Swiss Cheese

Spotting Dan enter the diner, Dylan inwardly groans. Not even fleeing to town had been far enough. He'd thought he would at least have enough time to get out of here before being found out. He looks down at the table and hunches over a little, his body language clearly saying he wanted to be left alone. When he's not, though, he finally raises his eyes.

"Fancy meeting me here, my butt," he mutters. "You're too smart to even play dumb."

Sighing, he shrugs anyway. "Sit down. I don't care. I won't be here long anyway." He looks at his watch. "My bus leaves soon. And don't even think about turning me in for driving without a license or trying to keep me off that bus."


"Mmhmm..." JT agrees with Amanda. It really was nice to get away. Nicer than he'd thought.

After checking his fishing pole once more, he lies back in the grass, stretching out and putting his hands behind his head. Squinting up at the sky, he sighs with content. "Sometimes I wonder if I should change jobs. Head for something less demanding so I'd have more time for things like this."

He turns his head to just watch Amanda for a moment. "Sometimes I wonder if two people like us could even survive together outside of work when it takes us every waking moment."


Grinning, Gunner accepts Bree's hand up. "Let's get out of here before those two try to tell me I need to rest more."

Hand-in-hand, Gunner leads the way once more, this time heading for a different trail. His pace is slower this time as he forces himself to take it easy so he doesn't wind up needing the doctors again. He's rather quiet for a while too, letting the sounds of nature take over.

It isn't until a few minutes down the trail that he finally speaks. His eyes wander though, keeping watch on the trees and clouds above. "So where was I before when I was so rudely interrupted by that fiendish little buzzer?" He gives Bree's hand a squeeze. "Oh yes. I was telling you how great you were."

Grinning, he stops and turns towards her, putting his arms around her in a light embrace. Looking down into her eyes, his own sparkle, despite this morning's episode. "It's not hard, you know. Talking about how great you are. A vampire doesn't often find one as accepting as you."

Biting his lip, he's silent for a moment, just studying her. "This vampire really thought he was destined to be alone the rest of his life. Then you came along. I guess I was sorta wondering if-"

Movement catches his eye and he looks to the left just in time to see a large crow divebombing towards them. "Duck!" Pulling Bree down several inches along with him, they're just missed. Unfortunately, the bird comes back for seconds, and now it's not alone.

"What the...?" Gunner lets go of Bree to swat at one of the squawking crows but all it does is serve to rile up the birds even more. Soon there's four or five of them trying to claw and peck at the intruders. Wings and beaks were everywhere.

"We must be near their nests or something!" Gunner ducks another wild dive and grabs Bree's arm. "Let's get out of here before we're made into swiss cheese!"


Knowing Hope wouldn't give up on him even after everything they'd gone through... it gave Scott a nice warm feeling down deep. It was those kinds of feelings he treasured now more than he ever had before. No one could say he hadn't learned anything during this past year, even if much of it had been a nightmare.

When she brings up him taking Domino home, his eyes widen slightly. "I... well I'd like that sure but..." Be bites his lip then looks down at the dog then back up to Hope. "Are you sure? I mean I kinda dumped her on you and I'm sure you've gotten used to having her around. I... I'd feel badly... taking her away from you..."


Mick hadn't expected company, but he doesn't say anything when Rosetta joins him. Nor does he pull away. Rather, he's quiet for a moment then slips his arm around her shoulders, drawing her in even closer.

"Dylan's gone," he mentions quietly. He didn't know if word would have spread by now or not. "I have... all but failed miserably ever since my kids showed up here." He sighs. "I probably never should have let them get involved here at all."


"So where's he been?"

"All over the place."

"Ever out of town?"

"Nope. I think even he knows that would be pushing it." Hal leans back in his chair, twirling a pencil between his fingers.

Reese paces the small office, dissatisfied. "You said he's got a motorcycle?"

"Yep. Least ways that's what I can tell. He gets around fast and I've seen a bike parked near the apartments. No proof, but I'd say it's a good guess."

"Well how on earth would he get his hands on one? He makes barely enough money to eat, let alone purchase anything. He'd never be able to afford a motorcycle."

Hal shrugs. "Maybe I'm wrong. But he's got transportation somehow. He can't walk as fast as we're tracking him."

Reese growls in frustration. "He's been working hard labor for almost two months now. I thought he woulda calmed down by now or at least run out of some steam."

Hal bites his tongue to keep from laughing. "You're the one who suggested a longer leash, remember? Didn't you say something about getting results from more freedom rather than-"

"Yeah, yeah." Reese waves his hand. "I know. I'm just so scared one of these days he's going to be stupid."

"Well, he can't go anywhere without us knowing it. And like I said, he hasn't left town. Now I know Alec is a hothead and he likes to think he's in control of everything. But I also know he's not stupid and whether he'd admit it or not, I'd bet you anything he knows good and well we're the ones in control. He might test us to see how far we'll let him go, but he's not going to be stupid."

"You think?"

"I do."

Reese paces a little more. "You're probably right. I do think I'll drop by his place though and ask him a few questions. I was just about ready to decrease his work to four days a week instead of six, but I want to find out what he's been up to before I do that."

"Good idea. Still reporting to Brown right?"

"Yeah. He's convinced Alec is gonna screw up. I keep arguing with him, while all the while in the back of my mind I'm just hoping he's not right."

Hal purses his lips and nods. "You want me to go see Alec this time instead?"

"No... no, I better so I can report to Brown. Thanks though. Keep up the good work."


...A couple hours later, Reese was at Alec's apartment. "Where'd you get the bike?"

Alec lowers the juice carton and swallows before wiping his mouth with his sleeve. Standing in the tiny kitchen, he lifts an eyebrow at Reese. "Friend of a friend."

Reese folds his arms. He'd only been here five minutes and already his hackles were up. "The truth, Alec. You don't have any money to be buying a motorcycle."

Alec smirks before returning the juice to the refrigerator. "Look... so I've got a bike. What do you care? Last I looked, you weren't arresting me from wandering away from my apartment. Or are you going to start now?"

Reese shakes his head and sighs. "I think the work you're doing is enough punishment, don't you?" Alec looked tired. Worn. Thin. It was obvious he'd been working hard days as he was sentenced. Whether Reese wanted to feel compassion or not, he did. "You know good and well we're watching your every move. We might not have come down on you for wandering around town, but you haven't made a nuisance of yourself either."

Alec gives him a wry grin. "No nuisance, no getting arrested, eh?"

"Something like that."

"So are you actually giving me permission to go wherever I please?"

"I'm telling you to watch your step," Reese warns. "You keep pushing the line and you're liable to find out just where it is, but by then it'll be too late. So I advise you to not go wandering too far."

A few minutes later, Alec was left alone once again. In the quiet. He goes to the window and watches Reese pull away. He knew he was acting all tough and cocky. But on the inside...

Gritting his teeth, he turns from the window. No. He wasn't about to go digging into his own feelings. It hurt too much. No, he was still working on a way to get out of here and get back to where he'd once been. The bike had been the first step. In reality, he'd simply worked through several people to get to someone who owed him a favor. It hadn't been that hard. The next step was finding a real job so he'd have some time off.

Question

Letting out a sigh and watching Mick go Dan new if Dylan wasn't in town he would be the one looking for him. Him didn't have to tell him that because it would of been just something he would have done.

Turning and heading back into the dinning hall Dan lets out a long sigh. He wasn't as happy as before and a bit more quiet but he did his best to not be to down for Jade's sake. Sitting down next to her he takes her hand in his own and gives it a little squeeze. Lunch, than looking for Dylan. It was going to be a long afternoon already

Having Gunner sit down next to her Bree was happy he was feeling better enough to move around now. He looked a lot better too for the most part and Bree was glad for that. She had been worried about him and when JT said it was good he was sleeping now she had just let him be. It didn't bother her that the day was almost over as long as Gunner was ok.

