Tantrum

Eli catches up Scarlet in his arms, wrapping them around her firmly. Hearing her muffled words and realizing she was crying, he rocks her a little before stroking her hair. "Shh... it's okay," he soothes, kissing the top of her head. "You don't have to be scared anymore."

Just holding her a few moments, he eventually pries her away, reaching to her face to wipe away some of her tears with his thumb. Then taking her by the hand, he finds the living room and the end of the couch. Sitting down, he pulls her down into his lap and wraps his arms around her again, holding her close and letting her cry more if she needed to. For now, what was going on outside went unrealized.

"Jimmy told me what happened," he explains quietly. "I understand... you don't have to be sorry." He kisses her head again. "It takes more than that to scare me away."


Justin returns Sapphire's smile and nods. "It's good there's more than three things... thank you." Giving her a little wave, he wanders back towards the exit, stopping for a moment or two to talk with Con, then finds his way back outside. The sun was still shining, but it was aiming towards the earth once more, foretelling of evening. Justin would head home now, but not before picking up something for supper for himself, along with getting some more dog food.

His half-hour drive home was a thoughtful one as he processed all he'd learned and thought about how he could use it during his time with Scott. It was at tough case with so many different angles. It almost made his head hurt just thinking about it. But he was involved now and wasn't going to give up. No, he'd see it through for sure. He wasn't one to let go this easily...


The next morning, Justin leans on the desk down by the front door of the Brookshire building, cocking his head at Jenny. Scott had not been outside where they normally met. "Scott?"

Jenny shakes her head. "Wouldn't get up this morning. I tried a couple times, finally Dr. Hawks said to just leave him and wait for you."

Justin sighs. Three good days, one bad... it wasn't a bad ratio. But he needed to get Scott up and going or he'd backslide for more than just a day. "Alright... I'll be back in a bit." Heading up the stairs, he takes them two at a time until he's on the third floor. Wandering down he finds Scott's room number and knocks. No answer. Knocking again without a response, he goes in uninvited.

Scott is curled up in bed and appears to have not even undressed from the day before. It had been nightmares... all night. And this morning had come way too soon. He didn't want to get up. He didn't want to face the day. He was on the brink of falling into that awful pit again and didn't want to step forward, lest he lose his balance and fall. No... it was safer just to stay here... in bed. The world could move on without him.

"Hey, Scott." Justin wanders to the bed and looks down at him. "What's up, hmm? Jenny said you wouldn't get up."

Scott opens his good eye to look up at him lamely and shakes his head a little. "Go away."

"Naw, sorry, I can't do that." Justin folds his arms. "You gotta get up. Come on."

"No."

"Yes."

"No."

"There's too much living to do outside of this room for me to let you stay. Now come on. Come outside with me."

Scott glares up at him, refusing to move. "Make me."


"No! Let me go! Put me down!" Scott fights for all he's worth, but his lack of strength is no match for Justin. Slung over Justin's shoulder like a sack of potatoes, the ride down the stairs is less than comfortable. Clawing at the wall and flailing for the railing, he knocks Justin off balance more than once.

"Cut it out!" Justin orders. "Or we'll both go head first the rest of the way down." One arm is wrapped around Scott's legs, his other hand having a tight hold on the waist of Scott's jeans.

"Put... Me... Down!" Scott screams.

As the two reach the ground level, Jenny's eyes are huge. Justin wasn't that big of a man, so seeing him hauling another man around over his shoulder was quite the sight, not to mention Scott's tantrum as they went. Jenny blinks and looks to Justin, still shocked. "Sedative?"

"What for?" By now, Justin is panting and sweating, his arms still locked in place so as not to release Scott. One of Scott's feet slips loose though and kicks out, knocking several items off the desk. "Say now," Justin chides, grabbing hold again. "You're gonna cause a mess." He calmly looks back to Jenny. "Would you mind opening the door for me?"

"I... um... sure." Jenny gets up and goes to the door to open it for him, staring after them both as they head to the open grass.

Once Justin reaches the open lot, he falls to one knee and dumps Scott on the ground. Trying to catch his breath, he studies Scott with purpose. "I had planned something else for today, but now I'm worn out."

"Good," Scott growls as he sits up, trying to get his bearings after being upside down. "I'm going back inside."

"Be my guest. But as soon as I catch my breath, we're doing this all over again."

"That's your problem." Scott gets up a bit unsteadily and heads back across to the housing.

Justin shakes his head and sighs, watching him go. Ten minutes later, it's an exact replay of the entire thing, except this time Scott's a little louder and more insistent. Once he's dumped on the ground for the second time though, his energy is just about spent. "What is with you?" he hisses. "Grab me like that and I'll report."

"I don't care," Justin retorts. "Ready for round three?"

Scott was not. He was too tired. Pulling his legs up close, he puts his chin on his knees. "Why did you make me come out here?"

"Because the sun is shining, Scott. Look." Justin gestures to the sky. "Because the breeze is blowing... feel it. Because spring is in the air... smell it. Because the birds are singing... listen."

Scott closes his eyes and refuses to take the advice. But he can't help but hear. He can't help but feel. "So what?"

"If you don't recognize it, I'm not going to waste my breath."

"But you still drag me out here."

"I'll set you right down in the middle of life," Justin replies. "But no one can make you live." He'd brought a backpack and soccerball when he'd arrived in the first place, so now reaches into the bag and pulls out two apples. Keeping one, he tosses the other to Scott.

Scott looks down at it with little interest. "I'm not hungry."

"What's eating got to do with being hungry?" Justin shrugs. "I eat it 'cause it's good for me, not because my stomach's asking for it, or because my tastebuds are begging for it. If that were the case, I'd break out my chocolate bar instead."

Scott knew good and well that Justin was just trying to get him to eat. He hadn't had anything since yesterday lunch... maybe it would be alright if he had an apple. His stomach would handle it better than the chili that was on the menu for today's lunch. Grudgingly, he takes the apple and crunches into it with a little bite. "So why did you really drag me out here? I'm not happy about it, you know."

"I know. Doesn't hurt my feelings any." Justin chews on his own apple thoughtfully. "Why do you think I brought you out here?"

"Don't start that question garbage with me."

Justin shrugs. "Alright."

Scott rolls his eyes. "Yeah, yeah... you brought me out here for all that sunshine and fresh air I'm missing in my room." He nibbles on a little more of his apple.

"Well if you knew, why did you ask?"

Scott sighs. "I don't know."

"Wanna play soccer?"

"Not really."

"Hard night?"

"No, I just wanted to stay in bed for the fun of it," Scott retorts. "You just shoulda left me alone. I'm in no mood for this today."

"For what?"

"This." Scott gestures around him, only to realize that he's gesturing at fresh air and sunshine. It sounded pretty pathetic that he wasn't in the mood for good things like that. His expression changes to one of slight sheepishness. "I'm pretty miserable to be around, aren't I?"

"Mm..." Justin nods. "Yeah, pretty much. Why do you think I brought a soccer ball? At least I can have a little fun, even if you're insisting on being miserable."

Scott eyes him with suspicion. "So when are the real sessions gonna start?"

"Real sessions?"

"Don't think I'm that stupid. You're just trying to be my friend, get me to trust you, then one of these times, we'll sit down and you'll start picking my brain about how I'm feeling and how I'm dealing with this stage of my life."

Justin looks at him lamely. "Don't make me puke. I hate sessions like that."

"Then why are you here? Just to play games?"

Justin sighs deeply. "I'm here to be your friend. You want out of here, and I want you out of here. If we work together as a team, we can meet both those goals. I can't do it on my own, and you can't do it on your own either."

"Who says I can't?"

"Well then prove it and let's get out of here."

Scott shrinks back again. He knew that he needed to be here because he hadn't been able to pull through on his own. "Alright... so I need help. Why are we playing games then?"

"It's good exercise." Justin tosses his apple core into a nearby trashcan. Retrieving his soccer ball, he lets it roll back and forth between his feet as he slowly nudges it a ways away, noting that Scott was following him. A few minutes of gentle kicking back and forth and Justin speaks again. "So. Hard night. Nightmares?"

Scott grits his teeth and kicks at the ball. "Yeah."

"Do you have one that always comes back?"

"Maybe."

Justin can feel him pulling back so he waits, just letting them kick the ball a little while longer. "I used to dream about the night my best friend was killed. While I was in college. He was murdered and I saw the whole thing. Still haunts me once in a while."

