Steve and Ghost stayed out on the porch for a while longer , drinking their coffee , and listening to the birds out in the woods wake up . It was a nice , easy start to their day . After a bit , though they came in to fix some breakfast . Working side by side in the kitchen , they made pancakes and eggs . Remembering their conversation from the night before , Ghost asked , " Do you think the book store will be open ? " " Oh , yeah , by the time we get there , I 'm sure it will be , " Steve said . So far , that was the only plan they had for the day . They were in no hurry to leave the house , though . The used bookstore , there in Missing Mile , was not large , but people did come regularly to buy , sell , and trade their books . As they went inside , the owner greeted them . " Hey , Steve … Ghost … it 's been awhile . Good to see y ' all , again . Lots of new books have come in . Y ' all look around . " Steve headed for his favorite section … the novels . Ghost went browsing the shelves , too , to see what he could find . When Steve finally emerged from the stacks , with an armload of books , he took them over to the counter . He stayed there talking to the guy , while he waited for Ghost to finish . " I see you still like these kind , Steve , " he said , picking up one of the books . " This one is good . " The owner laughed . " Hah , that one goes for the unusual ones , I know . I keep tabs on my customer 's reading preferences . I always see Ghost head for the New Age section , then he goes to sci - fy , then he 'll look through the history type . It never fails . And you , my friend , head for the novels , and your favorite authors , first , then any books that are similar , and last , you 'll check out the biography for musicians true stories . " Just then , Ghost came up to the counter with his selections . Taking a look , both Steve and the man laughed . " Told ya , " they both said . " That we knew what kind you were gonna get , " said Steve . " So … this is what I like … and look , these here ones are new . I haven 't read them before , " Ghost said . " Well , like seeing if somebody left junk in a book , and to see if I know who had it last , and to smell the book smells , and … to say hi to you , " Ghost said , looking at the owner . " Well , Ghost , I 'm glad I was included in that list . I never thought of it that way , but you 're right . " He began ringing up their purchases , and sacking them up . " Enjoy your books , guys . See ya next time around . " " Ok , we can do that , " Steve said . He started the car , and drove over to Zach and Trevor 's house . They didn 't call first , so lucked out at finding them home . Trevor answered the door , when they rang the bell , and looked surprised to see them . " Hey , guys , come on in . Zach … look who 's here , " Trevor hollered out to the kitchen . Zach came into the living room . " Hi , what 's up ? " " I need to talk to you , Zach , " Ghost said . " But first , I want to say I 'm sorry for the other day . I was too drunk to say it then . Anyway , I didn 't ruin your house , did I ? " He looked around , trying to see any wreckage . " No , you didn 't ruin anything , Ghost . In fact , you were kinda funny . We 're just glad you 're feeling ok , today , " Zach said . " So , what do you want to talk to me about ? " Ghost went over to the bed and sat down . Zach was still standing in the middle of the room . He 'd never talked to Ghost , one on one , like this before , and was a little wary . He knew Ghost was unpredictable , and Zach was thinking to himself , that he should be ready for anything . Ghost , of course , heard the thought . " I 'm not gonna jump ya , Zach . I just want to ask ya something , and I don 't want Steve to hear . " Zach continued , " And , you don 't know how ? How to what … how to get one ? What to get ? How to keep it a secret ? How to pay for it ? How to go get it by yourself ? " Zach listed all the possibilities he could think of . Looking at Ghost , he could see tears falling , and Ghost brushing them off his cheeks . Zach was moved by how vulnerable Ghost was at this moment . He could fight demons , but found it so hard to ask for help … such an enigma . He knelt down in front of Ghost , and took his hands . " Ghost , I 'll do all I can to help you … just say it . " Ghost sniffed , " Ok , first I 'll need a ride to Raleigh . Then I have to go to the bank , and to the junkyard . I know what I want to do , and have the money . Mostly , I just need a ride , and for Steve to not find out . " Ghost talked fast now , trying to get it all out before he froze up again . " I see … " Zach said . " Maybe I can ask Trevor to help distract Steve … have him come over here on some excuse or other , ya know . Or , hey , maybe Steve needs time alone to go get your secret present . This could work out ok , after all . Why don 't you ask him ? " Ghost looked confused , now . " No , I can 't . I like it better if he can come over here . That would work , and you can pick me up . " " Ok , we 'll do that , " Zach said . " I 'll have Trevor call in the morning , and then I 'll leave here , before Steve gets here . Then , I can drive you in to Raleigh ? Sound good ? " He smiled , finally understanding the problem . That settled , they went back out to the living room . Steve and Trevor looked at them , questions on their faces . " So , what was that all about , " Steve asked . This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them . Steve thought a minute . " Well , if that woman Kinsey talked to is my sister , and she contacts us , I guess I 'll meet her somewhere . I 'd really like to , ya know , since it 's been so long . But , until it actually happens , I 'm gonna just do what I always do around here . Nothing 's changed , " he said . Steve nodded . " Yeah , I don 't like remembering bad things , but I guess I should talk it out some times . " He sighed , then shrugged it off . " Well , now that we 've checked out Terry and Kinsey 's place , I 'm ready to go . " They locked up the club , and went out to the car . " Anywhere else you have in mind to go ? " Steve asked . " I know what you mean . This town is kind of boring , and with the club closed , even less . But , I hate to drive over to Raleigh all the time , " Steve said . " Well , why don 't we just drive around … maybe go check out the lake . We haven 't been out there in awhile , " Ghost said . A short time later , they were there , and got out to walk around . There were a couple of groups of people … some fishing , and some teens throwing a Frisbee around . The day had begun to warm up , after the past few days of snow . " We gotta get a Christmas tree , Steve , " Ghost said . " I got that ornament at the thrift store a long time ago , so I need to hang it up . " " Well , when you put it that way , " Steve said , and smiled at Ghost 's reasoning . " I get it . We 'll go get one soon . " They got up from where they 'd been sitting . " Damn , shouldn 't have sat on that damp grass . Now , I 'm all wet , " Steve said , brushing off his pants . " You ready to go home ? " They were just opening their front door , when Steve 's phone rang . It was Trevor . " Hey , how 's it going ? " Steve asked . " Everything is good here , " Trevor said . " Just wanted to say thanks for coming over for dinner … and to check on Ghost . Did he survive the night ? " " Yeah , barely … he was a mess , though , and this morning was pretty rough , but he 's fine , now . We just checked on the shop and the club . All is good there , too , " Steve said . " We 're just chillin ' at the house for awhile . " They said their good - byes , and ended the call . " Oh , this one here , " Steve said , showing Ghost the paperback . " It 's a spy novel , you know … good guys chasing bad guys , and some kind of government conspiracy . It 's pretty good . " Ghost went to the overstuffed bookcase . After a few minutes , he said , " We need some new books , Steve . I