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formeandmyfics · 4 years

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More Than You Know (Part I)

JUGENEA FAN FICTION

warning: sex, language, minor drug use

(PHOTO EDIT @ohmygarlands)

August 1951

Judy stormed out of the master bedroom slamming the door shut behind her. "For heaven's sake," she hissed as she head down the stairs and rounded the corner heading towards the back of the house.

Gene opened the bedroom door looking pissed and shouted from the banister, "Am I going or what?!" When there was silence he shouted her name, "JUDY?!" His response back was an echo of the kitchen patio doors slamming shut.

"Acting like a brat," he mumbled heading back into the bedroom, "like a little fucking baby."

Out in the backyard, Judy was packing a carton of cigarettes against her palm when Gene opened the balcony doors to their bedroom on the 2nd floor and looked down at her. When she looked up at him, he held his arms out wide as if saying 'Uh, hello.' Judy placed a cigarette between her lips and mocked him, just the same.

He pointed at her about to yell but quickly stopped himself. He exhaled roughly through his nose and ran a hand through his hair keeping calm before turning back to her. "I'm meeting up with the guys," he said as more of a statement this time, instead of asking her again.

"I told you, I don't give a shit," she said, the cigarette dangling from her lips as she searched her pockets for a lighter.

"Fine then. Here," he said and threw his expensive lighter down at her. It was a silver-plated, flip-lighter monogrammed with his initials on it that Judy had gotten him as a gift during their wrap party for The Pirate.

Judy barely had enough time to react as she caught it, a bit startled at the force of it. When he slammed their balcony doors shut behind him, Judy lit her cigarette and threw the lighter behind her, landing in the bushes.

"Harry and Jo having a brawl?"

Judy exhaled her smoke as new neighbor, and girlfriend, Lauren Bacall walked into the backyard from their connecting fence gate.

"Yeah," she replied and sat on the edge of the trampoline that Gene had built for Kerry and Liza.

"Can I bum a smoke," the blonde asked scooting onto the trampoline next to her.

"Sure. But if you need a lighter, better go find a flashlight. I threw my lighter somewhere back there."

"I saw," Lauren giggled and took a smoke then took out her own lighter. "What are you two fighting about?"

"What aren't we fighting about, Betty."

"Why," Lauren asked surprised, "You two are finally free to be together, you just got this house, Gene's on the top of the Box Office at work, you're on top the world with your new concert career...you shouldn't be fighting. You should be swinging from the god-damn chandeliers."

Judy laughed, "We've been swinging from the chandeliers together for years. We've done that bit."

"Darling, just because you're playing house now doesn't mean it has to stop."

"I know, and it won't stop, but right now we're just so damn irritated with one another. It's been like that since we got back to LA."

"It's probably just stress. You've been traveling around Europe with your concerts, Gene's been flying back and forth while doing post-production for his film. You're both just having a burn-out. And instead of relaxing together you're both lashing out."

Judy nodded agreeing, "You're probably right."

"When do you go to New York to start planning for your Palace show?"

"I’ve been planning it here. We start rehearsals next month. October 1st I’ll be in New York to start rehearsing on the stage.”

“How long will you be in New York, about 6 weeks?”

“Yes, unless they extend the show. We’ll see what happens.”

“Where are you going to stay?”

“I think I’ll just be at the Ritz while rehearsing and then probably sub-let an apartment in Kay’s apartment building for the rest of the stay.”

"Is Gene going to be traveling back and forth?” Judy nodded, “Then I suggest you two put the bullshit aside and act like rabbits before you're separated again."

Judy laughed and shook her head, "We don't have to put the bullshit aside to do that. Sometimes it makes it even better."

"Oooo," Lauren said seductively.

"Unfortunately, we're both stubborn as hell, I admit that, so we don't just sweep it under the rug easily."

"Well, you better before this weekend."

"Why, what's this weekend?"

"Lawford and I were chatting and he said that he's going to invite some of us to his lake house in Palm Springs. Kind of an, end-of-summer mini vacation."

"Kids or no kids?"

"No kids. Adults only. My husband can't go, but it'll probably be us and Frank and Richie and Junie."

"Frank and..," Judy mentioned with a cautious tone.

Lauren immediately shook her head, "I don't think so. She's shooting a film as we speak. Will you go, it's not too long of a drive. It'll be fun."

"I'd love to just lay on his boat out there on the lake, but I can't promise anything yet. I'll have to talk to Gene about it."

"Make him say yes. You know, with much persuasion."

"With the way his attitude's been, I'm not doing any 'persuading'. He don't deserve it."

"Maybe that's why his attitude is so bad. He ain't gettin' any," Lauren teased and hopped off the trampoline, "See ya later, doll."

"Goodnight, darling."

It was going on 10:30 in the morning when the door to the guest bedroom opened. Gene had his arm bent over his face covering his eyes from the bright sunshine but he looked over at the doorway when he heard the door open. Judy, in a terry robe, sighed and gave him an all-knowing look.

“Wipe that smile off your face, soldier,” he said mimicking a drill soldier.

She walked over to him, “What time did you get in?”

“A little after 2. Didn’t want to wake you.”

He was a little surprised when she got onto the bed next to him and immediately laid her head on his chest. “Does this mean we’ve made up,” he teased swooping an arm around her.

“No, but I still love you.”

“I love you, too,” he replied kissing the top of her hair, “Are you still mad at me?”

“I’m not mad, but I’m not happy.”

“When why are you being so cuddly?” He quickly broke out in a smile, “Morning sex?”

He moved to roll her over but she placed her hands on his chest and sat up, “No, don’t even think about it.”

“Then what,” he said getting a little irritated again.

“Nothing,” she whined in a cute voice.

“Oh, it’s something. The only time you want to lay with me when you’re mad is if you want sex or…” off her look he sighed, “Alright, what do you want?”

She cut straight to the chase, “Well, Lauren was talking and said that Peter wants to get some of us together at his lake house for a mini vacation.”

“In Palm Springs?”

“Yeah.”

“When?”

“This weekend.”

“Are the kids going?”

“No.”

“Not our kids, I mean, everyone else’s kids.”

“She said no.”

He kept on, “Because if we’re going on a last minute vacation, as much as I love all the kiddos, right now I just want to relax without a dozen kids running around.”

“Gene, she told me adults only.”

“Who’s all going?”

“Us, Betty, Frank and Richie and Junie I think.” When he didn’t respond, she continued, “We’ll all have fun together at the house…doesn’t that sound like a good idea?”

“It’s not a bad idea.”

“I really would like you to go, but if you don’t, I think I’d go anyways.”

“Oh, you would?”

“Darling, I want to go to the lake with my friends away from Los Angeles. I can go on the boat and maybe play some golf.”

“It does sound relaxing.”

“Sure it does.”

“Ya, let’s do it.”

“Good. Besides, Lauren did say she also thinks it’ll be good for us.”

“How so?”

“She heard us fighting last night.”

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

She ignored his request, “And I didn’t appreciate you throwing your lighter at me like that.”

“I’m sorry. Give it back.”

“Can’t.”

“Why?”

“I threw it somewhere outside last night. No idea where it landed.”

“Jesus, Judy. I really loved that lighter.”

“I’ll get you a new one - with a new inscription,” she said as she slapped his knee and got up.

“I don’t even want to know what it’d say,” he teased back.

“Two words,” she giggled and walked out shutting the door behind her.

It was a gorgeous, Friday afternoon as Judy and Gene drove his new Chevy Bel Air convertible the few hours east to Palm Springs. The first hour, Gene drove, then Judy switched when they got gas, as she actually loved driving. Now they were only five minutes down the road and Judy couldn’t wait to get there. Both of their demeanor had changed with each other. Except for Gene getting impatient and screaming, “Let’s Go!” as she already made them late on the road, they actually were quite affectionate during the drive. They held hands, snuck a few kisses in and sang together to the radio. Glancing in the rear view mirror, Judy noticed another fancy car speeding up quite fast to them. When they got on her tail, they started honking. “What in the sam hell…” Gene glanced behind him, “Don’t do anything. Just let them pass.” When the car still didn’t pass, Gene turned around more and lowered his sunglasses. The blonde woman had her hair pulled back and sunglasses on but it was most definitely a familiar face. “Oh my God.” “What?” “It’s Lauren,” he said relaxing and turning back around in his seat. “What the heck is she doing,” Judy screeched. At the red light, Lauren pulled up beside them. She smiled and waved. “Hi.” Judy, with her head wrapped in a summer scarf, smiled back, “Hi.” “Hey, Gene, you actually trust Judy to handle your stick,” Lauren joked. Gene smiled wide, “Oh, yes, I do.” Judy slyly smiled and lowered her sunglasses provocatively, “I’m surprised Bogie let you take his car to Palm Springs.” “Always. I bet my husband’s stick is better than Gene’s,” Lauren joked with a pun. “I beg to differ, darling.” Gene chuckled and put his arm on the seat behind Judy’s back, “That’s my girl.” “Bet I’m faster,” Lauren quipped. “I bet you are,” Gene said and Judy hit the back of her hand to his chest. Lauren revved her engine and Judy raised an eyebrow before revving her own. “What are ya, doin’, Judy,” Gene warned. Judy looked at her him and pushed her sunglasses back up on her nose before looking back at the light. “Woman, you better not race my brand new car…” “Call me woman again and I’ll drive your brand-new car off a cliff.” When the light turned green, off Lauren went with wheel screeching but Judy took her time to press on the gas and they smoothly went through the intersection at the speed limit. "You're terrible," he chuckled.

