Meryl and Don: An Unforeseen Journey- Chapter 1
It was April 1981, and life was in over-drive for the Gummers. Henry was now 17 months old, and was into everything. Meryl had appeared on Broadway in Alice in January. She was deep in rehearsals and dialect coaching for her upcoming movie, Sophie's Choice, while she was also wrapping up the movie Still of the Night. In the midst of all this she was busy with publicity for French Lieutenant's Woman which was set to premiere in the fall. Don was just as busy with exhibitions, lectures, and sculpting. They didn't know how, but they somehow managed to arrange their schedules so one of them was home for Henry, and when they weren't, then her parents cared for him.
Things had seemed to settle down on the James front. He was slowly getting better physically. According to Don's mother and brothers he was taking medication and desperately wanted to make a mends with Don and Meryl. Don had BRIEFLY spoken to him on the phone and didn't believe it for a minute. There was no way he was letting his father anywhere near his family. He had kept the restraining order against him and Peggy in place. He wasn't taking a chance, not for one second.
***
Don and Meryl felt like they had hardly spent any time alone together. Their sex life was as hot and passionate as always, but they were missing couple time. Time just to sit down and talk-not about sculptures, not about shoots, not about Henry's schedule; but about life. They both were looking forward to that evening. It was Friday-date night. Something they hadn't done in quite a long time. Don was feeding Henry breakfast when he heard his wife on the phone in the kitchen.
"That's okay Mom, I understand. Yeah, tell Daddy to feel better. You two just stay home so he can rest. I'll talk to you soon. Love you, bye." Meryl sighed when she hung up. "Damn it!"
Don knew this wasn't going to be good. "Babe?"
Meryl took a deep breath as she walked into the kitchenette where Don and Henry were. "Date night is off."
Don nodded, sadly. "I heard. Your Dad is sick?"
Meryl sat down next to Don and finished her coffee and toast. "Yeah, he has a cold and they are afraid he'll give to Henry."
Don hated it, but he understood. "What about Maeve and Harry?"
Meryl shook her head. "They're in Massachusetts visiting her brother, his wife, and their new baby."
Don forgot about that. "Dana?"
Meryl couldn't help but laugh. "You think Dana is free on a Friday night in the city to watch his nephew?"
"Good point." Don sighed. "Well, I guess its date night in."
Meryl was close to tears. She loved their baby more than anything, but she was really looking forward to a night out. They were going to a nice dinner, no highchair or baby food. Then they were going to some galleries. Then they had planned on going out for drinks and dancing. "I'm really sorry, Don Man."
Don could tell she was really upset. "Hey." He cupped her cheek. "It happens. Maybe next weekend? Besides, it's not like a date night in is out of the ordinary."
Meryl just nodded. "I know, I just really needed this time with you."
Don became concerned. "Babe, what's going on?"
Meryl was hormonal, she knew it. "I don't know. I'm just so hormonal. I know it's because I have gone off the pill and my body is adjusting. It's just..." She trailed off.
"What?" Don asked.
"Is it selfish for us to have another baby when we barely have time for each other?" She sighed.
Don didn't waste a moment. "Not at all. Babe, we're busy right now but things will calm down. You have a week left on this film, and then we don't go to Europe until the Fall. We'll have down time. Once summer hits my lecturing schedule will lighten up.We planned on spending on all summer out in Millerton at the house. I'll still be working on sculptures and you'll still be practicing your accent but things will be much calmer, more normal. It's just the time right now. Things will get better." He said pulling her into a tight embrace.
Meryl took a deep breath and smiled into his neck. "I know, I just miss you."
Don pulled back and smiled at her. "Have I gone somewhere? Am I going somewhere?"
He was so predictable. "No." She laughed. "I love Henry and wouldn't trade him for ANYTHING, you KNOW that. I just miss us time."
"We had some pretty amazing "us time" a few nights ago, didn't we?" Don asked making her laugh.
"Yes, we did. I like this practice makes perfect thing." She referred to the fact they were trying to get pregnant.
"Does that mean we are going to keep trying?" He smiled.
Meryl had a moment, she realized that. She was just exhausted and overwhelmed. "Yes. I love practicing with you." She winked. "I also want to have another baby, or two, with you."
"Well, in that case." He began with a kiss to her lips. "Leave date night to me."
Meryl walked over to Henry and placed a kiss on the top of his head, inhaling her baby's scent. She wasn't only missing Don, but Henry as well. "I can pick up dinner after my late afternoon interview." She said referring to some publicity for Lieutenant's Woman.
"Nope, leave that to me." He smiled as Henry began fussing and he started feeding him again.
"Babe, you have to work too, and you'll have Henry all day. Let me get dinner." She said as she wiped Henry's mouth when he was obviously done eating.
"He's been great. He just plays while I work. Dinner is all up to me." He smiled as he leaned in to kiss her. "You look beautiful, by the way."
Just like that, Meryl's day had done a complete 180 from Don's words. "Thank you. Need me to get you anything while I'm out today?"
"Nope, we're good." He smiled as he took Henry into his arms. "You should probably get going."
Meryl sighed as she looked down at Don's watch. "Yeah, I'm late. Thank you." She whispered with a kiss to his lips.
"For what?" He smiled.
"For being you, and talking me down." She laughed.