already read these ones . We should go to the used bookstore . " " We could do that … maybe tomorrow , " Steve said . He settled down on the couch again , with his book . Ghost went to his bedroom . He couldn 't get his mind to relax . He kept going over the situation of Steve 's maybe sister . Then he started thinking about Christmas trees , and what he could do about a present for Steve … and how to go off by himself to get it , when he didn 't like to drive , and Steve wouldn 't let him drive his car any more anyway . He figured it would sound stupid , to ask Steve to drive him somewhere to buy him a present . He sighed . " There 's gotta be a way … " he said to himself . ~ Steve was having trouble concentrating on his book . He kept thinking about his sisters , and whatever became of them . Then , he let himself think of his plans for Ghost 's Christmas present , from him . It had been hard trying not to think of it for so long , in case Ghost was picking up his thoughts . But now , he figured Ghost was asleep … so , he 'd think of it now . He needed to get a measurement somehow , without Ghost knowing he was doing it , and how to do that would be weird . And then , he 'd have to go off shopping by himself , leaving Ghost alone here , when he knew Ghost hated to be alone , most of the time . He listened for any sounds coming from Ghost 's bedroom . He didn 't hear anything , so thought it would be a good time to do the measuring . It would be awkward , but necessary . Quietly , he went into the bedroom . He smiled as he watched Ghost sleep . Perfect . He didn 't have a tape measure , so he 'd brought a length of string to use . Sneaking over to the bed , he carefully leaned over Ghost . Reaching for Ghost 's hand , he took the measurement . Then , he couldn 't resist … he kissed the palm of Ghost 's hand . The same hand he 'd smashed and broken , the day of the hurricane . He knew it still pained Ghost , sometimes … he 'd see him flexing and massaging it , and the scar was still visible . " It 's ok , Ghost … I 'm just loving on you a little bit . You can go back to sleep . I 'm going to sleep too . " But he was feeling wide awake , now … his breath coming faster , as he watched Ghost 's sleepy face . He was hoping Ghost would wake up some more . " Steve ? Come be with me , " Ghost whispered in his ear . Smiling , Steve hugged Ghost , then undressed them both . Ghost had not opened his eyes , but had a sleepy smile , letting Steve do what he wanted . And , Steve wanted to kiss that face , and more . Ghost was so warm , there in the blankets , and he gave Steve warm kisses back , and more , that lazy afternoon . Ghost woke early the next morning , before dawn . Having slept through most of the afternoon before , and all night , he 'd had enough for awhile . He made the coffee , fed Spirit , and went out on the front porch . It was chilly , so he was wrapped in a blanket , he 'd pulled off the bed . Outside , it was barely light enough to see , as the sky was just turning a rosy pink . The morning star was still shining in the east . This was Ghost 's favorite time of day . He always felt peaceful greeting the mornings . Raising his coffee mug , he toasted the heavens … giving thanks for having Steve and Spirit in his life . He could hear Steve moving around inside , getting his own coffee , then the squeak of the old screen door , as he came out . Steve had heard Ghost 's prayer of thanks , and he now came up behind him , giving him a hug . " That was beautiful , Ghost . Last night was beautiful , and you are beautiful … and I give thanks that you are in my life , too . I just love you , Ghost … it 's that simple , " he said , and kissed the back of Ghost 's head . This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them . Morning came , and Ghost was still bothered about the dream he 'd had . As he and Steve were having their coffee , he did tell him what it was about . He asked , " Steve , who is Linda ? I 've heard that name before , but why ? " Steve was stunned . " Ghost … that 's my sister 's name … my oldest sister . She ran away from home when it got too bad , a long time ago . I was probably ten , that year . No one ever heard from her again . Not long after that , my mother took my next oldest sister , and left . I never saw any of them again . " He stopped , a pained look on his face at the memory . " It was just me and my dad , and he was getting worse every day … so , when you asked me to come stay at your house , well … I never went home again . But , why would she be in a dream with Kinsey and Terry ? It don 't make any sense . " He looked at Ghost , in confusion . They went about their day , but the conversation kept nagging at them . Later Ghost asked Steve if they could go do something . " I 'm bored , " he complained . They drove over to the back parking lot of the Yew . Everything was dim and quiet over here , too . Steve went through the whole place , while Ghost wrote an entry onto the writing wall . As Steve came back downstairs , his phone rang . It was Kinsey . Kinsey paused a moment , " Well , I don 't know how to put it , but did you ever hear anything about your sister , Linda ? I know she left home , shortly before your mother and your other sister left . I hate to bring this up , Steve , but … " " Kinsey , it 's ok … " Steve said . " What 's weird is that 's what Ghost had a dream about … you , and Terry , and Linda , and Disneyland … and no , I never heard anything from any of them after they left . It was just me and my dad , and well … you know that whole situation . " " Well , I thought it could be her , but see , I don 't know , " Kinsey explained . " This lady was waiting for a ride , with two kids … looked about six or seven years old , I don 't know . Anyway , I went up and said hi , and asked if she was Linda . Well , she acted funny . At first she smiled , when I said her name , then I have a feeling she recognized me … maybe . But , then she looked like she was just going to run away from me , but said her name wasn 't Linda , and I must be mistaken . I asked did she have a brother named Steve … and she looked straight at me and said no . Then she took the kids , and walked away real fast . Now , Steve , I don 't know what to make of it , and I probably shouldn 't have , but I took her picture with my phone , as the three of them walked away , " Kinsey said . " They 're not great photos , but if you want , I 'll send them to your phone . This may not mean anything at all , ya know … just a weird encounter . " Steve had not said a word while Kinsey had been talking , trying to take it all in . " Yeah , I 'm here , " he finally said . " Go ahead and send the pictures , Kinsey . I don 't know what to think , it 's so random , ya know . But , then that dream Ghost had last night … could be something to it . " " Ok , it 'll take a few minutes . There 's three pictures I 'm sending . Anyway , that 's all the news from us . We 're heading back east , tomorrow . Call me back if you want to talk , " Kinsey said . Steve was agitated , and paced around , there in Kinsey 's office . Ghost was sitting on the couch . He 'd heard Steve 's part of the conversation . " It 's her , Steve … it has to be . " he said . " I don 't know , Ghost . It 's strange , but what if it is ? What should I do about it ? From what Kinsey said , she doesn 't want to be found . " He sighed , trying to calm himself . " Oh , here 's the pictures , now . " He stared closely at the photos as he searched the woman 's features . They were not ideal , being at a distance , and only one full facing the camera . " Look , what do you think ? " He gave Ghost the phone . " That 's her , Steve . That 's her … and those little kids … they 're the same ones as in my dream . And yeah , she does kinda look like you , with the same kind of hair . I can 't see her eye color , but they are dark like yours . I 'm gonna say yes . Of course , I never seen your sister before , so I can 't really know , but that 's for sure the ones I seen in my dream . " Ghost handed the phone back to Steve . " But , what am I supposed to do about it ? " Steve asked . " I mean , she said she wasn 't , and we don 't know where she lives or anything … " Steve did call back … " Hey we looked at those pictures . It 's hard to tell , but we both see the resemblance . So , what do you think we should do ? We don 't know where she went after talking to you . " " I know , Steve , but listen … I did give her my business card , and also wrote your phone number on the back , too . Maybe she 'll contact one of us . Guess we 'll just have to wait and see . If not , well , probably wasn 't meant to be , or it really wasn 't her at all , " Kinsey said . " Yeah , guess that 's all , just wait and see . Anyway , thanks Kinsey , " Steve said , ending the call . He looked at Ghost , and shrugged . " We 'll have to just wait and see if she calls . If we get contacted , then I 'll deal with it . Now , though , it 's business as usual around here . " " I don 't know , guess because it 's not for sure . And truthfully , I don 't even half way remember her . I was just a little kid when she left , and so much was going on at the time … all the bad stuff , and then my mom and my other sister , Lisa , left … " he closed his eyes , as he rubbed his face . " Ghost … it was bad . I know you 've heard me say how it was , but that 's just something that gets deep inside ya … and , it 's all I could do to make it through . Well , I know you understand … then , I finally left to go to your house that day . I look at it like you and your grandmother pretty much saved me . " He stopped for a minute . " Steve … " Ghost asked . " whatever happened to your dad ? " Steve sighed , shaking his head . " I don 't think you remember , ' cause it happened when you were out at the graveyard , messing around in the woods one day . I 'd come in the house for something . I think your grandmother was getting us something to eat and drink . I was going to bring it back outside for us . Anyway , my dad came to the house , and Ghost … he started yelling and threatening your grandmother … about stealing me away from him . I hid in the bedroom , but I could hear him . Your grandmother was a strong , feisty lady . She let him have it right back . She told him she 'd turn him in for child abuse , if he ever came back . " Steve looked into Ghost 's eyes . " She meant it , too . Anyway , he left . That was the first time in probably five years I 'd even seen him . Well , I was about sixteen then , I already had the T - bird . That was the last time I ever saw him … well , ya know … hear him . Why he pretended to care that day , I don 't know . Anyway , I was embarrassed to face your grandmother , but she came in the bedroom and saw me … a big ' ol teenager , crying like a baby . But , she said not to worry , she 'd always stick up for what was right . She gave me the biggest hug … I loved your grandmother , Ghost … " He took a deep breath . " Anyway , some time later , maybe a year , I don 't know , she told me he 'd killed himself … over in Georgia . She 'd heard it from someone . I don 't know the details , but I didn 't even care . I was glad , and that was the end of it . " Ghost was frowning . " How come I never knew any of this , Steve ? You didn 't say anything about it , and neither did my grandmother . I wish I would ' a known … I maybe could have helped ya feel better . " Steve shrugged . " I don 't know … I was still embarrassed that my family was so messed up , and it was over anyway . I asked your grandmother not to say anything to you . I 'm sorry , Ghost . I knew even then that it would really bother you . " This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them . " Yeah , man , glad you could make it , " Zach said . " Is he going to be ok ? " Steve nodded , and looked down the hallway . Ghost was coming back from the bathroom . " Hey , Steve , guess what ? They got a big old fashioned bathtub in there … big enough for both of us . Hey , Trevor , can we get in there , now ? " Ghost was yelling over the music to be heard . He swayed as he stood there by the table , still holding his mostly empty wine bottle . " Ghost , " Steve said , " it 's time to go home . Dinner is over and we have to go , now . Tell Zach and Trevor thank you for inviting us . " " Fine , Steve … bye , y ' all … I liked your food , " Ghost slurred , and tried to head for the door , but started leaning , as he walked , and ran right into a wall , falling backward onto his butt . He started laughing . Steve hauled him up , and out the door toward the car . " Thanks , again , Zach … talk to y ' all later . " " Where we going ? " Ghost asked . He peered out the windshield , as they drove down the highway . " We 're going home , " Steve said . " Why we going … why we going ? " Ghost kept saying over and over . Steve just let him babble on . It had been a long afternoon , and he was tired . It didn 't help his nerves any , that the road was now snow packed . He had to concentrate hard on his driving , which made his shoulders ache , and his eyes hurt . Ghost had been quiet for a few minutes . Steve glanced over at him , seeing that he 'd already passed out . Finally pulling into their driveway , he shook Ghost awake . " We 're home , wake up . " " Dude , I 'm not gonna carry you in . It 's slippery and I don 't want to fall again , now … wake up . " He shook Ghost harder . Steve opened the car door , letting in a blast of cold air . He hoped it would wake Ghost up long enough to get into the house . Leaning on Steve , Ghost did manage to walk up the steps . They kept going to the bedroom , where he fell onto the bed . Steve put a blanket over him , then went into his own bedroom and collapsed into his own bed . Sometime in the night , he heard Ghost in the bathroom , throwing up . In a few minutes , he came into Steve 's room . " Can I sleep with you ? I think I might die , and I don 't want to be alone , " Ghost said . " Sure , c ' mon , " Steve said , scooting over . He snuggled the blankets around them both . The next time he woke up , it was morning . The sun was out , and was melting the snow . Ghost was still asleep , so Steve went to make the coffee . He 'd let Ghost sleep as long as he wanted . After pouring himself a mug of the strong coffee , he opened the front door , to see about three inches of snow still on the ground . The porch was fairly clear , though . Spirit came out , and tentatively sniffed at the snow . He touched it with his paw , then jerked it back , shaking it . Steve laughed . " Go on and jump in , Spirit , " he said . The cat gave him a look , and meowed . " I know … it 's cold , Dude . " " Yeah , " Ghost said . He wrapped the blanket tighter , then sat on the swing . Closing his eyes , he asked , " Did I do stupid stuff ? " Ghost sat there moaning a little more , as he rocked back and forth . Spirit came to sit on his lap . " Spirit says he wants to make a snowman , " Ghost said . " Spirit says ? A cat wants to make a snowman ? " Steve asked . " Well , he can 't really make one by himself , so he wants us to do it for him , " Ghost said . He scratched the cat under the chin . " Isn 't that right , Spirit ? " Steve shrugged . " Well , why not . We better hurry , though , the sun 's melting it already . " He went out into the yard . Gathering up some snow into a fairly good sized base , he noticed Ghost and Spirit were still on the porch , just watching him . He made a snowball and threw it at them . " C ' mon , help me out here , you two . " " I 'm too cold … I 'll freeze . " Ghost went inside to put on a jacket and boots . Finding a scarf and hat for the snowman , and some charcoal briquettes for the eyes , he came back outside . He found a couple of dried tree branches for the arms . " Here put these on , " he said . When they were finished , they stood back to look at their creation . Spirit