Pam:  You're afraid that she wants you to meet up with your dad right?

Mike:  How'd you get to know me so well?

Pam:  Babe, I wasn't your best friend growing up for nothing.  Just because we're divorced doesn't mean I've forgotten about you and your past. 

Mike:  I don't wanna talk to him, see him or anything like that.  It's too painful.

Pam:  Sometimes we have to face our past before we can heal within ourselves.

Mike:  There you go; being philosophical again.

Pam:  I can't help it.  That's the way I am, babe.  You'll just have to take me as I am or not at all. (Mike laughed because she used to say that when they were married) Ah-ha!  Michael Nesmith "does" know how to laugh.

Mike:  Only you can do that, Pammy.  Only you.

Pam:  What, Katie doesn't make you laugh?

Mike:  Not like you.  She's more of a serious person than anything else.

Pam:  Like you? (He looked at her) You know how you are.  What was it Micky used to say about you?  Oh yeah, "Mike's the serious one of our group, I'm the funny one, Peter's the unknown one and Davy's the babe magnet."

Mike:  Don't talk about them right now!

Pam:  Why not?  I thought you were meeting with them for a reunion?

Mike:  I was; `til Davy decided he was going to take charge of the whole thing and kick me out.  He said I was letting my `personal' life interfere with the practice and he didn't want me being that way while we were on tour. 

Pam:  Want me to talk to him?

Mike:  You can't talk to that .to Davy.  He's impossible.

Pam:  You can be too at times. (Mike just gave her a scowled look) Maybe you need to explain to Davy and the other two why you're letting your past interfere?

Mike:  I can't, Pam.  I just can't talk about it and I wish everyone would quit trying to get me to.

Pam:  I think you should at least talk to your sister about it.  Let her know why you don't want any contact with your dad. (Mike didn't say anything) Will you at least go home and think about it?

Mike:  Yeah; I guess so. (Mike and Pam went on talking for a little bit) 

(Mike finally returned to his own home just around 1:00 a.m..  Katie was a little upset at her husband for his late entrance.)

Katie:  Where have you been?  I have been waiting up for you and I've been worried sick that something might have happened to you!

Mike:  Well I'm fine!  You can quit worrying about me!

Katie:  You've been acting strange since you came back from Asher's earlier this afternoon; why is that?

Mike:  I've just been thinking is all.

Katie:  About what?

Mike:  Nothing important.  Let's go to bed.  I'm tired.

Katie (Hand to her stomach):  Ah!

Mike:  You okay?

Katie:  Yeah.  I just got kicked is all.  This baby is very active.

Mike:  It's probably telling you to go to bed.  C'mon! (Mike and Katie turned out the lights and went to their room to bed)

Chapter 7

(Mike tossed and turned all night long.  No matter how many times he would fall asleep, the nightmares of his dad would return in his dreams.  Mike woke up at 6:00 a.m. from another dream.  He decided enough was enough.  He got up from his bed, quietly covered his sleeping wife back up and then he went downstairs to the kitchen.  His butler was already awake and already in the kitchen.)

Butler:  I just made some coffee, sir.  Would you like some?

Mike:  Please. (The butler gave him a cup of coffee) Thank you. (Mike began to drink it.  After a few minutes of sitting at the table, Mike decided to do something to try and get his dreams off his mind) I'm gonna go for a swim in case my wife wants to know where I am.

Butler:  Okay. (Mike went to his pool area.  He got into his swim trunks and got into the water.  No matter what Mike did, the thoughts of his father would not go away.  He got out of the pool, dried off, got dressed again and without saying a word, Mike left the house.  He got in is car and began driving)

(Mike found himself on the interstate driving toward his home state of Texas.  It took him several hours to get to his old home but he was relieved when he finally got to his mothers.  He got out and went right in the house.)

Mike (Small yelling):  Mama..?!  You home..?!

Mike's Mom (Coming from her kitchen):  Michael..?  What are you doin' here honey?

Mike:  I needed to be here with you.

Mike's Mom:  What's wrong dear?

Mike:  Somethin' from my past has come back.

Mike's Mom:  Come sit down!  I'll get ya some hot cocoa and we'll talk. (Mike smiled because he remembered how his mother used to give him hot cocoa every time they had little talks when he was younger.  She got the cocoa and they sat down at the table to talk) What's troublin' ya?

Mike:  I had a surprise visitor yesterday that brought back some harsh memories from the past.  It's botherin' me.

Mike's Mom:  Tell me about this `visitor.'

Mike:  Her name is Danielle.  She called me up askin' me to meet her at this local bar.  When I met up with her, she began askin' me questions about dad.  She turned out to be his daughter.

Mike's Mom:  Oh dear.  Ya have a sister, huh?

Mike:  Yeah, I guess that's what you'd call her.  She wanted me to meet up with him and I told her off.  She brought back the bad memories that I had repressed all these years.  Now everyone's on my back tryin' to get me to tell them about it.  Thing of it is, I don't wanna talk about it.

Mike's Mom:  No one can force you to talk about it, baby.  The memories were just as hard for you as they were for me.  I was thrilled to see your dad leave. 

Mike:  Why did you put up with it for 10 years?