"Hey, that's why I get paid the big bucks." He winked making her laugh. "Have a good day, and we'll see you tonight."
"Bye Henry, Mommy loves you." She said placing sweet kisses on her son's cheek. She then grabbed Don's face and gave him a long good-bye kiss. "Have a good day, handsome."
Don gave her his trademark smirk, the one that melted her heart. "It will be after that."
"I'll call and check in later." Meryl said as he walked her to the door. Since her shoot and interviews took her around the whole city, she always made a point to check in with him and Henry throughout the day.
"We'll be fine." He laughed. "Have a good day, and knock 'em dead." They kissed one more time as she walked out the door. "Okay Gippy, time to play while Daddy works."
***
The day had been a blur for Meryl. She had spent the morning and much of the afternoon around Manhattan filming Still of the Night, and now she was waiting for her last interview of the day. She thought she would be done by now, but she obviously wasn't. She was hoping to be home by now so as she waiting for the last interviewer she decided to call home and check on her boys.
***
Don had a busy day working, but luckily Henry had cooperated. Henry had even helped Don make Meryl's favorite dish-homemade spaghetti and meatballs. He had also made chocolate mouse which was chilling in the refrigerator. While Henry was eating his noodles Don baked the bread and made the salad. He was actually relieved she wasn't home yet, as he wanted everything to be done by the time she got home, and that wasn't very easy with a 17 month old. Henry was smiling at his father from his highchair as he watched him run around the kitchen. Henry couldn't help but giggle.
"Yeah, laugh now son, but just wait until you've been the victim of the love bug." Don teased as the phone rang. "Hello?"
Meryl was exhausted but perked up when she heard his voice. "Hey hun, how's it going?"
Don broke up a piece of bread for Henry. "Hey baby, we're good. Just finishing up dinner while Hen is eating. Where are you?"
Meryl sighed, she wanted to be at home with her boys. "I'm still at the Plaza waiting for one more interview. I'm sorry, but it looks like it's going to be another hour or so. I was hoping to be home by now."
On a typical night Don might have been frustrated, but he knew how badly she wished she was home, and he still had dinner to get ready. "It's okay. Henry's been easy today. It will give me time to finish dinner, bathe him, and get him to bed."
Meryl was reminded yet again how loving and supportive he was, and was also relieved that he didn't seem upset. He could have easily been frustrated that she wasn't there to help with Henry, but he wasn't. "I'll be home as soon as I can. Give our boy a hug and a kiss for me."
Don looked down and saw Henry dump the remaining noodles over his head. "Babe, Henry just emptied his bowl on his head. See you soon."
Before Meryl could respond he had hung up. Meryl couldn't help but laugh, Henry was definitely all boy. She started to think about how fast he was growing up and was yearning for a baby again. She was brought out of her thoughts by the interviewer entering the room.
Her publicist's assistant, Micheal walked over to her. "Ms. Streep..."
***
The interview was going very well. She had talked about the movie, her experiences, and how she got into the role. She was happy when the interview seemed to be wrapping up until the interviewer, Kevin Mann, began asking her personal questions.
"Not only have you grown in your professional life these past 4 years but you've had many changes in your personal life as well, correct?" Kevin asked.
Meryl wasn't exactly sure where he was going, but she went along with it. "I have been very lucky in all aspects of my life."
"You have been married for 2 1/2 years and have a baby. I'm sure that keeps you busy. What do you enjoy doing with your family?" Kevin asked.
Meryl had no idea what that had to do with the movie or interview; but she felt a shift from the interviewer, a very uncomfortable and unsafe one. "We keep a pretty low profile. We like to walk around the city, go to galleries, the farmer's market, but most of all we like to be at home."
"Was it hard?" Kevin asked.
"Was what hard?" Meryl was beyond confused.
"Your fiance' John Cazale died and 6 months later you were married, and a year later you were pregnant with your first child. I was just wondering how you moved on so fast. If you regret having your baby or marriage." Kevin said with disdain.
Meryl was shocked. This was supposed to be some fluff piece, now he was asking her in-depth personal questions. "With all due respect, that isn't anyone's business. The time I shared with John is very special to me, even though we were never engaged, and no one else gets to see those scars. I was lucky to have found my husband."
"Do you feel guilty?" Kevin pointed his eyes at her. "Do you feel guilty that less than 6 months after the great John Cazale took his last breath you were in bed with someone else; married to someone else."
Sam her agent had just happened to walk in at that time. "That's it, this interview is over."
Meryl was being ushered out of the room by Sam. "What was that?" Meryl was trembling as he sat her down in the lobby.
"I don't know." Sam shook his head as he yelled at his assistant. "MICHAEL! Get over here!"
Meryl was definitely shaken up. "I don't understand, it's like he had it out for me. Disgust was dripping from his voice. The way he was talking about Don and Henry..."
"What's going on?" Michael asked running over.
"Pull that interviewer's credentials...NOW. He was completely unprofessional. I thought he was with the New York Times." Sam said as he handed Meryl some water.
"I just want to get home to my baby and husband, I just want to be home." Meryl whispered.
"I'm on it, Sam, but we need you back at the office." Michael pointed out. "Ms. Streep's car is waiting outside."
Sam shook his head. "Come on let's get you to the the car."
