Part 440: Figuring It Out Part 1

January 19th, 2010

Eddie sat alone in the silence of his room. He had little sleep and even less food. He calmly sipped on a diet coke as he stared into the far corner of his room. The Island had come back to plague his life. He was certain Matt was Ethan Rom and if he wasn’t, he was going to have to prove it.

Eddie has spent the last four hours reviewing every single article that was written about The Island, based upon the accounts of everybody who was interviewed. He reviewed every piece of information, and reviewed it again. What did he miss? What can he use to prove that Matt is up to no good?

Eddie stood up and paced around his room. When he did, he saw the overhead light reflecting off the silver locket that Bunny gave him. He calmly picked it up and held it in his hands. He calmly opened it up and looked at the withered pictures of Julia and the man who seems to be Bonnie’s father. Why would they make a duplicate to give to Bonnie? Eddie closed his eyes and held the locket in his hand. Watchman gave him unique gifts; almost one might call them powers. Eddie didn’t seem as such. He just used them as he needed them to be. Eddie concentrated. “Please, Watchman,” he whispered, “Help me figure this out.”

It was given to me when I was born.

Eddie opened his eyes abruptly after hearing Bonnie’s voice echo in his head. He looked closely at the locket again. Bonnie said that she was given this necklace when she was born. Why would a parent give their daughter a necklace she couldn’t even wear yet? They were proud of her birth. They were vain. However, Eddie realized those reasons were still not practical. If Bonnie had the locket before she was old enough to wear it, then why would Bunny have a same copy? Bunny was ten years old; so she would have gotten the same locket around the same time.

“Born . . together?” Eddie blinked.

The more Eddie thought about it, the more it was making sense in a fantastic way. If they had the same locket at the same time, then they would have been born together. The more he thought about , the more he saw Bunny’s eyes in Bonnie’s. Even they had the same color hair. Bunny. Bonnie. Why would two girls have the exact same sounding name? “Twins.” Eddie gasped.

It all made sense. Bunny was a young girl living out in a facility run by the Hanso Foundation in his Dharma Initiative. Bonnie’s step-father is a behaviorist working for the Hanso Foundation as well. It was just all too much to be coincidence. Eddie sat down, massaging his lips with his fingers. “Oh, my God,” he whispered, “Did they take Bunny away from her parents when she was born?”

Eddie had enough proof to convince himself that Bunny was indeed Bonnie’s twin sister. The bigger question was, however, would he be able to convince Bonnie? The young man rubbed his hands over his cheeks vigorously. He had to force himself to stay awake. He was no where need done in trying to figure out the clues to this puzzle.

He then walked out of his room and into his mother’s study, where the computer was. The young man calmly sat down in her tall leather chair and turned on the computer. He crossed his arms and bobbed up, the down on the chair; waiting for the computer to turn on. As he did, the screen lit up and filled it with computer icons. In the background was a portrait of him and his mother at her 47th birthday. Eddie smiled at the picture; as it brought back fond memories. The moment the computer was up, he quickly clicked onto the Internet explorer and went to the Google search engine. He clicked typed in a few words.

Hanso Foundation Dharma Initiative.

Then clicked Search.

The first website that came up seemed to be actual Hanso Foundation website. Eddie clicked it and the website came up. It was a definite website that seemed show the rich history of the Hanso Foundation. It had apparently been funding the Dharma Initiative as early as 1945. It spoke of various projects that they funded; The Corral Project, The Joop Project, The Life Extension Project, and the Gaea Project. Eddie read over the listings but it made no mention of the projects he was familiar with, such as The Red and Black Project. Was that deemed a success? As far as Eddie was concerned, it wasn’t. It was a sadistic experiment, meant to see who was stronger during Natural Selection.

Eddie began to read the history of the foundation. It was started by Magus Hanso, around 1942. It’s goal was to help bring around the sciences for a new day and age. They focused on experimentation on animals, climate change, reaction to food and all sorts of things. As the years went by, Magnus was replaced by his son Alvar. He continued the Dharma Initiative from the 70’s and the 80’s with the likes of the DeGroots, a Dr. Gruber and some other scientist named Dr. Mittlewerk. After the years came by, the company of the Hanso Foundation was bought about by Widmore Industries. Charles Widmore allowed Alvar to remain ownership of the company but he placed his daughter Penelope in charge of day by day operations.

Eddie leaned back and stared at the screen. All of this was fascinating but it wasn’t giving him the answers he needed. He then noticed the small search engine at the top of the website. He then leaned up and typed into the search engine two specific words; Matt Tefpourth.

Nothing.

Eddie massaged his chin and wondered why a man who worked for the Hanso Foundation wouldn’t come up on it’s websites, not even a standard listing of employees. The young man rubbed his eyes and then thought of another name he could try. He leaned up and typed in Ethan Rom.

The screens then flickered to two sections; The Joop Project and the Life Extension Project. Eddie began to read the Joop Project first. Apparently it was doing it’s best to extend the life of monkeys, gorillas and orangutans. The Project was named about an orangutan named Joop who was alive for 105 years. Eddie then clicked onto the link for the Life Extension Project. Apparently it was the summation of the Joop Project and the Gaea Project; where they were harvesting some kind of plant that was capable of slowing metabolism, able to extends a person’s life by 5 years. There was a picture of the project leaders. Eddie clicked on the link by words and looked at the picture.

He shook his head in success after he finally got a picture of Ethan Rom. The man was standing there with his arm around the orangutan named Joop. There was another man, standing to the other side of Joop, which was an Asian man. Eddie then blinked when he recognized him. He had seen him over and over from the Orientation film that Locke hyper-analyzed in the Shark Tank. The man’s name was Dr. Marvin Candle. Eddie was then confused. Below the caption of the picture, it read (L to R), Dr. Ethan Rom, Joop and Dr. Mark Wickman. “Wickman?” Eddie said to himself, “I thought . . .I think his name was Marvin . . .Candle?”

Eddie then blinked when he started to see these two men together. Wickman was the spitting image of Candle, minus the gray hair. The young man remembered the orientation film was made in 1972. This picture, judging from the equipment looked like it was late 80’s. Eddie leaned back in his chair, looking up at the ceiling. “Wickman . . .Candle . . .Mark . . .Marvin . . .Wickman . . .Candle . . .” he muttered, “ Candle . . Wickman . ,. Wick . “

Eddie leaned up abruptly, like a scientist who just figured out the cure for cancer. Marvin Candle, and Mark Wickman. Two names that were incredibly similar, almost a play on words. What would the odds be that they would be father and son? If so, why the name change? Eddie then grabbed a nearby pen and paper, then wrote down Ethan Rom’s name. He remembered from what Locke was telling him, was that Ethan Rom was an acronym for “Other Man.”. He then wrote down Matt Tefpourth. He started to try and form words from the name. He would write down jumbles of words, mark them out and then try again. Eddie squinted his eyes and continued writing. He had to figure this out. He then wrote down one word that he could make from the name easily.

Fourth.

Eddie then stopped. He stared at the last jumble of letters. The more he looked at them, the more he could see a word. He then tapped over the letters with his pen and sure enough, the right amount of letters were there. He calmly wrote down the other word next to the first one.

Fourth Attempt.

“Fourth . . .attempt?” Eddie stared at the page.

Then he looked back at the picture of Ethan Rom, Joop and Mark Wickman. Two men that looked just like other men that he knew. Similar names and play on words. Eddie then blinked at the thought of what this could mean. It was even too fantastic for him to comprehend. What if Joop wasn’t in fact 105 years old? What if Joop wasn’t even Joop at all? What if Ethan Rom wasn’t Matt Tefpourth and what if Mark Wickman wasn’t even Marvin Candle? The words “fourth attempt” echoed in his head like a jack hammer.

What if they were all clones?

Eddie knew that cloning was done. Scientists had successfully cloned kittens, sheeps and dogs. It was outlawed by the government for ethical reasons. What if the Hanso Foundation never bothered to acquire such restrictions? What if they didn’t care? It all made sense and for Eddie was the proof that he needed.

But would Tony be convinced?

“No,” Eddie grunted, “He wouldn’t. I need more.”

Eddie went back up to the search engine and then typed in Watchman. The screen then flickered and was replaced with a black screen. In the middle was a grouping of words that simply read PASSWORD>. The young man squinted his eyes, wondering if it could be that easy. He then proceeded to type in the numbers : 4, 8, 15. 16, 23, 42.

ACCESS DENIED.

“Damn it.” Eddie grunted.

The young man then pulled out a small booklet. He never saved the things that the school sent him but his mother did and at the moment; he was very thankful. The school directory listed all the families that had children in the school. Eddie quickly went to the M’s and fond the Miles family. Specifically Phlip Miles, the computer nerd Eddie saved from Brian Sage last September. He quickly reached over to the desk phone. His fingers dialed the number in seconds and waited to hear from someone to pick up the phone. After two rings, someone did answer. “Hello?” a female voice said.

“Mrs. Miles?” Eddie said in a pleasant voice, “My name is Eddie Trascal. I’m a friend of Phlip’s. Is he there?”

“Sure, let me get him.” She responded like any household mom.

Eddie tapped his fingers as he waited. He could hear in the background Mr. Miles screaming for Phlip to answer the phone. Shortly there after, the phone did pick up. “Stand by.” Phlip answered.

“Excuse me?” Eddie said.

“I said Stand by,” the computer expert whispered, “I want to be sure she hangs up the phone.”

After a momentary click, Eddie heard a sigh of relief from the nerd on the other end of the phone. “Who is this?” he asked.

“Eddie Trascal.” He answered.

“Eddie, what a pleasant surprise,” Phlip chuckled, “How are things?”

“Phlip, I need your help. Are you good at computers?”

“I’m one of the best. You need help on a mid-term?”

“No, I need you to . . . .to hack into a company’s database.”

There was a silence over the phone. Eddie was waiting for the nerd to say something but he said nothing. Then he heard him banging on some kind of a box and then he heard a flip of a switch; followed by a small trail of static over the phone. “Are you on a cell phone?” Phlip asked.

“No, I’m calling from a direct line.” Eddie then winced, “What is that static?”

“Scramble box,” the computer nerd said, “Makes sure nobody picks up this conversation out of the air.”

“Bit paranoid, ain’t ya?”

“I’m a computer hacker, Eddie. I have to be,” he sighed, “So tell me, what can of database you want me to hack into?”

“It’s a company that runs a bunch of science experiments. Come to my house to do it.”

“What . .like . .right NOW?” the nerd gasped.

“YES!” Eddie grunted, “Right now.”

“Okay . .okay, I’ll . .uh . .feed my poor mom a lame excuse and be on my way.”

“Thanks, Phlip. I’ll wait for you here.”

Eddie hung up the phone and leaned back into his seat. He stared at the screen, wondering what this Watchman prompt would tell him. He hoped that Phlip would be able to hack into it. He still needed information and if this password access gave him access to ANOTHER Watchman program, then it just might. Eddie then paused when he heard his phone ringing. He leaned over and saw that the number was a wireless cell phone number that he easily knew was Bonnie’s. He slumped back down and let the answering machine take it. After he heard his mother’s voice; prompting the caller to live a message, Bonnie started talking. “Eddie, pick up the phone.” She said over the machine’s voice.

Eddie just stared at the phone, not moving.

“Eddie, please talk to me,” the girl started to whimper, “You . .you scream at my step dad for no reason and as a result, my mother wants me to dump you. She says you’re bi-polar but I don’t believe it. You have to talk to me, Eddie. I have to know what’s going on with you. I . . . .”

The young man felt his heart breaking. He wanted to tell her everything but he couldn’t; not yet. He needed further proof to convince her he wasn’t crazy. “I hate you.” She cried, as she hung up the phone.

Eddie leaned over and placed his hand on the phone. Tears strolled down his face. “Tomorrow,” he whispered, “Tomorrow, Bonnie . . .I’ll you the ugly truth . .and pray you can forgive me.”

