Chapter 1- 2

by Joy Olson

CHAPTER 1

Chico lovingly held Liz's hand as they and their son Joey were traveling back from having spent a week visiting Liz's family in Puerto Rico. It was the first time she had seen them since their Christmas wedding.

It had been a wonderful yet tiring trip, proof of that lay sleeping in the back seat. Joey was sleeping soundly holding firmly to his Teddy bear.

They were coming to a stop sign and though he didn't know why Chico's heart began to beat wildly and the perspiration seemed to flow like a rushing river.

His hands became so clammy he was unable to control the steering wheel, and he could feel as Liz's soft hand escape from his grasp. He tried to hang onto her but to no avail.

"Chico Help me Por favor mi vida!" Liz screamed as Chico saw the blur of an oncoming car plow into the passenger side of the family car!

"CHICO HELP ME!!!!"

"Liz!!!!"

Chico awoke with a start. sweat was streaming from his brow and he could feel his whole body trembling from fear as he relived the nightmare.

"Papa? Are you ok? I'm here Papa." The little boy hugged his young Father in an effort to calm him.

"Gracias Mi Hijo, yo soy fino." He hugged the boy tightly to him, he dared not let go for fear of losing him as well. Reluctantly after a few minutes he settled the boy back down in bed and lay back down beside him, when Joey felt his Father lying beside him he snuggled closer so that his Padre would not feel alone.

When Chico was sure that his son was once again sleeping soundly he carefully slipped out from beneath the covers and made his way to the shower. It was 5:00 o'clock in the morning but there was no use in trying to go back to sleep, it would not come, and if it did his dreams would take him to a place he did not wish to be.

As he ran the water for a hot shower he removed his robe and looked into the mirror at his reflection. He had not shaved in two days. He would have to today.

He climbed into the shower and as the water cascaded down his lean, bronze frame his mind drifted to the last moment he had shared with his Liz.

They had been coming back from an Easter visit with Liz's family in Puerto Rico when it happened, a drunk driver sped through a stop sign and broadsided their car on the passenger side. The last thing Chico remembered was hearing Liz calling, begging him to help her before he lost consciousness.

He awoke late the next day and his boss, friend, second Father, Ed Brown broke the news to him that Liz had been killed instantly.

Luckily Joey had been asleep in the back seat so he came through without injury. Ed and Della were caring for him at the garage until Chico was well enough take him back to the apartment he and Liz had rented after their wedding.

Ed had been so good and kind to Chico through the years. He had helped him and Joey through so much and now it appeared that once again Ed was coming to his rescue. He made all the arrangements for Liz's memorial service and called all of the relatives to break the news of the accident.

It was 2:00 in the afternoon there were people milling about the cemetery offering their condolences to the bereaved young man and his son.

Chico graciously, yet absently shook their hands and received their hugs, thanking them for their concern and offers of help. It was if he were on the outside of his body watching everything that was going on just as Ebenezer Scrooge witnessed the scenes of his life pass before him that life changing Christmas eve.

Funny how he should think of that now. A Christmas Carol was one of Liz's favorite Christmas movies, and just as those ghostly visits changed Ebenezer's life, so had that drunk driver changed his life and his son's.

As people began to leave the cemetery Ed came up to Chico.

"Are you ready Chico, would you like more time?"

"We were supposed to have a whole lifetime Ed, what happened?" He looked at the elderly man who was closer than his own father to him, there were tears in his large brown eyes. Where there was usually joviality and mirth there was now sadness and despair.

As though he were being pulled by a force stronger than he was, Chico couldn't bring himself to leave Liz, not yet.

"I just need a few more minutes with her Ed, could you please bring Joey home with you for awhile?"

"Sure son. You just take all the time you need." As Ed was leaving with Joey, Louie,and Della his Padre Gilberto Rodriquez came and stood by his side. He remained silent for a moment, searching for words of comfort for his only son.

"I am sorry for your loss Hijo." Gilberto had meant his words to bring comfort but they sounded hollow to his own ears, how they must have sounded to his grieving son.

"What happened Pa? She was so young, so beautiful. This was not supposed to happen, we were in love, a family, we wanted many brothers and sisters for Joey. Oh God Papa I can't believe she's gone."

Gilberto took his son to him and held him as he wept. The strong and sure feel of his Father's arms around him meant more than mere words ever could.

It had been several weeks since the accident. Joey had been sleeping in the master bedroom with Chico nightly as Chico couldn't bear to sleep in the big bed alone.

Joey too was sad at what happened as he loved and missed his Mommy Liz, as he had come to call her, much to Liz's delight, but he had lost his own mother almost two years ago and that had been much harder on him. He understood Papa Chico's sadness and tried to be there for him as much as a 7-year-old can be.

Chico was glad for the opportunity to work at the garage so he could get away from the apartment the family shared, as well as the memories that seemed to haunt him when he was there.

As well as Ed knew Chico he knew that staying in that apartment was harder on him than he was willing to admit. 'Chico always has been a stubborn Chicano but he has a son to think about, he has to go on. There must be something I can do.' Almost as if he were guided that way Ed looked at the still vacant apartment where Chico and Joey lived until after the wedding. A smile crossed his lips as he thought, 'I will bring the idea up to him when he comes back from lunch.'

Chico returned from the diner a short time later. He had on his favorite blue denim work Jeans and a bright red T-shirt. There were grease smudges across the shirt, a testament to the fact that despite his recent loss Chico was a responsible and skilled mechanic.

"Hey Ed I brought you a hot pastrami on rye."

"Not too hot I hope, I'm an old man ya know."

"Oh yeah, and I'm sure you're daily bourbon breakfast isn't hard on your stomach. Here I'll finish this why don't you go sit down and eat." Chico offered.

As he sat down at the workbench Ed carefully approached the subject of Chico and Joey possibly returning to their old apartment.

"Chico?"

"Yeah Ed?"

I wanted to ask you about something and I'm not sure where to start."

"The best place is usually the beginning Ed, just say it."

"Ok here goes. Chico would you and Joey consider moving back into your old apartment?"

Chico looked at Ed in surprise.

"What brought this on Ed? We're fine where we are."

