Yeah, I wanna fill him in on the case. Let him know we wrapped it up. I’ve been keeping him filled in on what’s been going on. 

Clark: I’m sure he appreciates that. You letting him know how you’re keeping us all in line?  

Andy: Yeah, right. We’re all pulling together here. 

Clark: Come on Andy, you’re doing all the heavy lifting around the squad. You missed your calling; you should have been a boss. 

Andy: You kidding me? Me a boss? No thanks; I just want the squad to be in good shape when the boss gets back. He deserves that much. 

Clark: Yeah, he does. I’m just glad he’s going to be okay.  

Andy: Yeah me too, I don’t think I could handle breaking in another new boss. I’m getting way too old to have to go through that again. This Shanley hump; I can’t wait to send him back to that rock he crawled out from under. 

Clark: Yeah huh? How does somebody like him get to be a boss anyway?  

Andy: Politics I guess, he’s connected somewhere. Probably has an uncle or two at 1 PP. Anyways, that’s enough talk about Shanley, I’m losing my appetite.  

Clark: (Laughing at Andy’s crack): So, have you & Connie given any thought to resetting your wedding date? 

Andy: No, we haven’t talked about it. To tell the truth, we haven’t had 2 minutes alone together in weeks.  

Clark: You two are still getting married aren’t you? 

Andy: Yeah, I hope so. If she still wants too.  

Clark: What makes you think she wouldn’t want too? 

Andy: I don’t know John; Sometimes I wonder what she sees in an old mutt like me. If I can really make her happy. I tell you John; I don’t know what I did to deserve her. But she just may be the best thing that ever happened to me. I really want to make her happy. 

Clark: Andy, Connie is crazy about you. Don’t question what you two have. Whatever it is, it’s working, relax & enjoy it. 

Andy: Yeah, I guess you’re right. But I sure wish I could do something really special for her. I haven’t really been pulling my weight at home lately. 

Clark: Like what? What do you want to do for her? 

Andy: I don’t know, I’m not really good at all that romance stuff. 

Clark: Take her away for a romantic weekend. 

Andy: That’d be kind of hard with two kids.  

Clark: So, you get a babysitter. 

Andy: That’s easier said than done.  

Clark: Think about it, make it happen. 

Andy: Yeah right, you’ve obviously never had kids. Come on, we better get back to work.  

They pay for their meals & head back to the squad to finish out their day. 

Scene 3: In the squad. A few hours later, the day is winding down and the detectives are preparing to leave for home. John, Andy & Connie are all at their desks. Shanley is already long gone.  

Connie: (Softly, To Andy): You still planning on going to see the boss tonight? 

Andy: Yeah, I want to fill him in on the case. 

Connie: Okay, I’m going to head home. I can’t wait to see the kids.  

Andy: Kiss them for me; tell Theo I’ll be home as soon as I can. You need me to pick anything up from anywhere?  

Connie: Nope, can’t think of anything. Give the boss my best. Tell him we all miss him. I’ll see you later, should I keep dinner for you?  

Andy: No, don’t keep dinner, and I’ll give the boss your message. See you later; I’ll be home as soon as I can.

 

They give each other a quick wink and Connie leaves the squad. Andy goes into the locker room and John follows him in.  

John: So Andy, have you given any thought to my suggestion? 

ANDY: What are you talking about? 

John: Boy, your memory really is going isn’t it? 

Andy: Don’t crack wise with me, what are you talking about? 

John: Okay, I’m sorry, I’m sorry. I’m talking about what we discussed at lunch. You know, you taking Connie away for the weekend?  

Andy: No, I haven’t, it’s not going to happen John. Not this weekend, not anytime soon. We have 2 kids; we can’t just pick up & go away like that. 

John: Why Not? 

Andy: It’s too late for this weekend, and Theo has a ball game the next few Saturdays. After that, he has soccer practice. There’s no way this can happen. 

Neither really notices when Greg enters the locker room. He’s careful not to interrupt their conversation. 

John: Why is it too late for this weekend? It’s only Thursday. You could book a room somewhere tonight and you & Connie could be enjoying each other’s company tomorrow night. It’s that simple. 

Andy: Oh yeah, and what do you suppose Theo & Michelle will be doing while Connie & I are “enjoying each other’s company?” 

John: Andy, it sounds to me like you don’t want to figure out how to pull this off. I’m sure you could find a babysitter. You’re a resourceful guy, figure it out. You’ll be glad you did, so will Connie. Think about it, go for it. Good night partner. 

Andy: (Now suddenly considering John’s suggestion), Night John, see you tomorrow. 

John leaves and Greg approaches Andy before he can follow him out the door. 

 

Greg: (Hesitantly, not really knowing if he should go there): Hey Andy? 

Andy: Hey Greg, Howzitgoin? 

Greg: You going to see the boss tonight? 

Andy: Yeah, I am. In fact I’m late, I should be going. 

Greg: Uh, Andy, I hope you don’t think I was trying to listen in on your conversation with John there. But I couldn’t help overhearing. 

Andy: That’s okay Medavoy, it doesn’t matter. I really have to go. 

Greg: But Andy, I think I have the solution to your problem. 

Andy: What problem you talking about Medavoy? 

