White Christmas
December 1975
As he passed the various shops along Kalakaua Avenue, Dan Williams mostly heard different holiday tunes from every store. Mele Kalikimaka in many and varied versions was repeated predominately during his stroll. Jingle Bells – Hawaiian style came in second in his informal poll. Followed by The Twelve Days of Hawaiian Christmas. Only a few times did he hear Christmas Island or Santa Hula. The music was fun and lent to the bright spirits of the holiday on Waikiki. Despite his pressure over the lack-of-gift situation, the carols helped lift his mood.
Stopping at the entrance to International Marketplace he hesitated. Did he really want to enter one of the most crowded spots in Honolulu on the last-chance stop before the big day? This narrow labyrinth of close stores, stalls, restaurants and kiosks was much more hectic than a normal Wednesday evening. What were all these tourists doing shopping on Christmas Eve? Wasn't being here in paradise their present?
Usually he planned in advance for Christmas and Steve's birthday, which were only days apart. Out of necessity - because occasionally he had the chance to spend holidays with Aunt Clara at a moment's notice. More often because urgent duties to quell the criminal element of the Fiftieth State left little or no opportunity for shopping.
Sparse free time made him the target of office jokes. From the lack of fare in his fridge to the limited variety of suits. Habitually, his tight, overtime schedule left scarce leeway to pick up dry cleaning or time for home-prep meals even if he could snatch a moment for food shopping! Being a bachelor and mostly living at/for work placed pleasure at a premium. A date with a wahine or high surf would always win over domestic concerns!
This year, unfortunately, was another occasion when he could not leave to visit his relation. The last few months had turned out more hectic, unexpected stressed and dangerous!
Aunt Clara had really pressured him to come back east this year. She had enjoyed her first visit with him in Hawaii just last month and wanted his holiday with her this time. She was too fatigued to fly out again for Christmas. Yesterday he had phoned his usual florist in New York, who would deliver a nice Christmas bouquet – Dan's go-to relief for absentee presents – and a nice note with sincere apologies. A phone call, again, would have to suffice for their visit.
Originally, Williams had been scheduled to fly to New York, but he just couldn't get away, so Christmas would be here in Honolulu. It was an excuse, he admitted only to himself. Seeing Clara again would be so nice. And getting away from the pressures at Five-0 to ski, to relax - temporarily removed from his gratifying, yet demanding life - had been appealing.
After this year, though, he couldn't do that to Steve. More accurately, he recognized HE did not want to abandon his friend. Steve – the whole staff - had expected him to be absent. He could not bring himself to leave.
Stay near to Steve. That was a present to himself. Remain together because there had been too many close calls and near misses for his peace of mind. No fulfilling his self-appointed duty in an emergency if he was thousands of miles and hours away!
Overprotective? Maybe. Paranoid? Probably. Still, his conscience would not allow him to desert the field at this important time of year. Holidays meant McGarrett would be alone as duty officer if Williams were not here. Or visa versa since they traded turns. Since Steve was on call for Thanksgiving last month, Dan was on call for tomorrow. Just the way they worked. The bachelors allowed the detectives and staff with ohana to have their vacation. That would just not happen this year!
Usually catching the last flight to the mainland on December 24th, Dan had pondered his options for a few days and decided not to leave. The justification to Aunt Clara? He had no choice. Important cases had kept him busy for the last few weeks. Ha! What an understatement!
The justification to Steve? Well, he hadn't broken the surprise to his friend yet. Shirking facing the demanding boss until the last moment. Steve would want to know why. He wouldn't like the truth. Dan just had to stay close.
Why?
The last few months!
Steve's plane crashed, Steve injured.
Wo Fat and spies!
Steve held hostage at Oahu State Prison by Honore Vashon.
Just THIS month! – had been fraught with anguish!
Steve indicted – framed by that creep August Marsh!
Then just last week Dan himself framed – by a real wacko - for murdering an informant!
Thinking it over the second-in-command felt justified about staying. Even about procrastinating shopping! Add to that his limited funds at the end of the month – ongoing reluctance until it was almost too late! So here he was at the last possible minute trying to find gifts for Steve.
At least he had already arranged –pre-paid - a super 'surprise' birthday party for McGarrett! The elaborate bash he felt would cover the lack of a birthday present. Good thing, since that had set back his budget a chunk!
This year – month - the press of work had prevented much advance planning for others. He went on the cheap with gifts for the Kellys, Kokuas and Lukelas – babysitting, swim or surf lessons.
Nothing had been right for Steve - McGarrett deserved something more personal anyway. Now Dan was stuck with no gift for his closest aikane on Christmas Eve.
