It has been three weeks since the guys got back from The Bahamas.  They were now focusing on getting ready for the Reno gig, which is in two and a half months.  They also have odd jobs until then, so they can have some extra money to live on.   They put the bulk of the money from the Aspen gig into their account at the bank for their nest egg.

 

Mr. Webster is doing fine.  He is getting adjusted to life in State Prison.  He got a sentence of 10 years for attempted kidnapping, theft, and leaving the country.  Since he returned, gave up the money and pleaded guilty, the judge decided not to give him the maximum 20 years.  However, he is not eligible for parole.  That is fine by Mr. Webster, who has learned his lesson, and is willing to do the time.  The boys, Carla, and Vicki Sue visit him once a week when time allows.  They all have forgiven him for what he did, and they enjoy getting the chance to visit him.

 

As for the home front, Peter and Vicki Sue are enjoying their time together, getting to know each other better.  They spend nearly every evening together, going out to dinner, walks along the beach, listening to music and talking about anything that comes to mind.  Vicki Sue has been promoted to head teller at the bank, because of her excellence in customer service, and because she was one of the ones who helped get Mr. Webster back to the States.  She loves her job and has a Monday through Friday, 9-5 schedule.  Peter even took an odd job as a house painter, so that he could be home by early evening as well.

 

Davy and Carla are also enjoying their time together.  They like to go to poetry readings, walking on the beach, riding horses and just being together.  Davy has been considering popping the question, but he wants to do this the way it was done way back when; asking the father for the daughter's hand in marriage. They both enjoy reading Jane Austin books, and Davy knows that Carla would be so excited that Davy did something so romantic and traditional.  The one thing he needs to figure out is how to afford the engagement ring.  He could take his 1/4 share from the Aspen money, but he really doesn't want to dip into the nest egg.  However, he wants to get something nice for his best girl; and the money he is making at the dance studio is just not enough for him to save up for the ring, since a good portion of it goes toward the rent and taking her out.  He finally decided that he would go to the others and ask them if he could use his share for an engagement ring.  He would put it back once he saved enough. 

---

One sunny morning, Davy came out of his and Peter's room and saw Mike sitting at the table, eating some eggs and bacon, and reading the paper before he had to be at work at 10:00 at the local music store, where he fixed and tuned instruments.  Davy figured this would be the best time to ask, even though he was extremely nervous.

 

"Mike?  Can I talk to you for a minute, mate?"

 

"Sure good buddy.  What's up?"

 

"Well, you know how I have been thinking about asking Carla to be me wife?"

 

"Yeah..." Mike was getting ready for the question; he was certain it had to do with money.

 

"Well, um, I would like to buy her an engagement ring, and I would like to know if I could take my 1/4 share from the Aspen gig out of the bank?  I will be sure to put it back once I save up enough money."

 

"I know how much you dig Carla, and if you want to buy her a nice engagement ring, go for it.  But you know we need to talk about this with Micky and Peter first."  Mike then called, "MONKEE MEETING!"

 

Peter instantly came in from the veranda, where he was staring out at the ocean and dreaming about Vicki Sue.  Micky stomped down the stairs from the room he shared with Mike, since he was still sleeping soundly.

 

"Mike!  Why a Monkee Meeting NOW???  I was in the middle of a dream with Nancy Sinatra and those boots of hers..."

 

"Nancy will just have to wait!  This is very important!  Besides you needed to get up so that you can get ready for work."

 

Micky grumbled as he sat down.  He enjoys his 10 hours of sleep a night, and doesn't like to be woken out of it, especially when he's dreaming about lovely ladies.

 

"This meeting is called to order.  Mr. Schneider will be taking the minutes.  This has to do with Davy.  He wants to buy Carla a nice engagement ring, and he wants to use his 1/4 of the Aspen money.  I would like to say, Dave, don't use your 1/4, I would like to pitch in some of my money and it would be a gift from me.  If you two feel the same way, say aye.  If not, speak now or forever hold your peace."

 

Micky and Peter both gave Davy high fives, and said that they would definitely pitch in some of their money as a gift to cover the cost of the ring.

 

Davy was really happy about that, and for the fact that he had such great best buds.  "You guys are the best blokes that a guy could ever have!  Are you sure about this though?"

 

Mike responded with, "We're sure, shotgun!  Once you find a ring that you think will be great, let us know the cost, and we will pitch in.  Just don't go all extravagant on us, we're not Rockefellers' ya know!"

 

Davy laughed, "Yeah, I know!  I'll keep it reasonable."

 

The meeting came to a close, and while the other three were getting ready for work, Davy headed out the door to the Galleria, since he didn't have to be at work until 1:00.

 

Chapter Two

 

Davy had found the perfect ring for Carla: a gold band with x's and o's and a couple small diamonds inbetween.  It was beautiful and sensible, just like she was.  He got the money from the guys and brought it home the next day encased in a velvet box.  Now was the next phase, going to Mr. Frisbee and asking for her hand in marriage.

 

He dressed up in his best suit and tie, and headed out in the Monkeemobile to the Frisbee residence.  Davy was very nervous as he walked up to the door, but he took a couple minutes to gain his composure before ringing the bell.  Once he rang it, Preston answered the door.

 

"Hello, Master Jones!  Carla isn't here at the moment..."

 

"I know, Preston.  May I see Mr. Frisbee?"

 

"Just a moment, let me go get him.  Please wait in the Parlor."