Greg: Uh, you know, you taking Connie away for the weekend? 

Andy: Oh geeze, that’s not going to happen to Medavoy. Forget what you heard, okay. 

Greg: Well Andy, I think it’s a great idea, you know, you should take Connie away for the weekend. I think I might be able to help you out too. 

Andy: Help me out? What, don’t tell me you want to baby-sit for us this weekend? Forget it, it’s not going to happen, I’m not going anywhere this weekend & neither is Connie. We don’t need a babysitter. 

Greg: (Laughing): No Andy. I wasn’t talking about babysitting. But I have the perfect place for you to take Connie this weekend. If you want to I mean. 

Andy: (Slightly annoyed, but also slightly interested); Look Medavoy, I can’t take Connie anywhere this weekend. It’s not going to happen, forget what you heard, & just go home. 

Greg: Okay, Andy, sorry I intruded. But I just thought I could help you out. I know you’ve been really putting in a lot of extra time since the boss is gone, and I thought I could help you get a break. 

Andy: I’m sorry Medavoy, look; I’d love to take Connie away. I’d love to have some time alone with her. But it’s too late to plan anything for this weekend. I’m not going to spend all night trying to book a hotel, not to mention trying to find a sitter for the kids.  

Greg: Andy, what if I could offer you the perfect getaway destination for this weekend? 

Andy: Just where would that be Medavoy?  

Greg: Well Andy, my brother Clifford & his wife inherited a cabin in the Adirondacks last year. It’s on Lake George, & it’s only about a 4 hour drive from the city. My brother is in Europe on his 2nd honeymoon. James Martinez & I were supposed to go fishing up there this weekend. But James’ dad is sick, & he had to cancel. My girls are both busy this weekend & can’t get away. I don’t want to go up there myself. So you & Connie can use the cabin instead, if you want to. Otherwise, the cabin sits empty this weekend, and that would be a shame. It’s a great place. 

Andy: Thanks Medavoy, but I’m not exactly the mountain cabin type. 

Greg: But Andy, this place is incredible. It’s got all the comforts of home. It’s got 2 bedrooms, a full kitchen and its even air-conditioned. Clifford even has a satellite TV hooked up. He goes up there for the weekend all the time to watch football & such. It’s great Andy, & it’s yours for the weekend if you want it.  

Andy: Thanks Medavoy, but I don’t think so. I just don’t think it’s a good idea. I don’t see how I can make this happen.  

Greg: Well, okay Andy. That’s too bad; let me know if you change your mind. It’s yours if you want it. See you tomorrow, give the boss my best. 

Andy: I will, thanks Greg. Good night.  

Greg leaves, and Andy hesitates for a moment. He’d love to take Connie away, love to have her all to himself for a day or two. But he quickly puts the thought out of his head & leaves to go see Lt. Rodriguez before heading home to Connie & the kids. 

Scene 4: A couple of hours later, after taking a short walk, Andy and Tony are sitting in a small restaurant in Tony’s neighborhood. The two men have really formed a solid bond. A bond that has only grown in the weeks since Tony was shot.  

Lt. Rodriguez: Good work solving that case Andy. Make sure you let the rest of the squad know how proud I am of them.  

Andy: Thanks boss, but if that kid had not come forward; I’m not sure we would have ever solved this thing. It was a tough one. Even with everything I’ve seen over all my years on this job. I never would have suspected a couple of kids

could be capable of pulling this off.  

Lt. Rodriguez: Yeah, well lucky break or not, you all did a great job tracking that girl down & getting her to tell you what she knew.  

Andy: That was all Connie & Rita’s doing. They really handled that young girl & her mother well. 

Lt. Rodriguez: How is Ortiz coming along? Has she given any indication yet as to whether or not she’s going to stay? 

Andy: She doesn’t talk much about it; at least not to me. Connie hasn’t said much about it either. I hope she stays; she’s a damn good detective.  

Lt. Rodriguez: How are she and Clark getting along? 

Andy: Better, I think they’ve come to some kind of a truce. They work well together when it’s necessary, and they’re civil to each other in the squad. He’s keeping it low key with this doctor he’s been seeing, so as not to rub it in Ortiz’s face. I think they’re okay.  

Lt. Rodriguez: Good, I hope so. I don’t want to lose a good detective because of a love affair gone bad.

 

Andy: Yeah, I guess not.  

Lt. Rodriguez: So, how’s Connie doing? 

Andy: Good, Connie’s good. Busy with the kids. The baby’s been sick; she’s had a lot on her plate in that area. I’m not much help where the baby is concerned.  

Lt. Rodriguez: I see, nothing serious with the baby I hope?  

Andy: Oh no, just baby stuff. New teeth, and the fever & crankiness that comes with them. She’ll be okay. 

Lt. Rodriguez: Good, have you reset the wedding date?  

Andy: Uh no, we haven’t talked about it. And should you & I really be having this conversation? 

Lt. Rodriguez: No, I guess we shouldn’t. Just know that I’m sorry you had to postpone your wedding on my account.  

Andy: Don’t be sorry. It’s not your fault that asshole Fraker showed up in a drunken rage and tried to put your lights out. We’ll get married, when the time is right. 