crept up to it , hissed , then ran away . This made them laugh so hard , they fell down in the snow . Ghost made some snowballs , and threw them at Steve , who returned fire . Eventually they called it a draw , and went back inside . " I 'm making hot chocolate , " Steve said , as they both tried to get warmed up . Ghost turned on the tv to see what was on . It was the news , reporting about all the black Friday sales going on . " Well , what ' cha gonna get me ? " " I don 't know yet … why are you asking all these questions ? " He looked over at Ghost , who was grinning . " " Cause I gotta make plans . " Steve nodded , " I see … well , guess I better make some secret plans , too . " He laughed . He tried hard to blank his mind from what he was thinking . He knew already what he was getting Ghost . He 'd known for a long time . They stayed home , though , the rest of the day . Steve played his guitar , while Ghost made a pot of potato soup . He wanted something easy on his stomach , after the night before . He continued to think of something to get Steve for Christmas . He had a lot of ideas , but rejected them all , as too childish , too boring , or just plain dumb . He did write them down , though , so he 'd remember what he 'd considered . At last the soup was ready . Steve eyed it . " That one there … that blue one ? Where ya gonna hide it ? " He figured Ghost would absentmindedly tell him , and he almost did . After supper , Ghost wrote more plans in the notebook . Steve came into the bedroom , after locking up the house for the night . " You gonna write all night ? " he asked . Ghost wrote a little longer , then put the notebook under the mattress for safekeeping , and turned out the light . He slept most of the night dream free , but then , close to dawn he was jolted awake by a name he heard in a weird dream . It wasn 't scary , but unsettling . It had Kinsey and Terry in it , and a lady named Linda . Steve was in it too . He saw two little kids hiding behind the woman , and Steve was laughing and crying at the same time . He didn 't understand it at all . He planned on telling it to Steve in the morning . This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them . They walked back down the path to the house . Inside , they got dressed in something a little nicer than pajamas , grabbed the beer and wine , and left for Trevor and Zach 's house . " Turn the heater on , it 's getting colder , " Ghost said , as he shivered . Driving through town , they saw that the Yew and the Whirling Disc were still standing … no problems there . Ghost closed his eyes and tapped his forehead , while making a humming noise . Steve gave him a funny look . " What 's that for ? " he asked . " You got a headache ? " " I see a big , fat turkey , and cornbread stuffing . But he did it Cajun style , ya know , with spices and red pepper , and something else … I can 't quite get it , but it 'll be good , " Ghost said . " Then there 's pumpkin pie , but it 's from the store … and … fried okra . Oh , he 's got shrimp cocktail , too , " he said . " Sounds different , but I 'm not picky , are you ? " Steve asked . Ghost was staring hard at the house , trying to sense any evil presence . Steve watched him for a minute . " Well ? " he asked . " Is it safe to go in ? " They got out of the car , and knocked on the front door . Trevor opened it . " Hey , guys , come on in . " He held the door open for them . " It smells so good in here , " Ghost said . " Y ' all come on in the kitchen . Zach is being a chef today , " Trevor said . They went into the living room and got comfortable on the couch . " Y ' all make yourselves at home . I 'll see if Zach needs help . " " Yep , this is real nice , " Steve said . He walked over to look at some framed drawings of Trevor 's comics , that were hanging on the wall . " He draws really good . " " The stuffing is great , Zach … really hot , but good , " Steve said , as he kept drinking water to cool off his mouth . An hour later , they were finished and full , so went into the living room to hang out awhile . Steve 's phone rang , just as they sat down . It was Kinsey . " Hey , happy Thanksgiving , " he said . " Happy Thanksgiving to you and Terry , too , " Steve said . " How 's the vacation , so far ? " " We 're having a blast . We have a great meal coming up , and we 've been seeing the sights in Arizona , " Kinsey said . Ghost grabbed the phone from Steve , and yelled into it . " Kinsey we 're over at Zach and Trevor 's house , and Zach cooked , and it was real good , and it 's snowing . I told Steve to not fall down again , and he didn 't … and we had an earthquake , and it disappeared people … " " You don 't have to yell , " Kinsey said , " I can hear you just fine . " He laughed … Ghost always yelled into the phone . Steve took back the phone , as Ghost yelled again , " Wait , wait … I wasn 't done talking . " " Ghost , if I didn 't take this phone , you 'd talk all night , " Steve said . " Well , bye Kinsey … " Ghost yelled again . " Kinsey , we 're all fine , y ' all 's places are all fine , " Steve said . " Are y ' all ok ? Where ya going next ? " " Yeah , we 're doing great . Saw the Grand Canyon yesterday … it was awesome . Tomorrow we 're heading to Disneyland … Terry can 't wait . Y ' all sound good . I 'll talk to you later , " Kinsey said . " Ok , have fun , " Steve said , and hung up . " They 're doing what they want to do , having fun . " " No , but I 'll have a beer … anyone else ? " Zach asked . He got up to get them all one . Ghost began drinking his wine , right from the bottle . Steve watched him take a huge swallow . He was thinking this may be a long night . He could tell Ghost was already feeling good , and would be feeling even better , later … or worse … it could go either way . Zach brought out a deck of cards . " Poker , anyone ? " he asked , as he shuffled them . Steve was non - committal , because he knew Ghost would want to play , and Zach and Trevor had never heard of Ghost 's problems with numbers . He didn 't want to call attention to it , so he hoped Zach would decide not to . But , he 'd already started dealing out the cards . " I 'll sit out , " Steve said . " What ? I planned on taking your money , dude , " Zach said . " Yeah , well Ghost wants to play , except he don 't know this game very well , so I 'll just coach him … if that 's ok . " " You don 't have to , Steve … you play . I 'll just watch … it 's ok , " Ghost said . " Well , y ' all decide . I 'm ready to play , " Zach said . Steve looked at Ghost … " Go ahead and play a time or two , if you want , then I 'll jump in . " " Well , ok … " He picked up his cards , and looked at them . All he could tell was they were red and black . Trevor put a card down , then Zach . Then it was Ghost 's turn . He looked at Steve … " Which one ? " Steve considered , then pointed … " That one . " Ghost smiled , and put it on the table . This went on through two rounds . Ghost was happy he got to play , sort of , and Zach and Trevor were none the wiser . " Ok , Steve … your turn , " he said . He got up , and asked Zach , " You got any CDs we can listen to ? " The others started another hand of the card game . Ghost kept swigging his wine , as he looked through the music selection , finally choosing an eighty 's rock band album . He put it on … loud . " Damn , turn it down some , " Steve yelled . Ghost did , but just a little . He was feeling tipsy , now , and he started dancing around the room , while singing along . Once , he bumped into Trevor 's chair , and almost fell down . " Sorry … sorry … " he giggled , and kept dancing around the table . This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them . As Steve and Ghost headed back down the sidewalk to their car , they noticed a few other people outside , now . Some kids were shooting hoops in the school yard , a car drove by , and a guy was raking leaves in his front yard . It was all normal activities for a holiday