Meryl needed some time by herself before she went home to Don. "I need to go freshen up in the bathroom. I'll call you on Monday."
Sam noticed how shaky she was. "Are you sure? We'll wait."
"No, no, you go. I'll be fine." She said giving him a weak smile.
Sam kissed her cheek. "Don't let that asshole get to you, we'll get to the bottom of this."
"I'm really sorry, Ms. Streep. I'm going to fix this." Michael promised.
Meryl shook her head, she didn't care whose fault it was or what happened, she just wanted it to be over. "It's over, thanks for getting to the bottom of this." She sighed as she walked off.
***
Meryl went into the bathroom and pulled herself together before walking back through the lobby and towards the door.
"Ms. Streep?" The doorman stopped her.
Meryl stopped as she turned towards the older man. "Yes?"
"Your car is ready, and a man left this for you." He said handing her an envelope.
Meryl didn't want to read it right now. She just wanted to be in the safe comforts of home with Don and Henry. "Thank you, I'll look at it later. Have a good evening." She replied as he opened the door for her.
He tipped his hat at her. "You too."
***
Meryl didn't even open the envelope on the way home. She was tired, both physically and emotionally. All she could think about was being in the peaceful serenity of her loft with Don and Henry. She knew once she saw their baby, who was probably sleeping, and in the comforts of her husband's arms then all would be right again. Before she knew it, she was at their loft and walking in the door just as Don was coming out of Henry's room.
Don immediately walked over to her and pulled her in for a hug. "There's my beautiful wife."
Meryl couldn't help it, as soon as she was in his arms she began to cry. She had tried to keep the emotions at bay, but being in his arms made her feel safe so she could let them go. "I love you so much Don, I don't know what I would do without you and Henry." She cried into his shoulders.
Don knew something wasn't right as she cried and her body shook. Don knew his wife. He knew when she was crying happy tears, and when she was crying because she was hurt. "What happened?" He asked pulling away as he cupped her cheek. When Meryl saw the concern and love in his eyes she cried harder. "Baby, what happened? Are you okay?"
All Meryl could do was shake her head. "Physically." She choked knowing that was his first concern.
"Come sit down." He said as he took her by the arm and they sat on the couch. "Okay babe, what happened? I just talked to you not long ago and you were fine, tired, but fine. Was it the interview?"
Meryl took some deep breaths, trying to calm down. She could see how worried he was and she wanted to talk to him, knowing that would make her feel better. "Yeah, it was awful Don."
Don didn't understand. "Why? Was the interviewer critical of your work?"
"No, of us." She choked.
"What do you mean of us?" Don asked wiping her stream of tears.
"Everything had gone fine. We talked about the movie and the process and everything. Then his tone and attitude changed. He asked me if it was hard marrying you so soon after John. He asked how I did it, how I could love so fast. Then he asked if I regretted having Henry with you." She choked.
Don was beyond furious. "WHAT? It's none of his FUCKING business."
"It was awful Don. I am SO TIRED of people questioning my love for you. As if you're some rebound. No one has EVER questioned Henry. Why can't people understand that I LOVE you! I love our life. I love our baby. I would NEVER regret us, not in a million years. You came into my life when I needed you most. It doesn't mean I don't miss or love John. It means you showed me how to love and live again. I hope you know that." She cried as he pulled her into his arms.
He HATED when people did this. Not because it wasn't any of their business, but because of what it did to her. It made her doubt that he knew what he and their life meant to her. "I know that baby, I do, believe me. People feel the need to judge what they don't understand. I don't know why." He sighed. "Just because we fell in love and started a family quickly doesn't make our love fake or shallow. It's the greatest thing I've ever experienced."
"Me too." Meryl choked in his shoulder.
Don pulled away slightly. "Who is this guy?"
Meryl shook her head. "Sam is checking into his credentials. He is supposedly from the Times."
"I want his name, and I want his credentials. He is being unethical." Don said .
Meryl was at least happy he wasn't storming out after the guy. "You're not going after him?"
"No, I just want his head handed to me." Don halfway joked. He knew it wouldn't do any good going after him, as much as he wanted to.
"Sam is looking into it and I'm calling him on Monday." She sighed, feeling better.
Don wiped her remaining tears and placed a soft kiss on her lips. "I'm sorry you had to go through that. You feeling better?"
"I knew as soon as I was home with you and Henry that I would feel better. All I wanted to do was get home to my guys." She said giving him a weak smile.
"Well, one of your guys is asleep. The other one is looking forward to a night at home with you. Let me warm up dinner and pour you a glass of wine. I'll be right back." He said with a peck to her lips.
***
Meryl had taken off her heels and was relaxing with her feet propped up on the coffee table when she realized the envelope she had been given when she left the hotel. She thought that maybe she should read it in case it was important. She was opening it as Don came back in.
"Here ya go, babe." He said sitting down next to her, handing her a glass of wine.
Meryl rewarded him with a kiss to his lips. "Thanks, baby."
"What's that?" Don asked when he noticed the envelope in her hand.
"I don't know, as I was leaving the hotel the doorman handed it to me." Meryl answered as she placed the wine glass on the table after taking a drink and pulled out the note and began to read. She thought she would be sick. Tears formed in her eyes as she began to tremble again, which of course Don noticed.
"Sweetheart?" Don asked.
"I can't read anymore." Meryl choked.
