Hearing everything they were going to do tomorrow it just made Ashlee even more excited. The smells, the sounds it was all just wonderful when working in the barn. There she felt calm and at peace like it was where she belonged.
"I'll be up bright and early to get my school work done and than you expecting to see me waiting at the barn for you."
Giving Eric a wave Ashlee makes her way back to the bunk house. Letting out a sigh and than sucking in some air Ashlee can't help but smile. The night went from not so great to being a whole lot better and Ashlee was glad. Now to get some sleep before what seemed like an eventful day tomorrow.
Stacy gives a smile as a warm feeling of being needed came over her. And knowing her and her daughter were welcome there it really made her feel good.
"Thanks Jeff."
Getting back to the bunks Stacy new this were her and Jeff should part now. It had been a good night and she was happy he did her rounds with her. She liked the quiet but having someone with her this once was nice too.
As Jeff places his hand on Stacys shoulder she gives a nod to him. The night really had been nice. It was much needed and she was thankful for his offer. Just searching his face for a long moment Stacy can't help but smile again as she brings her hand up to Jeff's.
"Thank you as well for offering to take Ashlee and I out for the night. It was much needed and very welcoming of you."
Standing there for another long moment Stacy finally takes a few steps forward and gives Jeff's arm a soft touch showing she was thankful for the night.
"Sleep well Jeff and I'll see you tomorrow."
Listing to Justin as he talks about his brother Beth takes another bit of her food just giving a small nod. Though Jared's first impression on her had been a bad one she still didn't want to see anything happen to him. For Justin's moms sake, for Justin's and just because it was simply wrong. As Justin thanks her for cooking Beth smiles. She didn't mind and it felt good to be able to cook for him
"Well, seeing how your brother was before the accident I can't blame you for having a hard time wanting to go see him. Sometimes forgiving, and forgetting or just pretending it didn't happen is hard. But I believe its what God would want us to do."
Drawing silent for a moment to blow on her soup before sipping it off the spoon Beth couldn't even begin to start thinking how Justin might feel. And if she was in his situation would she be doing anything differently.
"I'll keep praying that God gives you the peace to go see him. If and when you do go if you'd like to not do it alone I would be more than happy to go with you. I've got to return your mom's dish anyways."
Beth gives a smile as she looks across the table at Justin. He's been her first friend, someone she trusted, and had grown close to. He'd also helped her though a lot so to be able to repay him made her feel good even if it was something simple like this!
2/26/12
Long Time
Eric can't help but chuckle at Ashlee's enthusiasm. He didn't think he'd ever seen another horse-crazy girl who loved to do all this work and still not have been in the saddle once. Most would beg to ride, no matter who it was that taught them. Eric wondered, given the chance, if Ashlee really would still refuse to learn from someone else. He hoped he still had enough time before her birthday to be the one to offer. He hadn't wanted to at first but... well... maybe his soft spot was a little softer than he thought. The temptation to tell her now returned, but... if he did, he wouldn't have anything else to give her for her birthday, so he refrains.
"Well, the farrier is due to come soon and we need to figure out which horses need their hooves trimmed. Then we gotta take a look at Static's leg." Eric was referring to his own horse. "He got cut on something the other day and I bandaged it but we need to take a look and clean it and rebandage it. And if there's still time left... we'll figure it out then."
"As far as I'm concerned, we still need you around here." Jeff glances at Stacy as they walk. "Even if Dylan isn't here, we always need more eyes and just having you make your rounds at night is a major worry off our shoulders."
He shrugs, then grins. "At least that's what I think. Besides, no one would have a good enough reason for you not to stay. Even if you weren't a lookout, there's plenty to do. And nobody would want to make Ashlee leave now either."
Nearing the bunkhouses, he knows it's about time to say goodnight, and he sighs. "Well..." He slowly comes to a stop. "I guess this is where I get off."
Turning to Stacy, he sets a hand on her shoulder. "Thanks... it's been a long time since I had such a nice evening."
Justin holds his grin as Beth talks. He didn't know if he'd ever seen her quite like this - bubbly and all excited, but trying to contain it. It was good - refreshing - a big step forward for her. She'd apparently found out a lot about Zach. Though hoping she wasn't getting in over her head, Justin knew that if Beth had received any bad vibes at all, she wouldn't be seeing the guy again. So for the most part, he wasn't worried about her. But why did he have this strange miniature ache way down deep? Maybe he was just being protective.
Having the subject quickly reversed to him, Justin holds up one finger and pauses the conversation for a quick prayer for lunch. When finished, he tears off a corner of his sandwich to dip in his soup, though he knows Beth was still waiting for an answer. "Jared's doing as well as can be expected I guess. Ma says the doctor told her that his body is working overtime to heal quickly, which is good. Seems that the internal damage isn't of huge concern anymore and everything is working properly as far as that goes."
Justin pauses to take a bite of his dunked sandwich. "Mm... boy, this is good. Thanks for cooking." He smiles before continuing the conversation. "I guess he's in quite a bit of pain from his ribs and shoulder but the doctor said that everything really is healing better than could be expected so..." He shrugs. "I guess that's about it. He still can't feel or move his legs though and so far he hasn't regained any memories."
Eating for a moment or two, he finally glances over at Beth. "I... haven't been in to see him yet though. Just not quite sure how to do that one."
"Well, the farrier is due to come soon and we need to figure out which horses need their hooves trimmed. Then we gotta take a look at Static's leg." Eric was referring to his own horse. "He got cut on something the other day and I bandaged it but we need to take a look and clean it and rebandage it. And if there's still time left... we'll figure it out then."
"As far as I'm concerned, we still need you around here." Jeff glances at Stacy as they walk. "Even if Dylan isn't here, we always need more eyes and just having you make your rounds at night is a major worry off our shoulders."
He shrugs, then grins. "At least that's what I think. Besides, no one would have a good enough reason for you not to stay. Even if you weren't a lookout, there's plenty to do. And nobody would want to make Ashlee leave now either."
Nearing the bunkhouses, he knows it's about time to say goodnight, and he sighs. "Well..." He slowly comes to a stop. "I guess this is where I get off."
Turning to Stacy, he sets a hand on her shoulder. "Thanks... it's been a long time since I had such a nice evening."
Justin holds his grin as Beth talks. He didn't know if he'd ever seen her quite like this - bubbly and all excited, but trying to contain it. It was good - refreshing - a big step forward for her. She'd apparently found out a lot about Zach. Though hoping she wasn't getting in over her head, Justin knew that if Beth had received any bad vibes at all, she wouldn't be seeing the guy again. So for the most part, he wasn't worried about her. But why did he have this strange miniature ache way down deep? Maybe he was just being protective.
Having the subject quickly reversed to him, Justin holds up one finger and pauses the conversation for a quick prayer for lunch. When finished, he tears off a corner of his sandwich to dip in his soup, though he knows Beth was still waiting for an answer. "Jared's doing as well as can be expected I guess. Ma says the doctor told her that his body is working overtime to heal quickly, which is good. Seems that the internal damage isn't of huge concern anymore and everything is working properly as far as that goes."
Justin pauses to take a bite of his dunked sandwich. "Mm... boy, this is good. Thanks for cooking." He smiles before continuing the conversation. "I guess he's in quite a bit of pain from his ribs and shoulder but the doctor said that everything really is healing better than could be expected so..." He shrugs. "I guess that's about it. He still can't feel or move his legs though and so far he hasn't regained any memories."
Eating for a moment or two, he finally glances over at Beth. "I... haven't been in to see him yet though. Just not quite sure how to do that one."
Sad
Heading to the barn door with Eric Ashlee gives a small nod at he talks. She didn't totally understand what he was saying but finding a place was something she did. Even if it was for different reasons she still could relate a little bit.
"Sometimes finding where you fit is hard. I can't say I totally understand but I do get how sometimes it can feel like your in the way. Though I know its not true feelings are just feelings and we cant help it."
Walking outside Ashlee zips her jacket before sticking her hands in her pockets. Looking to Eric she gives a big smile. She really did enjoy helping and being around him. If someone asked why there would be no answer. Maybe somewhere deep down Eric had hit the fatherly cord in Ashlee's heart and now it just stuck.
"I'll definitely come and help you tomorrow. Where do you want to meet and what is it we have to do?"
Ashlee could feel the excitement that ran through her. She really couldn't help it, being around horses was even better than she ever though and having Eric actually invite her along was even better.
Continuing to walk along with Jeff Stacy things for a long moment. It was a good question he asked and honestly she hadn't really though about it. Now though that the question was brought up it was a good question.
"Well, I really would hate to move Ashlee again and she seems for the most part to like it here. If you guys would still need me, or the police force would let me work out of the ranch than I would stay. But if not than I would have to go."
Stacy looks sad for a moment at the thought. She really did hope they would need her here still, or she could commute from here into town. In a short time she really had taken a liking to the ranch and Ashlee had too. To have to pull her away now it would be hard.
"I've really started liking it here. It's quiet but not to quiet, and everyone is so nice. I'd really miss it if we had to go."
"Sometimes finding where you fit is hard. I can't say I totally understand but I do get how sometimes it can feel like your in the way. Though I know its not true feelings are just feelings and we cant help it."
Walking outside Ashlee zips her jacket before sticking her hands in her pockets. Looking to Eric she gives a big smile. She really did enjoy helping and being around him. If someone asked why there would be no answer. Maybe somewhere deep down Eric had hit the fatherly cord in Ashlee's heart and now it just stuck.
"I'll definitely come and help you tomorrow. Where do you want to meet and what is it we have to do?"
Ashlee could feel the excitement that ran through her. She really couldn't help it, being around horses was even better than she ever though and having Eric actually invite her along was even better.
Continuing to walk along with Jeff Stacy things for a long moment. It was a good question he asked and honestly she hadn't really though about it. Now though that the question was brought up it was a good question.
"Well, I really would hate to move Ashlee again and she seems for the most part to like it here. If you guys would still need me, or the police force would let me work out of the ranch than I would stay. But if not than I would have to go."
Stacy looks sad for a moment at the thought. She really did hope they would need her here still, or she could commute from here into town. In a short time she really had taken a liking to the ranch and Ashlee had too. To have to pull her away now it would be hard.
"I've really started liking it here. It's quiet but not to quiet, and everyone is so nice. I'd really miss it if we had to go."
2/24/12
Tomorrow
"Nah, I'm just keeping an eye on her." Eric slowly leaves the stall and waits for Ashlee before closing and latching the door. "Mick likes to be present whenever a foal comes - and Jim, since he's a vet in case anything happens." He pauses and nods. "See, this is the most I've been around here in a long time. I drove truck for many years so I..."
He stops and shrugs then heads back towards the barn door. "Sometimes it's hard for a man to find his place again," he concludes. He didn't really expect Ashlee to understand. She didn't know his history. She didn't know that sometimes he felt like a burden around here. But that was how it should be.
Forcing a smile, he heads out of the barn and shuts off the lights. "It's getting pretty late for you isn't it? Especially... when you're gonna come help me in here tomorrow after you're done with your schoolwork?" He had a feeling she'd jump at the invitation.
"Eh, it's alright." Jeff shrugs and falls into step with Stacy once again. "I like it best now... warm days, cool nights. Winter time gets pretty cold but we hardly ever get snow. Summer's when it gets beastly hot. Once in a while we have to worry about water but not too often."
Becoming quiet for a moment or two, he seems to be thinking. "So if... Dylan doesn't come back... you still staying as our lookout anyway?"
He stops and shrugs then heads back towards the barn door. "Sometimes it's hard for a man to find his place again," he concludes. He didn't really expect Ashlee to understand. She didn't know his history. She didn't know that sometimes he felt like a burden around here. But that was how it should be.
Forcing a smile, he heads out of the barn and shuts off the lights. "It's getting pretty late for you isn't it? Especially... when you're gonna come help me in here tomorrow after you're done with your schoolwork?" He had a feeling she'd jump at the invitation.
"Eh, it's alright." Jeff shrugs and falls into step with Stacy once again. "I like it best now... warm days, cool nights. Winter time gets pretty cold but we hardly ever get snow. Summer's when it gets beastly hot. Once in a while we have to worry about water but not too often."
Becoming quiet for a moment or two, he seems to be thinking. "So if... Dylan doesn't come back... you still staying as our lookout anyway?"
So Cool
Coming into the stall Ashlee does her best to not startle the horse. Walking up close to Eric Ashlee puts her hand next to his and waits. Feeling the horse move around a big smile spreads across Ashlee's face as she looks up at Eric.
"I can feel it. Wow, that is so cool."
Moving her hand to rub buttercups neck Ashlee pets her gentility before giving her a soft kiss and looking back to Eric.
"Wow that's really cool. Are you going to be in charge of helping her?"
Stacy give another smile and nods. Jeff was right everyone was put in each others lives for a reason.
"Yeah, I think your right. I think we ended up here for a good reason."
Pushing off the fence Stacy puts her hands in her pockets before nodding for Jeff to follow again as she walked.
"So, how's the weather the rest of the year?"
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Paths
Eric grins at Ashlee's enthusiasm and starts down towards the other end of the barn. "Oh, she's about eleven months now." He chuckles. "Lasts a little longer with horses, ya know."
Arriving down at the larger box stalls, he stops at Buttercup's and opens the latch. Sliding open the door, he steps inside and gestures Ashlee to follow him.
The palomino mare nickers and turns from her supper to greet her visitors with interest. Eric scratches her under the chin. "Hey, you. How ya doing, huh?"