Mike's Mom:  I don't know.  I began askin' myself that same question.  It had gotten to the point where if your dad hadn't left, I was gonna leave with you.  I think he knew that so he took off. 

Mike:  Was dad always that mean?

Mike's Mom:  I never did tell you the whole story did I?

Mike:  No.  You told me bits and pieces but you never elaborated.

Mike's Mom:  My parents moved me and my sister to Dallas when I was 15.  I met your dad my first day of school and we began datin' shortly there-after.  Things seemed to be smooth between us until your dad turned 18.  The war had just begun overseas and we watched our friends get drafted one-by-one; includin' your dad's best friend.  It was a friend he'd had since he was a little kid and they used to go everywhere together.  For a while, your dad's best friend kept in touch with us but all of a sudden, the letters and phone calls stopped.  Your dad questioned his best friend's mother and that's when he found out that he had been killed.  After your dad got that news, he seemed to get real bitter.  In fact, I quit datin' him for a while because of it. 

Mike:  Then if you quit datin' him, how'd you end up with him again?

Mike's Mom:  When your dad turned 19, he ended up gettin' a draft notice in the mail.  He didn't wanna go because he wanted to become a police officer so he was tryin' to find every way possible to keep away from it.  He finally found his way when he begged me to take him back.  He got me pregnant with you and that was his ticket out right there. 

Mike:  So what happened from there?  I mean, when did he turn mean?

Mike's Mom:  Bob became the cop that he wanted to be but somethin' happened one night that snapped his mind.  Keep in mind, son, that your dad was only 19 when he became a cop.

Mike:  Well what happened?

Mike's Mom:  While he and his partner were on their evenin' run for their department, they were called to a gang raid downtown Dallas.  Your dad wouldn't elaborate on what happened but his partner was shot and killed in front of his face.  He wouldn't talk about it.  After they buried your dad's partner, your dad just seemed to get angrier and angrier as the night went on.  I didn't even see the abuse comin'.  When he did it that night, I was in such shock that I didn't even know what to think.  He apologized over and over the next day to the point I just forgave him.  He promised it wouldn't happen again.  I believed him.

Mike:  Yet you stuck around for ten years?

Mike's Mom:  I was a fool, Michael. 

Mike:  Did you love him?

Mike's Mom:  Yeah I did.  But I don't think he really loved me.  I think he just wanted a way out of the war so he got me pregnant with you.  That's the only way it worked back then. (Mike's mom noticed Mike was still bugged about it) Baby, the only way you'll ever get over this is if you face him.  I know that sounds bad comin' from me, but maybe if you talk to him, you can get over the past. 

Mike:  You sayin' I should forgive him?

Mike's Mom:  No.  I'm just sayin' that you need to talk to him.

Mike:  Why would I wanna talk to a man that beat you and me for ten years and then took off never to be seen or heard from again; `til now?

Mike's Mom:  Maybe for closure?

Mike:  I wouldn't even know what to say to him.

Mike's Mom:  Tell him how you feel.

Mike:  Heh, I don't think he'd wanna know how I feel about him. (The telephone rang)

Mike's Mom:  I'll get it. (Mike's mom got up and answered the telephone) Hello?  Hi Davy. (Mike looked up at his mother when he heard who was on the other end of the phone) Yes, he ended up here.  How'd you know?  Yeah, I'd expect that from Pam.  Yeah, you can tell Katie not to fret.  You wanna talk to him?  I'll handle that.  Okay dear.  You too.  Bye. (To Mike as she hangs up the phone) That was Davy.  Seems as though you've caused a panic back in California.  You didn't tell anyone you were comin' here, did you?

Mike:  No.  I just got in the car and drove all the way here without stoppin'. I needed to be with you.  What'd he say?

Mike's Mom:  He said that Katie called Pam in a panic wonderin' where you were.  Pam, in turn, called Davy to see if you were with them and since you weren't, she had Davy call here.  She knew this would be the only other place you'd come to.

Mike:  Why would Davy be the one to call?

Mike's Mom:  He was just as concerned about you as the others.  He said somethin' about you havin' a fight with him.

Mike:  Yeah; a fight he started because I goofed up in practice several times. 

Mike's Mom:   Michael, the only time you mess up playin' that guitar is if you are lettin' somethin' bother you.  I have a feelin' I know what that somethin' is.  You don't have a choice.  You're gonna have to face your dad to get over this.

Mike:  I don't wanna talk to him!  That's what I can't get anyone to understand! (Mike's mom disappeared for a minute.  She came back with an address book.  She opened it up and dialed a number) What are you doin'? (Mike's mom wouldn't answer him)

       Man's Voice:  Hello?

Mike's Mom:  Hi!

        Man's Voice:  What do you want?

Mike's Mom:  Someone needs to talk to you.

        Man's Voice:  Who?

Mike's Mom:  Your son! (Mike's Mom handed her son the telephone)

Mike:  What are you doin'?  I don't wanna.(She forced the phone into Mike's hand)

Mike's Mom:  Just do it! (Mike got mad and hung the telephone up)

Mike (Standing up and knocking something off the table):  I am not talking to that man!  And how dare you try and make me? (Mike went for the door)

Mike's Mom:  Robert Michael Nesmith! (She headed him off before he could go out the door) Look, you may be an adult but I am still your mother and this is my house!  You will never treat my things like that again! (He just looked at her) And another thing, you have got to stop letting that stubbornness get in the way of your life!  Sometimes you have to let your guard down!  If you don't, you'll end up alone!