"They are pretty cute. Its just nice to see my Uncle happy. He deserves it too. Though....I think you right I think we are even cuter."

Laughing and standing Bree holds her hand out to Gunner. She'd enjoyed there start to a walk before she would enjoy finishing it too. Not to mention there was a bit of wonder on what Gunner had been getting at with his little speech too.

"Alright...let go!"

Sitting with her book open by JT Amanda reads quietly, every once and a while putting it down to have a little bit of small talk. After the excitement they had this morning just sitting back and relaxing was nice.

"You know I am kind of glad they stole us away. This really has been a nice breath of fresh air. I'd almost forgot what going on vacation was."

Giving a smile to JT she really was having a new time. Even if at times they both felt a little awkward. It was still nice to just relax, and have fellowship with someone she liked and was growing to like more and more!

Driving up and down the streets it doesn't take Dan long to get to the bus station to first see if Dylan was there. Nothing seeing him Dan goes back out to the truck and stops as he see the missing ranch truck outside the small dinner. Not going in right away Dan backtracks to the feed store. He had to place an order so he might as well do that first.

Once finished he heads back to the dinner and enters. Not even looking at Dylan he goes to the counter and orders a coke and two ice cream Sundays. Once for himself and one for Jade. Waiting and leaning on the counter Dan scans the dinner. Seeing Dylan he acts a bit surprised and gives a wave. Picking up his coke and walking over her gives a small grin to Dyaln.

"Fancy meeting you here. Though for sure you'd be long gone by now. Mind if I sit while I wait for the ice cream? Had to come into town to put the feed order in, through while I was here maybe Jade would like if I brought her back some."

Now Dan only hopped Dylan would let him sit down. But asking was better than just doing it. Maybe that in itself would give him the right to sit with him younger friend, and show that he did respect him.

Hope lets her smile grow a little more. Hope would never give up on Scott. How could she, he was way to important to even think of that. No matter whatever happened Scott would always hold a place in her heart and be special that was something Hope new for sure.

"Don't you worry Scott, I wont give up on you and I'll remind you that ever day if I have too."

Standing and giving a little stretch Hope looks down at Domino still next to Scott not leaving his side. It made her feel good to see the little pup so full of life again. Without Scott she just hadn't been the same. They had both lost a best friend, and Hope new what she had to do.

"How about we go into the living room and get Domino's things together. I have a feeling she wont let you leave now without her."

Wondering into the house Rosetta wondered if Mick was in here. After stepping out with Dan and never returning she was a little worried. He hadn't left she saw his truck still in the driveway but where he was she didn't know. BJ was over at Wendy and Clint's playing with his cousins so that gave her a little bit of free time now to find Mick.

Going to the living room Rosetta stands in the doorway for a long moment just watching Mick as he sat on the couch. Finally though she goes in and sits down on the couch with her husband. She wasn't sure everything that was going on but seeing the look on Mick's face she could tell it was bothering him.

Not saying anything Rosetta reaches over to Mick and slips her hand in with his interlocking them together letting him know she was there.

Forgotten Memories

Mick forces himself to listen, even though he doesn't want to. And hearing what Dan had to say made more sense than he'd want to admit, too.

"Dang it, Dan." His voice was quieter now, though still irritated. "I would have at least expected you to come get me or tell me before now. Do you realize how dangerous it is for Dylan to be out there alone? Whether we like it or not, he's marked for the Agency. Maybe one day when I'm gone, they won't have reason to go after him, but right now, they do, and you just let him walk away - alone."

Taking a deep breath, Mick sets his hands on his hips. "I don't know what to do with you. But I do know what to do with Dylan, and that's get him back here before something happens to him. I just hope he really did head to town. If he didn't or if he's not there anymore, you're going to be the one looking for him."

Spinning on his heel, Mick steps off the porch, not allowing any more to be said. He stalks towards his own truck, fishing his keys from his pocket. But as he reaches the pickup and reaches for the handle, something makes him stop. Looking at the window, he stares at his reflection that stares right back at him. He wanted to hit the road right now and go after his childish son who was behaving quite stupidly. He wanted to find him and wring his neck is what he wanted to do - first for stealing a car, second for driving at all - he didn't even know Dylan knew how to drive! And third for worrying him sick - for two days in a row!

But as he studies his own reflection, he suddenly sees a younger version of himself... a version that was hardheaded, angry and hurt. "What would you do, Mick?" he asks himself aloud. He knew. If he were Dylan, he'd run, turn his back on the world and wallow in misery. And if his dad showed up to ridicule him... it would just make him hate everything all the more. Whether he liked it or not, Dan had a point - tightening Dylan's leash would only make him want to run all the more.

Mick slowly lets go of the pickup's door handle, his eyes drifting to the keys in his hand. As much as he wanted to go after his son... as much as he wanted to slap him upside the head and rescue him at the same time... maybe it was time he let go.

Taking a deep breath, he tucks away his keys again and slowly wanders back towards Dylan's bunkhouse. Letting himself in, he eases down on the edge of Dylan's bed, the mattress creaking under the weight. He'd respected his son's privacy since Dylan had decided to stay here - a decision that Mick had sometimes worried about but had forced himself to honor. He was a little surprised to see now how neatly the bunkhouse was kept. Perhaps he'd expected more of a mess, but other than a few pieces of dirty clothing hanging out of the laundry basket in the corner and a towel on the bathroom floor, it was clean.

Taking a better look around, Mick eventually gets up and starts looking through Dylan's chest of drawers, hunting for any clues as to where he would have gone, or maybe... maybe deep down he needed to be assured that his son really had left of his own freewill and it wasn't some Agency trick.

Finding that many things were missing, such as Dylan's pocket knife, watch, backpack and a couple sets of clothes, it was enough to convince Mick that his son had indeed left on his own - otherwise he would not have had time to pack, let alone be methodical in the items he'd taken. Dan was right - Dylan had left of his own accord. Had his son hated it here that much? Had their argument truly pushed him over the edge? Was Mick such a terrible father? Had he failed so miserably? Maybe it was better if Dylan did leave... if he were that miserable here.

Swallowing the urge to cry over the feeling of ultimate failure, Mick starts to leave. But as he does, his foot hits something under the bed. Kneeling down, he retrieves an old, worn out, bent, duct taped shoe box. Odd. He didn't remember seeing this before. It must have been with the few personal belongings his ex-wife had sent here once they knew Dylan would be staying.

Sitting down on the floor, Mick sets the box in his lap and lifts the lid. He was surprised to find quite the array of small items. What was even more surprising, though, was what those items were. His fingers gently pick up an old baseball and he cradles it, a thousand images swirling in his mind. This was the same baseball that he had bought when Dylan was just a little tyke. They'd rolled it back and forth on the floor countless times before eventually being able to play gentle games of catch. And now... Dylan... he still had it?

Growing intrigued, Mick sets the ball aside, finding an old jackknife, a few birthday cards, a couple rocks that must have had some significance, a worn and cracked yo-yo, an old report card that showed an A - probably one of the only As he'd ever gotten in school - a few marbles, a quarter that would seem to be nothing special but obviously there was something special about it to Dylan, a broken wristwatch and an unmarked key. But the thing that interested Mick the most was a small handful of photos, curled, some torn and all worn as if handled and shifted around many times.

Now fully engrossed in what he was doing, Mick leans back against the bed and begins looking through the pictures. They were almost all of family, and many from before Mick had left. Several were of Mick, Jill, Jade and Dylan - he recognized one as a church picture and some that they'd had professionally taken. There was a picture of Mick holding Dylan just after he'd been born. That photo alone brought tears to Mick's eyes. There was a picture of a family picnic - Dylan looked no more than six years old... it had to have been right before everything fell apart. They all looked so happy sitting on that red and white checked blanket in the park. Dylan was wearing a crooked baseball cap, Jade was proudly holding up a fistful of drooping dandelions and Jill was sitting in Mick's lap with her arms around his neck. It must have been a friend who shot the picture - Mick had forgotten about that day.