Glancing in the windows of the shops he decided his dilemma also included the fact that his friend was meticulous about his clothes or art – not that Williams could afford much beyond a tie tack (which Steve never used!).
As Dan paused by a clothing store he ruminated that he really needed to replace a suit that was ruined the week before when he had been in a knock-down-drag-out with a suspect. Well, no new suit this month. He'd have to squeeze it in for January's budget. Maybe he could skimp on eating out? Or go on fewer dates? That would probably be no challenge if the workload they had had at Five-0 this month were any indication.
White Christmas sounded over the loud speakers and he grimaced. Was the Cosmos trying to taunt him with Bing Crosby's lulling voice proclaiming the nostalgia of the season? Several loudly-matchingly-dressed tourist couples laughing, singing along with Bing, joking, jostled him. They reveled that their white Christmas this year were the sands of Waikiki and not Pocatello's cold drifts!
The jolly mood caused him to stop in his tracks. Studying the celebratory crowd around him he brought a halt to his grumpy reflections.
What was he doing complaining about Christmas music! The issue was not Bing Crosby or white snow instead of white sand for December! It was HIM! HE was off-balance!
Maybe he was suffering from some kind of post-trauma? The several threats to Steve recently had rocked him. Not sure his friend would survive the plane crash on the Big Island – that had been pure anguish! McGarrett threatened with death when a hostage of Vashon – yeah – pretty horrible! Williams didn't even think about danger to himself when he jumped into the cell before the SWAT team, to protect his friend.
Then just last week he was framed for murder. Life threatening in a different way! His life ruined! Expelled from Five-0! The only bright spot had been Steve. Never doubting, never questioning, never giving up! Just solid support to extricate Dan from the trap!
For all those reasons he needed to be here this year to share this important holiday with his kaikua'ana - big brother. These few months had shown him his own precious gift – the finest friend ever! This Christmas, and Steve's birthday next week, needed to be super special! Something incredible –extraordinary - to thank his friend for being in his life. For – for everything!
In no mood to fight the other last minute shoppers for nick-of-time presents, he turned and walked away from the stores. Waiting for a light to change so he could get back to his Mustang, he stared across the street at the strip of sand fronting Waikiki beach.
Crowds of people were still enjoying the last of the sunny moments of December 24th. The tourists had laid down big money to come here at lofty holiday rates and were reveling in the vacation of their lives. And this Honolulu native son was grumpy? While these guests of the Aloha State enjoyed a few blissful weeks away from cold, frost-iced eastern winter? No! Surrendering a grim, wry smile of chagrin, he knew he must be the only person on Kalakaua Avenue feeling disappointed with this perfect celebratory-time in Hawaii!
At a nearby store the music changed to White Christmas sung by a well-known Hawaiian band. The original words had been altered to include local phrases and substituting the white sands of the tropical paradise for snow. Smiling, Danny sang along as he studied the beach across the street. When the light changed, he impulsively shifted directions and instead of walking to his Mustang he ambled toward the shore.
Removing his sandals – already dressed in shorts - he sauntered through the squishy sand. The frothy-blue was still warm from the heated rays of sun that had blasted the ivory grains all day. The temperate surf rolled over his feet with snowy foam, tickling his toes. The last of the sunset was just dipping behind the shimmering horizon and the purples and pinks of the distant clouds reflected off the golden waves. It was a magical moment frozen in time and space. This was what millions of people sacrificed to delight in - slaved away all year round at jobs they didn't like and in places they didn't enjoy. All for an enchanting, breathtaking moment on this famous beach.
He had walked, swam, surfed here so many times he couldn't even count them. White Christmas came on again - the Hawaiian version - at the nearest hotel and he chuckled to himself. When he was a kid, on this very beach, he would come here on weekends and school breaks to hustle tourists with swim and surf lessons and homemade shell chokers or bracelets. In those days, he had paid no attention to Bing Crosby or the movie about Christmas in Vermont that everyone thought was the classic picture of winter holidays. He thought white Christmas meant sand and the foam on the shore!
Feeling grateful and humbled, he waited until the sun had disappeared into the mists of twilight before walking back to the Mustang. He still didn't have a present for Steve. Not that Steve expected one. McGarrett knew Williams had no time to shop.
Dan looked forward to surprising his friend with the unexpected change in plans. He eagerly anticipated staying here for Christmas this year – not as a consolation for the tough year, but as a festivity – a reward. Steve and he would work at the Palace. Then end up at Steve's where the talented boss would cook up something - and anything McGarrett made in the kitchen was always a treat. Then over to the Kokua in-laws for a luau. Celebrating with his alive, well, safe closest friend in paradise - what could be better? That was all he asked for this year.