"Please, you really think I'd do that?"

"Hell yes you would, but I just don't want you to do it in my new car. She's a little spit fire that one, ain't she?"

"She sure is."

Dick Powell, or Richie has his friends called him, was helping Lauren with her small suitcase when Judy pulled up behind them. She didn’t park until she was a mere few inches away from the back of Lauren’s bumper. When the couple got out, Lauren looked at the space between their cars, “You are so lucky. If you were any closer, I’d have to kick your ass.” “You can try,” Gene said opening their trunk, “She might be small, but she’s a ninja.” Judy smiled and grabbed her purse as Lawford met up with them, “Hey, the gangs finally all here!”

“Hi, hun,” he said as Lauren gave him a kiss on the cheek and then went over to Gene who shook his hand, “Hey bud.” “Thanks for the invite.” “No problem, it’s going to be fun. Hi, baby,” he said walking around to Judy. “Hi, honey,” she said giving him a kiss on the lips. “Gene, tell ya what, you get those bags, and I’ll take care of this one.” Suddenly, he bent down and lifted Judy up over his shoulder as she happily shrieked, and headed towards the house. Everyone got settled in and figured out the sleeping arrangements. Peter gave Lauren his room, he took the couch downstairs in his ‘man cave’, Richie and Junie took a guest room as Frank was in the other and Judy and Gene agreed on the pull-out bed in the living room. After having a fabulous dinner that they men barbecued, Judy, Lauren and June washed the dishes in the kitchen as the four men stood outside in the backyard chatting over beers. There was a large window in front of the sink and as Judy rinsed off the dishes for Lauren to dry, she watched Gene. At the moment he was laughing and it made her heart flutter, she couldn’t help but smile. In mid swig of his beer, he mindlessly glanced over and saw her smiling through the window. He took his beer away from his lips and smiled back affectionately. Judy suddenly felt the urge to be in his arms. She bit her lower lip before pointing towards the front door, motioning for him to follow her. Gene gave her a nod before swigging the last of his beer. Judy dried her hands and excused herself from the ladies. Judy walked out onto the front porch as Gene made his way up the porch stairs. She took his hand and together they sat down on the porch swing cuddling. In silence they watched the sunset over the lake gently swinging back and forth. “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” Gene turned his head to study her face, glowing in a hue of pink and orange from the dusk sky, “You’re beautiful.” “Aw, darling, that was so sweet.” “It’s the truth,” he softly said putting a hand on her jaw before giving her a soft kiss. Pulling back just a tad, they rest their foreheads together, and Judy whispered, “Hi, darling.” “Hi, darling,” he said back before leaning in for another kiss. Gene softly pulled on her plush lower lip before moving his mouth up to suck on her upper one. When he felt the tip of her tongue nudge his lip, he rearranged his body towards hers more and angled her neck to kiss her deeper. Her mouth was already open to receive him. They’re tongues slowly glided over one another before withdrawing to suck at each others lips again. When they repeated the action again, Gene brought her legs up on his lap to caress her lovely legs that were bare in her high-wasted black shorts. It had been almost two weeks since they had a good kissing session, the same time that it had been since they last made love. Their make out session heated up slowly until the kisses were harder and very sexually charged. Gene didn’t stop until he heard her slight whimper against his lips and withdrew. His face was full of arousal as hers was flushed. He kissed her neck and ran a finger tip down the curve of her breast. Judy was just about to tell him to take her into one of the extra rooms for a quickie when they heard their names being called. The two scooted away from each other a tad just in time for June to stick her head out the door, “Oh, there you are. Come inside, we’re going to have a drink.” Judy took her legs off of Gene’s lap as they got up. He ushered her inside where everyone met downstairs in the ‘man cave’ and gathered around the mini bar. June placed an arm around Judy’s waist as they waited for Peter as he made a drink concoction for each of them, “Are you excited for your Palace show?” “I am so excited, I cannot tell you.” “When do you open?” “I think they’re pushing for October 16th. Tickets should go on sale next weekend.” “Well, we’ll be right there in the front row.” “Make sure that you do.” “It’s a 4-week run like the Palladium, right?” “Yah, mm-hm. If we have a good turnout, I might extend it. I go to New York soon to start production. I’ve been working on it it with Kay and Roger and Hugh Martin.” “Here ya go, Junie, Judes…” Peter said as he went around and handed each of them a small glass cup with liqueur that filled the cup just enough to be a double shot. Junie took the cup but didn’t drink, “That’s a hellava team, sweetie. Like Metro again, but without the slave drivers.” Judy giggled and took her cup, “Exactly. I’m excited to open the theater back up, but I just hope I have enough stamina for the two-a-day.”

“Oh, you’ll be just great.” “Alright, what do we toast to,” Lauren asked. Judy sniffed the drink. She rarely did shots, but when she did, she liked to know exactly what she was taking. She sniffed a second time when she couldn’t recognize the smell, “Alright, what is this?” They ignored her and Lauren spoke up, “Cheers to friends and beer, love and tears and legs behind your ears!” “To all of those who wish us well,” Gene started and Peter chimed in with him, “And the rest can go to hell!” Richie then continued, “And may all your ups and downs be between the sheets.” All of them touched the bar surface with the bottom of their glass before taking the shot, some of them making a funny face including June and Judy. “Oh, what the hell was that,” she asked. “Cognac and a hint of ginger ale.”

“I’ll never be doing that again,” she said wiping a drop away from the corner of her mouth and handed Gene her empty glass.

After some more drinks, a lot more drinks, they were all just hanging out downstairs when Frank chimed up.

“Alright, well, gang, it’s only ten, what do you all want to do now to keep things interesting?”

“Strip poker,” a tipsy Peter chimed.

But everyone immediately responded as if he had mentioned in a million times,“Noooo.” “Truth or dare,” June asked.

“Can’t go wrong with Truth or Dare,” Lauren said blowing smoke from her long cigarette holder.

“Alright, Truth or Dare it is,” Frank said and they all sat down.

“Honey, you thought of it, you go first,” Rich said patting her leg.

"Ok, we'll go clockwise," June said and looked at Judy next to her, "Truth or Dare, ma'am?"

"Dare," she replied confidently.

They all "oo'd" not expecting that from her. Gene's eyes opened wide and he smiled.

"Alright, do something right now that will surprise the heck out of your man."

Judy laughed, "He's known me so long I'm not sure there's much that would surprise him."

"Oh, yes," he laughed, "Yes, there is."

Judy looked at him and thought a moment before pushing on his knee to stand up, "I got it. I'll be right back."

They watched as she disappeared up the stairs.

"Bet she don't come back," Frank chimed in.

"No, she's got something up her sleeve," Richie said.

"I'm actually really curious what she's doing," Gene said his eyes glued to the stairs waiting for her.

She could be quite bawdy but she was not one to do something actually naughty in public - talk about naughty, yes, do it, no. Not a minute later, Judy came down the stairs. Without hesitation, she immediately walked to Gene and placed something in his hand before sitting back down next to him. He looked at it and it was the lighter she had given him that she "lost" outside.

Gene chuckled and just slyly looked at her. She giggled and he reached over giving her a peck on the lips.

"What is that?" Peter asked.

"My favorite lighter," Gene said chipper and placed is in his pocket.

"Why is that such a surprise," June asked.

"It's a private thing between us. Honey, your turn, ask away," Gene said.

"Truth or dare?"

"Truth."

“Alright, mmmm…” she trailed off thinking and a light bulb went off, “Oh, I have one. I’ve actually always wanted to know but never asked you. Who is your biggest celebrity crush or someone you’d love to be with if we weren’t together.”

“Your one-time pass, Gene,” Frank said cutting to the chase.

“Gene never has one-time anything,” Rich said.

“Oh, Oh, ho ho,” Judy sarcastically laughed.