Part 439: In Dreams

Mia slowly opened her eyes. The soft warm sun shined down on her from above. The sound of the tide coming in woke her up as it did many times before. She stretched her aching muscles and as she did, her hands caressed the cold sand under her fingers. The Lakota gradually lifted up and looked upon the great ocean horizon. The waves rocked back and forth before her eyes. Mia felt her heart begin to race. The Island. She was back on the Island.

She turned toward her right and saw the sleeping form of Shanna. Her redhead friend was curled up in her sleeping bag; making the cute sleeping noises she always made. Above her was Seth, asleep on his side and Walkman still resting in his hand. She always told him to make sure he turned it off, considering batteries were a monopoly on the Island. Mia then looked above her, expecting the find the great expanse of trees that always surrounded them. However, she found Brendon instead.

And he was chuckling at her.

The Asian man calmly smiled, wiping his eyes. Mia winced a little; confused by his reaction. She remember him fondly but also remembered things a little different than what they were at that moment. “Brendon . . .are you . . .are you still . . “ she tried to find the right words.

“Dead?” the Asian man chuckled.

Mia just raised her eyes wider.

“Yes, Mia, I’m still dead,” he said, standing up, and brushing the sand off his pants, “You are having a dream.”

“I am?” she gasped.

“If you need further proof, look at what you are wearing.”

Mia then stood up and looked at her sleeves; recognizing the familiar leather overcoat worn by her father. The Lakota shrugged and took a deep sigh; rubbing her hair back. “The look on your face is priceless.” Brendon smirked, “For a few seconds . . .you actually thought you were back on the Island, weren’t you?”

“It’s a been a long time since I had a dream about this place, Brendon,” Mia said, pulling out her bandana from her father’s coat, “It’s natural for me to have a little bit of confusion.”

“Well, please get your bearings. You don’t need to be confused about what we are about to show you.”

Mia tied her bandana over her head and looked at her Asian friend. She grew more and more frightened by having this dream. Usually Brendon didn’t show up unless he needed to tell her something. Something important and vital; which often involved risk and danger to those around her. “Why am I here, Brendon?” she asked him.

The modern samurai said nothing. Merely held out his hand to give Mia a sense of where they needed to walk to. Mia blinked for a few seconds, then proceeded to walk toward the woods. Shortly Brendon followed her. The Lakota girl looked toward her right and stopped. It was their beach; the beach of the people of the tail section were on. The Medical tent was flapping in the wind and before that was the fuselage known as The General Store. The Nerd Box rested off shore next to the giant rocks where everybody went to the bathroom. Most of her friends were sleeping on the beach, like they had done so long ago. Mia gently smiled, as a soft tear flowed down her cheek. “Admit it,” Brendon smiled, “You miss it.”

“All right, I admit it.” She grinned, wiping her cheek, “It was a source of great joy and adventure in my life. But . . .it was also a great source of pain.”

She place her hand on Brendon’s chest. His heart wasn’t beating and Mia could tell that. The Asian man gently took her hand and held it for a brief moment. “I gave my life so that another man could live,” he whispered, “I have no regrets.”

“Seth owes you everything, Brendon.” She told him.

“He knows that. That’s why he was the truest friend I’d ever known.” He then started to walk back toward the woods, “Come. It won’t take long.”

Mia took one final look at her beach and then followed Brendon. The Asian man pushed the bushes aside as they started to walk among the trees. The hard dead leaves could be felt below the Lakota’s feet. That crunching of leaves then changed to the soft feel of tall grass. The wind started to blow a bit, as Mia held up her hands to blow the slow bit of debris. Then as she lowered her hands, she looked ahead to see Brendon smiling back at her. Once again, Mia felt the soft touch of sand under her feet. She didn’t know that was possible, thinking briefly that they had gone in circles. The sun shined down on her once again; flooded with the noise of low tide. The Lakota understood where she was.

She wasn’t on her beach. She was on THEIR beach.

The massive amount of homemade tents and shelters stretched as far as she could see. In the distance she saw the familiar bungalow where Sawyer stayed. The tents of Hurley and Joscelyn rested in the hilltop, along with countless others. She looked over and then saw the handful of people walking by her. She truly was back on the side of the beach where the main survivors were. “I never knew how much I missed this place.” She whispered.

“It was the place where you all came together,” Brendon said, placing his hand on her shoulder, “ This is what we wanted you to see. It was the one place we’d knew you understand what must be done.”

Mia placed her hand on her friend’s hand and held it there for a few seconds. The Lakota then blinked and then turned to face him. His words were causing her to be a little bit confused again. “Brendon?” she asked him.

“Yes?” he raised an eyebrow.

”Whose WE?”

Brendon smiled at her, glad to see she was catching on. The Asian man then pointed toward the distance behind her. She turned and saw the lone figure standing in the sand with a purple sleeveless shirt and light brown khaki pants, with his hands stuffed in his pockets. Mia started to approach him and the closer she got to him; the more she recognized him. Especially his unique hair. “Boone?” she gasped.

The young man looked back at her and smiled. Then he looked back into the distance where he was looking before. “They look so happy, don’t they?” he commented.

Mia looked into the distance where Boone was gazing. Mandy was smiling as she was laying on the beach in a yellow and white bikini. In front of her was Alexander, holding little Bridget by the hands as she bounced around in the shallow water. Boone took a deep breath and exhaled through his nose. “I’m so glad she’s got a family.” He whispered.

“It should have been you, Boone, “ Mia sniffed.

“It wasn’t meant to be.” He then pointed toward the little girl, “SHE . . .was meant to be.”

“Mandy loved you so much.”

“I know. There is still a part of her heart that belongs to me but I’m happy that’s she happy. It’s all that matters.”

“Boone . . .why are you here?” Mia asked him.

“Because I want Bridget to have a happy life. And I need you to make sure that happens.”

“Me?” the Lakota gasped, “What . . .what do I have to do with it?”

Mia then shook a little bit as Brendon took her by her left arm. Boone then took her other arm and the two men began to lead Mia down the beach. She past by several people, survivors she recognized before. Hal and Chance were sitting together, both loading guns. Before Mia could say anything, Brendon patted her on the arm. “Don’t worry,” he assured her, “Hal’s got it covered.”

As they kept walking, Mia then turned and noticed a flag pole. It was poking out of the water and the flag atop it was flapping heavily in the offshore wind. It was a white flag with green shield and a green fist in the middle of it. Again, before Mia could say anything, Boone and Mia continued to lead her down the beach. They paused for a second, near the familiar tent they made while they camped on Jack’s side of the beach. John was on the ground with a blanket over him, jolting back and forth. He was clearly dreaming. “He won’t be able to understand his dream, Mia,” Brendon told her, “You’re going to have to talk to him.”

The two men then continued to lead her own. As they did, she looked down toward the water; seeing Eddie as a child once again. Bonnie is holding him like a big sister as the little boy wept in her arms. “He’s just upset,” Boone mentioned, “He’ll be fine. He just really shouldn’t believe everything he sees.”

The trio continued their walk. Mia tried to keep it thoroughly in her head what she was seeing. She was doing that because she knew she would have to interpret the dream when she woke up. The next image showed Tony chopping down trees with a chain saw. “It’s pretty cool to see a man fight so hard for what he wants.” Brendon smirked.

“Huh?” Mia replied. The statement was confusing because Tony wasn’t fighting anything; he was chopping down trees.

Mia then looked toward a wooden crate with Kate sitting on it. She was laughing to herself with tears rolling down her eyes. As she was laughing, she was also loading up a pistol. The Lakota shook her head at the strange image. “Why is Kate laughing like that?” she asked.

“Because, after years of running, she finally knows what she wants,” Boone told her, “ However, she also know she’s going to have to fight to keep it.”

Mia then continued to walk along. Then she was taken back by the sound of a child crying. What made her panic was it was a sound she was all too familiar with. She quickly scanned the area and then saw her daughter in the distance. The little girl was leaning up against a tree, hugging her knees and crying up a storm. “SHELLEY!!!” Mia tried to run toward her but the two men held her back.

“No, Mia!” Brendon said, pulling her toward him.

“What do you mean, NO?” she struggled, “Let go of me! That’s my daughter!”

“She’ll be fine, Mia. You have my word on that.”

“Then why is she crying?” Mia demanded to know.

“There is nothing you can do about that, Mia,” the Asian man pulled her along, “Besides, it’s not even your decision to begin with.”

Mia didn’t understand what was going on but then she also knew that Brendon wasn’t allowed to tell her everything. Certain things were never meant to be, even to those who were looked favoriably on. But she was still worried about her daughter. She wondered what would make her cry so much. “Mia.” A female voice echoed behind her.

Mia turned around and saw a kind, black woman she hadn’t seen in a long time. A woman who willingly gave her life so that the majority of the survivors could live. “Rose.” Mia whispered.

The older black woman held out her hands and Mia rushed over to embrace her. The Lakota girl cried in her arms, as Rose stroked her soft jet black hair. “I’m sorry,” Mia whimpered, “I’m so sorry.”

“Don’t be sorry, child,” she smiled, “I wasn’t meant to live past that day. I wanted to make sure you all survived and you did. You made me proud, Mia.”

“Thank you,” she said, kissing her on the cheek.

“Sacrifice is the ultimate nobility for mankind. For those who chose it, understand that is their choice.”

“What?” Mia backed away from her, “Whose choice?”

The Lakota girl was interrupted by the sound of digging. Someone was digging into the sand. Mia turned around and gasped; slamming her hands over her mouth. There was a black man digging huge graves into the sand. When the black man turned around, she was expecting to see Micheal. However, it wasn’t him; it was Martin. The young black man then pulled himself up out of the sand. He brushed the sand off his chest, looking at her. “Medger Evers last words were, turn me loose.” Martin whispered.

“What?” Mia gulped, “What does that mean, Martin? Who are you digging these graves for?”

Martin just looked at her, then back at the graves and then held up three fingers. Mia felt a chill shiver down her spine. Was he telling her that three of her friends were going to die? She jolted at the touch of a hand on her shoulder again. Brendon looked at her, then pointed out to the ocean. “Remember, Mia,” he said, “It’s only temporary.”

Mia looked out into the ocean and saw the limp form of Raven floating out into the distance. He was moving gently to the right but he was moving as if he was swimming but he wasn’t. The Lakota woman was confused by what Brendon meant by temporary but figured it would present itself when the time came. Boone then gently touched her other shoulder. “It’s almost over, Mia,” he assured her, “But one more person need to speak with you.”

He pointed toward the other distance of the long access of the beach. Mia then felt tears swarming up in her eyes at the side of her grandmother. Granny smiled with her white laced pupils. The Lakota girl then ran toward her and embraced her. She wept in her arms, knowing what was going to come but she begged her grandmother to prevent it. “Please, Granny!” she cried, “I don’t want anybody else to die!”

“None of us do, Sunshine,” her grandmother whispered, stroking her hair, “But we can’t stop the inevitable. People die as people live. The cycle of life must continue. You must be strong, Mia. You have always been the strongest one.”

Mia parted from her and looked at her grandmother. The old Lakota woman smiled, moving the wrinkles on her face as a result. “It’s been such a joy watching Shelley grow up, as it has been a joy watching you and John raise her.” She smiled.

“I wish you . . .you could have been there with her.” Mia sniffed.

“It wasn’t meant to be. But it’s okay, Sunshine. We shall all meet by and by.”

“Of course we will,” Mia felt a warmth wash over.

“Now, remember what I told you, Mia,” she said, taking her by the arms, “Your fate is yours to choose.”

“I remember.” She hugged her.

“You remember what else I told you?” Granny stroked her hair, “About wisdom?”

Mia opened her eyes. She was no longer crying, as her brain was flooded with the teachings of her grandmother. She looked up toward her grandmother again, and sniffed. “Wisdom . . . . I will find alone?” she asked.