"I just thought it might be easier for the both of you if you did, not so many memories and besides I kinda miss you and the kid."

"That's nice Ed but did you move from here when you lost Margaret? We'll be fine, it'll take time but we'll be fine. And you know you are always welcome at our place, you don't ever have to be lonely Ed we're family."

Ed didn't say any more about it. He had said his piece now it was up to Chico.

After school Joey stopped in the garage to say hi before going to Aunt Della's for a snack and homework. He gave his Papa and Grandpa big hugs and said he would come and help them after cartoons.

"You can come and help after homework, no TV until the homework is done remember?"

"Yes sir."

Joey went across the alley to do his homework. Ed wanted to suggest that he stay and work in the apartment but thought better of it since he decided not to bring it up again.

Joey didn't get his homework done so he was unable to come and help in the garage. At the close of the workday when Chico was ready to pick him up Joey wanted to stay longer.

"Ready to go home Pal?" He asked when he entered Della's kitchen followed closely by Amigo, the puppy Grandpa Ed gave Joey the day his adoption was final.

"Uh uh I didn't get to see Grandpa Ed. Can't I stay longer?"

As tired as he was from the busy day Chico, if he would admit it to himself, was no more ready to go back to their place than Joey, but they had to move on with their lives.

"Come on now Pal, please? I'm hot and I'm tired. Tomorrow is Saturday so you and I will both be able to spend the whole day with Grandpa."

"Oh ok." pouted Joey as he gathered his schoolbooks together. He hugged Della and thanked her for the cookies.

"Papa can I go say bye to Grandpa?"

"Ok but make it quick I'm beat." As Joey and Amigo ran to the garage Chico wearily climbed into the 4x4 he purchased after the accident, and waited for Joey.

Joey gave Ed such a big hug that he almost tipped him over.

"Easy kid, I'm breakable ya know."

"I'm sorry Grandpa, I just miss ya is all, but I'm coming over all day tomorrow!"

"I miss you too kid." admitted Ed.

Ed studied Joey a moment, sensing that something was bothering him.

"Hey kid what's clogging your carburetor?"

"I-I just miss you, and Mommy Liz. So does Papa. It's no fun at home any more Grandpa."

"You can't have fun all the time or then that wouldn't be any fun."

"Huh?" Joey was confused.

"I love Papa, and I want to be with him but it's no fun at home. He's so sad there. When he's here he's the Papa I knew before." Ed was afraid of that. He knew that losing Liz was hard on Chico and it would be for a long time to come, at work he was able to mask the pain but at home evidently it was another story. Joey had seen so much pain and suffering in his short life that it obviously wasn't as easy to hide the pain from him as it was everyone else.

Before Ed could respond he heard the honking of a horn outside.

"I better go, Grandpa please don't tell Papa what I said I don't want him to feel sad more." He hugged Ed once more before running out to the truck.

If Ed felt lonely before he was even more so now that he knew how hard it was for both of them to stay in the apartment. He knew without a doubt that he had to try harder than ever to get Chico to give up that apartment and come home.

Back at their apartment Joey set the table for supper as Chico made hamburgers and tator tots.

"Papa, can we go get some ice cream after supper?" When Chico didn't answer Joey turned to see if he had left the room. He hadn't he was staring at the burgers in the frying pan as if he were in a daze. 'He's missing Mommy Liz again.' Joey thought sadly to himself. Times like these bothered Joey a little, he knew with all of his heart that Chico would never be mean to him but they reminded him of times past. He put the ketchup and mustard on the table and went to the stove.

"Papa?" He asked as he gently tapped his Father's arm. Chico was jolted from his thoughts as he realized that Joey was calling him.

"Huh? Oh Joey I'm sorry what did you say?"

"I was wondering if we could get some ice cream after supper?"

"Not tonight Pal, ok? Your Papa's kinda tired tonight. Suppers almost ready why don't you go wash up."

"Ok Papa." Joey slunk into the bathroom to wash his hands and returned to the kitchen a few minutes later.

Supper was a quiet meal as they all had been since Liz was gone. Chico barely touched his food, truthfully he had hardly eaten anything since the funeral.

It saddened Joey to see his beloved Papa so miserable. He wanted the old Papa Chico back so badly that it hurt, but he would not cry.

After supper Joey and Chico did the dishes and Joey and amigo retreated to his room to finish his homework so he could spend the whole day at the garage tomorrow.

As Joey did his spelling words and sentences Chico did odd jobs around the house, things that Liz had been after him to do but he wanted to spend his home time doing 'other things for Liz'. With her gone now doing all the little things around the apartment helped her seem closer to him somehow.

Things changed little over the next couple of weeks, although Ed did notice changes in Chico's appearance. He seemed thinner, more tired. He was still an excellent worker but he was not the Chico he knew and loved.

"Chico are you feeling ok?"

"Yeah Ed why'd you ask?"

"Because you look terrible, are you eating?"

"Yes Ed I eat, sleep and I can roll over and fetch too." answered Chico impatiently.

"Well Fido why don't you go fetch yourself some lunch and on the way back you can stop at the dime store and pick up a TV guide for me."

"I'll get you a TV guide as soon as I finish with this engine." said Chico.

"I'm the boss here, and don't you forget it now you go EAT some lunch or I'll kick your caboose!"

Chico threw down his grease rag and went to have lunch, not without hesitating to do his Igor impression to irritate Ed. "Yeth Mathtah." he said as he hobbled out of the garage.

As Chico was returning to the garage after his break the phone was ringing. "Ed Brown's Garage this is Ed. Just a minute please. Chico it's the school for you." Ed handed Chico the phone and retreated to his office to give him privacy. A few minutes later Chico came into the office.

"Ed, I need to go get Joey, it seems he's sick. Can I have the afternoon off, Della's at a catering and I can't leave Joey alone."

"Why don't you bring him here, your old apartment is just the way you left it?"

"Ed!" said Chico suspiciously. He was sure that Ed was just trying to get him to move in there again.

"No don't get all bent outta shape, I just suggested it because Mrs. Smythe is coming in this afternoon and she only likes you to touch her car." defended Ed

"Oh I'm sorry I was snappy Ed, I forgot about Mrs. Smythe."

