Someone To Watch Over Me
by Mele (ktutt@earthlink.net)

Monday, June 18, 2001-The Other Side
Billy and Adam looked around curiously, unsure of where they were, or what had happened, outside the fact they suspected they were dead. That was as far as they had gotten in figuring out what was going on. The featureless surroundings offered no clue as to where they were, or where they were going.

"Oh, dear, I am sorry to have kept you two waiting so long. But the truth is your being here has caused some confusion." They both turned toward the voice's owner, a small, gray-haired man who had gentle, troll like features.

"Uh, that's okay. Um, where are we, anyway?" Adam asked.

"This is a place to rest until any decisions that need to be made are made," the man replied.

"God's waiting room?" Billy asked with a slight smile.

"You could call it that, I guess," he smiled in reply.

"Well, what decision was made? Or was one made?" Adam asked, trying not to sound impatient.

"The decision has been left to you two. You have a choice to make, separately or together, as to where you go and what happens next," the little man declared.

"I'm sorry, but we are new at this. What are our choices?" Billy inquired.

"This will take some explaining. See, God does have a plan for each life. Some are intentionally short, some extremely long. Some major events are pre-planned. But always there is the 'random element', which is beyond God's control. He is the one who set it up that way, if that makes any sense. For instance, Adam, you were supposed to die at age 87. Obviously, that is not going to happen. The drunk driver you encountered changed the plan, and robbed you of 65 years. He was a 'random element', as it were. Needless to say, God is not fond of such events as happened to you two. And in some cases an effort is made to offer a sort of 'consolation' to the person. You were both very fine young men. You had served mankind heroically as Power Rangers, risking your lives without reserve. You deserved the long, happy lives you were supposed to have. But, we cannot give you back those lives. You probably do not know this, but almost two weeks have passed since you died. You have been buried, even graduated from college. There is no going back," he paused, seeing Billy and Adam's stricken expressions. "I'm sorry, I know this comes as a shock. There is a time span between the actual death and the awareness of 'afterlife' that is a sort of, limbo, I guess you'd call it. It makes it so it is impossible for the deceased to be able to reenter their old lives. Anyway, the bottom-line, fellows, is you are dead. You aren't going to be able to go back to being alive. But, since the circumstances are what they are, we can offer you a chance to still have a little input in the futures of those who are close to you. Here is the deal: You will be given a chance to observe portions of the next 50 years of their lives. You will not be able to directly contact them in any way. You will be unable to counteract any event that is preplanned in their lives. But you may be able to nudge their decisions in the direction you want if you are creative. When you reach the 50 year anniversary of your deaths, you will go on to Heaven (unless, of course, you really screw up during the time your are observing their futures-it has never happened, but I suppose it could.). Or you can go straight on to Heaven now, and skip the other part. The choice is yours."

Billy and Adam looked quite stupefied by the information they had just received. They looked at each other in some confusion, not having expected any of this.

"Can we have a little while to try to process all you have told us?" Billy finally asked.

"Of course. Take all the time you need. When you have reached a decision, just think about me and I will be here."

"Oh, okay. What is your name?" Adam asked.

"Riley." With that the little man disappeared.

Both young men stood silently for a few moments, letting the information they had just received sink in. It was one thing to suspect you are dead, another entirely to find out you really are.

"What do you think, Billy?" Adam finally broke the silence.

"I am trying to determine if I really want to see what will happen to those we left behind. I think it would be quite frustrating to see them without being able to touch or talk to them," Billy replied in a distracted way.

"But to not see them at all? I think that would be worse. And he did say we may be able to influence them in some small way. I kind of like the idea I could still help them if they need it," Adam said pensively.

"Yeah, I like that idea too. I guess I'm just being selfish. I don't know how it will feel seeing them go on without me. I remember how it was when my mom died. At first Dad and I could barely function. We missed her so much, barely a minute went by that we didn't think of her. But that changed over time. We thought of her less and less. Don't get me wrong, we still loved her, but she was dead and we weren't. We had to get on with our lives. That is what we will see our families and friends do. In 50 years they will probably forget we even existed. We have to be ready for that as well. The only thing worse than them going on without us is if they don't. See what I mean?"

Adam nodded solemnly. "Yeah, I see what you are getting at." It was one think to read of the five stages of death, but another to experience it. Billy had that experience Adam had not. "I still want to do it. If I don't I know I will regret it for eternity. It's just a gut feeling, Billy, but it's strong. I have to do this. But I will understand if you don't want to."

Billy sighed deeply. "I think I have been trying to talk myself out of it, but I have to concur my gut reaction is the same as yours. And if we go together, perhaps we can help each other help our loved ones. Okay?"

"Okay. Guess we better think of Riley."

Adam had no more than spoken and Riley was there. "You have decided?"

"Yes, we want the chance to see our loved ones again." Adam spoke for them both.

"Very well then. You will start with now, then once you have seen what you need to see, you will instantly find yourself at the next point of interest in your family or friends' lives. This you have no control over. You will simply go to the next big event. You have to trust God knows what He is doing." With that the small man disappeared and their surroundings seemed to pulsate. When things settled down, they both looked around with some curiosity.

They were standing outside the Park house in the middle of the street. Before they could react an oncoming car passed through them. They stood there in shock, looking after the car.

"I guess we don't have to wonder if anyone can see us. Looks like they can't. This is going to be so weird," Billy said numbly. The sensation of the car passing through them had not been pleasant.

"No kidding. Look, I want to check on my parents and brother. You want to come with me or look for your dad?" Adam said.

"I'll go look up Dad, and maybe Kat if I can find her," Billy decided. "When and where do you want to meet again?"

"The park at sunset?"

"Okay."

Adam walked into his parent's home, still reeling from the events of the last little while. It was near midday, so both his parents were at work. His younger brother Adrian was home however. He was sitting on the couch watching a movie and eating popcorn without much enthusiasm. Adam sat down beside him for a few minutes, watching the movie (April Fools Day-a no brainer movie Adam had enjoyed since he was a teenager) much as they had in their youth. He would have loved to be able to eat some of the popcorn, to turn to his brother and laugh over the sillier parts of the movie, to devise ways to make it even more gross. He looked over at Adrian and saw tears in his brother's eyes. Suddenly he felt like a voyeur, like an intruder in his brother's grief. Adam couldn't just sit there, he reached out to Adrian without thinking. His hand passed through his brother without Adrian ever being aware anything had happened. Adam felt pain rip through him as he realized he could not do anything to help his brother. And he had wanted to do this?

He stood up and bolted out of the house.

After parting from Adam, Billy quickly walked over to his father's house. He needed desperately to see how his father was doing. He felt dread tighten his stomach as he entered the house and sought out his father.

Wallace was sitting in the overstuffed recliner in the living room. The drapes were pulled, leaving the room gloomy and dark. The television was turned to CNN, but the volume was so low it sounded like a hum in the background. Dirty glasses and dishes were piled on the coffee table and the room smelled musty and unpleasant.

Wallace himself looked unkempt and exhausted. He stared in the general direction of the television without seeming to see it. Billy approached him warily, wanting, but not wanting, to see him. He felt his spirit clench in pain at the sight of his father. Billy and Wallace had seldom spoke of their feelings for each other. They were not demonstrative toward each other, they never had been. Consequently, one of the reasons Billy had often suffered from low self-esteem was because he was sometimes unsure of his father's' love. Whatever doubts he may have had before were erased at the sight of his father's unalloyed grief. Billy felt tears in his own eyes as he looked at his father. Never in a million years would he have wanted to hurt him like this. Then he noticed what Wallace was holding loosely in his lap. It was a picture of Billy, Wallace, and Marie, taken just a couple of weeks before Marie died in a car accident.

"I don't know how I can go on now. You two are together again, leaving me alone. I want to be with you both, not here in this lonely life. I know I am supposed to go on until it is 'my time', but how long will that be? What will I do? Why did God take both of you? I could be strong as long as Billy needed me, but without him what will I live for?" Wallace's voice devolved into tears as his hand gently caressed the picture.

Billy couldn't choke back a sob. Not that it mattered, there was no one there who could hear it. He had thought about the potential pain for him seeing loved ones going on without him, but not the pain of witnessing their grief. He hurt for his father. His father had often seemed distant, uncaring even, but Billy realized, perhaps for the first time, how much he loved his father, and how much his father had loved him. And now he was terrified for his father. He was desperately afraid his father would choose to end his life rather than go on alone.

After Adam left his parent's house he headed toward Trini's apartment. Trini lived with three other young women in a large apartment in a good neighborhood. He sometimes couldn't understand why she always insisted they spend the bulk of their time in his small house. Unless it was because he only had one roommate, and he was a good friend of hers. Most of the times he had been in her apartment he hadn't seen the roommates anyway. They always seemed to be gone, which was fine with him. He hadn't liked them that much.