She chews her hay and pricks her ears forward, extending her nose to sniff Ashlee. Eric moves to the mare's belly and sets his hand down low. Smiling, he motions Ashlee closer. "Come here." He places her hand near his where they could feel the foal moving around. "There's an active one in there." He chuckles. Patting Buttercup's back, he gives her some loving. "Yeah... I'd say either tonight or tomorrow night we'll have a foal."
Jeff squints a little and shakes his head, still smiling. "Naw. I don't think the moonlight has anything to do with it."
Glancing down for a moment, he was a little sheepish, but he was telling her the truth. Looking back up at her, he shifts his weight, his shoulder resting against hers lightly. Still leaning on the fence, he nods. "Yeah... I don't know how other people without God make it through their own hard times."
He turns his head, his eyes roaming Stacy's face. "Sometimes I think God puts new people in our paths to help ease some of that past pain.
Arriving down at the larger box stalls, he stops at Buttercup's and opens the latch. Sliding open the door, he steps inside and gestures Ashlee to follow him.
The palomino mare nickers and turns from her supper to greet her visitors with interest. Eric scratches her under the chin. "Hey, you. How ya doing, huh?"
She chews her hay and pricks her ears forward, extending her nose to sniff Ashlee. Eric moves to the mare's belly and sets his hand down low. Smiling, he motions Ashlee closer. "Come here." He places her hand near his where they could feel the foal moving around. "There's an active one in there." He chuckles. Patting Buttercup's back, he gives her some loving. "Yeah... I'd say either tonight or tomorrow night we'll have a foal."
Jeff squints a little and shakes his head, still smiling. "Naw. I don't think the moonlight has anything to do with it."
Glancing down for a moment, he was a little sheepish, but he was telling her the truth. Looking back up at her, he shifts his weight, his shoulder resting against hers lightly. Still leaning on the fence, he nods. "Yeah... I don't know how other people without God make it through their own hard times."
He turns his head, his eyes roaming Stacy's face. "Sometimes I think God puts new people in our paths to help ease some of that past pain.
Hard Times
Just continuing to look out into the dark seeing the dots of the stars and the faint two lights Stacy takes in the moment. Things felt right, good and like they were getting better and she was happy.
"It's comforting knowing no matter how big anything us God is never far away. I think that's what's helped me get through the hard times."
Finally looking to Jeff a bit of color comes to her cheeks at his comment. She hadn't heard someone genuinely say that in a long time it was nice.
"Thank you. I think its the moonlight enhancing it though."
Stacy gives another laugh. It felt nice to have a friend here. Jeff was nice and made her feel very welcome.
Ashlee's eyes light up at the mention of the horse. She hadn't seen buttercup yet but she sure was excited too.
"Yeah I'll come that sounds like fun. How far along is she now?"
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2/23/12
Would it...
Eric wishes there was some way he could help Ashlee more, but maybe this was just a little bit of growing up she'd have to do on her own. No matter what friends her mom made or if her mom ever decided to date someone or even get married, to a certain degree Ashlee would have to accept it.
Sighing a little, he looks around the barn. "Well, we're pretty much closed up here. I did want to go check on Buttercup once more though. She's due to foal any day now. Wanna come with me?"
Jeff feels comfortable walking with Stacy, enjoying it that she liked this part of the day - so did he. Coming up beside her and leaning on the fence, his eyes gaze across the dark expanse. "Mm... yeah. I lived in the city for a while but never could get used to it. Out here is just... different. It's so big yet God feels closer."
Quiet for a moment, his thumbnail finds a small splinter in the fence rail to pick at. He did like it here. He did like the closeness to God and the wide open spaces. But while there was all that, there was still a piece of him that was lonely.
Giving Stacy a sidelong glance, he notices the light shining in her eyes and he smiles. "Would it be inappropriate if I told you how pretty you are?"
Sighing a little, he looks around the barn. "Well, we're pretty much closed up here. I did want to go check on Buttercup once more though. She's due to foal any day now. Wanna come with me?"
Jeff feels comfortable walking with Stacy, enjoying it that she liked this part of the day - so did he. Coming up beside her and leaning on the fence, his eyes gaze across the dark expanse. "Mm... yeah. I lived in the city for a while but never could get used to it. Out here is just... different. It's so big yet God feels closer."
Quiet for a moment, his thumbnail finds a small splinter in the fence rail to pick at. He did like it here. He did like the closeness to God and the wide open spaces. But while there was all that, there was still a piece of him that was lonely.
Giving Stacy a sidelong glance, he notices the light shining in her eyes and he smiles. "Would it be inappropriate if I told you how pretty you are?"
Nature
Leaning aganst one of the stalls Ashlee let's out a little sigh. She wasn't so sure if it had been Eric if she would of felt the same. She like spending time with him and adding her mom in the mix that sounded fun.
"I know she needs friends and I'd never want to stop her from that just...I don't know. I guess I will get use to it."
She'd have to get use to it. It was only fair to her mom to do that. No matter how strange if felt. Just something about Jeff hit her funny.
"Anything else you need help with?"
Stacy gives a smile as she starts out with Jeff. Doing a quick check to make sure she had everything. Leading the way her smile grows a little more.
"It sure is a nice night out today. I always enjoy this part. Quiet time helps me reflect on the day."
Continuing to walk Stacy finally stops coming to one of the fences. Looking out over one of the pastures Stacy just studys the harizon for a long moment.
"It's nice to see all God had created. That's why I like it here. There isn't lights and smoke clouding the nature he put in front of us."
The moonlight huts Stacy just right letting her face light up more than it already was.
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2/22/12
That's Okay
For a moment, Jeff simply wasn't sure how to end the evening. The moment is short-lived though, as Stacy asks if he'd join her.
A new smile forms and he nods. "Yeah... yeah, I would, if you wouldn't mind the company." He glances to the bunkhouses. "Just give me a second or two to change my boots and grab a jacket." He knew she'd probably want to change as well...
...True to his word, within minutes, Jeff had changed into his more comfortable boots and donned his leather jacket. He meets back up with Stacy outside her own bunkhouse, rather looking forward to a walk in the fresh air.
"I'm glad you suggested this," he admits. "It'll help me walk off some of that steak." Grinning, he starts forward with her, the ground crunching softly under his step. The sky was so clear tonight that a million stars shone. A light breeze blew and a full moon lit the ranch in a soft glow.
Eric chuckles. He could only imagine what his brother's antics had been tonight. "He does have a silly side. I guess maybe he's found a way to not let life be so serious all the time. Sometimes I wish I had a little more of that."
Seeing Ashlee catch the unlocked stall, Eric smiles to himself. She was a good little helper.
Stopping with her and hearing she'd felt awkward, Eric realizes he hadn't even thought of that. Tucking his hands in his jacket pockets for a moment, he cocks his head. "It's okay to feel that way. I know Jeff probably just wanted to make sure you and your mom had some fun away from here - we all need that every once in a while."
Did he really believe that was Jeff's only motive? Maybe deep down he didn't. But that wasn't something to discuss with Ashlee.
Leaning back against the stall beside her, he looks down at her for a moment or two. "Ya know... your mom needs to have friends, just like you do. Sometimes she just needs somebody closer to her age to hang out with. It's just the way people are." He offers her an encouraging smile. "Maybe it feels a little weird now, but you'll get used to it. I bet even if it woulda been me tonight, you still woulda felt funny. But that's okay. You'll never lose your place with your mom."
A new smile forms and he nods. "Yeah... yeah, I would, if you wouldn't mind the company." He glances to the bunkhouses. "Just give me a second or two to change my boots and grab a jacket." He knew she'd probably want to change as well...
...True to his word, within minutes, Jeff had changed into his more comfortable boots and donned his leather jacket. He meets back up with Stacy outside her own bunkhouse, rather looking forward to a walk in the fresh air.
"I'm glad you suggested this," he admits. "It'll help me walk off some of that steak." Grinning, he starts forward with her, the ground crunching softly under his step. The sky was so clear tonight that a million stars shone. A light breeze blew and a full moon lit the ranch in a soft glow.
Eric chuckles. He could only imagine what his brother's antics had been tonight. "He does have a silly side. I guess maybe he's found a way to not let life be so serious all the time. Sometimes I wish I had a little more of that."
Seeing Ashlee catch the unlocked stall, Eric smiles to himself. She was a good little helper.
Stopping with her and hearing she'd felt awkward, Eric realizes he hadn't even thought of that. Tucking his hands in his jacket pockets for a moment, he cocks his head. "It's okay to feel that way. I know Jeff probably just wanted to make sure you and your mom had some fun away from here - we all need that every once in a while."
Did he really believe that was Jeff's only motive? Maybe deep down he didn't. But that wasn't something to discuss with Ashlee.
Leaning back against the stall beside her, he looks down at her for a moment or two. "Ya know... your mom needs to have friends, just like you do. Sometimes she just needs somebody closer to her age to hang out with. It's just the way people are." He offers her an encouraging smile. "Maybe it feels a little weird now, but you'll get used to it. I bet even if it woulda been me tonight, you still woulda felt funny. But that's okay. You'll never lose your place with your mom."
Feelings
Looking back up at Jeff and seeing he really meant what he said Stacy smiled even more. It made her feel good and having a slight feeling of companionship again.Even if it was only friendship.
"I'd like to do it again."
About to turn around again Stacy thinks for a moment. Did the night really have to end already? It seemed so short lived.
"Would you like to go on the rounds with me?"
Hearing there was something left to do Ashlee joins Eric in checking the stalls. Mulling over his question for a moment Ashlee finally replys.
"It was ok. I would of rather been here but dinner was nice and all. Jeff sure does have a silly side to him."
Finding one of the stalls unlocked Ash locks it before going to the next. Stopping for a moment she turns to Eric.
"I've never been to dinner before with my mom and another guy before. It was strange and felt kind of awkward."
Ashlee picks at some loose wood on one of the rails.
"I feel bad for Jeff saying that. He's nice and everything I just kinda felt out of place I guess."
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Again
Eric grins, finding Ashlee's enthusiasm humorous. He wouldn't tell her that though. Nodding, he points down the aisle. "I haven't checked all the stalls to make sure their all latched yet."
Starting forward, he gestures Ashlee to come with him. "So... did you have a good time in town?"
"Oh, maybe." Jeff shrugs before shutting the pickup door. He laughs. "I guess that depends on whether or not insomnia decides to come calling."
Standing this closely to Stacy, he looks into her eyes for a moment, just studying them as the moonlight bounced and danced in them. "Thanks... for giving me reason to have a good evening. Maybe... we can do something again soon..."
Starting forward, he gestures Ashlee to come with him. "So... did you have a good time in town?"
"Oh, maybe." Jeff shrugs before shutting the pickup door. He laughs. "I guess that depends on whether or not insomnia decides to come calling."
Standing this closely to Stacy, he looks into her eyes for a moment, just studying them as the moonlight bounced and danced in them. "Thanks... for giving me reason to have a good evening. Maybe... we can do something again soon..."
Rounds?
Hearing Eric's voice Ashlee turns around and gives a smile seeing him. It looked like everything wad done but maybe just maybe there was something.
"I was trying to hurry so I could help before everything was done. I really wanted to help."
Panting Ashlee can't help the large smile on her face as she tried to catch her breath.
About to get out of the car Stacy waits seeing Jeff coming around to her side.
Giving a laugh Stacy slips out of the truck. Standing in front of Jeff Stacy smiles. She really had a nice time and Jeff was fun.
"Well I better do my rounds. You gonna call it a night?"
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Partner
Parking the pickup and shutting off the engine, Jeff sees Ashlee bolt for the barn and he chuckles. "I suppose when someone is horse crazy, even chores are appealing."
Receiving Stacy's thanks, Jeff shakes his head and smiles. "No thanks, especially since I had a great time. It's like thanking me for a treat to myself."
Sliding out of the truck, he makes it around the front before Stacy can get out, and he holds the door for her. "Melady."
Alone in the barn, Eric was just making a few last-minute rounds. He could head to the dining hall if he wanted... Jade and Dan had started a vicious card game with Clint and Luke. Or he could go to his bunkhouse and watch television for a while before he fell asleep. He'd probably choose the latter. He usually did.
Hanging up a stray leadrope and taking it to the tack room, he's just turning off the light in the small room when he hears someone running inside. Odd.
Stepping back out into the barn aisle, he looks around before spotting Ashlee. He was a bit surprised. He wasn't sure what time everybody would be back, but he'd figured whenever they arrived, it would be bedtime for the lot of them. But seeing the girl come running automatically brought a wide smile to his face.
"Whoa there, partner." He chuckles and sets his hands on his hips. "What's got you in such a hurry?"
Receiving Stacy's thanks, Jeff shakes his head and smiles. "No thanks, especially since I had a great time. It's like thanking me for a treat to myself."
Sliding out of the truck, he makes it around the front before Stacy can get out, and he holds the door for her. "Melady."
Alone in the barn, Eric was just making a few last-minute rounds. He could head to the dining hall if he wanted... Jade and Dan had started a vicious card game with Clint and Luke. Or he could go to his bunkhouse and watch television for a while before he fell asleep. He'd probably choose the latter. He usually did.
Hanging up a stray leadrope and taking it to the tack room, he's just turning off the light in the small room when he hears someone running inside. Odd.
