Luck

Jeff only growls his frustration at Angel, turning his back on them. He really did just want to be left alone. Couldn't they see that? He'd take a nap, he'd wake up fine and everything would be okay. Why couldn't they just respect his privacy and what he wanted to do with his own life?

Katie's soft voice sends a pang to his heart and he glances over his shoulder at her. He was upset that she was in on ganging up on him, but even more upset with the fact that she was seeing him like this at all. She shouldn't have to see him weak. Sick. Helpless. Yet she was begging him to give in. Couldn't she see that he was fighting not to become a worthless ranch hand with nothing to do but sit around? Couldn't she see he needed his freedom? But he never had been able to say no to those eyes, even before she knew he was her father.

His shoulders drop in surrender. "Fine."

Mick steps closer and takes his arm to help him to the bed, but Jeff gives Mick's hand a violent brushoff before glaring at him. "Get out," he hisses. "You're not needed here."

Though the words stung, Mick backs off with hands raised. "Alright... but I'll be back if Angel needs me to."

Jeff rolls his eyes in disgust. "Just go before I make you."

Mick knew good and well that Jeff couldn't physically handle anybody right now, but he wouldn't argue and make things worse. Turning to go back outside, he shrugs lamely at Angel. "I guess he's all yours. Good luck." He throws Katie a sympathetic look, but that's all he can do right now.

Once Mick is out of the bunkhouse, Jeff's knees buckle, sending him to the floor next to his bed as sweat pours down his neck.