Hearing what Dylan said about Mick his face turn a slight shade of red as he frowns his brow. Placing both hands on the table and looking across it at Dylan.
"He does not lie."
BJ's voice raises just a little as he trys to express his own feelings. He didn't like hearing Dylan talk like that about dad. The young boy's heart was pure and in his eyes Mick was perfect.
"Anyways, I have to go...it will be breakfast soon. I'll see you later Big Brother."
Hoping off the chair once again BJ runs away from the table back to the little playroom where his toys were lined up.
Giving a laugh at the display again and shaking her head Ryan stands. Wondering over to Leo's car and leaning on the edge Ryan looks down at him from the top.
"I think dinner sounds good."
Leaning in a little more Ryan gives Leo a small kiss before pulling away. Term oil was hidden in her eyes. Many questions still layed unanswered, but she did still care a great deal for Leo. He meant a lot to her.
"I guess I better get to that pickup before the guys complain even more."
Backing away from Leo's car he was working on Ryan heads to the end of where the pick up truch was waiting. On her way by she throws a rage at Miles sticking her tong out at him..
"Come on slacker pick up the pace!"
Giving a nod even though his friend couldn't see him Dalton lets out a small sigh. At least Scott would think about it. That was better than just flat out saying no.
"Ok, just think about it and let me know."
Hanging up the phone Dalton lets out another long sigh. Going back to the computer he does a few more things to change Scott's password and a few other as well. For now it would stay like this until Scott gave the word everything was ok.
Rosetta new where Mick was coming from and that he didn't want to be in the way. But he never was, and she never would be. Any paper work about the ranch was always open to him. This was his ranch as much as hers.
Coming back to the question about Dan Rosetta thinks for a long moment. The young man had left, for reason's unknown but Katie had filled her in, saying Dan was sorry he didn't tell anyone he just needed to get away for the holiday.
"I believe he should be back sometime today. His work started again tomorrow, and he's always been good about being on time for work."
Wrapping her own arms around Sparky Faith soaked up all the warmth she could. Being so close, it felt so nice to have someone care so much for her. Faith could only hope everything would pass quickly and things could go back to normal for her and Sparky. Accepting the kiss only confermed how much she wanted everything to be over and normal once again.
Keeping her arms around Sparky and leaning into him they both make there way to the dinning hall. Faith could tell that today would be a good day, and being able to spend time with Sparky would be even better.
2/24/10
Lies
"Who cares about work?" Leo gives Ryan a sidelong glance, then laughs. "Alright, you workaholic, you. The pickup on the end is yours. Jed couldn't handle it."
"I never said that!" Jed shakes a wrench at them. "I said I'd already started on this car."
Leo snickers and dives into the engine as a rag is tossed in his direction. "Alright, alright! I'm sure Ryan can do a better job anyway. It's just as well."
Miles' eyes widen. "Whose side are you on anyway, buster?"
Leo thinks a minute, then grins wide. "Mmm... mine."
Miles smirks. "I bet. You better hold off on those lunch plans though. I heard Darrel promise Mrs. Haines that that car of yours would be done by this afternoon."
"Awww," Leo groans. He sighs and looks back to Ryan. "Okay, so we'll just have to settle for supper."
"Work, Leo!" Jed hollers. "Romance later!"
Scott hesitates at Dalton's offer. "Um.. well I don't know... I mean, I..." He swallows hard. Maybe it would be best. What if he really did go off the deep end? What if he really did betray his own? Wouldn't it be better if someone was there to prevent him from doing it? As it was, he could get up in the night and go to TJY without anything to stop him. But if Dalton was there... at least until this passed... if it would pass.
He jumps as Domino hops up beside him, crawling up his side with her ears back in submission, still afraid she'd done something wrong. Scott sighs and lets one hand scratch her head, letting her know it was okay. He hadn't meant to scare her and he felt badly.
"Maybe," he finally answers Dalton indecisively. "I... I want to talk with Carson and see... see if he thinks my dream would really... I mean... be true."
Looking at the clock, Scott sees he's late for work the way it is. But as long as this was going on, he didn't think he should be there anyway. "I'll... let you know. Thank you."
"Yeah? Well Dad lies about a lot of things," Dylan growls at BJ, muffled in his own arm. He doesn't bother lifting his head. "It stinks here, I hate horses, and this isn't my family. I don't care what you think, so go away."
Mick smiles and squeezes Rosetta's hand in return. "I know... I just didn't want to get in your way." Though hard, he knew he couldn't just waltz right back in and take over again. He wanted to... it was his nature. But he was trying hard not to. "When is Dan supposed to get back?"
Faith's words meant so much to Sparky, and her gentle kiss was returned. He didn't want to lose her. He felt cheated out of time. It wasn't fair.
Pulling her all the way into his arms, he just holds her closer for several minutes, wishing he could just shelter her from this storm and that when he let go, it would all have passed and they could simply live happily together.
Drawing back a little, he kisses her lips again, forcing himself to smile, even though his heart ached. "Let's go have breakfast... then we can get ready and leave on horseback."
A warm tingle spreads through Jade and she can't help her smile. Dan made her feel so good. "You better save those kinds of comments," she warns, or I might be a distraction while you're driving."
Giggling, she squeezes his hand even though she would like to scoot over and kiss him. "Thank you... no matter what he says... I won't change my mind."
"I never said that!" Jed shakes a wrench at them. "I said I'd already started on this car."
Leo snickers and dives into the engine as a rag is tossed in his direction. "Alright, alright! I'm sure Ryan can do a better job anyway. It's just as well."
Miles' eyes widen. "Whose side are you on anyway, buster?"
Leo thinks a minute, then grins wide. "Mmm... mine."
Miles smirks. "I bet. You better hold off on those lunch plans though. I heard Darrel promise Mrs. Haines that that car of yours would be done by this afternoon."
"Awww," Leo groans. He sighs and looks back to Ryan. "Okay, so we'll just have to settle for supper."
"Work, Leo!" Jed hollers. "Romance later!"
Scott hesitates at Dalton's offer. "Um.. well I don't know... I mean, I..." He swallows hard. Maybe it would be best. What if he really did go off the deep end? What if he really did betray his own? Wouldn't it be better if someone was there to prevent him from doing it? As it was, he could get up in the night and go to TJY without anything to stop him. But if Dalton was there... at least until this passed... if it would pass.
He jumps as Domino hops up beside him, crawling up his side with her ears back in submission, still afraid she'd done something wrong. Scott sighs and lets one hand scratch her head, letting her know it was okay. He hadn't meant to scare her and he felt badly.
"Maybe," he finally answers Dalton indecisively. "I... I want to talk with Carson and see... see if he thinks my dream would really... I mean... be true."
Looking at the clock, Scott sees he's late for work the way it is. But as long as this was going on, he didn't think he should be there anyway. "I'll... let you know. Thank you."
"Yeah? Well Dad lies about a lot of things," Dylan growls at BJ, muffled in his own arm. He doesn't bother lifting his head. "It stinks here, I hate horses, and this isn't my family. I don't care what you think, so go away."
Mick smiles and squeezes Rosetta's hand in return. "I know... I just didn't want to get in your way." Though hard, he knew he couldn't just waltz right back in and take over again. He wanted to... it was his nature. But he was trying hard not to. "When is Dan supposed to get back?"
Faith's words meant so much to Sparky, and her gentle kiss was returned. He didn't want to lose her. He felt cheated out of time. It wasn't fair.
Pulling her all the way into his arms, he just holds her closer for several minutes, wishing he could just shelter her from this storm and that when he let go, it would all have passed and they could simply live happily together.
Drawing back a little, he kisses her lips again, forcing himself to smile, even though his heart ached. "Let's go have breakfast... then we can get ready and leave on horseback."
A warm tingle spreads through Jade and she can't help her smile. Dan made her feel so good. "You better save those kinds of comments," she warns, or I might be a distraction while you're driving."
Giggling, she squeezes his hand even though she would like to scoot over and kiss him. "Thank you... no matter what he says... I won't change my mind."
Knight in shinning amour
Ryan can't help but laugh at Leo, He always did make her smile. Though with that tight of an agenda Ryan didn't know if she would be able to see Alec or not. If she couldn't get a little time in than maybe it was the best for now. She'd just let the cards fall and if she got time, she did.
"Ok, that sounds good but what about work wise you goofball."
Ryan gives a laugh again not being able to help her smile. What would it be like without Leo's jokes? It seemed like work would just be to long.
Leaning back in his chair and giving a long sigh Dalton felt so bad for his little friend. He was at such a war with his mind, and didn't know what to do. But he would do what Scott asked if it put his own mind at ease.
"Ok, yeah I got it set up. Will you come and stay with me for a few days so you and Domino wont have to be alone?"
Dalton didn't know what else to do for his friend, but if this helped than at least it was something. He couldn't sit by and do nothing while Scott suffered anymore.
BJ continues to look across the table at Dylan. Turning his head a little bit trying to process his words. BJ was smart and understood but he was trying to figure out why he would say that.
"Yesh you are. Dad even said so, and your dad is my dad, and your mom is my mom, and your older dan me. So dat means your my older brother."
Giving a smile to Dylan, BJ didn't understand about step mom's and dads, or even that Rosetta and Mick were his adopted parents. To him it was all the same.
"How tum you don't like it here? Its pretty, and you family is here. I like having you here."
BJ did always want a sibling, and now that he had some he wanted to do more stuff with him, not getting the hint he wasn't wanted there.
Rosetta gives a smile to Mick she was happy wanted to go out and work the horse. It was nice to know he had lost his touch or love for it. Most of the day today she would more than likely be in the office catching up on some stuff. She liked Mick wanted to come in.
"The books always have and always be open to you Mick. You don't have to ask to look at them. As long as you put them back in the right spot so I can find them again."
Giving a smile Rosetta takes Mick's hand and gives it a small squeeze. She was really proud of him and all he was doing. It was still gonna be a long road, but there was light at the end of the tunnel.
Looking up at Sparky Faith just gazes into his eyes seeming to get lost in them. They told a story, of this mans life and some might only think they saw the old tired look but to Faith, she saw so much more. She saw life in them and love...its what drew her in.
"I'd like that very much. To me that sounds like a perfect day."
Feeling Sparky step close she could feel his warmth. It was an amazing feeling that left her feeling so safe. Bringing a hand up to the said of his face Faith gives a small smile her fingers mapping his cheek bone.
"I've never had someone hold me all night before. It would be an honor for that person to be you. Your an amazing person Tyler. Even better than the knight in shinning amour because your real."
Faith new Sparky would understand what she was saying and not think she was taking the comment down a whole another road.
Leaning up to kiss his lips gentile Faith pulls away a little her own eyes held a tiny tear in them. Though she had only just met Sparky not so long ago, the feelings, the love she had for him grew so fast and now to think that after today she might be leaving him..it hurt.
Giving a small she smiles again this time a little bigger. If this was her last day, she wanted to leave giving Sparky good memories. She'd keep her chin up, and enjoy this time they had.
Holding Jade's hand as they continued down the road Dan couldn't help but the small laugh that came from his lips. He new it was going to be hard telling Mick about them, but it had to be done. All he could do was hope for the best.
"After dealing with your grandmother, Mick is a peace of cake."
Giving a laugh Dan tried to make a joke out of it to lighten the mood. Though he really new it wasn't something to joke about. He just wanted to see Jade smile about it.
"Your Dad, we will...keep out head up and tell him without fear, but we will be respectful. With any luck he might understand."
Looking over at Jade, Dan brings her hand to his lips and gives it a small kiss before grinning back at her.
"I love you Jade, if your dad can't see that...I can't turn away now, I've fallen to far."
"Ok, that sounds good but what about work wise you goofball."
Ryan gives a laugh again not being able to help her smile. What would it be like without Leo's jokes? It seemed like work would just be to long.
Leaning back in his chair and giving a long sigh Dalton felt so bad for his little friend. He was at such a war with his mind, and didn't know what to do. But he would do what Scott asked if it put his own mind at ease.
"Ok, yeah I got it set up. Will you come and stay with me for a few days so you and Domino wont have to be alone?"
Dalton didn't know what else to do for his friend, but if this helped than at least it was something. He couldn't sit by and do nothing while Scott suffered anymore.
BJ continues to look across the table at Dylan. Turning his head a little bit trying to process his words. BJ was smart and understood but he was trying to figure out why he would say that.
"Yesh you are. Dad even said so, and your dad is my dad, and your mom is my mom, and your older dan me. So dat means your my older brother."
Giving a smile to Dylan, BJ didn't understand about step mom's and dads, or even that Rosetta and Mick were his adopted parents. To him it was all the same.
"How tum you don't like it here? Its pretty, and you family is here. I like having you here."
BJ did always want a sibling, and now that he had some he wanted to do more stuff with him, not getting the hint he wasn't wanted there.
Rosetta gives a smile to Mick she was happy wanted to go out and work the horse. It was nice to know he had lost his touch or love for it. Most of the day today she would more than likely be in the office catching up on some stuff. She liked Mick wanted to come in.
"The books always have and always be open to you Mick. You don't have to ask to look at them. As long as you put them back in the right spot so I can find them again."
Giving a smile Rosetta takes Mick's hand and gives it a small squeeze. She was really proud of him and all he was doing. It was still gonna be a long road, but there was light at the end of the tunnel.
Looking up at Sparky Faith just gazes into his eyes seeming to get lost in them. They told a story, of this mans life and some might only think they saw the old tired look but to Faith, she saw so much more. She saw life in them and love...its what drew her in.
"I'd like that very much. To me that sounds like a perfect day."
Feeling Sparky step close she could feel his warmth. It was an amazing feeling that left her feeling so safe. Bringing a hand up to the said of his face Faith gives a small smile her fingers mapping his cheek bone.
"I've never had someone hold me all night before. It would be an honor for that person to be you. Your an amazing person Tyler. Even better than the knight in shinning amour because your real."
Faith new Sparky would understand what she was saying and not think she was taking the comment down a whole another road.
Leaning up to kiss his lips gentile Faith pulls away a little her own eyes held a tiny tear in them. Though she had only just met Sparky not so long ago, the feelings, the love she had for him grew so fast and now to think that after today she might be leaving him..it hurt.
Giving a small she smiles again this time a little bigger. If this was her last day, she wanted to leave giving Sparky good memories. She'd keep her chin up, and enjoy this time they had.
Holding Jade's hand as they continued down the road Dan couldn't help but the small laugh that came from his lips. He new it was going to be hard telling Mick about them, but it had to be done. All he could do was hope for the best.
"After dealing with your grandmother, Mick is a peace of cake."
Giving a laugh Dan tried to make a joke out of it to lighten the mood. Though he really new it wasn't something to joke about. He just wanted to see Jade smile about it.
"Your Dad, we will...keep out head up and tell him without fear, but we will be respectful. With any luck he might understand."