Granny then turned her head behind her. Mia looked in the distance and saw a woman standing by herself. What made this woman unique was that she was clad in golden flowing robes. She was also wearing a shining Greek helmet, from the ancient times of gladiators and conquests. Mia didn’t understand this imagery but knew if her Granny was showing her, then it must be important. “Mia,” her grandmother called to her.

Mia turned around and saw all the people looking at her. They all had mixtures of sad faces and happy faces. Granny was not on the land but on Micheal’s raft. She stood upright, despite the swaying water. “Time to go.” She told her.

Mia paused for a moment, then began to head out toward the raft. She waded through the water, feeling it soak up her denim dress. She reached the raft and climbed up with her Granny’s help. The moment she was on, the raft began to venture out toward the ocean. She held on as the raft continue to sail forward. Her granny calmly sat down next to her. Mia held onto a wire railing to the side as Micheal held onto the rudder. By the time Mia blinked, they were far away from the Island. She looked out of the distance, remembering how the Island looked from the Butterfly Rogue. She then winced at the sight of the Island.

It wasn’t the right one.

The trees were different. The shoreline was different; even the size was much bigger. Mia pointed at the island in the horizon. “That’s . . . .that’s NOT our Island.” She pointed out.

Granny looked at her with a grin. “You’re right,” she smiled, “It’s not.”

Before Mia could say anything, she felt her grandmother place her hand over Mia’s eyes. The darkness was brief and then she felt the gentle touch slip away. Then the Lakota girl opened her eyes.

And stared at the ceiling above.

Mia slowly leaned up and looked around. She wasn’t back on the raft nor the island; she was back home. She had returned to her married life and the house that John had secured for her and the family they would make together. The coolness of the January air echoed slightly in the room, despite the heating. Mia leaned back and rubbed her eyes. She was then taken back a bit by John twitching next to her. She leaned over and looked at him.

Amazingly, he looked like the exact same minor thrashing he was doing in her dream. “John,” she shook him, “John, wake up.”

The archer grunted as his eyelids shot open. He took a deep breath and coughed. As he leaned up, he saw Mia looking at him with concerned eyes. She winced a bit as he leaned up and embraced her. He kissed her on the cheek and held her closer. “Oh, God, Mia,” he coughed, “What a terrible dream.”

“It’s okay, John,” she rubbed his back, “It’s just a dream. It’s over.”

“Oh, Mia,” he said, as he let her go and wiped his eyes; sitting up, “It seemed so real and so crazy.”

“Let’s go downstairs and get some milk and cookies,” she said, getting off the bed and putting on her robe, “And you can tell me all about it.”

“Mia, it’s okay. It was just a dream,” he said, leaning back,” Let’s go back to sleep.”

“NO, John,” she said, grunting a bit, “YOU need to tell me about this dream.”

John opened one eye lid and looked at his wife. The seriousness in her voice alarmed him. The last time he followed her dreams, they led them across a magical Island to other people. Mia was now insisting on hearing about his dream.

Did that mean there was something more to it?

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

Down in the kitchen, in the middle of the nice sat the Riggs couple. Mia gently sipped on her milk, while her husband dipped his cookie into the liquid and then took a bite of the soggy treat. He finished his four cookies and then took a big gulp of the milk. Mia had been writing a ton of stuff down in one of her journals. She then looked at John, waiting patiently for him to tell her about the dream. “It was an insane dream.” He whispered to her.

“How did it begin, John?” she asked.

“I was on a horse, riding into a river. I was being followed by other men on horse back,” he said, taking a swig of the milk, “When I saw the other men, I recognized Tony, McKay, Sawyer, Jack, Seth and Eddie. They all wore just blue jeans and they had . . . .uh . . . .they had white and red marks on their faces.”

Mia blinked. “War paint?” she helped him.

“Yeah, yeah, war paint!” he said, pointing at her, “ Then as we continued on this river, we came across a carriage. In the back of this carriage was you and Shelley, surrounded by . . .by . .wild west military men.”

“Go on.” She told him.

“I immediately pulled out my arrow and shot the guy nearest you. My friends began to attack the other men. One of the men was firing a weapon at me but I still managed to fire the arrow right into his throat. I leaped onto the carriage and fought with this one man, who had taken you away from me. I grabbed a blade by my side and plunged it into his chest.”

“So . .you . . .and a war party . . came to rescue me?” she said, rubbing her lips, “You were acting like a Lakota, John.”

“I guess,” he said, finishing his milk, “ After I cut your bonds, I held you and Shelley; making sure you were okay. I remember Tony hollering like an Indian over securing one of their weapons. Sawyer was screaming like a mad man because he had scalped somebody. Jack was even hooping and hollering too. It was completely chaotic.”

“Not really for a war party,” she said, taking his wrist, “If it makes you feel any better, John. I’m happy you’d come and rescue me and our daughter.”

“I’d travel through the mouth of Hell if it came to that, you know.” He smiled, “I just . . .wasn’t expecting such a dream.”

“It’s okay, John. I don’t know what it means yet but I will. And when I do, I’ll let you know.”

John rubbed his wife’s hand and then looked at her with concerned eyes. “Something’s going to happen . . .isn’t it, Mia?” he asked.

“Yes, something will happen, John,” she replied, not lying to him.

“Will we be able to handle it?”

“Yes, we will. We’ll handle it the way we’ve always handled it, “ she said, touching her upper chest, “With Faith, Heart and the bonds of family. In the end, . . . we will always be survivors.”

Part 438: Eddie's Burden of Proof

“You did what?” Tony gasped.

It was near late at night when Eddie arrived at the Largos. It was the standing arrangement. While his mother was away on business in Japan, he was allowed to stay with Tony and Marita on the weekends. It was Friday and Eddie had just come from his dinner date with Bonnie and her family. He had finally met her step-father and had dinner with him.

Not to mention accuse him of being a dead man, who abducts children.

Marita held onto her coffee cup, hearing what Eddie had said. Tony stared across from him; his face a mixture of confusion and disappointment. The young man sat across the table with his arms crossed, waiting for Tony to say something. The one eyed doctor rubbed his forehead and took a deep breath. “Did I hear you right, Eddie?” he coughed, “A man . .you just met tonight . . .you yelled at him . . .pretty much accusing him of being a man he never met before?”

“It’s him, Tony.” Eddie whispered.

“It can’t be him, Eddie.” Marita said, “Plus, I mean . . .how could you really know? You’d only seen him for five minutes!”

“You saw him too, Marita,” the young man pointed at her, “And you saw him again when Charlie killed him.”

“Yeah, Charlie killed him!” Tony glared at him, “that should have been the indication that this man is NOT Ethan Rom!”

“Tony, I swear to God he looks JUST like him!” Eddie begged.

“But it can’t be him, can it? There is no way that Ethan Rom could have come back from the dead!”

“Raven did.”

Tony stopped for a moment and took a breath. He calmly leaned back in his chair, rubbing his eye. Marita tried her best not to cry. Eddie was like a son to her and Tony was her dear husband. She knew the bond they both shared so it was very difficult seeing them argue for any reason. The one eyed doctor then leaned his head back, as he looked over toward his younger companion. “That’s different, Eddie.” He told him.

“How is it different?” Eddie leaned into the table, “Raven was dead. He wanted to die. That’s why he activated the release of the poison capsule in his sternum. But Watchman needed a security system to aide us in the battle, so he rebuilt him. Who’s to say . . .Watchman didn’t revive Ethan?”

“I’ll admit Raven is a miracle about what modern science can do but you know what happened when Watchman brought him back to life.” The doctor pointed out, “He made him more machine than man. He has wires poking out of his frame. Does Matt?”

Eddie grunted and slumped back into his chair. “No.” he whispered.

“Then it’s not possible, is it?”

“Then let’s go over there.” The young man countered.

“And do what, exactly?” the doctor retorted.

“Let’s let Marita take a look at Matt and prove that he is the spitting image of Ethan.”

“Out of the question.” Tony glared, “Don’t you think you’ve embarrassed your girlfriend enough?”

Eddie couldn’t believe that Tony didn’t want to go over there but in essence, he could understand why. He was fully prepared to go over to Bonnie house and demand that his God Mother get a decent look at Matt Tefpourth in the hopes that he resembles a dead homicidal maniac.

Of course, that wouldn’t be a sane person’s response and that’s why the young man understood why his mentor was relunctant to go over there. Before he could say anything else, Marita gently placed her hand on the young man’s wrist. “Eddie,” she whispered, “That was near six years ago. And I only talked with Ethan for less than five minutes. I can barely remember a glimpse of his face.”

Eddie sighed, taking her hand. He smiled briefly, with soft tears starting to form in his eyes. “I should have known that.” He smiled, “I’m sorry.”

“Eddie,” Tony looked at him, “I know you’ve been through a lot on the Island. I mean, . . you lost your father and you nearly lost your mother. We’ve moved on. You got to let the Island go.”

“I can’t, Tony.” He coughed, “I can’t. Not now. Bonnie has a locket that looks exactly like Bunny’s; even the photos within. And her step-father happens to have more than a passing resemblance to Ethan. I refuse to believe . . .that’s coincidence.”

Tony looked at him. A lot of what he said did seem strange. But the odds of it happening, were astounding. The doctor often wondered how things work upon the knowledge of Fate. Was it fate or coincidence? Eddie seemed to thing so. Or was it just another reason he couldn’t let the Island go? Eddie waited for him to say something. But all Tony could do was slide his fingers over his mouth in a rapid motion. It was his way of thinking. The doctor finally looked at him. “It’s late.” He told him, “Go to bed. We’ll discuss this more tomorrow morning.”

Eddie knew he wasn’t going to win the conversation. He calmly stood up, leaned over and kissed Marita goodnight on the cheek. The young man then turned and walked toward the stairs. He paused before ascending the steps. “I’m sorry I yelled at you.” He told Tony without looking at him.

“Likewise,” Tony told him with a slight smile.

The young man then began walking up the stairs. The moment he was out of sight, Tony winced and tried to hold in his emotions. He didn’t like yelling at Eddie but what he was suggesting was absurd to the point of insanity. Marita gently rubbed her husband’s hair. “Why . . why can’t he let the Island go?” the one eye doctor whispered.

“It was a difficult time in his life, Tony,” the Latina whispered, “ and the most thrilling. He was ten years old and he held a dying girl in his arms. How could he ever forget that?”

Tony smiled, taking his wife’s hand. “You’re right.” He said, “I’ll discuss more with him tomorrow. I wish . . I wish I didn’t have to yell at him.”

“He’s you, Tony.” She smiled.

“What?”

“You’re both head strong. You’re both determined. When he was yelling back at you, I saw you in him.” She then gently rubbed her belly, “It makes me happy because I know you’ll be a great father.”

Tony smiled at his wife’s comment. He gently helped her up out of the chair. The two loving people began their walk up the stairs toward their own bed. Some things are better after a good night’s sleep.

At least, that’s what Tony hoped.


Morning came more quickly than usual. Tony barely got any sleep because he was really worried about Eddie. The one eyed doctor slowly got out of bed and walked outside his bedroom, then made his way toward Eddie’s guest room. He calmly opened the door and was about to invite him to a quiet breakfast at Winkies; just the two of them.

But Eddie was gone.

The doctor stepped into the room and as he looked closely, he saw a note on Eddie’s pillow, which bore his name. He walked over, picked up the note, unfolded it then began to read.

Tony,

I don’t know. Maybe you are right. Maybe I am hallucinating but if I am, that scares me. I have to figure this out. If this is some more Dharma crap, then I’ll get you your proof. If it’s not, I’ll apologize to Bonnie but I have a bad feeling I may have already lost her. It’s my own damn fault. I should have listened to you. I shouldn’t have jumped the gun but I couldn’t help it. Thanks for raising me the way you did. I’m sorry I yelled at you and hope this is all just my mind playing tricks on me.

Sincerely
Eddie

P.s. What if I am right?