"That's ok Chico I understand that a lack of sleep does make a person snappy!!!" He yelled after his stubborn young mechanic.

By the time Chico returned to the garage with Joey Ed had fresh linens on the sofa bed-and Chico's bed in case they decided to stay the night, and he had the covers turned down waiting for their patient. He left them alone so Chico could get settled and by the time he had Mrs. Smythe the third had arrived with her car.

The remainder of the day Chico worked on Mrs. Smythe's car stopping from time to time to check on Joey.

"Hi Pal, how are you feeling?" He questioned as he sat down on the edge of the familiar sofa bed. Although he would never tell Ed Chico did feel a little more relaxed in his former surroundings. Secretly he did kind of want to move back but he felt that it was important for Joey to have more stability and he felt that moving back and forth would be too much. Besides the fact that he was determined to get on with life without Liz and he may as well get used to living in that apartment without her.

"My tummy still hurts a little, I'm thirsty Papa can I have a drink."

"I'll be right back with a glass of ice water ok?"

"Thanks."

When Chico returned with the promised water, Joey was fast asleep, cuddled under the covers. Chico set the water down and arranged the blankets more snuggly around Joey, gave him a kiss and went to finish Mrs. Smythe's car.

Later as Chico was filling gas for Ed's buddy Rudy Ed went to see how Joey was feeling.

"How are you doin kid?"

"Better Grandpa, ya wanna play checkers with me?" Joey was so glad to be back in his old bed, with his Grandpa beside him, how could he not feel better?

"Yeah sure I think I got time to sneak in a game or two. It's been a long time since I had someone to play checkers with."

"How bout Louie, don't he come over and play checkers with ya?"

"Naw, he cheats."

"Grandpa, are you fibbing?" laughed Joey.

"What are you gonna be red or black?" asked Ed changing the subject.

As Chico was coming to the apartment to Check on his son he heard the unmistakable sound of Joey laughing, such a happy carefree sound that it made Chico smile. Then it dawned on him that it had been a while since he had heard his son laugh.

"Well it sounds like someone is feeling better, we may be able to go back home tonight after all." announced Chico as he entered the room. He tried to sound more cheery than he really felt about it.

"Oh." said Joey solemnly.

Chico couldn't help but notice the sudden change in Joey's mood at the mention of going home but said nothing. "Ed I forgot your TV guide I'll just take a run over to the dimestore and get it ok? Mrs. Smythe just left."

"Ok great thanks Chico, oh and could you get some ice cream too? What's Happenin is on TV land tonight and I can't watch that without ice cream!?"

While Chico was out getting the things Ed requested he and Joey played Checkers.

When he returned later with the ice cream and TV guide the door to the apartment was open and he heard Joey and Ed talking.

"You don't sound very happy about being able to go home Joey."

"I don't?"

"No you don't, don't you think you should tell your Papa what's bothering you?"

"He's so sad already, I don't want him to feel bad."

"I think if your Papa knew that you were feeling this bad, and didn't tell him he'd feel worse don't you?"

"I guess so. I don't want him to feel bad I love him and I know he misses Mommy Liz. He's so sad over there, and sometimes he has bad dreams too. I think my tummy is hurting again Grandpa."

"Ok Kiddo you rest, I'll see if I can talk your Papa into staying the night anyway, even if we can't get him to move back."

"I love you Grandpa."

"I love you too kid."

As Ed was settling Joey back under the covers Chico hurried to the door so no one would no he had heard their conversation. Ed was closing the door to Joey's room as Chico "entered" the garage.

"Hey Chico, Joey's asleep. Did you get the ice cream too?"

"Yep."

"Good, I was afraid you didn't hear me."

"The whole neighborhood heard you Ed."

"Shut up you, give me the ice cream before it melts, hey you know the kid and I like to watch what's happenin together, I think you oughta stay at least tonight anyway." suggested Ed as he took his ice cream upstairs to the freezer.

Chico sat at the workbench thinking about the conversation he had overheard. 'So Joey really wants to move back here. I thought he liked the new apartment. he had his own room, what room of his own? He's been sleeping with you every night since Lizzie died.' When Ed came downstairs Chico said, "Ed I don't really think it's a very good idea to move Joey too much maybe we should stay here, just for the night anyway. Joey needs some stability and I don't think it's a good idea to keep moving from place to place all the time." Chico said. He didn't want it to sound like he was hinting that they should move back in, and he wanted to find out what, if anything more Joey may have told him, without Ed knowing he had listened in on them.

"Excuse me Chico, get mad if you want to but I have to say this. Joey also needs a happy, healthy father. I know you miss Liz and you will for a long time. If anyone knows that it's me. I can't help but think that being in the home you shared as a married couple and a family of three has too many painful memories for you. Your not eating properly and your not getting the sleep you need either. You have been able to hide your feelings from the rest of us but Joey has seen enough pain in his life to see when someone he loves is hurting and I think that's what's making him sick. I understand about wanting to move on with your life but what's wrong with moving on here surrounded by family and friends who can help you?"

"Does Joey want to move?" Chico asked.

"I promised not to say anything, if you want to know what he wants ask him yourself I thought you two could talk about anything I was just giving you my two cents, now go talk to the kid so I can close up I hate to miss my program!"

Chico peeked into his old apartment to see if Joey was asleep. He wasn't in fact he was crawling around under the covers with his puppy, Amigo. He laughed and laughed as Amigo was jumping from one side of the small boy to the other.

"Joey?" He called softly. Joey was surprised and jumped up from beneath the covers and quickly lay back down on the pillows. Amigo seemed to wonder why their game ended so suddenly poked his head out from under the covers as well. Chico smiled as he saw how quickly Joey and his puppy had become inseparable best friends.

Chico closed the door and sat down on the edge of the sofa bed.

Joey I think you and I need to talk, ok?

"Ok."

"Are you happy living with me?" Chico questioned.

"Papa I'm sorry I was sick, I feel better now don't send me away!" pleaded Joey, as he misunderstood the reasons for Chico's concern.

"No way Pal! I would never do that we're a family and I need you now more than ever. Grandpa Ed seems to think that you and I would be happier living back here instead of in our new apartment. What do you think?"