Scott's eyebrows rise just a little. "And you just... ignore it or what?"

"Not really. It bothers me. But I just gotta keep reminding myself that there was nothing I could do about it. It was just... one of those things. And I learned to let it go."

"How?"

"Time. And I had to make the choice to do it." Justin kicks at the ball. "I blamed my emotions... said I couldn't help the hate and anger and guilt I felt. But then one day I realized that all those things... they were my choices. I was choosing to hate because it made me feel in control. I was choosing to be angry because then I didn't have time to be sad. I was choosing to harbor guilt because then I could take out my sadness on myself and stay hidden in my own little world."

The ball has stopped at Scott's feet and he stares back at Justin a little confused. "You can't just choose the way you feel."

"Can't I?" Justin holds out his arms. "I can choose to be miserable today. My truck wouldn't start, my dog tore a hole in my jeans and I got here just to realize I'm almost out of gas. Those things are irritating, but I've chosen to enjoy the sunshine anyway. Being miserable doesn't do any good." He cocks his head. "Sometimes it takes a while for us to think through our trials before our emotional reactions... but in the end, it's our choice. I choose to forgive. I choose to love. I choose to hate. What I do with my thoughts and feelings is under my own control not my circumstances."

"But you can't decide you're not gonna be sad or upset when someone dies."

"It's my initial response, yes. But why? Because of what I thought beforehand. Thinking always comes before the emotion. Once I've thought through it, I choose how I am going to react by way of an emotional response. Do I not have the control to find the good instead? The pain might always linger. But that doesn't mean I have to continue being upset. I just have to make up my mind to deal with it. Conquer it. I cannot let my emotions control me."

"But what about if a friend betrays you. Wouldn't you be mad at them?"

"Well I'm only human. But I don't have to be mad at them. I might be upset and disappointed... but if I get mad at them and hate them, I'm letting the circumstances rule my response instead of taking control. It's not easy. But we all have the ability to change our reactions. Sometimes it takes a while. It could take me five minutes to decide not to be mad anymore, or it could be five weeks. But once I've decided... then it's up to me to do it. Deciding to actually change my own attitude - that's the hard part."

Scott rests his foot on the ball. "So you're telling me that I can just choose to not be angry at the Agency or myself anymore. That I can just decide it and that's that."

"I thought we were talking about me."

Scott smirks a little and gives the ball a hearty kick. "Right."

Dirty Deed

Taking the card from Justin Sapphire holds it for a moment reading it before looking up at Justin again and giving a smile. Justin was a very sweet guy and Sapphire was thankful that her brother had someone like him to help him.

"Thanks you. I'll make sure to keep this close in case I need anything."

Turning to go back to her work Sapphire stops as Justin asks his last question. Thinking for a long moment she gives Justin a smile again before answering.

"I could never pick just three things that made my brother smile. He has so many things he really enjoyed in life. Hope, Domino, life, nature, working, having little code wars with Dalton, classical music, the list really is endless."

Shutting the door behind Eli Scarlet wish her apartment was a little cleaner for his first time seeing it but right now that really didn't matter. Looking up at Eli and seeing his arms held out to her it seemed to wash a little fear away that that he would be upset and not want her anymore. Did he know the whole truth? Scarlet wasn't sure but at least he wasn't mad about her driving off.

Taking a few steps twords him Scarlet falls into Eli's arms burring her face into his chest for a long moment just taking in his sent. His smell, his arms they made her feel safe, and shelter the cold world out. His warmth seemed to warm her.

Moving her head a little to rest her face on his chest Scarlet lets a sigh out as she tried to be strong and fight off the tears that wanted to come.

"I feel so safe in your arms Eli, like nothing could hurt me."

Not being able to help it any longer and knowing she needed to just let the tears out, it was all or nothing and if Eli did truly care than the tear should make no difference. Scarlet's shoulders shakes a little as the tears fall. Her fists clenching Eli's shirt.

"I'm sorry I left you, I was just so scared of what would happened if I hadn't."

Outside in the shadow lurked someone up to no good. Seeing in the window at the loving embrace Eli and Scarlet were in only fueled his anger even more in the diluted little fantasy he lived in.

Spotting the two bikes that stood in the driveway Roth couldnt help but snicker to himself. He's show them good not to mess with him. Withdrawing his keys he goes to Eli's first and over the pain he scratches some not so nice words into the pain. Than going to Scarlet's the new paint job that been done on hers he new was Eli's hand work. Running his key in deep to the colors and images he ingraves a few choose names of what he though of Scarlet.

Standing back and admiring his own handy work Roth heads back to his car and gets in. Starting it up he takes one last look into the window before pulling out and dirving away still half drunk from earlier.

Offer

Justin gives a little nod, now understanding what Sapphire had meant. He could see where Scott wouldn't want to have anything to do with someone who had been a part of the Agency, even if they hadn't affected him directly.

"I'm sure in a way Scott feels betrayed on some level," he comments thoughtfully as he finally jots down a note. "That's the funny thing about being angry at a group of people rather than just one person. Anybody else who gets involved with those people is automatically an enemy. I think with Scott it's probably a defense mechanism as he tries to protect himself from a future attack."

Lifting his eyes, Justin looks at Sapphire kindly. It was his nature. He couldn't help it. He was here about Scott, but seeing the pain in Sapphire's eyes... "I can't speak for Scott but... if I had to make a bet, I'd say Scott's reaction really has nothing to do with you at all. And if that's the case... there's a good chance you will get your brother back again."

Standing up, Justin is about to push the chair back where it belonged when he pauses. "Thank you, Sapphire... for everything." Reaching in his pocket, he fishes out a card with his name and number. "Should you think of anything else or..." He shouldn't offer more. It was way out of line. But he couldn't not. "...or if you just need to talk, you can call me, okay?"

Turning around, he stops once more. "Oh, I almost forgot. If you had to pick three things that make your brother smile... what would they be?"


Eli was a little relieved that Scarlet actually came to the door. After she'd high-tailed it, he hadn't even been sure she'd want to see him. Female moodiness was something he'd never understood, but he'd work around it if she didn't want to talk to him. Seeing her now though pushed aside that worry.

Looking down at her, Eli is just quiet for a few moments and he finally nods and steps inside. Scarlet's tone was different. Her eyes were different. This was the inside... this was what laid underneath all that courage and toughness that he'd seen before. This was the other half of Scarlet and he wasn't going to be afraid of it.

Getting inside, his eyes glance around for a moment but quickly fall back to Scarlet again. He really didn't feel like anything else to eat or drink. Holding out his arms to offer a hug, he cocks his head, speaking softly. "Come here."

Come in?

Sapphire gives a small sigh and a nod. She might as well tell Justin, he seemed trust worthy enough and if any little bit of information could help him help Scott than it would be important to tell him.

"Yeah pretty much. Gage was part of the Agency but much different from the people the hurt Scott. He, and another girl we have had and got them use to normal life are what we like to call Agency babys. All they new when we found them was the way of the Agency. Hurting people, stealing, so on and so on was life because since they were small thats what they were trained to do. The one girl we found didn't even have a name. Only a number they called her."

Letting out another sigh Sapphire remembered when she had first met Gage, and Thirteen. It still hurt to think of them growing up like that and thinking it was normal.

"We reintroduced them to life, and how it was meant to be. Showing them everything they missed and letting them experience. Gage didn't even know what Lemon Aid was before I showed him. So we started out as friends and soon started dating when we felt we have stronger feelings for each other. Gage is a wonderful guy with a great head on is shoulders that is trying to make up for his past deeds. He also asked me a lot how Scott is."

Sitting holding the pen and fiddling with it Sapphire looks up at Justin again. In a way she felt like she was having a pity party for herself wondering if she was being selfish, but at the same time she wasn't willing to let Gage go.

"Unfortunately with everything that has gone on with my brother he can't see past the face Gage was Agency at one time along with a few others who have turn to the good side so to say. Not saying I don't blame him if I went through everything he did, I might be the same way too."

Giving Eli a nod and a half wave as he walked out the door Jimmy turned to clean up his place and than go to the door himself closing and locking it. Tonight was over, and though it ended bad hearing Eli would be back it gave him some hope that he and Scarlet would be ok.

