Destiny Made Us Brothers
There is a destiny which makes us brothers. None goes his way alone. All that we send into the lives of others comes back into our own.
Edwin Markham
Christmas Eve 1971
I
SANTA'S HELPER WITH A BADGE
Stamping his feet in place, as he impatiently waited for the streetlight to change, Steve McGarrett glanced at the glistening ocean to his left, smiling at the sheer beauty of the moment: the silvery sunrays glittering off the sea, the fragrant gardenias blooming in the yard to the side. Even the morning traffic on this busy highway did not disturb his pleasant perusal. Paradise in its pristine loveliness in the center of this tourist mecca. It was enough to jolt him temporarily from the usually dominating mental-press of his job.
Finding jogging an invigorating necessity to his intellectual and physical health - not just exercise - the three-or-four-times-a-week morning ritual aided in sorting plans in his head.
The light switched to green and he continued his cool-down stroll to his apartment.
There was every reason to be optimistic today. Usual stress at work, but manageable. Today was the final obligations for a foreign VIP delegation. State Department was handling most of the heavy-lifting on that front. For once, that pleased McGarrett. Usually one to wrestle control away from Fed invading his islands, he allowed the complex red-tape of this tour to rest with politicians. Five-0 only supported local police protection. With his staff not at full strength it was a blessing to fulfil a lesser role.
His two officers recovering from injuries in the line of duty were just that – on the mend. Things could have been so much worse – instantly he made a mental course correction. They were fine.
Danno was well, was where his thoughts automatically popped. A twinge of discord brought a twitch of irritation at the corner of his lips. Weeks ago it had been a dark time. Past, he harshly reminded! In the past!
Kono – light duty until the end of the week. Danno – back on the job.
Temporarily disturbed from his positive vein, he shifted back quickly. The McGarrett universe was on track.
More joys to come! He had only a few weeks before he moved to a new home – an expansive, corner-condo on the Ala Wai Canal. It was a perfect place for painting – huge windows for plenty of natural light and a spare room to keep his equipment. Four of his own paintings would decorate the walls.
He should have many more rich landscapes painted, of course; inspired from living in the natural splendor of Eden, the fertile beauty of the islands. The perfection enticed him, but never enough to divert attention from work for very long. The condo, though, was a start. Another element of growth in his life.
Steve had not taken note of advancing, forward motion until the last several years. The shift had been so measured it didn't warrant attention for months. An alteration in the staffing at Five-0 had transformed the balance and, unexpectedly, into his personal life, too. The new camaraderie, soon a new location, made the improved routine not just stimulating, but eagerly anticipated.
A team player when necessary, McGarrett's nature was habitually one of solitary pursuits; spy, detective, guitarist, painter. A few years ago his habits began to evolve in a new direction; slowly, gradually, with little conscious attention or realization, he became absorbed into a larger entity. Not only the leader of a squad – more – integrated into the unit of detectives. Then beyond. Included into a friendship - considered part of an ohana - his office family. The big kahuna of Five-0 since Fifty-nine, he never came to an appreciation of the personal benefits of such associations, until his newest detective came aboard.
Aware of the smile on his face, he masked the outward display, yet the enjoyable reflections remained. Danny Williams' arrival into his sphere – first in an undercover assignment with HPD - had changed the mood, the relationships, the boss, in affirmative directions. There was a true brotherhood within the organization now, engendered from the fresh trust and loyalty displayed by the top officers.
The tough, aloof McGarrett had instantly felt impressed by young Officer Williams. His perennial 'kid' appearance had set him on a whirlwind undercover gig from street punk to the inner court of Honolulu's leading gangsters and into a Five-0 case. Williams' tenacious daring and passion to gather evidence moved him into jeopardy.
Feeling protective and inspired by the young man whom he dubbed with the personal and affectionate nickname of 'Danno', McGarrett oversaw the officer's future. Steve recommended Williams to detective grade. Then borrowed him from HPD whenever possible. It wasn't long before he recruited Williams into Five-0, then eventually elevated him to second-in-command.
The dedication, the commitment, the tireless energy for their cause of enforcement and law threw the two seemingly opposite men together. Bachelors, driven by the tireless quest for justice, their working relationship became a united endeavor right from the onset.
Steve smiled just thinking about how determined Danno was to be more than expected, to fulfill every command. It was pleasing, and humbling, to have a protégé who was so devoted. Not just to the job, but to him personally! At the start there had been an element of hero worship from the young cop toward the exacting boss of Five-0. Which benefited the success of the unit. Through the tough day-to-day labor of police work the adulation had shifted and altered to more realistic admiration and respect. To something more treasured and priceless. Friendship!
A few years ago, the slowly building relationship embarked in a new direction when McGarrett's young nephew died. Separated from his sister and her husband by an ocean and a personality distance, Steve had leaned emotionally - not from duty, but from personal need - on his closest friend. That severe experience changed perceptions for Steve, teaching him the comfort and understanding, the solace and peace, combined within a friendship.
The lessons had intensified, taught in new angles through more experiences - mostly stressful and painful - for both the officers. Steve's attack and near death at the hands of an assassin had placed his beloved Five-0 into Williams' hands. The young detective had performed brilliantly, catching the criminal before the man murdered the Attorney General of Hawaii.
New experiences for McGarrett - sharing, trusting, letting go, and in those growth acts, receiving an unconditional abundance of loyalty, trust and comfort. Fresh concepts for a loner, yet lessons easily accepted with the amazing friend he had gained.
Pacing quickly up the stairs of his apartment building, the smile returned as he pondered the touching warmth he felt within the amazing gift he had discovered. Never thinking he needed one, having a little brother now, kaikaina as the Hawaiian's said, was priceless. Not brothers by birth, but more significantly, brothers by destiny.
Walking the hall to his door, he noted most of his neighbors had colorful Christmas wreaths on their front doors. Christmas. Not a holiday he normally looked forward to, but found now the idea was pleasing. Traditional gift-giving. This year, he was going to make a difference. Something special for Danno, who could use the lift after this grueling year.
Danno would be here in Honolulu and was not spending the holiday with his mainland aunt. Then the occasion would call for something beyond the usual Christmas Eve wish of a Merry Christmas and a gift certificate. What? It was December Twenty-fourth! Late to be shopping for a gift! Well, it had been a rough few months . . . .
Friend. The word echoed in his mind. Wasn't he the big brother now? Shouldn't there be some kind of present reflecting such an important bond? He should make plans for Christmas Day, he supposed. Chin would have the day off. Kono off. He and Danno holding the fort, as usual. Well, he would figure it out. The important thing was this year his friend needed him and he was going to be there for Danno.
The view of the morning sun sparkling on the moana like prancing diamonds diverted Danny Williams. The driveway to the shopping center was suddenly on his right and he slowed to swing the LTD into the commercial area. ALOHA HARBOR CENTER was a new two-story plaza near Aloha Tower. In keeping with the high rent district the distinct and unique shops were known for esoteric merchandise and steep prices. Indicative by valet parking only! in a huge underground parking structure.
Following his mentor's example he pulled up to a red curb and threw a nonchalant wave to the attendant. He had been here once on a night out. It had been a mistake to go with her suggestion as a first date experience. One of the eateries was an Asian/ Hawaiian spot with excellent food and steep cost. The stores each had individual themes and merchandize with matching price tags! Nautical, gourmet, candy, elegant furnishings, native art were some of the shops. Esoteric samplings for the discerning and rich consumer.
Gazing at the layout of the area he recalled the most pertinent points of the mall not as a customer but as a security expert. Spotting some familiar faces he walked over to join Sergeant Duke Lukela and HPD detectives Kokua and Tanaka.