Tony took a deep breath and folded the note. He calmly crossed his arms, and with his left hand; proceeded to tap the note on his mouth. The doctor was thinking and he hoped Eddie knew what he was doing. However, if there was anyone who needed the benefit of the doubt, it was Eddie. Tony owed him that. He’ll see what happens if Eddie does indeed find “proof.”.

“If you are right, Eddie,” the doctor whispered to himself, “I can’t even begin to fathom what this could mean.”

Part 437: Questions and No Answers

“Eddie?” Bonnie said, trying to get his attention.

The young man didn’t budge. He stood there like a stone, staring at the man called Matt Tefpourth but he knew him under another name; Ethan Rom. However, that man from the Island was dead. He knew that. He saw Charlie shoot him and then calmly walk by his dead body as Sayid led his friends to the caves that day. “Son?” Matt waved at him, “Are you all right?”

Eddie blinked rapidly. He quickly got back to reality. The young man then reached over and shook the man’s hand; despite the chill it sent down his spine. “I’m sorry, sir,” Eddie apologized, “I got lost in thought. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“A heavy thinker, eh?” Matt laughed, “We could stand to use a few more in the world like that.”

“I’ll say,” Bonnie raised an eyebrow, growing more and more curious about what was wrong with her boyfriend.

“So, what has Julia cooked up for the evening?” the older man asked his step-daughter.

“Chicken casserole. A special recipe from Russia.” Bonnie giggled.

“Hmmm. Sounds interesting,” he laughed as he walked toward the porch, “I look forward to being her guinea pig.”

Eddie watched him walk up the porch and disappear in the house, toward his wife’s direction. The young man’s eyes were fixated on the Dharma Logo on his canvas bag. He couldn’t shake the feeling this has something to do with him but what about Bonnie? How could all of this have happened? He looks just like Ethan Rom but that man is dead; so who is Matt Tefpourth? “EDDIE!” Bonnie finally said in his ear.

Eddie shook his head, getting his attention back to his girlfriend. He was so focused on Matt he didn’t hear his love calling his name four times. “For God’s sake, what is the matter with you?” she said, holding onto his arm.

Eddie pointed toward the house. “How long have you know that man?” he asked.

“Wha . . . three years.” She said, “He married my mother three years ago.”

“When did you say your father died?”

“When I was 12.”

“Six years ago. Did you father know Matt?”

“Yes, they worked together. What is with all the questions?”

“Come on, Kids!” Julia called from the door, “Dinner is ready!”

Bonnie looked at her mother, then back to Eddie. She could tell on his eyes that he was considering leaving, and not going through with the dinner. The young man then looked at his girlfriend. He was judging her face. How could she even know Bunny? Was this all a test? Another Dharma test? He didn’t know but he knew he had to find out. He needed to know if this was all coincidence or something more sinister. “Let’s go eat dinner.” He smiled at her.

“Are you . .okay?” she said.

“Yeah, sure. I’m sorry. I could have sworn I’d seen your step father before.”

“Did you?”

Eddie then put on his best fake smile. “Of course not.” He grinned, “How could that be possible?”

Eddie took her by the hand and began to lead her into the house. The girl was confused by her boyfriend’s sudden change in attitude. She could tell he was pretending to be happy. Why was he bothered by Matt? She didn’t know but hoped he would tell her. The two young teenagers walked into the house to join the adults at the dinner table.

And coincidentally, both of them were wondering what kind of night it would be.

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

The four people sat the dinner table consuming the food. Eddie ate calmly; not really enjoying the food but definitely eating. He spent most of the evening studying Matt, listening to his words and his movements. He didn’t get the chance to meet Ethan Rom but only briefly. Yet, everything Matt did made it seem like he was that man. “Julia, this chicken casserole is incredible.” He told his wife.

“Oh, hush, Matt,” she said, eating her peas, “You’re just saying that because we have a guest.”

“No, I’m serious,” He laughed, pushing up his glasses, “ I’m really fickle in regards to chicken but this is the best dish I’ve had. Eddie, what do you think?”

“It’s wonderful, Julia.” The young man smiled.

“You prefer chicken or beef, Eddie?” Matt asked him.

“Neither, sir. I’m a turkey man. It’s got less fat.”

“Heavy thinker and he eats healthy,” the man playfully tapped Bonnie on the shoulder, “I think you got a winner here, dear.”

Bonnie blushed as little as she ate her food. Eddie calmly sipped his diet coke and looked at Matt, who just ate at the head of the table like they were apart of some classic TV show family. The young man ate some more casserole, and looked at Bonnie. She remained oblivious to the situation. Eddie hoped beyond measure that she was not apart of this. He hoped that it was all a coincidence but what has Locke always told him about coincidence and fate? Never confuse one for the other. “So, Eddie,” Matt said, sipping his iced tea, “Tell me about yourself.”

“Nothing to tell, really sir.” He calmly said.

“Eddie, don’t sell yourself short,” the older man chuckled, “You saved Bonnie from some crazy student. That took resolve and character; such a thing is built. Who are your parents?”

“Nobody special, sir.” The young man said, “My mom works for a company that specializes in mergers and accquistions.”

“Eddie is famous actually.” Bonnie giggled.

Eddie tapped her chair with his foot, in a silent way of telling her NOT to tell Matt anything. However, she didn’t get the subtle hint. She thought her chair was just creaking from old age. After she adjusted her chair, Matt finally caught on to the “famous” comment. “Oh, really?” Matt raised an eyebrow,” What is your claim to fame, Eddie?”

“He was one of the survivors of Flight 815.” The redhead said proudly.

“THE Flight 815?” he said in mild shock, “Wow. I had no idea. What happened on that Island, Eddie?”

“Lots of things.” He said, coldly.

“Any idea how you survived?”

“No, sir. I fell out of the plane at 300 feet. Next thing I know I was on the beach and a blind doctor brought me around with CPR.”

“The blind doctor’s name is Tony Largo,” Bonnie continued, “He took care of Eddie while he was on the Island.”

“How old were at the time?” Matt asked, eating some bread.

“Ten, sir.” Eddie then blinked, “May I ask you a question, Matt?”

“Of course. Ask me anything.”

“Do you know who Ethan Rom is?”

Matt then stopped a little bit before drinking. His eyes casually fell on the young man by his step-daughter’s side. The mysterious man then calmly set down his drink. He wiped his mouth with his napkin and then calmly took a sip of his drink. “Never heard of him.” He whispered.

“Really?” Eddie sneered, “That’s astounding because you look just like him, minus the glasses.”

“And tell me why I would look like this man?”

Eddie sipped his diet coke and laughed. “That’s funny,” he smiled, “You said, would. Not SHOULD. Should would imply present tense, would is going to imply past tense. Does that mean you know he’s dead, sir?”

“Eddie!” Bonnie gasped, “Where is the conversation going?”

“Yes, I am curious about that myself.” Matt inquired.

“Are you him?” Eddie asked him directly.

“Eddie, I don’t know what-“

“ARE YOU HIM???” the young man bellowed at the top of his lungs.

The three member family stared at Eddie in complete shock. They weren’t expecting this line of questioning not to mention him yelling at a person he never met before. Eddie then stood up, wiped his mouth with the napkin and then took on last drink from his coke. “Thank you for dinner.” He commented, as he turned and proceeded to walk out.

He quickly crossed the living room and opened the door. Eddie strode down the stairs and was on his way toward his vehicle. “EDDIE!!” Bonnie screamed.

Eddie stopped in the middle of the front yard. He didn’t turn around to face her but he felt her coming up to him. She stopped a few feet away. The young man could feel his heart breaking because he knew the reason she stopped was because she was afraid of him. “Eddie,” she whimpered, “Please . . .tell me what you screamed at Matt. What’s . .what’s wrong with you?”

Eddie turned around and faced her. She was confused why tears were streaming down his face. “Are you a part of this?” he asked.

“A part of what?” she asked.

“Tell me you’re not a part of this,” Eddie grunted, fighting his tears, “Tell me your love for me is real.”

“Eddie, a part of what?” she held out her hands, “I have no idea what you are talking about!”

Eddie heard her words but it wasn’t the answer he was hoping for. He started to backup and then turned toward Turk. He quickly got into his vehicle, and started it’s engine. Bonnie stood there, hoping for him to come back; hoping for an explanation. The man she had grown to love had changed before her eyes and now he was leaving. He quickly pulled the Nova away and began to disappear into the darkness in a surge of engine noise.

Bonnie then collapsed on her knees and wept; not knowing what else to do. Behind her, Julia ran out to get her daughter off the wet grass. At the doorway, Matt calmly sipped his tea.

And watched the direction in which Eddie went too.

Part 436: New Mysteries

Eddie finished brushing his teeth. He then made sure his hair was cropped perfectly. He then made sure his cologne wasn’t over done. He then took another deep breath and made sure his knit shirt wasn’t flooded with lint. Eddie then realized all the stuff he was doing and then laughed. “Calm down,” he chuckled as he leaned against the counter of his bathroom sink, “It’s just her step dad. He’s not even her real father. You can do this.”

He then clicked off the light switch and then proceeded toward his living room. He calmly put on his jacket. He then picked up the wrapped bouquet of flowers. The young man hoped her parents would be impressed with his thoughtfulness to bring them for Bonnie on a meeting with both of them. Eddie then calmly held up his right hand. It was trembling. He smirked, wondering after all he had been through; why was he afraid of meeting Bonnie’s parents together?

He quickly got out of the house, locked it and then ran into Turk. The dents had already been repaired and the scratches were covered in gray primer. He wanted his car to be in tip top shape for her step father but it wasn’t possible. He hoped it wouldn’t leave a bad impression but considering he, in effect, saved Bonnie’s life, perhaps it won’t.

The drive from his own house toward Bonnie’s was short considering it was just two streets up. Eddie calmly pulled the Chevy Nova to the side of their front lawn. He then exited his car and walked across the damp grass toward the front porch. Then to his pleasant surprise, Bonnie quickly opened the door and ran out to him. He embraced her and then kissed him. She grabbed onto his neck, allowing him to pick her up and she lifted her left leg into the air. It was a scene typical of some 50’s classic TV show. Eddie sat her down and laughed. “Wow!” he said, “You’re in a great mood.”

“Why shouldn’t I be?” she smiled, “My boyfriend is meeting my step-dad, the one man who made my mother happy since my real daddy died.”

“Matt sounds like a great guy.” He said, walking with her toward the house.

“He is. It’s a shame his work takes him away for real long periods of time but we cherish the time we do have him here.”

“What did you say he did again?”

“Behaviorist,” she then pointed, “Are those for me?”

“Of course,” he said, handing her the flowers.

She kissed him on the cheek as they walked into their living room. She then proceeded into the kitchen and picked up a vase from the bottom of her food pantry. Julie was checking on the food she was cooking. Judging from what Eddie could see, it smelled like some sort of roasted chicken and vegetables. “Smells great,” he commented.

“Thank you, Eddie,” the older woman smiled, “I hope my husband is just as pleased with the smell as you are.”

“Is he a hard man to impress?”

“Only with chicken.” Julia laughed.

“Look at the flowers Eddie got me, mommy.” Bonnie said as she filled the vase with water.

“How lovely. Put them on the kitchen table. They’ll make a great arrangement.”

Bonnie strode over her kitchen area and placed the vase onto the table. The redhead skipped over and took Eddie’s hand. “Mom, I’m going to show Eddie my room.” She said, motioning for him to follow her up the stairs.

“Okay,” the mother said as he daughter disappeared out of sight, “Oh, Eddie?”

“Yes, ma’am?” he said, before going up the stairs.
“Have you seen her room before?”

Eddie blinked. “No, ma’am, I haven’t.” he said without hesitation.

Julia then smiled brightly and continued checking on her food. The young man then started to ascend the stairs. He was kinda confused about her question and then the friendly smile she gave him. As he reached the top of the stairs, it donned on him; since he truly never seen her room before, that meant they had never been up here together before. Julie seemed to enjoy Eddie’s gentleman attitude. Eddie walked into the room and saw Bonnie looking at him coyly from her bed. “I finally got you where I want you.” She whispered.