“There’s been one or two,” Gene said before Judy did, embarrassed. “I mean, I am a dancer so I have to say Ginger Rogers. The moves on that woman, and the pair of legs on that broad. Everyone knows I’m a leg man,” he said pointing his thumb at Judy and purposefully lifting his eyebrows like Groucho Marx.

“Ginge, doesn’t have Jack anymore, Gene. There’s your free card,” Lauren said.

“But he still has Judy,” Judy sang before taking a sip of her wine.

“It wouldn’t mean anything. It’s just a crush-fuck,” Lauren went on.

“Yeah, besides you jumped into the sac with everyone you ever had a crush on, Judes,” Frank said knowing how to push her buttons.

Just as Frank said that, Gene had taken a sip of his Bourbon but spit it back in his glass in shock. He then looked at Judy with his fist up to him mouth trying not to crack up for her benefit.

Judy calmly tapped the ash buds off her cigarette into the ashtray as she replied, “Not everyone, darling.”

Frank, sarcastically placed his hands on his chest, and acting surprised mouthed, “Me?”

“I wasn’t about to be a notch on that belt.”

Everyone laughed, including June who rubbed her friend’s back, “Good girl.”

Judy and Frank finally broke out in giggles at their playful banter.

“Alright, I guess it’s my turn,” Gene said turning to his buddy, “Truth or Dare, my man?”

“Dare.”

“Oo, dare, ok, let’s see…” Gene thought, “I dare you to genuinely propose to someone in this room right now.”

Frank nodded towards Lauren and June, “Well, you’re both already married…” he pointed at Gene, “You’ve got a dick,” he pointed at Peter, “You’ve got a dick,” he then pointed at Rich, “You are a dick...” he then immediately jumped up and plopped between Gene and Judy placing his arm around her, “Gene, old pal, do we have your blessing, Sir?”

Gene shrugged his shoulders, “That's between the two of you, not me.” Judy laughed, “No!" “It's up to her, not me,” Gene repeated. “Well, I said no,” Judy repeated herself. Peter chimed in, “Francis, you've got to get down on one knee the right way, whattaya doin’,”

“I have bad knees. Judy, darling, can I see your hand?”

Judy looked at him cautiously, but with a smile, and hesitated until he wiggled his fingers wanting her hand. Then she gave it to him. He held it lovingly and caressed her skin with his thumb.

“Despite what rumors have been said in the past, we've never been romantically involved, but we are best friends and I love you dearly. I think it's time to develop a companionship into old age. I would like to ask you…”

“Oh, no,” Judy said, “Nope.”

June spoke up, “Frank, you've got to get on one knee.”

“Judy, will you…”

“No,” she said sternly.

“Fix me another drink?”

Judy laughed and got up grabbing his empty glass, “I'll fix you all the cocktails you want as long as you aren't proposing.”

“Oh, you would've said yes,” Lauren said.

Rich nodded, “I think she's more upset that he didn't ask!”

Gene agreed, “I think so, too.”

As Judy handed Frank another cocktail he looked at Rich, “You ready? Truth or dare?”

“Truth.”

“Let’s spice things up. You’ve been around a while. Have you ever caught a famous person doing the dirty in a public place and who was it?”

Rich nodded and smiled cheesy, “I have and they’re in this room.”

They all looked at one another but soon all eyes landed on Judy and Gene. When the couple realized they were who Rich was talking about they both looked surprised.

“You are such a fibber,” Judy shrieked, “You have not.”

“Oh, yes.”

“When,” Gene asked.

“The after-party for Summer Stock. My car was parked next to Gene’s in the private parking lot and when I went out there, you two were rollin’ around in the backseat like a couple of horny teenagers. It was dark, but it was totally you two.”

“We were just fooling around,” Gene said as Judy turned red.

“Oh, please, you two were totally humpin.”

“I honestly, don’t remember, I had so much to drink that night.”

“Gene doesn’t suffer from whiskey dick,” Lauren said.

“And how would you know,” Judy asked giggling.

“You told me!”

They all died of laughter.

“Did we,” Gene genuinely asked her.

“Probably,” she said and changed the subject, “Richie, your turn.”

“Alright, Betty, Truth or Dare?”

“Let’s stick to truth.”

“Then let’s stick to keepin’ it dirty. Tell us a dirty little secret.”

Lauren thought a good moment before speaking up casually, “Van Johnson and I had a one night stand once.”

“Oh, I knew that,” Peter said taking a sip of his drink.

Judy and Gene turned to each other mouths both wide in complete shock as Van had been very good friends with them for years and he was notorious for spilling the beans about every nook and cranny in his life.

“When?!” June asked.

“You’re putting us on,” Gene said seriously.

“What about Evie and Humphrey?” Judy asked almost appalled as those two were the loves of their lives.

“Oh, please, this was a one-time thing before either of us were married.”

“Does Bogie know,” Frank asked.

“Yah. I don’t know about Evie. Don’t you go around with that either, Sinatra. Alright, Junie, Truth or Dare?”

“Truth.”

“Who in this room would you want to see naked the most? I actually want to know this one.”

June pointed to Peter with a bashful smile.

“I get double question,” Lauren made up, “Peter, I dare you to get in your birthday suit right now.”

A drunk Peter stood up and immediately took off his shirt revealing his surfer body, which he did often as a hobby. Everyone cheered and laughed but when he kicked off his shoes and started on his buckle, they realized he was really going to strip. When he got down to his skivvies, the girls were all shrieking and the men were cheering him on. When he yanked his boxer-briefs down, June and Judy both screamed and looked away. All the while, Lauren smiled and tapped her cigarette butts off.

Peter jumped onto the couch and started hugging on June who screamed with laughter and tried getting away, nearly climbing onto of Judy in the process. She kept her hand out to block her view and got up.

“Where you going, honey?” Gene asked roaring with laughter.

“Judes, where you going?” Peter asked getting off of June to go after her. “I’m done, I’m done!”

Peter covered himself and ran towards her. She screamed and bolted up the stairs losing a shoe in the process.

Shortly after, since it was still early for the night owls, they all gathered outside to the small fire pit in the backyard and sat around in folding chairs as music played over the portable speaker.

Gene stood at the edge of the lawn, watching the reflection of the moon on the lake in the distance, as he smoked a cigarette as the girls chatted on the other side of the fire pit.

Frank came up next to him and spoke with an sly voice, “I forgot to tell you, guess who I ran into the other day?”

“The last time you asked me that with that kind of tone, it had to do with that girlfriend of Ben Siegel,” Gene gave him a scheming look, “You know I’m not interested in anything to do with the mob.”

“Dalton Trumbo,” Frank said.

“Or that Hollywood Communist bullshit,” he added but remained in conversation since he had known Dalton from around MGM, “Is he out now?”

“Yep. He got out a few months ago.”

“How’s he doin’?”

“Happy to be back with Cleo and his kids.”

“I bet.”

“But he’s Blacklisted so who knows what he’s gonna do. Probably get into some B-movie studio if he remains in the business.”

“Too bad,” Gene said sincerely, “He’s damn good writer.”

An eruption of laughter from the three women got their attention and they turned around. Gene smiled when he saw Judy cracking up holding onto June’s hand as Betty was practically falling out of her chair.

“They’re a bunch of crazy gals,” Frank chuckled, “I’m glad you came. Betty said Judy might have to do some convincing.”

“It took me a moment to consider it. We’ve both been tired as hell from work and traveling.”

“Her European tour was a smash, I hear.”

“It was, man. She worked her ass off.”

“I wish I could have seen it, but I’m going to be there at the Palace for sure.”

“I’ve seen her work on camera, in the recording booth, on radio programs, but I have never witnessed her the way she was on stage. She’s got this magnetic hold on an audience. All she has to do is stand there and talk and they’re eating out the palm of her hands.”

“She’s like that when she performs live at Ciro’s or some other club.”

“Yeah, but this is different. A concert career was definitely the way to go after MGM booted her out. I thought she was at home doing what she was doing, but no. She really is her true self on stage.”

“She’s a vaudeville kid, it’s in her blood.”

“Yep.”

“Did everything run smoothly?”

“There were some hiccups, but with that one, things aren’t always going to run smoothly. That’s just Judy.”

“What, did you fly back and forth?”

“Yeah. I was there for her opening night at the Palladium and then her closing night, then flew over to Scotland with her to help her get settled in but left after her first night there. When her tour was over, she met up with me in France for a rest when I was finishing work on American in Paris. Liza was there with Vince so we all had a reunion.”

“What are you doing after this?”

“Singing in the Rain.”

“I heard about that. With Don.”

“Yeah, and this new girl Debbie Reynolds.”

“I met her, she’s a sweetie pie.”

“Green,” Gene said as he knew he was about to spend the whole movie teaching someone who wasn’t a dancer.

“So, are you going to be flying back and forth from New York then during this Palace run?”