Don wanted to read it, but didn't want to invade her privacy. "Babe, can I read it?"
"Yeah." Meryl knew he would find out what it said sooner or later.
Don scooted as close to her as possible and wrapped her in his arms as he began to read.
Ms. Streep,
What you did was disgusting. You convinced John you loved him but as soon as he was dead you jumped into bed with someone else. You didn't care about promises that were made. As sorry as I feel for John's memory, I feel even worse for your husband. I've seen you two at events and the love he has for you in his eyes. As soon as the next person comes along you will leave him too. The world thinks you're an amazing down to earth actress. Well, I know the truth and all will be revealed. You will get yours. I will make you feel powerless just as you deserve. If John can't have you, then that goon sure as hell shouldn't. I will make you mine. I will give you the payback you deserve. Neither you, your bastard child or husband are safe.
"That's fucking it." Don jumped up as he ran to the phone.
Meryl went after him. "What are you doing?"
"Whoever this is is threatening you and I will NOT have it. It is some low-life trying to make a buck off your life, your pain." Don was beyond furious.
Meryl began to cry. "I'm so sorry, Don, so sorry. I didn't want any of this. I didn't ask for any of this."
"I know you didn't baby, that's one reason why it pisses me off." He sighed as he pulled her into his arms.
"I'm scared, Don." She trembled. "He's not just threatening me, but you and Henry as well."
That's what Don was afraid of. "I know baby, but don't be. I am going to get to the bottom of this."
"I know you will; which scares me as well because I can't let anything happen to you ot Henry." Meryl whispered as she wrapped her arms around him tighter. "I'm so tired Don. I'm tired of fighting. I'm tired of defending us-I shouldn't have to. I shouldn't have to defend my life with John, or you. People should know how I feel about you by the way I look at you."
Don pulled away and looked into her eyes. "Don't, you have nothing to prove. We have nothing to prove. We know how we feel and that's all that matters. However, I will not have ANYONE threaten you. First thing Monday morning we will call Sam. I know Larry is out tonight but I am calling him FIRST thing in the morning."
Hearing his words and being in his arms made her feel so much better. "I love you, Gummer."
"I love you, beautiful." He whispered as he placed a long and loving kiss on her lips. "Always, no matter what, don't forget that."
Meryl ran her fingers through his curly black hair. "I won't."
"Why don't you go put on your comfies and meet me back out here. We can eat out here tonight." He smiled.
"Sounds like a plan." She said with a kiss to his lips as she went to change.
***
Don kept thinking about what happened to Meryl while he dished their dinner and set it up in the living room. The more he thought about it, the madder he was. Not only was he mad but he was terrified for her and their son. God help anyone who tried to hurt one hair on either of their heads. He knew there was nothing he could do about it at the moment, besides not letting them out of his sight, but first thing in the morning he would be dealing with it, that was for damn sure. He was surprised that she wasn't out there yet. After setting everything up he went in search of her, he was pretty sure he knew where she went.
***
After Meryl put on her comfy clothes she went to check on her baby. She hated being away from him all day, but was so grateful Don was such a hands on father. She stood over the crib and watched him sleep as he sucked his thumb. Of everything she had already accomplished, she was most proud of the family she and Don had already created. She couldn't imagine life without her Gippy. She hoped she could always keep him as safe as he was in that moment. She was brought out of her thoughts by a pair of arms being wrapped around her waist from behind.
"He's almost too big for that crib." He whispered.
"Hush your mouth." She laughed. "He is still a baby."
"For now." Don teased. "He is pretty amazing."
"Of course he is. He's a genius. He is the smartest baby ever." She sighed as laid her head back against him. "I would never regret this." She choked.
Don didn't want her to go down that road again and get upset. "I know baby, me either. Come on, let's go eat."
***
Meryl was curled up against Don on the sofa drinking wine after they ate. "That was so good babe, thank you."
"My pleasure." He said kissing her head. "See, date night at home isn't so bad."
She now felt bad for making a big deal about not having a sitter for Henry. There was nowhere else she would rather be than with Henry and Don. "It was perfect. Of course I love it when we go out, but nothing makes me happier than being at home with you two."
Don held her tighter. "I know that. Don't listen to those asses out there. How are you feeling?"
"So much better." She sighed happily as she turned to kiss his lips. "Tell me about your day."
They laid there as he filled her in on his day. His sketches. Starting the groundwork of a new sculpture. And of course everything that Henry got up to. It was in those moments that the rest of the world went away. For that moment at lease.
***
Later that night Meryl came out of the bathroom only to find Don laying Henry down in the play pen he had obviously set up on his side of the bed by the window. "Don?"
"Shhh...thankfully he didn't wake up." Don whispered as he took her hand and lead her to bed.
Meryl got in bed and looked at him. "You're scared."
"I just would feel better to have you both beside me right now. I think we both would sleep better." Don said cupping her cheek in his hand.
Meryl was trying to swallow past the tears. "I hate this, I hate this so much."
"Baby, I didn't want to upset you; I just want to look out for both of you." Don said wiping her tears. "I WILL protect the both of you."
Meryl nodded. "I know you will; I just don't want anything to happen to you either."
"It won't. You know how overprotective I am of you too. I want you to try to sleep." Don said taking her into his arms as they turned out their lamps.
