Starsky woke up. He listened to the silence in his apartment; it felt oppressive.

Alone for the first time after the shooting, he realized how much he was used to Hutch’s presence. Listening to him rummaging in the kitchen gave Starsky a feeling of being protected and safe.

Hutch often spoke to himself, and Starsky listened, but couldn’t catch the words. Hutch’s soothing words had helped him to relax, when he was overwhelmed by pain. Lately Hutch had started strumming his guitar, and Starsky loved the music.

He had sent Hutch home, pretending to be fine. He missed his partner.

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