Swiping at his eyes, Mick returns the pictures to the shoebox. There were more but he couldn't look at them. It hurt too much. Putting the lid back in place, he returns the box under the bed where it belonged - where it hadn't been meant for anyone else's eyes.

Mick remains on the floor for a while longer though. Pulling up one leg, he rests an arm on his knee and stares at the wall. Only someone who cared would keep a treasure box like this. Only someone who card would want to keep those pictures. The past really did mean something to Dylan... he apparently had a heart after all. He apparently did cherish the good times and the good memories of his father. If he had harbored only bitterness, he would not have kept any pictures of Mick at all - but he had. And he had kept them with his other prized possessions.

Mick chews on the inside of his lip. He wanted to go look for Dylan so badly - especially now. Especially after discovering his son's heart, however hidden it might have been. Whether Dylan showed it through his words and actions or not, there was proof here that he could care - that he did care. And now all that Mick wanted was his son to be back here and safe. And yet, as heartbreaking as it was, he knew he couldn't go after him. Dan had been right to let him go. It wasn't an easy thing to admit, even to himself, but he knew it to be true. Mick had been trying so hard to keep Dylan here... he'd been holding the reins so tightly... that Dylan had finally retaliated.

Eventually, Mick gets up, leaving the bunkhouse be. But he doesn't return to the dining hall. Instead, he goes to the house, finding himself sitting on the couch in the living room. He'd go back out in a while... as soon as he could focus again.


Sitting alone in the booth at the little diner, Dylan toys with a paper napkin. He'd ordered a coke, but that was all. He wasn't hungry. He'd almost gone to California once - why not now? The only downside was that the bus was running late.

After another sip of pop, Dylan shifts sideways in the booth and glances out the front window of the diner. A few people went by on the sidewalk, but it seemed a rather quiet day. It never had rained, which seemed to be the topic of choice for just about everybody around here.

Sighing, Dylan resumes his slouched position as his mind took him places he didn't want to go... yesterday's fight with Mick... how he was always screwing up... how he felt unwanted... getting poor Ashlee in trouble... being trusted by no one. Was it any wonder he didn't want to be at the ranch anymore? Was it any wonder he wanted out? Why had Mick tried so hard to keep him there anyway? It had been stupid from the beginning. He should have just been left alone that day the Elite had found him... By now he'd either be dead from a drug overdose or living who knows where with who knows who. But at least he'd be in charge of his own life rather than feeling like he was a prisoner.


"Well, there goes one day down the drain." It was late afternoon now and Gunner had just woken from a much-needed nap after this morning's adventure. He'd managed to get himself up and out by one of the trees to sit down next to Bree in the shade.

Thankfully, he was feeling much better and looked a lot better too. The swelling in his face was almost all gone and though where he got stung still burned and itched some, that swelling had gone down too.

Plucking a piece of grass and leaning against Bree's shoulder, he sighs. He spots JT lazing back in the grass a ways away with a fishing line in the water. He had Amanda for company. Gunner grins. "They are cute, aren't they?" He turns his head, still resting on Bree's shoulder, so his face was almost touching hers. The sparkle in his eyes was a silly one. "I think we're cuter," he teases. "I'm feeling a lot better now... suppose we sneak away for another attempt at a walk?"


"Okay." Scott smiles, glad Hope understood. He wondered if, perhaps, there was a bit of disappointment in those sparkling eyes of hers. That much made him feel badly. But he was happy that she was at least willing to be friends with him, despite the past.

Gently placing his camera back in its box, he pauses, running his finger around the edge. "I don't know what the future holds," he admits quietly. "I just need to... to find myself... before.... before there's an 'us.'" He bites his lip, his eyes still lowered. There was a part of him that really did want to have Hope back in his life as more than a friend. But right now, he wasn't even sure he could last away from Brookshire, let alone handle a relationship again.

Lifting his gaze, a little smile returns. "Thanks for believing in me. Even though I'm home, my fight's not over... I don't know if it ever will be. So just... keep believing, okay? 'Cuase some days I have trouble with believing in myself."

Badly

Looking at Scott for a long moment Hope was silent. After getting Scott's letter her heart had been broken, she understood why Scott did what he did but it had still hurt. Now that Scott was back there was a part of her that hoped they would be able to be back together again now.

"That is completely fine with me. Friends it is."

Though there was a little disappointment Hope didn't let it show as she smiled. She'd take things as slow as Scott wanted. This was about his after all and she wanted to know he was ok and ready to start a relationship again.

"Just let me know what time is good for you and it will be good for me too."

Watching Wyatt leave Aerith gives a happy sigh. She really did enjoy his company no matter the time. He was the bright spot in her day and no matter what he always made her smile. Now she hoped he would be able to work through everything and in the end it would be ok.

Cringing a little Dan new Mick was going to be mad but hearing the anger in his voice was nothing he could prepare for. He looked up to Mick and knowing he was angry with him sucked. He had his reason and all he could do now was try to explain.

"I didn't stop him because I new if I had tried this morning it would of given him even more of a reason to leave and anything that was said would go unheard. I saw him go twords town so I new thats where he would be."

Dan searches Mick's face before continuing.

"I planned on going into town after lunch to see where he was and see if I could talk to him. At least than he would listen and maybe something I had said would be heard."

Drawing silent again Dan hoped Mick wasn't to upset with him. He did what he thought was best and it made sense to him. He did feel badly for Mick though and new this had to be hard on him.

Friends

Seeing Dan approach, Mick gains a bit of hope. Maybe he had some information.

Following Dan outside, he does feel just a little leery. Why did they need to leave the dining hall? Out on the porch, Mick stops and receives Dan's information. For a moment, all he can do is look at Dan, his eyes going wide. Dylan had left? With a truck?

The shock very quickly evolves into anger and Mick's surprised eyes now blaze. "He what?!" Glaring at Dan, he just cannot understand. "Why didn't you stop him?? And for pity's sake, why didn't you come tell me?!" Spinning around, he paces in a small circle, trying to calm down and figure this out, but he was so angry. "Are you out of your mind, letting him go like that? And even if you couldn't have stopped him, what ever possessed you not to let me know?!"


From inside, no one could hear exactly what was being said, but everyone could hear Mick's raised voice. Jade tenses, not knowing what was going on. What had Dan had to say that he wouldn't say in here? Did he know something about her brother? She was worried about Dylan too, ever since yesterday. But why as her father so upset now? She looks around the room to find no one else knew what was going on either, but they all knew it wasn't appropriate to go find out yet.


Wyatt chuckles and returns Aerith's kiss, tightening his arms around her and just holding her, letting his affection show. Pulling back just a little, he grins. "You make my world as bright as the sun, even at one in the morning."

Loosening his grip, he gives a contented sigh. "Even so, I should probably get home. I'll let you get back to bed and me... well, by the time I get home, I'll be ready to crawl into bed, too." Giving her one last light kiss, he stands up. "Thanks for the coffee... and the chat."

Looking down at Aerith, something new sparked in his eyes. But only he knew what it was.


Scott scratches Domino behind her ears and under her chin, satisfying her for now. As he gives her attention he still looks back at Hope. Her offer to spend time with him tomorrow was a little surprising. A part of him wanted to jump at the chance... and a part of him was... scared.

He glances down at his camera again, then back up at Hope. He had really hoped he wouldn't have to get to this topic tonight... not the first time they saw each other. But there wasn't much way around it now - not unless he wanted to continue feeling awkward.

Clearing his throat, he nods. "I... I'd like that. A lot. I just..." He bites his lip. He'd changed, but not so much that Hope wouldn't be able to read him and he knew it. He knew she'd see the fear in his eyes. "I don't know how to... I mean... after my letter..."

He sighs, his shoulders dropping. He just needed to say it. "I don't know...where you and I stand. After everything, I... I've missed you a lot, I just... I don't know how much I can handle yet. Are...are you okay with... with just being friends?"