Looking over at Jade, Dan brings her hand to his lips and gives it a small kiss before grinning back at her.
"I love you Jade, if your dad can't see that...I can't turn away now, I've fallen to far."
As long as you want
Leo tinkers with the car he was fixing and without even missing a beat, he answers Ryan. "Ohh.... lunch at the sandwich shop, then a date tonight so Eli can stay home with his beloved new television."
He throws Ryan a sidelong glance with a silly grin, knowing good and well she'd been referring to work, not the personal agenda for the day.
Scott flops back on the bed, relief washing over him. He just lets the silence reign on the phone for a moment, trying to pull himself together. His voice was weak after the traumatizing thought that had taken over his mind.
"I... I just... I..." He swallows hard and closes his eyes, his head throbbing. "No, I'm not okay," he admits. "I had one of the most real nightmares I've ever had and... I thought... I thought I finally cracked... the Agency got into my head and... and I betrayed everybody."
His voice rises with emotion, a despair clinging to each syllable. "I cracked... I knew I would and.... and I couldn't help myself! My mind was just all..."
Scott stops, catching his breath as his pulse begins to race again. "I have to talk to Carson... just lock my account out of the system for now, Dalton, please?" His tone was desperate - that of a man who wanted so badly never to harm those he cared about. "Don't tell me the password until I know I won't... won't do something terrible... please?"
Dylan doesn't turn his head, but lazily lifts an eye to see BJ sitting across from him, mimicking his position again and staring at him. His gaze narrows. "It's not a good morning," he grumbles, "because I'm here. And I'm not your big brother."
Moving his head again, he turns his face from BJ, every vibe a negative one.
Mick smiles and Rosetta hugs her back, returning her kiss. "Mmm... I slept like a baby."
Drawing her down into the chair next to him, he cocks his head, just looking at her for several moments. For no real reason other than to admire her and take in all he could after being away.
"Thought I'd go out and give Remington some attention after breakfast - Jim said he's been a beast. Then if I could come to the office and look through the books just to see what's been up... if that's okay with you?"
Sparky smiles gently, his eyes so full of a longing to just make Faith happy. "Well I can cover the first three all in one, then the fourth can come tonight." His smile widens. "If you get some food together that will fit in a saddlebag, I'll get a horse and we'll ride double up the foothills then have a picnic."
He cocks his head, the brim of his hat casting a shadow over his eyes. "Then tonight we can get dibs on the living room couch and watch a movie..."
He moves a little closer, his hands moving down around Faith's waist. "...and you can sit with me... in my arms..." His voice quiets to almost a whisper. "...for as long as you want."
Jade looks out the window at the passing scenery, then back to Dan, giving his hand a squeeze. They'd been on the road an hour already, but this time she didn't have to sit on a crowded bus. They wouldn't get back to the ranch until tonight, but she didn't care. Just being with Dan the whole way was worth it and she was going to enjoy every minute, spending the hours with him. There was only one little raincloud.
Her fingers curl around his a little tighter, though she tries not to distract him from driving. "Dan... I don't know when it'll be but... but my dad's gonna be back sometime and..." She hadn't yet broached this subject with him. "...well... how are we gonna tell him... about us?"
He throws Ryan a sidelong glance with a silly grin, knowing good and well she'd been referring to work, not the personal agenda for the day.
Scott flops back on the bed, relief washing over him. He just lets the silence reign on the phone for a moment, trying to pull himself together. His voice was weak after the traumatizing thought that had taken over his mind.
"I... I just... I..." He swallows hard and closes his eyes, his head throbbing. "No, I'm not okay," he admits. "I had one of the most real nightmares I've ever had and... I thought... I thought I finally cracked... the Agency got into my head and... and I betrayed everybody."
His voice rises with emotion, a despair clinging to each syllable. "I cracked... I knew I would and.... and I couldn't help myself! My mind was just all..."
Scott stops, catching his breath as his pulse begins to race again. "I have to talk to Carson... just lock my account out of the system for now, Dalton, please?" His tone was desperate - that of a man who wanted so badly never to harm those he cared about. "Don't tell me the password until I know I won't... won't do something terrible... please?"
Dylan doesn't turn his head, but lazily lifts an eye to see BJ sitting across from him, mimicking his position again and staring at him. His gaze narrows. "It's not a good morning," he grumbles, "because I'm here. And I'm not your big brother."
Moving his head again, he turns his face from BJ, every vibe a negative one.
Mick smiles and Rosetta hugs her back, returning her kiss. "Mmm... I slept like a baby."
Drawing her down into the chair next to him, he cocks his head, just looking at her for several moments. For no real reason other than to admire her and take in all he could after being away.
"Thought I'd go out and give Remington some attention after breakfast - Jim said he's been a beast. Then if I could come to the office and look through the books just to see what's been up... if that's okay with you?"
Sparky smiles gently, his eyes so full of a longing to just make Faith happy. "Well I can cover the first three all in one, then the fourth can come tonight." His smile widens. "If you get some food together that will fit in a saddlebag, I'll get a horse and we'll ride double up the foothills then have a picnic."
He cocks his head, the brim of his hat casting a shadow over his eyes. "Then tonight we can get dibs on the living room couch and watch a movie..."
He moves a little closer, his hands moving down around Faith's waist. "...and you can sit with me... in my arms..." His voice quiets to almost a whisper. "...for as long as you want."
Jade looks out the window at the passing scenery, then back to Dan, giving his hand a squeeze. They'd been on the road an hour already, but this time she didn't have to sit on a crowded bus. They wouldn't get back to the ranch until tonight, but she didn't care. Just being with Dan the whole way was worth it and she was going to enjoy every minute, spending the hours with him. There was only one little raincloud.
Her fingers curl around his a little tighter, though she tries not to distract him from driving. "Dan... I don't know when it'll be but... but my dad's gonna be back sometime and..." She hadn't yet broached this subject with him. "...well... how are we gonna tell him... about us?"
You
Entering the auto shop Ryan lets out a yawn before taking a sip of her coffee. It had been a long night of spending more time with her brother and his new toy, and than restless sleep as she tossed and turned.
"Hey, are you two gloating about being ahead again? Haven t you learned that means nothing most of the time?"
Giving a grin Ryan heads into the break room to throw her cup out, and than back out into the docking bay. Going over to Leo she gives him a kiss that linger for a few moments before moving back to her work area. Throwing her jacket over the chair by her work bench she glances over at Leo again and gives a wink.
"I kind of like his Santa hat. Its only been one day why not share the cheer a little more."
Swiveling around in her chair for a moment Ryan seemed a little hyper today witch was surprised seeing as how little sleep she got. Maybe the coffee was kicking in faster than normal.
Letting her mind wonder Ryan's thoughts drift to Alec for a moment wondering what he was doing now. Maybe she could get out of work a little early and go see him! Was that really a smart idea?
Giving her head a shake almost as if remembering she was at work Ryan trys to clear her mind. That was the last thing she wanted to think about at the moment.
"So what go we got on the agenda for today?"
Taking a swig of Mountain Dew Dalton answer's the phone. Classical music can be heard playing in the background. He figured Scott wouldn't be in today wanting to spend more time with Hope so he had his music up higher than normal. But hearing Scott's shaky voice on the other end Dalton is alert and spinning in his chair to turn the music off and listen to Scott better.
"Scott...what...what are you talking about?"
Listing to Scott a little clear this time Dalton still didn't understand completely, yesterday had been Christmas, Scott would of been with Hope. But if this is what Scott wanted him to check he would.
"Ok, give me one second to access the information."
Keeping Scott on the other line Dalton does as he is asked. Clicking on a keyboard in the background can be heard proving he was fast at work with Scott's request.
It takes no time for Dalton to pull up the information he needed. Scanning things over, and looking through files. the security, and everything else that could be leaked outside.
"Scott...everything looks fine. No security has been hacked, nothing has been transferred out. Everything is as we left it before Christmas. Whats going on? Are you ok?"
Enter the dinning room BJ trots behind Rosetta. He was ready to spend the day doing...little boy stuff. Maybe even help Mick a little. Looking around the dinning room like most of the people did when they entered, BJ's little eyes see his big brother sitting at a table alone.
Going over to the table BJ struggles a little to get the chair across from Dylan out but finally does. Waddling his butt a little bit he climbs up the chair and sits down. Folding his arms onto the table he leans his head down onto them copying Dylan like he had the other day. Finally lifting his head a little to peek out eye out, a smile forms on his face.
"Good Morning Big Brother."
Making her way over to the table where Mick sat Rosetta comes up behind him and wraps her arms around his neck. Leaning down to give him a hug and kiss.
"Morning. How did you sleep lastnight?"
It was so good to have her husband back again. This went smoothly while he was gone but it just was not the same. She hated the feeling of not having him there. But now he was back, he was better.
Holding Sparky's hand in her own after he brushed away her hair Faith just wanted to feel him close. Looking up at him her eyes were bright, and there was a tiny bit of fear that layed behind them. It scared her to think this could be her last day with someone she had just met, and fallen so completely in love with so fast.
"I don't care what we do, as long as its with you."
Bringing Sparky's hand to her mouth Faith gives it a gentile kiss before resting her cheek against it for a long moment. Finally looking up into Sparky's eyes again Faith gives a small smile.
"It's been a long time since I've had anyone ask me what I'd like to do. So, I think it should be a take it as it comes day. Climb a moutain, ride some horses, go for a picnic, the movies...as long as the day is with you I am completely happy and have gotten more than I dreamed of.
"Hey, are you two gloating about being ahead again? Haven t you learned that means nothing most of the time?"
Giving a grin Ryan heads into the break room to throw her cup out, and than back out into the docking bay. Going over to Leo she gives him a kiss that linger for a few moments before moving back to her work area. Throwing her jacket over the chair by her work bench she glances over at Leo again and gives a wink.
"I kind of like his Santa hat. Its only been one day why not share the cheer a little more."
Swiveling around in her chair for a moment Ryan seemed a little hyper today witch was surprised seeing as how little sleep she got. Maybe the coffee was kicking in faster than normal.
Letting her mind wonder Ryan's thoughts drift to Alec for a moment wondering what he was doing now. Maybe she could get out of work a little early and go see him! Was that really a smart idea?
Giving her head a shake almost as if remembering she was at work Ryan trys to clear her mind. That was the last thing she wanted to think about at the moment.
"So what go we got on the agenda for today?"
Taking a swig of Mountain Dew Dalton answer's the phone. Classical music can be heard playing in the background. He figured Scott wouldn't be in today wanting to spend more time with Hope so he had his music up higher than normal. But hearing Scott's shaky voice on the other end Dalton is alert and spinning in his chair to turn the music off and listen to Scott better.
"Scott...what...what are you talking about?"
Listing to Scott a little clear this time Dalton still didn't understand completely, yesterday had been Christmas, Scott would of been with Hope. But if this is what Scott wanted him to check he would.
"Ok, give me one second to access the information."
Keeping Scott on the other line Dalton does as he is asked. Clicking on a keyboard in the background can be heard proving he was fast at work with Scott's request.
It takes no time for Dalton to pull up the information he needed. Scanning things over, and looking through files. the security, and everything else that could be leaked outside.
"Scott...everything looks fine. No security has been hacked, nothing has been transferred out. Everything is as we left it before Christmas. Whats going on? Are you ok?"
Enter the dinning room BJ trots behind Rosetta. He was ready to spend the day doing...little boy stuff. Maybe even help Mick a little. Looking around the dinning room like most of the people did when they entered, BJ's little eyes see his big brother sitting at a table alone.
Going over to the table BJ struggles a little to get the chair across from Dylan out but finally does. Waddling his butt a little bit he climbs up the chair and sits down. Folding his arms onto the table he leans his head down onto them copying Dylan like he had the other day. Finally lifting his head a little to peek out eye out, a smile forms on his face.
"Good Morning Big Brother."
Making her way over to the table where Mick sat Rosetta comes up behind him and wraps her arms around his neck. Leaning down to give him a hug and kiss.
"Morning. How did you sleep lastnight?"
It was so good to have her husband back again. This went smoothly while he was gone but it just was not the same. She hated the feeling of not having him there. But now he was back, he was better.
Holding Sparky's hand in her own after he brushed away her hair Faith just wanted to feel him close. Looking up at him her eyes were bright, and there was a tiny bit of fear that layed behind them. It scared her to think this could be her last day with someone she had just met, and fallen so completely in love with so fast.
"I don't care what we do, as long as its with you."
Bringing Sparky's hand to her mouth Faith gives it a gentile kiss before resting her cheek against it for a long moment. Finally looking up into Sparky's eyes again Faith gives a small smile.
"It's been a long time since I've had anyone ask me what I'd like to do. So, I think it should be a take it as it comes day. Climb a moutain, ride some horses, go for a picnic, the movies...as long as the day is with you I am completely happy and have gotten more than I dreamed of.
Your loss
Eli isn't so sure about his sister's response, but he lets it slide. Maybe there were just things she didn't want to talk about right now, and he respected that.
Hearing about something in his bedroom, he quirks an eyebrow. He hadn't been back there all day and had no idea Ryan had put anything there. "What?" Curiously, he goes to find out. A few minutes later, he lets out a whoop and swings back into the kitchen, grabs Ryan and spins her around. "You little sneak!"
Laughing, he gives her a hug and a teasing kiss to the top of her head. "Did anybody ever tell you that you're the best sister ever?"
Still grinning, Eli shakes his head. "You realize now I'll be up all night setting that thing up."
It wasn't all night... only part of it, but he wound up getting his way before heading to bed for the night. It had been a good day. Not because of the gifts but because of the time spent with ones who cared about each other. When the world could be forgotten for just a few hours, it was a blessed day.
Drawing the bracelet out of the bag, Scott runs his fingers over it then reads the note, a smile forming on his face. Putting it on his wrist, he admires it a moment before taking Hope back into his arms and giving her a loving squeeze. "Thank you... no one will ever know how much this means to me." And he was right - the note was correct... Hope was so much more than a name to him. With all he'd been through, this would be a reminder every day.
This Christmas had been the worst and the best at the same time, and he wouldn't easily forget the time spent with Hope. Maybe things with his family weren't great right now, and maybe he was going through an inner struggle... but at least he had her and she really was his lifeline.
"Leo! Christmas is over!"
Leo's head pops up out of an engine, a silly santa hat on his head. "What? You kidding? It was just yesterday."
"You gonna scare away the customers," Jed teases.
Leo smirks at him. "What would life come to if there wasn't me to pick on?"
Miles laughs as he enters the shop. "What's all the commotion?"
"Slacker!" Leo shouts.
"Hey, at least I'm not the last person in today," Miles defends. "I didn't see Ryan's car out there yet."
"True... but Jed and I are ahead of you both now. Better get busy on the Buick or you'll never catch up."
