BACK TO L.A. by Sharon Captain John Gage sat at his computer desk staring into space. He had mounds of paper work to catch up on and countless filing to do, he wasn't sure he'd ever get it done. Despite these facts, he just couldn't seem to concentrate on his tasks at hand. His mind was thousands of miles away. In three days, he'd once again be headed for the City of Angels. John was looking forward to this visit to L.A. Not only because his best friends daughter, Jennifer, was getting married and it would provide him with another opportunity to visit with some very dear friends. But the trip to L.A would also serve as what he hoped would be a career move. He had a job interview with the Los Angeles County Fire Department. It seemed odd to have an interview with his former employer, but he did and he was looking forward to it. A few months earlier he had read an article in the local Maui newspaper, the Haleakala Times, about a shortage of SAR techs within the LACo Fire Department. After reading a few short paragraphs, he realized he had been holding his breath. He couldn't believe what he was reading. After days of careful consideration, he typed a resume and had faxed it off to the LACo Fire Department's Headquarters. A few days later, he received his desired response. The department had received hundreds of resumes and they asked him if he would be available for a telephone interview considering his current distance from their area. He had quickly sent off an email verifying that yes he would gladly give a telephone interview. A week later, while relaxing at home on one of his days off, one of the department's resource managers had called and Johnny gave a forty-five minute preliminary interview. A month had passed before he received any word from the manager, when a letter arrived by mail. First apologizing for the length it took for them to get back to him, and secondly, to ask if he could arrange a visit to L.A so a face to face interview could be conducted. Knowing Jennifer DeSoto's wedding was only three weeks away at that point, he called L.A and arranged for an interview to take place on the Tuesday following Jennifer's wedding to her fiance, Jim Scott. A knocking on the door frame to the office brought Johnny out of his self induced trance. "Cap, thought I'd bring you a cup of coffee." Dan Smith walked into the office with a cup of coffee in each hand and placed one on the desk in front of his captain. "Thanks, it's decafe, right?" Johnny replied, picking up the mug and blowing onto the piping hot liquid. "Yep…are you okay?" "Yeah, I'm fine, " Johnny tried to ease the other man's mind with a smile. Dan was Johnny's right hand man, his second in command. The two men had been working side by side for eight years now, ever since Johnny took over the captaincy of Maui's USAR # 8. Johnny valued the man's work skills, as well as the friendship the two had forged. The two were a lot alike. Both were single men with a rather colorful past. Each had known many highs, as well as many lows, during his lifetime. Although Johnny suspected he had had more of each, then the man seated before him. Dan, at thirty-eight, was sixteen years Johnny's junior. Despite this fact, Johnny considered the man his best friend on the island. "You thinking about your upcoming holiday?" Dan asked. "In a round about way," Johnny confessed. "Don't blame you. Wish I was headed to California." "You ever been?" Johnny asked the Honolulu native. "Never," he sighed. "Hope to some day though. Don't think my life would be complete without ever snuggling up to a few California babes." Dan waggled his eyebrows for emphasis. Not that he needed to, Johnny understood the younger man by the tone of his voice. Johnny just smirked looking into his friends face. He wished he could tell his comrade about his upcoming interview, but he had decided to keep it quiet for now. He knew if a job was offered to him he'd probably accept it, but that hadn't happened yet, so he didn't want to unnerve his crew unnecessarily. He knew he was well liked and respected by his crew. It was a mutual feeling, as Johnny liked and respected each member of his company as well. He enjoyed working along side the seven men and one woman who made up his team. They were all well trained and highly conscientious individuals who gave their heart and soul to each call they responded to. His departure, if it came to be, he suspected, would leave his team down trodden for a while. He didn't want to distract them from their job responsibilities unless his leaving was eminent. Not that he believed they would allow any personal feelings distract them from their work. But, all in all, Johnny didn't want to cause his team any unwarranted grief. "You're going for a month, right?" "Yeah." He had decided to use the rest of his unused annual leave, which currently sat at three weeks, for this vacation. He also decided to cash in his Christmas leave as well, which numbered five days. He concluded since he was single with no significant other in his life, or children, he'd work through the Christmas holidays, which would allow someone with a family some extended leave. "Need a drive to the airport?" "If you don't mind?" "Not at all." ^^^^^^^^^^ Three days later, the two friends walked through the island's busy airport. Despite the miniature size of the terminal, it was continually a busy spot. It didn't matter what time of year it was either, as all the Hawaiian Islands were always an in season destination for holiday seekers. Johnny checked in with his commuter flights counter check in girl. He checked his bags, had his tickets verified and was issued a boarding pass. Returning to the small donut shop where Dan stood patiently waiting, Johnny smiled as his friend gave a woman walking by the once over and made eye contact with the obvious first time tourist, who was making her way to the baggage claim center. "Thanks for the ride Dan. See ya in a month." "No problem. Enjoy the wedding and good luck." "Good luck?" Johnny replied with a clear question in his tone. "With the California babes!" Johnny just shook his head, laughed and replied, "no luck needed my friend. Remember, I once lived in LA, I know the best hot spots to hang out." "Yeah, well it's been a while, no harm in wishing a guy a little luck." The men bid each other farewell and separated, walking in two different directions. Dan to the baggage carrousel and Johnny to catch a commuter flight to Honolulu, where he'd connect to the flight that would eventually take him to LAX. ^^^^^^^^^^ Hours later, Johnny found himself at the counter of a car rental agency in the terminal at LAX. A rather pretty woman was helping him with his reservation. Soon, he'd looked the car over, signed the damage inspection form, gave the woman his credit card to get pre-approval and was finally parking the four door sedan in the parking lot of the four star Regency Hotel. Walking into the spacious lobby, he walked up to the registration desk and signed in. Taking his swipe key and his luggage, he walked to the elevator and pushed the button, patiently waiting for the car to come greet him. When the sliding doors opened, he stepped through and held it open for a young couple hurrying to catch the same elevator as he. He pushed the button for the tenth floor. Once there, he entered his room and hung the suit he planned to wear to the wedding, as well as a few other garments, in the closet. After putting the rest of his clothes away, he went into the bathroom and arranged his toiletries. Peeling off his clothes, he reached down and turned on the shower. He placed the shower head on message and climbed in. The pulsating stream of warm water felt good hitting his soar muscles. The previous day had been an arduous one. Or perhaps it had been his imagination; it seemed like the last shift before any extended holiday always proved to be overly strenuous. The first call of the day had proved to be a tricky one. A Hawaiian Cost Guard boat had collided with a tour operated deep sea fishing vessel. His crew first had to be transported to the location of the accident, along with the fire departments crew from station 19. Both crews had finally recovered all of the castaways after a vigorous four hours. Johnny was happy when he and his crew returned to their quarters six hours after being dispatched. He'd never liked water rescues. He never had been a strong swimmer and having spent the last thirty-five years living along the shores of the Pacific Ocean had unfortunately never amended the problem. Shortly after lunch, the search and rescue team had been called out to help extricate a ten year veteran of the Maui fire department. The man had become the victim of a collapsed roof at a fire. The fire department had worked feverishly for two and a half hours before Johnny and his crew had arrived on the scene. After working for another two hours, Johnny put in a call for another USAR team. Once that team arrived, it took another ninety minutes to pull the man out of the rubble. After dinner, the team was called out to help the fire department with a ten car pile up on the islands main highway. That accident had taken three hours to clear. By the time the company crawled into bed at ten o'clock that night, it only took Johnny seconds to fall a sleep. Waking up that morning, Johnny took his coffee and retreated into his office and started on a seemingly never ending pile of paper work. After the change of crews, Johnny stayed at the station for another three hours catching up on his work before finally heading home to wait for Dan to pick him up and take him to the airport. Now, hours later, he was in a L.A. hotel room climbing out of the shower. His former partner, Roy DeSoto and his wife, Joanne, had encouraged him to stay with them for the month. Johnny had agreed, but only after their daughter's wedding was over. He didn't want to intrude on the family time, not that he wasn't considered a member of the DeSoto family, but he felt it necessary to keep an arms length away during what he could only assume would be a stressful weekend. Plus, the DeSoto's would be putting up various out of town family members; he didn't feel right causing his good friends any more trouble. After the wedding was over and done with, and Jennifer and her husband Jim were well on their honeymoon, Johnny would check out of the Regency and head over to Club DeSoto. He looked forward to spending some quality time with both Roy and Joanne. Other friends from his years with Station 51 offered to put him up for the weekend, but he declined all offers. He was happy he'd done so when he found out Chet Kelly invited him without discussing it with his live-in girlfriend first. He didn't even want to think about spending