Stepping back out into the barn aisle, he looks around before spotting Ashlee. He was a bit surprised. He wasn't sure what time everybody would be back, but he'd figured whenever they arrived, it would be bedtime for the lot of them. But seeing the girl come running automatically brought a wide smile to his face.
"Whoa there, partner." He chuckles and sets his hands on his hips. "What's got you in such a hurry?"
Thank you
Giving another smile Ashlee was greatful for Jeff's sensitivity for next time. He was nice and she did notice that.
Seeing her mom coming Ashlee gives a nod and getting into the truck. She hopped maybe when they got home Eric wasn't done.
Coming up to the truck and seeing the smile on Ashlee's face she was satisfied and gave an extra smile to Jeff and a nod thankful for not giving up.
...Getting back to the ranch and once the car was parked Ashlee wasted no time in jumping out of the truck and making a dash for the barn looking for Eric.
Watching her daughter get out of the truck and head for the barn she shakes her head. Looking to Jeff before she gets out her eyes sparkled.
"I new she liked horses but I don't what she see in working in the barn."
Opening the door but not getting out Stacy let's out a small sigh. The night seemed to go way to fast.
"I really did have fun. Thank you so much."
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Next time
Jeff really wasn't all that sure what could be that exciting about helping Eric in the barn, but he doesn't ask. "You weren't a bear... well... maybe just a little one." He shows her an ity-bity size with his fingers. "But that's okay. Next time I'm a bear we'll just call it even. And..." He pauses with a new little smile. "Next time I have a bright idea that involves you, I'll be sure to ask you myself and not just go through your mom, okay?"
Seeing movement at the restaurant door, he sees Stacy coming. Straightening up, he heads around to the driver's side door of the pickup. "All aboard!" he calls. "If we make it back in good time, I bet Eric will still be hanging around the barn, and he can at least tell all about what happened there while we were gone."
Before getting in, he tosses Ashlee a wink. He'd get his brother out of bed if he had to, just to end this evening well.
Seeing movement at the restaurant door, he sees Stacy coming. Straightening up, he heads around to the driver's side door of the pickup. "All aboard!" he calls. "If we make it back in good time, I bet Eric will still be hanging around the barn, and he can at least tell all about what happened there while we were gone."
Before getting in, he tosses Ashlee a wink. He'd get his brother out of bed if he had to, just to end this evening well.
Bear
Giving a nod Stacy turns and heads twords the bathroom. She'd give Jeff the time he needed.
Hearing Jeff come up behind her Ashlee turns around. Just listing she gives a nod. She had come for her mom and now...she felt kind of bad too.
"You did a good job picking the place. I just...was looking forward to helping Eric tonight in the barn. Your fault not really. "
Straighring and letting out a small sigh Ashlee looks to Jeff. He did seem like a nice guy who was just trying to do something nice.
"Next time huh? I guess I can pick what we do. Thanks for inviting us tonight even if I was a bear."
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Your turn
Seeing Ashlee leave, Jeff's shoulders droop just a little bit and he lets the spoon slide off his nose. He was far from offended or crushed, but he was just a tad disappointed. It was pretty obvious his hunch had been right - Ashlee really wasn't enjoying herself tonight.
Taking a moment to pay the waiter, Jeff turns his attention back to Stacy and shrugs. "Don't sweat it. Maybe I just wasn't thinking." A wry grin surfaces. "I tend to do that sometimes. Not think, that is."
Taking a final sip of water, he shakes his head. "As far as I can tell you've done a right good job raising your daughter. Sometimes they grow up faster than we want but... we can't walk around blaming ourselves." Glancing down for a moment, he grows probably more serious than he had all evening. "I suppose I think about Katie a lot when I see Ashlee. It was about her age that Katie started making some bad choices because she felt unloved at home. I always blamed myself for that."
He looks up again, catching Stacy's eye. "But from what I see, the one thing Ashlee doesn't feel is unloved. And that says something."
Standing up, he looks over his shoulder at the exit. "Give me just a minute or two, will ya?" He turns back to smile at her. "I just don't give up easily enough."
Heading for the door, he makes it outside into the cool evening air. The sky was a hazy dark color after the sun had finally set. Glancing left then right, he spots Ashlee waiting near the pickup. Ambling up to her, he leans back on the truck and sighs. Folding his arms, he stares up at the few stars that had started to appear. His goofiness was gone. "I asked your mom for just a minute so I could talk to you," he explains. "I just wanted to thank you for coming tonight. I know you didn't want to." He glances out of the corner of his eye at her. "But then, I never did have much practice with girls and what they like to do. So it was probably my fault for choosing where we went."
Pausing, he finally turns to look down at her eyes. "But I do appreciate you coming along with your mom. I know she loves having you around and I'm sure she enjoyed herself more because you were here."
He offers her a small smile. "Maybe if there's something you'd rather do sometime... it can be your turn to pick. What do ya think?"
Taking a moment to pay the waiter, Jeff turns his attention back to Stacy and shrugs. "Don't sweat it. Maybe I just wasn't thinking." A wry grin surfaces. "I tend to do that sometimes. Not think, that is."
Taking a final sip of water, he shakes his head. "As far as I can tell you've done a right good job raising your daughter. Sometimes they grow up faster than we want but... we can't walk around blaming ourselves." Glancing down for a moment, he grows probably more serious than he had all evening. "I suppose I think about Katie a lot when I see Ashlee. It was about her age that Katie started making some bad choices because she felt unloved at home. I always blamed myself for that."
He looks up again, catching Stacy's eye. "But from what I see, the one thing Ashlee doesn't feel is unloved. And that says something."
Standing up, he looks over his shoulder at the exit. "Give me just a minute or two, will ya?" He turns back to smile at her. "I just don't give up easily enough."
Heading for the door, he makes it outside into the cool evening air. The sky was a hazy dark color after the sun had finally set. Glancing left then right, he spots Ashlee waiting near the pickup. Ambling up to her, he leans back on the truck and sighs. Folding his arms, he stares up at the few stars that had started to appear. His goofiness was gone. "I asked your mom for just a minute so I could talk to you," he explains. "I just wanted to thank you for coming tonight. I know you didn't want to." He glances out of the corner of his eye at her. "But then, I never did have much practice with girls and what they like to do. So it was probably my fault for choosing where we went."
Pausing, he finally turns to look down at her eyes. "But I do appreciate you coming along with your mom. I know she loves having you around and I'm sure she enjoyed herself more because you were here."
He offers her a small smile. "Maybe if there's something you'd rather do sometime... it can be your turn to pick. What do ya think?"
Sorry
Stacy can't help but let out a chuckle at Jeff. He certinly did have a sence of humor. Stacy wondered how it had been since he laughed too.
"Hey that's quite a talent there. You could make money off it."
Giving a small smile Ashlee also rolled her eyes color coming to her cheeks. She was a little embarrassed by the while thing.
"I'm gonna wait outside."
Watching her daughter leave Stacy lets out a sigh. She felt bad for Eric see her daughter this way. Maybe she shouldn't have made her come.
"I'm sorry about Ashlee. Sometimes I think she has a hard time being a kid. I guess that's my fault."
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Straight Face
Jeff laughs, glancing over to Stacy. The mental image of frozen lips was enough to make anybody chuckle.
It seems something else goes through his mind that brings some color to his cheeks few would notice, but he keeps his goofiness in check this once and takes another spoonful of ice cream to keep himself from talking.
He grins at Ashlee and winks. "Just don't tell anybody we had ice cream tonight... they might get jealous," he teases.
Talking and laughing felt good. It really had been a long while since Jeff had been away from the ranch just to go out and have some fun. And to him, this was fun. He wasn't convinced Ashlee was really enjoying herself, but he thought Stacy was, so that at least made the evening worth it.
Once the ice cream is finished and it's time for the check, Jeff spies the waiter. The silly glint returned to his eye and he takes his spoon, wipes it off then breathes some hot air on it. Setting it on his nose, he tilts his head just right so the spoon stays put. And only then did he wave the waiter over while somehow keeping a straight face.
It seems something else goes through his mind that brings some color to his cheeks few would notice, but he keeps his goofiness in check this once and takes another spoonful of ice cream to keep himself from talking.
He grins at Ashlee and winks. "Just don't tell anybody we had ice cream tonight... they might get jealous," he teases.
Talking and laughing felt good. It really had been a long while since Jeff had been away from the ranch just to go out and have some fun. And to him, this was fun. He wasn't convinced Ashlee was really enjoying herself, but he thought Stacy was, so that at least made the evening worth it.
Once the ice cream is finished and it's time for the check, Jeff spies the waiter. The silly glint returned to his eye and he takes his spoon, wipes it off then breathes some hot air on it. Setting it on his nose, he tilts his head just right so the spoon stays put. And only then did he wave the waiter over while somehow keeping a straight face.
Better
Ashlee can't help but laugh a little at Jeff's comment. She had to addmit she was having a little hotbot fun. Dinner was really good and Jeff was slightly funny.
Taking a bite of her ice cream Ashlee savers the flavor for a long moment. She had gotten double mint and it tasted the best.
"Wow this really is good. It's creamy and it just tastes so much better than frozen."
Seeing her daughter losen up a little Stacy was happy. She wanted her to have a nice time and it would seem so she was starting too.
"This really is good Jeff. I can't remember the last time I've enjoyed ice cream like this. It's making my lip freeze."
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2/21/12
Freeze
Jeff is glad to have Ashlee interact, and he nods with enthusiasm. "Yep, they make their own ice cream here. It's so creamy and cold... Mmm..." He smacks his lips and chuckles. "No matter how stuffed one can be here, no one can pass up the ice cream. It's a rule."
As the waiter comes and takes their order, Jeff winds up with the sirloin. In no time at all, it seemed, their food was there. The portions were generous and everything cooked just right. After Jeff gives the prayer, the table becomes quiet for a few minutes as they begin to eat.
In between bites of steak and sips of wine, Jeff resumes the conversation, keeping it light and every once in a while being just a little goofy. His eyes twinkled, proving he was enjoying himself, and he hoped Stacy and Ashlee were too.
Once the meal was over, he was true to his word, ordering them all ice cream.
Taking too big of a bite with his spoon, Jeff cringes. "Oooh... brain freeze." He stifles a laugh. "Not that there's a whole lot up there to freeze."
As the waiter comes and takes their order, Jeff winds up with the sirloin. In no time at all, it seemed, their food was there. The portions were generous and everything cooked just right. After Jeff gives the prayer, the table becomes quiet for a few minutes as they begin to eat.
In between bites of steak and sips of wine, Jeff resumes the conversation, keeping it light and every once in a while being just a little goofy. His eyes twinkled, proving he was enjoying himself, and he hoped Stacy and Ashlee were too.
Once the meal was over, he was true to his word, ordering them all ice cream.
Taking too big of a bite with his spoon, Jeff cringes. "Oooh... brain freeze." He stifles a laugh. "Not that there's a whole lot up there to freeze."
Homemade
Giving a smile at Jeff's toast it made Stacy feel good. She wondered if everyone considered them part of the family or just Jeff. Either way it made her feel good.
"Cheers!"
Picking up her sparkling juice Ashlee gives a smile and holds up her glass to the others. It felt odd being told she was part of the family but at the same time it wad nice.
"Here here."
Taking a sip oh her juice Ashlee puts it down and goes back to the menu. Scanning everything she wasn't sure what she wanted.
Sipping the win Stacy gives a happy murmer that the wine was good. Going back to the menu Stacy looks eveything over. It all looked so good.
"I think I'll have the brewers pork chops with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies. What about you Ash?"
Looking up from the menu to her mom and than back down she had no idea. But she new she had to come up with something.
"I'll get the t-bone steak, rosemary rice and salad."
Putting the the menu down Ash does her best to smile. In a eat she felt slightly awkward. She had no idea what to talk about or do. But she had to at least try for her own sake.
"Is this the place that makes there own ice cream? I can't remember if it was the place or one of the other dinners I over hewrd someone talking about."
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Additions
Seeing Ashlee return to staring out the window, Jeff withholds a sigh. He'd thought maybe Ashlee hadn't been too enthusiastic about coming tonight... now he was sure. He didn't know why, but he hoped it wasn't because of something he'd done. At least it seemed Stacy was enjoying herself. Maybe Ashlee would too once they were at the restaurant.
It was just getting dark when they arrived at the steakhouse. Jeff leads the way inside and it only takes a couple minutes for them to be seated. The lights were dim, giving the inside a quiet, warm atmosphere. Quiet music played in the background, and the aromas were mouth-watering. It wasn't quite a full-house tonight, but there were enough filled tables to make it obvious this was a popular place.
At their own table corner, Jeff peruses a menu, considering the ribs tonight. "Now, I want you two to get whatever you want." He stares teasingly over the top of his menu. It was his treat, and he wanted them to know that. "And save room for dessert - they have great ice cream."
Once they're able to order, Jeff requests some wine for him and Stacy, and some sparkling grape juice for Ashlee. Settling back at the table, he lifts his glass. "To the two newest additions to the ranch. May you grow to love it..." He pauses and quirks a silly eyebrow. "And you're a part of the family now whether you like it or not."
It was just getting dark when they arrived at the steakhouse. Jeff leads the way inside and it only takes a couple minutes for them to be seated. The lights were dim, giving the inside a quiet, warm atmosphere. Quiet music played in the background, and the aromas were mouth-watering. It wasn't quite a full-house tonight, but there were enough filled tables to make it obvious this was a popular place.