“Unfortunately, but I’ll be there the first week. All the old gang is involved in preparation for it.”

“That place has become run down, I hope they’re renovating the hell out of it.”

“They are. It’s getting a whole makeover. Sol said it’s going to be ‘elegant as fuck’.”

“Whoever thought about putting Judy back on that Vaudeville stage is a genius.” Gene smiled, “Thank you.”

“You did? I thought her agent did.”

“No, he came up with the idea of a concert tour in Europe. When she got back, we both wanted her to continue here in the states. I’m not making this shit up - For Me and My Gal was playing on the Lux Radio Theater one day and I was listening to it and I thought, she should do that. She should really be Jo on stage at the Palace. Then a light bulb went off and I got on the phone right away.”

“You do remember what happens at the end of that movie, once they’re both on stage at the Palace,” Frank said grinning.

Gene chuckled nodding as he took another drag of his cigarette, “I’m planning on it, Buddy.”

Another eruption of laughter came from the girls and this time Judy was standing up, imitating someone, probably from the studio or from vaudeville, that she often did when she told stories. She was very good at storytelling and exaggeration.

“She seems so much happier since leaving Metro,” Frank quipped.

“It was a little daunting for her at first. As much as she wanted to be let go, it was all she knew really. She said to me, ‘I’ve been performing since I was 2, I’ve been working since 12, now I’m unemployed for the first time in my life. I don’t know what to do.’ I told her that she hadn’t had time off in like 16 years, to just enjoy it and be with Liza. But she got restless after a while and irritable and started getting depressed again, so I’m glad this concert thing happened. But I tell ya what, stress has been a major thing between us for a while.”

“It’s good you’re here then.”

Gene nodded, “It’s only been a day, but Judy out here, is a different person. I’m starting to feel that way myself.”

“Away from Hollywood, away from the bullshit back home.”

“Exactly. We should do this once a month” Gene said, “Fuck it, once a week.”

Frank laughed, “I think Lawford might frown upon that.”

Suddenly, a piercing scream came from Lauren and she knocked her chair over as she got up and ran.

“What?!” Peter shouted concerned as he came out the back door with a guitar. “Something just bit my ass!”

“Nothing bit your ass,” Frank said walking over.

“Through your shorts,” June asked.

“Let me see,” Rich said but Lauren pushed him away.

“Darling, it was probably just a mosquito,” Judy said trying not to laugh.

“Nope, I’m done. Goodnight ya’ll,” Lauren said waving as she walked towards the house leaving everyone laughing.

“Nothing is biting my ass,” Frank said as he followed Lauren.

Peter sat down on a chair, “Wuss’s. Alright, any requests?”

“Know any Ray Noble tune’s,” Richie asked.

“Very Thought of You,” Peter asked.

“The Very Thought of You,” Junie urged on.

On his guitar, by the fire, Peter started playing the 1934 jazz standard. June smiled and rest her chin on her husbands shoulder as her arms were wrapped around his arm. Gene motioned for Judy and she walked over to him. He immediately brought her against him and together they softly swayed to the romantic tune.

“I love you,” he whispered.

“How much,” she teased.

“I love you more than singing and dancing, I love you more than ping pong and pool, I love you more than Paris…I even love you more than sex.”

Judy let out an amused snort, “That’s contradicting.”

Serious this time, he pulled back to look at her, “I really do love you, more than you know.”

“I know,” she said tracing her finger along his jaw, “I love you, too…but not more than sex.”

Together they laughed and continued swaying.

The next morning, was a little after 9 and the Lawford house was still and quiet with the sounds of California birds happily chirping outside. In the semi-darkened living room, Gene and Judy were both curled up comfortably on the expensive pull-out couch. Gene was slightly hovered over her, softly applying butterfly kisses along her neck as his wrist moved ever-so-gently between her legs under the covers. Judy seemed asleep, but she was just relaxing to her man’s attention, a titillating alarm clock. Suddenly, they heard a door shut from upstairs and Gene stopped his caresses, rolling away from her so they wouldn’t be caught. “The hounds are waking up,” he said a little disappointed. “Why don’t you join me in the downstairs shower in a minute,” she whispered getting out of the bed and grabbing her robe then walked out with her small toiletries pouch Gene made up the bed, and put the mattress back in the couch, before he head downstairs. The shower was already on when he shut the door behind him. “Did you bring my shampoo, or do I have to use your flowery shit,” he said removing his pajamas. “I forgot, but Pete has some shampoo in here,” she said from the other side of the curtain. Gene examined his face in the mirror and ran his hand along his jaw, “Baby, should I shave or just wait until we get back home?” “Wait until after. I like you with a little 5 o’clock shadow.” “You like a little scruffiness, huh.” “Mm hm. Darling, can you grab my little loofa that’s in my bag?” “Only if I get to do your back,” he teased grabbing it. “I’d be insulted if you didn’t,” she said as he stepped into the shower with her. Shortly after, Lauren went down the stairs in her silk robe as Peter head up, “Morning.” “Morning, doll.” “If you want the bathroom down there, it’s occupied.” “Who’s in there?” “I saw Judy go in there. I think she’s in the shower.” “Oh, good, she won’t mind,” Lauren said as she kept down the stairs. In the bathroom, Gene spoke impatiently behind the curtain, “Come oooonnn.” “I told you, after I shampooooo,” she mimicked but then a few seconds later she started whining, “Honey, stop.” “You have about 1 minute until I start fucking you,” he chuckled. Suddenly she gasped and accidentally hit the shower curtain, “Don’t you dare tickle me,” a few seconds later she broke out in laughter, “Geneee.” “Shhh,” he laughed trying to keep their voices down, “Come here, sweetheart.” The room was silent for a moment when suddenly the door opened. “Judy, are you in here,” Lauren asked popping her head in. “Ah, y-yes,” Judy’s nervous voice answered. “Do you mind if I get ready in here while you shower? Richie’s taking forever. You know how well groomed that man is.” “We do mind,” Gene said peeking his head out from the curtain grinning naughtily. Lauren smiled flirtatiously, “Ooo, whatchu doin’ in there?” “Washing each other’s backs. You wanna join?” “Gene,” Judy shrieked embarrassed. “I’ll have to pass, darling,” Lauren casually commented. “Then get lost, would ya?” “Next time I would advise to lock the door, dear,” she said pushing the lock button in for them and then walked out shutting the door behind her. As Judy unsteadily grabbed the small bar in the shower, a shampoo bottle fell with a loud bang, but it didn’t startle either of them as they had sex for the first time in almost two weeks. Only the sound of the shower water erratically hitting the shower floor and their heavy breaths echoed throughout the bathroom. Gene couldn’t see her face, but the look of her knuckles turning white as she held onto the bar for dear life, and her body tightening around his cock, was sure signs she was close. They were both maintaining, but struggling, not to be vocal for neither wanted the gang to hear them.

Gene was struggling even more not to explode. Every vein in his body was popping, muscled strained, as he pumped in and out of her in long, hard strokes. He was about to release A LOT of stress. Gene took his hands off her hips and maneuvered he up so her back pressed against his chest. He placed his left on her breast and the other between her legs. The extra stimulation as her climax neared, made her drop her head and softly cry out in desperation. It was only a few more seconds when her body tensed. Gene quickly placed his hand over her mouth muffling her tiny scream as her eyes squeezed shut. He bit back his own pleasurable moans as his orgasm soon exploded into her warmth. He continued, growling from his chest, until they were both completely saturated. It was around 10:30 when everyone met up in the kitchen all dressed. Peter and June were making brunch for all of them as Lauren made her famous Bloody Marys. The early morning blue sky was now gray as it started raining. Judy and Gene walked in as the first clap of thunder from the distance rolled in which made Gene stop in his tracks.

“Oh, what the hell,” he said seeing it raining.

“My sentiments exactly,” Peter quipped, “I wanted to get right on the fucking boat after we ate.”

“Shush, it will stop,” June said nudging his arm as they continued with the breakfast.

Judy walked over to the counter and switched on the radio as Gene walked over to Lauren, “Your famous Bloody Mary’s.”

“Yes, sir. Would you like one?”

“Not right now, but thanks,” he declined. He and Judy both weren’t drinkers before dinnertime except on special occasions.

“How was your shower,” Lauren smiled.

Gene didn’t answer but he returned the smile. Judy glanced at them over her shoulder turning red but ignored Lauren’s gaze and walked around grabbing a grape from the fruit bowl. “Do you want one, baby, extra vodka,” Lauren asked her. “Yes, please,” She saw Gene’s surprised look, “I’m on vacation.”

Gene put his hands up as if not to argue with the lady.

“Where’s Francis?” Rich asked.

Peter pointed to the sunroom. Rich and Gene both looked into the sunroom and there was Frank, lounging on the couch swing, fast asleep with a newspaper on his chest.