"I just wanna be with you."

"I know son and I want to be with you, but what I want to know is, and I want the truth, where would you rather we live in our apartment or back here with Grandpa Ed?"

"Well," Joey hesitated as he studied his fingers. "I-I guess I wanna be here but I wanna be here with you-you and Grandpa. It's funner here you laugh when we're here. I miss you Papa!"

Now it was Chico's turn to stare at his hands as he thought of his son's honest answer.

"I'm sorry Bud, I guess I haven't been very easy to live with lately. I'm sorry you've been unhappy, and I'm even sorrier that you didn't think you could tell me what was bothering you. It may take a while but I promise things will get back to normal one day." There were tears in his eyes as he said the words and when Joey saw his father's tears he began to cry and climbed unto Chico's lap.

"I'm sorry Papa, I didn't mean to make you cry, I'll stay anywhere you want I just want you to be not so sad. I know you miss Mommy Liz, I didn't mean to make you feel worser."

"No I'm sorry. Thank you for telling me the truth. Why don't you go on upstairs and watch your show with Grandpa."

"You mean we don't have to go home tonight?!"

"No, we can stay here, now go on, you know how Grandpa hates to watch What's Happenin without you!" Chico set the boy down and smacked his bottom as he took off for the stairs hollerin "Grandpa we can stay we can stay!" Amigo nipping at his heals as he ran.

After watching their favorite program together Ed brought Joey downstairs to tuck him in bed, Chico had gone for a walk while they watched TV. He walked for a long time thinking about Liz and the times they shared. It was soon dark, the streets were quiet and Chico could let the silent tears that had been building all day fall slowly down his face.

At last he went to the apartment to pick up some work clothes for the following day.

This was the first time Chico had been alone in the apartment since Liz's death and he realized how much he hated it, he couldn't wait to get back to the old apartment in the garage, to get back home.

As he was coming into the garage Ed was just closing the door to Joey's room.

"Is he asleep?" Chico asked hoping that the answer would be no.

"No he just got settled. I think he's waiting for you."

"Thanks Ed, uh I' d like to talk to you about something after I say good night to Joey if that's alright."

"Sure I'll make some cocoa."

Chico opened the door to the apartment, at the sound of the door opening Amigo stood on the bed growling fiercely in an effort to scare anybody who would hurt his boy. "Joey are you awake?"

"Yep."

"I just came in to say good night." He sat on the edge of the bed, Joey sat up and faced him. "Do you have your pull ups on?" Chico inquired kindly.

"Yeah, I don't mean to wet."

"I know you don't, it's just that there has been a lot going on for you lately. Dr. Stone said that happens after trauma sometimes. It quit after you came back home to us from the Elliot's and I'm sure it will quit when we get settled after...after all this. Do you want me to read you a story?"

"No, I wanna ask ya something."

"Ok, shoot."

"What's Heaven like?"

"Whoa that's something alright. I have never been there but I believe that Heaven is a place where no one hurts, no one crys, only happy tears, and that there is everything a person needs, everything that makes them happy."

"Then there must be shoe stores at Heaven." reasoned Joey matter of factly.

Chico couldn't help himself, he laughed and laughed till he thought he would cry.

"Why're ya laughin at me?"

"I'm not laughing at you, I've just never thought of there being shoe stores in Heaven and it made me laugh."

"That's ok I guess, if you laugh then your happy right?"

"Yeah I am, I'm happier than I've been in a long time. What makes you think there are shoe stores in Heaven?"

"Cause when Mama and Mommy Liz went shopping together that day they all they bought was shoes. Shoes for them and shoes for the baby."

"How did you remember that Pal?" Chico was quite curious as to how his son could remember that day so long ago.

"That was just before mama died, she was happy on that day I remember her happy, then I don't cry."

"Ok Bud, it's late, scootch down under the covers and go to sleep. I'll see you in the morning. I love you."

"I love you too Papa, thanks for lettin us stay here tonight."

Ed was pouring Cocoa into mugs when Chico came in.

"Have a seat, you want some marshmallows?"

"No thanks Ed, can we talk? I wanted to ask you something."

"Ask away."

"I've been thinking, and I think it would be better for Joey if he and I…No that's not quite true moved back here, if you'll have us?"

"If I'll have you?! Don't you know that I never wanted you to leave in the first place? If I had my way all three of you would have been crammed into that little apartment."

"I thought it would be ok, the two of us staying in our apartment but Joey misses you so much, and he's just not happy there."

"Are you happy there Chico?"

"I was, when we were all there together. I went for a long walk tonight and I stopped to get some clothes and things for us for tomorrow, and you know what?" Chico continued speaking before Ed had a chance to answer. "I realized I hate that place now, and being there alone for the first time tonight made I realize just how much I hated it. I couldn't wait to get out of there and..."

"And what Chico?" Ed coaxed. He had the feeling he knew what Chico wanted, but he wanted him to say it, to admit it to himself.

"And come...home?" Chico replied in a questioning tone.

"Well come home son, come home. I know you miss Liz and you will for a long time. Just remember, Liz isn't in that apartment, and she's not in the hospital, and she's not here in the garage, she's in your heart, she's in your memories of her. And you do have some wonderful memories of her, we all do."

"Yeah, remember how beautiful she looked as she danced with you after your fake face lift, and how she laughed when she threw that pie in my face? And the way she was with Joey was so beautiful to see too. She loved Joey as though he were her very own right from the beginning, and Ed you should have seen how she lit up when Joey asked her if he could call her Mommy Liz, I'll never forget that."

"There you go, think about the happy times. It's going to be hard, downright unbearable at times Chico but that's when you need the love of family and friends around you the most. Don't make the same mistake I did."

"What was that Ed?" Chico asked as he sipped his cocoa.

"After I lost Margaret, or I should say we, Sharon lost her mother too. I was so afraid of feeling that I turned away from everyone, even Sharon, and I turned to the booze. I was so afraid of feeling love and possibly losing again that I turned away from the people I loved the most, when I needed them the most. Let us help you through this Chico, we're a family."