Still early morning, most of the shops were opening for the last-minute, December Twenty-fourth rush. Two restaurants that served breakfast and a bakery had a brisk business. Dan had expected less of a crowd on Christmas Eve, but apparently the Season brought out those who reveled in the holiday as well as the ell-to-do procrastinators. Santa was already gearing up and there were a few children hovering for his attention.
"Why does Mrs. Jameson want to bring the Minister's party here?" Lukela wondered with a notable lack of Christmas cheer.
Restraining from criticizing the decisions of superiors, or a woman he respected, Dan just shook his head. "It's a classy place. Just check the prices!" was his sardonic crack.
Detective Kokua opined that women loved this kind of mall. His wife had dragged him here a few times. Fortunately, since they had little kids they could not afford to come anymore.
"I like it!" Tanaka revealed. "But I can only fit in lunch here once a month."
Minister and Mrs. Subak of Jukta were being given the royal treatment by Hawaiian and State Department officials. Jukta's newly elected democratic government was a fledgling nation vying for support from the US. Radical Communists wanted to halt any negotiations. It had been Five-0's job the last four days to protect the foreign representatives. Today marked the finish of the visit with a shopping spree. Then the Feds would see them safely to the airport.
The three officers toured the ground-level shops first. As they professionally assessed where Lukela would place officers, Dan couldn't help but admire the fine merchandize. At the nautical shop he paused over several items he thought would be appreciated by Steve. He had no present for his friend yet. He wouldn't, either, if he shopped here! Prices were just too astronomical!
The delicious aroma of baking sweets drew him to the next store. When he entered the bakery fresh-baked malasadas and other treats smelled luscious! A jolly, pudgy Asian – just the kind of baker you'd hope for (who would trust a skinny baker?) greeted him with a friendly Mele Kalikimaka. Surrounding him were businessmen, wives, mothers with little children in tow, a few city workers in their overalls, a mechanic, and two HPD officers just leaving.
It might always be this crowded, but the day before Christmas made it extra populated. Countless office parties would be stocking up all day with the delectable pastries. Kokua joined him, wishing they had time to buy some Hawaiian bread pudding or malasadas. Reminding they were there checking out the security, Dan reluctantly led the way outside.
Owners and staff were run through background checks two weeks ago when the political tour had been sprung on Five-0. Now it was the final physical perused for any last minute surprises.
Santa and his helper Mrs. Claus set up in a grass shack with the crystal-blue ocean behind them. Visiting the excited kids, no one seemed to mind the couple from the North Pole were dressed in shorts, Aloha shirts and flower leis! Santa Hula played on the speakers.
It's Christmas down Hawaii way, here's Santa in a red canoe.
Soon as he gives his toys away he'll do the Santa hula for you.
No reindeer no 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 a 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
Christmas down Hawaii way, the temperature is 72
Christmas where it's bright and gay and Santa does the hula for you.
Too kitschy for his taste. Dan liked Ventures, Beach Boys or other more rock-like tunes. His adopted ohana, the Kulanis, always made their own Hawaiian music for holidays. However, Tutu Kulani had a soft spot for anything by Frank Sinatra or Bing Crosby when it came to Christmas tunes.
As the officers walked they discussed vulnerable points for security. Public merchant centers like this were nightmares for protecting an asset. Peril could come in from any direction. Without or within.
"There aren't enough of us to cover this territory," Ben Kokua observed as they paused at steps leading upstairs.
They walked the rear service corridor of the mall, then back around. In discussion were driveways, valet parking, and numerous other complications. Did the threat warrant snipers on roofs? What about a designated area for the press? Backed against Aloha Tower there was not a lot of extra room. Add to that the elevated number of last-minute-shoppers and the idea of keeping the VIPs safe here became dreadful!
"Orders are orders," Lukela reminded.
"Yeah, I'd hate to disappoint the Jamesons, too."
Starting out in Five-0 as a young officer, his appointment had been met with disapproval by Governor Jameson and the Attorney General Stuart. Too young, they thought! Fortunately, McGarrett demanded Williams be accepted onto the team!
Last year, unexpectedly, Dan had been received into Mrs. Jameson's inner circle. Mary Jameson and some friends maneuvered him into meeting and dating a beautiful socialite, Jane. He loved Jane. Not with a let's-get-married depth, but loved her as a caring and fun companion. Jane's murder had rocked him. The tragedy yet made him sad. It also put his relationship with the Jamesons more distanced. Still, he would do all he could to help them as an officer and friend.
That dark time had been tough to get through. A lot of the credit had to go to his friend, Steve. Backing him in the investigation, supporting him with companionship or silence. Mostly, just being there. That's what kaikua'ana – big brothers - were there for – to have your back. Always. In that aspect, as in so many others, Steve was the best!
Dan venerated and treasured McGarrett on so many levels! At first in an awed respect because he was the big kahuna of law enforcement for the Pacific! Integrity, honesty, tough and tenacious were synonyms of the great cop! When Williams joined Five-0 he found the boss also had flaws and failings. Those made Steve real and more admirable because he was all those sterling aspects, plus Human!
When Jane died, Steve's compassion and support were a rock that helped him through the tragedy. Perhaps even more, though had been the silent support offered by his friend. On December Seventh, the thirtieth anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, Dan had slipped away for his private and personal remembrance for his parents, who were killed that day. Somehow, Steve had divined where he was and why he grew melancholy in December. Supportive with a brotherly strength that was beyond words.
Maybe he should go back to that nautical shop after work. Steve deserved an exceptional gift! Even if it emptied Dan's piggy bank!
Two little Japanese kids ran past him, barely missing his toes! The harried mom scurried by offering apologies as she caught them at Santa's Grass Shack.
The Christmas spirit seemed vibrant in the dazzling tropical sunshine. So much energy. Even though it was tarnished, in his opinion, by the plastic materialism, Dan still felt buoyant. Happy shoppers. Happy little kids. Upbeat music.
It was turning into a marvelous morning. Warm sun baked his skin as he surveyed the growing crowd. More stores were opening. The line for Santa was growing. The customers for the bakery were now in a queue out the door. The luscious scent of sweet bread made Williams' stomach flip. Yeah, he was bringing treats back to the office!
The four officers walked upstairs to the second level amid strains of Christmas Island. Dan paused to check out the effervescent ocean. Nearby stood historic Aloha Tower. The dark mountain of Diamond Head and glittering hotels in Waikiki provided a background. The overhead cloudy-blue was brilliant.
How'd you like to spend Christmas on Christmas Island.
How'd you like to spend the holiday away across the sea?
How'd you like to spend Christmas on Christmas Island?
How'd you to like to hang a stocking on a great big coconut tree?
How'd you like to stay up late like the Islanders do?
Wait for Santa to sail in with your presents on a canoe.
If you ever spend Christmas on Christmas Island
You will never stray for everyday Christmas dreams come true.
Truly paradise! What a place to enjoy a balmy, warm Christmas! Even Ben was getting into the spirit and singing along. His voice was pretty good!
Singer! "Hey, Ben, you married into Waikiki entertainers." A brilliant idea just hit him!
"Yeah. Remember, I invited you guys for New Year's Eve at the Surfrider."
"Right, right. So what do you think they'll be doing on December Thirtieth? And how much would it cost to bring just a few of the band – and a couple of hula dancers over to the Palace –"
"Sounds like a bad idea to me," Duke warned. At Kokua's confused expression he explained, "Danny is planning a surprise birthday party for Steve."
A bit deflated that his enthusiastic plot was squashed, he countered, "I like it." To Ben, he said, "Steve surprised ME with a hula dancer on my birthday. I think turnaround is fair."
Lukela shook his head again in silent disapproval.
Tanaka wondered, "Steve hates surprises, doesn't he?"