Mike:  I'm sorry.

Mike's Mom:  Why don't you go to your old room and try to get some sleep.  You look like you could use some.  I'll call Katie up and let her know you're stayin'.

Mike:  Don't tell Katie about my sister, okay?

Mike's Mom:  I won't say anything to her.  I'll leave that up to you.  Just go get some sleep.

Mike:  Thanks Mama.  Thanks for listenin'.

Mike's Mom:  That's what mothers are for, baby. (Mike gave a small smile and went to his old bedroom)

Chapter 8

(Back in California, Katie was in a panic because she hadn't heard a word about Mike.  Andy was trying to comfort her to keep her calm for the baby's sake.)

Andy:  Kate, I'm sure dad's fine.  My mother will locate him for you.

Katie:  What in the world would possess him to just take off without telling me where he's going?

Andy:  Um. he's got a lot on his mind maybe? (Katie looked at Andy with a firm look and it was mixed with an unpleasant smile)

Katie:  Andrew, do you know something about your dad that I don't?

Andy (Looking at his watch):  Will you look at the time?  I'm gonna be late for a meeting...I mean my bed is calling me.

Katie (Grabbing his keys):  You aren't going anywhere without talking to me first! (Andy knew he didn't have a choice) Sit! (Andy sat down) Talk!

Andy:  Kate.(The telephone rang at that point and just as Katie went to answer it, Andy grabbed his keys from Kate's hands) Saved by the telephone.  Love ya Kate, but I gotta go home!  Call me later if ya hear anything. (Katie nodded and answered the phone while Andy left the house)

Katie (Answering the telephone):  Hello?

Mike's Mom:  Hi Katie!  It's mom.

Katie:  What's up, mom?

Mike's Mom:  Mike's here with me honey.  You don't have to worry about him anymore.

Katie:  You mean Mike drove all the way to Texas?

Mike's Mom:  Yes dear.  He didn't mean to worry you.  He's got some things on his mind and he does that when he doesn't wanna be around anyone else but me. 

Katie:  Can I talk to him?

Mike's Mom:  I would let you but he's sleeping right now.  He's exhausted.

Katie:  What would be on his mind that he would take off like that?

Mike's Mom:  I can't talk about it.  That's up to Mike to do.  I just didn't want you to worry about where he was all night.

Katie:  Could you have him call me when he wakes up?

Mike's Mom:  Sure.  Katie?

Katie:  Yeah?

Mike's Mom:  He loves you, honey.

Katie:  Thanks. 

Mike's Mom:  Have a good night.

Katie:  You too.

Mike's Mom:  Bye.

Katie:  Bye. (Katie hung the telephone up and her imagination went wild after the conversation.  Just as Katie turned around to go to her room for the night, she got a sudden pain in her stomach.  Having had two children before this baby, she knew immediately what it was; small yell) Jan..elle?! (Katie couldn't move; raising her voice) JANELLE?!  CLAIRICE?! (Neither one of her girls could hear her so she managed to get the phone again and dial 9-1-1)

Operator:  9-1-1, what's your emergency?

Katie (In tears now):  I'm in labor and I'm only seven months along.

**Operator:  Are you sure you're in labor?**

Katie:  Yes!  I've got two other kids!  I know what labor feels like!

Operator:  What's your name?

Katie:  Kathleen. 

Operator:  How old are you Kathleen?

Katie:  I'm 37 and my husband isn't home right now.  I have no way. no way to get to a hospital.

Operator:  I'll get you there.  Don't worry about a thing.    Just stay on the line until the ambulance arrives, okay?

Katie:  Okay. (Katie went on talking to the operator until an emergency crew could get to the Nesmith residence)

(The emergency crew arrived within five minutes of the call.  The emergency lights from outside brought attention to Clairice who was in her room reading instead of sleeping.  She put down her book and walked next door to her sister's room.)

Clairice:  Hey sis! (Janelle didn't say anything) Jan? (Janelle turned on the light by her bed)

Janelle:  What is it?  Can't you see I'm sleeping?

Clairice:  Something's going on outside.  There are emergency lights flashing outside my window.

Janelle (Getting out of bed and putting on a robe):  Let's go check it out! (The two girls walked down the long hallway and ended up at the kitchen where they found an emergency crew around their mother) Mom, you okay?

Katie:  I'm in. labor!  Call your Grandma Nezzie up and. and tell your dad!

Clairice:  Are you gonna be okay? 

Katie:  I'll be fine.  Just get. get your dad! (The emergency crew took their mother out the door)

Clairice:  This isn't good, Jan.  Mom's only seven months pregnant.

Janelle:  I know.  Wait until dad finds out.

Clairice:  Why do we have to call grandma to get dad?

Janelle:  That must be where he headed for some reason. (Janelle found her grandmother's telephone number and called it)

Mike's Mom:  Hello?

Janelle:  Grandma?  It's Janelle.  Is dad there?

Mike's Mom:  Yes, baby, but he's sleeping.

