A Series Of Random Ficlets, Copied from Ficlets For June

[bttf44]

The Perfect Dad

June 19, 2016
6:20 PM PST

Marty Sr glanced across the table, as he smiled real warmly at his son. As today was Father's Day, Marty Jr decided to treat his father out at Perkin's. They both ordered beef French dip sandwiches and fries. Marty Sr was always quite amazed by how his son took after him, as Marty Jr had a strong desire to follow in his father's foosteps.

"Oh, Junior, I simply can't believe it," Marty Sr commented, wistfully. "You just turned eighteen, two days ago. Just tomorrow, I'll be turning 48. Of course, with all the time travel trips that we've taken, we both would actually be a little older. It's so scary."

"Actually, Dad," Marty Jr replied, softly, "it feels very good to be an adult. Granted, it's pretty scary - but it's also rather exciting. Y'know, I most certainly did enjoy that week. I mean, the week that you and I were in 1968 - and we acted just like twins."

"Well, son, I'm sure you would remember that week a little better than I do," Marty Sr replied, laughing. "I mean, that really would still be recent to you. For me, it was over thirty years ago. It's strange how time travel works. I must say, I'm proud of the way you've turned out. At any rate, I really do wish you and your band the best of luck."

Marty Jr smiled at his father, as the latter thought of how he gained rather moderate success as a rock star. He actually became as famous as his favourite musician, Huey Lewis - and he was sometimes hailed as being "the Michael J Fox of rock and roll".

"Thanks for your support," Marty Jr replied, softly. "Still, I sometimes feel insecure. I mean, what if they say that I'm really no good? What if they claim that I'm just riding on the coattails of your success? I don't know if I can take that kind of a rejection."

"Oh, honey," chided Marty Sr, "your music is definitely good - and I'm not saying that, just because I'm your father. I mean, I am also a musician - so I sure know what guitar talent is. You simply don't have to worry, Junior. You always will have my support, and I'm sure that others would feel the same. You're an awesome guitarist!"

"Thanks, Dad," gushed Marty Jr. "So, anyway, I think it's so nice that you now work as a disc jockey at KKHV. After all, you were what actually helped to make KKHV the 'most listened to radio station in the Hill Valley vicinity'. It's been about four years."

"I certainly try to do my best," laughed Marty Sr. "Of course, getting rid of Dave and Jerry's Morning Show also might've helped. People really love that they can tune into our station in the morning, and actually hear music. I really think more stations..."

"Yeah, morning zoo radio can go take a hike!" agreed Marty Jr. "I mean, I never quite understood how people could enjoy waking up to inane chatter - and, not to mention, how the morning show personalities laugh like hyenas. Of course, I sure have nothing against people laughing and being happy - but I really like to rock out in the morning."

"We sure don't need the chatter," replied Marty Sr, "but things like the weather, the news, and the traffic reports can be useful information. The commercials, of course, are essential. They do bring in the revenue needed to keep the station on the air."

"Yeah, it's really sort of like going to the doctor's office," explained Marty Jr, "in order to get your shots. They're simply not much fun, and they can even be a little painful - but they're necessary to being healthy. I sort of view commercials in the same light."

"Right, exactly," agreed Marty Sr. "Anyway, they are looking at getting my segment syndicated nationally. Even though, with the internet and satellite radio, it might not even be necessary. After all, international audiences are able to listen that way. It's quite strange, thinking of how much radio has evolved over the past decade or so."

"I remember being a little boy," recalled Marty Jr, "and how we didn't even have HD radio. Nowadays, HD radios are the only kind of radios that get sold. I'm guessing it was quite similar to what happened, after FM radio starting being more prominent."

"Well, when I was a little boy," explained Marty Sr, "I've seen quite a few radios that only had the AM band. I'm not sure if they were actually still being sold in stores." He sighed, as he added, "Gee, son, you're really starting to make me feel so... so old."

"I'm sorry, Dad," Marty Jr replied, softly. "Anyway, it's quite nice to be eating out with you. It's simply too bad that this was a leap year, or else your birthday would fall right on Father's Day. Well, at least, Father's Day did end up falling between our birthdays. I always thought it was so amazing, how my birthday came three days before yours."

"I remember finding out about that in 1968," replied Marty Sr. "I was just so shocked by that. It's sure felt strange to think that I actually found out about your birthdate, twelve years before you were born. It sure made it a little less of a surprise for us."

"I think you mean thirty years before I was born," teased Marty Jr. "Well, no, I knew what you meant. It's very awesome, Dad, thinking of just how well I get along with your teenage self. I suppose we do tend to have a rather unique relationship."

"Yeah, we do," agreed Marty Sr. "Y'know, I was quite thinking about how I still never told your grandparents who 'Calvin Klein' really was. As far as they know, Calvin was Doc's nephew, and he died back in 1986. It's a pretty long story, but I kind of think it really is... Well, I really do think they deserve to know - but I'm not real sure how..."

"Well, I'm not sure what to say," replied Marty Jr. "I mean, I suppose they'd simply be happy to know that 'Calvin Klein' isn't really dead - and I'm really would explain a lot of thing that... Well, I'm sure they do have more than a few questions, about what..."

"That is a real good point," agreed Marty Sr. "I remember how Seamus felt, when he thought that 'Clint Eastwood' was dead - and how relieved he was, to hear the truth about him. Still, I wonder if I might've... Well, what if I've actually waited too long?"

"Oh, I wouldn't worry about that," suggested Marty Jr. "It looks like you're just about done with your fries. I almost could go for another sandwich, but I suppose I'd rather have dessert. I mean, I simply do like their mint shakes. Those are always very good, and they're even quite better than the mint shakes that they serve at McDonald's."

"Yeah, they are," agreed Marty Sr. "I still remember when this place only had shakes in three flavours. I would always order the strawberries shakes. I also quite love the chocolate chip chocolate shakes. As for tonight, though, I suppose I'll go with mint."

"They have a lot of great flavours," commented Marty Jr. "I think the orange shakes are also rather lovely. Well, since I got back from 1968, I really was thinking about if Harmony and I... Well, I'm almost think that... that we might really be more than..."

"You mean, you think you could really be in love?" asked Marty Sr. As his son nodded, he added, "Well, I'm not exactly sure what to say. I mean, you two always were best friends. I certainly wouldn't object, if you two did end up together - but I actually just think that... Well, I really don't want you to just be rushing into something like that."

The truth was, Marty Sr really did feel more than a little pleased with the prospect of his son ending up with Doc's granddaughter. If the two of them did end up together, he and his scientist friend would likely end up having some common descendants.

"Well, I see what you're saying," replied Marty Jr. "We haven't taken that step, yet - but I've been doing quite a lot of thinking about it. I was also thinking of how none of my relationships have lasted that long. I think I simply hadn't met the... I mean, I..."

"I see what you mean," replied Marty Sr. "Well, far be it from me to tell you who you should date. Either way, I'll do my best to support you. It's that, well, it's very scary to think that you're, uh... Well, legally an adult. Granted, you always will be my child. It's just that... Well, it just feels scary to think that I'm actually getting old."

"Oh, Dad," protested Marty Jr, "you'll never be old. I mean, you almost always have a very optimistic attitude - and you rather rock with the best of them. I also hear people call you on the time at KKHV - and the listeners will often guess that you're younger."

"Yeah, that simply makes me feel good," agreed Marty Sr. "Of course, nowadays, we also have rejuvination clinics - which can expand life spans very dramatically. I mean, Doc is still very much alive, well, and kicking - and he's actually about 105 years old."

"Very true," replied Marty Jr. "Of course, as far as the rest of the world is concerned, he's only 95 years old. I really wonder if he'll still be around in, say, 2046. It's strange to think of how so much could simply change in thirty years. On the other hand, there are other things that likely would never change - like the value of friends and family."

"So true," replied Marty Sr. "I've basically seen the entire history of Hill Valley, and a lot has changed. It's sure strange to think of how long the McFly lineage has existed here. Anyway, I won't force you to stay in Hill Valley - but I really do think that..."

"You don't have to worry, Dad," Marty Jr replied, smiling. "I mean, no matter how rich and famous I might become - I have no such plans to leave Hill Valley. I owe it to you. I owe it to Grandpa. I owe it to Great-great-great-grandpa Seamus. I owe you all."

Marty Sr's heart swelled with love for his son. While some things might be real unusual about his relationship with his son, other things were not so different at all. It just felt wonderful, knowing how much his children appreciated him. He really hated to think of how his life might be rather different, had he opted to race Douglas Needles in 1985.

[bttf44]

One Big Step

June 20, 1986
6:20 PM PDT

Calvin McFly smiled warmly at his twin, Marty - as they stepped into the roller rink. He sure had anticipated this day for quite some time. After this, this was the day that he and his twin would finally become legally recognized as adults. Their parents reserved the entire evening for friends and family, as they recognized this as a major event.

This would also be Calvin's first birthday celebration in this world - the world where his father was alive and successful, his mother was so perky, and he had a happy family. He no longer had to live under the tyranny of a powerful and corrupt Biff Tannen.

"Isn't this simply exciting, Cal?" Marty asked, with enthusiasm. "We are now officially eighteen years old, and they're even going to play some of our songs. Y'know, I can hardly believe that we're now adults. The thing is, I don't feel that much different."

"Me, either," Calvin replied, softly. "It's very scary, though. I know that, technically, we're already a little older. Still, I'm not sure that I'm ready for adulthood. After all, I only had a real family for about eight months - and I don't quite want to give it up. It was my life-long dream to be able to have such a family. Know what I mean, Marty?"

"Don't worry, honey," Lorraine replied, as she placed her arms around Calvin. "Even though you are legally an adult, we sure have no plans to kick you out. The thing is, your dad and I understand that you didn't have a very easy life - and we really..."

"We understand how big of an event it is for you," added George, softly. "That's why we decided to go out of our way to plan this skate party for the two of you. This time travel stuff can still be rather confusing, but the two of you are real precious to us."

"No more talk about time travel, George," Lorraine chided, gently. "C'mon, boys! Your friends are starting to show up. We want you guys to have fun. You should be pretty excited about your next milestone. You'll be able to vote, this year - and you'll just be able to help us keep Goldie Wilson elected. He's one of the greatest mayors around."

"That's very true," replied Marty, flashing a lopsided smile. "Well, other than the fact that he sure keeps wanting to replace the clock tower. Still, most of his other policies are wonderful. Besides, his competitor has also expressed wanting to replace the..."

"Man, if we can just find a candidate," added George, sighing, "who actually cares to preserve our town's most legendary landmark. Well, I suppose we shouldn't fault him too much. I mean, back when he worked at Lou's Cafe, he certainly was a nice guy."

"Hello, everyone!" called out Dr. Emmett Brown, as he went to join the group. "Chris should be here very soon, as well. I must admit that I'm a little rusty at rollerskating, but I'll give it a shot. I sure remember the day that I turned eighteen. It seems like it was just yesterday. Of course, with a time machine, I guess I could also go back..."

"That might not be a very good idea," Calvin replied, doubtfully. "I mean, you're the one who's always mentioning that one must be very cautious with time travel - as to not mess up the space-time continuum. Also, it's not like you can de-age yourself."

"Well, there is the rejuvenation clinic," reminded Doc. "You have a point, though. It probably isn't possible to de-age someone too far back. Like, for instance, I'm quite sure it wouldn't be possible for me to... to go back to being, uh, five years old."

As everyone laughed at Doc's comment, Calvin began to think back to when he was five. It wasn't a rather happy time for him. By then, his father was dead - while his mother already married Biff Tannen. He simply remembered how disappointed he was, that he never had a birthday part that year. He felt that his life was so unfair.

"Now, that is an interesting thought!" Marty replied, chuckling. "It's very hard to imagine you as a little boy. I bet you were already quite intellegent. I do wonder how you and I would've gotten along, if we were both five. I never really thought of..."

"I really wish I could've had your life," Calvin added, sighing. "I bet, even in the original timeline, where your family wasn't as successful - it would simply beat having to live under the tyranny of Biff Tannen. I guess I just shouldn't dwell on the past."

"I'm sorry I mentioned that," Doc replied, softly. "Well, the past is prologue. Men like us have to keep looking to the future. Anyway, it simply looks like your band is doing good. I just think it's so nice, having the two of you being in the same band. I mean, having a rhythm guitarist seems to really add to the sound. You guys simply rock!"

"Emmett is right," added Christopher Lloyd Brown, as he walked up. "I know, people don't actually expect for us old fogeys to listen to hard rock - and, back in 1955, we were turned off by your music. However, we've simply come to understand your..."

"I still remember how scared George was," Marty replied, laughing. "It's so strange to think that, prior to November 12 of 1955, your lives were exactly identical. Well, now that we're all together... I see the DJ up there! There'll probably be music soon."

Almost as if on cue, the crackling of a microphone could be heard. "I'm real pleased to be able spin records for all you great folks on this nice evening. This is a private party that was reserved for Hill Valley's beloved twins, Calvin and Marty McFly. I quite think it would be fitting to start out with a nice song by The Pinheads. It's called Harmony."

Calvin and Marty flashed their identical lopsided smiles, as they began to head out to the skating floor. Calvin remembered, with such fondness, how he and his twin really wrote the song together. He felt pleased with how much of a hit that song became.

As the two of them started circling the floor, Calvin smiled at the song. It simply had a catchy beat, but it also had a very serious message. When he and Marty had been so disturbed by some of what they saw in the news, they had decided to write the song.

"Isn't this very awesome, guys?" asked Zach Nelson, and he and Zoe Quinn skated up to twins. "I still remember February 15. It was our very first concert in a major studio, and they sure enjoyed this song so much - we were asked to perform it, in an encore. I have a good feeling about this. We might not become the next Beatles, but we..."

"Nobody could ever compete with The Beatles," Calvin replied, laughing. "Even if we never do become famous, I'm quite in this for the music. Don't get me wrong. I think being rich and famous would be rather awesome, but it's really not my main goal."

"Well, I'd like to be famous," insisted Marty. "Even though, I suppose I see what you mean. With, uh, everything that you just went through... Well, I guess I really have to admit that you... With having you around, you do keep me grounded in reality."

"I do think Calvin's onto something," Zach pointed out, smiling. "Most of the time, you two simply seem to think so much alike... Well, I'd almost think that the two of you do share a mind. It sure seems as though the two of you are the same person. It's quite as though you have this closeness." Suddenly, he gasped, "It's The Power of Love!"

Calvin and Marty smiled at each other, as this was their very favourite song by their favourite group. He simply recalled how, back in his old world, Huey Lewis' band was Huey Lewis and The Rebels - and they really had a more punkish metal sound to it.

Just then, he caught sight of two people. One of them was Jennifer Parker, who was his twin's girlfriend. Next to her, there was a girl that he was quite sure he never met before. For some reason, though, he felt as though he was quite attracted to her.

"Marty! Calvin!" called up Jennifer, as she skated up to the twins. "Marty, I'm simply sure you remember my cousin. Anyway, guys, her name's Sarah. Sarah Parker. She and I were always rather close, and she is the daughter of Aunt Marlene. They plan to move back to town, in the outskirts. At any rate, she's real excited to be here!"

"I'm excited to be back," Sarah replied, in a lilting voice. She really looked a lot like her cousin. In fact, she bore a real strong resemblance to Elisabeth Shue - who Marty felt looked a little like Jennifer. "So, you both look real cute! Which one of you is Calvin?"

"I am," Calvin replied, as he gazed into Sarah's chocolate brown eyes. "I was, uh... I was here for nearly eight months. I was, uh, adopted at birth - but I sure hadn't had a good life. It feels so nice to be reunited to my long lost twin. We get along great."

