NOTE  This story was written purely for entertainment and is not for profit, and is not meant to trespass in any way on the holders of the rights to Starsky and Hutch.

 

(*) All my gratitude to my beta reader Tonya for all her hard work and help.

 

 

 

Finally, it was February 25^th.  Hutch thought that he would never get through the end of that month alive. As soon as his partner told him about his idea of travelling to New York to spend some time at Rachel’s house ‘to surprise her’ on her 65^th birthday, Hutch knew that an overexcited Starsky would be a difficult, almost impossible Starsky to deal with. But, the day had come and they were finally there. 

 

The trip was nice. The weather in New York, after a couple of days snowing was cold but sunny, and soon they were in front of Rachel’s door.

 

Standing in the open door, Starsky’s mother yelled out happily.

 

“DAVEY! SON!” The old lady rushed to Starsky holding him in her arms, as tears of happiness fell down her cheeks.

 

“Happy birthday Ma!” Starsky said hugging his mother back, in a tight embrace.

 

“You’re really here honey! You remembered it!”

 

“Of course I remembered ma! How could I forget the birthday of my favorite lady” Hutch stood some steps back, looking at the scene with a smile. He knew that though she’d never confess it, Rachel always had a soft spot for her oldest son, and that he was always his favorite one.

 

Well, to love Starsky isn’t difficult at all. He knows how to get ladies wrapped around his little finger, specially, his mother. Hutch thought

 

Upon seeing him, Rachel pulled back from Starsky’s arms and approached her son’s best friend.

 

“Ken, son, welcome.”

 

“Happy birthday, Rachel.” Hutch embraced Rachel as all they stepped into the house.

 

“I’m so glad to see you here, Ken. I hope you’ll stay a few days…”

 

“Well, no problem Ma. We’ll stay long enough to make you tired of seeing us around here. By the way, where’s Nicky?” Starsky asked.

 

“Oh, he phoned me this morning. He’ll be unable to be here today, you know. He’s too busy with that new job…” Rachel couldn’t help but let a shadow of sadness cover her face as she spoke, the same sadness that tinged Starsky’s expression. “Well, never mind, son. You and Ken are here. What more could I ask as a birthday present?” Rachel added trying to overcome her sorrow.

 

They entered the living room and both men carried their suitcases upstairs, to the old room that Starsky and Nick used to share when they visited.

 

Later, as Hutch was taking a shower and changing his clothes, Starsky entered the kitchen sniffing appreciatively at the food smells and taking the lids off the pans to look at their contents.

 

“David Starsky, leave the meal alone.” Rachel warned aiming at her son with a wooden spoon.

 

“Hummm smells great Ma. You invited somebody to have lunch with us?”

 

“Yeah, the Goldman’s. They will be very happy to see you and Ken here.”

 

Doris and Samuel Goldman were Rachel’s neighbours since Starsky was just a baby. They were an adorable couple, ten years older than Rachel, and were always a special part of Starsky’s childhood.  Since they didn’t have children, they were very fond of Starsky and Nick.  It was common for the couple to go with the Starsky kids to the amusement park, the movies or to their cabin near Swan Lake and spend a few days there in the summer, and Starsky still recalled those stays at the lake.

 

Awhile later the couple came and soon all of them were sharing a delicious meal. At the end of the dinner, while they were eating the chocolate cake that Rachel had gotten as a birthday present from her neighbours, Starsky asked.

 

“Do you still have the cabin where we used to go on vacations, Doris?”

 

“Oh yes, Davey, but we haven’t been there in a long time. More than four years. It's pretty neglected by now and it needs a lot of work. We are too old to do it and it’s too expensive for us to pay to have it done. Do you still remember it? How sweet!!”

 

“Of course I remember it! I spent my best vacations there. It was terrific, Hutch. It was almost in the middle of nowhere at that time and Nick and I used to play pirates, cowboys and Indians and stuff like that there!” Starsky’s eyes shone as he spoke enthusiastically.

 

“I can picture it!” Hutch smiled, amused with his partner’s joy at sharing his childhood memories.

 

“We really had so much fun there Davey, didn’t we? You know Ken, we didn’t have kids and Davey and Nick were pretty often at our house and at the cabin with us. We loved to be with those couple of imps”

 

“It was a true blessing to me and Mike…to have some days without kids shouting and running around all day!” Rachel laughed at seeing Starsky, pretending to be offended.

 

“I thought that you liked us, Ma.” Starsky moaned.

 

“Oh, sure, we loved you both. Especially when you were at school, sleeping or with Doris and Sam, honey.” Rachel joked, “And don't look at me with those puppy dog eyes, Davey!” she added, fingering Starsky’s curls with fondness. 

 

They shared an agreeable lunch. The Goldman’s enjoyed the surprise of having Starsky there, Rachel had a very happy birthday and Hutch felt once more like a part of his partner’s family.

 

Later, when the Goldman’s were about leaving, Starsky’s face brightened as an idea came to him.

 

“Wait…Wait a minute, Doris. Do you remember what you told us earlier? About that the cabin needing some repairs?...I thought that if it’s okay with you, we, I mean, Hutch and I could go there and get some work done. We still have a few days off and it will be great to go back there and help you both, besides I want to see the place again. Since I left New York, after my dad’s death, I never had been back there.  I’m sure that Hutch will love it! What do you think, Hutch? It’s not too far from here.”

 

“Well, I…” Hutch stuttered dumfounded by the fast turn that their, until then, calm days off were taking.

 

“Okay, so it’s settled. We’ll fix your cabin.” Starsky cut off.

 

“But don't forget that the house is pretty neglected Davey!” Samuel Goldman warned.

 

Don't worry Sam. We have experience with houses in bad shape. We can deal with it" Starsky smiled at Hutch, who rolled his eyes remembering the ‘house’ that Starsky wanted to buy years ago.

 

“Okay, Davey. Thank you so much, son. Before your leave we’ll give you the cabin key. You can return it to us on your next visit to your mom.”

 

Finally, the Goldman’s left and as soon as they had a chance to be alone in the living room, Hutch snapped.

 

“Really Starsky, I’ll be damned if I know what is going on in that head of yours!”

 

“What? I’m afraid I don't know…”

 

“The cabin, Starsk” Hutch said a little louder than he wanted. “You and I, going only God knows where, to play construction workers. For God sake! You hate woods!”

 

“Shhhht! Ma can hear us!”

 

Hutch sighed, trying to calm down. “Really Starsky, I don't get it…what’s going on with you? Huh? That place will probably need much more than a paint job and some nails here and there.”

 

“Come on Hutch! The Goldman’s were like second parents to me, and they need some help. We can do it. Besides it will be fun.”

 

“Oh, yeah, fun. Know something Starsk? I’m thrilled, really thrilled. I can't wait to get there, partner!”

 

“After we fix the cabin, they can even put it up for sale and get some money back… they probably need money…They’re old now…come on Hutch!”