Meryl laid her head on his chest so she could watch both of her guys. "I doubt that will happen."
***
A/N: As requested here is the beginning of the Kevin Mann saga. I really don't know where to go next. I know what will happen once he gets to Meryl and Henry, just don't know up to that point. Thank you for the encouragement. Let me know you all are reading so I know whether or not to continue.
Things had seemed to settle down on the James front. He was slowly getting better physically. According to Don's mother and brothers he was taking medication and desperately wanted to make a mends with Don and Meryl. Don had BRIEFLY spoken to him on the phone and didn't believe it for a minute. There was no way he was letting his father anywhere near his family. He had kept the restraining order against him and Peggy in place. He wasn't taking a chance, not for one second.
***
Don and Meryl felt like they had hardly spent any time alone together. Their sex life was as hot and passionate as always, but they were missing couple time. Time just to sit down and talk-not about sculptures, not about shoots, not about Henry's schedule; but about life. They both were looking forward to that evening. It was Friday-date night. Something they hadn't done in quite a long time. Don was feeding Henry breakfast when he heard his wife on the phone in the kitchen.
"That's okay Mom, I understand. Yeah, tell Daddy to feel better. You two just stay home so he can rest. I'll talk to you soon. Love you, bye." Meryl sighed when she hung up. "Damn it!"
Don knew this wasn't going to be good. "Babe?"
Meryl took a deep breath as she walked into the kitchenette where Don and Henry were. "Date night is off."
Don nodded, sadly. "I heard. Your Dad is sick?"
Meryl sat down next to Don and finished her coffee and toast. "Yeah, he has a cold and they are afraid he'll give to Henry."
Don hated it, but he understood. "What about Maeve and Harry?"
Meryl shook her head. "They're in Massachusetts visiting her brother, his wife, and their new baby."
Don forgot about that. "Dana?"
Meryl couldn't help but laugh. "You think Dana is free on a Friday night in the city to watch his nephew?"
"Good point." Don sighed. "Well, I guess its date night in."
Meryl was close to tears. She loved their baby more than anything, but she was really looking forward to a night out. They were going to a nice dinner, no highchair or baby food. Then they were going to some galleries. Then they had planned on going out for drinks and dancing. "I'm really sorry, Don Man."
Don could tell she was really upset. "Hey." He cupped her cheek. "It happens. Maybe next weekend? Besides, it's not like a date night in is out of the ordinary."
Meryl just nodded. "I know, I just really needed this time with you."
Don became concerned. "Babe, what's going on?"
Meryl was hormonal, she knew it. "I don't know. I'm just so hormonal. I know it's because I have gone off the pill and my body is adjusting. It's just..." She trailed off.
"What?" Don asked.
"Is it selfish for us to have another baby when we barely have time for each other?" She sighed.
Don didn't waste a moment. "Not at all. Babe, we're busy right now but things will calm down. You have a week left on this film, and then we don't go to Europe until the Fall. We'll have down time. Once summer hits my lecturing schedule will lighten up.We planned on spending on all summer out in Millerton at the house. I'll still be working on sculptures and you'll still be practicing your accent but things will be much calmer, more normal. It's just the time right now. Things will get better." He said pulling her into a tight embrace.
Meryl took a deep breath and smiled into his neck. "I know, I just miss you."
Don pulled back and smiled at her. "Have I gone somewhere? Am I going somewhere?"
He was so predictable. "No." She laughed. "I love Henry and wouldn't trade him for ANYTHING, you KNOW that. I just miss us time."
"We had some pretty amazing "us time" a few nights ago, didn't we?" Don asked making her laugh.
"Yes, we did. I like this practice makes perfect thing." She referred to the fact they were trying to get pregnant.
"Does that mean we are going to keep trying?" He smiled.
Meryl had a moment, she realized that. She was just exhausted and overwhelmed. "Yes. I love practicing with you." She winked. "I also want to have another baby, or two, with you."
"Well, in that case." He began with a kiss to her lips. "Leave date night to me."
Meryl walked over to Henry and placed a kiss on the top of his head, inhaling her baby's scent. She wasn't only missing Don, but Henry as well. "I can pick up dinner after my late afternoon interview." She said referring to some publicity for Lieutenant's Woman.
"Nope, leave that to me." He smiled as Henry began fussing and he started feeding him again.
"Babe, you have to work too, and you'll have Henry all day. Let me get dinner." She said as she wiped Henry's mouth when he was obviously done eating.
"He's been great. He just plays while I work. Dinner is all up to me." He smiled as he leaned in to kiss her. "You look beautiful, by the way."
Just like that, Meryl's day had done a complete 180 from Don's words. "Thank you. Need me to get you anything while I'm out today?"
"Nope, we're good." He smiled as he took Henry into his arms. "You should probably get going."
Meryl sighed as she looked down at Don's watch. "Yeah, I'm late. Thank you." She whispered with a kiss to his lips.
"For what?" He smiled.
"For being you, and talking me down." She laughed.
"Hey, that's why I get paid the big bucks." He winked making her laugh. "Have a good day, and we'll see you tonight."
"Bye Henry, Mommy loves you." She said placing sweet kisses on her son's cheek. She then grabbed Don's face and gave him a long good-bye kiss. "Have a good day, handsome."
Don gave her his trademark smirk, the one that melted her heart. "It will be after that."