Changing the touchy subject, Duke reminded they needed to finish their task.
It was time for Dan to wind this up and get back to the Palace to report for the final security prep briefing. First, malasadas. Even at these prices. Skipping downstairs he paused at the nautical store. One last look at the clock in the shape of a ship's wheel - imagining how it would look on Steve's desk. Shaking his head he strolled back toward the bakery.
Uncertain what triggered his heightened sense of awareness, Danny Williams relaxed the muscles that had suddenly tensed as he surveyed the crowd. There behind him in the reflection of the glass. Two men observing the officers too closely. The pair were – maybe Malaysian? - short, swarthy, wiry and tense. They held themselves like professionals. One started trailing after the HPD men.
"Duke!"
The three officers turned. As did the two suspects. A split-second of trading a 'look' confirmed the groups took the measure of each other. The suspect following the officers reached behind his back.
Already in motion and drawing his .38, Williams jumped onto the hood of a little sports car blocking the drive, then leaped into the street to divert the nearest man. The suspect had drawn a pistol and aimed it at the Five-0 officers. An echoed report to his right indicated his colleagues were firing.
He had no clear shot at the second man. Too many civilians. His revolver in hand, he skidded over the trunk of a sedan and launched toward the fleeing suspect. Barely catching feet, the adroit runner kicked free, sending them both into the open door of the bakery!
Shouts, toppled customers and shrieking children resounded around him. Williams managed to holster his weapon and tenaciously cling to the man's ankles! He didn't dare fire a weapon in this crowd! After several kicks to his neck and shoulders – protecting his face – someone started hitting both lawman and bad guy with baking pans!
Slipping away, the little ferret-man skittered out the door with the detective scrambling after! Just behind, Dan saw the criminal was pulling a weapon from his back. Running straight toward Santa and a line of kids! Jolting into top speed, Dan tackled the man at an angle so he would veer away from the youngsters.
The impetus sent both pursuer and fleeing offender smack into the side of a car, bouncing Williams flat on the pavement. The cat-like foe leaped down the nearby stairs leading to the underground parking structure.
When Ben arrived Dan waved him on in pursuit. The tall, muscular Samoan sped off in a flash. If anyone could nab the creep Kokua could manage. Catching his breath, Dan sat up, winded. Lukela arrived to help him to his feet.
"HPD units are already blocking the exits," Lukela reported. "We had to take out the other guy. You hurt, Danny?"
He shook his head, still lacking air to speak.
The Sergeant was worried. "Doc Bergman's on his way to take the dead gunman anyway. Maybe you should have him check on you. We don't want to take chances."
Read: better let the unofficial Five-0 physician give a once over on the youngest detective. That way Duke was absolved of any culpability in case Danny was hurt and McGarrett blamed the older cop with Williams. That was the drill. Sometimes Steve took the big brother protection too seriously!
Sure, he was sore and banged up and out of the hospital only a few weeks. But he was fine!
He did not address the concerns. "So no interrogation since that guy is all pau."
"Yeah. You didn't answer my question," the Hawaiian suspiciously demanded, placing a supporting hand on his shoulder. "Are you sure you're okay?"
The anxiety brought a smile to his face. "Duke, I'm all right. Don't worry, I'll make sure to let Steve know this on me."
Duke had reason to be skeptical. Any harm coming to the youngest Five-0 detective would bring down the wrath of the luna nui – the big boss. Not certain about the vow, Lukela reported he had assigned Tanaka the task of arranging Che Fong's lab people to work up the forensics on the dead guy ASAP.
"Looks like this location is out for the delegation," Dan sighed. "It would be too risky after the assassins know so much."
Around them a crowd of customers gathered. Dan proffered his identification and tried to reassure the group. The people started applauding and trying to shake his hand. A little dazed from the scuffle, he tried to trudge past the well-meaning shoppers. The bakery owner arrived, praising Dan profusely for stopping an armed robbery! The plump Asian thrust two boxes of fresh baked goods into his hands.
"You save Christmas, bruddah! Santa Helper with a badge! Any time you come back here, Mr. Five-0, you get anything free. I send it over to your office, wikiwiki. Your money no good here no more. Mahlo nui loa!"
"Mahalo," Williams thanked him, not bothering to correct the mistaken perception of what had gone down. Botched robbery was good as a cover story for now.
Peripherally aware of cameras clicking around him, hurriedly he made his way back to his car. He was going to be really late to the briefing thanks to this little fiasco. He placed the pink boxes on the hood of the LTD and checked his watch. No! The crystal was broken! Flicking the loose glass shards away, he could barely see the hands (one of which was bent) around the fractured lines. Great.
"Mahalo nui loa so much," a little Japanese woman bowed, clutching her rambunctious boys to her. "You saved us all, mahalo."
Returning the bow, he smiled, politely. As more shoppers gathered around him, he was on the receiving end of numerous pats on the back, handshakes and a few kisses on the cheek! Touched at the sentiments, he was flushed with embarrassment and gratitude. Christmas brought out the best and worst in people, but rarely did he see such striking examples of both in such dramatic displays, almost simultaneously.
On the flip side of accolades was disapproval. That usually came in the form of the cranky Coroner when Five-0 officers were involved with danger and injury. Doctor Bergman appeared at the back of the little crowd. He pushed his way up to stand next to the detective.
Shaking his head, quietly he reprimanded, "When I heard the call of Five-0 involved in a shooting and a body I feared the worst, young man." A narrow-eyed glance ran up and down assessing the appearance. "How is your shoulder?"
"I'm fine, Doc. Really," he insisted, careful not to betray the pain from his extreme activity.
"Try to be more careful, Danny! Jumping atop cars! You're giving me more grey hair!"
How did he know – the coconut wireless! Oh no! Hopefully no one at the Palace was listening to the police radio. Fat chance! Yeah, and it was about to snow on Waikiki!
"Try to stay out of trouble until after New Year's please, Danny! I'd like a quiet holiday!"
Duke joined them, ushering the Coroner toward the body. Turning, he quietly notified Williams that Steve wanted to hear from him.
Slipping into the car with the bounty of luscious smelling goodies, he sat there for a moment. Glowing from the triumph of the lauding accolades, disturbed at the violence smashing into the holiday scene, a bit shaky after the physical stress on nerves and body – it all faded knowing an upset McGarrett was waiting for contact.
Reluctantly, he picked up the mic.
II
SAVING CHRISTMAS APPARENTLY
The Christmas party a few days before had been a triumph, McGarrett considered as he sipped coffee from a new mug given him as a present. A big potluck in one of the conference spaces - formerly a dining room for King Kalakaua then Queen Liliʻuokalani. The Five-0+ ohana hoʻolauleʻa – party - boasted luscious food organized by Mai Kelly, Dora Bergman, Doris Lukela and Jenny Sherman. A warm feeling of inclusivity – belonging pervaded the night. Even the Governor and Mary Jameson dropped by!
Another mark of Williams' influence! Pre-Danno – well-wishing. Post-Williams – party. Including unfortunately, birthday bashes!
During the Christmas gathering there had been a rare opportunity for deep discussion between him and Danno. Almost a clarifying of definitions – friendship, commitment, brotherhood. So profound and exceptional. Feeling brought out by the tender season? Appreciating gifts and circumstances that were treasured beyond words? No matter the motivation it had been an incomparable occasion! It made him feel settled – home. The wonder of the valuable moments still clung close to his heart.
Again, his thoughts strayed back to a gift as he spun the mug. What exceptional token could convey the bond he enjoyed? How could he mark this ohana bond? Something special. Elusive. What object could ever relay fellowship, the link, the feeling of home which he felt with his Five-0 unit. With Danno?