 

Hutch knew that despite what he said, the matter was settled. Nothing would keep Starsky from helping somebody in need and despite all his complaints, inwardly, he felt proud of his best friend’s kindness.

 

So, after a couple of more days in New York, and despite Hutch’s protests, he and Starsky left for the Goldman’s cabin.

 

It wasn’t difficult to find the place. Despite all the time that had passed since the last time he was there, the place was almost the same and Starsky could remember the way easily.

 

When they arrived, they saw that Samuel had spoken the truth. The cabin, just feet from the lake, was a rather large house with a first floor, a second floor and a loft, and it wasn’t in good shape. There were a couple of broken windows in the loft; leaks in the roof and the entire place needed a good cleaning and a coat of paint. Besides all that, the phone that was resting on a table coffee in the lounge was out of service, as Hutch soon noticed.

 

“There’s no phone Starsk.” He said placing the receiver back on its hook.

 

“Oh, well. No wonder! You already heard that the Goldman’s haven’t been here in more than four years.” Starsky said nonchalantly.

 

“And what if we run into some trouble and need to make a call.” Hutch couldn’t hide the concern in his voice.

 

“Come on Hutch! We won’t get into trouble here. You’ll see. This place is calm and deserted. Besides, in a couple of days our work will be done. Meanwhile, what could happen?”

 

“I don't know Starsk…But we seem capable of getting into trouble at any moment.”

 

“Know something partner? I like your optimism.” Saying that, Starsky headed to the kitchen and opened the fridge, and like he figured, it was totally empty.

 

“Nothing. It’s as empty as my stomach” Starsky complained.

 

“Of course it’s empty Starsk. What you’d hope for? A welcome banquet of lobster and oysters waiting for us on the table?” Hutch said opening the kitchen’s drawers and cupboards.

 

“Hey! That wouldn't be a bad idea!” Starsky joked cheerily

 

“I guess we can be grateful ‘cause they did keep all the needed household equipment here. Even a coffeemaker. Getting the food will be our job Gordo.”

 

 “So, we must go and look for a store.”

 

“Okay. Let’s unpack our suitcases first. Later we’ll go do some shopping for groceries.” Hutch said, heading to one of the bedrooms.

 

After putting their clothes in drawers and closets they made their beds with the linens they found there and both men drove to Liberty to get some food. The sky was still cloudy, and a humid breeze filled the air.

 

Once they found a little grocery on Maine Street, Hutch parked the car and they walked toward the store. Hutch headed toward the fruit and vegetables display. Starsky began his search for burritos, hotdogs and other disgusting stuff, as Hutch would to say him.

 

The shop looked pretty old and an unmistakable rural ambience filled the whole place. Behind the counter, an old lady was chatting calmly with the only customer that was in there…

 

“…Yeah. That was a true tragedy.” The old saleswoman said. “They were good folk, and that poor kid was only seven or eight years old.” Starsky and Hutch couldn’t help but overhear the conversation. Exchanging an inquisitive look, they began to pay closer attention to the conversation while picking up their stuff.

 

“How long has it been already?” The customer asked.

 

“More than twenty years ago. It happened in 1956. On March 25 exactly, the same month my Ben and I got married.”

 

March 25…whatever it was, it happened on my birthday. And it wasn’t anything good. That’s for sure. Starsky thought as both men’s curiosity grew.

 

“Excuse me ladies.” He asked stepping towards the counter, “We couldn’t help but hear your conversation.” Both women looked at Starsky and Hutch. “Sorry.” Hutch added a little shyly, “I know that it’s none of our business, but would you mind telling us what happened that day? What you are talking about?”

 

“Oh, well. We were talking about the Affleck´s kid. They were a well-off family from New York that had a house here, where they used to spend their vacations. Their villa was built near Swan Lake.” The saleswoman explained.

 

“That year they came in March, earlier than they used to do, to celebrate their wedding anniversary by spending a few days here, I think. The morning brought tragedy, nobody knows for sure how it happened, but little Tommy, their only son, drowned in the lake…It was awful! Months later, out of guilt, his father killed himself. Mrs. Affleck sold the cabin and since then, we haven’t heard anything more about her. It seems that the poor lady died a couple of years ago… ” The saleswoman ended her story, staring into space as all of them kept a respectful silence.

 

“Oh…we’re so sorry.” Starsky mumbled, unsure about what to say.

 

After hearing the sad story, both detectives paid for their items and went back to the car. They had planned to go for a walk around the town, but an uncomfortable and unexpected cold wind made them change their minds and they went back to the cabin, leaving the investigation of the surroundings for the next day.

 

Back at the cabin, Hutch again admired the wonderful landscape; it was easy for him to understand why Starsky was so fond of this place as a child. The lake and the woods, it was the perfect place for a kid to let his imagination fly and play.

 

Hutch was excited with the idea of going fishing in the lake.  Now, he understood why Starsky convinced him buy new fishing tackle in New York.

 

After settling their shopping in the kitchen, they started the rough task of getting the cabin clean, stopping just to eat some sandwiches for lunch.

 

After working all day, the cabin was already looking different. Tomorrow they would take care of the roof and windows, but now it was time for a break.

 

As evening fell, they turned on the lights. The electricity and pipes were working relatively well for an old cabin that hadn’t been used in years. They even had hot water.

 

“Uh…it’s cold in here, Hutch. Maybe we should warm this place up a little.” Starsky said, rubbing his arms to get warm.

 

“I will take a look outside; the firewood is probably stored in the back of the house.”

 

Hutch left and came back a few minutes later carrying an armful of wood and started a fire that soon spread an agreeable warmth through the small house, while Starsky turned on the bedroom electric heater and began to fix a couple of bowls of tomato soup and two hamburgers with French fries.

 

All through dinner Hutch noticed that his partner was oddly quiet. Actually, he was very subdued. Where is the bundle of energy that, for the last few days, was unable to stop even for a moment? The blond one thought

 

“Something wrong buddy?” Hutch asked concernedly.

 

“Huh?”

 

“You seem kind of distant. Are you feeling ok?”

 

“That family Hutch…the kid that died in the lake. I can’t get him out of my mind. He would be already a man today and surely would have a wife and his own kids.”

 

“That happened a long time ago, Starsk.”

 

“Yeah. On my birthday…while I was celebrating it, somebody else, a child was dying. And he would be scared Hutch, so scared. No one child should die nor be scared.”

 

“Come on partner. Life can be pretty nasty, but people have to try and go on.” Seeing the sincere sadness showing in Starsky’s eyes, Hutch felt a wave of love flooding his heart.

 

There he was: the tough, streetwise, brave cop. The man who flew miraculously from death’s grip after the Gunther shooting, mourning from the deepest part of his heart for an unknown child, who died more than twenty years ago.

 

God! What did I ever do to deserve the love and trust of somebody so special like you, partner? Hutch thought thankfully.