 

As Davy waited, he kept fidgeting.  He knew though that this should go well, since Mr. Frisbee likes him almost like a son, it seems.  He used a breathing technique, and just as he calmed himself down, the gray haired distinguished gentleman entered the room.

 

"Hello Davy, my boy.  What can I do for you?"

 

"Mr. Frisbee, sir, there is something I would like to ask you."

 

"Go ahead Davy.  You can ask me anything.  You are like family here, you know that."

 

Davy was really glad to hear that, that made asking all the easier.

 

"I would like to ask you for your daughter's hand in marriage."

 

Mr. Frisbee grinned from ear to ear, which threw Davy off guard slightly.  He had the feeling this wouldn't be a problem, but he wasn't expecting such a wide grin.

 

"Of course!  I have been hoping that you and my Carla would get married!  Welcome to the family, son!"

 

Mr. Frisbee extended his hand out to Davy's, and then gave him a hug.

 

Davy told Mr. Frisbee not to let Carla know about this, since he hasn't popped the question yet.

 

"Okay, no problem Davy.  You know, you don't find really anyone asking the father anymore.  That's very chivalrous of you to do that.  It comes right out of  a medieval story or something."

 

"That's just how I wanted it to be.  I am a romantic deep down, and I like the way things were done way back when."

 

----

 

Peter and Vicki Sue were walking along the beach, talking about music, holding hands, when Peter stopped and stood to face Vicki Sue.

 

"Vicki Sue, I would like you to come to Reno with me."

 

Vicki Sue was shocked.  She wasn't expecting this at all.  She figured she was just going to be hanging around Malibu, waiting for her knight in shining armour to return while she was busy working.  She wasn't sure how to answer, even though deep down she wanted to.  She knew that Mr. Frisbee would give her the time off, that was not a problem.  She just was unsure about them travelling together since they were unmarried.

 

"Vicki Sue?" Peter was getting nervous.  He was praying that he wasn't being too forward.  He wants her to come along with him so much, he can't stand to be without her for three weeks while they are in Reno. He knows he wants to spend the rest of his life with her, she is the most fascinating, intelligent and beautiful woman he has ever known.

 

"Yes, Peter?"

 

"What do you say?  I really don't want to be without you while I am gone.  I love you so much and I want you to come along with me."

 

"Oh, Peter.  I love you too, but to travel with you, I don't know if I can do that without a total committment."

 

"I want to spend the rest of my life with you, you are the most wonderful woman I have ever known.  You can stay in a separate room if that is a problem.  You know I would never do anything to hurt you."

 

Vicki Sue smiled, and nodded her head.  "Yes, I will go with you.  My heart is telling me to go for it, and for once I will follow it's advice."

 

They kissed passionately, while the wind was blowing briskly through their hair and their clothes.

 

Peter was so happy, he could now plan part two of his special surprise for her.

 

Chapter Three

 

On the night before they were to leave for Reno, Davy and Carla spent a romantic evening out on the beach, sitting on a blanket, sharing dinner and some wine, and making the time they had left last as long as they could.

 

This was also the perfect time for Davy to ask his beloved to marry him.  As they were finishing their chicken legs that Peter had made them specially for their picnic, Davy secretly pulled out the box with the ring, and then said to Carla,

 

"Carla love, can you stand up for a second?  I think you have something on your skirt."

 

"I do?  Probably a bunch of crumbs, I can be such a slob sometimes!"

 

As she stood up to brush off her skirt, Davy got onto his knee and took her hand in his.

 

"Carla Marie Frisbee, will you marry me?"

 

Carla let out a cry of joy and answered, "Yes!!!  Oh David Thomas Jones, I love you so much!  You are a cad though!"

 

"What?"

 

"Telling me I had something on my skirt to get me to stand up!" She laughed at his way of getting her to stand up.

 

"It worked though, didn't it?  Carla, I know this ring isn't a lot..."

 

Carla put her finger on his mouth.  "Shhh.  It's enough for me.  I love it.  I love you."

 

They  embraced one another and fell into a passionate kiss.  As they sat back down on the blanket, Carla said,

 

"Oh Davy, how should we let my family know?  And the guys?"

 

Davy grinned from ear to ear.  "I asked your dad for your hand in marriage, just like in the books.  As for the guys, they know also, but we can of course announce it officially!"

 

Carla was so excited that Davy went and asked her dad for her hand, she had always dreamed of a romantic courtship and wedding, just like she read about in all the historical romance novels.  It is coming true, and she couldn't be happier.

 

They spent most of the evening out on the beach, talking, laughing, kissing and hugging.  Davy was going to miss Carla so much, and it hurt thinking that they would be apart for three weeks.  Just then, a thought occurred to him:  why couldn't she go with him?  They were officially engaged, so what would it hurt?

 

"Carla, I want you to go with me to Reno.  I don't want to be without you, three weeks will seem like an eternity!"

 

"I am so glad you want me to go with you, I was just pondering how I was going to spend my time so that I wouldn't go crazy missing you.  Now I don't have to!!!"

 

Davy took her home around 12:30 AM so that she could pack her stuff and get some sleep.  She would tell her dad in the morning before they left that she was going, and that they were engaged!  She couldn't believe this was all happening to her, it was all like a fairy tale to her.

 

Davy got home around 1 AM, and got some sleep, since wake up time was 8:00 so that they could be on the road to Reno by 11:00.

 

As he turned the knob to the bedroom that he and Peter shared, he noticed his bed was occupied. 

 

"What's Vicki Sue doing here?" He mused. "I knew she was coming along with us, but I didn't know that she was staying here with Peter...  That sly dog will get some questions in the morning!"