“Should we dare?”

Gene smiled, “We dare.”

The men walked back into the kitchen and Rich picked up a thin slice of pastrami from June’s cutting board. He handed it to Gene to which Gene walked into the sun room quietly. Judy sipped her Bloody Mary but leaned to the side to see what they were up to.

Lauren walked over to the doorway not knowing Frank was asleep, “Frank, do you want a…”

The two men quickly shushed her. She saw Gene standing over him with the pastrami and she placed a hand on her hip giving the a mother’s look. Judy walked in the doorway to watch as well. Gene made a funny face, trying not to laugh, before he smacked the pastrami slice right on Frank’s face before practically hopping away.

Frank opened one eye confused but remained completely still. When he realized there was meat on his face, he shut his eye to go back to sleep. Meanwhile, Rich and Gene were cracking up and Judy was bent over laughing hysterically.

“I’m gonna pee my pants,” she was able to get out.

“What happened,” Junie asked intrigued.

“They threw something on Frank,” Peter answered.

Lauren walked into the sunroom and took the meat off his face, “Do you want a Bloody Mary?”

“Yeah,” he grumbled.

“Would you like me to roll this up and put it on the olive stick?” she smiled.

“You boys love pranking each other,” June giggled as they all started placing plates on the long table off the kitchen.

“Remember MPD,” Gene said.

“What’s MPD,” Lauren asked.

“Metro Prank Day. It was on the Friday before Halloween every year.”

“For the whole studio?”

“Most of us knew about it,” Gene said, “I think it started between Mickey Rooney and Jackie Cooper in 1940, right honey?”

“Ya, mm hm. Went on for 10 years until LB found out after that food fight in the commissary and put an end to it,” she giggled.

“I wish we could’ve seen it,” Gene added.

“I was there. It was nutso. To think a bunch of movie stars having a food fight,” June said recalling it.

“Not just movie stars, but grown ass adults,” Rich added who was also there that day.

“That was the same prank day that Gene put shaving cream in my heels,” Judy retorted with a raised eyebrow.

“He what?” Lauren asked shocked.

“Yeah,” Judy nodded, “We were doing Summer Stock and he put shaving cream in my heels that I was to wear on set.”

“She stepped right into those suckers, too,” Gene said laughing remembering.

“Tell them what I did to you that year.”

“She drew this big, Italian-cook style mustache on me with her eyeliner and big bushy eyebrows when I fell asleep between scenes.” Judy started laughing remembering and he continued, “I walked onto the scene like that until Charlie Walters said, ‘Gene, what the Sam hell is on your face?’”

Gene and Judy both cracked up.

“That prank day, I witnessed a different side of Judy,” Peter said.

Judy thought a moment before gasping, “Oh, when you were going to…”

“Oh, the water,” Gene cut in.

“What happened,” June asked.

“At the end of the day, I was going to throw a bucket of water on Judy and Gene as they were leaving, but she caught me and she was so angry. She called me a motherfucker.” They all laughed. “She practically pushed Gene down and ran away and said, ‘Get the hell away from me motherfucker.’”

“Baby, you’re turning red there,” Gene said Judy tried not to smile.

“Your heels with shaving cream was nothing, Judes,” Peter said, “How about getting chaffed by Phil Silvers?”

“Chaffed,” Lauren asked shocked.

Gene responded excitedly, “Oh, I remember that!”

“My god damn inner thighs were on fire. I had flamin’ thighs.”

Judy started cracking up.

“I have this distinct memory of you walking on the studio lot the next day and you had these big over-sized pants on and you kind of just waddled in like you just got off a horse,” Gene said as they all laughed.

“You were going, ‘Oh, my legs, my legs,’ You had baby powder and lotion…”

Judy nearly spit out her drink laughing, “I remember the sensitive skin lotion he had to moisturize.”

“Did you learn some stuff from that,” Lauren quipped naughty.

They finished setting the table and Frank walked in, “Here it comes.”

“What?”

“Listen.”

They all were quiet a moment when all of a sudden the roof was pounded with a downpour.

Gene groaned with sincere annoyance, “I didn’t come all the way out here to spend my vacation in a monsoon.”

“Like I control the weather,” Peter said.

“There goes your golfing today,” Gene said to Judy as if he wanted to get her as annoyed as he was.

“Oh, stop whining,” she said.

“Someone’s being grumpy,” Junie said.

“I’m surprised you’re so grumpy after your shower session this morning.”

Gene looked at Lauren with wide eyes as Lauren was usually not one to kiss and tell in regards to others.

“Would you shut up,” Judy whispered embarrassed. When Lauren gave her a sorry look Judy giggled, “Jesus.”

Suddenly, they heard the front door shut.

“Expecting someone?”

“No,” Peter said baffled as he left the room.

“Here,” Judy said as she shoved a small, rolled up piece of meat towards Gene’s mouth.

He quickly made a ‘gross’ face and leaned away, “What is it?”

“Here, just take a bite.”

“No,” he said swatting her hand away.

“It’s only prosciutto and feta cheese,” she said.

“I don’t like ham, babe,” Gene said.

“It doesn’t taste like American ham. Here,” Judy said and shoved the bite size piece into his mouth.

“Shh,” Lauren suddenly said.

“What?”

They were quiet and suddenly heard a familiar women’s cackle from the other room getting closer.

“Oh, you’re kidding,” Frank said surprised as he bolted out of the room.

Judy looked at Lauren displeased, “I thought you said she wasn’t coming.”

“He said she wasn’t.”

“Who,” Gene asked.

“Ava,” Judy answered. Then she and Gene shared the same understanding look as they sat down next to each other at the table.

Peter entered the room followed by Frank who had his fiancé, Ava Gardner, on his arm. Everyone gave her a hug and warm greeting except for Gene and Judy who remained seated. As the rest seated, Ava touched Gene’s arm with a friendly smile, “Hey there.”

“Hi,” he said friendly back but didn’t return the smile.

“Hi, Judy.”

Judy forced a bit of a smile ignoring the other woman’s eyes as she purposefully reached for the fruit bowl.

“I’m glad you were able to make it, honey,” Frank said.

“Me, too. I have to be back on Tuesday, but at least I have a few days off. Thought I’d surprise you. What a lovely spread,” she said as they all started eating.

They all started chit-chatting and when there was a lull in the conversation, June spoke up, “Was it raining the whole way?”

“No, but it started to downpour when I got into town. Has it been raining here since you all came?”

“No, just started,” Pete said.

“Hopefully it stops soon so you can join in on the fun,” Rich said.

“I know how tight-knit the group is. I’m grateful to be a part of it. I’m glad you’re all happy to see me,” Ava’s eyes darted to Judy and Gene as they remained to themselves, “Well, all except you...” she looked at Gene then to Judy with a giggle, “And you.”

Ava said it as if to maybe have the couple immediately respond with, ‘No, of course we’re happy to see you,’ but all of a sudden, the air was thick with tension and everyone continued to eat in silence for a moment.

“So, Judy, how was your concert tour in Europe?”

Judy placed her elbows on the table and rest her chin on her hands, her eyes piercing. When she didn’t answer, Ava repeated the question getting irritated herself. She looked at Gene as if you had to get through him first before Judy, “Gene, how was her concert tour in Europe?”

He wiped his mouth with his napkin, “It was a big success.”

“Why do you care,” Judy tilted her head at the woman inquisitively.

They all looked at Judy surprised at her catty tone.

“Because I’m your friend,” Ava said a little baffled.

“As far as I’m concerned, friends do not betray one another.”

“How on earth have I ‘betrayed’ you? I haven’t even seen you since before you left for London and that was what, February?”

“Here we go,” Peter said leaning towards Lauren, as they were well aware of the situation.

“When we were all out at Mocambo for Elizabeth’s birthday, I specifically asked everyone in our group, including you, to not mention my divorce. And every one, but you and David Selznick, respected that. We had press surrounding us that night. I was being asked nonstop about it and I ignored the subject out of respect for my husband and my daughter. I expected my friends to do the same.”

“I was listening to Dave go on about it. I didn’t say anything,” Ava responded matter-of-factly.

“But you're my friend, as my friend, you’re not supposed to just ‘listen’. You do what everyone else did when they were asked about it: you ignore it. You could have said, ‘Now is not the right time, David.’”

“I am going to listen because he’s also my friend. I am not a rude person to tell him to put a sock in it. What did you want me to do?”

“Frank declined to comment when Louella asked him about us,” Judy said trying to get her point across.

Gene chimed in, “Lauren, when you were at lunch with Hedda, what did you do when she started talking about her divorce?”

“I shut her up real quick,” Lauren said nodding.

“Judy, I was not speaking about it, he was.”