"I'm quite sure you do," Sarah replied, as a soft smile tugged at her lips. "Say, I know I just met you... Well, I don't wish to seem too forward. Since my cousin will probably want to skate with your twin... Well, I don't have a partner - so I was just wondering if... Well, Calvin, will you skate with me? I mean, you just seem like such a nice guy."

"Sure, I would love to skate with you," Calvin replied, warmly. He didn't want to jump to conclusions, but he had a pretty good feeling that Sarah would be the right girl for her. He didn't even recall feeling that way about Felicia Hartman. "C'mon! Let's go!"

As Calvin and Sarah began to circle the floor, with Marty and Jennifer not far ahead, Sunglasses at Night by Corey Hart began to play. In his old world, the song sure had darker lyrics. In this world, though, he quite felt that the song was somewhat fitting.

Just as he and Sarah skated past Marty and Jennifer, they waved to the other couple - who quickly waved back. As he glanced at Sarah, he figured that this evening rather would be even better than he expected. From looking in Sarah's eyes, it quite seemed that she felt the same way. He felt rather optimistic about being eighteen years old.

[bttf44]

Oh, No! I'm Trapped!

November 12, 1955
10:45 AM PST

As Marty paced back and forth in Biff's garage, he was blinking back tears. It seemed as if the time machine that Doc invented had actually created nothing but trouble. He never quite expected to end up back in this time period. He simply thought of how his other self, on the selfsame day, was preparing his father to gain some confidence.

Marty just recently contacted his scientist friend, who quite insisted that he couldn't bring the DeLorean out in the daylight. Marty sighed to himself, as everything really was beginning to seem hopeless. He certainly wished desperately to return home.

Granted, he did wake up to an improved family - which he was thrilled about. Just as he and Jennifer were about to take a ride in his new truck, though, Doc had to show up. He sure wished that Doc had given him some more time to adjust to his new life.

He didn't understand why it was important for Doc to drag them to the future. After all, the future hasn't quite yet happened - and it could always be changed. He could really have made preparations to prevent the future robbery from taking place. The idea would've really been a lot safer, and he actually wouldn't be any of this mess.

He thought of how he had warned his scientist friend about being shot by the Libyan terrorists. While Doc was initially rather resistent, the letter had actually managed to save his life. He figured that he could've just written down the problem to avoid.

Still, he simply couldn't be too mad at Doc. They've been rather good friends, for over ten years - and Doc has quite helped Marty a lot. He could still remember the day that he had been rescued from Cliff Tannen and his gang. He certainly felt very grateful.

Marty couldn't even really be mad at Old Biff. After all, buying the almanac had been his own idea. He actually tried to do the same thing. Old Biff never would really have gotten the idea, had Marty not bought the almanac. There sure was just one person that Marty could blame - himself! He actually allowed greed to get the better of him.

Marty climbed into the back of Biff's truck, as he covered himself with the blanket that was in the back. He lay face down, as he began to cry. He sure wondered if he would ever make it back home, even if he actually had to return to his unsuccessful family.

He thought of the Biffhorrific world, and wondered what his other self's life was really like. He realized how his old life wasn't quite that bad. He simply figured that his other self's life had been dreadful. He realized how much he actually had to be grateful for.

Marty recalled how Old Biff had actually warned his younger self about how, one day, a kid or a "crazy wild-eyed old men who claims to be a scientist" would come asking for the almanac. This reminded Marty of what Biff of the Biffhorrific timeline had told him - and, as a result, Biff had tried to shoot him. Marty remembered how scary that was.

"Marty?" called out a familiar voice. Marty just swallowed, as he simply reached to pick up his walkie-talkie. He hoped that it meant he wouldn't have to stay in the garage for much longer. "Hey, Marty! Are you there? Are you still stuck inside of Biff's garage?"

"Oh, Doc, are you almost here?" Marty asked, as he sobbed into the walkie-talkie. "It really feels hopeless, Doc. I was hoping to retrieve the almanac, as soon as possible. I'm still stuck in this garage. Please tell me that you're just on your way. Oh, please!"

"Oh, Marty, are you crying?" Doc asked, concerned. "Listen, I'm still busy trying to fix the time circuits. It shouldn't take me too much longer. Just try to hang tight. I rather want to get out of here, as well. The thing is, I also have to be very careful to let Old Biff see me. If he finds out that I followed him here, it could create a time paradox."

"How long do you think it will be?" Marty pleaded, with tears rolling down his face. "I'm feeling rather tired, and I need to get some sleep. Oh, Doc, I just wish that I could be back. Jennifer and I were looking so forward to going to the lake. I wish I could be..."

"If all goes well, Marty," replied Doc, "I should be over no later than an hour. Please, Marty, don't worry. Remember what both your father and I have always told you? If you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything. I will be signing off, for now."

Marty wasn't sure if everything would be fine, though. He put his walkie-talkie away - as he lay back down, threw the blanket over himself, and sobbed. He wished to wake up from this. He wished that this was just a dream. He rather found himself beginning to agree with Doc. It sure seemed like the time machine was an inferno machine.

oooooooooo

As Doc had signed off, he felt very bad for Marty. This was the third time, within the last 24 hours, that he really heard Marty cry. The first time was when Marty thought that Doc was, once again, shot dead by the Libyan terrorists. The second time really took place at Oak Park Cemetery, where Marty actually saw his father's gravestone.

During the whole week that Marty was in 1955, Marty was desperately trying to get his parents to fall in love with each other. That was quite a lot for a 17-year-old boy to have to deal with - even though, granted, his family life sure seemed to improve.

Of course, Doc wasn't a part of Marty's original timeline. He remembered what Marty had explained to him, though - back in 1955. He thought of if Marty would remember the new timeline. He decided that he would have to ask Marty about his memories.

He realized that he shouldn't've dragged Marty and Jennifer to the future with him. He should've simply warned Marty about the drag race with Douglas Needles. It was what led up to Marty's rather unhappy future. After all, the race had resulted in an accident - which would lead to Marty breaking his hand, and having to give up on his music.

Doc thought of his motivations. He really felt that encouraging Marty to stand up to Griff would motivate Marty to re-think his reactions to being called a name. It simply backfired, though. He never expected for things to end up getting out of control.

He suddenly began to realize how careless he had been with time travel, and how he should've just thought things out better. He thought about Marty, who likely was still crying in Biff's garage. He began to realize that the whole thing was simply his fault.

Doc began to feel very hungy. He figured that he would simply stop for a bite to eat, at Lou's Cafe. He realized how much he actually missed the place. He just hoped that his young friend simply wouldn't mind. After all, Marty could maybe take a little nap in the back of Biff's car. It would be a good way for his young friend to get some rest.

Doc sighed to himself, as he turned his attention back to the car. He was also feeling quite thirsty. He remembered how much he enjoyed the shakes at Lou's Cafe. It just felt pretty nice, knowing that he simply had a good excuse for returning to this era.

Of course, he sure felt bad for Marty - and he knew that it was his duty to rescue his friend. Still, he figured that was nothing wrong with doing a little sight-seeing. He felt that he might as well just make the most out of this trip. He certainly missed this era.

Doc had no idea how long Old Biff had stayed in this era. If he still happened to be at his old house, Doc really would have to avoid being seen by him. Doc realized that he would have to avoid letting his younger self or the younger Marty see him, as well. If anything, Doc figured that Marty actually had things rather easy - compared to him.

oooooooooo

Marty lifted up his tear-stained face, as he really heard some footsteps from outside the garage. Had Doc finally come to rescue him? He hated having to stay in the back of Biff's car. While it was quite the most comfortable place in the garage to stay, the stench of the horse manure was still strong. He desperately wished he could leave.

"This crazy old guy comes up to me," Biff was heard saying, "and he really claims that he's my relative. I don't see any resemblance! I think he quite wants something. Why is all this happening to me, Joey? I swear, this has just got to be about the worst..."

Marty sighed to himself, as he felt so disappointed. He wondered if Doc was punishing him, for puchasing the almanac. He wondered how long it could possibly take. It really seemed unfair. After all, Doc was the one speaking loud enough for Old Biff to hear.

Marty sobbed profusely, as he wondered if Doc was even still in this time. He actually wondered if Doc even still liked him. He sure felt worried that Doc blamed him for the almanac incident. Marty had to admit that he was somewhat to blame. Still, it just couldn't be entirely his fault. Surely, Doc wouldn't think to just ditch him. Would he?

As Marty finally stopped crying, he didn't feel much better. He simply felt drained and exhausted. He also felt very thirsty. The only thing that was in the garage was beer. Marty wasn't quite that desperate. He hoped that he could soon actually leave.

Marty simply wiped his face with the back of his hand - as he stepped out of the car, and began to stretch. He wondered just what was taking Doc so long. He glanced at his watch, and he realized that it actually had the wrong time. He felt so hopeless.

As Marty stepped back into the car, he decided that he might as well try to get some sleep. After all, if he fell asleep, the wait wouldn't seem so long. Doc could wake him up, and he'd sure be well-rested enough to grab the almanac. He covered himself up with the blanket. If Biff was to actually walk in, he likely wouldn't really notice Marty.

Marty sighed, as he began to think about Jennifer. He rather hoped that he would still be able go to the lake with her. After all, they had simply planned it for two weeks. As he began to fall asleep, he found himself hoping that Doc would arrive quite shortly.

[bttf44]

My Tiny Friend

July 3, 1968
3:00 PM PDT

Dr. Emmett Brown really felt nervous, as he walked over to the McFly's house. He was rather close friends with George McFly, who had been the leader of CAB - which stood for Coalition Against Biffco. He never expected to be so close to George, even though the latter was the father of Marty McFly - the boy who meant much to the scientist.

Nearly two weeks ago, Marty was born to George and Lorraine. Yet, back in 1955, the same young boy had spent a week with the scientist. Doc, as the teen had referred to him, smiled at the thought. It seemed to be quite hard, picturing Marty as a tiny baby.

Doc sighed, as he thought back to that week. Initially, he sure had been suspicious of the teen. Still, he had quickly grown to be quite fond of the boy. He remembered how sad he felt, when it was time to send Marty back to 1985. Doc missed Marty, terribly.

However, Doc wasn't sure if the baby Marty would actually grow to become the same teen Marty. After all, since Biff had won his first bet, things simply seemed to turn for the worse. Would he even be able to complete his time machine by 1985? He felt that it would be improbable. After all, much of his time was occupied by working with CAB.

"Emmett!" gushed George, as Doc approached the house. "It was very nice of you to come. My wife is inside, as she's feeding Marty. He's so tiny, but he's also real cute. I think you'll really like him. I just hope that he won't have to grow up in a world like..."

"Yeah, this world is practically a dystopia," Doc replied, nodding. "I'm quite suspicious, George. I mean, I think Biff might've... How is it possible for him to become so rich? In fact, he supposedly bet a million on his first bet. Why would anyone do something..."

"Well, if God is just..." muttered George. "Well, I don't know what he could've done. I don't think he would've been able to rig the game. Anyway, let's head inside. It's hot, today. There is some lemonade in the fridge, though." With a sigh, he added, "I quite feel concerned about the kids, though. This fall, Dave will be starting kindergarten."

"Yeah, Dave certainly is growing," Doc replied, with a small smile. As he caught sight of Lorraine, he almost gasped. The baby looked very tiny! Granted, he remembered that teen Marty hadn't been very tall. "So, I gather that this baby must be Marty?"

"That's right," cooed Lorraine, as she lifted up the bottle. "Martin Seamus McFly. We really decided to name him after George's great-grandfather, Seamus - and Seamus' brother, Martin. Of course, we also thought about your nephew. I simply miss him."

"I could never get in touch with him," Doc replied, as he thought of his cover story. "I, uh, tried writing to him - but he never responded. I fear that he moved away - and he might've, uh, forgotten about me." Doc sighed, as he quite wished that could come up with a better story. "The thing is, I wonder if he's even still alive. I just can't find him."

"It really doesn't seem like Calvin," Lorraine replied, sadly. As she handed baby Marty over, she added, "Why don't you go hold Marty? It just seems quite strange, thinking that I'm now a mother of three. Of course, my children are all a real blessing to me."

"I imagine so," Doc replied, as he gazed into Marty's big blue eyes. "Marty really is an adorable baby." Doc smiled at the baby, as he added, "How are you, Marty? I'm sure happy to meet you." The baby cooed, happily. "Well, you seem to be a happy boy."

"I can tell that he already likes you," cooed Lorraine. "I just hope that we can provide a decent life, for young Marty. I really hope that Biff doesn't make me regret bringing young Marty into this world... or Dave and Linda. The thing is, I sure feel real bad for Dave. He's been so depressed, lately. It's like... Well, I wish I could make him feel..."

"I understand how you feel, Lorraine," Doc replied, as he began to bounce Marty. "It really seems as though... Well, I sure don't know what to say. I wish that I could say everything will, uh, blow over. Still, I certainly have no idea how true this really is."

"Let's not be so negative," urged George, gently. "Look at how happy Marty is. I think we could learn something from him." After a brief pause, he added, "It seems to be so ironic. There actually was a time, as you probably remember, where I didn't even..."

Doc smiled at George, as he thought of the irony of the whole situation. It was Marty, believe it or not, who had encouraged George to be a more confident person. It really seemed strange, as he thought of how George had become the CAB leader. He simply tried to be optimistic, as George had the confidence to stand up to his former bully.

"You've gone a long ways, honey," Lorraine replied, as she placed her arm around her husband. "Biff really is one scary person. I mean, even before he was rich, I sure was afraid to be alone with him. Well, I certainly hope that he's happy with Carrie Anne."

"What if she simply meets the same fate as..." Doc started to say. "I always felt that Biff was the one responsible for... Poor Marilyn Monroe! She really seemed to have a promising life. The thing is, I could never figure out what Norma Jeane saw in Biff."

"Well, Biff sure has a cunning personality," George replied, rolling his eyes. "He knows how to act real sweet and charming. He quite managed to fool the presses. He'll even cry, right in public, if it works towards his agenda. I actually used to think that he was quite dumb. However, he seems to have gotten smarter - and that, to me, is scary."

Doc sighed, as he really wished to tell the couple his theory. However, he kept feeling as though it wasn't a good idea. Besides, he wasn't even quite sure how Biff did it. He figured that, somehow, time travel was involved. It simply was the best explanation.

"Do you think he's a psychic?" asked Lorraine. "It sure doesn't seem fair. I sometimes wonder if God is punishing us. I simply don't know what for, though - and why should Biff be the one rewarded?" As she looked up, she added, "Isn't Marty bothered..."

"Hey, he's only a baby," protested Doc, gently. "I mean, you can't exactly expect for him to understand what's going on. I just wish, uh..." Doc stopped himself, as he was somewhat shocked by what he was about to say. Did he honestly want for this Marty to remain being a baby? "Well, I just wish we could raise him up in a pleasant world."

"It'll happen," George replied, confidently. "I've simply defeated Biff, back when I was seventeen. Do you remember? I'm very sure that I can do it, once again. By the way, I've learned something important. If you put your mind to it, you could accomplish..."

"... anything," Doc finished, with a smile. Of course, he actually was the one to teach that expression to Marty - who had, in turn, taught it to his father. "I suppose I quite can't argue with you. I remember teaching you that, when you were in third grade."

"I sure wish I had listened," George replied, chuckling. "Well, I suppose the whole visit from Darth Vader has helped. I just wish that he would come to Biff, and convince him to change his ways. Maybe it's something that he would like me to take care of. I sure feel as though..." As he leaned over, he added, "I guess Marty has fallen asleep."