Early

Looking up at Mick Dan can see the worry on his face and now he figured it was ok to day something. He's waited with a reason and now he lets out a little breath knowing Jade just got comfortable. He hated having to get up but he had too.

"I'll be right back."

Standing and going over to Mick he waves him to follow him outside. It would be easier to talk there with less commotion. Dan new Mick wouldn't be happy one bit but that was only natural.

"Mick, I saw Dylan early early this morning. He took one of the pick ups and went twords town. I don't know if he was just getting away or running away but he had his bag with him."

Aerith can't help but chuckle. Even when Wyatt was in a sour mood she could always count humor to lighten the mood. Moving her head a little bit and wrapping her arm over his chest. She was tired, but she wouldn't give up spending time with Wyatt for it.

"Oh I don't mind the lack of sleep to much. I have off tomorrow so that always helps too. Just don't come lookin for me early in the morning because I'll still be sleeping."

Giving a laugh again Aerith lifts her head and looks at him. Giving a smile she leans in and press her lips against Wyatt. Just letting it linger she soaks in the emotions.

Hope can't help but do anything but smile. She felt happy, happier than she had in a long time. Just to see Scott, to see the joy in his eyes even if he didn't say anything it really did mean a lot to her and was the best gift anyone could give. She was happy Scott had come to TJY today and stopped to see her as well.

"I new you had it in you all along how could I give up?" Hope's smile grows even more. "You're very welcome."

Seeing Scott was done eating she was please he as least had eaten some and it satisfied her. It was better than nothing. Standing and moving the plates away she puts whats left in the garbage and the plates in the sink. She would worry about them later. Coming back to the table Hope sits down once again.

"If you want to try your camera out tomorrow I have off. I can take you someplace if you would like. I bet Domino could use the fresh air too."

Ready

"Dylan?" Mick calls down the barn aisle and waits for a response but receives none. Wandering into the barn, he searches for his son, but comes up empty-handed. Pausing to think of where else to look, he shakes his head, muttering under his breath. "You've got to be kidding me." Two days in a row? Seriously? At least this time Ashlee was unable to go anywhere so it was just Dylan. But really now... this was ridiculous.

The boy hadn't shown up for breakfast, but Mick had thought nothing of it, since his son was most likely still in a bad mood and was known for skipping meals if he was upset. A while later, Sparky had asked him where Dylan was after he hadn't shown up for his riding lesson. Mick had volunteered to hunt him down, but now, after searching the barn and surrounding paddocks, and after glancing in Dylan's bunkhouse, he had seen nothing. After that, he'd taken a walk around the ranch to all the places his son normally went to sulk - all the places he'd visited the day before on the very same mission - but still found nothing.

By now, it was getting close to lunchtime. Mick had gotten very little done this morning and was quickly becoming irritated. He'd only asked a couple of the ranch hands if they'd seen anything and none had. Everyone else was too busy to notice him wandering around, and that was fine with him. He was feeling rather stupid for going through this routine the second time in two days. Deep down, though, he was also just a little bit worried. Yesterday, Dylan running off wish Ashlee was one thing. Today, the kid was upset, so who knew what he'd be up to? What if he went and did something really stupid? What if he got into trouble alone somewhere? What if the Agency nabbed him while he was in this vulnerable position? If something really did happen, Mick's guilt would increase ten-fold.

He shakes his head again. He'd go see if Dylan had shown up for lunch. And if not, at least there'd be more people there to question.

Getting to the dining hall, he lets himself in, seeing many had gathered already. The scent of tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwiches wafted in the air. Mick's stomach growls but he ignores it.

His eyes find Rosetta across the room and he allows her to see his worry so she'd know that he'd been unsuccessful in his search. He'd vented to her the evening before about Dylan, the fight, and his own guilty conscience. it didn't help matters any though.

Clearing his throat, he waves to get everybody's attention, giving a short but shrill whistle.

Those standing or seated look in his direction. Jade had just gotten settled next to Dan and looks up quickly, surprised and wondering what it was her Dad looked so concerned about.

Mick purses his lips. "I know we went through this yesterday... but has anyone seen Dylan today at all?"

There were may heads shaking no.

Jim frowns from where he sat near Mick. "He's missing again?"

"Yeah. At least I can't find him." Mick grits his teeth and finds Stacy over to the side. But she didn't look like she knew anything either. He throws up his arms lamely. "Alright, well... if anyone sees him, please let me know." What he should do now, he wasn't sure.


Wyatt finally looks at Aerith and shifts his arm around so he could hold her close. "Maybe you're right. Maybe I should just take advantage of this in spite of why it happened."

He gives the top of her head a kiss. "Wanna run away with me?" he teases.

Smirking, he shakes his head. "I guess maybe I just need to accept that everything has changed. The Elite... Dad... everything. Not anything else I can do about it, so..." He shrugs. "All I can do is come see my girlfriend at wee hours in the morning and deprive her of sleep."


Confused, Scott looks down at the box. He didn't understand. What was it? Why was Hope giving him something?

After a hesitant glance at her across the table, his fingers slowly open the box. As his eyes come to rest on his camera, his heart jumps. His camera. His favorite camera. The good one. The one he'd used for all of his favorite pictures. He knew it wasn't just a replacement because he recognized a scratch on the side from when he'd dropped it once. It was the camera he'd...thrown away.

His gaze snaps up and locks with Hope's for a long moment. How had she known? Who had seen him give it up that day? Why had she kept it for him?

A lump rises in his throat. Looking back down at the camera, he carefully lifts it out of the box. His fingers wander around this precious tool, feeling at home on the cool surface. He suddenly feels tears pooling behind his eyes. He couldn't remember a time he'd received such a thoughtful gift. He was glad he'd come tonight.

Finally looking back at Hope again, a faint smile creases his lips. "Thank you," he manages. "I think I... I'm ready to try this thing out again." It was more than just a camera to him - it was part of him, his hobby, his therapy, his outlet.

A short bark brings a sudden end to the moment and he glances down at Domino who seemed quiet perturbed that her master was so preoccupied. He grins and shakes his head. "Spoiled brat."

She puts her front paws on his leg and wriggles, having no clue he'd just called her a brat, but simply loving it that he'd talked to her at all.

Scott sighs. Setting the camera aside, he turns sideways in his chair and lets Domino up in his lap where she really wanted to be. She's quick to accept, sitting right down on his legs and giving a little huff of approval. She looks over at Hope and gives a happy whimper as if telling her she was quite content now.

Scott rolls his eyes but gives in and lets his hand give her some loving. Eventually though, he does look back over to Hope. He was glad for this little interruption... it gave him an excuse to cease eating without making her feel bad he hadn't finished his plate. "I, um..." What was he really trying to say? Maybe he didn't even know. "Thanks for... for still believing in me... even when I didn't."

Important

Exiting the barn Dan closes the doors behind him. There was a storm coming and the last thing he wanted was for anything to blow away, horses to get loose, or any damage done. So he had taken it on himself to make sure everything was locked down. He'd be getting up in an hour or so anyways to start chorus anyways. So the early start didn't bother him.

Hearing a noise Dan squints through the dark down the drive way trying to make out the figure with the truck. About to go after whoever it was Dan stops as a flashing of lighting reveals who it was. He'd heard from Jade about the fight, and now Dylan was running away once again. Letting out a sigh he turns heading to the mess hall to get some coffee. He could try and stop Dylan but at the moment that would do no good.

"Maybe you need a vacation?"

Aerith leans into Wyatt once he puts his coffee down. Everything seemed more clear now. He was having mixed feelings about a lot of things to the point that he didn't even know what to feel, how or why. She didn't know what he was going through but she could only imagine it was hard.

"As much as you hate it maybe you should take the time off you have been given and just get away for a little bit. Evaluate the situation and just relax."

