Competition

Jared looks a little closer at the picture and shakes his head. "I have no idea what that was about. I don't remember it at all." He grins. "But knowing me, I did get back at whoever did it. I was awfully good at that." 

Before he knew it, they were turning the last page in the album and their hot chocolate was long gone. Jared was feeling quite tired, but...it had been worth it. Now though, he knew that Grace had probably stayed much longer than planned, and she more than likely had things she needed to do. 

Flipping the album shut, he turns his head to just study Grace's face for several moments. This was the first day in quiet a while that he felt like maybe, just maybe, life might be worth living again. And he owed it to her. 

"So... see you again in a couple days? I promise I'll actually be ready for therapy on my legs this time."


It was several hours before Hunter finds himself wandering back into the ranch yard and heading for his bunk. Though unusually quiet, it would take a good eye to notice any tears had fallen. And if anyone did notice, they didn't draw attention to it. 

After touching base with a few of the guys and promising he'd be at supper, he continues to his bunkhouse where he flops down on his bed to chill for just a short while before he'd clean up for the evening. Having left his cell phone here while going off by himself, he checks it now, smiling at receiving a text from Katie. He hoped she hadn't worried when he hadn't answered right away, but most likely she had just assumed he was busy.

To: Katie
From: Hunter
Hey Babe. :) Yeah knee is doing pretty well
actually. Got a brace Ima have to wear all
the time for a while. But I can hack that. 
Angel seems pleased with the progress. 

To: Katie
From: Hunter
Miss u bunches too. I like the meals here but
miss sitting with u. No one to play footsie
with. ;) Altho I gotta tell u... UNO isnt 
gonna be happy when I leave. U might have a 
bit of competition there! lol

Prying himself from his bed, he goes to take a shower then enjoy supper with the others. Tonight would be a little different... but a good different. And he would have so much to tell Katie when he saw her again. It was just too much to text.


Jaz manages to give Nate a little smile, grateful for all his help. Following him out to the car, it was a quiet trip to TJY, but somehow, Jaz felt herself able to relax just a little bit. She felt safe with Nate - an Elite agent who was trying to help and keeping her protected. 

Once at TJY, it wasn't long before finding out that Jamie had agreed to letting her stay with her and Con. After checking to make sure Carson really was okay, Jaz hangs out for a while before eventually going home with Jamie. She felt quite awkward, but also grateful. Sleeping in the spare bedroom, knowing that a big guy like Con was there was comforting in a way, and she appreciated it.