 

“I’m pretty tired Hutch. I think I need some rest.” Starsky smiled shyly, “I’m real wiped out.”

 

“Ok. Go to bed Starsk…I’ll take care of the dishes and I’ll go to bed soon too.” Starsky rose from his chair, heading to the bedroom, when Hutch spoke again, “Starsky?”

 

“Yeah.”

 

“The dinner was great.”  Hutch said smiling to his friend

 

Starsky went to bed as Hutch cleaned up the table and washed up the dishes. Later, he sat down comfortably on the couch to read one of the books he’d put in his suitcase.  A short time later, he smiled upon hearing the soft snoring coming from the next room. Hutch kept reading, but soon his eyelids began to grow heavy, and then closing his book he went to bed.

 

Most of night Starsky tossed and turned in his bed, until right before dawn when he woke up startled by a noise coming from outside. It was like a cry. A child weeping. Starsky, more awake now, got out of bed. He looked at Hutch who was soundly asleep, and not wanting to wake him, left the room silently.

 

Once the fireplace went out the temperature of the house had dropped a few degrees during the night, but he don’t noticed it. Wearing only his blue pajama bottoms, and barefoot, he walked to the door.

 

The noise seemed to be coming from outside the cabin. Starsky opened the door and walked out, still unaware of the daybreak glacial cold. Looking around, he didn’t see anything wrong. He kept walking until to reach the lakeshore. 

 

There, he was. A little boy, sitting down on the ground and totally alone.

 

Cautiously edging closer to the child, so as not to scare him, Starsky looked around for someone else but there was nobody.

 

“Hi kid!”

 

The child didn’t look at Starsky. “Hi…”

 

“Don’t you think that it’s a little cold and early to be out here?”

 

“I’m fine. I was waiting for you”

 

Starsky looked around again. There was no one was there but him and the kid.

 

“Waiting for me? Why?” Man!  That’s odd! Why in hell would a kid I’ve never seen before, alone at a deserted lake, waiting for me? Starsky thought.

 

“May I have a seat?” He asked. The little boy just nodded, still staring at the quiet lake. Starsky sat down by his side taking a better look at him. His whole being radiated sadness, and in the greyish light of dawn, the paleness of his face contrasted vividly with the blackness of his raven-like hair. The child was thin and the clothes he wore looked old and ragged.

 

“Do you know me? I mean…why are you waiting for me here? I don't even know you.” Starsky asked.

 

“You’re wrong David. You know me. It's just that you don't remember me but we meet each other a long time ago. And I need you…I need someone to set me free. And you are the one.”

 

Unable to remember where or when he’d meet the child, Starsky decided to play along.

 

“Where are your parents? You do have parents, don’t you? Do they live here?

 

“I don't know where they are…I can't find them”

 

“And where are you from?”

 

The kid made a nod in the direction of the lake.

 

“You live in the lake?” Starsky asked bewildered.

 

The kid nodded again.

 

“Don’t you think that what you’re saying to me is a little odd? I mean…someone living in the lake. That’s supposed to be where fishes live, not people.”

 

“You don’t understand, David”

 

“I guess not. Don’t you think it’s a little cold for a kid like you to be out here alone? How about we go back to my place. We can keep talking there. It’s safer. I’m a police officer. I can help you to find your parents or relatives”

 

Finally the kid looked at Starsky.  He smiled tenderly. “I don’t feel cold or hot. It doesn’t matter to me anymore.”

 

“What’d you mean?”

 

“I need you to help me. To bring me back.” The little kid added.

 

“Back from where?”

 

“Back from the lake. I don’t like being there. When I’m there, I can’t find my mommy and daddy or play with my friends.”

 

“Oh…so, you have friends, huh?” Where they are?”

 

“I don’t know. Maybe they don’t exist anymore…so much time has passed. But I can make new friends, I guess.”

 

“Of course you can. But why shouldn’t they exist anymore?” Starsky kept asking to the child, increasingly disconcerted.

 

“I told you, because so much time has passed. You came too late. You took so long…”

 

“I’m sorry for that, but I didn’t know that you were expecting me.”

 

“I know.” Suddenly the kid stood up. “I have to go now. The night is over. I can’t stay with you any longer. I must go back” Saying that, the child began to move away, heading to the lake, as Starsky got to his feet to follow him.

 

“Hey kid! Wait! Where are you going? What’s your na-” Starsky called out, until he noticed that there was nobody.

 

“What the hell?...” He was sure that there was a kid, a split second earlier, by his side talking with him; but now, he saw with bewilderment that, he was the only one there.

 

*******

 

Hutch was in the middle of a nightmare. Starsky was calling his name. It was dark. He couldn’t see where his friend was, but he could hear his voice, very clearly, asking for help. He woke up completely drenched in sweat. He looked at Starsky’s bed. It was empty. Hutch leaped out of bed putting on his robe and ran to the living room. Nothing. His friend wasn’t there either.

 

“Starsky?” Hutch went to the bathroom first, then to the kitchen calling Starsky’s name. But Starsky was out of sight. With the claws of fear grabbing his heart, Hutch rushed down the cabin’s stairs and walked to the beach where he saw the form of his friend at the lakeshore, so close to the water that it was lapping against his feet and ankles.

 

Hutch hurried towards Starsky, moving him sharply away from the water. “Starsky! God Starsky! What the hell are you doing?”

 

“Hutch? W-what I am d-doing here?” Starsky asked through bluish lips, and as though he was coming back from some kind of trance, while his body shook violently and his teeth chatted.

 

“I don't know Starsky. I woke up, and you weren’t in the cabin…”

 

“I-I’m cold…very c-cold Hutch”

 

I guess so, partner. Let’s go, it’s freezing out here.” Forgetting his own comfort, Hutch covered Starsky with his robe and almost carried him upstairs. Once in the cabin, he helped Starsky get into dry pajamas and into bed, covering him with another blanket and vigorously rubbing his body under the covers, in an attempt to help him get warm.

 

“I’ll fix you a cup of hot chocolate Starsky. It’ll help you to get warm. I’ll be right back, partner…right back” Hutch hurried to the kitchen, first turning on the electric heater and moving it closer to Starsky’s bed.

 

After drinking the chocolate, Starsky’s body stopped shaking. He began to get a little warmer as Hutch wrapped in his thick bathrobe began to feel more comfortable too.

 

Starsky fell asleep. Hutch watched his sleep a few more minutes, unable to understand what had happened. The last thing he recalled was his friend sleeping peacefully, then Starsky was at the lakeshore, wearing only his pajama bottoms, with his feet in the water and unable to recall why he was out there. The whole thing didn’t make the least bit of sense. Feeling too confused to keep thinking, Hutch climbed into his own bed, and minutes later, both men were deeply asleep.

 

He woke up few hours later, upon hearing Starsky tossing and turning in bed. From the window, Hutch could see thick snowflakes falling down as the ground became white.

