Fiance

"Alrighty. I'll meet you at the house in a while." Mick ends the call and tucks his phone back in his pocket. It would be nice to get out of here for a while. He loved the ranch, but sometimes getting away was a good thing... especially on days like today.

Once lunchtime rolls around, Mick ambles to the house and inside to grab the truck keys and his wallet. Seeing Rosetta, he manages half a grin, but the pain in his lip reminds him not to smile too widely. He knew she'd notice his small injury right off the bat, but wasn't sure he wanted her to know his argument with Eric had gone that far.

"Ready to go?"


Pete sighs deeply as he listens to Trey. He wasn't surprised, but he'd hoped for a better reaction. "I guess if I was in your shoes I'd probably feel the same way," he admits. "I'm sorry to have sprung this on you."

He bites his lower lip as he thinks. "I respect your decision, Trey. But before you throw it all out completely just know two things - one, feel free to ask the two resident doctors about pregnant women. They'll tell you it's possible not to detect twins, sometimes even with medical equipment." Pete was far from an expert, but he'd heard enough stories.

"And two..." He pauses, not sure how to say what he wanted, without revealing too much. "I know your... about your mother." In reality, he was friends with Cindy and respected her very much for all she'd been through and for how she'd raised Jason. "And I know that never would she have chosen not to know about you, and if she were to know about you now, she would never turn her back - ever. No matter what kind of family you're from now." He searches Trey's eyes. "You have my word on that... as your friend."

Sliding from his seat, he picks up the file he'd brought in. "If you change your mind at any time, just tell me. In the meantime, I haven't eaten yet, so if you wanna join me for some lunch, its on me."


Jason grins, a bit of humor returning to his eyes.
Or what? You couldn't bear to punish me. You love me too much.

Jeff quirks an eyebrow and looks between Katie and Jason before smirking. "You guys are getting worse at hiding your conversations, you know that?"

Jason shifts his gaze and gives him a look of innocence. "What ever do you mean?"

"I mean most people don't sit around grinning for no reason. I'm gonna start making you two talk aloud."

Jason can't help a laugh and he shakes his head. "You're as bad as a teacher making students read the notes they pass."

"Exactly." Jeff winks at Katie, knowing she knew he'd never pry. It was just fun to tease.

Trent rolls his eyes and looks up at Thirteen, nodding. "I think cheese and crackers sound great - anything to quiet this crazy bunch."

"You think a snack will do that?" Ryder quips. He returns the squeeze to Thirteen's hand under the table.

"Nah, you're right." Trent stands up and stretches, cringing a little as he straightens his tired muscles.

Ryder can't help a little smile, catching how Thirteen and Trent both stretched their arms in a similar manner. He gives her hand another wriggle with his fingers. "Want some help in the kitchen, or do you have it under control?"

Just then, the cordless phone rings right beside Jason, making him jump. Taking it from the table, he tosses it to Katie to let her answer it.

On the other end, it was a familiar voice that greets her. "Hey, Katie. It's your uncle Eric. Listen, I'm on the road and I got a stop in Nevada. I heard Trent and your dad were with you so I thought I'd pop in with... my fiance, and say hi. We'll be in the area tomorrow if that would be okay. I know it's short notice though, so if you don't have time, it's okay."


Justin can't help it that Beth's hand on his forehead, though brief, felt good. He nods and waves her out. "Take your time. I'm not going anywhere."

And he didn't. During the next couple hours, most of his time was spent asleep, though he did manage to get up and takes a shower, shave and put on some clean clothes. That in itself made him feel better, though he was still quite sleepy and got dizzy if he moved around too much.

Settled back on the couch after cleaning up, he falls back to sleep again, hoping Beth would know just to let herself in when she returned.


Kip shrugs at Karla's suggestion of a movie. His dim eyes show that he truly didn't care. Nothing seemed to interest him at all. "I won't stop you."

He takes another slow bite of soup and finally pushes the rest away, having eaten about half a bowl. "You can watch in the living room or my room - I don't care."

Getting up, he takes his bowl to the sink. "Won't be my room for much longer anyway," he mutters under his breath.


The scenery never changed. Scott stands at the window, feeling as though time simply didn't exist anymore. His mind had been full all day about what Dr. Hawks had said to him. And even though he fought it, he had realized the doctor was right - he needed more to live for than he had been. It hurt, thinking about surviving without Hope. But deep down, he knew she would want him to keep going, even after she was gone. He wasn't sure how to keep on, still feeling the sting of betrayal. But there had to be a way.... someway. A second talk with Dr. Hawks proved the future was still lost in a fog, but it was there...somewhere. And somehow Scott would leave this place... somehow, he really would survive.

He sighs and drops his hand from the cool glass. His blind eye hurt today. It seemed to always get worse the more stressed he felt. It was always a cruel reminder of what he'd endured.

"Scott?"

He whirls around, not having heard Jenny's soft knock at the door. Calming his racing heart, he looks at her with question. "Yeah?"

She smiles kindly and enters his room, joining him at the window. "Dr. Hawks just spoke with me."

Her voice sounded funny. Scott's suspicious rise and he tries to read her face. "About...?"

"Hope."

The blood drains from Scott's face. This was it. He knew it was. His hand grips the little table by the window, turning his knuckles white. "A-a-and?

Jenny can't help the new smile that spreads on her face. "She's going to be okay, Scott. She woke up and the cancer is completely gone."

Stunned, all Scott can do for a moment is stare at her, dumbfounded. "She... it is?"

"Uh-huh." Jenny reaches out to touch his arm. "Looks like you'll get to see her again after all."

Half and hour later, Scott was seated on his bed, silent tears streaming down his face. Even though he'd found that he had to focus on more than Hope in order to live, knowing that she was still here... it gave him more courage than she would probably ever know. She was more than just what he hung on to. She was his rock. She always had been. He was learning that he could survive on other things... but he'd rather have that solid care and support to stand on.

Wiping his eyes with his sleeve, he sniffs. Somehow with the joyous news, a little bit of his anger had disappeared. He had so much to be grateful for right now, it was hard to stay mad at others who had tried their best to help him. But... but they'd still betrayed his trust. Those he'd thought he could trust the most... Justin... Dalton... Sapphire... They'd all kept him in the dark about someone he so deeply loved. While his anger seemed to be subsiding, it was turning into a form of confusion on what to do now.

The ringing phone just about makes him jump out of his skin. Would he ever stop being so scared? Taking a deep breath and sniffing again, he answers, his voice raspy and quiet. "Hello?"

"Hi, Scott."

"Reese?"

"Yes."

Scott swallows hard. What did Reese want? Maybe he didn't know that he'd already been informed about Hope. "They... they told me about Hope."

"I'm glad." Reese's tone was mild and gentle. "It's great news, huh?"

"Yeah."

Reese lets a short pause linger. "Scott, I... I'm calling because I need your help."

Scott tenses. "With... with what?"

"A case. Well, it's not much of a case yet, but it might turn into one. I... know this might be difficult for you, so if you don't want to do this, I understand."

Scott's fingers dig into the blanket on his bed. "What is it?"

Reese does his best not to get excited or agitate Scott. He'd asked Dr. Hawks' permission to do this, and really was needing help. "Well, you see, a while back, Mick Henson's son, Dylan - he got into a bit of trouble. Come to find out, he'd been manipulated and lots of stuff that happened really wasn't his fault. Mick wonders if the Agency had something to do with it."

Scott stands up and starts to pace, rubbing his forehead nervously. "That... that was recent though."

"Yes... but you know the Agency sometimes plans things years in advance. I... I was wondering if you-"

"No," Scott states flatly. He wasn't going to try and dig. He wasn't going to try and call up Agency data. He could risk falling into that nightmarish vortex, never to get back out again. No, he couldn't. He just couldn't.

"A boy's life may be at stake, Scott," Reese prompts gently. "We need to know if-"

"Even if I know nothing, that doesn't mean it wasn't the Agency."

"I know. But it also might indicate we'd need to investigate more recent avenues."

Scott is silent for several long moments. "No. I...I can't. I can't do it. I don't know how."

"Alright. That's okay. I just wanted to ask. You take care now, okay?"

"Yeah." Ending the call, Scott feels a lurch in his stomach as he returns to his window. He'd been working so hard at deflecting Agency data, he had no idea what would happen if he tried to recall it himself. He had no triggers, which meant it would all be him. He couldn't. He just couldn't. Especially not without someone else with him to make sure he didn't spiral out of control.

But as he stares out into the dim world, guilt tugged at his heart. He knew Mick's son was just a teenager. If the Agency had gotten him into trouble, it probably hadn't been a pleasant experience, and the Agency was not known to give up easily. What if Scott really could prevent something else from happening? If there had been no plans before his own abduction, he'd know nothing. And even if the Agency had been out to get Dylan from day one, that didn't mean it was included in the data that Scott had retained. It was a long shot to say the least, and a very risky one. No... no, he couldn't.

Going back to his bed, he sits back in the corner, pulling his knees up to his chest and rocks slightly. The guilt persists and his grip around his legs tightens. What would Justin say? What would Hope say?