Doc smiled, as he gazed into Marty's face. He wondered what 1985 would be like. His smile vanished, as he realized that baby Marty was likely in for a life of trials. It really seemed hopeless. He would certainly try to make life as easy as possible for Marty.

He then thought about the time machine. Maybe, just maybe, there would actually be some way to undo this terrible world. He began to wonder if this might be his fault. Of course, he had yet to built a time machine. He sighed to himself, as Marty blinked.

"I guess we owe it to our children," commented Lorraine. "I mean, I guess we should simply count our blessings. I mean, we do have a wonderful family - and we do have plenty to be thankful for. Some people in this world just don't have it as good. I sure feel that we should make the most of our life. We quite want for Dave to be happy."

"Why don't I get us all some lemonade?" suggested George, just as he headed for the refrigerator. "Of course, Marty can't have any. He'll have to wait for next summer. At least, this summer has been pretty nice. All this pollution, though. I really can't be..."

"It's certainly not good for the ozone layer," replied Doc. "Y'know, if I could go to any time period... Well, I've always wanted to visit the Old West. When I was just a small boy, I wanted to be a cowboy. Of course, that was from before I read Jules Verne."

"I'm very fond of Jules Verne," George replied, nodding. "He was sort of the pioneer of science fiction. Of course, there's also HG Wells. I sure hope to, one day, be able to publish a novel. After all, I've really received a lot of positive comments - so I feel confident. I mean, I sure think that the story would sell rather well with teenagers."

"I think so, too," agreed Lorraine. Turning to Doc, she added, "Do you mind if George and I talk alone, for just a little while? I think you do real well, with babies. We should be back, in just a little while." Doc nodded. "Dave and Linda should be home, soon."

As Doc gazed at Marty, it seemed strange to think that he was the teenager that he knew - back in 1955. One thing was certain, it seemed like Marty would really have a much better family. Still, teen Marty never mentioned that Biff had been filthy rich.

Doc suddenly smiled, as he was real happy to meet Marty. He realized that, in a way, this was his first meeting with Marty - and this certainly was Marty's first meeting with him. Marty might come to see him as an uncle, as he was a friend to Marty's parents. Doc's smile grew wider, as his new little friend began to gurgle. He really loved Marty.

[bttf44]

For Family Or Fame

August 28, 2005
1:30 PM PST

Marty McFly had some rather mixed feelings, as he bit into his bacon cheeseburger. It seemed so hard to believe that, last night, he had given his last concert performance. While he would, quite likely, have future opportunities to perform on stage - he simply decided to make this concert tour be his last. After all, he had his family to consider.

He smiled at the young blonde, who was sitting across from him. While Emerald Green was only twelve years old, she had already acquired fame as a rock star. It had quite been a pleasure for Marty, as he had the privilege to join her on her very first tour.

"This has really been a great summer, Marty," Emerald replied, with a wistful sigh. "It was such a pleasure, being on the road with you." After a brief pause, she added, "I sort of was wondering. Do you really, uh, feel that you've made the right decision?"

"I'm quite sure of it, Emerald," Marty insisted, in a soft voice. "Granted, it would be a lie to say that I... that I don't feel any pang of sadness. What I mean is, this is quite something that I've really enjoyed - so this is such a bittersweet experience. I simply feel that it's worth it, though. The thing is, Emerald, I am doing this for my family."

"I think it's wonderful," agreed Emerald, nodding. "I mean, I agree that family really is important. I still remember how, earlier this summer, we had that talk. Y'know, when I really wanted to go to that party - and my parents wouldn't let me. I feel ashamed."

"Hey, don't worry about it," Marty replied, as he flashed her a lopsided smile. "I really think we all go through that phase. I still quite remember my days, from when I was a teenager. It almost seems like it was yesterday. It's hard to believe that I'm now 37."

"You simply don't look that old," commented Emerald, as she smiled back. "It's so hard to believe that I'll soon be, uh, returning to school. I just feel nervous, y'know, about starting a new school. I guess I would, basically, be a school celebrity. Oh, Marty, it's going to feel strange. I don't want to seem like I'm actually, uh, an egotistical type."

"Aw, I don't think you need to worry," replied Marty, gently. "Emerald, you are a real down-to-earth kind of person. You're sure gracious to your fans, and you really have an outgoing personality. The thing is, you don't quite have anything to worry about."

"Thanks, Marty," replied Emerald, in a near whisper. "So, you said that you have two children?" Marty nodded, as a smile spread across his face. "Well, I sure think they're so adorable. I'm sure you'll make a wonderful father. I sure would like to meet them."

"Maybe you can," suggested Marty, warmly. "I've sure missed my children, as well as my wife. It'll be quite a joy to see them! I'm sure that they'll all be happy to see me. I am quite looking forward to this. One of my biggest regrets, Emerald, is how I missed seeing my children take their first steps. Both times, I missed it. I felt sad about it."

"I guess it's a real important milestone," agreed Emerald, softly. "Well, I'm sure you'll be able to witness their other milestones. I mean, they're still quite young. I just see the family resemblances. So, what about your wife? Did she sort of pressure you..."

"No, not at all," replied Marty. "She was real supportive, in fact. When I explained to her that I would make this be my last tour... Of course, she was thrilled! She wanted to be sure that I really was certain... that I truly had a desire to retire from touring."

"It sounds like you simply have a great wife," commented Emerald. "Say, what about your parents? Were they supportive about your career? I mean, what do they really think about your music? I know that your father has become a famous science fiction author. I just think A Match Made In Space is a great novel. I enjoy the movie, too."

Marty smiled, as he thought of his parents. His parents have always encouraged him to follow his dreams. He thought of how pleased they really were, when his first solo album made it on the Top 20 Billboard chart. His parents were real wonderful people.

On the other hand, though, Marty could also remember when his parents weren't that supportive. Even after twenty years, he quite had some faint memories of the original timeline. In that timeline, his alcoholic mother had quite been much more disapproving.

Marty just sighed to himself, as he thought of how much he missed time travelling. He thought of his scientist friend, Dr. Emmett Brown, who he called "Doc". Ever since the scientist had unveiled the time machine, Marty's life was never quite the same. It was hard to believe that it was twenty years ago. Time certainly seemed to really fly by.

"My parents are so wonderful," Marty finally commented. "They were both real happy for me. Granted, I rather had a tendancy to slack off in school - and my parents have expressed concern over that. Still, it's to actually be expected of any good parent."

"That sounds great," replied Emerald. "I wonder what kind of parent I would be. I just can't imagine it. I mean, I love being around little kids - but I'm not sure if I could quite handle the responsibility. How did you feel, Marty, when your first child was born?"

"It was simply a joy!" gushed Marty, as he smiled at the memory. "I almost didn't make it, though. Fortunately, I really was able to make some negotiations. I was performing in Burnaby, British Columbia - when I was told that I could spend a week at home. This really made me happy. I mean, I felt that it would only be right to be with my wife."

"I'm glad that it worked out," commented Emerald. In a softer voice, she added, "I'm really going to miss you, Marty. I mean, it's been a great summer - and we just had a lot of fun. I still remember how you were really in tears, as we walked off the stage."

"Well, it really was a hard decision," Marty explained, sighing. "Of course, it'll be worth it. My family sure needs me. There's certainly more to being a father, than just making a paycheque. My wife can't do this all alone. We are a team, and we need to stick..."

Tears came to Marty's eyes, as the finality of the situation rather began to sink in. Of course, he wasn't entirely going to quit his career. Any future performances, though, would likely be far and few between. He felt sad, as he realized just what his decision would entail. In spite of the melancholy, though, he wouldn't go back on his decision.

"You feel sad about this, don't you?" Emerald asked, softly. "I feel real sad about this, myself. I mean, this was my first concert tour - and it's actually gone to an end. I sure enjoyed it. I won't be able to on another tour, until next summer. It'll be a long time."

"I'm sure it will be," choked out Marty, "but it'll really be worth the wait. I mean, won't it? After having a break for nine months, you'll probably come to have an even bigger appreciation. I suppose I could see it that way, myself. Still, it certainly won't be..."

"You've been a good friend, Marty," Emerald commented, as tears filled her eyes. "By the time next summer rolls around, I'll probably be with someone else. This was simply an interesting experience. You've really taught me a lot, and I would just like to thank you for all your advice. Maybe, if Verne Brown is receptive to the idea of touring..."

"I'm sure he'd really love that," replied Marty. "It's amazing, thinking of how Verne has decided to follow in my footsteps. I was always real close to Dr. Brown, and it's rather amazing to think of how... Man, I still remember when Jules and Verne were so small."

"Dr. Brown is such a genius," commented Emerald. "I'm sure that, in a hundred years, he'll be the history books. He's simply be up there, with all the great scientists. I quite have a great feeling about Hill Valley. Someday, Marty, I would love to live there."

"It really is a great town," agreed Marty. "My ancestors have lived there for over 120 years. I always quite vowed that, no matter how famous I come, I would never leave Hill Valley. I still remember how my parents were very crushed, when Dave decided to leave for New York. Granted, he certainly does have a right to make that decision."

"Well, he is his own person," Emerald pointed out. "Well, this has really been a great lunch." After a pause, she added, "So, Marty, I guess your children are really seven and eight. It looks like they're growing. Your son actually want to take after you?"

"That's what he says," Marty replied, as a smile tugged at his lips. "Some people think that I've quite pushed him into it, but I didn't. In fact, I've encouraged him to explore other options. Still, if that's what he actually wants to do... Who am I to stop him?"

"It looks like your children really admire you," observed Emerald. "I sure think they're lucky. I mean, they have such a wonderful father. I think it's rather wonderful, what you're doing. Just think, you'll quite be able to spend more time with them - and they certainly won't have to keep asking their mommy when their daddy is coming back."

"That's quite true," agreed Marty. "I'm sure that the kids will really be happy, by the time next summer rolls around. We'll be able to play catch, and I sure can take them swimming. It'll be wonderful, being able to spend time with them... being a father."

"I can tell that this is really a bittersweet time for you," commented Emerald. "It must be a little tough for you, having to choose between two things that you love. I really do wish you the best of luck, though. Remember, there really is no place like home."

Marty smiled, as he knew that the young blonde really was correct. He thought of his wife and children, and how much he really missed them. While he quite enjoyed being able to perform, it was quite tough for him to be away from his family. He knew, right then and there, that he made the right decision. Above all else, he valued his family.

[bttf44]

A Ray of Hope

December 25, 1984
3:00 PM PST

As Marty McFly was lying on his bed, he felt real depressed. He began to wonder why he even bothered to come home. It sure had been a long time, since he last quite had a proper Christmas. Granted, he really missed his mother - and this was his reason for coming home. However, his mother certainly didn't seem to be in a very joyful spirit.

The whole casino-hotel was actually devoid of any Christmas decorations. Maybe was also real certain that he wouldn't receive any Christmas presents. He didn't even care about presents, though. He just wished that this place could be a little more festive.

Tears suddenly came to Marty's eyes, as he found himself wishing that he had stayed in Switzerland. He thought of how the school was just beautifully decorated. He knew that Biff had never been to fond of the Christmas season. It made Marty feel so sad.

"Hey, Marty?" whispered a soft feminine voice. Lorraine stepped into the room, as she added. "I brought you a grasshopper." Setting the beverage down, she added, "Since Biff is out, I figured that you and I could... I understand that this really isn't much of a celebration, but... You and I can be alone, for a few hours. How would you like that?"

"That'd be great, uh, Mom," stammered Marty, blinking back tears. "I suppose there's one thing I could really be grateful for. I'm glad that Biff has other plans. I was a little worried that he would, uh, stay home... I was so worried that I would be in for a..."

"Everything will be all right, honey," assured Lorraine, as she placed her arm around her son. "Just enjoy your grasshopper. It was the least that I could do for you. You are a wonderful son. I understand that you probably weren't quite happy about..."

"I was so scared, Mom," admitted Marty, as he sipped at the mint beverage. "I wasn't looking too forward to coming home. Still, when I thought of you... Well, I really know that your life can't be too easy. Ever since Daddy died, my life has just gone downhill. It's probably even worse for you. You're stuck here, all the time. It can't be too fun."

"I simply do appreciate the thought, honey," murmured Lorraine. "Whatever you do, honey... Well, try not to let Biff get to you. I really worry about Dave and Linda. It's so sad... It's really hurts me, when I think of how easily they've given up. Please..."

"I don't want to give up, Mom," Marty insisted, sighing. "Life sure gets so depressing, though. It's been quite a long time, since I last had a happy Christmas. I mean, I was only four years old. I was so young back then. These days, everything seems too..."

"I don't know what to say, Marty," Lorraine replied, as she had tears in her eyes. "I'm not quite sure if I can... I simply don't know why Biff wanted to marry me. Oh, sure, I guess there were times... From time to time, Biff will act loving towards me. I think it's his way of... toying with my emotions. Oh, I know why he wants for me to be drunk!"

"Biff doesn't even pretend to love me, though," pointed out Marty, as he began to cry. "In fact, I sure don't remember any time - when Biff spoke kindly about me. It really hurts. I mean, Mom... Oh, Mom, why does Biff hate me? What did I do to..."

"Aw, my poor baby," murmured Lorraine, as she cradled Marty into her arms. "I know that this hasn't been a very good Christmas for you. I mean, I've heard the way that Biff has yelled out you. I wouldn't take any of what he says so personally, though."

"Oh, Mom, I'm sure that next year won't be any better," Marty sobbed, as he buried his face into his mother shoulder. "If it wasn't for you, Mom, I wouldn't've even quite bothered to come home. As long as Biff has all that... I'm afraid that things will really become worse. I wish that you could come with me, when I go back to Switzerland."

"I just can't, honey," Lorraine choked out. "Everytime I threaten to leave, Biff always threatens to cut you children off. As miserable as I am, I just can't do that to you. As a mother, it's my duty to look after you. It would be selfish, if I was to just put my..."

"Why is Biff like that?" cried out Marty, as he took a sip of his grasshopper. "He really has everything that he could ever want! Why does he want us to be so miserable? Is he really that... I know that I'm not supposed to hate anyone, but I can't stand..."

"Well, he simply takes care of all of us," Lorraine pointed out, softly. "He might not be the easiest person to get along with, but I believe that we should simply consider just how fortunate we are. After all, it's really better than living on the street. Maybe one day, we'll simply be able to have a happy Christmas. Try not to lose all hope, honey."

"I know that you're only trying to help, Mom," commented Marty, sighing. "I'm not so sure that I can believe it, though. The only thing we could do, Mom, is to simply pray for a miracle. I'd really like to think that, next year, we'd have a happier Christmas."

"If I could turn back time..." Lorraine started to say. "We can't, though. I actually do have something, though, that I think will just make you feel a little better. I shouldn't be... Biff probably won't be coming back, until... Wait here, okay? I'll be right back."

Marty nodded, as his mother left the room. His heart just went out to his mother. She really had her mood swings, when she would lash out at Marty. One would quite have to expect that, though. When considering the way that Biff treated her, it was a little hard to fault her. Lorraine put up with the abuse, because she cared for the children.

His thoughts turned to how he, at least, was able to spend most of his life in boarding schools - pretty far from Biff. His mother, on the other hand, had no such luxary. She simply ended up being abused by Biff, physically and verbally - each day of the year.

"I'm back, honey," Lorraine called out, as she stepped into the room. As she handed a package to Marty, she added, "I was able to buy you a little present. I sure hope that you like it." Setting a plate of cookies on the bed, she added, "These are quite good."