Mary Ann wanted him to fly out tomorrow morning to LA and spend a few days. There just wasn't time! And he didn't really want to leave truth be told. This was his home. If possible he would spend Christmas day enjoying a rare time off. And the past few years Danno had somehow talked him into a dinner or lunch or other shared observance. A quiet, intimate, no-stress marking of the holiday. He found those simple celebrations were meaning the most to him.
Kaikaina – little brother in Hawaiian - Danno had been dubbed by his Five-0 ohana. What was it Danno called him sometimes? Kai – uh – kua – ana? Hawaiian for Big brother, anyway. He would have to memorize that!
After Danno was shot and bleeding out in the hostage fiasco at Castle Memorial. After this last October when he was shot by a sniper – yeah. Steve could not deny he was as protective of his youngest officer as any big brother. Not that Danno needed the protection. He was more than capable and talented . . . but . . . yeah. That's the way big brothers felt.
He would send a check to Mary Ann and Tom. He wasn't leaving home this year.
Kono Kalakua and Chin Ho Kelly ambled up to the coffee machine just outside his office. Almost time for their briefing. Danno should be here any minute.
The big Hawaiian detective, mostly recovered from a bullet taken while protecting the governor last month, was talking about the time.
"Danny has two minutes left," he observed. "He said he'd bring breakfast."
Ignoring the menu trivia, McGarrett was focused on his notes for the meeting. Without glancing at the clock he knew their briefing needed to start on time. Today was packed with pre-scheduled events and the officers were expected in place soon. Where was Duke with the HPD reports on security?
Kelly mentioned no word from Lukela and Williams over last minute security at the shopping mall.
No news meant good news? McGarrett hoped.
The clock ticked to Eight-fifteen. Where were they? Something could have snagged . . . the boss's mind flew through various scenarios. Many simple, yet growing more anxious as the seconds ticked past. Perhaps he should have Chin call –
"Boss! Central!"
Kelly indicated the ongoing, low-volume radio chatter from HPD's dispatch. The tone, the expression of alarm brought Steve running. Kelly had ordered Central to repeat their last call. Jenny turned up the speaker behind her desk.
'Sergeant Tanaka reports officer shooting. Coroner responding. Five-0 Two on scene Aloha Harbor Center.'
Secretary, Jenny Sherman, gave a gasp.
Frozen, McGarrett held his breath . . .waiting. Details! Was Danno hurt? They just said Danno was on scene. Coroner –
Chin was ordering particulars.
What was the delay?
Immediately slammed in the memory of Danno shot in the line of duty a few months ago! On the slope of Diamond Head a sniper had hit him. Not as devastating as his previous wound, but still upsetting! McGarrett remained watchful for his friend, covertly trying – as always - to keep him out of harm's way.
Why didn't Danno respond? Injured again? Worse? Coroner responding . . . .
Memory of past crises and life and death moments for his friend were never far from the surface. Too recent! The terror hit him with the force of a tsunami when Danno was shot and held hostage at Castle Hospital. Beside himself with anguish, Steve had publicly and violently gone on the offensive. He was beyond any control of his emotions! In the calamity he was hardly aware of the extremes – all he knew was that he could not lose Danno! He had to do whatever it took to save his friend. Desperation and terror were his guide.
Just weeks ago Danno shot again. Was he recovered enough? Did McGarrett allow him out in the field too soon? Had he been hurt because he was not up to full health yet?
'One suspect down,' came the voice over the radio. 'One fleeing on foot. Not that Danny didn't try to stop him! Running on top of cars! You shoulda seen it!'
Scowling at the cavalier report, McGarrett snatched up the mic. "This is McGarrett! What happened to Williams!"
'Oh! This is Sergeant Tanaka. Danny's okay, man, I mean, sir. Just catchin' his breath. It's all good, yeah. Uh – sir.'
It certainly didn't sound like it was all good! Why was Danno always taking such insane risks! Aggravation, frustration and back to wrath rippled through his thoughts in milliseconds. He should head down there -
'This is Lukela. Danny is okay,' he reported, more in keeping with protocol. 'We'll be reporting to you shortly, Steve.'
"Mahalo, Duke!"
Somewhat mollified, spinning back to his office, McGarrett ordered his two detectives to come in and begin their updates for the day's security concerns. His mind was only partially on the discussion. Concerns for what happened out there would not allow other thoughts much attention.
Not certain how to proffer support but to ACT as in ACTION, McGarrett became not the shadow, but the leading protector of his friend. It was no longer enough to be the great leader, the mentor, the boss. Danno needed to be safe.
How to achieve that contradictory – need - when a police officer? Was it possible? All he knew from the last few years was it was necessary.
Spending time together on varying levels, thinking he was being of service to his friend (which it seemed he was); Steve recognized the good turn was even more of a benefit to him. No longer could he consider himself a loner, but a member of the most important team of his life – a friendship.
Then Steve's wisdom was upgraded again, in life's usual method of tragedy and grief. How inadequate and difficult it had been to twist all that he had learned from his friend, and deliver it back to Danno. When Williams' girlfriend was murdered just last year, McGarrett was placed in the challenging role of lending tender solace and peace to his emotionally distraught friend.
The weeks following Jane's killing, McGarrett had been careful to place Williams onto demanding cases that were non-lethal and if possible, non-violent. Keeping the younger detective busy, his mind occupied, tied in with the elevated dawn routine of jogging together. All designed as treatment to push Danno through mourning. Had the therapy worked? Had it worked too well? Danno had followed his lead in tireless dedication to the job.
Uncertain how to offer sensitive comfort, McGarrett had found within himself a pocket of instinctive compassion that leaped to the forefront. Methods he had used for himself all his life when needed; deeds and words echoed before to his little sister Mary Ann. His role as big brother asserted itself like an anchor, and Williams was taken under his shield in an intense manner not seen or felt before.
After the murder of Jane, he had promised his friend he would be there for him. Guiding Williams through the investigation, standing with him at the funeral, being with him every day. Meals, jogs, fieldwork, all became a team effort. Hoping the activity would give his friend no time for suffering, it had the unexpected benefit on Steve of an immense appreciation of Danno.
From the other office he heard Danno's voice on the radio. 'Williams to McGarrett.'
Rushing out, he snatched up the mic. "Danno! Are you all right?" Oblivious they were on an open channel, he barked out the inquiry, his tone clearly equal parts ire and anxiety. At this point it was irrelevant what others perceived about cracks in his armor or communications protocol. Hawaiian law enforcement already knew Steve's guys were under his personal protection. That was intensified with Danno. "What is going on?"
'Yeah, I'm okay. I'll be there wikiwiki. Aloha Harbor Center is out, Steve. We caught these guys casing the place and they were serious enough to start shooting!' A bit breathless, his indignation was clear.
"All right, Danno, good work. We'll figure it out. Come on home. McGarrett out."
To Chin Ho and Kono, he nodded for them to follow him into the office. The two detectives exchanged comments of irritation that their security measures would have to start over again. A lot of work ahead in a short time.
"Kaikaina sure got lucky again." Kono shook his head as he settled into one of the white leather chairs in front of the big desk.
"Yeah," Kelly agreed. "Jumping on cars!"
The HPD community loved to comment on the daring exploits of their fellows. Many of those involving Dan Williams, known for extreme gambles – heroics – stunts. Insane risks more like, Steve huffed to himself!
"Danny Williams." Jenny shook her head when he rushed into the office. "What have you been doing besides leaping over cars?"
At her askance glare he checked out his appearance. His green suit was splotched with black smudges and - white smears – flour? Tussling over cars and pavement and a bakery – the sleeve snagged – a hole! Murder on yet another suit! His body wasn't feeling that great either. Sore in too many places, his shoulder – still tender from being shot weeks ago – was throbbing from the battering this morning.