True to form, Trini was alone. She was sitting on her bed looking at her answering machine with an unfathomable expression. Suddenly, she reached out and pushed the button that would play back the messages.

"Miss Kwan, this is Dr. White's office. The results of your test came back positive. Congratulations! You are two and a half months pregnant."

Adam was completely shocked. Pregnant! He was going to leave a child behind as a legacy? Impossible! They were always careful. They had too many plans they wanted to complete before they would be ready to even consider parenthood. But they must have messed up somehow. Wow!

Then he noticed Trini's expression.

Tears sparkled in her eyes, but not tears of happiness judging from the expression Adam saw on her face. She looked miserable, and suddenly put her hands to her face and bent over as if in pain. He could hear her sobs and in that moment would have given anything to be able to touch her, to offer some sort of comfort.

"What am I going to do?" she suddenly cried out softly, startling Adam badly with the despair he heard in her voice. "What am I going to do?"

Adam was confused. She would have the child, wouldn't she? It wasn't like he was going to have another chance to father a child. Those first thoughts shot through his mind almost before he had a chance to recognize them. Then the voice of reason, always so strong in him, made itself heard. He realized it was a difficult decision she was facing. After all, she was the one who would have to raise the child alone. She was the one whose future would be impacted by the choice she made. He was still mulling it over when Trini's phone rang again.

"Hello." Adam watched the expressions play across her face as she listened to the caller. "Thanks for calling, I'll be there soon."

When she grabbed her keys and purse, Adam followed her out.

Billy left his father's house after Wallace finally fell asleep still sitting in his chair. Billy was deeply disturbed by his father's condition, and was desperately trying to think of a way to help him. He was so wrapped up in his thoughts he did not pay any attention to where he was going, so he was somewhat surprised to look up and find himself outside the Hillard residence. With some trepidation, he decided to see if Kat was at home.

He found the house deserted. Feeling disappointed and somewhat relieved at the same time, he looked around a last time to see if there was any indication of where they may be. He found a note on the kitchen counter from Kat to her parents.

"Mum and Dad, Jason called and Emily is in labor. I'm at the hospital. Be home soon as the baby is born, Love Katherine."

Billy headed out to the hospital.

Without even thinking of it, Adam followed Trini out to her car and scrambled in before her. He didn't stop to think about the fact that that should not have worked, considering they could pass through solid objects as if they did not exist. So why was he able to ride in the car? He couldn't figure it out, and simply set the question aside to ask Billy later. He already had an idea it was something beyond explanation and should be simply accepted on faith.

Adam was surprised to find they had arrived at Angel Grove Hospital. Curious, he followed Trini closely, growing concerned when he saw a large group of his friends, including most of the former Rangers, as well as Jason Scott's parents, and several others he didn't recognize at first. Katherine Hillard saw Trini approach and rose to meet her with a warm hug.

"Glad you could come. There isn't any news yet, but the doctor felt it should be pretty soon."

"I couldn't stay away. After all, it's 'our' first baby!" Trini said with a wistful smile.

Katherine noticed her expression and steered her away from the group. "How are you doing, Trini? Are you okay?"

"I don't really know, Kat. I seem to be going on a lot of ups and downs recently, and today is a definite 'down'."

"Anything in particular, or the usual?"

"Both, I think. Look, I really don't want to talk about it quite yet. Please, give me a day or two and ask again," Trini requested in her quiet way.

"I can do that," Katherine gave her friend a hug with the reply. Though the two had never served as Power Rangers together, but they had become close friends through their relationships with Billy and Adam. Adam had overheard their conversation and hoped Trini would open up to Katherine. He knew she tended to keep her problems to herself, but he hoped she wouldn't in this situation. He was about to wander over closer to the others when he heard a soft voice behind him.

"Looks like the gang is all here," Billy said with a slight smile.

"Hey Billy, how has your day gone?"

"Don't ask. Not good. How about yours?"

"Same as you, I guess. How about this for a cruel twist-Trini's pregnant."

"Whoa, that had to be a shock. How is she taking it?"

"She is considering an abortion."

Billy looked upset at that idea. "Oh, God, I'm sorry Adam. That has to be hard for you."

"It's hard on her too. I know what I want her to do, based on my feelings. But she is the one who will have to live with it, not me. She will have to endure the pregnancy, birth, and raising of the child. Her hopes and dreams may have to be put aside for years. She has a right to want her future. But, dammit, Billy, it is my child too. The only chance at fathering a child I will ever have. This is so hard," Adam's voice had risen to a shout before almost fading away with the last comment.

Billy laid a comforting hand on his friend's shoulder. "It will work out Adam, you know it will. She will make the right decision."

Adam looked at him with eyes that clearly wanted to believe. "I hope so Billy. This isn't exactly a decision she can change later."

Their conversation was interrupted by a disturbance among the group waiting together across the room. Adam and Billy looked over to see Jason had emerged and was calling for everyone's attention. The two hurried over to hear what he had to say.

"Guys, I'm a father! We have a baby girl, Heather Nicole Scott. 7lbs, 3 oz., and absolutely gorgeous. Emily is doing great. I'm doing great! Mom, Dad, you're grandparents! I gotta get back." With that Jason darted back toward the delivery room followed by the sound of the laughter and applause his announcement had generated.

Adam and Billy shared a smile, the first for either of them since their deaths. Despite the problems they had encountered already, they were extremely happy for Jason and Emily. They stood at the edge of the group of their friends and listened to their excited conversations. Adam especially watched Trini's reaction to the news. She looked thoughtful, but no more or less at peace than she had before. Adam and Billy exchanged smiles, happy for their friend. It was nice to see Jason and Emily so happy, they both deserved all the joy they could get. Then Adam sighed deeply.

"What is it Adam?" Billy asked, placing his hand on his friend's shoulder again.

"Just jealous, I guess. I keep thinking of all the things I won't get to do, I won't get to experience. Like being there, really there, when Trini has a child. Our child. Feeling like Jason must feel now. Damn, this sucks," he wiped moisture from his eyes self-consciously.

"I agree whole heartedly. This is turning out much harder than I expected. And we have just started," Billy sighed.

Adam sniffed a little, then looked at Billy. "What's up with your people?"

Billy's expression immediately changed to one of deep sorrow. "I think my dad may be considering suicide," he said softly.

"Are you sure?" Adam was horrified at the idea.

"It's what it sounds like. I have to find some way to help him. Didn't Riley say we may be able to influence our friends and family? I need to find a way to do that, convince him there is a reason to go on," Billy said.

"You have any ideas?"

"Maybe. I read somewhere a long time ago that, outside of a coma, sleep was the closest we came to death. That during sleep was when the dead could communicate with the living through dreams. That dreams were actually messages from the dead. I didn't pay any attention to it at the time. I didn't believe in such things, and still have some doubts that dreams all come from the dead. I mean, if that is the case, then I have had some very strange people trying to communicate with me. But there is a kind of logic to it, I think I am going to try it at least. The worst that will happen is that it will fail. I just wish I knew what I was doing. Remember that movie, 'Beetlejuice'? Where they had that 'Handbook for the Recently Deceased'? Wouldn't that be handy?"

Adam cracked a quick smile. "Yeah, as long as we didn't also end up with Michael Keaton to 'help' us."

Billy returned the smile, and for just a moment they forgot the circumstances that brought them here, forgot what had happened.

For just a moment they felt normal again.

Billy entered his father's bedroom nervously. He wasn't sure if his idea would work or not, but he knew he had to try. His father needed to go on. Billy couldn't say how he knew this, but he knew deep inside his father still had things he needed to accomplish in life. And he didn't want to be the catalyst for Wallace giving up that future.

He approached his slumbering father, unconsciously moving stealthily, even though under the circumstances stealth was hardly required. He realized what he was doing and chuckled slightly to himself. "I guess old habits die hard," he muttered. The absurdity of that comment hit him and he broke into an actual laugh, even as he realized that nervousness was the actual source of his chuckles.

"Oh, great. Not only am I dead, but I'm going nuts. Eternity is going to be a blast at this rate," he mumbled.

He thought back to when he read that article on dreams and communication with the deceased. It said that dreams were the dead trying to communicate with the living. He recalled that dreams happened during REM sleep, so he settled down to watch his slumbering father, waiting for the tell tale signs of REM sleep.

After a seeming eternity, Billy noticed his father's eyes moving rapidly behind his closed eyelids. Billy leaned in close and began to speak in a gentle voice.