“Don’t be crazy.” He said, sitting down next to her, “There are something I’m brave enough to do but make out with my girl while her parents are below . . . .I’ll need to get a little braver before hand.”

Bonnie giggled as she rubbed his nose. “You are the bravest soul I’ve ever met, Eddie,” she smiled, “But you are right. Matt will be here soon and we don’t want to get caught before you’ve even had a chance to make a first impression.”

Eddie kissed her and then stood up. He looked around her room and smiled at it’s “girly” style; which suited Bonnie to a Tee. To one side was stacks and stacks of music and entertainment magazines. Next to it was her small stereo, loaded with the latest CDs. On the closet door was a poster of Turboshaft, which made him smile even more. On her dresser was attached a large mirror. Stuck in it’s grooves were various pictures. On one side was photos of Bonnie with Maddie and other friends in various situations. Another side was mostly pictures of Eddie and on occasion, her with him. His favorite was the photobooth strip where they were acting crazy. “I got that in my mirror too.” He pointed.

Bonnie giggled as she stood up and stood next to him. Eddie glanced over the contact of the top of her dresser which was various items of makeup, and jewelry. To one side was a photo of her parents; her real parents when he father was alive. Then Eddie blinked when he noticed an object that was rested off the edge of the photo frame.

It was a silver locket.

Eddie blinked, when he thought he had seen the locket before. He calmly picked it up and looked at it closely. “You like that one?” she smiled, “I’ll wear it if you want me to.”

“Uh . .. sure,” he said, looking at her.

She calmly tilted back her head and held up her hair to free his view of her neck. Eddie calmly put the necklace around her and grasped the lock together. Bonnie put her hair down and turned to face him. She reached up and opened the locket. “I got this when I was a little girl,” she smiled, “Mommy and Daddy . . my real daddy . . had this made when I was born.”

Eddie heard her words and a surge of blood was rushing into his head because he had heard this all before. From another girl; one that died in his arms a long time ago. The redhead then opened up the locket and showed Eddie the pictures. He felt like he was going to faint. The locket style was the same and now so were the pictures. These were faded but he recognized the same facial structure in the photos as the locket that he had; the one Bunny gave him a long time ago. Bonnie smiled at him looking at the photos but then noticed that he wasn’t smiling. In fact, he looked a little upset. “Eddie?” she said with concern, “What’s wrong?”

“You . .you . .you said you got . . .this from your parents?” his lips quivered, “When . .when you were born?”

“I didn’t get it till I was five years old but yeah, they said they had it made when I was born,” She then took his arms, “Eddie, please tell me what’s wrong.”

Before he could say anything, the young couple then heard a car engine. Another vehicle had arrived in their driveway. Bonnie then looked at her boyfriend and then kissed him on the cheek. “Come on, Eddie,” she said, “Let’s go introduce you to my step father. And then afterwards, please tell me what is wrong.”

Eddie was in a bit of a daze. He didn’t know what to think. How could Bonnie had an exact duplicate of Bunny’s locket? His brain was about to explode. He needed to tell her why he was upset and wanted to know more about the locket. On instinct, he followed Bonnie outside to the front yard. Matt was already hugging on Bonnie with his back to Eddie. The young man stared at him, then felt his heart race when he saw the man’s canvas briefcase. It was black but it had the Dharma symbol on it. The young man’s eyes bent inward. What was going on??? “Matt, let me introduce to Eddie.” Bonnie pointed, “My boyfriend.”

Matt turned around. “So you’re the young man who saved my girl’s life?” he smiled, “I’ll always be in your debt, son.”

Eddie stared at the man. He was a little older and wearing glasses. Matt extended his hand but it wasn’t his hand that Eddie was staring at. It was his face.

A face he would never forget.
m

Part 435: A Tough Decision

Eddie rested in the hospital bed. He was checked out and free to go. However, he didn’t see Tony and Marita yet. They called and said they were on their way to make sure he was indeed fine. The young man already called his mother and left a message. He hoped she wouldn’t be too upset but then again, in the end; this wasn’t his fault. Eddie twisted his head toward the distance of the other beds and saw Bonnie. His redheaded girlfriend was talking to the cops about the incident they went through tonight. Then Marita and Tony finally came into the Err room where he was resting. “Oh, my God!” Marita cried as she saw him with bandages on his arm and small ones on his face.

“Marita, it’s okay,” he said, leaning up and embracing her, “I’m okay. I’m not that bad hurt.”

“What happened, Eddie?” Tony inquired.

“That moron from school, Brian Sage,” he sighed, “I beat him up along time ago for what he said about Jilly, remember? He came out of nowhere and tried to kill me . . us, he tried to kill me and Bonnie. I managed to hold him off and keep him from pushing us into the embankment on Route 72.”

“What happened to Brian?”

“He flipped over into the embankment he intended for us. The moment I made sure that Bonnie was safe, I ran down and got him out before his Viper blew up.”

“You saved his life . . .after he tried to kill you?” Marita said, then embraced him, “You are such a noble soul, Eddie.”

“I was taught well.” He said, hugging her.

Tony smiled at the young man. Like Marita, he couldn’t have been more proud of him. It takes a lot for 17 year old to risk his life to save someone’s who almost didn’t deserve it. Eddie then parted from Marita and got up off the bed. “Is . .Turk okay?” he asked Tony.

“Your car is fine, Eddie,” the one eyed man laughed, “He’s got a few scratches and two dents but otherwise he’s intact. He was built to last.”

“Yes, yes he was,” Eddie smiled.

“Okay, Eddie,” Marita said, rubbing his back,” You go make sure that Bonnie is okay and we’ll be waiting for you outside.”

“Kay,” he said, resting his hands on both their shoulders, “I love you guys.”

The Largos walked down the hallway back toward the exit. Eddie walked in the opposite direction and then entered the ER room where his girlfriend was speaking with the police officer. The moment she saw him, she scooted off the ran and embraced him. Eddie held onto her, happy she was okay. The cop looked at him and the young man could tell by the stern look on his face that he needed to tell him something. As they parted, he looked down at Bonnie; gently stroking her hair. “You okay?” he asked her.

“My neck hurts a bit and the cut on my hand is already healing,” she smiled.

“Mr. Trascal, we’ll need a word about what to do with Mr. Sage.” The police officer said.

“I’ll be right back,” he told her.

Bonnie held her arms by her side as her boyfriend walked out into the hallway with the police officer. The young man massaged his wrist as he and the cop stood in the white washed marble hallway. The cop then rested his hands on his belt. Before he said anything, a doctor began walking toward them. The cop then held up an index finger, silently telling Eddie he’d be right with him. The doctor removed his mask as he coughed a bit. “Officer, you wanted to know the condition of Brian Sage?” he asked.

“Yes, doctor, how he is?” the cop inquired.

“He’s stable but we’re going to have to put him in surgery soon. We may be able to save his leg.”

“May?” Eddie raised an eyebrow.

The doctor looked at him, unaware he was listening in. “Yes, MAY save his leg, Mr. Trascal,” the medical man said sternly, “You did good by getting the tourniquet on him but you were in a region of the upper country where the ambulance didn’t get to you in time to insure he’d be okay.”

“Brian . . .is going to be a cripple?” the young man asked.

“It’s too soon to tell.” The doctor said, as he began to walk away.

Eddie rubbed the back of his head. Brian was a complete ass but he wouldn’t have wished this on anybody. The wreck had mangled his leg and early guess says his prospects of being an All Pro Quarterback were looking very slim. The cop then slowly walked back over toward the contemplative teenager. “Mr. Trascal, I need to know if you are going to press charges against Mr. Sage?” the cop asked.

“What . . .what charges is he facing?”

“Attempted vehicular homicide, if convicted, runs a maximum of 30 years. He’s at the age where he’ll probably be tried as an adult.”

“I need to see him.” Eddie said coldly.

“Mr. Trascal, I don’t think that is such a good-“

“I NEED . . . .to see him.” The young man repeated bluntly.



The cop escorted Eddie through the upper level ER surgery room. The two men stopped behind a class window. Through the opening Eddie could see the nurses helping Brian get prepped for surgery. The quarterback was barely awake. His eyelids were flickering back and forth; as he tried to remain conscious. By happenstance, he tilted his head toward the direction that Eddie was in. The moment the eyes of the quarterback fell on the young man, they went wide open.

Eddie stared at him. The hate in Brian’s eyes was unmistakable. Even though it was his own stupidity that might have cost him his career as a football player, Eddie knew that the fool would blame him for this. However, he also knew that one way or another, he was going to ruin Brian’s life. Would the quarterback come after Eddie for revenge after he left prison? The young man had seen one too many times what the price of vengeance was and how loved ones would suffer for it. He didn’t want that for him, his family and possibly even Bonnie. He had to think of their future and he wanted to make sure Brian was no where near it. “Yeah,” the young man whispered toward the cop, “I’ll press charges.”

“Good,” the cop began to escort him away, “Tomorrow you’ll need to come down to the precinct and fill out some paper work. But now, go home and rest.”

“Yes, sir,” Eddie walked down the hall with him.


After working his way toward the maze of hallways, he made it back toward the ER. As he looked into the distance beyond the nurses going about their daily business, he could see Bonnie. Then he recognized her mother, Mrs. Tefpourth was there, obviously making sure they were okay. Eddie walked up and expected to get yelled by her mother, for having her daughter in a dangerous situation. As he walked up, Bonnie smiled at him. Then without warning, Mrs. Tefpourth grabbed Eddie by the cheeks and kissed him. His eyes went wide in amazement, not expecting her to do this. “Oh, my goodness,” she nearly wept,” Bonnie told me what you did, Eddie. That is the most heroic thing I’ve ever heard of.”

“Oh, please, Mrs. Tefpourth, it was nothing.” He blushed a bit.

“No, it was everything, Eddie,” Bonnie said, holding onto his arm.
“Yes, it was and from now on you call me Julia.” Her mother smiled.

“Thank you . . Julie.” The teenager smiled.

“So, now you must come to dinner at my house on Friday,” she pointed out, “So my husband can thank you for saving the life of his step-daughter.”

“Matt’s coming to town!” Bonnie gasped.

“Yes, his rotation from his studies is up and he’ll be spending the next two weeks with us,” the older woman placed her hand on Eddie’s arm, “Please tell me, you’ll be joining us Friday, Eddie.”

“I look forward to meeting him.” He smiled.

The older woman then began to lead the way out of the hospital with the young couple in tow. Eddie was concerned about Brian and wondered if any repercussions would come from this attempt on his life. Pressing charges against the quarterback was the only way he could see that none would happen. But was that what he was truly nervous about? No really; he was more nervous about the one thing most young men are nervous about in regards to their girlfriends.

Meeting their fathers.

Part 434: Collison Course

January 12th, 2010


Eddie awaited his ice coffee at the counter of the Jittery Joe’s coffee shop. The young man briefly turned back toward his companions. At the far corner, among the other patrons was Bonnie, Maddie and Tristan. They were laughing about something but Eddie was beyond ear-shot to know what that could have been. After a few weeks of hanging out together, they were becoming closer to a inner circle of friends. Eddie smirked for a bit at the thought of such thing.

Because it reminded him of Mia’s Brat Pack.

“I guess something things come full circle.” He whispered.

“What did you say, man?” the coffee shop clerk said as he handed him his iced coffee.

“Nothing,” he replied, flopping a dollar in the tip jar, “Just talking to myself. Thanks.”

Eddie strode through the crowd of high schoolers as they talked among themselves. After weeding through them, he took his seat next to Bonnie. The redhead smiled at her boyfriend, leaning up a bit, then leaning back into him as sat down on the loveseat with her. “I heard you guys laughing from the counter,” he said, sipping his coffee drink, “What did I miss?”

“Oh, nothing.” Tristan snickered.