At their own table corner, Jeff peruses a menu, considering the ribs tonight. "Now, I want you two to get whatever you want." He stares teasingly over the top of his menu. It was his treat, and he wanted them to know that. "And save room for dessert - they have great ice cream."
Once they're able to order, Jeff requests some wine for him and Stacy, and some sparkling grape juice for Ashlee. Settling back at the table, he lifts his glass. "To the two newest additions to the ranch. May you grow to love it..." He pauses and quirks a silly eyebrow. "And you're a part of the family now whether you like it or not."
Elsewhere
Giving a laugh Stacy eyes the mini golf course. She never done had done that before. Maybe one time she would have to try.
"I'll have to remember that. Maybe I can get him on my team to help out or something."
Looking to Jeff and giving a smile Stacy really was thankful for the kindness Jeff was showing them.
Looking out the window as they drove Ashlee took everything in trying to block everything else out. It was nice knowing where different places were and where you could go to have fun.
Hearing Jeff talk to her Ashlee looks up at him in the mirror. Giving a small smile in return to him Ashlee nods.
"I am hungry. Suprised no one has said anything about the noise."
Returning to look out the window Ashlee couldn't help but wonder what Eric was up too. Her mind kept going back to the horses and everything she had learned. Her mind right now was just elsewhere.
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Mighty Mini
As Stacy and Ashlee enter the dining hall, Jeff smiles. "Boy, I don't know, but I think I might be out-classed, taking you two ladies to town."
Standing up, he goes to the door and holds it open for them. "Our chariot awaits," he teases.
Once to the pickup, he lets Ashlee have the backseat and Stacy the front passenger.
Leaning on the open barn door, Eric watches as the pickup pulls away from the ranch.
"Hey."
He almost jumps and turns to see Luke. "Huh?"
Luke quirks an eyebrow. "Daydreaming?"
"Nah." Eric grins a little.
Luke follows where his gaze had been and sees the pickup disappearing out of sight. "Jealous?"
Eric blinks and straightens. "Why would I be jealous? What's there to be jealous about? If they want to go have a good time that's great. What's it matter to me?"
Luke's eyes widen slightly. "I meant... about them going to the steakhouse."
"Oh." Eric's face flushes slightly. "Yeah, just a little. But I'll take Becky's cooking any night."
Luke chuckles. "Me too. Off the subject, but you wanna come help me with those yearlings?"
"Yeah sure. I'll be right with you." Alone again, Eric's eyes go back to the driveway before he shakes his head and finally turns to follow after Luke.
"...and here we have The Mighty Mini." Jeff slows the pickup as they drive past a miniature golf course. He'd just taken them around town, showing them were the mall was, the movie theater, and the main grocery store. Nothing was huge, but the town was slowly growing into a city - obvious to anyone who had been here more than a few years.
Jeff chuckles. "The one person you don't want to play miniature golf against is Mick. I never have been able to beat him." It was very rare that anybody at the ranch had a break long enough to go have fun in town, but when they did, they lived it to the fullest.
"And... the steakhouse is about five minutes away." He glances in the rearview mirror at Ashlee. "I hope you're hungry. These are the best steaks around."
Standing up, he goes to the door and holds it open for them. "Our chariot awaits," he teases.
Once to the pickup, he lets Ashlee have the backseat and Stacy the front passenger.
Leaning on the open barn door, Eric watches as the pickup pulls away from the ranch.
"Hey."
He almost jumps and turns to see Luke. "Huh?"
Luke quirks an eyebrow. "Daydreaming?"
"Nah." Eric grins a little.
Luke follows where his gaze had been and sees the pickup disappearing out of sight. "Jealous?"
Eric blinks and straightens. "Why would I be jealous? What's there to be jealous about? If they want to go have a good time that's great. What's it matter to me?"
Luke's eyes widen slightly. "I meant... about them going to the steakhouse."
"Oh." Eric's face flushes slightly. "Yeah, just a little. But I'll take Becky's cooking any night."
Luke chuckles. "Me too. Off the subject, but you wanna come help me with those yearlings?"
"Yeah sure. I'll be right with you." Alone again, Eric's eyes go back to the driveway before he shakes his head and finally turns to follow after Luke.
"...and here we have The Mighty Mini." Jeff slows the pickup as they drive past a miniature golf course. He'd just taken them around town, showing them were the mall was, the movie theater, and the main grocery store. Nothing was huge, but the town was slowly growing into a city - obvious to anyone who had been here more than a few years.
Jeff chuckles. "The one person you don't want to play miniature golf against is Mick. I never have been able to beat him." It was very rare that anybody at the ranch had a break long enough to go have fun in town, but when they did, they lived it to the fullest.
"And... the steakhouse is about five minutes away." He glances in the rearview mirror at Ashlee. "I hope you're hungry. These are the best steaks around."
Have too?
"Do I have to come?"
Ashlee sat on the bed putting on her nice boots to support her ankle more. It's not that she didn't want to go or maybe it was but she had promised Eric she would help him tonight. When she had gone to let him know she wouldn't be able too he looked disappointed."I promised Eric I'd help him."
Looking up at her daughter and cocking head Stacy could see the disappointment but this was there opertunity to get out for a little bit." Ash, I think Eric will understand and will let you help tomorrow. Jeff is being nice in offering."
Letting out a sigh and standing Ashlee looks to her mom and shakes her head. She new her mom was trying to spend more time together, but Jeff too. Ash didn't know how she felt about that. "Alright, let's get going."
Giving a smile and putting a little perfume on Stacy was happy Ashlee has given in and wanted to go. This would be fun for them both. It had been q while since she had dressed up but she was happy to still have her black blouse, and good jeans. Stepping out unto the night air Stacy puts an arm around her daughter."Thanks for coming Ash it means a lot."
Getting to the dinning hall and seeing Jeff Stacy gives a wave walking over to him. Stacy couldn't help but notice how nice he looks. Jeff cleaned up very nice and now she felt slightly under dressed."Were ready when you are."
Ashlee gives a smile before looking around the dinning hall. She was doing this for her mom but she kinda wished she could stay and help in the barn.
Cleaned Up
Jeff grins from ear to ear. "Sure I can show you around. Maybe we can go a little early while it's still light out." He really was happy that Stacy had accepted the invitation. He hoped Ashlee would like it as well...
...The night and next day seemed to go rather quickly. Right after lunch, Jeff gives his pickup a good wash under the hose, then cleans himself up as well. As the afternoon began to wear on, he prepared for going into town, still looking forward to taking Stacy and Ashlee to dinner. Nobody had really commented on it when he'd mentioned they wouldn't be at the ranch for supper, but he was just as glad.
Late afternoon and Jeff was in his good black jeans and boots, and a nice white collard shirt. Putting on just a little bit of cologne after his shower was the final touch before he sat in the dining hall to wait for Stacy and Ashlee. Once they came, they could all set out for town.
...The night and next day seemed to go rather quickly. Right after lunch, Jeff gives his pickup a good wash under the hose, then cleans himself up as well. As the afternoon began to wear on, he prepared for going into town, still looking forward to taking Stacy and Ashlee to dinner. Nobody had really commented on it when he'd mentioned they wouldn't be at the ranch for supper, but he was just as glad.
Late afternoon and Jeff was in his good black jeans and boots, and a nice white collard shirt. Putting on just a little bit of cologne after his shower was the final touch before he sat in the dining hall to wait for Stacy and Ashlee. Once they came, they could all set out for town.
Around
Stacy liked that idea. It sounded nice and even the little bit of wine to relax sounded good too.
"That sounds good to me. Ash loves steak too so that's always a good thing."
Going across town would be a nice too. It would be a good way to figure out where stuff was.
"Maybe you can show us around alittle too."
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Nice
"Well... you deserve it." And Jeff meant it. He did have a lot of respect for a woman who not only was raising a daughter on her own, but who also had a job like she did. It couldn't be easy, yet she did it anyway for more reasons than one.
Eating a little bit more, Jeff ponders he question. "I don't know... I'm thinking.... somewhere nice. There's a steakhouse on the south side of town - you know, nice atmosphere, quiet music, a little good wine, should anyone be so inclined." He smiles again. "I think the two of you deserve it."
He eyes her again, hoping she wouldn't mind his suggestion. It wasn't meant as anything but a kind gesture to both her and Ashley and he really did want to give them a nice treat away from the ranch for an evening, if just to see them smile.
Eating a little bit more, Jeff ponders he question. "I don't know... I'm thinking.... somewhere nice. There's a steakhouse on the south side of town - you know, nice atmosphere, quiet music, a little good wine, should anyone be so inclined." He smiles again. "I think the two of you deserve it."
He eyes her again, hoping she wouldn't mind his suggestion. It wasn't meant as anything but a kind gesture to both her and Ashley and he really did want to give them a nice treat away from the ranch for an evening, if just to see them smile.
Idea
.Stacy gives a smile. She wasn't to sure how to reply to that other than with a smile and a bit of color to her cheeks. It was nice to hear someone say that.
"Thanks Jeff. It's not often I hear that. Not that I want praise all the time or anything but once in a while is nice."
And it was the truth. She didn't always need to hear how great what she was doing was but hearing it once or twice was good and from a man well...she was like any woman underneath the hard cop, the attachen was nice.
"So, where you thinking about going for dinner tomorrow?"
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Respect
Jeff smiles a little, liking it that Stacy wasn't afraid to speak what was on her mind. She was right, too. "Yeah, I guess that's something I need to remember more often. There's always fear, but allowing it to take over... I guess that's what the Agency would like to see most. This family... it would be torn apart by now if we weren't all so bull-headed that we wouldn't give up."
He gives a quiet, sorry kind of laugh as he prods his roast with his fork. "Maybe I've gotten closer to giving up than I'd like to admit."
Lifting his eyes, his smile returns. "Then I see people like you who are willing to take the risks because you care about your job." He studies her face for a moment, as if looking beyond her eyes. "I respect you for that."
He gives a quiet, sorry kind of laugh as he prods his roast with his fork. "Maybe I've gotten closer to giving up than I'd like to admit."
Lifting his eyes, his smile returns. "Then I see people like you who are willing to take the risks because you care about your job." He studies her face for a moment, as if looking beyond her eyes. "I respect you for that."
Fear
Those were all good questions Jeff had and she could understand concern. How would you keep the ones you love safe if this was happening.
"I guess just trusting in God and having faith he will keep us safe comes into play."
Thinking for a moment Stacy wonders how alike there lives were being a cop she often. Had to watch her own back sometimes too.
"Making the best of the situation is always a good option and it seems like your doing that good. Just don't let fear take over."
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How
Stacy's comment about living makes Jeff cock his head a little as a small smile upturns the corner of his mouth. He lets her finish though, and nods slowly. "Yeah.... yeah, the Agency has done quite a number on all of us. Granted, they haven't outright attacked us in a while, but everywhere we turn, we have to make sure one of us isn't kidnapped, shot or poisoned. And unfortunately, it's filtered down to the next generation. Look at Dylan... that kid didn't have a chance. And now that he was in a safe spot, he's run off. Do they know it?" He shrugs. "We have no way of knowing. But they do have eyes everywhere, that's for sure."
It was a depressing topic to him. To think about all that had happened in this family's lifetime already. Both the Hensons and the Pents. It wasn't right. It wasn't fair. But it was their lot. And all they could do was keep plodding along, hoping no one would get hurt.
Chewing his food for a moment, he eventually nods again. His little quirked grin returns. "I guess a guy like me hasn't forgotten to live... it's just awfully hard to do when there's so much fear. How can one let go of that looming danger in the shadows? How can one allow themselves to love, when that other person will be brought into harm's way?" It was more of a rhetorical question, but he lets it linger there as he takes another sip of coffee.
It was a depressing topic to him. To think about all that had happened in this family's lifetime already. Both the Hensons and the Pents. It wasn't right. It wasn't fair. But it was their lot. And all they could do was keep plodding along, hoping no one would get hurt.
Chewing his food for a moment, he eventually nods again. His little quirked grin returns. "I guess a guy like me hasn't forgotten to live... it's just awfully hard to do when there's so much fear. How can one let go of that looming danger in the shadows? How can one allow themselves to love, when that other person will be brought into harm's way?" It was more of a rhetorical question, but he lets it linger there as he takes another sip of coffee.
Together
Stacy gives a nod understanding what Jeff said. Sometimes just watching what was going on around you was the best option. That was one reason why Stacy liked her job. "Mmmm...sometimes just watching life is, But you've got to remember to live life too." Stacy gave a smile to Eric. She new that Eric didn't need to be told that but it was something Ash had reminded her.Taking one of her carrots and taking a bit of it Stacy is quiet again for a moment. "The Agency has really done a number on your family huh? It's really brought you all together in the long run."
Can't
"Ahh." Jeff lifts his eyebrows a little, though not surprised Eric was going to teach Ashley. His brother seemed to have taken a liking to the girl and she him for some reason or other. Maybe it helped Eric have a reason to stick around though.
Being asked about himself, Jeff can't help but laugh. "Staying out of everyone's hair is my goal most days, though I'm not sure how good at it I've gotten." His eyes twinkle with humor before he shakes his head. "Nah, I try to do my share around the barn and pull my load, but I can't do as much as I used to. The Agency saw to that."
The twinkle of humor was quickly replaced by a dimmer look... one that was maybe a little sad but resigned. "They messed me up pretty good but at least I'm still alive and walking. Now I just try to do as much as I can to help around here. And any free time... well, I guess I've discovered the beauty of just sitting quietly and observing the world around me."