"Dad, it's me, Billy. I know you are upset, I understand your pain. I am so sorry to be the cause of this. But you have to go on. I know now, more than ever, that life is a gift, and I get the feeling you are contemplating throwing that gift away. You can't, you mustn't. You still have a future, there is hope for happiness in the coming years, I am sure of it. If you need someone, please, reach out to Jason, or his parents. You know they care about you. We were, are, like an extension of their family. Remember all the times they took care of me when you were out of town on business, all the times Jason stayed over at our house? They would do anything to help you, I know they would. And don't forget Anne. I know you two haven't been going out very long, but she sure seems to like you. I know if you reached out to her she would respond. Whatever you need to do to go on, you have to do. You can't give up. If you give up you are betraying both Mom and me. We love you, we want what is best for you. We will see you soon enough without you hurrying the issue. Please, Dad, I love you too much to want you to give up on life. I need for you to go on, please, for me?" Tears and suppressed sobs stilled his voice. He wanted nothing more in the world than to touch his father, to hug him close, both for his father's comfort and for his own. Instead, he had to get up and leave, unable to look at the peaceful face of his sleeping father any longer.

He had no idea if Wallace had heard, or sensed, anything he had tried to say.

Adam sat by Trini's bed, struggling with a moral dilemma. Should he only offer Trini his unconditional support, whatever decision she should make, or should he attempt to encourage her to have the child. He told himself it was Trini's decision, her life, and he had no rights anymore to attempt to influence her. He argued she would ultimately regret an abortion, so if he convinced her to have the child he would save her anguish in the future. He debated saying nothing and getting the hell out of there. Finally he took a deep breath and made his decision.

"Trini, I don't know if you can hear me, or if you can sense me, or whatever. But I need to tell you again that I love you. That no matter what you do, what you decide, I will always love you. I never realized how incomplete I was until I was with you. You gave meaning to my life, and added dimensions to it I had never imagined existed. I am sorry I left you alone to face this decision. I know it was not my fault, my death I mean, not the pregnancy. That I think I did have a lot to do with, right? Anyway, I really hope you choose to keep the child, but if you don't I will understand. Okay, I will do my best to understand, since I really would like to leave a child behind as a legacy. God, that is so selfish of me! I'm sorry, forget that! I didn't mean to say that. I love you, that is all that is important. I love you, and I miss you. Oh, how I miss you already," Adam broke down in tears and fled the room, miserable he had slipped and started to insist she have the child.

Damn, but it was hard being a ghost.

Tuesday, June 19, 2001 - Angel Grove, California
Jason Scott all but ran out of his front door. He was pumped, ready to face the day. His first full day as a parent. He knew he was being a bit ridiculous, but he frankly didn't care. He'd already been to the hospital once this morning to greet his wife and child. Now he was going to walk over to his parent's house, then they would go together to the hospital to pick up Emily and Heather and bring them home. Emily and Heather. His family. Darn, but that sounded good!

He was so caught up in his thoughts he didn't notice the little boy skating shakily down the sidewalk in his direction until they literally ran into each other. Jason recovered quickly, quite unhurt, and reached out to help the boy back onto his feet. The kid was maybe eleven years, slender with a shock of unruly light brown hair.

'Looks like Billy did at that age,' Jason thought as the boy quickly apologized and skated off down the street, presumably looking for something else to run into.

Thinking of Billy had the effect of dousing Jason's high spirits like a cold shower. He felt the now familiar pain when he thought of his old friend, wondering again when he would be able to remember Billy without that pang. It occurred to Jason that he had not seen Wallace since he delivered Billy's diploma. Wallace had not answered his phone yesterday, so Jason had only been able to leave a message about his daughter's birth. Wallace had not returned the call.

As Jason entered his parents' house, he made a quick decision. "Mom, Dad, you mind if we swing by Mr. Cranston's house? I want to ask him something, and I need to do it in person."

"Of course we don't mind, I have been thinking I need to go over and check on him anyway. You know, just to see how he is doing," Marjorie replied, her own expression sorrowful. If Jason felt like he had lost a brother, his parents felt as if they had lost a son. From the moment they set eyes on Billy when he was ten years old, they had 'adopted' him. Marjorie and Jack Scott had wanted a large family, but Jason was the only child they were able to have, so Billy had helped fill a void in their lives. And it had been pretty obvious that the Scotts, especially Marjorie, filled a void in Billy's life.

Jack just nodded and reached for the car keys as they all headed out the door.

Trini awoke with a headache, a heartache, and faint nausea. She had dreamed of Adam, that the accident had just been a cruel joke and he was alive. She had been so happy in the dream that reality was a bitter blow. She lounged back in her bed, contemplating simply staying there for the day, maybe the week, possibly the month. Getting up, getting dressed, then meeting Kimberly to go shopping suddenly sounded like much too much work. It would be better to stay in bed.

She was about to nod off again when there came a pounding on her door. Naturally her roommates were not around, so Trini finally had to get up and answer the knock. She was surprised to find Kimberly at the door.

"Geez Kim, you knock like a 6 foot, 300 pound Sumo wrestler," Trini complained.

"Nice to see you, too," Kim retorted as she entered the apartment. "And, not to criticize or anything, but most malls require you wear clothing, not your nightgown. You might want to consider getting dressed, maybe brushing your hair." Kim had been increasingly worried about her friend, and she was determined to spend the day with her no matter what.

"I think I'll skip it today, Kimberly, I'm not feeling too good," Trini started.

"Oh, no you don't! You are not blowing me off again. I let you off the hook two days ago, it is time to shop. You promised. Now, go get dressed, freshen up, and I'll treat us to breakfast," Kim ordered.

"Yes ma'am," Trini sighed.

Wallace Cranston answered his door with a frown, wondering who could be bothering him at this ungodly hour, not realizing it was almost eleven in the morning. His irritation changed to bemusement as Marjorie hastened in and immediately started cleaning the living room and kitchen areas, scolding and fussing over Wallace as she went. Wallace finally turned to the other two men in some confusion.

"You came over here to clean my house?"

"Uh, no, not really. But Mom tends to just plunge in when she sees something that she thinks should be cleaned. Sorry. Actually, I wanted to talk to you for a minute. I have a favor to ask," Jason replied.

"Sure, son. I guess we may be safe enough out on the patio," Wallace indicated the sliding glass door leading outside, as Jack went to check on Marjorie's progress.

"What is on you mind?" Wallace asked once they were outside. He was as fond of Jason as the Scotts had been of Billy.

"Did you get my message yesterday, about our daughter?"

"Sure did, and congratulations Jason. Being a father is one of the greatest things in life. I know you will do a wonderful job."

"Thanks, I sure hope so. I had a couple of very good examples to follow. Which is kind of why I'm here. I wanted to ask you to be Heather's godfather. Emily and I both like that tradition, and we agree no one would be better suited than you. We would be honored if you accepted."

"Me? Your child's godfather? I don't know Jason, I'm sure you could find someone better than me for the job."

"I don't think so. Look, maybe you didn't know this, but I always thought of Billy as the brother I never had. And I started to think of you as my second father. There is no one more suited, more appropriate, and most importantly, more wanted to serve as Heather's godfather. We want you. Please." Jason looked at the older man pleadingly.

Wallace was deeply touched. "Okay, Jason. I will do it. Thank you for the honor. And, for the record, I always thought of you as the second child we never got to have." He awkwardly reached out and embraced Jason, who returned the embrace willingly.

Unseen and unheard in a corner of the patio, Billy watched, laughing and crying at the same time.

Jason had ended up being the answer to his prayers. Again.

Kimberly stared worriedly at Trini as she picked at her breakfast. Her friend was pale and tired looking. She seemed to be completely withdrawn into some inner misery, which Kimberly was powerless to bring her back from. Kim was starting to think it was depression when Trini suddenly bolted from her seat and raced to the ladies room. Kimberly followed, more worried than ever when she heard Trini vomiting in one of the stalls.

"Oh, God, Trini, let me in, please?" Kimberly stood outside the stall, listening to her friend sob.

Trini made no move to let Kimberly in, so Kim took matters into her own hands and simply crawled under the partition. Trini had collapsed on the floor, holding on to the toilet and crying miserably.

Kimberly didn't waste time with words, but simply wrapped Trini in an embrace and held her, rocking her gently and making a soothing cooing sound. Eventually Trini began to calm back down, so Kimberly took the chance to help her get to her feet and out of the stall. Trini allowed herself to be led to the sinks and passively let Kimberly clean her face and hands with moist towels.

Finally Kimberly got Trini as cleaned up as possible under the circumstances and regarded her friend with considerable worry.

"Can you tell me what is going on, Trini? This looks like more than grief to me. You look ill, do you need to go see the doctor? If you are worried, I'll go with you. Whatever you need me to do to help, you know I will do it."

Trini tried to smile for Kimberly. The result was anything but comforting to her friend. "I'll be okay Kimberly," she said, even as tears formed in her eyes again.

"What is it! Trini, you have to tell me. You are scaring me something awful. If you don't talk to me I will call your parents and have them come and talk to you. I know something is very wrong and I am not going to let you put me off about this," Kimberly declared.