"Saving Christmas apparently," was his wry comeback.
Noting his tie was slanted sideways under his jacket. In a rush, he dropped the boxes on her desk and hastily brushed off the jacket as best he could, then adjusted the tie.
Dan glanced at his watch but didn't have the luxury of really examining the damaged piece (it was obviously wrong anyway!) before he raced into McGarrett's sanctuary. His entrance earned a glower from the boss, followed immediately by an inquisitive scowl. Steve McGarrett's eyes traveled up and down the blemished green suit in silent condemnation.
From Chin Ho Kelly came a quiet admonition. "Looks like you already put in a full morning, Danny."
"Is that cookie dough on your shoulder? You smell like donuts!" Kono Kalakaua accused. Stepping close he quietly warned, "We heard all about your adventures already."
That was expected. The coconut wireless kept no secrets. Also expected, the mixture of concern and censure from his boss.
"I'm okay," he cleared the air first. Assuring his health with an intent gaze at his friend, he hoped they would get past this quickly. There was a lot more to focus on than his misadventures. And he was certain Steve would be giving him a lecture later. Maybe by then the Irish temper would have chilled. "What are we going to do about the delegation's shopping spree?"
Apprehension gained more of a foothold in McGarrett's assessment: Danno was aching – he could tell. Favoring his shoulder. A red stain on the trouser knee evidenced a scrape underneath. Flexing his left hand several times, probably strained. The over-zealous detective plunged into these dangerous situations too often! He was still recovering from the Diamond Head shooting! Kono on the mend! Their small unit could not afford this kind of recklessness!
"Danno . . . ." Steve shook his head, unable to elucidate his anxiety or irritation. His friend seemed fine, though. Minor pains. And was correct that they had major issues to address.
Irrational, since the crisis was over, and his friend was standing here showing only a few scrapes, bruises, rips and - flour? - as his badges of honor. Still, the apprehension hovered more persistent and pervasive than the sugary scent.
Tricky thing about friendship – a two-way street. Two friends. Sharing good and bad. More often than he wanted, the bad presented opportunities to show the good side – the strengths – of camaraderie.
Reporting the details of the encounter, Dan skimmed quickly past the dramatic chase. He gave his conclusions that the two men were scouting out the shopping center to stage an attack. The one man still at large was on an APB.
Distracted, Steve brought the meeting back to the original focus. "I talked to Governor Jameson. The delegation is set for switching from Aloha Harbor Center to the Ala Moana Mall."
He looked to Kelly to supply more information.
"Duke is setting HPD units there now," the Oriental detective confirmed as he spread out a map of Ala Moana shopping center. "The VIPs supposed to be there a while, boss?"
"As long as it takes the official's wife and Mrs. Jameson to shop."
Kelly scoffed, "Then we gonna be there a while."
"Christmas shopping," Kono groaned. "How come time speeds faster in December?"
"Because we all procrastinate," Williams supplied with a grin.
"All right," McGarrett cleared his throat. "They are supposed to arrive at Ten AM. Chin, just keep the security detail loose, but watch the crowds." He turned to the second-in-command who had claimed a seat on the corner of his desk. "So at least one perpetrator at large."
"Right. Duke's circulating a description to all officers. Plus the Minister's security team and State's men."
The chief of Five-0 usually possessively hoarded the relegation of authority for protecting VIPs on his rock! Dan wondered why Steve was relinquishing some control this time?
As if reading his mind, Steve supplied, "Communist factions supporting Maoism are giving this government a real headache. State and the governor arrange all this. I'm happy to control our portion of the task, but let Uncle Sam's guys take on the entire international headache this time!"
Oceania through Maritime Southeast Asia, the Indonesian archipelago, the Philippines Malaysia covered a vast area of the Pacific. Loaded with various governments of differing sizes and shapes. The weaker democracies sought the alliances of the US – a political big brother/little brother scenario.
Minister and Mrs. Subak of Jukta were on such a diplomatic mission. Jukta, a small island in the Micronesia chain, was testing a new, democratic government. The Prime Minister and the cabinet of this small island nation were experiencing growing pains. Right now was a hard time after siding with the US over Vietnam. The US Air Force had a small base there. The Maoists had threatened the regime with violence in retaliation for collaboration with America.
"Don't we always expect trouble?" Kono cracked.
"And we usually find it," Kelly responded. He gave a mirthful nod to the youngest detective. "Some of us more than others."
McGarrett gazed at his friend, his reply more philosophical than he intended. "Yeah, you got that right, bruddah."
Danno's grimaced at the chiding. Typical. They loved to rib him. A good way to demonstrate his colleagues were, in varying degrees, long-suffering of his methods.
Clarifying, Steve reported there was no specific threat on the radar for the delegates. The two men at Aloha Harbor could have been an advance team or just malcontents working on their own. State Department Intel gave no clue to organized assassination plans.
"Kono, you'll monitor the operation from the central courtyard. Danno, you will take the high ground on the upper floor and keep an eye on everything."
"I won't be with the group?"
"Usually I would want you there," Steve admitted. He moved to sit next to Williams on the front of the desk. A smirk played quickly on his face. He rubbed the lapel of Dan's jacket. "You don't have time to change. If you show up like this you'll create an international incident!"
"Not to mention you smell like you got a malasada in your pocket," Kono joked. "You're just too sweet, Danny!"
Shaking his head he tried to turn the joke around. "What, we aren't going to join the shopping party? Pick up a few last minute items?" the younger man joked. "Like everybody else on the island for Christmas Eve?"
"I don't wait till the last minute like some," Kono defended.
"If you've ever been shopping with a woman for Christmas presents, you wouldn't even joke about that," Chin assured him.
Williams' face darkened. The others didn't seem to notice, but McGarrett caught the shadow passing over the expression. A moment later it cleared. Was there something wrong? Latent pain from this morning's misadventures?
The possibility of more wounds nearly took away Steve's breath in a poignant stab of anxiety. Did worry for a brother ever get easier? No!
Focus on business, he reminded, the fix-all for too much emotional introspection. "All right, I'm heading over to meet the governor," McGarrett ordered, briskly rolling up the papers. "Danno, get over to the mall with Duke. I'll meet you on the upper level of the courtyard at ten till ten. Bring a walkie-talkie with you."
"Sure," the second-in-command acknowledged briskly.
With alacrity, he exited the office. He was grateful his boss was demanding they keep targeted on work. He had detected something simmering in the back of Steve's glances – a comment on the tardiness? An appraisal of the run in with the killer? The stunts during the chase? He didn't want to stick around to find out.
"Danny you promised malasadas next time you brought in treats, not Danishes!" Kono complained, checking out the goodies. "Still taste fine," he accepted as he grabbed two pastries from the box.
Groaning, Williams just shook his head. So much for being lauded with glory and rewards for his morning's work. Teased, reprimanded, or given the stern, silent treatment at the office. Sometimes his colleagues treated him like a kid who could not get anything right. Even the baker whacked him on the head with baking pans this morning! Beware of strangers bearing Christmas cookware, he thought, as he pushed out the door.
Staring out of the open lanai doors, McGarrett watched Williams speed away in the LTD. He found it difficult to concentrate. His mind replayed his imagined version of events at the shopping center - an incident that could have mutated into a deadly encounter for his detective.
There was no chance to keep everyone on staff safe. Too many times there were dangerous incidents that could not be avoided or altered. Recently Steve had been on the wrong end of a bullet – shot by a young, deranged woman! He had not seen that coming! Then, Danno hit, could have been slain by the sniper. Wounded, Dan valiantly managed to take out the killer. He still shivered at that recollection of the battle on the slopes of Diamond Head
Skirmishes like this morning's encounter could have proven fatal. The ruminations brought up another deadly encounter. Only last week Danno was nearly shot – perhaps that was what was spiking his overly protective, big brother attitude over this morning's incident.