 

Davy shut the door and crashed out on the couch.

 

Chapter Four

 

Morning came too early for Davy, as he stretched his aching back muscles from sleeping on the couch.  It was 8:00 and time to get the car packed so that they all could be on the road by 11.  Carla was being driven over by her dad, since he wanted to say goodbye to everyone, and to have a safe trip.

 

Peter and Vicki Sue emerged from the bedroom, and Davy was staring at them in disbelief.

 

Peter spoke up before Davy could even open his mouth. "Davy, before you ask any questions, let me explain something."

 

Davy replied, "Go ahead, Petah, I'm listening..."  He was smiling a cheshire grin at the two.

 

"Vicki Sue was going to stay at her place and then walk over this morning, but I told her she could stay in your bed since I knew you would be in late."

 

"Yes, Davy and NOTHING happened.  Honest!" Vicki Sue piped in, making sure Davy, and anyone else who may have been listening, heard loud and clear.

 

"It's okay, don't need to get excited guys!  I am just bustin your chops!  Talk about on the defense!" Davy laughed, which made the couple start to laugh thinking about how they sounded.

 

Mike and Micky emerged from their room upstairs with their luggage in hand, and Mike said,

 

"Okay guys, let's get this show on the road!  We have to be in Reno by 6:00, and checked into the hotel by 6:30. So no lalligagging!!!"

 

Mike, Micky, and Peter all made a salute and marched out the door to put everyone's luggage in the trunk of the Monkeemobile.  Just then, Carla pulled up with Mr. Frisbee, and they both got out of the car.

 

"Davy, make sure you take good care of my Carla."

 

"You know I will, sir."

 

"Please, call me dad.  You are a part of the family now."

 

Davy smiled. "Okay, dad."

 

Mr. Frisbee turned to the others and said, "Lots of luck at your gig boys, but I know you will do great!  Vicki Sue, have a great time!  You deserve to have a vacation, since the trip to the Bahamas wasn't really one.  I'll see you all in three weeks!"

 

After giving everyone handshakes and Vicki Sue and Carla hugs, he took off for home.

 

As Mike got into the drivers side, he yelled, "ALL ABOARD!"  and everyone hopped in the Monkeemobile and drove away, destination: Reno Nevada.

 

Chapter Five

 

They pulled into the Sands Hotel at 5:00, and checked in.  They got three rooms: one for Davy and Carla, one for Vicki Sue, and one for Peter, Micky, and Mike.

 

Since they didn't have to be on stage until 7:00 the next evening, they all decided to relax.  After eating at the restaurant at the hotel, which was recommended to them by a few of the travellers and workers, Davy and Carla decided to go and take a nap, since they were up so late the night before.

 

Peter, Vicki Sue, Mike, and Micky all went to check out the nightlife, which was not lacking by any means.  You could play the slot machines everywhere, even in the grocery stores!  There were plenty of nightclubs and wedding chapels also.  It was a mini Las Vegas!  Mike and Micky decided to go into one of the nightclubs to check out the "competition", while Peter and Vicki Sue opted to just continue walking around, absorbing it all.

 

They walked about three blocks, when all of a sudden Peter stopped.  Carla was somewhat puzzled as to why he stopped so suddenly.  "What's going on?" she asked.

 

He just took her hand and led her to the place that was part of his plan.  As she saw where they were going, she just opened her mouth and gasped, "Oh Peter!  Oh..."  Then she started to cry.

 

As they entered, there was a handful of chairs, a podium, beautiful white flowers, and an older, friendly couple standing by the podium, smiling widely.

 

"May we help you?" the older gentleman asked.

 

"Yes, we would like to get married.  That is, as long as she'll have me?"

 

"Oh, of course!!!  I never expected this in a million years!!!  You are a sneak, Peter Tork!"

 

"Thank you!  I try hard!"

 

The older couple looked at each other and smiled. "Ah, young love..." the older lady sighed.  "Remember when we were that way, Hank?"

 

Hank sighed, as the memories took over his brain for a second. "Yes, those were the days, eh Marge?"

 

"So you two lovebirds want to get married?  No time like the present!"

 

As Peter and Vicki Sue stood facing each other, gazing lovingly into each others eyes, they both knew that they were made for each other, and were so elated that they were shortly going to be together forever.  They both wanted to say their own vows, Peter spoke of how thankful he was that God brought them together, and how he would cherish her beauty, intelligence, and soul always.  Vicki Sue vowed that she would always love, cherish, respect, honor, and take care of him no matter what the situation.  She also thanked God for them finding each other, and that they wouldn't be lonely anymore.

 

Peter placed the ring on her finger, and she did the same to Peter, and then when it was announced that Peter Tork and Vicki Sue Tork were now man and wife, they kissed passionately and hugged each other tightly.

 

As they paid Hank and Marge, the older couple gave them advice. "Never go to bed angry.  Always have your arguements settled before bedtime.  That's one of the main reasons we have lasted 45 years together."

 

Peter and Vicki Sue gladly took their advice and strolled hand in hand out of the chapel.  They were now Mr. and Mrs. Peter Tork.  One question was bugging Vicki Sue, and she asked Peter,

 

"When did you buy the rings?"

 

Peter smirked, for he knew the question would soon spring from her lips.  "Oh, I bought them a while back.  I had saved up enough from my construction job to buy them."

 

"What if I would've said no?"

 

"Well, I knew deep down that you weren't going to, but if you did, I would've just returned them."

