Part 423: The Concert

November 14th 2009

Eddie drove into the downtown night of Los Angeles. Bonnie was at his side and he could barely contain himself. To the best of her impression, they were going toward the Crown Plaza theater for an all night horror movie fest. Luckily the more that he visited, the more Eddie managed to gain her mother’s trust. The handy cell phone was indeed handy to remain. Tonight, he was going to need that trust; because he planned to keep Bonnie for a while. Especially where they were going.

Bonnie smiled because she was looking forward to the movie feast. She didn’t like horror movies per say but she enjoyed hiding her face in Eddie’s chest because it gave them an excuse to cuddle. Then she blinked when she saw the Crown Plaza coming up and then they promptly past it. “Uh . .Eddie?” she pointed.

“Yeah, babe?” he said, trying not to laugh.

“You missed the Theater.” She pointed.

“I know.” He said, trying not to laugh.

“But I thought . . .I thought you wanted to see the horror movie fest?”

“I do but I decided . . . a better venue for us to attend.”

“A better venue?” she said with a smirk and a raised eyebrow, “What better venue?”

Eddie continued to keep his eyes on the road and calmly scratched the left side of his forehead. “Municipal.” He whispered.

Bonnie looked at him. She then looked at the road. She knew what Municipal was. It was an arena mostly had either soccer, motorcross or concerts. Bonnie’s head started to pound slightly. She knew what Municipal was and she knew full well who was playing there tonight. She then cupped her hands over her mouth. “MMMMMMMMMM!!!!!” she said in a muffled screamed.

Eddie smiled, and calmly reached into the inner pocket of his jacket. He then calmly pulled out two tickets to the Turboshaft concert. “MMMMMEEEEMMMMMMM!!!!” she said in a muffled scream again.

Then she quickly reached over, wrapped her arms around Eddie’s neck and proceeded to bombard him with a fury of kisses. The young man chuckled a bit as he did his best to keep his car in the lane. “Iloveyou,Iloveyou,Iloveyou,Iloveyou,Iloveyou, Iloveyou,” Bonnie whispered in rapid fire sentences.

He chuckled a little bit, and kissed her back. She then took the tickets, held onto them, smiled brightly and quickly stomped her feet on the floorboard. Eddie smiled at her excitement. It was what he was waiting all week to see. And the night was only going to get better from that point on.


Eddie found a suitable spot for Turk in the Municipal parking lot. The young couple got out of the vehicle and began to make their way toward the huge arena. Groups of young kids their age were also making their way toward the area. A few courtesy shuttle carts were driving by. Eddie flagged on down, then he and Bonnie jumped on the back. This way they wouldn’t have to walk the distance to the entrance. The redhead by his side, held onto his arm as they rode the distance of the parking lot.

They then arrived and got out. Bonnie kept making giggling sounds as she could barely contain her excitement. Crowds of people were beginning to flock toward the entrance. Eddie held onto his girlfriend as they proceeded forward. They arrived at the ticket taker and gave them their tickets. Eddie gave them to Bonnie and motioned her to go through the gate. They continued to walk a little bit until the redhead girl began to slow down. She couldn’t take her eyes off the tickets. “Uh, Eddie,” she said, getting his attention, “I think there is a mistake.”

“What’s wrong?” he said, looking at the tickets.

“These are for upper balcony, first row.”

“No,” he chuckled, sheepishly, “That’s us. Come on.”

“Eddie, how did you get these tickets?”

“WOULD YOU COME ON?” he laughed, as he pulled her.

They continued to walk but as Bonnie got more and more excited she started to jog. Eddie laughed as he had to jog to keep up with her. They soon found the tunnel that led to the stairs going up. They quickly ascended them and then found their way into the seats. Bonnie giggled again, taking his hand and pulling him with her as they found their way toward the front row of seats in the upper balcony. They quickly looked on the numbers and found their seats; front row, next to the stairs. Eddie then sat down but Bonnie leaned forward toward the railing. She stared at the concert stage which is the closest she’s ever been to one in her life. The young man behind her just smiled at her reaction to being at the concert. So far, that is what made the evening for him.

Bonnie then turned around and went to sat with him. He held open his arms, and she immediately sat down into them. Eddie smiled at her and then gently kissed her on the lips. “Thank you for this wonderful surprise,” she smiled.

“You are most welcome.” He grinned.

“But you’ve backed yourself into a corner, mister.” She said, coyly.

“What do you mean?”

“There isn’t going to be anyway you can top this.” She giggled.

Eddie then slowly smiled, with an incredibly smug grin. “Oh, I think I might be able to come up with something.” He said with a snicker.


After twenty more minutes, the crowds began to fill the Municipal. Then the lights went down and colored spot lights began to shine throughout the area. Bonnie got up, pulling Eddie with her. They looked down on the stage. It was covered in darkness. Then a spotlight shined down on the stage, illuminating Dutch. He then began a guitar rift then followed by Shanna on the drums; which quickly got lit up as well. The crowd began an uproar as the stage then lit up. Seth was crotched down in front of Shanna, wearing a bright blue T-shirt and blue jeans. He then slowly got to his feet making his way toward the microphone. Charlie cut in deep into the song with a heavy dose of bass and Karleigh was right behind him with the keyboard. Seth did his best Elvis pose, which sent the females in the crowd into a near frenzy. He then proceed to sing the first song.

There you go, with your eyes on me
It’s looking good but I just don’t know
I need a girl who can keep her head

Charlie and Karleigh then came into the song with backup

ALL NIGHT LOOONNNGGGGGG.

“OHMYGOD,OHMYGOD!!!! Bonnie leaped up and down, “THEY ARE DOING ALL NIGHT LONG!!!”

Eddie laughed as he clapped with the rest of the group. He did his best to maintain his façade but it was getting difficult; considering he was visiting Seth, while he and Charlie thought up this song. They called it a “seventies-radio-homage”. Bonnie screamed as Seth kept singing.

You didn't came just to see the show
I guess you know what you wanna see
The way you smile lets me know
I can't go wrong

I wanna touch you
I wanna feel you
I wanna make you mine

I wanna love you

ALL NIGH LONG!!
I wanna be with you all night long

I wanna love you

ALL NIGHT LONG

I wanna be with you all night long

I saw you standing down by the stage
Your black stockings and your see-thru dress
Your mouth is open but I don't wanna hear you

SAY GOODNIGHT

You're sort of young but you're over age
I don't care 'cause I like your style
I don't know about your main but
You look alright

I wanna touch you
I wanna feel you
I wanna make you mine

I wanna love you

ALL NIGH LONG!!
I wanna be with you all night long

I wanna love you

ALL NIGHT LONG

I wanna be with you all night long

Your mind is dirty but your hands are clean
You sure can’t dance but your legs are long
I know I can't stand another night
On my own

Hey girl would you like some wine
What's your name are you by yourself
Are you the one what do you say
Can I take you home????

I wanna touch you
I wanna feel you
I wanna make you mine

I wanna love you

ALL NIGHtT LONG!!
I wanna be with you all night long

I wanna love you

ALL NIGHT LONG

I wanna be with you all night long

The crowd was screaming bloody murder at the end of the song. Seth pointed to his fans, then to his band. Eddie laughed and clapped; knowing full well Seth never took credit for the band’s success. If only other musicians could be like him and not be so pig-headed to think they are the reasons their bands do well. “Don’t you love that song?” Bonnie screamed.

“It’s got a great beat but I don’t get the Main part,” he screamed back.

“He doesn’t say Main. He says Brain!” she corrected him.

“NO! He said MAIN!!” the young man retorted with a laugh.

Bonnie just shook her head; thinking he was teasing her. Eddie was actually laughing because he knew for a fact Seth and Charlie said MAIN because he was there when they wrote it.


The concert had continued and Seth was getting winded. He laughed as the sweat was rolling off his nose, almost in a steady stream. He smiled because he couldn’t have been happier. The musician then tilted up his mouth to the microphone. “Okay, you monsters,” he said, slightly laughing, “I’m going to take a small break and let the guys play for a bit. I’ll be back after I change my shirt.”

The crowd applauded and Seth began to walk away. “SETH, GIVE US YOUR SHIRT!!!” some of the girls began to scream.

Seth turned around; raising one eyebrow. Dutch adjusted his camoflauge ball-cap, laughing with the others. Shanna pointed one of her sticks at her adoptive brother; saying he must respond to the will of the crowd. The leader singer calmly walked back toward the edge of the stage and removed his shirt; revealing his chiseled abs; which caused the girls to scream. He then tossed the shirt into the crowd and like the earlier Talk Show; the fans went at it like wild animals to a piece of meat. Seth raised up his hands in defense, saying it wasn’t his fault. As he walked off stage, Shanna started playing the drums followed by Dutch on the guitar. The lights then focused on the keyboard and then Karleigh began to sing a song.


Oh no
Don't go changing
That's what you told me from the start
Thought you where something different
That's when it all just fell apart
Like you're so perfect
And I can't measure up
Well I'm not perfect
Just all messed up

Then Shanna joined her on the backup chorus.

I was losing myself to somebody else
But now I see
I don't wanna pretend
So this is the end of you and me
Cause the girl that you want
She was tearing us apart
Cause she's everything
Everything I'm not

It's not like I need somebody
Telling me where I should go at night
Don't worry you'll find somebody
Someone to tell how to live their life
Cause your so perfect
And no one measures up
Yeah all by yourself
You're all messed up

I was losing myself to somebody else
But now I see
I don't wanna pretend
So this is the end of you and me
Cause the girl that you want
She was tearing us apart
Cause she's everything
Everything I'm not

Now wait a minute
Because of you
I never knew all the things that I had
Hey don't u get it
I'm not going anywhere with you tonight
Cause this is my life

I was losing myself to somebody else
But now I see
I don't wanna pretend
So this is the end of you and me
Cause the girl that you want
She was tearing us apart
Cause she's everything
Everything I'm not

But now I see
I don't wanna pretend
So this is the end of you and me
Cause the girl that you want
she was tearing us apart
Cause she's everything
Everything I'm not

Bonnie and Eddie laughed; clapping. The young man admitted he never heard Shanna and Karleight sing together. The result was truly outstanding. Seth then finally came out from behind stage and he stopped in the area between the keyboardist and the drummer. He was applauding them. The rich girl smiled and bowed. Shanna blew him a kiss with a giggle. Seth then walked back toward the uproar. The singer then winked at the crowd and then held up his arms toward the top. A special row of lights erupted below him and above him it looked like the ceiling had opened up to reveal the starry sky above. Seth leaned into the microphone with a grin. “Ladies and Gentlemen,” he whispered with a smile, “No Stars.”