Reaching the sidewalk he nearly collided with a Santa dressed in colorful red and white Hawaiian print surfer jams, red t-shirt and long white beard. Automatically Danny fished in his pocket for some change and tossed it into the red bucket - collections for the local Catholic charity. Not until he was a few paces down the street did he stop and turn to stare at the Santa.
The incongruous St. Nick collecting donations triggered profound memories - of holidays as a boy.
A warm glow spread inside him at the recollections. He used to go downtown to the Catholic Church with his Uncle Jim and other HPD officers and help out every Christmas Eve. He hadn't thought of that in years. Christmas had really meant something before it was all hype and commercialism. In those days they really assisted people. Until he was old enough to drive and date, he corrected with a self-mocking twitch of a grin. He hadn't thought about that kind of stuff in a long time, he sighed, feeling overwhelmingly nostalgic. And he wasn't even that old!
Once on the road he steered the Mustang toward downtown. The marathon-shopping excursion was palatable with the top down in December - how many people could boast about that? Maybe he should just keep driving to the beach farthest away from all this chaos! Tempting. He was avoiding the issue, he reminded himself.
Present. Shop for present. What meager funds were left in his bank account? Checkbook! He totally forgot he had left it in his desk drawer at the office – he'd been balancing the numbers to tabulate the maximum dollars and cents out of his account for the rest of this year.
Making a list checking it twice . . . .
Okay, back to the Palace, then gird for the battle of shopping!
He passed Ala Moana mall, sneering at the traffic and crowds and kept driving. Automatically he cruised into the Palace grounds. Steve's car was gone, but Chin and Duke's LTDs were there.
It was quite a sight to stroll into the office of the state police and see Detective Lukela dressed in a loud Hawaiian shirt and a funny green elf hat. Even more entertaining was Chin's attempt at a Santa outfit. Dan's giggles gave him away and Duke fumbled with his cap while Chin scowled.
"What are you guys up to at the office so late on Christmas Eve?"
"The annual Christmas Eve dinner at the church," Kelly frowned, adjusting the stuffing under his belt.
Williams was feeling left out. "The HPD Catholic kitchen? Why wasn't I invited?"
Duke pushed the hat harder down on his head but it refused to fit properly. "We thought you were leaving."
"Besides, you usually have a date on Christmas Eve when you're here." Chin patted his belly, tried out a few "ho, ho, hos," and studied the youngest member of the team. "You mean you want to come?"
"I don't want to be seen with you guys!" He grinned. "But I'll meet you over there."
With a spring in his step, he chuckled all the way to the Mustang. This was going to be better than any date he could have arranged. He wondered what his other friends from HPD were going to look like. More elves? Maybe some reindeer? Laughing, he was just glad Steve wasn't going to be around to see what some of his detectives looked like in the name of charity. It could give Five-0 a bad reputation.
ANGEL TREE
The church parking lot was filled so Dan stopped at a curb down the block. As he wove his way through volunteers and guests then the inside crowd he was disappointed in seeing so many young people and little keiki in need of meals and aid. Well, it was the Seventies and the generation of free love had turned out a lot of unexpected parents who still dreamed of an easy life in paradise. Hawaii had more than it's fair share of refugees of society. Mingled in with the young crowd were winos and street people. There were a lot of familiar faces - people he had busted - some he had used as informants. It seemed surreal that he was here to help them tonight - to give them food and work alongside them in a different relationship.
He was nearly bowled over as four keiki ran into him offering hugs and yelling Mele Kalikimaka! Chin's youngest four children Win, Joy, twins Amy and Dina! The older kids must be at some fun teen luau. No, he spotted three others - Suzy, David and Tim Kelly helping their mom hang ornaments on a tree. The little twins pulled him over to the tree chattering in excited shouts about the big day tomorrow!
"Danny!" Suzy rushed over and gave him a hug. "How great to see you! Aren't you spending the holiday with your aunt?"
"How could I miss all this?"
"Come and color with us!" the twins urged.
Someone called his name. He turned, delighted to see Ben Kokua with his wife, Sarah, and their children sitting at a table. They waved him over and he was warmed that their fellow officer who had been wounded and retired a year ago had joined the festivities.
While he visited with Ben for a moment before Sarah gathered the keiki and led a rousing version of the Santa Hula.