Giving a slight nod Hope listened to Scott. She was sure Reese would let him come back to work starting off as part time. Everyone missed Scott and he had been so good at his job. She was sure Dalton would have no problem share his office again either.

"Starting out small and working your way up is definitely a good goal. I bet your gonna do just fine."

Remembering something suddenly Hope holds up a finger motioning she would be right back before moving her chair and heading out of the kitchen and into the living room. Only gone a few moments she returns with a box and hands it to Scott with a smile.

"I've been saving this for you and now it will give you something to do."

Tucked inside the box gently was Scott's camera and film he had thrown away after getting to Brookshire. She had saved it this whole time for him in hopes to one day be able to give it back to him. It was important to him, so it was important to her.

Leaving

Scott tries not to let the surprise show on his face. Not that he thought Hope was one to go out dating guys all the time, but he thought for sure after he'd sent that letter, that she would have found companionship with someone else. But...she hadn't. Why? He wondered if he knew.

He's glad when she changes the subject though, diverting his mind to something else. Taking a sip of water, he shakes his head. "I... really don't know. I'm not really sure what to do."

He looks down for a moment, watching Domino. "I suppose I'd like to go back to work if Reese will have me. Maybe just a little... like part time or something... to see if I can handle it." He'd be the first to admit he wasn't sure how much he could handle at this point. It would all be trial and error from here on out. "If I can't then... I guess it'll be flipping burgers somewhere or something." Tucked away in the back of his mind was his photography. His hidden dream had always been to make a career out of his hobby. Now though... he didn't know if he still had it in him or not, and besides that, he'd need to get a new camera and they didn't come cheap.

He forces a smile and takes another bite of food, trying to at least eat half of what was on his plate. His taste buds loved it. His stomach not so much. "There's always jobs around," he concludes. "I figure something out."


Jason returns a light kiss to Katie's lips, glad to see she wasn't too upset over this whole thing. What did bother him, though, was the strange sensation - or lack thereof - when receiving and returning Katie's affection. At least he thought it was affection. Well it was, right? Obviously. So why did it...
He stops his mind from going there. He was just tired. That was all.

Catching Katie's eye, he holds his gaze, letting her words linger. He was glad, for her sake, he had survived this battle. Glancing over to see Rick and Misty were still busy at work, he moves over a little in his bed even though it hurt. Making room, he pats the blanket next to him as an invitation. Letting her lie down next to him, he turns on his side and wraps an arm around her, burying his face into her neck and hair. Closing his eyes, he sighs deeply. "We don't have to think about that now," he mumbles. She was safe. He was safe. That's all that mattered.

Why, then, did he feel so very empty? It was as if, along with their connection, all emotion had been completely drained from him. And along with it...

He scrunches his eyes closed tighter. He didn't want to think about it. He just wanted to rest here close to Katie and feel...

He swallows hard.

Nothing.


Wyatt digests Aerith's questions, just letting her do the talking for a few moments. He didn't really have good answers though. It had been a long time since he'd felt this messed up about anything.

"We're all overworked," he finally responds. His eyes remained fixed on the ceiling. "Not that he doesn't have a right to react to it, but that's nothing really new I guess."

He lapses into silence again before figuring out his next answer. "I do like Angelica. I mean, she's alright and all." He shrugs. "I guess in the beginning, I thought it was cute Dad was dating someone. Now it just feels weird. I mean we all work together. I walk down the hall and there she is." He waves. "Hi... Miss Lockhart? Angelica? Dad's girlfriend? Future stepmother?" He grimaces. "Cute has turned into ew."

Smirking, he takes another sip of coffee then sets the cup down on the table for now. Leaning back into the couch, he resumes his upward stare. "And no I haven't said anything to him. It's been like walking on pin and needles around him lately. If I were to say anything remotely close to negative about Angelica, he'd pummel me."

A new sigh emerges. His fingers still toy with hers. "I just feel like I don't fit what he wants in the Elite anymore."


Heading back to his bunk, Dylan didn't look back. He felt a strange little twinge down deep, but let it go. Ashlee was nice and all but there were some things he just had to do...


...Thunder rolled in the distance, a stale breeze blowing through the ranch. The air held a tantalizing scent of rain, but no drop had fallen yet.

Dylan laid awake on his bed, his eyes drifting between the dark ceiling and his digital bedside clock. It was three in the morning - late enough that no one was up anymore, and early enough that no one was awake yet. It was as Dylan had planned the evening before. The hardest part was getting under Stacy's radar, but even she slept each night after her late rounds. And right now, the timing was perfect.

Another roll of thunder subtly vibrates the bunkhouse. Dylan throws off his blanket to reveal he hadn't undressed from the prior day. Slipping on his sneakers, he then grabs his backpack and slaps a baseball cap on his head. He'd laid out everything so he wouldn't need to turn on his light.

Quietly exiting his bunkhouse, he takes a quick glance around to find the ranch deathly still except for the breeze. Taking a route that was safely within the shadows and out of reach of the ranch lights, he heads nearer the garage where several vehicles were parked. Carefully opening the pickup door, he tosses in his bag. Straightening to glance around again, he slides into the pickup and puts it into neutral. Thankfully, there was just slight enough of an incline that a hefty shove would get the vehicle silently rolling. Walking with one hand on the wheel and one on the open door, Dylan struggles to push the truck down the drive way. The nearing thunder muffled the crunch of gravel and the dogs seemed not to care much about someone they knew. No house lights caught Dylan's eye - the coast was still clear.

By the time Dylan reached a good distance down the driveway, sweat was trickling down the sides of his face. Letting the pickup roll to a halt, he looks back over his shoulder. Was he far enough away? He hoped so.

Waiting a few moments, he takes note of distant lightning then counts until he hears the thunder. Once satisfied, he reaches in his pocket to draw out a key he'd swiped from the office yesterday afternoon. Sliding in behind the steering wheel, he pulls the door shut as quietly as he can, then waits. Seeing the lightning, he counts, then turns the key just as the thunder rolls. Taking several nervous glances in the mirrors, he finally puts the truck in gear and lets it crawl the rest of the way down the driveway until he reached the road. Left or right was the only decision remaining before he steps on the gas pedal and heads towards town.

New Day

Enjoying the meal Hope took note to how slow Scott was eating but it didn't both her one bit. It was nice to just seeing him eating this time around. It was the baby steps that matter no matter how slow or how fast.

Hearing Scott's comment about her having a date every night brings a chuckle that slipped from her lips. Searching Scott's face Hope couldn't help but wonder about Scott's question.

"No no...no dates. Unless a date on the couch counts with Dick VanDike!"

Taking another bite of her food Hope throws another smile to Scott. If he really though she had a boyfriend she now wondered if he was surprised that she didn't. Her heart still belonged to Scott even if he had let her go.

"So now what are you going to be doing since your home again?"

Getting up and steadying herself a little Katie gets closer to Jason's bed before sitting down next to him and taking his hand in her. Running her finger over his Katie gives a small nod agreeing.

"Thats right, I'd rather lose something less important than lose you thats for sure. Even if it doesn't seem like it, I really am happy. I think I'm just a little drained still."

Making the best of this was all they could do about it. Getting use to it was just going to have to happen. She still loved Jason she new she did so she would have to train herself and that was it. Leaning in Katie gives Jason a small kiss before backing away a little bit and searching his eyes.

"I don't know what I would of done if you hadn't made it through."

Continuing to listen to Wyatt Aerith gives a nod that she was listing even if she hadn't said anything. It was becoming a little more clear on everything that was going around in Wyatt's mind and what was bothing him. What surprised her though was his short comment about Angelica. It was a simple comment but it held a bit of jealousy on it.

"Maybe you Dad is over worked? Maybe he needs a vacation away just you and him like you told me you guys use to do. All that paperwork he does is for the Elite maybe its just starting to get to him. As for Angelica....I thought you liked her...I mean as least you dad has someone to talk with right?"

