So, I was at home watching a "Quantum Leap" rerun the other day.  It was the one where there was a mine collapse and Sam was sent back to help.  It was a good episode.  My phone rings and it's my friend Charlie.  He wants to know if he can come over and watch a college basketball game.  He said the cable went out in his building.  I said, "Sure Charlie.  I'll see you in a little bit."  I hang up the phone and turn off the TV.  My apartment was kind of a mess.  I thought I'd better pick up a little and make it look presentable.

   The game was getting ready to tip off and Charlie still wasn't there.  I tried to call him.  There was no answer.  I left a message for him to call me.  At halftime, I called him back.  Still no answer.  I wondered what had happened to Charlie.  I ordered a pizza and finished watching the game.  After it was over (our team won), I called him again.  No answer.  I was a little mad and worried.  It wasn't like Charlie to no show up. 

   Right before I fell asleep, Charlie called me.  He said, "Hey Roman!  Sorry I didn't show up.  I ran into Lindsay on the way over and we ended up at the bar watching the game.  My phone died and I didn't get a chance to call you and let you know."  I replied, "That was pretty shitty of you dude.  Let me fucking know next time.  Oh well, the Hoosiers won...go Big Red!"  He laughed and said, "Right on, Roman.  I'll talk to you later."  I hung up.

   Yesterday morning I called Charlie and asked if he wanted to stop by on his way to work.  We could have some coffee.  He said, "Sure Roman.  See you in a few."  He arrived about 15 minutes later.  We had some coffee and some apple oat bran muffins.  We chatted for a bit and then he said he needed to head out.  I said, OK Charlie.  Have a good day.  Call me if anything happens."  Charlie said, "What do you mean?"  I said, "You know if you get into a jam or have to go to the hospital."  He giggled and gave me a confused look, "OK, will do Roman."

   I just got back from the hospital a little while ago.  Charlie's doing a little better.  The doctors said he had enough laxative and glass shards in his stomach to kill someone.  Charlie probably won't be interrupting my "Quantum Leap" episodes anymore.