 

“Hutch?” Starsky sat up, pushing back the covers that were entangling his body.

 

“How are you feeling partner?” Hutch asked, getting out of his bed and sitting down on Starsky’s

 

“My throat hurts…” Starsky said with raspy voice.

 

“No wonder. What do you expect after to going for a walk outside at dawn in just your pajama bottoms?”

 

“What?...What are you talking about Hutch?” Realizing that his friend didn’t remember anything about what had happened, Hutch spoke more seriously.

 

“Don’t you remember Starsky? You were at the lake with only your pajamas and you had your feet in the water.  I found you there.”

 

“No…why I would do such a dumb thing?” Starsky looked at himself, realizing that he was wearing another pair of pajamas. “What’s going on Hutch?”

 

“I haven’t a clue Starsk. I was sleeping, dreaming I think. I remember you calling my name, asking for help and I woke up. I looked for you and you were outside, near the lake, shaking and freezing to death. I brought you back here and tried to warm you up with some hot chocolate and dry clothes. Later, we both fell asleep.”

 

“I can’t remember anything of it. Nothing…” Starsky said looking absent minded. Suddenly, he had a coughing fit and put his hand on his throat.

 

“Hey, take it easy Starsk.” Hutch placed his hand on his partner’s forehead and noticed that it was a little hot.

 

“I think that you’re running a fever Starsk. Surely, you’ve caught a cold or the flu.” Hutch stood up and went to the closet where he retrieved a little first aid kit and started digging inside.

 

“Calm down, Hutch…it must be just a cold. No big deal. What are you doing?”

 

“Looking for the thermometer and the aspirins. Aha! Here it is. Okay, Starsk. Open your mouth.”

 

“Oh, come on!”

 

“Starsky open your mouth, please. Don’t play the spoiled kid with me, okay?” Starsky obeyed moodily as Hutch put the thermometer in his mouth.”

 

“Now, stay here with your mouth closed for a little while.  I’ll bring you some tea and you’ll take a couple of aspirins. If you’re getting a fever as I guess, we need to get it down. You must be careful with colds, remember?”

 

Lying back down, Starsky answered with the thermometer in his mouth, “Howf couldf I fofget it…?” He puffed in despair, taking the thermometer out of his mouth to add, “Since the Gunther thing, the doc won’t let me forget it.”

 

“Okay. So, shut up and don’t hurt your throat any more.”

 

“Come on, Hutch! What are we supposed to do? Waste our time instead of doing what we came here to do?  Am I supposed stay in bed, take aspirins and drink hot tea all day, like an old codger while you’re at my bedside nursing me? We got a lot of work to do!” Starsky began to cough again.

 

“Shut up buddy…and put the thermometer back in your mouth. You’ll feel better in no time.”

 

A moment later, Hutch approached Starsky’s bed took the thermometer from his mouth and read his temperature.

 

“You got a fever partner. 100. Drink this; it’ll make you feel better.” Starsky silently took the steaming cup and the aspirins that Hutch handed to him, washing down the white tablets with the tea before he lay back again, looking like a surly kid that would miss a trip to Disneyworld because he was sick.

 

“Now, try to rest a little buddy. I’ll take a quick shower and fix some lunch. If you need me…”

 

“Yeah, I know, I know, Hutch.” Starsky cut off, “I only have to call you. Go to take your shower Hutch. I’ll be fine.” Wrapping the covers around Starsky’s neck, Hutch went to the bathroom and took a shower.  Putting on a turtleneck sweater and corduroy pants, he then began to fix some soup and sandwiches for lunch before checking again on his partner’s fever, much to Starsky’s annoyance.  He noticed, with relief that it seemed to be breaking; besides the concern about Starsky’s health, Hutch was really intrigued by his friend’s mysterious lack of memory.

 

How he could go outside in the middle of the night, almost end up in the lake, and not even remember it later? What was he doing out there? WHY did he go out there? Starsky hates the cold. In his right mind, he never would do such a strange thing.…

 

Hutch tried to serve Starsky his lunch in bed, but he firmly refused to stay there all day, assuring Hutch that apart from a sore throat he felt fine. During the rest of the day Starsky felt bored and moody, but Hutch was adamant about staying at home, mostly because the snow kept falling outside. They spent the time playing chess, and watching a couple of movies on the old black and white television. Luckily by nightfall, Starsky’s fever had broken even though Hutch’s worry wasn’t easing. In fact, he was trying to convince his stubborn friend about the convenience of going back home.

 

“What? Go back home? Oh no! No way Hutch! I’m fine. Just bored out of my mind. We didn’t come to this place to be shut in here, playing chess and watching the fucking television, but to help the Goldman’s to fix the cabin!” Starsky complained climbing into bed.

 

“Look Starsk, last night you did everything in your power to catch a cold with that odd walk to the lake of yours. You must be careful, or maybe you managed to forget what doctors advised you about your lungs…”

 

“No Hutch. I didn't forget a word of that fucking crap!” Starsky snapped back “It's just that I’d like to feel like an adult for once, without you going around all day in your baby sitting mode! Damn!”

 

Hutch cringed at the harshness of his partner’s words, as Starsky was already regretting them.

 

“Sorry…I’m so sorry Hutch…I’m a jerk. A bigmouth. Forgive me” The curly haired man reached out his hand in an attempt to touch Hutch, but he moved away.

 

“It's okay Starsk…I understand.” Starsky’s words had hurt him, but Hutch was sincere. He knew how hard the months of pain and dependency after Gunther’s shooting, roughly two years earlier, was for Starsky. A man that until then always was strong, healthy and independent.

 

“Forget it partner. Now, how about to get some sleep, huh?”

 

“Yeah, some sleep…Hutch I…”

 

“I know, Starsky, I know. No problem. Go to sleep, okay? Tomorrow you’ll feel fine and we can keep doing some work here. I’m sure. Good night” Hutch gently squeezed Starsky’s shoulder as he left the room.

 

“´Night Hutch.” Hutch left and Starsky kept brooding on the unfair words he had said to him, until he fell asleep.

 

Meanwhile, Hutch washed up the supper dishes and sat down in the living room couch in front the fireplace to read for a while, before to going to bed as well. Soon, the bungalow was in darkness and silent.

 

The next day was sunny and clear, though it was still cold. Starsky was feeling much better and his light fever was over. Both men ate a good breakfast consisting of scrambled eggs, toasts, cereals, orange juice and coffee. Later they starter their work, fixing some leaks in the loft and a broken lock. Finally, that evening, they went to the city to have dinner in the most famous bar in town; one that the grocery owner suggested to them.

 

The place was pretty crowded. It was warm and cozy, and for Starsky it was a heaven on earth.  Cold weather definitely wasn’t on the top of his list of favourite things.

 

“Two beers, please.” He told the bartender as they both sat at a table.

 

In a shadowy corner, leaning against the wooden bar, an old man was mumbling to himself.  Out of curiosity, Starsky asked the bartender who was serving them their beers, who the man was.