Lt. Rodriguez: Good; I wish you nothing but the best Andy. Both of you.  

Andy: Thanks boss; that means a lot coming from you.  

Lt. Rodriguez: Don’t mention it. I guess I should be getting back to my apartment. My mother and sister get antsy if I’m gone too long.  

Andy: Yeah, I guess I should be heading home. Come on, I’ll deliver you back to your caregivers.  

They pay for their meals & head back to T-Rod’s apartment. Andy heads home after saying his goodnights to Tony & his mother & sister. 

Scene 5: About 9 PM. Andy & Connie’s apartment. Andy arrives home just in time to help Connie get Theo tucked in for the night. He notices that Connie is quiet and looks really beat. 

Connie:(As Andy enters the apartment): Hey 

Andy: (Plants a quick kiss on Connie’s cheek). Hey, the kids in bed?  

Connie: Michelle’s asleep, Theo’s stalling. I think he’s trying to wait up for you.  

Andy: I’ll get him settled. Be right back.  

Connie: You hungry? I can heat you something up.  

Andy: No, I’m okay, I grabbed a bite.  

Andy heads down the hall to Theo’s bedroom. 

Andy: Hey Squirt, it’s past your bedtime.  

Theo: I know Dad, I missed you, I wanted you to read me a story.  

Andy: Okay, a real quick one. It’s getting kind of late.  

Andy reads a short story to Theo and sits with him until he falls to sleep. He then joins Connie in the living room.  

Andy: (putting his arm around Connie as he joins her on the couch): You okay? I know that kid really had you feeling down today. 

Connie: I’m okay Andy, really. I’m just tired. Hey, Michelle’s teeth finally pushed their way through. Her fever broke & she was her old happy self tonight. Maybe she’ll go back to sleeping through the night.  

Andy: Good, I hope she does. Guess I can’t let her chew on my fingers anymore. 

Connie: (Smiling lovingly at Andy): No, I wouldn’t if I were you. It might get painful. I’m really tired tonight; think I’ll turn in early.  

Andy: Okay, sounds good. I’m going to check the news real quick. I’ll be right in. 

Connie gives Andy a quick kiss and heads off to bed. Andy waits until he hears the bedroom door close and he grabs the phone.  

Andy: (Quietly): Hey Andrea, it’s Andy Sipowicz. Sorry to be calling so late. No everything’s fine. I was just wondering if you were free to baby-sit this weekend? I want to take Connie away. You can, great, thanks. I owe you one. Goodnight. 

Andy hangs up the phone & then quickly dials Greg’s number.  

Andy: Hey Greg, it’s Andy. Does your offer still stand? I think I might want to use that cabin this weekend after all. Great, thanks a million Medavoy. Yeah, I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Good night, & thanks again. 

Andy hangs up & goes to get ready for bed. He climbs in bed & finds Connie already fast asleep. He watches her sleep for a few minutes, brushing a lock of her hair out of her face. He kisses her softly on the cheek & lies down beside her. Connie; almost instinctively moves closer to him, resting her head on his shoulder. Andy kisses her softly again on the top of her head. He pulls her into him as close as he can before he closes his eyes & falls to sleep.  

Scene 6: Friday afternoon. It’s been a quiet day so far for the squad. Greg & Baldwin catch a routine case involving a flasher in a park. But it’s pretty routine otherwise. The quiet pace of the day allows Andy to finalize his plans for he & Connie. He’s done his best to keep his plan a secret from her. He was able to get Andrea to pack some clothes for Connie to take on the trip, and Greg has given him the keys to the cabin as well as the directions to get there. Andy has also asked John Irvin to take Theo out for the afternoon on Saturday. John happily agrees, thankful for a chance to spend some time with Theo. Andy slips away from the squad at lunch to sneak home & get the suitcase that Andrea has packed for Connie. Andrea is feeding Michelle her lunch when Andy enters the apartment. 

Andrea: Hey Andy, is everything okay?  

Andy: (Bends down to kiss Michelle on the top of head): Yeah, everything’s fine. I just wanted to talk to you about this weekend and I didn’t want to risk Connie overhearing. I really want this to be a surprise. Did you get her clothes packed?  

Andrea: Yep, sure did. Connie’s all set to go. She really has no clue what you’re planning?  

Andy: Nope, and to tell the truth. I’m not sure I really know what I’m planning. This is all really kind of spur of the moment.  

Andrea: I think this is so sweet of you Andy. Connie’s a lucky girl to have such a great guy.  

Andy: I don’t know about that, I think I’m the lucky one Andrea. Connie really means the world to me and I just want to do something nice for her. She deserves a little downtime. She’s got a lot on her plate these days. 

Andrea: Andy, you know, you mean the world to Connie too. We’ve been friends for a long time, and I can honestly tell you, I’ve never seen her so happy. She’s head over heels in love with you, you know. 

Andy: (Blushing slightly): Thanks Andrea, and thanks again for keeping the kids for us this weekend. I know it was short notice, I hope I didn’t put you out by asking you at the last minute.  

Andrea: Actually Andy, you did me a favor. My husband is going camping with his brothers this weekend. I probably would have just spent the weekend alone in my apartment.  