Janelle:  Can you wake him up?  This is an emergency.

Mike's Mom:  What's wrong?

Janelle:  It's about mom. 

Mike's Mom:  I'll go get him. (Mike's mom put the phone down and a few minutes later Mike answered the telephone from his bedroom)
Mike:  Hello?

Janelle:  Daddy?

Mike:  What is it, Jan?

Janelle:  It's mom.  She's in labor. (Mike sat up)

Mike:  She's in labor?  Are you sure?

Janelle:  Yeah.  They just took her to the hospital by ambulance.  How fast can you get home?

Mike:  I'll leave right now.  I'll be right home.  You girls just stay calm and stay at the house.  I'll pick you up when I get home.

Janelle:  But daddy.

Mike:  Janelle, just listen to me!  I love you!

Janelle:  I love you too!  Bye. (Janelle hung up but was a little upset) Dad wants us to stay here.

Clairice:  But I don't wanna stay here!  I wanna go be with mom!

Janelle:  Sis, if we don't listen, you know he'll get mad.  As it is, he's gonna be mad because we didn't clean our rooms up. 

Clairice:  Call Andy up and tell him to come get us.  Dad can't say anything to us if we go with him!

Janelle:  Y'know, I hadn't thought about that. (Janelle picked up the telephone and called their brother)

(Meanwhile down in Texas, Mike appeared before his mother.)

Mike's Mom:  What's the matter, dear?

Mike (Putting on his jacket):  Katie's in labor.

Mike's Mom:  But she's only seven months along!

Mike:  I know that.  I'll call you when I get to the hospital to let you know what's goin' on.  I love ya.

Mike's Mom:  I love you too, dear.  Please be careful on your drive.

Mike:  You always say that!

Mike's Mom:  That's because I mean it! (They hugged each other and Mike took off)

Chapter 9

(Mike arrived back in California breaking speed limits to get there and immediately went to the hospital. When he got there, he found his band mates, his ex-wife, his son and two daughters in the lobby. This caused Mike to panic.)

Mike: Andy, what's everyone doing here? Is Katie okay?

Andy: I'm gonna go let the doctor know you're here.

Mike: Andy.(Andy disappeared and Pam approached Mike) Pam, what's
going on?

Pam: There's a problem with the baby.

Mike: A problem? What kind of problem?

Pam: The baby's heart beat has dropped. They don't know why and they aren't sure if it's going to make it. (The doctor showed up with a small, but not pleasant, smile)

Dr. Miller (Shaking hands with Mike): I'm Dr. Miller. I've been taking care of your wife since she got here.

Mike: Dr. Miller, what's going on?

Dr. Miller: Your wife has dilated 3 centimeters. We've been monitoring the baby and its heart beat has dropped. We stopped your wife's labor, but we think it's going to be a matter of time before we have to let her deliver.

Mike: But she's been healthy since the beginning. What could have happened?

Dr. Miller: I don't know, Mike.

Mike: Can I see Katie?

Dr. Miller: Yeah. C'mon! (Mike followed the doctor down the long hall. Once they got to Katie's room, he hesitated but walked in with a forced smile) I'll let you be with her.

Mike: Thanks. (The doctor disappeared) Hi baby! (Katie wouldn't talk to Mike) What?

Katie: You disappeared on me without telling me where you were going!

Mike: I'm sorry. I had a lot on my mind and I needed to talk to my mother about it.

Katie: You had to go all the way to Texas to talk to her? (Mike didn't answer her) What is it that's bothering you so bad that you had to drive to your mother's?

Mike: I.I can't tell you.


Katie: If you can't talk to me about what's bothering you, then maybe we don't have a marriage.

Mike: This is not something I can talk to just anyone about, Kate. And right now, my problems are not the concern; you are. (The doctor returned)

Dr. Miller: Katie? Mike? I want to discuss an option with you about the baby.

Mike: We're listening.

Dr. Miller: Katie's gonna have to stay in the hospital for a few days or more but I want to do what you call a c-section on her. It's where we go in and open your wife up to take the baby out.

Mike: No. The only reason she's in here to begin with is because I wasn't home. Otherwise we wouldn't be here at all. We don't believe in doctors or hospitals.

Dr. Miller: Mike, it's either I do that or you could lose both your wife and the baby.

Mike: No. I'm sorry but as soon as Katie is able, we're leaving and going home.

Dr. Miller (Sighing): I'll be back. (Dr. Miller walked into the hall where Mike's family was. Everyone stood up)

Davy: What's wrong?

Dr. Miller: I've got a problem. The only way I'm going to be able to save the baby's life is by doing what you call a c-section. But Mike just told me that they don't believe in it and as soon as Katie was ready to leave, they were going home.

Pam: That's because of our beliefs. I think I can take care of this problem. Can you give me a minute?

Dr. Miller: Yeah. (Pam went back the hallway to Katie's room)

Micky: Did you find out why the baby is having this problem?

Dr. Miller: No, but I have my suspicions. I think the baby's umbilical cord is wrapped around its neck. If I don't get to it soon, the baby will die. I don't want to scare Kate so that's why I haven't told her or Mike about it.