 

“That’s Harry. Long time ago, he was the town doctor. Though right now he’s just a poor devil. Harry is good folk but over the last few years, he spends most of the day wandering around town and getting drunk.” The bar owner explained, peeking at Harry. “Unfortunately, he lost his wife Laura some while back, during the birth of their first child and he blames himself for not being capable to help her…since that day, his life has become a shipwreck. He lives from the charity of the citizens. A true shame”

 

An uncomfortable silence hung among them until the bartender, changing the subject, asked, “Do you want something to eat, gentlemen?”

 

“Well, maybe we could get a couple of burgers here?” Starsky answered.

 

“Yeah, sure. Here you’ll taste the best burgers in the whole town”

 

“T´rrific. One complete with onion, cheese, bacon, pickle, ketchup and mustard for me.” 

 

“Mine just with tomato and lettuce, please.” Hutch said glancing at Starsky and making a face.

 

 A few minutes later, they were eating their burgers, when Harry approached them.

 

“Good evening outsiders!  Enjoying the city?” He said with his voice slurred by the alcohol.

 

Hutch smiled politely and nodded to the old man. “Yes sir, your city is very beautiful.  Thanks for asking”

 

“Are you in the Goldman’s cabin? That one near the lake? Right?”

 

“Yeah Harry. ” Starsky nodded.

 

Harry smiled suspiciously. “So, you probably saw our little friend there…” the men seated at the next table laughed out loud.

 

“Leave our visitors alone, Harry.” The bartender warned.

 

“I’m not bothering them. I’m just trying to have a chat. Why the hell can't a man try and make new friends here, huh?” The old man snapped back, annoyed by the interruption.

 

“It’s ok, Harry. Sit down here. I think that you’ve had enough to drink tonight, huh?” Starsky rose and guided the old man to sit down, smiling friendly at him, as Hutch looked on with a bit annoyed.

 

“Don’t listen to him…he’s just a drunk” A man from the other side of the bar shouted rudely. All the people around laughed again.

 

“Shut up asshole!…If some day you see him, then you will run like a scared rabbit looking for a hole to hide in!” Harry shot back in reply.

 

“Hey, Harry! Take it easy. They’re just trying to have some fun. Calm down and let’s talk a little. Who is this little friend you were talking about?”

 

“Starsk…” Hutch said trying to interrupt him, but Starsky ignored him.

 

“Oh, he’s Tommy, the poor kid is always there…but no one here will admit that.”

 

“So there’s a kid that likes to walk near the lake, huh? Smart child. That place is really beautiful...Does he live near there?” Starsky asked innocently.

 

“He doesn’t live anywhere.”

 

“Do you mean that he’s a vacationer…like us?” Hutch tried to get into the conversation.

 

“No man! You don’t understand…he’s not a real kid. He’s a ghost! He’s wandering around trying to find his freedom,” All the patrons around laughed again. 

 

“That’s enough Harry…you’ll scare our visitors. How about to call it a night, huh? Go to the room upstairs and try to get some sleep.” The bartender helped Harry to stand, as Starsky and Hutch got to their feet.

 

“Mind showing us how to get to this room upstairs? If it’s okay with you, we can help him to settle in there.”

 

“Okay guys. Just take this stairs over there. The first door on the left. Just leave him there on the bed. Thanks!” Starsky and Hutch dragged the stumbling man up to the room, and settled him over on the bed, covering him with an afghan that they’d found over a chair. After that, they paid the bill and left the bar. Outside, the snow was falling heavily again.

 

“Poor guy! It must be awful to feel guilty for something like that. I mean; his wife and baby’s death…” Starsky said gloomily.

 

“Yeah, Starsk. Very sad. But at least Harry has got the bartender’s support. He seems like a nice guy.”

 

“I don’t like those people, Hutch. All of them making fun of the poor guy!” Starsky said vehemently.

 

“Come on Starsk, they don’t mean it. They were only making fun about Harry’s nonsense…a ghost kid? Hard to believe, if you ask me.” Hutch pointed out.

 

As soon as they arrived at their place, Starsky took a hot shower and went to bed. After talking with the old man, Starsky seemed to remember something. Something that could explain his strange behaviour, waking up in the middle of the night and going to the lake. Now, he remembered that he wasn’t alone out there and that he ran to the water to catch someone…maybe the kid? The ghost that Harry had told them about?  Feeling confused and a little scared, Starsky decided to forget everything. Tomorrow would be another day. A warmer day, he hoped…

 

Hutch was worried. Starsky’s demeanour had change since their arrival here. He seemed subdued and sad. And he was sure that this conversation with old Harry wouldn't be of any help.

 

Okay, let’s wait and see how he’s feeling tomorrow. Hutch thought. Feeling tired after all the activity of the day; he took a shower and went to bed, falling asleep almost instantaneously.

 

*******

 

A child’s weeping woke Starsky. He felt dizzy, feverish and hot, but something very strong compelled him to leave the house. He climbed out of bed and left the cabin, heading to the lake, stopping only when he found the kid standing alone at the lakeshore, facing the dark waters.

 

The kid turned around and smiled at him. A glow of happiness showed all over his beautiful face.

 

“Hi David. I was waiting for you. I knew that you’d come back.”

 

“Who are you?”

 

“You don’t remember me?”

 

“I never saw you before, kid. We’ve never meet each other” Starsky said a little annoyed with the odd situation.”

 

“I called for you twice before now, but you didn’t listen to me.”

 

“When?” Starsky asked feeling increasingly confused.  “It was you who called me to come here last night, right? That’s why I came and…”At that moment, Starsky was able to remember the whole situation.

 

“Are you crazy, kid? Going for a swim at night, doesn’t look like a good idea to me”

 

The kid laughed cheerily. “I wasn’t going for a swim, dummy. I live there.” Then, becoming serious again and staring into Starsky’s eyes, the kid asked “You really don’t you remember me David? The first time we met each other, you were coming over to my side…to this side. You were badly injured after that those bad men shot you. Three shots…don’t you remember? You were dying…In fact the next day you did die, for just a little while. Then you were in a coma. I tried to ask you for help. But you didn’t help me.”

 

“W-What? What do you know about me?” Starsky asked, not knowing if he was dreaming or awake, but feeling a cold fear nesting in his very core.

 

“I know a lot of things about you. And I know as well that only you can help me. I don’t want to stay here. I want to be with my parents. Here, I feel so alone, for far too long…Help me David, please. You can understand what I want. I just don’t want to be alone any more. You don’t like to be alone either. We share a lot of things…Please. I don’t have much time…. “

 

Coma…Starsky began to remember something that he kept hidden in his memories since the days he spent in the hospital after Gunther shooting…

 

The kid pointed to the rising sun, looking disappointed “See? The night is over.  You wasted my chance once more asking those dumb questions.  Now, you can’t help me.” Taking his eyes off of Starsky, the kid ran to the lake, disappearing among the water.