Sitting in her living room Scarlet held the phone in her hand. She was going to call Eli, she felt bad for leaving him now she was just gather what she would say in her own head. Jimmy would of told him she left and in the back of her mind she new she had to tell him about Roth especially after tonight she just wasnt sure how. Running her arm where Roth had grabbed her she absentmindedly rubbed the bruise in the sap of fingers that were forming. It was going to leave a nasty mark.

About to dial Eli number Scarlet hears a motorcycle pull up and the engine die. Just from the sound she new it was Eli's but getting up she slowly goes to the window and sure enough it was Eli. She hadn't expected him to come to her house, but she had to admit she was kind of happy he was here.

Hearing the knock on the door and his voice following she new Jimmy must have told him what happened. Giving a small brave sigh she opened the door slightly.

"Yeah, I'm ok I think."

Finally looking up at Eli's face for the comfort she so desperately wanted She opened the door a little more. Her one arm crossed her chest as she held her arm of where the bruise was forming. Her eyes were bloodshot and one could tell she'd been crying. Tonight had brought back so many horrible nightmares of her past. She'd thought the crying was over, and the hardness had kept the pain out but tonight run in just proved to be so much.

"I'm sorry I didn't meet you for drinks to night..I..left before you got there. If your not to upset would you like to come in, I think I have something cold in the fridge we could have and we can talk."

Scarlet didn't feel much for joking right now, or letting her sassy nature show. Tonight had went from good to horrible bad, but having Eli here now was a pluse!

Just wanted

Justin listens to Sapphire, his pen hovering above his notepad but remaining still, his eyes watching her intently. He knew that someone in his position needed to be very careful about letting other people's problems get to him or affect his own emotions. But something in Sapphire's voice... it sent a little pang to his heart. Everything he was gathering today - all the information and tidbits - proved that Scott wasn't the only one who was being affected by this ordeal. He had the worst of it, no doubt, but his own condition was affecting everyone who cared about him.

Hearing about someone named Gage, Justin's eyebrows rise slightly. He lets Sapphire finish though, processing everything, while his pen still does not write. He cocks his head a little, careful not to step on toes while at the same time he gleaned information. "Gage, huh?" He purses his lips in thought. "Someone Scott doesn't like you being around?"


Sighing deeply, one might think Eli wasn't listening to Jimmy anymore, but he was. He just needed to sort through everything before taking any action, passive or otherwise.

Accepting the whiskey he downs it as quickly as he had the first, letting it settle before starting to finish off his beer. It was several long moments before he said anything at all, seeming to be lost in his own world.

"Thank you, Jimmy... for telling me the truth." It would have been just as easy for the man to lie and avoid all that pain. But he'd respected Eli and for that, he was grateful. Sliding off the barstool, Eli leaves a little beer in the bottle. He didn't need anymore, especially since he was driving. "I'll see you around..." He catches Jimmy's eye and nods. He would be back... he wouldn't hold Roth's actions against him. But for now, there was nothing else that could be said...

The streets were dark, lit by streetlights and a few stars. But the beauty of the evening was far from Eli's mind. His bike takes him down the back roads, out of town, then in again as he zigzags behind traffic, letting his mind wander.

Eventually, the rumbling of his bike can be heard outside of Scarlet's apartment before the engine is cut. Just sitting on his bike for several minutes, Eli thinks. Did Scarlet really react differently to him than other men she'd had? Was this really something special? Was Jimmy right?

Sighing deeply, he takes off his helmet and finally wanders to Scarlet's door. His boots could be heard on the walkway along with his wallet chain - anyone who knew him well could always tell when it was him approaching with his long stride.

Stopping at her door, he pauses again before knocking with his knuckles. "Scarlet?" he calls softly. "It's me... I just... wanted to see if you were alright."

Accept

Still sitting next to Eli Jimmy study's him. It was hard to read his expressions and his face seeing that there was a lot of mixtures of everything. He could only hope that wouldn't damage the just started relationship that had brought so much promise.

Hearing that Eli wanted another shot he studys him for a long moment. This might be the only thing that was keeping him calm right now. By looking at most people Jimmy had a talent for being able to see there limit before they even could. From just looking at Eli he new one more shot wouldn't send him over the edge and he'd still be able to drive safe.

"Don't be to upset with Scarlet for not telling you..."

Jimmy slides off the the bar stool and makes his way around the back of the counter to where the liqueur was. Taking Eli's older shot glass away and getting a newer one he places it down in front of him pouring the liqueur into it.

"..I know she would of told you when she was ready. It's not an easy thing for her to talk about, but I know she would of told you soon because she really is fond of you. I can see it in her eyes when she talks about you. She feels safe, and she feels human again."

Not saying anything else Jimmy pushes the shot twords Eli. He new it was his desition what would happen next, and what ever it was it would be for Eli's own reasons. He couldn't change his mind with words not that he would try to much anyways because it wasn't his place. He could only try and incurage as much as he could.

Shaking her head a little bit as Justin sits outside the cuble she can't help a small chuckle. He could of come in she would of had no problem with that, but just the simple gesture was nice.

Hearing her brother was doing well was nice, even though Sapphire had already believed Scott would come home someday and new he was ok or she would of been told. Still she couldn't help but feel a little more comfort just being reassured from Justin's words. He was a thoughtful man and she liked that.

Leaning back in her chair and thinking about his question for a moment Sapphire gathers information in her head about her brother and how she remembered him than, and now.

"My brother and I have always been close being twins and all thats just normal I would guess. As kids, and even in grade school we always did things together. We were both into computers and techy stuff."

Stopping and thinking again Sapphire took her pen from her desk and held it putting the cap on and off again as she thought.

"Than as we got older we started to drift apart. He was always smart in school, and I was the popular one though I had very few people I would call friend or hang out with. We slipped away from each other and went own ways. But years later as luck would have it we both ended up here working together and though we didn't talk much our relationship started to grow again."

Sapphire new they were coming to the hard part of the conversation. She always hated talking about when they though Scott was dead. Even just remembering it hurt like no other.

"When everyone though my brother was dead it killed me inside. I lost the person I had a connection with even if we didn't talk a lot. Than he came back and it was like a second chanse to get to know him all over again. Than things just...started to go down hill again. I love my brother like no other..."

Sapphire's eyes glistened a little showing she really meant it. She did love Scott with all her heart.

"..and I just want to see him well again. And I hope that one day he can accept me and Gage being together because I want my brother apart of my life and I miss being close to him. He's my best friend and I hate that he's not ok."

Temper

Receiving the beer from Jimmy and still looking in his eyes, Eli felt an odd twist in his gut. He stays put though, feeling maybe he needed this beer more than he thought. Taking a swig, he listens.

The news that Roth was Jimmy's son took Eli completely off guard. Now that he thought about it, he could see some resemblance, but their dispositions were so different, he never would have guessed. Shock fills his gaze. Scarlet had dated Jimmy's son. Roth. Scarlet had actually been in love with the same man who had put Ryan on her death bed. It had been a long time ago, but still... it wasn't a pleasant connection to make. Surely Scarlet knew about Roth shooting Ryan, yet she'd never said a word about her even knowing him?

Eli contains his temper and takes another sip of beer, forcing himself to stay and hear Jimmy out. He wasn't sure he believed Roth had ever been a nice guy, but the story of his mother's death did explain how a change might have occurred.

Having Jimmy join him on the same side of the bar, Eli is hesitant, but again forces himself to stay put, if just to finish off the beer he'd started. Though right about now, another shot of whiskey would have been nice.

Pictures of Roth and Scarlet flashed through Eli's mind. A new kind of pain reflects in his eyes as he hears of the abuse. Scarlet... this beautiful, intelligent, wonderful woman... how could someone ever dare to lay a finger on her? It was beyond Eli and his blood began to boil with an even greater hatred for Roth.

Jimmy's insights into Scarlet seemed to make the pieces fall into place. Her tough exterior. Her want to travel. And one puzzle piece in particular was now evident - it was that shy hesitance right below the surface that Eli had seen and questioned. Now he knew. A bad relationship had formed that bit of hesitance and now Eli understood. Ryan had been right - it had been from a bad experience.