It's Christmas down Hawaii way
There's Santa in a red canoe
as soon as he gives his toys away he'll do the Santa hula for you
no reindeer not a sleigh in sight, a snowflake hasn't got a chance
down here beneath the coco palms, watch Santa do his Hula dance
he wears red pants and coconut hat
nothing in between because it's cooler like that
a flower lei no pillow at all
it's all him and it's not small
Ben accompanied on the ukulele. Suzy tried to drag Dan to join the dance but he adroitly slipped away to join Mrs. Kelly by the huge tree.
Mai Kelly, the mom of the excitable crew, explained it was an Angel tree. Between Chin, who just arrived, and his exuberant children he learned the story. Every family or individual took one envelope that had the outline of an angel which could be colored and decorated with their name on the back. Then volunteers and other visitors would place a check or cash in the envelope. After dinner the patrons would then go to the outside lanai where supplies would be distributed to the needy.
Peeking out the door Dan was amazed to see Governor and Mrs. Jameson, along with Doctor and Dora Bergman handing out boxes of food and other staples. Numerous other notables from Honolulu government and entertainers from Waikiki shows made for an illustrious line of Santa's Elves! Chin Ho took up his post as Santa giving out wrapped presents to the kids. It was amazing operation! Efficient and heartwarming!
Anxious to do his part he stepped around the corner to the enormous kitchen where he stopped dead in his tracks. Never in his whole life had he expected to see the sight before him. Steve McGarrett, the head of Hawaii Five-0, tie loosened, sleeves rolled up, dishing out gravy for the streaming destitute who passed by his section of the counter! In his usual aggressive nature, Steve was attacking the servings like he did everything else in life – full speed ahead!
Smiling, Dan shouldered his way into the busy kitchen.
"Where's that next pan?" McGarrett barked to no one in particular.
He sounded like he was in his office questioning his staff on some errant report.
Whoever put him on the front lines must have wanted food distribution to be crisply proficient! McGarrett lead by example. No shirking! All personnel on their toes. Keeping up with their demanding captain the workers managed a break-neck pace dishing out the traditional mashed potatoes, turkey, gravy, sweet potato casserole and slice of pumpkin pie!
Dan grabbed a pan of gravy from one of the officers and came up behind his boss. "Here you go."
Turning around with the empty pan to make the exchange with speed and intent, the boss froze.
"Danno!"
Seeing Williams standing there was so incongruous that McGarrett's momentum with the nearly empty gravy tray kept going and it nearly collided with Williams' full pan. At the last second Steve pulled the dish back against his chest. The remaining gravy splashed onto his shirt and tie.
Williams grimaced. McGarrett groaned. When their eyes met over the injurious sauce they both chuckled. Inconceivably, the leader of law enforcement in Hawaii was standing in a soup kitchen with brown grease smeared all over his neat white shirt and expensive silk tie.
Reflexively, Williams quickly tried to shove the full pan onto the counter and it collided with the other dish after all. More sauce spilled and McGarrett and Williams laughed even harder. Chin and Duke had come into the kitchen at some point in the melee and both detectives helped separate the loaded and unloaded dishes. Chin took over ramrodding the food line.
Williams tried to help clean up the grease on McGarrett. When he realized the brown smears were only getting worse he sheepishly frowned.
"This shirt is not going to live to see another Christmas," McGarrett coughed around a chuckle. "What are you doing here? I thought you had some last minute shopping to do? What about Aunt Clara?"
Williams shrugged. "I thought I could spend my time a little better this year."
One of the HPD officers quietly commented that business was backing up and the Five-0 kitchen staff quickly reorganized. Ordering his second-in-command to take over sweet potato distribution, McGarrett ran the serving team like a military commando unit. The needy were rushed through with full dinners in record time.
In the old days he had come out here from a sense of duty to his uncle. While treated as one of the team, he had also been slightly excluded because he was not really a cop.
Tonight was better than the days-gone-by when he was a carefree kid, Dan decided happily. Back then he was still a little too wild and selfish to appreciate the good HPD and other selfless volunteers did for the less fortunate.
This was so profoundly more gratifying. He was with his own team now, and doing something they would all feel good about for a long time. This service wasn't work, they were relaxed, happy. Many were tired from the long day - others yet to go on duty - but the atmosphere was upbeat and light - joking and singing happy Christmas carols. This was one of the best Christmas Eve's he could remember.
Men and women from law enforcement, fire department, government, medical, came together - sacrificed time away from their families - to serve the community and those who were in need was splendid. A lot of these public servants would go home tonight and stay up for hours assembling bikes or toys for the big present exchanges in the morning. Some would go straight over to the station or hospital for duty tonight. In his presence were the most altruistic, caring and generous – the best - of humanity! Right alongside those who were the most in need. And at the top of the list he had to place the commandant of the kitchen – his aikane and kaikua'ana – the man he admired most in the whole world!