“It doesn’t sound like nothing,” the young man kicked the table to nudge his best friend’s leg, “Why do I get the feeling I am at the butt end of a joke?”

“And what a cute butt it is.” Bonnie giggled.
“Tristan was telling us a story about when you two were 13 years old. Something about defeating a vampire?”

“Oh, man!” Eddie said, closing his eyes, “Why the hell did you bring up that story, Tristan?”

“Because it’s my favorite one!” the Japanese teenager laughed.

“Eddie, what is Tristan talking about?” his girlfriend asked.

“You’re going to pay for this, dude,” he smirked at his best friend as he understood, he wasn’t going to get out of NOT telling the story, “Tristan and I became friends around the same age at 13, competing the same Jeet Kune Do classes. As we became friends, one Halloween he invited me to a haunted house at a Carnival. We walked in and this guy in a vampire suit jumps down, scares the crap out of me-“

“And he knocks him out!” Tristan burst out laughing, “ONE PUNCH!”

“Oh, my God,” Maddie laughed, covering her mouth with her hands.

“Whoa,” Bonnie said, rubbing his chest, “How many girls can say their boyfriends knocked out a vampire and be telling the truth about it?”

“You silly thing,” Eddie said, kissing her on the cheek.


Afterwards it became time for them to head home. The group stepped out into the cold January air. Bonnie tucked her jacket inward as Maddie stood by her side. Eddie patted her on the arm. “I’ll get Turk,” he said,” Be right back.”

“Okay,” she winked.

“Uh, Tristan?” Maddie said.

“Yeah?” the Asian looked at her, as he stepped off the sidewalk.

“Would you . . .would you give me a lift home?” she said, with a bright smile.

The Japanese teenager was a little taken back by the abrupt request. However, he admitted he was started to like Maddie as they continued to hang out. Plus, it had always been just them four, not alone. He figured this would be a good time to get to know her better. “Uh . .sure,” he smiled, shrugging his shoulders, “I’ll . . .get my car.”

“Cool,” she giggled.

Tristan walked toward his car in the parking log. Bonnie crossed her arms to keep warm and then looked at her best friend. “What’s up, Maddie?” she asked.

“What do you mean?” she said with an innocent look.

“Not that I mind you hanging out with Tristan . .but why not let me and Eddie take you home since you arrived with us?”

“I’m glad you don’t mind me hanging out with Tristan because if I am successful, I’ll be hanging out with Tristan more.”

“Maddie . . .are you . .gonna put the moves on Tristan?” the redhead giggled.

“Yes.” She said without hesitation.

“You are so bad!” she laughed as her and her friend briefly hugged.

“You got a great guy in Eddie, Bonnie,” her friends as she started to walk toward Tristan’s vehicle, “and since he doesn’t have a brother . . .I’ll take his best friend.”

Bonnie just shook her head in amazement. Tristan leaned over and unlocked the door for her. Maddie quickly got in and closed the door; flashing her eyebrows at the redhead. As they drove away, Eddie finally brought Turk up to the curb so she could get in. Bonnie opened the door and slid on the half cold vinyl seats. “Tristan decided to give Maddie a ride?” Eddie asked.

“Actually, she is the one who suggested it,” Bonnie giggled, “He simply agreed.”

“That’s interesting . . .I wasn’t aware they were getting closer.”

“Oh, they are not,” the redhead gave a smirk, “But if Maddie has her way . . .they will be.”

“Oooooooh,” Eddie laughed, “Man, he is in TROUBBLLLEEEE.”



The road back toward Bonnie’s house was near Eddie’s. The young man decided to take the scenic route to spend more time with his girlfriend. Bonnie didn’t mind. She rested her head on his shoulder as he wrapped her arms around his chest. He kept one arm around her and the other hand on the steering wheel. He gently stroked her hair as he kept his eyes on the near empty road in front of him; headlines shining the way. “What are you thinking about?” he whispered to her.

“Honestly?” she leaned up with a smile.

“Uh . .yeah.” he chuckled.

“Prom.” She admitted.

“Prom?” he laughed, “That’s over five months away!”

“I’m just imagining what our prom picture will be like.”

“Well . .I’m sure I’ll be dressed in a tuxedo, like a young James Bond,” he said, “And you? You’ll have your hair done up and be dressed in a light blue dress, just like Cinderella.”

“Does that you my prince charming?” she smiled.

“Yes it does and I promise you, Turk won’t turn into a pumpkin at Midnight.”

The young couple laughed. Eddie felt blessed that he had Bonnie by his side. He loved her deeply and was thankful she came into his life. He often wondered why he had the feeling that he met her before but like his friends keeping telling him; he must trust in Fate. Eddie then casually blinked into the rearview mirror. He then quickly looked back and saw a fast approaching pair of headlights. The young could tell from their speed and the sound of the engine is that the car was on a direct collision course. “I guess I’m thinking of Prom because I’ve been in a romantic moo-“ Bonnie tried to say before Eddie grabbed the steering wheel and lurched the into the other lane; forcing the car to scrape up against them.

Bonnie screamed at the noise of the scrape. Several bits of red plastic flew up around the car’s windshield. Eddie looked at the car as it screeched to a haul as they past it. Then it began up again and tried to ram them. The young man floored the accelerator on his muscle car, sending it down the street in a rush. “STRAP IN!” Eddie screamed as he clicked on his seat belt.

Bonnie grunted as she quickly got the seatbelt out. Eddie shifted the gears on Turk as they started to scream down the street faster. He kept his eyes on the rearview mirror as the vehicle sped along to keep up. The redhead tried to stay calm but she was so upset she was crying. “Who is that?” she cried, “what do they want?”

“I don’t know but they are suicidal.” Eddie held both hands onto the steering wheel.

“Wha . .what do you mean?” she asked.

“He’s in a Dodge Viper. It’s mostly made of plastic,” he grunted as the vehicle rammed them again, “Turk is a Chevy Nova, made fully of metal.”

Bonnie looked back and saw what Eddie meant. The newer car was falling apart at the seems but all Turk was getting was a few dents. Then as the car pasted under a few streets light; the inner part of the Viper was illuminated and she got her first look at the driver who seemed hell bent on wrecking them. “OH, MY GOD!” she screamed, “EDDIE! IT’S BRIAN!”

Eddie flashed his head back toward the driver saw it for himself. It was Brian Sage, the quarterback he beat up a few months ago for the snide comment he made about Jilly. Eddie felt he deserved it but now, Brian seemed eager to kill him. Or himself, he couldn’t tell which. Brian then jerked the Viper and rammed them into the guard rail near an embankment. Eddie screamed in defiance as small amounts of sparks were flying up from the side of the Turk they screeched on the metal. Bonnie was screaming for it to end and Eddie knew he had too. He looked over toward Brian who was holding the steering wheel as hard as he could toward the right. The young man looked ahead at the trees and saw his ultimate goal.

Shove them down the embankment and hope they get severely hurt in the process.

“Bonnie!” Eddie said, taking her hand, “HOLD ON!

The girl grabbed his hand and squeezed it. She knew he would do every he could to protect her. Eddie glanced back at Brian , who was laughing as they got closer to the end of the guard rail. The young man tilted Turk into the guard rail, giving into the momentum and causing Brian to jerk his vehicle. Then Eddie slammed both feet into his brake pedal, making the Nova stop in a dead lurch. Bonnie grunted as she was rammed forward but the seat belt held her back. The surge of momentum made the Viper screech it’s tires and hit the ledge of the guard rail first. As it did, it then twisted on it’s back access and tumbled down the side of the embankment.

Eddie leaned up enough to see the Viper go careening toward the trees. It twisted over and over, finally colliding with a tree. The young man then immediately checked on his girlfriend. Bonnie was more scared out of her wits than actually hurt. He held her in his arms as she wept heavily; with a tight grip on his arm. He stroked her hair, kissing her forehead. “You’re okay, Bonnie. You’re okay,” he whispered, “Please don’t move, I’ll be right back.”

“What?” she gasped, “Where are you going?”

“I gotta get Brian.”

Bonnie was in total disbelief as she watched her boyfriend leave the vehicle and then start scrambling down the hill to get the man who just tried to kill them. The redhead got out of the vehicle and looked into the distance. Eddie was stumbling down toward the crushed Viper in the hope that Brian was alive. She smiled as the tears ran down her face. Any other man would have let the person that tried to kill them rot. However, that wouldn’t be Eddie. That wouldn’t be how he was raised. It definitely wouldn’t be who he truly was. She wiped her tears, marveling how much he truly was her own Prince Charming.

Eddie landed on his knees as he finally got to the Viper. He opened up the door and saw Brian hang from his seat belt. He was bleeding badly as he had multiple cuts across his arms and face. There was a large amount of blood seeping from the dashboard as he hung upside. Eddie immediately guessed his leg was broke. “Brian, unhook your belt.” He told him.

“Uh . .?” he stuttered.

“Unhook your damn belt and I’ll pull you out!” he screamed at him.

Brian winced as he reached up and pressed the red tap on the seatbelt. The moment he did, he dropped and screamed in agony. Eddie grabbed his wrists and began to pull him out. The quarterback was continuing to scream as the young man pulled him up the hill. “I’LL KILL YOU, TRASCAL!” he screamed.

“YOU AND WHAT ARMY, YOU DUMB BASTARD???” Eddie screamed back.

“You never should have beaten me up!”

“You never should have insulted my sister!” Eddie screamed as he finally hoisted him up into a fireman’s cradle.

“Nobody will talk to me!” he screamed and the started crying, “My girlfriend dumped me! My friends think I am weak! You ruined my life!”

“Your life was already on the verge of ruin!” Eddie grunted as they got closer to the top of the embankment, “I only sped it up.”

“You got everything, and I got nothing!” he cried.

“How kind of you to notice!” Eddie said with a bit of a laugh as he dumped him on the side of the road.

Eddie then looked at his mangled leg, seeing how bad it was. The young man then removed Brian’s belt with a fast motion and then flipped it around it leg. He pulled it through the buckle and locked it, creating a tourniquet. He stood up and looked down at the weeping, bleeding quarterback. “I hate you.” He cried.

“Good news then, Brian,” he wiped his sweat, “I hate you right back.”

Eddie began walking over toward Bonnie who ran toward him. The young couple embraced. She laughed and cried at the same type; watching the young man’s sense of nobility and honor get displayed right before her eyes. “You are amazing.” She told him.

“No,” Eddie chuckled, “I’m better than that.”

He kissed her gently, to assure her everything was going to be okay. She held onto him, as he reached into his jacket to get his cell phone to dial 911. The redhead looked at the weeping quarterback, as he seemed more upset that Eddie saved him; rather than his mangled right leg. “Is Brian going to make it?” she asked.

“Yeah, he’ll make it,” Eddie said, trying to get a clear signal, “I don’t know about his prospects of football though.”

“Why did he try to kill us?”

“Because he said I ruin his life.”

“How stupid!” she scoffed.

“Stupid is as stupid does, sweetie,” he said, waiting for the operator to answer.

“He tried to kill us and you pulled him from the wreckage,” she smiled, “You are the better man, Eddie.”

Eddie smiled down at her. He was so happy she was all right. She got a little shook up but coincidentally, watching him rescue Brian made her feel even better. He had hoped little adventures like this would stop. The young man was just glad that technically all of them came out in one piece. Then abruptly, the Viper blew up. Bonnie squeaked as she held onto Eddie, seeing the red Dodge go up in flames. A piece of metal flew through the air and slammed into the ground about ten feet from them. The engine piece was poking out of the ground; it back end on flames like an ancient arrow used in combat.

“Well, Dang,” Eddie sighed, “We ain’t got any marshmallows.”

Part 433: Twas the Night Before

The night was finally drawing to a close. John held his daughter as slept on his shoulder. Mia kissed Shanna good night, promising she’d visit her soon. Seth hugged her, telling her to have a great Christmas. The Riggs family began their walk back to their car, piling in their sleeping child and assorted gifts. Locke bid farewell to McKay, enjoying their conversations for the evening. John embraced Tony, wishing him a Merry Christmas. “You take care of yourself, bro.” the archer said.