a weekend with Chet, who would surely be in his girlfriend's doghouse. The mere thought of a pouting Kelly made Johnny smirk. Of course, Marco, Mike and Hank had also extended the offer of letting Johnny bunker down with them, but as with the other's, he kindly turned them down. He was looking forward to being able to come and go as he pleased and not have any distractions around him when he called it an evening. Walking into his room, he looked at the clock beside the bed and decided to have a quick nap. Between the previous days shift and his long flight, he was feeling a bit tired. Taking the towel from around his waist he walked over to the bed, pulled back the covers and sat down  with his feet on the floor, he picked up the phone on the night table and called the main desk. He asked for a wake up call at four o'clock. Hanging up the phone, he lay down and pulled the covers up over his body. It didn't take long for him to be oblivious to any an all activity within the hallway outside his door, as he was sound asleep. A few hours later his wake up call came and he climbed out of the bed. Returning to the bathroom, he passed a brush through his hair and brushed his teeth. Standing in front of the mirror and scrutinizing his appearance, he came to the conclusion that a shave wouldn't be necessary, so he turned off the light and went back into the room. Walking over to the dresser, he pulled the top drawer open and pulled out a pair of socks and underwear. Placing them underneath his armpit, he opened the bottom drawer and pulled out a pair of blue jeans. He continued over to the front of the bed and pulled on his underwear.  Sitting along the edge of the bed, he pulled on his socks and then standing back up he pulled the jeans over his still slender hips. He walked over to the closet and pulled down a button-up cotton shirt and threw it on. Grabbing his sneakers he placed them on his feet and grabbed his keys and wallet and headed out the door. It only took him twenty five minutes to reach Marco Lopez's house. Marco and his wife Stephanie invited him for dinner. During the previous six months since his last trip to Los Angeles, Johnny and Marco had been exchanging emails on a weekly basis. It was through Marco that Johnny had learned Chet was seeing a woman and it had become pretty serious rather fast. The woman was Stephanie's cousin, Sandra, and soon she and Chet were sharing a townhouse together, in the same neighborhood as Roy. Chet and Sandra would be coming to dinner at the Lopez's house on this evening as well and Johnny looked forward to catching up with his friends, as well as getting to know Marco's wife a little better. During his previous visit, he and Stephanie had gotten along fine, but didn't really get a chance to spend time talking with one another. Which was sort of how he felt about another woman he'd met on his previous trip. The woman was much younger than he and a close friend of Jennifer's. In fact, this woman, Tarina Scott, would be Jennifer's sister-in-law in just over forty-eight hours. Although he considered Tarina off limits, he still found himself attracted to her when he met her at Roy's, and since returning to Hawaii, he found himself thinking about her more and more often. Whether it was during a rescue, doing his laundry, sitting on the beach relaxing or lying in his bed, the woman's face would creep into his thoughts. Her smile was what knocked him off his feet. When she had opened Roy's door unexpectedly, both he and Chet had been taken aback. They exchanged a look then, the one saying to one another, that she was too young and off limits. The image that continually haunted him was of her sitting on the DeSoto's sofa the next evening. He and Chet had dropped by after going out for dinner and playing a little pool. Johnny had tried desperately to avoid looking at the young woman, but finally, his curiosity got the better of him and he looked. Once having done so, he couldn't take his eyes off of her. They had freely roamed her slender body. How he had liked what he saw. When his eyes had finally reached her face, he noticed she'd been looking at him. He had no idea whether she had been watching him all along, or had been checking him out as well. But the intensity at which they had locked eyes has stirred him deep inside. He could tell she was someone who took great pride at being in shape. Her legs were long and nicely toned, her stomach flat, her waist slim, her breasts, well they were perfect as best he could tell, but he sure would have liked to find out by self discovery. He remembered her arms and shoulders being muscular. Her face, well, her lips were full, her cheek bones high and she had huge blue eyes. To top of her appearance was that hair. Naturally curly, it fell well below her shoulders and was dirty blond in color, and looked oh so soft to the touch. For the past week he'd been trying to decide what to do about his feelings towards this woman he barely knew, knowing he'd be seeing her once again at the wedding. For all he knew she could have a boyfriend, although she hadn't mentioned one at the barbecue Roy had thrown a few days before he'd returned to Hawaii. He'd finally come to the conclusion that he needed to find out more about her. He'd spent a great deal of time thinking about his life and where he'd come. He finally admitted to himself that he was lonely. He'd given up love in the past and didn't want to do it again. He'd also discovered that in the last few years he'd avoided any and all relationships, probably for fear of repeating his experience with Laura. Laura Findley had waltzed into his life like a summer's breeze. Warm and gentle she was. He fell in love with her the minute he'd laid eyes on her. Her self confidence had radiated off of her and spilled out to those around her. They had been at a formal dinner given by the Hawaiian government in appreciation of its emergency response workers. It turned out, Laura was the daughter of Tom Findley, Honolulu's Police Chief, and only a few years younger than he. A native to Hawaii, she had that golden bronze complexion that he'd fallen in love with as soon as he'd landed on the Island. Her eyes had been huge and brown. He hair jet black and she had legs that seemed to never end. He'd watched her for the better part of an hour before approaching her. He offered to buy her a drink, which she graciously accepted. From that night on they had been inseparable. Neither of them had danced with anyone else that evening and Johnny had managed to charm his way into having his seating arrangements changed so he could be at her table during dinner. By the time they'd been seeing one another for eight months, and had become engaged, they decided to live together. Laura broke the lease on her apartment and moved into Johnny's place. Everything had been going fine, until he'd been injured on the job. It had taken him a while to figure out that's when the relationship had taken a downward turn. He and his team had been called out on a routine call. A paramedic had been trapped under a half ton truck when it had given way during the extrication of a victim. The accident had involved many vehicles and the fire department finally decided to call in reinforcements. Hence, Johnny and his crew being called in. Everything had been going to plan when the truck gave way once again. This time, Johnny was the unfortunate victim. He and his crew, along with the fire department, had managed to hoist the vehicle off of the paramedic, but he was caught on something, requiring someone to crawl under and help dislodge him. As when he was younger, Johnny had been the one to step up to the plate. Soon he'd crawled under the truck and the fireman was pulled to safety. Before Johnny had been free and clear of the truck, it gave way, pinning him at his chest. The crews worked heatedly and managed to free him; he was attended to by paramedics at the scene and whisked off to the hospital. Once he was assessed by a doctor, he was admitted. He had suffered several broken ribs and a separated shoulder. Laura showed up at the hospital a few hours later. She was pale and drained of all that self confidence that had attracted Johnny to her in the first place. Johnny had to give her credit.  She struggled admirably to contain her fears, but two days after his release from the hospital she'd finally broken down. They'd had a long talk about the dangers of his job and soon everything went back to normal. But each time a fireman or SAR Tech was injured, her insecurities would pop up again and cause a wedge between them for a few days. Finally when one of Johnny's crew members had been seriously injured, she told him she couldn't live with the unknown anymore. He'd been patient with her and tried to help her understand the precautions he always took whenever he arrived at a scene, but it didn't help. She was unwavering in her demand and he was too afraid to give up the only job he had ever known. So, after only seven months of living together and fifteen months after meeting, it was over. Laura had packed her things and walked out the door and out of his life. And he'd let her go. No more lengthy discussions, no more pleas and no protests. He'd just stood there in the living room and watched her go. He knew then, as he did now her reasons, only now, being a little wiser and having more patience, he couldn't let himself begrudge her. Having her father a police officer, she'd grown up watching her mother worry and fret over her husband. Never knowing whether seeing him walk out the door in the morning would be the last time she'd see him. Looking back at this whole episode in his life, he realized they weren't meant to be. She couldn't be a SAR Tech's wife and he couldn't give up his job. Mind you, it still hurt to think about what they had given up and how much he missed her; although he was positive their wedding was never destined to be. Which brought back the memory of what Roy had said to him during his last stay in L.A. The fact that he couldn't give up his job may have possibly meant Laura wasn't the one for him. He sincerely hoped that was the truth, because he hated to think that quite possibly he'd let the love of his life walk out without a fight. Turning into Marco's driveway, Johnny put the car into park and climbed out. Glancing around, he took in Marco's home. It was a small stucco bungalow, with rust colored shingles. The shutters, front door, and trim were also a rust color. Johnny couldn't help but smile to himself, as one may also look at the color and refer to it as burnt orange. A rather fitting color for an arsonist inspector. After, walking up the narrow pathway to the front door, he knocked softly. He waited patiently and was rewarded when