In this season of love, generosity and giving, he was happy to contribute his most valuable asset - himself - to something worthwhile. Alongside his friend – where he wanted most to be - whom he was so grateful to have alive and well after their trying year!
When the crowd had vanished clean-up was handled in the same, efficient manner with McGarrett in command and soon the task was finished before midnight. Time had passed quickly in the enjoyable environment of working with friends. On the way to their cars everyone wished the others a Mele Kalikimaka.
McGarrett stopped to speak with his senior detective. "Remember I'm letting you sleep in tomorrow. Don't show up at the Palace till nine in the morning, Danno," he reminded as a wry warning.
Once again here was an opportunity to give of himself and his time as a present. "Steve, since I'm not leaving town it's my rotation to be the official duty officer tomorrow. Why don't you take your boat over to Kauai -"
"No!" was the surprisingly adamant refusal.
The generous offer was not an isolated appeal – entreaty. His second had been after him numerous times this year to get away from the stress of the crime solving business. It had been some tough times lately. McGarrett stubbornly refused each offer, stepping behind the self-imposed barriers that kept most of the world at bay. Five-0 was his life, his career, profession and passion. His everything. Most days he could not let go of work.
No, not his everything.
Five-0 also included the ohana that came with his unit. Ohana meant his closest friend.
He could not abandon his generous officer to be alone on Christmas while he ditched out for a sail! After all, Danno's influence was one reason he HAD his boat, the Pu'uhonua, and that it was fit to put on the water. Despite Williams' teasing, he had helped with the slow restoration progression. He deserved to enjoy the fruits of their labor with a day-off for sailing!
Processing this in micro-seconds, Steve knew the course he needed to take.
Softening, the chief shook his head and offered a low chuckle. "And you man the Palace alone on Christmas? No way, Danno!"
"Consider it my present. Besides, I'll join the ohana luau later."
Shaking his head again he replied with the same negative. "No, but mahalo anyway." A slow smile was the outward sign of a happy idea surfacing. McGarrett grimaced as he pulled the grease-stained clothes away from his skin out and stared at the ruined tie and shirt. "You know, Danno, I think I've had my fill of cooking for this holiday. How about we have a change of plans? After work tomorrow we'll head over to the marina. We'll sail over to Turtle Bay for dinner. Let someone else do the cooking."
"Great," Williams readily agreed. "But I'm on call – "
"We'll have a radio."
Better than Dan had expected! "You're the boss! You don't have to ask me twice."
"I'll pick you up in the morning. Late." McGarrett waved and walked to his car. He stopped, leaning on the roof of the Mercury. "Danno, glad you made it over here. Mele Kalikimaka."
"Mele Kalikimaka, Steve."
ALA MOANA MALL
Williams sat in his sports car for several moments, thinking. He still needed a present. Stores would be open late. He still had a few minutes. As he pondered he watched the volunteers on the lanai handing out the final packages to the last of the patrons. The Church accepted donations. Dan had forgotten to put a check into an envelope . . . Yeah! Donation!
Leaping from the car he dashed over to the church. He snatched two envelopes from the Angel tree. Quickly scribbling out two checks – on one writing his own name, on the second name - he placed them in the envelopes and rushed out, handing them to Doc Bergman to put into the fund.
Running back to his car he gunned the Mustang to life and raced away, the wind flowing along his skin and hair in a temperate brush. When he turned the corner he hustled to the top speed possible in the nearly deserted downtown area of Honolulu. He was racing to Ala Moana Mall before it closed at midnight (a necessary concession to all the last minute shoppers like him).
As the warm, sea-kissed wind swept against his face he smiled, then laughed! His friend would not know until a thank you receipt arrived that there was a donation in his name! Dan had emptied his checkbook but it was worth it! With only the cash left in his pocket to his name until payday he knew exactly where to stop for one other present!
Feeling pretty devil-may-care he didn't worry that he would eat whatever he had in his kitchen - cheese and crackers or PB&J he thought! The usual staples only until next week. He could always pop over for day-after-Christmas-luau at the Kulani's for leftovers. They always made him take home loads of kaukau! Yeah, it was turning out to be a great Christmas! Giving was so much more satisfying – and fun - than receiving – or food!
PAIKO LAGOON
Christmas day was memorable, but not in the aspect Williams had expected. A storm brewing off shore moved, showering the city. The good news – criminals took the day off! No major cases popped up. Able to finish year-end paperwork a week ahead, connect some dots on two pending investigations, McGarrett called work all pau by early afternoon.