 

"I'm so glad that you surprised me like this!  I can't believe I am now Mrs. Vicki Sue Tork!  Pinch me I must be dreaming!"

 

Peter jokingly pinched her, and then she jokingly smacked him on the arm, laughing.  "Very funny Mr. Tork!"

 

They headed back to the Sands, hoping to find them so that they can tell everyone their good news.

 

Chapter Six

 

When they entered the lobby, they looked around and saw Micky and Mike sitting at the hotel bar, each nursing a beer and watching the girls go by.

 

They briskly walked over to the bar and sat down next to the guys.  They hid their hands so that they wouldn't see the rings, and they kept a big cheshire cat grin, so that Micky and Mike would wonder what they were up to.

 

"Hey guys, what's up?" Micky asked, catching on to the fact that something indeed was up between the overly happy couple.

 

"Oh, not much.  We walked around town, checking out all the sites, and (speaking in a muffled voice) we got married." Peter answered.

 

"Say what?  I thought I heard the word married in there.  Am I right, shotgun?" Mike asked, wondering if he needed his Texan ears checked.

 

The couple gleefully laughed, and held up their hands to show the rings on their left ring fingers. 

 

"Yup, we saw a chapel down the road, and we went in!  It was part of Peter's plan, he had this all mapped out a couple months ago, the sneaky pete!  Pun intended!" Vicki Sue laughed.

 

"Oh yeah?  Sneaky pete indeed!  You never let us know about this, that's for sure, Big Peter.  Regardless, we are happy for you both!" Micky replied.

 

"Yeah, congratulations!  This calls for a celebration.  We'll have to go up to our room and have a party for these two, Mick." Mike stated.

 

"Yeah!  Let's go and wake up Davy and Carla and partay!" Micky cheered.

 

Before they left the bar to go up, Peter and Vicki Sue stopped them.  "Wait a minute guys, halt the train!  How about a party tomorrow?  We'd like to have our own celebration tonight,  if you know what we mean."

 

Micky and Mike exchanged knowing glances at each other and then towards the couple, and said, "Alright, tomorrow then around noonish?"

 

"Yeah, that's fine." Peter said, and with that, they all made their way up the five flights of stairs to their rooms.  Peter and Vicki Sue knocked on Davy and Carla's room, and woke them up to tell them the exciting news, which earned a high five and a hug from Davy, and hugs from Carla.

 

Mike piped in before they could say anything about a party. "Before  you say anything about throwing the lovebirds a party, we are having one for them at noonish tomorrow." He then winked at Davy and Carla, and they caught the hint.

 

"Oh yeah, groovy!  Have fun you two!" Davy and Carla grinned as they closed the door to their room.

 

As Peter and Vicki Sue entered the room that as of a few hours ago was just hers, she realized that he didn't have his belongings with him, it was still in Mike and Micky's room.

 

"Um, Pete, aren't you going to get your things?"

 

Peter gave her a mischievious grin and said, "I won't need anything until tomorrow."

 

Vicki Sue let out a sigh as he put his arms around her waist and slowly lowered her to the bed.

 

"Oh Peter..."

 

---

 

The next morning around 8 AM, Davy and Carla met Micky and Mike down at the lobby.  They were headed to the grocery store, and to one of the local department stores to buy the food and gifts for the party and for Peter and Vicki Sue.  They were going to buy practical gifts for them, since they weren't quite sure yet where they were going to live.  Were they going to stay at the Pad, or at Vicki Sue's cramped studio flat?  They were going to find out later on at the party.

 

Noontime came around, and they had everything set up, now they were just waiting for the guests of honor to arrive.

 

"They must've had some night, I don't think I've ever seen Peter sleep in past 8 AM!" Micky laughed.

 

Mike and Davy started whistling and making noises, saying "You go, Peter!" "Woo Hoo!" and sayings like that while laughing.

 

"Oh come on you guys, cut it out!  It was their wedding night, for Pete's sake!  I mean, is this how you guys are going to act when Davy and I get married?"

 

They didn't even hear the last sentence that Carla said, they were too busy laughing .

 

"What?" Carla asked, wondering what was so funny. "Was it something I said?"

 

Just then, it hit her.  She made a pun and didn't even know it!  "Pun not intended, guys!" She laughed.

 

Just then, Peter and Vicki Sue walked in the room hand in hand.

 

"Hi guys!" Peter chirped. 

 

When they saw the cake, food, flowers, and gifts nicely presented on a table, they were filled with joy and blessings that they had such wonderful, caring friends.

 

"You all are just the best friends we could have.  You didn't have to go through all this trouble for us, you know." Vicki Sue stated.

 

"But we wanted to.  We love you both, and wanted to show you how excited we are for you both and for your lives together." Mike replied.

 

Everyone hugged the bride and groom, they got their food and cake, and they all sat down on chairs that were brought in for the party.

 

Mike had to find out about their living arrangements, so he asked, "So, where will you be living when we get back to Malibu?"

 

Peter figured Mike would be the one to ask that, so he wasn't in the least bit surprised.

 

"Well... I don't think we can stay at Vicki Sue's flat, you all have seen how crowded it is in there.  We were going to ask if we could stay at the Pad for now until we can find a nice one bedroom apartment to live in.  It wouldn't be for long."

 

"Nonsense!  You two can stay, we'd love to have you both live there!  Davy can sleep on the couch for now, I mean, he's getting married in February anyhow." Micky answered, which earned a look from Davy.

 

"I don't mind staying on the couch, but um, until February?  Isn't there enough room in the upstairs bedroom to fit one more bed?"