"Thank you, Mom," Marty gushed, as he began to open up the package. There was a lava lamp, three boxes of incense, and five potpourri sachets. He really felt touched, as tears filled his eyes. "You've really outdone yourself! These are so beautiful. I just love it all! I certainly was never expecting to get anything like... Thank you, Mom!"

"You're quite welcome, sweetheart," Lorraine replied, as she placed her arms around Marty. "When you go back to Switzerland, you'll really... I simply wish that I could've bought you something a little bigger... like a car. However, with Biff really being..."

"It's okay, Mom," assured Marty, sniffing. "It's not as though I would be able to bring a car to Switzerland. What you've bought for me... The thing is, I simply wasn't even expecting to... to get a present. Y'know, Mom, this day maybe won't be such a..."

"I'm so glad that you're home, Marty," commented Lorraine, sighing. "I mean, I'm sure that you aren't..." She handed Marty a cookie, as she added, "Anyway, Marty, I think it's best to really enjoy the little pleasures that we can get. I sure do miss my old husband. Your father would certainly want for us to, uh, make the best out of life."

"I quite miss Daddy," whimpered Marty, as his lips trembled. "I mean, I remember the summer... before he died... Do you remember, Mom? We went on this trip. We really had so much fun. We went to Oak Ridge Lodge, and it was simply a great summer."

"I still remember that," replied Lorraine, with a wistful sigh. "You simply wanted for us to move there. The thing is, Marty, I actually agreed with you. It really made me feel sad, thinking of how life in Hill Valley has gone downhill. It actually broke my heart."

"You wonder why this place is called Hell Valley," groaned Marty. "Come to think of it, I'm surprised that this town hasn't been renamed Tannensville. I sure wonder if there if any... Mom, what was the last time that we've seen our relatives? I'm pretty concerned that... I certainly don't know what my future will bring. I'm quite scared."

"Do you know what your father used to always say?" Lorraine asked, as she began to rub Marty's shoulders. "I quite feel as if it's a rather meaningful expression. If you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything. A very special person taught him that."

"I'm simply not sure, Mom," Marty replied, sighing. "I remember that he was the leader of Coalition Against Biffco. However, he ended up getting killed. I really don't know if I can... As long as Biff is alive, I'm rather not certain that there's hope for either of us."

"Oh, honey," murmured Lorraine, as she drew Marty closer to him. "I'm rather certain that Biff didn't kill your father. Granted, I understand that he's a hard-nosed man. As far as killing anyone, though... he wouldn't quite go that far. Do you think that I would marry someone who killed your father? George meant the world to me!"

"No, of course not!" replied Marty, nervously. "I mean, I'm certain that you wouldn't knowingly marry someone who killed my father. Still, I really can't help but think that... that he had something to do with it. I know that he never liked my father."

"I understand that you don't like Biff," Lorraine replied, softly. "I really don't think that it's fair to him, though, to accuse him of something as heinous as murder. I really think that we should try to enjoy our time together. I mean, don't even think about Biff."

Marty forced a smile, as he wanted his mother to be happy. He appreciate the items that she bought for him. He still felt that Biff was rather responsible for the death of his father, but he sure didn't wish to upset his mother. Even though he didn't feel so hopeful, he figured that he would do best to make his mother's day be a bit easier.

[bttf44]

The Greatest Gift Of All

December 25, 1985
7:30 AM PST

Calvin McFly stretched, as his radio alarm clock went off. He smiled, as he thought of what day it was. After many years, this would be his first joyous Christmas. He quite felt hungry, as the scent of fruit soup wafted from the kitchen. As he stepped out of bed, he thought of his new twin. He wondered if Marty was also about to get up.

He glanced at his nightstand, where he had his lava lamp. He smiled, as he thought of last Christmas - and how the lava lamp was from his mother. While last Christmas sure was far from joyous, his mother had helped to make the day be a little easier for him.

"Calvin?" whispered Marty, as he stood in the doorway. "Wow! You look very happy! I can hardly wait for breakfast. I do enjoy the fruit soup that Mom makes. I'm also quite excited for... Well, I do have a special present for you. I'm hoping that you enjoy it."

"I'm pretty sure that I will," replied Calvin, as he smiled at his twin. "I have something special for you, too." He swallowed, as he added, "This certainly feels good, Marty! I mean, I finally have something that I always wanted - a family! I simply plan to enjoy every minute of this day. This evening, we should drive around the neighbourhood."

"I certainly must hand it to you, Calvin," Marty commented, laughing. "Ever since you came into my life, you've helped me to appreciate the small pleasures in life. You sure help to give a new perspective to things. It's actually been about two months, now!"

"The time has really gone by," replied Calvin. "I sometimes have these fears... that I might end up... that I might really be forced to return... To me, this world is sure like a... a paradise." Glancing at the clock, he added, "I can hardly wait for breakfast."

"Yeah, same here," replied Marty, as he placed his arm around Calvin. "I feels rather strange. I mean, essentually, you're another version of me. Yet, with our lives being quite different, we really aren't... Gee, when Doc had unveiled the time machine, it's been... It's so strange, thinking of how much the time machine has changed my life."

"You also gained a twin," Calvin pointed out, grinning. "It sometimes still feels strange, thinking that my new name is 'Calvin'. It's a little hard, getting used to a new name. Of course, it's also nice. After all, I actually have a new name... to reflect my new life."

"I see that you boys are up!" called out Lorraine, as she stepped into the room. She drew Calvin and Marty close to her, as she added, "The soup is just about ready. In fact, Linda is just buttering up some toast. C'mon, boys! Let's head to the kitchen!"

"This sounds real lovely, Mom!" gushed Calvin. As he and Marty left the bedroom, he added, "I sure do enjoy it, when we eat together... like a family. I can't began to tell you how nice it simply feels. Everyone is in good health... and in good spirit. I'm very thrilled!" As the twins stepped into the kitchen, he called out, "Good morning, guys!"

oooooooooo

Right after breakfast, everyone went into the living room. Calvin and Marty decided that they would wait for last, before they opened up each other's presents. It quite would make the moment seem more meaningful. He just felt a sense of nostalgia, as he realized just how long it was. He began to feel as though he was four years old!

When it was time for Calvin and Marty to open their presents, Marty unwrapped the package that their parents gave them. He felt so thrilled, as he noticed that it was a Nintendo game. Upon taking a a little closer look, he realized just what game it was.

"It's The Legend of Zelda!" exclaimed Marty. "This is so awesome, Mom and Dad! I've been hoping to get this game!" Turning to Calvin, he added, "Check this out! It's that game Zach's always playing. Maybe, a little later, we could actually invite him over!"

Calvin smiled at his twin, as he was also pretty happy about the game. He and Marty reached for the presents from Dave. He was curious what their older brother bought for them. It seemed a little strange to think their successful brother had, in the other reality, just been a drunk and a bum. In this reality, Dave was actually an executive.

"Thank you, Dave!" called out Marty, cheerfully. "I really love David Lee Roth! It's so awesome." Turning to his twin, he added, "I notice that you have a tape, too. Who's it from? I must say, David Lee Roth really does rock. He certainly makes Van Halen!"

"Sammy Hagar," whispered Calvin. He had some very mixed feelings about the song I Can't Drive 55. On one hand, the song really rocked. On the other hand, though, the song made him think of the night life at Biff's Pleasure Paradise. "Thank you, Dave!"

Calvin and Marty reached for their present from Linda. Calvin wondered just what his sister had bought for them. She worked at the boutique, and it sure seemed as if she had a lot of girlfriends. Granted, she really wasn't a prostitite - which her counterpart ended up becoming. Nonetheless, he felt that Linda could be a little too boy crazy.

"Cologne!" exclaimed Calvin, as he sprayed some of the scented liquid on his wrist. "I really do love it! Thank you so much, Linda!" Turning to Marty, he added, "This smells very heavenly! Anyway, I think it's your turn. I can hardly wait to see what you..."

"Why don't you go first, Calvin?" suggested Marty, as he simply handed a package to his twin. Flashing a lopsided smile, he added, "I simply believe that you deserve to go first. I mean, this is a special day for you, and... Go ahead, Calvin. Just open it up!"

Calvin just smiled at his twin, as he began to open the package. He wondered what it could be. He found out that it was a cassette. Tears came to Calvin's eyes, as he felt so touched. He realized that his twin had recorded a song. It really was such a sweet gesture. He was somewhat anxious to listen to it. He wondered just how it sounded.

"Oh, Marty!" gushed Calvin, as he couldn't believe what he was seeing. "This really is wonderful! You recorded a song... for me!" He just threw his ams around his twin, as he felt delighted. "It's your turn, Marty! I just hope that you like what I got for you!"

Calvin smiled, as Marty began to open up the package. He began to feel nervous, as he was quite worried that his present to Marty might not be as meaningful. He simply felt apprehensive. He suddenly heard a squeal of delight - which came from his twin.

"I love it, Calvin," whispered Marty, as tears filled his eyes. "These personalized cups are so... so lovely! It's just wonderful... seeing our picture on them. I sure think that this is touching." As he hugged Marty, he added, "At any rate, Calvin, why don't you go listen to that song? I want to hear what you think about it. I really think that..."

"Not right now," protested Lorraine, with authority. "We're not going anywhere, until we get this mess cleaned up. You'll have plenty to time to listen to that song. I simply think we all need to work together. After all, that's what being a family is all about."

oooooooooo

About an hour later, Calvin was finally able to listen to that song. He really had tears streaming down his cheeks, as he felt that the song was quite beautiful. It just made him feel real special. He felt love for his twin. It was quite hard to resent his twin, for having a better life - when his twin was quite thoughtful... and loving... and sweet.

"I see that you quite love it, Calvin," called out a familiar voice. As he turned around, he saw that Marty was standing in the doorway. "I was simply hoping that you would appreciate the song. I mean, you are my best friend - and I really do love you."

"I love you, too," replied Calvin, as his lips curved into a smile. "I must say, this really is shaping up to be a great day. I mean, I love the atmosphere. I really haven't been able to have a true Christmas celebration... since I was four. I'm quite sure that..."

"I understand," Marty replied, softly. "It's also quite nice, not having to go to school. I suppose you're simply not used to... being happy to be out of school." With a chuckle, he added, "I think it's quite funny, how you and I really have different attitudes about school. Of course, you actually seem to have a better tolerance for Mr. Strickland."

"Well, when you have the world's most fearsome tyrant for a stepfather," explained Calvin, "you sure come to appreciate folks like Strickland. I don't think he's actually a bad person. I think he's just, uh... Well, he simply seems to be a rather bitter type."

"When you put it that way," replied Marty, as he sat on the bed, "I suppose it makes perfect sense. Of course, I'm sure that boarding school was simply a haven for you - as there you didn't have to face Biff's wrath. Well, would you like to go play Zelda?"

"That sounds quite awesome," gushed Calvin. "We could maybe listen to Huey Lewis and The Rebels. It's strange to think that, where I come from, Huey Lewis ended up with a different band. Of course, with both bands, he's really a talented musician. If anything, I guess you and I really are lucky. I hope to be able to meet Huey Lewis."

"I hope so, too," whispered Marty. "Well, why don't we go set up the Nintendo. I just love those cups. I love how the phrase 'Best Friends Forever' is inscribed on them. Of course, that's just what we are. There's no doubt about it, Calvin. It's just so true!"

As Marty went to set up the Nintendo, Calvin changed the tape in the stereo. He just felt as though he was on Cloud Nine. He sure had a lot to be thankful for. He planned to simply make the most of his Christmas vacation. He went to turn on his lava lamp.

Calvin just thought of all the wonderful gifts that he received. Of course, he enjoyed the song that Marty wrote and recorded for him. That was only the second best gift, though. The most wonderful gift was one that simply couldn't be wrapped up, or placed under a Christmas tree. The gift was also priceless. It was the gift of family.

[bttf44]

Pox Ponderings

May 24, 1977
8:40 PM PDT

As Lorraine McFly glanced at her watch, she saw that it was ten minutes after Marty's bedtime. She walked into the living room, where her youngest child was drawing some pictures. To her horror, she noticed that there were red spots over the boy's body. It actually appeared as though her son had the chicken pox! She had to tend to him.

"Marty," Lorraine called out, as she walked over to her son. "I believe you're sick. It's a little after your bedtime, but I think we need to take a look at you. I think you have the chicken pox. Your father isn't home, right now. I guess I should call Dr. Brown."

"I have the... chicken pox?" Marty asked, stunned. "I feel real itchy. I've been feeling that way, all night." With a hint of a smile, he added, "I guess this means that I simply won't be able to go to school, for some time? How long does the chicken pox last?"

"Well, Marty," Lorraine replied, as she chuckled by how her son was trying to hide his eagerness about not having to go school. "As the school year is almost over, I simply think that you'll be able to start your summer vacation quite early. You'll have to stay inside, though. You really don't want any of your friends to catch the chicken pox."

"Right, Mom," Marty replied, softly. With a hint of sadness, he asked, "Does this mean that I won't be able to, uh, play outside? What will I, uh..." He grabbed onto Lorraine, as he whimpered, "Do I have to spend the whole day in bed, Mommy? I really don't..."

"I understand that you simply don't like being in bed, honey," Lorraine commented, as she lifted up her son. "However, I think that it would really be best for you. You could listen to some music. You could read some books. I'll even feed you some ice cream."

Marty's face lit up, as Lorraine brought Marty into his bedroom. For some reason, her son seemed to be real vulnerable. It maybe had to do with the fact that he was quite short. Granted, he was a very cheerful and outgoing young boy. It was with ease, in fact, that Marty tended to make friends. Still, Marty really wasn't particularly strong.

"Why don't you change into your pajamas, honey?" suggested Lorraine, as she kissed her son's forehead. "I'll give Dr. Brown a call." She flipped on the radio, as she added, "Why don't you just listen to some music? Be sure to not scratch at the marks, okay?"

Marty nodded, as Lorraine left the room. She sure couldn't stand it, whenever any of her children were sick. Of course, she realized that it was a fact of life. It really didn't make things any easier, though. She picked up the phone, as she called Dr. Brown.

"This is Dr. Brown," a familiar masculine voice said, as he answered the phone. While some of the town's residents tended to have some rather unfavourable views of the scientist, Lorraine believed that he was a decent person. He was real fond of Marty, and he happened to be the uncle of Calvin Klein. "How might I be of service to you?"

"Hi, Dr. Brown," Lorraine replied, softly. "I'm calling you... about my son. I was about to tell him that it was time for bed, and I... Well, I do believe that he might be coming down with the... the chicken pox. My husband is working late, and I was simply..."

"You really need me to pick up some medicine, right?" Doc asked, with concern. "I'll be right over. Give me about, uh, ten minutes. Of course, I'm really not a medical kind of doctor. I'm sure that I could help you out, though. I would like Marty to be all right."

"Thank you so much," Lorraine replied, with relief. "I simply remember when Dave had the chicken pox, and he really passed it onto Linda. Marty was staying with Grandma, and we ended up extending that visit. Marty was quite happy about it, and... I guess I'll be seeing you, real shortly. I'd better get back to my son. I'll see you, very soon."

As Lorraine headed back to Marty's bedroom, her thoughts turned to Calvin Klein. Her son sort of reminded her of the mysterious teen. She really knew him for only a week, but she never forgot about him. It was maybe the whole connection with Dr. Brown.

"Honey," she called out, as she opened the bedroom door. Her son was already in his pajamas, and he was lying in bed. "I called up Dr. Brown. He'll be here, quite soon. In fact, he's going to swing by the pharmacy. He said that he should be here, shortly."