"I promised you a sail," he told his younger officer. "I'll drop you off so you can change. I'll pick you up in an hour."
"You're optimistic," Dan thought, gazing out the open lanai doors of Steve's office. The rain was really rain, not the typical liquid sunshine of the Islands. "It IS December. Heavy storm today as a present." Disappointed, Dan watched the distant, dark clouds bunched on the horizon that refused to budge. It was clearing in the city, but Windward looked tempestuous. "It was a nice thought, Steve. I guess we'll just go over to the Kokua luau after all, huh?"
The Five-0 ohana luau this year sponsored by Ben Kokua and in-laws, was in the plan for the evening. They could just go over early to enjoy the festive company and food.
"We'll see," was McGarrett's cryptically sly reply. "Come on."
By the time Steve turned up on his doorstep in a bright red and white aloha shirt, white swim trunks and deck shoes, Dan knew the sail was back on despite the weather.
He gestured to his own Aloha shirt, trousers and shoes. "One of us in underdressed and the other overdressed, boss."
"Yeah, there's been a slight change of plans," was the cryptic reply. "Get your trunks. And a towel."
The younger officer admitted he wore his trunks under his jeans already – always prepared for a swim. He disappeared into the bedroom, returning moments later donning a t-shirt and sandals. He carried a beach bag with a hastily thrown-in towel dangling over the side.
"I'm game. Whatever you have in store, Steve."
To Dan's surprise they indeed ended up at Ala Wai Yacht Harbor. Better, the sun was shimmering on the wet dock. A tropic wind had pushed the dark clouds against the mountains.
They set sail and rounded Diamond Head, past Kahala, heading Koko Head. They traced a line up the coast until they veered into Maunalua Bay by Aina Haina in the shadow of Koko Head crater.
Steve had recently purchased water's-edge property – which included a house and beach cottage – near Kawaikui Beach Park. Just up the coast from Waikiki and Kahala, yet removed enough from the city hustle - a true piece of paradise.
Reasoning for buying a beach house in this area had never been truly defined. Williams suspected the association with Steve's suspension a while ago and the laid-back comfort of living right on-shore had impelled the boss to find a pu'uhonua. A place of refuge. Steve certainly had the assets! With his Navy pension, reserve status and healthy income as chief of the state police (he didn't claim dependents or a personal vehicle!), he could afford his luxury Waikiki condo AND this slice of Bali-Hai.
"We're heading for your beach house!" Dan exclaimed with delight. "The crew finish the renovations?"
"Not yet," the boss replied. "So we have an alternate destination."
As they sailed past the familiar neighborhood Dan was intrigued. Leaning on the cabin next to the captain guiding the boat, the younger detective assessed the clues. The persistent winter storm still hovered tenaciously farther north by Makapuu. So they were not sailing far enough to hit bad weather. They had just passed McGarrett's property.
When they altered tack to slip into Paiko Lagoon, Dan didn't understand, but reasoned their destination. "Doc's place."
An even more enviable on-shore property than McGarrett's! Doc and Dora Bergman owned a lovely house nestled in the picturesque lagoon in the shadow of Koko Head. A few years back when the Vashon mob had framed Steve, Bergman allowed the suspended chief to camp out at his amazing hideaway.
The inlet was deep enough to allow the Pu'uhonua to dock at the quay jutting behind the house.
"Doc and Dora went with the Jameson's to Hilo for the week," McGarrett reminded. "I knew the place would be empty."
"Right. And Chin's and Duke's ohana are expecting us at the Kokua ohana luau." The top two bachelor detectives always attended, even briefly, the group ho'olaulea.
"Yeah, works out perfectly since we're almost in the neighborhood."
The Bergman's location was a frequent site for gatherings. As part of the Five-0 ohana, the ME and his wife issued open invitations to all of the staff to enjoy the property even if the owners were not home. Against the security advice of the head of the state police, a spare key was left under a loose board on the back deck.
Unloading the ice chest and towel-bags, the officers set up the lanai furniture for a buffet.
"Nice setting, Steve. Just for Christmas sandwiches," Dan quipped.
Smiling like the Cheshire cat, McGarrett contradicted his friend's glum doubts. "Fortunately, I planned ahead." He opened the sizable ice chest and started handing out cold plates and bowls. "I couldn't sleep in to save my life this morning, so I cooked up a little something."
Williams was beyond impressed! His mouth was watering over the great looking cold turkey slices, cranberry dressing and potato/macaroni salad. His eyes widened with delight. "Is that a Hula Pie?" He examined it. "Crushed Mac nut crust, chocolate Mac nut ice cream, topped with whipped cream! "
"Yeah, I know you're addicted to it."