Remaining silent as Jimmy finishes his explanation, Eli lets his eyes fall to his beer instead of the other man's eyes. He felt way too many things at once right now. He was angry... so angry at Roth. Not only because of Ryan, but now because of Scarlet too. Roth was a genuine scumbag and Eli's hate had grown tenfold. Taking another swig of beer he is still silent. There was also a feeling of something close to betrayal. It was obvious why Scarlet wouldn't have told him about Roth - it was probably painful for her. But Eli would have liked to have known... he didn't like finding out this way. Sure, he hadn't told her about Sasha either, but Sasha hadn't harmed Scarlet's family like Roth had harmed Eli's. And then there was Jimmy. He obviously wasn't to blame for his son's actions, but Eli now had a different perspective... and it was hard to see past that now when looking at Jimmy.

Only halfway through his beer, he leans his elbows on the bar and rubs his hands over his face, trying to keep his temper cool. He wanted to hit something awfully bad, but this time there was a warning to chill... acting without thinking on this one could have a very long list of consequences. "Gimme another shot of whiskey, Jimmy."


Justin's smile widens a little bit. There was something about this woman he liked. Spying an empty chair nearby, he retrieves it and sits right outside Sapphire's cubicle, rather than invading her space. "First of fall, your brother is doing fine and I truly believe that one of these days he'll be able to come home."

He wasn't sure if Scott's sister needed that reassurance or not, but he was willing to give it just in case. "I was just wondering if maybe you could briefly share a little bit about him from your perspective. Maybe what he was like growing up or in school? I'm trying to get the big picture and get to know the Scott that everybody else knows."

Long time ago

Seeing the look in Eli's eyes Jimmy new just from that how much he couldn't stand Roth and how worried he was that Scarlet would be ok. Thinking for a long moment before next setting a beer down on the table for Eli new the story would be long and this might be the only thing to keep him in his seat.

Letting out a sigh Jimmy gives it one more thought about it. Something told him Scarlet would not be upset and might actually feel a little revealed that he had told him knowing she hated telling the story herself. Than if Eli really did care about her he would stick around though Jimmy couldn't help but wonder.

"A long time ago, Roth use to be much different than he is now believe it or not. He use to be kind, gentile and loving. Back than he and Scarlet dated and thats when I first met her. On there first date he brought her home to meet the family."

Looking Eli in the eye Jimmy gives a small nod that Eli had heard him right on his last comment.

"Roth is my son, and he and Scarlet were in love so much. She was such a nice, his mother and I loved having her around the house and she never hesitated to help us if we needed it. We thought for sure one day they would marry."

Letting out a long sigh and turning to pick up some empty glass Jimmy runs a rag through them collecting his thoughts. It was easy to see that this story even pained him to tell.

"About two years after Scarlet and Roth started dating his mother passed away. Her and Roth were very close and it hit him hard. We thought he would bounce back and be ok but he never did. So many things turned wrong, and he slipped farther and farther away from the boy we raised till soon we didnt even know who he was anymore."

Setting the glasses down Jimmy pulls out his own beer and sets it on the counter in the empty spot next to Eli. Walking to the end of the bar and lifting the divider Jimmy steps out and comes back over to where Eli is sitting down on the empty stool. Holding the bottle he doesn't take a sip yet.

"Scarlet stayed with Roth even though he on more than one occasion hit her, and abused her mentally. She still often came to check on me and see how I was doing. When I'd see a new bruise or cut I'd tell her why...why was she staying with my son when she new this was wrong. She would always tell me she new the Roth she had fallen in love with was inside of him still somewhere, and she just needed to wait out the bad."

Finally bringing the beer to his lips Jimmy takes a sip swishing the liquid in his mouth before letting it slide down his throat. Collecting his thoughts before he continued.

"After a bad night, Roth came home to find Scarlet asleep without cooking him dinner. He dragged her out of bed that night and into the kitchen not caring what damage he did along the way. That night ended with a lot of cuts to the face. The scars can hardly be seen if your not looking on her face, along with many you cant see else where. Her nose broken in three places if looking close enough you can see its slightly crooked as a resalt."

Jimmy takes another sip. It was hard to think of his son like this, his boy going from being so sweet to something like this. But her new also it was his own choose and his actions were his own.

"It was that night I took Scarlet battered and blood to the hospital and put a report in on my son for abuse. That night I talked some sense into Scarlet and told her to get out before he killed him. She finally listened to me...and moved. Roth spent a year and a half in jail we hoped when he got out he would have changed though I know Scarlet would never go back to him. But he didn't...jail made his worse."

Looking down at his bottle Jimmy picks at the lable. It would be close to closing time soon here and he didn't mind drinking a cold one knowing not many more people would be in. It helped calm his own nerved and keep him calm from just thinking about what his son had done to Scarlet.

"Since that day I've looked out for Scarlet and kept her close like my own. Her job takes her all over so she can keep her mind busy. Not staying in one place to long but always coming home. I watched her grow hard and tough on the outside keeping people at bay. The boyfriends she has tried to have never worked out and she was smart enough to get out before they got back. And it only made her tougher, but on the inside she had a soft spot that still wants love, and to feel the protection."

Enjoying the last sip of the beer Jimmy looks to Eli as his eyes study the younger man in front of him. Scarlet had been so excited to tell Jimmy about Eli there was something in him she saw, there was what she was looking for in him. He'd penetrated the walls.

"Not many if anything scares that woman, but Roth is a whole new ball game. He puts fear into her eyes. Tonight he must have over heard her talking to me about you. It didnt sit with him well as he still thinks Scarlet should be with him. Her grabbed her, said a few nasty things and than I grabbed him making sure he let her go. Than I told her to leave, and I told Roth to get lost. He's my son but I don't tolerate his behavior."

Continuing to study Eli Jimmy wonders what will happen next and what Eli will do. Be who Scarlet though he was, or walk away forever. Jimmy hoped it would be the first so he could see more smiles on her much deserved face.

What is it

As soon as Eli hears Roth's name, his eyes narrow, his blood running cold. He had no tolerance for that man - absolutely none whatsoever. Just the fact that Roth was still loose and able to do damage was enough to anger Eli.

Had it not been for Jimmy knowing he favored a shot of whiskey, Eli would have already walked out as well. He knew Jimmy looked after Scarlet, but Eli knew several places Roth might be and it wouldn't be too hard to find him. But for now, he stays put, wanting to know exactly what happened before he went after anybody. Not only was Roth still causing damage, but Eli had just lost a date and he was none too happy.

Downing the whiskey, he winces a little and looks to Jimmy, the anger clear in his eyes. "What do you mean they had a run in?" Something told him there was more to this. He wasn't sure why or how, but something in Jimmy's eye said that this was more than just a little roughhousing tonight. "What is it I don't know, Jimmy?"

Quick Run In

Looking up from her cubicle at the sound of a knock and a voice that followed Sapphire gave a smile at Justin. Hearing why he was there and that he was trying to help Scott she was a little surprised. Last she new Dr. Hawks and Hope were Scott's Dr's but maybe Scott needed someone else too so if thats what Justin was trying to do was help her brother than she liked him already.

"Sure, I was just finishing up with my work and I have a little time to spare before meeting my boyfriend so if you make it quick I would be more than happy to talk."

Sapphire's eyes sparkle a little showing that her comment about making it quick was only in a teasing manor. She had about an hour before she was to meet Gage for a movie so she had no problem talking with Justin at all.

Looking up as the door opens again Jimmy was sure it was Roth back for another beer even if he told him to leave. It had happened before playing this game of in and out but tonight he'd pushed Jimmy to far with Scarlet he wasn't messing around anymore.

Seeing it was Eli though he gives a nod as he draws closer coming over to him a little close as well. Hearing his question and seeing the confusion in his eyes Jimmy turns to the little cooler remembering what Eli had to drink last time and giving him the same setting it down on a little napkin.

"Yeah that was Scarlet you saw and I think she did mention something about having drinks with you tonight but that was before she had a quick run in with Roth before I broke it up."

Eying Eli for a moment he can see the confusion still on his face, and for a moment he hesitates. He new what Roth had done to Eli's sister and what Eli in turn had done to Roth. What would he do if he new what Roth had done tonight?

"Scarlet is a pretty special girl and she's like a daughter to me. I'd never let anything bad happen to her again or be put into a situation where she would get hurt. I told her to go home tonight. She didn't need to be here and if she stayed things might of gotten a lot uglyer than they already had."