Aerith didn't know what about Angelica specifically was bothering Wyatt or why but she could tell it was something. Maybe because Reese didn't spend as much time with Wyatt anymore it was bothing him, or having another woman move into his dad's life made him feel odd.

"Have you tried talking to your dad about it calmly? Maybe he doesn't even realize these things are bothering you!"

Watching Dylan turn to leave Ashlee gives a wave and watchs him go. She this whole thing would be solved or blow over soon so she could see Dylan again. She'd like to think they had started to become friends and he seemed like a really fun person to hang around.

Letting out a sigh and turning back to lay down on the bed she lets out a sigh. There was a new ach in her heart even if it seemed silly and childish it was still there and she couldn't help it. Tomorrow was a new day and she wondered how many of those would have to happen till she would be able to see Dylan again.

Date

Dylan was glad Ashlee wasn't hurt any worse than she was, but even more than that, he was relieved she was talking to him at all. Whether Mick had accused him out in the open or not, he hadn't needed to fire back like he had, and was sorry if he'd made things worse on Ashlee.

Her question brings his gaze to the ground for a moment before looking back up to the window again. "Yeah, I'm okay." He shrugs. "I've been through a lot worse than this." His eyes were dim tonight... dimmer than usual. But he gives Ashlee a crooked grin anyway. "I always said homework was detrimental to my health."

Glancing over his shoulder, he knows he can't stay long, lest he be spotted. "I better go. See ya around."


Wyatt leans his head back to look at the ceiling, one hand holding his coffee mug on his leg, while the other was still in Aerith's grasp. He could tell she was confused - that was no surprise. So was he. This whole thing just seemed so stupid.

"I don't know." Yes, he'd always said he loved his job. And he had. But was it time for a change?

"It's just..." His phrase lingers as he tries to collect his thoughts. He really did want to talk it out, but just wasn't sure where to begin or what really was on his mind.

"Things have been different. I mean, of course they were different after we came out into the open and we have stricter rules because of it, but all that makes sense. What doesn't make sense is Dad lately. The rest of us can't seem to do anything right. He's never happy. We tried to fix a certain situation tonight, figuring we were saving more than one life. Only afterward did we learn Dad had other plans, so he flipped out on us."

He shakes his head. "He's never kept things from the team before - not like that. And when he raked me over the coals, it was like since I was his son, he was going to use me as the example or something." He shrugs lamely. "I just don't know if it's worth it anymore. All he's got time for is paperwork and Angelica. It's like he doesn't even see the Elite's true purpose anymore."

The bit about Angelica had unintentionally slipped out and Wyatt hoped Aerith hadn't noticed. He wasn't sure if he was ready yet to voice the feelings he had about that whole thing.


Jason caught on to something in Katie's voice that hinted she was less than happy about this whole thing. He still didn't know the full story of how the Agency had gotten involved and exactly what information they'd wanted in return, but his mind was too tired to try and put it all together anyway. As far as Katie went... no matter how they'd gotten here, it didn't really surprise him that she'd be unhappy. She was always the first to want them to stay connected and he'd always been the one fighting it.

Still to sore to move much, Jason remains in bed, his eyes following her. "No... I don't sense a connection at all," he admits. "Kinda quiet." He'd meant it as a tease, but the humor seemed to deflate as soon as the words left his mouth. "Things could be worse - I could be dead. Or you. What's a minor adjustment in the big scheme of things?"


Settled at the table, Scott listens to Hope, feeling badly that she'd been so sick - it was apparent her daily routines had been forced to slow down some.

As she sits across from him, her words bring a little heat to his face and his question again lingers in his mind. But he couldn't ask...not yet. He wasn't even sure how to respond to her last comment.

Clearing his throat, he turns a little in his seat, letting Domino gnaw on her toy by his feet. "Well I guess... it's good to be missed." His inner voice chided him that it was a lame response.

Getting started with the meal, at least eating took up time and not as much needed to be said, though there were a few awkward pauses. Scott does his best to show Hope he enjoyed her cooking, but he knew he was eating at a very slow pace.

Eventually, the burning question gets the best of him. Chewing another small bite of food, he glances across to Hope, studying her for a moment. "Things can't be all that boring," he muses. "Not for someone like you." He forces a wry sort of grin. "Figured you might have a date every night by now."

Made Day

Laying in her bed and just looking off into space Ashlee's mind wonders. She was tired from the pain killers Angel had given her and more so from the crying fest she had, had after the visit. Having her mom tell her she was disappointed hurt and Ashlee wasn't sure how to handle it.

Hearing the voice outside her window brings her attachen around. Shifting around on the bed so she was closer to the window and could whisper Ashlee looks to the door. She moment wasn't there right now so she didn't have to be to quiet. Ashlee looks over the sill to see Dylan.

"Hey, I didn't think I'd see you for a while after what happened today."

Ashlee had been embarssed today beyond anything else. She could only imagen how much worse it must have been for Dylan. To have your personal problems, or issues from the past just blurted out like that in front of people could not have been fun. She had felt bad for him and now yet here he was at her window. Ash couldn't help but smile a little thinking this was like something from a book.

"Angel said my ankle was severely sprained but nothing was broken. For the next few weeks I am going to have to use crutches and slowly start walking on it again. All in all it could of been worse for sure."

Letting out a long sigh for a moment Ashlee searches Dylan's eyes. She could tell he was still upset and he had a right to be. She just wished this hole mess hadn't happens to start with. Everything just got worse than it really had to be and it sucked. If there was a way to fix it all Ash would have done it in a heart beat. The last thing she wanted was to lose her friend.

"How about you? Are...you ok?"

Just sitting in silence for a little bit Aerith didn't mind it one bit. Silence could be just as good as talking and she new in time words would be said. She was in no rush so there was no point in hurrying the conversation alone.

As Wyatt starts to talk and Aerith listens a look of surprise cross her face as he mentions he was put on probation. She couldn't image what he would have don't to deserve that or why Reese would do so if his son was doing the right thing. It seemed strange and confusing all in the same breath.

"Probation? For what? I know you can't go into detail but if you were doing the right thing with or without all the details how is that worth probation?"

Locking her fingers with Wyatt's Aerith could tell the whole thing was really getting to him. Part of her wondered if it was just work or maybe something more to it. His comment about quitting made her wonder even more. She'd seen him stressed with his job before but never to the point of quitting. This was something completely new.

"Oh Wyatt? Would you really want to quit? You've always talked about how much you love your job."

Jason's question of if that was a good thing lingers for a long moment as Katie rolls onto her back before swinging her legs around and sitting up. A good thing? She felt empty, lost, and not understanding how to feel. Yeah that was a good thing alright.

"It saved your life thats really all that matters. You living, taking another breath and being able to live your life is a good thing."

Katie gives a small smile letting Jason know it was a good thing. Maybe at this point it was good he couldn't feel her but than again if he did feel her she wouldn't be feeling nothing, and than...Jason would also be dead. There was no good end point to this so Katie was just going to have to find the a way to deal.

"Thats what the people from The Agency said. As far as I can see right now...I can't feel anything."

Those words felt bitter on her tongue. True but bitter and she hated saying them. She only hoped they didn't come across as cold.

"How about you? Feel anything?"

Moving around the kitchen putting stuff into bowls and placing settings at the table Hope gives a smile to Scott. Hope could see the awkwardness in his eyes and hear the hesitance in his voice. She tried to make the atmusphere as comfortable as possible but she new it would just take time for Scott to feel completely comfortable again.

"You're very welcome. Things here for me are pretty normal. Not much has changed other than getting tired quickly and going to bed around nine because I have nothing better to do."

Hope gives a small chuckle. Sometimes she wished she could get out and do more but all in all it didn't bother her to much. She really didn't have anyone to do anything with anyways. But now that Scott was back, maybe...just maybe that would change.

"I'm happy you did show up at TJY.." Hope places the last bowl on the table before sitting down across from Scott. "..it sure did make my day. I missed you very much."