Marco opened the door after a few moments. "Johnny, come on in." Waiting until his friend stepped back out of the way, Johnny stepped threw the doorway and handed Marco the bottle of wine he'd picked up on his way over. "Thanks for inviting me, nice place you have here," Johnny responded, nodding his head towards the interior of the bungalow. "Thanks, just let me grab a couple of glasses then we can sit and talk for a while. Dinner won't be ready for about another half hour." Marco led his friend down a small hallway and finally into the kitchen, where he stopped, and pulled three wine glasses down from a cupboard. Reaching into a drawer, he pulled out a corkscrew and soon the bottle was open and three glasses poured. He handed one to Johnny and picked the other two up and led the way into an intimate living room. Johnny glanced around and smiled when he saw a framed picture of Marco and Chet standing on the back of a fire truck, sitting in an oak bookcase. Although no number could be seen on the engine, he instinctively knew it was 51's. It was the only station the two firemen had served at together. The picture must have been twenty years old. He racked his brain, wondering if possibly he'd taken the picture? But, figuring that was a lot like looking for a needle in a haystack, he shrugged his shoulders and silently sat down in the chair that matched the couch. "So, you're staying for a month this time?" Marco sat on the couch. "Sure am. Looking forward to it too." He stretched his long legs out in front of him and crossed them at the ankles. "So where's Stephanie?" "Workin; she should be home any minute." "Chet?" "Should be here soon." "Great. Can't wait to me his girlfriend." "Well I might be a little bias, but I think she's great." "Of course." Johnny grinned. "How long have you lived here?" "Ten years. It was a great deal; I added the den on though. We found the second bedroom worked great as an office, but whenever we had company, we couldn't use it. So I decided to build myself a den. Mike helped." "It nice to hear the guys are still reliable when needed." "Yeah, nothings changed in that area. Actually, besides the fact that we no longer work side by side each shift, and we've gotten older, nothings really changed much at all. Well besides your living so far away." Johnny smiled at his friend. He knew Marco was trying to tell him that he missed their day to day friendship. Heck, he missed it himself, and if everything went as planned, that would be rectified. "Maybe someday I'll move back." Johnny replied. "That'd be great. I know Roy sure misses ya." "He's managed just fine without me." Johnny teased. "How 'bout you though, how have you managed?" "Fine, works challenging and living on a beach has its rewards." "I'm sure it does." Marco laughed. It was nice to know Johnny hadn't really changed much. The man loved women; there was no doubt about it. Marco couldn't help but wonder though, why Johnny had never settled down. He had to get lonely sometimes. He shook his head slightly, just enough so Johnny didn't see it. He hoped his friend had someone special in his life. Hearing the front door open, Marco excused himself and slipped off the couch. Grabbing the third drink off of the coffee table, he left the room and walked towards the front door to greet his wife. "Hi." "Hi yourself," Stephanie Lopez smiled at her husband before placing a kiss on his lips. "How was your day?" "Great, yours?" he asked passing her the glass in his hands after she'd managed to put her shoes away and place her purse onto a shelf in the closet. "Busy." She took the glass from Marco and took a sip, savoring the taste. "Johnny's here I take it?" "Yeah, arrived about fifteen minutes ago." Marco replied as he and Stephanie walked towards the living room. Once she walked into the room, Johnny rose to his feet. Stephanie stepped up to him and the two embraced. "Nice to see you again Johnny." "You too, thanks for inviting me to dinner." "Not a problem, especially since Marco did all the cooking." Stephanie smiled at the man. "Can't wait; he always did know how to cook." Johnny rubbed his belly with his hand. After sitting down and chatting for another twenty minutes, the door bell rang and Stephanie got up to answer it. Returning a few seconds later, Chet and his girlfriend, Sandra, walked in close behind her. Sandra and Johnny were introduced and soon the five friends, some old, some new, were talking about everything and anything. A few memories were shared, some of which made the two women laugh hysterically. Stephanie especially liked the story of the station being invaded by a mouse. She thought it sweet that her husband had given it a name, Herbert. She'd have thought he'd given' it something more Mexican sounding. Sandra enjoyed hearing about Chet's exploits with water bombs. One of the first things she'd been attracted to was Chet's sense of humor. She suspected that as much as Johnny feigned annoyance with Chet's behavior, he'd secretly enjoyed it. Soon dinner had been served, desert consumed and farewells were in order. The three guests at the Lopez home stood in the front door way. Thank yous were bestowed on the hosts who in returned encouraged another get together soon. "So are you going to the rehearsal dinner tomorrow Johnny?" Chet asked. "Yeah, Jennifer insisted I be there. I won't be going to the actual rehearsal though." "Well we'll see you at the wedding then." Marco answered. "Yep, see you then. Night." "Night." An assortment of voices responded simultaneously. ^^^^^^^^^^ The next day, Johnny got up and did his morning rituals. Starting with a long warm shower and then moving on to shaving, brushing his hair and teeth, putting on after shave and then retreating into his room and putting on some clothes. Leaving the room, he made sure he had his wallet, watch and sunglasses. After making his way to the main floor of the hotel, he crossed the lobby and went into the dinning lounge for breakfast. He was greeted by a waiter and was soon seated at a table, eating an order of eggs benedict, ham, home fries, and a couple of orange wedges. Rounding out his meal was a glass of apple juice and a cup of coffee. He paid for his meal using his credit card; he signed his name when his waiter brought back a slip of paper with the price of his meal penned in. Taking one more look to make sure the paper was in order, he reached into his pocket for his wallet. Opening it up, he pulled out a couple of bills and left them on the table as a tip. He walked out to the lobby, asked the woman at the front desk if he had any messages and walked out the front door when he was assured that no he did not. Reaching his rental car, he pulled out of his parking spot and into the street. Looking around, he was surprised to see the many changes that had taken place during his absence. He once knew every store or apartment complex that lined these streets. He'd made it his job to know these things. People's lives could have been at stake. He and Stoker had prided themselves on knowing all the shortcuts within the County. Now he just shook his head, although the buildings looked the same, many of them had new names written on their awnings. Absent mindedly he reached down to the middle of the dash board and turned on the radio. The station played country music. Johnny had no desire for such music this early in the morning and continued to press a triangular button searching for some music he'd prefer. He finally stopped when he heard a popular new bands latest hit playing. Unlike many of his peers, he enjoyed some of the day's current bands and singers. Some he had to admit, he had a hard time stomaching some of it, such as that hip hop stuff some of the members of his crew enjoyed. But all in all, he welcomed change. A voice emanating from the cars speakers broke into his silent thoughts. "That was Matchbox 20 with If you're gone…before that we had Cheap Trick with the Dream Police…Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody…Chicago brought us Saturday in the Park…38 Special told us to Hold on Loosely…and starting off this hours six pack was Ozzy Osbourne who took us on a ride aboard his Crazy Train. You're listening to K.L.O.S, 95.5, I'll be right back with the Goo Goo Dolls." The music was followed by commercials, a P.S.A announcement concerning teenagers and the effects of alcohol, and a station promo. Johnny couldn't help but feel a pang of familiarity. He recognized the voice but couldn't place it. After listening to the Goo Goo Dolls, Areosmith, Boston and a favorite Beatles tune, the friendly voice was back. She informed her listeners as to which songs she'd just played and by whom. "…as most of you know from my daily ramblings, my brother is getting married tomorrow, to my best friend no less. I'm taking a moment to send them a song. You may remember this song from what I consider the best scene from the movie, My best friends wedding. It takes place in a restaurant and Rupert Everetts character, belts out this song during the rehearsal dinner. So here's, Say a Little Prayer for You, as sung by the actor in the movie. I'm Tarina Scott and you're listening to K.L.O.S, L.A.'s classic rock." It wasn't until then that Johnny knew where he'd heard the voice before. It was Tarina, the woman that had filled most of his thoughts for the last six months, Jim's sister. He couldn't believe it. He'd forgotten she was a radio announcer and couldn't believe his luck at finding her radio program. He listened to her show for the next half hour, until he had reached his destination, Pam Burke's house. Pam was an old friend from his days in L.A. She was the widow of one of his close friends, Drew Burke. Drew had been killed while on duty. He'd been a Los Angeles County Police Officer. Johnny had been the one to break the news of her husband's death to Pam all those years ago. He and Pam had lost touch during his last few years in L.A. Six months ago, when he'd come for Roy's retirement ceremony, he'd asked an old friend on the force, Vince Howard, for Pam's address and had spent a morning with her. He was surprised to find out that she had remarried, but after some serious thought, he'd deduced it was a good thing. She'd said herself that Drew wouldn't want her to spend the rest of her life alone, and she was right. His friend would want his widow to be happy. After knocking on the door, Johnny was soon welcomed into the home with a friendly hug and a quick peck on the cheek. He accepted her offer of coffee and soon the old friends were remembering old times. Johnny asked how her daughter, Theresa's wedding had gone, and as he had suspected, the day had been beautiful with one exception, as anticipated, there'd been a rather huge void in the day. Still Pam