Searching Eli's face Jimmy wonders if Eli new about Scarlet's past or not. His own face her new it said he new more than he was telling but really was it his place to say anything at all?

A moment to spare

Justin nods and gives Misty a little smile, taking a note as he answers him. He turns to Rick next, his eyes asking the same. "Would you agree?"

"Yeah. He likes classical music too," Rick muses. "Scott's always been pretty simple. Never took much to make him happy, ya know? I feel... very sorry that all this happened to him. He's just not the same Scott we all used to know."

"No, he's not." Justin shakes his head. "But that's why we're helping him... so that hopefully we can bring him back. He'll always have scars but... the old Scott is still there... just buried under a lot of pain."

Sighing deeply, Justin stands up, finished with Rick and Misty. "Thank you both for your time. I appreciate it." He shakes both their hands. "I may be back."

"Um, Justin, before you go..." Rick wanders over to the supply cupboard and pulls out a clean white t-shirt. "On the house. You can use the bathroom back here too if you like."

Justin's grin turns into a laugh and he finally accepts. "Okay. Maybe it would be best if I didn't scare too many other people, huh?" With his wry humor in tact, he disappears for a few minutes, returning with a clean shirt on, along with his face being void of the colored dye. Much more presentable, he nods his appreciation. "Thank you." He gives an extra little wave to Misty. "I'll probably be in touch."

Once he's gone, Rick stands quietly for a moment before turning to Misty. "Well... he seemed nice. I think I like him. Don't know if he can help Scott more than anybody else but... he seemed dedicated. Different, but dedicated."


Hot, sweaty and just a little frustrated from the afternoon at work, Eli finds himself enjoying a hot shower more than normal. The beginning and middle of his day had gone so well - lunch with Scarlet had been as fantastic as usual... he needed to end this day right too. Meeting her at Jimmy's was going to do just the thing.

After grabbing a quick supper and leaving a note for Ryan that he'd be back later, he heads out again, just as it was getting dark. Riding his motorcycle to the bar, he takes the shortest route to get him there right on time. As he's nearing though, he sees a figure leaving the front door. Scarlet?

Pulling up to the curb, Eli is just in time to see that it is indeed her, and she is indeed leaving. All that's left is her taillights disappearing down the street. He doesn't even have time to wave at her or ask her why she was taking off. She had said yes to meeting him, right? And he was here on time, right?

Eli considers pulling back out and following her, but for some reason, his gut tells him not to. Confused, he puts his kickstand down and dismounts, locking his helmet to his bike before heading inside. His wallet's chain jingles as he walks and he takes off his gloves, putting them in his jacket pocket. Entering the bar, he takes a quick glance around before spotting Jimmy. Something just didn't feel... right.

Coming up to the bar, he rests against it, giving Jimmy a nod. "Hey... was Scarlet just in here?" He was genuinely confused. "Thought I was supposed to meet her but I think I just saw her take off. You know anything?"

Run In

Justin seemed nice and Misty was happy to help him. She'd seen many people come and going in her lift without the help of counseling some were strong enough to over come it and some were not. And maybe this time around Justin could help Scott. Not that Misty thought Hope hadn't or she couldn't but now it was a little different since they were dating. One would have a tendincy to hold back where if you had no connection would not.

Hearing Justin's last question Misty sits back and thinks for a moment. There were many things Scott liked that always mad him happy, how could she pick three.

"Well I guess since your making me pick only three out of the hundreds of things that make him happy I would say..taking pictures, Hope, and Domino his dog."

Giving Justin a pleasant smile Misty looks to Rick before Justin again. It was so hard picking but those were maybe the three most important that Misty though made Scott smile."

Than once again the sun starts to set the time moving on not stopping for anyone. Moving thought the day for some all to fast but for other not fast enough. The night would hold many different thing some good and some bad. But in a bar across town a motorcycle was heard pulling up a little early tonight but there non the less.

Entering the bar a little early than planned Scarlet didnt care. It had been a few days since she had talked to Jimmy and with everything going on she had to admit she was excited to talk with him.

Looking up from the glass he was polishing up Jimmy smiles seeing Scarlet. He'd hopped for one reason she wouldn't have come tonight of all nights but now she was here and he couldn't tell her to leave. He could only hope no trouble would be started.

Taking note to the wide smile on Scarlet's face Jimmy new something good must have happened to her. It had been a long time since he saw her smile like that, and the twinkle in her eye...he'd seen it before for a little while but to see it again it made her eyes even more amazing than they already where. Waiting until she was a little closer so he didnt have to draw to much attachen Jimmy finally greets her.

"If I didn't know any better by that smile on your face I'd say you where very happy with how your bike came out?"

Sitting down at the bar and leaning forward Scarlet didn't even have a chance to scan the room to see who else was there. She new Eli wouldn't be she was early and she was to excited about talking with Jimmy to bother.

"It turned out better than being very happy with it. Eli did a beautiful job on it. Not only that Jimmy...I scored a man out of the deal too. Made it official today when he told everyone where he works I was his girlfriend."

Jimmy own smile forms even bigger on his face as her hear Scarlet's good new. She had been through so much she deserved to have something good to happen to her and so far from what he new and ever say the last time Eli was here he was a good guy.

"I'm so happy for you Scarlet. You better hold onto him huh?"

Though Jimmy was happy his face seemed to drop a little slightly. His eyes seeming to narrow, he was wrong now there would be trouble he new it.

"Don't you start."

Moving one of the stools out of the way and leaning on the bar facing Scarlet the smell of liquor on his breath. Roth gives a snicker, Jimmy words being ignored as his hand moves across the bar counter to Scarlet's hand.

"So your dating the great Eli McKade now huh? Didn't you know you once your mine your always mine. So Mr. McKade is out of luck."

Moving her hand away from Roth's quickly almost like it was on fire Scarlet glares at him. Her own smile gone, her own tone gone cold.

"I'm not your girl and I haven't been for a long time Roth now get lost."

The blood all seemed to rush to Roth's face at Scarlet's comment making his anger rang a little more. Grabbing her arm and holding it all to tightly He pulls her twords him in a rough angry mannor, snearing.

"You are mine, and Eli should be the one who stays out of my way, and you should learn to respet me. You wont be anything ever, and as soon as Eli see right through you He'll drop you so fast. Your just a peace of trash and you belong with scum like me."

Seeing quite enough Jimmy steps in reaching out and taking Roth by the collar of his shirt and pulling him over the bar a little. For being older Jimmy still had quite the strength.

"Let her go Roth now before I make you wish you never came in here today."

Waiting for Roth to let go of Scarlet Jimmy can see the fear in this strong woman's eyes and it killed him a little inside. She was strong and could handle herself until it came to Roth who scared her to death.

"Scarlet why don't you go home for tonight ok?"

Looking back to Roth Jimmy's eyes narrow not letting go of him right away.

"And you best get home too before I call the cops."

Letting go of Roth his eyes never leave him making sure Scarlet gets out first without any other problems from Roth.

Knowing Jimmy new best and only wanted what was best for her Scarlet moves away from the bar. Her date with Eli tonight totally forgotten as she was to upset. Making her way out quickly Scarlet heads to her bike putting the helmet on and revving her engine a signal to Jimmy she had made it there ok. In a few moments she off, and it would take no time to get home.

Just glairing at Jimmy Roth looked as though he wanted to say something, or even take a swing at Jimmy but something in his eyes showed hesitance. Jimmy would be true to his word and call the cops if he didnt back off. Turning without saying anything more Roth leaves the bar and heads to his car waiting a few moment before peeling out of the driveway, way to fast and heading to where ever his destination might be.

Obvious

Rick nods as Misty speaks, agreeing with her about Scott's condition. When she looks at him, he takes his cue to pick up where she'd left off and he places his attention back on Justin. "In essence, we believe Scott doesn't even realize when he's hungry. Whether his stomach is telling his brain it's hungry or not, I don't think his brain registers it anymore just because of all the trauma he's been through. Like Misty said, it's like he's still starving."

Justin purses his lips, the look in his eye more than just gathering information - he was processing it and trying to solve it. "Do you think it's something that can be overcome?"

Rick is doubtful. "In all honesty? I don't think it is. I think this is something that will follow Scott the rest of his life. Which is why it's important he have at least one person close to him who is willing to help keep him on track, because he doesn't even know when he's skipping meals." He pauses, trying to sum it up in his own mind. "I think Scott was abused to the point of no return on this one."