“I will,” he said, patting him on the arm, “You take care of that family for us, all right?”

“Of course,” he then raised an eyebrow, “Speaking of family, where is my adoptive sister?”

Almost on cue, Kate was walking out of the mansion with Sawyer by her side. Judging by his constant laughter and glazed expression, he was drunk. The brunette winked behind her glasses as she helped the redneck toward Natasha’s car. McKay quickly ran over and helped her get him into the passenger side. “You never change, you know that?” the Australian told him.

“And that’s why I’m married and you’re not,” the redneck giggled.

“Don’t you mean . . .I’m married and you’re not?” the Australian asked him.

“I said that.” He laughed.

McKay just waved him off as Kate walked over. She kissed him on the cheek, making him smile brightly. “Merry Christmas, Sawyer.” She giggled.

“Ain’t you coming with us?” he said, with only one eye open.

“Uh . . .no, I’m not.” She patted him on the chest.

Before he could object, she closed the door on the car. The brunette then walked over past the hood where Natasha was bidding farewell to Ecko. As they parted, the stock trader turned and looked at Kate who just had a coy smile on her lips. “Go easy on him,” she smirked.

“I’ll be gentle,” she giggled, hugging her, “Welcome home, Kate.”

“Don’t be a stranger, Tasha,” the brunette whispered in her ear.

As they parted, Kate began her walk toward the awaiting SUV. Jack was bidding farewell to Jilly, as they stood in the front lawn. The deaf woman saw Kate coming and winked at her. She then quietly left Jack alone with the brunette. The doctor smiled down at her. “Merry Christmas, Kate.” He whispered.

“Merry Christmas, Jack.” She said, her eyes glowing in his direction.

“Kate . .I just . . .I just wanted to say . .”

Kate then stopped him by placing two fingers on his lips. She gently bit her lower lip and smiled at him. “Tell me when we’re alone.” She said with a gleam in her eye.

Jack smiled brightly. “Okay,” he agreed.

“Come on, Sis!” John laughed, “We got to get Shelley home before Santa arrives!”

Jack watched as she walked back to the family that took her in. The doctor fell in love with her on the Island. However, due to her fugitive status, she couldn’t return that love. Now that she was finally safe from the authorities, they were taking small steps toward each out. The doctor didn’t regret spending time with Jilly but deep down in their hearts; they both knew they weren’t truly in love. It was an attraction, nothing more. The doctor took another deep sigh. As he walked toward his car, he figured he’d get his spiritual awakening with women some other time.


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

“Promise me, we’ll see you again soon,” Libby told Arizona.

“Oh, you can count it,” the Texan hugged the therapist, “You and Hal’s wedding? I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

“Where are you heading to after this?”

“Vegas!” Arizona laughed, “We’ve got the time and the money, so why not lose both?”

“Remember; what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” Libby teased her.

“God, I hope not.” Her friend laughed.

“I wonder what the hell they are conspiring about?” Chance said as he walked out of the mansion holding their presents.

“With certain women, who knows?” Hal patted him on the back.

“We’ll be heading down to Vegas to spend New Year’s Eve, Hal. Can we swing back up here and spend a week or so with you guys?”

“You’re welcome in my home any time, Chance. Libby and I would love to show you guys San Fransico.”

“I want to ride a train car!” Arizona laughed as she embraced her husband.

“Wait till you see Golden Gate Park.” Libby laughed with her.

The Spartans and the soon to be Mancuso’s bid farewell to each other in that event. Hal then walked over and gave Dutch a goodbye hug. He nearly made the older man get misty eyed when he informed him he would be the surfer’s best man in his upcoming wedding. Karliegh kissed Libby on the cheek as they parted from them in the night. They waved good bye as they went to get into their vehicle to return to their penthouse downtown.

Claire walked a sleepy Aaron to the car, helping him get into the backseat with his presents. The blonde Australian then looked at the front yard where everybody else was getting ready. Seth was carrying his sleeping son as Tanya got the presents into their car. Charlie was walking with his band’s singer as they slowly made their way toward her own car. As they walked closer, they finally got within range for her to hear what the two best friends were talking about. “I’m not telling you what to do,” Seth whispered to him.

“I know that, Seth . .but after everything that’s happened . . .” Charlie looked at the ground as he walked.

“Just . .just think about it, okay, man?”

“Okay,” the bassist patted him on the back, “I’ll think about it.”

“Okay,” Seth then started heading back, “ Merry Christmas, Claire.”

“Merry Christmas to you, Seth and to you too, Brendon.” The woman giggled.

The little boy on Seth’s shoulder made some sort of sound that sounded close to “Merry Christmas,” but Claire couldn’t make it out. She then got into the passenger seat of their vehicle as Charlie got into the driver’s side. The musician calmly put his seat belt on and cranked up the heater to get the car warmed up. “What were you and Seth talking about?” she asked.

Charlie looked into the distance. He calmly adjusted the rear view mirror. The musician then took a deep breath. “He suggested I invite Liam to our wedding.” He whispered.

Claire then reached over and rubbed his wrist. She knew was a sensitive subject Liam was. He left Charlie in a lurch to save himself and even nearly demanded that he join the reformed Driveshaft. However, the band shortly disbanded and then Charlie formed Turboshaft only to become even better than he was before. Liam resented it and Charlie never really forgave him for getting hooked on the drugs, not to mention not being there when he needed him. “Maybe it is time to let it go, Charlie,” she whispered.

“I want to,” he whispered, “But I’m afraid that Liam won’t be able to let it go.”

“Did you ever think that he might be thinking the exact same thing?” she raised an eyebrow.

Charlie then smiled and laughed slightly.

“What’s . .what’s so funny, Charlie?” Claire asked.

“Seth said the same thing,” he grinned, “I swear to God if Seth was born my brother, I wouldn’t have had such a rough life.”

“Well, he’s your brother now, and sometimes you should listen to your brother’s advice.”

Charlie looked toward his fiancé, knowing full well what she meant. Since it was Seth who suggested it, it was like another big brother giving his little brother advice. “I’ll think about it.” He concluded, “But tonight, we got to make sure Aaron gets home in time for Santa Claus.”

“Okay,” she giggled.

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

Marita held onto Eddie for the longest time. He was so happy because it was so a wonderful evening. Marita had announced that she was pregnant and Tony had gotten his sight back. The Latina loved the boy like her own son and the bond they formed on the Island would never be broken. Eddie looked at her and smiled. “You thought of any names yet?” he inquired.

“It’s too soon, Eddie,” she giggled, “But remember, what sex this child turns out to be, you’ll be their big brother.”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way.” He agreed.

“Hey, Boy,” Tony patted him on the back.

“Hello, sir,” he smiled at his mentor.

“You take care of yourself and when your mom goes back to Japan, always remember you got a home with us too okay?” he hugged him.

“I’ll never forget it, Tony,” he parted from his hug.

“All right,” the doctor smiled, trying not to get too mushy, “Get your girlfriend home. Have a Merry Christmas.”

“You too. Both of you.” He waved to them.

Eddie walked back over to the porch, waving goodbye to his hosts. Hurley and Joscelyn smiled from the door, making sure everybody got to their cars and left nothing behind. The young man then saw his girlfriend talked to his mother. Barbara smiled and then laughed at something Bonnie just told her. “Oh, God, “ he told them both, “Do I even want to know?”

“I was just telling her about your romantic side, like our Turboshaft concert.” She said, taking his arm.

“I was raised well, wasn’t I, mom?” he said, proudly.

“Yes, you were,” Barbara kissed her son on the forehead, “Now get your girlfriend home. Her mother is probably worried sick.”

“I had the best time of my Christmas here,” Bonnie hugged the older woman.

“You are always welcomed here.” The woman told her as she walked over to her own car.

Eddie took Bonnie over to Turk, awaiting them in the street. He opened the door for her, allowing her to step into the cool vinyl seats. Then he slid over toward the drivers seat, got in, cranked the engine and began on their journey to take her home. At the front door, Hurley and Joscelyn waved to the final guests who finally left their mansion home. The woman sighed, as she rubbed the arm of her husband. “It was a great party.” She told him.

“Yes, I’d say it was one of our best.” He kissed her as they closed the door.

“Everybody else is asleep, right?”

“Yeah, mom past out a long time ago and your family went to bed early so the kids could enjoy Christmas morning.”

She looked at her watch and smiled, heading to the stairs. “Good, then we have time.” She grinned.

“Time for what, honey?” he said, removing his shoes.

“Christmas Sex.” She winked at him.

Hurley lurched up his head as he saw his wife disappear up the stairs. The large man coughed, then whispered, “Dude.”

Then made a beeline for the stairs as fast as his legs would take them.

Part 432: Karaoke Kings and Queens

Eddie and Bonnie strode back into the house from their little moment outside. They casually took off their coats and placed them on the back of chairs within the kitchen. A heavy bass beat began to echo out of the living room. The young redhead laughed at the sound. “Under Pressure,” she giggled, “That’s a classic David Bowie song.”

Eddie and his girlfriend walked into the living room where the annual tradition of Christmas Karaoke had begun. Seth, Dutch and Charlie were in the front of the Karaoke Master 3000 machine and they were dancing in perfect harmony. As Bonnie studied their movements, she could see they were doing something else. “That’s not Under Pressure.” She gasped.

“No,” Eddie smirked,” That’s something else.”

Karleigh was laughing so hard and being embarrassed at the same time. Tanya and Claire were behind on her the ottoman, laughing with her. The keyboardist tried to close her eyes but she couldn’t help but look at Dutch, Charlie and Seth perform Vanilla Ice’s “Ice, Ice, Baby.” It was something comparable to a train wreck; she couldn’t take her eyes off of it. When the refrain hit, all three men stopped dancing in perfect syncronisty.

All right stop collaborate and listen
Ice is back with my brand new invention
Something grabs a hold of me tightly
Flow like a harpoon daily and nightly
Will it ever stop yo I don't know
Turn off the lights and I'll glow
To the extreme I rock a mic like a vandal
Light up a stage and wax a chump like a candle
Dance go rush to the speaker that booms
I'm killing your brain like a poisonous mushroom
Deadly when I play a dope melody
Anything less than the best is a felony
Love it or leave it you better gain weight
You better hit bull's eye the kid don't play
If there was a problem yo I'll solve it
Check out the hook while my DJ revolves it

“ Ice ice baby vanillla “ the trio whispered, causing the ladies to do an uproar of laughter

Now that the party is jumping
With the bass kicked in and the vegas are pumpin'
Quick to the point to the point no faking
I'm cooking MC's like a pound of bacon
Burning them if you ain't quick and nimble
I go crazy when I hear a cymbal
And a hi-hat with a souped up tempo
I'm on a roll and it's time to go solo
Rollin' in my 5.0
With my rag-top down so my hair can blow
The girlies on standby waving just to say hi
Did you stop no I just drove by
Kept on pursuing to the next stop
I busted a left and I'm heading to the next block
The block was dead
Yo so I continued to A1A Beachfront Avenue
Girls were hot wearing less than bikinis
Rockman lovers driving Lamborghinis
Jealous 'cause I'm out getting mine
Shay with a guage and Vanilla with a nine
Reading for the chumps on the wall
The chumps acting ill because they're so full of eight balls
Gunshots rang out like a bell
I grabbed my nine all I heard were shells
Falling on the concrete real fast
Jumped in my car slammed on the gas
Bumpet to bumper the avenue's packed
I'm trying to get away before the jackers jack
Police on the scene you know what I mean
They passed me up confronted all the dope fiends
If there was a problem yo I'll solve it
Check out the hook while my DJ revolves it

Take heed 'cause I'm a lyrical poet
Miami's on the scene just in case you didn't know it
My town that created all the bass sound
Enough to shake and kick holes in the ground
'Cause my style's like a chemical spill
Feasible rhymes that you can vision and feel
Conducted and formed
This is a hell of a concept
We make it hype and you want to step with this
Shay plays on the fade slice like a ninja
Cut like a razor blade so fast other DJs say damn
If my rhyme was a drug I'd sell it by the gram
Keep my composure when it's time to get loose
Magnetized by the mic while I kick my juice
If there was a problem yo I'll solve it
Check out the hook while Shay revolves it

Ice ice baby vanilla
Ice ice baby (oh-oh) vanilla
Ice ice baby vanilla
Ice ice baby vanilla ice
Yo man let's get out of here
Word to your mother
Ice ice baby too cold
Ice ice baby too cold too cold
Ice ice baby

Seth, Dutch and Charlie then stopped in their dance, crossing their legs and placing their hands on foreheads; all at the same time. The group then stood up applauding them. Karleigh laughed, as she embraced her fiancé. “DON’T EVER DO THAT AGAIN!” she laughed.