“You allowed it to be talked about and you knew reporters were around us. I’ve not spoken to David since that night when Dorothy Kilgallen came up to me and told me what he was saying. But, he was LB Mayer’s son-in-law so I expect that from him.”

“That was 6 months ago. I’m sorry if I offended you in anyway, but it’s over with now. Your divorce is done, you’re living with Gene, can’t you just forget about it?”

“If you were just anybody, then I would forget about it. I’m still upset about it because you’re planning on marrying one of my best friends which means we’re going to be together a lot. When we were filming Girl, Crazy, people were asking me nearly every day about your split from Mickey and I told them it was none of our business. You weren’t even my friend then, but Mickey was, so I respected your private life.”

“I do appreciate that. But can I say one thing? Why didn't you just say something to the press about your divorce? Maybe then they would've left you alone. They're still writing about how you and Gene broke up the 'finest marriage of MGM'.”

Gene exhaled through his nose and pushed back against the table with his hands trying not to respond. Judy tapped him on the leg as if telling him to just ignore it.

“I told you, I respect my child and I respect Vince. Respect, and pleading the fifth to the press is the right way to get a divorce,” she pointed sternly at Frank, “And you listen up as well mister, do you hear me?”

“Listen up,” he asked as he didn’t want to get involved in the argument between his best girlfriend and his fiancé.

“You have been going around the columnists bragging about Ava. How do you think Nancy feels?”

“I don’t brag. I own my shit. And Nancy hasn’t been showing me respect.”

“Gee,” she said with her best, sarcastic, actress voice, “I wonder why.”

Gene looked over at her with wide eyes not expecting that from her especially to Frank.

“Judes,” Frank said a little shocked at her behavior.

Ava leaned forward on her forearms as if challenging Judy, “You’re really sitting there, talking to us about our affair, when you cheated on both of your husband’s with Gene here, and God knows who else…” she trailed off.

Judy looked at Gene with a serious, but sly expression, who gave her the same look back. The couple never discussed, or explained, their private life in regards to their affair at MGM except with the very few who had known about it since the start which were only Dottie, Kay Thompson and Frank. And to this day, none of the trio had spoken to anyone else about it. Everyone sitting at the table, right now, didn’t even know the entire backstory. They found out like everyone else - when Judy and Gene came out publicly with their relationship in September of 1950 after Judy was fired from MGM and each were legally separated from their spouses.

Judy was about to speak when Gene placed his hand on her leg and squeezed it. He didn't want to make her explain anything and put her vulnerability out there, so he took the bait instead.

“I understand what you’re getting at, Ava, and although some of the circumstances are relevant, there is no comparison.”

“Oh, really,” she asked sarcastically.

“Really,” he said getting angry, “I never say nothin’ to nobody regarding my personal life, but the fact that you, and everyone else, assumes our relationship is what broke up her marriage to Vince is why I’m gonna say somethin’ now…”

“Gene,” Judy said uncomfortable.

He ignored her, “Now listen up…every one of you fuckers here at this table…”

“Darling,” Judy said embarrassed.

“No, Judy. I’m tired of everyone assuming things. We’re finally free to be together, why not just tell them? These are our friends,” he said and all she could do was just give a willful nod. “Judy and I have heard the rumors, like all of you have heard, but we usually laugh because we don’t give a shit what people think because we know the truth. But you’re our friends and we love you so here’s our truth. We’ve been hearing that people are saying we started an affair during Summer Stock and that’s what broke up Judy’s marriage which is probably the funniest rumor of them all. We actually started going together during our first picture together, almost 10 years ago, when Judy was still married to Rose. Our relationship…you see how I say ‘relationship’ and not ‘affair’,” he said eyeing in on Ava to prove his point, “…was on and off for all those years. Yes, it was extramarital, and yes, we were involved with other lovers throughout that time, but together, we weren’t just ‘fucking’. We were best friends, equals, soul mates. I know I sound like a sap, but it’s true. We fell in-love, but timing was never right, but that’s not relevant. During our last picture, things got very serious between us as I was separated from my wife and Judy was estranged from Vince. Betsy and Vince both knew we were together at that time. Up until then, we had kept it a secret all those years, except for Frank here…”

They all looked at Frank shocked and he smiled, “I’m a good friend, what can I say.”

Gene continued, “Our ‘good ol’ buddy Selznik’ that we’ve talked about said to me that night at Liz’ party, ‘Judy cheated on her first husband with you, her second husband with you, she’ll cheat on you, too.’ I said, ‘How can she cheat on me with me?’”

Judy looked at him surprised, “You never told me that.”

“We’re not proud of what we’ve done during our marriages, and I know Judy often feels guilt-ridden, but we both believe everything happens for a reason. I’ve known this girl since she was eighteen. I’m in it for the long run,” he looked at Ava, “This ain’t no ‘fuck em’ and leave em’ Hollywood story that you think, dear.”

Lauren made a ‘Ooo’ smile as June got Judy’s attention and mouthed ‘marry him’ to her. Judy gave her an appreciative look, but the subject had been all too heavy for a smile.

“There is no comparison with us related to you two,” Judy added calmly.

“Maybe not in that way, but Frank and I fell in-love, too, and let’s face it, I bet everyone of us at this table hasn’t always been monogamous,” Ava added.

Frank chimed in to Judy, “Baby, stop being so protective. I know you mean well, and I adore you for it, but I’m a big boy, I can take care of myself. And I do love her, ya know.”

“I just don’t want to see another one of my good friends get hurt by her again. First Mickey, then Artie, now you.”

“Just so you now, Mickey cheated first, and from what I heard was even porking some chorus girl when I was in the hospital for a appendectomy. And Artie was the biggest fucking bully out there. I don’t think this is really about me and Frank. I think it’s about you.”

“I beg your pardon?”

“You’re just jealous Mickey, Frank and Artie all preferred me and Lana over you.”

Gene’s mouth opened and he immediately took Judy’s arm afraid she might throw her drink in the other woman’s face starting a brawl. Instead, Judy whipped her arm away, and scooted her chair back with a screech, before walking out of the room. Gene sighed heavily before he got up to follow her out.

“What, no retaliation back from Mr. Mayer’s precious Dorothy,” Ava said sarcastically.

Suddenly, Gene turned on his heels and shouted, “Hey!” Some of them jumped, including Ava, who turned to look at him and his eyes were looking straight at her, “Don’t call her that. You have no idea what that girl’s been through.” Without another word, he left the room.

“It’s called ‘having class’, darling,” Lauren said as she lit a cigarette.

Frank sighed and leaned into Ava, “You know her history with the Artie shit. Did you have to hit so low under the belt?”

“She started attacking me, first. What did you want me to do?”

Frank looked at the others and shrugged having to agree with her, “I mean, she has a point.”

“What shocks me the most is that Judy is not a confrontational person…” Lauren said.

“At all,” Peter added taking another bite of his food.

“At all,” Lauren repeated then continued sincerely, “And she never gets involved in the subject of others’ relationships. So, imagine what she was feeling for her actually speak up the way she did just now.”

“It wasn’t an attack. I think she just felt betrayed by you, as her friend, for not defending her to David with the divorce thing and now she sees you about to marry someone that’s like a brother to her. She wanted to get things off her chest. She’s being protective is all, just like Frank said,” Junie added.

“I can’t believe they been together since My Gal. Do you know how many times I worked with them during that time,” Rich said amused.

“Ava, look,” Lauren said, “Judy may be little, but she’s a feisty, son-of-a-bitch who will not let you forget it. She has two sides…she’s either the funniest, life of the party dame you will ever be with or, what she calls herself, ‘the Black Irish Witch.’”

“One time I said something shitty about Fred Finklehoffe in front of her. She stared at me with this dark look, I nearly pissed myself,” Peter said.

“I can attest to that. She can make you so scared your balls r’ touchin’ the back of your shorts,” Frank said to Peter.

“If you want to be her friend, do not get on her bad side. I would swallow it and just apologize,” Lauren urged.

Gene walked around the house looking for Judy but didn’t find her so he made his way to the back of the house when he heard a small noise coming from another room. “Hun?” “I’m in here,” he heard her voice say and he walked into the office library. Judy was standing facing one of the book shelves, her hands on her elbows as her eyes gazed upon the literature curiously. “You, ok?”

“Yah,” she said and reached for a photo album that caught her eye. Gene sat on the arm of the leather love seat, “Liar.”

Judy looked at him and her face was completely neutral, “I am. I just needed to…remove myself from the situation.”

“Before…” he asked smiling cheekily.

She raised her eye brow warningly, “Before I did something I’d regret.”

“That’s why I grabbed your arm. She ain’t worth it.”

“I know. It doesn’t matter anymore. I just needed a moment,” she said sitting down next to him with the photo album labeled ‘MGM’ in her lap.