insisted it was one of the happiest days of her life, if not one of saddest as well. "So Jennifer is getting married tomorrow." Pam commented. "Yeah, hard to believe. Seems like just yesterday I was bouncing her on my knee or giving her airplane rides." "Time flies." "Sure does." After sitting silently for a few moments, Johnny changed the direction of their conversation. "I have a job interview with the County on Tuesday." "For what?!" Pam asked with equal amounts of surprise and excitement. "SAR Tech." "Search and Rescue?" "Yeah." "That's wonderful! Isn't that how you first started out? I seem to recall you were with a search and rescue squad when we first met." "Yep. I guess my career might be heading full circle." "You'd be moving back to L.A." "Sure would. After my last visit, I guess I kinda realized how much I'd missed it, especially the people, my friends." "Well good luck then, I hope this works out for you." "Thanks." Johnny smiled at his friend. Looking at her he had a hard time pushing back his thoughts. He'd been her biggest support during the saddest days of her life. He had to admit he'd been doing it for himself, as well as for her. It had helped him deal with his grief being needed the way she had needed him. He'd always felt guilty. He wished he'd been able to do more for her. But she had insisted then as she did now, that he'd been great and hadn't needed to do more. He spent lunch with Pam and the two had retreated to her backyard and sat amongst her flowers, drinking lemonade. Soon it was time to return to his hotel room so he could ready himself for Jennifer and Jim's dinner. He was looking forward to seeing Roy and Joanne. He hadn't even spoken to them since he'd arrived in town the day before. ^^^^^^^^^^ Walking into the dimly lit restaurant, Johnny was greeted by the maitre 'd, a large man wearing a tuxedo. The man approached Johnny with a huge smile on his face and reached out to him as if welcoming a long lost friend. "Good evening, are you expecting someone sir?" "No, I'm here to meet the Scott/DeSoto party." Johnny responded. "Yes, yes, right this way." The jolly man pointed towards the back of the restaurant before leading Johnny in the direction he'd pointed. Glancing around the oval shaped table, he spotted Roy right away and expelled a sigh of relief. He hated the idea of arriving at the dinner before his friend. Noticing Johnny's approach to the table, Roy stood and looked into his friend's eyes. "Johnny! Glad you could make it." Johnny walked up to Roy and embraced the man he'd known for over thirty years. "Happy to be here. Jen here yet?" "No, she and Jim should be here any minute." Joanne stood behind Roy, placed both of her hands on his back and gently nudged him out of the way. "Johnny, why didn't you call us?" Stepping into Joanne's outstretched arms he smiled into her face after their embrace came to an end. "When I first got in, I was tired so I took a nap. Then I went to Marco's for dinner and I spent this morning with Pam Burke. Sorry." "Oh it's alright, I just wanted to be sure you made it." "Well here I am." Johnny's grin grew wider and he stretched his arms out giving Joanne free access to poke him in the stomach. Which quickly brought Johnny's arms back to his stomach where he unconsciously rubbed the small area Joanne's finger had stabbed. Roy interrupted at this point. "Johnny, let me introduce you to Jim's parents, Tony and Caroline Scott. Tony, Caroline, John Gage, my former partner with the fire department." Turning to face the middle age couple before him, Johnny outstretched his hand and took Tony's into a firm handshake. "Nice to meet you." Tony Scott was a shorter man, standing five feet eight, but he was solid. He reminded Johnny of Marco Lopez. The man had dark brown hair; underneath a pair of dark thick eyebrows were a pair of jet black eyes. The man's complexion was smooth with an olive hue. His face was set off by a huge smile displaying a perfect set of white polished teeth. His wife, Caroline, was about the same height as her husband, with straight blond hair cut just below her ears. Her eyes were a baby blue and her mouth formed into just as large a smile as her husbands. Johnny took her hand in his and squeezed it gently as the woman spoke, "Nice to meet you as well John." Johnny was then whisked away by Caroline and introduced to Jim's best friend and partner, Steve Campbell. Johnny judged Steve to be approximately thirty five years old. He was a tall man, reaching six feet five inches and was all muscle. He sported a mustache in the same shade of blonde as his hair. He extended a hand to Johnny and the two men exchanged pleasantries. Steve was in attendance tonight with his wife of four years, Maria. "Steve is serving as Jim's best man during the wedding ceremony." Caroline pointed out, "John, this is our daughter Tarina." She continued. Looking over Steve Campbell's shoulder, Johnny noticed Tarina sitting at the table sipping a glass of wine. A smile crossed his lips as he turned to Caroline. "I've had the pleasure of meeting your lovely daughter on a previous trip to L.A." Johnny nodded his head in her direction, "Tarina." He was rewarded with the smile he had been day dreaming about for months. "Oh you have! Wonderful. Tarina will be in the wedding party as well." "Yes, I remember her saying so." He had a hard time prying his eyes away from what he considered one of the most beautiful women he'd ever met, but Mrs. Scott was determined to make sure he was introduced to everyone at the table. After being introduced to the groom's men, he was just being escorted to the bride's maids when Christopher and Cyndi DeSoto joined the table. "John! Great to see you." Christopher nearly shouted. Using Chris' entrance as an escape, Johnny hurried over and shook hands with his best friends son. Then he gave Chris' wife a quick peck on the cheek. He couldn't help but notice the small discoloration enter her face. "How've you been Chris?" "Good, you?" "Good." "Johnny, why don't you have a seat, Jen and Jim should be hear any minute now." Joanne urged. Knowing exactly where he wanted to sit and also having taken a second to see if anyone was sitting there, he casually took a seat in between Roy and Tony Scott, directly across the table from Tarina. A waiter came and took the table's drink order and was just leaving when the bride and groom-to-be arrived both looking radiant. Johnny couldn't imagine what Jennifer was going to look like the next day, all dressed up in her wedding gown. He thought she was stunning just sporting a simple red sleeveless knit top and long matching skirt. After receiving a hug from her mother, Jennifer bent over and gave her father a kiss on the cheek; it was on the way back up that she noticed Johnny sitting beside her father. "Uncle Johnny!" Johnny rose to his feet and took the woman into a strong embrace. They exchanged quick kisses on the cheek and parted. "It's wonderful of you to come." "Thanks for inviting me." Johnny replied. "I hope your flight went smoothly." "Yep." Noticing her future father-in-law standing behind John, Jennifer gave him a quick smile and told Johnny she'd talk with him later, before deciding to move on and greet the rest of those present. Even though she'd seen everyone else less than an hour before at the church for the wedding rehearsal, she felt obligated to chat with each person whom would be standing for her and Jim. Jim stepped up to Johnny as Jennifer moved away and greeted Johnny, also thanking him for coming to the dinner and their impending wedding. He too, soon moved on to greet the others present. Johnny lowered himself back into his chair and was soon engrossed in conversation with Roy and Tony. The three men comfortably fell into easy conversation, all the while looking at the menu and deciding what they were going to be ordering for dinner. The waiter soon arrived and took everyone's dinner order as well as another round of drinks. Johnny, Roy and Tony continued to converse while waiting for their food. John was informed that Tony made a living as a communications technician. For years Tony and Caroline raised their children in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan. Tony was a radio technician with the Detroit Police Department. It was his responsibility to make sure the department's fleet of car radios and the equipment used by the dispatch personal were always working up to par. In the mid eighties, Tony transferred to the L.A.P.D and he and Caroline soon decided that this is where they would remain. Knowing that the communication equipment used by any and all emergency response teams was the foundation of any type of emergency, Johnny found it very easy to respect the work Tony Scott did. It also made for an easy camaraderie to form. Johnny liked the man seated beside him. He also couldn't avoid the fact that he liked the man's daughter and found it difficult not to make that fact obvious, as he continued to steal quick glances in Tarina's direction. A few times, he'd noticed she had looked his way as well. He found this to be encouraging. Soon, Johnny's prime rib steak, baked potato with sour cream and chives, and green beans arrived as well as everyone else's meals. Promptly, the sound of cutlery hitting china was filling the air around the table as well as friendly chatter. Before shoving a forkful of green beans smothered in butter and topped with slivered almonds into his mouth, Johnny looked across the table. "So Tarina, I heard you on air this morning." "You did! What did you think?" "I certainly liked the music, and the announcer wasn't that bad either." He smiled. Returning his smile, Tarina retorted, "Yeah, well some of my listeners aren't so bad themselves." "Touché." "Why were you listening?" she couldn't help but be curious. "I was driving to a friends and found your show quite accidentally." "Oh, so you weren't looking for it?" "No, but if I had remembered you were a radio announcer, I certainly would have." Tarina couldn't help but feel a little excited by the conversation she was having with the handsome man across the table from her. After meeting him months before hand, she hadn't been able to stop thinking about him. What she remembered most about him was his eyes. She felt as though she could fall right into his eyes and never come back out again. His body was nice and lean and looked as though he kept in shape. He was absolutely one of the sexiest men she'd ever met. But the best part was he didn't seem to notice. Since meeting him, she had had many different men ask her out on dates, but she always found a reasonable excuse not to go. It took her by surprise when she'd realized she was actually turning men down because she had been comparing them to John