 

“HEY, KID! NO! WAIT!” Running to catch the kid, Starsky threw himself into the frozen waters, swimming deeper, but the child was out of sight and had vanished. Starsky tried desperately to swim back to the shore, but the iciness of the water was preventing him from catching his breath, it was also numbing his legs and arms, and soon his strength began to fade…

 

*******

 

Hutch woke up feeling restless and strangely anguished. Unable to catch any more sleep, he decided go to the kitchen to drink a glass of milk. When he looked to Starsky’s bed he saw that he wasn’t there. Hutch thought that maybe he would be in the kitchen too. But soon, he noticed that his partner wasn’t at home. Feeling the hairs in the back of his neck prickling, Hutch ran outside the house as a bad feeling pounded his insides.

 

The Lake… Starsky is at the Lake…As soon as Hutch reached the lakeshore, he saw him.

 

“Starsky!” Starsky was in the water, trying to swim back. But obviously he was having trouble.

 

Without a second thought, Hutch threw himself into the lake trying to overcome the painful coldness of the water, and swimming as fast as he could.

 

Soon he came to where Starsky was, and after firmly holding his upset partner, he swam back. Both men reached the shore, falling flat on the ground, breathless.

 

A few seconds after catching his breath, Hutch, unable to hold his anger at bay, shouted out at Starsky.

 

“WHAT WERE YOU DOING IN THERE? TRYING TO KILL YOURSELF? FOR GOD SAKE! ARE YOU CRAZY STARSKY?”

 

“T-The kid…He r-ran towards the w-water…” Starsky managed to say in a thread of voice

 

“There’s no damn kid here Starsky!  No one!!” Hutch grabbed Starsky’s shoulders shaking him “Oh, never mind!... Are you okay partner?” Starsky just nodded, shivering violently.

 

“Let’s go home or we will freeze to death out here.” Hutch helped his friend to his feet and holding him by his waist, both men walked up to the cabin. Seating him on the couch, Hutch immediately took off Starsky’s wet clothes and exchanged them for dry ones, managing to change his own at the same time. He then got his partner into bed, covering him with all the available blankets in the cabin and turned on the electric heater and put more firewood in the fireplace to increase the warmth.

 

After making sure that Starsky was as comfortable as possible, Hutch went to the kitchen to fix a hot chocolate for him, rushing back to the bedroom.

 

“I-I’m c-cold Hutch.”

 

“I know, Starsky, I know. Try to drink this, you’ll feel better.” He helped Starsky to sit up in bed, lowering the cup to his lips.

 

Starsky managed to swallow some sips of the chocolate before to lying back in bed and curled in a tight ball, unable to stop shaking.

 

Then, Hutch put the thermometer in Starsky’s mouth just to see with dismay that his temperature had drop to 96.

“Good Heavens! He’s hypothermic. Hutch thought

“We need to get you to the hospital, partner.” By then Starsky was semi-unconscious, and Hutch’s image was just a blurred spot.

“Hutch. I’m n-not feeling w-well." He managed to whisper. This caused him a new coughing fit that made his sore throat burn.

“Starsk, Can you hear me, partner? We need to get you to the hospital. Do you think you’ll be able to walk to the car?"

"No, no Hutch…No hospital…”

Ignoring Starsky’s pleas, Hutch pulled one of the blankets from the bed, wrapping it around his friend’s body, before putting a couple of wool socks and his sneakers on his feet.  

"I’m cold…Thirsty…Can you get me some water, Hutch?”

“Sure Starsk. I’ll bring you some water. Later you’ll help me to get you into the car, and we’ll go to the hospital.” Without waiting for an answer, Hutch hurried to the kitchen to bring Starsky a water glass.

He tried to sit up and drink the water, but was too weak. Falling back, he lay against Hutch’s chest gasping for air.

“Okay Starsk. Try to help me a little here, partner. We’ve got to get to the car, okay?” Starsky, unaware of Hutch words, nodded slightly still leaning against his partner’s chest, as he managed to get him up, despite his weakened protests.

Hutch half-dragged an increasingly sick Starsky, who was struggling to stand up and walk. Outside the storm’s wind blew violently as huge drops began to crash against the ground. After a few feet, which rather seemed like miles, they finally reached the car.

Hutch got Starsky into the passenger seat, locked the door and ran around the other side, peeking at his partner who was leaning limply against the passenger door.

“Take it easy Starsk. We’ll be there in no time.” Then, Hutch tried the ignition, but for all his desperation, the engine wouldn’t turn over.

“DAMN!!” Hutch tried unsuccessfully once, twice, but the car remained still. He leaned his head against the steering wheel for a moment trying to pull himself together, as Starsky kept dozing in the same position.

“Okay Starsk. It seems that we got trouble here. We gotta go back inside.” Hutch got out of the car running around the hood to get Starsky, as the storm was already hitting the outside with full strength.

He tried to help Starsky to his feet but the brunet was too weak even to notice it, so finally, Hutch, carried Starsky in his arms all the way back to the cabin.

Over the next few hours, feeling scared and powerless, Hutch did as much as possible to get Starsky’s temperature to rise. He gave him plenty of hot tea and chocolate, checked his temperature often as the storm outside raged.

Finally, in the evening, and much to Hutch’s relief, Starsky’s temperature began to increase, although he still wanted to get him to the hospital.

How in hell can we get ourselves in so much trouble over and over?...Starsky needs to get to the hospital, damn!...But I can't go to town and leave him here alone…Without car it would take me more than an hour…In the middle of his thoughts, Hutch was startled by his partner’s moans. He approached him and placed a calming hand on his chest.

“Hmmmm….Expecting me…Why…”

 

“Who are you…?”

 

“And from where you came…?”

 

Starsky was getting more and more upset in his dream, tossing, turning and sweating.  Repeating these senseless words. The words didn’t make any sense to Hutch, but it was obvious that his friend was having a nightmare. He decided to wake him up. Very carefully, he called his friend’s name touching his shoulder. Starsky seemed to calm down and opened his eyes.

 

“Hey Starsk…you had a nightmare.”

 

“Nightmare?” Starsky asked weakly.

 

“Yeah. You were mumbling. Like you were talking with somebody…”

 

“I don't know…I don't remember.” Starsky closed his eyes again falling asleep almost at that same moment. This time, without nightmares.

 

The next morning Starsky woke up early feeling a little better, though, Hutch noticed that he seemed to be upset and withdrawn as well.

 

“Hey Starsk…What’s up buddy?”

 

“I’m not feeling well, Hutch.  I’m still cold. That’s all.”

 

“You haven’t felt well other times and you never weren’t this quiet and withdrawn like you are now.”

 

“So, now I am. Okay?” Starsky snapped moodily.

 

“Okay Starsk. Whatever you say…” Hutch didn’t believe it; however, he decided to play along.