Shanna then banged the drums toward the beginning of their hit song while the crowd started to cheer. Charlie came into the bass and Dutch followed on lead. Karleigh smiled as she started the great keyboard sounds. Seth waited for his set and then grabbed the microphone.

So begins the dreaming
In a restless world
Far from this restless life
Oh, when I wake up
Face the day without you here
Oh, when I wake up
To feel too much alive

Shanna caught more drums on the tail end of the verse and Karleigh with Charlie joined in the chorus.

There Will Be No Stars
To hold us in the skyyyyy
There will be no bond to break
No bitter tears to cry
There will be no stars
To hold us in the sky
There will be only be the distant light
That softly flickers
Fade away, away

I just keep on dreaming
There’s a place somewhere
Where you and I will share our lives
And when I find it
Oooooh, Angel, gonna take you there
When I find it
I will take you for my wife.

There will be no Stars
To hold us in the sky
There will be no bonds to break
No bitter tears to cry
There will be no stars
To hold us in the sky
There will only be the distant light
That softly flickers
Fade away, away

Shanna started her drum rift. Dutch and Charlie walked over to join Seth as they continued their guitar music. The leader singer swayed to the music, dancing with them. The three friends laughed at the cool beats. Seth turned again and pointed toward Shanna who continued to play the drums, then caught up to the last refrain.

There will be no Stars
To hold us in the sky
There will be no bonds to break
No bitter tears to cry
There will be no stars
To hold us in the sky
There will only be the distant light
That softly flickers
Fade away, away

Dutch erupted in the last guitar riff and Shanna slammed both drumsticks on both cymbals. Seth jumped and then landed on his knees; bringing the crowd to a standing ovation. Eddie just smirked and clapped. He always knew Seth was a show-man but seeing him in person with a massive audience; all the young man could do was think about how much sense it made. He then looked over to Bonnie who was holding onto the railing. She was laughing slightly with tears down her eyes. “You okay?” he screamed at her.

She said nothing. She leaned up and kissed him passionately on the lips; holding his cheeks. Eddie closed his eyes, relishing her touch. She then parted from him and turned her attention back to Turboshaft. Eddie didn’t know how much she loved the song until that moment. He calmly smiled and continued to applaud as they began their next song.

And the night wasn’t even over yet.

--------------------------------,

The last song had finally played. The crowd was giving them a standing ovation. Bonnie was laughing and clapping, then laughing some more. Eddie clapped as the band joined each other on the stage and then took a bow for the audience. The large group of people then began to file out. Eddie then took Bonnie by the hand and began to lead her toward the exit. After they descended the stairs and got to the end of the tunnel. Bonnie was then confused when Eddie took her hand and they proceeded left, instead of right. They continued on, walking past all the workers. Eddie then stopped when they saw a cloth canopy entrance to the back of the rooms in the Municipal. “Eddie, what are we doing here?” she giggled, “Are we going to try to catch a glimpse of Turboshaft up close?”

“Yeah, in a manner of speaking,” he laughed, “We’re going through that door.”

“Eddie, don’t be ridiculous. They aren’t going to let us in.”

“Yes, they will,” Eddie said, as the slowly pulled out something from his jacket and placed it around her neck.

Bonnie then paused when he looked at the object and then saw Eddie put one on himself. She then flipped it around and her eyes bulged from her sockets. The plastic card was sighed by Seth and it read TURBOSHAFT;BACKSTAGE PASS. Bonnie then looked up at her boyfriend abruptly. Eddie smirked at her and then quickly covered her mouth for her. “MMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!” she replied in a muffle screamed.

Eddie laughed and then took her by the hand. They both ran up toward the entrance and flashed their badges. The men then waved them on and they began their tour inside the back of Municipal. Bonnie was making a slowly whining sound; unable to comprehend why she was backstage. Eddie then tapped a girl on the shoulder. “Excuse me.” He said, “Where is Turboshaft going to end up at?”

“Guest suite,” she pointed, “Third door on the left.”

“Imgoingtomeetturboshaft,imgoingtomeetturboshaft.” Bonnie said in a rapid-fire shrill.

Eddie then opened the door and looked inside. There was an abundance of chairs, two sofas and a large table. On the table was bottles of champagne, a bunch bowl and a large assortment of sandwiches and vegetables. The young man then looked over to the side where two ladies were talking; two ladies he knew all too well. “Tanya!” he laughed, “Claire!”

“EDDIE!!” Claire laughed.

The blonde Australian ran up and embraced him; kissing him on the cheek. Tanya then came up and kissed his other cheek. The two women then looked behind Eddie, seeing the redhead girl. She was staring at their reaction with her boyfriend. “Tanya, Claire,” he said, “This is my girlfriend; Bonnie Mayer.”

“Nice to meet you, Bonnie,” Tanya shook her hand.

Bonnie didn’t much flinch. She was still in a mild case of shock. “What’s going on?” she asked, “Why are they acting like they know you?”

“Probably because they do.” Seth said behind her.

“AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!” Bonnie screamed and leaped into Eddie’s arms when she heard the lead singers voice behind her.

“I guess that means she’s happy to see us.” Charlie laughed, patting Seth on the back.

Introductions began all around. Even thought they were technically not needed; Eddie felt it to be the proper thing to do. Bonnie nearly freaks when Dutch shook her and then kissed her on the cheek. Eddie held onto his girlfriend, seeing her almost get weak in the knees. The band then began to laugh, talking about what a great concert it had been. Shanna was enjoying her punch, along with Eddie and Bonnie. Charlie, Seth, Tanya, Claire, Dutch and Karleigh were helping themselves to the champagne. Shanna then clanked her glass to Eddie’s. “It’s about time you came to one of our concerts.” She teased him.

“I’ve always enjoyed your jam sessions.” He said coyly.

Bonnie then punched him in the chest. “You jerk,” she laughed, “How long have you known Turboshaft?”

“Since they were formed,” he sipped on his drink, “Six years ago.”

Bonnie then shook her head. Then it finally donned on her. Six years. What else happened to Eddie in the last six years except one major event? She looked back at him in definite shock. “Flight 815?” she gasped.

“Baby, you should have read ALL the articles.” He smiled with a smug grin.

-----------------------------------------------------,

Even thought it was near 3 in the morning, Bonnie was wide awake. She enjoyed meeting everybody within Turboshaft, seeing what a truly great bunch of people they were. Eddie looked over at her while he drove her home. She was busy staring down at her Turboshaft “care package” in her lap. She had four t-shirts; all Turboshaft promotional. She had a signed copy of the latest CD, along with the last one. VIP portfolio. A demo disc of un-produced music; her ticket which was fully signed and her VIP backstage pass still around her neck. Her favorite items were the ones that were truly unique. Poloroids of her and the members of the band. Her favorite one was her in Eddie’s arms, surrounded by all of them.

Eddie calmly pulled Turk into the driveway of her house and cut the engine. He got out of the vehicle, walked over and opened the door for her. Bonnie got out holding onto the items for dear life; a bright smiled plastered on her face since they left Municipal. Eddie began to walk her up the drive way, waiting for her to say something. She took a deep breath and blew out the cool air. “You are one of a kind, you know that?” she smiled.

“I am?” he said, trying to sound innocent.

“Not every boyfriend is able to let his girlfriend’s fantasies come true.” She flickered her eyes at him.

“Well, like you said, NOW . . .I don’t think I can top this.”

“There might be one way,” she said, stopping just shy of the steps.

Eddie looked at her. She gazed up at him and then gently kissed him. He held her close, always enjoying the kiss. As she backed off, she stared at him sighing. “Eddie.” She whispered, “Thank you for this truly wonderful night.”

“You are welcome.” He smiled.

“And if my mom wasn’t home . . . .I’d invite you in.”

Eddie blushed a little bit. He rubbed his mouth and looked up to the sky briefly; then back to her. “It’s okay,” he whispered, “We have time.”

“You’d wait for me?” she asked.

“I would.” He replied.

She then kissed him again, more passionately than last time. “You are truly one of a kind.” She whispered, letting her breath caress his lips.

Eddie then watched her slowly back away from him and then proceed up the steps. Eddie watched her as she unlocked the door and stepped in. The young man then turned around and got back in his car. He was rubbing his face, riding the euphoria she just gave him. He then took a deep breath and laughed; pulling the car out of the driveway and heading home.

He was laughing because he just realized they were in such a euphoric state; they forgot to say Good night to each other.

Part 422: Phone Calls

Eddie had finally gotten home after his fun filled evening. The carnival was a blast, as far as he was concerned. Bonnie said she would always cherish the lime-green teddy bear he won for her in the bottle/ring toss. However, it was shopping at Tower Records for the latest Turboshaft CD was probably the most fun. The whole while she was shopping, Eddie did his best to not snicker. Bonnie kept punching him in the arm; thinking he was teasing her. However, he was snickering because it was obvious Bonnie had not read every single article about Flight 815 or otherwise, she’d know that Eddie was on “family” terms with every single member of the band.

Eddie took off his shoes and put his jacket in the closet. He then walked over to the fridge and grabbed a Red Rock cola. He calmly pulled the cap off, and took a swig. He then reached over to the list of phone numbers on the side of the refrigerator. By the time he found Charlie’s number, the phone began to ring. Eddie wondered who could be calling at this hour. He calmly looked at the caller id and then his eyes lit up when he saw that it J. Forrest Hotel. The name of the place where his mother was staying. He quickly answered the phone. “Mom?” he said with a smile.

“Morning, baby. How are you?” Barbara said over the phone.

“Actually, good evening here, mom.” He smirked.

“Oh, sorry about that, Eddie,” she giggled, “I keep forgetting Japan is on the other side of the world.”

The young man paused when he heard his mother eating in the background. “You eating breakfast?” he asked.

“Yes. And it’s good too.” She said, sipping on some kid of liquid.

“I’ve always been curious. What do the Japanese consider breakfast? Squid or crab?”

“Breads and fruits, silly,” his mother scoffed at him, “So, Eddie, I managed to call Tony and Marita the other day.”

Eddie then closed his eyes, wincing. He was treading the speech about not doing fights in school. There were days when he would have preferred his mother spank him than give him a lecture. “They say . . you have a girlfriend?” his mother giggled over the phone.