“What she said to you was low. She had some hellava nerve.”

Judy let out a long sigh and opened the album, “Let’s just drop it.”

“Well, at least you were able to say everything you’ve been thinking’.”

“I prefer not to have conversations like that.”

“I know you don’t, baby, but doesn’t it feel a little better to get it off your chest?”

“Does it feel better after telling everyone our whole story,” she said back in a bit of a bitchy tone.

“Well, one, it was the synopsis version. The actual details are no one’s business. And two, yes, it does feel better. I know we’re private about it, but like I said, I was sick of everyone assuming. Doesn’t it make you feel better that our best friends know the truth instead of them also assuming from what they hear around the lot?”

Judy had to agree as she looked at the photographs, “Yes. All of this just makes me uncomfortable.”

“Me, too,” he said reaching over and leaving a kiss on top her head.

“Oh my gosh, darling, look,” Judy giggled and pointed to a photo of them.

It was them on the Easter Parade set. He was standing with his crutches watching as Judy was filming her ‘Mr. Monotony’ scene.

“That’s always gonna be my one regret,” he said shaking his head, “Breaking that damn ankle and not working on that picture.”

“Me, too, but at least you helped get the next best thing for me,” she said pinching his cheek referring to Fred Astaire coming out of retirement to work with her.

“I’m still a little miffed they cut this scene. I really liked it.”

“It was a little sexy.”

“Probably why they cut it,” she joked.

“If that’s true, they should’ve just thrown away Pirate, hm?”

“Well, they did get rid of that Voodoo number,” she quipped.

“Now, that was sexy,” he said his eyebrows rising intrigued, “I had to rub one out after that scene.”

“Gene,” she laughed shocked.

They commented on other photos of their Metro peers when coming up on another one of them. It was Gene and Judy laughing as he gave her a piggy back ride down the studio lot in their ‘Ballin’ the Jack’ costumes from their first picture. Judy placed a finger on it and they were both quiet a moment sharing silent memories during that time.

“Man, I didn’t know shit back then,” he murmured.

Judy leaned into Gene in awe, “Look at them.”

“We were so cute.”

“I remember that day,” she said softly.

“So do I. I remember every single day during that time,” he said with a bittersweet tone but then his expression changed a bit naughty, “We had a lot of fun.”

Judy giggled, “Yes, we did.”

They leaned in for a kiss and he replied, “Seeing this photograph of us, no one would ever know what we were going through behind the scenes…how unhappy we were in our personal lives.”

“The only time I actually really enjoyed coming to the studio was when I knew I would be working with you.”

“That’s why I agreed to Summer Stock, sweetheart,” he said patting her leg.

“I’m so grateful you were part of my last movie there,” she said a little emotional.

“Yep, and a successful one at that. But now, onward and upward, baby. Your Europe tour was a hit but your Palace run is gonna lead to a whole other career for you.”

“You really think so?”

“I do..”

“I just want it to be fucking fantastic,” she said with great efficacy.

“It’s gonna be huge, you can bet on it.”

“I’m still so damn nervous, Gene.”

“You have rehearsals coming up soon. And you have the best of the best putting it together with you. You’ll be just fine. Plus, I’ll be there in the wings, opening night, so there’s nothing to be nervous about.”

“You promise,” she said grabbing his hand.

“I promise.”

“No matter what?”

“No matter what. I never want to let you down, Judy.”

She smiled before engulfing him in a hug.

That afternoon, the storm cleared and it was nothing but sunshine and blue sky with a perfect Summer temp in the upper 80’s. The whole clan piled onto Lawford’s large speed boat in their sunbathing clothes and swim wear.

Peter drove the boat around Lake Camille, but after 20 minutes, stopped in a good area so they could float. Surprisingly, the lake wasn’t busy. Just a few other boats were scattered around.

In the back of the boat, Judy, in a plunging, black one-piece suit, with a skirt wrapped around her waist, and Lauren, in a white, high-waisted bikini, were sunbathing against the back cushions in relaxing in silence as the radio played some slow jazz tunes.

Lauren looked over at Judy and lowered her sunglasses, “What’s with this music?”

“I was just going to say that. We’re on a boat having fun and he’s playing some sad music.”

“Yeah, why is he playing sad shit? I’ll go tell him to change it. He’s playing some mellow stuff. We need to get boppin’,” Lauren said as she got up.

Lauren passed Ava who came walking up with a daiquiri in her hand. Judy pretended not to pay attention as Ava cautiously sat next to her. They were both silent, but Judy could sense the other woman wanted to talk so she looked over at her. When she did, Ava gently smiled. “I’m sorry.”

Judy took off her sunglasses and placed them on top her hair that was pulled into a French twist, “I’m not usually like that. I hope you understand why I confronted you about it.”

“I do sympathize, but I want you to know, I never did anything purposefully to hurt you.”

“Except for the comment about the boys.”

“That I am truly sorry for. It was beneath me. I was just retaliating because I felt like I was being attacked.”

“I never, ever want anyone to feel attacked by me, because I know what it feels like, so for that I’m also truly sorry. All of it is just a very sensitive subject.”

“I do know you were just being protective of Frank, too. But believe me, Judy, I really do love him. And he loves me.”

Judy softly smiled, “Who am I to get in the way of love then.”

“I know we won’t always see eye-to-eye, but can we just agree to disagree?” “Of course,” Judy said sincerely.

Frank got Ava’s attention and she excused herself but Junie came bouncing over to Judy.

“Why are you over here all by yourself?”

“Just relaxing. I’ll join the party soon.”

All of a sudden, a small paper plane fell onto Judy’s lap startling her a second. “What the heck,” Junie said.

Both the ladies looked up, and on the small second tier of the boat where the captain seat was, they saw Gene, clad only in his swim trunk and sunglasses. He was looking up whistling trying to be inconspicuous.

“Dang, he’s got good aim.”

“He does have great coordination. He’s great at all sports. My paper plane would’ve landed in the water.”

Judy looked at it, and it said ‘open me’ on the wing. She opened it and it simply said 'I love you' in Gene’s unmistakable handwriting. June leaned over to look and immediately made an ‘awe’ face.

Judy smiled and fold the paper back up before looking back at up at him. This time he was looking at her smiling. She gave an air smooch to him and he winked before turning back to Pete. The music suddenly changed to more of an upbeat and Lauren gave Judy a thumbs up.

“He is just so sweet,” June commented.

“He is a darling.”

“Handsome,” she said raising her eyebrows provocatively.

“He’s dreamy,” Judy agreed, “After knowing him for 10 years, I still get butterflies when he looks at me a certain way. And I can still get emotional when he does cute things like that. I just hope Liza finds someone like that. How did I get so lucky, you know?”

“That’s how I feel about Richie. We all have to go through the trial and error of frogs, before the right Prince Charming, honey.”

“Funny…I always think they’re Prince Charming in the beginning.”

“We all do. But this one is it, isn’t it?”

Judy nodded, “Yes.”

“And now you both don’t have to sneak around. I think it’s absolutely delicious that you two have been a thing all this time. Was it the dancing that attracted you to him? ‘Cause let me tell you – watching him dance on screen is a major turn on.”

Judy laughed, “You’re terrible. No, it was his smile..and his arms.” Both ladies laughed.

“And now you have the whole package.”

“I know. He takes care of me. And more important, he’s a nice fella. He brings me my tea when I wake up, when he’s at work he’ll call me and make sure I’m okay. He helps me with my career. He does anything for me.”

“He’s head over heels for you, too."

“You think that, really?” Judy asked honestly.

“Of course. You can just see it the way he looks at you. Do you not see that?”

“I’m afraid I suffer from a bit of self-doubt, darling.

A lot of people knew this about Judy, especially June, who then took Judy's hand in hers, "Judy, the way I see it – look how long it took for you two to finally be together. Knowing Gene as I do, I’m pretty sure he wouldn’t have bought a house with you if you if he weren’t 100% sure of your relationship. Look how long it took him finally get out of his unhappy marriage. He's a very thorough person."

“That’s true. He never makes life decisions on a whim.”

“You better marry him.”

“Oh, I plan to. But not for a little while.”

“Have you talked about it?”

“Not really. It’s something we know will happen but we never officially discussed it.”

“Do you think he will propose soon?”

“Maybe. Maybe when his next picture is over and I’m done with Palace. I know he’d want to get married once we can have some time off.” Judy’s eyes darted up where Gene was, “But I'd marry him right now on the spot if there was a judge and marriage license."

A few hours later, after they came back to shore, everyone went for a swim before retreating back to the house and lolled around. The sun was setting as everyone remained outside but Judy and Lauren hung out inside listening to music in the living room fresh-faced, clad already in their pajamas. Both were enjoying a glass of wine. The radio started playing Doris Day’s ‘Tea for Two’.