 

"I don't know, shotgun.  We'll just have to find out.  Peter and Vicki Sue are our friends and we can't leave them out in the cold.  I'll sleep on the couch if need be." Mike asserted. "It's only until February, then there will be room again."

 

Davy agreed, since when he and Carla tie the knot in February, they will be moving to one of the apartments that Mr. Frisbee owns downtown, since the one family recently moved out.  This is the Frisbees' gift to the couple.

 

"Thanks guys!    You're the best!"

 

They partied until 4:00, then it was time to clean up and get ready for the first night of their gig at the nightclub at the Sands.  It was a club aimed for the young adults, and showcased the best bands that the talent scouts find in Southern California, Nevada, and the Phoenix Arizona areas.

 

Chapter Seven

 

It's been three weeks, and it's time for them to pack up and head back to Malibu.  They had a great time, the audiences were great, and the management loved them so much that they want them to come back for another gig in February and March.  It would be more money, which was great.  They all were so excited they were jumping up and down and hugging each other.  Then it hit them like a brick:  Davy and Carla were getting married February 14.

 

"Oh man! Um, Mr. Peterson?  Is there any way we can start right after the 14th of February?" Davy asked the middle aged gentleman.

 

"We need you from the 1st of February to the 31st of March.  Why?"

 

"Well, because I am getting married sir, and the plans are already set for us to marry at her parents' home in Malibu Beach.  I can't change the date of the nuptials now."

 

"I'm sorry boys, I am not able to change the dates.  Are you going to take the job then, or not?"

 

Mike was not a happy camper at this point, and neither were the others.  But when Mike was not happy, watch out, he could get real angry.  How could this guy not be flexible at all?  Why couldn't he even give the boys two days off so that they could fly back to Malibu, attend the wedding, and then him, Micky, Peter, Davy and Carla could come right back for the show on say, the 16th?  This wasn't worth it to him, he didn't want the job and the extra money if Mr. Peterson wasn't going to be very understanding or flexible.

 

"Look Mr. Peterson.  We feel that Davy's wedding is much more important than this gig, so I guess we will just have to pass.  I would like to say that you could be a little more understanding and flexible, a wedding is a very important time in a person's life you know."

 

"Well, in this business, it's not.  I will just find another band to fill the spot.  I want you to know that you are missing your once in a lifetime chance..."

 

"That's just fine, sir.  Have a good day." Micky stated calmly.

 

Once they left the office and went up to pack their bags, they wondered what they were going to do once they got back.

 

"Don't worry guys, we will find a gig, I know we will.  Have faith." Peter said.

 

"Yeah, I know we will.  There's always The Bang Shang A Lang you know.  They wanted us to come back right before we left for Reno, and they said the door would be open for us." Micky added.

 

"Yeah, we'll be fine." Davy chimed in.

 

"Yeah, you guys are right.  I wouldn't want to work for Mr. Peterson anyhow if he wants to be so stubborn." Mike said.

 

They all loaded up the Monkeemobile and got in for their trek back to Malibu Beach.

 

When they got back, they knew that they would be working hard for a couple days getting Vicki Sue's things moved in and rearranging the Pad.  They didn't mind one bit, they welcomed her in with open arms.

 

Chapter Eight - December 1968

 

It was a cooler December than usual in Southern California, with temperatures being in the 40s in the daytime, and 30s at night.  It was a busy time for everyone at the Pad - the guys had a gig on Friday and Saturday nights at The Bang Shang A Lang club, and they were all working odd jobs during the week.  Vicki Sue was working at the bank Monday through Friday's and decorating the house along with Carla, who wanted to give it that special Christmassy touch, along with a bit of femine flair, along with the male dominated deco that covered the house.  It blended quite well, and surprisingly, the men liked it a lot.

 

Davy ended up sleeping on the couch, since it was determined that the bed couldn't fit up in Mike and Micky's room.  He didn't mind, because Mr. Frisbee let Davy sleep in one of the bedrooms at their house, since he knew that Vicki Sue and Peter now had the downstairs bedroom.  Gone were the two single beds and in was a nice and simplistic double bed.  They also weren't getting any more complaints from Mr. Babbit, since Vicki Sue contributed to paying the rent and they were able to come up with it on time.  She also contributed to all the bills and cooked meals with Peter.  They both enjoyed cooking together, and they would spend one day a week and make a weeks worth of meals ahead of time to freeze.  The rest of the gang loved this, they could get great home cooked meals and not have to take their chances or waste their money eating out.

 

One morning, Vicki Sue woke up feeling funny.  She turned over and shook Peter.

 

"What is it honey?" Peter groggily asked.

 

"Peter, I don't feel so good.  I hope I'm not coming down with the..."  she said as she ran to the bathroom.

 

When she came out of the bathroom, she started thinking. 

 

"What's wrong?  Is everything okay?" Peter asked, concerned about his wife.

 

"Um, Peter, I haven't had my "friend" for three weeks now.  I didn't say anything because, well, I have had months like that before we got married.  Now that I am getting sick, I am just wondering..."

 

"You mean?"

 

"Yeah.  I don't want to jump to conclusions though.  Let's wait and see a bit longer."

 

"We don't want to wait too long though to find out, Vicki Sue.  If you are pregnant, we need to get you to the doctor asap."

 

"How about if we wait about 3 days, and see what happens.  Please don't say anything to the others, okay?  I don't want anyone to overreact, especially Mike."

