A Christmas Carol to Sam (IV)

Frasier and Lilith's new duplex has got the exquisiteness and elegance had always characterized them, but that night was also radiant with all those Christmas ornaments. In the dining room, the table for diner was so well laid that seemed taken out of a Christmas card. Although really stood out most was the magnificent decorated tree that was in the living room, which was able to draw from each, their inner child, in Christmas days.

Already guys and their girlfriends had arrived. They were waiting for the other guests seated in the living room, chatting cheerfully. The doorbell rang. They were Sam and Diane. They were received with joy by all. Once the coats were removed, Frasier required the assistance of Sam in the kitchen to prepare cocktails. Sam agreed. While preparing, Frasier asked.

How are you going these days, Sam?

What is that question? -Sam asked suspiciously.

Frasier was seen discovered. He wasn't very subtle.

Diana called me this afternoon and told me what ails you. She´s got a little worried with you. Do you know?

Yes, I know -Sam said sincerely.

Tell me. What happens to you, Sam?

When I went to LA twenty years ago, I left behind unfinished things, I had pending issues, things I had to do and did not. Do you know what I mean? Well, when you invited us to spend Christmas this year, I was glad... we are glad... but as the days approached, I felt lurking me the ghosts of my past. This afternoon I made peace with one. My father. We have made peace.

That's fine, Sam! But I don't see you very happy. There's more. Right?

Sam nodded his head. He followed opening his heart.

When I decided to go to LA, I needed money to open another business there, so I had to sell 'Cheers'...

... And now you feel guilt for it... –Frasier said.

That's not exactly... or maybe yes. You see: If I were to do it again I would. What happens is that I feel as if I betrayed a part of myself. The "Coach" and I got up Cheers, it became a second home for people... the place where everybody knows your name... So it makes me feel a bit bad. Do you remember how many Christmas that we spent there? -in this moment Sam kept silence and gulped to not to mourn, although his eyes were glassy.

I think, my dear Sam -interrupted Frasier- I think, although we haven't had dinner yet, you need your Christmas gift imperiously...

Sam looked him confused. He didn't know what the hell he meant.

Come on, Sam. It's waiting for you under the tree said -pointing with his finger.

Sam left the kitchen to the tree with suspicious attitude. Suddenly, he realized that everyone was silent, smiling, looking at him intently.

Come on, Sam! Come on! -Frasier insisted.

Finally, Sam was decided. He went to the tree and looked for his gift. He had to confess he was as excited as a child. "Here it is!", he thought when he found it. Sam sat next to Diane on the sofa. He sensed it was something important, and he wanted to be near her at the time. His hands were shaking. Finally opened it. It was an almost flat box. He opened it. Inside was a large envelope. And in turn, in the envelope, had some sheets. He read them… He couldn't leave his amazement! That was incredible!

What does it mean? -Sam asked.

Yes, Sam -Frasier said- These are the scriptures of 'Cheers'. Again it's yours. Well, almost everything. A small part is mine. We'll be partners.

But... I... no...

You see, Sam. After your last staying at Boston, I visited 'Cheers'. I saw that home was sold, and a Chinese company wanted to buy it and to become it in a bazaar. A bazaar! Do you can believe it? When you arrived the other day, I mentioned it to Diane. She was the one who proposed me that we could associate to buy and directing Cheers -Sam then looked at Diane smiling-... When Diane phoned me this afternoon, we agreed that the best medicine for your sadness were these little papers you hold in your hands trembling with emotion.

But I cannot direct two bars at a time... the distance... It's impossible! -Sam said.

That's why -Diane said- Frasier will direct 'Cheers' when we are in LA. Now Frasier is your partner. Don't forget.

'Cheers' will be what it was, I'll promise you -said Frasier putting his hand on Sam's shoulder- Say goodbye to your lemurs.

Sam could not contain himself with joy. He got up and began to give hugs and kisses to everyone.

Why don't we all sit at the table? -Lilith asked smiling- dinner is getting cold. And it isn't a dinner either, it`s a family dinner, a Christmas dinner.

Suddenly a few steps down the stairs and a familiar voice was heard saying something:

It's a demonstrated fact, that Christmas celebrations are in agreement with the Saturnalia of ancient Rome ...

Shut up and pass me a beer!

Norm! Cliff! What are you doing here? -Sam said surprised. That night was taking too many surprises. That situation was overflowing and he was getting dizzy.

I brought for dessert an apple pie from my mother who has sent from Hanover, Indiana.

Woody! -Sam said as he hugged him.

Hold your horses! What's left for me?

Carla! Are you?

No. I'm your blonde wife discolored. What do you think?

Among the crowd, Samuel slipped and came to his father.

Dad takes it! I think you're missing someone -said as he gave the old box with a picture of Geronimo.

Sam took that picture, dumb by emotion. It was too much and could not hold back the tears. With the look he sought around the room to Diane. One detail of Samuel, bore the unmistakable stamp of her. Finally he found her. Smiling, happy, looking at him as she held back her tears. Sam went straight to her across the room, like no one more would be at the party. He hugged her and kissed her with emotion and passion, with a sweet, lingering kiss.

Kisses and hugs. Laughs and jokes. Love and friendship. Carols and memories. All together around the table in the middle of the night, the most magical and beautiful Christmas Eve. Sam was immensely happy. He was moved. They say no one can have everything in life. But obviously, that night, he had it all: His bar, friends, spiritual peace that eluded him. But most of all was his family, especially Diane. That really was a good night. So he stood up, raised his glass and provided: "Merry Christmas to all