Justin can hear the sadness in Rick's tone, and can see it in Misty's eyes too. These people weren't just coworkers or just Scott's doctors... they were his friends and they cared about him very much. "Is there anything else you believe is irreversible?"

Rick leans back in his chair to think, exchanging another look with Misty. "His immune system is shot. Some of that can be built back up, but I doubt he will ever be a hundred percent healthy again, even if we can get him to eat right. So far he hasn't gotten too sick, but if he catches a cold or virus, he'll go down pretty quick and hard just because his body has nothing left to fight it. Which again... is why his eating habit is important so at least he can be getting the nutrients he needs. Right now... he has nothing to fight with, not even extra weight."

"Yeah, I noticed that." Justin makes a couple more notes, then just sits for a moment, thinking. It was hard not to notice Scott's extremely thin frame. "Okay, well... anything else you can think of that might be helpful for me to know?"

Rick shrugs, really not sure if there was or not. "You know about his eye."

"Yep. That was included in the report about the initial incident. He seems to have adjusted well."

"He has - better than I expected. Some days I think he wishes he were normal, then other days he'll scare Susanne on purpose with it." Rick chuckles. "He's got a good sense of humor there - just hasn't been seen much lately."

"I noticed him rubbing his wrist yesterday."

"Mmm... yeah, he cracked that once a while back, before the Agency deal. Had a quarrel with another guy here over a girl."

Justin raises an eyebrow. "Really?"

"Yeah..." Rick shakes his head. "Other guy had a temper, blamed Scott for stealing his girl and beat him to a pulp."

"Ouch. How did he respond?"

Rick remembered it well. "The only thing he wanted was for the girl not to know. She was close to the other guy too and Scott didn't want to hurt her. He was scared of the other guy for a while but never angry that I could see."

"Didn't get the girl anyway though?"

"No..." Rick grins wryly. "Scott did get engaged to her but... it just wasn't meant to be. She ended up with the other guy."

"Nice." Justin smirks a little.

"Surprisingly enough... Scott and this guy are pretty good friends now. Both of them have managed to put the past behind them and call a truce. I think a lot of it's for the girl's sake."

"He's got guts."

"Scott's got more than guts," Rick states flatly. "He's got honor. Respect. And more endurance than anyone gives him credit for. He deserves a medal for making it this far."

Justin nods thoughtfully. "So then he wound up with Hope?"

"Yeah. Rick made him see a counselor and she was it. I guess technically it was after Scott's sessions were over that they started dating. But he's refusing to see her, huh?"

"Mm-hmm." Justin taps his pen on the notepad. "I think it's a temporary state of mind though. The Scott that's at Brookshire right now isn't the real Scott. He was doing well though, wasn't he?"

"He was. At least we thought he was. He was eating well... picking up weight... happy. Then the Agency garbage cropped up again and it sent him on this downward spiral."

Jason takes a few more notes and converses for a little while longer with both Rick and Misty, gleaning all he could. They were a wealth of information and he was glad they'd been on his list to talk to. Finding he had just about exhausted this resource, he's almost ready to close his notebook. "Thank you both very much for sharing with me - it's been extremely helpful. I do have one question left..." His gaze is aimed at Misty first. "If you had to pick three things that made Scott happy... what would they be?"


Eli watches Scarlet take off, keeping an eye on her bike until it was out of sight.

"Yo, Mr. Popular..."

Eli turns around quickly at the sound of Tal's voice. "You talking to me?"

Tal gives him a little smirk. "Yes. You got brains enough left to help me finish on this Mustang or do I have to report it as a late job?"

Eli is quick to shed his jacket and aim for the small locker room. "I will be right with you."

"Uh-huh. Bring your brain back when you come."

"Who says it was gone in the first place?"

"Man, your brain was on that bike with that girl."

Eli throws Tal an inquisitive look. "That obvious?"

"Yes. Now hurry up."

Eli grins and does as he's told. Keeping busy would be a good way to end the day quickly. Then he'd have plenty of time to go home and get cleaned up before heading to Jimmy's after supper.

Call out!

Trying to sit up in bed Hope felt so woozy. Her head was spinning and her body was hurting so much. It felt like she had pulled everything only worse. What was this she had got? It had to be more than a cold, maybe the flu but something still felt off.

Standing Hope becomes extremely dizzy and falls back down onto the bed again. She had to go to work today, she had to go to the hospital today...she had to get up. Just having the few simply thoughts got though her mind made her growing headache worse.

Raching over and grabbing her cell phone from her night stand Hope new when something would be to much and there was just no way she could go into work today no matter how hard she wanted to. Dialing Reese's number she waits till getting his voice mail.

"Her Reese...Its Hope."

Her voice was low and a little raspy as she talked but she hope Reese would be able to understand her anyways.

"I'm not going to make it into work today. I'm still really sick and I can hardly sit up. Once I am off the phone here with your voicemail here I am going to call my Dr. I'll make my house up later in the week when I am feeling better. Thanks."

Hanging up the phone with Reese Hope was true to her word and set up a dr's apt tomorrow morning. Putting the phone back on the nightstand Hope slowly crawls under the covers again and pulls them up almost over her head to keep the sun light out...sleep...yes more sleep would help.

Grinning up at Eli Scarlet's eyes twinkle even more. He made her feel so good, and special. It was something she hadn't felt in so long and now to feel it from Eli it was amazing.

"I think meeting at Jimmy's tonight would be a great idea. I can't leave one of my closest friend out of the loop on who's my guy now."

Leaning into Eli again for a quick moment Scarlet presses her lips to his for a quick soft kiss goodbye before retreating and giving his hand a gentile squeeze. Going over to her bike and getting on Scarlet put her helmet on her head but waits to push it down looking over at Eli one last time.

"I'll see you tonight."

Giving a click of her tong at Eli and a half wave to the other coworkers that had moseyed into the area Scarlet pushes her helmet the rest of the way down onto her head. Starting up her bike it purred like a kitten. Giving it an extra rev before heading out Scarlet was off.

Looking up from her desk as the newcomer enters Misty gives him a friendly smile that grew a little at the mention of him being here for Scott. This mad must be very dedicated to his pashent to come all the way here not even stopping to clean up before him. Misty couldnt help but respect him for that.

"Hi Justin its nice to meet you."

Standing from her desk and joining Rick and Justin at the table Misty sits crossing her legs as she waits. Hearing his first question Misty thinks for a moment. She really hadn't dealt with Scott's eating much but she does try to remember what she had read and when she had helped him a few different times.

"After Scott got back to us his eating habit just wasn't the same. Oh sure he'd eat if someone reminded him or forced him so he wouldn't get sick again. I think being held captive by the Agency they didn't feed Scott very much if at all and to block that out Scott's stomach kind of blocked the hungry pains. Than coming back here his stomach just didn't go back to normal and not really having normal eating patterns it never got better again because his stomach was still thinking it was being starved."

Pausing Misty looked to Rick hoping she got it right so she could be helpful...this was just one question she could only guess on really as she didn't deal with it much first hand.

Clarification

Eli sighs and turns back around to Scarlet's bike. "Yeah... I should probably finish out the day." He gives her shoulders an extra little squeeze, showing he wished he didn't have to work any more today. Then an idea occurs to him.

"How about meeting up for a drink at Jimmy's tonight? I could be there by eight and... you could let me know how your bike's doing after you've taken it out for a spin to show off it's new look."

He grins down at Scarlet, his eyes twinkling. "And... I can show off the fact that you're mine."


Turning a little as Dalton stands, Justin can't help but look up at him for a moment... way up. He could see Dalton was a big man but had had no idea how tall he was. It was probably just as well he was leaving now instead of irritating this man further. He had more questions but... they would wait.

Nodding his farewell, Justin exits the office. Looking both ways, he flips through his folder again, finding another set of names. Glancing down the row of doors, he isn't sure where he's going, but he follows his instincts and sure enough, he makes it to the infirmary where the door was open.


"Ouch!" Alec glares at Rick as the cut on his hand is cleaned. "No, it was a piece of metal I was helping Hal move. It slipped and... yeah." He grimaces. "Stitches?"

"Nah." Rick pokes and prods without much mercy before going for the gauze and tape. "I'm getting tired of bandaging you up though."

"Hey, the dog wasn't my fault, and neither was this."