Icy fingers of chill brushed against his skin, and he shuddered with the memory. Steve had been out in the hotel corridor to trap the woman who had locked herself in the room. Danno had been in the adjoining suite with suspect number two. Distracted – probably from the surprise of being fired on - Danno had his back to suspect-two. The man grabbed a weapon out of a hiding place and was about to shoot Williams in the back. McGarrett had returned just in time to kill suspect two.
Distraction. Pre-occupation. Ironically, it had been Steve's sense of shielding his friend that saved Danno's life. When McGarrett was in the corridor, his nerves turned to ice when he heard the shots come from the other room – Danno's location. Running back to check on his friend, he had spotted the criminal seizing a hidden gun from the sofa cushions to aim at Williams.
While Danno cuffed the woman and handed her over to Kono and Chin, McGarrett recovered from the near miss. Only a few seconds later and his friend would have been killed! It intensified McGarrett's recent commitment to protect and watch over his kaikaina and created new fears for his safety. All vivid reminders how close they were to death every day. And how easy it would be for Danno to fall to any number of dangers. More than at any other time in his life, Steve appreciated his friend and he did not want to lose him.
Not that many years ago, a loss of a colleague or casual friend would have been wounding, but recoverable. Steve had many surface scars from those who had passed through his life never to return. How casual those relationships seemed now compared to having a close friend. How different everything would be without Danno beside him. What would life be like without him? He didn't want to find out.
Through the trials, the mundane, the pressure, the joy, they had grown to be brothers. Better than blood brothers – destiny brothers – closer than family, bonded because of their unity, commonality, and commitment. Emotions and experiences constrained them much deeper than colleagues, as deep as family. Ohana. Kaikaina – little brother.
III
DESTINY MADE US BROTHERS
The morning was sunny and bright – or merry and bright – Dan contemplated as he walked from the parking level toward the shops. His focus was on any alerts coming from the walkie-talkie, but he couldn't drown out the Christmas music ubiquitously streaming in the background.
At the popular Ala Moana Mall holiday shoppers were attacking the stores, oblivious to the sweet fragrance of nearby plumeria trees. Salty, fresh wind blowing off the nearby Pacific kept the crowded center temperate despite the masses. The warm, perfect Hawaiian weather would make any outdoor activity pleasant, Dan sighed. If he were not working he would take advantage of the winter surf conditions! Maybe he would catch some waves tomorrow . . . .
With a frown McGarrett wedged his way between strollers, mothers, scurrying teens, bored men, children straining at the hands of older siblings. One small child barely missed his trousers with a sticky-looking Christmas sucker. Another toddler managed to tread on the police officer's highly polished shoe as she ran full charge toward the escalators that would take her down to see Santa.
The irony of palm trees swaying and Santa dressed in luau shorts was not lost on the detective. After years in the tropics, he still found it amusing - the clash of balmy Trades, the fresh scent of the ocean, against the winter/North Pole/reindeer/Good Saint Nick mix. Typically, Islanders stamped their own unique flavor to the holiday.
12 Days of Hawaiian Christmas altered tradition by singing of Tutu giving a Mynah bird in a Papaya tree. Then coconuts, squids, hula lessons, pigs, poi and other local treats. The words he caught between check-in with his men were amusing.
Certainly NOT the Christmas songs of his childhood. Or of Catholic mass!
'' . . .all through the hale singing and dancing ho'omalimali.
Mama in her mu'umu'u, papa in his malo, greeting aikāne, "Pehea, mahalo."
Mele old and new of Hawai'i nei.
Tables were loaded with plenty of kaukau –
We ate and talk story until we were pau.
It was really maika`i at our Christmas lū'au.
Standing at the railing overlooking the street-level, open, central court of the mall, McGarrett noted HPD security was visible and in full force. Surveying the planned positioning he had established with his team, he was satisfied. Safety for the visiting dignitaries was as good as they could get in this public venue on this sparkling morning so close to Christmas.
The incongruous decorations with sleighs and snowmen, while he simmered in the humid, tropical air somewhere near Eighty degrees, brought a chill of poignancy to mind. Not thinking of cold, draughty winters past, McGarrett, instead, was projecting-past to the chill might-have-beens of recent dangers. That brought his thoughts to his second-in-command. Leaping atop cars!
Glancing at his watch, noting Williams was five minutes late he willed himself not to be impatient. He moved away from the railing that was fast becoming overcrowded with little kids herding to the escalator targeting Santa on the street level.
Strolling over to the nearest shop, an upscale clothing store, McGarrett viewed the bright Aloha shirts with interest. Custom tailoring, the sign read. Checking out the fine material and elegant designs, he was drawn to the patterns that were bold, dazzling - just the way he liked his Hawaiian wear. Hmm, he might have to come back here and try some of these shirts. He preferred more select and exclusive clothing stores in Kahala, but this mall shop might be all right . . . .
Moving to the next storefront, he gazed casually at the jewelry shelves glittering with pricey gold and silver merchandize. Moving along, checking the time – again - he wondered where Williams could be, then stopped. Backing up, he studied the watch display. Beautiful platinum timepieces were in the front, one in particular was unique and stunning - a diver's watch with a solid silver band; an unusual style he had never seen before. Bold, solid, elegant in a stylish masculine design. The price was fitting for the one-of-a-kind instrument, certainly!
Pleased with his own functional watch, knowing he did not need a waterproof diver's watch or anything that sophisticated, he moved back to the shirts in the window of the clothing store. He especially liked a striking long-sleeve shirt with a white background and light blue hibiscus splashed around in a close, but not crowded pattern.
Another glance at his watch told him Williams was now ten minutes late. Tempted to radio in to the office, he opted to head down to the center court and check on the security. There was still ten minutes before the governor and the visiting VIPs would arrive. Gazing at the shirt again, he drew the walkie-talkie from his pocket to call the Palace . . . .
"Steve!"
The breath of relief released from his throat as he turned to the familiar voice.
Looking harried and stressed, Danny Williams rushed up to him with a chagrinned expression. "Sorry, Steve, my watch is running late," he grimaced, holding up the offending instrument.
Yes, the damaged watch, he remembered, shaking his head.
"Broken watch," he corrected. "I just saw a great replacement for you, Danno," he offered with a quirky grin, leading them over to the jewelry store. He pointed out the unique silver merchandize. "A beauty, isn't it?"
Williams whispered, "Wow. Diver's watch. Waterproof. That would be great for surfing, but something that nice I wouldn't even take in the water. I don't think I want to know the price." Despite his comment, he leaned down to check the tag. His whistle this time was long and low, followed by a cough. "Even more than I expected," he shook his head. "Too bad."
Amused at the reaction, he wondered, "Sure you couldn't afford it, Danno?"
"I just bought the Mustang, Steve," Williams shook his head regretfully, taking a long, last look at the fine jewelry as he turned away with a sigh. "My dream machine is going to be my Christmas and birthday presents to myself for about the next decade! I'm not complaining, but I'll have to settle for another Woolworth's brand of watch for a while. Even then, I'll have to wait till next month's check. End of the month, you know."
They reached the open-air central court overlook when it started to drizzle. December was one of Hawaii's rainy months and the warm, humid storm was just an accepted part of life in the Islands. Williams reached out a hand and held it under the rain. The expression was pensive.
Sensing Steve's concern, the younger man sheepishly smiled. "I know what you're thinking, Steve, and don't worry. I'm not going to ditch you here and take off surfing, even if the waves ought to be great with this storm."