Trini considered her friend's determined expression. She sighed and lowered her head, speaking so softly Kimberly could barely hear her. "I'm pregnant. And I don't know what to do."

Kim sucked in a quick breath. No wonder Trini was upset! "Do you know what you want to do?"

"Not really, I keep getting caught in the middle between wanting the child, and wanting my career dreams. I don't know what I want right now."

"How far along are you?"

"Two months."

"Well, you have a little time, you don't have to decide this minute. Do you think you can allow yourself to 'step back away' from it for a few days, give yourself time to discover what you truly want to do?"

"I can try. That's a good idea, actually. I guess I was thinking I have to decide today, putting extra pressure on myself. Leave it to you to find the right solution." Trini's attempt at a smile was much more convincing this time.

"Glad to help. We better get back to the table, they probably think I ran out on the bill." Taking Trini's arm, Kimberly steered her back to their table, still determined to make Trini have some fun.

But she couldn't help but think, what if it had been Tommy who died, and she ended up pregnant? What would she do? Kimberly knew of Trini's dreams, her desire for a career. A child hardly fit into that picture. But Kimberly also knew how nurturing and loving Trini was, she would make an awesome mother.

Jason and his parents were greeted at the hospital by a group of their friends anxious to see the newest member of the Scott family. Jason promised them he would bring his daughter out to meet them all as soon as the doctor said it was okay. Then he hurried in to see Emily and Heather.

He emerged an hour later carefully holding a small bundle wrapped in pink. Immediately Jason and Heather were surrounded by a small mob, all vying for the chance to hold her. Heather immediately showed she had inherited her father's good nature as she was passed from person to person without a murmur of protest.

Kimberly and Trini arrived as Jason was about to return his daughter to Emily's waiting arms.

"Wait Jase, can I hold her, please," Kim asked breathlessly, reaching for the infant even as she asked.

Jason couldn't resist the pleading look on his friend's face as he handed over his daughter.

"Oh, she is so perfect! You guys are so lucky," she exclaimed as she cuddled the drowsy baby.

"Turns out, I agree with you completely. Trini, do you want to hold her before I take her back to Mama?" Jason asked, turning his smiling gaze to her.

"Okay, sure, I guess I won't drop her," Trini said quietly as Kimberly handed her the infant. Kim kept a close watch on Trini's expression, suddenly regretting dragging her along on this visit. Given how Trini was feeling about things, dealing with a new infant and an ecstatic father might not be the best thing for her. However, her worry faded as she noticed an expression of peace come over Trini's face. Kim suddenly knew Trini had made her decision.

Kimberly was not the only one who noticed the play of emotions over Trini's face. Standing just behind Kimberly and watching with his heart in his throat was another spectator. Who also could see Trini's mind had been decided as she held Jason's daughter in her arms.

Adam was going to be a father.

August 31, 2001 - The Other Side
"Whoa! How did I get here and where did you come from?" Adam asked as he looked around in confusion. The last he remembered he was in the hospital, standing alone, watching Trini hold Jason and Emily's daughter. Then suddenly, he was here, wherever "here" was, with Billy standing by his side looking as confused as Adam felt.

"I have no idea. It looks like we are in a church. And, don't ask me how I know, but I think the date is August 31, 2001," Billy replied.

"I know. It is August 31. This is too weird. Do you think we are being provided with the information we need when we get to a new time and location? Is this God's doing?"

"I guess. Riley did say we would be transferred to the next 'big' event, that God would make sure of that. Makes sense He wouldn't want us to waste a bunch of time trying to figure out when and where we are, but to get right to the most important thing. I'm not sure, but I think we may be about to witness Kimberly and Tommy's wedding. At least I hope this is what is going on today," Billy surmised. "By the way, what happened with Trini?"

"She decided to keep the baby, I think. Oh, Billy, I almost blew it. I tried talking to her while she slept, and I found myself starting to tell her to keep it because I wanted her to. I stopped before I got too far, but, man, it was so tempting to try to bend her to my will."

"Remember, Adam, you didn't. And we don't know for sure if that idea of mine even works," Billy said.

"What happened with your dad?"

"Jason happened." Billy chuckled at Adam's confused expression. "Jason came by my dad's house with his parents and asked Dad to be Heather's godfather. Dad agreed to it, so he has to keep going. He would never let Heather, or Jason, down."

"Wonderful! I'm happy for you, I know you have been worried."

"Well, I'm happy for you too, 'Dad'. Something tells me we will be stopping by for that event."

"I sure hope so!"

While the two of them had been talking, people had started arriving at the church. Floral arrangements were being given a last minute adjustment, the organ being put through its paces, the priest was setting out the candles and bible he would need. Billy and Adam moved to a location slightly behind where the priest would stand. It gave them the best view of the bride and groom as well as the entire audience.

"Look! There's Tanya, looks like she has a new boyfriend. Lucky guy. And Bulk is bringing a date. She's a looker too. Skull is still by himself, though. There's my mom and dad. And Adrian! They look great, guess they are starting to get over it," Adam's voice took on a sadder tone as he contemplated his parents. He felt Billy's reassuring hand on his shoulder.

"That is a good thing, you know, Adam. They need to get over it. It doesn't mean they love you any less, but they have to get on."

"I know, but it still hurts."

"I know. I'm kind of anxious about seeing my dad, too."

"Well, there he is. He brought a date, too. Is that Anne?" Adam indicated the petite, somewhat plain woman on Wallace's arm.

"Yeah."

"She looks nice."

"She is. Very intelligent too. I never had anything against Anne. I actually like her, I accepted her relationship with Dad." Billy was sounding a little sad himself. Then he noticed something. "Adam, is that an engagement ring on her left hand?"

"Boy, it sure looks like one. Guess you're getting a step mom."

Billy was looking intently at his father. He finally sighed deeply. "He looks happy, right, Adam? Like I said, this is a good thing. But as you pointed out, it still hurts." It was Adam's turn to lend reassurance to his friend.

"I wonder if we will ever get used to this."

"We better, it's not like things are going to change for us in the near future," Billy noted.

"Yeah. Oh, it's starting!" Adam looked almost as excited as Tommy, who was now standing with Jason in front of the priest.

Aisha and Rocky led the procession, followed by Katherine and David, then Trini and Zack. Adam took in a deep breath at the sight of Trini. Though the dress had a loose fit to it, her pregnancy was just barely noticeable. Kimberly followed Trini and Zack, holding onto her father's arm.

The ceremony was beautiful. When the priest introduced Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Oliver, there was hardly a dry eye in the room, including Adam and Billy.

Then suddenly they found they had moved on.

December 10, 2001 - The Other Side
At least this time they had known what to expect. They found themselves in another church, another wedding. Within an hour, Mr. and Mrs. Zackary Taylor and been introduced.

And Billy and Adam moved on.

January 15, 2002 - Angel Grove, California
Trini shifted uncomfortably on her chair. She had been feeling unusually restless and uncomfortable all day, unable to settle down physically or mentally. She knew part of the problem, at least. She was pretty sure she was entering the first stages of labor. She hadn't had any pains as yet, but everything else indicated the long wait was almost over and she would soon meet her son.

"Well, Adam, you will be making your big arrival soon. Take it easy on Mom, okay?" she said as she gently stroked her abdomen. An ultrasound had revealed the child to be a boy two months before, so since then Trini had addressed him by the name she planned to christen him with. She had told the Parks of her condition as soon as she had decided to keep the baby. They readily accepted the child as their grandson, knowing as they did how Adam had felt about Trini, and happy to know a part of their child had survived.

Trini had settled down in her own small apartment. She had found work as a researcher in a law firm in Angel Grove. They were happy to have an employee with her skills, and asked no questions regarding her pregnancy. They granted her two months leave, however it was without pay, as she did not have enough time in to qualify for maternity leave. It didn't really matter, she had been able to set enough aside to be able to survive a couple of months without working, so she and the baby would do just fine.

While finances had not proven to be a problem, emotionally it had been a tough time. Fortunately, she had good, caring friends to help her through. Katherine was a constant source of support. Katherine seemed to devote all her free time to helping Trini prepare for the new arrival. Artistically talented, with inborn good taste, Katherine had completely decorated the nursery, setting it up so it could be "upgraded" as Adam grew, without having to "gut" the room and start from scratch as his tastes matured.

Katherine was interning as a counselor, she expected to have her license soon. She threw herself into her fledgling career with all the energy she had. She worked long hours, then spent hours helping Trini, she volunteered at a youth club downtown, and taught dance one evening a week free at the Juice Bar. To all outward appearances, she was an exceptionally focused, dedicated, vital young woman. Only her friends realized a part of her had not yet bounced back from the loss she had suffered in June. There were some that wondered if she ever would.