Lorraine pulled out the blanket, as she took a close look at her son's face. It actually made her feel a little sad, when she saw that her son's cute face was covered in red spots. She quite loved the way that her son looked, whenever he smiled. She gazed into his slate-blue eyes, as she simply admired the beauty. She sure had a cute son.

oooooooooo

In about a half-hour, the door bell rang. Lorraine felt relieved, as she went to answer the door. Marty was beginning to get a little irritable, as he was real itchy. She had to keep reminding him to not scratch, and he was upset by being told that he had to just put up with it. Lorraine sure couldn't blame the young boy. It had to be real irritating.

"How's Marty doing?" Dr. Brown asked, as he stepped inside. "I presume that he must be itching all over." Lorraine just nodded. "Well, this calamine lotion should simply help to relieve the itching. From what I was told, you might be up for most of the night."

"I do understand that," Lorraine replied, as they began to walk to Marty's room. "As a mother, it's to be expected. Being a mother is a very rewarding experience, but it can also be rather exhausting. My husband, at least, isn't pressuring me to get a job."

"You two sure seem to have a wonderful marriage," commented Dr. Brown, as his face simply broke out into a smile. Upon entering Marty's room, he added, "Hi, Marty! Relief is on the way." Turning to Lorraine, he added, "If you'd quite like me to... Well, I could spend some of tomorrow with him. It's best for him to not leave the house, and I'm..."

"I'm sure he'd love that," Lorraine replied, as she began to apply the calamine lotion to the spots on Marty's body. To her son, she added, "This should ease the itchiness. It'll help you out. I can't leave this in your room. If the itchiness comes back, though..."

"Just try to get some rest, Marty," Dr. Brown suggested, as he placed his hand on the young boy's forehead. "I'm not going to be too busy. I could just come over here, and we can visit. I could even bring my saxophone over, if you'd like. How's that sound?"

"I'd love that, Doc," replied Marty, softly. "Thank you so much. I can't stand not being able to scratch, whenever I itch. It just feels too uncomfortable. This is just the pits. I was sure happy about not having to go to school, but it'll..." Turning to his mother, he asked, "I'm not going to die, am I? I want to grow up. I want to get married, and..."

"Oh, you're not going to die," Lorraine replied, as she held Marty's hands into hers. "It will really be okay, honey. Tomorrow morning, I could give you an oatmeal bath." As a look of confusion spread across Marty's face, she added, "It'll be soothing, sweetie."

"I'm sure you'll enjoy it, Marty," agreed Dr. Brown, softly. "I picked up some lavender buds, and ylang-ylang's essential oil. It'll give off a very lovely scent. I find that quite helps to make me feel relaxed. The oatmeal would simply be placed in a little bag."

"It goes in the back of the bathtub," added Lorraine, "away from the running water. I can also place some scented candles in the bathroom, and we can put on some pretty relaxing music. You'll just have something to look forward to." She tucked Marty in, as she added, "Go get some rest, honey. You have absolutely nothing to worry about."

Lorraine kissed Marty's forehead, as she and Dr. Brown left the room. She sure hoped that her son would have a good rest. She thought of Dave and Linda, and she figured that it was a good thing that they'd have no risk of catching the disease from Marty.

"It's a real shame to see Marty so sick," commented Dr. Brown, shaking his head. "Of course, though, he'll be fine. I must say, your son quite brings out the kid in me. I do remember being his age... I sure miss my mother. She was always so gentle, and..."

"That's good to hear," Lorraine replied, softly. "I mean, it's not good that he's dead - but... My mother was very affectionate, too. Not my father, so much. I do miss him, though. I'm confident that he loved all of us. He just wasn't too good at showing it. I think... When I found out that he died, I just felt real sad. I sure felt as though I..."

"I understand," whispered Dr. Brown. "At any rate, I suppose I should start heading back. Your son is just a very outgoing person, and spending time with him is rather a joy. It's so strange to think that, uh... that he'll be ending third grade a little early."

"I know that you used to teach third grade," commented Lorraine. "My husband just speaks fondly of you. When I was in third grade, we hadn't yet moved to Hill Valley. It's so strange, thinking of how the time has passed. I mean, Marty is almost nine."

"It's just been two years," pointed out Dr. Brown, sighing wistfully. "I remember how my heart sure went out to him. I mean, he was getting beaten up by boys who were almost twice his age. I sure never trusted Biff Tannen to wax my cars. I realize that, around your family, he acts real nice. Still, I tend to think that he's never changed."

"Well, I rather believe in forgiveness," replied Lorraine. "I wouldn't trust him to watch our children, but... Well, there is sort of the feeling of satisfation. It's nice to see him working for us, instead of the other way around. I'm really so proud of my husband."

As Doc nodded, Lorraine thought of the children. It really was obvious how George's influence had rubbed off on them. Lorraine smiled, as she thought of Marty. He sure was a confident young boy. She felt certain that his youngest son would be all right.

[bttf44]

What Happened?

November 5, 1955
6:28 PM PST

This had to be the worst day of Marty's life. Come to think of it, he wasn't even all too certain of what day it was. It rather seemed, though, that he was trapped in the year 1955. He just felt very helpless. After all, he had watched his older scientist friend get shot. As if that wasn't bad enough, he was stuck in a foreign time period!

Granted, Marty loved stories about time travel - and he often wondered what it would be like, if he had a chance to travel through time. He sure didn't expect for time travel to be possible, though. This sure was much worse, than what he had dreamed about.

For one thing, Marty didn't really intend to go back in time. He was being chased around the parking lot of Twin Pines Mall - and, somehow, he sure managed to switch on the time circuits. Before he actually realized it, he was no longer in the year 1985!

At the moment, Marty wanted nothing more than to be back in his bedroom - lying on his bed. However, for obvious reasons, that was out of the question. He had no clue of where to go. In fact, in this time period, he sure wasn't even Marty McFly! He was just without an identity, as he shouldn't even be existing. Yet, he was existing!

Tears came to Marty's eyes, as he glanced at the Lyons Estates sign. It seemed to be quite depressing, as he realized that the house that his family lived in wasn't yet built. He slumped down beside the sign, as tears suddenly began to roll down his cheeks.

The house that was on the Lyon Estates sign resembled his family's home, except for the fact that the house was a different colour. Looking at the house rather made him feel homesick, in spite of the fact that his family was actually rather dysfunctional.

If only Marty had some way to return to 1985, he might actually be able to enjoy this experience a little more. History was never his strong subject, and he sure felt that a lot of it was just depressing. Still, he really had to admit that the idea of visiting other time periods sounded like fun. However, it wasn't so fun - when it was only one way!

Within a very short amount of time, from Marty's perspective, there were really two attempts made on his life. The first time was by the Libyan terrorists, who were also the ones that shot Doc. The second time was by an elderly farmer, Otis Peabody.

Before that night in 1985, his life had never been threatened. In all honestly, he very rarely ever thought about death. The thought sure was too morbid for him. He rather had a tough time believing that his scientist friend was dead. It was so devastating.

Marty really felt lost. He was stuck in a year where he hadn't even yet been born, and nobody would know who he was. While he knew that Doc was alive in this era, he sure was afraid to approach the scientist. After all, this really was twenty years before Doc had met Marty. To the Doc of 1955, Marty McFly would simply be a complete stranger.

Marty had never felt so hopeless. He pulled his knees up to his chest, folded his arms across his knees, and buried his head into his arms. Marty simply began to sob, as he actually had no idea what to do. Would he ever be able to return to the year 1985?

Doc was really his only hope of ever returning home. However, he had no idea where the scientist even lived. He couldn't just knock on every house in Hill Valley, and ask if Dr. Brown lived there. People would think that he was crazy, which he didn't want.

Marty quite wished that there was some more plutonium - so that he could just return to his proper time period. However, the remaining plutonium pellets was simply left on the parking lot - back in the year 1985! He wondered if, in this time period, Doc would have safer means to obtain some more plutonium. He didn't want to lose Doc, again.

Marty realized that, since he was in the past, he might be able find a way to prevent Doc from being shot. Was it even possible to change history, though? He didn't quite understand why his scientist friend found it necessary to make a deal with terrorists.

Of course, Marty had some other close friends - who happened to be closer to him, in age. Ever since he had first met Doc, though, he sure had regarded the scientist as a mentor. In a way, he was simply the kind of person that his parents could never be.

He felt very nervous about approaching the Doc of this year. Would the younger Doc even like Marty, or would he just think that Marty was an annoying young kid? He felt horrified, as he realized that this really was all too similar to the attitude of his father. Still, he certainly couldn't stand the idea of his very close friend thinking badly of him.

Marty's thoughts turned to his girlfriend, Jennifer. Would he even be able to see her, again? What if he never really made it back to 1985, and he starved to death? He did have some money on him. He wasn't exactly sure of how long it would last, though.

If you put your mind to it, you could accomplish anything. It was what Doc was often telling Marty. However, this wasn't exactly a normal situation. What he couldn't quite return home? How would he even be able to support himself? Marty felt very scared.

Marty wept brokenly, as he wished that this was a nightmare that he could just wake up from. However, this certainly didn't feel like a dream. Granted, it sure was early in the morning - when Doc had wanted him to go to Twin Pines Mall. He wished that Doc had explained to him about the experiment, instead of simply springing it onto him.

Of course, had Doc tried to explain to Marty about his project, Marty was likely to not believe him. In that case, it was perfectly understandable. After all, there really were some people in Hill Valley who had some less-than-stellar opinions on the scientist.

The question was, now that Marty was trapped in 1955, would Doc believe him? After all, Doc was quite the only person who could help him. If he tried to tell anyone else, they woud think that he was crazy. He might even end up getting committed.

However, what if Doc himself tried to get Marty committed? The very thought ended up really upsetting Marty. As Marty was so afraid of death, he never would consider killing himself as an option. However, the idea of really spending the rest of his life in some mental institution sure didn't sit well with him. It would be a waste of a lifetime.

Marty's home life was never all too happy. His father really was spineless, and he let people walk all over him. As for his mother, she really was almost always drunk - and she had a tendancy to lash out in anger. Dave and Linda weren't much better off.

He thought of what his parents would think, if he suddenly disappeared. Would they even care that he was gone, or would they just feel relieved to finally be free of the "brat"? Some of the time, it really seemed as though his mother didn't even love him.

It seemed like Marty would never be able to stop crying. He had always dreamed of becoming a rich rock star - but, if he was stuck here, that sure could never happen. He figured that the people of this time period would be very fightened of hard rock. So much certainly has seemed to have changed, within the space of thirty years.

Marty really thought what it would be like - if, somehow, he was able to survive thirty years. By the time 1985 finally rolled around, he would be 47 years old! He simply felt certain that Jennifer wouldn't want to date an older man. It would be rather creepy!

Marty already hated the year 1955, even though he hadn't seen much of it. Most of the things that Marty enjoyed wouldn't yet exist. Furthermore, he quite had no idea how one was to act. It was almost like going to a foreign country, but much worse.

He supposed it could've been a lot worse. He could've just ended up 300 years back in time, where the land would consist entirely of Natives. Of course, there sure would be no Doc would help him out. He realized that he quite had something to be thankful for! He still couldn't help but feel depressed, though. What if Doc couldn't help him out?

Doc had to help him out, though. Marty certainly didn't belong here - and, being a scientist, Doc really would have to understand that. He just figured that Doc would also have to be open-minded enough to accept that he actually was from the future.

Marty's sobs began to subside, as he began to feel a glimmer of hope. He had always beeing very trusting of Doc. He figured that, even in 1955, he would really be able to trust his friend. After all is said and done, Doc always was a good-hearted person.

Marty finally wiped his eyes, as he stood up. He realized that, if he actually hoped to return to 1985, he rather had to overcome his fears. He decided to head over to the Courthouse Square, as he figured that the courthouse would still be there. He simply hoped be able to find a telephone book. He was rather determined to look for Doc.

The thought of heading to town made Marty feel quite nervous. He always was a real easy-going person, and he never had much difficulty with making friends. Still, he had no idea what the people of this year would actually think of his futuristic tendancies.

On a positive note, if Marty ever was to return to 1985, he might have an easier time writing a history report on Hill Valley. Perhaps, with more preparation, time travel just wouldn't be so bad. In fact, he and Doc might even be able to have some fun with it.

As Marty crossed the street, he noticed how empty it looked. This was a far cry from how it would look, thirty years in the future. He swallowed, as he just began to head down the street. He quite hoped and prayed that, once he found his scientist friend, he would be able to return home. He could maybe save Doc's life, while he was at it.

[bttf44]

I Don't Want To Die!

September 6, 1885
8:30 PM PST

Marty sighed, as he stared into the campfire. He just wished that he could have some marshmallows. He was so tired of being stuck in this era. He vowed that, once he and Doc returned to 1985, he wouldn't do any more time travelling. It simply wasn't all too fun. Quite desperately, he hoped for Doc's plan to work. He just felt very homesick.

"How are you feeling, Marty," Doc asked, very gently. As Marty looked up, he added, "I notice that you've been so quiet. I suppose the past few weeks haven't really been that, uh, all that easy for you. Why don't you, uh, just tell me what's on your mind?"

"I simply want to go home," whimpered Marty, as tears filled his eyes. "I miss Jennifer, and I miss my family. I really don't like being here, Doc." As his lips began to quiver, he added, "I'm scared, Doc. I mean, what if Buford does end up killing me. I just feel..."

"I'm sorry, Marty," murmured Doc, as he drew the teen close to him. "I hope, though, that you'll consider what we've discussed. I really do care about you, Marty. For over ten years, we've been very close. From my end, it's actually been over thirty years. I would hate for anything bad to happen to you. I want you to have a good future."

"I quite miss Jennifer, Doc," Marty commented, sobbing. "Oh, Doc, why did we have to leave her there? Why couldn't she have come with us? What would've really been the harm, Doc? What if someone was to find her, and... and rape her... or kill her?"

"She'll be fine, Marty," Doc replied, softly. "We got the almanac back from Biff. Don't you remember? The timeline has returned to normal. It'll really have changed around her. After we go back to 1985, your girlfriend will be completely safe and sound."

"How can we be sure about that, Doc?" Marty insisted, tearfully. "Also, I just miss my family. Oh, Doc, did you have to drag me off to 2015? You could've just told me what happened, and I would've quite had thirty years to stop that. I could've told Marty Jr to stay away from the cafe, or something like that. I just barely had a chance, Doc!"

"I'm sorry, Marty," murmured Doc. "I just didn't think everything through. I admit that I simply got a little, uh, too ahead of myself. It maybe would've been better for me to just tell you, sort of like what you tried to do for me... back when you were in 1955."

"Oh, Doc, I'm so scared," Marty sobbed, as he quickly threw his arms around his older friend. "What exactly happens to me, Doc? Biff says that I took my life, and flushed it down the toilet. Please, Doc, what happens to me? I really do need to know what..."

"I'm not going to tell you what exactly happened," Doc replied, softly. "If you were to avert one accident... Well, there's still the possibility that you could end up in another accident. Perhaps, the accident might turn out to be even worse. Now, Marty, I want you to have a good future. Still, we simply can't rely on the time machine to just..."

Marty just wept, as he wasn't quite certain of what to say. It sounded like his scientist friend really meant well. Still, he simply couldn't understand why Doc couldn't be a little more straight-forward. For one, he certainly wanted to have a more confident son.

"I don't want to hurt you, Marty," explained Doc. "I sure can remember the day that I first met you. Well, the day that we offically first met - back in 1975. I rather felt for you. You were so small... and so vulnerable. It's hard to believe how the time..."