With a spurt of laughter Dan reluctantly agreed. "I'm addicted to Duke's Hula pie." The famous Waikiki eatery had cornered the quality-Hula-pie market.
Frowning, the older officer shot back, "Don't you think I can make a Hula Pie as good as Duke's?"
Smirking, Williams returned wryly, "You're Steve McGarrett chief of Hawaii Five-0. You can do anything!"
"All right, no need for flattery," he chided, giving his friend a shove. "Consider the meal part of your Christmas present."
"Accepted! You did all this cause you couldn't sleep?" Dan wondered skeptically. "I was feeling disappointed to miss dinner at Turtle Bay. A McGarrett holiday meal is even better!"
McGarrett's eyes twinkled. "I happened to hear the weather report while I was up. Morning showers. Afternoon downpours Windward. I knew we couldn't get too far north, but I promised us a holiday sail and meal."
Laughing, Dan admitted he had almost been taken in that this was another example of his friend's incredible sixth sense. At any rate, it didn't matter. The day was one of the best Christmases he could remember. Not only a near-gourmet meal, but a swim in the temperate water. Then kicking back, sipping a beer in the warm, fading rays of the Hawaiian sun.
Growing up Dan had experienced huge Christmas luaus with the Kulani clan. In college, in the Coast Guard, and later, he traveled the far points of the world. Being gregarious, he always liked big luaus and parties, but he really appreciated the quiet splendor of this holiday.
After their excellent meal they walked down the beach and watched some local kids play in the surf. Returning, McGarrett leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes, reveling in the peace, giving his aching knee a rest. He would not admit it to anyone, but he was still had joint sensitivity from that plane crash on the Big Island a few months back.
In a while they would head over to the Kokua luau. Now he would just take some rare time to relax. His friend often cited his sixth-sense. It was a handy talent for deduction. Early this morning when he strategized about this gift from his friend – Christmas unexpectedly together – Steve felt he had a few gifts he could offer – an excellent meal and a relaxing sail to a secure harbor as rewards. For a day, removed from the dangers of their profession.
Safe harbor. Few of those in his life. That he was alive to enjoy this holiday was thanks to his protective and devoted friend.
Pu'uhonua. Refuge. Too-seldom sanctuary. There was no one in his life whom he would rather share these treasured moments.
Williams had worked alongside him to rebuild this Pu'uhonua to be sea-worthy. Labored diligently every day to be the best detective, the most ardent defender and loyal kai'kaina – younger brother - possible. They both deserved this respite.
In a whimsical mood, Dan started molding wet sand into random shapes. Every once in a while he glanced at the swaying palms lining the white sand, feeling the fresh ocean breeze his face. Life could not get better.
"This is really great, Steve. Mahalo."
"You're more than welcome, aikane." He paused, looking out at the gently lapping waves at their feet. Quietly, he confessed, "I needed this. As you know we've had a rough year."
"Yeah. Especially when you were held hostage by that slime Honore Vashon at the prison."
He hadn't meant to let that slip, but that grueling crisis was never far from his fearful thoughts. The horrifying incident of only a few months ago still haunted Dan. The inmates demanded and received McGarrett in exchange for hostages. Not for the first time, his boss sacrificed himself to save others. This time, though, there was a plan. Which failed. So Dan was first man in with the SWAT team for the assault. Safeguarding Steve at least at the end of the drama. Fulfilling his role of protector, when possible, the younger man still felt raw over the debacle. So easily Steve could have been killed!
Dan breathed in a deep lungful of briny, clean air. They were here on this perfect beach in perfect paradise celebrating Christmas! Life was great!
The prison hostage drama-gone-so-wrong had been hovering at the edges of Steve's thoughts this month. It was as if Danno was reading his mind! Not unusual. Like the dark storm clouds hovering on the horizon, the peril of their profession was ever close.
Not today. For this insular, stolen afternoon, they were at their pu'uhonua.
Calm. At peace.
So few moments Steve allowed himself this kind of respite. The perfect view of placid ocean, dancing palms across the lagoon, a mottled sky of dark squally veils and patches of sun, were postcard flawlessness. A metaphor? Yes, his life was amazing. Exactly how he wanted. The bleak tempests – yes, they skittered on the horizon all too frequently. Temporarily obscuring the sun and blue sky, but always clearing.
Rainbow after the rain.
So easy to take for granted.
Turning to glance at Williams, he felt the weight of the metaphor sink a bit deeper in intensity and meaning. Too easy to take his closest friend for granted.
