I cannot make him live in this one. It would spoil the artistry.

Liquid Suffocation

It occurs to Charlie that he is afraid. Liquid suffocation slows his brain, but enough awareness remains to recognize fear. Floating weightless, his vision is faltering; fuzzier than intoxication. Eyes make no distinction between tears and sea. He doesn't worry about the first few seconds without oxygen. He isn't concerned that Desmond's panicked features have distorted. Peace was made with this decision when the water was just a puddle at his feet.

As the benefit of his final breath dissipates within his lungs, Desmond's image is replaced by a far younger face. Charlie's initial calm evaporates as fear makes him wonder whether that innocent face will smile when Charlie's name is mentioned years from now. Will he even be remembered?

A junkie. A kidnapper. A murderer. The islanders could surely use those terms to describe him. Or worse… useless.

The next second provides an eternity for fear to entrench his soul in its unrelenting hold. Another weak heartbeat later, Desmond comes back into view, silently shouting his anguish. And then Charlie knows. This man, who worked so hard to keep him alive, wouldn't let Charlie's sacrifice be tarnished by his past… nor forgotten. And with that understanding, peace returns, creating a momentary buffer to the crushing weight of water.

Desmond will tell them what was done today and prior judgments will be cast aside. He will not lose the unconditional love of the boy. Aaron will grow up knowing Charlie loved him more than his own life.

Fear releases its grip on his heart, allowing a final beat.

Dark. Blessed dark.