 

They waited 3 days and it was the same thing.  Even certain foods were making her nauseated, to the point where she couldn't eat.  They made an appointment with her gynecologist, and went to get a pregnancy test.

 

"Good afternoon, Ms. Anders, how are you?" Wendy, the Registered Nurse asked, as Vicki Sue hopped up on the examination table. 

 

The room was nicely decorated with floral wallpaper and maroon trim around the ceiling and floor, and there was all the displays and information that would be found in a gynecologist's office.

 

"I'm married now, Wendy.  It's Mrs. Tork." Vicki Sue said proudly, as she took her husband's hand and held it tightly.

 

"Oh, congratulations!  I should have known that, considering what you are coming in for.  But of course, the times are changing.  I have had quite a few unmarried women come in here lately for pregnancy tests.  It's not as hidden as it used to be that is for sure."

 

As they chatted, Wendy took her pulse, blood pressure, and temperature.  Then Vicki Sue went into the bathroom and gave Wendy the sample.  Now they have to wait a few minutes for the results.

 

As they waited in the office, Peter and Vicki Sue talked about their future with a baby, even if they weren't pregnant now.

 

"Peter, where are we going to live once we have a baby?  We won't be able to stay at the Pad."

 

"I know.  We'll have to start looking at two bedroom apartments, or a nice home to rent.  Don't worry, Vicki Sue, we'll be fine."

 

"Yeah I know we will.  It's just will I be able to go back to work when I have the baby, and furthermore, will I want to go back to work?  But of course, I may have to so that we will be able to afford a home and things for our child."

 

Peter put his finger on her lips. "Shhh.  Vicki Sue, please don't worry yourself.  If you are pregnant, you know that's no good for the baby.  God will take care of everything, He provides.  He tells us not to worry, remember that."

 

"You are right, honey.  We'll be just fine."

 

Wendy returned about 20 minutes later with the results.  "Mr. and Mrs. Tork, the test came back positive!  Congratulations!"

 

Peter and Vicki Sue hugged each other tightly and kissed each other passionately upon hearing the happy news.

 

Just as they were about to leave, Wendy stopped them.  "You both need to wait for Dr. Smythe.  She will need to talk to you about prenatal care, when your due date is, and when you will need to come in for your next appointment."

 

They went back into the room, and waited about 15 minutes for Dr. Smythe to come in.  She was a tall, thin woman in her mid 30's, and she was very gentle and knowledgeable.  She talked to Vicki Sue and Peter and informed them their due date would be in late September.  She was to come back every month for an exam and around 20 weeks she would have an ultrasound to make sure the baby is developing properly.

 

They left the office so excited: they were going to be parents!  How they were going to break the news to the others was going to be quite interesting...

 

Chapter Nine - February 1969

 

The holidays came and went and it was a mostly happy time at the Pad.  Mike didn't take the news of the baby very well, and it got to the point where he didn't speak to either Peter or Vicki Sue until the middle of January.  He finally settled down and accepted the fact that there was going to be another mouth to feed at the Pad until they could move into a place of their own.  They had been looking, but they figured that they wouldn't be able to find anything until springtime when the realestate market has more to offer.

 

Davy and Carla were getting ready for the big day, they were so excited that it was finally happening.  The first couple weeks of February was being spent moving in their things into the apartment downtown.  They really liked their new digs: it was two bedrooms, a decent sized bathroom, spacious living room, eat in kitchen.  It's on the first floor too, so they like that idea, not a lot of steps to climb.

 

About two days before the wedding, they were at their apartment unpacking when they noticed one of the families loading up their things into a U-Haul.  Carla recognized the family and stopped them to talk.

 

"Hey Mr. Giavanni!  I didn't know you and your family were moving."

 

"Hi Carla!  Yes, we bought a ranch out in Wyoming.  We want to try living the rancher lives.  We are sick of the L.A. smog and fast lifestyle."

 

"Well, congratulations, I hope that everything works out for you!"

 

Carla ran back inside the apartment and told Davy.  The lightbulb clicked in their heads, and Davy said, "We need to see if your dad can rent out that apartment to Peter and Vicki Sue."

 

They ran over to the Frisbees' residence and talked to Carla's dad.  He wasn't aware of their situation, so he immediately gave Peter a call and let them know that they have an apartment to move into at the beginning of the month.

 

---

 

February 14 arrived, and there were 300  people in the back yard of the Frisbee residence.  It wasn't crowded in the least bit, since they live on 20 acres of land.  It was mainly friends and relatives of Carla's,since there wasn't too many in Davy's family.  His grandfather, step-grandmother, and his two sisters were there, along with Micky, Mike, Peter, and Vicki Sue.

 

Davy was wearing a black tux with red tie and cumberbund, and a white shirt.  He made sure his hair was cut short, since his grandfather was there, and he was shaking, he was nervous.  But he wanted to do this, Carla is the woman he wants to be with always.

 

Just then, Carla walked down the aisle, wearing a beautiful white lace and satin wedding gown, complete with a train and a lace veil with floral arrangement that went around her head.  Davy sighed, she was such a vision of beauty.

 

When she got up to Davy, she stood by his side and they joined hands.  They repeated the vows, and they kissed passionately when it was announced that they were Mr. and Mrs. David Jones.

 

At the reception, everyone had a great time dancing and chatting, and getting to have a dance with the bride and groom.  When it came time to open gifts, they were shocked when there was two tickets for a cruise to Mazatlan from Carla's parents, and spending money from the manager of The Bang Shang A Lang for the honeymoon.