Chico wept with sadness and relief. He had tried so hard to hide what he was feeling but at the sound of those comforting words the dam broke and the tears would not be stopped. Ed said nothing, he just reached out and held Chico's hand as he wept quietly.After a few moments Chico was able to speak. "I was so wrong Ed, I thought we could live there and be happy, but it's miserable over there without Lizzie. Joey isn't happy there either but I worry about moving him around too much. He's been through so much he needs some stability. I want him to be happy."

"Chico Joey is fine and he will be fine. He's a strong boy, he has to be to have made it this far, and as far as him being happy, he'd be happy anywhere with you as long as you're happy. So what's it gonna be, staying in that gloomy apartment being miserable or moving home and being miserable surrounded by people who love and want to help you?"

"We're moving home. Thanks Papa Ed. Papa Rodriquez bought us our furniture as a wedding gift since he couldn't come to the ceremony but I think I'll just leave it and let then rent it as a furnished apartment. I'll go over on my lunch hour tomorrow and get our things. Please don't tell Joey though, I want it to be a nice surprise for him."

Ed and Chico got up from the table, it had been a long day and they were both tired. Ed hugged Chico tightly. "Welcome home Chico, welcome home."

CHAPTER 2

Chico saw the now familiar and dreaded stop sign. His heart was already beating wildly, his hands were sweaty. He turned to warn Liz, to tell her to get down, but when he turned to speak to her he saw that the car had already crashed into Liz's passenger side door. She lay on the hood of the other car her body broken, reaching for him and her son. Calling to them Help me mi Corizon! Ayuda vida mia! Then everything went black.

He heard Liz calling wake up Chico and help me, wake up Chico!"

He sat bolt upright in bed to see Ed standing over him a look of concern on his withered face, Chico looked away from the glare of the old man's flashlight, so Ed turned it off and sat n the end of the couch.

"It was you Ed, at first it was Liz lying on the hood of that other car begging for me to help her and I couldn't get to her and then she kept yelling wake up and help me, but that was you. I'm sorry I woke you."

"You didn't wake me, really I was on my way to the can when I heard you calling for Liz. Do you think you can get back to sleep or do you want me to stay with you for a while?"

"No thanks I'm fine. You go back to bed. I'm gonna try to as well. Goodnight."

Ed went back upstairs finished what he had set out to do and wearily climbed back in bed.

The next day when Joey was at school Chico took his lunch hour and went to the apartment and gathered as much of the things he would take as he could.

As he was going through the dresser gathering his clothes he came across the garter that Liz wore on their wedding day. It was just after the ceremony, they were in the dance hall. Chico could still hear all the bacholors, and some of the men who weren't hollering garter garter!

Liz sat down on the bar and Chico slowly, and sensually removed the garter from her leg. He let his lean fingers take a little detour that made Liz shiver with anticipation.

When the garter was off Chico swung it around and around on his finger as if to toss it to the crowd of waiting men but instead he pocketed it.

He was still fingering the garter as his mind traveled back to the most beautiful day of their lives.

He was startled from his dreams by the phone.

"Hello?"

"Hello Chico this is Mama Lenora, I was just calling to see how you and my precious new Grandson are doing?" Liz's Mother was calling from Puerto Rico. She too was struggling over the loss of her youngest daughter, perhaps magnified because they were coming home from a visit to see them when the accident occurred. Chico knew that she was trying to be brave for him, but he also realized that the thought of a Grandchild in the family eased their pain.

"Oh we are doing Ok Mama L. Some days are better than others. How are you and Herald doing?"

"Like you we are doing Ok, we take one day at a time. Herald and I were wondering if you would like us to come and help you with anything, you know, maybe we could help you pack up some of her..."

"You know Mama L you and Herald don't need a reason to come and visit. You're welcome anytime. But I'd be lying if I said I thought I could go through her things alone."

"That settles it then, I am going stir crazy here and I just feel like I need to be near my baby's family. May I come?"

"Yes of coarse, but Mama I think you should know I'm giving up our apartment and moving back into my old apartment in the garage. It's just too painful here now. I'm sure you could stay in the apartment while your here though."

"Oh pobrecito I understand you do what you must just take care of yourself and my precious grandson. I will make the travel arrangements and call you later this evening."

"Mama L I think you need the number of the garage uno momento, it's (515)555-4137 I'll be looking forward to seeing you. I have to get back to work though so I'll talk to you later Adios Madre Garcia."

Chico hurried to put some more of his things in the box on top of what he had already gotten for Joey and left to go back to the garage.

"Sorry I'm late Ed. While I was over at the apartment Liz's mother called she wants to come and stay a while."

"That's all well and good Chico but I refuse to give up my bed."

"Don't worry Ed she'll probably stay at the apartment, I don't think they'll rent it out that fast. I'll put this in the other room and get back to work."

Chico and Ed were working when Joey came by the garage looking quite forlorn for the end of a school day.

"Hey Pal, how was your day?"

"Pretty good, San had to stay after he and Thomas got in a fight at recess so I don't got anybody to play with, can I help you guys?"

"Well Chico we've been moved to second place with Joey now, he wants to help us until a better offer comes along."

"Yes Ed, it won't be long till a girl comes a long and we get bumped to third and fourth, I'm third by the way." teased Chico.

"Aw knock it off Papa I ain't interested in no girls." Joey took his book bag into the office and came back into the garage He went over to Chico and asked, "What can I do?"

"Well for starters you better go on and change your clothes."

"Ok, I'll be right back, can you come with me Papa?" Joey asked in a somewhat bashful tone.

"Sure, let's go." Joey started out of the garage and Chico went the other direction.

"Where are you goin Pal? We live here!"

Joey turned and saw where Chico was he ran over to the door of their old place. Chico opened the door and when Joey saw all the boxes that his Dad had moved over here he looked to his Father and. "You mean it, we can live here again?"

"Yep we're home to stay Pal."

"Yippeee! Grandpa you did it, I knew you could talk him into it, thank you!" Joey hugged his Father and then his grandpa before hurrying to change his clothes."

"So you old coot, Joey did tell you he wanted to move back in here. Why didn't you just tell me?" Chico questioned.