Being asked about himself, Jeff can't help but laugh. "Staying out of everyone's hair is my goal most days, though I'm not sure how good at it I've gotten." His eyes twinkle with humor before he shakes his head. "Nah, I try to do my share around the barn and pull my load, but I can't do as much as I used to. The Agency saw to that."
The twinkle of humor was quickly replaced by a dimmer look... one that was maybe a little sad but resigned. "They messed me up pretty good but at least I'm still alive and walking. Now I just try to do as much as I can to help around here. And any free time... well, I guess I've discovered the beauty of just sitting quietly and observing the world around me."
2/20/12
You
Entering TJY Angelica's smiles fades at the state of everything. Ignoring the rules always had punishment but they simply had wanted to have a good time for once.
Having Wyatt come over to them Angelica could see the annoyance on his face and she couldn't help but cringe on the inside. He was upset and there was no mistaking it.
"We didn't mean any disrespect."
Wanting to say more Angelica didn't even get a chance before Wyatt pushed past. Giving a sigh she looks to Reese and gives a not.
"Alright I'll talk to you a little later. You know where I will be."
Moving past Reese Angelica makes her way to the office. Closing the door behind her she can't help the smile that slipped out.
Taking another bite of her food Stacy gives a smile at Jeff while she,was chewing. Once finished she gives a nod.
"She would like to start ridding and I got her some boots but I am not sure when. Right now with her ankle she won't be able but Angel said she should be ok soon."
Taking a sip of her coffee Stacy us silent again. She was happy Ash had found a intrust in riding. Stacy trusted Eric would keep her safe so she tried her best not to worry.
"I think Eric is going to give Ash lessons for her birthday gift. I thought that was pretty nice of him. How about you? How do you pass your time?"
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Not so happy
All Reese can do is smile. He hadn't planned this day. He hadn't rehearsed it. But it felt like a puzzle finally falling into place with all the pieces.
Squeezing Angelica's hand, he starts forward with her by his side, their bare feet making footprints in the sand. A cool breeze blew as if to aid them in drying their clothes, though it didn't seem to matter if they were wet, full of sand, or not. It could burst forth with pouring rain this very moment and it just wouldn't matter...
A fairytale left in the past to be treasured always - the scene in the rearview mirror on the drive back to TJY. Reese didn't want the afternoon to end, but he knew it must. A part of him didn't mind though... he was taking back with him the woman he loved, and it was only the start of a brand new adventure for both of them.
Getting back to the office, Reese holds Angelica's hand as they go inside. Once in the elevator, he realizes just how disheveled they are and tries to brush some sand off Angelica and himself, only to find his pantlegs were still a bit damp and somehow there was sand in his hair. Starting to laugh only makes it worse and as they step out onto the main floor, he's still laughing at their unkempt state. The laughter quickly ceases though, as he becomes much more somber at the scene before them. Agents were everywhere, there was an argument going on, and the phone was going crazy. "What on earth...?"
Wyatt spins around from arguing with Hal, Con and Jamie. He glares at Reese and approaches him with purpose. "Where on earth have you been?!" Giving both his father and Angelica a good once-over, it's not hard to figure it out, and it only serves to increase his anger. "Sure. Don't tell anybody where you're going. Just run off and leave everything to take care of itself, right?"
Reese had no idea what was going on, and was too surprised to be upset. "Now hang on. What-"
"You two are allowed to do whatever you want, right? Go off and fool around and ignore the fact that there are others depending on you, let alone others who could get fired for pulling the same stunt! But you're the boss, right?" Wyatt's eyes go to Angelica, still glaring. "And you're the boss's girlfriend so you're not in trouble either." Without giving anyone time to respond, he shoulders past his father and stalks towards the exit.
Wide-eyed, Reese looks around the room again. "What is going on here?"
Con sighs deeply. He hadn't caught all of that, but was just as glad. "There was an explosion down on Valley. Two guys were killed. Cops think it was Agency and we were called in. Nobody was here, we ran down a couple suspects and brought them in - Pete and Nate are still out there trying to find another guy or two who were spotted at the scene. It was chaos, we couldn't get a hold of you, so we called Wyatt and he didn't know where you were either. He came in to help."
Reese rolls his eyes towards the ceiling, holding his temper. The peace of the afternoon was certainly short-lived, that was for sure. This was not how he wanted to end the day... such a wonderful day. He glances to Angelica, an apology on his face. He'd wanted to announce their engagement. But perhaps there would be a better time. "I'll see you later, huh? I gotta sort out this mess."
Squeezing Angelica's hand, he starts forward with her by his side, their bare feet making footprints in the sand. A cool breeze blew as if to aid them in drying their clothes, though it didn't seem to matter if they were wet, full of sand, or not. It could burst forth with pouring rain this very moment and it just wouldn't matter...
A fairytale left in the past to be treasured always - the scene in the rearview mirror on the drive back to TJY. Reese didn't want the afternoon to end, but he knew it must. A part of him didn't mind though... he was taking back with him the woman he loved, and it was only the start of a brand new adventure for both of them.
Getting back to the office, Reese holds Angelica's hand as they go inside. Once in the elevator, he realizes just how disheveled they are and tries to brush some sand off Angelica and himself, only to find his pantlegs were still a bit damp and somehow there was sand in his hair. Starting to laugh only makes it worse and as they step out onto the main floor, he's still laughing at their unkempt state. The laughter quickly ceases though, as he becomes much more somber at the scene before them. Agents were everywhere, there was an argument going on, and the phone was going crazy. "What on earth...?"
Wyatt spins around from arguing with Hal, Con and Jamie. He glares at Reese and approaches him with purpose. "Where on earth have you been?!" Giving both his father and Angelica a good once-over, it's not hard to figure it out, and it only serves to increase his anger. "Sure. Don't tell anybody where you're going. Just run off and leave everything to take care of itself, right?"
Reese had no idea what was going on, and was too surprised to be upset. "Now hang on. What-"
"You two are allowed to do whatever you want, right? Go off and fool around and ignore the fact that there are others depending on you, let alone others who could get fired for pulling the same stunt! But you're the boss, right?" Wyatt's eyes go to Angelica, still glaring. "And you're the boss's girlfriend so you're not in trouble either." Without giving anyone time to respond, he shoulders past his father and stalks towards the exit.
Wide-eyed, Reese looks around the room again. "What is going on here?"
Con sighs deeply. He hadn't caught all of that, but was just as glad. "There was an explosion down on Valley. Two guys were killed. Cops think it was Agency and we were called in. Nobody was here, we ran down a couple suspects and brought them in - Pete and Nate are still out there trying to find another guy or two who were spotted at the scene. It was chaos, we couldn't get a hold of you, so we called Wyatt and he didn't know where you were either. He came in to help."
Reese rolls his eyes towards the ceiling, holding his temper. The peace of the afternoon was certainly short-lived, that was for sure. This was not how he wanted to end the day... such a wonderful day. He glances to Angelica, an apology on his face. He'd wanted to announce their engagement. But perhaps there would be a better time. "I'll see you later, huh? I gotta sort out this mess."
Perfect
Angelica smiles and takes Reese's hand to stand up. At his mention of a ring Angelica can feel her heart race even more.
"I think that sounds perfect. I can't wait."
Linking her fingers with Reese's Angelica she leans into him a little as they walk. Her mind thinking about so many things. Rings, wedding, telling people, and so much more.
"I'm so happy at the moment I can hardly contain myself."
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Official
Reese chuckles and shakes his head. "I like you just the way you are - lawyer, head-strong, passionate, team player, and partner. The housewife stuff is just for the woman that gets bored and if that happens, then I'm to blame."
Still grinning, he gives her a teasing kiss to her nose before just taking a few moments to simply study her face. Engaged. The thought made his heart flutter and his stomach do a flip.
Finally standing, he offers Angelica a hand up too before trudging out of the water onto the sand. "How about a walk up and down the beach to dry off before we head back?" He locks his fingers with hers. "Then this weekend you and I have a date with the jewelry store to make this thing official."
Still grinning, he gives her a teasing kiss to her nose before just taking a few moments to simply study her face. Engaged. The thought made his heart flutter and his stomach do a flip.
Finally standing, he offers Angelica a hand up too before trudging out of the water onto the sand. "How about a walk up and down the beach to dry off before we head back?" He locks his fingers with hers. "Then this weekend you and I have a date with the jewelry store to make this thing official."
Refine
Angelica returned the kiss once again just letting her love show. She was happy and excited a dream everyone had as a child. Her dream had seemed so far away but now it was coming true.
Her own tears rolled down her cheek. Her eyes danced with happyness and her heart thumped in her chest. Life had made a complete turn around and this was the time she would remember the most.
"As long as you keep doing what you are there is no doubt you will."
Angelica smiles even more and shakes her head. No one was going to believe them about this day that's for sure.
"I'm thinking I am gonna have to refine my house wife skills."
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All I Can
Having Angelica ask if she could think about it, yet seeing her smile, Reese wasn't quite sure what was going through her mind. Did this mean no? Was she unsure? Had he been foolish? Of course she could think about it. But what would it mean? His gaze remains glued to hers, his breath held in anticipation.
When she finally says yes, a wider smile on his face had not been seen. His eyes glisten, but not from sadness - it was indescribable happiness. A joy so great that it brought forth tears.
Pulling her in, he hugs her tightly, just holding her... his future wife... feeling their hearts beating wildly. "Thank you," he whispers. "For making me so happy."
Drawing back, he kisses her again, letting his love show through such a simple yet deep gesture. Eventually breaking the moment, he doesn't bother to wipe away the tear that mingled in with lake water on his cheek. "I will do all I can to make you just as happy."
When she finally says yes, a wider smile on his face had not been seen. His eyes glisten, but not from sadness - it was indescribable happiness. A joy so great that it brought forth tears.
Pulling her in, he hugs her tightly, just holding her... his future wife... feeling their hearts beating wildly. "Thank you," he whispers. "For making me so happy."
Drawing back, he kisses her again, letting his love show through such a simple yet deep gesture. Eventually breaking the moment, he doesn't bother to wipe away the tear that mingled in with lake water on his cheek. "I will do all I can to make you just as happy."
Wait
Smiling in the moment and just continuing to look into Reese's eyes Angelica could feel her heart racing and her stomach doing flip flop. Everything in the moment seemed perfect. Very out of the ordanary but perfect for that reason.
Hearing Reese's question Angelica's smile doesn't fade but get heart starts to best even quicker. She almost feared Reese would be able to feel it himeself.
Angelica had thought about being married before even to Reese but now that the question was popped it was a whole new ball game. She was happy with Reese, he had showed her love was ok and could be wonderful. When her heart had gone cold he had started the fire again.
"Can I have some time to think about it?"
Still searching Reese's face Angelica holds her smile. If she waited would her answer change? Would this fear of the unknown go away? Invade moment like this she wondered what Charlotte would say. Something about taking the chance and going with your heart.
Looking back to Reese again Angelica just looks into his eyes. Life, it was to short to wait did she really wanna take that chance?
"Yes, yes I would be honnored to be your wife."
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Live Again
In the back of his mind, Reese knew that he should be at work. No one knew where he was. This was very irresponsible and not something he'd ever consider doing. But... it was far enough back in his mind that he chose to ignore it.
Holding Angelica close, he never wanted to leave this moment. For so long, he'd avoided relationships. There had been no one since Wyatt's mother, and he'd not wanted anyone else... until now. There were days he longed for someone simply to talk to. Evenings were too quiet. Mornings were lonely as he drank his coffee alone. He'd been so intent on never loving again, that he had begun to die inside. If only to have daily companionship again. Someone to share life with. To share a home with. To share love with. He missed it more than he'd even admitted to himself. But right here... right now... he had a woman in his arms who had accepted him and wanted to be with him, too. Maybe he hadn't seen it soon enough. Maybe he'd been too distracted by other things. But the truth of the matter was that God had given him a second chance. And if he walked away now, there might never be a third chance.
Breathless, Reese draws back for a moment, cupping Angelica's face with his hands. He almost forgot for a moment that they were sitting like two idiots in the lake. Water dripped down from his hair and he blinks it away, his lips smiling with an expression of one who had just discovered how to truly live once more. It had been time to love again. Now it was time to live again.
He returns his lips to hers for a kiss so sweet before pulling away, his eyes only inches from hers. His gaze shown like it had not for too many years. "I don't want to ever go back," he whispers. "Marry me so I don't have to."
Holding Angelica close, he never wanted to leave this moment. For so long, he'd avoided relationships. There had been no one since Wyatt's mother, and he'd not wanted anyone else... until now. There were days he longed for someone simply to talk to. Evenings were too quiet. Mornings were lonely as he drank his coffee alone. He'd been so intent on never loving again, that he had begun to die inside. If only to have daily companionship again. Someone to share life with. To share a home with. To share love with. He missed it more than he'd even admitted to himself. But right here... right now... he had a woman in his arms who had accepted him and wanted to be with him, too. Maybe he hadn't seen it soon enough. Maybe he'd been too distracted by other things. But the truth of the matter was that God had given him a second chance. And if he walked away now, there might never be a third chance.
Breathless, Reese draws back for a moment, cupping Angelica's face with his hands. He almost forgot for a moment that they were sitting like two idiots in the lake. Water dripped down from his hair and he blinks it away, his lips smiling with an expression of one who had just discovered how to truly live once more. It had been time to love again. Now it was time to live again.