Andy: Good, I’m glad I didn’t put you out. I guess Theo’s not back from his day camp yet huh?  

Andrea: No, he won’t be home for another hour or so.  

Andy: Okay, I’ll talk to him tonight. My friend John Irvin is going to stop by tomorrow afternoon and take Theo out for a while. Well, I’d better be getting back.  

Andy spends a few minutes playing with Michelle before he gets the suitcase & heads back to work. 

Scene 7: 15th Squad, the end of the day. The detectives are all preparing for the long awaited weekend. Connie has noticed that Andy was acting a little strangely. She even caught him staring at her a few times. He looked away quickly each time. But she noticed that he was always wearing the grin that tells her he’s up to something. Andy, Junior & Greg are in the locker room preparing to leave for the night. 

Clark: So Andy, you ready for your big weekend? 

Andy: Yeah, I guess.  

Clark: What do you mean you guess? You’re going to a remote cabin to spend the weekend with your lady. I’d think you be more than ready for this. 

Medavoy: Yeah Andy, don’t sound so excited. 

Andy: Alright you two, knock it off. I’m just worried that Connie won’t have a good time.  

Clark: Oh come on now partner, I’m sure you’ll think of a way to show Connie a great time. (He winks at Medavoy, and gives Andy a playful tap on his arm). 

Medavoy: Yeah Andy, or maybe Connie will think of a way to show you a good time.  

Andy: Stop it you two, I mean it now.  

Just then Connie taps on the door and pokes her head in.  

Connie: (to Andy), Hey, you ready?  

Andy: Yeah, I’m ready. Let’s go 

Clark winks at Andy & gives him another playful tap on the arm as he leaves the locker room. Greg says goodnight and leaves too. Andy & Connie follow closely behind. 

Scene 8: Sipowicz/McDowell apartment. Andy & Connie arrive home. Connie still has no idea what Andy is planning.  

Connie: (As she enters the apartment): Hi Andrea, we’re home. 

Andrea: Hey you two. 

Connie takes Michelle from Andrea & Theo is all over Andy. Andy takes Theo back to his bedroom for a quick chat.  

Andy: Theo, Connie & I are going to be going away for the weekend. We’ll be leaving in a few minutes & we’ll be back on Sunday afternoon. Andrea is going to stay here with you & Michelle.  

Theo: Why, where are you going? Why can’t I come with you? 

Andy: (Takes a deep breath), Well Squirt, sometimes, mommies & daddies just like to go places alone. Connie needs a little rest, so I’ll need you to help Andrea take care of Michelle. We’ll go fishing or something next weekend, okay? 

Theo: Okay dad, I’ll help Andrea.  

Andy: Good, that’s my boy. John is going to stop by tomorrow to spend the afternoon with you. He’ll take you to a movie or to the park.  

Theo: Cool, I miss John.  

Andy: Good, now don’t tell Connie, this is a secret, okay? 

Theo: Okay Dad, I won’t tell. 

Andy: Okay, kissing Theo on the head. I’ll see you Sunday. You be a good boy & remember to help Andrea.  

Andy goes back into the living room where Andrea & Connie are chatting. He gives Andrea a wink & she smiles back at him.  

Andy: Connie, Andrea is going to stay here a while longer. We need to go out.  

Connie: (puzzled) We do? I’m really beat Andy; I thought we’d just stay in for the night.  

Andy: Nope, we have to go out.  

Connie: Okay, if you say so. Where is it exactly that we need to go? 

Andy: You’ll see, come on. Let’s go. 

Connie: Andy wait. What’s the hurry?  

Andy: Don’t worry, just come on. We have to go, now. 

Connie: Okay, at least let me say goodbye to Theo.  

Connie says goodnight to Theo & Andy quickly ushers her out of the apartment.

Andy gives Andrea a quick wink as leaves. Connie knows for sure now that Andy is up to something and she questions him as they get in the car. 

Connie: So, where exactly is it that we need to rush off too? 

Andy: You’ll see. Just relax and have fun. 

Connie: Andy, you’ve been acting strangely all day. Now what gives, what are you up too? 

Andy: Okay, I guess I can tell you now. You need a break, a little downtime. We’re going away for the weekend. Andrea is staying with the kids.  

Connie: Okay, and when exactly did you have time to plan this? 

Andy: Didn’t take much planning. Greg Medavoy offered the use of his brother’s cabin for the weekend. Andrea agreed to stay with the kids, so here we are. 

Connie: Andy, that’s so sweet. But you’ve told me many times that you’re a city boy at heart and you don’t really enjoy the outdoors. Are you sure you really want to do this?  

Andy: Absolutely, this weekend isn’t about me. You wanna get lost; we’re going to get lost. 

Connie: Andy, what do you mean, I wanna get lost? What are you talking about?  

Andy: I overheard you tell Rita yesterday that you wanted to get lost. I’m going to help you do it.  

Connie: Andy, just how much of that conversation did you hear?  

Andy: Not much, I just heard you say that you wished you could get lost. 

Connie: Andy, We were talking about the case. About how some parents can lose touch with their kids. It really had nothing to do with you & I.  

Andy: Okay, I see. But you & I could both use a little down time. Some time to ourselves. What do you say; come away with me? 