Peter: Well if anyone can talk to Mike, it's Pam. She always could get Mike to come to reason with things.

Davy: How did she do that, anyway? `Cuz I never could get him to reason with me.

Peter: That's because you aren't a cute red-headed woman with hazel eyes that melt your heart.

Janelle: What happened between dad and Pam anyway?

Andy: That's easy; he was never faithful to her. They got married too young and then he got in with these three.

Micky: Now just a minute, Andy! We didn't cause him to do it.

Andy: Micky, you three were single. Dad was married. Once he got in with you three, he began to think he was single again and that's when it started.

Davy: Your father had a mind of his own Andrew. Don't go blaming us for it.

Andy: I'm not gonna talk anymore about this with you three because I don't wanna get into a fight here. The point is dad was never faithful to my mother. My mom only put up with it because she loved him and hoped that he would come to his senses and stop doing it.

Janelle: Dad wouldn't do that to our mother, would he?

Andy: No, Jan. He really loves your mom. You have nothing to worry about.

Janelle: Good.

(Pam arrived in Katie's room and saw tears in both their eyes.)

Pam: Guys, can I talk to you?

Mike: Hi Pammy! (Pam walked into the room) What's up?

Pam: I know what we believe, but when it comes to a serious situation like this, I don't think Jesus would mind if you had a little help with it. Katie needs the surgery to have the baby and the baby needs a chance at life.

Mike: But it goes against everything we believe in.

Pam: I know, Mike, but I even think your own mother would tell you the same thing. We'll pray for Katie and then I think you should let the doctor do his job.

Mike (Sighing): All right.

Katie: Pam, how do you do that?

Pam: Do what?

Katie: Get Mike to give in like that?

Pam (Smiling): It's an old trick of mine; right Mike? (Mike just gave her a small smile and didn't answer her) Do you want me to pray? (Mike nodded and Pam prayed for Katie, the baby and for Mike)

Mike (Feeling a peace inside): Thanks, Pammy.

Pam: Welcome. Good luck, Katie. We'll be right out here if you need us.

Katie: Thanks.

(Pam returned to the lobby with a smile on her face.)

Davy (Seeing the smile on Pam's face): You did it, didn't ya? You got Mike to give in. (Pam just smiled)

Micky: You're good, Pam! Even Peter, here, could never get Mike to do that. And Peter's the only one Mike ever listens to in our group.

Pam: There's nothing to it, Micky. All ya have to do is talk on Mike's level.

Peter: That'd be a little hard for Davy to do! (They all snickered)

Davy: All right, all right! Enough with the short jokes Peter!

Dr. Miller: So you got him to agree to the c-section?

Pam: Yes. I think it's safe for you to go talk to him.

Dr. Miller: Thank you.

Pam: Welcome.

Clairice: Dr. Miller? Is it okay for me and Janelle to go see our mother now?

Dr. Miller: Sure. Follow me! (The two girls followed the doctor to their mother's room) Did you decide what you're gonna do?

Mike: Yes. We decided to allow you to deliver the baby. But after you do it, both Katie and the baby will go home with me and recover there. I will hire me someone to care for the both of them.

Dr. Miller: But Mike, the baby is only seven months along.

Mike: That is my final word. Either you take it or not at all.

Dr. Miller: All right. But you have to agree to let Katie and the baby stay in the hospital for at least two days. It's just to make sure she'll be okay at home.

Mike (Gritting his teeth): Fine. But no longer than two days. (The doctor left)

Katie: Hi girls!

Janelle (Hugging her mom): Hi mom!

Clairice (Hugging her mom next): Hi, mommy!

Janelle: How are you feeling?

Katie: A little better. The doctor stopped the labor so I'm a little more comfortable than I was earlier.

Clairice: The doctor said something about you having to have surgery. You scared?

Katie: I am a little bit. I've never had surgery before.

Mike: I thought you two were told to stay home?

Janelle: We were worried about mom! We just had to come be with her!

Mike: You two violated a direct order from me.

Clairice: Andy's the one that brought us here!

Mike: We'll talk about this when I get home.

Clairice: Can we stay for a few more minutes, daddy?

Mike: I guess so; but as soon as I get home, expect to be in major trouble with me.

Katie: Mike, don't be so hard on them. They were worried about me and I'm kind of glad they're here. C'mere you two! (They hugged their mother. The others filtered into Katie's room right then to give her their support; smiling) Hi everyone!

Peter (Handing her flowers): These are for you, Katie.

Katie (Smelling them): Awe, Peter! Thank you. (She gave him a hug) They're beautiful.

Davy: I picked them out.

Mike: Why, so you could take all the credit?

Davy: You still sore about earlier?

Mike: Well what do you expect? You kicked me out of the group.

Davy: That's because I was cross with you for being a quitter.

Mike: I'll tell you why later; if you still want me in the group that is.

Davy (Smiling): We wouldn't know what to do without ya, mate! (They shook hands)

Micky: Awe man! You spoiled my plans!

Mike: What plans?

Micky: I came up with a plan to get you back in with us. Now I can't use the plan.

Mike: That's just as well 'cuz every time you have a plan, it backfires. (Micky jokingly hit Micky and laughed with the others)

Micky (Looking at his watch): Hey Dave? We have to get goin'. We have to meet with that guy about a back-up band.