Quitting

Hope was probably right - Scott most likely wouldn't be able to slip away from Domino at all. Not that he wanted to, but he didn't want to ignore Hope either. Her suggestion makes him laugh softly. "Okay." No sooner had he turned with her towards the kitchen and Domino was back on his heels, the toy in her mouth squeaking with every excited breath.

Scott shakes his head and just continues to the kitchen, letting her tag along. Once there, he finds a chair, making sure he didn't get in Hope's way. Something smelled awfully good, and he hoped he'd be able to eat enough so as not to make her feel as though she'd cooked for nothing.

Feeling something against his leg, he looks down to find Domino, once again, begging for attention. Quirking another grin, he pats her head before accepting the toy and tossing it back into the other room so she'd go chase it. Free for a moment, his gaze roams the kitchen before landing back on Hope. "Thanks... for inviting me over. This is nice." His pulse quickened just a little. How was he supposed to ask what he really wanted to?

"I, um... wasn't sure... I mean..." No, he wasn't going to ask. He's interrupted by Domino again, giving him enough time to come up with something different to say. "I didn't know how things were back here. Justin kept me filled in a little, but not much. I wasn't sure about showing up at TJY, but I think I'm glad I did."


Jason blinks. More permanent? As in...always? He gropes again for any sign of feeling Katie, but there is simply none. What he last knew as a raging river was now completely gone. Forever?

"That's... that's good, right?" Wasn't that what he'd always wanted? To be normal again? To not have to worry about not being able to control his emotions? To not have to worry about hurting Katie?

But as his gaze lingered on her eyes, something told him that neither had really realized what it would be like to no longer be connected. He'd thought being on the regular antidote was as separated as they could feel. He'd been wrong. This... this was true separation, and now he knew the difference.

"So... really? We've been...cured?"


Pausing at the door, Justin was rather surprised by Beth's quick kiss to his cheek and then her sudden departure, leaving him with no time to respond. Grinning a little though, he turns and heads for his pickup. It was a good morning. Despite the dread of going to see Jared, he felt better today than he had in ages. Maybe... just maybe it had something to do with the woman who took the time to care...


"Right..." Gunner closes his swollen eyes, quite content to stay right here sitting in the grass. While he really did want to get back on their walk, as dizzy and sick to his stomach as he was at the moment, he figured he better take Bree's advice and take his time. What he should do was go lie down for an hour or two... but that was no good for a camping trip. He didn't want to waste any of this time - at all.

Finding Bree's hand with his, he gives it a little squeeze. "Sorry," he mumbles and pries open his eyes again, still leaning his head on her shoulder. "I was hoping for...a nice quiet...walk."


"Mm..." Wyatt won't commit to an actual answer to Aerith as to whether or not his day had really been that bad. Accepting the coffee and returning her kiss, he nods at her suggestion. "Sounds like the ultimate cure to me." His eyes remain weary though.

Following Aerith to the living room, he finds a spot next to her on the couch and takes a slow sip of coffee. His fingers run over her hand absentmindedly as he stares at the wall...or off into space. Sitting quietly for several moments, it didn't feel awkward. One of the many things he loved about Aerith was that when he needed to talk, she let him, and when he needed silence, she allowed that, too. He appreciated her ability to see deeper than the outside - she read him better than anybody.

Finally though, he knows he needs to get things off his chest lest he explode. Swallowing another sip of coffee, he sighs. He felt hurt and angry, even though his tone remained quiet. "I got put on probation tonight." He shakes his head. "We weren't given all the facts, we did what we thought was right - what was right - and I got put on probation for it."

His finger taps his coffee cup as the wheels in his mind turn. "I'm thinking about quitting."


Hearing Ashlee's explanation and seeing the look on her face, Mick knew she was telling the truth. Though he was still angry, he couldn't deny the innocence in the girl's eyes.

Catching Stacy's glance, he gives her a slight nod. Now wasn't the time for them to discuss anything - it was obvious Ashlee did need help with her ankle, and mother and daughter needed to sort through things as well.

Even after they'd walked away, Mick remains where he is, wandering only to lean on the fence. He needed to cool off before doing anything else and he knew it. He was so very angry with Dylan... and hurt, too. Maybe he'd jumped the gun... maybe he'd come to the wrong conclusion... but the way his son had yelled at him... had emphasized the lack of respect... whether Mick deserved it or not, it still stung.

Growling in frustration, Mick's fist touches down on the fence post. That hurt too. But he didn't care much.

"Were you right?"

Mick spins around to see Sparky. His eyes narrow and he looks back out into the setting sun.

Sparky dares to come closer. "Well? Were you right about Dylan?"

Mick grits his teeth. But he couldn't skirt around the truth. "No."

Sparky nods. He'd thought as much. He'd been sure Dylan wouldn't take advantage of Ashlee. "Heard you guys yelling while I was clear back in the barn," he comments. "Thought you might need a referee there a few times."

Mick didn't find it funny and tosses his brother an annoyed look. "Look, if you wanna say 'I told you so' just say it, alright?"

Sparky sighs and leans on the fence beside him. "I don't think I need to." He waits a moment then gives Mick a sidelong glance. "You okay?"

For some reason, Sparky's calm presence was beginning to defuse Mick's anger, and he shrugs. "Naw, not really."

For what seemed the longest time, the two brothers simply stand and talk, though no one would ever know for sure what was said. The result, though, was Mick being far less angry when walking away, and perhaps kicking himself for having accused too quickly...


"Dylan, we need to talk." Mick raps his knuckles on the bunkhouse door.

Inside, Dylan sat on the floor near his bed with his knees halfway to his chest to act as armrests. His eyes drift to the door, but he doesn't speak.

"Dylan," Mick warns. "Answer me."

Why should he? It was open. If Mick wanted to come in, he could, and Dylan wasn't going to get up. There wasn't much point in saying anything at all. Mick had already made up his mind about everything today, so nothing really mattered.

Mick sighs and finally tries the doorknob, finding it unlocked. Stepping inside, he lets his eyes adjust to the dim light before spotting Dylan on the floor. He lets the door fall shut again and wanders to a chair to sit down. For several moments, the bunkhouse is quiet.

Mick studies his son's quiet demeanor, unsure where to go from here. Part of him was sorry, and part of him felt his actions had been justified. Where was the line? And where did things stand between them? "What happened, today, Dylan?"

Silence.

"Please tell me."

Dylan eventually lifts his eyes, giving his father a dim look. "Why? You didn't believe me earlier, why should you now?"

Mick sighs again. "I'm sorry I was so upset, and I'm sorry for hitting you - I shouldn't have, even if I did disapprove of your language. I don't have any excuse for losing my temper. But you do realize what it looked like out there today, don't you?"

"Sure," Dylan scoffs. "You don't trust me. That's what it looked like. And you can take your apology and shove it. If I'da wanted to hit you back, I would've."

Mick swallows hard. Folding his hands, his fingers tighten around each other as he struggles to remain calm. "Ashlee confirmed you two weren't off doing what it looked like."

Dylan's lips curl into an angry sort of grin. "Yeah... yeah, when she says it, you'll trust it. But not me. Not the guy with the history. I can't be trusted, can I?"

"It's not that simple. I-"

"Really? It sure looks like it to me. Soon as we went missing, you assumed I was off doing a dirty deed because I'd done it plenty times before, right? Figured I found a girl who liked me and would follow me, so she'd make an easy target, right?" Dylan shakes his head. "My word means nothing to you. All you see is the past, and that's all you'll ever see." He scoffs. "And you still wonder why it's not you I'd confide in. Maybe you're not as smart as I thought you were."

In all honesty, Mick felt like pummeling his son for mouthing off, but he remains seated, allowing several more moments to pass. He was hurt and upset and at a total loss as what to do. "I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions," he admits. "Though I doubt many would blame me, since it was only a matter of putting pieces together. Regardless, apparently there was nothing wrong done, I wanted to apologize for slapping you, and I wanted to make sure you were alright so we could move on."