 

That entire day they stayed at home playing card games and chess. The lack of concentration made Starsky lose all the games and Hutch teased his friend mercilessly about that.

 

“Well. It seems that this time Starsky´s law, you know; talk a little, win a lot,” It´s not being too useful for you, but let me say that there’s no fun in beating a mute Starsky.” Hutch said in an attempt to cheer Starsky up.

 

“That only works in Bay City.” Starsky answered annoyed.

 

“Oh…that’s a new one on me.” Hutch was completely sure that something was upsetting Starsky, but he didn’t talk about. He was hiding something from Hutch. But why?

 

At night, after dinner, he decided that it was time to find out what Starsky was hiding from him.

 

“Starsk, earlier you had a nightmare, and in it you spoke some puzzling words that made no sense to me at all. Did you remember something?” Hutch asked, looking directly into his friend’s eyes. Starsky tried to focus his attention on the afghan that was covering his legs, but Hutch tried again.

 

“Look at me Starsk. What are you trying to hide from me? It was the nightmare, wasn’t it? Do you remember something that disturbed you? Something related with your walks over to lake”

 

“No, Hutch. I was just dreaming, having a nightmare. Sometimes people walk during their nightmares.”

 

“People maybe, Starsky. Not you. We’ve been friends too long now, and I know perfectly well what happens when you are having a nightmare. You never get out of bed. Besides, if it was just a nightmare, why are you so quiet all day? I don’t know what happened last night at the lake, Starsk, but one thing is certain. It wasn’t a simple nightmare. Don’t try to fool me.”

 

“I’m not feeling well Hutch. My head hurts and …” Starsky looked at Hutch and noticed that he wasn’t fooling him. He sighed heavily.

 

“I don’t know how to explain it, Hutch.” He looked down.

 

“Try at the beginning, Starsk. I have all the time in the world to listen to you. We’re stuck in this place until the storm ends and we can go home”

 

“You will not believe me.” Starsky stared to his friend, looking into his eyes and trying to find a coherent way to start.

 

“Why not? I’ve always believed you. Even the weirdest and most incredible things that you told me in the past, I’ve believed. Why wouldn't I do it now? Besides, I thought we could talk about anything to each other, right?”

 

Finally, Starsky decided to open his heart and shyly at first, began to talk.

 

“I know what I was doing at the lake, Hutch. I was called to the lake by…a kid, the same kid that talked to me when I was in a coma…after the shooting. And this kid is Tommy, the child that died in this lake in 1956.”

 

Hutch sat in silence for some time, trying to assimilate what his partner was saying, never taking his eyes from Starsky’s.

 

“Are you saying that the time that you were in a coma, you…talked with a kid…and that same kid was in the lake tonight and last night as well?”

 

“Yeah. At first…I didn’t remember him, I mean, after the coma, I didn’t remember anything about him, but today…he talked to me about the coma.  I could remember the whole thing pretty well. That kid tried to get in touch with me at that time, and finally in this place we’ve met each other again. I don’t know how, or why.  But we’ve met again.”

 

“Well…I must confess that this is one of the most incredible stories that I’ve heard from you. But, if you say that you talked with this kid when you were in coma and that he was calling for you, I believe you. That explains your behavior and your walk to the lake at night.  But, I can't find any rational explanation for it. I mean, the coma thing.  However, there must be a reasonable explanation.  I’ve read that pretty strange things can happen during states of coma…”

 

“Like meeting dead relatives and friends, and stuff like that?”

 

“Yes. That is very common to read.”

 

“I never saw any dead relatives, not even my father.” A sudden sadness tinged Starsky’s voice.  “But I saw that kid, Hutch.”

 

“During your nightmare, you did say things like, ‘expecting me’…what did this kid say to you? Do you remember?”

 

“Almost the same thing that he said during our first meeting, when I was in coma…. He took my hand and we walked in silence…I asked him where he was taking me, but he didn’t answer. He only said that he was waiting for me. He needed my help. I think that it was when I had the cardiac arrest. But, I stopped and turned back. I didn’t want to be there, with him. I walked back. Probably to life, I guess.”

 

Hutch closed his eyes and muttered: “Thank God….Help Starsk? What kind of help this kid was asking you for?”

 

“During the coma he didn’t exactly say what he needed, or maybe I was too focused on fighting for my life to pay attention to him, I don't know. But out there, he said that I had to help him get back from the lake. That I had taken too long…I think that he was the ghost the old man in the bar was talking about, Hutch. The kid walked to the lake and disappeared into the water. He vanished in front my eyes.” Starsky’s voice held a little tremor.

 

“That’s why you were at the lake. You were trying to save him?” Hutch asked.

 

Starsky nodded. “I want to help this kid Hutch…but I don't know how. I don’t want to make him wait anymore. I just know that he needs me to help him and it must be before dawn. When the sun rises, he always goes away. This old man in the bar, he’s not talking nonsense Hutch. There’s a ghost in this lake. Harry’s telling the truth.  It must be Tommy. It’s the only answer to all that is happening to me. ” Starsky began to shiver. Hutch checked and noticed that, his temperature that had stabilized during the day was getting higher again.

 

“Hey buddy, that’s enough for today. Time for bed. You need another aspirin; you’ve got a fever again. Relax. I will get us some tea.” He accompanied Starsky to his bedroom and later went to the kitchen and with trembling hands, fixed the tea and gave a mug to Starsky.

 

After drinking it, Starsky fall into an unsettled sleep, and soon he began to talk again. The same anguished words. Hutch needed to find out the truth about all that was happening.

 

Who is that kid?  Is he really he a ghost? And why does he need Starsky to get his freedom?

 

Unanswered questions kept flooding Hutch’s mind for a long time, but the only thing that he knew for sure was that they where facing a extraordinary situation that maybe they couldn’t handle.

 

My God,… if Starsky had not fought for his life at that time, if he had decided to help the kid, he could have died… he would never have recovered from the cardiac arrest…

 

In the middle of the night, Starsky awoke with an idea. He had to put an end to the child’s pain and to his own temporary insanity. Dressing with all the heavy clothes available, very slowly Starsky left the cabin, walking to the lake. He sat near the lakeshore, under a tree. He began to call Tommy’s name, first in a very low voice, than more loudly. It took a few minutes until the pale and fragile image of the kid appeared. Starsky was trembling, but not because of the cold weather, but out of fear.

 

Ghosts are fun on the tube, not in real life…He thought as a shiver climbed up his spine.

 

“Hi, Tommy!” He smiled at the kid, who seemed to return a tiny smile.

 

“Come here, I almost can’t see you there”

 

Tommy came a few steps forward, but remained slightly away from Starsky.

 

“That’s much better. I think we need to have a talk.”

 

“You came…you came to help me?” The child said mistrustfully.

 

“Yeah. But not in the way you think.”

 

“I don’t understand.”

 

“You know what happened to you in this lake, don’t you?”

 

“I fell down.”