"I'll call and check in later." Meryl said as he walked her to the door. Since her shoot and interviews took her around the whole city, she always made a point to check in with him and Henry throughout the day.
"We'll be fine." He laughed. "Have a good day, and knock 'em dead." They kissed one more time as she walked out the door. "Okay Gippy, time to play while Daddy works."
***
The day had been a blur for Meryl. She had spent the morning and much of the afternoon around Manhattan filming Still of the Night, and now she was waiting for her last interview of the day. She thought she would be done by now, but she obviously wasn't. She was hoping to be home by now so as she waiting for the last interviewer she decided to call home and check on her boys.
***
Don had a busy day working, but luckily Henry had cooperated. Henry had even helped Don make Meryl's favorite dish-homemade spaghetti and meatballs. He had also made chocolate mouse which was chilling in the refrigerator. While Henry was eating his noodles Don baked the bread and made the salad. He was actually relieved she wasn't home yet, as he wanted everything to be done by the time she got home, and that wasn't very easy with a 17 month old. Henry was smiling at his father from his highchair as he watched him run around the kitchen. Henry couldn't help but giggle.
"Yeah, laugh now son, but just wait until you've been the victim of the love bug." Don teased as the phone rang. "Hello?"
Meryl was exhausted but perked up when she heard his voice. "Hey hun, how's it going?"
Don broke up a piece of bread for Henry. "Hey baby, we're good. Just finishing up dinner while Hen is eating. Where are you?"
Meryl sighed, she wanted to be at home with her boys. "I'm still at the Plaza waiting for one more interview. I'm sorry, but it looks like it's going to be another hour or so. I was hoping to be home by now."
On a typical night Don might have been frustrated, but he knew how badly she wished she was home, and he still had dinner to get ready. "It's okay. Henry's been easy today. It will give me time to finish dinner, bathe him, and get him to bed."
Meryl was reminded yet again how loving and supportive he was, and was also relieved that he didn't seem upset. He could have easily been frustrated that she wasn't there to help with Henry, but he wasn't. "I'll be home as soon as I can. Give our boy a hug and a kiss for me."
Don looked down and saw Henry dump the remaining noodles over his head. "Babe, Henry just emptied his bowl on his head. See you soon."
Before Meryl could respond he had hung up. Meryl couldn't help but laugh, Henry was definitely all boy. She started to think about how fast he was growing up and was yearning for a baby again. She was brought out of her thoughts by the interviewer entering the room.
Her publicist's assistant, Micheal walked over to her. "Ms. Streep..."
***
The interview was going very well. She had talked about the movie, her experiences, and how she got into the role. She was happy when the interview seemed to be wrapping up until the interviewer, Kevin Mann, began asking her personal questions.
"Not only have you grown in your professional life these past 4 years but you've had many changes in your personal life as well, correct?" Kevin asked.
Meryl wasn't exactly sure where he was going, but she went along with it. "I have been very lucky in all aspects of my life."
"You have been married for 2 1/2 years and have a baby. I'm sure that keeps you busy. What do you enjoy doing with your family?" Kevin asked.
Meryl had no idea what that had to do with the movie or interview; but she felt a shift from the interviewer, a very uncomfortable and unsafe one. "We keep a pretty low profile. We like to walk around the city, go to galleries, the farmer's market, but most of all we like to be at home."
"Was it hard?" Kevin asked.
"Was what hard?" Meryl was beyond confused.
"Your fiance' John Cazale died and 6 months later you were married, and a year later you were pregnant with your first child. I was just wondering how you moved on so fast. If you regret having your baby or marriage." Kevin said with disdain.
Meryl was shocked. This was supposed to be some fluff piece, now he was asking her in-depth personal questions. "With all due respect, that isn't anyone's business. The time I shared with John is very special to me, even though we were never engaged, and no one else gets to see those scars. I was lucky to have found my husband."
"Do you feel guilty?" Kevin pointed his eyes at her. "Do you feel guilty that less than 6 months after the great John Cazale took his last breath you were in bed with someone else; married to someone else."
Sam her agent had just happened to walk in at that time. "That's it, this interview is over."
Meryl was being ushered out of the room by Sam. "What was that?" Meryl was trembling as he sat her down in the lobby.
"I don't know." Sam shook his head as he yelled at his assistant. "MICHAEL! Get over here!"
Meryl was definitely shaken up. "I don't understand, it's like he had it out for me. Disgust was dripping from his voice. The way he was talking about Don and Henry..."
"What's going on?" Michael asked running over.
"Pull that interviewer's credentials...NOW. He was completely unprofessional. I thought he was with the New York Times." Sam said as he handed Meryl some water.
"I just want to get home to my baby and husband, I just want to be home." Meryl whispered.
"I'm on it, Sam, but we need you back at the office." Michael pointed out. "Ms. Streep's car is waiting outside."
Sam shook his head. "Come on let's get you to the the car."
Meryl needed some time by herself before she went home to Don. "I need to go freshen up in the bathroom. I'll call you on Monday."
Sam noticed how shaky she was. "Are you sure? We'll wait."
"No, no, you go. I'll be fine." She said giving him a weak smile.
Sam kissed her cheek. "Don't let that asshole get to you, we'll get to the bottom of this."