"I knew if you thought Joey wanted to move in you would do it in a second, but I know that you needed to decide to do it for yourself, to admit to yourself that you needed to be here as much as Joey."

"Your smarter than you look?" said Chico

"Yeah and your not as smart as you sound now get to work!"

Liz's Mother came and spent a full week in Los Angeles. She took Joey to an amusement park, and swimming. She decided that as long as she was there it would be the best time to sort through Liz's things and see what should go where. Della graciously offered to assist her in this task.

Chico was grateful to both ladies, as that was a job he was not yet ready to tackle and if he were honest with himself he didn't know if he ever would be.

She took the things she thought Leslie, Liz's sister might want, boxed it up and sent it home via UPS the rest she boxed up and sent to the Salvation Army. It was both a sad and happy time as Lenora was reminded of many wonderful memories while she and Della talked and worked, but it brought a healing sense of closure for her as well.

When all that was done, she kissed Joey and Chico good bye and returned to Puerto Rico.

Joey was overjoyed to be back "home" in the garage with both his papa and his grandpa.

While Chico felt better now that they had left the apartment he still struggled to deal with his loss.

He rarely ate and he was still struggling with nightmares so a restful nights sleep was out of the question.

At times Ed thought maybe Chico was returning to his old self, he was talkative and full of good-humored fun and still other times he rarely spoke.

The only time he truly seemed like his old self was when Joey was around.

Chico seldom went anywhere other than to run errands for Ed or to take Joey for ice cream.

At last there came a day when, after many weeks for persuasion on Mando's part, Chico finally relented and agreed to go to the high school basketball game to watch Mando's nephew Thomas play.

Joey had never been to a basketball game before and was beside himself with anticipation at the thought of going along, which is really the reason Chico agreed to go.

The night of the game arrived and San came home with Joey after school. It was to the point where Ed started calling the two of them Pete and Repeat because you rarely saw one of them without the other.

San had been to many games since his older brother Tony played but he was excited just the same.

After a quick pizza supper Chico, Mando and the kids left for the game, and Ed retreated to the comfort of his recliner and Gunsmoke.

'A night of peace and quiet to watch my show.' He thought to himself.

The team had not lost a game yet so they had quite a following so the gymnasium was packed. The little boys sat through the Star Spangled Banner, the team song and introduction of players. It couldn't have been more than 5 or 10 minutes into the game when Santos leaned over and whispered, "Let's go get some candy, I got money."

San and Joey had been doing quite well in the recycling business and they each had a little money besides their allowances to spend. Joey never having been to a game before didn't realize that there was stuff you could buy there and didn't bring his money with.

"I'll get ya something come on."

When they got up to go Chico said, "Where are you two going?"

"We're gonna get some candy, San's got money." Joey answered.

"Well here," Chico handed Joey a couple dollars and the boys took off like a couple of wild rabbits.

After they had gotten their treats San said, "Come on let's look around. I wanna show ya something."

"Shouldn't we go back and sit down?"

"Are you kidding man, nobody but grown ups actually go to the game to watch it, come on."

The boys took off down the hall in the opposite direction of the gymnasium and soon they met up with several of their friends from school.

They raced up and down the halls, had water spitting fights but the most fun of all came when they discovered that someone had left the band room open until after the game when they would return their instruments.

Five little boys were in the band room, trying out the spare drums, plinking away on the piano and in general having a grand old time until the last five minutes of the game when the band director arrived and cut short their fun. He was not amused to see the kids playing with the expensive drum and rough housing with the music stands...

Meanwhile Chico and Mando who had been so engrossed in the game were wondering where the boys had gone off to. They weren't too concerned as they never sat through a basketball game at that age either. It wasn't until the crowd had nearly thinned out and still no boys.

The fathers and/or mothers of the other three boys were searching the halls as well.

After a few minutes the group of parents began panicking. Chico was beside himself, he immediately began assuming the worst that he had lost Liz and now someone had taken his son. He and Mando were headed down another hallway when Chico heard his name. It was Charlie. When he went over to her she said, If your looking for Joey and San they're in the band room, I'll show you where it is. She wheeled down the hall, as they met up with other parents Charlie informed them as well.

When they got to the band room Joey, San and the other boys were in tears, certain that they were all headed for the slammer.

As soon as Joey saw his dad he ran to him followed closely by Santos.

Some of the other parents were given the lowdown about what the boys had been doing and were being taken home.

"Wait till I get you home!" One father yelled, "This is the last basketball game your coming to this year young man!" yelled another, and still another didn't even wait till he got home, he brought his mischievous little boy into Mr. Carson's office and spanked him on the spot. Joey hid his face as he hugged Chico's long legs.

Mr. Carson came over to Chico and Mando and said harshly, "These instruments are expensive and unless you wish to pay for them I suggest you keep your children out of places they do not belong!"

"Jose Martine Rodriquez, I am disappointed in both of you I thought you knew better than to monkey with things that do not belong to you? What do you tell this man?"

"I'm sorry," said Joey.

"I'm sorry too," said Santos.

"Very well, apology excepted, I must tell you I did not see either one of them actually playing with the instruments but they still should not have been in here."

"I agree sir, and if there is any damage I will be glad to pay a share of the repair cost. I am very sorry."

"There doesn't seem to be any damage, THIS TIME." said Mr. Carson in a slightly more subdued tone. With that he left.

Without another word Chico and Mando, each taking a boy by the hand brought them to the car.

They took San home first. Chico walked him to the house to make sure his parents were informed of the night's adventures.

Next Mando dropped off Chico and Joey, nobody said anything the whole way home and when they stopped in front of the garage Joey said a hurried thank you and jumped out of the car.

While Chico was saying goodnight and apologizing to Mando Joey had run into Ed's office and was hiding under the desk in the dark.

Chico assumed that Joey had gone straight to his room and checked there first. When he didn't find him either in there or any of the downstairs bathrooms he went upstairs.

"Joey we are going to talk..." Ed was alone in his place.

"What's going on, where's Joey?" asked Ed when he saw Chico come in alone.

"I thought he was in here with you, he isn't downstairs." admitted Chico, feeling a little silly and a little angrier at having lost the boy twice in one night.