Connie: (She’s really touched by Andy’s gesture, and she takes his hand in hers): Yeah, I’d love to come away with you. (She kisses the back of Andy’s hand) I can’t think of anything I’d rather do this weekend.  

Andy: Good, let’s go. 

Scene 8: Several hours later, after stopping off at a diner for a quick dinner and at a grocery store to get supplies for the weekend, they arrive at the cabin just before midnight. Connie unpacks in the bedroom while Andy put the groceries away.  

Connie: (As she comes out of the bedroom): Andy, this place is beautiful.  

Andy: Yeah, it’s nice; Medavoy says his brother takes good care of it. It belonged to his in-laws, but the way Greg talked, his brother’s been taking care of it for years. That’s why he inherited it when they passed.  

Connie: I can’t wait to see the outside tomorrow. I’m going to go take a quick shower. Be right back. 

Andy: Okay, I’ll be here. 

Connie gives him a quick kiss on the cheek & heads off to the shower. Andy goes into the bedroom to get ready for bed. He’s already under the covers when Connie comes out of the shower and she climbs in bed beside him. 

Connie: That shower felt good. Andy, thank you for this. 

Andy: You’re welcome, now go to sleep. You need some rest. 

Connie: Sleep? You brought me up here to sleep? 

Andy: Not necessarily, but it’s late, we’ve had a long day and we both need a good night’s sleep. Now come on, (pulling her close to him), close your eyes.  

Connie snuggles closer to Andy & kisses him, a soft tender kiss on the lips. They settle under the covers & fall to sleep almost instantly in each other’s arms.  

Scene 9: Early morning. Andy wakes first and decides that he’s going to make breakfast in bed for Connie. He kisses her softly before climbing out bed & getting showered and dressed. He does so as quietly as he can so as not to wake her. He prepares a breakfast of scrambled eggs, bacon, toast, coffee & juice. He finds a tray & puts the food on it, carrying it in to the bedroom. He places the tray on the floor beside the bed and sits down beside Connie. He watches her sleep for a few moments, before he leans down & kisses her softly on the lips.  

Andy: Connie, Wake up, come on sleepy head. (He kisses her softly again and she slowly opens her eyes). 

Connie: (Smiling softly): Good morning, what time is it? 

Andy: Almost 9, here, he hands her a cup of coffee.  

Connie: (As she sits up & reaches for the cup) Thanks, smells good. 

Andy: (Bending down to pick up the tray): Here, I made you breakfast. After you eat we’ll call to check on the kids & then you can decide how you want to spend the day. 

Connie: I already have a good idea on how to spend the day. (She smiles & gives him a knowing wink). This is so sweet Andy, thank you. 

Andy: Don’t mention it. You eat; I have a mess to clean up in the kitchen.  

Connie: Aren’t you going to eat?  

Andy: I already did. Enjoy your breakfast. (He gives her a quick kiss on the forehead and returns to the kitchen to clean up).  

Connie watches Andy as he leaves the room. She loved this man so much; he may not have been all that great at expressing himself verbally. But when he did little things like this, she knew how much she meant to him. She knew she was loved, and she knew that she would always be safe and protected when she was with this wonderful man. She was lucky, and she knew it. Lucky to have found a man that loved her as much as she loved him.  

Connie is snapped back into reality by a loud crash coming from the kitchen. The crash is followed by a few choice words barked out by Andy.  

Connie: Andy, are you okay? 

Andy: Yeah, I’m fine. Just eat your breakfast.  

Connie: (Chuckling): Are you sure?  

Andy: Yeah, I’m sure. 

A few more minutes pass and Andy comes back into the bedroom as Connie is finishing her breakfast. He takes a seat beside her on the bed.  

Connie: Andy, what was all that commotion in the kitchen?  

Andy: Nothing, I uh, I dropped a frying pan. 

Connie: (Laughing softly) Oh, are you okay? 

Andy: Yeah, it was still hot & I burned my fingers. 

Connie: Awww, poor baby. Here, let me kiss it. 

Connie takes Andy’s hand in hers & softly kisses each of his fingers, and then kisses the palm of his hand. She pulls him in towards her and gives him a long passionate kiss on the lips. Andy returns the kiss and they hold it for several moments before Andy pulls back.  

Connie: (smiling seductively) Better now?  

Andy: (With a devilish smile on his face): Yeah, but that was the wrong hand.  

Connie: (Grinning): Oh, well, then give me the other hand and I’ll take care of it. 

Andy holds his other hand out and Connie takes it and kisses it just as she had before. This leads to another soft passionate kiss. Once again Andy pulls away first. 

Andy: Thanks, now I feel better. So, you wanna call the kids now?  

Connie: (Somewhat disappointed that the kiss didn’t lead to something more): Yeah, I guess we should.  

Andy: (Handing Connie the phone): Here, you call the kids. I’ll finish cleaning up. Give the kids my love & tell Theo I’ll call him tonight to see how his day went.  

Scene 10: About an hour later. After Connie calls the kids and gets dressed, and Andy finishes cleaning up in the kitchen. They decide to take a walk around the cabin. Connie is enjoying the fresh air & beauty of the area around the cabin. Andy is enjoying seeing Connie so relaxed and happy. They take a seat at the picnic table in front of the cabin.  