Scrunching his eyes shut tight, he mumbles incoherently to himself, repeating numbers, files and Dylan's name. In his mind's eye, he saw lists and lists of names, scrolling data and computer-like images. Sweat runs down the side of his face and he continues to rock, mumbling the data that he was seeing.

Suddenly his eyes fly open again and he is still. Blinking, he felt his head pounding and his pulse racing. But he knew.

Picking up the phone, he draws in a shaky breath, dialing with trembling fingers. "Reese?"

"Yes. Scott?"

"Mick's right. The Agency has had their eye on Dylan for years, just to put pressure on Mick. They planned to make Dylan into a drug addict as they watched Mick's reaction, like a lab rat. Then they planned to take Dylan and make him their own rat."

Reese lets out a low whistle. "Well, they succeeded in step one, but we intervened just in time, apparently, but I doubt they'll give up on making him a lab rat too. Thank you, Scott... You may have saved Dylan's life."

Hanging up, a new feeling crept up on Scott. He was... proud of himself. For the first time in a very long time, he felt as though he had actually accomplished something. He had used his inner terror against that terror itself, aiding in winning a battle. It might be a small battle, but it had still been won - now that they knew it was the Agency, more precautions with Dylan could be taken, and he would be safe. Take that, Agency scum.

Sinking back down on the bed, Scott lies on his side and curls up. He was exhausted. But he'd done something good. Something good.

O.o

Making his way up to the interagation room Trey kept his hands in his pockets and his walk was slow. Pete had called him only moments before and he couldnt help but wonder what it was about. Had his late night outings, or even the extra time taken for his "free" time finally caught up with him and he was not going to get into trouble? Trey didn't know but it was unlike Pete to call him up instead of coming down himself.

Entering the room Trey couldn't help but feel a little nervous jerk in his stomach. Was his pass time over, was he found out, would he be confined again? Trey didn't know but he didn't let his worry show in his eyes at all.

"Whats up Pete?"

Pulling out the chair and sitting down Trey continues to keep his hands in his pockets as he fiddles with the strings on the inside. Looking across at his friend Trey listens raising an eyebrow as he started his story.

As the peaces fall into place and Trey understands more and more at what Pete was getting at a strange emotion starts to stir in his stomach. An excitement that seemed to be over ruled with anger, abandonment, and the lack of understanding.

"My mother...she...how can you not know your carrying twins? Dr appointments or not you can't not know you have two baby's growing inside of you. It's just not possible."

Trey's mind tried to wrap around it, he tried to understand. Somewhere inside was that feeling that sent his heart racing. Abandonment...maybe that wasn't the case. But still there was his doubt, and his own anger that seemed to over ride it. Anything good he could possably feel was pushed aside for this stronger feeling.

"No, I don't want to know who they are or where they are. I have my family, I don't need people who would rather leave me for dead, or not even know I exists, who is to say if when they find out they would even want to know me. Rejection, there son now the son of a drug Lord, No I think I'm better off the way I am. Thanks anyways Pete."

Katie's eye's widen as she looks to Jeff and than to Jason. Cocking her head a little bit her eyes twinkle as she just pulling on a few of Jason's strings but not over doing it.

You better watch it buddy...

Laughing and shaking her head Katie looks across the table at Thirteen, than Trent, and than Jeff a grin curling on her lips. She had definitely likes this time spent with her family. She missed it at times not being at the ranch anymore, but having people show up like this was nice and definitly helped her get through going another few months.

Throwing her cards down and shaking her head a little bit Thirteen stretches in her chair before looking around at he table again her eyes landing on Ryder again. Giving a small smile her hand slips under the table and takes his giving it a gentile squeeze.

"How about you guys play another hand and I'll grab us all something for snack. I think we have cheese and crackers. Would you guys like something?"

Thirteen really had enjoyed spending time with her family, and Ryder he fit in so well. She loved being with him and having her family with her was even better. This was one of the best days she had, had in a while.

Giving a smile hearing the Mick would like to have lunch with her Rosetta sat back at her desk. Sometimes just getting away was nice. Even if it wasn't far, it was still nice to know that, the freedom of being able to just get away from a few hours was there.

"I think that sounds perfect. I have a few things I need to grab from in town as well. We can just get it all done at once."

Rosetta smiles as she continues to smile the warmth of Mick's words filling her and taking the chill from the air. She was excited about going to lunch.

Looking down at her watch and noting the time. If she was going to go see Shara she better now before it was to late. Giving a strech and shading Beth gives a smile.

"Ok, I wont be gone to long, maybe an hour or two. I'll be back after though. need anything call."

Standing Beth gives a stretch before bending down for her shoes and putting them on. Checking Justin's forhead one last time before getting her jacket she makes her way to the door.

"I'll see you when I get back. I wont be long."

Letting out a small sigh Karla moves over to the stove and looks into the pot. The soup sure did smell good and it made her stomach growl. How could she turn down at least one bowl? Grabbing some and sitting down at the table Karla takes a sip before looking up at Kip and just studying him for a moment.

Letting out a sigh and looking down at her soup karla didn't know what to say. She did all she could and still Kip didn't feel better. She was so lost with this all. Would it be better for her to just leave Kip alone? Karla felt so lost.

"Wow, this really is good. I am going to have to get the recipe. I think the cheese was an good add."

Taking another bit of the food and looking up again Karla gives a small smile.

"Want to see if any movies are on?"

All by herself

Kip doesn't move, but his eyes do look up to see Karla, and he lets her kiss him on the cheek. "Hi," he greets quietly.

Taking another small spoonful of soup, he eats carefully, trying not to move his mouth around too much - it felt even more sore than the day before. But he'd found the pain killers that Erik had brought, so he was hoping those would help.

"Um... tomato soup," he replies, still quiet. "I put some cheese on it too. If... you want some, it's still on the stove."

Keeping his eyes lowered, he rests an elbow on the table, hunched over as he ate, as if trying to disappear from anyone's view. Gone was the energy. Gone was the spark.

He dips a cracker in his soup to soften it up and nibbles slowly. He hadn't really wanted to eat, but his stomach was grateful anyway. And maybe he'd be left alone for a while about eating.


"Wow..." Justin could hardly believe Danitza had gone looking for Beth. "I know I trained them well, but that was certainly a God thing." He grins. "I guess maybe I owe her an extra doggy treat next time we play."

Shaking his head, he marvels at the whole thing. Yes, God had been watching over him, ensuring he had a friend when he needed it the most.

He glances over to the clock on the wall, noting that it was still fairly early morning. He knew Beth probably had much to do, including going to see her sister, but he was confident he would be fine on his own today until she came back for supper.

"If you... wanna go now, I don't mind. I think I'll be okay for a while, and if not, I know your number." He gives her a wry grin. "Then hopefully by the time you get back, I'll have been able to take a shower. Though I'll probably wind up sleeping most of the day."


"You know my instincts have never steered me wrong..."
Eric's eyes narrow as his walk becomes heavier on his way to his rig. Rosetta might as well have said he was wrong and she was right. That's what she meant. If her instincts told her Dana was no good, then automatically she assumed she was right. Did she not remember times she had been wrong? She might have a keen sense of people's intentions, but no one was perfect - not even her. She might be good at reading people, but that didn't give her the right to wave it in his face as a reason he should listen to her. No... this time he didn't care what she thought. He knew Dana better than anyone else here and if they didn't want to accept the fact that they were in love, then that was their choice. He was going to do what he wanted - what his heart wanted.


Feeling his phone vibrating in his pocket, Mick sets aside his pitchfork and checks the number before answering. "Yeah, Hon. What's up?"

Hearing about Eric, he lets out a little groan. "Oh, we just... had a little disagreement." He gingerly touches his swollen lip that had finally stopped bleeding. "I'll tell you more later. Lunch sounds great - wouldn't wanna turn down a date with my wife." He smiles, even though Rosetta couldn't see him. "How about we go to town? I need to pick up a few things anyway. Was gonna send Dan but... might as well do it myself if you wanna go somewhere."


"Ha!" Jeff slaps down his last UNO card onto the coffee table to win the round. Sitting crosslegged on the floor, he does a little happy dance with his arms.

Ryder rolls his eyes, but can't help but laugh as he throws down the rest of his hand, which contained so many cards he never could have won. He glances to Thirteen with a silly grin. "I think your uncle is cheating."

"I am not!" Jeff points to Katie. "But she is. She's got her boyfriend right behind you guys telling her what cards y'all have."

From his seat in the corner of the couch, Jason's jaw drops. "What?! Never!" He was the only one not joining in the game of UNO, not quite feeling up to much activity. He'd slept through the night and by this morning was feeling better, but not well enough to go to work, so he'd been hanging around Katie's all day with the others, enjoying their company as a nice distraction from the troubles he was trying to ignore. "Katie cheats all by herself," he concludes with a nod.


"Good afternoon, Trey." Pete smiles from where he sat perched on the corner of the interrogation room table. He'd summoned Trey from the lower level and now made sure the door remained open to keep the room feeling less threatening.

"Have a seat." He gestures to one of the chairs, but remains casually seated on the table. Fingering a file in his hand, he thinks for a moment. "I wanted to talk to you."