Marty did, in fact, remember that day. From what he remembered, in both timelines, he met Doc the same way. He was being bullied by Cliff Tannen and his gang. At the time, the boys sure seemed to be huge. Marty's older brother, Dave, was a common target of them - especially in the original timeline, when he just took after his father.

As Marty thought of the last few weeks, he just couldn't stop crying. While he had to admit that he was happy to have a more successful family, he really couldn't help but wonder if it was even worth it. He never again wanted to take a trip through time.

"You're really upset, aren't you?" Doc asked, softly. "Well, after we get back to 1985, I plan to destroy the machine. I'm almost quite starting to regret the day that I hit my head. Where did the vision come from, anyway? It's caused nothing but trouble."

"I'm sorry, Doc," Marty replied, weeping. "Anyway, as frustrating as it was, it's really done a little good. I just miss my family. It'd quite be a lie, though, to say that I don't appreciate having a more successful family. Everyone is much happier. I do wish that I've had more time, though, to really enjoy that life. Was that too much to ask for?"

"No, I guess not," Doc replied, softly. "I was very careless, Marty, and I apologize. I also realized that I should've used the almanac to power the Mr. Fusion. I'm not sure why I didn't think of that. It actually would've made things easier, and Biff never..."

Marty was weeping too hard to answer. He certainly didn't wish to be too hard on his friend. He understood that Doc only had the best of intentions. It was just wrong for him to purchase the almanac, as well. Looking back, it was a foolish decision to make.

"The past eight months were very enjoyable," added Doc. "I'm certainly not going to deny that. It was like being able to live out a dream. I sure never counted on having to deal with the likes of Mad Dog Tannen. I guess I shouldn't've been that surprised, though. If you hadn't come back, Marty, I would've been shot. It's just very scary."

The mention of being shot made Marty shudder, as he thought of the next day. Until the night that the Libyan terrorists went after Doc, his life was never endangered. It seemed as if it was on numerous occasions, since then, that his life was threatened.

"When you saved my life," Doc continued, "I really felt that you were very brave. You should've been quite proud of yourself, Marty. It was entirely unnecessary, however, to tell Buford that you'd fight him. Nobody in this town cares about what he thinks."

"Seamus rather made me realize that," Marty replied, as he swallowed a sob. "He told me about what happened to his brother. His brother even had the same name as me, and he seemed to have the same problem. He ended up being stabbed, Doc. I do not want for that to also happen to me. I used to not even consider my... my mortality."

"Your ancestor's a real good man," Doc pointed out, softly. "When I first met Seamus, he was so polite. His wife was actually a little harder to warm up to, but they both are good people. You should be proud of your ancestry. Seamus really had good advice."

"Well, I guess you're right," Marty replied, as he wiped his eyes. "I mean, I knew that I had an ancestor named Martin - and I knew that I was really named after him. I just never thought much of my ancestry. It hadn't interested me all that much, before."

"In that case," Doc replied, sighing, "I suppose some good has really come out of time travelling. After all, you do quite have a better family. As for me, I got to spend eight months in my favourite historical era. However, I simply believe that the time machine needs to be destroyed. We certainly don't want to have another repeat of 1985-A."

"I swear, Doc," Marty commented, swallowing, "after I get home, I'm simply going to spend a pretty long time getting myself adjusted to... Well, my memories of the new timeline are actually becoming almost as strong as... as the original. Still, I really..."

"I understand what you're saying, Marty," Doc replied, softly. "In all honesty, I simply feel as though I'm ready to... Well, as much as I do enjoy this era, I must admit that I really am starting to miss the modern life. After all, the technically is more advanced."

"I miss my rock and roll," Marty replied, as tears filled his eyes. "I just miss being able to turn on the radio, and hear some music that I can really get down to. In a strange sort of way, I'm really starting to miss school. I never thought that I'd say it, but this era is really starting to... What if our plan doesn't work, Doc, and we're stuck here?"

"Hey, do you remember what your father and I have always taught you?" Doc asked, softly. "In the original timeline, I suppose it was actually just me. If you put your mind to it, Marty, you can accomplish anything. You can't be so quick to get discouraged."

"I guess you're right, Doc," Marty replied, swallowing. "I'm usually not like this. I try to be confident. The last few weeks, though... I barely had much of a chance to recover from my original stay in 1955. I just miss being in 1985, and all the things that I love."

"Just try to cheer up, Marty," suggested Doc, as he rubbed Marty's shoulders. "If you would like me to, I could make us some lemonade. It'll sure be a refreshing drink. Don't fret, okay? Just try to think of happy thoughts. I promise you that, after we return to 1985, I won't drag you on any more time travel trips. I'll let you enjoy the present."

"All right, Doc," Marty replied, as he managed a small smile. "You're a real good friend, and I understand that you really just want the best for me. I will hold you to that promise, though. Anyway, I'm getting pretty thirsty. Lemonade sounds fine with me."

"Well, in that case," Doc replied, as he stood up, "you wait right here. I'll be back. It really is a great evening, and we could gaze at the stars. The one thing that I enjoy about this time period, is that pollution isn't a big problem. I shouldn't be gone long."

Marty smiled, as Doc stood up. He still was feeling apprehensive about tomorrow. Still, he figured that it was best to maintain an optimistic attitude. If anything, the past few weeks have made him into a rather stronger person. He thought of his namesake, and he vowed to not let the same fate befall him. He wished to have a real fulfilling future.

[bttf44]

No Time To Sleep

May 31, 1986
2:00 AM PDT

It was an early Saturday morning, and Calvin McFly felt pretty restless. He just barely had any sleep, within the past four days. He sighed, as he really felt more than a little nervous - as the final exams were approaching. He really wished to get a good grade, as the finals would be a major factor in determining his future. He sure felt so jittery.

His thoughts then turned to his twin brother, Marty. While he really loved his twin, he just couldn't help but feel that Marty could apply himself more to his studies. After all, not everyone who dreamed of being a rock star would actually end up becoming one.

Calvin stretched, as he glanced at the digital clock. He really couldn't figure it out. He felt quite exhausted - yet, somehow, he was wide awake. No matter what he did, he couldn't seem to get any sleep. It felt quite frustrating, as he really needed to sleep.

"Calvin?" whispered a rather familiar voice. "Hey, Calvin?" repeated the voice, as the door slowly began to open. It was none other than Marty. "You're quite having some trouble sleeping, aren't you?" Calvin nodded, as Marty sat on the bed. "I'm just quite concerned, Cal. I mean, I really would like to be able to help you out. I'm feeling..."

"There's only one thing that might actually help," Calvin replied, sighing. "It would be if Doc lets me take the time machine to, uh, some time in the past. That way, I could get all the sleep that I need - and I would still be ready for the finals. Would that be..."

"I'm sure that Doc would be willing to help," Marty explained, softly, "if it should come to that. However, I think that it should just be a last resort type of thing. I sure think that it would be best, Cal, if we could just look at other options. I do want to help..."

"It must be pretty easy, being you," Calvin remarked, as he began to stretch. "To be honest, Marty, I'm almost starting to envy you. I mean, you were never quite one to take school all too seriously. I sure bet that you don't even care much, of whether or not you pass the finals. For you, it's as if you don't really have a care in the world."

"That's not very fair, Calvin!" Marty protested, sounding hurt. "For your information, I am also nervous about the finals. After all, I wouldn't quite want Mom and Dad to be disappointed in me. Also, in case my career doesn't work out, I sure would want..."

Calvin sure felt bummed. He didn't see any harm in using the time machine. He could sleep in Doc's garage, until he was all caught up. Of course, Doc might consider that to be an unfair advantage - as not everyone exactly had access to a time machine.

He realized that he had also, unfairly, underestimated his twin. While he certainly felt that Marty should put more effort into his studies, it really wasn't exactly fair to insist that Marty's life was quite free of stress. While Marty didn't do too good in school, he really wasn't what one would call "dumb". He did happen to be smart, in other areas.

"I'm quite sorry, Marty," Calvin replied, as he grabbed Marty's hands. "I guess I'm just starting to get quite frustrated, from having a lack of sleep. I really shouldn't've taken it out on you. I understand that you're just trying to help, and I do appreciate that."

"Say, Calvin?" Marty asked, softly. "You know how, uh, we're about to turn eighteen? In fact, with our time travel trips, we might even already be eighteen. I'm feeling rather nervous about this, actually. I mean, we're no longer children - and we're quite about to, uh, step into the real world. Quite soon, we'll have to support ourselves."

"I think, uh, that's really about it," Calvin replied, quietly. "While I know that Mom and Dad wouldn't kick us out... In fact, Linda still lives here. Well, it's actually a very scary thought. I remember being a little boy, and I couldn't wait to grow up! The times..."

"In the old timeline," Marty explained, "Dave was still living in the house. When I came back, from my trip in 1955, Dave was only visiting. The thing is, I quite remember how his car was getting a paint job - so, when I really thought that our family car was..."

"Yeah, I remember that day," Calvin replied, with a chuckle. "It's quite hard to believe that, uh, it's been over seven month. Of course, when you didn't recognize me, I just felt scared. After all, you don't just forget your twin! It's sure strange to think that, if you hadn't gone back, I wouldn't exist. Finding out who 'Calvin Klein' really was..."

"Say, Cal," suggested Marty, "maybe I should sleep with you. Do you remember how, when we were younger, we shared a room? On occasion, we really would sleep in the same bed. Mom and Dad had always preferred that we sleep in our own beds, but..."

"Yeah, those were the days," Calvin replied, wistfully. "Actually, I'd just love it - if you would sleep with me. It's too bad that, even with a time machine, we can't really make ourselves be younger. In the future, there are the overhaul rejuvenations - but..."

"I'm not sure if they'd affect size, though," Marty pointed out. "Granted, we aren't all that tall. We'll have to accept the fact that, uh, we're almost adults. On one hand, I'll sure be happy - when Jennifer and I move into our own place. In a way, I'd like to be independent. Still, having more freedom will really mean having more responsibilities."

"Do you simply remember how," Calvin asked, thoughtfully, "when we were younger, we enjoyed getting up early. We sure hated it, whenever Mom and Dad told us to go back to bed. Then, as we got older, we then decided that we would rather sleep in."

"That actually is a huge difference," replied Marty. "Of course, it was around the same time - that we stopped having a bedtime. The thing is, I remember how we very much resented it - when Dave and Linda got to stay up later. It just didn't seem fair."

"We did have fun, though," commented Calvin, "when we'd talk in bed. There actually were times, though, when Mom and Dad came in the room - and they'd quite tell us to go to sleep. We'd often place our hands in the light, and we'd play puppets. It was so much fun, and we'd make all kinds of interesting shapes. Y'know, I sort of miss that."

"Come to think of it," replied Marty, "so do I. Talking about all of this is quite... Well, I know that you really would like to get some sleep. As we get older, we really do come to appreciate the value of sleep. I remember how elementary school was more fun."

"Well, we didn't have as much homework," pointed out Calvin. "I felt that it was very nice, how we always had the same teachers. When we entered junior high, though - we ended up having only one class together. We both were real scared about that."

"I actually was very scared about entering junior high," commented Marty, wincing. "I was sure scared about not fitting in, or that my old friends might abandon me, or that you and Doc would end up being my only friends. It simply wasn't too bad, though. In fact, I managed to make plenty of wonderful new friends. The homework, though..."

"Yeah, you really didn't like getting that much homework," Calvin replied, laughing. "It did seem a little overwhelming, even for me - but, within time, I became used to it. As it was, I became enthusiastic of doing any extra credit work that I could possibly do."

"It's strange to think of how," commented Marty, "as you get older, your perspective towards life simply begins to change. Looking back, we probably see our childhood as being... Well, our childhood probably wasn't that easy - as we tend to remember it."

"I'm sure that it can be real confusing for you," Calvin replied, laughing, "being as you remember two pasts. In the timeline that you came from... Well, your childhood really wasn't easy. I mean, your parents sure weren't all that supportive. I do wonder what I might've been like, if I was part of that timeline. Likely, I'd have a different name."

"Yeah, most likely," Marty replied, as he crawled into bed. "Maybe, if I sleep with you, you'd simply be able to fall asleep. Jennifer is studying to be a child psychologist. Let's see if we can think of any ideas. Do you remember what Mom and Dad did, when..."

Calvin tried to think of what his parents did, when he was Marty were younger. Even thought he felt exhausted, he just couldn't seem to sleep. He quite remembered how his mother would tuck him and Marty into bed, and then she would tell him a story.

"I believe I have an idea, Marty," Calvin suggested, flashing a lopsided smile. "Do you remember how, when we were younger, Mom liked to tell us the story of Tweedledum and Tweedledee? I'd always be asleep, when she finished telling the story. She would also tell me the story, whenever I had difficulty sleeping. Do you think you could..."

"You want me to tell you the story of Tweedledum and Tweedledee?" Marty asked, as he burst out laughing. Calvin nodded, vigorously. "Well, okay, Cal. If you rather think that it'll help you sleep, I'd certainly be willing to do this. I mean, I do want to help."

"I understand that this really sounds silly," Calvin replied, blushing. "Just for old time's sake, though - I think it would just be wonderful. I mean, as we're in a nostalgic mood - and I'm having trouble with falling asleep. I mean, there simply can't be any harm."

"All right, Cal," Marty replied, as he placed his arm around Calvin. "Once upon a time, there were a pair of dwarf twins. Tweedledum and Tweedledee happened to be their names. While, in every way, they sure looked much alike - they always felt a need to contradict each other. Tweedledum would lie, while Tweedledee would tell the truth."

As Marty continued with the story, Calvin actually felt himself becoming drowsy. It no longer was an effort for Calvin to keep his eyes closed. Tweedledum and Tweedledee actually appeared to come to life - as Calvin began to, at last, slip into Dreamland.

[bttf44]

What Has Happened Will Be

June 12, 1926
9:00 AM PDT

Seamus McFly felt real cheerful, as he greatly enjoyed the company of the three small children - who were spending the weekend at his house. He sure found the children to be helpful, and they were helping him mix up some pancake batter. He felt rather glad that his granddaughter, Alice, had actually convinced him to watch over the children.

He had quite come to enjoy the presence of Leanne Sawyer and Karen Smith, both of who really reminded him of Alice. However, he felt an especially close sense of kinship with young Emmett Brown - who seemed to enjoy hearing tales of his Old West days.

As Seamus thought of young Emmett, it sure seemed strange to think he would grow to become the blacksmith - who ended up marrying a schoolteacher in late 1885. The even stranger thing was, Emmett's future son would fall in love with his daughter!

Seamus sighed, as he thought of Linda. His beloved daughter simply would've died of cholera, if she hadn't been brought into the future. One thing really was certain. The concept of time travel really was rather confusing! Half of the time, he wasn't certain of which tenses he should use. What already happened, and what will happen?

"Are you okay, Mr. McFly?" Emmett asked, softly. "You really seem to be a little... Do you ever wish that you could go back to the Old West? The thing is, I really wish that I... that I could've been around. I think that being a cowboy would be real exciting!"

"Well, Emmett," Seamus replied, with a chuckle. "Let me just tell you something! Back in those days, life was... Well, life was a little tougher. First off, we didn't quite have many of the modern conveniences... that you youngsters tend to take for granted."

"Actually, I would be real scared," commented Karen. "I mean, I've heard that there were plenty of outlaws - and that you could easily get shot. My daddy really told me about this man. He said the man was called 'Mad Dog', and that he sure would shoot anyone who... who he felt offended him. I bet he's really burning in hell, right now."

"He was a very scary man," agreed Seamus, with a shudder. "He even shot Marshall Strickland, who was a real good man. I remember how my wife was... Well, he really took an instant dislike towards me. Not that he exactly liked anyone, mind you..."

