crack_van | Catalina Express by Paula Wilshe (PG)

Fandom: STARSKY & HUTCH
Pairing: none
Length: ~ 12 830 words
Author on LJ: –
Author Website: HERE
Why this must be read: This story is simply beautiful: post SR, case story, love story, happy ending. In the wake of "Sweet Revenge", Starsky and Hutch go undercover on California's Catalina Island, giving Starsky a chance to shine as he regains his stride and self-confidence while working the case. Hutch, who finds it hard to let go, discovers that his partner is back -- and better than ever.

"Hutch, get the phone," Starsky mumbled. "Hutch..." The telephone continued its shrill and incessant ring, and finally Starsky rolled over and dragged the receiver from its cradle. "Hmnl..." he breathed, incoherently.

"Mr. Hutch?"

"I'm, no, um..." Starsky opened his eyes, ready to hand off the ever-annoying Mr. Quigley to his lazy partner, but when his eyes adjusted to the darkness of the room, he realized he was alone. "Um..." he yawned, "Mr. Quigley, Hutch isn't here, he must have gone out for something to eat. What can I do for you? What time is it?"

"No, no, it's you I want, not Mr. Starsky," Quigley said, insistently. "I'm calling about Mr. Starsky."

The dark haired detective wasn't sure whether to be amused or annoyed so, keeping his voice neutral, he said simply, "What about him?"

"I'm afraid something dreadful has happened to him."

Catalina Express by Paula Wilshe