As demonstrated today, Danno had sacrificed time off with Aunt Clara to stay here. The reasoning was transparent. Steve did not have to ask or even deduce. His aikane was feeling the tremors of the tough last months. So was Steve! From his still sensitive knee from the plane crash on the Big Island, to the real fear of being executed by felons in the prison last month.
Another trauma he did not mention, but still weighed on his heart was last week when Danno had been framed for murder! He didn't want to visit the possibilities of failing to clear his friend. And when Danno faced that lunatic . . . . he still tremored at the recollection!
The prison debacle. Offering himself as a hostage – over Danno's usual strenuous objections. As always, his aikane vigorously tried to protect him and Steve would have none of it. He flinched at the memory still vivid – obviously – to his younger officer. Escape trick foiled. McGarrett amid prisoners who hated him and wanted to murder him. Then the rescue. Who was the first one into the viper pit ahead of SWAT - handing Steve a mask and shielding him?
Danno, of course. So easy to take for granted because he was always there beside him.
"The situation with Vashon triggered some need," Steve reflectively revealed. Although it was difficult, he forced through a confession. "Aside from wanting to get away on the boat. I told you I bought my place in Aina Haina to have a peaceful retreat."
"Pu'uhonua."
Steve stared at his friend, appreciating that this officer-turned colleague-turned-closest friend knew him so well. "Exactly. Refuge. I had been pondering the investment. Then so much happened these past months . . . . "
"Too much," Williams agreed heartily.
Clapping a hand on his friend's shoulder, he squeezed tight. "And you've been with me every step of the way, Danno. I probably couldn't ask – I never need to because you're always there for me. And I've needed to lean on you – more than you know. Mahalo can't cover how much I appreciate you."
Warmed by the rare reveal, Dan returned with honesty. "Nowhere I'd rather be, Steve. Except maybe next year not so dangerous."
"From your mouth to God's ear," McGarrett agreed, patting his friend on the back.
After a moment to clear away the sentiment, he indicated storm clouds were drifting closer as dusk approached.
"Time to pack the gear," he briskly declared, "Now, one more item on our schedule before we head over to the luau."
"We had a schedule?" Dan joked. "Right. One more thing before we leave." He grabbed his beach bag and pulled out a thin, wrapped present. "Mele Kalikimaka, Steve."
McGarrett stopped rummaging in the box of supplies he had brought, surprised. "I thought you didn't have time -"
"You know I'm an expert at last-minute. Ala Moana was open till midnight," he grinned, delighted he had surprised his friend. That wasn't easy with Steve.
McGarrett drew a small package that was neatly covered in bright Christmas paper. "Merry Christmas, Danno."
Dan was more interested in Steve's reaction to his present than he was with opening his own. He nearly held his breath as the box top came off and Steve laughed as he unfolded the white shirt and bold Hawaiian print tie.
"You needed a replacement after last night," Dan confessed.
"I did. Mahalo. You remembered how I hate shopping for ties. Nice colors, Danno. Good job." He gestured to the box in Williams' hands. "Aren't you going to open yours?"
Dan did as he was bid and grinned when he saw a tie tack holding a gift certificate for a men's store at the mall. Now he could replace that suit he had lost last week! As usual, Steve knew just the right thing to do. "You ARE the best detective, Steve. Mahalo."
With a gleam in his eye McGarrett told him, "By the way, Father McCabe called today and thanked me for my two donations last night. I only made one!"
Striving for innocence, Dan shrugged. "Must have had a Santa's helper."
"My amakua? Guardian angel maybe?" he knowingly specified.
Acknowledging the compliment, he gave a nod. "Maybe."
Last night Dan had gone to bed late, exhausted, but gratified he had done something good at the shelter. And generously donating in Steve's name. Now he was appreciating - even more than he had in his youth - the natural magnificence of his island heaven. He didn't need any Christmas presents - evidence of his blessed life surrounding him on this glorious Christmas afternoon. What more could he ask? Living in the best place in the world, indulging in good food, enjoying time off with his best friend - this was his kind of white Christmas in paradise.
Grouping ice chest and bags on the sand ready to load in the boat, Williams found himself quietly whisper-singing – because his voice wasn't good enough to allow anyone – especially Steve – to hear him!
"I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
just like the ones I used to know
where the white sand glistens
and keiki listen
to hear Santa in the surf . . . ."
Observing his friend's sand creation, McGarrett wondered, "Is that a snowman?"
"A sandman," he corrected with a smirk.
Steve laughed. "And may all your Christmases be white," he quoted with amusement.
"Yeah," Dan agreed as he turned away from the fat, snowman-like sand sculpture on the warm beach. "White Christmas. Just how I like it."
MELE KALIKIMAKA