For four years, he's consumed our most decadent fantasies. We were attracted to the same things Brenda was: That air of danger mixed with a little boy inside was the perfect combination of man -- and mobster.

There weren't many redeeming qualities in Michael "Sonny" Corinthos Jr. when we first met him on GENERAL HOSPITAL on August 13, 1993. He was a strip club owner who got good-girl Karen Wexler addicted to pills -- yet somehow we couldn't get enough of him.

Over the years, we began to see the soft side of Sonny. We melted every time he displayed that irresistible, dimpled grin!! He was cool and collected when dealing with his enemies, but warm and caring with those that he loved.

He made us laugh with his witty comebacks and cry as he expredded the pain of a tormented man, abused as a child, who had somehow been able to overcome the past.

In the real world, we don't usually find mobsters with hearts of gold. But GH provided a stage to which we could escape for a while each day and love the kid from Bensonhurst -- who quietly left our lives a while ago.

Sonny may be off the GH canvas, but he's still out there, mourning what he's lost, while determined to rebuild his life. Maurice Benard (Sonny) says he'll return to GH if his non-soap career doesn't pan out.

If that happens, Head Writer Bob Guza has his work cut out for him. We know Sonny has to be doing something with his time, wherever he is. Could he be conquering another crime dynasty, earning the loyalty of Rivera's men once and for all?? Will another woman do the seemingly impossible and sweep him off his feet, giving Brenda a romantic rival?? Will Brenda hear from Sonny and never tell her friends, Jax -- or us? Will Sonny tell her to be patient while he makes everything alright? The possiblities are endless.

Sonny gone???? Yes, for now. Sonny forgotten??? Never. His memory will linger in our hearts forever!!