“Oh, I loved this movie,” Judy quipped.

“She is probably the most genuine girl out there. Have you met her?”

Judy nodded, “I seen her around town, but I was able to officially meet her a few years ago at a premiere of a film she made with my friend Jack Carson.”

“Oh, you know, Jack?”

“We worked the Vaudeville circuit together when we were kids.”

Gene walked in and looked a little surprised seeing the ladies ready for bed, “Are we having a slumber party?”

“We’re pooped out from the sun,” Lauren said.

“Wanted to get comfy,” Judy added.

Peter walked into the room, inhaling from a joint, then casually handed it to Lauren who took a hit. She then handed it towards Judy.

“The last time I had marijuana was when I was still married to Dave and I fell straight on my face.”

Lauren handed it to Gene who took a hit. When Judy saw this, she thought, ‘What the hell.’ It might relax her. And she ushered Gene over. The four sat around for a little bit, chatting and passing it around, listening to music. Alright folks, now here’s a an oldie but a goodie by America’s past-time sweethearts Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland. The song was requested by little Shirley Mae as it’s her 10th birthday today. Happy Birthday, Shirley and enjoy your song.

Suddenly, Judy and Mickey’s ‘Good Mornin’’ started and everyone smiled as they looked at Judy. They assumed she would tell them to change the channel but instead she got up and started singing with her younger self. Gene laughed knowing it was the weed. Frank walked into the room and immediately joined in singing Mickey’s part. They put on a show as the others watched delighted.

When it was over, Judy laughed and hugged her friend, “That was fun.”

“Where is everyone else,” Gene asked.

“They went for a walk,” Frank replied.

As the three started a conversation, Judy mindlessly walked over by the piano in the corner and ran her finger over a few keys as if concentrating on which to play. She hummed and then played a few keys as if trying to get it right.

“More than you…” she sang before humming it again and played some keys.

Lauren noticed and walked over, “What’re you trying to play.”

“More Than You Know. Song’s been in my head.”

“I know it. How about this? I’ll play it, you sing it,” Lauren said sitting down on the bench.

“Alright,” Judy said and sat down next to Lauren.

Lauren started playing and then Judy started singing the intro verse of the song, very softly, as if it were background music in a restaurant with everyone else chatting. But quickly the men all came to a hush as they watched.

More than you know More than you know Man of my heart I love you so Lately, I find You’re on my mind More than you know…

Gene watched her intently as her voice, always seductive but sweet, hummed around the room straight into his soul. Her bare face looked fresh, her skin had a glow from the sun and her hair was forming curls still damp from the water. Usually she sang around the piano like this at parties, looking like the starlet she was, with her black lashes, red lips and party dress. That was Judy Garland. Right now, she was Frances Gumm.

“I’m going to marry that girl,” Gene softly said.

Frank didn’t know if Gene had murmured that to him, or to himself, but he replied, “She needs someone like you.”

Judy’s eyes looked into her love’s, a hint of a smile on her lips as she sang the lyrics. Gene looked back, a twinkle in his eye.

The next morning, Judy stood on the back porch with a cup of tea in her hands, her long, black, silk robe blowing in the breeze. Everyone was still asleep and the sun was bright orange rising along up in the dawn sky, along the lake front. The early morning birds were chirping and the water was still. It was all so peaceful, it felt like Judy’s mind, at the moment, didn’t have one ounce of anxiety, which is what occasionally plagued her throughout the day.

“What are you doing up?”

Judy turned as Gene stood in the doorway. He still wore his gray t-shirt, navy pajama pants and his hair was messy.

“I woke up and couldn’t fall back to sleep.”

Gene walked out and gave her a peck on the lips, “Good morning.”

“Morning.”

He rubbed her back as he looked at the scenery before him.

“Isn’t it pretty?”

“It’s very nice.”

He looked over watching as her face was probably the most relaxed he had seen it in a long time and he bit his bottom lip with an idea.

“Come walk with me.”

“What do you mean?”

“Just down there.”

“Right now?”

“Yeah.”

“Well,” she hesitated and giggled, “Honey, it’s so early and I don’t feel like dressing yet.”

“We don’t have to dress. It’s just a morning walk on the beach. No one’s out here. Here, let me take that, I’ll be right back. Stay there.”

She watched a little surprised as Gene darted inside to put her cup of tea in the kitchen and was gone not 30 seconds before he popped back out and took her hand. Together, they walked down the steps and to the beach just below the house. Barefoot, they held hands and walked slowly along the front in silence for a minute just enjoying the calm of the early morning and of each other.

“See, isn’t this nice.”

“Yes,” she said laying her head on his shoulder a moment, “Although I feel silly walking out here in our pajamas.”

“You love the spontaneity.”

“I do,” she giggled.

As they walked some more, Gene released her hand, but kept a hand on her back for a little as they walked. Subtly, he took his hand off her back and slowed his steps as she continued walking not noticing that he stopped. “Darling, do you think one day we could get a vacation spot out here?” When she didn’t get a response, and noticed he wasn’t next to her anymore, she furrowed her eye brows, “Gene?”

Judy turned around and let out a gasp. She placed her hands over her mouth as Gene was six steps behind her, on his knee, with a velvet ring box in his hand.

When the first initial shock of seeing him faded away, Judy laughed delighted, “What?!”

Gene smiled as she rushed up to him. She placed her hands on his shoulders and spoke almost with a hush tone, “What are you doing?”

His smile faded and he spoke with a very loving but serious tone, “Judy…”

Judy let out a whimpered cry as she placed her hands back on her mouth. She looked away a moment, shaking her head, in disbelief that it was finally happening.

“Sweetheart, come here,” he said reaching for her hand.

She gave her hand to him and she fell to her knees in font of him to be equal, “You’re crazy,” she laughed through her tears. Gene laughed with her and she continued, “Where did you get that?”

She looked at the closed ring box. He head barely left her sight for a moment since they’d been here. She had so many questions.

“I’ve had it for a while. Do you want to see it?” She nodded but he continued, “I have to say something first,” he took both her hands in his and they sank down sitting on the back of their heels in the sand, “I know that you’ve been expecting this since we moved in together. And I know you wanted to marry me after you divorced David. At that time, I couldn’t. You understand why, don’t you?”

Judy gave one simple nod, knowing he wasn’t ready to leave his wife and daughter for their fresh, extramarital relationship back then.

“So, I know you’re going to say ‘yes’. But, I need you to know this…” he saw her take a breath in as her eyes continued welling up with tears and he tried to swallow his one, “You always tell people that I’m different because ever since we met, I’ve seen you as a person, as an equal. And that’s 100% true. And I know you hate it when people only see you as a voice, or as a movie star or a celebrity. But, marrying you means that I’m also marrying that voice, that movie star and that celebrity. I’m marrying Frances Gumm and Judy Garland. I want both of us to understand that.”

“Like Eugene Curran and Gene Kelly,” Judy said joking, trying to make light of the situation which she often did when things got a little too heavy even if it was a good situation.

“Exactly.”

“Did you plan this?”

“Not at all, sweetheart. I was going to propose on the opening of The Palladium, but everything was amazing and just too much. I didn’t want to take away from what you were experiencing then. And I wanted to wait until the Palace, but…I don’t know. It just seems like the right time. I can’t wait.”

Judy giggled and wiped a tear away, “It’s very romantic.”

He became serious again, “I love you, Judy. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I want us to help each other and grow together and get through whatever life throws at us, together. You’re it for me, baby. You have been for a long time. I just…” he paused and looked down clenching his jaw getting emotional.

Judy tapped him under the chin, “You’re an honest man, I know that. You had a wife and new baby. Because of your decision to stay with your family, I ended up having Liza. Glass half full, darling.”

“I know we both haven’t had a good track record in the relationship department, but I think now we’ve finally got it right….” he said sincerely and suddenly Judy got a split image of her father in her mind and she started crying knowing he was right, this marriage would be it for them.

“Judy…” Gene opened the ring box showing a beautiful, vintage large diamond ring and she laughed and gently pushed on his arm still not believing this was happening.

“This is crazy…” she interrupted.

“Will you marry me?”

She smiled and nodded, more tears falling as he placed the ring on her left hand. They kissed passionately before she jumped in his arms excited nearly toppling over into the sand.

“WHAT’S GOING ON?!”

They looked up and on the porch saw June standing there confused. Judy stood up and lifted her left hand yelling, “WE’RE GETTING MARRIED!”

June jumped and “WOOOO!!!!” before she ran inside to wake up and tell everyone. Gene and Judy both laughed. Gene pulled her back to him and cradled her face in his hand.

“I love you, more than you know.”

#jugenea #judy garland #gene kelly #fan fiction #jg fans

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