Eddie opened his eyes, slightly gasping. He was fully expecting them to tell his mother about his brawl with the football players but obviously they didn’t. He quickly gathered himself. “Uh . .yeah, mom, I do,” he said, “Her name is Bonnie Mayer.”

“And will I meet her this Christmas?” she asked with a slight coy tone.

“I haven’t thought that far ahead but sure, I’ll ask her.”

“Good. I’m so happy you’ve found someone, Eddie. I was . . kinda worried . .”

“That I would remain a loner?” he answered for her.

He could hear his mother take a deep breath over the phone. “I’m sorry, Eddie,” she replied, “You experienced more than any ten year old should have experienced on the Island. I was so glad that Tony, Marita and the guys helped you through it.”

“I hear what you’re saying, ma,” he said, closing his eyes, “I know I haven’t had that many friends, or even a girlfriend. But finding Bonnie was a good thing. I’m . . .I’m going to be okay, mama.”

Barbara sighed again, “Good. Now, what else has been going on? Did you get to see Jilly?”

“I did. We had lunch a few weeks back. She’s doing great, mom. She’s still inspiring women all over the place.”

“I know she is. I’m proud of her. Her book is a best seller here in Japan too.” Barbara then shifted something around on her table, “Well, look, sweetie. I got to go. Don’t forget to do whatever Tony and Marita say for Thanksgiving okay?”

“Okay, ma.” He rolled his eyes with a smile.

“And don’t forget to cash the checks I’ve sent you.”

“I won’t forget, ma.”

“Oh, my little man,” she said, making a kiss sound, “I miss you so much.”

“I miss you too, mom.” He sighed, “Get me some cool Japanese stuff for Christmas, okay?”

“I will, Eddie. Take care, sweetie. I love you.” Barbara made the kissing sound again.

“I love you too, mom. See you in December.” He said, as he calmly hung up the phone.

Eddie paused for a moment. He did indeed miss his mother. Perhaps their connection was special because of what they went through; thinking he lost her and then finding her again. He hoped that December would arrive quickly because he was anxious to see her again. He took one more sip of his Red Rock cola and then got the phone number to Charlie’s place. Eddie calmly dialed the number and waited for the phone to ring. Within four rings, it did answer and not by who the young man was expecting. “Loe?” Aaron said.

“Aaron?” Eddie asked, “What are you doing up?”

“Why you callin, bumhead?” the young boy responded.

“What . . .what did you call me?”

“BUMHEAD!”

“Are you trying to call me a butt-head?” the young man laughed, “You’ve been hanging around Charlie too much. Is Charlie there?”

Before Aaron could say anything further, he could hear Charlie taking the phone away from him. Eddie just laughed at the constant jokes he and the little boy went through. “Hello?” the musician asked.

“Hello, Charlie.” The young man smirked, “Aaron called me a bum-head.”

The musician then burst out laughing. “Oh, my god, Eddie,” he laughed, “Claire is going to kill me.”

“What do you think she’ll do when she hears him say Sodding Brilliant and Bloody Wonderful?”

“Hey, stop making fun of my heritage, ya yank.” He playfully scoffed him.

“Anyway, Charlie, I . .uh . .got a big favor to ask of you.”

“Name it.” The musician immediately responded.

“By any chance, you got any spare tickets to your concert this weekend?”

“Bloody Hell, Eddie, are you FINALLY coming to one of our shows?” Charlie laughed.

“Well, kinda,” the young man laughed; a little embarrassed, “My girlfriend likes you guys.”

“Your girlfrie. . . .wait . .Eddie, have you told her you know all of us?”

“Nope.” He said with a snicker.

“OH, YOU LITTLE SWINE!” the musician laughed, “It’s good to see you might be worthy of Sawyer one day. No problem, mate. I’ll send over two special VIP packages for you and your lady. I look forward to meeting her.”

“Thanks, Charlie. I owe you one.” Eddie smiled.

“Think nothing of it. I look forward to seeing her face this weekend and the shock that will follow. Cheers, boy,” Charlie said, as he hung up the phone.

Eddie smiled as he hung up the phone. The musician had mentioned he’s going to enjoy seeing the shock on Bonnie’s face. The young man couldn’t help but laugh out loud.

Not as much as he’s going to enjoy it.

Part 421: This Is Turboshaft

The television quickly sprang to life. The channels flipped from side to side and within seconds, it landed on channel 9. The show that came on was Live with Knox Worthington; local Los Angeles variety show. The blonde haired man then stood up on his seat looking at the Tele-prompter. “Ladies and gentlemen, this next group needs no introduction,” he smiled, “Coming off their latest Album Gojira and their top ten hit No Stars, Ladies and Gentlemen. TURBOSHAFT!!!”

The group then began an uproar, welcoming the band to the show. Seth walked out with reflective sunglasses on waving to the group. Charlie was right behind him, waving to the ladies and blowing kisses. Karleigh grinned brightly as she waved to their fans. Dutch waved briefly, making the girls scream very loudly. Shanna followed behind, playfully shoving him in response to their fans. The group found their way toward the long couch as Knox shook hands with all of them and kissed the ladies on their cheeks. “Welcome, welcome, Turboshaft.” He said, to an even louder response from the audience.

“Thank you, Knox, It’s great to be here.” Seth said, keeping his sunglasses on.

“I must ask, Seth, why are you wearing sunglasses?”

“Because the future’s so bright, I got to wear shades,” he laughed, as the audience went into an uproar.

Knox stared blankly at the camera with a smirk on his face, then faced the singer. “You’ve been waiting some years to say that, haven’t you?” he asked.

“Quite some time, so thank you, Knox.” Seth said, finally taking off the shades and when he did, the ladies cheered as they saw his green eyes.

“Anyway, Turboshaft has released their new album in stores called Gojira, which is the classic name for Godzilla.” The talkshow host turned to them, “Who came up with the name for the album and why?”

Dutch, Karleigh, and Shanna pointed toward Charlie and Seth. The bassist and the singer couldn’t stop chuckling. “Yes, Seth and I came up with the name Gojira.” Charlie admitted, “A long time ago, we’ve had amusing arguments to our little family about who would win in a fight, Godzilla or MechaGodzilla.”

“Oh, that’s good,” Knox laughed, “So . .who would win?”

“Godzilla.” Charlie answered immediately.

“MechaGodzilla.” Seth said, before playfully punching his friend in the stomach.

“Don’t get them started, man,” Dutch laughed.

“Okay, now Turboshaft’s first album Monster Eats Pilot was an excellent debut,” Knox agreed with audience applause, “ But you new album Gojira is getting some great reviews and do you believe this is because of your new additions of Dutch and Karliegh?”

“Absolutely,” Charlie said, giving a thumbs up to his friends sitting toward his right, “We had an excellent sound but it needed an infusion of more power. We auditioned with dozens of people and then fate intervened, giving us Dutch and Karleigh.”

“Karliegh, what does Charlie mean by Fate?” Knox asked her.

“What Charlie is referring to is that day I came by the auditions mostly for the hell of it,” she smiled, “I was in Los Angeles, visiting someone and we weren’t sure if it was going to work out because I lived in New York and he lived in California. I’ve always been, in my opinion, an accomplished keyboard player and thought I’d try out for the fun of it. Little did I know it would lead me to join the band.”

“Who would you in town to see?” Knox asked.

“Me.” Dutch said, then the crowd erupted in a loud “OOOOOHHHHHHH”. Karliegh laughed, leaning his head onto him.

“Now, Dutch, you play lead guitar. Did you go to the auditions, thinking you would join the band?”

“No, it wasn’t my plan, no. I was just going to jam with Charlie, Seth and Shanna for old times sake. Hell, they didn’t even knew I played the guitar; it just never came up. Then I walk in and there is Karleigh behind the keyboard.”

“Then we started to play music together,” Charlie interrupted him,” And the sound was incredible. The reason it worked out so beautifully, is because we’ve were all friends long before Turboshaft and that energy came in our music.”

“Is there a recording of this audition?”

“Yes, there is going to be a special DVD produce of our concert this weekend and it’ll include a four track CD, which is the song that we sang that day,” Seth answered for them.

“Now, in the back is the lovely Shanna McCoy,” Knox pointed.

The group applauded her and the redhead hid her face; trying not to blush on live TV. Dutch patted her on the back as she finally regained her composure. “Shanna, you’ve been compared to one of the best drummers to come out of the music industry since Max Weinberg. What do you say to that?” the Talkshow host asked her.

“Oh, please, no way you can compare me to him!” she laughed, “No, seriously, I do the best I can and like Charlie says, when we play together, the magic just comes shining through.”

“What about the rumors that you were spent a one night stand with Brad Pitt AND Angelina Jolie?” Knox asked.

“What do you mean, just ONE night?” Shanna retorted.

Knox smirked as she had the best comeback and it came with a loud round of applause from the audience. The host shook his head in agreement and laughed. Shanna smiled brightly at the ground, while Seth applauded her on. “ No, that is just a media rumor,” she said, “Angelina and I became friends after our first album. I spent one night with her and Brad and mostly what we did was write poetry and sing to her children.”

“The media has a habit of making stuff up.” Seth concluded.

“Seth, what do you say to the critics who say Turboshaft’s music is no good?” Knox asked him.

“Well . . .it’s not.” He chuckled.

Knox laughed again at the great comeback. The crowd applauded Seth as he stood up and shook his arms; prompting them to clap even more. The host then clapped as well. “Okay, then Turboshaft is playing at Municipal this weekend right?” he asked.

“Yes, indeed.” Charlie said, “First show is sold out but we still got tickets for Saturday and Sunday.”

“All right, you heard him, ladies and gentlemen, Turboshaft will be playing live at the Municipal in uptown LA.” He said with a smile, “Get your tickets now and don’t forget to purchase their latest album, Gojira; in stores now.”

The crowd erupted into another deafening round of applause. Seth took up, calmly removed his microphone pinned to his belt, then proceed to remove his shirt. The women screamed at him, making Charlie crack up laughing. The lead singer then threw his shirt into the audience and the ladies went wild, all trying to grab a piece of it. It was just another shenanigan that Seth was famous for.