Gage. A man she barely knew. What she did know of him however, she couldn't help but like. He came across as a very caring loyal friend. A quality she'd always liked in others, no matter what sex they were. He seemed intelligent, funny and down to earth, so unlike most of the men her own age. Most of that species seemed more interested in showing off as well as showing her how much she needed them. She had mentally beaten herself up after his departure back to Hawaii. He had made it obvious one night at the DeSoto's house that he found her attractive, but she hadn't acted upon it. She'd been tempted, but the fact that he was leaving to go back was what concerned and stopped her from considering it. She had never been a one night stand sort of girl and she had decided she wasn't about to start at the age of thirty-three. No matter how tempted she was. "I enjoyed your song dedication to Tarina and Jim." Johnny brought her out of her self induced trance. "Oh you heard that," she chuckled. "I couldn't help myself. I kept thinking about tonight's dinner and that movie kept popping into my head. Got hauled into the office over that one." "You're kidding, why?" "Rupert Everett singing, I Say a Little Prayer, isn't exactly considered classic rock." She shrugged. It was appropriate." Johnny assured her. "I heard that." Roy joined in. "Made me laugh. Jim's gonna need all the prayers he can get." He joked. Tarina and Johnny joined his laughter and soon the whole table was discussing the upcoming nuptials. When everyone was finished eating and desserts, coffee and tea had been ordered. Jim Scott rose to his feet. "May I have your attention please." Everyone turned and looked in his direction and noticed he held a glass of wine in his hand. "Jen and I just wanted to thank you all for everything each of you has done to help us prepare for tomorrow. We couldn't have done any of the planning without you. Steve, you've been my savior pal, thanks for everything, including my bachelor party." He winked. Everyone at the table laughed at the obvious jest in which the last statement was made. "I don't want to make a long speech, I'm saving a bunch of our thank - yous for tomorrow. So like I said, thanks for supporting us the last few months and for coming to dinner tonight." With that, Jim raised his glass higher into air and out towards everyone seated at the table. The rest of the group picked up their own drinks and saluted Jim and Jennifer. After everyone had taken his or her drink, Jim reminded everyone. "My mom and dad are having a get together afterwards and everyone is more than welcome." After everyone received and paid their bills, the group slowly made it out to the parking lot and remained talking in a small circle for a few moments. "John, are you going to join us? As my son mentioned, you're more than welcome." Tony asked. Johnny glanced towards Roy, if Roy and Joanne weren't going, neither would he. Roy noticed Johnny's hesitation and just nodded his head in the affirmative. "Sure, I'd like that." He replied. "Why not ride with us then Johnny?" Joanne added. "Sure. No sense in us taking separate cars" Johnny agreed. Twenty minutes later, Johnny, Roy and Joanne were sitting in the Scott's living room, Joanne with a glass of wine in her hands while Roy drank a ginger ale and Johnny a glass of water. The room had a pleasant feel to it, giving off a warm welcome feeling to all its guests. The walls were painted a warm sandy beige color, with an olive, mauve and brown colored border running along the top of the wall next to the ceiling. A hunter green couch and matching love seat sat facing one another with a solid wood rectangular coffee table between them. On the table sat a circle of friends center piece with a short mauve pillar candle in its center, which Caroline had quickly lit upon the group's arrival. Two green and mauve striped wing back chairs flanked the couch and love seat, facing a brick fire place on the other side. Behind the two chairs was a huge bay window, which gave an impressive view of the backyard, which was lit with a couple of spot lights. In the middle of the yard was a kidney shaped in ground swimming pool. Soft music drifted through the air, providing a cozy comfortable atmosphere. Most of the younger crowd gathered around the dinning room table just off of the living room. Although he was enjoying the time he was spending with Roy, Joanne, the Scott's and some other relatives of both families, Johnny couldn't help but wish Tarina sat in the room with them as well. He occasionally heard her laughter filter through the air and found it to be a very reassuring sound, although he had no idea why. "Joanne, I know this may sound a little crazy, but I was wondering if you had made any plans for Thanksgiving?" Caroline Scott questioned. "Actually, with all the plans for the wedding, I haven't really given Thanksgiving much thought at all. What were our children thinking when they picked this weekend to get married?" "Probably the fact that more people would be able to make it to the ceremony." Tony quipped. "Probably." Roy agreed. "I'm planning a dinner still, why don't you and your family come over for dinner. It'd be a nice way to blend our families." "That's very sweet of you Caroline, but we wouldn't want to impose." Joanne said. "You wouldn't be imposing. By this time tomorrow we're going to be family. Please come." Before answering, Joanne glanced towards Roy. Although she wasn't looking for approval, she was just making sure he wasn't opposed to the idea. When he didn't shake is head in the negative, she was about to accept the offer when she remembered Johnny. Seeing Joanne's frown and following the direction her eyes traveled, Tony spoke up. "Of course, John's invited to join us as well." "Yes of course!" Caroline quickly agreed with her husband and smiled towards Johnny. Joanne once again looked towards Roy and then towards Johnny. If he wasn't comfortable with the idea, then she and Roy would kindly refuse and host a dinner at their home. Although Johnny sat completely still, Joanne read the look in his eyes. He'd enjoy spending Thanksgiving with the DeSoto's new in-laws. "Okay, what time should we arrive and what should we bring?" Joanne smiled at Caroline. "Three o'clock should be fine and you don't need to bring anything." "Of course I do!" "Well, if you insist, how about dessert?" "Agreed, how many people will be here?" "Fourteen." When Thanksgiving dinner plans were squared away, the younger crowd joined the older generation. Since most of the seating was already taken, Jennifer and Jim sat on the hearth of fire place, Cyndi DeSoto had managed to sit in between Johnny and Roy on the couch and Chris sat on the floor with his back against the side of the love seat. His son sat beside him and his daughter climbed into his lap. Steve and Maria Campbell sat crossed legged on the floor beside Jennifer and Jim, and Tarina sat on a pillow between the wing back chairs her parents occupied. With the arrival of the two lovebirds, talk quickly turned to the next day's activities. With the time fast approaching midnight, Johnny and the DeSoto's were making their thank-yous and good-byes to their hosts. While standing at the front door and patiently waiting for Roy and Joanne to join him, Johnny noticed Tarina walking towards him. "You leaving too?" he asked. "Yeah, it's gonna be a long day tomorrow, need my beauty sleep." She smiled. "As far as I can tell, not much is needed." "Thank-you. I think?" she chuckled. "Yes it was meant as a compliment." Johnny grinned. Seeing that gorgeous grin made Tarina's heart flutter quicker. She'd forgotten how wonderful the older man's smile had been. "You staying with Mr. and Mrs. DeSoto?" "No, not until after the wedding." "Oh, do you need a ride somewhere?" As much as he would have loved to take the young woman up on her offer, Johnny didn't want anyone thinking he was coming on the Scott's youngest child. Although he wouldn't necessarily call a woman in her thirty's a child, but he knew how some father's could be about their daughter's. "No, Roy and Joanne are going to take me back to the restaurant to get my rental, but thanks anyway." "The restaurant! I have to pass right by it on my way home. I really wouldn't mind, that way Jens parents wouldn't have to go out of their way." Knowing opportunities didn't always come along this easily, Johnny furrowed his eyebrows together and replied, "You're sure?" "Absolutely." "Okay, just let me let Roy know." When Tarina nodded her head, Johnny slipped into the hallway and saddled up beside his best friends. "Uh, Roy, Tarina says she can give me a lift back to the restaurant. Says it's on her way. Hope you don't mind?" "No, go ahead. See you tomorrow." "Good night Johnny." Joanne gave him an embrace and kissed him on the cheek. Johnny returned the embrace and kiss and then turned towards the Scott's. "Thank you for including me in the evening. It was nice meeting you and I'll see you tomorrow." "You to John." Tony stretched out his hand and the two men exchanged a hand shake. Johnny quickly bestowed Caroline Scott a proper farewell and then returned to her daughter who patiently waited just inside the front door. The two exited the house and headed towards Tarina's black four door Mazda Protégé sitting in her parents driveway, she quickly unlocked the doors and got behind the driving wheel. When they were both snuggled into their seats with seatbelts securely in place, Tarina turned the engine over, pushed the clutch to the floor with her left foot, threw the stick shift into reverse and backed out of her parents driveway. "So when did you get into town?" "Couple days ago." Johnny replied while watching her shift into first gear. He'd always liked a woman who not only knew how to drive a standard but preferred to. He didn't know why, but he supposed it was because his vehicle was a standard and he always wanted someone along with him who could drive it just encase the need arose. "How long will you be staying?" "A month." Tarina took a quick sideways glance and then turned her head back toward the road, "Really?! So you're planning on visiting with the DeSotos for a while this time?" "Yep." "I bet they're looking forward to it." "Hope so, I know I am. It's been too long since I've spent more than a few days with them." "When did you move to Hawaii?" "'86." Tarina quickly did the math and figured out she was only a teenager back then. She'd always figured Jennifer's father and hers were approximately the same age and since her father was nearing sixty, she became very curious as to John Gage's age. The man didn't look a day over forty-five she decided. "Do you miss L.A at all?" she asked as she brought the car to a stop at a set of