"Come on, let me talk to Reese!" Alec shouts his frustration into the security camera, knowing that Hal was listening. He'd been locked into his room this morning after going upstairs and heading to Reese's office without warning. Hal had tackled him and manhandled him back down to the little room, Alec fighting him the whole way, swearing he wasn't trying to pull anything. Now he was locked in alone again with a notepad of all he'd written the day before.
"Just let me talk to him!" He curses Hal before pacing again, then glaring back up at he camera. "Okay, fine. Your loss."
Scott stares at the computer screen, his mind seeming to take over without his will. His fingers typed on the keyboard with speed, breaking through password securities and scrambling anything someone might be able to trace.
Deep down, his soul screamed at him to stop, but it felt as if he were a robot, unable to control himself. The Agency files came up, opening a communication window. He was in. He would tell them all about where Phinox was, and Alec and Gage and Carson. He began to type, also reminding them that they had lost Thirteen and she was still under watch of the Elite.
Still typing, sweat poured down the sides of his face. He didn't want to be telling them all of this. He wanted to stop. But his hands wouldn't let him. He had once described his feelings to Dalton as if it were a computer virus inside of him, and that's exactly how it felt now.
Everything was spilled to the Agency about those the Elite now had. Passwords were shared, and security information was passed to them without stopping. They would have access to the Elite database now, but it would take months for anyone here to notice.
Scott was a mole against his own will. But if he told anyone, his life here would be over. As he closes back down, his eyes see every bit of information he'd leaked, and all the windows began to close as commanded. No one would know.
Looking down, he sees his hands are trembling, cold and clammy. This couldn't be happening. It couldn't. "No!" he screams, prying himself from his computer. His heart began to race and he presses himself up against the wall, now feeling as though someone was watching him. "Get out of my head!"
Sitting bolt upright in bed, Scott's scream echos through his small house. Domino cowers in a corner, whimpering after being kicked off the bed and not understanding what was happening. Sweat pours down Scott's face as he stares into the dimness of his bedroom. His heart was racing and he felt sick. It was just a dream.... it was morning... he should have been to work an hour ago... Hope had gone home later last night and he'd gone to bed... It was just a dream.... right?
Fear grips him and he goes for his bedside phone. Dialing quickly he waits until he hears Dalton's voice. His own voice is shaky. "Dalton.... Dalton, check our security..."
He rubs his eyes, a raging headache making it hard to think straight. "Lock my computer out of the system... just lock it out so I can't have access to anything." He was desperate. "Then check and make sure no security was breached last night."
Mick wanders to an empty table to sit down with a fresh cup of coffee, waiting for Rosetta to join him a little later after BJ was up. It felt good to be home... very good. Things were a little different... but sometimes change was good.
He'd spoken to Sparky last night and they had at least shaken hands. His brother had accepted his apology, and though there was still a rift there, maybe there was still a chance for healing. Mick had been surprised to hear that Sparky and this other woman were quite close, though he hadn't spoken his mind about it. It didn't seem like a wise situation, but having been gone, he decided it was better off to remain quiet. He hadn't seen Dylan this morning, but figured he'd be around and didn't want to push his son right off the bat.
There was a lot going through his mind... Jade would be coming home today... that was another bridge he needed to repair. Sighing deeply, he closes his eyes for a moment, trying to keep his mind clear. Today he would try to get back in the groove of things around the barn and get his bearings once more.
Dylan trudges from his bunkhouse, not really wanting to be up yet. But he knew if he didn't show himself, his father would be after him, and that's the last thing he wanted. He wasn't hungry though. He didn't want breakfast. He didn't want to go to the barn either. This place sucked.
Stuffing his hands in his hoodie pockets, his feet drag until he reaches the dining hall. Letting himself in, he sees only a few people are up yet. He sees his father over closer to the kitchen, but avoids eye contact. Instead, he finds a chair in the corner and folds his arms on the table to rest his head. He'd just sit here until someone told him to move.
Back in a quiet corner of the barn, Sparky leans an arm on the wall, while his other hand reaches out to brush aside a stray strand of Faith's hair from her face. "This is your day today."
He wanted it to be a good day. Tomorrow she'd be going to the hospital, and as much as he didn't want to think about it, he knew there was a fifty percent chance she would not be coming back. If this were to be their last day together, he wanted to make it special.
"Anything you want to do," he offers. "Anything, anywhere... just name it."
Hearing about something in his bedroom, he quirks an eyebrow. He hadn't been back there all day and had no idea Ryan had put anything there. "What?" Curiously, he goes to find out. A few minutes later, he lets out a whoop and swings back into the kitchen, grabs Ryan and spins her around. "You little sneak!"
Laughing, he gives her a hug and a teasing kiss to the top of her head. "Did anybody ever tell you that you're the best sister ever?"
Still grinning, Eli shakes his head. "You realize now I'll be up all night setting that thing up."
It wasn't all night... only part of it, but he wound up getting his way before heading to bed for the night. It had been a good day. Not because of the gifts but because of the time spent with ones who cared about each other. When the world could be forgotten for just a few hours, it was a blessed day.
Drawing the bracelet out of the bag, Scott runs his fingers over it then reads the note, a smile forming on his face. Putting it on his wrist, he admires it a moment before taking Hope back into his arms and giving her a loving squeeze. "Thank you... no one will ever know how much this means to me." And he was right - the note was correct... Hope was so much more than a name to him. With all he'd been through, this would be a reminder every day.
This Christmas had been the worst and the best at the same time, and he wouldn't easily forget the time spent with Hope. Maybe things with his family weren't great right now, and maybe he was going through an inner struggle... but at least he had her and she really was his lifeline.
"Leo! Christmas is over!"
Leo's head pops up out of an engine, a silly santa hat on his head. "What? You kidding? It was just yesterday."
"You gonna scare away the customers," Jed teases.
Leo smirks at him. "What would life come to if there wasn't me to pick on?"
Miles laughs as he enters the shop. "What's all the commotion?"
"Slacker!" Leo shouts.
"Hey, at least I'm not the last person in today," Miles defends. "I didn't see Ryan's car out there yet."
"True... but Jed and I are ahead of you both now. Better get busy on the Buick or you'll never catch up."
"Come on, let me talk to Reese!" Alec shouts his frustration into the security camera, knowing that Hal was listening. He'd been locked into his room this morning after going upstairs and heading to Reese's office without warning. Hal had tackled him and manhandled him back down to the little room, Alec fighting him the whole way, swearing he wasn't trying to pull anything. Now he was locked in alone again with a notepad of all he'd written the day before.
"Just let me talk to him!" He curses Hal before pacing again, then glaring back up at he camera. "Okay, fine. Your loss."
Scott stares at the computer screen, his mind seeming to take over without his will. His fingers typed on the keyboard with speed, breaking through password securities and scrambling anything someone might be able to trace.
Deep down, his soul screamed at him to stop, but it felt as if he were a robot, unable to control himself. The Agency files came up, opening a communication window. He was in. He would tell them all about where Phinox was, and Alec and Gage and Carson. He began to type, also reminding them that they had lost Thirteen and she was still under watch of the Elite.
Still typing, sweat poured down the sides of his face. He didn't want to be telling them all of this. He wanted to stop. But his hands wouldn't let him. He had once described his feelings to Dalton as if it were a computer virus inside of him, and that's exactly how it felt now.
Everything was spilled to the Agency about those the Elite now had. Passwords were shared, and security information was passed to them without stopping. They would have access to the Elite database now, but it would take months for anyone here to notice.
Scott was a mole against his own will. But if he told anyone, his life here would be over. As he closes back down, his eyes see every bit of information he'd leaked, and all the windows began to close as commanded. No one would know.
Looking down, he sees his hands are trembling, cold and clammy. This couldn't be happening. It couldn't. "No!" he screams, prying himself from his computer. His heart began to race and he presses himself up against the wall, now feeling as though someone was watching him. "Get out of my head!"
Sitting bolt upright in bed, Scott's scream echos through his small house. Domino cowers in a corner, whimpering after being kicked off the bed and not understanding what was happening. Sweat pours down Scott's face as he stares into the dimness of his bedroom. His heart was racing and he felt sick. It was just a dream.... it was morning... he should have been to work an hour ago... Hope had gone home later last night and he'd gone to bed... It was just a dream.... right?
Fear grips him and he goes for his bedside phone. Dialing quickly he waits until he hears Dalton's voice. His own voice is shaky. "Dalton.... Dalton, check our security..."
He rubs his eyes, a raging headache making it hard to think straight. "Lock my computer out of the system... just lock it out so I can't have access to anything." He was desperate. "Then check and make sure no security was breached last night."
Mick wanders to an empty table to sit down with a fresh cup of coffee, waiting for Rosetta to join him a little later after BJ was up. It felt good to be home... very good. Things were a little different... but sometimes change was good.
He'd spoken to Sparky last night and they had at least shaken hands. His brother had accepted his apology, and though there was still a rift there, maybe there was still a chance for healing. Mick had been surprised to hear that Sparky and this other woman were quite close, though he hadn't spoken his mind about it. It didn't seem like a wise situation, but having been gone, he decided it was better off to remain quiet. He hadn't seen Dylan this morning, but figured he'd be around and didn't want to push his son right off the bat.
There was a lot going through his mind... Jade would be coming home today... that was another bridge he needed to repair. Sighing deeply, he closes his eyes for a moment, trying to keep his mind clear. Today he would try to get back in the groove of things around the barn and get his bearings once more.
Dylan trudges from his bunkhouse, not really wanting to be up yet. But he knew if he didn't show himself, his father would be after him, and that's the last thing he wanted. He wasn't hungry though. He didn't want breakfast. He didn't want to go to the barn either. This place sucked.
Stuffing his hands in his hoodie pockets, his feet drag until he reaches the dining hall. Letting himself in, he sees only a few people are up yet. He sees his father over closer to the kitchen, but avoids eye contact. Instead, he finds a chair in the corner and folds his arms on the table to rest his head. He'd just sit here until someone told him to move.
Back in a quiet corner of the barn, Sparky leans an arm on the wall, while his other hand reaches out to brush aside a stray strand of Faith's hair from her face. "This is your day today."
He wanted it to be a good day. Tomorrow she'd be going to the hospital, and as much as he didn't want to think about it, he knew there was a fifty percent chance she would not be coming back. If this were to be their last day together, he wanted to make it special.
"Anything you want to do," he offers. "Anything, anywhere... just name it."
2/23/10
Hope
Taking a quick shower it wasn't long till Ryan was changed and out, both boys still sitting in the kitchen staring at the cake that was on the plates ready and waiting.
"Ok, now we can dig into it."
Enjoying the dessert and the other munches food the time seemed to pass so quickly. Just enjoying each others company, exchanging gifts from the heart and having a nice time. It was such a nice time Ryan hated that it had to end.
Now sitting alone on the couch after saying walking Leo out, giving him a kiss, and letting him know he would see her at work tomorrow Ryan's mind could not be held at bay any longer and it started to wonder, mixture of that and memories of her family ran through Ryan's mind. Even after so long around this time it was always hard.
Staring blankly at the TV Ryan couldn't help but wonder what Alec was doing right now, and soon to follow that though was the advents of earlier in the afternoon. The slow bit of guild cheeped up on her again. Still not understanding why she had been possessed to act as she had to start with. Though playing that through her mind, she couldn't help but wonder if she wouldn't do it again. Alec was very handsome, and there was an elemint to him that was soft though it was hard to see.
Having her concentration broke as Eli sits down next to her and his comment hit her ears, Ryan turns her head to look up at her brother and give a soft smile. She new her brother could tell something was different, or at least she was deep in thought. But how did she even explain it to him right now when she couldn't explain it herself? For now maybe it was best to let her do her best at figuring everything out.
"Amongst other things, its just the time of year. Even after all this time has gone by its hard to get past the end of the year and keep a smile on."
Letting out a sigh and leaning forward on the couch Ryan leans her elbows on her legs just looking down at a few of the gifts that lined the table in front of her. Maybe the whole thing with Alec would blow over and it was a one time thing? Part of Ryan hated saying that, there was a want for it to be more, and yet there was Leo the one she had fraught so hard for, and she was happy with. He'd done everything right. Ryan just didn't understand, she'd never faced this before.
"I guess...I'm just contemplating a few things. I'm not even sure what to be able to tell you Bro. My mind is all a bumble at the moment and I am just trying to sort it out."
Looking up at her brother again Ryan gives a small smile before standing. Laying a hand on his shoulder her eyes showed thanks.
"Thank you for asking. Now, onto something a little more happy. Why don't you go to the spare bedroom and find your last gift. I'll do the dishes up here ok?"
Waiting in the bedroom was the flat screen tv Eli had been drooling over for the last few weeks. It was the HD plasma, but instead of the 37" Ryan had upgraded it to the 42" getting a good deal on it. Along with it was a blue ray player and a few movies. Eli deserved something nice seeing as he had very little to call his own. Not to mention this was the first Christmas in a long time Ryan spent with her brother and she wanted to make it count.
As Scott shifts a little on the couch Hope opens her eyes. She wasn't sure how much time has passed since they first sat down, it was just so comfortable she didn't much care ether. This was there night, and she had all the time in the world.
Seeing the gift put in front of her Hope takes the package gently still leaning comfortable against Scott. Removing the paper gently Hope opens the package. Seeing the necklace laying in the box her fingers touch the chain, and the small pendent. A gasp coming from her mouth. It was so pretty, and it meant something very special to her.
"Oh Soctt, its beautiful. I love it, thank you so much."
Taking the necklace out of the box Hope asks for Scott's help as she puts the chain around her neck snapping it in the back. It fix perfectly with the shirt she had on laying just the right langth to be flat against her tan skin.
Shifting a little herself Hope retreaves a bright blue and silver bag for Scott. Inside was another package tiny but in red paper to stand out, and inside that layed a leather band bracelet with a metal name plat on it. Craved into it was the work Hope, Wings were around the outside of the name.
A little not was attacked to it so Scott would understand when he saw it. It read..
Hope, not only the name of the one who will always be there for you but also a reminder that no matter what happens there will always be hope. I am so proud of you Scott, and I love you!
Also in the bag were a few other things for his office, few cans on MD, and a bag of jerky. Hope really hoped he liked the bracelet. It had taken her weeks to find the perfect one she wanted.
"Ok, now we can dig into it."
Enjoying the dessert and the other munches food the time seemed to pass so quickly. Just enjoying each others company, exchanging gifts from the heart and having a nice time. It was such a nice time Ryan hated that it had to end.
Now sitting alone on the couch after saying walking Leo out, giving him a kiss, and letting him know he would see her at work tomorrow Ryan's mind could not be held at bay any longer and it started to wonder, mixture of that and memories of her family ran through Ryan's mind. Even after so long around this time it was always hard.