Mike: Do you need me?

Davy: No, we'll be okay.

Micky: We'll call you later.

Peter: Yeah; you just concentrate on Katie and the baby.

Mike: Thanks; you guys are the best friends anyone could ask for.

Davy: Cheers. (The three Monkees left the hospital)

Andy: Dad, is there anything you or Katie need?

Mike: No, we're good son.

Pam: What about something to eat?

Mike: I'm not hungry right now. Thanks Pammy.

Pam: Welcome. (Pam and Andy hugged Mike and Katie) Mike? Do you
want me to keep your girls for a couple of days?

Mike: That's up to Katie.

Katie: I don't mind.

Andy: Cool! (To the girls) We'll have so much fun together.

Clairice: As long as you don't scare me anymore, we'll be just fine.

Mike: You two behave for Pam.

Janelle: We will. (The girls hugged their parents; to her mom) Get some rest okay?

Katie: I will. I love you girls.

Janelle: We love too. Bye!

Clairice: Bye. (The two girls left with Pam and Andy)

Mike: Get some rest, babe.

Katie: I can't rest in this place. I hate hospitals about as much as you hate being in them.

Mike: Just try, okay? I'll sit right here beside you in case you need me. (Mike watched his wife drift off to sleep and his thoughts made him smile while looking at her. For the moment, he had forgotten all about his `bad memory.')

Chapter 10

(A little later in the evening, the attending nurse--and a very familiar looking face to Mike--walked into the room.  She, too, recognized Mike right away but she didn't say anything.)

Nurse:  Hi, Kathleen.

Katie:  You can call me Katie.

Nurse:  Nice to meet you Katie.  I'm Dani.  I'll be your nurse for the night.

Mike (Sarcastically):  Great!  If you're gonna be the nurse, I'm not gonna to stay here.

Katie:  Mike, you're being rude aren't you?

Nurse (To Mike and ignoring Katie):  That's okay because after the way you acted, I don't want to be in your presence anymore!

Katie:  Um.do you two know each other?

Mike (Staring at the nurse with upset eyes but talking to Katie):  No.  I've never met her before.

Nurse:  Ditto.

Katie:  For two people who have never met each other, you sure act like you know one another.

Mike:  We don't know each other!  Leave it go!

Katie (Hurt by Mike's snapping):  Fine!

Nurse (Checking Katie over):  Well, nothing's changed.  You just lay there and get some rest.  I'll be back in a bit to check on you again shortly.

Katie:  Um, could I have something to drink?

Nurse:  I'm afraid not, honey.  You're having this baby first thing in the morning.  You're not allowed any food or liquids until after it's born.

Katie:  But I'm feeling kind of sick.

Nurse:  I'll see if the doctor will let me give you something but I can't promise you that.  Just rest, okay?

Katie (Small and forcing smile):  Okay. (The nurse left Katie's room and Mike went over to the hospital window in thought) Mike, we've been married for 16 years; and in that 16 years of marriage we have never kept any secrets from each other.  I wanna know what's bothering you.

Mike (Hitting his fist up against the steel edge of the window; to himself but out loud):  Of all the times in this world, why now?

Katie:  Michael, did you hear me?

Mike (Turning around to her):  I'm going to get a cup of coffee.  I'll be back. (Katie gave an upset sigh and folded her arms in disgust as she watched her husband leave the room)

(Mike sat down in the café for quite some time drinking his coffee in thought.  It seemed like it was the only time he could get any quiet time to himself.  While sitting there, more thoughts came around.)

"Mike's Dad (To his mother):  I WISH I HAD NEVER MARRIED YOU!!

Mike's Mom:  I WISH I HAD NEVER MARRIED YOU, EITHER!!  ALL YOU CARE ABOUT IS YOURSELF AND YOU NEVER EVEN TRY TO SPEND TIME WITH MICHAEL AT ALL!!  THAT KID LOVES YOU, BOB!!  NO MATTER HOW MANY TIMES YOU'VE BEAT HIM, HE STILL MANAGES TO LOVE YOU!!

Mike's Dad:  WELL I DON'T NEED HIS LOVE, YOU HEAR ME??  AND I DON'T NEED HIM OR YOU ANYMORE EITHER!!"

(Mike remembered his father leaving the house, slamming the door shut and never returning again.  As Mike drank his 3rd cup of coffee down, an older woman approached him.)

Woman:  Hi!  Is this seat taken?

Mike:  Nah!  Help yourself. 

Woman (Hand out to shake his):  I'm Elizabeth.  Most people call me Liz.  What's your name?

Mike:  You mean you don't know who I am? (The woman shook her head `no'; small laugh) That's a first.  Usually I get bugged ev'rywhere I go because my face is too familiar.

Elizabeth:  Why, are you someone famous?

Mike:  Yeah.  Have you ever heard of the TV show called "The Monkees?"

Elizabeth:  No, can't say that I have.  My husband doesn't like us to watch too much TV.  Even while our kids were growing up, he didn't let them watch it much.  He said it clouded the mind and he didn't want them to lose focus on their studies. 

Mike:  That's funny because my father used to be that same way.  But I don't wanna talk about him.