Kimberly also offered Trini as much support and encouragement as she could. However, Kim was a little harder for Trini to be around than Katherine was. Kimberly still had that newlywed glow, the enthusiasm and optimism that Trini found hard to handle. Trini didn't begrudge her friend her happiness, but at times it seemed to only highlight the elements missing in her own life. Trini would not have admitted to that even under threat of death.

Tanya, Emily, Angela and several of her coworkers also did their best to keep Trini's spirits up during her pregnancy. For the most part they succeeded admirably.

An unexpected source of comfort had been Rocky. Rocky had been devastated by Adam's death, and like Katherine he had coped by plunging into his work with unparalleled enthusiasm. In Rocky's case, his work was medical school. He still faced a long uphill road to his goal of being an orthopedic surgeon. But he was never too busy to take the time to visit Trini, assisting her in any way he could. He took care of small repairs Trini's landlord couldn't, or wouldn't, tackle, and did routine maintenance on her car. In her presence his happy personality reasserted itself, he found himself striving to bring a smile to her face. He told her off color jokes he heard from other med students, gifted her with nonsense books, and took her to see romantic comedies.

It was several months before Rocky realized he was falling in love with Trini.

Wallace Cranston considered his situation with some satisfaction. He was going to be married the next day to Anne. They were planning a small, private ceremony. Her family would be coming from Utah, as well as Wallace's brother. Otherwise, just a few friends had been invited, including the Scotts, all three generations.

Wallace truly loved Anne. She wasn't like Marie, but he had learned to accept that, even to appreciate it. He had finally realized he would not find another Marie, indeed he did not actually want to. Anne was just right the way she was, he didn't want to change a thing. She was a dentist, running her own thriving practice. She was ten years his junior, and had spoken with great longing of having a child, or two. Wallace was completely agreeable with that idea. He was not an old man, being only forty-four, and while he harbored some fears about starting another family, he was quite willing to try. Frankly, the sooner the better. He had loved being a father.

January 15, 2002 - The Other Side
This was getting to be routine now. Billy and Adam looked around, quickly summing up the situation. They were in a hospital waiting room, the usual gang of their friends was around, but no one looked particularly upset. Adam was the first to realize what was happening.

"Trini is in labor! Billy, my baby is being born. I've got to go see what is happening. Do you want to come along?"

"Not really, you check things out and let me know what you find. I'll wait here." Billy replied with a wry look.

Adam hurried off in the direction of the labor rooms. It still astounded Billy to watch his friend walk through doors and walls. Given some time to think about it, Billy began to consider if there was any way they that could physically touch the living. He remembered some since forgotten movie he had seen, featuring a ghost who learned to touch the living, he used this ability to save his lover's life. It had something to do with concentrating all his energy into his hands and fingers. Adam had already noticed he was able to ride in the cab with Trini before, he had just hopped in without thinking about it. He had simply done it on faith. Maybe that was part of it too. To pass the time while waiting for Adam to report back, Billy began to experiment with the idea.

Adam had made his way directly into the labor room, where Trini was already well advanced in her labor. Emily Scott held her hand, encouraging her to use the breathing exercises she had learned in her Lamaze classes. Adam waited in a corner of the room, watching, wishing he could be a more active part of the experience.

"Trini, you are fully dilated now, it should be over very soon. When I give the word I need you to give a big push. Okay, now!" the doctor ordered.

Trini pushed with all her might, letting out a small scream as she felt her son's head move toward the outside world. With Emily, the doctor, and the nurses all encouraging her she kept up the pressure as her son moved smoothly into her life. She dropped back weakly as she heard her child's first cry.

"You did it! You have a son. Oh, Trini, he's perfect!" Emily put her arm around Trini and gave her a careful hug.

Trini answered with a radiant smile as she reached for her son. When the nurse asked for his name she answered with no hesitation at all-Adam Russell Park.

Standing beside her bed, gazing in wonder at his son, Adam let the tears flow freely. He had never been as happy as he was at that moment, looking at his son nestled in the arms of the woman he had loved. Nor had he felt the pain of loss so sharply.

Billy looked up as Emily Scott arrived to make an announcement to the waiting crowd of friends. He smiled as he heard her announce that Trini had given birth to a healthy son, and mother and child were both doing great. He smiled, pleased for both Trini and Adam, then returned to his experiment. He was getting some interesting results.

He was concentrating on moving a magazine across the surface of a table when he was startled by Adam's voice behind him.

"What are you doing, Billy?"

"I am attempting to move this magazine with my hand. I think I almost have it. If I'm right we will be able to physically touch the living if we need to."

"Really? Do you think that is a good idea? I mean, do you think it is allowed?" Adam asked.

"I don't know. But I was compelled to try. Riley did not mention any limits to our influence except where it concerns pre-destined events. I'm not proposing we walk around touching our friends at random, but it might come in handy sometime. That, and I was bored waiting for you," Billy grinned. "By the way, congratulations, 'Dad'. You okay?" he added, noticing Adam's expression.

"Yeah, I guess so. It's not like I didn't know it would be hard. I did," Adam said slowly.

"But it still took you by surprise," Billy concluded.

"Yeah, it did."

"Understandable, really. I guess in a weird sort of way we are ending up mourning ourselves. Not exactly what I expected either."

Adam sighed deeply as he contemplated Billy's words. Then he let out a gasp of surprise. "It moved!"

Billy was equally surprised to see the magazine move across the table at his urging. "It worked. I don't believe it."

"Can you really feel the magazine?"

"Sort of. Just a hint of feeling, really. But a lot when compared to nothing," Billy reported.

"How did you do it?"

"I was concentrating all my will on my fingertips, and I thought it was starting to work. Then you came up and started talking to me. I sort of forgot about concentrating on my hand while I was talking, then it suddenly worked. I reached out to touch it without truly thinking about it, an unconscious reflex, actually. It was almost as if after concentrating I needed to simply switch to faith. We need to experiment a little on this, but I have no reason to think we cannot eventually control our ability to physically touch the world around us."

"Cool. I want to try, just tell me what to do." With Billy coaching, Adam finally was able to move the magazine himself.

"With practice we should get much better, not have to work so hard at it," Billy concluded. "You know, I wonder if something else is going on, we haven't been 'zapped' forward yet. What do you think?"

"Well, I guess we should check on the rest of our families. See if something is up. But first I want to check on my son again. Want to come along?"

"Sure, I'd love to. Lead on."

They headed back toward the nursery to see the newest member of the Park family.

After admiring Adam's son, Billy headed to his father's house to check up on him. He remembered seeing the engagement ring Anne had been wearing at Tommy and Kimberly's wedding, and wondered when his dad was planning to marry her.

When he arrived at the house he got a big surprise. The house was stripped, the sign on the front lawn indicated it had been sold. Billy walked in fighting a feeling of loss and, almost, anger. He felt as if his father had deserted him, even as he realized what a ridiculous idea that really was. The rational part of his mind knew full well his father had to move on, that it would probably be best for his new marriage if he did not spend it living in a house as full of memories, both good and painful, as this house was. But the irrational part was struggling with the thought that his father was just letting go of his past, his late wife and child, as if they had been of no consequence. He felt oddly betrayed, abandoned even.

He wandered into the house, drifting through empty rooms, until he finally went down into the garage. He found himself standing in the middle of the large, empty space crying silently. Of all the experiences he had gone through in the last few days, this was the one thing that finally drove the fact home that he was truly dead. The empty house, and the vacant space where once his lab had been. The lab where he had spent so many fulfilling hours. The lab that had grown as he, and his knowledge, had grown. The lab where his friends had frequently congregated, and where in the early days of being a Power Ranger he had created many of the devices that they had needed to defeat the various monsters. For Billy his lab had made this house his home, much more so than any other room. Now it was gone, just as he was gone from this life.

He was startled out of his misery by the sound of the front door closing. He hurried up the stairs to see who it was. It was his father and Jason.

"I can't thank you enough for your help, Jason," Wallace was saying.

"You're very welcome, Mr. Cranston. I am always happy to give you a hand when it is needed," Jason replied easily. "The godfather of my daughter can come to me for anything," he added expansively, grinning.

"Thank you. You know, Jason, I think you are an adult now, married, a dad, all that. You could call me 'Wallace' if you want."

Jason appeared to think it over. "Thanks. But for the last twelve, thirteen years you have been 'Mr. Cranston' to me. I don't think I can change it now. It would be as awkward as me calling my dad 'Jack'. It just doesn't feel right." Jason gave the older man a quick smile.

Wallace gave him an understanding look. "Let's take a quick look around and see if we missed anything."

Billy followed the two through the house, until they found themselves in the garage.

"Oh, man, this hurts," Jason said with tears in his voice as he looked around the empty space.

"Yeah, it is bad," Wallace agreed, sounding no better than Jason did.

"I gotta get out of here. Sorry." Jason headed for the stairs, Wallace on his heels. Billy trailed after them, feeling a bit better seeing their reaction to the changes.