Staring blankly at the TV Ryan couldn't help but wonder what Alec was doing right now, and soon to follow that though was the advents of earlier in the afternoon. The slow bit of guild cheeped up on her again. Still not understanding why she had been possessed to act as she had to start with. Though playing that through her mind, she couldn't help but wonder if she wouldn't do it again. Alec was very handsome, and there was an elemint to him that was soft though it was hard to see.
Having her concentration broke as Eli sits down next to her and his comment hit her ears, Ryan turns her head to look up at her brother and give a soft smile. She new her brother could tell something was different, or at least she was deep in thought. But how did she even explain it to him right now when she couldn't explain it herself? For now maybe it was best to let her do her best at figuring everything out.
"Amongst other things, its just the time of year. Even after all this time has gone by its hard to get past the end of the year and keep a smile on."
Letting out a sigh and leaning forward on the couch Ryan leans her elbows on her legs just looking down at a few of the gifts that lined the table in front of her. Maybe the whole thing with Alec would blow over and it was a one time thing? Part of Ryan hated saying that, there was a want for it to be more, and yet there was Leo the one she had fraught so hard for, and she was happy with. He'd done everything right. Ryan just didn't understand, she'd never faced this before.
"I guess...I'm just contemplating a few things. I'm not even sure what to be able to tell you Bro. My mind is all a bumble at the moment and I am just trying to sort it out."
Looking up at her brother again Ryan gives a small smile before standing. Laying a hand on his shoulder her eyes showed thanks.
"Thank you for asking. Now, onto something a little more happy. Why don't you go to the spare bedroom and find your last gift. I'll do the dishes up here ok?"
Waiting in the bedroom was the flat screen tv Eli had been drooling over for the last few weeks. It was the HD plasma, but instead of the 37" Ryan had upgraded it to the 42" getting a good deal on it. Along with it was a blue ray player and a few movies. Eli deserved something nice seeing as he had very little to call his own. Not to mention this was the first Christmas in a long time Ryan spent with her brother and she wanted to make it count.
As Scott shifts a little on the couch Hope opens her eyes. She wasn't sure how much time has passed since they first sat down, it was just so comfortable she didn't much care ether. This was there night, and she had all the time in the world.
Seeing the gift put in front of her Hope takes the package gently still leaning comfortable against Scott. Removing the paper gently Hope opens the package. Seeing the necklace laying in the box her fingers touch the chain, and the small pendent. A gasp coming from her mouth. It was so pretty, and it meant something very special to her.
"Oh Soctt, its beautiful. I love it, thank you so much."
Taking the necklace out of the box Hope asks for Scott's help as she puts the chain around her neck snapping it in the back. It fix perfectly with the shirt she had on laying just the right langth to be flat against her tan skin.
Shifting a little herself Hope retreaves a bright blue and silver bag for Scott. Inside was another package tiny but in red paper to stand out, and inside that layed a leather band bracelet with a metal name plat on it. Craved into it was the work Hope, Wings were around the outside of the name.
A little not was attacked to it so Scott would understand when he saw it. It read..
Hope, not only the name of the one who will always be there for you but also a reminder that no matter what happens there will always be hope. I am so proud of you Scott, and I love you!
Also in the bag were a few other things for his office, few cans on MD, and a bag of jerky. Hope really hoped he liked the bracelet. It had taken her weeks to find the perfect one she wanted.
Nickel
Having had no idea that Ryan was in the apartment, both men jump. Eli whirls around with the knife held up in front of him, and Leo hides behind Eli's larger frame, peeking around his shoulder.
Realizing it was only Ryan, both men's expressions turn from surprise to sheepishness. "Uh..." Eli give her a silly grin. "I thought maybe I misunderstood your directions?" Sighing dramatically, he lowers the knife. "Oh, alright. Leo, can you wait five minutes?"
"I don't know." Leo moves to lean heavily on the counter, feigning starvation. "I can... I can try."
Starting to laugh, Eli points to the hallway. "Get going, Speedy. Five minutes and we're digging into this thing." Watching Ryan leave, his eyes linger where she'd stood for a moment. Something seemed just a little... out of place. He couldn't quite put his finger on it but... hmm. He tries to shrug it off for now. Maybe her meeting with the little convict hadn't gone as well as planned.
True to his word, by the time Ryan returns, Eli has the pie cut and on plates waiting. Heading to the living room, their little celebration continues with dessert, followed by gift-giving. It was a fun time with lots of laughs mixed in with a few sweet moments with some of the more sentimental gifts.
As the evening draws on though and it starts to get late, Leo is reminded he has to work the next day, so he bids Eli and Ryan goodnight, giving Ryan a quick kiss and is out the door. The apartment seemed quiet after he'd gone, even though the television was still on and Eli was busy cleaning up leftover food and wrapping paper from the living room.
Eli balls up some more paper and throws it into the trash bag, wandering around and cleaning up best he could before sacking out for the night. He'd had a good time tonight... best Christmas in years. Spending it with his sister had been a treat and he hoped she'd enjoyed it too, distracted enough not to have to think about their dad or brother not being with them.
Taking some dishes to the kitchen, Eli pauses on his way back to the living room, cocking his head at Ryan. Something was on her mind. He could tell. Maybe it wasn't much, but there was a slight cloud in her eye, one that was either just a passing shadow or a sign of a storm to come. Which, he couldn't tell.
"Nickel for your thoughts." It was something their dad used to say, always willing to pay more than a penny to hear what his kids were thinking. Eli wanders closer to Ryan, sitting down on the armrest of the couch and waiting to see if whatever it was was something she would talk about or not.
Scott sighs a deep sigh of contentment and closes his eyes, just sitting with Hope for the longest time. The peace and quiet was soothing.
Domino finds the spot Hope had made and curls up with them both, a full tummy and ready for a nap. The three lights continue to glow and the silence seemed to wrap its blanket around them.
After a time had passed, Scott shifts a little, reaching behind him to the end table and retrieving a slender little gift wrapped in silver and blue paper. Still sitting behind Hope, he slides it over her shoulder for her to take. He had a few other little things for her, but this was the one he hoped she found special. It had taken him an hour of looking before he'd settled on the delicate silver chain with a silver heart pendant, a sparkling diamond decorating the inner point. It was dainty, but if one looked closely enough, they could see that on the rim of the open heart was an engraving: S & H.
"I'm not good at carving trees," Scott explains softly. He'd chosen a heart instead.
Realizing it was only Ryan, both men's expressions turn from surprise to sheepishness. "Uh..." Eli give her a silly grin. "I thought maybe I misunderstood your directions?" Sighing dramatically, he lowers the knife. "Oh, alright. Leo, can you wait five minutes?"
"I don't know." Leo moves to lean heavily on the counter, feigning starvation. "I can... I can try."
Starting to laugh, Eli points to the hallway. "Get going, Speedy. Five minutes and we're digging into this thing." Watching Ryan leave, his eyes linger where she'd stood for a moment. Something seemed just a little... out of place. He couldn't quite put his finger on it but... hmm. He tries to shrug it off for now. Maybe her meeting with the little convict hadn't gone as well as planned.
True to his word, by the time Ryan returns, Eli has the pie cut and on plates waiting. Heading to the living room, their little celebration continues with dessert, followed by gift-giving. It was a fun time with lots of laughs mixed in with a few sweet moments with some of the more sentimental gifts.
As the evening draws on though and it starts to get late, Leo is reminded he has to work the next day, so he bids Eli and Ryan goodnight, giving Ryan a quick kiss and is out the door. The apartment seemed quiet after he'd gone, even though the television was still on and Eli was busy cleaning up leftover food and wrapping paper from the living room.
Eli balls up some more paper and throws it into the trash bag, wandering around and cleaning up best he could before sacking out for the night. He'd had a good time tonight... best Christmas in years. Spending it with his sister had been a treat and he hoped she'd enjoyed it too, distracted enough not to have to think about their dad or brother not being with them.
Taking some dishes to the kitchen, Eli pauses on his way back to the living room, cocking his head at Ryan. Something was on her mind. He could tell. Maybe it wasn't much, but there was a slight cloud in her eye, one that was either just a passing shadow or a sign of a storm to come. Which, he couldn't tell.
"Nickel for your thoughts." It was something their dad used to say, always willing to pay more than a penny to hear what his kids were thinking. Eli wanders closer to Ryan, sitting down on the armrest of the couch and waiting to see if whatever it was was something she would talk about or not.
Scott sighs a deep sigh of contentment and closes his eyes, just sitting with Hope for the longest time. The peace and quiet was soothing.
Domino finds the spot Hope had made and curls up with them both, a full tummy and ready for a nap. The three lights continue to glow and the silence seemed to wrap its blanket around them.
After a time had passed, Scott shifts a little, reaching behind him to the end table and retrieving a slender little gift wrapped in silver and blue paper. Still sitting behind Hope, he slides it over her shoulder for her to take. He had a few other little things for her, but this was the one he hoped she found special. It had taken him an hour of looking before he'd settled on the delicate silver chain with a silver heart pendant, a sparkling diamond decorating the inner point. It was dainty, but if one looked closely enough, they could see that on the rim of the open heart was an engraving: S & H.
"I'm not good at carving trees," Scott explains softly. He'd chosen a heart instead.
2/22/10
5 more min
Throwing Alec one more grin Ryan disappears into the darkness of TJY. She would be back, when she wasn't sure. Now once alown making her way back to her car Ryan's mind had a chance to think. What had she done with Alec, when put that way it sounded so bad, but it was bad. She had Leo and Leo trusted her yet she went a kissed some other guy. Why had she done that.
Getting into her car Ryan just closes her eyes for a moment thinking about what happened. It was almost like she was reliving it. She could feel the tingles, the strange warmth that came from Alec. Ryan had felt so pulled to him, almost like she had no control, not that she didnt mind. But that mind set was wrong she had Leo, yet at the same time she felt only a small bit a guilt but it was enough to drive in a steak to her heart.
Opening her eyes again Ryan lets out a sigh putting her car into gear Ryan heads for home. Eli and Leo would be waiting and possible worried about her. She would think one this and try to figure it out more later.
Entering the house right as the bowl of popcorn goes flying Ryan can't help but raise her eyebrow. Peeking her head around the corner she doesn't let her presence known as she just watches the two boys and listens.
Hearing about the big screen a bigger seems to form on Ryan's face, than about there hunger and wondering where she is Ryan just shakes her head. Seeing them get up she slips into the hall knowing they would go around the other way. Heading in the opposite direction she just continues to watch them leaning against the door frame there backs to her, her keys in her hand.
Eli and Leo got along so well and Ryan loved watching them interact. They were so funny weather they new it or not. Seeing her brother finally pick up the knife a smile pass over Ryan's face.
"Elijah McKade don't you even think about it, you know darn well what I meant."
Stepping into the kitchen a little more Ryan shakes her head at both men giving a laugh that followed. Though her eyes held a strange confusion, or maybe cloudy contemplation to them not many might see. But only who new her better than she new herself may be able to pic up.
"If you both think you can wait five more minutes for me to take a shower, when I come out we can open gifts, and eat ok?"
Being brought to the couch with Scott Hope sinks down with him. Leaning comfortable into him she rests her head against his. Bringing her hands to Scott's arm Hope gives them a squeeze returning the hug. He meant so much to her, even if he didn't talk to her was there for him and she just wanted him to know that. If nothing else she just want Scott to know he wasnt alone.
Leaning her head back a little to look into Scott's eyes Hope gives a smile before gently pressing her lips to his and than retreating again leaning her head on his chest.
Making room on the couch for Domino to come and jump up Hope felt so content watching the flicker of the little tree over in the corner and being wrapped in Scott's arms.
Getting into her car Ryan just closes her eyes for a moment thinking about what happened. It was almost like she was reliving it. She could feel the tingles, the strange warmth that came from Alec. Ryan had felt so pulled to him, almost like she had no control, not that she didnt mind. But that mind set was wrong she had Leo, yet at the same time she felt only a small bit a guilt but it was enough to drive in a steak to her heart.
Opening her eyes again Ryan lets out a sigh putting her car into gear Ryan heads for home. Eli and Leo would be waiting and possible worried about her. She would think one this and try to figure it out more later.
Entering the house right as the bowl of popcorn goes flying Ryan can't help but raise her eyebrow. Peeking her head around the corner she doesn't let her presence known as she just watches the two boys and listens.
Hearing about the big screen a bigger seems to form on Ryan's face, than about there hunger and wondering where she is Ryan just shakes her head. Seeing them get up she slips into the hall knowing they would go around the other way. Heading in the opposite direction she just continues to watch them leaning against the door frame there backs to her, her keys in her hand.
Eli and Leo got along so well and Ryan loved watching them interact. They were so funny weather they new it or not. Seeing her brother finally pick up the knife a smile pass over Ryan's face.
"Elijah McKade don't you even think about it, you know darn well what I meant."
Stepping into the kitchen a little more Ryan shakes her head at both men giving a laugh that followed. Though her eyes held a strange confusion, or maybe cloudy contemplation to them not many might see. But only who new her better than she new herself may be able to pic up.
"If you both think you can wait five more minutes for me to take a shower, when I come out we can open gifts, and eat ok?"
Being brought to the couch with Scott Hope sinks down with him. Leaning comfortable into him she rests her head against his. Bringing her hands to Scott's arm Hope gives them a squeeze returning the hug. He meant so much to her, even if he didn't talk to her was there for him and she just wanted him to know that. If nothing else she just want Scott to know he wasnt alone.
Leaning her head back a little to look into Scott's eyes Hope gives a smile before gently pressing her lips to his and than retreating again leaning her head on his chest.
Making room on the couch for Domino to come and jump up Hope felt so content watching the flicker of the little tree over in the corner and being wrapped in Scott's arms.
Hope
Oh, but when... when? Alec cocks his head as Ryan's lips brush his ear, twisting until his head was down further to kiss her neck. As she draws away though, he lets her go, whatever sense he had left telling him he should.
His eyes catch hers again and though his face seems to lack expression, his gaze holds a million thoughts, all revolving around a set of emotions that had risen out of their dormant depths. Leaning on the doorway, he watches Ryan leave until she's out of sight. He suddenly realizes he's been holding his breath, and he lets it out slowly, tilting his head to rest against the wall. Where on earth had he just been?
Like a curtain lifting on a scene, it's as if Alec begins to think about what just happened, coming back to reality from a daze. What had he just done? What had possessed him and why in the world had he just let himself do that?!
Blinking with confusion over his own self, he turns and wanders to his cot, flopping down to lie on his back. He had to be crazy. Absolutely crazy. He didn't even know why he'd kissed Ryan in the first place. Maybe he'd just wanted to thank her. Maybe because he'd been wanting to do it since day one - she was an incredibly attractive woman. What man wouldn't want to kiss her? Maybe it was because she was starting to draw out the inner feelings that had been buried and he didn't have any other way to express them. Maybe it was as simple as the mysterious and enticing pull she had on him.