eve afternoon . In the car , Ghost was still trying to work out something . " You know and I know there weren 't any people around earlier , and now there are , like regular … right ? " Ghost said . Ghost was nodding his head , and looking out the car windows . " It 's like the same as here , but a little bit different … at the same time . The door opened , and we went through it , even though we didn 't know it , or see it , or even mean to go through . We saw the town empty , and now we 're on the right side of the door , so it looks ok again . Ya see ? " Ghost said . " Not really , but I have heard of that . Sounds kind of hocus - pocus to me , " Steve said . " Well , I don 't care . I think that 's what happened to us . " Ghost looked pretty positive about it , so Steve agreed with him , but had his doubts . " Ok , mystery solved , " Steve said . " Now , another thing … Zach said for us to come over at lunch time tomorrow . We don 't have to bring anything , but I 'm taking some beer , and you could take some of your wine , if you want to . " It was open . They both got out and went in . " Hey , guys … y ' all are the only customers in here all day , " the clerk greeted them . Steve and Ghost gave each other a look . " See … " Ghost said . Steve rolled his eyes , " Yeah , I see … I see some beer I 'm gonna buy . " He walked over to the cooler . Ghost found his Scuppernong wine , and they met back at the counter . He started to ask the clerk about the strange day , but Steve elbowed him , and shook his head . After they were back in the car , Ghost said , " Why didn 't you let me ask him about it ? " At home they put the drinks in the refrigerator to keep cold . " I 'm gonna write all this stuff down , so I won 't forget today . We 'll have a record of it , " Ghost said . " Yeah , I know , " Ghost said , getting out his journal . He changed into his soft jersey pants , and tie - dyed t - shirt , and got comfortable on the couch . He began writing . " Hang on , let me find the remote , " Steve said , as he felt around the couch cushions , finally finding it . He turned up the sound , and they heard the reporter interviewing a man in Raleigh . " It was the strangest thing I ever heard , " he was saying . " Early this morning , before dawn , I heard a couple of loud booms … just outta nowhere … like in the air or something . Then later , people were acting strange . At least in my neighborhood , they were . " The reporter continued the information . " It has been the same story in many communities , here in the county . Calls have been coming in all day . We haven 't received any word yet , from NOAA officials , confirming the story of loud booms . Seismologists did record a 4 . 0 earthquake in central North Carolina over night , however . Stay tuned for any late breaking news . " " Yep , I knew it , " Ghost said . " I knew something was off , like not normal . That earthquake opened a crack in space , and everybody fell in through that door , and everything changed for awhile . Now it 's getting back like it was . " He started writing down all this new information . Ghost snorted . " You sound funny , Steve . I don 't know what you mean , but you sounded funny . " He laughed . He finished his writing , and went to bed . The next morning , was cold and gray , and a few snow flakes were falling . The predicted change in weather had arrived . Steve made breakfast , and turned on the heater . " Remind me not to fall down on the steps , again , " he told Ghost . They tried to watch the Thanksgiving parades on tv , but the reception was snowy , too . Over at Trevor and Zach 's house , preparations for the big dinner had started early . Zach had the turkey baking , and was working on the stuffing . Trevor mostly watched . He 'd not had much experience with cooking . " Hey , Trev , put on some music . I feel like singing , and dancing while I do this , " Zach said . He pretended to be a tv chef , explaining how he did this and that . Trevor made sketches of him , in his drawing pad . " Oh , mostly watching tv cooking shows . I was left alone most of the time , when I was a kid . We always had plenty of food in the house , but never any parents , unless they came home and got mad at me for something . So , I experimented . Then Eddy and I 'd try things when I was living on my own . It 's not hard … I can show you , " Zach said . After a minute , Ghost said , " I 'm going out back to the graveyard . I have to check if anybody was shaken loose . " He grabbed his Army jacket , and scarf . Steve watched him go through the back yard , and down the path to the cemetery . " Ghost is something else , " he thought . Getting another cup of coffee , he went back to the living room , and tried out a few more chords . It was coming together pretty good . " Hey , guys … it 's me , Ghost . Is everyone ok out here ? " Then he was still , listening for any voices . All he got was a peaceful sense … then , very faintly , he heard " thank you , Ghost … thank you , Ghost " several times . Ghost grinned at that . He loved it when he got an answer . " Ok , guess everyone survived the earthquake … that 's good . " He brushed some light snow off the tops of the markers . He felt a connection to the civil war dead that were buried here . Steve had come down to join him . He 'd heard the last bit of words Ghost had spoken . This was Ghost in one of his truest forms … communicating , and empathizing with the other side , with ease . " Hey , Ghost , everyone ok out here ? " He came up to where Ghost was standing , putting his arm across Ghost 's shoulders . Ghost leaned his head on Steve , and nodded . " Yeah , they 're ok . I heard one say thank you . That means a lot to me , Steve . That they care that I come out here , and they 're not always feeling so alone … that they like visiting with me . I 'm so glad that we live here , so close to them . " Ghost turned and pulled Steve 's face to his , and kissed him . " I love you , Steve , and I 'm so thankful you understand me … the things I do . And even when I know you think I 'm crazy , I still love you . " Steve put his forehead onto Ghost 's , and looked into those amazing blue eyes . " Ghost , I try to understand you , and I learn more every day why I love you . And , the days you drive me crazy , are the days I fall more in love with you . It 's the best feeling in the world to know you love me back . " This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them . " Thank goodness , " Steve said . " I was beginning to feel like we 're the last people on Earth , it 's so empty around here . " He half - heartedly laughed . " Hey , guys , " the waitress said , as she came over . " You have your choice of tables , today , and we 're glad you came in . We thought we 'd never get any customers today . " " I know , right ? " she said . " It 's deserted and that 's just impossible . Where is everyone ? Did y ' all see anyone on the way here ? " Shaking her head , the waitress said , " All I know is we we opened up this morning , and not a soul has come in , until ya 'll showed up … not even the regulars . I 'll tell ya , it 's weird . So what can I get for y ' all ? " " Now it makes sense , " Steve said . " I thought you were talking about the burger . " He laughed , then looked out the big picture windows of the diner . " Ya know what , Ghost , it 's like some creepy movie , where every person was told to get out of town , except we didn 't get the message . " " Naw , it wasn 't that … it was on tv . I thought it was talking about a movie , but turns out it was real . " Ghost said . " They talked to the people when they came back . " He sounded pretty sure of the facts . " It wasn 't very big . You know how those swamp people are … they stick together in little communities . And , besides , how many could fit in a UFO ? Not that many , so it would still be able to fly around . You know how it is with these things , " Ghost said . Ghost shook his