Rick gives him a little smirk. "I'm beginning to think you're accident prone."

"What?!" Alec resumes his glare, only to find that Rick is trying not to smile. "Oh, you think you're so funny."

"Yeah, well... best place to get you is in the ego." Rick tears off the end of the tape, leaving a neat bandage on Alec's hand. "Good as new. Now please... stay out of trouble."

Alec turns from the counter. "Sure. Maybe if I could get out of here once in a while I wouldn't keep getting-" His voice trails off as he suddenly notices the stranger in the doorway. "What the..." His eyes widen a little at the man who was blue... green... red?

Justin gives a nod at the faces looking back at him. "Hello. Sorry to interrupt."

Rick blinks and takes a moment to find his voice. "Uh, no... it's fine. Can we... uh, help you?"

"I hope so."

Alec chokes on a snicker. "Showers are down the hall."

Justin looks Alec in the eye, not cracking a smile. "Thank you. You must be Alec."

Alec folds his arms, now on guard. "And you are?"

"Justin. Here to see Rick and Misty... but I need to see you afterward, so don't wander off too far, okay?"

"You kidding me? I don't have to listen to some crazy guy who fell under a shelf of open paint cans."

"I'm a counselor... Alec." Justin remains calm and cool. "I'd like to talk to you about Scott Johnson when I'm finished here. So please. I'm asking you to stick around."

For Scott? Alec retracts a little, rethinking his next move. This guy was from Brookshire? He looked like a loony himself. But... if this was about Scott... "Okay. I'll be in the break room."

"Thank you." Justin steps to the side, letting Alec pass before looking to Rick. "I apologize for the intrusion. I've been working with Scott for the last couple days and I came here to get a better picture of his world."

Rick had to admit he was impressed someone had actually come all the way out here for information like that, instead of just sticking to paperwork and reports from the other doctors. Not to mention, it appeared Justin already had Alec pegged. "What happened to Dr. Hawks?"

"Scott wasn't... responding well. And him refusing to see Hope as well... I was called in."

"He's refusing to see Hope?"

Justin steps a little closer, his eyes shifting to the woman nearby. "Misty, I presume. May I have a few moments of both your time?"

Rick looks to Misty, then back to Justin. "Can I get you anything first? Uh... clean... clothes?"

Justin finally smiles and shakes his head. "Had a little war game this morning and haven't had time to change. As long as you don't mind, I don't."

"No, no." Rick glances at Misty once more, giving a little shrug, then he gestures Justin to the table on the wall. "Let's sit."

Once settled with Rick and Misty, Justin opens his file folder and retrieves his notepad. "I wanted to talk to you two about Scott's medical condition. Things I might need to watch for. Dr. Hawks believes he has a eating disorder and I wanted to get clarification on that as well."


Scott sits on his bed, his knees pulled up to his chest with his arms around his legs. His hair was still wet from his shower and he felt a little refreshed but tired and sore. Things with Justin were different. He said things differently than other people. He didn't poke or prod, yet still made Scott think.

A part of Scott was empty though... lonely. His eyes go to the window and he wonders if Hope had come today like she always had. It was strange not seeing her every day. But... he couldn't see her... not yet. He just didn't feel... ready.

Sinking down onto his pillow, Scott pulls the blanket up over himself. "Are you giving it your best shot?"

Back to it

Being pulled into the kiss and feeling Eli's arm around her it made Scarlet feel safe so she just melted into his arm. Leaning into him a little more so she didn't fall right there onto the floor. The softness of the kiss but the passion that lied in it just seemed to mix so well. One was not greater than the other.

Though she wished the moment never would end but knowing it had to she still keeps her arms around Eli. The tingle that had formed from the kiss still lingering. Hearing his comment it made her chuckle a little, oh how she wished she did have another bike.

"Who knows, maybe I'll let you do some more on this one I..."

Not able to say more as a more shocked tone it heard Scarlet turns a little so she is slipped beside Eli and she can see who entered. Her own arm around his wast in the back now as her other rested on his middle.

Hearing Eli had been working a few extra house at night on her bike Scarlet can't help the grin on her lips as she looks up at Eli and than back at Brian again. Snapping her head back at Eli again as he lets Brian know she was his girlfriend Scarlet's grin turns to a full smile as her eyes twinkled and sparkled. It was different, and made her a little bit nervous knowing she had a boyfriend again but that small feeling was overcome but a greater warmth. Eli was a great guy, and he interacted with his family and friends so well Scarlet new he was ok.

"I guess I should let you get back to work again huh?"

Looking down at her bike again Scarlet was so proud to have Eli's ink on her bike. He was so lovely and without him even knowing it he had put purple behind the paint she wanted and it just mixed so well. Anyone could see in her eyes as she looked at the bike how much she liked it.

Lucky dog

Seeing how much Scarlet liked the paint job, Eli is both relieved and pleased. As she turns and comes closer, he stares back into her eyes, allowing himself the simple pleasure of studying their depths. As her arms slip around his neck, his hands automatically wrap around her waist.

Her first kiss is soft and warm, her words making him feel good about himself, his artwork and how he'd pleased her. He's about to respond when he's cut off by her second kiss, but he doesn't mind. His eyes fall shut and his arms tighten around her as he returns her kiss with a passion that is slow and gentle, but deep and meaningful.

Eventually their lips part and Eli smiles, leaning a little to rest his forehead against hers. "Got another bike I can paint for you?"

"Whoa...." Brian swaggers in through a side door, skidding to a stop as he sees Eli and Scarlet in their embrace. His eyebrows rise and he blinks, looking to Eli for an explanation as he sets his hands on his hips. "So... am I to assume that this is the customer you've been staying up late for as you've worked on that bike?"

Eli pulls back a little from Scarlet, showing no embarrassment for being caught. One arm stays slung over her shoulders and he looks at Brian with humor in his eyes. "No, this isn't just a customer, Brian. This happens to be my girlfriend."

Brian's eyebrows rise even farther. "Ohhh... I see."

Eli gives him a little smirk and waves his off. "Go clock in and quit gawking."

Back in the corner, no one had noticed that this entire time, Tal had been sitting quietly at the tool bench. A little smile was on his face, his head cocked as he watches the nearby interaction. You lucky dog. She caught you after all.

O.O O.O SORRY!!!!! O.O O.O

Dalton keeps his eyes on Justin continuing to just watch him. It wasn't just Justen it was most people he didn't know that he kept such a watchful eye over. It was just something he always did.

Standing as Justin starts to leave Dalton gives him a nod. He was surprised that was the only question he had to him but maybe it was best for now anyways.

"If you want to come back you can but a call first would be good."

Watching as Justin left the office Dalton sits down behind his desk again letting out a long sigh before returning to his work.

The thought of having Eli steal her away was a bit exciting and Scarlet though he might like that. Getting away from everything for a while and just having a nice time that sounded great.

Heading in and getting settled lunch was great. The small talk was nice and Scarlet truly enjoyed herself. Just spending time with Eli was nice along, and even when they were a break in the talk and all was silent it was still nice.

Once lunch came to an end Scarlet had to admit she was a bit sad. It would be nice having her own bike back but she really was going to miss her rides with Eli. Finally getting there and being led to here her bike was with Eli's hands over her eyes Scarlet can't help the smile that spread across her lips. This was kind of exciting.

Having Eli lowers his hands and having her bike presented to her Scarlet's eyes grow a little. Stepping forward to her bike Scarlet runs her fingers over the bike and the pictures that Eli had put on them. Watching the colors change a little as she moved with the light the smile on Scarlet's face grows even more.

"Oh Eli...its even better than I though. It's amazing."

Coming over to Eli Scarlet puts her arms around his neck looking deep into his eyes for a long moment. Biting her lip a little she taking a few steps twords Eli she pushes his back up aganst a car that was behind him. Bringing her lips to Eli she brushes her aganst his for a soft kiss before pulling away a little.

"Your amazing, thank you so much. You did an amazing job. I think I can defiantly be your girl now."

Giving sly grin she new that they pretty much already were an item she just wanted to say it for the fun of it. Bringing her lips to Eli's again Scarlet press them to his more firmly this time not in any hurry to break it off as she lets her emotions from through to Eli and her thanks to him being known.