Alec stares at the ceiling, replaying everything in his mind over and over again. She had returned his kisses, no doubt. He knew she'd enjoyed them as much as he. A warm tingle spreads through him with just that thought.
And under it all, something had begun to rise to the surface. He had felt again. He had felt the warmth of emotions that he thought were too far gone for him to ever feel again. He had felt something for Ryan other than a physical attraction. And he had felt something in return when she had responded willingly. And it felt... good.
Rolling over, Alec stands up and begins to pace. This had started a whole new and unexpected chain of events in his mind. These thoughts, these feelings... it didn't make sense, but it was there. It felt almost as if something was signaling daybreak in his soul... a soul that had been in the dark of night for over six years.
Grabbing a nearby pen and pad of paper, Alec's hand hovers over the lines. No... he couldn't. Just because of one kiss? What was he thinking? He sets the pen down and paces again, but soon he is right back there again. His jaw muscles tighten and relax, tighten and relax. His fingers grip the pen until he throws it back down, walking in circles all over again. And once more, he returns, the paper still blank, the pen in his hand. He had to be absolutely nuts. But maybe... just maybe... there really was something bigger here. And for once, an additional emotion wriggles its way up out of the depths: hope.
Growling at his own indecision, Alec throws caution into the wind and begins to write. And he doesn't stop until hours and a half a pad of paper later.
"Noooo!" Leo throws the empty bowl of popcorn over his head, sending it flying behind the couch and near the kitchen. "How could it end like that?!"
Eli stares at the television screen, throwing his arms up in the air. "They totally left the movie hanging! That's not fair!"
Smirking, Leo sighs. "So much for that. Good thing Ryan didn't stick around. She woulda hated this thing."
"I think you're right." Eli grins. "Except she probably would have thrown that bowl at the tv and we'd be getting a new present for Christmas."
Leo quirks an eyebrow. "We could have a replay of the bowl if you really did have your heart set on that flat screen."
Laughing, Eli shakes his head. "I'd like to live another day, thank you." Yawning, he stretches and glances up at the clock. "She's late. Go figure. I'm hungry."
"Dude, we just stuffed ourselves and then snacked during the movie."
"And your point is...?" Eli grins. "It's Christmas! A day to stuff 'til your burst, didn't you know that? McKade tradition." Standing up, he stretches again. "If my sister doesn't show up in fifteen minutes, I'm gonna go down to TJY and knock somebody's head through a wall."
Leo lifts his eyebrows. "Or you could call her cell."
"And.... what would be the fun in that?" Eli trots to the kitchen where there was pie waiting on the counter. "Ryan didn't say we couldn't have a piece yet did she?"
"Well..." Leo gets up and joins Eli, staring at the pie. "I think she said it was for 'later.'"
"Later as in... later than when she made the statement, or later as in later tonight?" Eli ponders a moment before grabbing a knife. "What am I talking about? I don't care what the definition of later is."
Domino perks up as she sees Hope's plate being lowered to the floor. Wriggling with excitement at more good food, she trots over and immediately begins to clean the plate, pausing only to look up as she receives a pat to the head, as if she was saying thank you. It didn't last long though as she returns to devouring the turkey and loudly licking up any leftover gravy she could find.
Scott's chuckles and shakes his head. "I don't know why you're thanking me but for what it's worth... you're welcome."
Rising from the table, he goes to Hope and holds out his hand, leading her to the little living room before sinking down on the couch. Sitting in the corner, he brings Hope into his arms, leaning her back against his chest with his arms around her and resting his head on her shoulder. Closing his eyes, he tries to push the negative feelings from his mind. This was supposed to be a happy day. He was trying to hard not to think about his conflict with Sapphire, or the Agency. It was hard though.
Carson had confirmed that it was simply going to take time as far as the Agency was concerned. He'd told Scott that there was no way to reverse the assimilation and that Scott's brain just needed to chill. but it would take time. He explained it by comparing it to eyes seeing a single glowing light bulb, while the brain registered seeing a hundred strobe lights. When Scott would see or hear something that triggered information he had, his brain was pulling it all up at once whether he wanted it to or not, and it was basically overwhelming his brain. Thankfully, Carson had been confident that with time, Scott would be able to conquer the automatic response and retrain his brain to only pull up that information when he wanted it to - not on its own or unexpectedly. The anger however... that was something different altogether and would take just as much willpower to overcome.
Scott buries his head a little further into Hope's shoulder, holding her just a little tighter. "You know you're my lifeline," he whispers. And she was. With all that going on inside of him, she was the one thing that was keeping him sane. He just needed to focus on now and quit thinking about everything else. He hadn't yet told Hope about how he was struggling with the Agency thoughts and anger issues. But she was there and that in itself brought at sliver of peace.
His eyes catch hers again and though his face seems to lack expression, his gaze holds a million thoughts, all revolving around a set of emotions that had risen out of their dormant depths. Leaning on the doorway, he watches Ryan leave until she's out of sight. He suddenly realizes he's been holding his breath, and he lets it out slowly, tilting his head to rest against the wall. Where on earth had he just been?
Like a curtain lifting on a scene, it's as if Alec begins to think about what just happened, coming back to reality from a daze. What had he just done? What had possessed him and why in the world had he just let himself do that?!
Blinking with confusion over his own self, he turns and wanders to his cot, flopping down to lie on his back. He had to be crazy. Absolutely crazy. He didn't even know why he'd kissed Ryan in the first place. Maybe he'd just wanted to thank her. Maybe because he'd been wanting to do it since day one - she was an incredibly attractive woman. What man wouldn't want to kiss her? Maybe it was because she was starting to draw out the inner feelings that had been buried and he didn't have any other way to express them. Maybe it was as simple as the mysterious and enticing pull she had on him.
Alec stares at the ceiling, replaying everything in his mind over and over again. She had returned his kisses, no doubt. He knew she'd enjoyed them as much as he. A warm tingle spreads through him with just that thought.
And under it all, something had begun to rise to the surface. He had felt again. He had felt the warmth of emotions that he thought were too far gone for him to ever feel again. He had felt something for Ryan other than a physical attraction. And he had felt something in return when she had responded willingly. And it felt... good.
Rolling over, Alec stands up and begins to pace. This had started a whole new and unexpected chain of events in his mind. These thoughts, these feelings... it didn't make sense, but it was there. It felt almost as if something was signaling daybreak in his soul... a soul that had been in the dark of night for over six years.
Grabbing a nearby pen and pad of paper, Alec's hand hovers over the lines. No... he couldn't. Just because of one kiss? What was he thinking? He sets the pen down and paces again, but soon he is right back there again. His jaw muscles tighten and relax, tighten and relax. His fingers grip the pen until he throws it back down, walking in circles all over again. And once more, he returns, the paper still blank, the pen in his hand. He had to be absolutely nuts. But maybe... just maybe... there really was something bigger here. And for once, an additional emotion wriggles its way up out of the depths: hope.
Growling at his own indecision, Alec throws caution into the wind and begins to write. And he doesn't stop until hours and a half a pad of paper later.
"Noooo!" Leo throws the empty bowl of popcorn over his head, sending it flying behind the couch and near the kitchen. "How could it end like that?!"
Eli stares at the television screen, throwing his arms up in the air. "They totally left the movie hanging! That's not fair!"
Smirking, Leo sighs. "So much for that. Good thing Ryan didn't stick around. She woulda hated this thing."
"I think you're right." Eli grins. "Except she probably would have thrown that bowl at the tv and we'd be getting a new present for Christmas."
Leo quirks an eyebrow. "We could have a replay of the bowl if you really did have your heart set on that flat screen."
Laughing, Eli shakes his head. "I'd like to live another day, thank you." Yawning, he stretches and glances up at the clock. "She's late. Go figure. I'm hungry."
"Dude, we just stuffed ourselves and then snacked during the movie."
"And your point is...?" Eli grins. "It's Christmas! A day to stuff 'til your burst, didn't you know that? McKade tradition." Standing up, he stretches again. "If my sister doesn't show up in fifteen minutes, I'm gonna go down to TJY and knock somebody's head through a wall."
Leo lifts his eyebrows. "Or you could call her cell."
"And.... what would be the fun in that?" Eli trots to the kitchen where there was pie waiting on the counter. "Ryan didn't say we couldn't have a piece yet did she?"
"Well..." Leo gets up and joins Eli, staring at the pie. "I think she said it was for 'later.'"
"Later as in... later than when she made the statement, or later as in later tonight?" Eli ponders a moment before grabbing a knife. "What am I talking about? I don't care what the definition of later is."
Domino perks up as she sees Hope's plate being lowered to the floor. Wriggling with excitement at more good food, she trots over and immediately begins to clean the plate, pausing only to look up as she receives a pat to the head, as if she was saying thank you. It didn't last long though as she returns to devouring the turkey and loudly licking up any leftover gravy she could find.
Scott's chuckles and shakes his head. "I don't know why you're thanking me but for what it's worth... you're welcome."
Rising from the table, he goes to Hope and holds out his hand, leading her to the little living room before sinking down on the couch. Sitting in the corner, he brings Hope into his arms, leaning her back against his chest with his arms around her and resting his head on her shoulder. Closing his eyes, he tries to push the negative feelings from his mind. This was supposed to be a happy day. He was trying to hard not to think about his conflict with Sapphire, or the Agency. It was hard though.
Carson had confirmed that it was simply going to take time as far as the Agency was concerned. He'd told Scott that there was no way to reverse the assimilation and that Scott's brain just needed to chill. but it would take time. He explained it by comparing it to eyes seeing a single glowing light bulb, while the brain registered seeing a hundred strobe lights. When Scott would see or hear something that triggered information he had, his brain was pulling it all up at once whether he wanted it to or not, and it was basically overwhelming his brain. Thankfully, Carson had been confident that with time, Scott would be able to conquer the automatic response and retrain his brain to only pull up that information when he wanted it to - not on its own or unexpectedly. The anger however... that was something different altogether and would take just as much willpower to overcome.
Scott buries his head a little further into Hope's shoulder, holding her just a little tighter. "You know you're my lifeline," he whispers. And she was. With all that going on inside of him, she was the one thing that was keeping him sane. He just needed to focus on now and quit thinking about everything else. He hadn't yet told Hope about how he was struggling with the Agency thoughts and anger issues. But she was there and that in itself brought at sliver of peace.
Whisper
Taking Alec's hand Ryan thought it very nice of him to help her down off the table. Just standing there for a long moment she catches her balance as everything seemed like it was still moving a little. Her heart still beating fast, but not nearly as fast as a few moments ago. Finally able to move again Ryan makes her way to the door. Alec's arms still around her she can feel his warmth his her back and can't deny it warmed her.
Feeling Alec's breath on her neck and ear, and giving her a gentile squeeze along with his words Ryan gives a little shiver. Not from fear though, but from the tingle than ran down her spin. If she stayed any longer it was for certain they would get into a kissing match once more.
Turning to face Alec once again his arms still around her Ryan gives a small grin and a gentile nod of her head. Wrapping her arms gently around Alec's neck and give a little squeeze to bring him closer, and a tiny hug Ryan leans in giving him a soft kiss on his eat letting her lips linger there as she whispers.
"You have my word Alec, I will be back and I don't make a habit of breaking my word, to anyone."
Giving his ear one more gentile kiss Ryan pulls away as his arms drop from around her giving a wink and a smile she turns ready to leave once again.
Sitting at the table Hope smiles across the table at Scott. She'd enjoyed cooking for him and now eating dinner, though Hope could see his mind was miles away. She could see the look in his eye that showed his missed this time spent with family and though she said nothing about it Hope felt so helpless not being able to help.
Hearing Scott's comment Hope's own smile grows as her eyes twinkle looking back at Scott from across the room. Hope, only hoped the rest of the night could be good for Scott. She liked seeing smile and hated seeing him so sad like this.
"Mmmm...As long as I was with you Scott we could be in a card bored box and I would spend it with you. Cold, but it wouldn't matter as long as I was with you."
Taking another bit of her food Hope pushes her own plate away from her full from such a good meal. Leaving some turkey on the plate Hope sets it down on the floor for Domino giving a grin and a side long glance to Scott, than back to there little friend.
"Shhh...its Christmas, she can splurge a little right?"
Patting the little dog's head gently Hope looks back at Scott once more taking a sip of her coffee before replying to him.
"Thank you Scott, for shearing this time with me."
Feeling Alec's breath on her neck and ear, and giving her a gentile squeeze along with his words Ryan gives a little shiver. Not from fear though, but from the tingle than ran down her spin. If she stayed any longer it was for certain they would get into a kissing match once more.
Turning to face Alec once again his arms still around her Ryan gives a small grin and a gentile nod of her head. Wrapping her arms gently around Alec's neck and give a little squeeze to bring him closer, and a tiny hug Ryan leans in giving him a soft kiss on his eat letting her lips linger there as she whispers.
"You have my word Alec, I will be back and I don't make a habit of breaking my word, to anyone."
Giving his ear one more gentile kiss Ryan pulls away as his arms drop from around her giving a wink and a smile she turns ready to leave once again.
Sitting at the table Hope smiles across the table at Scott. She'd enjoyed cooking for him and now eating dinner, though Hope could see his mind was miles away. She could see the look in his eye that showed his missed this time spent with family and though she said nothing about it Hope felt so helpless not being able to help.
Hearing Scott's comment Hope's own smile grows as her eyes twinkle looking back at Scott from across the room. Hope, only hoped the rest of the night could be good for Scott. She liked seeing smile and hated seeing him so sad like this.
"Mmmm...As long as I was with you Scott we could be in a card bored box and I would spend it with you. Cold, but it wouldn't matter as long as I was with you."
Taking another bit of her food Hope pushes her own plate away from her full from such a good meal. Leaving some turkey on the plate Hope sets it down on the floor for Domino giving a grin and a side long glance to Scott, than back to there little friend.
"Shhh...its Christmas, she can splurge a little right?"
Patting the little dog's head gently Hope looks back at Scott once more taking a sip of her coffee before replying to him.
"Thank you Scott, for shearing this time with me."
Liable
Taking in Ryan's kiss again, Alec lets it linger, in no hurry to let go. But when she pulls away, he doesn't stop her. His hands rest on her waist and his eyes boldly lock with hers without fear. "The table has heavy braces," he counters, also catching his breath.
He can tell she's serious about leaving though, and he wasn't going to make her stay. Not only would he get in trouble with Hal or Reese, but if he tried to pull any stunts with Ryan, he knew she would not return.
Surrender flashes in his eyes and he straightens, backing up a step and offering Ryan a hand to slide back off the table. Turning her towards the door, he walks behind her with his arms wrapped around her torso. Stopping at the door, he tilts his head down to her shoulder from behind, taking in the scent of the sweet shampoo that lingered in her hair.