head . " No , they don 't really know , over in Raleigh , what 's gonna happen here . And , it already did , anyway , early this morning . " He narrowed his eyes , still looking out the window . " The fog . It 's just a pretend fog , Steve . It 's just now creeping it 's way over to this street . See ? " Ghost shivered . " Yeah , ' cause it gets in everywhere … in the doors , and windows , and through the little cracks and stuff . And , whatever it touches , like living , breathing things , it disappears them . " Ghost was getting nervous , now . He stood up , wringing his hands . Ghost gave him a look . " Well , you should be . Where 's the waitress ? We need to seal up this place , before it comes in , " Ghost said . He went to find her . Steve gave Ghost a look . " It 's time to stop , now . That was a cool story , but you know it 's not real . You just made it up , for fun . " Ghost seemed to be still in his fantasy world , for a minute , then shook his head , and took a big breath . " Guess so , Steve , but I think it was real to me , and it could happen . I mean , everyone is still gone away . " The waitress , sighed . " Ok , guess we don 't have to use the tape then , huh ? " She looked relieved , as she went back to work . " I don 't know . I 'm going to call Zach , and see if he knows anything about it , " Steve said . He dialed the number . " Well , we 're at the diner , and it 's just us and the waitress and the cook … and the whole town looks empty . It 's just weird , ya know , " Steve said . " What time did y ' all leave ? Did you notice anything going on ? " Zach took a minute to think . " We 've been here a couple of hours . I didn 't see anyone around , when we left . I don 't know what 's going on , but we 'll be back home pretty soon . Oh , and we want you and Ghost to come over tomorrow around noon . Does that sound ok ? " They 'd been walking up the block , and chose a house with Thanksgiving decorations in the yard , and a fall wreath on the door . Ghost rang the doorbell . They could hear a tv on inside , and then the door opened . It was a middle - aged woman , who answered , and they could see a couple of teens inside , watching a movie . Steve cleared his throat . " Sorry , we just wondered where everybody is . The town is sort of empty today . Thought maybe you 'd heard something about it . " This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them . Ghost dug around in his backpack , and brought out a brand new copy of their CD . " Here it is , Kinsey . We want you to have the very first copy … and we ain 't even gonna make ya pay for it . It 's comp … compli … well , what 's that word , Steve ? " he asked . " This is great , guys . Thank you all , " Kinsey said , as he looked at the front and back of the CD . " I 'll listen to it tonight . " They continued to discuss their travel plans . Ghost and R . J . had gone over to the arcade room to play some games , and Steve racked up the balls on the pool table . Kinsey ordered pizzas to be delivered , and they all decided this was a party , after all … a CD launch party , and a bon voyage party for Terry and Kinsey . They were all enjoying themselves , listening to music on the jukebox , and challenging each other on the games . After a few hours , things wound down , and Kinsey and Terry began cleaning up . " Well , guys , this has been really great , but I 've gotta finish packing , and try to get some sleep , " Kinsey said . " Yeah , me too , " Terry said . " Oh , Steve , here 's the keys to the shop . You 'll check up on things over there , too ? " They said their good - byes , and left , as Kinsey locked up the club . Terry , Steve , Ghost , and R . J . walked back down to the shop . " Later , Dudes , " Terry said . " See y ' all in about two weeks , or so . " " You ready to head home , Ghost ? " Steve asked . " Yeah , I 'll call you . We can go do something , " R . J . said , as he got into his car . " Ok , sure … " Ghost said . He smiled , but was a little unsettled by R . J . 's request . Steve was leaning back against his car , and had been watching them . He rolled his eyes , and shook his head , as Ghost came over to the car . " What was all that about ? " " Huh ? Oh , nothing . R . J . said he 'd call me , maybe … said we could go do something sometime . I don 't know … " Ghost said , shrugging . " Why now , I wonder ? " Steve asked . " In all these years y ' all never hung out … hardly said two words to each other . So , why now ? Just asking , I mean … I think it 'd be great if y ' all got together for games and whatever , sometimes . It 's just weird , is all . " Ghost nodded . " I know , ' cause R . J . 's always been your friend … since you were kids . He 's just being nice to me ' cause of what I did , and ' cause he feels sorry that I don 't have any friends . That 's all . He 'll call , and we 'll go do something , but it won 't last , ya know . It 's ok … " Ghost said , and sighed . He and Steve got in the car . " Ghost , I think he means it . He wants to be your friend . He 's always been kinda quiet and shy , and never had many friends , either . I think he 's finally coming out of that , and wants to get to know you better … not just as a band member , " Steve said . " I know we used to hang out , but we had different goals , I guess . Anyway , go have some fun sometimes . It 's ok to do things without me . " " Ok , if he calls , I will , I guess , " Ghost said . He leaned his head back on the car seat and closed his eyes . " Let 's just go home . I gotta feed Spirit , " he said , the conversation about R . J . over for now . Steve drove them home down the dark , deserted highway . Steve turned on the radio , finding a song he liked , and hummed along . It had been a long day . " That 's nice , " Steve said , not really paying attention . Ghost got out his markers and some paper , and began drawing . He was a pretty talented artist , even though he didn 't think so . For this project , he drew a picture of the four of them , at a table , set with Thanksgiving food . This was done in pen , and very detailed . Next was a border of fall leaves , and over all , an orange and yellow shading . Inside he wrote , ' Thanksgiving is for friends ' . Smiling , he showed it to Steve . " Look , I finished it . " Steve took the card , and was struck again at how Ghost could capture a scene so realistically . " This is really good … you made us look real , " he said . " I love this card , and so will they . " " I don 't think I tell you enough how much I admire you , " he said . " I love everything you do . You draw good , you sing good , and you cook good . Well , I just wanted to tell you I appreciate you , and thank you for being with me . " He hugged Ghost close . Steve ran his hands through Ghost 's hair , and brought his face up to see into Ghost 's eyes . " Don 't say that . I 'm sorry I get mad sometimes , but I feel I can never measure up , be enough for you . " He kissed Ghost , tenderly . His book fell to the floor , and they showed each other how very much they loved each other . There , they eventually fell asleep , each dreaming of the other . As morning broke , Zach and Trevor were excited about hosting their dinner , the next day . They were having fun getting their house prepared , and were going later , into Raleigh , to the big grocery store . " So , Zach … are you sure you can cook a turkey ? " Trevor asked . " Sure , it 's just like a giant chicken , isn 't it ? You like how I make chicken , don 't you ? " Zach asked . " Yeah , " Trevor said . Steve and Ghost woke , still on the couch , where they 'd fallen asleep . They had no definite plans for the day , so took their time with breakfast and coffee . " We should go into town , I guess , " Steve said . " We can check on Terry and Kinsey 's places . " Ghost agreed , and around noon , they drove over there . " This town is weird today , " Ghost said , looking up and down the main street . " It don 't feel