Hoping

Justin keeps his eyes on his notes as Dalton's tone grows rougher. He hadn't known what to expect, so there was no surprise but it didn't make the atmosphere comfortable. He'd only said what he had because Dalton had said it was lonely here without Scott. Apparently Justin had misread that one though. He holds his tongue as Dalton finally answers his question, though the assumption he'd ask which order those things went in made him a little irritated.

"By Hope, I'm assuming you mean his girlfriend." He grabs a pen and writes a couple notes. He wouldn't comment on these things... he'd let his mind mull over the information for a while and keep his thoughts to himself. It was interesting though, the things Dalton had listed. Justin wondered if others would say the same or if answers would vary.

Turning his head a little to study Dalton for a moment, Justin finally gets to his feet. He'd had more questions, but he was clearly not wanted in this office. "Thank you for your time, Dalton. I appreciate you pausing your work to talk with me." If he wasn't on the job, he'd have a few extra choice words to say, but he refrains. He picks up his folder again and gives Dalton a nod. "I may come back sometime, but if you'd prefer, I can call beforehand to give you a heads-up."


Eli grins as he dismounts his bike to join Scarlet. "Mmm... stealing you away sounds like an adventure I could handle. We might have to try that one sometime."

Slinging an arm over her shoulders, he leads the way inside and they settle down to eat a quiet lunch filled mostly with smalltalk.

Eventually though, Eli knows he has to get back to work, so it's off again, but this time to the shop. Parking in back, he takes Scarlet to the far bay that was open. Walking behind her, he puts his hands over her eyes and guides her in the right direction. Knowing that most of the other guys were still at lunch, Eli knew he wouldn't get in trouble for playing around.

Stopping in front of Scarlet's bike, Eli lowers his hands from her eyes and waits for her reaction, hoping beyond hope that she liked it.

Get Out!

Continuing to hold his arms across his chest Dalton watches as Justin looks around the room and than comes around to sit behind Scott's desk. He didn't mind, it wasn't Scott's chair only the chair Scott sat in. His voice still low and rough he didn't appreciate being told something he already new about his friend, like he didn't know anything about Scott.

"I am fully aware there is a great chance Scott might never come back here. You don't need to tell me that like your trying to council me.. Now ask me your questions or get out!"

Dalton know his tone was rough but at this point he didn't care. Like he'd already told Justin he didn't like councilors and he'd rather not have him here.

As the question is asked Dalton relaxes just a little bit. It was easy to answer that but he could think or more than three so he'd sum two up in the same.

"Hope, Mountain Dew and Jerky, and his dog Domino. But there is more than that, and no I could never pick what ones came in what order."

Three things

People like Justin? He can feel Dalton's dislike of his presence, and he shifts his weight a little, considering his options here. His appearance probably didn't help matters, though he wasn't going to apologize for it. Bad experiences taught people to hate counselors and Justin wonders at Dalton's own history.

"Thank you." He nods at Dalton's agreement to talk even if he didn't want to. Justin wanders closer to the desk, looking at a few pictures on the walls and scanning the office as a whole. Seeing the extra chair, he surmises that it must be where Scott used to sit.

Coming around to the back of the desk, Justin is careful not to look at what Dalton is working on, as he knew it was private TJY work, but he does take the liberty of sitting in Scott's chair. He's silent for several long moments as he leans back and gets a feel for where Scott sat every day. One could see the doorway so there would be no surprise visits, yet if one leaned forward to concentrate on the computer, the monitor would hide him in his own little world. Except for Dalton... They could have had separated desks, but they didn't - they'd been sitting side-by-side apparently. Scott must have trusted Dalton a lot to allow that close proximity.

Setting his folder down, Justin continues to ponder. "You'll have to excuse my colorful appearance," he mentions. "Scott and I had a little war this morning." Thinking some more, he pauses again. "You know, Dalton... I can see that you must be pretty good friends with Scott... he obviously trusts you, and that says a lot. Even if I can help him through this low time though... that's not a guarantee that he'll be back here. I was informed that he has officially resigned from the Elite. Sometimes we need drastic changes in our life to get going in the right direction again. It may be good if Scott finds a different occupation after this. He's the only one that can decide that though."

Justin sits up straight and opens his folder, sifting through his notes. "If you had to pick three things that make Scott happy, what would they be?"

Many Memories

Hearing Justin's comment it hits deep and home in Beth's heart. He was right no matter what the time was when she came, and when she went it always was a long visit.

"Your right it is always a long stay, but I'd never miss a day."

Turning a little more to say something else to Justin Beth see that he has already turned around himself and was now heading to his truck like a zombie. Not being able to help it a laugh breaths forth and a smile spreads on her lips staying there for a bref moment before it was gone again.

Facing the hospetil again once more Beth makes her way inside again slowly walking down the halls she had been to so many times now. Brefly stopping at the nurses station she chats with the nurse on how her sister was doing and if today was a good day for Sarah. Finding out it was Beth nods and continues to head to her sister room.

"Sarah its me."

Knocking lightly on the door before entering Beth gives a smile to her sister who was sitting by the window. She was dressed for the day since Beth had come a little later someone else had done it. All she had to do was get her jacket on and than they could go for there walk.

"Hey there..see I told you I'd be here once again today and its a wonderful day outside too."

Now in the room with her sister Beth's eyes, voice and whole demeanor just seemed to soften. Taking her sister jacket she slowly takes her arms and puts them into the sleaves before zipping it up.

"Oh man...I think I'm going to have to buy you a new jacket this one is getting small on you. Any idea what color you might like?"

Searching her sister's lifeless eyes Beth tryed looking for an answer wanting to be able to get her sister what she wanted, but getting no answer or not even a clue it was hard.

"How about purple...I know you love that color."

Taking her sister hand she helps her up out of the chair as they slowly walk out of the room. Moving slow Beth didn't care how long it took..as long as she got Sarah up and moving thats what mattered to her.

"How about we walk about the flower gardens, I know the flowers are just starting and they look so pretty...just like you."

Eyeing Justin as he entered the office Dalton stays on guard. He normally didn't like people he didn't know just walking into his and Scott's office but earlier he had seen this man talking with Reese so he must be ok right?

Sitting back in his chair and crossing his arms over his chest Dalton's thinks for a long moment considering a few things. If Justin was helping Scott than it would be a good thing to let him answer questions right? He'd never liked councilors though since he had been forced to go to one himself and the only reason he was ok with Hope was because He little buddy was so in love with her.

Finally answering Justin Dalton's voice is low and a little rough to match his appearance. This was for Scott, he'd do it for him.

"I don't like people like you picking my brain but if helps Scott I'll answer a few questions. It's lonely not having him around here."

Sliding her helmet on and getting onto the back of Eli's bike it was familiar now, and just came natural. Wrapping her arms around her wast and giving a little squeeze herself to hug him.

The ride was long and Scarlet loved it never wishing it would end at tims she would just get lost. Even resting her hand on Eli's back for a moment to signal her approval. But soon the ride comes to an end as they pull up to Mom and Pop's. She'd eaten here once before but not since it came under new management she could only hope it was still as good.

Returning his kiss softly Scatlet's on arm that was still around Eli tightens just a little. Even the soft kiss he gave were nice, and there was just something about them.

Leaning her chin over his shoulder Scarlet gives a little sigh. She'd miss these rides, and by Eli's tone he would too.

"Mmm...yes you better make this one a good one. Than again though I wouldn't say this would be the last ride. Maybe my bike will break down a lot giving me the chance to ride some more with you."

Giving a small chuckle Scarlet gets off the bike and stands waiting for Eli to follow suit and get off as well. Her leather jacket crinkling a little as she waited the wind blowing her hair softly.

"You could always just come steal me away too that might be fun."

The ride was quiet with lots of music but Karla didn't mind. There was nothing to fear in the still sound of silence though she was full of her own energy that caused her to sing along to the music every once in a while before remembering someone else was in the car and feeling silly.

Coming to the rest stops were nice as she could stretch her legs and chat with the others. Carrying her desposible camra with her she made sure to take lost of pictures. Alice had asked if once they were devloped if she could take a look at them and use them. It made Karla feel good that she would want too.

Once back in the car with Kip Karla looks over to him and smile giving a nod.

"I'm holding up good. Was nervous at first but...I think things are going to be fine."

Moving a little closer to him and putting her head against his Karla pulls the camera up quick and takes a picture of them together. One of the many memories they would share.