Tony, John and McKay couldn’t stop laughing at the display. Tonya kissed Seth, saying he was a marvelous dancer. Claire told Charlie he was in the wrong profession. He could have been a dancer. Bonnie applauded and laughed. She then nudged Eddie in the side. “There is no way they would do that on stage.” She commented.

“No, they only dance like idiots in front of family.” The young man chuckled.

“Who’s next?” Hurley laughed.

“Your turn, Jack,” Kate said, shoving him forward.

“Oh, man,” he moaned as he stepped behind the big machine.

He picked up the microphone and began browsing through the large list of music. Jenny came over to his side, as she held onto his arm and started to help him pick a song. The two adoptive siblings scanned the computer listing. Jenny then pointed to a specific listing and the doctor laughing; shaking his head in agreement. “Better make it good, Jack,” Sawyer called to him, “The girls are looking to be impressed.”

“Then they better hold onto their seats, cause this is going to blow them away.”

“OOOOOOOOHHHHHHH.” John, McKay and Tony said in unison.

The music began to play and Jack stepped out from behind the console. He started to immediately do a very familiar dance; belonging to the late King of Rock and Roll. Since she was technically the oldest, Barbara put her hand on her chest when she saw Jack imitating Elvis Presley. Kate, Shanna and Mandy playfully screamed like any groupie would have back in those days. The doctor started to sing the lyrics.

A well I bless my soul
What’s wrong with me?
I’m itching like a man on a fuzzy tree
My friends say I’m actin wild as a bug
I’m in love
I’m all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!

My hands are shaky and my knees are weak
I cant seem to stand on my own two feet
Who do you thank when you have such luck?
I’m in love
I’m all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!

Joscelyn then laughed as she threw a cloth napkin at the doctor. Jack laughed as she caught it then pretended to wipe his sweat on it. Then he tossed it toward the crowd of women, as Kate and Jilly fought to grab it. They laughed together as they rolled down from the couch to the carpet. Jack winked at Jenny as he continued singing.

Please don’t ask me what’s on my mind
I’m a little mixed up, but I’m feelin’ fine
When I’m near that girl that I love best
My heart beats so it scares me to death!

She touched my hand what a chill I got
Her lips are like a volcano that’s hot
I’m proud to say she’s my buttercup
I’m in love
I’m all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!

My tongue get tied when I try to speak
My insides shake like a leaf on a tree
There’s only one cure for this body of mine
That’s to have the girl that I love so fine!

She touched my hand what a chill I got
Her lips are like a volcano that’s hot
I’m proud to say she’s my buttercup
I’m in love
I’m all shook up
Mm mm oh, oh, yeah, yeah!

The crowd then applauded his near perfect rendition of the Elvis song. Kate, Jenny and Jilly ran up to him; flooding him with kisses. The group just laughed even harder as the doctor was pretending to be overcome; letting his eyes roll to the back of his head. As they parted from him, Jack looked over to Sawyer who just had a smirk on his face, with his arms crossed. The doctor then tossed the microphone into his direction with the redneck catching it with ease. “Follow that, killer.” Jack laughed, putting on his best Jerry Lee Lewis impersonation.

“You asked for it.” The redneck said as he strode over to the machine.

He punched in the codes on the screen. The redneck waited for a few moments, then smirked as he punched in the code for the song he found. Within seconds, a bluegrass tone began to hum over the speakers. Not to be out done by Jack; Sawyer then started dancing his own self. Shanna cheered for him as he did and Kate just couldn’t stop laughing. She already knew the irony of why he chose it. The musician that was singing the country song was ALSO named Sawyer. He grabbed the microphone, shoved it to his mouth and then started singing.

She turned up her nose as she walked by my cadillac
From the corner of my eye I saw you and you laughed
You were sittin' on the swing on your front porch
Paintin' your nails like you were bored
And you yelled "She was sure impressed with you"

Well I ain't first class
But I ain't white trash
I'm wild and a little crazy too

Sawyer then pointed toward Taylor. “ Some girls don't like boys like me.” He sang, which drew a round of laughter.

Then he pointed to Kate and Shanna. “ Aww but some girls do!”

The redhead and the brunette screamed in delight; hugging each other. The rest of the group just laughed and cheered as Sawyer kept singing.

I yelled and asked if you would like a ride
When we pulled out of your yard I balled a tire
You was laughing at me, I was doing James Dean
You was the prettiest girl I'd ever seen
When you rolled your eyes and twirled my pink fur dice

Well good ole' boys don't get no breaks
And rich boys think they got what it takes
But there's someone for each of us they say

Well I ain't first class
But I ain't white trash
I'm wild and a little crazy too
Some girls don’t like boys like me.
AWWwwww but some girls do!

I said some girls do
You know some girls do
Like boys like me
You know some girls do

Sawyer jerked like Elvis when he was done. Kate, and Shanna ran over and flooded him with kisses too. They laughed and then squeaked a bit as he started smooching back and quickly grabbed both their buttocks. “Don’t encourage him!” McKay laughed.

Natasha smiled from the corner, twirling her hair. As Sawyer sat down with them, he looked back and winked at her. The stock trader felt a tingle in her belly at the prospect of getting with the redneck again. Ecko and Raven just watched the whole scene and simply found it amusing. Hurley then stood up. “Okay, who’s next?” he asked.

“I got an idea,” Marita smiled, “Every girl who was proposed to should sing. For the men in their lives.”

“Yeah, yeah!” Charlie clapped.

“Oh, my God, “ Shannon giggled as she walked up to the Karaoke Master 3000.

Karleigh picked up Libby by the arm, pulling her with her. As the four women stood behind the console, they started to browse the selection. They were whispering and giggling, trying to find the appropriate selection. Claire then gasped in delight, pointing to a specific song. Libby giggled at the selection; considering it was one of her favorite songs. The rest of the girls picked up the extra microphones. They began to play the music and once it was heard, all their fiancés smiled; because they were definitely singing just for them.

Never know how much I love you
Never know how much I care
When you put your arms around me
I get a fever that's so hard to bear

You give me fever, when you kiss me
Fever when you hold me tight
Fever in the morning
Fever all through the night

Sun lights up the daytime
Moon lights up the night
My eyes light up when you call my name
'Cause I know you're gonna treat me right

Charlie’s smile was probably the biggest it’s ever been. Sayid kept his fingers over his mouth; keeping his eyes on Shannon the whole time. Dutch already knew that Karleigh was a great singer and Hal just felt even more loved by Libby. The girls were to the point of blushing as all their men were watching them. They continued to sing.

Everybody's got the fever
That is something you should know
Fever isn't such a new scene
Fever started long ago

Romeo loved Juliet
Juliet, she felt the same
When he put his arms around her
He said, "Julie baby, you're my flame"

Captain smith and Pocahontas
Had a very mad affair
When her daddy tried to kill him
She said, daddy oh don't you dare
"He gives me fever
"With his kisses
"Fever when he holds me tight
"Fever, I'm his missus
"So, daddy, won't you treat him right"

Fever, when you kiss them
Fever, if you live and learn
Fever, 'til you sizzle
What a lovely way to burn

The group applauded the ladies performance. Karleigh bowed and showed off her fellow singers, who had never sung professionally but they didn’t hesitate for their friends and family. Libby put her arms around Hal and kissed him passionately. Flower and Andra giggled behind her but the therapist just waved them off. Sayid embraced Shannon and held her closely; moved by her singing. Dutch kissed Karleigh on the cheek and suggested his fiancé should record a track for that. Charlie laughed as he embraced Claire. “So, . . .duet on our next album?” he suggested.

“Oh, shut up, Charlie,” she laughed, kissing him.

Bonnie and Eddie clapped at the fun they were having. “Hey, Bonnie,” Barbara called to her.

The young redhead walked over to the older redhead and they laughed; clasping each other’s hands. “Are you having a great time?” Barbara asked.

“I’m having a blast!” she laughed, “My own family party is boring compared to this.”

“It’s what we do every year,” Jilly told her, “ We’re use to it.”

Eddie stared at his girlfriend, talking to his mother and his adoptive sister. Seeing the love beam from her this evening, gave his heart a twirl. She came into his life, loved him and was also accepted by his large, collected family. The young man took a deep sigh and then decided to repay her kindness in a very special way. He walked past everybody as he made his way across the living room floor. Sawyer raised an eyebrow as he watched him. Hurley was about to ask who was next but when he saw Eddie walk over to the Karaoke Master, he just smiled brightly; clapping his hands. Barbara then paused when she saw her son at the machine, with the microphone in his hand and browsing through the songs. “Oh, My heavens.” Barbara smiled.

“What?” Bonnie turned around, “What’s going on?”

“Eddie is at the Karaoke machine!” Jilly laughed, placing her hands over her mouth.

“Huh?” the redhead smiled, “What’s the big deal about that?”

“He’s NEVER gone up there.” Jilly said, looking at her.

“Never? EVER?” the young girl gasped.

Barbara placed her hands around the young girls shoulders. “You bring out the best in him, Bonnie.” The older woman whispered.

Eddie pressed a button and then a soft tune began to play, with a hint of pop into it. The young man leaned against the machine, as he stared across the room toward his girlfriend.


I don't want another pretty face
I don't want just anyone to hold
I don't want my love to go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul
You're the one I wanna chase
You're the one I wanna hold
I wont let another minute go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul

The group gave off a collective sight of “awwwww’s”. Bonnie smiled brightly and began to walk across the living room toward Eddie as he kept singing.

I know that you are something special
To you I'd be always faithful
I want to be what you always needed
Then I hope you'll see the heart in me

I don't want another pretty face
I don't want just anyone to hold
I don't want my love to go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul
You're the one I wanna chase
You're the one I wanna hold
I wont let another minute go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul

Your beautiful soul, yeah
You might need time to think it over
But im just fine moving forward
I'll ease your mind
If you give me the chance
I will never make you cry c`mon lets try

A few of the girls began to sway to his tune, with their husbands, boyfriends or fiancés joining them. Bonnie smiled as she leaned up against the console, with Eddie not taking his eyes off of her.

I don't want another pretty face
I don't want just anyone to hold
I don't want my love to go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul
You're the one I wanna chase
You're the one I wanna hold
I wont let another minute go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul

Am I crazy for wanting you
Baby do you think you could want me too
I don't wanna waste your time
Do you see things the way I do
I just wanna know if you feel it too
There is nothing left to hide

I don't want another pretty face
I don't want just anyone to hold
I don't want my love to go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul
You're the one I wanna chase
You're the one I wanna hold
I wont let another minute go to waste
I want you and your beautiful soul

You beautiful soul, yeah

The group then laughed and applauded as Eddie was done. Bonnie walked around the console, and kissed him; falling into his embrace. John, Tony and McKay cheered him on; shouting their approval. Eddie hugged his girlfriend and winked at the three men who helped shape him into the man he had become. Bonnie just closed her eyes, holding onto her boyfriend and thinking of an amusing dilemma.

How was she going to tell her family, she would want to spend Christmas Eve here from now on?