Connie: You know what? I think we should have a picnic lunch right here this afternoon.  

Andy: Okay, if it’s what you want. We can do that.  

Connie: It’s really beautiful up here isn’t it? 

Andy: (Not taking his eyes off Connie): Yeah, beautiful 

Connie: (Smiling at Andy), Let’s take a walk out onto the dock. I want to see the lake. 

Andy: Okay, (He stands up & takes her hand and they walk towards the lake). 

They stand hand in hand looking out over the lake. It’s a beautiful sunny day and the sun’s reflection off the clear blue water looks like a scene from a post card. Andy let’s go of Connie’s hand and puts his arm around her shoulder, pulling her close to him. Connie puts her arms around Andy and they stand there content in just being together. Andy kisses her softly on the top of her head. Andy was feeling a sense of contentment that he hadn’t felt in a long, long time. Seeing Connie so relaxed and happy made him feel good. She was his life, and he wanted nothing more than to make her happy.  

After a few minutes, Connie breaks the silence. 

Connie: Andy, you know what I really want to do right now? 

Andy: What’s that?  

Connie: I’d really love to do some fishing. 

Andy: You want to what?  

Connie: Go fishing; I’d love to do some fishing. 

Andy: You’re kidding me right? 

Connie: No, I’m not. My dad used to take me fishing all the time when I was a kid.  

Andy: Really now, I never would have guessed that you were an outdoorsman. You’re just full of surprises, aren’t you? 

Connie: (Laughing), Not really, I’m an open book Andy. You just have to turn to the right page. 

Andy: Hmm, really now?  

Connie: Yeah, come on, I think I saw some rods & a tackle box back in the cabin. 

Andy: Okay, if you really want to. Are you going to dig up the worms?  

Connie: Nope, no worms. Hopefully there’ll be some lures in the tackle box. 

Andy: Alright, if you really want to. We can do that I guess. 

They head back to the cabin to get the fishing gear. A little while later, they’re back on the dock. Connie really seems to be enjoying the experience, but Andy is not really into it.  

Connie: Andy, what’s the matter, you don’t seem to be enjoying yourself. 

Andy: Nothing’s the matter. I just think it’s hypocritical to try to catch fish when your hobby is raising them. 

Connie: But you take Theo fishing all the time.  

Andy: That’s just because he wants to do it. It’s a great way for the two of us to spend some time together. If we ever catch anything, we just throw it back. 

Connie: I see, you’re really something, you know that? 

Andy: I am huh? 

Connie: Yeah, you are. The toughest cop in the NYPD, yet you don’t want to hurt a fish.  

Andy: Well, the fish never did anything to hurt anybody. I’m only tough when I have to be. 

Connie: I see, that’s how that works huh? 

Andy: Yep, that’s my secret.  

Connie: Andy, you never cease to amaze me.  

They spend the next couple of hours on the dock. Connie catches several fish but they throw them all back. After a while, the sky begins to darken and it gets windy. They hear a few rumbles of thunder off in the distance. So they decide to head back to the cabin before they get caught in the coming storm. They’re in a playful mood as they walk hand in hand back towards the cabin. Before they can get inside, the skies open up & they get caught in a torrential downpour.  

Andy & Connie are soaked to the skin when they get back to the cabin. The rain is cold & Connie is shivering as they get inside. Andy grabs a blanket off the sofa & wraps it around Connie’s shoulders. He leads her towards the bedroom & goes into the bathroom & gets some towels to dry off with. After a few minutes, Andy goes back into the bathroom & undresses in there, throwing his wet clothes into the bathtub. As he reenters the bedroom, he notices Connie having trouble getting the strings to her halter-top untied. He’s struck by her beauty, it doesn’t matter how many times he looks at her. Her beauty always throws him, looking at her takes his breath away.  

Connie: Andy, do you think you can help me with this? 

Andy: (suddenly snapped back to reality), uh sure, be happy to. 

He walks up behind her & begins to tug on the knot, his big fingers make it difficult at first and they brush Connie’s neck a few times. Andy’s breath is warm on her neck, & the combination of his warm breath & his cold fingers sends shivers through her body. Andy soon has the top untied & helps Connie remove it; she lets it fall to the floor with the blouse she was wearing over it. Andy rubs her bare shoulders & kisses her neck as his hands travel down her body, coming to rest on her waist. He continues to nuzzle her neck & nibble her ear as she places her hands on his & leans back into him.  

Connie: Mmm, that feels good. 

Andy: I like making you feel good.  

They stay that way for several minutes, Andy wraps his arms around her & holds her in a tight embrace. He continues to plant soft, sensuous kisses on her neck, ears, & face. Connie closes her eyes & gently caresses Andy’s arms. Andy helps Connie out of her shorts. She turns to face him, & they share a long, tender kiss on the lips.  

It’s been weeks since they’ve made love, and their pent up passion begins to get the better of them. They continue to kiss & caress each other as they make their way to the bed, discarding what little clothes they are left wearing on the way. Just as they get to the bed, Andy stops & pulls away, turning around to look back at the clothes scattered on the floor.  

Andy: Don’t you think we should pick those up? 