 

“And you drown. You died here, right?”

 

“Died?”

 

“Yeah Tommy…That’s why you couldn’t find your friends anymore. They grew up and they aren’t children any longer. The kids that used to be your friends don’t exist anymore, at least, not in the same place where you are. You know that. You’re a smart kid.”

 

“Of course they exist.” The kid seemed annoyed with the idea of being left behind.

 

“No. They don’t exist and you know it. You just can’t accept it because it’s painful.”

 

“Are you going to help me or not?” Tommy asked impatiently.

 

Starsky smiled. “You’re a stubborn kid, huh? I want to help you, but I can’t give you what you want from me. You tried it before. You want to come back, but to get it, you need someone to change places with you. I can’t. I have a life here. Family, friends. I will not give up all those things to help you.”

 

“But I need your help, please. I can’t live here anymore… I’m so alone, very alone” Tommy began to cry. “I hate you! You don’t want to help me. I have been waiting for you for so long…”

 

“Tommy, look at me.” Starsky demanded.

 

“NO!”

 

“Tommy, there’s only one way to help you.” His statement made the kid rise up his chin and look for Starsky, who by then, was on his feet.

 

“You think that by coming back you will find peace… your parents, friends? You won’t. Your parents aren’t here. They are dead like you.”

 

“My parents aren’t dead.”

 

“Yes, Tommy. They aren’t here, but in the other place and waiting for you. Do you understand me?”

 

“No, you’re a liar. My parents are here, searching for me.”

 

“No. Believe me Tommy. There’s no one searching for you anymore. You drown in this lake almost twenty-five years ago. In the beginning, your parents looked for you, but then…the police and the rescue team, brought back your dead body, but not your soul. That’s why you are still here; waiting for the day that someone will bring you back. I don’t know why I was chosen. Maybe…probably because my birthday is March 25^th… The day of your death. ”

 

“Only you can help me! Please David. I don’t want to be here alone.” The kid began to cry sadly.” Starsky felt a strong urge to hug him. To give him some comfort, but he knew that if he did that, he would never set Tommy free and the kid would live in despair and agony forever. And Starsky just wanted to put an end to that lost soul’s sorrow.

 

“Tommy, listen to me. Your parents are waiting for you, but not here. Turn around; close your eyes and dive into the lake. Don’t stop. Don’t ever stop. Don’t be afraid. Your parents will be there. They have been waiting for you for so long. You didn’t live in peace because you didn’t accept the fact that you died. You really died in this lake. There’s no coming back from it. Accept this idea into your heart. Open your soul to embrace your parents again.”

 

“No…” Tommy was terrified with the idea.

 

“Don’t be scared little one. You trust me, don’t you? You trusted me to bring you back, so trust me to guide you to your parents, to your resting place. To guide you to the peace that is waiting for you there. Don’t fight back. Trust me Tommy.”

 

“Will mommy and dad be there? I won’t be alone any more?”

 

“No. You will be with them there, and with a lot of nice people willing to help you too. You’ll see. It’ll be much more fun there. I still have time to live here. I have things to do and some dreams to fulfill. It’s not my time yet, as it wasn’t in that hospital some years ago.”

 

“I’m so tired of being here…I can’t stand to live here alone any more. People here don’t like me. They say that I don’t exist. I don’t understand it,”“

 

“They say that, because they can’t see you. It’s simple.”

 

“But you can see me. And you don’t think that I’m not here. And I don’t know why…” Tommy said puzzled.

 

“Neither do I. Maybe my friend Hutch is right. I’m just a big kid and that’s the reason why I can see you. Anyway, I just know that I understand you and I want to help you. I need to be free too. But you are in some way, keeping me held in your hands here and I can’t go on with my life this way.”

 

“If I dive in the lake, with my eyes shut, then I will find my parents again? The lake is so dark. ”

 

“If you dive in with the faith that they will be there, everything will go just fine, and you’ll meet them. Did your parents teach you how to pray or talk to God Tommy?”

 

“Yeah…I prayed every night before going to bed.” The kid said proudly.

 

“Good.  This will work. Just close your eyes and dive to your parents. Think that this is what God wants for your freedom. No more being lonely, no more pain. Just freedom. God always knows what’s best for us. I don’t know exactly how or why, but my mother always said that, and I believe her. ” Starsky smiled tenderly at the child.

 

“I’m scared….” Tommy took a look to the lake at his back. The first sunrays were appearing. The time was running out fast.

 

“Go…have faith. Think of God. Pray something that your mom had taught you before. Call your parents when you dive. They will come to join you.”

 

Tommy, smiling sadly took a last look at Starsky. Then, the child turned around and dove into the lake again. For a couple of seconds, Starsky thought that he could hear Tommy’s voice calling for someone or praying. He wasn’t sure. Then, coming from the lake’s dark waters, and raising to the sky, he saw three shinning points of light, like shooting stars.

 

A moment later, the sun began to rise. The lake was calm. Starsky felt a joy that he didn’t know how to explain. Maybe he really had helped Tommy to gain his freedom, to join his beloved ones again and forever.

 

“Who knows?… just maybe, I really am nuts.” Shrugging his shoulders nonchalantly, Starsky went back to the cabin. After a few steps, he saw Hutch coming towards him with concern all over his face.

 

“Hey, where were you going, partner?”

 

“To look for you. You were at the lake again?” Hutch was a little annoyed.

 

“I think that he is free now.”

 

“Tommy?”

 

“Yeah…who else? Is there another ghost here that I don’t know about?”

 

“That’s not funny Starsk. You’re talking like a madman. Did you talk with Tommy?”  Hutch asked, feeling a pinch of curiosity.

 

“Yeah. I did, Hutch. I think I convinced him to go back to his parents, to his freedom. His soul is in peace now, and I’m feeling great.” He smiled his genuine Starsky smile.

 

Hutch kept staring at his friend, trying to find any sense in that strange story of ghosts and lost souls that Starsky seemed to believe fervently.

 

“If you don’t mind, now that you think that this lost soul finally found his freedom, would you mind going back to Bay City? It’s a beautiful sunny day, although I don’t know why, because last night was terribly cold. But the fact is that today, we have sun. Tomorrow, probably all the snow will have melted and we can finally find somebody to fix the car and drive back home. What do you think?”

 

“Sure Hutch. Let´s go back home.” Starsky smiled knowing that his rational partner was having a hard time trying to understand their ‘little ghost vacation’.

 

Well. It would be better to just accept his skepticism and go home. To be the brain of the duo has its disadvantages, I guess. Starsky thought, climbing the cabin’s stairs with Hutch.

 

The next day, the sun was shinning as they drove back to Bay City.

 

Starsky was again the same bundle of energy, and to Hutch’s relief, he spent the entire trip home, chatting, joking and laughing. His health was fine as well.  No more fever. No more nightmares. No more cold lakes.

 

No more ghosts?

 

THE END

 

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