right . " Steve checked the locks on Terry 's shop , studio , and apartment . " I know what ya mean . I think it 's ' cause they 're both not here . " They walked across the street , and tried the door to the hardware store . Peering in the window , Ghost said , " The lights aren 't on , either . You know those guys are always out here playing checkers … where are they ? " " Well , maybe since it 's Thanksgiving tomorrow , they all went on vacation , ya think ? " Steve said . " Lets go check the club , then see if the diner or pizza place is open . " They found that the Yew was locked up tight , with no problems there , so went back to their car . " I 'm going to drive around town for a look see … this really isn 't right , Ghost , " Steve said . This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them . The next morning , Steve and Ghost got ready , and drove into town . They were both in a good mood . Ghost was messing with the radio , trying to find something to listen to . " Hey , Steve , do ya think our songs will ever be on the radio ? " " I don 't know … maybe one day . Right now we 're just a local , small town band that almost nobody 's ever heard of , ya know . If we can sell these new CDs , then maybe more people would know us . " They all walked over , and as they went inside , Ghost stopped to talk to Terry . " I 'm sorry I caused trouble in here , Terry , " he said . He had his head down , afraid to look at Terry , now . " Ghost , look at me , " Terry said , and as Ghost raised his head , Terry was struck again at how much he did care for Ghost . " Look , I 'm your friend . You don 't have to apologize to me , and I 'm not mad at you . I understand how it is , sometimes . I just hope you know that I really care about you , and want you to feel better , and don 't worry about coming in here . This is like your home , too . You should feel comfortable hanging out with me , ok ? " Ghost nodded . " Ok , Terry . " He could tell that Terry meant what he said . " I don 't mean to scare you … I love you . " Terry smiled , knowing Ghost meant it , too . " Ok , then … let 's get busy . I 'm giving you the job of folding the CD inserts , then we 'll all put them in the cases . " At the big work table , they stared at the large stack of CDs , paper inserts , and clear cases . " You said you wanted five hundred , didn 't you , Steve ? " Terry asked . " Yeah , but I didn 't know it 'd look like this much . " " Ok , if that 's what they sell for , we might as well do it , too , " Steve said . " Also , Ghost has his book to sell , I think for twenty - five dollars , so hopefully the people who come to our shows will have money to spend . " " Yeah , that would be good , Steve , " Terry said , and laughed . " Well , guess we should get started on it . " He got the cases ready , and had Ghost begin folding the inserts . As Ghost folded , he admired the picture , and writing on the papers . Steve and Terry discussed plans to get flyers made up for their upcoming show . " Kinsey said we should wait until y ' all get back from vacation , then set it up maybe a week later , " Steve said . " We 'll have to wait to know what date to put on it . I do have a guy over in Raleigh who said he 'd print them up … the same guy that did the book . " " That sounds fine . We 'll need a few days to get over our vacation , anyway . We only plan on being gone a couple of weeks . We 'll call you to let you know where we are , and when we 're expected to be back in town , " Terry said . They all looked up , as the back door opened , and R . J . came in . " Hey guys , I 'm here … what can I do to help ? " He came over to the table to see what had been started . " You can help Ghost fold , or start inserting them in the cases … whichever you want , " Terry said . R . J . grabbed some cases , sat down beside Ghost , and started putting the papers into the front of the plastic cases . He was feeling a little awkward . He didn 't know what to say to Ghost , since the episode the day before , and also because of the songs . Ghost could sense this , but didn 't want to speak first , so he just kept folding . Finally he couldn 't hold back … he had to say something . So , when R . J . reached for another folded paper , he slapped his own hand down on top of them , before R . J . could get one . R . J . jumped , and sucked in his breath . " Ya gonna talk to me ever again ? " Ghost asked , as he looked at R . J . " Uh , sure , Ghost … why wouldn 't I ? " R . J . said , still acting scared of Ghost . " ' Cause you 're scared I 'll go crazy and throw something at ' cha , " Ghost said . " Ghost … " R . J . tried to find something to say , without admitting Ghost was totally right . " R . J . please don 't be scared of me . I didn 't mean to scare y ' all , I just can 't help it sometimes . I hope you 're still my friend … ' cause hardly anybody is … and , please don 't be mad , and hate me , and not talk to me … please , R . J . " Ghost was still looking at him , but R . J . was still looking down at the table . Then he did raise his eyes to meet Ghost 's , and saw that his friend was still in there , not just a crazy person to be scared of . " Ghost , I 'm so sorry … I 'll always be your friend . Nothing will ever change that . Yeah , I was kinda scared , yesterday . I never seen ya throw things , before , but mostly I was worried if you were ok . So yeah , I 'm still gonna talk to you , Ghost . " He smiled . " Besides , I need you on my side , when we act silly , and Steve and Terry are ragging on us , " he said , and laughed . Ghost laughed , too . " I know , they can be kinda stuffy , sometimes . " They went back to work . Steve and Terry had been listening to them . " Glad that 's settled , then , " Steve said . " Yeah , it 's definitely settled … that we 're stuffy , " Terry said . They continued to work on packaging the five hundred CDs . " Oh , guess who called last night , " Steve said . " Zach invited us to their new place for Thanksgiving dinner . " They were nearing the end of the stack of CDs . Terry got a couple of large boxes to put them all in . " I 'll keep these over here , until the show , Steve , " he said . " It was lots of work , but they turned out great . I say we go over to see Kinsey , and celebrate with a beer . " They all agreed , and walked down the block to the club . They were all in a good mood , Steve and Terry leading the way down the sidewalk . Ghost and R . J . were making wisecracks , about them , and trying to imitate the way they walked . As they entered the back door of the club , they found Kinsey in his office . They were making a lot of noise , as one by one , they passed by the office door , each one saying hello to Kinsey . They were laughing as they made their way to the bar , where Terry grabbed each of them a cold beer from the cooler . Kinsey came out and just stood watching them . No one paid him any more attention , so he hollered , " Hey . " They all stopped talking , then . " What the hell is going on here ? Y ' all act like you own the place , " Kinsey said , shaking his head . " Hey , Kinsey , " Terry said , " grab a beer and join us … we 're celebrating . " " You think those beers are free … you just walk in there and take ' em ? " Kinsey said . They knew he wasn 't really mad . " C ' mon , Kinsey … we have good news , " Steve said . This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them . Terry had never seen Ghost this mad and upset before , and having this argument with Steve , right after hearing the songs they 'd done . His mind was reeling . " Does he get like this very much ? In all these years , I 've never seen him like this , Steve , " Terry said . Steve sighed , " Yeah , sometimes . You know his problems , Terry . It 's out of his control , mostly … he just has these fits when he gets frustrated that he can 't do something . We deal with it . " R . J . had gone to the door of the break room to peek in . He was shocked to