Connie: No, we’ll get them later. 

Andy: But they’re wet, we should really.. 

Connie: Andy.. 

Andy: what? 

Connie: Shut up & make love to me. 

Andy smiles at Connie as he takes her back into his arms and gives her a long passionate kiss. They fall onto the bed as the tensions & frustrations of the last few weeks begin to melt away. All that matters to either of them now is giving the other the ultimate pleasure. They’re insatiable as they continue to kiss & caress each other’s bodies. No more words are spoken, but none are needed. It’s beyond words now; their bodies are doing all the talking. Their bodies become each other’s playgrounds, as they continue to explore each other as if it were the first time they had ever been together. Finally, their passion explodes & they fall sated & spent into a heap on the bed, their bodies still entwined at every point. Neither can talk, neither can move, they just lie there on the bed holding on to each other for dear life. Soon, they fall to sleep in each other’s arms. Safe & content, not a care in the world. 

Scene 11: A few hours later, a soft rain continues to fall outside. Connie wakes up first, still wrapped tightly in Andy’s arms. She watches him sleep for several minutes before she reaches up & traces the outline of his face with her fingers. Andy stirs slightly and pulls her closer to him. Connie is enjoying this closeness, this opportunity to be totally alone with Andy. They don’t get too many chances to be alone like this. Connie reaches up and softly kisses Andy’s cheek before she settles back into arms, resting her head on his chest. Connie couldn’t believe how much in love she was this man. How he had become the center of her world in such a short time. She kisses his neck & he begins to stir, turning on his side and facing her as he opens his eyes. He gives her a smile that melts her heart. She loves seeing him smile like this, and she loved getting lost in his soulful eyes. Andy kisses Connie softly on the forehead and pulls her to him, content to just lie there silently and hold her in his arms. 

Connie: Hey 

Andy: Hey, guess I dozed off.  

Connie: Yeah, me too. Great sex does that to you, you know. 

Andy: Yeah, huh? 

Connie: Yeah, makes you hungry too, I’m starving.  

Andy: Well, we did sleep through lunch. So much for our picnic, it’s almost time for dinner now. 

Connie: Yeah, I guess I’d better take a shower & think about starting dinner.

(Connie starts to get up out of the bed. Andy pulls her back into him).  

Andy: Wait a second; I want to hold you a little while longer.

Connie gladly obliges, settling back in against Andy.  

Connie: This is nice isn’t it? I could get used to this.  

Andy: I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself.  

Connie: How could not? I love being alone with my man.  

Andy: Really, is that what I am now? Your man, huh? 

Connie: Yes, you are, and don’t you ever forget it.  

Andy: I won’t, but you might have to remind me every once in awhile. 

Connie: That will be my pleasure Detective Sipowicz. 

Andy: And mine too, I hope.  

Connie: Absolutely. (She gives him a soft playful kiss on the lips). Now, why don’t you let me get up so I can make my man his dinner. 

Andy: You don’t have to do that, we can always drive back to that diner we ate at last night. 

Connie: Nope, I don’t want to share you with anybody this weekend. We’ll make dinner here.  

Andy: Okay, if you insist. I’ll pick up these wet clothes that you insisted we leave lying all over the place.  

Connie kisses Andy softly and gets out of bed. Andy watches her as she walks naked to the bathroom. He lies in bed a while longer, thinking about what a lucky man he was to have Connie McDowell in his life.  

 

Scene 12: A few hours later. Andy and Connie have eaten dinner & called home again to talk to Andrea & Theo. After cleaning up their dinner dishes, they decide to spend the evening sitting on the swing on the front porch of the cabin.  

Andy & Connie sit quietly on the swing, just cuddling & enjoying being together in the peace & quiet. Andy breaks the silence. 

Andy: Connie?  

Connie: Hmmm?  

Andy: So, you think you still want to marry me? 

Connie: (pulling back so she can look him in the eyes). Andy, of course I still want to marry you. What makes you even think that I wouldn’t? 

Andy: Just making sure, I don’t want to assume anything. 

Connie: Andy, I can’t remember ever wanting anything more. I love you so much, & I want to spend the rest of my life with you. That didn’t change just because our plans fell through the first time. I’m not going anywhere; you’re stuck with me now.  

Andy: Good, can’t think of anybody I’d rather be stuck with.

They share a long, deep, tender kiss. Then they settle back on the swing, Connie is safely nestled against Andy’s body. His arm is around her, & her hand is resting on his leg. They’re content just being together. 

Connie: Andy, what made you even think that I could change my mind about marrying you? 

Andy: I wasn’t thinking you’d changed your mind. I was just making sure is all. The boss will back to work in a few weeks or so. And, I was just wondering, if maybe you’d like to get married this fall? Once the Lou gets back, & we’re rid of this hump Shanley, I see no reason to wait any longer than we have too. 

Connie: I’ll marry you, anytime, anywhere. But, I would like to have my Mom there. I’d like to plan the wedding for a time she can come up from Florida.  

Andy: Okay, work it out with your Mom, & we’ll do it. As soon as we can. I don’t want to wait any longer than we have to. 

Connie: What’s the rush?  

Andy: No rush, I just want to make this all legal. I want the 4 of us to be a real family.  