Glancing in the file, he shuts it again, then tosses it aside. Sliding off the table, he wanders to the other side and pulls out a chair to sit across from Trey. Folding his hands, he studies the younger man for several moments. "I've got a story to tell... so just stay open minded, okay?" He grins a little, doing his best to keep the atmosphere light. It was obvious though, that this was more than a bedtime tale.

"A while back, there was a young woman in high school. She fell in love, made a few wrong choices and wound up pregnant." Pete keeps talking, wanting to make sure he reached his conclusion before Trey got too bored. "Her boyfriend broke up with her before he had a chance to know she was pregnant and she was too scared to tell him. Her parents found out though, and they kicked her out of the house. She had to drop out of high school and get a job to support herself, but getting rid of the baby wasn't an option. She had no insurance and couldn't even see a doctor. She was scared to death, and when she was finally in labor, she made it to a hospital on her own. Things didn't go well, and she had to have a c-section. When she woke up, the nurse presented her with a brand new baby boy."

He pauses, quirking an eyebrow. "Sweet story, right? But get this... No one told her she'd been carrying twins. A mob with an adoption, money-making racket were paying off doctors to snatch babies - this one was easy because the mother didn't even have to know that a second son ever existed. And she didn't. Ever. To her knowledge, she only had one son. And the other one..."

Another pause, and Pete searches Trey's eyes. He knew the young man was smart enough to figure out where this was going. For all he knew, Trey wouldn't care about any of this. But he could care, and could care very deeply. The last thing Pete wanted to do was upset him. "...The other one was adopted by a family in Mexico. He grew up around a drug racket and got pretty good at not getting caught being involved in anything - until recently. When his adoptive parents became fearful for his life, they sent him to Nevada."

Letting the story sink in, he takes a deep breath, letting it out slowly. "We know who your birth mother is, Trey... and your full-blooded brother. We knew it was only right to tell you the truth. However... what happens now is up to you. If you don't want to know anything about your real family, then we will respect that and you don't have to know any more than what I've just told you. Or..." He cocks his head. "If you do want to know more... we can tell you. There is still a lot we ourselves don't know and are trying to figure out, due to the nature of the situation. But... you can be in on it if you want. It's completely up to you, and you don't even have to decide today if you don't want."

question

Now clean and refreshed Karla entered the Gran's house once again. Knowing she didn't need to knock she only hesitated a little bit before entering again. Last time she had knocked on the door Gran had giving her a long talk about how she was family now too and could come right in.

About to head up the steps to Kip's room Karla catchs sight of as shadow in the kitchen one she had seen before and re routs heading there now. Entering she in hails a little something sure did smell good.

"I think sometimes people end up at Gran's house simply because they can smell her cooking from a mile away."

Coming into the kitchen more and over to where Kip was Karla smiles and gives him a soft kiss on the cheek. She was feeling a little better now than she had been this morning even if her heart still hurt for Kip.

"So what did she cook for us today?"

Beth gives a bigger smile with how excited Justin sounded. It was nice to know it sounded good to him. That a lone said he was feeling a little better to think that food sounded good and it made Beth happy. It had been hard seeing him so sick but taking care of him really had been nice to know she could help.

"Oh Danitza showed up at the house. I guess she got loose some how and she new where to find me. So I came back here with her and than found you."

Thinking back Beth remembers when the dog had first shown up. Now stopping and thinking about it again she relized how smart they really must be to have found her. It really did amaze her, and she thought it was more amazing that they new it was her they should come to.

"Your dogs really are smart being able to find where a was such a long ways away."

Looking up as her brother comes into the room Rosetta gives a smile. No matter what had happened yesterday she still loved him and liked having him around. Looking into his eyes though and seeing the clouded look Rosetta cocks her head a little. It was unlike her brother to ever look so down and he'd had it rough a few times.

"Hey Eric, good to see you this morning."

Expecting a some what nice response back Rosetta is thrown for a loop with his reply. His words seem to cut like a knife. His attitude was completely changed twords her now and Rosetta felt at a lose on what to do. Her brother and her had, had disagreements before but they always gotten over them. This one...it seemed so small but so big too.

"Eric I am willing to accept Dana, I just wanted you to becarful. You know my instincts have never seared me wrong so I just wanted you aware."

Rosetta new by the look in his eye that he wouldn't not be changing his mind and nothing she said would really make a difference. It pained her to know that her brother was leaving angry but there was nothing she could do. Maybe Jeff, and Trent would react better.

"Giving me a call Eric so I know all is well. I love you bro."

Once Eric was gone Rosetta let out a long sigh before picking up the phone and dialing Mick's cell. Wendy was watching BJ for her today since she had off, and BJ liked spending time with Chance maybe this could give her a little needed alone time with Mick.

"Hey Sweety, a few things. I was wondering if you wanted to do lunch today? I could use a little get away time and I though it might be nice. Also Eric said he's leaving as soon as he cleans his rig out, and he told me to tell you sorry. Whats that about?"

Upset

"Wow, that sounds great." Justin wasn't the type of person to live off frozen dinners, but even though he usually cooked for himself, he rarely ventured too far out of his normal meal selections. He knew Beth was a good cook too, and was sure whatever she made was going to taste good. "I think I've probably got all the ingredients you need. You can check and make sure if you want."

Taking a sip of his tea again, he leans back, closing his eyes. It's only a moment though before they fly open again and he looks at Beth with question. "By the way... how did you know to come here in the first place?" He remembered considering the option of calling her, but he was pretty sure he hadn't gotten that far. His memory was still quite foggy though.


"Kip?" Gram pokes her head inside the bedroom, glad to see Kip awake and cleaned up from a shower, but he looked so forlorn just sitting in the corner of the bed, motionless with eyes that lacked so much.

Kip moves his gaze to the door, then down. He hated Gram and Gramps seeing him like this. "Yeah?" His voice was soft and almost hard to hear.

Gram lets herself in and comes over to the bed, sitting down at the foot and letting the silence reign for several moments. "I warmed up some soup for lunch," she offers.

Kip gives a little shrug. "I don't think I want any. Thanks."

Gram sighs and gives him a long look. "You know... eating may not do a thing for your soul... but if your body's happy, it's a little easier to feel better sometimes."

Kip still doesn't look up.

"I really don't want to lose you, Kip." Gram smiles kindly. "You're one of my grandsons now whether you like it or not. How long do you think I'm going to sit by and watch you waste away to nothing?"

"Aren't I already nothing anyway?"

Gram's facial expression changes to one more stern. "What do you want me to say? You want me to agree with you so you can continue to beat yourself up? Or you want me to tell you the truth?" When he doesn't respond, she goes on. "The truth is that you are far from nothing. You are bursting with potential that you haven't even tapped into yet. You remind me so much of Kyle... he hasn't always had it easy either, ya know? Where would he be if he would have sat back and let life walk all over him? You're so full of life and energy, Kip... don't let a setback stop you from living. No one, not ever your father can dictate what you decide to do."

Reaching out, she gives his leg a gentle pat. "I'll keep the soup on the stove for a while, so you can help yourself whenever you want."

Kip says nothing as she leaves, and when left alone, the silent tears come once more. For a long while, he doesn't move as the tears run down his face. At least Gram loved him. His own father couldn't, but a pretend Grandma could.

About half an hour later, Kip sits quietly, alone at the kitchen table, slowly working on half a bowl of hot tomato soup.


Mick stands as Rosetta does and stretches tall, not bothering to try and cover up his yawn. It had been a long day and he was beat. His body was aching and all he wanted right now was a soft warm bed. But...

Smiling a little sleepily, he slips his arm around Rosetta's shoulders and leans to kiss the top of her head. "BJ's probably asleep by now. I'll stay and help you... Unless you didn't want a man in your kitchen." He grins teasingly as they head for the doorway. "You work too much. I'd feel guilty if I left you here all by your lonesome."


"You're limping, Baby." Dana walks alongside Eric, tucked under his arm as she turns a little to place a hand on his chest. "Need me to do anything for you?"

Eric continues the route to the bunkhouse and shakes his head. "Naw. My leg just got stiff on me. I'll be fine."

"I could massage it for you."

He grins. "I think you had too much fun doing that the last time."

She giggles and rests her head into him again as they walk. "Maybe."

"I'll be okay tonight. Thanks, though."

Getting to the bunkhouse, Eric makes sure she knows where everything is and is settled before he goes to leave. "Goodnight, Dana." He pauses in the doorway, smiling down at her. He reaches out to tuck a strand of her long dark hair behind her ear. "I'll see you in the morning."

"Mmm... that's too long of a wait." She grins up at him and takes his collar to pull him down closer so she can give him a kiss. As she does, he wraps his arms around her and her hands crawl up to the back of his head where her fingers rake through his hair.

The passionate exchange takes place for several long moments before Eric reluctantly draws back. "You tryin' to get me to stay or tryin' to tide me over?"

Dana grins mischievously. "Take your pick."

"I better make it tide me over or we might be in hot water."

"Better than cold water." She tosses him a sly look.

Despite heat in his cheeks, he smiles and shakes his head. "Sweet dreams."

Biting her lip, she retreats and leans against the open door. "You too, cowboy."

Finally backing away, Eric turns and steps down off the porch to head for his own bunk.