 

"You mean you are giving me time off to take a honeymoon???" Davy was truly surprised, since the gigs are making a ton of money for the club and a pretty good living for the group too.

 

"It's your time to celebrate, so I insist, go for a week and come back refreshed and ready to play again with the band."

 

After the party, they spent the night at their apartment, and the next morning they left for the L.A. harbor to board the ship.  They were gone a week and they came back tan and refreshed.

 

Chapter Ten - June 1969

 

Carla and Davy have been trying for a baby since the night they got married, and each month that has gone by, she gets more and more depressed that it hasn't happened.  Every time she saw Vicki Sue and Peter, she would cry, because she wanted to be in the same situation as they were.

 

This month felt different, she thought.  Could she be pregnant?  She has experienced nausea, cravings for certain foods at odd times, and it even felt like her body was changing.  She told Davy about it, and they figured they should go to the doctor and find out.

 

They made an appointment to see Carla's gynecologist, Dr. Sheckman, for a pregnancy test.

 

---

 

The nurse came into the exam room where Davy and Carla were waiting nervously.  She tried to keep a poker face, but Carla had a feeling it wasn't good news.

 

"Mr and Mrs Jones, the test came back negative.  I am so sorry."

 

"What?!  How can that be?" exclaimed Carla, in tears. "How come I feel nauseated, have strange cravings at odd times, and have been feeling like my body is changing?  If it's not being pregnant, than what is it?!"

 

"Calm down, Mrs. Jones.  Dr. Sheckman will be in to see you in a few minutes to talk to you, and to give you a complete exam, since it has been 2 years since you last had your pap."

 

"Oh great..."  Carla cried into Davy's shoulder, hugging him tight.  "I wanted us to have a baby so badly, Davy, and I find out I am not pregnant!  There must be something wrong with me..."

 

"Shhh.  Carla, there is nothing wrong with you.  This just isn't the time right now for us to have a baby.  I know that nothing I am going to say is going to help, but I want you to know that everything will be fine and that we will have a baby when the time is right." Davy believed the words he was saying, but he was praying that everything with the exam would turn out fine and that they could have children in the future.

 

Dr. Sheckman entered the room.  He was a tall, lean man in his 40s with dark hair and sideburns.  He extended his hand to Davy and then to Carla, and he explained to them about what was going on.

 

"Carla, you were experiencing what is known as a pseudo pregnancy.  You feel all the symptoms, but in reality you aren't pregnant.  It stems from your mind and body wanting a baby so badly that the symptoms appear.  It's okay, there is nothing to worry about.  I have seen many women go through this at one time or another.  You need to think about other things and let nature take its course, although that can be a difficult thing to do I am sure."

 

"I could try to do that.  It's just my best friend is pregnant and I see her and her husband and how happy they are.  I guess I want my husband and I to experience the same joy."

 

"You have to remember too that you just got married, according to the chart, you married only four months ago.  Go on with the way things are and when you aren't thinking about it, I bet it will happen."

 

"I guess you are right, Dr. Sheckman.  Thanks so much."

 

He gave her a full exam, and Davy turned his head, there was no way he was going to watch!

 

"I'll have the nurse call you with the results when they come in from the hospital in about a week.  Take care you two and remember, just go on as things are and keep busy."

 

"Thanks!" Davy and Carla replied, and they left the office.

 

---

 

Carla had begun to keep busy the day that they got home from the doctor's office.  Even when she would be with Vicki Sue, she would not think about how she could be pregnant, but how she could be a help to her friend.  She even started planning a baby shower for her a couple days ago for August, since the baby is due at the end of September.

 

A week after the exam, the phone rang.  Carla was busy cleaning when she stopped to answer the phone.

 

"Hello?"

 

"Hello, is this Mrs. Carla Jones?"

 

"Yes it is.  May I help you?"

 

"This is Nancy Baker, RN, from Dr. Sheckman's office.  I have the results of your pap here.  Dr. Sheckman needs to see you right away, are you able to come in this afternoon?"

 

"Um, yes, I guess so.  Is there something wrong?"

 

"I am not at liberty to say over the phone, Mrs. Jones.  Dr. Sheckman will tell you everything this afternoon."

 

"Okay, I will be there.  When does he want to see me?"

 

"At 1:00."

 

"Okay, thank you.  Good bye."

 

As she hung up the phone, her usually tan colored skin turned white, and she dropped the duster she had in her hand.  Please don't let it be really bad, Lord, she prayed.

 

She called Davy at the Pad, where they were rehearsing for their gig that evening, and he hurried home to get her to the doctor's office.

 

Dr. Sheckman motioned the couple to sit down.  Davy had to help Carla, because she was feeling very faint, wondering what was going on with her.

 

"Okay, doc.  What's going on here?  Is my wife going to be okay?"  Davy asked, concerned.

 

"Yes, she will be okay.  However, there are some things that we found during the exam that will be hard news to take."

 

"Let me hear it, Dr. Sheckman.  I need to know." Carla asked, the tone of her voice filled with fear.

 

"The tests show that you and your husband are not able to have children naturally.  I am so sorry, I know how much you wanted to experience pregnancy and childbirth, but you are not able to produce the eggs that are needed for fertilization."

 

Carla began to cry and Davy hugged her tightly and tears welled in his eyes.  "Is there any other ways of producing?"  Carla wailed.

 

"I am sorry, but science hasn't come that far yet.  There are other options, you know.  I don't know if you want to hear about it right now, but there is adoption."