"That sounds so scary," Leanne replied, shuddering. "What do you suppose the world will be like, in the next fifty or sixty years? It really seems strange to think that, when you were younger, you had no radio to keep you entertained - or moving pictures..."

Seamus chuckled, as he thought of how the world had quite advanced. He knew that, within the next sixty years, the world would actually become even more advanced. In several ways, he just found the idea to really be scary. Granted, it was the advanced technology that had found a quick cure for Linda's cholera - so it couldn't be that bad.

He then thought of Verne, who had fallen in love with Linda. Young Emmett seemed to greatly resemble his future son. He thought of how Sarah Lathrop was really Emmett's mother, and how Sarah had been the best friend of Emmett's son's romantic interest!

Seamus leaned against the counter, as he began to feel a little dizzy. Even after over thirty years, he wasn't very certain if he fully understood all there was to know about time travel. If not for time travel, dear Martin would've been stabbed in a saloon!

He thoughts really turned back to the day, when he read the birth announcement of Emmett Lathrop Brown. He thought of how, in the past, the blacksmith had used the full name of Emmett Lloyd Brown. With the Lathrops' 1887 arrival to Hill Valley, it just would've seemed very risky for the blacksmith to actually use his given middle name.

"Mr. McFly?" Emmett asked, with concern. "Are you, uh, feeling sick? Do you need me to go fetch a doctor? If you want me to, I could fry up the pancakes. I sure think you should relax. You seem like a great man, and I just wouldn't want anything bad to..."

"Oh, Emmett!" gasped Seamus, as he burst out chuckling. "I'm quite feeling just fine! I guess I really was, uh, deep in thought. To be honest, I sometimes tend to feel a little nostalgic. I remember the day that my eldest, William, was born. He's all grown up!"

"You're Alice's grandfather?" Emmett asked, amazed. "I sure wonder what my life will be like, when I grow up. I wonder who I'll marry, and what my children will be like. At the least, I would really like to have a son and daughter. I'm thinking of naming them Andy and Ann! Also, I'm going to let them do anything they want. Anything at all."

Seamus chuckled, as he knew how popular the Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls were. Of course, those name were definitely far from what Emmett would really end up naming his future children! After five more years, Emmett would finally discover Jules Verne.

"Well, I really wouldn't be in such a hurry to grow up," Seamus suggested, gently. "It does feel so strange, thinking that Alice is already twenty years old. Even Agnes and Anita have just turned thirteen. Time goes by, very quickly. Just enjoy your youth."

"Why don't you just tell us about Mr. Eastwood?" suggested Emmett. "I've heard that he was quite a fearless and brave young man, who dared to take a real stand to Mad Dog. He was also real brave, when he and the blacksmith tried to stop some hijackers from stealing a train. It's really a shame that he was so young, when he lost his life."

You sure don't know the half of it, Seamus thought - as a smile spread across his face. One day, Emmett, you'll understand everything. Until then, everything simply will remain a mystery. It's your first time of seeing me, but the reverse isn't true!

"Well, Emmett, I'm not sure you'd want to know," Seamus replied. In a way, that was true. The older Emmett would not want his younger self to know! "It was quite a terrifying experience. Maybe, when you get a little older, you could then find out."

"Aw, shucks!" groaned Emmett, as he looked disappointed. "Well, when did you move to Hill Valley? My mom moved here, shortly after she was born. My pop didn't come to America, until 1908. Some people actually hated him, simply because he was German. Therefore, he really decided to change his name. It used to be Herschel Von Braun."

"That just wasn't right," Seamus commented, as he shook his head. "I remember how some people didn't like me, because I was Irish. It was simply hurtful. I mean, I didn't choose to be born in Ireland. Of course, I'm proud of my heritage - but I just felt..."

"I sure don't understand it, either," Leanne replied, sighing. "The thing is, how could someone hate a person - simply because of what country he's from... or because of what colour his skin is? People can't help those things. Do you know what I mean?"

"Yeah, it's never made much sense," Seamus agreed, quietly. "After all, people should be judged by the way they treat others. Some people appear to think that the Golden Rule really only applies to people who are like them. We're all individuals, though - and we're all God's children. We're all descendants of Adam and Eve, so we're all related."

"Right, exactly," agreed Leanne. "I sure hope that, after I grow up, everyone will be fairly treated. We don't have to respect murderers and theives, as they rather made the choices to harm other people. Nobody chooses his race or nationality, though."

"Nobody chooses his gender, either," Seamus replied, softly. "I was simply happy, six years ago, when women finally gained the right to vote. I mean, I've sure always felt that they deserved the right to be heard. So, as a result, we are making progress."

Seamus' thoughts turned to Linda. His eldest daughter was simply lucky, being able to really live in an era of equality. There probably were times, of course, when Linda felt a little nostalgic. Still, quite knowing that his daughter would have more opportunities, he figured that Linda would be happy about the future life. It made him feel pleased.

He really felt a pang of sadness, as he knew that he would be long dead by then. He thought of his descendant, who sure was named after his dear brother. Marty would not even be born, until the summer of 1968. That was actually still 42 years away!

Seamus wondered if he'd even be alive to witness the birth of Marty's father. He suddenly felt real old. He simply remembered the much elder Emmett explaining to him about the rejuvenation overhauls, which was actually supposed to extend life spans.

Seamus suddenly wished that he could simply go into the future, and get one of those overhauls. He didn't have a time machine, though - and the elder Emmett would, quite likely, insist that him getting an overhaul would actually be a big risk on the space-time continuum. He sighed, as he rather decided that he might as well just accept his fate.

"Well, kids," Seamus called out, as he noticed three small worried faces, "I suppose I'd sure better start making up these pancakes. You kids really do have full lives ahead of you. When you become as old as me, you... You'll wish that you were young, again."

"You're not that old, Mr. McFly," Emmett commented, as he threw his small arms around Seamus. "You're quite a fun man to be around. I do know some old men, who seem to always be grumpy. I hope that, when I get old, I don't become so grumpy."

Seamus just smiled, as he hugged the young boy. It certainly seemed strange to think that the young boy had, very recently, graduated kindergarten - and Seamus already knew just what his future would hold. As he glanced into young Emmett's brown eyes, he quite saw the blacksmith in the little boy. What will happen, has already happened.

[bttf44]

The Precious Daughter

August 25, 2016
6:20 PM PDT

Marty McFly Sr smiled, as he glanced at his daughter. It seemed strange to think that, today, Marlene was turning nineteen. She really was a pretty girl. Her light brown hair was in loose waves - and her eyes were brown, like cocoa. She had such a soft dimple in her left cheek, much like her father and brother. She had a rather clear complexion.

The two of them were eating at Perkin's, and they both ordered a beef French dip. It was a bittersweet feeling, knowing that both of his children were adults. He felt quite old, as he realized that his children might soon move out. It made him feel a little sad.

"Thank you so much, Dad," gushed Marlene. "I feel bad, now, for ever doubting that you love me as much as... Well, you know. It was thanks to your younger self. I just have a tendency to... I regret how there were times, when I wanted to be mature."

"Don't worry about it, honey," Marty Sr replied, softly. "To me, you will always be my little girl. I can still remember the day that you took your first step. I'm very glad that it happened, while I wasn't on the road. I'm quite so glad about my decision. I retired from touring, a little over ten years ago. You children rather mean so much, to me."

"You're the best dad that one could ask for," commented Marlene. "I hope that, when I have children, I'll really be a good mother to them. Mike Hartford sure is a wonderful guy. I know that I've been so boy crazy, but I have a feeling that he's just the one."

"It's been a few months, now," Marty Sr pointed out. "He does seem like a wonderful person. As much as the idea of you getting married really... It's sure going to be real tough day. Well, I suppose I really could look forward to becoming a grandfather."

"Well, it'll probably be some time," explained Marlene. "I simply don't feel as though I'm ready to be a mother." Taking a deep breath, she added, "Hey, Dad, you know what I regret?" Marty Sr just nodded, encouraging. "Well, Dad, what I quite regret is... is the fact that I didn't always appreciate my youth. I wasted much of my youth, wanting..."

"We all have regrets in life, honey," Marty Sr replied, as he gently placed his hand on Marlene's arm. "Y'know, Marly, you're rather free to just stay at home - until you feel that you're ready to find your own place. We certainly don't wish to pressure you."

"I actually do appreciate that, Dad," Marlene replied, smiling. "What I actually feel bad about, though, is remembering how I used to give my brother a rather hard time - just because he wasn't as excited about being mature. I felt that he was pretty childish."

"Well, Marly, it's true that you sometimes were hard on yourself," Marty Sr admitted, softly. "There actually were several times, honey, when your mother and I were real concerned about you. Still, I remember all the good times that you've really had. You and your brother enjoyed having balloon fights, and you quite loved to torment me."

"I remember that," Marlene replied, laughing. "I can remember how we used to sneak up behind you, and we'd pelt you with a water balloon. You would really turn around, and you had a shocked look on your face. My brother and I would start laughing."

"Yeah, Marly, you were a little stinker," Marty Sr replied, rather indulgently. "You and your brother both. I quite remember how you and your brother would get, whenever I would come home from touring. You children were always very excited to see me."

"We rather did miss you," Marlene commented, wistfully, "whenever you were on the road. We never understood why you couldn't just bring us with you. We simply loved it, whenever you'd tell us stories. You used to give us piggyback rides, and we simply had a lot of fun. We certainly were glad, when you announced your plans to retire."

"I've always felt that I made the right decision," Marty Sr replied, softly. "You were a week shy of turning eight, by the time I got home. While I've quite enjoyed my music career, I decided that my family was more important to me. You're all quite special."

"It's too bad that I'll never be a pop star," Marlene commented, sighing. "I sure hope to have a chance at acting, at least. After all, there's quite no sense in chasing after some dream - which would never become a possibility. I don't have the right voice."

"I never quite wished to discourage you, sweetheart," explained Marty Sr. "After all, I didn't wish to go against what I've always taught you children. If you put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything. While I rather feel that the expression still holds true, we also have to recognize our limits. I'm glad that you found an alternative, though."

"Can I ask you a question, Dad?" Marlene asked, as tears filled her eyes. Marty Sr felt rather bad, as he placed his daughter's hands into his. "Say, Dad, you don't think that I have a terrible singing voice - do you? I mean, if you do... It'd sure break my heart."

"No, honey, I don't think you have a terrible singing voice," Marty Sr replied, as tears filled his own eyes. "It's just that... Well, we all sure have different talents. I've seen you're acting skills, honey. You were wonderful! I don't think that I could act as well."

"Thank you, Dad," Marlene replied, as a tear slipped down her cheek. "I guess I quite felt worried." Taking in a deep sigh, she added, "I really thought of something. If you did opt to become an actor, it would seem rather strange. I mean, you quite look just like Michael J Fox. I guess that was one of my insecurities, of becoming an actress."

"Well, yeah, your femininity was quite a sore spot for you," Marty Sr replied, softly. "I do find you to be a beautiful girl, though. While you certainly share many of my traits, though - I think you do look rather feminine. You also really have your mother's hair."

"Thanks for your encouragement, Dad," Marlene replied, as a smile spread across her face. "Y'know, Dad, you've always been very helpful. I do remember how, earlier this summer, I was worried that you didn't love me as much. Man, I really was being silly."

"It's in the past, honey," commented Marty Sr, as he gently squeezed Marlene's arm. "Y'know, Marly, I almost didn't make it - when you were born. I'm certainly glad that I was rather persistent. As a result, I was able to watch you come into the world - and it really was a miracle. I held you in my arms, and I realized how precious you were."

"That's so sweet, Dad," Marlene replied, as she wiped the tears from her cheeks. "It's just so nice, Dad, that you took me out to dinner. I remember being about four, and I was scared of monsters. You made this 'monster spray', and you'd use it in my room."

"Oh, you remember that!" Marty Sr replied, chuckling. "What I did was, I just decided to mix a few essential oils together - including lavender and ylang-ylang. Every night, right before I'd tuck you in, we'd spray your bedroom. That actually seemed to help."

"It actually smelled very nice, too," Marlene replied, smiling. "I also remember how you would tell me fairy tales, and you'd always replace the character's name with mine. It'll definitely be a tradition, that I'd pass onto my own children. I felt quite special. That is one thing I quite miss. We'd also dance together, as I'd place my feet onto your feet."

"I also miss all those things, honey," Marty Sr replied, softly. Looking at his daughter's plate, he added, "Well, Marly, are you really about ready for dessert? How would you like to have a large mint shake, topped with whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles?"

"That sounds quite awesome, Dad," gushed Marlene. "Say, by the time Mike and I get married - which probably won't be for some time, yet - I was actually wondering if you could... could sing Butterfly Kisses. Y'know, by Bob Carlisle? It's a rather lovely song."

"Honey," Marty Sr replied, as he touched his daughter's arm, "I can't even listen to the song... without crying. Just how do you expect me to be able to sing it? I simply don't think I'd be able to get halfway through the song, until I start bawling. It would really be a total mess. I'm afraid that you'll just have to pick a different song."

"Aw, shucks!" groaned Marlene. "Well, as I said, it probably won't be for some time. I just met Mike, not long ago - and I'd rather hate to pressure him. I do think he's quite the one for me, though. Aunt Linda tells me that it really was the same case for her."

"You and your aunt really have a lot in common," Marty Sr pointed out, chuckling. "Of course, you both also have a lot in common... with your grandma! Well, we'd love for Mike to join the family. I do promise that we'll treat him as if he's part of our family."

"That's one more thing I appreciate about you, Dad," Marlene replied, cheerfully. "We do tend to hear many real horror stories, y'know, about people who have to deal with their evil in-laws. I'm happy that, for Mike and I, it certainly won't be the case. I really do feel for those people. I can imagine that it'd make their lives feel rather stressful."

"Yeah, Mike's parents are real wonderful folks," agreed Marty Sr, warmly. "They seem to have the same desires, as your mother and I do. They sure just want their children to be happy. It'll be pretty hard, though, when that day comes... to just let you go."

"I understand, Dad," Marlene replied, with a small smile. "Just for old times' sake, why don't we mix up some of that 'monster spray'. Then, tonight, you can tuck me in - and tell me some of those fairy tales. I know that I'm nineteen, now - but I'd really like..."

"Oh, of course, sweetheart," replied Marty Sr, as he looked into his daughter's brown eyes. One thing was rather certain. While, according to the law, Marlene was now an adult - to Marty Sr, she would quite always be his little girl. The girl sitting across from him... was the very same girl that he watched enter the world: Marlene Stella McFly.

[bttf44]

Memento of the Future

November 14, 1955
6:30 AM PST

Dr. Emmett Brown sighed to himself, as he was preparing to head off to work. He sure felt lonely, as he was already really missing Marty McFly. He just decided to head over to Holt's Diner, and grab some breakfast. While the past week was rather stressful for him - he truly did enjoy the company of the young man. He was real fun to be around.

Doc glanced at the boxes, where he stored all of Marty's 1955 clothes. He just wasn't sure of whether to keep them around, or give them to a thrift shop. While the clothes would serve no real practical use to him, he certainly couldn't bear to part with them.

He then glanced at the diagram that he built, for sending Marty home. While a part of him felt as though he should just destroy it, he quite couldn't bring himself to do it. He couldn't actually bear to part with anything that reminded him of young Marty McFly.

He remembered the night that Marty first showed up. Initially, he felt that kid had to be some sort of prankster - as some of the neighbourhood kids simply weren't above pulling pranks on him. Upon realizing that the kid's claims actually were true, he grew to become very fond of Marty - who actually managed to bring life into the mansion.