Surfing. Good. Steve's true concerns were not detected. But surfing! Yet another danger! This big brother over-watch stuff was never ending! "Good thing. I'll have to keep you busy, officer, and keep you away from the beach on a day like this. You're not recovered enough for surfing!"
The leader was glad his true somber thoughts had not been detected. Although Danno surfing the giant waves of the North Shore – especially at winter - scared him. No, he worried what was ahead today or any day on duty. What danger would they face?
Their radios crackled to life. Chin, escorting Jameson and the dignitaries, were just arriving at the mall.
McGarrett guided Williams by the shoulder toward the escalators. "You stay on the high ground, Danno. I'll stick close to Jameson."
From the upper deck Williams spotted the VIPs as they strolled into view. Instinctive alertness, discerning perception of danger at various times in his career - just as this morning – kept him alive. As earlier today he was wary. He walked away from the escalators sensing a similar call to alertness – subliminally anticipating an occurrence before it transpired.
Yes! In the split-second he had to juggle reality-with-impressions-with-suspicions, he could stop seemingly inevitable, tragic events!
Just below him! The shifty man – the escapee from the morning's run-in at Aloha Harbor! When viewed from the second level of his vantage point Dan knew the assassin was making a determined line toward the Prime Minister's wife and Mary Jameson – and Steve!
On the move he yelled at his friend! Between the snappy tune of Jingle Bells over the speakers and the crush of people the boss did not hear him! Dan raced toward the escalator as he yelled into the talkie.
Danno's voice squawked on the radio. With a glance, McGarrett observed in an almost extrasensory alert to the side. Not spotting the danger or hearing the message he was on the move. Seeing his officer's course was an intercept, he rushed to protect the delegation.
Leaping up on the side of the escalator handrail, Williams balanced as he jogged down the rain-slick, moving strip. As tricky as maintaining stability atop a wave-splashed surfboard, Williams managed to stay on his feet until the suspect spotted him. His daring ploy might have saved him time, but it was anything but inconspicuous! The assassin reached for a weapon behind his back as he turned toward the VIPs – and McGarrett!
Dan never knew what weapon or threat it might have been. Judging his distance close enough, he sprang off the handrail to a flying tackle. The suspect took the brunt of the blow, but Williams felt the ground hard enough as his right arm skidded on the tile, smashed between the concrete and the weight of the man.
Stunned by the assault, but still possessing plenty of spirited fight, the man wrestled with the detective. In their rolling across the mall floor, Dan realized his enemy possessed an automatic pistol, and panicked when he noted McGarrett was running toward them, in direct line of fire with the gun! The weapon discharged as he smashed down, twisting the man's hand in an agonizing crunch.
Chin and Steve were there instantly, taking the man into custody. The suspect was bundled away.
"Danno! How are you?" Steve shouted, trotting over. The boss grasped his hand and pulled the detective to a sitting position.
"Okay." He watched State Department security escort the prisoner away. "You don't want me to book him?" was Dan has surprised question.
"I think you've done enough for now, officer," was the tight retort. "I'll be right back."
McGarrett jogged over to assign Chin the Governor's party. They were quickly whisked away to awaiting cars, enmeshed within the protective cocoon of US government agents. The head of Five-0 was happy to transfer the responsibility. It had been a joint operation and he hated those! Best to allow the Feds to do what they want and leave his rock!
Unsettled, Williams caught his breath by sitting on the edge of a koi pond and mesmerized, tiredly watched the fish lazily swim in the plant-filled water. What a day! When a trembling hand gripped his shoulder, he started, surprised to see McGarrett standing over him, his face a tight mask of apprehension.
"You sure you're all right, Danno?"
"Yeah. Fine." Steve hanging around instead of herding the VIPs was unusual. "You don't want to supervise the Feds?"
"I've seen enough of them. Let's get out of here."
They coursed through the jammed mall to the back parking lot where their cars were parked. Steve leaned on the hood and Dan joined him.
The leader tugged at Dan's jacket sleeve. Williams noted with a moan that the green coat was ripped. Again. His smashed watch was barely hanging onto the broken band.
"Swell." Then he noticed McGarrett's arm "Steve! You've been shot!"
The boss checked out the torn sleeve of his blue jacket. He fingered the hole that went through to the shirt beneath. A miracle he had not been hit! "Just a scratch. Material only."
Shakily, Williams observed, "Your Irish luck is running overtime!"
"Sure is!" He gazed over at his friend who was alive and well, too. All prayers answered today!
"Good thing. For all the good I did."
Eyes narrowed and sharp, the boss wondered, "What does that mean?"
Flinching at the harsh snap, Dan remorsefully confessed he had not been fast enough. Steve could have been killed!
"You could have too!" the boss yelled back. He took a deep breath, looking away for a moment. He focused on the white, thready clouds drifting in the azure sky. "But we're both all right," he finished adamantly at a lower level of reaction and volume. At last glancing back, his eyes bore into Dan's. "Do you think your actions were in any way less than optimum?"
The question startled him. "I – uh –" Grimacing, he tugged at McGarrett's torn sleeve. "This could have been in the ten ring. I wasn't fast enough!"
The boss pulled at Dan's damaged coat. "Just like this." He released a deep sigh. "I'm going to answer the question for you, Danno. Was there anything lacking in your outrageous attempt to save lives? No! Emphatically no! Leaping over cars! Tackling armed assassins! Flying down escalator rails! Leaping onto an armed man! What was possibly lacking!" His tone escalated in decibels - again - and edginess in the rhetorical lecture. "Officer Danny Williams, Hawaii Five-0's second-in-command does not know how to perform his duty with anything less than one hundred percent! You don't know how to do your job except with total dedication!" His voice cracked with passionate intensity. "Were you giving half-measure on Diamond Head? You were wounded, in excruciating pain! You picked yourself up out of the dirt and killed a sniper terrorizing our colleagues! Was that giving less than you could?"
Speechless, Williams shook his head. In a low voice he finally countered, "We're pretty pupule aren't we? Yelling at each other for being overly-committed workaholics. Or maybe we should be committed." The last, a sputtered irony.
Pressing his lips together, Steve stared out at the mountains behind the city. Morning rain clouds had drifted into the peaks leaving the crevices in purple shadows. Rainbows nestled close to the hillside houses and streets.
Clearing the emotion from his throat he turned, patting his friend's arm. His comments a lighter vein. "At least you're in better shape than the watch. You sure you're all right?"
"Yeah. Nothing that an extra paycheck wouldn't fix," he sighed, fingering the tattered material of his jacket. With even that little bit of movement the watchband snapped apart, the shattered timepiece falling to the concrete, its separated parts spilling around their feet. "Swell."
McGarrett smiled, squeezing his shoulder. At the wince, he moved his hand to the back of Dan's neck. "Nothing broken? Besides the watch?"
"Nah. Just sore."
Steve nodded biting his lip, concern escalating to soberness. "You know, a watch can be replaced. Even on your budget." Emotions in his eyes and on his face belayed the light words. "You aren't expendable, Danno. That was a pretty insane stunt running on an escalator rail!"
The nerve-scraping indictment taken in the spirit of underlying meaning, Dan nodded. Steve was upset at his actions and the younger officer understood the reprimand. The tone was stern, but the message was more gratifying than the public applause he had received earlier that morning at the bakery. The risk had been worth it, of course. The dangerous feat of racing down a moving slice of slick machinery – tricky. Tackling and wrestling with an armed suspect – life-threatening. Knowing innocent bystanders and targeted VIPs were safe - satisfying. Knowing his closest friend was alive to deliver words of tribute or reprimand in his direction – worth it all.
Dan's somber stare indicated he was not intimidated. "Like placing yourself in front of a bullet."
"To protect our target – "
"Like I was trying to stop a gunman?"
