In order to mislead people. the producers had prepared 2 extra alternate endings (or is that what happened it 2 others alternate realities?):
I originally thought it was gonna be Sawyer in the coffin. Glad he was one of the alternate ending people. I also thought maybe Michael but Desmond makes sense also.
I’m not a fan of that time loop theory… I prefer to think that John can walk on the island because he is following what his destiny had planned for him. All of the calamity faced by the characters of the show (imo) are because they are exerting their free will over the forces of destiny and hence, reaping the repercussions.
Again IMO, this is why Mikhael and Michael could not die. This is why Ben got his tumor. This is also why I think some of the Others have displayed super human strength on occasion… when you are polarized with your destiny, the momentum is on your side.
I agree, and based on some of the interviews I’ve heard and read with Damon and Carlton, I tend to think that they would shy away from a time loop situation. They have outright said that they won’t write anything that involves a paradox in regard to time travel, and I think that would include anything to do with a time loop. At least that’s the way I interpret what they’ve said.
So, people, Darlton or Lindecuse? Which do we prefer?
So how else are Desmond & Penny’s skeletons going to be found in the cave? 
Cusilof. Definitely Cusilof. 
I’m more inclined to think it is Aaron and Ji Yeun.