"Alright? You wanted to make sure I was alright?" Dylan's eyebrows rise in sarcastic surprise. "All you wanted to do was come here and justify your actions even though you were wrong."

Mick bites his tongue from snapping back at him. Perhaps there was some truth there, but part of his actions still felt justified. "What do you want me to do, Dylan? What happened today happened and I can't change it. Whether I was wrong or right really isn't the point anymore. It's time to move on and I want to make sure that this isn't going to affect what happens from here on out."

"You mean you wonder if I'll be cleaning stalls tomorrow like always and not sitting in here sulking."

"That's not what-"

"Look, why don't you just let it drop? You obviously want to forget this ever happened, so go right ahead. Forget it. Go on with whatever it is you were doing and leave me alone."

"I want to-"

"Seriously. Leave." Dylan's eyes narrow. "I want to be left alone."

Mick wanted to argue. He wanted to try and get his son to understand his side of things and work it out to resolve this awful tension between them. But apparently tonight wasn't the night. Sad but knowing he needed to give up for now, he rises from the chair. "Okay. We'll talk more another time."

Watching his father leave, Dylan fights the burning sensation in his eyes. Only after the door is shut does he dare mutter under his breath, "There won't be another time." Today was the last straw. He couldn't take this anymore...

...It was after supper and dark. Dylan hadn't shown up for the evening meal, but had hibernated in his bunk. Only now had he dared emerge, and even then it was only to avoid detection as he headed for Stacy and Ashlee's bunkhouse. He knew Stacy was probably making her after-dinner rounds, so hopefully his timing was right.

Seeing a light on, Dylan comes up under an open window, knowing that it was Ashlee's bedroom. "Psst... Ash?" He was royally embarrassed about the things he'd said in front of her earlier, and if he was, surely she was mortified. He needed to know if they were still friends. Not to mention, he still hadn't found out if her ankle was any worse than sprained. "You okay?" he whispers hoarsely.

Hurtful Words

Having Jason reply to her and still feeling nothing a feeling of sadness or what she thought was sadness washed over her. What they had tried really had taken away there ability. It saved Jason's life but at what cost? Emotion, what they though was normal or was it much much more than that.

"I feel...." Those words linger for a moment. What did she feel? "...tired, and drained."

Katie wondered how long Jason had been away now and what had been told to him. By the slight look of confusion on his face Katie would guess not much. Without even thinking Katie found herself searching for Jason's emotions, what he was feeling and there was nothing. It was frustrating and saddening.

"Well, I haven't been out for as long as you have. Maybe a day or two. The agency got in contact with us on you condition and what was happening to you. They would exchange the antidote to make you better for some information." Those words lingered for a moment. "It was like the antidote but more...permanent. You're not going to have to worry about our ability's getting you sick anymore."

Sadness, Anger, hurt....emptiness. It was more lonely than Katie could have ever been prepared for.

Walking with Justin to the door Beth gives a smile. She hated to see him go but new he had too. Standing in the doorway and just looking at him for a long moment Beth cocks her head a little noticing now in the sun light how Justin's eyes sparkled. He was handsome in deed.

"I'll talk to you again soon Justin. Don't be a stranger."

Stepping a little closer to Justin for a moment a fleeting thought passed through Beth's mind. Pushing it away though she new better nor was she bold enough to make THAT move. Leaning in a little she gives a small kiss to Justin's cheek before turning and heading back inside before saying anything or Justin could see her red cheeks.

Shaking her head and rolling her own eyes Amanda throws her arms up in the air a bit of humor in her own eyes. Seeing Gunner was going to be ok it was a little bit easier to relax now.

"You're not an emergency, you're a disaster."

Turning to head back to the dishes that were left she throws a look over her shoulder giving a smile and a wink to Bree.

Laughing and putting her arm around Gunner Bree was able to relax herself. Gunner had given her quite the scare and she was happy now it was over. She hopped it was something they would not have to visit again soon.

"Take your time before we finish our walk. I am in no hurry."

Feeling someone enter the house and than hearing the knock on the kitchen door frame Aerith doesnt even turn around. She could just tell it was Wyatt. His smell, walk, she had just come to know it as his own.

As his arms come up and around her Aerith smiles and brings a hand to his arm giving it a squeeze in return. Wyatt's arms always felt so nice around her.

"That bad huh?" Aerith wondered if it was just work or many more. It had seemed something had been bothering Wyatt lately but wasn't sure what. "I'm sorry your day was bad. Not that I am complaining to much. Any extra time with you is always good."

Pouring the finished coffee into two mugs Aerith turns around and hands one to Wyatt giving him a kiss at the same time and smiling. Searching his eyes for a moment she could see so many mixed emotions.

"Why don't we go into the living room and relax a little bit. Cuddling, coffee and venting al;ways helps me."

Seeing Domino speed by and how happy she was to see Scott Hope couldn't help but laugh. She new the little pup would be excited but to see her this excited it was just a nice feeling. Than Scott's smile catches her eye and it feels Hope with an even warmer feeling. She hadn't seen Scott smile that in a very long time. Would could not describe how Hope felt, or the joy.

"Something tells me your not going to be able to get away from her that easily. However you might be able to con her into the kitchen so you can at least play with her and talk with me at the same time."

Squinting her eyes to see Dylan and Ashlee come up the way Stacy's heart races a little. Anger and worry seem to take over seeing Ashlee was injured. Stepping forward to take Ashlee from Dylan to help hold her up Stacy is about to ask what happens but stops as Mick beats her to it.

As accusations start flying and words are said Ashlee's cheeks turn bright red as she understand finally what Mick was accusing Dylan. Looking to her mother her own eye pleaded hopping she didn't think this was true. Moment after moment Ashlee could just feel her cheeks grow redder and redder. Looking down at the ground she can't even look between everyone anymore. She was to embarrassed.

Looking up slightly as Dylan walks away Ashlee can feel the tears start to well in her eyes. From her ankle, from the harsh words, embarrassment. Ashlee could hardly manage to find words but some how she did.

"He was telling the truth. We just went for a walk. Dylan wanted...he wanted to help me with my school work and I was having a hard time on my own. Than I tripped and he helped me back."

Turning Ashlee hopes a little in the direction of Angel's office. She didn't want to stand here anymore. She just wanted to get her foot looked at and she new her mom was going to scold her as well. She just wanted it done and over with.

Seeing her daughter turn Stacy looks to Mick giving him an apoligetic look and she would talk to him later. Turning and putting an arm under Ashlee she helps her along. Far enough away to be out of ear shot she let out a long sigh trying to keep her own anger under wraps.

"I'm disappointed with you Ash. You new better than to go off without telling me..and with that boy..."

Ashlee didn't let her mom finish her own anger raised a little bit. She was tired of hearing people blame Dylan already for something he didn't do and she was tired of feeling the embarrassment for nothing.

"That boy has a name and he didn't do anything but try to help me. I don't know what the big deal is. You never cared before on where I was going, or what I was doing. Now we are here, one of the safest places in the world and you care? What just trying to look good for everyone else?"

Once the worlds were out of her mouth Ashlee wished she could take them back. She had just been angry and she didn't mean it. She new her mom always loved her and cared.

"I'm....sorry!"

Ashlee's words stung and hard. Even if she didn't mean them if they were there than there had to be some kind of truth right? The damage was done, and the pain was great. Was coming here a good idea after all?

"Drop it Ashlee, we will talk more about it later. When your done at Angel's I want you to go to your bunk. Your grounded for the next few days and thats final. I don't want you hanging out with Dylan anymore by yourself either."

Giving a huf Ashlee new there was no point in arguing even if it wasn't fair. Dylan was her friend and she likes spending time with him. Would she ever be able to see him again now? Ashlee wished she could tell him that she didn't blame him. This just wasn't fair, no one did anything wrong.