see Ghost looking like a psychotic person . He 'd seen Ghost in many moods over the years , but this was way more serious . " Dude , y ' all better get in there . He 's gone crazy . " Steve and Terry rushed over to the doorway . The room was in total chaos , and Ghost was still trying to find things to throw . His hair was flying out in all directions , and by the look in his eyes , it seemed he 'd totally gone over the edge into some strange , other world , and didn 't even know what he was doing . Steve went in first , dodging the folding chair that Ghost threw at him . He grabbed hold of Ghost , wrestling him to the floor . He didn 't let go , even as Ghost fought him . Steve kept talking him back to reality , saying anything he could think of to calm him down . Terry and R . J . just stood there , taking in the wreckage . Finally Ghost quit struggling , and breathing hard , he came around . He seemed to not know what just happened . As Steve held him , they both sobbed . " It 's ok , Ghost , you 're ok now . We 're all ok here … nobody 's mad at you . " He stroked Ghost 's hair back . " Steve , what happened ? I don 't feel good , and I don 't remember stuff … where are we ? " He looked around the room . " It 's ok , Ghost … we 're at Terry 's studio . You kinda messed up the kitchen , but we 'll get it fixed . Don 't worry about it . " " I 'm sorry I don 't listen , Steve . That 's all I remember you saying . " Steve nodded into Ghost 's hair . " Yeah , I 'm sorry I said that . I 'm not mad at you at all , though . I want you to feel better . " Ghost noticed Terry , then . " I remember you , now … you 're Terry ? " he asked . " I didn 't mean to tear up your place . I 'll clean it up , " he said , as he tried to get on his feet , with Steve 's help . " It 's ok , no big deal , " Terry said . " How are you feeling , now ? " " Steve , " Terry said , " take him home … or to a doctor , or something . He 's in no shape to be hanging around here . We 'll talk business another time . " " Ok , Terry … he 's usually fine and can go months , then something sets it off . He 's seen doctors about it , but they just say there 's not much they can do , and just give him medicine . He 's supposed to take it every day , but forgets sometimes . " Steve breathed deep , and rubbed his hands over his face . " We deal with it . It doesn 't last long . " Terry gave Steve a hug . " Well , stay strong . And , by the way , those songs … man … beautiful . Um … R . J . didn 't want me to say anything , but I have to say , anyway … we were both wiping our eyes after hearing them . " He cleared his throat . " And , it 's all finished , except for making all the copies and packaging . " " Thanks , Terry , I appreciate everything you do , " Steve said . " Go ahead and do the copies . " He looked in at Ghost . " I 'll talk to ya tomorrow . " He got in the car . " Later , Dude , " Terry said , and went back inside . R . J . had started to pick things up in the break room . He looked up as Terry came in . " They gonna be ok ? " They worked awhile longer , putting things in order . " R . J . , why don 't you go on home . You 've done enough for now . I appreciate you staying , but I 'm beat . This is good enough for now , " Terry said . " I think I 'm going over to see Kinsey . " Terry locked the door behind them , as they left . He walked down the block , to the club . Kinsey was in his office , as he heard Terry knocking at the back door . " Hey , Terry … how 's it going ? " Kinsey asked . " I was just thinking of coming over there . " " Good thing you didn 't come over . The place is a wreck … well , R . J . and I cleaned it up , but damn … you wouldn 't believe how violent Ghost can get . " He looked up at Kinsey , who was frowning . " Yeah , Steve finally got him calmed down , and took him home . " He paused a minute , shaking his head . " I think that kid 's got more problems than Steve can handle . When that fit , or whatever it was , was over , he kinda woke up , and didn 't even know what he 'd done . He didn 't know where he was , or even who I was . He scared the crap outta me and R . J . " " Sounds like he had a pretty bad one , " Kinsey said . " I 've seen a few … scary as hell , but he snaps out of it pretty fast . Steve knows how to handle it . " " Yeah , well , I feel so bad for Ghost … he never asked for any of it . And then , I feel bad for Steve , too … ' cause he has to remember every day what he did . I admit , he 's taken responsibility , and is doing the best he can , but damn , I just wish things were easier for them , " Terry said . " Ok , enough … I 'm almost done with their CD . I 'll probably finish it up tomorrow , then I 'm free to take off . How ' bout you ? " Terry asked . Steve drove home much slower than he 'd driven over to Terry 's , earlier . He kept looking over at Ghost , who was rubbing his face , around his eyes . " You gonna be sick , " he asked . " No , I don 't think so . I 'm just hungry , " Ghost said . " I 'll fix us something when we get to the house , then , " Steve said . He 'd not eaten all day , and Ghost had only had the biscuit and bacon at Kinsey 's , this morning . As Steve went into their kitchen , to find something to fix , Ghost curled up on the couch , with a blanket . Spirit joined him , purring . Steve took a second to look in at them , smiling as he saw them cuddled up together . He finished the simple supper of toasted waffles , and scrambled eggs , and brought Ghost a plate . " Here ya go , Ghost , " he said , setting the full plate , and a glass of milk , on the coffee table . He brought in his own plate , too , and sat beside Ghost , who had already started eating . " I know , " Ghost said , sighing . " But , it makes me feel weird too , and I really do forget to take it . You 're just mad because of today , aren 't you ? " " Good , " Steve said . " Oh , Terry said he was done with the CD , except for packaging it . He liked all the songs , too . " " He did ? I 'm glad , but you know what ? I knew they would , and I know they cried … him and R . J . … Those songs make me cry too , Steve . Not in a bad way … just ' cause they mean so much to me … to us . " " I know , me too , " Steve said . " Well , if you 're up to it , we 'll go in and help put them together tomorrow , then . How 's that sound ? " " Yeah , I want to do that , " Ghost said . " But , Terry might not want me to come back , ya know … after … after I wrecked the place , but Steve , I didn 't mean to . And , I didn 't want to be mad at you either , but it just … I don 't know , something just made me do it . " " Yeah , I know , and Terry understands … he 's not mad , though . So , don 't worry about it . Ok , then , " Steve said , getting up . " I 'm gonna clean these dishes . You just take it easy . Go take your medicine , too . " He carried the dishes back to the kitchen . Ghost went to get his meds , Spirit galloping behind him . On his way to get a glass of water in the kitchen , their phone rang . Steve didn 't hear it , as the water was running in the sink . Ghost stared at the phone . It was on the table by the couch . He was afraid to touch it , after all that had happened today . It kept on ringing , so he finally did pick it up , and ran to give it to Steve . Steve grabbed it … " Hello ? Oh , hi Zach … yeah , that 's great … Thanksgiving ? Sure , sounds good . Ok , later . " He hung up . " That was Zach . They finished moving into their new house , and want us to come over for Thanksgiving dinner . That sound good to you ? " This is a work of " fan fiction " based on the novel , " Lost Souls " by Poppy Z . Brite . All credit for the original characters , places , and some backstory mentions , belong to Ms . Brite and her publishing affiliates . Only newly introduced characters , places , and original elements of this story are entirely from my imagination . Character descriptions are a blend of the original book descriptions and my interpretation of them .