"You didn't leave him at the game did you?"

"Oh sure Ed, I left him there to save us seats for next weeks game. No he and a bunch of other boys got into the band room and were goofing around during the game. I need to find him."

"I'll help you look, he's got to be here somewhere." Ed and Chico went downstairs and began searching. Ed was the one to find the kid and he took him by the arm over to Chico.

"I found him under the desk in the office."

"Come here with me, you and I are going to have a talk!" Chico said sternly. He had calmed down considerably since he and Mando first started looking for the kids but he was still feeling angry and even a bit trembly with fear. He didn't know what he would do if anything ever happened to Joey too.

Taking the boy by the hand he lead him to the work bench. Chico picked him up and set him down on it. He was crying again as he had been in the music room and under the desk a few minutes before.

"I thought you said you were going to get some candy?!"

"We did," sobbed Joey.

"Why didn't you come back then?"

"San said only big people watch the games, kids were s'posed to run around, and he wanted to sh-show me around."

"Well he showed you around alright. What else did you do? You didn't snoop in any other rooms or go in anyone's lockers did you?!"

"N-No sir, we just played in the halls, and had spit fights an..."

"Spit fights! You mean to tell me you were spitting on people?!" Chico could feel his temper rising. Ed was about to intervene when he saw Chico turn away and lean against the back of the sofa. He looked so tired, that Ed just ached for him.

When he had regained his composure Chico came over to where Joey was seated and repeated his question.

"You were actually spitting on people?!!"

"N-Not people just the guys, and we didn't spit spit, it was water.

"Water, spit, lemonade, it doesn't matter spitting is spitting and it's not nice." Chico stood silently looking at Joey for a moment before speaking. "What am I gonna do with you Pal, you know you probably ruined the evening for your Uncle Mando don't you? What do you think we should do?"

"I'm sorry Papa, are ya gonna spank me?" he asked worriedly.

"No I'm not, I promised you I wouldn't and I won't, but you are not going with to the next game IF WE GET ASKED TO ONE AGAIN that is, that's for sure. Now you get in that apartment and get your butt ready for bed and I'll be in a few minutes to tuck you in." Chico directed as he pointed to the apartment.

"Y-Yes sir. Joey was still crying as he ran to his room. When Joey was in the other room, Chico practically collapsed unto the stool beside the workbench. His elbows braced on the bench Chico wearily rested his head in his hands.

"Aye Dios mio Ed I was so scared tonight when Mando and I were running up and down the halls looking for them, I thought someone took them, first Lizzie and now Joey. I was so relieved when Charlie found us and told us where they were. I was so relieved, at first I wanted to hug him and tell him I loved him, then I wanted to do what this other father did and put him over my knee and paddle his behind-that's what Aunt Connie would've done."

"If I know you Chico, I bet she did plenty of both." Ed joked with relief.

"Oh God Ed if anything ever happened to Joey I think I'd die, I don't know what I would do."

"Now Chico don't be thinking like that. All kids wander away from time to time. Don't dwell on the could have's or what if's just be happy you found him, and he's ok."

"Your right Ed. I better go say goodnight to the little rascal."

Whether it was from fatigue or fear Joey was sound asleep when Chico came into say goodnight. As he bent to kiss the boy goodnight he could feel tears drying on his cheeks and though he was sleeping his breath was still coming in sobs.

As he watched his young son sleeping there was a whirl of emotions going through his mind.

He was tired, he was relieved that he was safe, still upset that Joey had been so disrespectful of others property, and more upset with himself as a parent for allowing Joey and his friend to be unsupervised so long in new surroundings (at least on Joey's part anyway) He felt remorse for having been so stern with the little boy. After all as a boy at that age he had gotten into more than his share of troubles. More than anything else though, he felt an intense sadness. How he wished Lizzie were here now to help him tuck their son in bed tonight. 'I miss you Lizzie, why did you leave me...leave us we need you mami.'

Chico woke with a start. It was that dream again that awful memory, why when he dreamed of Liz was it that terrible night when she left them so tragically, so much promise unfulfilled. He looked at the clock 1:30 am, Damn! Another sleepless night. He went to get a drink of water and as quietly as he could he dressed and went to the office. If he was going to lose sleep the least he could do was help get Ed to organize, that office is a mess.

He went to work straightening the files and throwing garbage. He arranged the bills according to their due dates. As he was going through the papers around the desk he came across a note that Liz had left for him on one of her last visits to the garage....

As Chico was pulled reluctantly from his memories he looked at the note.

Chico was still studying the note when Ed came down to open the garage. It was their usual routine to take turns opening for business but since Chico had such trouble sleeping lately Ed thought it would be best to let him sleep in so he was very surprised when he went into the office for his morning shot glass of bourbon and found Chico at the desk staring at a slip of paper.

"Chico? What are you doing up so early?"

"Buenos Dios Ed, I have not been awake that long." Chico hated lying to his friend but he did not want the elderly man to worry over him and he knew Ed would worry if he thought Chico was not sleeping.

"What time did you get up this morning?" Ed questioned suspiciously.

"Before breakfast. Do you want me to go to the Deli and get us some of those breakfast biscuits Ed?"

"My aren't we witty this morning. That sounds fine to me."

"I'll be right back, if Joey wakes up before..."

"I know I know if he wakes up before you get back tell him you'll be right back!" Chico smiled and gave Ed a wave of dismissal and walked to the deli. It was a cool morning and he needed the exercise as well as the wake up.

When Ed returned to the office to replace his shot glass in the cash register he complained to himself, 'That boy has got to start getting a decent nights sleep or I'll never be able to find anything in my office again.'

As he was replacing the shot glass in the cash register he noticed a piece of paper with Liz's name on it lying on the desk. As he read it, he too recalled that day and the memory of the young couple so in love brought tears to his eyes. He carefully replaced the note where he had found it, shut the register and went to take care of the customer that had just arrived.

At the deli Chico got Ed and Joey each a breakfast biscuit some Orange juice for Ed and apple for Joey. As he was picking up the orange juice he smiled as he recalled Joey's comment regarding orange juice.