Elizabeth:  You look like you could use someone to talk to, though.  I'm here and a good listener if you wanna talk.

Mike:  I've talked all I want about my problem.  Ev'ryone around me wants to know about it and I keep repeating that I don't wanna talk about it.  `sides, it doesn't really matter, now, anyway. (Elizabeth could tell that Mike didn't want to talk about his problem so she changed the subject)

Elizabeth:  So...are you here with someone in the hospital?

Mike:  Yeah.  My wife is having our baby first thing in the morning.

Elizabeth:  Congratulations.  Any idea what the baby is?

Mike:  No.  I'm kind of hoping for a boy and my wife wants another girl. 

Elizabeth:  Oh, so you already have kids huh?

Mike:  Yeah.  I have a son from my first marriage and two girls from my current wife. (Mike took his wallet out and showed the woman a family photo) This is my son Andy, my daughter Janelle, my daughter Clairice and my wife Katie.

Elizabeth:  You have a beautiful family.  I'm sure the new baby will make a fine addition to it.

Mike:  If the baby makes it.  They don't know what's wrong but the heart beat has dropped down a great deal.  That's why they're taking the baby by some type of surgery in the morning.

Elizabeth:  Awe, well I hope it makes it okay.

Mike:  Me too.  So, who you here to see?

Elizabeth:  My husband.  He was shot in the line of duty the other night. (Mike gave her an odd look) He's a police officer in other words.

Mike:  Ohhh.  Well, how's he doing?

Elizabeth:  Not so good.  The person that shot him got him in the chest.  He's still alive and alert but he's got some internal bleeding they can't get stopped.  The criminal beat him up pretty good and then shot him so he's struggling for his life right now.

Mike:  Sorry to hear that.  I hope he.well I hope he'll be okay.

Elizabeth:  Me too but the doctor isn't giving him too much hope.  They've tried everything to get the bleeding to stop but nothing has worked.

Mike:  You have a small accent to your voice.  Are you originally from here?

Elizabeth:  No.  I'm originally from San Antonio, Texas.  My husband moved us here when our kids were just little because he wanted out of Texas for some reason.

Mike:  You have kids too?

Elizabeth:  Yeah.  Our oldest is 27.  She's a nurse here at the hospital. (Mike's heart began to pound as he realized who he was talking to) Then we have a 21-year-old son, an 18-year-old son and a 16-year-old daughter. 

Mike:  Um.it was nice talking to you but I have to get back to my wife.

Elizabeth:  Good luck in the morning.

Mike:  Yeah; thanks. (Mike quickly exited the café and found the nearest empty restroom.  He sat down on the floor and began to just cry uncontrollably after hearing the news that Elizabeth told him)

Chapter 11

(Mike finally quit crying after ten minutes.  Although he rarely cried, this was exactly what Mike needed to do.  It made him feel better than what he had in the last couple of days.  He looked in the bathroom mirror and spoke to himself.)

Mike:  You can do this, Mike.  I know you can. (Mike walked out of the bathroom and walked up to the nearest nurses' station desk.  He was just about to ask the nurse something when he chickened out and went up to his wife's room.  Katie heard him come in the room and noticed his red face)

Katie:  You've been crying. (Mike didn't answer) Michael, c'mon!  Tell me what's going on.

Mike (Sighing as he sat down in the chair):  Her name is Danielle.

Katie (Confused face):  What?

Mike:  That nurse; her name is Danielle. 

Katie (Realizing what he meant):  She's the Danielle that called you?

Mike:  Yeah.

Katie:  Have you been seeing her behind my back?

Mike:  No, baby.  I wouldn't do that to you.

Katie:  I am totally confused.

Mike:  Danielle is my sister.

Katie:  Your sister?  Are you kidding me? (Mike shook his head `no'; small laugh) Why didn't you tell me that before now?

Mike:  Because.because I didn't know before I met with her.  She's my half-sister.  I don't even know how she found out about me.

Katie:  Well what happened that upset you so much?

Mike:  She brought back some old memories that were and are too painful to deal with. (Mike stood up and walked to the window again) My father was mean, babe.  He hurt me and my mother until I was ten years old.  Then after their final fight, he walked out and never came back.  I was relieved but at the same time I was angry.  I decided to repress those memories just so I could live.  If I hadn't, I wouldn't be a Monkee and I never would have made it as far as I have.

Katie (Looking at him in concern):  How bad did he hurt you?

Mike:  You couldn't even imagine what it was like, Katie.  When Danielle revealed to me that she was my sister I got angry because not only did she bring back the memories, she was his kid too.

Katie:  So this is why you disappeared to your mothers then?

Mike:  Yeah.  My Mama was the only one I could ever talk to growing up.  Can you forgive me for not talking to you about this sooner?  I just needed to sort this out in my head before I did something stupid.

Katie (Smiling):  Yeah, I forgive you.  C'mere. (He walked over to her and gave her a kiss; grabbing his tie) But if you ever leave me alone like that again, I'll skin ya! (He laughed at her and kissed her again)

Mike:  Get some sleep okay?  I think I'm going to go for a walk.

Katie:  Why don't you try and get some sleep yourself?  You're tired and I can see it in your face.