---------------------------,

Bonnie giggled as she watched the whole incident on TV. She wouldn’t miss an interview with Turboshaft for the world. She thought that Dutch was such a hottie. Then her doorbell interrupted her thoughts. Bonnie would who that would be this hour. She then gasped when she remembered it was Eddie and he agreed to take her to the Carnival tonight. She quickly ran to the door and opened it; to see her boyfriend waiting for her. “Oh, my God, Eddie, I’m so sorry,” she motioned him in, “I completely forgot you were coming.”

“You did?” he chuckled, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to NOT leave an impression on you.”

“Oh, stop it, you silly boy,” she laughed, as she put on her shoes, “I just couldn’t take my eyes off the Knox Worthington show.”

“You think he’s cute or something?” Eddie said, crossing his arms.

“NO!” she said, throwing a pillow at him, “ You need to get off my case or no sugar for you tonight.”

“Yes, ma’am.” He smirked.

“No, I was watching his show for Turboshaft.”

“Turboshaft?” the young man raised an eyebrow.

“YES!” she screamed in delight, “Oh, My God! Turboshaft is in town and I would love to see them but I know I’ll never get tickets. So, can we go by Tower Records and get their latest album before we go to the Carnival?”

Eddie shrugged his shoulders. “Uh . .sure. Why not?” he smirked.

“Thanks, babe. You are the best,” she said, kissing him on the cheek as they left the building.

Eddie smiled to himself as she locked up her house. The young man then followed his girlfriend to his car, as a large of collection of ideas began to swoop into his head.

Part 420: Eddie's Fear

Marita pulled the vehicle into the parking lot of the school. She had gotten the call twenty minutes ago that Eddie was in a major fight at school. She wondered why they said the word “major.” Tony was by her side as they always were. He was just as concerned for the boy’s safety as anybody. Barbara was still in Japan and in her absence, the Largos were given legal responsibility over Eddie’s welfare. They just never figured they would ever be called in to his school because he was into a fight. “Something set him off.” The blind man whispered.

“What, Tony?” Marita said, fighting a parking space.

“Eddie has never been in a fight since the Island,” the blind doctor helped himself out of the vehicle,” He was taught martial arts because he needed discipline. Jenny gave him that, so what set him off?”

“I guess we’ll find out shortly.” Marita replied, taking her husband by the arms and escorting him up to stairs to the entrance.

They opened the doors to the main entrance of the school, and Tony immediately could smell the bleached air of the clean floors. He imagined the school as much as his own, with walls that pictures of kids and various upcoming Halloween decorations. Marita looked toward her left and immediately spotted the principal’s office. There was a collection of teachers gathered in the big room and even from behind the glass, Tony could tell they were arguing. The couple opened the door and were immediately flooded with their heated conversation. “I’m not saying he shouldn’t face disciplinary action,” one female teacher said, “But he shouldn’t be expelled!”

“Heidi, he took out ten guys. TEN GUYS!” a teacher wearing a baseball cap said, “ Doesn’t that classify this kid as a deadly weapon?”

“Oh, don’t be ridiculous, Coach,” the woman scoffed, “Eddie is an exceptional student. One of the best in my class. And now when he’s a senior, he JUST NOW gets a fight.”

“I agree with Mrs. Pool,” a man sitting behind the desk, “We’ve had no trouble from this boy until now and I want to know why.”

“Sir, ten players are off the football team. The parents are going to want whoever is responsible to face the consequences.”

“And would expelling Eddie solve that?” Tony asked.

The group of teachers then turned to face the couple behind them. They looked them over briefly and the one that was a Coach finally spoke up. “And you are?” he asked.

“Marita and Tony Largo,” the Latina said, “We are legal guardians of Eddie Trascal.”

“Then can you explain to me how the hell he knows all that karate stuff?” the Coach exclaimed.

Tony raised up his hand in a silent gesture to make the man shut up. “I’ll answer any questions you have,” he whispered, “But first, I want to see Eddie.”



Eddie sat by himself in the principal’s secretaries office. The pain of the bandage over his right eye, wasn’t much compared to the constant tears of his face. He didn’t care about beating up Brian. He didn’t care that they might expel him for it. His thoughts were focused on other things and the people he cared about. The young man then leaned forward and silently wept; covering his eyes with his hands. The door then opened toward his left. “Eddie?” Tony asked.

Eddie gasped; completely forgetting that Marita and Tony were coming to get him. He quickly wiped his eyes and stood up. “Yes, sir.” He sniffed.

“Are you all right, son?” the blind man approached him.

“Yes, sir. I’m fine.” He replied.

“Tony, he’s got a busted eyebrow.” Marita immediately pointed out.

“Eddie, what happened?” his adoptive father said.

Eddie tried to look at him with a straight face, but he began to wince; like he was holding back his tears but was failing badly. Marita almost started to cry, rubbing the young man’s shoulder blades. Tony took his arm and tilted his head to face him. “Eddie, talk to me. What happened?” he whispered.

“Have. . .have either of you seen Bonnie outside?” he whimpered.

“Bonnie?” Tony asked in disbelief, “Was she caught in the fight?”

“No, she . .I . . .told her to leave me before I wailed on them.”

“Then why . . “

“I wanted to know . . .if she was afraid of me . ..because of what I did.” He wept.

Tony sighed, and looked toward the ground. He then placed his hand on the boy’s neck and gently shook it. “You’re a piece of work, you know that?” he smirked, “You’re possibly going to be expelled and you’re worried about what a girl thinks about you.”

“I don’t care if I get expelled, Tony,” the teenager sniffed.

“Yeah, well, bad news, son. Me, Marita and your mother DO care. Now, will you please tell me what happened?”

“Brian . . . is a scumbag,” Eddie coughed, “ He’s been trying to get a rise out of me since 9th grade. I’ve always just . . .ignored him because he doesn’t scare me. I think that’s why he hates me . . .because I’m the one kid who ain’t afraid of him.”

“Been ignoring him since 9th grade?” the blind doctor took a deep breath, “What happened to cause you to break the streak?”

“He said . . .he said . . . .he said, Jilly deserved to be raped.” Eddie stammered, trying to hold in his tears.

“Oh, my God,” Marita put her hands on her mouth.

“Ah,” Tony shook his head in agreement, “I figured it would have to be something severe like that to set you off.”

“Tony!” Eddie broke down, “I’m sorry.”

Tony held the young man in his arms. The blind doctor rubbed his back as he wept on his shoulder. Marita gently rubbed his shoulders as she tried to hold in her own tears. The older man then gently let go of the young man and held his head in front of him. “You got nothing to be sorry about, boy,” he told him, “You’ve shown remarkable restraint and I’m proud of you. This other boy wasn’t raised properly. You were. And that’s why you have the Higher Ground in this dilemma. You understand me?”

“Yes, sir.” Eddie sniffed.

“Now, dry your tears and let’s go talk to these teachers. We’ll explain to them what happened and tell your side of it.”

Eddie took a deep breath and wiped his tears. Marita gave him a hug and kissed him on the cheek. He smiled as he held her hand, then they both followed Tony out into the principal’s office. As they stood together, the teachers eyed them and waited for an explanation. Tony then patted him on the shoulder and Eddie began to tell them why he beat up ten students.



After the story was over, the teacher muddled about themselves; lost in thought. The one called Heidi seemed to show a face of relief. The Coach seemed conflict, not sure what to do think. The rest of the teachers had mixed feelings. They all knew Eddie was a model student but they didn’t know how to react in this situation. However, the Principal seemed to know where it needed it’s next logical step. “Could all the teachers step outside please?” he whispered.

The teacher did as their principal told them; stepping out of the glass office. Principal Jackson motioned for the family to sit in front of him. Eddie guided Tony to a nearby seat and Marita took the other one; while the young man remained standing. Jackson took a deep sigh and took off his glasses; massaging his nose. “I’m not going to expel you, Eddie,” he whispered, “But I can’t over-look this incident either.”

“Sir, I’m terribly sorry about what happened to the other kids.” He admitted.

Principal Jackson then placed on his glasses and looked at the boys. He studied his statue appearance for a brief moment. “But . . .you’re not sorry about what you did to Brian Sage?” he asked.

Eddie took a deep breath. “No, sir, I am not.” He said.

“Considering how much I know this boy,” Tony commented, “And of what was said by this Brian person, I am not sorry he beat up the kid either, Principal Jackson. Sadly, that is sometimes the only way these kids can learn there is consequences for their actions.”

“Off the record, I agree. Dr. Largo,” Jackson said, leaning in his chair, “ However in my position, I still much take disciplinary action. Regardless if I believe Brian Sage is worthy of being a student here; with his low moral standards. Your choice, Mr. Trascal. Detention for a month or no school for a week; that includes missed assignments.”

“I’ll take Detention, sir.” He then said.

“Very well.” Jackson then leaned forward, “Eddie, . . .do you know what it means for someone to give their word on something?”

Marita took his hand and squeezed it. She looked toward her husband, knowing full well he was the one who taught Eddie such a thing. “He knows the meaning,” she answered for him.

“Then Eddie . . .give me your word this will never happen again.” The principal asked him.

“I’ll stay away from him Brian, sir. But if he comes near me again in a threatening manner, I’ll defend myself.”

“Fair enough,” Jackson said, handing a document to Marita, “Please sign that, saying you understand the terms of the detention and Eddie is obligated to show up.”

Marita signed the document and then hanged it back to him. He calmly stood up and shook Eddie’s hand, then dismissed him. Eddie took Marita’s hand and allowed her to lead him out. The teachers stood around in the outer hallway, looking at him. Eddie looked at his favorite teacher Heidi Svenknick and then just waved at her. The Coach made a grunting sound at the display. Before he knew it, Tony bumped him; shoulder to shoulder. “Excuse me.” He commented.

The family walked out of the school with their heads high. Tony knew Eddie didn’t want it but some things he couldn’t overlook. He figured this sort of thing would each Eddie a lesson that violence doesn’t solve anything.

They weren’t on the Island anymore; they were in the real world.


-------------------------------------,

Eddie thrust his hands into the air. Then he twirled and drop kicked his unseen enemy. McKay had taught him a long time ago that shadow-boxing kept his shoulders loose and now he was able to add Tae Kwon Do into the mix. Since Marita and Tony trusted Eddie, they said he could go home and gather his stuff before spending the weekend with them like he always did. The young man felt like he needed a workout before going over there. Marita mentioned they would be getting together with some old friends for dinner tomorrow night. He liked that prospect; considering he formed so many close relations with the people from the crash.