"I'm really sorry, Ms. Streep. I'm going to fix this." Michael promised.
Meryl shook her head, she didn't care whose fault it was or what happened, she just wanted it to be over. "It's over, thanks for getting to the bottom of this." She sighed as she walked off.
***
Meryl went into the bathroom and pulled herself together before walking back through the lobby and towards the door.
"Ms. Streep?" The doorman stopped her.
Meryl stopped as she turned towards the older man. "Yes?"
"Your car is ready, and a man left this for you." He said handing her an envelope.
Meryl didn't want to read it right now. She just wanted to be in the safe comforts of home with Don and Henry. "Thank you, I'll look at it later. Have a good evening." She replied as he opened the door for her.
He tipped his hat at her. "You too."
***
Meryl didn't even open the envelope on the way home. She was tired, both physically and emotionally. All she could think about was being in the peaceful serenity of her loft with Don and Henry. She knew once she saw their baby, who was probably sleeping, and in the comforts of her husband's arms then all would be right again. Before she knew it, she was at their loft and walking in the door just as Don was coming out of Henry's room.
Don immediately walked over to her and pulled her in for a hug. "There's my beautiful wife."
Meryl couldn't help it, as soon as she was in his arms she began to cry. She had tried to keep the emotions at bay, but being in his arms made her feel safe so she could let them go. "I love you so much Don, I don't know what I would do without you and Henry." She cried into his shoulders.
Don knew something wasn't right as she cried and her body shook. Don knew his wife. He knew when she was crying happy tears, and when she was crying because she was hurt. "What happened?" He asked pulling away as he cupped her cheek. When Meryl saw the concern and love in his eyes she cried harder. "Baby, what happened? Are you okay?"
All Meryl could do was shake her head. "Physically." She choked knowing that was his first concern.
"Come sit down." He said as he took her by the arm and they sat on the couch. "Okay babe, what happened? I just talked to you not long ago and you were fine, tired, but fine. Was it the interview?"
Meryl took some deep breaths, trying to calm down. She could see how worried he was and she wanted to talk to him, knowing that would make her feel better. "Yeah, it was awful Don."
Don didn't understand. "Why? Was the interviewer critical of your work?"
"No, of us." She choked.
"What do you mean of us?" Don asked wiping her stream of tears.
"Everything had gone fine. We talked about the movie and the process and everything. Then his tone and attitude changed. He asked me if it was hard marrying you so soon after John. He asked how I did it, how I could love so fast. Then he asked if I regretted having Henry with you." She choked.
Don was beyond furious. "WHAT? It's none of his FUCKING business."
"It was awful Don. I am SO TIRED of people questioning my love for you. As if you're some rebound. No one has EVER questioned Henry. Why can't people understand that I LOVE you! I love our life. I love our baby. I would NEVER regret us, not in a million years. You came into my life when I needed you most. It doesn't mean I don't miss or love John. It means you showed me how to love and live again. I hope you know that." She cried as he pulled her into his arms.
He HATED when people did this. Not because it wasn't any of their business, but because of what it did to her. It made her doubt that he knew what he and their life meant to her. "I know that baby, I do, believe me. People feel the need to judge what they don't understand. I don't know why." He sighed. "Just because we fell in love and started a family quickly doesn't make our love fake or shallow. It's the greatest thing I've ever experienced."
"Me too." Meryl choked in his shoulder.
Don pulled away slightly. "Who is this guy?"
Meryl shook her head. "Sam is checking into his credentials. He is supposedly from the Times."
"I want his name, and I want his credentials. He is being unethical." Don said .
Meryl was at least happy he wasn't storming out after the guy. "You're not going after him?"
"No, I just want his head handed to me." Don halfway joked. He knew it wouldn't do any good going after him, as much as he wanted to.
"Sam is looking into it and I'm calling him on Monday." She sighed, feeling better.
Don wiped her remaining tears and placed a soft kiss on her lips. "I'm sorry you had to go through that. You feeling better?"
"I knew as soon as I was home with you and Henry that I would feel better. All I wanted to do was get home to my guys." She said giving him a weak smile.
"Well, one of your guys is asleep. The other one is looking forward to a night at home with you. Let me warm up dinner and pour you a glass of wine. I'll be right back." He said with a peck to her lips.
***
Meryl had taken off her heels and was relaxing with her feet propped up on the coffee table when she realized the envelope she had been given when she left the hotel. She thought that maybe she should read it in case it was important. She was opening it as Don came back in.
"Here ya go, babe." He said sitting down next to her, handing her a glass of wine.
Meryl rewarded him with a kiss to his lips. "Thanks, baby."
"What's that?" Don asked when he noticed the envelope in her hand.
"I don't know, as I was leaving the hotel the doorman handed it to me." Meryl answered as she placed the wine glass on the table after taking a drink and pulled out the note and began to read. She thought she would be sick. Tears formed in her eyes as she began to tremble again, which of course Don noticed.
"Sweetheart?" Don asked.
"I can't read anymore." Meryl choked.
Don wanted to read it, but didn't want to invade her privacy. "Babe, can I read it?"
"Yeah." Meryl knew he would find out what it said sooner or later.
Don scooted as close to her as possible and wrapped her in his arms as he began to read.