traffic lights. "Yes I do. I'm thinking of moving back actually." He had no idea why he was telling her this information. "Really!" Tarina found her hopes rising by the minute. "Yeah, I have a job interview on Tuesday afternoon. "Where?" she wondered if she was being nosey. "With the County Fire Department." "You're kidding!" Tarina slowly started the car moving forward as the light had turned to green. "The SAR Techs are looking for someone. I think I might just be that someone." "Well good luck. I'm sure Jennifer and her family would love to have you living in L.A again. Not to mention all those friends from the barbecue last summer." Johnny thought back to the barbecue Roy and Joanne had thrown and a smile crept across his face. He'd enjoyed catching up with his friends and realized then and there he wanted to come back to L.A. Johnny was taken out of his day dreaming thoughts at the sound of Tarina's sharp in take of breath. Realizing a set of headlights was coming straight at them, Johnny's heart began to beat wildly. There was nothing in the world he wanted more than to be behind the wheel of the car, but knowing that was impossible he quickly chose to take charge from the passenger seat. Alternating his eyes between the road ahead of them and Tarina, Johnny tried to help her remain calm, so she wouldn't make an error in judgement. In a moment of crisis most people froze and he didn't want that to happen here. There'd be no telling what the outcome would be if Tarina chose to speed up or come to a complete stop. "Don't panic, don't break and gently turn the wheel to the right Tarina." He said, after quickly checking to make sure there weren't any cars in the right hand lane beside them. Hearing a note of controlled calm in his voice, Tarina did as Johnny instructed, although her natural instinct was to slam on the breaks while turning the steering wheel quickly. After she'd moved over to the far lane, she noticed her breathing started to slow down and her heart rate was returning to normal. She loosened the hold she had on the steering wheel and glanced in her rearview mirror. "Oh my god!" Tarina slammed on the breaks. "What?" Johnny didn't need a reply when he heard the unmistakable sound of metal hitting metal. Whirling his head around, he saw the car that had invaded their lane had hit another vehicle head on. That vehicle was sitting upside down and the wheels were still spinning. "Are you okay?" he asked. Not able to find her voice, Tarina just shook her head yes. "Do you have a cell phone?" Again, she shook her head yes. "Call 911." Johnny instructed as he slipped out of the car. He raced towards the accident. Looking into the Cavalier, he noticed a man of about forty sitting limply behind the wheel. Pulling the door open, he was quickly hit with the stench of alcohol. Acting on instinct he quickly checked the man over for injuries while trying to wake him up. "Are you hurt sir?" he asked. He got no response, but he didn't feel any injuries either, after running his hands along the man's arms and legs. He took the man's wrist into his hand and silently took the man's pulse, even though it wasn't light enough to look at his watch. He didn't need to really, he wouldn't be able to tell the man's exact pulse, but he knew he'd be able to judge whether the man was in serious trouble or not. After releasing the man's wrist, Johnny heard him trying to come to. "Are you hurt Sir?" "Hurt? NO, why would I be hurt? Who are you?" Johnny recoiled from the smell and shook his head. Despite the nature of his job, he never could believe people continued to drink and drive. Finding the unrelenting sound of the Cavalier's horn blaring into the night annoying, Johnny did a quick feel for the hood release and yanked on it when he found it. He made little time of lifting the hood and pulling the wires to the horn free. He felt his body relax somewhat from the relief the silence brought with it. Turning to the Honda Accord sitting on its hood, he ran to the passenger side door, knelt down and brought his face to the window. Cupping his eyes with his hands, he noticed only one person in the vehicle. He tried to open the door, but his efforts were hopeless. The weight of the car had buckled the door, making it impossible to open. He ran around to the driver's side and tired it's door as well but was met with the same response, it didn't budge. He bent down once again and tapped lightly on the window. "Hey, can you hear me?" Nothing. He was contemplating breaking the window when he heard sirens off in the distance. That's when he noticed a small gathering of people had converged on the side of the road as well. He looked into the crowd and saw Tarina standing amongst them looking pale as a ghost. A Los Angeles police cruiser pulled up to the accident and a young woman hopped out of the vehicle. "You okay?" she asked. "Yeah, I'm fine. I wasn't in the accident. Just trying to help." "Did you witness the accident sir?" "No, but I was almost involved. Do you have anything in your car to open this door?" Johnny pointed to the Honda's door. "I'll pop my trunk and look, but Sir, I can't let you try to get this woman out. We'll have to leave that to the professionals." "I understand your concerns officer, but I'm a SAR Tech Captain in Maui and a former County Paramedic, I really can't just stand here when there's no one to look this woman over." "You're not authorized to work on her if she's injured." "I know, but I just can't stand here and do nothing, plus I'll be a civilian." Johnny followed the officer over to the police cruiser. The two found a crow bar and were walking back over to the Honda when the blare of an air horn could be heard in the distance. It took Johnny no time to pop open the door and soon enough was bent at the knee and checking the driver of the Accord over. The woman looked to be in her mid twenties. She was conscious now, and starting to panic. "It's okay Ma'am. You'll be okay. Try to stay still okay. I just want to look you over." Although the woman was frightened, she responded favorably to the stranger's voice. It seemed to have an air of authority about it, but he hadn't identified himself as a police officer or fireman? Maybe he had and she couldn't remember. "Excuse me sir." Johnny felt a hand touch his shoulder. He turned and noticed an all too familiar uniform. It hadn't changed much over the years. Black boots, form fitting navy blue pants, powder blue shirt, but instead of a jacket, its owner wore a sweater to ward off the chill of the night. Attached to the sweater was a name tag that identified Tim Nichols as a firefighter/paramedic. Johnny relinquished the victim over to the paramedics and stepped aside. Soon he was leading the first L.A County Police Officer to arrive on the scene, Mary Jenkins, over to Tarina Scott. Since Tarina had seen the collision, Officer Jenkins wanted her to give a statement. It was close to one-thirty by the time Tarina and Johnny were back in her Protégé and driving towards the restaurant where everyone had met for dinner earlier. Looking over at Tarina, Johnny sighed. "Are you sure you're okay?" "Yeah, just a little shaken. I've never witnessed anything like that before." Johnny remained silent. After years of responding to traffic accidents he'd lost that innocent response most people normally had. He wasn't exactly sure what to say. He didn't want to sound harsh or hardened so chose in this case, that silence was golden. "I'll never forget that sound. That was awful." She continued before becoming equally as silent as Johnny. The two remained subdued until the Mazda pulled into the restaurants parking lot fifteen minutes later. Johnny motioned to her, which vehicle was his and she pulled up beside it. Turning to face her Johnny asked, "Are you okay to drive alone? Do you want me to follow you? I think you're suffering from a bit of shock." Turning to face him, she shook her head no. "I'll be okay. Thanks anyway." She replied in a shaky voice. "Tarina, are you sure? Would you like to at least go somewhere for a coffee before you go home?" Tarina had been looking downward towards her hands, which she had intertwined in her lap, spinning her thumbs around one another. Looking up into Johnny's face, she let a small smile spread across her lips. "Maybe I could use a coffee." "Okay, you lead, I'll follow." "Okay." ^^^^^^^^^^ The following morning, Johnny woke up at nine thirty. It was unusual for him to sleep in, but he had been out until almost three that morning and by the time he fell into bed, it had been close to three-thirty. He and Tarina had shared a couple cups of coffee before they had finally parted ways. He enjoyed the time they'd spent at the coffee shop. He'd learned more about her. She was thirty-three years old, never been married, wasn't seeing anyone special and loved her job. She lived alone, although she had a three year old cat named Roxy. She and her brother Jim were the only children born to her parents and they shared a close friendship. He'd learned more about her friendship with Jennifer DeSoto and how it was through her that Jennifer and Jim had met. She was genuinely pleased with Jennifer and her brother's impending nuptials. He'd also learned she'd started her broadcasting career in a small Californian town before moving to San Diego where she'd spent the bulk of her career before being offered the job at K.L.O.S 95.5 FM, four years before, which she jumped at. Knowing the opportunity to move back to L.A would bring her closer to her family. Johnny told her about his years in L.A with the Fire Department, his friendships with the men he served with at station 51 and his ultimate move to Maui. He'd shared his passion over his profession just as she had hers. When they'd finally separated, he'd wished he'd been able to come up with an excuse for them to spend a little more time together. Finally, he rolled out of bed and into the washroom. After readying himself for the day, he left his hotel room and managed to get to his vehicle and to Mike Stoker's house by eleven o'clock. Mike and his wife Beth had invited him for lunch and after spending a few hours with them, he climbed back into his car and drove back to his hotel. He sat down on his bed turning on the T.V, mindlessly looking for something to occupy his time. He was starting to get bored, but knew he didn't have time to do anything since Jennifer and Jim would be getting married in a few short hours. Finally settling on TV Land he found a re-run of Adam-12, he leaned back against the beds headboard, placed his hands behind his head and crossed his legs at the ankles. After Reed and Malloy had solved the crime and captured the bandits, he noticed a rerun of I Love Lucy was coming on next and settled