His goodnight to Dana had not gone unseen. Dylan quirks an eyebrow then shakes his head, returning to his route towards his own bunkhouse. He didn't know Eric all that well... but this new development certainly seemed strange. Those two were all over each other. Maybe there was nothing wrong with it, but Dylan didn't think it fit Eric's personality too well, as little as he knew about him.

Shrugging off the whole thing, he trudges up the bunkhouse stairs and inside for the night. It would be an early morning tomorrow... he might as well just go to bed.


The night didn't seem long enough, and too soon, the sun was rising again. Before the guests even thought about getting out of bed, the ranch was already starting to come to life as the hands began chores in the barn.

Eric makes his way to the barn a bit slowly this morning, not having yet spoken to anyone. After last night, he was feeling rather irritable this morning, but he knew he needed to pull his share of the weight around here when he was off the road. Today wouldn't be any different.

Mick looks up from where he was cutting open a bale of hay, as Eric enters the barn. Though he had his reservations about Dana, and though he and Rosetta both had discussed their concerns to each other the night before, he didn't want to start a feud, so he does his best to act normal. "Hey, Eric. Good morning."

Eric just nods and wanders over to the hay, stepping right in where he could see help was needed. "Morning."

Mick manages a smile. "Thought you might bring Dana out this morning."

"She has a headache." Eric cuts open another bale and slips his knife back in his pocket. "I told her to sleep in."

"Ah." Mick grabs some hay and nods down the aisle for Eric to follow and assist with feeding. There were questions burning in his mind... did he dare ask them? He really did want to straighten things out and get the real picture - when Eric was alone, that was the best time, right? He and Rosetta both didn't want to offend Eric, but both wanted to make sure he really had the right motives and perspectives too. "So, um..." He slides open a stall door and tosses in a couple sheets of hay. "...I guess we were all a little surprised you showed up with Dana yesterday. Glad you're happy though."

Eric's shoulders drop, his eyes narrowing. Mick sounded just like his sister now. "Yeah," he responds dryly. "Maybe I should have called first."

Mick catches the irritation in his tone, and sighs. "I'm sorry." He shuts the stall again, glancing to his brother-in-law. "You have to admit though, that it's kind of a shocker for the rest of us. I mean... finding a girl is one thing, but finding a girl and being that close to her when last we knew you were still alone, it's just... well, a surprise, that's all. You can't blame us for feeling a little awkward, can you?"

Eric shrugs and moves to the next stall with his armful of hay. "I guess I just expected too much."

"What do you mean?"

"Oh you know... a little more happiness for me? A little excitement? We got pretty close to cold shoulders last night."

Mick purses his lips, caught between feeling badly and wanting to warn Eric for what was happening. But he'd seen Eric's reaction to Rosetta last night... did he dare say anything? He'd feel badly if he didn't, then later on found out if he would have said something, it could have changed the outcome. "Well... you know us. We're overprotective of our family. We care about you, Eric. Most of us probably didn't even know you were on the lookout for a girl, let alone get into it that quickly."

Eric rolls his eyes and feeds the next horse. "Quickly. Why is everyone so concerned with the time frame anyway? Just because the "normal" is to hang around each other for years without going anywhere doesn't mean it's right for everyone. I've seen people get married a week after meeting each other."

Mick tries not to get upset, but it was hard. He wanted to slap Eric upside the head and ask him what he was really thinking, but that wouldn't get him anywhere. He grabs some more hay and moves to the next stall. "You're right. I mean, when you fall in love, you fall in love - it doesn't put a time limit on it. It's just... usually..." He fishes for the right word. "Wise... to not jump in so quickly."

"Look..." Eric slides another stall shut, continuing to multi-task. "I gotta take advantage of what I got now, ya know?" He throws up his arms. "I'm not exactly the number one eligible bachelor here, Mick. I'm on the road three/quarters of the time, I'm not a young buck anymore, and my brain don't work quite right either." He taps his skull, referring to his accident years prior. "I'm a truck driver for a reason - there's nothing better out there for me. I ain't got the smarts for anything better, and no woman has ever seen me as fit to be her own... until now. Why would I want to wait around for years before making a move? It might be too late then."

He sighs, setting his hands on his hips and pausing in the barn aisle. "Dana is a breath of fresh air. She likes being with me. Having company these past couple weeks... it's reminded me of how much I've missed out on. I'm lonely. Dana takes me for who I am without judgment. She and I have so much in common, it's scary. She loves being on the road with me. She doesn't want to stay at home alone and I don't want to be on the road alone."

Pausing, Eric searches Mick's eyes, begging for understanding and support. "I know she's different than the rest of the group here, but living in the city is all she's ever known. Yeah, she's a bit outspoken, but so am I sometimes. She deserves love just like anybody else." He shakes his head slowly. "I gotta take the chances while I still have some left. Opportunities like this don't come every day for a guy like me."

Mick is silent for several moments, really not knowing what to say. He knew the way Eric felt - he'd felt that way himself, and still did every time he looked at Rosetta. But he couldn't shake the bad feelings he had about Dana - the bad feeling he and Rosetta both had, and probably others, if he were to talk to them. "You really do sound pretty serious about her."

"I am. She and I both are."

"How... serious?"

"We've already talked about getting married."

Mick can't help it that his eyes widen. He'd known they were moving fast, but not that fast. "I... already? I mean... soon? Or... gonna be engaged for a while?"

"Soon. Really soon."

"Seriously?"

Eric grits his teeth and moves on to another horse, trying to keep his irritation at bay. "Yes. We love each other and we both know what we want. Why postpone it and risk screwing things up in the meantime? She's in between places to live and jobs - honestly, it's perfect timing."

"I..." Mick really didn't have an answer. Or maybe he was just too shocked to think straight. "Don't you think it... well, it would be wise to wait a little while longer? I mean, you hardly know her."

"I have spent hours on end in the same truck cab with her for two weeks." Eric couldn't believe Mick was saying the same things Rosetta had the night before - had neither paid attention? "Unless one person is a mute, you get to know each other pretty quick. She's been open with me and I've been open with her."

"Yeah, but-"

"I know her, Mick. She loves me, and loves the Lord - what more could I ask for?" Eric's defensiveness started bubbling below the surface. "Day and night we've spent together. How much more can I learn about her, especially if I'm on the road and we're apart?"

Mick clears his throat. "Yeah, about that... the nights, I mean. I, um... well, I just hope...."

Eric quirks an eyebrow. "Huh?"

"I just hope you're smart, ya know? I mean, I know you're both lonely and all, but... well..."

Eric waits, baffled by Mick's stammering until the realization hits him and his own eyes widen. "You think we're sharing a bed?!" He blinks, dumbfounded, then angry. First he and Dana got a cold shoulder, then he was being interrogated, and now he was accused of being immoral. Where did it end? "I cannot believe you!"

Mick frowns, crossing his arms, his own defenses rising in reaction to Eric's tone. "Well it's not my fault! You two are all over each other and with Dana saying how you talked in your sleep and all that - well what else were we supposed to think?!"

Eric's mouth hangs open for a moment. He was amazed and utterly disgusted. "I cannot believe... I don't care what was said, you should know me better than that! This is me you're talking to, Mick! Remember me?"

"Yes, but-"

"Look..." Eric had had enough, and his tone matched. "I know you don't approve. I know that everything I said to you was a waste of my breath. So if it's gonna be that way, just keep your mouth shut and I'll stay out of your way, alright? You never have to speak to Dana again if you don't want - I don't care. Just take your judgmental self out of the picture and you go your way and I'll go mine. Thanks for your support." Spinning on his heel, he starts to walk away.

Desperate not to make things worse, Mick reaches out and takes his shoulder to stop him. "No, wait."

In no mood for more discussion, irritated by Mick stopping him and angered by the whole situation, Eric whirls around. And without thinking, his fist is thrown.

Being punched in the mouth, Mick staggers backward and falls into the stack of hay before sliding to the barn floor. Eric catches his eye for one last glare, then turns once more and stalks away, leaving the barn.

Mick tries to catch his breath and puts a hand to his bleeding lip. He hadn't meant for any of this to happen. Hadn't he had a right to state his reservations though? Technically, maybe it wasn't any of his business, but he and Eric had been extremely close at one point and now they were family. Didn't Mick have the right to share his concerns? He was sorry Eric was being so sensitive, but did he deserve to be punched? A shadow makes him jump and he looks up quickly, almost afraid it was Eric to come finish the job. But who it really was surprised him.

Dylan purses his lips and glances down the aisle to where Eric had disappeared, then looks back at his father again. Not saying anything, he reaches down a hand.

Mick smirks a little and sighs, then accepts his son's hand up. "Well, I feel stupid."

Dylan shrugs. "Not as stupid as Eric's gonna."

"Yeah, well, maybe he had a right to slug me."

"I wasn't talking about him and you." Dylan searches Mick's eyes for just a moment before going back to work cleaning a stall just a short ways away. He'd heard the entire thing.

Mick sets his hands on his hips. Dylan was talking about Eric and Dana? Interesting that he had come to that conclusion. Maybe the troubled teenager pondered things more than anyone knew.