Eddie continued to punch and attack at the air as he continued his workout. Then a vehicle came down the street and pulled up to the side of his front yard. Eddie stopped when he recognized the car was Maddie’s; which meant Bonnie was in it. The passenger door opened and the young redhead stepped out. She pulled her jacket toward her sides to protect her from the cool November wind. As she walked up to the yard, Maddie then calmly pulled the vehicle away. Eddie continued to pant for air as she approached him. Bonnie stared at him for a few seconds, then gently felt of his bandage above his right eye. “Are you all right?” she asked.

“I’ll have a headache tomorrow,” he sniffed, “But I’ll be fine.”

Bonnie tucked in her jacket again and looked at her boyfriend. “Brian has a broken nose and several major bruises on his body,” she whispered, “But they say his chances of getting back into the football season are good.”

“That’s good,” the young man stared at the ground, “The school still needs their star quarterback.”

Bonnie continued to look at him. She immediately noticed he wasn’t looking at her. “Ten guys, Eddie,” she said in disbelief, “ How . .I mean, I knew you knew marital arts but . .TEN GUYS????”

“It’s what I was trained to do.” He whispered.

“You were trained to take on ten guys?”

Eddie shrugged his shoulders and sighed “I was trained to take on twenty.” He admitted.

Bonnie shook her head and covered her mouth with her fingers. She then touched his chest and Eddie slowly looked at her. “Why aren’t you looking at me?” she asked.

“I was . . .worried . . .you’d be afraid of me . . .after what I’ve done.”

“Why would I be afraid of you?” she giggled.

“I don’t know. Maybe . . because I could hurt some one if I wanted to.”

“IF . .you wanted to,” she said, smiling, “And clearly you didn’t want to. You did it because Brian make the mistake of pushing you too far. And . . .I thank you for wanting me to NOT witness it.”

“You’re welcome.” He sighed, finally looking at her.

Bonnie slowly placed her arms around his neck. Eddie smiled as he gently placed his hands on her hips. She flickered her soft green eyes, making him giggle. “I’m not afraid of you, Eddie,” she gently pecking on his lips, “Don’t be afraid of me either.”

Eddie smiled brightly. His worse fears had been put to rest. He then kissed her again, feeling more loved now than he ever was. “Thank you.” He whispered.

“For what?” she said, resting her forehead on his.

“For coming into my life.”

“My step-father has a great saying,” she kissed him again, “Never mistake fate for coincidence. It’s fate that we came together, Eddie.”

Eddie held in his arms as they continued to perform a loving dance with their mouths. Eddie was so thankful to have Bonnie in his life; loving her more as the months went by. The phrase that she said her step-father knew; the young man remembered hearing Locke said such a phrase. He wondered for about three seconds the odds that her father and Locke would share the same phrase.

However, the three seconds were quickly over and he continued to kiss Bonnie.

Part 419: The Showdown

November 16th, 2009

Eddie stood up when the bell rang for the end of class. He picked up his books and shoved them into his bookbag, then headed for the door. It was Friday and he was looking forward to spending some time with Bonnie. He hadn’t been able to talk to her the last few days with her grandparents in town visiting but she promised him, they’d be able to share a sundae at the Tastee Freeze after school.

Eddie turned the corner past all the kids as they were able to make their way toward their exits. The young man smiled as he saw his girlfriend putting her books in her locker. The redhead then turned and her eyes lit up at the sight of him. Eddie walked up to her and took her into his arms. She leaned up on her toes and put her arms around his neck. The two lovers held each other in their embrace, lovingly kissing each other. As they parted, Bonnie refused to let him go. “I’ve missed you.” She whispered.

“I thought that was going to be my line.” He smirked.

“I’m so sorry I haven’t been able to see you. I love my grandparents but I don’t see them often. They leave on Sunday and I wanted to spend as much time with them as possible.”

“Hey, it’s me,” the young man laughed as he tapped his chest, “If there is anybody who understands family loyalty, it’s me. Enjoy your time with grandma and grandpa. I know you’ll be there for me after they leave for Seattle.”

“You bet I will,” she kissed him again.

Eddie smiled at her presence; enjoying the warm feeling he always gave her. Then he saw someone coming up to him out of the corner of his eye. Eddie looked up to see the smug face of Brian Sage glaring at him. The quarterback was flanked by Ricky Barnett and Dale Windfield; another member of the football team. “Well, this is a real sight,” Brian said, crossing his arms, “ A true Kodak moment.”

“Something I can help you with, Brian?” Eddie raised an eyebrow.

“No, you can’t. However, Bonnie can help me. She can help take care of my kidney stones.”

“Kidney Stones?” Bonnie raised an eyebrow.

“Yeah, baby pie, You can . . .suck’em out.”

The boys behind her began to laugh. Bonnie winced her face and scoffed, completely disgusted. Eddie then took a step forward but his girlfriend held him back. Brian smirked at the young man before him. “Oh, don’t hold him back, Bonnie,” he grinned, “He’s finally showing me something.”

Eddie pointed toward his face. “I don’t know what your problem is with me,” he grunted, “ But one day you will push me too far.”

Bonnie then pulled Eddie away from him and the young couple started to walk away. “Hey, Trascal!” the quarterback called to him, “I saw you friend on TV last night.”

Eddie stopped abruptly in the hallway but didn’t turn around.

“I think he name is Jilly Lambert?” Brian laughed, “My mom likes her. Says she’s a real role model for women who have been abused or some bull crap like that. Is it true she was raped?”

Bonnie started to gasp as the quarterback’s vulgar comments. Eddie stared blankly into space as he heard every word stabbing his brain. “You know what Rape is?” Brian smiled, “Rape . . is when a woman changes her mind after the fact.”

Eddie then closed his eyes, as tears began to fall onto his cheeks. Bonnie looked at him, never seeing him cry before. The laughter of the vile quarterback and his friend echoed behind his ears. The young man slowly opened his eyes and stared at his girlfriend. “Bonnie,” he whispered, “I need . . . I need you to go get Tristan. He’ll be in the gym.”

“W-w-why?” she stammered, squeezing his hand.

“Because he’s going to need to stop me and I don’t want you to witness this.” He gulped.

Bonnie knew what was happened. Brian had finally pushed him too far with the lowlife comment about a woman he cared for like a sister. The redhead kissed him on the cheek quickly and then ran off to find Eddie’s best friend. The young man stared at her as he heard Brian and his friends laughing behind him. Then Eddie scooted his book-bag toward the fall wall. He then turned around and faced Brian. He slowly began walking toward him. “Oooooh. Is the liddle boiy gonna cry?” he laughed.

Eddie wasn’t crying tears of sadness; it was tears of rage.

Before Brian could say another word, Eddie punched him hard against the face. The quarterback flew back into the air as blood shot out from his nostrils and his upper lip. Brian grunted as he landed hard on the waxed floor. By the time Ricky had realized what just happened, the young man who took out his quarterback friend slammed his foot in the linebacker’s stomach. Ricky vomited over himself as he felt all the air leave in stomach in four seconds. He jolted as he banged his head against the lockers adorning the walls. Dale then tried to make a move and swung his fist toward his head. Eddie blocked it easily and jabbed his flat hand into the player’s throat. The teenager coughed as he was momentarily without air. It was enough for him to leave Eddie alone while the young man walked toward Brian.

The quarterback was leaning over; coughing to get the blood out of his nose and mouth. When he turned around, he saw Eddie staring down at him. “Brian, where is your witty comeback?” he asked, “Got something else to say about why Rape is funny?”

Before Brian could say anything, Eddie slammed his foot into the quarterback’s privates. He screamed in agony at the pain in the young man was giving him. He then proceeded to stomp him hard into the stomach and chest; making Brian cry in pain. “SAY THAT AGAIN!!!” Eddie screamed, “SAY SOMETHING ABOUT JILLY AGAIN!!! WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR, YOU PIECE OF CRAP???”

Eddie was so focused on Brian he didn’t see the other five football players coming for him. Two of them grabbed him by the arms and got him off of Brian. Two more were coming toward him. Eddie then shoved his arms in between the other player’s arms who were holding him. He then used them for balance, bracing up and then slamming both in feet into the fast approaching players. As he did, he backflipped and landed behind the two that grabbed him. As they turned around, Eddie then twirled with the grace of a dancer, slamming his foot into one of the player’s faces and then twirled again; doing the same with the other. Eddie paused for a moment; waiting for them to strike. However, they were too busy reeling from their broken noses.

One of the other players then jumped over the bodies of his fallen friends, trying to get to Eddie. However, he never expected Eddie to meet him in the air. The young man slammed his right knee into the player’s chest and the momentum shoved him into lockers creating a loud bang. When Eddie landed, the other player grabbed him around the chest; pinning his arms. The young man then grabbed the players own arms and then lifted up his legs; using his center of gravity to bring them both down. Eddie grunted as he landed on his knees but the player holding him; slammed his chin into the top of his opponent’s head. As he was grunting from the pain, Eddie twirled and slammed his fist into the player’s nose. The tall running back dropped like a stone as he was knocked unconscious.

Four more players ran up against him. Once again, they didn’t expect to meet him in the air. Eddie flew through the air toward them; slamming his elbow into the top of the head of one of the men coming forward him. After that, he slammed his whole body into two of them. When one of them tried to grab him, he thrust his head back into the player’s face; then slammed his foot into the other. Eddie stood up; only to have a broomstick broken across his forehead. He jolted from the blow, landing against the locker. “Not so tough now, are you, Trascal?” the player screamed.

He came after Eddie again but this time, he tripped him up and used his momentum to ram his own face into the locker. Eddie took the broom stick and threw it away. He then stared at the last standing player; with a trickle of blood coming down from his busted eyebrow. The player then turned tail and ran away. The young warrior coughed a small amount of blood from his nose and then turned to see Brian. The quarterback stared in horror as the supposed “meek” kid that everybody picked on just took out ten of his fellow players. Eddie then started to walk back toward the quarterback. Brian then started to crawl away. “HELP ME!!!” he screamed, “SOMEBODY HELP ME!!!”

The other kids just stared in the hallway. Some were laughing, others were cheering and the rest were just in awe. Everybody knew Eddie but no knew he was even able to do this. “HELP ME, YOU PRICKS!!” Brian tried to scramble to his feet.

Eddie then kicked him in the lower back, sending him back down. “No one is helping you, Brian, because they know you deserve it.” The young man hissed.

“EDDIE!!” Brian screamed in fear, “I’M SORRY!!!”

