Ash

Jason lets Katie feel his gratefulness. He didn't like leaving her out, or going his own way, but sometimes it was best. As long as he could have small bouts with venting, he could avoid any major catastrophes and that was his goal.

Giving her hand a little squeeze, he nods. "I might have you join up with me later. I'm gonna go get Trooper and he and I will go for a walk or something. I'll talk to you in a while."

Leaving Katie with a little warm feeling, he turns and heads for the exit, taking his time. Ambling out to his bike, he drives slowly home, then retrieves Trooper and exchanges vehicles. Once in his truck, he really doesn't have a destination in mind. He ends up outside of town on a back road and eventually finds a roadside lot to park in. Getting out, he lets Trooper off his leash and both head down a secluded dirt trail.

Jason picks his way over a few rocks and tree roots, letting Trooper tag along and sniff out the bushes and bramble as they went. After a while of walking and trying to sort through his thoughts, Jason finds a big rock to sit on, leaning back against a tree and closing his eyes.

It was Austin... Austin was the one that made Scott freak out. We almost lost Scott... our friend... because of my grandfather. Makes a guy feel real good, ya know?

Jason's emotions start to boil and he snaps a twig between his fingers. Frustration... irritation... anger. His palm begins to burn and the twig in his hand starts to smoke.

I wish he wasn't my grandfather. I thought... I thought I got over all that. We were actually speaking to each other... It wasn't great, but at least he was forgivable. I thought I could let it all go, and now... I'm just reminded about who he really is... what he did to me. All my life, I figured he was the hero for rescuing me after my abduction... now I see how I didn't get to grow up, partially 'cause of him. My talents were focused for his purposes instead of my future. And lately I've seen a side that's... cruel.

His emotions are joined by melancholy and a bit of sadness, though by now, the twig was ash in his palm. Trooper whines and nudges his arm, feeling the tension and being able to sense his master's turmoil.

Jason winces as the emotions hurt, but he knew he needed to let them out. Closing his eyes tight, he tries not to put too much pressure behind them, knowing Katie was gonna feel the discomfort. It only takes a few moments for the burst to end, and Jason puts his head in his hands as his pulse races and he catches his breath.

It isn't fair, Katie... it just isn't fair.


Eli's lips curl into a smile as he feels Scarlet's little hug. Something about it felt... different. It was an innocent hug, with no strings attached.

Hearing her spiel about where to eat, he can't help but laugh outright and turn halfway to look over his shoulder. "That's the most you've ever said at once, and it's about food. Now I know what to talk about with you."

Grinning, he gives her a wink. "Sounds good to me. I am famished."

Straightening, back around, he puts his helmet back on and makes sure Scarlet's set to go before revving the engine and taking off. It takes a little longer than it should to get to the restaurant... maybe it was because Eli seemed to have forgotten the route... maybe.

Finally getting to the eatery, Eli parks in the lot, shutting off the engine and dismounting his bike. He takes off his helmet and gloves, extending his hand to Scarlet. "Melady. Date two. You ready?"