Mike:  I will shortly.  See you in a bit. (Katie watched in concern for her husband as he left the room.  Katie knew that even though Mike told her about his father, there was more to the story and it was still bugging him.  Katie, also knew, that Mike would eventually come to grips with the whole situation and sort it out on his own)

Chapter 12

(Mike returned to the first floor of the hospital and walked up to the same nurses' station desk that he had before.)

Nurse #2:  Can I help you?

Mike:  Yes, I was wondering if you could tell me where I might find Michael Robert Nesmith?

Nurse #2:  Let me look it up. (The nurse looked through the files and found the name) He's in the Intensive Care Unit; but unless you're family you are not permitted to see him.

Mike:  I am family.  I'm his son.

Nurse #2:  I need proof. (Mike pulled out his driver's license and showed her his last name) That works for me.  He's in room number 6.  You go down the hall and around the corner.  You have to sign in at the desk before they let you in to see him.

Mike:  Thank you. (The nurse finally realized who she was looking at when Mike turned his head)

Nurse #2:  No way!  You're Mike Nesmith from The Monkees aren't you?
(Mike grinned a little) Wow!  You're my favorite Monkee!

Mike (Embarrassed):  Awe, thank you.  I don't usually get that.  Most of the Monkee fans like Davy or Micky. 

Nurse #2:  Well I think you're kinda cute.  Not that they aren't but you were always my favorite of the group.

Mike:  Thanks.

Nurse #2:  Could I have your autograph?

Mike:  Sure. (Mike signed something)

Nurse #2:  There's a rumor going around that you four are getting back together for a tour.  Is that true?

Mike:  Yeah.  Davy's setting it up for us now.

Nurse #2:  Terrific.  Well, I won't keep you from seeing your father.  You have a nice evening and it was really great meeting you.  Thanks for the autograph.

Mike:  You're welcome.  Night. (Mike walked down the hall, went around the corner and walked up to the desk) Um, I'm here to see Michael Robert Nesmith. 

Nurse #3:  Could I see some ID please? (Mike showed his driver's license again) Sign here and go through those doors.  His room number is six and it's on the left.

Mike (Signing):  Thank you. (The nurse pushed a button which opened the doors to the Intensive Care Unit.  Mike was really nervous about walking into his father's room after all these years.  He didn't even know what he was going to say but he knew he had to get this over with.  He found the room and looked in to see Danielle standing beside their dad.  Mike walked in to find his father sleeping.  To get Danielle's attention, he cleared his throat)

Danielle (Looking up at Mike):  How'd you know where to find him?

Elizabeth (Entering the room with a smile):  Through me.  I knew who he was but I told him I didn't. (To Mike) I hope you'll forgive me for it but when Dani said you wouldn't listen to her, I thought maybe I could try.  And it worked.

Mike:  How'd you know about me?

Elizabeth:  Bob mentioned you from time-to-time.  When you became famous he began to feel a lot of regret.  He tried to contact you through your mother but your mother refused to give him any information on you.

Mike:  That's because I wanted nothing to do with him after he left.  Did he ever tell you why he left my mother?

Elizabeth:  No.  He refused to talk about her or you.  The only thing he'd say about you was that you loved music and he felt you were going to become something some day; and you did.

Mike:  Yeah, well, it's not because of him that's for sure.  I became a success because my mother kept pushing me.  If it hadn't been for her, I wouldn't be here today.

Danielle:  Why were you so rude to me?

Mike:  You want the truth; I'll give it to you.  When you told me who you were, you brought back some memories I didn't want to talk about.  These are memories I still don't wish to talk about. (Mike couldn't even look toward his father because of all the hurt he felt inside)  Not only that, I was mad that he even had anymore kids because he never took care of me. (Mike paused before he went on) What was he like with you guys?

Danielle:  He was very strict but loving.

Mike:  Loving?  How could he love you and not me? (No one said anything) Did he ever hit you guys or hurt you in any way?

Elizabeth:  No.  Bob was a very loving man.  He became even more loving after we left Texas to live here.  Why?

Mike:  Because he wasn't so nice to me and my mother.  

Man's Voice:  That's because I was an alcoholic back then. (Mike heard the semi-deep voice but didn't want to look at him)

Mike (Still not looking at him):  That was no excuse and you know it!  I did everything I could think of to get you to love me but all you ever did was.hurt me!  You never showed me how to play ball or ride a bike and you never said you loved me.  I only remember once where you even cared about me and that's when I was six years old.  A kid at school was harassing me and you went up to the kid's father and told him off.  But when I got home, you went at mom because you'd lost the fight. 

Bob:  Your mother and I should have never been together, Robert.

Mike:  It's Mike and if you shouldn't have been together then why were you?

Bob:  I needed a way out of the military.

Mike:  As a friend of mine would say, "This is rubbish!" (Mike turned around to leave and Danielle stopped him) Danielle, get out of my way!

Danielle:  No!  Now is your chance to make up with him!

Mike (Looking her right in the eye):  Make up with him??  Why would I wanna make "up" with him?  He's the one who treated me and my mother like dirt and he's been missing from my life for over 30 years!

Danielle:  He's dying, Mike.

Mike:  Yeah, well.let him! (Mike stormed out of the hospital room)