Eric isn't seen for a while after his confrontation with Mick, making himself scarce until he reappears from Dana's bunkhouse. Heading to the main office, Eric steps up to the door and knocks out of respect before letting himself in and finding Rosetta at the desk. His eyes were clouded... full of a blurred mix of emotions. Looking down at his sister, no smile is on his face as he searches for the words he was going to say. Most likely, she hadn't seen Mick yet and didn't know what had happened in the barn. Even so, she'd just have to accept his decision.

"Dana and I are leaving as soon as I clean out my rig," he informs. "I haven't gotten my call yet but I thought we'd head to Nevada anyway and stop by and see Trent and Jeff since they're at Katie and Jasmine's." Still no smile appears. "Maybe they'll be more accepting of someone I love."

His eyes drop and he turns to leave, but stops for a moment, looking back over his shoulder. "I'm sorry this visit wasn't as good as it could have been, and you can tell your husband I'm sorry too. You'll probably hear from me while I'm on the road."

Offer

Letting out a sigh as Eric gets up and turns to leave Rosetta could see the hurt on her brothers face, and could hear it in his tone of voice too. She hadn't wanted to hurt him and she tried her best not to be bossy or mean about it but some how she hurt him anyways.

Looking to Mick Rosetta's eyes were a tad bit sad. She felt something in the wind and just from her personal experiences of being able to read people she didn't like her feeling and tend to listen to her. Something wasnt right and there would be much sadness. Rosetta could only hope for once she would be wrong.

"I don't like it Mick, I don't like it at all."

Letting out another sigh and standing Rosetta takes whats left of the coffee cups and prepared to go to the dinning room. She had to set up the coffee pot and get a few other things for the guys in the morning when they woke up before work and her mind just seemed to full to want to sleep. She wasn't sure if Mick was heading back to the house now or not.

"Where you going to stay here and help me get this stuff ready or are you going to head back to BJ?"

Giving a smile to Justin again Beth could feel the heat return to her cheeks as she turned slightly red. To have Justin say he was proud of her really did make Beth feel good on the inside and like she was starting to really build on who she was.

"Something light for dinner, I think I can handle that. Maybe I could make some home made french onion soup, and some tomato and basil grilled sandwiches."

Beth really did like cooking for someone else. It was nice, and gave her a chance to test her skills. Having company to talk with while eating was nice too. For sure she though Justin might want some alone time but she was happy he had said yes to her offer to come back.

"Of course I don't mind. Thats why I offered."

Proud

Listening to Rosetta, Eric blinks. His mouth opens to respond, but then closes again. Had they not just spent the entire evening talking about Dana and how they'd met and where she was from? And Rosetta thought he didn't know much about her? Maybe two weeks wasn't all that long, but it felt like a lifetime to him, and he'd spent it almost twenty-four/seven with Dana.

Hie opens his mouth again, just to close it once more. Pull one over on him? Was Rosetta kidding? She had the nerve to imply that Dana was capable of something like that? His eyebrows lower as his eyes begin to narrow. Him taken for a fool?

Dropping his gaze, Eric leans forward in his seat and looks at the floor for a moment. For the third time, he starts to say something and then doesn't. His gut had twisted into an unfamiliar little knot, not used to feeling hurt by his sister.

Rising, he grabs his hat off the back of the couch and aims for the door, his walk slow and stiff as he favors his left leg. "Goodnight," he mentions quietly. "See you two tomorrow." Making his way into the dining area, he stops near the hall to wait for Dana.

Mick takes in a deep breath and lets it out slowly. There was so much he could say right now. But it didn't seem the time. He glances to his wife and lifts an eyebrow, shrugging lamely. "Couldn't agree more."


Justin sighs, but knows Beth is right. Even if he wanted to go clean up right now, his body was begging him to just stay put and not try to move yet.

Hearing she'd skipped on going to see Sarah yesterday, his eyes snap up to hers. "You... didn't go yesterday?" She'd stayed here? For him? Forfeited her daily routine to... to be here? A little grin shows up on his lips. "While undeserving, I'm proud of you, Beth... I know that couldn't have been easy for you."

Leaning his head back into the cushions again and giving up fighting how weary his body felt, he reaches for his tea once more. "Supper..." He looks up at her again, a decline on the tip of his tongue. He was on he upswing now, he'd be okay, his fever was gone, and though not functioning too well, he was out of danger. He really didn't need anything more. But something greater than need stuck up on him... he wanted her to stay.

"...sounds fantastic. I think by tonight I could handle something light if... you really don't mind."

Taken a Fool

Rosetta continued to eat herself listing to her brother and attempting to listen to Dana as well. But every word she said just made Rosetta cringe even more. There was something about her, She couldn't put her finger on it but she bothered her.

"Making money is always a good thing but I wouldn't go rushing into anything to deep yet."

Going back to her food Rosetta continues to eat. Her tone was calm and cool trying not to let her aggravation show. But as Dana makes mention to her step son and than to Clint and Wendy her head shoots up and the look of shock pass her face and she gives a side long glance to Mick. Those were two very personal matters that in Rosetta's own mind should never have been shared with a stranger and Dana was a stranger that Eric hadn't known that long.

Wanting to say something Rosetta new it wouldn't come out right and would probley do more harm than anything else so she bit her tong and did her best to just continue to hold her words off.

Letting the night continue Rosetta excused herself here and there getting drink refills and just getting away the conversation before settling in. Seeing as finally the conversation was coming to an end Rosetta never though she would be happy to stop talking. She liked talking but with someone she didn't feel comfortable around or felt insulted by many times even if on mistake it still bothered her.

Once Dana was gone Rosetta looks to her brother again. She keeps her face soft on not wanting to scold him, or even upset him. He did seem happy but if she didn't tell him what she though than it wouldn't be right.

"Eric, it's very nice to see you happy. I like knowing your happy and for that I am excited. But at the same time I can't help but feel a little worried. You don't know much about Dana and it dosnt sit right with me. So all I ask if you take it slow and don't let her try and pull one over on you...ok? I love you bro and I don't want to see you taken as a fool."

Beth could feel the heat crawl in her cheeks at Justin's comment about being his one true friend right now. It felt good to be called that, it sent tingles through her and the smile spread across her face bigger than it was before.

"And I am proud to be your friend Justin. You helped me its all I can do to pay you back."

Shifting a little on the couch Beth stands with Justin as he does but reaches out to try and steady him easying him back down on the couch again giving a little grin.

"You might need a shower but maybe it can wait a little while longer your not smelling that bad yet. And...I can stay as long as you would like me to. I don't really have anything going on and I have vacation I've been using from work. Though tonight I might like to go see Sarah since I missed out yesterday but I can come back and whip us something up for dinner tonight....if you like."

By Storm

Eric shakes his head at Rosetta's question. "Not sure. Could be a day, could be three or four. I'm waiting on a call for when the next load is ready to be picked up in Nevada, then it's on to Oregon. Hoping for enough time to show Dana around the sights and give her the grand tour of the ranch."

"Oh yes, I want to see it all," Dana agrees. "Everything Eric's told me about is just coming to life now. I tried to get him to take a break from work, but he said no." She rolls her eyes teasingly.

Eric smirks. "A man's gotta keep working if he's gonna make enough money to support anybody."

Dana slides a sidelong glance his direction, grinning at his implication.

Though Mick is basically finished with his bowl of chili, he concentrates very hard on getting every last little bit, and taking his time at it.

Dana looks around the room and nudges Eric. "So tell me who everybody is. I think I could probably figure it out, but tell me anyway."

Eric chuckles and stars pointing out people in the room. Luke and Angel, Jim and Becky, Cindy with Kaylee... the list went on. "And there in the corner is Jade and Dan - they're engaged, and Dylan."

"Oh, I see." Dana lowers her voice a little, leaning in to Eric, but she could still be heard plainly by anyone sitting at the table. "And he's the one that was in so much trouble with drugs and all that, right?"

Mick's eyes shoot up, a look of displeasure flashing in them. His stern glance is turned towards Eric as a warning, though he says nothing.

Eric sees Mick's look and quickly nods at Dana, patting her arm. "Yeah," he replies, moving on before anything else can be said. "Oh, and over there are Clint and Wendy, and their little boy, Chase."

"Ah." Dana nods knowingly, though her tone is edged with something less than graciousness. "They're the ones that-"

"Yeah, and that's everybody I think," Eric cuts her off before she insults Mick's nephew on top of it.

Mick can hardly stand it, and turns his head as his eyes roll towards the ceiling. Grabbing his empty bowl, he stands. "I'm gonna help clear some of the tables. I'll be back."

He did return, and the awkward conversation continued, though the awkwardness seemed one-sided. Dana chattered about this and that while Eric added his own thoughts and soon the dining hall was relatively empty while Rosetta, Mick, Dana and Eric had reclined in the living room. It was learned that Dana had been married once to an abusive husband, going through a messy divorce. She had moved about, though now had a small apartment in Tennessee while she looked for something more permanent. In between jobs as well, she received a little financial support from her parents, though for the most part, they didn't have much to do with her.