He returns his lips to hers for a kiss so sweet before pulling away, his eyes only inches from hers. His gaze shown like it had not for too many years. "I don't want to ever go back," he whispers. "Marry me so I don't have to."
The Moment
As Reese moves in for the kiss Angelica moves a little to position herself better so neither of them were cocked at a bad angle. Bringing her hand up to the back of Reese's head Angelica runs through his hair. Letting her own Passion come forth the moment just continuing.
Being locked in this moment Angelica didn't mind. It felt nice to have this attachen. Having Reese just let his Passion show like this was nice and Angelica wasn't going to hold back.
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2/19/12
Unsure
Hanging up the phone, Alec heads back for his apartment. He wasn't sure just when he'd use Trey, but it would probably be sooner than later. He had no plan. But what he did know that vengeance was seeping into his blood and any actions would be frowned upon by the Elite at the very least - enough to get him thrown behind bars at the most. So to avoid detection was something he knew he'd be wanting. Though he didn't know Trey all that well, he figured he could trust him with this, as long as he held up his end of the deal.
Reese laughs as Angelica accidentally joins him in the water. Shaking his head, he rolls his eyes. "They probably wouldn't believe it. But I don't mind. It can be our little secret."
Grinning with mischief, he moves closer to her, still sitting waist deep in the water. Facing her and sliding in close, he slips his arms around her. Though both were soaking wet, he didn't care. Cocking his head, he bends in to lightly brush her lips with his. Drawing back just a little, he locks eyes with her for a moment before returning to a passionate kiss.
Jeff purses his lips grimly and nods. "Yeah... we're all kinda worried about that kid. I know he was in a lot of trouble there for a while and into some pretty bad stuff but... I don't know. I guess I always figured there was a good heart under there somewhere just waiting to break out."
He cups his coffee mug with his hands, thinking. "I did notice Ashlee hanging out with him a bit. It's a bummer she doesn't have that now. I'd say she and Jade might do some stuff together but she's usually with Dan, or at least daydreaming about him." He chuckles. "Not that I'd begrudge her that."
He shakes his head, going back to the subject of Ashlee. "Eric's been working with Ashlee around the horses though, right? She interested in riding? Maybe that would help give her something to focus on."
Reese laughs as Angelica accidentally joins him in the water. Shaking his head, he rolls his eyes. "They probably wouldn't believe it. But I don't mind. It can be our little secret."
Grinning with mischief, he moves closer to her, still sitting waist deep in the water. Facing her and sliding in close, he slips his arms around her. Though both were soaking wet, he didn't care. Cocking his head, he bends in to lightly brush her lips with his. Drawing back just a little, he locks eyes with her for a moment before returning to a passionate kiss.
Jeff purses his lips grimly and nods. "Yeah... we're all kinda worried about that kid. I know he was in a lot of trouble there for a while and into some pretty bad stuff but... I don't know. I guess I always figured there was a good heart under there somewhere just waiting to break out."
He cups his coffee mug with his hands, thinking. "I did notice Ashlee hanging out with him a bit. It's a bummer she doesn't have that now. I'd say she and Jade might do some stuff together but she's usually with Dan, or at least daydreaming about him." He chuckles. "Not that I'd begrudge her that."
He shakes his head, going back to the subject of Ashlee. "Eric's been working with Ashlee around the horses though, right? She interested in riding? Maybe that would help give her something to focus on."
2/18/12
No one
Waving to the thin air a small grin was on Trey's lips. The smokes he would be able to sell and add the money he already had and the favor well when he needed it he'd call on Alec for sure. It was always good to have something like that up his sleeve.
"Later!"
Taking a bit of her grilled cheese Beth's eyes had a new light in them. Thinking on his question for a moment Beth wondered how did she feel about Zach. When she thought about it butterflys did flutter in her tummy. Did that mean she liked him?
"He's really nice and smart too. He works at a shelter and selling cars. He also has a dog named Button."
Spooning her soup and bringing it to her lips and blowing it to cool it down. She couldn't help but babble though maybe she should tone it down a little as not to be to hyper.
"How is Jared doing?"
Angelica can't help but laugh even more and in doing so she loses her own balance and falls drenching herself. Slapping the water she continues to laugh, it was all she could do in the whole situation.
"My fault? You're the one who wanted to come here."
Shaking her head and leaning back a little to fix her hair wetting it down. Shaking a little to dry it off she just sits in the water by Reese the smile still on her face.
"No one is ever going to believe we did this you know!"
Giving a nod to Jeff and taking a sip of her juice Stacy lets it slide down her throat before replying. It was hard to think what Ashlee was thinking but from what she saw that was what she could tell.
"Yeah she seemed to be fitting in pretty good. Still some things we both have to get use too but all in all I think she's doing ok."
A small dimness goes over her eyes. Thinking about how her daughter was still sad for one reason.
"She does miss Dylan though. He was one of her ownly friends here. I think she just hopes he is ok too. She has a good big heart ya know?"
"Later!"
Taking a bit of her grilled cheese Beth's eyes had a new light in them. Thinking on his question for a moment Beth wondered how did she feel about Zach. When she thought about it butterflys did flutter in her tummy. Did that mean she liked him?
"He's really nice and smart too. He works at a shelter and selling cars. He also has a dog named Button."
Spooning her soup and bringing it to her lips and blowing it to cool it down. She couldn't help but babble though maybe she should tone it down a little as not to be to hyper.
"How is Jared doing?"
Angelica can't help but laugh even more and in doing so she loses her own balance and falls drenching herself. Slapping the water she continues to laugh, it was all she could do in the whole situation.
"My fault? You're the one who wanted to come here."
Shaking her head and leaning back a little to fix her hair wetting it down. Shaking a little to dry it off she just sits in the water by Reese the smile still on her face.
"No one is ever going to believe we did this you know!"
Giving a nod to Jeff and taking a sip of her juice Stacy lets it slide down her throat before replying. It was hard to think what Ashlee was thinking but from what she saw that was what she could tell.
"Yeah she seemed to be fitting in pretty good. Still some things we both have to get use too but all in all I think she's doing ok."
A small dimness goes over her eyes. Thinking about how her daughter was still sad for one reason.
"She does miss Dylan though. He was one of her ownly friends here. I think she just hopes he is ok too. She has a good big heart ya know?"
Proud
Jeff smiles as Stacy accepts his invitation. He figured since Dylan wasn't here at the moment, she might be okay at getting away, and he was glad she'd said yes. He hoped Ashlee would want to go too.
Stacy's question makes him chuckle. "I'm as alright as a broken down cowboy can be." He grins and takes another bite of his food before nodding. "Guess I wouldn't trade it though - living here, I mean. With family. Still gets a little lonely sometimes," he admits, "but I suppose that comes with the territory. What about you? How are you and Ashlee settling in?"
Doused with water - and a bit of seaweed - Reese coughs as some of the water went up his nose. Just standing there a moment, dripping, his eyes narrow. Flicking off the seaweed, he steps forward again. Unfortunately, there was a rock he didn't see, and as his bare foot hits it, pain shoots through his toe.
Recoiling too quickly, he loses his balance. With a wail of dismay, he falls backward into the water. Despite being right on the edge, he falls far enough to become completely drenched from head to toe. Sputtering and sitting up in the water, he blinks and stares up at Angelica, unable to believe he'd just done that. "All your fault," he accuses, trying not to laugh. His face was red from both embarrassment and the stifled laughter. "This whole thing... your fault."
Still sitting in the water, he splashes a little just for the fun of it. "At least it's warm."
Jason thinks for a moment, then nods. "Yeah... yeah, sure, a movie sounds good."
Taking her hand from his shoulder, he holds it for a few seconds before lifting it to his lips to kiss it. Standing, he slips his arm around her shoulders and heads for the door. "Come on. Let's go say hi to Carson."
Sitting down with Beth at the table, Justin lifts his eyebrows at her sudden enthusiasm to tell him something. Hearing she'd been on a date, he cocks his head a little, spying a new kind of sparkle in her eye. It was fantastic. She'd actually talked to someone and went out with them without someone holding her hand. It was a huge step for her to say the least and there was so much to be proud of. The difference in her between today and when they'd first met - it was amazing. Why then did Justin find himself needing to force his smile to surface?
Letting it go quickly, he does smile. "Well good for you. I'm very proud of you. That's great that you're making a new friend."
He picks up his napkin and sets it on his leg. "So... you like him?" he teases, tossing her a wink.
A long pause implies Alec is deep in thought over his options. He finally responds to Trey. "You got a deal. I'll get the smokes to you, and at that point I'll let you know when I'll need your services." He wasn't sure exactly when that would be, but it would be soon. He was tired of the Elite knowing his every move, and if he wanted to do anything outside his bounds, he needed them to be blind to it. "Later."
Stacy's question makes him chuckle. "I'm as alright as a broken down cowboy can be." He grins and takes another bite of his food before nodding. "Guess I wouldn't trade it though - living here, I mean. With family. Still gets a little lonely sometimes," he admits, "but I suppose that comes with the territory. What about you? How are you and Ashlee settling in?"
Doused with water - and a bit of seaweed - Reese coughs as some of the water went up his nose. Just standing there a moment, dripping, his eyes narrow. Flicking off the seaweed, he steps forward again. Unfortunately, there was a rock he didn't see, and as his bare foot hits it, pain shoots through his toe.
Recoiling too quickly, he loses his balance. With a wail of dismay, he falls backward into the water. Despite being right on the edge, he falls far enough to become completely drenched from head to toe. Sputtering and sitting up in the water, he blinks and stares up at Angelica, unable to believe he'd just done that. "All your fault," he accuses, trying not to laugh. His face was red from both embarrassment and the stifled laughter. "This whole thing... your fault."
Still sitting in the water, he splashes a little just for the fun of it. "At least it's warm."
Jason thinks for a moment, then nods. "Yeah... yeah, sure, a movie sounds good."
Taking her hand from his shoulder, he holds it for a few seconds before lifting it to his lips to kiss it. Standing, he slips his arm around her shoulders and heads for the door. "Come on. Let's go say hi to Carson."
Sitting down with Beth at the table, Justin lifts his eyebrows at her sudden enthusiasm to tell him something. Hearing she'd been on a date, he cocks his head a little, spying a new kind of sparkle in her eye. It was fantastic. She'd actually talked to someone and went out with them without someone holding her hand. It was a huge step for her to say the least and there was so much to be proud of. The difference in her between today and when they'd first met - it was amazing. Why then did Justin find himself needing to force his smile to surface?
Letting it go quickly, he does smile. "Well good for you. I'm very proud of you. That's great that you're making a new friend."
He picks up his napkin and sets it on his leg. "So... you like him?" he teases, tossing her a wink.
A long pause implies Alec is deep in thought over his options. He finally responds to Trey. "You got a deal. I'll get the smokes to you, and at that point I'll let you know when I'll need your services." He wasn't sure exactly when that would be, but it would be soon. He was tired of the Elite knowing his every move, and if he wanted to do anything outside his bounds, he needed them to be blind to it. "Later."
Nice Guy
Looking up at Jeff as he sits down Stacy gives a smile. She was in a pretty good move after having a nice heart to heart with Ashlee today. Things were settled there and everything seemed to be going smoothly.
Taking a sip of her water Stacy thinks for a long moment. Dinner with Jeff tomorrow, it would be a friendly thing to do and nice to just get out of the ranch for a little bit and have a nice dinner.
"Well I'll have to see if Ashlee wants to come too but if she does I am all for it. I think a nice dinner would be good. Ash really hasn't been away since we got here and I haven't had much quiet time. It might be nice."
Jeff was definitely a nice man and having him invite her and Ashlee out to dinner and ice cream was very nice thing to do. It would also be a nice chance to see where things around town were a little bit.
Cutting her pot roast Stacy gives a smile to Jeff before taking a bit and chewing her food. She loved eating here everything just seemed to melt in your mouth and made to perfection. Not one meal had been bad in her opinion.
"That was really nice of you Jeff thanks. So how have you been?"
Angelica can't help but laugh at Reese and his comment. It felt good to let go, to be free and just have fun. It had been such a very long time for sure. Getting a lot wetter from Reese splash than originally planning Angelica squinter her eyes and points her finger at him trying to look mad, the winkle still there though showing she wasn't.
"Oh sure you wanna play nice after you drench me huh?"
Bending down and cuping her hands rather largely Angelica scoops up a bunch of water and throws it in Reese way. Not till a big lump of seaweed hits him does she realize it was there. Bringing a hand to her mouth she does her best not to laugh but can hardly contain herself as it rolls over her tongue.
Turning from the stove for a moment Beth smiles seeing the cookies. Justin's mother was so very nice. It was easy to tell Justin's must have gotten his kind heart from her too.
"That was very sweet of her you will have to tell me thank you for her."
Taking a spatula and taking the grilled cheese from the pan and putting them down on the plate Beth brings them to the table for herself and Justin. Going back for the soup and bringing it as well she sits down.
She was excited to tell Justin about last night and everything that had happened with Zach. Just leaving her food for a moment she folds her hands and looks across the table at Justin.
"I think I went on a date last night. A guy I've seen come into the bar a time or two but never drinks the alcohol asked me for coffee when I got out. His name is Zach and he's really nice. His Uncle stays at Brookshire too. Tomorrow we are gonna go and visit them than have lunch again."