Ms. Streep,
What you did was disgusting. You convinced John you loved him but as soon as he was dead you jumped into bed with someone else. You didn't care about promises that were made. As sorry as I feel for John's memory, I feel even worse for your husband. I've seen you two at events and the love he has for you in his eyes. As soon as the next person comes along you will leave him too. The world thinks you're an amazing down to earth actress. Well, I know the truth and all will be revealed. You will get yours. I will make you feel powerless just as you deserve. If John can't have you, then that goon sure as hell shouldn't. I will make you mine. I will give you the payback you deserve. Neither you, your bastard child or husband are safe.
"That's fucking it." Don jumped up as he ran to the phone.
Meryl went after him. "What are you doing?"
"Whoever this is is threatening you and I will NOT have it. It is some low-life trying to make a buck off your life, your pain." Don was beyond furious.
Meryl began to cry. "I'm so sorry, Don, so sorry. I didn't want any of this. I didn't ask for any of this."
"I know you didn't baby, that's one reason why it pisses me off." He sighed as he pulled her into his arms.
"I'm scared, Don." She trembled. "He's not just threatening me, but you and Henry as well."
That's what Don was afraid of. "I know baby, but don't be. I am going to get to the bottom of this."
"I know you will; which scares me as well because I can't let anything happen to you ot Henry." Meryl whispered as she wrapped her arms around him tighter. "I'm so tired Don. I'm tired of fighting. I'm tired of defending us-I shouldn't have to. I shouldn't have to defend my life with John, or you. People should know how I feel about you by the way I look at you."
Don pulled away and looked into her eyes. "Don't, you have nothing to prove. We have nothing to prove. We know how we feel and that's all that matters. However, I will not have ANYONE threaten you. First thing Monday morning we will call Sam. I know Larry is out tonight but I am calling him FIRST thing in the morning."
Hearing his words and being in his arms made her feel so much better. "I love you, Gummer."
"I love you, beautiful." He whispered as he placed a long and loving kiss on her lips. "Always, no matter what, don't forget that."
Meryl ran her fingers through his curly black hair. "I won't."
"Why don't you go put on your comfies and meet me back out here. We can eat out here tonight." He smiled.
"Sounds like a plan." She said with a kiss to his lips as she went to change.
***
Don kept thinking about what happened to Meryl while he dished their dinner and set it up in the living room. The more he thought about it, the madder he was. Not only was he mad but he was terrified for her and their son. God help anyone who tried to hurt one hair on either of their heads. He knew there was nothing he could do about it at the moment, besides not letting them out of his sight, but first thing in the morning he would be dealing with it, that was for damn sure. He was surprised that she wasn't out there yet. After setting everything up he went in search of her, he was pretty sure he knew where she went.
***
After Meryl put on her comfy clothes she went to check on her baby. She hated being away from him all day, but was so grateful Don was such a hands on father. She stood over the crib and watched him sleep as he sucked his thumb. Of everything she had already accomplished, she was most proud of the family she and Don had already created. She couldn't imagine life without her Gippy. She hoped she could always keep him as safe as he was in that moment. She was brought out of her thoughts by a pair of arms being wrapped around her waist from behind.
"He's almost too big for that crib." He whispered.
"Hush your mouth." She laughed. "He is still a baby."
"For now." Don teased. "He is pretty amazing."
"Of course he is. He's a genius. He is the smartest baby ever." She sighed as laid her head back against him. "I would never regret this." She choked.
Don didn't want her to go down that road again and get upset. "I know baby, me either. Come on, let's go eat."
***
Meryl was curled up against Don on the sofa drinking wine after they ate. "That was so good babe, thank you."
"My pleasure." He said kissing her head. "See, date night at home isn't so bad."
She now felt bad for making a big deal about not having a sitter for Henry. There was nowhere else she would rather be than with Henry and Don. "It was perfect. Of course I love it when we go out, but nothing makes me happier than being at home with you two."
Don held her tighter. "I know that. Don't listen to those asses out there. How are you feeling?"
"So much better." She sighed happily as she turned to kiss his lips. "Tell me about your day."
They laid there as he filled her in on his day. His sketches. Starting the groundwork of a new sculpture. And of course everything that Henry got up to. It was in those moments that the rest of the world went away. For that moment at lease.
***
Later that night Meryl came out of the bathroom only to find Don laying Henry down in the play pen he had obviously set up on his side of the bed by the window. "Don?"
"Shhh...thankfully he didn't wake up." Don whispered as he took her hand and lead her to bed.
Meryl got in bed and looked at him. "You're scared."
"I just would feel better to have you both beside me right now. I think we both would sleep better." Don said cupping her cheek in his hand.
Meryl was trying to swallow past the tears. "I hate this, I hate this so much."
"Baby, I didn't want to upset you; I just want to look out for both of you." Don said wiping her tears. "I WILL protect the both of you."
Meryl nodded. "I know you will; I just don't want anything to happen to you either."
"It won't. You know how overprotective I am of you too. I want you to try to sleep." Don said taking her into his arms as they turned out their lamps.
Meryl laid her head on his chest so she could watch both of her guys. "I doubt that will happen."
***
A/N: As requested here is the beginning of the Kevin Mann saga. I really don't know where to go next. I know what will happen once he gets to Meryl and Henry, just don't know up to that point. Thank you for the encouragement. Let me know you all are reading so I know whether or not to continue.