Hutch sank on his bed, welcomed by the soft mattress. Finally at home, leaving Starsky’s lousy couch behind. He stretched and closed his eyes, exhaustion overwhelming him. But sleep wouldn’t come.

Starsky had sent him home. When he had objected, Starsky had insisted, he didn’t need a baby-sitter any longer. Had Starsky listened and overheard his cursing and ranting about the situation Starsky had been put in by Gunther? Had Starsky misinterpreted his words, thinking Hutch was fed up with caring for him? Hutch longed to be with his friend.

He dialed and heard, “’lo?”

“I miss you, partner.”

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