Both she and Eric explain how they were enjoying traveling together, and Dana expresses how she'd rarely been out of the city, so this was quite an experience to be out on a "Texas ranch." She asked where all the guests were, and Eric took the time to explain how they were taken care of by the ranch hands and staff and how usually they ate and fellowshipped earlier so that's why she hadn't seen anyone else, and why the ranch family usually ate supper a bit later than "normal." Dana couldn't believe the people that would come and go, and showed her amazement at how Rosetta could manage to counsel anyone, let alone troubled young adults, on a regular basis - she herself would go "utterly insane."

Eric diverted the conversation several times, noticing short looks from both Mick and Rosetta at times, and as the evening drew on, his own look was growing more pensive and maybe even slightly confused, bordering on perturbed.

It really was getting late and while Mick knew that Angel and Luke were looking after BJ, he wanted to get home and then make his nightly rounds in the barn. His bouncing knee seemed to signal that he wanted to bring this chitchat to a close, and for once, Dana caught on.

She was sitting with Eric on the couch - if any closer, she'd be on his lap as her head rested near his chest with his arm around her and her fingers absentmindedly fiddling with a tear in his jeans above his knee. Sitting up straight and stifling a yawn, she asks where the "ladies room" is and Eric points her in the right direction.

Left alone with Mick and Rosetta, he looks between them, having finally sensed the odd tension in the air. Though he still smiled, there was something else now... hesitance, perhaps, that had not been there earlier.

"Um... thanks for staying up and chatting..." He grins at Rosetta. "It's always good to come home, especially after long runs."

Clearing his throat, he leans forward to rest his elbows on his knees. "I, um... know this whole thing with Dana probably seems a little sudden - didn't meant to spring it on you like that, but it just happened pretty quick and all." He chuckles. "Caught me by storm, I guess you could say."

Again looking between his sister and brother-in-law, the pause that follows is an odd one. This time though, Eric really doesn't know what to add, and he couldn't say goodnight yet without waiting for Dana so he could show her to the bunkhouse. So the pause lingers.


Very strange emotions were churning within Justin, and his eyes focus on the couch as Beth talks. He hadn't planned on any of this - sharing with her about what was going on his life, or exposing how he felt. It felt awkward yet easy at the same time. Half of him wanted to shut it all off again and go back to his closed-off self, and half of him wanted to remain open and let her be his friend for once. He'd concentrated so much on helping her and being her friend that he'd denied himself the pleasure of her company.

Slowly, his eyes rise to meet hers once more. He'd seen great changes in her lately. He'd seen growth. He'd seen courage. He'd seen the things in her that he had pushed too quickly for in the beginning. But with patience, he was finally beginning to see the real her start to push towards the surface like a rosebud ready to bloom. And as the inside was exposed, her true beauty was shining through. Just the fact that she was here right now, on her own accord, having made up her own mind and having decided to help and get out of her box to be here... Justin would not have guessed that she would have. But she had, proving that the snippets of growth he'd seen in her had been real and perhaps deeper than he'd thought.

As if drawing back out of the vortex of her gaze, her face comes into focus again. "I, um..." He tries to smile, but it only comes halfway. "I guess I'm not so used to being on the receiving end. But... if I had to choose a friend to lean on right now... it would be you." He'd been abandoned and mocked by everyone else - Beth was the only one right now who seemed to care, and that... that was worth something.

In the silence that follows, Justin realizes just what a mess he probably looked like at the moment. He hadn't changed his clothes in days, he needed to shave and he was pretty sure he needed a shower quite badly too. It was amazing Beth was still around just for those factors.

His facial expression turns to one of sheepishness. "I think I'm quite a sight," he muses. "Surprised you haven't told me to go take a shower yet." Giving her a wry grin, he goes to stand up, but as soon as he's on his feet, the room starts to spin.

Putting a hand to his head, he sits back down, his eyes a little wide. "Okay... maybe that shower will have to wait just a little longer." He blinks, trying to get the dizziness to pass and a slight chuckle comes out. "How long did you say you were staying?" he teases.

Kindness

"We don't have any guest house open right now. Have three family's staying with us right now that are in there. So the only thing open are the bunk houses. I can make sure the one closest to the dinning hall is cleaned up for her."

Rosetta gives a smile to her brother trying to best to brush off the feeling that was in the air for her brothers sake right now. He'd just gotten home why make a mess of it right away. Hearing Eric start to talk about the rain Rosetta gives a small nod. It has been pretty wet as of late. About to take note on it Rosetta is stopped as Dana cuts her off going into a story once more. Trying to keep her irritation down Rosetta looks to Dana, and than back to Eric once more till Mick comes over.

Just listing again to everything going on and all the words Rosetta takes it all in. She had so many mixed emotions she didn't know what to think or what to say. She wanted to be happy for her brother but at the same time she wanted to warn him, and protect him.

Hearing about how they met, and how long it had been Rosetta concern grew a little more. Her brother was good about keeping his head on but this...this was unlike him. As Dana speaks again and makes her comment about time Rosetta can feel herself stiffen up. She felt insulted once again. For anyone to even say something like that to someone they hardly new was rude.

"Sometimes time is best to consider when not knowing for sure where life is taking you. Sometimes time, is what makes two people stronger."

Drawing silent again and letting the conversation continue Rosetta's eyes move from Mick's, to Eric, Dana and than Micks again. She didn't know what to think and the tentions just seemed to grow and grow.

Just wanting to change the subject Rosetta shifts a little bit and clears her throat. Maybe if she got Eric a long later she could talk to him a little more but only if he was alone.

"So..how long you planning on staying around this time Eric?"

Shifting a little and seeing the tiny tear escape Justin's eye Beth's heart broke even more for him. If she had one weakness about anything it was seeing anyone cry. It just his her right in the heart.

"Sometimes helping others is easier than seeing our own faults. Its just easy to help someone else than admit we have something wrong ourselves. I guess thats why its good to have a few real friends."

Continuing to search Justin's face Beth's own mind processes things. If it wasn't for Justin things for her would still be like they always had been. Lonely, sad, and down right miserable. Justin had changed that for her and slowly, very slowly things where starting to change and a new world was starting to be formed for Beth.

"Things will work themselves out and I will be there as you friend to walk a long side you. You didn't leave me when I needed a friend, as long as you let me I would like to try and show the same kindness."

Eighteen years

"Meh." Eric shakes his head, waving off his sister. "I'm sure the bunkhouse is fine. I don't care if I have to change sheets. As for Dana... I figured she could just stay in one of the guest houses - it's only for a couple days anyway... this time." He gives Dana a sidelong glance as he grins before turning his eyes back to Rosetta again.

"Weather's actually been pretty good. Had some heavy rains a few days ago but nothing we couldn't survive."

Out of nowhere, Dana starts to giggle again. "We had to pull over once and he had to get out in the rain and check a tire on the trailer. By the time he got back in the cab, he looked like a drowned rat."

Eric laughs too and rolls his eyes. "Yeah, well, I guess that was a little adventure in itself."

Mick returns to the table with two steaming bowls of chili, catching just the end of the conversation. "We" seemed to be stated quite often. Interesting. "Okay, here we go..." He sets down the bowls then returns to his seat next to Rosetta.

"Mmm... thanks." Eric takes a bite and sighs with content. "Now that's what I call food."

Dana stares down at her bowl for a moment before taking a timid spoonful. She blinks, then takes a sip of water, clearly surprised at the bit of spice the chili had. "My... you all must have strong tastes."

Eric chuckles and passes her the basket of crackers. "Here, these will help."

Mick watches them for a moment, allowing a pause before joining in the conversation. "So, um... you two... riding together?"

Eric nods. "Yeah, we-"

"Oh my goodness, it's been so fun," Dana breaks in. "I've never been so many places in my life and Eric is such a good driver."

He shrugs, grinning. "Yeah, what she said."

Mick musters up half a smile to be polite. He might as well just ask what he really wanted to. "I hate to ask the obvious, but you two seem to be more than friends."

Eric's smile widens and he slips an arm over Dana's shoulders. "We are," he states proudly. "As a matter of fact, we've gotten..." His eyes look to Dana. "...quite close."

Mick puts another spoonful of chili in his mouth to keep from saying anything regrettable. He just nods and smiles as he chews. "So you've... known each other... I'm sorry, how long did you say?"

"Oh, it's been about two weeks." Eric squints as he figures in his head. "Yeah, that's about right."

"I... I see." Mick nods again, finding proper words harder and harder to come by.

"What?" Eric tilts his head teasingly, his arm still resting around Dana. "Not long enough?"

"Well I..." Mick really didn't have much of an answer for that one. "It's..."

Dana smirks and moves a little closer to Eric, her arm movement now making it quite clear that she was patting his leg. She looks at Mick, seeming to find an awful lot of humor in his stammering. "Not everybody wants to wait eighteen years to make a move."

Mick's eyebrows shoot up, not knowing whether to laugh or be offended. There were an awful lot of extenuating circumstances revolving around why he and Rosetta had not been married until recently.

Eric does laugh, apparently enjoying teasing his brother-in-law. "You have to admit, she got you on that one."

Mick finds it quite difficult to continue smiling, but he does, and even manages a light laugh that he forces out. "Yeah... um, yeah... I guess she did. Sounds like you've told her a lot about us."

"He's told me virtually everything." Dana bats her eyelids. "I feel like I just know everyone here already."