in for another half hour of mindless television. ^^^^^^^^^^ Sitting at a table with his former station mates and their wife's, or in Chet's case a girlfriend, Johnny couldn't help but take quick glances towards Tarina Scott, seated at the head table beside her new sister-in-law Jennifer Scott. Her hair was upswept, with long soft curly strands hanging loosely around her face. Her make-up, looking as natural as could be, was professionally applied. The spaghetti strap dress she wore accentuated her womanly curves and he couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to hold her in his arms. Johnny was halfway through regaling his audience with his close encounter with a traffic accident the previous evening when the DJ announced the time had come for the bride and groom to dance their first dance as husband and wife. Jim led Jennifer to the dance floor and Shania Twain's and Bryan White's, From This Moment, filled the room. Johnny couldn't help but notice Joanne DeSoto had tears in her eyes and Roy had lovingly wrapped an arm around his sensitive wife. Once the first dance was over, Johnny went back to telling his story, keeping one eye on the dance floor as Steve Campbell led Tarina around the dance floor and was soon followed by the rest of the bridal party. Halfway through the song, the DJ announced all those wishing to join the happy couple could get up and do so. No one from Johnny's table got up with the exception of Chet and Sandra. Johnny, picking right up where he had left off, continued on with his traffic accident story. The female half of his audience was astonished at such an ordeal while the men, Hank Stanley, Mike Stoker and Marco Lopez just shook their heads. Hank made a comment about the stupidity of people not realizing the dangers of drinking and driving no matter how often or how many different ways the message had been sent to them. Once the wedding guests started mingling, Roy and Joanne quickly joined Johnny's table. The former crew form Station 51 talked about a number of things during the course of the next hour and a half until Joanne finally put her foot down during the opening notes of a slow song. "Am I going to get to dance tonight or not!" Roy and Johnny shared a quick smirk as Roy led his wife to the dance floor. Johnny took the opportunity to ask Beth Stoker to dance and soon found he'd danced all the next slow songs with his former station mates wife's as well as Sandra and Cyndi DeSoto, Chris' wife. He even managed to convince Christopher's ever cautious four-year old daughter, Casie, to dance a few fast songs with him. Once he'd finished making sure he'd danced up a storm Johnny meandered over to the bar. When the bartender asked him what he wanted, he ordered a beer and then nodded his head towards a couple of women, "What have the young women been drinking tonight?" "One started with a few Rye and ginger but she switched to wine about an hour ago, the other's drinking vodka coolers." Johnny paid for his beer, a cooler, a glass of wine, as well a drink for the bride and groom and strolled over to where Tarina sat talking with Cyndi DeSoto. He placed the cooler in front of Cyndi, the wine in front of Tarina and asked if he could join them. When he received the go ahead, he pulled out a chair and sat beside Cyndi which placed him across the table from Tarina. "You made it home okay last night I take it." "Yes. Didn't get as much beauty sleep as I had wanted though." She teased. "I told you, you don't need a lot." Cyndi sat listening to the two and a smile crossed her face. She remembered how Jennifer had tried to set these two up, as well as Tarina mentioning she had found John Gage handsome and had been wondering if she should act upon her feelings all those months ago at the barbecue. It seemed that John was taking the bull by the horn himself. Cyndi wasn't naïve enough to believe Johnny was just being a sweetheart and buying them each a drink. His real motive was an excuse to sit with them, she could tell by the look in his eyes that Tarina's attraction to him was mutual. After sitting with the two for an appropriate length of time, she finally thanked Johnny for the drink and excused herself to find her husband. "You having a good time?" Tarina asked. "Yeah, you?" "Yes of course, it's my brother's wedding." "Would you like to dance?" Johnny asked when an old Jim Croce song, Time in a Bottle, started to play. "I'd love to." They both stood and Tarina rounded the table. Johnny took her hand in his and they walked to the dance floor. When they'd maneuvered into a comfortable spot, Johnny turned to face her and took her into his arms. Tarina thought she was going to melt right there on the dance floor. Although they'd chatted over coffee the night before and had talked for a few moments in the DeSoto's kitchen back in the summer, she'd never been this close to him before. She found it such a natural and yet an equally exhilarating experience to be in Johnny's arms. He smelled fresh and masculine. His right hand held her hand in an almost delicate grip and his left hand, resting on her bare back, since her dress had a plunging open back, was soft and tender. Johnny immediately felt as though he'd come home holding Tarina next to him. The curves and contours of her body fit his as though they'd been made for one another. She was naturally tall, he guessed somewhere around five feet nine, she was wearing heals tonight which brought her head to just above his chin. She had a soft smell he couldn't quite place, but he enjoyed it just the same. The bare skin of her back was soft and delicate. He had to continually remind himself not to concentrate on that fact or he would end up getting himself into trouble. Jennifer Scott looked up from where she sat talking to one of her cousin's on her mother's side and she let out a small squeal of delight. She'd racked her brain for hours trying to come up with a way to get Tarina and Johnny together but hadn't come up with a single idea. She chalked it up to having too much on her mind, what with her wedding plans and all. By the looks of things, she didn't have to worry about it. She'd been openly delighted when Tarina mentioned she and Johnny ended up going out for coffee when she'd offered to give Johnny a ride back to his car the night before. She didn't know whether or not her Uncle Johnny was interested in her best friend and now sister-in-law, but she was hoping so. Although she was concerned about Johnny's looming return to Hawaii. She didn't want to see Tarina hurt; she'd seen enough of that since their days together in high school. The song soon came to an end and Johnny reluctantly released Tarina from his hold. They walked back to the table and to their drinks and were soon joined by Ryan DeSoto, Chris and Cyndi's six-year old son. "Tarina, will you dance with me?" "Sure Ryan." Tarina replied and joined Ryan on the dance floor. Johnny watched as Tarina and Ryan shared a fast paced dance in obvious delight of one another. Johnny suspected Ryan had a crush on Tarina. Not that he blamed the kid; the woman was a natural beauty. Roy pulled out a chair and joined his best friend. "She's rather stunning tonight, isn't she?" Johnny turned and looked at Roy, who continued to watch Tarina and his grandson dancing a rather careless upbeat dance. "Yes." Was Johnny's only response. He didn't feel as though he needed to elaborate. He was sure Roy knew he was attracted to the woman. "It'd be a shame to see either of you hurt." Roy cautioned. "I have a job interview with the Department on Tuesday." Johnny blurted out. Roy showed no out word sign of emotion or surprise, but he couldn't help but think he was drunk. Did Johnny just say he was thinking of coming back to L.A? "Johnny?" "They're looking for some SAR's. I applied a little over a month ago." "You did! When where you going to tell me?" "When and if I got the job." "That's great Johnny! Good Luck!" Roy moved forward with the conversation very carefully, "When would you start…if you got the job." "In the new year." "Wow, that soon." "Yeah." A long silence ensued as each of the men contemplated what it would be like if John Gage were living back in L.A. The everyday friendship they had shared and both deeply missed although never admitted to, could once again take hold. Despite their reserve, most of their friends knew how much they missed one another. The song ended and Ryan took off towards the other end of the dance floor to his father, Tarina tentatively advanced towards Johnny and her best friends dad. She didn't want to interrupt a conversation. Seeing Roy smile at her as he saw her approaching, she felt it safe to continue her pace towards the table. "I don't believe I've had the pleasure yet." Roy stood and held his hand out as Tarina took a sip of her wine. "Well we'd better remedy that." She slipped her hand into his and soon the two were getting down to a rather loud and obnoxious Van Halen song from the 80's. As the evening was nearing an end, Johnny found himself once again seated next to Tarina at a table with a candle shimmering at its center. Its soft glow reminded him of a warm Hawaiian sunset. The only thing missing he thought was the gentle sound of a wave slapping against the shoreline. Instead, the smooth sound of Anne Murray's voice crooned in the background, asking everyone if she could have this dance for the rest of their lives. Johnny once again asked Tarina for a dance. As they slowly swayed to the music, Johnny whispered in her ear. "I love the way you feel in my arms Tarina, I don't want to let you go." Tarina held her breath for a second, not sure if she'd heard him right. His voice had been so low. Letting the air out of her mouth slowly, she replied, "I wish you didn't have to." "Would you like to get together sometime?" "Yes." The song came to an end and Johnny held Tarina for a few seconds longer. He hadn't been lying when he told her he didn't want to let her go. As a matter of fact, he didn't want to part with her company at all. He finally released her and they slowly moved apart. Johnny knew if they hadn't been in such a public place he would have taken the opportunity to kiss her. Tarina sensed the fact and a small blush raised up to her cheeks. She couldn't help but wonder if anyone else in the room that night had picked up on their chemistry. Especially her parents? What would they think of her seeing a man their own age? The couple walked over to Jennifer and Jim, who had forgone the traditional bride and groom early departure and stayed to the end of the reception. A small gathering had surrounded the newlyweds, and was wishing them a fond farewell. Johnny patiently waited his turn and when he took Jim's hand into his, he congratulated him on marrying