Glaring, shaking his head, McGarrett turned away. Impasse. No way to win in this scenario. Both of them were right.
The radio in the Mercury crackled with Kelly summoning McGarrett. Dipping into the car the boss responded. Chin Ho related that the Governor and wife were secure at Washington Place, the Hawaiian State residence. The Minister and delegation were at the airport under the guard of US agents.
McGarrett related he would meet back at the Palace. They still had an investigation on the attacker - who was he and did he have any accomplices. Williams would coordinate the information with the State Department, he finished and signed off.
"After you get cleaned up," McGarrett ordered sternly. He started walking away, then returned and stood beside his youngest detective. "I meant what I said, Danno. Mahalo for what you did today, including saving my life, but remember you can't be replaced. And you are never expendable. Got that?"
Williams beamed with an unquenchable grin. "Yeah."
"You made the afternoon paper," McGarrett chuckled.
The boss had returned from the dark anteroom of Five-0 with two mugs of steaming coffee and a folded newspaper. Jenny, Chin and Kono had been sent home hours before. It was Christmas Eve, after all. The two top officers remained, finishing reports on the day's events as well as many loose ends. Their goal was to complete tasks and keep the office closed for Christmas.
Steve showed the younger detective the front page of the Advertiser. Above the fold! There was a snap of Williams vaulting over a car. Next to a bigger photo of an older Asian woman giving Dan a kiss on the cheek
"Santa's Helper with a badge," the boss read. "Officer Williams of Hawaii Five-0 foiled a daring Christmas Eve robbery at Aloha Bakery."
"I was misrepresented," Dan defended around a yawn. "Good thing they never connected the shooters with the assassins. At least it gave us a chance to catch the guy at Ala Moana Mall."
Giving a sideways study of his friend, he admitted, "Right, Danno. We had a lucky day."
Grasping the double meaning, he agreed. "Yeah, we did. A very long, but lucky day."
Summarizing the rest of the article, Steve related the criminal escaped but the policeman had saved the day. "Nice publicity, Danno."
"Save that. I'll take it to the next budget meeting." He fought down a yawn. "If I had a watch I could tell you what time it was," Williams yawned and rubbed his face. "I think all we need to know is that it's too late to still be working." In the subdued light of the single desk lamp, he brushed at his bare wrist. Moaning, muttering about the expense of a new watch – not what he needed this month – he covered up yet another yawn. Stretching, coming to his feet, he walked over to sit on the edge of McGarrett's desk. "I'm more than ready for this day to end." Glancing at the clock, he offered a wry snicker. "The day HAS ended. What a way to spend Christmas Eve. Mele Kalikimaka, Steve."
"Merry Christmas, Danno."
With tired resignation, the boss noted it WAS well past midnight. The day had been a rollercoaster of emotions and action for both of them. Avoiding the revelation of what it had all meant to him on a personal and poignant level, McGarrett focused on optimism.
Sitting on the desk edge next to his friend, he began, "You saved lives – my life today, Danno. Mahalo." His voice deepened and he knew he could not stick to the impersonal message intended. Spilling into his thoughts, were the fears playing all day just under the surface. "When you were surfing down that railing I wanted to yell at you for the crazy stunt. I STILL want to yell at you for it," he offered a dry, unsteady laugh. "But mostly I want to thank you." His affectionate hold tightened on Danny's shoulder.
Embarrassed and pleased, Williams could only counter with a shrug and a muttered comment that he felt the same way. "I'm only returning the favor you've done for me several times. Especially with that shoot out at the Hilton. When you were out in the hall and the gun fire started, all I could think about was getting in that door and stopping the nut case who was shooting at you. I never thought about someone at my back with a gun."
Surprised, McGarrett realigned his thinking. He had believed Danno was startled, or preoccupied, and was nearly killed from inattention. Yes, inattention - because he was worried about McGarrett's safety! Just as distracting as Steve's protective concerns for Williams! The new perspective warmed and worried him. Friendship was a two way street and sometimes it could be a scary one.
"I guess we're going to have to watch out for each other."
"Not a bad job," Williams smiled ruefully. "A tough job, sometimes, especially with you, Steve –"
"Me!"
"Yeah, taking crazy risks –
"Like running down the rail of an escalator?" he trumped sharply.
"Sometimes," Williams shrugged and grinned. "Whatever, though, I promise I'll always watch out for you."
"Speaking of that -"
"What? Watching out for each other. Kaikua'ana, and kaikaina."
"Big brother, little brother," he automatically translated.
Proudly complimenting, "Nice going on the Hawaiian, Steve."
"Mahalo," McGarrett smirked as he reached back to the desk drawer and retrieved a slim package. "Merry Christmas."
Surprised, Williams was instantly chagrined. "Hey, no fair, I didn't have time to wrap yours yet. I was going to drop it by tomorrow. I mean – later today."
"That's okay. I want you to open this now." He smiled and shrugged. "It IS Christmas."
Reluctantly agreeing, muttering about McGarrett's lack of patience, he dashed away, returning with a brightly colored plastic sack, which he handed to his friend. Insisting the box be opened now, the younger detective agreed, urging McGarrett to do the same.
He DID have patience, was Steve's mental retort! Instead of unfolding the top of the bag (that was clearly named as belonging to the clothing store at Ala Moana Mall), Steve looked on with anticipation. Pleased to observe as Dan slid off the red ribbon around glittering paper of his gift.
When the box was opened, Williams sucked in a breath, immediately followed by several exclamations of surprise and awe. Holding the silver watch under the desk lamp, he examined it closely, commenting about the beauty, the sturdiness, the unique solid silver band design, the styling.
"You shouldn't have spent so much, Steve!"
"You needed a new watch."
Dan fell silent as he read the inscription on the back. Steve could follow his lips as he read the simple, yet heartfelt words engraved on the gift that was more than a timepiece; a representation of an inexpressible bond.
DANNO
-Destiny made us brothers-
mahalo
Mele Kalikimaka - 1971
STEVE
"Steve, mahalo just doesn't seem enough," Dan quietly thanked after several moments of more comments of gratitude.
"So true," he seriously replied. "Mahalo just doesn't seem enough." Momentarily searching for the right words, he considered that he had struck the bullseye with the inscription. "I honestly don't know what I'd do without you, Danno. And not just today."
"Steve -"
"Danno, mahalo isn't enough. Neither is a watch. But I hope both serve as a token of what you mean to me."
Nodding, Dan smiled. "I don't think you have any trouble finding the right words. I understand completely. Destiny DID make us brothers." He grimaced. "My present isn't nearly as nice."
Gladly diverting the conversation from the far too personal moment, Steve appraised the article he'd been given. Insisting on detecting the contents first, he squeezed and shook the bag, expressing it was too small for a suit. Finally opening the bag, chuckling when he unfolded a colorful and bright long-sleeved aloha shirt! Tumbling from the folds, a gift certificate for the store he had admired at the mall.
"It's great, Danno. Looks like we both got gifts of aloha."
"And much more," Dan finished, reading the inscription one more time before fastening the silver watch on his wrist.
Placing an arm around the shorter detective's shoulders, Steve assured the timepiece would come in handy later. They were taking the rest of the day off barring any emergencies. At One PM, Dan would pick him up in the Mustang and they were going to a Christmas lunch at Wayne's Waikiki Pacific.
"Oh. The classiest place in Waikiki! Where you always get the best table!" Dan cheered.
"It pays to have good friends," was his layered response.
Extending his arm, admiring the watch, Williams promised he would not be late for such a generous offer.
"Mele Kalikimaka, Danno."
"Mele Kalikimaka, Steve."
Mele Kalikimaka
and
Hauoli Makahiki Hou
May all your holiday gifts be given and received with aloha