"Ah." Mick doesn't dare look at Rosetta lest he throw her a glance that was too obvious. Taking another bite of chili, he notes that Dana wasn't touching hers after that first taste. Eric was chowing down like normal, seeming completely oblivious to any tension in the air at all. "So how did you two meet?"

"My car broke down," Dana explains. "Silly thing had been on the fritz for practically ages. Finally gave out on me and this very kind, extremely handsome truck driver offered me a lift." She grins and Eric seems to give a quite strange flinch again while concentrating on his food very hard all of a sudden.

"She's in between jobs and a place to live," he ads, gaining back control. "We enjoyed each other's company so much that well..." He shrugs. "We didn't want to stop."

Dana giggles. "We sure didn't. And when he said he was coming back here, I was just dying to come so here I am."

Eric looks to her and grins before leaning over and giving her cheek a kiss. "And here she is." His eyes move back to Rosetta, his grin remaining on his lips while his gaze seems to be searching for what she thought.


Beth's words seemed to help Justin feel a little better. Or maybe it was just the fact that he was finally sharing his burden with someone. Either way, he could tell she genuinely cared, and he was grateful for that.

Her final words make him smile a little and he looks down at his tea. "I suppose there's been some happiness," he admits. "Just not too much of it lately." He had to admit to himself that he was relieved at her response. At least she didn't seem to want to leave now or hold any of this against him.

"I just don't know what to do." Setting his tea aside for now, he turns more sideways and leans his head sideways against the back couch cushions, facing Beth. "I've spent years learning how to help other people, and now when it's me..." He sighs.

The tears that had emerged a few minutes prior were back, but they were stronger this time. Justin couldn't remember the last time he'd cried in anyone's presence and he wasn't about to now. Unfortunately, all it took was a blink for one tear to be released. Swiping at it quickly, he hopes Beth doesn't notice, but the heat rises in his cheeks anyway and he doesn't dare to look at her. "I guess I've got one friend left," he mentions softly.

You'er World

Listing to Justin as he starts up talking and explaining to Beth everything that had happened and only made him being sick worse and worse Beth started to understand. His body was trying to recover from being sick to start with and than the stress piled up on each other just made matter worse.

Shifting on the couch a little and getting comfortable Beth brings her knees up to her chest and wraps her arms around them resting his chin on her knees. Listing intently Beth study's Justin's face. It wasn't hard to see the pain in his eyes, and tone in his voice matched.

Beth had lost both her parents she new how hard it was, but she couldn't help but wonder for Justin was it ten times harder. Her parents were dead and gone, there was no way to talk to them, maybe pass them on the street. For Justin his mom was still alive and the want to talk to her, or seeing her would be a reminder of what happened always. Her hear sank for him, and she hoped they could work things out. To hear about Rebecca on top of it all shocked Beth..though it did make her feel a little better about the other night...she was still sad for Justin. They seemed so good together.

"I'm really sorry to head about Rebecca Justin. Can't say I know how you feel on that one because I've never had a boyfriend before but I can only image is sucks big time. I'm really sorry about your brother and your mom too. Losing your temper is never a good thing, but it happens. From the way you've talked about you mom though in a few days I am sure everything will blow over and it will be ok."

Stopping and searching Justin's face for a long moment. Taking in the words about his world. Her mind mulled over words, and the differences to her life his was, and how many things she saw she had missed out in her own. Even if Justin had heartache of his own in life, at least it was on more than one thing because that means he was living life. For Beth it had been the same thing for years and years...nothing new because life...was not what she had but a shadow of a world she never walked in.

"You've lived in your world even if it was filled with pain but with pain has come happiness too. I think...I like it."

Looking up as Eric comes in the door a smile spreads across Rosetta's face. She didn't know her brother would be around but it was always nice to have him here. She missed him when he was gone, but when he came home it was always with open arms they welcomed him.

Seeing the woman come in with him through stops Rosetta's train of thought. Last time she talked to Eric he never mentioned a woman, and at first glance did she even seem like a someone Eric would even be interested in. Staying silent and just watching Rosetta keeps her eye on the new woman taking in her movement, and her words.

Finally glancing at Mick Rosetta shakes her hear and her eyes show what words did not have to say. The woman sat funny with her and there was just a vibe she didn't like one bit. It was like red flags were being thrown left and right telling her to watch out.

As her brother comes over Rosetta looks to him again and gives a smile. She'd always welcome her brother but the woman...well for now she would try and be nice. About to give a greeting to her brother Rosetta is cut off as Dana says her own peace. Quirking an eyebrow Rosetta can't help but be a little offended by the woman. They were hardly out in the middle of no where.

"Well when you have the knowledge and skill you can survive just about anywhere. Though I would say this is hardly the middle of no where. Its like a small town of sorts. Its nice to meet you Dana."

Giving a nod to Mick as he gets up to get the food Rosetta turns her attachen back to her brother. She wouldn't let his greet go for him.

"Eric, it's so good to see you as always. I wish you would of called sooner. I would of made sure you room was ready and an extra one for your friend as well. Was the drive nice? Didn't hit any bad weather?"

Seeing the look on Jade's face he glances over at Eric and Dana. The air in the room had become very stiff and it was hard not to notice it. Everyone seemed to shift and become uneasy. Taking note to where Dana had places her had he couldn't help but wonder what was going on and if Eric could really be that foolish to fall into the woman's trap.

Looking to Jade he gives a small shake of his head. He didn't know what was going on or even if he really did want to know. This had become like a family to him but getting into other peoples business when it was not his place was something he simply did not do to keep his own self out of trouble.

Sitting with Sparky Faith's attachen was taken away when the door opened and greetings were made. She hadnt seen Eric much but it was hard to mistake him for anyone else when he looked so much like Rosetta. As for the woman if she hadn't seen the surprised looks on everyones face she would of though his was his girlfriend of many years.

Glancing at Sparky and than back in the other direction she wondered how long they had been together. Eric looked happy and that was important but for some reason Dana just seemed...out of place here where she might get dirty, or would have to sleep on anything less than feather bed. but who was she to judge right.

Welcome to my world

Three days. Justin leans his elbows on his knees and rests his face in his hands for a moment. Snippets of his experience make their way through the fog in his mind. The onset of getting sick... taking up residence on the couch... nightmares...

Justin lifts his face. Nightmares. Shouts of agony. Bits and pieces were returning to him, along with a stark realization. "I talked... a lot... didn't I?" He glances to Beth, but doesn't need an answer. He already knew.

Leaning back into the couch again, he sighs deeply. "Three days - I think I owe you some sort of a thanks, but just saying it doesn't seem like enough." He turns his head to look at her, letting his eyes fall to hers for a long moment. Something was different. He wasn't sure what it was, but for a strange second or two, it felt as though they were a lot closer than they had been several days ago.

"Um... I feel like a truck ran over me, but I think my head's back on straight again." He attempts a little smile. "No food yet, but some tea would be nice... if... you don't mind?"

Ten minutes later, Justin was settled back in the corner of the couch with one knee propped up to support his cup of tea, while his other foot was tucked up under himself. He had fallen very quiet as his recollection of the past week had begun to reemerge in his mind. He also remembered at least one nightmare and could just barely remember waking up with a scream. He knew Beth had been there - not only had he probably scared her, but she was probably quite confused as well.

Once again, his eyes drift to hers and rest there for several moments... those eyes that somehow were able to get him to do just about anything, whether she knew it or not. Physically, he was over the worst of it. Emotionally, he was still in anguish. Maybe he couldn't remember everything from the last couple days, but instincts told him that enough had happened that he owed her an explanation.

Glancing down, Justin takes another sip of tea. There was a strange stillness in the air, as if the atmosphere knew it was his turn to speak and was waiting on him.

"I, um... I'm sorry that you had to see me go through what I did." His voice was perhaps a bit quieter than normal. Gone was the confident tone that proclaimed he had everything under control. No, this time, it was just him exposing the rawness that Beth had already caught a glimpse of through his incoherent rants.

Looking back up her, his expression is something like a mix of a smile and a wince. He had never intended to let her in on this level of his personal life. He had always kept up his guard, being the strong, knowing one, no matter how he was feeling on the inside. It's what he did. It's how he helped other people who needed a strong person to help them. He'd perfected the art of always being "fine" to whomever he spoke - even Beth - and his personal life stayed neatly tucked behind a thick veil that very few had the privilege of seeing behind. He had discovered how to offer small talk and give the other person just enough information to make them feel as though they were getting to know him, when in reality, his world was very different from the one he had learned to paint for the public - even Beth.

"A... few days ago, my brother showed up at my mom's." Did she even know he had a brother? Probably not. He goes on anyway. "He, um... apparently still blames me for our dad's death." He knew he'd let Beth in on how his dad had died, so she'd understand this part at least. "We got into it and I lost my temper."

Justin's eyes drop from Beth's once more as his discomfort increases. "I wound up punching him in the mouth. Justified or not, it was stupid and... apparently Ma saw me do it. So now Jared's the angel and she's so scared of me and my violence that she doesn't even want to see me."