 

"Adoption?!" They both yelled at first, angry at the fact that they would have to settle for someone else's child instead of their own flesh and blood.  Then they started to think about it, and realized that wouldn't be a bad idea.  There were many unwanted children out there waiting for a home with loving parents who couldn't have children of their own.

 

"You know, Carla, we could apply and give that a try.  We would still have a baby to love and cherish, you just wouldn't go through the stages of pregnancy and childbirth."

 

Carla wiped away her tears, and a smile started to crack on her face. "Yeah, we could give it a go.  We could still have a baby and be the parents that we want to be."

 

They left the office, and when they got home they found the number of the local adoption agency and called.

 

Chapter Eleven - September 1969

 

It was September 24th, and Vicki Sue was at her 40th week, feeling like she is carrying around a 25 pound basketball and getting moodier by the day.  All she wants is for this baby to come out and be here in the world, she's tired of being pregnant.

 

Peter and the guys weren't in town, they were in San Diego at a one nighter at one of the premier clubs that could make or break a new career.  They were hoping for someone to spot them and give them the break that they have been waiting for the past 3 1/2 years.  Peter was concerned about leaving Vicki Sue, but she said she would be okay, she had Carla around for company, and she figured since she wasn't due for another few days nothing would happen.

 

As she was fixing herself a snack and a drink of water, she all of a sudden felt a sharp pain, which caused her to drop her drink and double over.  Luckily, Carla heard the commotion, and ran upstairs to help out her friend. 

 

"Vicki Sue!  Let me help you over to the couch!"

 

"Oh man, that was painful!  Carla, grab the stopwatch, we need to time these before I can even call the hospital or Peter."

 

"Okay."  Carla grabbed the stopwatch and asked, "How many minutes apart to they have to be in order to go to the hospital?"

 

"Four minutes apart or less."

 

Carla started timing, and Vicki Sue felt another one within two minutes.  However, they had to wait for the next cycle, since they weren't sure how many minutes it was before that.

 

"I have to breathe, focus and breathe!  Oh my Lord, this is so hard!!!  They never said anything about lack of concentration at Lamase classes!  OUCH!!!"

 

"That was 3 minutes and 50 seconds, Vicki Sue.  I'll get the phone and call the hospital and Peter."

 

---

 

Carla was nervously sitting in the waiting room, hoping to see Peter before the nurse comes out, and praying that everything was okay with Vicki Sue and the baby.

 

Just then, Peter bounded into the waiting room, out of breath. "Did I miss anything?"

 

"Nope, she's been in there a couple of hours so far, and nobody yet."

 

They anxiously awaited the nurse to come out, but they also knew that it takes time, so they tried to focus on other things besides watching the doors for the nurse.

 

Finally, 10 hours later, the nurse came out and announced, "Mr. Tork?  Your wife gave birth to a son."

 

Peter hugged the nurse and then Carla.  "I have a son!!!  Oh this is so cool!  When can I see my wife and baby?"

 

"You can go and see your wife now in her room, and your son is in the nursery, which is down the hall.  Your friend can go with you as well."

 

Carla and Peter walked down the hall to the nursery, and got to look at the baby.  He was so tiny, and so beautiful.  Peter was hoping that soon he would be able to hold his son.

 

When they finished looking at the baby, they went to Vicki Sue's room, and Peter hugged and kissed his wife.

 

"I love you so much, Vicki Sue.  We have a son, this is incredible."

 

"I know, isn't it?" she replied, exhausted from 12 hours of labor. 

 

"What are we going to name him?" Peter asked.

 

"I was thinking of Ian David yesterday while you were gone.  What do you think of that name?"

 

"I like it!  Has a very distinguished ring to it."

 

Over the next four days, everyone had come to visit Vicki Sue and Ian, and they were ready to go home to be with Peter and be a family.

 

Chapter Twelve - A year later

 

For the most part, things were going smoothly in the lives of the Monkees and for Peter and Vicki Sue and Davy and Carla.  Ian just turned one, and they had a big party for him at the Pad.  He laughed and enjoyed smearing the cake all over his face, and all over everyone else's faces' as well.  He was a happy child with a definite sense of humor and musical talent.  He loved to bang on Uncle Micky's drumset, and  the day he learned to walk, he walked over to Uncle Davy's tambourine!

 

Davy and Carla were still waiting news about a baby to adopt.  They were beginning to wonder if they ever were going to have a child of their own.  They did get to compensate by watching Ian every other weekend so that Peter and Vicki Sue could get some time to themselves, and that was a real joy for them.  Ian was such a good boy and he loved spending time with his uncle Davy and Aunt Carla.

 

One rainy day in September 1970, the phone rang at Carla and Davy's apartment.  It was the adoption agency.  They said that there was a one month old girl that needed a home, and were they still interested.  The couple jumped up and down with joy and immediately went to the adoption agency to sign the papers.  They got to go to the orphanage to see the girl and pick her up to take her home, and she was the most beautiful baby girl they had ever seen.  She had jet black hair, big green eyes, and fair skin just like Snow White.

 

They decided to name her Dana Elisabeth Jones, it was a name that they both liked for quite some time, and it seemed to fit her perfectly.  They had the room all set up for her when they got her home, it was done in neutral a few months ago, since they didn't know whether they would have a boy or girl.  Still, it was a beautifully done room, and Dana felt safe and secure in her new home with loving parents.

 

Davy and Carla were so blessed to be able to have a child, it didn't matter to them any longer that Carla couldn't conceive and have a baby of her own.  They had someone to love and that was what counted.

 

The End