"Do I gotta drink this it's got hair in it?" He couldn't find anything that looked good to him so he skipped it altogether, he paid for the purchase and headed home.

When he got there he was surprised to see that Joey was still not up. Even on Saturdays Joey was an early riser, many's the time that he was awakened from a sound sleep to find the little boy sitting on his chest, usually a box of Froot Loops in his hand.

"Is Joey still sleeping?" Chico asked as he handed Ed the sandwich and Juice.

"I haven't heard a sound yet this morning, mischief must make him tired. Thanks Chico. Hey where's yours?" he asked when he noticed that Chico had only gotten two breakfast sandwiches, and juice.

"I ate it already, I'm gonna check on Joey be right back." He quickly changed the subject.

Chico entered the apartment quietly in case Joey was still asleep, but he needn't have worried. Just as he opened the door he saw Joey go flying through the air onto the bed and under the covers.

"I just went to the bathroom," came the muffled explanation from beneath the blankets.

"Oh good." When Joey didn't move or answer him he asked.

"Are you going to get up today or sleep till supper?"

"Can I?"

"Can you what, sleep till supper? I guess you can if you want to Pal but it might be kind of boring."

"No Papa, I mean can I get up?"

Now he understood what was going on. He sat on the edge of the bed. "Please sit up and look at me."

Joey sat up but was reluctant to look at his Father immediately.

"Joey look at me por favor." When he complied Chico continued speaking. "I thought we had been through this before, I sent you to bed last night because it was your bed time, yes I was upset with you but I certainly don't expect you to stay here all day."

"Than I can go play??" Joey was jumping out of bed when Chico stopped him.

"Yes you can go play but I still want to talk with you about last night first." Joey stopped jumping and looked at Chico.

"In case there is any broken equipment in the music room I need to know one thing, were you one of the kids playing with the instruments?"

"Yes. I played the piano, and San and I pounded the drums, but we didn't hurt them. I never saw instruments up close before, 'cept your guitar."

"Ok Great now get dressed and go have some breakfast." Chico playfully swatted Joey's bottom as the boy crawled off the bed. "How was your night Pal?"

"Good, and I'm dry too!"

"Loooking goood." He offered his hand to Joey for a high five. Chico returned to work as Joey ate his breakfast. Ed was in the office looking for some order forms when Joey came down to the garage to see if he could help his Dad and Grandpa.

"Can I call San?"

"I suppose."

"Chico where did you put the parts order forms?

"In the file cabinet under O for order forms."

"Well no wonder I can't find em I had them in the desk drawer. I hope you start sleeping again before you drive me over the edge. "No sooner had the words left his mouth than Ed wished he could pull them back in and stomp on his tongue."

After what he had been through Ed knew that any remark about driving would be cruel and he deeply regretted his attempt at humor.

Chico looked sadly at Ed. He knew that Ed had not meant to be hurtful but it brought painful memories to his mind, memories that Chico had been trying desperately to forget.

"I'm going to see if Della has any coffee this morning Ed, do you want some?"

"Just cigarette and blindfold please, then you can put me out of your misery."

"Naw Ed don't talk like that, I love you man, I'll be back in a few."

Though he was trying to cover it up Ed knew that his thoughtless comment had hurt Chico, he would try and be more careful in the future.

Chico was still at Della's when Joey came down from upstairs.

"Morning Grandpa, where's Papa?" Joey sat on the bottom step and as soon as he did Amigo jumped up into his lap and began licking the milk from breakfast off his face.

Ed smiled ever so slightly as he saw how much Joey loved his puppy making him all the more glad that he had gotten it for him.

"He's at Della's getting some coffee."

"San wants to know if I can come over, can I?"

"Do you think you can stay out of trouble?" Ed asked sarcastically as he recalled the incident at the ball game.

"Yeah I'll be good."

"I guess you can. I'll tell Chico and if he says you can't he'll call. Be good and if you go anywhere be sure to tell either his mom and dad or one of us where you're at."

"I will. Thanks Grandpa Ed." Joey hugged Ed." amigo followed Joey out of the garage and Joey put him in the basket of his bike and off they went.

Chico was coming back just in time to see his son pedaling off down the street.

"Where's he going? I got you some coffee to go with your cigarette and blindfold Pop." he joked as he handed Ed a steaming cup of black coffee.

"He's going over to San's, he asked if he could. I wasn't sure if you had grounded him or what so I told him if you wanted him back here that you'd call."

"That's alright Ed, I want Joey to come to you if he needs anything and obey you as he does me, you're his Grandpa Ed after all. I thought I should ground him but at the same time he's been shortchanged on so much in his little life that most people take for granted I hate to add to it, besides he was just curious you know, he's never seen any instruments up close."

"Really? Poor kid, yeah I guess your right Chico and anyway that kid loves and respects you so much that anytime he feels he's upset you he gets more upset about it then you do. All you have to do it seems, is talk to him and everything is fine."

"Yeah he sure is a good kid."

Ed and Chico worked together in companionable silence for a while. Ed was more than a little concerned about Chico's silence. As long as he had known Chico he had never been at a loss for words or a quick retort, the one silver lining would have to be that with the silence there were none of the impressions that he was so fond of doing that drove Ed bonkers.

From time to time Ed would catch Chico yawning or starring off into space this concerned Ed as well because a garage was no place to be day dreaming.

"Chico why don't you go take a little nap you look exhausted."

"No I'm fine really, besides if I sleep during the day I won't be able to sleep at night."

"Well if you don't mind my saying so, I don't think your sleeping at night anyway, and you need your rest if your gonna keep up with that son of yours."

"Ed Man please stop harping at me I'm fine. I'll eat when I'm hungry, and I'll sleep when I'm tired!" Chico threw down the wrench he was using and went to his apartment slamming the door behind him.

Ed went back to work. He decided to give his young friend time to cool off and hopefully rest before speaking to him about his concerns again.

Meanwhile in the apartment Chico sank onto the couch with a moan of as a dull throbbing pain shot through his stomach. He felt bad for the way he had just spoken to Ed after all he had done to help him in the past couple of months...

Chico's thoughts were returned to the present when sudden, sharp pain brought on a wave of nausea that sent Chico rushing to the bathroom.