"You better keep that promise about coming back," he whispers as his arms tighten a little bit around her. "Now I'm liable to miss you."
Finally letting her go, he steps back so she can leave.
Scott plays a little bit with the rest of his food on his plate then looks down to see Domino hasn't left. Shaking his head and grinning, he gives her another little piece of turkey. "You're gonna have to go on a diet after this," he warns.
Her more than him - he hadn't eaten much, even though it was Christmas, and even though Hope had helped cook some delicious food. But he knew better than to try eating too much when his mind was in turmoil. He would only wind up making himself sick and that would be worse.
He and Hope had yet to exchange gifts though, so he hoped the rest of their evening would be a peaceful one. He missed being at his parents this year. Though they didn't always get along, Christmas was the one time they could look past their differences and get along and renew their relationships. But not this year. No... not this year.
Pushing his plate aside, he rests his elbows on the table and looks across at Hope, offering her the best smile he could. "Thanks for spending Christmas with me," he comments softly. "I feel like I finally found what's been missing all these years."
He can tell she's serious about leaving though, and he wasn't going to make her stay. Not only would he get in trouble with Hal or Reese, but if he tried to pull any stunts with Ryan, he knew she would not return.
Surrender flashes in his eyes and he straightens, backing up a step and offering Ryan a hand to slide back off the table. Turning her towards the door, he walks behind her with his arms wrapped around her torso. Stopping at the door, he tilts his head down to her shoulder from behind, taking in the scent of the sweet shampoo that lingered in her hair.
"You better keep that promise about coming back," he whispers as his arms tighten a little bit around her. "Now I'm liable to miss you."
Finally letting her go, he steps back so she can leave.
Scott plays a little bit with the rest of his food on his plate then looks down to see Domino hasn't left. Shaking his head and grinning, he gives her another little piece of turkey. "You're gonna have to go on a diet after this," he warns.
Her more than him - he hadn't eaten much, even though it was Christmas, and even though Hope had helped cook some delicious food. But he knew better than to try eating too much when his mind was in turmoil. He would only wind up making himself sick and that would be worse.
He and Hope had yet to exchange gifts though, so he hoped the rest of their evening would be a peaceful one. He missed being at his parents this year. Though they didn't always get along, Christmas was the one time they could look past their differences and get along and renew their relationships. But not this year. No... not this year.
Pushing his plate aside, he rests his elbows on the table and looks across at Hope, offering her the best smile he could. "Thanks for spending Christmas with me," he comments softly. "I feel like I finally found what's been missing all these years."
Hot Flash
Being lifted off the ground Ryan wraps her arms around Alec's wast and she leans into him. Another small laugh seems to slip out as she is set down. Keeping her arms wrapped around Alec he felt so warm to her. So much different from when she first met him.
His words and lips softly brushing over her ear send chills through her. So soft, so light, everything about Ryan didnt want to stop this interaction with Alec. It felt so good, it felt so nice to be this close to him but she had to, she just had to.
Feeling his lips on hers once more Ryan returns the kiss for a moment. Tasting how sweet Alec lips were, and addicting his kiss could be. Finally removing her hands from his neck and leaning back just a little so she could pulls away from him Ryan gives a grin gasping for her again.
"We are going to break your table, and than they are going to want to know what happened. I really do need to go. But I will be back another day, you have my promise."
His words and lips softly brushing over her ear send chills through her. So soft, so light, everything about Ryan didnt want to stop this interaction with Alec. It felt so good, it felt so nice to be this close to him but she had to, she just had to.
Feeling his lips on hers once more Ryan returns the kiss for a moment. Tasting how sweet Alec lips were, and addicting his kiss could be. Finally removing her hands from his neck and leaning back just a little so she could pulls away from him Ryan gives a grin gasping for her again.
"We are going to break your table, and than they are going to want to know what happened. I really do need to go. But I will be back another day, you have my promise."
Oops
Ryan's hand running through Alec's hair sends a low murmur into his kiss, his eyes closed, fully letting himself fall into the moment. She was soft and warm and everything about her made him feel good - something he hadn't felt in a long time.
As she pulls away again though, his pulse is still racing. "So?" Leaning his head down, her neck is the target for several more light kisses before he looks her in the eye again. "I'm sure traffic is terrible."
Kissing her lips one more, his hand rubs her back, continuing even when he pulls away once more. "It's Christmas, after all." His grin returns and without warning, both arms are around her waist, picking her up off the ground. Two steps and he sets her on the table, keeping his arms around her, now eye-to-eye with her.
Leaning to her ear, he whispers, "Two more minutes." His lips trace across her cheek until they find her own again, bringing them back into a deep kiss.
As she pulls away again though, his pulse is still racing. "So?" Leaning his head down, her neck is the target for several more light kisses before he looks her in the eye again. "I'm sure traffic is terrible."
Kissing her lips one more, his hand rubs her back, continuing even when he pulls away once more. "It's Christmas, after all." His grin returns and without warning, both arms are around her waist, picking her up off the ground. Two steps and he sets her on the table, keeping his arms around her, now eye-to-eye with her.
Leaning to her ear, he whispers, "Two more minutes." His lips trace across her cheek until they find her own again, bringing them back into a deep kiss.
Rapidly
As Alec kiss her cheek, and than moves to her jaw Ryan cant help the small chuckle that formed. It tickled a little feeling those light kisses. But as much as it tickled it felt good too. Not retreating as her lips found her again Ryan cant keep her heart pick up the beat once again. Rapidly pounding in her chest so loud she thought for sure Alec could hear it.
A small sound forms in her throat as the kiss continued a sure signal she was enjoying it. Bringing her hand up Alec's arm once again and finding his the back of his head her fingers curl around his hair just a little before flatting again his head once again.
Totally lost in the moment nothing else seemed to matter as the emotions Ryan was feeling seemed to leave her body tingling. But hearing the beep on her phone signaling it was a half hour past when she should of left Ryan unwillingly pulls herself from Alec once again. Looking up at him with a grin.
"I really should be going you know."
A small sound forms in her throat as the kiss continued a sure signal she was enjoying it. Bringing her hand up Alec's arm once again and finding his the back of his head her fingers curl around his hair just a little before flatting again his head once again.
Totally lost in the moment nothing else seemed to matter as the emotions Ryan was feeling seemed to leave her body tingling. But hearing the beep on her phone signaling it was a half hour past when she should of left Ryan unwillingly pulls herself from Alec once again. Looking up at him with a grin.
"I really should be going you know."
*facedesk*
As Ryan's hand crawls up Alec's arm and her fingers run through his hair, he's taken by surprise. He hadn't expected this kind of reaction at all. As she comes for another kiss, his arms wrap around her even tighter, returning the kiss, once more taking in the sweet taste.
When Ryan pulls away, his forehead rests against hers and he was breathing heavily too, his heart pumping. His arms remain around her waist, still holding her against the wall, pressing her to himself. Her words bring a new spark to his eye and for the first time, the corner of his mouth starts to turn up into a grin. "Merry Christmas," he whispers back.
Cocking his head, he gives her cheek several soft kisses, moving back from her jawline to her lips again, returning to a passionate exchange all over again. One hand remains on her back to keep her close to him, while the other slides up to her neck then her hair, cradling the back of her head. Turning his head the opposite way, he doesn't let go just yet.
When Ryan pulls away, his forehead rests against hers and he was breathing heavily too, his heart pumping. His arms remain around her waist, still holding her against the wall, pressing her to himself. Her words bring a new spark to his eye and for the first time, the corner of his mouth starts to turn up into a grin. "Merry Christmas," he whispers back.
Cocking his head, he gives her cheek several soft kisses, moving back from her jawline to her lips again, returning to a passionate exchange all over again. One hand remains on her back to keep her close to him, while the other slides up to her neck then her hair, cradling the back of her head. Turning his head the opposite way, he doesn't let go just yet.
DEFFINTLY TO LATE!
Not expecting Alec to be right behind her when she turned around Ryan takes a few steps back, a grin crossing her lips.
"Well I feel honored you trust my taste in food. I'll have to think up something special for when I come again."
Turning to go again, feeling Alec's hand on her arm, being pinned against the wall than receiving the kiss happened all so fast Ryan didn't even get a moment to react. Once it was over and Alec had pulled away a little Ryan's heart was left racing and her knees were weak. Almost speechless for a moment Ryan just looks up at Alec catching sight of the look that passed in his eyes.
Not being able to stop herself Ryan slips her on hand up Alec's arm and to the back of his head. Her fingers playing with his hair for a long moment. Leaning up Ryan's eyes stair into his until her lips are pressed firmly to his own her eyes slipping closed.
Letting this moment linger Ryan felt a whole new set of emotions run through her. Something about Alec was different, something that drove her actions to kiss him like this.
Finally pulling away Ryan lets her hand fall from the back on his head and run down his arm just resting there for a long moment. Leaning her head aganst his for a moment she breathed heavy. But finally looking up into his eyes once more, a grin forms on her lips as her own eyes rapidly scan his.
"Merry Christmas Alec."
"Well I feel honored you trust my taste in food. I'll have to think up something special for when I come again."
Turning to go again, feeling Alec's hand on her arm, being pinned against the wall than receiving the kiss happened all so fast Ryan didn't even get a moment to react. Once it was over and Alec had pulled away a little Ryan's heart was left racing and her knees were weak. Almost speechless for a moment Ryan just looks up at Alec catching sight of the look that passed in his eyes.
Not being able to stop herself Ryan slips her on hand up Alec's arm and to the back of his head. Her fingers playing with his hair for a long moment. Leaning up Ryan's eyes stair into his until her lips are pressed firmly to his own her eyes slipping closed.
Letting this moment linger Ryan felt a whole new set of emotions run through her. Something about Alec was different, something that drove her actions to kiss him like this.
Finally pulling away Ryan lets her hand fall from the back on his head and run down his arm just resting there for a long moment. Leaning her head aganst his for a moment she breathed heavy. But finally looking up into his eyes once more, a grin forms on her lips as her own eyes rapidly scan his.
"Merry Christmas Alec."
Erm...
Looking down at the table, Alec runs his thumb over a crack absentmindedly. He wasn't used to feeling the way he did right now. It made him feel weak, while not caring at the same time. Whether he wanted to admit it or not, Ryan had been a nice distraction, giving him something other than silence to pass the time. He still didn't quite understand her but... there was something about her that intrigued him. She had a danger about her that he didn't like... a danger that warned him that her words could sting. But maybe that's what was part of the appeal.
Standing up, Alec stretches, watching Ryan prepare to leave, studying her movements. Would she really be back? How many times did they have left before he'd be behind bars? He wondered. He didn't like the strange feelings he had... he didn't like not feeling in control, whether it was over his own future or just being here with Ryan. He'd lost something the moment he'd bent to her control. Yet at the same time... he felt almost like he'd gained something too.
Wandering to the door behind Ryan, Alec rests one hand on the open door, the other in his pocket. Looking down into her eyes, he hears the offer for food and contemplates his response. It wasn't just the food... he knew that now. He didn't have to steal a card for Ryan to come back, and in reality... it didn't matter to him what kind of food she brought.
Studying her eyes, a glint appears in his own. "Whatever you can bring," he responds. "After today, I trust your tastes."
As he sees her moving to leave, instincts cause him to reach out and grab her arm, pulling her back sharply and up against the wall. It wasn't anger that drove his motions though. It was a different kind of roughness. "In case I'm behind bars by the next time you come," he hisses.
Not giving her time to react, he leans forward, pressing his lips to hers in a brief but passionate kiss. Drawing back only inches, though he still had one arm in his grasp, he fully expected to be slapped. "Fun was your idea," he reminds coyly.
"Mmm." Ty nods as he starts in on his own ice cream. "You bet." He glances across the table and points his spoon at the teddy bear. "Don't give me that look. I'm not sharing."
Grinning, he takes another bite. "So... the day is only half over. It's your turn to decide what we do next."
Standing up, Alec stretches, watching Ryan prepare to leave, studying her movements. Would she really be back? How many times did they have left before he'd be behind bars? He wondered. He didn't like the strange feelings he had... he didn't like not feeling in control, whether it was over his own future or just being here with Ryan. He'd lost something the moment he'd bent to her control. Yet at the same time... he felt almost like he'd gained something too.
Wandering to the door behind Ryan, Alec rests one hand on the open door, the other in his pocket. Looking down into her eyes, he hears the offer for food and contemplates his response. It wasn't just the food... he knew that now. He didn't have to steal a card for Ryan to come back, and in reality... it didn't matter to him what kind of food she brought.
Studying her eyes, a glint appears in his own. "Whatever you can bring," he responds. "After today, I trust your tastes."
As he sees her moving to leave, instincts cause him to reach out and grab her arm, pulling her back sharply and up against the wall. It wasn't anger that drove his motions though. It was a different kind of roughness. "In case I'm behind bars by the next time you come," he hisses.
Not giving her time to react, he leans forward, pressing his lips to hers in a brief but passionate kiss. Drawing back only inches, though he still had one arm in his grasp, he fully expected to be slapped. "Fun was your idea," he reminds coyly.
"Mmm." Ty nods as he starts in on his own ice cream. "You bet." He glances across the table and points his spoon at the teddy bear. "Don't give me that look. I'm not sharing."
Grinning, he takes another bite. "So... the day is only half over. It's your turn to decide what we do next."
2/21/10
Hit the spot
As Alec throws down his cards Ryan lets out a defeated sigh. The card game had been fun and though both had lost track Ryan still had that feel Alec had been winning. Finally throwing down her own cards she had a whole lot of nothing.
"Gah, I guess I own you some more food huh? I do think that is manageable."
Looking up at the clock herself and letting out a sigh Ryan didn't want to go she was having to much fun but she new she had to. Leo and Eli would be waiting at home for her, and if she wasn't back they would send out the whole calvery looking for her. Both not to thrilled in who she spend her pass time with.
"I guess I should probley get going."
Standing Ryan gathers the cards and slips them back in her pocket. Than taking her leather jacket from the bed she slips it on, moving her hair from under it till it falls around her shoulders.
"Take it easy Alec, and I'll see you next time."
Walking twords the door Ryan stops her one hand on the knob and turns a little to see Alec.
"I take requests on food by the way? Anything particular you want?"
Giving another big smile Libby sets the teddy bear on the empty chair on the other side of the table next to her. Giving a little laugh. It was like a family, Ty, herself and the bear.
"Ok, lets dig in. Thanks again."
Taking her spoon and grabbing a scoop of the cold treat Libby closes her eyes for a moment. The ice cream was even better than she though it was going to be. This was defiantly something she needed.
"Mine is amazing. Hows your? Hit the spot?"
"Gah, I guess I own you some more food huh? I do think that is manageable."