one of the most beautiful women in the world. Turning to Jennifer, Johnny took her into his arms, squelched the urge to give her an airplane ride and instead gave her a bear hug. He planted a kiss on her cheek and whispered in her ear what a lovely bride she was. He wished her well and told her how much he liked Jim. Jennifer had tears in her eyes by the time Johnny released her, he cradled her head in his hands and used his thumbs to wipe any stray tears that had managed to escape. Before reluctantly stepping aside he planted a kiss on Jennifer's forehand and then watched as Tarina hugged her brother. The two shared a whispered conversation and then Tarina turned her attention towards Jennifer. "Have a great time in Hawaii." Tarina smiled. "I plan on it." Jen smiled back and glanced towards her husband. "Call me when you get back." "I will. I think we'll have a lot of catching up to do." Tarina didn't miss the meaning behind her best friend words. Jennifer had noticed the chemistry between her and Johnny and was expecting a full report upon her return. "I hope so." The two embraced. ^^^^^^^^^^ The next day, Tarina woke at noon and quickly took a shower. Upon throwing on a pair of Levi's and a flaming red t-shirt, she quickly went into the kitchen and placed some fresh water and some food into Roxy's bowl. The tiny cat had been trying to wake her for the last two hours, no tactic had worked and Roxy had finally given up and squirmed her way underneath the covers and curled up beside her master. After tidying up her apartment a bit, making her bed and cleaning Roxy's litter box, she hopped into her Mazda and hightailed it over to her parent's house. It was Thanksgiving and nothing short of a hurricane would be a good enough excuse to be late. Her grandmother Jones sat in front of the television in the family room watching the football game with her father. Ellen Jones had always been a big football fan and upon discovering Tony Scott was a fan as well, she continually nagged her daughter that he was the one. Every Thanksgiving since the wedding of Tony Scott and Caroline Jones, Grandma Jones and Tony had watched the football games together. Neither one seemed to ever notice the monumental feat it was to serve a Thanksgiving dinner to a house full of family and friends. Tarina didn't know how her mother ever put up with it. Let alone encouraged it by giving the two a beer each and some salsa and corn chips. She suspected the ulterior motive was keeping them out of the kitchen. Tarina was busy stirring the stuffing frying in an electric frying pan on the counter, when her mother took her off guard. "John Gage certainly is a handsome man." Stopping the stirring motion only momentarily, Tarina replied, "I think so." She was wondering where this conversation was going, but didn't have to wait any longer. "Are you going to be seeing him again?" "Mom!" "What? I'm just curious." "Why would you think I'd be seeing him?" "Because of the way you two look at one another." "Is it that obvious?" Tarina felt nauseous all of a sudden. She would rather not have this conversation with her mother. She wished Jennifer wasn't leaving for her honeymoon today. "To me it was. I can't say for anyone else. Well, Joanne DeSoto noticed it as well." "So did Jennifer." Caroline took the wooden spoon out of her daughter's hand and turned off the electric frying pan. She started to scoop the stuffing into the turkey and continued, "So, are you going to see him again while he's here?" "I think so. He said he'd like to." "And you?" "Oh yeah I'd like to." "You should invite him over for dinner." "MOM! I'm not going to bring him over here…" Caroline started to laugh, "Really Tarina, I'm not talking about here, I mean to your apartment. You're a mature woman, I don't think you need your father and I to chaperone you and your dates anymore." "Chaperone who? Tarina and that sexy man from last night?" Grandma Jones asked while sauntering into the kitchen and pulling out two more beer from the fridge. Tarina groaned inwardly. Grandma Jones was one of the biggest gossips a person could ever hope to meet. She also seemed to lack tack, a fact that didn't seem to bother her mother? "Yes." Caroline confirmed. "Now that's a man. You need to snatch that one up if you ask me. You ain't getting any younger, neither is he for that matter." She snickered. "Grandma!" "What? It's the truth; the man's gotta be old enough to be your father. But ain't nothing wrong with that. You're grandfather was fourteen years older 'an me. Nothing wrong with a little fatherly love." "Grandma!" "I don't think it's fatherly love Mr. Gage was looking to give Mom." Caroline told her own mother. "MOM!" Tarina shrieked, not believing this whole conversation was taking place. "Sorry dear. But the man definitely wasn't looking at you like you were his daughter." "Can we please drop the subject." "Okay." "If you insist, but if I were you, I would have worn something a little more sexy then them there jeans." Grandma mumbled on her way out of the room. "I think she's going senile mom." Caroline chuckled at her daughter's obvious distress. Tarina never was comfortable talking about her love life. She always managed to keep most of it hidden from her and her husband. Sure she'd brought boys home as a teenage and then the occasional man over the years, but she never was willing to discuss the relationships. Not even the failed one with Kenneth Bell. Caroline felt that was something she envied in Jennifer and Joanne DeSoto's relationship. The two women talked as equals and not entirely as mother and daughter. She wished her daughter could find comfort in confiding in her. She finished stuffing the bird and placed it in a roasting pan. Setting the oven to the correct temperature, he placed the pan in the oven and began to clean the dishes they'd used. "What did Grandma mean by wearing something sexy?" Tarina asked as she poured herself and her mother a glass of wine. "I invited the DeSoto's and Mr. Gage for Thanksgiving dinner today. I think your Grandmother would have preferred you wear something a little more feminine." "You're kidding. Johnny's coming here today?" "Yes he is. As well as Roy, Joanne, Chris and his family and Joanne's mother." "That's nice." Was Tarina's only response while wishing she'd worn something different as well. Not something sexy like her grandmother wished, but maybe a blouse instead of a t-shirt. At precisely three o'clock the door bell chimed, letting those within the Scott household know their guests had arrived. Tony got up off the couch in the family room and answered the door. He welcomed his guests into his home and took a bottle of wine from Johnny and an apple pie from Roy's hand. Joanne continued to hold a pumpkin pie in her hands. Caroline was in the hallway in a timely fashion and took the wine and pie out of her husband's hands and led Joanne and Joanne's mother Janice into the kitchen. The wine and pies were safely stowed away in the fridge and the three women joined Tarina at the small kitchen table. Tarina was doing the crossword puzzle in the Los Angeles Times. She looked up as the women entered the room. She watched as her mother poured their guests a glass of wine each and sat down at the table with her. She welcomed the guests and then turned her attention back to the cross word puzzle until Grandma Jones entered the room. "You gals ain't gonna hang out in here all day are you? You're missing a heck of a game out there." "None of us are really interested in the game Mom. Do you need any help?" Caroline asked as she watched her mother retrieve four bottles of beer out of the fridge. "Yeah, Tarina, why don't you help me?" After her Grandmother opened all the beer, Tarina grabbed two and followed her grandmother down the hallway to the other side of the house. The sound of bodies crunching into one another wafted through the air and Tarina gave a shudder. How her grandmother ever enjoyed watching such a sport was beyond her. Reaching the room, her father's large screen T.V. showed a bunch of grown men, wearing skin tight pants patting one another on the rear end and her grandmother's motives became glaringly clear. Tarina passed a beer to her father and the other to Roy. They both accepted the beer with a thank-you and a nod of their heads. Tarina's gazed settled on Johnny, she noticed he was watching her as he accepted a beer from her grandmother who immediately sat down beside him. "Hi." Was the only thing she could come up with. "Hi." He replied. Grandma Jones moved further away from Johnny and patted the sofa beside her. "Why don't you have a seat and watch the game with us?" "No, that's okay Grandma, you know I don't like the game." "You don't have to like the game when you're sitting with a bunch of nice looking men." Came her reply. Tarina rolled her eyes but couldn't help but notice the grin cross Johnny's lips as he took a swig of his beer. Just then the door bell rang and Tarina gave a silent thank-you. "I'm gonna go get the door." Christopher and Cyndi DeSoto stood on the other side with their offspring. After seeing to it that Chris had a beer and was firmly rooted into a chair in the family room, enjoying the big game on the tube, Tarina returned to the kitchen to sit with the women. Tossing her cross word aside, knowing she wouldn't get to it again, she fell into comfortable conversation about the wedding and reception from the day before. "I thought Jennifer looked absolutely beautiful." Cyndi commented. "She did. She's a lovely woman. She's going to make a splendid daughter-in-law." Caroline quipped. "The food was delicious. I think Jennifer and Jim planned a wonderful day." "Absolutely. I hope I can do a bang up job like that when I get married." Tarina responded. All eyes turned to her. Everyone in the room had noticed how she and Johnny had melded together during their frequent dances the night before. Everyone had been dying to talk to each other about it, but with Tarina in the room, it made it a bit difficult. "Tell me Joanne. You know John quite well. What's he like?" Caroline asked. Joanne wasn't sure in which context she was being asked the question. Was John Gage a decent person, or was he decent enough for her daughter? And what would be decent enough for Caroline and Tony's daughter? "He's caring, friendly, loyal, I don't know. What do you want to know?" "Has he ever been married?" Caroline narrowed it down for her. "No." "Mom, must you?" "Sorry Tarina, I'm just curious. I wonder why he's never been married? Seems to me he's a nice enough fellow, he's nice looking, why hasn't some woman scooped him up?" "To be honest, I don't think he's ever really wanted to be…uh...scooped up." Joanne replied. "Why?" asked Cyndi. the story continues .