Connie: Andy, we already are a real family.  

Andy: I know we are, I just want it legal. And, I want to adopt Michelle, & I want you to adopt Theo. If you want to, I want it all legal. 

Connie: Andy, are you sure? I’d love it if you’d adopt Michelle. I’d be honored to have you adopt her. But are you sure about Theo? 

Andy: Absolutely, I’ve given it a lot of thought. He already thinks of you as his mother. He calls you Mommy; it’s what he wants. If it’s what you want, let’s do it. 

Connie: Andy, are you sure it’s what you want? 

Andy: Absolutely, I mean I’d want to keep his mother’s memory alive for him as much as possible. But he was only 3 when she died, he doesn’t really remember her. As far as he’s concerned, you are his mother. He loves you as if you were his mother, I’d love it if you’d adopt him.  

Connie: Okay, if you’re sure it’s what you want. We’ll do it; we’ll make it all legal. 

Andy: Okay then, let’s do it. 

They share a soft, tender kiss, as if to seal the deal. 

They sit on the swing a while longer. Making small talk and just enjoying the moment. After a while, Connie gets cold & they decide to go back inside the cabin.  

Andy: So, what now?  

Connie: I think I’d just like to just go to bed. 

Andy: You tired? 

Connie:(with a gleam in her eye): I didn’t say anything about being tired, now did I? 

Andy smiles at her as they head into the bedroom. A little while later, Andy is lying in bed waiting for Connie to come out of the bathroom. Connie comes out of the bathroom wearing nothing but a sultry smile, Andy smiles at her as she walks towards him. He pulls back the covers on her side of the bed, expecting her to climb in bed beside him. But instead, Connie climbs into his side of the bed, on top of him. She kisses him softly on the forehead. 

Andy: (Mock Surprise), What’s this now? 

Connie: This is me, showing my gratitude to someone who did something really sweet for me.  

Connie leans forward and gives Andy a long, deep, passionate kiss. Andy wraps his arms around her and holds her tightly to his body as he returns the kiss. He runs his hands gently up & down her torso, bringing them to rest on her hips as she pulls back from the kiss. Connie lays her head on Andy’s chest; he wraps his arms around her and holds her tight. They both leave out a simultaneous sigh of contentment.  

Andy: Connie?

 

Connie: huh? 

Andy: You don’t have to show me any gratitude; I’m just keeping care of my best girl. That’s all.  

Connie: Well, your girl appreciates it. She loves you, and she wants to show you how much.  

Connie helps Andy out of his t-shirt & boxers. Kissing him on the neck, chest, & stomach as she works to free him of his clothes. Andy is lost as he lies on his back enjoying the pleasure that Connie’s lips & tongue are giving his body. He gently moves Connie onto her back & sits up, resting on his elbow. He moves his other hand up & down Connie’s body, gently caressing her. He leans into her, giving her a long passionate kiss. She responds, wrapping her arms around his neck & pulling him closer to her. He buries his face in her neck, gently kissing her neck & ear. Connie then gently pushes him over onto his back again and climbs back on top of him.  

Connie: This one’s on me mister.  

She mounts him then, gently gliding his erect penis inside her. Andy lets out a quiet moan of pleasure as Connie begins to slowly ride him, enjoying the pleasure she’s giving not only to Andy, but to herself as well. She continues to ride him until they crash together in a thunderous orgasm. Connie rolls onto the bed beside him, Andy pulls her to him, holding her tightly to his body. He kisses her softly on the forehead; Connie buries her head in Andy’s chest. These are the times she treasures most. The times she can lie safe & protected in Andy’s strong arms. There was no place in the world that she would rather be right now. Tomorrow, they would go back to being Mommy & daddy again. But for a few more hours at least, they could savor just being Andy & Connie. Two lovers just totally wrapped up in each other. They spend the next couple of hours just lying quietly in each other’s arms. Holding on tightly to each other and playfully talking and teasing and sharing soft tender kisses. Eventually they fall to sleep tightly wrapped in a lover’s embrace that tells them both they needn’t worry about a thing.  

They wake early the next morning, and make soft, tender love one more time before they drag themselves out of bed and prepare for the drive home. Andy insists that they leave the cabin in tiptop shape. After eating a quick breakfast they clean up after themselves, leaving the cabin spotless.  

A few minutes before Noon, they call Andrea to let her know they’re on their way & will be home before dinner. They lock up the cabin and head hand in hand to the car for the trip home. Andy puts their suitcase in the back seat and opens the door for Connie. Connie hesitates for a moment & turns to Andy, taking his hand & pulling her to him. 

Connie: Andy, thank you for this weekend. It was just what I needed.  

Andy: (Taking her face in his hands and kisses her softly on the forehead). You’re welcome. Thank you for coming away with me. 

Connie: Andy? 

Andy: What? 

Connie: I’ll get lost with you anytime. 

Andy smiles at her & gives her a soft kiss before helping her into the car. After Andy gets in the car they share another soft kiss. After he starts the car, Connie takes Andy’s hand & they head for home. It had been a wonderful weekend, way beyond anything that Andy could have ever imagined. Could be that life outside the big city wasn’t so bad after all. 

THE END