That in itself was enough to make Justin's stomach lurch again. To think his own mother was afraid of him was despicable. Yes, he lost his temper, but a violent man he was not. Gritting his teeth, he tries to move on, though he knew that Beth surely could read the look on his face. "In the meantime, I found out that my friends like to talk about me behind my back. Apparently I'm a judgmental know-it-all that can't see past himself and doesn't deserve to have any friends." At this point, he honestly didn't know if that were true or not. He hadn't thought he was judgmental or any of that, but... if that's the way they saw him, then perhaps he'd been blind to his own actions this whole time.

He shrugs lamely as his fingers rub the warm cup of tea. "I guess after my failure with Scott, that shouldn't have come as a surprise." His eyes dare to glance at her for a moment before retreating again. "And to top it off, all this stuff happened after Rebecca and I broke up." Saying it aloud for the first time sent a pang straight through his heart.

Before he can stop it, tears sting his eyes, though he manages to keep them from falling. It felt like his entire life was a mess. To some, his problems might seem petty. But everything that had gone wrong revolved around the most important things to him. His mother... his friendships... his girlfriend... his career. It was all a mess.

He swallows hard, trying to stay in control. Thankfully, his prior breakdown had taken enough energy that he was relatively safe at the moment. But it didn't mean that it hurt less. Everything hurt so badly... each thing that had been piled on top of the other cut deeply and painfully.

Lifting his eyes, he forces himself to look back to Beth. She had now seen him at his very worst. She'd stayed for the last few days, nursing him and making sure he was okay. What would she think of him now? Would she be sorry she came? Opening his mouth, his voice is barely above a whisper now. "Welcome to my world, Beth Parker."


Having Scarlet move to his lap, Eli grins and lets her, rather enjoying it. "You're book's the only one that counts," he muses. "I..." His voice trails off as she moves in to kiss him. Sliding his arms around her, he squeezes her tight, deepening their kiss without caring they were in public. His hand rub her back as he's reminded of just why he'd made the decision to stay. He loved everything about her and wouldn't know what to do if he were to lose her.

How many minutes had passed were unknown, but he eventually draws back slowly with several lighter kisses until he can see her eyes again. Smiling, he leans his head back against the tree and reaches up to cradle Scarlet's face with his hand. His thumb caresses her cheek warmly. "You're the best, you know that?"


Was that a smile that was toying with the corners of Dylan's mouth? He quirks an eyebrow at Dan. "Me? Help keep her in line? You kidding?"

Pulling out a chair, he eases down across from them. "That's your job from now on. Good luck."

Jade smirks and kicks under the table but Dylan had known it was coming and shifts his shins out of the way. Jade rolls her eyes. "And to what do we owe this pleasure?"

Dylan shrugs. "I dunno." Truth? He just didn't want to admit that he was feeling rather lonely lately. And though he was relatively quiet as the meal starts, a part of him was glad he had decided to come sit with his sister and Dan. Mick and Rosetta weren't that far away but... it would be a while before Dylan would know how to approach that one on his own.


A familiar semi slowly pulls into the ranch driveway, void of a trailer. It's maneuvered skillfully off to the side out of the way, coming to a halt in its normal place. It wasn't unusual for Eric to stay at the ranch when he had days in between runs - it was his first choice if he was in the area and could make it to his next pick-up in time.

Tonight though, something was different. Tonight, Eric was not alone in his truck cab.

Swinging down from the rig, he's quick to turn, offering a hand up to a petite woman who scoots over to the door before sliding out. Halfway down, her foot slips and she winds up half-falling out of the cab and sprawling into Eric, knocking him off balance too. Eric loses control and starts to laugh, while the woman falls into a fit of giggles.

"I'm sorry," she gasps between her giggling. "I just slipped and... and down I went!"

"Good thing I was here." Eric laughs and gives her a squeeze. "Otherwise you mighta fallen and scratched up that pretty face of yours."

She smirks and reaches a hand up to pat his cheek. "You rugged charmer, you."

"Mmm, a shave I need. I think you're the charmer though."

"Oh, no, you are."

"Uh-uh." Eric leans in closer. "You are."

"No, no..." She grins as he nears.

"Oh yes." He plants a kiss on her lips before grinning at her again.

She giggles once more. "See?"

"What? Don't enjoy it?"

"In your dreams."

"Ooh, I got lots of dreams."

"Oh yeah? Am I in any of them?"

Eric turns and pulls her towards the main house, with his arm still around her shoulders. "I think I'm gonna take the fifth."

"Ha!" The woman leans into him, her high heels crunching on the gravel as they walk. "Next time you talk in your sleep, I'm gonna pay more attention."

Eric steps up on the porch and quirks an eyebrow. "I don't talk in my sleep."

"Uh... yes, you do."

"I do not."

The woman grins and matches his quirked eyebrow. "Got a tape recorder?"

"Okay, time to meet the family." Erick goes for the doorknob.

She laughs and shakes her head. "You sure are changing the subject a lot tonight."

"I have a right," he defends, humor twinkling in his eye.


Inside, supper was half over. Tonight, most were eating together, even Clint and Wendy. The room was full of conversation and a little bit of laughter as everyone discusses their days, work and what the plans were for the weekend. As the door opens though, the chatter dies down and eyes look to see who was coming.

"Heeeey, Eric!" Clint waves.

Jim leans back in his chair to see too, and smiles. "Eric, man - didn't know you were pulling in!"

Eric's smile widens as he comes in with the woman. "Yeah well, the road curved this direction so... what else was I supposed to do?"

Mick watches from a few tables over as he sits next to Rosetta. Though he smiles at seeing his brother-in-law, his eyes roam to the woman, wondering who she was, and surprised to see Eric's arm around her.

Jim chuckles and waves him over. "Who's your friend?"

"This... is Dana." Eric comes closer to the others, moving Dana a little bit in front of him. "She's gonna hang out here a few days until I pull out again." He looks around expectantly.

The pause that followed was a strange one. It wasn't normal that someone wasn't greeted warmly and immediately. But for some reason, it took a moment for anyone to react. Perhaps it was the way her hand rested on Eric's waist, or the way his arm was slung around her shoulders. Perhaps it was her high-heels, tight slacks and painted nails that would seem to conflict with the atmosphere of the ranch.

Becky was the first on her feet, clearing her throat, then offering a handshake. "Hi, Dana. I'm-"

"Becky, right?" Dana smiles and shakes her hand loosely.

"Um... yes."

Dana giggles. "Eric's done a very good job telling me about everyone here."

Eric rolls his eyes. "Can I help it that I talk about my family?"

"In the morning, in the afternoon, in you're sleep, in-"

Eric's hand comes up to clamp over her mouth. "Okay, so introductions are over. Any food left, or do I have to go back into town?"

Dana grins and pulls his hand down, throwing him a silly look.

Mick's eyebrows were quite high and his gaze gives Rosetta a strange sidelong glance. Had Dana just said what he thought she... He stops his brain and lets his manners override the funny feeling he was experiencing. "Come on over, Eric... Dana. There's room here. We'll get you set up with some supper. Tonight's a chili night."

"Thanks." Eric's hand slides down to Dana's to guide her to the other table, pulling out a chair for her before seating himself next to her. Leaning his elbows on the table, his eyes go to his sister as they sparkle with life. "Howdy, Sis."

Dana's eyes widen and she speaks without giving Rosetta time to respond to Eric. "Ohh, you must be Rosetta. If there's anyone Eric talks about the most, it would be you." She chuckles as her fingers fiddle with her long necklace. "I'm so glad I finally get to meet the woman who can handle a place like this. It just boggles my mind how anyone could survive out in the middle of nowhere."

"That's the beauty of ranch life, Hun." Eric grins. "Bein' out in the middle of nowhere with the people you love."

"Mmm...well, I suppose it would have some advantages."

Eric gives a slight jump and coughs to cover up a laugh, glad that they couldn't see Dana's hand on his thigh under the table.

Mick clears his throat and stands, letting Rosetta take over wherever she wanted to. "I'll go get you two a couple of bowls of chili. You just sit right there."


Watching from their corner, Jade's eyes were wide. She had full view of Eric and Dana and she wasn't quite sure what to think. Eric had been on a run for a couple weeks, and as far as she knew, there was no Dana before that. They looked awfully close though, and Dana was clearly teasing Eric in a way no stranger should - especially in public.

Jade glances beside her at Dan, question in her gaze.

Dylan catches on to her uneasiness and he looks over at Eric and Dana as well, quirking an eyebrow. He just shrugs though and turns back to his bowl of chili. It wasn't any of his nevermind. Eric was his uncle of sorts now, but he wasn't about to stick his nose in where it didn't belong.


On the other side of the room, similar feelings to Jade's were stirring. Sparky cocks his head slightly, just watching Eric and the newcomer for several moments. He usually wasn't one to judge without getting to know a person, but there was definitely a strange air about Dana. She just... well, he couldn't put his finger on it, but there was, without a doubt, something about her that could be felt instantly as she'd entered the room. It wasn't just that she stuck out like a sore thumb. No, it was more than that. Eric sure seemed happy though, so maybe Sparky was just letting his imagination get the best of him.

He turns his head a little and gives Faith a smile. His family hadn't much approved of them being together either, and their engagement hadn't exactly had great results as far as reactions went - but slowly, they were getting used to it, and he and Faith couldn't be happier. Who was he to begrudge Eric happiness?