Beth gives a smile to Justin. She was proud of herself and being able to make a new friend with someone else. She hopped Justin was as well. She was moving forward with life like he wanted.
Looking down at Jason Katie gives a small half a smile. Everything still felt so strange and she still found herself trying to talk with Jason from another room but it just didn't work. So there words were few over the last week and it Just didn't feel right not being able to feel at all.
"Yeah pizza sounds good. I haven't had there pizza for a while."
Katie leans against the bed and lays a hand on his shoulder. She hadn't shared with Jason how empty she felt. She didn't want to make him worried or feel bad. Maybe once a little more time had passed everything would be ok and she would get use to feeling something. After all even if she couldn't feel it she new she loved Jason right?
"Maybe after we can do a movie or something back at my place. I have a couch thats getting pretty lonely."
Giving a little jump as the phone rings it was the last thing Trey had expected. Just looking at it for a long moment, than the camera in his room than the phone again Trey picks it up not helping the wonder one who was on the other line.
"Yeah...whats up?"
Hearing Alec's voice on the other end Trey couldn't help but be a little surprised he was hearing from Alec at all. Leaning back on the bed again and Trey folds his arms. This could be his chance to be getting a few things he wanted. Or at least some stuff he could sell for money.
"It's not what I would take, but what are you willing to giving. What your asking wont be an easy task, but I can do it."
Trey thinks for a long moment what would he want, what would Alec give, and how much could he really get.
"Get me a carton of smokes and a favor later on down the road no questions asked when it happens. If you can do that You got yourself a deal."
Taking a sip of her water Stacy thinks for a long moment. Dinner with Jeff tomorrow, it would be a friendly thing to do and nice to just get out of the ranch for a little bit and have a nice dinner.
"Well I'll have to see if Ashlee wants to come too but if she does I am all for it. I think a nice dinner would be good. Ash really hasn't been away since we got here and I haven't had much quiet time. It might be nice."
Jeff was definitely a nice man and having him invite her and Ashlee out to dinner and ice cream was very nice thing to do. It would also be a nice chance to see where things around town were a little bit.
Cutting her pot roast Stacy gives a smile to Jeff before taking a bit and chewing her food. She loved eating here everything just seemed to melt in your mouth and made to perfection. Not one meal had been bad in her opinion.
"That was really nice of you Jeff thanks. So how have you been?"
Angelica can't help but laugh at Reese and his comment. It felt good to let go, to be free and just have fun. It had been such a very long time for sure. Getting a lot wetter from Reese splash than originally planning Angelica squinter her eyes and points her finger at him trying to look mad, the winkle still there though showing she wasn't.
"Oh sure you wanna play nice after you drench me huh?"
Bending down and cuping her hands rather largely Angelica scoops up a bunch of water and throws it in Reese way. Not till a big lump of seaweed hits him does she realize it was there. Bringing a hand to her mouth she does her best not to laugh but can hardly contain herself as it rolls over her tongue.
Turning from the stove for a moment Beth smiles seeing the cookies. Justin's mother was so very nice. It was easy to tell Justin's must have gotten his kind heart from her too.
"That was very sweet of her you will have to tell me thank you for her."
Taking a spatula and taking the grilled cheese from the pan and putting them down on the plate Beth brings them to the table for herself and Justin. Going back for the soup and bringing it as well she sits down.
She was excited to tell Justin about last night and everything that had happened with Zach. Just leaving her food for a moment she folds her hands and looks across the table at Justin.
"I think I went on a date last night. A guy I've seen come into the bar a time or two but never drinks the alcohol asked me for coffee when I got out. His name is Zach and he's really nice. His Uncle stays at Brookshire too. Tomorrow we are gonna go and visit them than have lunch again."
Beth gives a smile to Justin. She was proud of herself and being able to make a new friend with someone else. She hopped Justin was as well. She was moving forward with life like he wanted.
Looking down at Jason Katie gives a small half a smile. Everything still felt so strange and she still found herself trying to talk with Jason from another room but it just didn't work. So there words were few over the last week and it Just didn't feel right not being able to feel at all.
"Yeah pizza sounds good. I haven't had there pizza for a while."
Katie leans against the bed and lays a hand on his shoulder. She hadn't shared with Jason how empty she felt. She didn't want to make him worried or feel bad. Maybe once a little more time had passed everything would be ok and she would get use to feeling something. After all even if she couldn't feel it she new she loved Jason right?
"Maybe after we can do a movie or something back at my place. I have a couch thats getting pretty lonely."
Giving a little jump as the phone rings it was the last thing Trey had expected. Just looking at it for a long moment, than the camera in his room than the phone again Trey picks it up not helping the wonder one who was on the other line.
"Yeah...whats up?"
Hearing Alec's voice on the other end Trey couldn't help but be a little surprised he was hearing from Alec at all. Leaning back on the bed again and Trey folds his arms. This could be his chance to be getting a few things he wanted. Or at least some stuff he could sell for money.
"It's not what I would take, but what are you willing to giving. What your asking wont be an easy task, but I can do it."
Trey thinks for a long moment what would he want, what would Alec give, and how much could he really get.
"Get me a carton of smokes and a favor later on down the road no questions asked when it happens. If you can do that You got yourself a deal."
Favor
Suppertime at the ranch was almost always a relaxing time. After any visitors had already eaten, it was just the families and ranch hands, able to sit and chill for a while. Though getting dark outside, a fire in the fireplace kept the atmosphere warm and inviting.
Getting his plate of roast beef and mashed potatoes and balancing it all, along with his cup of coffee, Jeff weaves through the tables before picking a spot across from Stacy. "Mind some company?" He smiles as he sits down.
Adding some butter to his potatoes, he works on his food for a few moments before looking up again. Taking a sip of coffee, he cocks his head at Stacy. "I was wondering if... maybe tomorrow night I could take you and Ashlee into town for some supper and ice cream or something?"
Reese blinks as he receives a new spray of water. All of a sudden he felt like a high school kid again, uninhibited by adult logic.
"Think you're pretty funny, huh?" Letting go of Angelica's hand, he reaches down with both hands and scoops up some water, throwing it in her direction. Only afterward does he realize that it was more than a little sprinkle, and as such, he was probably in for it now.
Trying not to laugh, he backs up a step into the water, holding up his hands in defense. "Now now, let's play nice..."
Justin grins as he's let inside Beth's apartment. She seemed rather cheery this morning, which was quite contagious. "Things are alright." He follows her towards the kitchen. "Long day yesterday but I survived."
Leaning on the counter out of her way, he sets the cookies aside. "Ma sent some cookies over for you. I was with her a while yesterday, taking her to see Jared and stuff." He still hadn't gone in to see his brother. He still hadn't had the nerve. And he didn't know which was worse - the simmering anger he still had against his brother, or knowing he was a coward.
Realizing he'd been caught in a stare, he blinks and forces a smile. "How 'bout you?"
"You wanna do supper or something?" Jason bent over to tie his shoes while sitting in the infirmary. Rick had made him stick around for a couple days of recovery, but now was finally officially released as long as he checked back in every day for a while. Though still a little weak along with a lingering headache, he was feeling fine.
Finished with his shoe, he glances up at Katie before standing. It was kind of strange. They hadn't talked a whole lot the last couple days. It was like a state of shock after everything had finally settled down. Jason still had a strange sense of emptiness whenever he tried to think of how he felt emotionally. He hadn't said anything to Rick though, figuring whatever this was would wear off after a while. He hadn't said anything to Katie either, not wanting her to think he suddenly didn't care or something.
"Maybe Mom and Pop's? I think I could handle a pizza."
"Trey... it's Alec Banks." Though it had been quite a while since seeing each other, Alec knew that Trey would remember him. Standing at the payphone, he fiddles with the extra quarter in his hand. He might look like he didn't pay attention to much, but while at TJY, he'd memorized an awful lot, much of which was still embedded in his brain. One of those things was the number for the phone in the room of the lower level where Trey was still staying. Alec had hoped he hadn't moved out yet, and it looked like he was in luck.
"Hey, listen... you know a bit about computers, right? What would it take for you to, say, hack into a certain little tracking system so the Elite would be blind to my whereabouts for, oh say, a couple hours?" Though they hadn't spoken in person in a long time, Alec knew good and well that Trey would have heard all about his fiasco with the Agency, trial, and where he was now. Everybody knew Alec wore an ankle bracelet to keep him under control.
Getting his plate of roast beef and mashed potatoes and balancing it all, along with his cup of coffee, Jeff weaves through the tables before picking a spot across from Stacy. "Mind some company?" He smiles as he sits down.
Adding some butter to his potatoes, he works on his food for a few moments before looking up again. Taking a sip of coffee, he cocks his head at Stacy. "I was wondering if... maybe tomorrow night I could take you and Ashlee into town for some supper and ice cream or something?"
Reese blinks as he receives a new spray of water. All of a sudden he felt like a high school kid again, uninhibited by adult logic.
"Think you're pretty funny, huh?" Letting go of Angelica's hand, he reaches down with both hands and scoops up some water, throwing it in her direction. Only afterward does he realize that it was more than a little sprinkle, and as such, he was probably in for it now.
Trying not to laugh, he backs up a step into the water, holding up his hands in defense. "Now now, let's play nice..."
Justin grins as he's let inside Beth's apartment. She seemed rather cheery this morning, which was quite contagious. "Things are alright." He follows her towards the kitchen. "Long day yesterday but I survived."
Leaning on the counter out of her way, he sets the cookies aside. "Ma sent some cookies over for you. I was with her a while yesterday, taking her to see Jared and stuff." He still hadn't gone in to see his brother. He still hadn't had the nerve. And he didn't know which was worse - the simmering anger he still had against his brother, or knowing he was a coward.
Realizing he'd been caught in a stare, he blinks and forces a smile. "How 'bout you?"
"You wanna do supper or something?" Jason bent over to tie his shoes while sitting in the infirmary. Rick had made him stick around for a couple days of recovery, but now was finally officially released as long as he checked back in every day for a while. Though still a little weak along with a lingering headache, he was feeling fine.
Finished with his shoe, he glances up at Katie before standing. It was kind of strange. They hadn't talked a whole lot the last couple days. It was like a state of shock after everything had finally settled down. Jason still had a strange sense of emptiness whenever he tried to think of how he felt emotionally. He hadn't said anything to Rick though, figuring whatever this was would wear off after a while. He hadn't said anything to Katie either, not wanting her to think he suddenly didn't care or something.
"Maybe Mom and Pop's? I think I could handle a pizza."
"Trey... it's Alec Banks." Though it had been quite a while since seeing each other, Alec knew that Trey would remember him. Standing at the payphone, he fiddles with the extra quarter in his hand. He might look like he didn't pay attention to much, but while at TJY, he'd memorized an awful lot, much of which was still embedded in his brain. One of those things was the number for the phone in the room of the lower level where Trey was still staying. Alec had hoped he hadn't moved out yet, and it looked like he was in luck.
"Hey, listen... you know a bit about computers, right? What would it take for you to, say, hack into a certain little tracking system so the Elite would be blind to my whereabouts for, oh say, a couple hours?" Though they hadn't spoken in person in a long time, Alec knew good and well that Trey would have heard all about his fiasco with the Agency, trial, and where he was now. Everybody knew Alec wore an ankle bracelet to keep him under control.
2/17/12
Didn't Mean
Ryan can't help but laugh at her brother. Sometimes he was a trip for sure and most of the time when he was still half asleep it was for sure. No matter what though Ryan loved him and he always kept her laughing that was for sure.
"Yeah he did. Figured if he didn't leave soon you'd kick him out or kill him. Guess he didn't want either."
Cleaning up the ice cream bowls and the cups that had been used that night Ryan puts them in the sink and than comes back to the living room looking at her brother and giving a shake of her head. going over to him she bends down and gives his head a kiss.
"Good Night Eli, I'll see you in the morning."
Angelica gives a little gasp at the water is splashed back at her. No shocked or surprised but pretending was still fun.
"You wanna play that way huh?"
Moving her foot back a little more this time she gives a bit of a bigger splash to Reese but not enough to get him totally wet. Another laugh slips out as Angelica bats her eyes at Reese a little bit.
Hearing the knock at the door Beth goes and opens it. Seeing Justin she gives a smile before stepping aside to let him in.
"Good Morning/Afternoon. I'm not sure what one it is since I only got up a little bit ago."
Beth gives a little laugh as she shuts the door and than heads to the kitchen knowing Justin would follow. Today on the menu was grilled cheese and tomato soup. She had originally planned on just making something quick and easy but she was in a rather good mood this morning and wanted to go with something that took a little more time.
"So how has everything been so far in your day?"
Finishing up helping Eric Ashlee slowly exits the take room and takes a deep breath of the nice afternoon air. Slowly making her way across the yard and to the bunk house her mom's form heading to the dinning hall catches her attachen. She still felt bad for everything she had said, and she hated being at odds with her mom.
Changing her course she heads to the dinning hall and enters. It was mostly empty and she spots her mom in the kitchen getting some coffee. Following after to her Ashlee leans on one of the counters.
"No wonder you can keep late hours with all the coffee you drink."
Ashlee trys to give a small smile but it still felt kind of awkward. She just wanted things to be ok with her and her mom.
Looking up from the her coffee as she stirs it Stacy was a bit surprised to see her daughter standing there and talking to her none the less. It had been a little while but Stacy hoped she would come around just letting her take her own time.