Looking up at the clock herself and letting out a sigh Ryan didn't want to go she was having to much fun but she new she had to. Leo and Eli would be waiting at home for her, and if she wasn't back they would send out the whole calvery looking for her. Both not to thrilled in who she spend her pass time with.
"I guess I should probley get going."
Standing Ryan gathers the cards and slips them back in her pocket. Than taking her leather jacket from the bed she slips it on, moving her hair from under it till it falls around her shoulders.
"Take it easy Alec, and I'll see you next time."
Walking twords the door Ryan stops her one hand on the knob and turns a little to see Alec.
"I take requests on food by the way? Anything particular you want?"
Giving another big smile Libby sets the teddy bear on the empty chair on the other side of the table next to her. Giving a little laugh. It was like a family, Ty, herself and the bear.
"Ok, lets dig in. Thanks again."
Taking her spoon and grabbing a scoop of the cold treat Libby closes her eyes for a moment. The ice cream was even better than she though it was going to be. This was defiantly something she needed.
"Mine is amazing. Hows your? Hit the spot?"
Time
Alec squints at his cards before responding to Ryan. "Three out of for." He smirks a little. "Though with hands like this, it might end up being five out of seven and..." He shuffles his cards around in his hand. "What's the fun in just asking you? At least this way I have a reason to win."
Playing cards with Ryan, the time seemed to go by much faster than it should. Both were about even and Alec had lost track of who was ahead. It just didn't seem to matter anymore.
Laying down the last hand, Alec's eyes glance up to the clock on the wall. He remembered Ryan's two hours, and it had been up ten minutes ago. He just didn't want to say anything.
A little surprised, Ty laughs but returns Libby's hug. "I didn't give it 'cause I expected anything in return, ya know." He shakes his head. "Don't look too hard for something for me."
Pulling back, he taps her on the nose with a finger. "Besides, after you try to teach me how to read, you'll realize how deserving you are of much more than just a teddy bear." He winks at her. "Now.... lets eat before it melts."
Playing cards with Ryan, the time seemed to go by much faster than it should. Both were about even and Alec had lost track of who was ahead. It just didn't seem to matter anymore.
Laying down the last hand, Alec's eyes glance up to the clock on the wall. He remembered Ryan's two hours, and it had been up ten minutes ago. He just didn't want to say anything.
A little surprised, Ty laughs but returns Libby's hug. "I didn't give it 'cause I expected anything in return, ya know." He shakes his head. "Don't look too hard for something for me."
Pulling back, he taps her on the nose with a finger. "Besides, after you try to teach me how to read, you'll realize how deserving you are of much more than just a teddy bear." He winks at her. "Now.... lets eat before it melts."
Special
"I haven't had a good bbq in ages."
Giving a laugh and a shake of her head Ryan can't help the glint in her eye at the challenge. She was always up for a good bet and in some she though Alec new that.
"You could of just asked you know! But...you on. Three out of four or sudden death?"
Ryan sat a little straighter in her chair picking up her cards and holding them. Letting her eyes flow over the cards she looks over them at Alec for a moment before back down. Moving some of the cards around. Picking up, and than throwing down a few more ending her turn for the moment.
Getting to the ice cream shop Libby stayed close to Ty. It was cold, and she was here with him in a way she just wanted everyone to know she was proud to be his friend and had no problem showing it.
Scanning the bored over the counter Libby was leaning twords her normal but kind of wanted to be adventurous.
"Mmmm...I think I am going to be differnt and try, the Mint pecan chocolate chip today."
After giving just a little fight over Ty paying Libby finally gives in vowing next it would be her treat. Finally a seat Libby sits and waits for Ty.
With in no time the ice cream was at the table and Ty was reaching around her with the small bear. Looking to him and than to the little cute stuffed animal Libby felt speechless. Not only had it come from her friend and it was the only gift she had gotten today, this was the first time in a long time Libby had ever got a stuff animal.
Reaching out and taking the small bear a large smile forms on Libby's face as her eyes give a little glisten. Bring the bear to her face in a soft hug Libby cant help the small giggle that came forth till she pulls it away.
Turning a little and standing she reached out and pulled Ty into a hug. This meant so much to her, and it always would.
"Ty, Thank you so much. This means the world to me. I will cherish him forever. Now I am going to have to see if I cant find you something as well. I wanted to anyways but this...is just doing to drive me harder to finding something special for you too."
Giving a laugh and a shake of her head Ryan can't help the glint in her eye at the challenge. She was always up for a good bet and in some she though Alec new that.
"You could of just asked you know! But...you on. Three out of four or sudden death?"
Ryan sat a little straighter in her chair picking up her cards and holding them. Letting her eyes flow over the cards she looks over them at Alec for a moment before back down. Moving some of the cards around. Picking up, and than throwing down a few more ending her turn for the moment.
Getting to the ice cream shop Libby stayed close to Ty. It was cold, and she was here with him in a way she just wanted everyone to know she was proud to be his friend and had no problem showing it.
Scanning the bored over the counter Libby was leaning twords her normal but kind of wanted to be adventurous.
"Mmmm...I think I am going to be differnt and try, the Mint pecan chocolate chip today."
After giving just a little fight over Ty paying Libby finally gives in vowing next it would be her treat. Finally a seat Libby sits and waits for Ty.
With in no time the ice cream was at the table and Ty was reaching around her with the small bear. Looking to him and than to the little cute stuffed animal Libby felt speechless. Not only had it come from her friend and it was the only gift she had gotten today, this was the first time in a long time Libby had ever got a stuff animal.
Reaching out and taking the small bear a large smile forms on Libby's face as her eyes give a little glisten. Bring the bear to her face in a soft hug Libby cant help the small giggle that came forth till she pulls it away.
Turning a little and standing she reached out and pulled Ty into a hug. This meant so much to her, and it always would.
"Ty, Thank you so much. This means the world to me. I will cherish him forever. Now I am going to have to see if I cant find you something as well. I wanted to anyways but this...is just doing to drive me harder to finding something special for you too."
Lonely
Alec quirks an eyebrow, mimicking something close to a wry grin, but not quite. "Me? Naw... give me a grill and I can make a pretty good steak, but otherwise..." He shakes his head. "Been a long time since I've had food this good."
Proving his point, it's the turkey that's gone next, and sadly, the meal is gone. But Alec's stomach was full, and it was more than just food he'd received. When he was ready to admit it, he would be able to realize that it wasn't just the food that had been so good, but the thought behind it.
Sitting back a moment, he cocks his head at Ryan, the turning wheels in his mind almost visible. Whether he'd ever get out of here or not, Ryan definitely was different and she'd provided at least a few hours of sanity.
Pushing aside everything on the table, Alec reaches for the deck of cards. Shuffling them a few seconds, he starts to deal. "You win, you walk out of here free. You lose... you have to come back inside a week with food."
"Nooo problem." Ty slides out of the booth and gathers up his trash, throwing it into the nearby garbage. Making sure he's still got everything in his pockets, he nods. "Let's go raid an ice cream shop."
Getting outside, the clouds had covered up the sun, though it wasn't too cold of a day. Jackets were wanted, but otherwise it wasn't bad. It was still very quiet though, a reminder that this was indeed Christmas, whether it felt like it or not.
Hopping in the truck with Libby, Ty watches her drive while giving her directions. He seems intent on her driving itself, watching how she did everything and reminding himself that he knew well enough how to drive - it was the stupid test for his permit he couldn't get past. He doesn't say anything though... tomorrow he knew what he would bring. For today though, it was about fun.
Directing Libby to the little strip mall, Ty points out where the ice cream shop is. It wasn't the most popular strip mall in town so it usually got just enough business to stay open. Most likely the shops today were trying to gain a little extra business by being some of the only few places open at all.
Opening the door for Libby, Ty lets her go in first to order. He knew what flavors they had here - that made his own ordering easy. Gift racks were set up around the counter too. It was more than an ice cream shop, though most of his business was done through the cold treats.
Once Libby has ordered, Ty informs her he's paying and tells her to go find a booth and he'll bring the ice cream. After he's figured out what he wants, he finishes up the order, pays and carries it back to the table.
Coming up behind Libby, he slides the tray onto the table, and with his other arm, he reaches around her on the other side to deposit a cute little brown teddy bear that had a red santa hat on and was holding a candy cane. Ty has a cheesy grin as he scoots into the booth across from her. "He looked lonely. Merry Christmas."
Proving his point, it's the turkey that's gone next, and sadly, the meal is gone. But Alec's stomach was full, and it was more than just food he'd received. When he was ready to admit it, he would be able to realize that it wasn't just the food that had been so good, but the thought behind it.
Sitting back a moment, he cocks his head at Ryan, the turning wheels in his mind almost visible. Whether he'd ever get out of here or not, Ryan definitely was different and she'd provided at least a few hours of sanity.
Pushing aside everything on the table, Alec reaches for the deck of cards. Shuffling them a few seconds, he starts to deal. "You win, you walk out of here free. You lose... you have to come back inside a week with food."
"Nooo problem." Ty slides out of the booth and gathers up his trash, throwing it into the nearby garbage. Making sure he's still got everything in his pockets, he nods. "Let's go raid an ice cream shop."
Getting outside, the clouds had covered up the sun, though it wasn't too cold of a day. Jackets were wanted, but otherwise it wasn't bad. It was still very quiet though, a reminder that this was indeed Christmas, whether it felt like it or not.
Hopping in the truck with Libby, Ty watches her drive while giving her directions. He seems intent on her driving itself, watching how she did everything and reminding himself that he knew well enough how to drive - it was the stupid test for his permit he couldn't get past. He doesn't say anything though... tomorrow he knew what he would bring. For today though, it was about fun.
Directing Libby to the little strip mall, Ty points out where the ice cream shop is. It wasn't the most popular strip mall in town so it usually got just enough business to stay open. Most likely the shops today were trying to gain a little extra business by being some of the only few places open at all.
Opening the door for Libby, Ty lets her go in first to order. He knew what flavors they had here - that made his own ordering easy. Gift racks were set up around the counter too. It was more than an ice cream shop, though most of his business was done through the cold treats.
Once Libby has ordered, Ty informs her he's paying and tells her to go find a booth and he'll bring the ice cream. After he's figured out what he wants, he finishes up the order, pays and carries it back to the table.
Coming up behind Libby, he slides the tray onto the table, and with his other arm, he reaches around her on the other side to deposit a cute little brown teddy bear that had a red santa hat on and was holding a candy cane. Ty has a cheesy grin as he scoots into the booth across from her. "He looked lonely. Merry Christmas."
Before Everything
Poping the mozzarella stick into her mouth and crumpling her papers up to throw on the tray Libby stands and smiles at Ty.
"My parents never know where I am, not that they care. So...it looks like we both have a free day."
Grabbing her jacket and her book Libby looks into the booth one more time to make sure she hadn't forgotten anything.
"Alright I am ready, your gonna have to let me know where to go. I am not to sure I know where the ice cream place is at."
Giving a small chuckle at the mention of no ring on her hand. Ryan can't help but look down using her other finger to run around it. She had to admit she never much thought about be married to anyone. Not that she was apposed to the idea it just wasn't something she thought about.
"My older brother mostly gets to enjoy what little cooking I do. However, most of the time its me who gets to enjoy his cooking. He always was the chef. He's staying with me now for a little bit."
Thinking for a moment Ryan realizes she really didn't know much about Alec other than Carson was his brother and he had worked for the Agency. Ryan couldn't help but wonder what else clouded those dark eyes of his.
"Do you ever cook? Well...before everything?"
"My parents never know where I am, not that they care. So...it looks like we both have a free day."
Grabbing her jacket and her book Libby looks into the booth one more time to make sure she hadn't forgotten anything.
"Alright I am ready, your gonna have to let me know where to go. I am not to sure I know where the ice cream place is at."
Giving a small chuckle at the mention of no ring on her hand. Ryan can't help but look down using her other finger to run around it. She had to admit she never much thought about be married to anyone. Not that she was apposed to the idea it just wasn't something she thought about.
"My older brother mostly gets to enjoy what little cooking I do. However, most of the time its me who gets to enjoy his cooking. He always was the chef. He's staying with me now for a little bit."
Thinking for a moment Ryan realizes she really didn't know much about Alec other than Carson was his brother and he had worked for the Agency. Ryan couldn't help but wonder what else clouded those dark eyes of his.
"Do you ever cook? Well...before everything?"
So who...
Ty can't help the laugh that bubbles out. He had no embarrassment for the innocent flirting, but rather was enjoying it with Libby. He releases her leg and straightens in his seat, still grinning. "Well... maybe I'll have to show you sometime."
Finishing up his lunch, he offers her a mozzarella stick to help him finish them off. "Yes... it does feel like an ice cream day, actually. Nobody knows where I am, so it's my one free day."
His grin turns wry. "My folks in Texas think I'm at a dinner here, and my roommate thinks I'm in Texas." He shrugs. "So it's a free day."
Wiping his hands on his napkins, he finishes off his pop as his straw slurps at the bottom of his cup. "Ready?"
Alec's eyebrows rise just a little, seemingly surprised that Ryan had made the food herself. "Um... yeah." He clears his throat, not used to complimenting someone, or enjoying something that someone else had given him. "Yeah."
Taking a sip of water, he glances up at Ryan again. "You don't wear a ring." He holds up his own left hand, wiggling his fingers. "So who gets to enjoy your cooking?"
Jade beams and gives Dan's hand a squeeze. "You're the one deserving the thanks. I'm so glad you're here. This is the best Christmas ever."
Finishing up his lunch, he offers her a mozzarella stick to help him finish them off. "Yes... it does feel like an ice cream day, actually. Nobody knows where I am, so it's my one free day."
His grin turns wry. "My folks in Texas think I'm at a dinner here, and my roommate thinks I'm in Texas." He shrugs. "So it's a free day."
Wiping his hands on his napkins, he finishes off his pop as his straw slurps at the bottom of his cup. "Ready?"
Alec's eyebrows rise just a little, seemingly surprised that Ryan had made the food herself. "Um... yeah." He clears his throat, not used to complimenting someone, or enjoying something that someone else had given him. "Yeah."
Taking a sip of water, he glances up at Ryan again. "You don't wear a ring." He holds up his own left hand, wiggling his fingers. "So who gets to enjoy your cooking?"
Jade beams and gives Dan's hand a squeeze. "You're the one deserving the thanks. I'm so glad you're here. This is the best Christmas ever."
Thanks
A rare seen glint sparkles in Libby's eyes on that offers some mischief. Not many people saw the playful look, and most that did saw it as trouble or being rebellious. But Ty was differnt and he made Libby feel good. He liked hanging out with her and just the way he looked and acted around her was so much different from most.
"Mmm...ice cream sounds good on a day like today."