“Not yet, but you’re gonna be.”

Eddie then grabbed Brian’s right arm and twisted it around. He then buckled onto his knees and planted his fist into his elbow. This was an arm-breaking technique that Jenny taught him. Eddie’s face writhed in anger as Brian screamed from the pain he was putting him in. Within seconds, Brian’s arm would snap and he would blow his chances for being quarterback of the year. However, Eddie was then interrupted by someone tackling him.

Eddie jolted and tried to get the new person off. The young man tried to slam his elbows into his opponent but he blocked them with every try. He then got up quickly to face his opponent. Eddie got in attack stance but then noticed the new enemy had the exact same stance. His anger laced vision began to clear and realized he was staring at Tristan. “Come on, bro,” the Asian warned, “You really don’t want to dance with me, do you?”

Eddie slowly began to calm down; breathing through his clinched teeth. If there was anybody who stood a remote chance of beating him, it was Tristan but that was never going to happen anyway. His muscles stopped being tense and Eddie slowly got out of his attack pose. He then turned around and witness the path of his destruction. Ten football players were on the floor; writhing in agony. He beat them all. Tristan calmly patted him on the shoulder. He was proud of his friend for beating all of vile teenagers around him who believed rape was a joke. However, the teachers that started to run toward him weren’t thinking of such a thing.

Eddie didn’t care; he felt justice was served.

Part 418: Big Sister

October 17th, 2009

Eddie pulled his vehicle into the parking lot of the big Barnes and Noble bookstore. He calmly got out of his car and proceeded to the front door. He wasn’t use to finding this area, as he didn’t drive down here much but it was a special night. The patrons were sill flocking in, as the speaker had already been in full swing giving her speech. Eddie smirked as he walked up to the door. He didn’t need to hear her great speech.

He’d heard it many times before.

“What I went through, no one should go through,” Jilly said over the loud speaker, “This incident pretty much scarred my life. I never thought I could trust again, laugh again or love again. But the one thing I had to remember is that it was not my fault. I didn’t ask for it and no woman would have. Whoever believes rape is a joke, those are the sick ones. But this sort of act if it has, God forbid, happened to you, does not need to destroy you. You are the victim and you are the one who needs justice. It happened to me. But I overcame it and so can you.”

The crowd then erupted in a round of applause and cheers. Eddie stood at the background, clapping for the deaf woman. He cared for Jilly a lot. She was there for her mother when she was alone in a dark and damp mud laced cell, being held at gunpoint. He considered her a big sister and she filled the role perfectly. He looked forward to talking with her again.


The night was growing long. It was already borderline till closing for the bookstore but Jilly was always there for her fans. They were more than that; they were people who looked to her for guidance and she never turned them away. The young woman who was buy her side couldn’t stop crying but she felt she had to tell the deaf woman her story. “My sister was raped,” she wept, “She was left for dead in a parking lot and she stayed there for a few hours. People actually walked by and no one stopped to help.”

Jilly took the woman’s hand and squeezed it as she listened.

“My sister . .she . . .she thought about killing herself. She kept saying it was her fault and then she just happened to find your book in a hospital waiting room. It gave her the courage to continue. Now she’s married and has a baby on the way.”

“That is such wonderful news,” Jilly was almost in tears, “ You want me to sign a book for her?”

“Oh, please,” the woman held it to her.

The deaf woman signed the book and dedicated to her sister. She then gave her a hug and kissed on the cheek. “Bless your heart.” She whispered.

The patrons and fans began to disperse from the bookstore. Jilly picked up her bags and got ready to leave. Her feet were killing her, not to mention she was hungry. The bookstore manager then walked over and touched her on the shoulder. “Miss Lambert?” the manager said, making sure she could read her lips.

“Thank you for hosting this event.” Jilly said, shaking her hand.

“It was our pleasure. You’re not a New York Times best-seller for nothing,” the woman then pointed toward the front, “By the way, there is a young man here to see you, said he’s going to take you to dinner.”

“Is this young man handsome?” Jilly giggled.

“I guess I’m not at liberty to say,” the manager replied with a smirk, “Since he said he was your little brother.”

“Eddie?” the deaf woman’s face lit up.

She turned the corner and then looked past the magazine rack. The young man was indeed Eddie Trascal; her adoptive little brother. He was calmly reading a Maxim magazine, then looked up. His smile brighten at the sight of the deaf woman. “EDDIE!!” she laughed as she ran to him and embraced him.

The young man laughed he held onto her. “Damn good to see you, sis.” He whispered in her ear.


The restaurant was almost empty. It was one of the fancy balcony restaurants in Los Angeles. Jilly even giggled that Eddie remember to wear a sports coat because they weren’t going to let him in without one. The head waiter escorted them to a table overlooking the lights of the city. Jilly ordered a dry martini and Eddie ordered a simple diet coke. The deaf woman joked that she’ll buy him his first drink on his twenty first birthday. “Speaking of which,” she giggled, reaching into her bag, “ I’m so glad you came to get me tonight, because I’ve been holding onto this for you.”

“Holding onto what?” Eddie smirked.

She slowly picked up a small object, wrapped in paper. “Happy Birthday.” She smiled.

“Thanks, Jilly,” he smiled, taking it.

Eddie calmly began to unwrap the present. It was a small souvenir from London. It was a snow globe that showed the various buildings of Parliament and Big Ben. The young man smiled and shook it, making the small bits of white dance within the water filled gift. “I love it, Jilly,” he grinned, “Thank you.”

“London was wonderful,” she smiled, “I hope to go back there one day.”

“Did you have a lot of fans there too?”

“Readers, Eddie.” She winked, “Actors have fans. I have readers.”

“You say tomato.” He winked back.

Jilly giggled, holding onto her mouth to keep from laughing in the normally quite restaurant. Eddie did always have the ability to make her laugh. She then smiled again, patting him on the hand. “So, fill me in on everything,” she said, “How is school? How is your mother?”

“Mom’s fine,” he said, sipping his coke, “ She’s still in Japan, running the business end of things. Luckily she promised she’d be home by December.”

“Oh, yeah, our Flight 815 Christmas bash,” the deaf woman smiled, “We never miss it.”

“You gonna make it, Jilly?”

“Of course. Now tell me, how is school?”

“School . . .is. . .uh . . .interesting.” he said, scratching the back of his head.

“What do you mean, interesting?” she raised an eyebrow, “ I don’t recall school ever being interesting for me.”

“I . . .have a girlfriend.” He finally admitted.

Jilly eyes went wide and she practically gasped. “YOU LITTLE SNEAK!” she playfully slapped his hand, “You didn’t mention that in the last postcard you sent me!”

“I felt it was something you’d like to hear in normal conversation.”

“Oh, my goodness, yes!” she said, slapping her hands and rubbing them together, “Tell me all the details about her. Spare me nothing.”

Eddie then began the long tale of how he met Bonnie and what they had been going through the last few weeks. He told her how she surprised him on his birthday with a cake that she made from scratch and it was surprisingly good. He told her of their Getting To Know You Jaunt and their first date. Jilly listened to stories about attending football games together and going for simple drives in the moonlight. Then Eddie coughed as he finished his diet coke. “I think I love her, Jilly.” He whispered.

“Have you told her that?” she said, sipping her martini.

“In passing. I’ve said, Love ya. But I haven’t told her I love her. Because . . . .I’m afraid of what happens when she hears I mean it.”

“Maybe she means it too.” The deaf woman took his hand, “Don’t run away from love, Eddie.”

The young man slowly winced his face, as his eyes began to form up. “I remember . . .Seth from the Island,” he whispered, “He was worried . . .Tanya would no longer love him when he told her that he was forced to kill people. How . . .do I even dare . .tell Bonnie the truth about what happened to me?”

“Don’t be haunted by the past, Eddie,” Jilly told him, “If there is anybody who knows about letting go, it’s me. You have the strength, Eddie, I know it. You can do this and Bonnie will be there for you.”

Eddie took both his sister’s hands and held them; gently kissing her fingers. Jilly had given inspiration to many abused and battered women to over come their pain. There wasn’t any reason why she couldn’t do that for Eddie too. Bonds of family were necessary made from blood.


After the dinner, Eddie drove Jilly back to her hotel. The streets were flooded with lights and various cars working to get home. The young man turned through the various street corners as he continued on. The deaf woman by his side stared out into the city lights. Eddie then gently rubbed her arm. “Have you talked to Jack lately?” he asked.

“Not for a while.” She said, continuing to stare at the window.

“Kate’s back.” The young man whispered.

Jilly looked at him abruptly. “Really?” she gasped.

“Yeah, been on the run for a while,” Eddie said, pulling toward a nearby street, “John has taken her in. Even gave her false papers, so now technically she’s his sister.”

Jilly sighed, looking at the dashboard. “That’s nice,” she whispered, “Kate deserves the quiet life.”

“So do you.” Her adoptive brother quickly commented.

Jilly reached up and gently took his hand. “I’ve always appreciated you looking out for me, Eddie,” she smiled, “But I’m happy with my life now. Me and Jack still see each on occasion, but . . .he’s got a problem letting go. He’s been pining for Kate for a long time.”

“Well . . .I would have liked to see you and Jack together but . . .if you’re comfortable with it, then I am too.”

“I hope all our little kids in our family can grow up to be as mature as you.” She giggled.

Eddie smiled as he turned right into a parking lot. Jilly looked around and realized they were not at the hotel; they were at the beach. The deaf woman looked around and back to Eddie. “Eddie, why did you bring . . . . .” she covered her mouth, “OH, no, Eddie.”

“One more time . . .for old times sake?” he smiled.

“I can’t,” she whispered, “I’ll become addicted.”

“You deserve it, Jilly. Just one more time, okay?”

Jilly didn’t want to this but the prospect of what was about to happen was too tempting to resist. She shook her head in agreement and then got our of the car. Eddie then got out of the vehicle on his side then took her hand as they walked along the sideway toward the peer. The two adoptive siblings stepped out onto the wooden structure and made their way outward a little ways. Eddie then stopped when they reached a part where the water where it crashed into the pillars below. The young man looked at his sister’s face. Jilly took a deep breath and then held onto his hands. “Close your eyes.” He whispered

Jilly closed her eyes and held onto his hands. Eddie took a deep breath and concentrated. The deaf woman twitched slightly, then the sound began to fill her ears. The sounds of the crashing waves below her; the cars from the nearby street; a helicopter above and even the low hum from the street lights.

