?I swear to you Koala Boy Bear is fine. He?s wrapped in a box and under my tree,? Bobby explained to his new fiancé as they climbed out of his car.
?But he can?t breathe!?
?I even put air holes in the box,? he assured her. Taking her hand in his, they climbed the stairs to his apartment. After they picked up a few gifts at his place, including the wrapped stuffed koala which Bobby had kidnapped during his advent calendar surprise of the 12 days of Christmas, they planned to head over to her place and prepare a traditional Christmas dinner.
?But why did you wrap him?? Tara asked when they stopped in front of Bobby?s door.
?It was part of how I was going to ask you to marry me, luv.? Bobby?s keys jangled as he inserted them in the lock. To his surprise, the door gave way on its own. Instinctively, he pushed Tara to the side and shielded her. ?I know I locked this door,? he whispered. ?Stay here while I check it out.?
?Like that?s going to happen,? she hissed, drawing her weapon. ?Does the term back-up ring any bells??
Weapon ready, Bobby pushed the door open with his foot and stepped inside. Tara followed. Surveying the room, she saw upset tables, drawers emptied, and items scattered. Carefully, they searched all the rooms and found no one.
?So, do we call DCPD or the FBI?? Bobby asked.
?Anything missing?? Tara wondered aloud.
Quickly, Bobby assessed what few valuables he had in the apartment. All could be accounted for. He headed for the bedroom to check on the whereabouts of his extra service weapon.
Just as he located the empty drawer where the gun was kept, Tara?s scream from the living room had him racing to her side…