Not doing anything to move his leg from her Libby leans on the table her grin growing even bigger. The gentile teasing was fun nothing like what she experienced at home.
"You know, you should be careful too...because I might not mind it all that much."
Giving a roll of her eyes Ryan ignores Alec's comment about having fun. She wasn't even going to give him the joy of seeing her squirm. But coming back to his comment about prison Ryan thinks for a long moment.
"Because I just have a feeling you wont."
Glancing down at the cards and than up at Alec again a brawd smile forming on her face.
"I did cook it. Its not ever meal I go to this extent but around special times I do. I'm just happy I could share it with you. You like it?"
Sitting at the table with Jade Dan enjoyed the meal. It was nice metting her family, and though he wasn't into to the girly moments Dan couldnt help but laugh being pulled into the middle of a group of girls. Its not every day Dan got this attachen and for Jade it was worth it.
Now thought sitting at the table the hard cold stair of Jade's grandmother could be felt more than anything and it almost felt like fire was going right through him. Trying to ignore it though Dan turns a little in his chair to Jade and smiles.
"This food is amazing. Thank you for shearing this with me."
"Mmm...ice cream sounds good on a day like today."
Not doing anything to move his leg from her Libby leans on the table her grin growing even bigger. The gentile teasing was fun nothing like what she experienced at home.
"You know, you should be careful too...because I might not mind it all that much."
Giving a roll of her eyes Ryan ignores Alec's comment about having fun. She wasn't even going to give him the joy of seeing her squirm. But coming back to his comment about prison Ryan thinks for a long moment.
"Because I just have a feeling you wont."
Glancing down at the cards and than up at Alec again a brawd smile forming on her face.
"I did cook it. Its not ever meal I go to this extent but around special times I do. I'm just happy I could share it with you. You like it?"
Sitting at the table with Jade Dan enjoyed the meal. It was nice metting her family, and though he wasn't into to the girly moments Dan couldnt help but laugh being pulled into the middle of a group of girls. Its not every day Dan got this attachen and for Jade it was worth it.
Now thought sitting at the table the hard cold stair of Jade's grandmother could be felt more than anything and it almost felt like fire was going right through him. Trying to ignore it though Dan turns a little in his chair to Jade and smiles.
"This food is amazing. Thank you for shearing this with me."
Who's the cook?
Feeling Libby lock his ankle, Ty can't help the grin on his face, though he says nothing, just continuing with the conversation. "Yeah, I know that little strip mall with Cassy's Ice Cream... most stuff there is open today. 'Bout the only place that is." He shrugs. "Something to do."
Shifting his legs around, he wriggles his foot away from hers just to lock her leg in at her calf with both his feet. The teasing glint remained in his eye as he took another bite of his wrap. "Careful," he warns slyly. "I might have to implement some Elite moves."
Alec looks back up at Ryan, so close very close to a grin as it hid just beneath the surface behind the coy glint in his eye. "I can think of several ways to have fun until then but I highly doubt you'd play along."
Taking another bite of food, he lets any further comments slide and just enjoys the taste for a few minutes before speaking again. "Why do you think they won't put me in prison, hmm?" He looks up with one eye. "I deserve it, according to law. If you were one of the women I'd tortured, you'd think I deserved it too. Yet you try to give me hope." He shakes his head. "I don't get it."
He scrapes the final mashed potatoes from the plate, getting every last bit he could. Tomorrow it would be back to Hal's servings of tv dinners, so he wasn't about to waste any of this. The green beans were gone now too, so he finally enjoys one of the rolls with butter, switching subjects again. "You cook all this?"
Jade sits next to Dan at the long dinner table, her hand intertwined with his out of sight. It was a noisy family dinner - but with as many people who were there, it wasn't surprising. Chatter bounced off the walls, glasses and silverware clinked. There was a mountain of food and even more dessert waiting in the kitchen.
Jade's eyes sparkled more than normal as she continues to eat, every so often glancing at Dan and grinning. She knew he probably felt a little out of place, but she was happy he was here anyway, and she was glad that Ben was including Dan in on some of the conversations with some of the other guys.
Everybody had been quite shocked to learn of Jade's engagement. The reactions had been varied though. Jade's female cousins had squealed and jumped up and down with her until she'd pulled Dan right into the mix, laughing and dragging him along. Her aunts and uncles had just about fainted, though had remained polite. The only real negative reaction had been from Jade's grandmother, who had simply turned up her nose and said, "Oh, I see." Her stare could be felt at the table, but Jade ignored it, hoping Dan could too.
Shifting his legs around, he wriggles his foot away from hers just to lock her leg in at her calf with both his feet. The teasing glint remained in his eye as he took another bite of his wrap. "Careful," he warns slyly. "I might have to implement some Elite moves."
Alec looks back up at Ryan, so close very close to a grin as it hid just beneath the surface behind the coy glint in his eye. "I can think of several ways to have fun until then but I highly doubt you'd play along."
Taking another bite of food, he lets any further comments slide and just enjoys the taste for a few minutes before speaking again. "Why do you think they won't put me in prison, hmm?" He looks up with one eye. "I deserve it, according to law. If you were one of the women I'd tortured, you'd think I deserved it too. Yet you try to give me hope." He shakes his head. "I don't get it."
He scrapes the final mashed potatoes from the plate, getting every last bit he could. Tomorrow it would be back to Hal's servings of tv dinners, so he wasn't about to waste any of this. The green beans were gone now too, so he finally enjoys one of the rolls with butter, switching subjects again. "You cook all this?"
Jade sits next to Dan at the long dinner table, her hand intertwined with his out of sight. It was a noisy family dinner - but with as many people who were there, it wasn't surprising. Chatter bounced off the walls, glasses and silverware clinked. There was a mountain of food and even more dessert waiting in the kitchen.
Jade's eyes sparkled more than normal as she continues to eat, every so often glancing at Dan and grinning. She knew he probably felt a little out of place, but she was happy he was here anyway, and she was glad that Ben was including Dan in on some of the conversations with some of the other guys.
Everybody had been quite shocked to learn of Jade's engagement. The reactions had been varied though. Jade's female cousins had squealed and jumped up and down with her until she'd pulled Dan right into the mix, laughing and dragging him along. Her aunts and uncles had just about fainted, though had remained polite. The only real negative reaction had been from Jade's grandmother, who had simply turned up her nose and said, "Oh, I see." Her stare could be felt at the table, but Jade ignored it, hoping Dan could too.
Till than
Looking into Gage's eyes Sapphire's mouth turn into an even bigger smile. It was hard to explain how she felt right now. It all seemed to join into one big ball of joy. Just studying Gage's face, his eyes she could see the joy that out powered the fear he had.
"Of course I will help you. Just because you free, doesn't mean your free of me, but that dosnt mean I'm stuck with your ether. Now you get to see that you really do me a lot to be, because I am choosing to be with you."
Leaning in Sapphire gives him a gentil kiss on the lips not to though considering where they were. Pulling away again she holds her hand out to Gage. But this time it was different, no longer was she the leader, but now they walked in unison learning this new path together.
Giving a small laugh at Ty's comment and feeling him kick her back it send a little bit of color to her face. Grabbing another bit of her chicken and than dunking it in three difference sauces Libby takes a bit of it.
Bringing her foot to Ty's again this time she traps it a little lighter getting him back again for hitting her foot.
"Mmmhmmm...I got the pickup. Did you want to go somewhere else?"
If Ty wanted to go else where Libby didn't mind any. Its like she would be doing anything for the rest of the day anyways. The longer she could stay away from home the better it would be anyways.
Leaning back in her chair Ryan holds her arms across her chest just looking across the table at Alec. She'd had seen his demeanor change a great day since the day she'd given Trooper his food, and walked away without looking back. His eyes still held there cockiness, but now it seemed like the light was coming out even more. Maybe Alec was just getting use to her to the change was still good.
"Well I figure you dont need to steal my cards for me to come back. You've already seen I keep my word when I say I will."
Letting out a small sigh Ryan continues to watch Alec. She was happy he seemed to like the food. Seeing he went into a stair she wondered what he was thinking about. Had she hit another cored inside that helped him remember his past he thought was so forgotten?
Finally though as he comes to Ryan pulls the cards from her pocket and set them on the table. It was Alec's deal if he wanted to play.
"I doubt your going to prison, and if they do wouldn't you want to get in all the fun you can now, till than?"
"Of course I will help you. Just because you free, doesn't mean your free of me, but that dosnt mean I'm stuck with your ether. Now you get to see that you really do me a lot to be, because I am choosing to be with you."
Leaning in Sapphire gives him a gentil kiss on the lips not to though considering where they were. Pulling away again she holds her hand out to Gage. But this time it was different, no longer was she the leader, but now they walked in unison learning this new path together.
Giving a small laugh at Ty's comment and feeling him kick her back it send a little bit of color to her face. Grabbing another bit of her chicken and than dunking it in three difference sauces Libby takes a bit of it.
Bringing her foot to Ty's again this time she traps it a little lighter getting him back again for hitting her foot.
"Mmmhmmm...I got the pickup. Did you want to go somewhere else?"
If Ty wanted to go else where Libby didn't mind any. Its like she would be doing anything for the rest of the day anyways. The longer she could stay away from home the better it would be anyways.
Leaning back in her chair Ryan holds her arms across her chest just looking across the table at Alec. She'd had seen his demeanor change a great day since the day she'd given Trooper his food, and walked away without looking back. His eyes still held there cockiness, but now it seemed like the light was coming out even more. Maybe Alec was just getting use to her to the change was still good.
"Well I figure you dont need to steal my cards for me to come back. You've already seen I keep my word when I say I will."
Letting out a small sigh Ryan continues to watch Alec. She was happy he seemed to like the food. Seeing he went into a stair she wondered what he was thinking about. Had she hit another cored inside that helped him remember his past he thought was so forgotten?
Finally though as he comes to Ryan pulls the cards from her pocket and set them on the table. It was Alec's deal if he wanted to play.
"I doubt your going to prison, and if they do wouldn't you want to get in all the fun you can now, till than?"
Moment of Reflection
Gage just hugs Sapphire close, filled with an emotion he couldn't describe. He was excited, relieved, grateful and scared to death all at the same time. He felt unworthy of this gift of mercy. He felt undeserving. Yet so happy at the same time.
Pulling away, he finds Sapphire's eyes again... those eyes that captured him every time he looked into them. "You'll... you'll help me, won't you? I don't even know where to start."
"Well, I've got off tomorrow too." Ty shrugs. "So any time I guess." He gives her a wry grin. "Don't expect much. I'll let you try, but other people have tried too."
Why he was letting someone else try to help him read again, he didn't know. It had failed every other time, and he didn't like the feeling he got when trying to read - he always felt stupid no matter how many times they said he wasn't. Katie had helped him a little bit. For a while, he'd been able to decipher small bits and pieces of letters he got from his mom at least. But Ty hadn't liked bothering Katie with it. He knew she was willing, but she was also busy with the Elite and Jason, and Ty hadn't wanted to interfere any more than he already had. Wyatt had tried to help, but Ty hadn't let him very much. Hal had offered, but Ty had just shrugged off the whole thing. Why Libby? Maybe because she got that excited little gleam in her eye when she talked about helping him. If she enjoyed helping him that much, he'd let her.
Feeling her bump his foot and receiving her apology, he chuckles. "It's okay. I got another foot if you kick that one off."
Teasing her, he taps her foot back under the table. "So, did you drive your pickup in today?"
Alec fingers the bag a moment before daring to pull out the food Ryan had brought. It still smelled great, and he could feel his stomach gurgling. Finding a fork, he takes a bite of the turkey. It tasted even better than it smelled. The mashed potatoes melted in his mouth and even to someone who didn't like many vegetables, the green beans tasted good too.
Glancing back up to Ryan, his eyes narrow a little as he watches her. "Didn't think you'd trust me with your cards again," he comments.
Getting up again, he goes to the little sink to pour himself some water in a paper cup then returns to his meal. He'd forgotten how much better homemade food was than restaurant or store-bought. And for a moment, he longed to be free for a completely different set of reasons.
His chewing slows and he looks down at his plate, both elbows on the table, and his fork hanging in mid-air. Maybe being away from the Agency long enough eventually did do something to a man's mind. Poisoned by their control, perhaps over time it eventually did become deluded enough for a man to remember what it was like before being trapped within their world.
Alec didn't realize he'd lapsed into a stare for several moments before he finally snaps himself back to reality and takes another bite of potatoes.
"Once they throw me in prison, you won't be able to come play cards," he points out. "Why get in the habit?"
Pulling away, he finds Sapphire's eyes again... those eyes that captured him every time he looked into them. "You'll... you'll help me, won't you? I don't even know where to start."
"Well, I've got off tomorrow too." Ty shrugs. "So any time I guess." He gives her a wry grin. "Don't expect much. I'll let you try, but other people have tried too."
Why he was letting someone else try to help him read again, he didn't know. It had failed every other time, and he didn't like the feeling he got when trying to read - he always felt stupid no matter how many times they said he wasn't. Katie had helped him a little bit. For a while, he'd been able to decipher small bits and pieces of letters he got from his mom at least. But Ty hadn't liked bothering Katie with it. He knew she was willing, but she was also busy with the Elite and Jason, and Ty hadn't wanted to interfere any more than he already had. Wyatt had tried to help, but Ty hadn't let him very much. Hal had offered, but Ty had just shrugged off the whole thing. Why Libby? Maybe because she got that excited little gleam in her eye when she talked about helping him. If she enjoyed helping him that much, he'd let her.
Feeling her bump his foot and receiving her apology, he chuckles. "It's okay. I got another foot if you kick that one off."
Teasing her, he taps her foot back under the table. "So, did you drive your pickup in today?"
Alec fingers the bag a moment before daring to pull out the food Ryan had brought. It still smelled great, and he could feel his stomach gurgling. Finding a fork, he takes a bite of the turkey. It tasted even better than it smelled. The mashed potatoes melted in his mouth and even to someone who didn't like many vegetables, the green beans tasted good too.
Glancing back up to Ryan, his eyes narrow a little as he watches her. "Didn't think you'd trust me with your cards again," he comments.
Getting up again, he goes to the little sink to pour himself some water in a paper cup then returns to his meal. He'd forgotten how much better homemade food was than restaurant or store-bought. And for a moment, he longed to be free for a completely different set of reasons.
His chewing slows and he looks down at his plate, both elbows on the table, and his fork hanging in mid-air. Maybe being away from the Agency long enough eventually did do something to a man's mind. Poisoned by their control, perhaps over time it eventually did become deluded enough for a man to remember what it was like before being trapped within their world.
Alec didn't realize he'd lapsed into a stare for several moments before he finally snaps himself back to reality and takes another bite of potatoes.
"Once they throw me in prison, you won't be able to come play cards," he points out. "Why get in the habit?"
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