Jilly could hear it all.

The deaf woman started to cry and laugh at the same time. Eddie smiled as he was able to give her this special joy. What a few people didn’t know that was before Watchman left the planet, he altered Eddie’s electromagnetic field. It allowed him certain gifts; tactile telepathy, and the ability to recognize shifts in barometric pressure. When he touched someone and concentrated, they were able to join nearly as one. At that very moment, Eddie was allowing Jilly to hear through his own ears.

Jilly has always been a woman of faith. She’s constantly believed in miracles, which enable her to accept Eddie's gifts. She had mistaken that she could hear Eddie’s voice briefly back on the Island. The truth was she wasn’t mistaken; she DID hear him. Eddie hadn’t mastered his gifts at that time but now he had. As she continued to hold onto him, being overwhelmed by the sound of the waves, the cars and the street hum; she continued to cry and laugh.

It was the sound of her own laughter she enjoyed the most.

Part 417: Morning at The Largos

September 8th, 2009
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The guest room at Tony and Marita’s house was pretty much Eddie’s room. While his mother Barbara was away on business, she always insisted he spend the weekends at their loft. Inside the guest room was a five disc CD-player with ocean sounds ready for the young man at a moment’s notice. He had gotten in late and went directly to bed, since his godparents trusted him with the key to their place.

Eddie then twitched as he felt something on his nose. He reached up, scratching it. Then the twitch happened again. He then slapped his nose, afraid that a bug had gotten onto it. The twitched continued to happen. Eddie then leaned up, rubbing his face vigorously and slapping his chest to make sure the bug didn’t fall onto it. Then he looked toward his right and saw the mischievous kid standing near him with a big grin on his face. It wasn’t a bug after all.

It was Aaron with a feather.

“AARON!” Eddie laughed, “COME HERE, RUNT!”

The kid squeaked as the older teenager jumped out of bed and chased him briefly toward the stairs. He stopped and smiled, seeing the boy descend the stairs as fast as his little legs would take him. Eddie turned around, picked up his pants and placed them on. Then he put on a t-shirt and walked down the carpeted stairs in his bare feet. When he reached the bottom and turned to the kitchen, he saw that Marita and Tony were already up, along with their morning guests. “Charlie,” Eddie smiled, “Claire.”

“There he is,” the musician laughed.

“Morning, stud,” Claire giggled, “Sleep well?”

“Always,” he said, turning toward the kitchen counter.

Marita smiled at her godson as he helped himself to a glass and poured some orange juice into. The Latina has been making pancakes for her husband and their guests. Eddie held out a plate and she calmly placed three onto. Eddie took a fork and was about to go sit down at the table with the others, until Marita stopped him. He looked at her and then saw her casually pointing toward her cheek. The young man laughed and kiss her in the location. “Thanks, mom.” He smirked.

“That’s better.” She said, as she continued cooking.

Eddie walked over and sat at the kitchen table next to Tony. Within even asking, the blind man reached over toward the maple syrup and slid it his way. The young man smiled as he poured the syrup on his pancakes. “How’s school, Eddie?” Charlie asked.

“Educational.” He winked as he placed some pancakes in his mouth.

“I hope my little rug-rat didn’t wake you up abruptly.” Claire said as Aaron rested in her lap.

“Oh, no, he just tilted a feather in my face, making me think I was being bothered by a fly,” the young man then crunched up a napkin and threw it at him, “ I’ll get you, Aaron.”

“Nah, nah, nah,” the little boy laughed.

“Seems to me I remember a little rug rat back on the Island, who was making sure Jack was in his place.” Charlie laughed.

Eddie laughed too, remembering when he kicked Jack in the shin to force him to listen to Raven. The young man then sipped on his orange juiced as Marita finally sat down with them. “Charlie, Claire and Aaron were on their way toward downtown Los Angeles and we invited them to breakfast.” The Latina said.

“What’s going on in down town LA, Charlie?” Eddie asked.

“Turboshaft interview with Becca in the Morning Show.”

“Oh, wow,” Eddie chuckled, holding his mouth, “I don’t like her. She always rips into the celebrities she interviews.”

“Don’t worry, I have a standing bet with Seth,” the musician leaned over, “If she gets out of hand and I can’t handle it, then he’ll make sure she interview him next.”

“Seth versus Becca In The Morning?” Tony grinned, “That I wish I could see!”

The group got a good laugh from Tony’s joke. Eddie poured himself some orange juice and gulped it down. The blind man then smiled, tilting his head toward his godson. “So how did your date go last night?” he asked.

“It went great,” the young man laughed, “Better than great. I had a wonderful time.”

“Who is this girl?” asked Claire.

“Her name is Bonnie Mayer.” Eddie smiled, “I met her by chance at the bus-stop. She was real flirty but I went with it, and it’s grown from there.”

“Grown how, Eddie?” Tony asked.

Eddie looked at him and tapped his fork on his plate. “She’s great, Tony,” he whispered, “She finds me exciting. I find her fascinating. It’s as if . . .I’ve known her for a long time, even though I’ve only really known her a week.”

“Sounds like Eddie has fallen pretty hard for this girl.” Marita teased him as she sipped her coffee.

“Do you love her?” the blind doctor asked.

Eddie looked at the whole table of people staring at him. He smiled and rubbed his cheeks, then took a deep breath. “Yeah,” he smiled with pride, “I think I do.”

“You ol’smoothie.” Aaron grinned.

Eddie smirked at the little boy sitting across from him. He then dapped his fingers in his juice and flicked it at the little boy, making him squeak again. “You like that, runt?” he joked, “You think I am just going to let you quote Star Wars without reprisals, huh? Huh? Huh?”

“Eddie, stop!” Marita laughed.

Eddie smiled as he wiped his fingers with his napkin. Charlie sipped on his coffee and then looked to his younger friend. “Eddie, are you sure you love her?” he asked, “ I mean, I hate to remind you but it’s only been a week.”

Tony then gently rubbed his wife’s shoulder and smiled in her direction. “C’mon now, Charlie,” the blind man smiled, “You of all people should know that love doesn’t require an explanation . . .just two people.”

“Here, here,” Claire giggled.

Charlie smirked at her, making her blush. He sipped his coffee and then looked at the ceiling. “Love doesn’t require an explanation. Hmmmm.” He chuckled, “Hey, Tone. Can I turn that into a song?”

“Sure, just pay me twenty bucks every time it’s downloaded.”

The group continued to laugh at their mutual jokes. Eddie smiled as he finished off his pancakes. It was mornings like this that reminded him why they came together. They all made the perfect family.


Later in the morning, Marita had promised that she and Sun would go shopping. This allowed Eddie to take Tony for a ride in The Turk. Since he was blind, it allowed him to enjoy the rides with the feel of the wind on his face and the sound of music from Eddie’s CD player. The two men would often enjoy rides like this, as it allowed them to continued their “paternal” bond. “You think I am being stupid, Tony?” Eddie asked.

“Yes,” he said without hesitation.

Eddie laughed as he turned a corner and continued down a street. Tony chuckled briefly, then tilted his head toward his godson. “Stupid about what?” he finally asked.

“My love for Bonnie.” The young man admitted.

“I already told you, love doesn’t require an explanation,” the blind man rested back into his seat, “If you feel you love her, then you probably do. In fact, I think this is good for you.”

“Thanks,” Eddie said, as he pulled up to a stop light, “I just wish . . .I just wished I remember where I met her before.”

“Did you meet her before?”

“I’m so certain I have. It’s her eyes. I know I’ve seen her eyes before.”

“Eddie, let me clue you in on something,” Tony patted his arm, “You haven’t seen her eyes before. You haven’t met her till a week ago. What you are feeling is a typical chemical response in your brain to the endorphins flooding your blood stream. Does your heart pound a little faster when you get near her?”

“Yes.” He smiled.

“Does your stomach turn in knots?”

“Yes.”

“Do you feel a slight tingling sensation in your spine?”

“Yes,” Eddie laughed.

“The you’re in love,” the blind man smiled, “don’t fight it. Just go for it.”



Tony rested on the hood of the Chevy Nova after they arrived at the beach. He calmly listened to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. He almost felt like it had a calming effect on him, similar to Eddie. The young man then came back with their two drinks from the nearby Taco Stand. He calmly took his mentor’s hand and placed the drink into it. “Thanks, boy,” the blind man said, sipping his cola.

Eddie shifted around and sat down on the hood with him. Eddie sipped on his drink and stared at the waves. For a brief moment, the young man stared at the water; imaging himself as a little kid, peeing in the water; then later finding Mr. Kangaroo. “Tony, you ever thought about going back to the Island?” he asked.

“Even if you could, would you really want to?” Tony whispered.

“I don’t know,” Eddie looked at the ground, “Things were simple over there. No homework. No taxes. No city noise. But I guess it’s better than dodging bullets from the Liberation.”

“Yes, it is,” Tony sipped on his drink, “You miss the Island, Eddie, because it was adventurous. It was exciting and it was a break from our mundane life. After what we went through, the quiet life couldn’t even compare.”

“Yes, that’s what I am feeling, Tony.” Eddie agreed.

“You’re feeling that because your 16, soon to be 17. This feeling will pass and you’ll soon accept your place in this world. Trust me, we’ve all been there.”

The young man smiled and gently patted Tony’s upper arm. “I do trust you, sir.” He whispered.

The blind man took a deep breath. He paused for a second, as he heard a woman walking her dog go by and a tamale salesman with the bell on his cart. “Eddie, I’m glad we’ve gotten the chance to be alone,” he whispered, “There is something I need to talk to you about.”

“Sure, Tony, what is it?” the young man looked at him.

“I’ve finally found a doctor . . .who may be able to fix my eye.”

Eddie studied the facial features of his mentor. He’d grown to know him well over the last five years to the point where he understood what emotions he was showing. Right then, he wasn’t showing anything that should follow that statement. “Where’s this doctor, Tony?” he asked.

“Toronto.” He replied.

“Canada?”

“Yeah.”

“You should be excited about this, Tony . . . .why aren’t you?”

“Because he’s the first doctor that’s given me good odds that he can heal my eye,” Tony sipped on his drink, “However, he also said that if the procedure doesn’t work, I’ll be permanently blind.”

“Not . . .even blurry vision like what you have now?”

“No. It’s an either all or nothing situation . . .and I wanted to tell you that I am going for it.”

Eddie shook his head in agreement. “Some chance is better than no chance.” He whispered.