Wallace and Jason stopped on the front lawn after their hasty retreat from the empty garage and the memories that had overwhelmed them both. They stood silently for a moment, composing themselves.

"I should get home now, I need to change for the rehearsal dinner tonight," Jason said finally.

Wallace's face lit up at that comment. "Absolutely, I expect to see you there." His face took on a thoughtful look. "I still can't believe I'm getting married tomorrow. It doesn't seem possible."

Jason laid a hand on the older man's shoulder and said quietly, "If anyone deserves some happiness, it is you. Anne is terrific, and I know Billy would approve of her completely. I am very happy for both of you."

Wallace gave him a grateful smile as they parted company. Billy stood there looking after his father with a thoughtful expression. Then he headed out to tell Adam they had another wedding to attend.

January 16, 2002 - The Other Side
Billy and Adam attended the wedding of Wallace Cranston and Anne Simmons. The bride was radiant in a simple white gown, and the groom was resplendent in a tuxedo, his blissful expression making him appear a decade younger.

Katherine attended the wedding with Kimberly and Tommy. Billy noticed she looked as beautiful as ever, but her eyes were missing some essential spark, leaving them lifeless.

He had no time to consider it further as without warning, he and Adam moved on.

June 6, 2002 - Angel Grove, California
Rocky sat on the cool grass under the cloudless blue sky, struggling with a problem he never expected to have. He had finally decided he had to go to his friend to seek the answer.

"Adam, I just don't know what to do. I never expected this to happen, but it did. Why do I feel like I am betraying you because I have fallen in love with Trini? I don't even know how she feels about me. I just know I am a much better man when I am with her-I'm happier, wiser, handsomer, just better. I know that sounds crazy, but she just brings out all the best in me. And Adam is so terrific. I know I said I would never have kids after being the oldest of six, but he has changed my mind. We could be happy together, if I thought you would be okay with the idea. Why wouldn't you be? I am not the scatter brain clown you used to know when we were kids. I think I've grown up some. I think it really started when you and Billy were killed. I can't really kid myself that life is all so wonderful anymore. Are you okay wherever you are buddy? God, I hope so. I miss you. I know that sounds sappy, but it's true. I miss you. Miss Billy, too. But you were my best friend for so long. I miss knowing I can go to you with my questions, problems. I miss seeing you smile that knowing smile when you see someone acting like a jerk. Me, usually. Never did let me get away with anything, did you?" Rocky's face split with a smile, even as tears stood in his eyes. "Sound a bit schizo, don't I? Well, what do you expect, I'm a starving medical student sitting in a graveyard talking to a dead friend. I'm allowed to sound as schizo as I want."

"Well, I don't know if schizo is the correct term, but you do sound like you could use a friend."

Rocky jumped to his feet, turning to face the soft voice that had come from behind him. Trini stood looking at him with a warm expression on her face. Little Adam was nestled in her arms, sucking contentedly on his own fist as he slept.

"How long were you standing there?"

"Long enough. Were you ever going to tell me how you felt?"

"Probably. But we would most likely have both been a lot older." Rocky offered her an apologetic smile. "Um, how do you feel about it?" he asked vaguely.

"I am interested, I can't lie about that. But we will have to take it very slow."

"Slow I can do. Thank God you didn't want fast."

Trini laughed and shook her head. Then she looked at the marker Rocky had been sitting by. A simple black slate engraved with Adam's name and dates of birth and death. Her expression sobered as she knelt down and laid the flowers on the stone.

"It's hard to believe it has been a year already. So much has changed in my life. So much is different than I expected it to be. Some of the changes are positive: graduating, finding a good job, having Adam. It has almost been enough to offset the negative -losing you. I miss you, every day I miss you. I wish you could see our son, he's so like you. So loving, accepting, cheerful. So adaptable. He brings me so much joy. Your parents have accepted him as their grandson, they have been so good to me. With their help Adam is going to know who his father was, what a good, honorable man he was. I can do no less for you." Her voice trailed away as tears shone in her eyes. After saying a silent prayer she looked around for Rocky, who had wandered away discreetly to give Trini some privacy.

He noticed her looking around for him and came back to her side. He put his arm comfortingly around her shoulders as they walked out of the cemetery together.

Katherine stood alone in the waning light of late afternoon staring at the headstone without truly seeing it. The ornate oval stone was engraved with Billy's full name and the years of his birth and death. Next to his headstone was an older one marking his mother's final resting place. Several floral arrangements had already been left by his headstone, indicating that she was not the only one who had remembered him and the significance of the date. She had purposely waited until late afternoon so she would have less chance of running into any of the others. She couldn't explain why, but she did not want to talk to anyone today. She had no desire to share memories, to be comforted or offer comfort. She simply wanted Billy, and her memories of him, all to herself.

"Hello Billy. I brought you some flowers, Luv." She sat down gracefully beside the grave and looked out toward the western horizon, admiring the sunset. She stayed that way for over an hour, not speaking, simply being near the man she had loved. She stayed until the maintenance worker shooed her out so he could close the cemetery. She walked back to her waiting car alone, not looking back.

December 14, 2002 - The Other Side
Another hospital waiting room. At 11:14 p.m., an exhausted Tommy Oliver came out and announced to the assembled family and friends that he and Kimberly were the proud parents of twin girls: Sarah Jeanne and Ariel Louise Oliver.

Billy and Adam barely had time to register the announcement when they felt the now familiar sensation that accompanied the shift to another time. It was time to move on.

March 20, 2003 - The Other Side
They found themselves in the street in front of the Park residence again.

"Well, at least it's a change from the churches and hospitals," Adam cracked with a grin. "Wonder what's up this time."

"Looks like it may be with your family since this is where we landed. Should we go in and investigate?"

"I guess so." Adam felt an odd unease. He didn't really want to go into the house, he had a feeling he wouldn't like what he found.

The house appeared deserted at first. The elder Parks would both be at work at this time on a weekday, and Adrian should have been in school, or at work himself if he was not attending the University. Nevertheless, Adam and Billy went from room to room, carefully searching the house. Both had a strong feeling something was not quite right.

They were about to concede defeat, when Adam noted the closed bathroom door. It was the "half bath" he and Adrian had shared for years. They passed through the door to find a horrendous sight. Adrian was propped up by the toilet, chin to his chest, legs splayed, syringe by his limp right hand.

"Oh my God! Billy, he's overdosed on something. I don't believe it! Dammit, Adrian, wake up!" Adam shouted in frustration, knowing his brother wouldn't be able to hear him even if he had been conscious, but unable to help his instinctive response.

Billy looked on in abject horror, his mind searching frantically for an idea of how to help. Suddenly he hit on a plan. "Adam, stay here with Adrian. I have an idea, it should work."

Leaving Adam beside his brother, Billy made his way to the phone in the den. Taking a few moments to gather himself, he concentrated his mental energies on his hands, then reached out confidently to remove the headset. He couldn't quite pick it up, but he could knock it off its perch. Then he punched in 911. When he heard the operator, he started hitting a number key in a series of three long, then three short punches, repeating it over and over, hoping the operator would recognize the s-o-s signal. The operator hung up after a couple of minutes. Billy started over again, determined to get someone to respond with help. It ended up taking four tries before he heard the voice telling him to hang on, they were tracing the number, help would be on the way.

Billy hurried to the front door to wait. After a relative eternity, the paramedics were breaking in the front door. Billy hurried toward the bathroom, pounding on the wall as he went to encourage the paramedics to follow. At the bathroom door he pounded as frantically as possible. Fortunately, the paramedics were quick to suspect a problem behind the locked door and broke it down. They immediately went to work on the semi-comatose Adrian.

Adam watched the proceedings wordlessly, tears in his eyes. When Adrian had been loaded on the stretcher, and they were taking him out to the ambulance, he turned to Billy in sudden anger.

"Why? Why in God's name would he do drugs? He knows better. We were always taught about the dangers of drugs. Look what alcohol did to us! It's just another drug, and it killed us without our ever having taken a sip! How could he be so stupid? Doesn't he realize what a gift life is, how important it is to savor life? Damn stupid kid, how dare he risk himself that way? Does he want to die? This is just going to kill our parents. First what happened to me, now Adrian doing this. Why, Billy, why did he do that?" Adam's voice had risen to a frantic shout before dropping to a near whisper at the end. He slumped against the wall, all the fight gone out of him with his outburst.

Billy gently put his arms around his friend, offering what comfort he could. "Easy, Adam. He's young. He may be hurting inside for some reason, and thought he could numb the pain with chemicals. Whatever the reason, he didn't mean to hurt anyone. It looks like we got here in time, he has a chance to get help now. Maybe he will take that chance when it is offered."