"I'm pretty surprised I haven't gotten immune to it yet."
Picking up the cup in her hands Stacy takes a sip and than just holds the cup looking down into it. What else could she say? It felt strange not knowing what to say to her daughter when it had never been a problem before.
Standing straight again Ashlee moves into the kitchen a little more and looks at her mother for a long moment. This was harder than she thought it would be but maybe thats what made it more sinsear.
"I...I just wanted to say I'm sorry for all those things I said the other day. I didn't mean them. I don't like being at odds with you."
A bit surprised again Stacy gives a small smile.
"You did mean them, but its ok and I forgive you."
Stacy new everything had been rough on Ashlee even if she had never voiced it before but it took her daughters words the other day to actually realize how much everything must had taken a told on her.
Giving a nod to the small table that was in the kitchen Stacy was inviting her daughter to sit down with her. Place the cup on the counter she lets out a sigh and sits.
"Ash, it took you the other day telling me I never cared before to realize thats what you really meant. But its not true, I have always cared, and always wanted to make sure you were safe even if I wasn't around much to say it. I forced you to grow up to quickly and that was wrong of me. Now we are here, and I can see your inner child trying to get out and I automatically expected you to still be grown up. I need to let you be a child and enjoy your youth while you still can."
Ashlee keeps her eyes down on the table picking at a indent that had probable been there a long time. Listing to her mothers words she is quiet till she comes to a stop and looks up at her.
"I know you've always loved me and cared for me I have never thought differently of that. I was just angry and wasnt to sure how to handle everything that was going on at that moment with Dylan. It hurt that you didn't trust me too."
Stacy's eyes held a bit of sarrow in them. That afternoon had been all wrong and how everything had been handled was too. If she go back in a way she now would see how differently she would do things.
"It's not that I didn't trust you Ash. I was so scared when we couldn't find you and if anything worse had happened to you out there I never would have forgiven myself for not paying more attachen.Your my life, and I don't know what I would do without you. God blessed me when he gave me you."
Ashlee can't help the tear that rolled down her cheek. She new her mom cared but she never new just how much. Everything became a little more clean and she understood why her mom had been so worried.
Standing up Ashlee goes over to her mom and wraps her arms around her giving her the biggest hug she can just burying her face into her shoulder.
"I love you Mom, and I am sorry."
A tear rolls down Stacy's cheek, a peace coming over her knowing everything was going to be ok between her and her daughter. This was a growing pain for them both, but they both were coming out stronger and wiser.
"I'm sorry, I love you too Ash."
"Yeah he did. Figured if he didn't leave soon you'd kick him out or kill him. Guess he didn't want either."
Cleaning up the ice cream bowls and the cups that had been used that night Ryan puts them in the sink and than comes back to the living room looking at her brother and giving a shake of her head. going over to him she bends down and gives his head a kiss.
"Good Night Eli, I'll see you in the morning."
Angelica gives a little gasp at the water is splashed back at her. No shocked or surprised but pretending was still fun.
"You wanna play that way huh?"
Moving her foot back a little more this time she gives a bit of a bigger splash to Reese but not enough to get him totally wet. Another laugh slips out as Angelica bats her eyes at Reese a little bit.
Hearing the knock at the door Beth goes and opens it. Seeing Justin she gives a smile before stepping aside to let him in.
"Good Morning/Afternoon. I'm not sure what one it is since I only got up a little bit ago."
Beth gives a little laugh as she shuts the door and than heads to the kitchen knowing Justin would follow. Today on the menu was grilled cheese and tomato soup. She had originally planned on just making something quick and easy but she was in a rather good mood this morning and wanted to go with something that took a little more time.
"So how has everything been so far in your day?"
Finishing up helping Eric Ashlee slowly exits the take room and takes a deep breath of the nice afternoon air. Slowly making her way across the yard and to the bunk house her mom's form heading to the dinning hall catches her attachen. She still felt bad for everything she had said, and she hated being at odds with her mom.
Changing her course she heads to the dinning hall and enters. It was mostly empty and she spots her mom in the kitchen getting some coffee. Following after to her Ashlee leans on one of the counters.
"No wonder you can keep late hours with all the coffee you drink."
Ashlee trys to give a small smile but it still felt kind of awkward. She just wanted things to be ok with her and her mom.
Looking up from the her coffee as she stirs it Stacy was a bit surprised to see her daughter standing there and talking to her none the less. It had been a little while but Stacy hoped she would come around just letting her take her own time.
"I'm pretty surprised I haven't gotten immune to it yet."
Picking up the cup in her hands Stacy takes a sip and than just holds the cup looking down into it. What else could she say? It felt strange not knowing what to say to her daughter when it had never been a problem before.
Standing straight again Ashlee moves into the kitchen a little more and looks at her mother for a long moment. This was harder than she thought it would be but maybe thats what made it more sinsear.
"I...I just wanted to say I'm sorry for all those things I said the other day. I didn't mean them. I don't like being at odds with you."
A bit surprised again Stacy gives a small smile.
"You did mean them, but its ok and I forgive you."
Stacy new everything had been rough on Ashlee even if she had never voiced it before but it took her daughters words the other day to actually realize how much everything must had taken a told on her.
Giving a nod to the small table that was in the kitchen Stacy was inviting her daughter to sit down with her. Place the cup on the counter she lets out a sigh and sits.
"Ash, it took you the other day telling me I never cared before to realize thats what you really meant. But its not true, I have always cared, and always wanted to make sure you were safe even if I wasn't around much to say it. I forced you to grow up to quickly and that was wrong of me. Now we are here, and I can see your inner child trying to get out and I automatically expected you to still be grown up. I need to let you be a child and enjoy your youth while you still can."
Ashlee keeps her eyes down on the table picking at a indent that had probable been there a long time. Listing to her mothers words she is quiet till she comes to a stop and looks up at her.
"I know you've always loved me and cared for me I have never thought differently of that. I was just angry and wasnt to sure how to handle everything that was going on at that moment with Dylan. It hurt that you didn't trust me too."
Stacy's eyes held a bit of sarrow in them. That afternoon had been all wrong and how everything had been handled was too. If she go back in a way she now would see how differently she would do things.
"It's not that I didn't trust you Ash. I was so scared when we couldn't find you and if anything worse had happened to you out there I never would have forgiven myself for not paying more attachen.Your my life, and I don't know what I would do without you. God blessed me when he gave me you."
Ashlee can't help the tear that rolled down her cheek. She new her mom cared but she never new just how much. Everything became a little more clean and she understood why her mom had been so worried.
Standing up Ashlee goes over to her mom and wraps her arms around her giving her the biggest hug she can just burying her face into her shoulder.
"I love you Mom, and I am sorry."
A tear rolls down Stacy's cheek, a peace coming over her knowing everything was going to be ok between her and her daughter. This was a growing pain for them both, but they both were coming out stronger and wiser.
"I'm sorry, I love you too Ash."
Cookies
Eli gives a start and looks up groggily at Ryan. "Hmm? Oh. Yeah. Bed would be good." Yawning, he pries himself from his chair and stretches. Scratching his head, he glances around, his eye still drooping. "Where'd Romeo go? He take off already?"
Reese's jaw drops in mock surprise at Angelica's teasing move. Lifting one eyebrow higher than the other, he returns the favor to her, giving her a light splash with his foot. The water was surprisingly warm and way too inviting. Grinning, Reese's eyes dance with humor... and a little bit of challenge too.
Zach watches Beth leaves and returns a little wave to her. Staying for a while longer and two more coffees, he finally goes home so he can get ready for work.
Arriving back at his apartment, Zack is met with a bundle of flying black fur. Laughing, he scoops up the dog in his arms, receiving a batch of very wet, slobbery kisses. "Heyo, Button, what's the matter, huh? You miss me?"
She answers with a playful little bark and he laughs before setting her down. "Yeah, I know, Daddy's not usually out all night. I'm sorry. Looks like you behaved yourself though." He grabs her leash and within moments is outside with her. The sky was gray as the early dawn broke and he takes in a deep breath of air. It wasn't country air, but it wasn't the worst city air either.
Walking around the grass with Button, he sighs with content. "I made a new friend tonight. At least I think so."
Button paid little attention.
"I'm going to see her again. Don't ask me what possessed me to go see her in the first place, because I don't know."
Finished sniffing around, Button looks up at him, cocking her head.
He laughs. "Yes, my new friend is a girl. Jealous?"
...Lunch at Beth's. Justin stood on the doorstep, never intruding without being asked in. He was glad to get away again for a little while today. He needed to run up to Brookshire, then the rest of his day was probably going to be spent returning calls to people who needed help with their computers. His mother had a ride to the hospital today, so he didn't have to worry about that. Yesterday hadn't been so bad, but he still hadn't gone in to see Jared.
Lifting his hand, he knocks on Beth's door. In the other hand was a small container of cookies from his mother.
The days were all a bit of a blur. It was so strange being stuck in a hospital bed and feeling restless, yet not having anything to do or anywhere to go anyway. Visits from Jared's mom were the highlights. She seemed like such a sweet woman and though it obviously bothered her that he couldn't remember her, she still smiled and still brought him homemade pudding or chicken broth the nurses let him eat. He had to admit, it was a whole lot better than the hospital food he was eating through a straw.
Conversations with Lydia never lasted long enough. Jared had figured out that she didn't drive, so when a visit was only for ten minutes, he assumed she had to catch rides. She didn't talk too much about her home life though... but Jared didn't even know what kinds of questions to ask, so he didn't. She mentioned church a lot... and cooking... and a few friends. That was about it, other than telling him a few stories from when he was a kid. Nothing rang a bell though, but it was fun to listen. There were times that she seemed to stop short or bite her tongue from saying more, but he didn't pry. He was sure that this whole thing was hard for her, too. Apparently, he'd been living with her - at least he didn't have a place of his own someplace that was going to pot since he couldn't be there to care for it. And at least he wasn't married or anything - that would be too much like a bad movie.
As far as his physical condition went, it was going to take much longer to get out of here than he liked. But on days when the pain was almost unbearable, he was reminded why he was here. Then, there was always the question as to whether or not he'd even be able to walk again. The doctor spoke of therapy... but only if there was some sign, such as him being able to move his toes, that would prove there were nerves healing. But so far, there was nothing. Just long days of waiting and sleeping.
Reese's jaw drops in mock surprise at Angelica's teasing move. Lifting one eyebrow higher than the other, he returns the favor to her, giving her a light splash with his foot. The water was surprisingly warm and way too inviting. Grinning, Reese's eyes dance with humor... and a little bit of challenge too.
Zach watches Beth leaves and returns a little wave to her. Staying for a while longer and two more coffees, he finally goes home so he can get ready for work.
Arriving back at his apartment, Zack is met with a bundle of flying black fur. Laughing, he scoops up the dog in his arms, receiving a batch of very wet, slobbery kisses. "Heyo, Button, what's the matter, huh? You miss me?"
She answers with a playful little bark and he laughs before setting her down. "Yeah, I know, Daddy's not usually out all night. I'm sorry. Looks like you behaved yourself though." He grabs her leash and within moments is outside with her. The sky was gray as the early dawn broke and he takes in a deep breath of air. It wasn't country air, but it wasn't the worst city air either.
Walking around the grass with Button, he sighs with content. "I made a new friend tonight. At least I think so."
Button paid little attention.
"I'm going to see her again. Don't ask me what possessed me to go see her in the first place, because I don't know."
Finished sniffing around, Button looks up at him, cocking her head.
He laughs. "Yes, my new friend is a girl. Jealous?"
...Lunch at Beth's. Justin stood on the doorstep, never intruding without being asked in. He was glad to get away again for a little while today. He needed to run up to Brookshire, then the rest of his day was probably going to be spent returning calls to people who needed help with their computers. His mother had a ride to the hospital today, so he didn't have to worry about that. Yesterday hadn't been so bad, but he still hadn't gone in to see Jared.
Lifting his hand, he knocks on Beth's door. In the other hand was a small container of cookies from his mother.
The days were all a bit of a blur. It was so strange being stuck in a hospital bed and feeling restless, yet not having anything to do or anywhere to go anyway. Visits from Jared's mom were the highlights. She seemed like such a sweet woman and though it obviously bothered her that he couldn't remember her, she still smiled and still brought him homemade pudding or chicken broth the nurses let him eat. He had to admit, it was a whole lot better than the hospital food he was eating through a straw.
Conversations with Lydia never lasted long enough. Jared had figured out that she didn't drive, so when a visit was only for ten minutes, he assumed she had to catch rides. She didn't talk too much about her home life though... but Jared didn't even know what kinds of questions to ask, so he didn't. She mentioned church a lot... and cooking... and a few friends. That was about it, other than telling him a few stories from when he was a kid. Nothing rang a bell though, but it was fun to listen. There were times that she seemed to stop short or bite her tongue from saying more, but he didn't pry. He was sure that this whole thing was hard for her, too. Apparently, he'd been living with her - at least he didn't have a place of his own someplace that was going to pot since he couldn't be there to care for it. And at least he wasn't married or anything - that would be too much like a bad movie.
As far as his physical condition went, it was going to take much longer to get out of here than he liked. But on days when the pain was almost unbearable, he was reminded why he was here. Then, there was always the question as to whether or not he'd even be able to walk again. The doctor spoke of therapy... but only if there was some sign, such as him being able to move his toes, that would prove there were nerves healing. But so far, there was nothing. Just long days of waiting and sleeping.
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