Tony placed his hand on the young man’s shoulder. “I just wanted to tell you this because there may be a chance I’d never be able to really look at you,” he whispered, “But you’ve made me proud regardless. I know you’ll grow up to be a good person, and even though I might be blind, I’ll be there for you always.”

Eddie smiled, placing his hand on the hand of his godfather. “I know you will, Tony,” he smiled, “You always have been.”

The two men who were more father and son than best friends, sat in comfortable silence on the hood of the Chevy Nova. The waves crashed up against the beach, as the sand stretched for miles.

Part 416: Eddie and Bonnie's Date

September 7th, 2009

Eddie couldn’t tell if he was nervous or not. He had faced so much in his life, and now he wasn’t sure if he was ready to go out on a bonafide date with Bonnie? The young man looked into the rearview mirror and make sure no stray eyebrow hairs were poking up. Then he grunted at the absurdity; he didn’t need to impress her, he already did that. Just be cool and be yourself.

Eddie pulled the Turk into her parking lot and turned off the gas. He then got out and proceeded toward the front door of her home. The young man took one more deep breath and then knocked on the door. The sounds of someone approaching were obvious, even from the door. Then the door opened and Eddie was face to face with Bonnie’s mother. She was very beautiful, and he could tell where the young woman got her beauty from. “Mrs. Mayer?” Eddie smiled, holding out his hand.

“Mrs. Tefpourth, actually,” she shook his hand, “You’re Eddie Trascal?”

“Yes, ma’am. I’m sorry. I forgot that Bonnie’s father is really her step-father.”

“It’s quite all right,” the old woman motioned for him to come in, “I have to explain it to most people I meet. I’m used to it.”

“Tefpourth?” the young man whispered, “That’s an interesting last name.”

“Thank you. It’s German. I would love to introduce you to my husband but he’s away on an assignment for his company.”

“Oh, yeah, Bonnie said he was a scientist?”

“More like a behaviorist.” The woman smiled, “So, Eddie, where are you taking my daughter this evening?”

“I know a great Italian restaurant in town. After that, a movie and then I’ll bring her home, ma’am.”

The woman blushed, rubbed her cheek. Eddie blinked and tilted his head. “I’m . .sorry, did I say something wrong, ma’am?” he asked.

“No, it’s just that you’re the first of Bonnie’s dates to call me ma’am,” she giggled, “I’m pleased to see you were properly raised.”

“Well . .I thank you and my parents thank you.” He smiled.

“EDDIE!” Bonnie giggled as she started to climb down the stairs.

Eddie looked up at her. She was wearing a casual type clothing; a loose blue shirt, blue jeans and high heels. To him, she was as gorgeous as an evening sunset. The young woman then kissed her mother on the cheek as they got ready to leave. Mrs. Tefpourth made her promised to have her cellphone one just in case. Eddie held the door open for her as they finally left the house.

As they walked toward the car, Eddie held the door open for her. “I think you impressed her.” Bonnie said as he got into the passenger side of the Turk.

“Is that a good thing?” he joked as he closed the door.

Eddie scooted over toward the driver’s side as he got into the vehicle. Within moments they were off on their first official date.


The Italian restaurant was a mom and pa pizza place. It had low lighting because in the evening the light mostly came from the candles on the tables. Eddie ordered them a classic style pepperoni pizza. After eating two slices, Bonnie was enjoying it’s rare taste. “I don’t think I’ve ever tasted pizza this good.” She commented.

“The cook is from New York,” Eddie said, sipping his coke, “ All the best pizza makers come from there.”

“Have you been there, Eddie?”

“Yeah, I have a good friend named Walt out there. I spend a few weeks out of every summer there.” Eddie said, munching on his slice of pizza.

“I would love to go sometime. The only other place I’ve ever been is Seattle.”

“Well, we might just have to correct that in the future,” he winked at her.


After the dinner, Eddie treated her to an ice cream cone in the Riverside Village where the movie theater was. They walked along the cobble stoned mini-streets that surrounded all the shops. Various patrons went from shop to shop. Others were watching their kids play in the mini park outside the theater. A few couples were even walking their dogs. Eddie and Bonnie calmly sat down on bench while they enjoyed their ice cream. “Eddie, can I ask you some personal questions?” she said, looking at him.

“You can ask me anything.” He whispered.

“Do you drink?”

“Do I drink what?” he grinned.

She playfully shoved him. “Shut up!” she laughed, “You know what I mean.”

“No, I don’t drink,” he admitted, “I have wine on occasion with my Godfather but that’s only one special occasions.”

“Do you smoke?”

“No.”

“Do you do drugs?”

“No.”

“Every stole anything?”

“I stole a piece of bubblegum when I was a kid but I got a tanned hide for my trouble. I never stole again.”

“Ever spray painted the side of a building for the hell of it?”

“No.” he grinned, wondering where all this questioning was going.

“Ever . . .beat up anybody who looked at you wrong.”

“No.”

“Ever . . .hit a girl?”

“Definitely no.”

Bonnie tilted up her lower lip as she looked into the night sky. The young man by her side, leaned in flickering his eyebrow. He was very curious as to her line of questioning and why she was asking it. She licked her soft cone and smirked at him. “You can’t be real.” She smiled, “No one is this perfect.”

“I’m not perfect.” He admitted, “I got hang-ups.”

“Tell me one.”

“On the Island I crashed landed on,” he said, licking his ice cream, “ In order to maintain a security blanket, I had a make-believe friend. A stuff toy animal named Mr. Kangaroo. I couldn’t get any sleep unless he was by side. When I came back to the real world, I couldn’t get any sleep unless I had him with me. That was 6 years ago, and I still sleep with him.”

“Wow,” she said, putting her fingers on her lips, “That wasn’t what I expected you to say.”

“It’s a mental hang-up. I haven’t been able to shake it yet,” he said, licking his ice cream, “I have a five disc CD player in my room too. Each slot contains ocean sounds. I need it to play through the night too.”

“Eddie, my goodness,” she said, looking at him with sympathedic eyes.

“I hope that doesn’t bother you, Bonnie. It doesn’t bother me.”

“Well, if it doesn’t bother you, then that’s what’s important.” She said, rubbing his arm, “I guess as mental hang-ups go, I can live with it.”

“Are you happy I am not perfect?” he chuckled.

“Slightly.” She giggled.

“Okay, your turn.” He said, licking his ice cream, “ Tell me one of your hang-ups.”

“I don’t date often.” She grinned.

“Not finding any perfect guys, I see.” He smirked, and she playfully shoved him again.

“Yes, it takes a real special guy to get me interested,” she grinned, “ Someone who’s courageous, exciting, skillful and definitely interestingly enough that he knows when it’s going to rain.”

“I got one more trick I can show you.” Eddie smiled.

“Oooooh. Show me.”

Eddie took one last lick from his ice cream and then threw it into a nearby trash can. He then gently took her free hand and held it. He then calmly closed his eyes. Bonnie looked around as people glanced at her and the boy holding her hand with his eyes closed. Eddie then smiled, continuing to keep his eyes shut. “You’re afraid of what people think of you.” He whispered.

“What?” she whispered back.

“You sometimes wish you didn’t have red-hair. You’ve often thought of being a jet black brunette.”

Bonnie took a deep breath.

“You like Merry Go-Rounds because they remind you of your father,” Eddie continued, “ You love classical music but you are afraid to admit it to your friends. You wish you could go into the water in the Fall because that’s your favorite time to walk the beach. You’re a sucker for Pugs and other little animals. And your favorite place to be alone is under the Weeping Willow tree in your grandparent’s backyard.”

Eddie stopped when he felt her hand squeezing his own. The young man opened his eyes and looked at her. The young woman was staring at him with a small amount of tears forming in her eyes. Her face was that of disbelief and mild relief. Not even Maddie knew such things about her and the fact that Eddie seemed to now know them was both shocking and fascinating. “How are you doing this?” she whispered.

Eddie smiled, patting her hand. “One day, I might tell you,” he said, turning and looking at the theater, “But we’ll be late for our movie.”

Eddie took her by the hand and escorted her to the movie theater. The other patrons were getting in line for the movie. Eddie stayed with Bonnie as they worked their way in line. The red headed girl was still thinking about what she had just witnessed. She encountered a lot of stuff in her life but never anything as magical. She calmly slide her hands around his elbow and rested her head on his shoulder. Eddie smiled as he held onto her, walking into the theater.


The movie wasn’t that good. It was about three Mexican superheroes trying to stop an onslaught of alien crabs with brains attached to their shell. However, Eddie and Bonnie didn’t spend the majority of the time watching the movie. They simply cuddled in their seat. Eddie was smirking over the fact that he didn’t make the first move; she did. She gently reached over, took his arm and put it around her. The young man smiled as he silently got permission to hold her closer. And judging from the way she rested her head on his shoulder, she enjoyed it too.


The whole ride home was quiet in the Chevy Nova. Eddie and Bonnie didn’t say much; they just held hands the whole trip. The young man pulled his car into the driveway. He placed it in park and looked at her. Bonnie looked at him, then back to the bottom floorboard. Eddie shifted over and let his eyes fall on her again. “Do normal people kiss on the first date?” he whispered.

“No,” she said, then looked up at him, “But then again, we’re not normal, are we?”

Eddie then shifted closer to her and she quickly followed suit. The young man then leaned in and kissed her gently on the lips. Bonnie tried to control herself; feeling her knees get weak. He slowly placed his hand on her side, pulling her closer. Without warning, she replied by wrapping her arms around his neck. She tilted from side to side, tasting the curves of his lips.

Then the porch light clicked on from the front door.

Bonnie gasped and quickly moved away from Eddie. Her mother opened the door and peered out, wondering what they were doing. Eddie chuckled a bit, as the red head by his side giggled too. “That’s my cue.” She smiled.

“I know.” He smirked.

“Good night, Eddie.” She said, getting out of the car.

“Good night, Bonnie.” He replied, as she closed the door and left him.

Eddie watched her as she got up the front steps and into her house. When she got to the door, she looked back at him. She then put her fingers to her mouth and blew him a kiss. He leaned up his hand, pretending to catch it and place it in his jacket pocket. She giggled a bit and then finally closed the door. Eddie took a deep breath, then put the car in reverse and got back into the street to head over to Tony and Marita’s house.

All the while he was driving, he stuck his head out the window and screamed in delight to the wonderful evening he just had.