Adam stepped out of Billy's embrace, put both hands over his face and sighed deeply. "Yeah, you're right. It may work out okay. And, thank you. For saving his life. How did you do that, anyway?"

"Called 911, of course," Billy replied with a slight grin.

"Of course."

March 21, 2003 - Angel Grove, California
Trini hurried around her apartment, quickly straightening everything up, making the small space neat and tidy again. It was her nightly ritual, ever since Adam got old enough to crawl. An active, inquisitive baby, he got into everything. And as yet he was much too young to clean up after himself. Trini didn't particularly mind, she was happy being a mother. Much happier than she had expected to be, in fact.

This evening, however, she was in a bit more of a hurry. Rocky was coming over to take her out to dinner. They had been dating fairly steadily since the previous June when Trini overheard Rocky's musings on his feelings for her. They had gone very slowly into the relationship, but, almost despite themselves, things were progressing. Trini still had not said anything to him, but she had come to realize she was in love with Rocky. That realization had surprised her tremendously.

Answering a knock she found Rocky at the door with his younger sister, Maria.

"Here you go lovely lady," he declared, handing her a single rose. "A flower, a babysitter, and a handsome date. Anything else you might need?"

"Hmm, perhaps a coach and six?" she asked with a twinkle in her eyes.

"Sorry my dear, you will have to settle for a six year old Ford. Close enough?"

"It'll do for now I guess. But eventually, I do expect my coach and six."

Maria looked positively perplexed by the exchange. "Coach and six?"

"Like in a fairy tale-a golden coach drawn by six white horses. Coach and six," Trini explained.

"Oh, that makes more sense, I guess. I thought it had something to do with soccer."

Both Trini and Rocky burst into laughter at that. Seeing Maria's hurt expression, Rocky put his arm around her shoulders and gave a slight squeeze. "Sorry, sis. You know us old folks, we don't make much sense." He turned his attention to Trini. "So, pretty lady, ready to go?"

They went to their favorite restaurant. Conversation flowed easily between them as they caught up with each other. Among the topics of discussion was the overdose of Adrian Park. Rocky had spent quite a bit of time with the Parks the previous evening. Just being there for them as they tried to cope with what had happened with their son. He has known Adrian almost his whole life, and was still shaken by how close a call it had been.

"And no one knows who called 911?" Trini was asking.

"Nope. The police are speculating that there was someone with Adrian when he OD'd. And that the person panicked, called for help, then fled. But why didn't this alleged person speak. The caller kept punching numbers in a s-o-s code until the operator said they would send help. And how did the door get locked? It is the kind of lock that has to be done from the inside. Curiousier and curiouser."

"That is pretty weird. How is Adrian now? What are the authorities going to do?" Working in a law office, Trini knew there were a few different options possible in this case.

"He is feeling better today. Plenty scared. I think they are going to recommend an involuntary admission to a treatment center for a minimum of six months. Then they will reevaluate his case at that time."

"How are his parents?"

"Bad. I really feel terrible for them. They are not only scared for Adrian, but this appears to have reawakened their grief over Adam. One of the doctors at the hospital finally gave Mrs. Park a tranquilizer because she couldn't stop crying. It was awful." Rocky's perpetually cheerful demeanor crumbled at the memory. "Let's talk of something else. How is the McBride case coming?"

"It's coming along very nicely. I am getting to do some terrific research on this one. I enjoy that," she replied easily, taking the conversation to more pleasant topics.

They were sipping coffee and sharing a slice of blueberry cheesecake when Rocky looked at Trini with an uncharacteristically serious expression.

Seeing her questioning look he cleared his throat twice before he was able to speak. "Trini, would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?" he asked, extending a small box toward her with an almost pleading look on his face. She opened it slowly to reveal a delicate diamond ring.

She looked from the ring to Rocky's anxious, expectant face and knew the answer without having to give it any conscious thought.

"Yes. Absolutely. Definitely. Okay."

As they melded into a sweet, passionate embrace Adam watched from behind them, silently cheering on his old friend. It felt undeniably good to see them both happy at last.

May 9, 2003 - The Other Side
Another hospital waiting room. Not quite as crowded as usual, perhaps, but Adam and Billy recognized everyone. They had arrived just in time, as Wallace Cranston came out to announce he and Anne were the proud parents of a baby girl, Jaymie Sue Cranston.

Billy followed his father back in to see Anne and little Jaymie. Anne looked flushed, tired and incredibly happy. Billy watched Wallace gently cradle his new daughter and felt a lifting in his heart seeing his father's happiness.

He realized he felt pretty good himself, he had always wanted a sibling. Then suddenly, it was time to move on.

September 16, 2003 - Angel Grove, California
Trini smiled at Kimberly as the latter rushed into Trini's dressing room. Kimberly had her hands full of various ominous looking implements, presumably for styling hair, or torturing prisoners. Trini wasn't sure which.

"Kim, what exactly are you planning to do with those things?"

"I want to get a little curl and fluff in your hair. It needs that to look good with the veil you chose."

Trini obediently sat down at Kim's direction and let her friend work on her hair.

"Not too much Kim, or Rocky won't recognize me."

Kimberly giggled happily and ignored Trini's request, not stopping until she was satisfied with the results. She helped Trini attach her veil, then looked at the total effect with a critical eye.

"Well, do I pass muster?" Trini finally asked, growing worried under Kimberly's scrutiny.

"Hmmmm, absolutely!" Kimberly fairly exploded with enthusiasm, laughing at the expression on Trini's face. She knew Trini was a little nervous, and she considered it her job as Matron of Honor to alleviate that nervousness.

Trini gave Kim a warm look. "May I have a couple of minutes alone, please?"

Kimberly looked searchingly at Trini then asked, "Do I need to be sure all the windows are locked from the outside?"

Trini laughed quietly at that. "No, really, I promise I won't bail! I love Rocky, I would never do that to him. I just need a minute to compose myself. Please tell my father I will be ready in 5 minutes. And, Kimberly, thanks. For being here for me, and everything."

Kim gave her friend a gentle hug. "You are more than welcome."

After Kimberly left Trini sat down at the dressing table, looking at her reflection as if it were of a stranger. The highly styled hair she never had time for usually, the flushed, excited color in her cheeks, the sparkle in her eyes. She knew Rocky was responsible for a lot of those changes, and considered again with some wonder how this had ever come to be. For most of the time she had known him she would never have considered him husband material. Then he had changed so much, grown much more serious and thoughtful, while still managing to keep the joyful life outlook he had had in his youth. She considered him a most remarkable man, soon to be a remarkable doctor. She knew he would be the perfect father to Adam, and however many other children they had together.

Thinking of her son reminded her of another time in her life, when she had daydreamed of this day. Except a different man would have been waiting at the altar.

"Adam, I guess I am finally over what happened to you. If you can hear me, please understand. If you had lived, I would have wanted nothing more than to see you at the end of my walk up the aisle. But you aren't here, and Rocky is a wonderful man. I love him, Adam loves him, and we will make a good future together. Part of me will always love you, but I need to love someone who is here to love me back. I hope you understand."

She stood and headed for the door, unable to hear the soft voice, which said to her retreating form, "I do."

September 16, 2003-The Other Side
Billy watched the crowd gather, ushers showing everyone to their seats. He noticed most of his old friends were in attendance. Jason and Tommy were among the ushers, and he figured Kimberly and Emily must be part of the bridal party. He looked up to see Adam's parents enter, with Adrian. Adrian looked thin and pale, but composed. Billy saw Jack Scott walk over to talk to Don Park, so Billy ambled over to see if he could find out how things stood with Adam's younger brother.

As the men shook hands Jack glanced over to Adrian, standing quietly by his mother. "How is he doing, Don?"

"Clean and sober, and he talks of wanting to stay that way. He has been released from the treatment center, but must follow up with a minimum of 18 months of local outpatient treatment. No charges are being pressed against him, thank God. Adrian seems to be properly grateful, I think he realizes just how close a call it really was."

"Good, I'm glad for all of you," Jack said. "I have to admit, I was a little surprised to see you here. All things considered."

"Trini is the mother of our grandson. We have known Rocky since he was just a little boy. Yes, it hurts to think about the fact she should have married Adam, but since she can't, I am glad to see her happy with someone. She, and Little Adam, deserve it. So does Rocky, for that matter."

"True enough. Looks like they are getting ready to start, better get back to the family. It was good to see you."

As the two men parted ways, Billy wandered back up front. He considered with a halfway grin that one of the perks of being a ghost was he could get the best seats in the house at his friends' weddings. He was still grinning when Adam approached him.

"What's so funny?"

"Nothing, just an irreverent thought. Not important. What is important are those folks sitting on the left, five rows back. See?"

Adam looked, saw what Billy meant, and broke into a huge grin. "He's back. I wonder how he's doing?"

"He's doing very well. He's been released from the treatment center, wants to stay clean, and is required to put in 18 months of local outpatient treatment. No charges against him."