Doc reached into his coat pockets, to see if he had any loose change. He found that there were a bunch of paper scraps inside one of the pockets. Doc wondered where that could've come from. What on earth could he have possibly decided to tear up?

Upon surveying the scraps of paper, he realized that one of the scraps contained the address to Lou's Cafe. Another one mentioned "1985". Doc was very taken aback, as he realized that this was the letter that Marty wrote to him. Doc couldn't believe it.

"Great Scott!" gasped Doc. Copernicus, Doc's sheepdog, perked his ears. "This is that letter! I was certain that I scattered these scraps into the four winds!" Realizing that, subconsciously, he simply must've shoved the pieces into the pocket - he was starting to have second thoughts. "No, I mustn't! I do admit that it's tempting, but it's risky."

Doc glanced at the fireplace, realizing that he should throw the scraps in there. There seemed to something stopping him, though. After all, Marty was the one to write that letter - and the loss of the young man was beginning to leave a big hole in his heart.

Why is Marty's loss really hurting me, so badly? Doc pondered, confused. He's not born, yet! He's not supposed to even be a thought in anyone's mind. We haven't even had our first official meeting. By the way, how do I end up meeting this kid?

But I did meet Marty! Doc countered himself. He quite spent a whole week in this mansion! He actually was here, right in the flesh! Doc shook his head. Time travel can be rather confusing. This was my first time of meeting Marty. However, this wasn't his first time of meeting me! This is starting to make me feel dizzy!

Turning his mind back to the letter, he felt a very strong urge to tape the scraps back together. It didn't seem very right, though. He glanced at the fireplace, realizing that he should really throw the scraps there! What exactly was it, that was stopping him?

Of course, there was a fact that he missed Marty - and it'd be a real long time, before the young man would come back into his life. However, he felt that there was actually something else. He felt as though, if he burnt the letter, he'd simply come to regret it.

He then thought of how, all last week, Marty had been pushing to tell him something - and Doc refused to listen. On Saturday, he finally snapped at Marty - as he was quite annoyed with Marty's persistence. He couldn't quite understand why Marty was being so hard-headed about the whole thing. Why could Marty understand how Doc felt?

Doc then thought of the video, which Marty filmed in 1985. Apparently, it contained Doc's first time travel experiment. He suddenly had a real feeling that the video had something to do with it. What could it be, though? What could really be so drastic?

Doc then remembered the hug Marty that gave to him. While Marty really had been a huggable type of person, something about that hug seemed to be quite different. He really seemed to be... sad? He also mentioned something about about "missing" Doc.

Why would Marty miss Doc? Wouldn't he simply see Doc again... in 1985? Also, when the time became rather critical, Marty suddenly became very hesitant - as though he was actually beginning to have second thoughts. After a whole week of just wanting to return to 1985, something seemed to change Marty's mind. What exactly was it?

Oh, what the hell? Doc thought, as he made his final decision. He realized that, if he didn't read that letter, those thoughts would simply keep bugging him. Anyway, he could always burn the letter... after reading it. He finally reached for the tape.

He really owed it to Marty, to find out what could be so important. He glanced at the clock, realizing that he no longer had time to eat out. He would simply only have time to scramble up some eggs. Still, he needed to read that letter - before taking off.

Of course, Doc did quite enjoy his job. He loved being around small children - and he actually hoped to, one day, have children of his own. Perhaps, he would name them Jules and Verne - after his favourite author. Anyway, he just appeared to get along better with small children - than he did with most adults, who could be judgemental.

The job actually seemed to be harder than he thought, as he managed to tear up the letter quite thoroughly. Still, he needed to find out what it said. Otherwise, he'd quite end up being distracted - for most the day. The children certainly didn't deserve that!

"Finally!" exclaimed Doc, and he patted Copernicus. "I can finally figure out what it is, that Marty quite wanted to tell me. Then I should make some breakfast, and head off to work. You're a great friend, Copernicus - but I really am beginning to miss Marty."

"Dear Dr. Brown," Doc began reading. "On the night I go back in time, you will be shot by terrorists at 1:30 AM." Doc was so stunned, as he fully understood why Marty was rather persistent. "Please take whatever precautions are necessary... to prevent this terrible disaster." Tears actually filled his eyes, as he finished, "Your friend, Marty."

"Aw, poor Marty," murmured Doc, as tears rolled down his cheeks. "I sure feel sorry, now, for dismissing his concerns." Turning to his canine friend, he added, "I guess he really does care about me. Now I know why that video actually got to him, so much."

Doc carefully folded up the letter, as he placed it into his wallet. There's absolutely no way, now, that he'd actually be able to burn it. He just couldn't help but wonder what exactly he did, that would really make a group of terrorists decide to come after him.

"All in good time, Brown," Doc told himself. After all, he'd actually have thirty years to figure out what to. As for now, though, he decided that he'd better just make himself a quick breakfast. Perhaps, after school, he could head over to Holt's Diner. He really wished he could tell Marty that everything would be fine, and that he read the letter.

Then again, from Marty's perspective, he would return to 1985 - and simply find out, right away, that Doc was still alive. Marty likely would be quite overjoyed to see him, even though he would be quite confused. Doc would then give Marty a real big hug.

As Doc went to scramble up a few eggs, he wondered how exactly Marty would come into his life. That would actually be their first official meeting. He wondered what Marty's first impression of him was. Did Marty like him right from the start, or did he...

Doc quickly shook the thought out of his mind. Even if Marty's initial impression of him rather was that of a crackpot scientist, that wasn't what mattered. What did matter, was that Marty would grow to care about him. The letter really proved it, as it rather showed how much Marty was willing to risk - simply to ensure that Doc wasn't killed.

Doc began to think of Marty's mention of how his father never before stood up to the bully, Biff Tannen. When Doc looked over the picture, everything really seemed to be fine. Doc still couldn't help thinking of how that would affect the course of the future.

Marty did mention about his home life being rather unhappy. Was that a part of what drew Doc and Marty together? If Marty really ended up with a happy family, this time around - would he be as willing to spend time with Doc? Would he even like Doc?

Doc felt a pang of guilt, as he realized that he shouldn't be so self-centred. He should be rather happy for Marty, even if it could affect Marty's future relationship with him. Still, it wasn't only the fear of rejection from Marty that simply troubled him. If he and Marty never do become friends, it could also possibly result in a major time paradox!

Doc sighed to himself, as he poured the scrambled eggs into a skillet. He supposed he shouldn't assume the worst, as some of more judgemental townsfolks have done with him. Marty was a very friendly young man, and he deserved to be thought better of.

Marty said that he was seventeen years old. It meant that it would really be another thirteen years, until Marty was born. He simply wondered what Marty was like, as an infant. Still, after all is said and done, he knew that it was best to not push anything.

Doc pulled the letter back out, as he admired Marty's handwriting. This was something that Doc would treasure. Holding onto the letter would quite be like keeping a piece of Marty with him. That letter was the one thing that just proved, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that Marty was there. It was an actual memento... a memento of the future!

[bttf44]

Letter of Crisis

November 13, 1955
3:00 PM PST

"I can hardly believe it!" exclaimed Marty McFly, as he and Dr. Emmett Brown stepped into the mansion. "We eat at Holt's Diner, and my parents happen to swing by. I quite feel as if... Well, I couldn't exactly bring myself to disrupt their first date. It sure feels surreal. I mean, it's actually not everyday that one witnesses his parents first date!"

"Well, I'm glad that they didn't spot us," replied Doc. "It could've conceivably resulted in a time paradox. Granted, they did seem to be so much in love - so the possibility of your existence being endangered would be minimal. Still, we just wouldn't want to..."

"... take any chances," Marty finished, smiling. "Yeah, Doc, I quite understand. After having kissed me, though, I think my mom finally realized that I simply wasn't the guy for her. Anyway, yeah, this was a special moment for them. I didn't want to ruin it."

"Well, Marty," Doc commented, as he placed his arm around the teen, "I simply must admit, it's great that you're back - even though I understand that the circumstances of your situation wasn't exactly the most optimal. I do quite wonder what I would've done, had you not returned. Well, for starters, I actually wouldn't've passed out."

"No, I'm pretty sure that you wouldn't've," Marty replied, softly. "Well, I suppose your older self doesn't want me to go back - and get him. Y'know, it'll quite be awfully lonely - not having you around. In fact, I really have half a mind to just stay here - in 1955."

"No, Marty, you can't," Doc protested, gently. "The more you stay in this time period, the more you could actually risk disrupting the course of future events - and perhaps, once again, endanger your own existence. I know that you'll miss me, Marty - but..."

"Yeah, Doc, I understand," Marty replied, sighing. "I guess I'll still have my family, my other friends, and Jennifer. Still, I rather just can't imagine... no longer having you in my life. By the way, Doc, I now actually remember two versions of my past. I guess I shouldn't let you know about the new timeline, though. Still, you're the one who..."

"... gave you support, right?" Doc asked, softly. "Well, Marty, I'm not sure of what to tell you. All I can say, Marty, is that you'll just have to move on. After all, it's not as if you don't have other people in your life. I'm sure that my older self does miss you."

"It'll still be sad, though," Marty insisted, as tears filled his eyes. "Tomorrow, after you get off of work, I guess that's when we'll be heading off to the Del Gato Mine. I rather feel nervous about all this. I mean, what if someone actually did touch the DeLorean?"

"Just try not to worry, Marty," suggested Doc. "Perhaps, tonight, we could also plan on eating out. We should look for a place, though, that's a little outside of Hill Valley. This way, the real possibility of encountering your parents... or Biff Tannen... will be minimal. Let's see how much money I have, first. I'll quite need to save up, after all."

"That sounds so wonderful, Doc," Marty replied, excitedly. "In all honesty, I wouldn't actually want to stay in 1955. I'd miss my hard rock, and everything else that I really love about the 1980s. That being said, life without you wouldn't quite be the same."

"I understand, Marty," Doc commented, as he put his wallet away. "Let's just see if I have any loose change in my coat pockets." As Doc reached into the one of the coat pockets, he added, "I feel some paper scraps in there. I wonder where that's from."

As Doc pulled the scraps out, Marty's memory was suddenly jolted. He wondered if it could be the letter that he wrote Doc... about the terrorists! With many other things on his mind, he'd just about all but forgotton about that concern. His heart sure was racing - as, this time around, he'd have to really be persistent about that!

"I believe that this is the letter you wrote to me, Marty," Doc commented, as he voice was extremely calm. "I just don't understand what it's doing here. I was certain that I scattered these scraps into the four winds. Here, why don't you take these - or..."

"Doc, you really have to read it!" Marty insisted, as tears came to his eyes. "Not only will your life be in grave danger, but it could also create a time paradox. I'm sure not meaning to be an annoying pest. Doc, it's urgent that you tape it together!"

Doc only stared at Marty, blankly. Marty couldn't exactly make out what the scientist was thinking. Was he simply angry with Marty? Did he feel that Marty was just out of line, by pressuring him to do something that he was strongly against. Tears began to roll down Marty's cheeks, as he couldn't bear the thought of Doc being shot, again.

"That letter simply means a lot to you, doesn't it?" Doc asked, quietly. Marty nodded, as his lips began to tremble. "It is rather true, Marty, that my life would actually be in grave danger - if I don't read it? I honestly didn't mean to make you feel that upset."

"You'll really be killed, Doc," Marty sobbed, as he threw his arms around his friend, "if you don't read the letter. With you being stuck in the Old West, I'll really miss you. It would be even worse, though, to have you be killed. I sure care a lot for you, Doc."

"I guess you are right, then," Doc replied, after a brief pause. "In fact, if I don't read it, it sure could result in a major time paradox. Besides, I certainly don't wish for you to be that upset. Well, then, let me go grab some tape. I do feel bad, Marty, for not listening to you. I assume this means that, uh, the other me decided to read it."

"That's simply right, Doc," Marty replied, swallowing. Wiping his eyes, he added, "You even really had the letter right on you, when I found you at the mall. By the way, if I ask what made you change your mind, just tell me that you figured... What the hell?"

"That I'll do," Doc replied, as he placed the tape dispenser on the table. "Yeah, I can't quite well let your younger self know that you returned to 1955 - as it could be rather confusing. Well, if you don't mind, I'd actually like your help in taping this together."

"Hey, no problem," Marty replied, as he flashed his friend a lopsided smile. "In fact, I'd be happy to help. Well, at any rate, I've simply come to warm up to this decade. I just think that, uh, this decade is somewhat interesting. I still wouldn't want to live here. It certainly would be far preferable, though, to the awful 1985 that we just came from."

"Yeah, that place sounded horrible," agreed Doc. "The idea of having to spend even a minute in that world sounds quite horrid. Well, I guess it will become an inevitable part of my future. I feel sorry for my counterpart, who has to live in that world."

"I simply feel sorry for my counterpart, too," Marty replied, sighing. "I mean, with Dad dying young - and really having Biff for a stepfather." Surveying the letter, he added, "It's almost finished, Doc! With both of us working together, it'll be a piece of cake."

"I'm just not sure of what I'll do with all your clothes," Doc commented, softly. "They'd serve no real practical use to me. I suppose I should give them to a thrift shop. I very much will miss you, Marty. I'm not too sure if I could bear to part with anything... that reminds me of you. As I've said before, you've quite made a big difference in my life."

"That's very sweet, Doc," Marty replied, softly. "Well, I really should try to be happy for you. I mean, you did mention that you'd enjoy life in the Old West. It's just going to be quite hard, though, to let you go. I would want for you to be happy, though."

"I do understand, Marty," replied Doc. "You're almost an adult, though - and I'm very sure that, within time, you'll be busy with living out your life's dreams. You mentioned becoming a musician. Well, Marty, we're all finished." Doc lifted up the letter, smiling.

"Dear Dr. Brown," Doc began reading. "On the night I go back in time, you will be shot by terrorists at 1:30 AM." Rather gently, Doc reached for Marty's hands. "Please take whatever precautions are necessary... to prevent this terrible disaster." Marty felt so relieved - as he managed to overcome, yet, another obstacle. "Your friend, Marty."

Doc walked over to Marty, as he drew the teen close. Tears filled Marty's eyes, as he was reminded of just how close he was to Doc. While he knew that Doc would survive the Libyans' attacks - he realized that, by 1985, Doc still would no longer be around.

"I'm sure glad that you were persistent, Marty," Doc explained, softly. "I'm sorry that I didn't let you tell me, last week. I can now understand just why you were acting the way you did, as I was preparing to send you home. Do you think you'll forgive me?"

"Of course, Doc," Marty replied, swallowing. "Mostly, I'm very happy that you'll still be alive. However, for all intents and purposes, you'll still just be dead. I doubt that your older self would still be alive by 1985... or even here in 1955. I really don't know what to tell everyone. I promise to take good care of your dog, though. He's a great pet."

"Speaking of dogs," Doc commented, as he glanced to the side, "I think Copernicus is actually getting hungry. I guess I'd better go feed him. One of these days, I'd simply like to invent something... that would automatically feed him. How does that sound?"

"That sure sounds great, Doc," Marty replied, even as he suddenly remembered the overflowing dog food dish in Doc's garage. It really seemed like a long time, since he last saw that version of the garage. "Well, I'm real happy that you read the letter."

"I am, too," Doc agreed, as the two headed for the kitchen. "I suppose you could call it the letter of crisis. In fact, it's a letter of crisis - in more than one way. When I take off for work, tomorrow morning - you really should stay at the mansion. There's quite no more reason for you to be at school. Well, let's make tonight be a special night."