Adam looked askance at Billy. "And just how do you know all this?"

"A little bird told me. Actually, two big birds. I listened in when your dad was talking to Mr. Scott."

"Thanks."

"My pleasure. You doing okay with this?"

"Yes. I am. I want them to be happy. They are good together."

Their conversation broke off as the wedding started. Rocky took his place at the alter. Kimberly and Louis DeSantos were the first in the procession, followed by Jason and Tanya, then Tommy and Katherine. Then came Trini, on the arm of her father.

The service was very formal, very beautiful. At just ten minutes past two o'clock, Rockwell and Trini DeSantos were introduced to their family and friends.

At a quarter past, Billy and Adam moved on.

April 4, 2004-The Other Side
The hospital waiting room was crowded again, Billy and Adam were still trying to figure out who was missing when Zack Taylor's dad, Clayton, came out and announced the birth of his grandson, William Zackary Taylor.

Adam gave Billy a huge smile as they moved on again.

July 19, 2004-The Other Side
They had already guessed that Jason and Emily were the ones producing a new child when Marjorie Scott arrived to inform the waiting friends that their second granddaughter, Hayley Marie Scott had put in an appearance. Then it was time to move on again.

December 24, 2004-The Other Side
The crowd in the hospital was huge this time.

"Sheesh, guess these guys just like having kids," Adam complained. "Wonder who it is this time?"

"I think it may be Trini and Rocky. Aren't most of these people named DeSantos?" Billy replied with some humor.

"You may be right. Though they are a bit older than I remember them."

Their debate was decided when Rocky himself came flying out from the delivery room area and announced to all and sundry that he had a daughter, Theresa Lorraine DeSantos.

The assembled family was still cheering when Billy and Adam moved on.

January 7, 2005-The Other Side
Megan Danielle Oliver was born on a cold, stormy afternoon, which prevented most of her parent's friends from attending.

Billy and Adam, however, noted the event with happiness for their friends. Then moved on.

June 29, 2005-The Other Side
"Thank God, it's not another hospital."

"However, it is another church. Wonder who is marrying whom this time?"

"Maybe Katherine found someone. Would that bother you?" Adam asked.

"I don't think so. She has been looking, I don't know, kind of lifeless recently. Not sick, not suicidal, or anything like that. Just missing her spark. It's like she has given up on life."

"I noticed. It must be hard on her with all her friends marrying, having kids, and she isn't. I wonder why she hasn't hooked up with anyone."

"She has a hard time trusting. A hard time believing in people. I doubt she ever told you, but she had been involved with a guy in Australia before she moved here. Her first serious boyfriend. She loved him, and he died of leukemia. It about broke her heart. When she went after Tommy she was really on the rebound, just like he was from Kim. Talk about a doomed relationship. But when Tommy didn't work out, she was hurt again. It took a lot for her to give her heart to me. Then look what I did," by now Billy was speaking more to himself than to Adam.

"Hey, easy. Remember, what happened to us was not our fault."

"I know. But Katherine was hurt badly just the same. Looks like your guess that it is Katherine getting married was off base," Billy said as he pointed to his former girlfriend entering the church alone. "Damn."

"Then who is it?"

Just then a young man neither of them recognized took the groom's place by the altar. As the wedding march started a lone petite figure in white walked alone down the aisle. Tanya.

Ten minutes later Paul and Tanya Simpson were introduced to the assembly.

Billy and Adam were a bit surprised to find they were still there. The norm was for them to move on as soon as the couple was legally married, or the child's name was announced. But it appeared this time they were being allowed to enjoy the reception as well.

The reception was a picnic, being held in a far corner of Angel Grove Park. The location allowed for some privacy, but the downside was that they were fairly close to the highway. All the assorted parents were hard pressed to keep an eye on their wandering offspring.

Billy found himself involved in following Katherine, trying to determine if there was some way that he could help her. The more he watched her, the more he was convinced she had indeed given up on love. Not life, just love. But how good was life without love? He became dedicated to the idea of helping her find someone to love. It was the least he could do for her.

Adam wandered from group to group, sampling conversations as he went. Trini and Rocky were there, carrying their six month old daughter, while Adam's son played with the other children.

The gang had hired two teenagers specifically to watch the children old enough to wander around on their own. There were about 18 children between the ages of seven and two that the two teens were supervising, with an occasional assist from the parents.

Billy and Adam found themselves watching the children with a sense of wonder. They had so much promise. Adam in particular watched his son, now three and a half years old. He was so bright and curious. Adam was so wrapped up in watching his namesake he didn't notice there was trouble brewing until he heard one of the teenage girls scream.

"Jaymie, come back here this instant!"

Adam looked up to see Billy's young half sister sprinting toward the highway, gleefully running away from the teenager who was calling to her. He remembered Rocky telling him one time that most small children went through a stage where running away from their caretaker was the height of entertainment. Jaymie had chosen a poor time to play this game and Adam's heart leaped into his throat as he realized the girl was headed toward the busy highway with no one close enough to stop her.

Well, almost no one.

Billy had been watching his dad and Anne approach the group of children when he heard the girl's cry to his little sister. He quickly saw what was happening. He was off and running after Jaymie before anyone else could react. While Billy had never been a particularly gifted athlete, he could run very fast. And he had never run faster than he did that afternoon. He was approaching Jaymie from an angle, and less from 10 feet from the edge of the highway Billy threw himself toward his sister. His leap carried him across her path and he threw out his arm to stop her as he went by. The effect was as if she had suddenly run into an invisible wall. She promptly fell flat on her butt on the grass, wailing even before she hit. Billy landed awkwardly, somersaulting over his shoulder and rolling into the path of an approaching 18-wheeler. The big rig ran him over without the driver ever knowing he was there.

As the teenager and a very shaken Wallace Cranston surrounded Jaymie, Adam went past them to check on Billy.

"Are you okay?"

"Adam, I'm dead. I don't think getting hit by a truck is going to alter the situation. Is Jaymie okay."

"Yeah. Quite a set of lungs she's got on her, but despite the noise I don't think she's hurt. You saved her life, you know."

"Could you imagine what would happen to my dad if she was hit by a truck? That is what I kept thinking as I was running after her. Thank God I don't have to find out."

"You know, you run very well for a dead guy."

"Oh, gee, thanks."

Anne Cranston had reached her husband and daughter. At seven months pregnant, she simply couldn't move as fast as she wanted to. But once there she found Wallace holding Jaymie in his arms, soothing her. Anne wrapped her arms around them both and the three of them held each other close.

Billy watched all this with a thoughtful look. Then, without warning, he and Adam moved on.

August 23, 2005-The Other Side
"Guess the break is over, we're at a hospital again," Adam announced, looking around.

"And, I guess we know who is having the kid," Billy added, remembering his stepmother's condition at the reception following Tanya's wedding.

Sure enough, once the birth of Amy Christine Cranston was announced, Billy and Adam moved on.

March 1, 2006-The Other Side
At Angel Grove Memorial Hospital, Jackson Mitchell DeSantos put in an appearance at 10:24p.m.

Then Billy and Adam moved on again.

March 2, 2006 - June 19, 2024 - An Interlude
Little Jackson DeSantos was the last child born to Billy and Adam's close friends. For the next eighteen years the lives of their loved ones followed a relatively smooth path. The kids grew up, their parents grew older, their grandparents grew aged. Only Billy and Adam stayed the same.

In a whirlwind of rapid moves, Billy and Adam saw the assorted members of what they had termed 'the next generation' graduate from grade school, junior high, and high school. There were no major upheavals during those years, just a nearly unbroken expanse of good, peaceful life.

June 20, 2024-Angel Grove, California
Adam Russell Park hesitated before pressing the doorbell. He was here to pick up his date for the evening, the young woman he had fallen in love with-Jaymie Sue Cranston. Adam knew the idea of his being in love with Jaymie freaked his mother out a little bit. He had been told long ago about his father, how he and a friend, Billy Cranston, had been killed together in a car accident. How Billy Cranston was, or rather would have been, Jaymie's older half brother. None of that particularly bothered Adam. All those things had happened twenty-three years ago. In the here and now, Jaymie was a wonderful young woman, intelligent, dynamic, beautiful. He had known her his entire life, and loved her almost as long.

Jaymie's dad opened the door and smiled at the young man. Wallace Cranston was the oldest father any of his friends had. That was the only thing about his relationship with Jaymie that kind of bothered him a little. That his love's father was the same age as his grandparents. But, weird or not, it didn't bother him enough to make him consider changing his plans.

Jaymie hurried to greet him with a kiss. With a quick goodbye to her parents, they were on their way to the restaurant. Later that evening, sitting at the same table his parents shared so many years before, he followed in his stepfather's footsteps and proposed to Jaymie.

She responded much as his mother had.